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Club rallies for Coda Twelve-year-old Coda Abbouchi was set to play his 50th game for the Roxburgh Park Football Club during what has turned out to be the final game of the season. However, in the week leading up to the game, Coda began to feel unwell, and was later diagnosed with Lymphoma. The club is now running an auction to help foot the bill for the youngster’s treatment. Under-14s assistant coach Trevor Gladman said the auction was for a family that are “the most lovely people”. “They’re just an awesome family,” Gladman said. “Coda’s dad is a coach … He is just the heart and soul of the team, and such a brilliant person. “We’re trying to support them through this. We thought the best thing to do was to raise money so that they can focus on what really matters.” Gladman said the community support has been touching, spreading from close local clubs to AFL Victoria. “People have really gotten behind it,” he said. “It’s things like this that show how great community clubs can be, and footy generally.” To donate before September 8, visit: https://bit.ly/3kBp4N8
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Waste crime body gone By Michaela Meade A body that was set up to tackle waste crime will be disbanded by Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA). The EPA’s Waste Crime Directorate was set up in February 2020 as part of a state government push to target rogue operators who amass stockpiles of chemicals and waste. The directorate will be disbanded as part of the watchdog’s moves to reduce its workforce amid state budget cuts. EPA chief executive Lee Miezis maintains that EPA will continue to deliver the work
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carried out by the directorate. Broadmeadows Progress Association secretary Sonja Rutherford said the decision to disband the Waste Crime Directorate was “very worrying” for the community. She said two fires in Hume last month had reinforced the community’s belief that more needed to be done to ensure waste and recycling plant operators are complying with EPA regulations. “There’s no lessening of a need for the EPA to enforce these rules,” she said. Ms Rutherford said the community had been feeling a “sense of security” since the
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EPA was given more power to investigate waste operators. “What we were seeing … was we now had our protector,” she said. “Then we find the government … is now doing the very opposite. “In other words we’re back to where we were.” Hume councillor Naim Kurt said the Waste Crime Directorate needed to be stepped up, not cut back. “There are concerns that having less enforcement and oversight of these facilities will have a serious and detrimental affect on
our community locally,” he said. “The last thing our community should be facing is cutbacks at the environmental watchdog tasked with keeping our community safe.” Mr Miezis said: “I want to make it clear that preventing environmental crime related to pollution and waste will remain a priority focus for the organisation. “The work of the Waste Crime Directorate will be delivered but under an improved structure … [that] strengthens front line operations across Victoria to prevent harm to the environment and community.”
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Young people embrace the jab By Michaela Meade Hume resident and GP Amrooha Hussain is encouraging the community to continue coming forward to get vaccinated against COVID-19 amid a “huge response” from the younger cohort. Recently released data from the federal health department revealed the Hume municipality had the lowest vaccination rate in the state for both first and second doses, at 40.8 per cent and 22.4 per cent respectively. According to the data, Queenscliffe had the
highest vaccination rate in the state, with 86.9 per cent of eligible people having received their first dose, and 64 per cent their second. Despite Hume’s low rate, Dr Hussain – who works at Myhealth in Airport West – said she has seen the community being very keen to get vaccinated. “Certainly [since] the state government opened up the eligibility to 18 to 39 year olds, we’ve seen a huge response,” Dr Hussain said. “Our bookings are through the roof, it’s really hard to get a booking now because people have shown a lot of enthusiasm.
“We’re seeing a lot of people come across the line to get vaccinated. “They were just waiting to be eligible, and there definitely seems to be a huge demand.” For anyone hesitant to get the jab, Dr Hussain said to be assured that both available vaccines in Victoria, AstraZeneca and Pfizer, are safe and effective. “I want to make sure people understand that both vaccines we have are fantastic at preventing illness, hospitalisation and death,” Dr Hussain said. “From a safety profile, the risks are extremely
low with AstraZeneca. “You just need to have a conversation with your doctor to see which vaccine is right for you.” Dr Hussain said getting vaccinated is “the best way to protect ourselves”. “We want to get people protected quickly, as quickly as possible,” Dr Hussain said. “The north-west is facing a challenging time. “If we can support them, our community … that’s just a great thing. “We have to encourage our community to get vaccinated.”
COVID cases ‘a concern’ across Hume
Drive through vaccination clinic at the former Ford factory in Broadmeadows. (Damjan Janevski) 248120
New northern vaccine clinics open Two additional vaccination hubs have opened in the northern suburbs in recent weeks as the state government strives to get one million COVID-19 jabs into arms by mid-September. St Vincent’s Hospital and Hume council have partnered to run a vaccination hub on the site of the former Ford factory in Campbellfield, which is one of the state’s first drive-though vaccine clinics. Meanwhile the Melbourne Market Authority has partnered with Austin Health to run a vaccine clinic at the Melbourne Market in Epping.
Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said the drive-through clinic, which opened on August 23, was a “significant step forward” to improve vaccination rates in Hume. “We have been advocating to the Victorian government to undertake a more targeted and accessible vaccine roll-out approach and are delighted that a major vaccination site will be located at the former Ford site,” he said. The pop-up clinic at the Melbourne Market, which will operate until next week, is a chance for essential workers in the fresh produce supply chain to get the jab on the job.
Melbourne Market Authority said over 10,000 people use the Melbourne Market as a base for buying fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers in the early hours of the morning. Every one of the 10,000 Melbourne Market access cardholders will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at the Melbourne Market Vaccination Hub. “We’re pleased to see so many market users keen to roll up their sleeves,” Melbourne Market Authority chief executive Mark Maskiell said.
Health officials have named parts of the northern suburbs, including Hume, as areas of concern as the number of COVID-19 infections in the region continues to grow. More than 90 of Sunday’s 183 new coronavirus cases were recorded in the northern suburbs. Fifty-three of those cases were in Hume while 11 were in Whittlesea. The number of COVID-19 exposure sites in both municipalities has grown rapidly in recent days. As of Monday, the Department of Health had listed more than 50 tier one and tier two exposure sites in Hume, largely centred around Broadmeadows, Campbellfield and Coolaroo. On Sunday, COVID response commander Jeroen Weimar said health officials were working with local traders and the community in Coolaroo to bring an outbreak at a Somerton Road shopping strip under control. More than 20 exposure sites have been identified in the City of Whittlesea, including the job site for the Bridge Inn Road upgrade. Mr Weimar confirmed that a Northern Health employee had tested positive for COVID-19. It is not known which campus the employee works at. “We believe the infection was acquired outside the facility,” Mr Weimar said. “We are working through exposure sites and other staff impacts but as we’ve seen in last few weeks, strong protocols around the use of PPE and the COVID-safe protocols we believe should reduce that impact and my thanks to the whole of Northern Health for their swift response over the last few days and the coming days.”
Laura Michell
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Upfield line issues ‘ignored’ By Laura Michell Reconfiguring the City Loop to increase train services on the Upfield line will be “irrelevant” unless the line is duplicated first, according to the Upfield Transport Alliance. The state’s independent infrastructure advisory body, Infrastructure Victoria, identified the need to reconfigure Melbourne’s City Loop train network in order to improve services on the Craigieburn, Upfield and Frankston lines in its recent Victoria’s infrastructure strategy 2021–2051. According to the report, reconfiguring the
City Loop will enable the extension of services on the Upfield line to Mitchell Shire, and increase capacity and improve reliability on the Upfield, Craigieburn and Frankston lines. It said the project would separate the Craigieburn and Upfield lines, with delays on the Craigieburn line currently impacting Upfield services. Infrastructure Victoria said the state government needed to urgently start planning for the City Loop upgrade as the train network was nearing capacity. It said work on the reconfiguration project needs to start “immediately” after the Metro
Tunnel’s scheduled opening in 2022. “The window of opportunity to deliver the project will close as demand continues to increase … The Victorian government must decide within five years whether to take advantage of this opportunity,” the report said. But Upfield Transport Alliance spokesman Denis Watson said Infrastructure Victoria had ignored the “immediate problems” facing Upfield commuters. “Reconfiguring of the Upfield line through the city is irrelevant unless the line is duplicated,” he said.
“The Upfield Line is severely stunted. There is no station at Campbellfield, the current line only reaches to Barry Road and no city-end tunnel project can increase frequency without first resolving the other bottleneck, the Upfield Line’s final four kilometre of single track. “The most urgent issue is the Upfield line’s lack of reliability for those living at its northern end, with services regularly cancelled or turned around at Coburg. A major barrier to more frequent services, particularly during peak hour, is the single track between Gowrie and Upfield.”
Grants help wellbeing A nature-based playgroup, a school kitchen garden and a fun run club are among 10 community projects to receive a funding boost from the developers of Mickleham’s Merrifield estate. The funding was awarded to community groups as part of the Merrifield Community Partnership Program which aims to meet the needs of the fast-growing Merrifield community. The grants, which are in their third year, provided groups with between $500 and $10,000. The successful initiatives were selected by a review committee, including representatives from Hume council and developers MAB Corporation. Merrifield community and stakeholder engagement manager Tennille Bradley-Ow said many of the projects were dedicated to nurturing and growing the health and
wellbeing of the Merrifield community. “This year we saw the rise of some very exciting programs to support the thriving Merrifield community. From grassroots groups to major sporting clubs and key community services, it’s fantastic to see the wonderful initiatives coming from within our local community,” she said. “This year, we had a specific focus on supporting opportunities to encourage community engagement and support the activation of the largest community centre within the City of Hume that is currently under construction and the new 9.5 hectare sports reserve, scheduled to be opened later this year in Merrifield.”
Some of the Merrifield Community Grants recipients. (Damjan Janevski) 248466_01
Do you know a local hero? There are five categories: • • •
Citizen of the Year Young Citizen of the Year Senior Citizen of the Year
• •
Access and Inclusion Citizen of the Year Sustainable Environment Citizen or Group of the Year
For more information or to submit a nomination visit: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au
Events and festivals survey Help shape our arts, festivals and events calendar
Council is inviting feedback and ideas on what types of events and activities people would like to see at venues across the City of Whittlesea in 2022. Share your ideas at www.engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au until Friday 10 September.
Visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/covidsupport for more information about food relief, financial assistance, mental health support.
For health information and guidance on current restrictions, visit dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
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Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 5
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Community hospital site chosen By Laura Michell A parcel of land in Mernda will be compulsorily acquired by the state government for the new City of Whittlesea Community Hospital. A community update circulated by the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) said the commercially-owned land at 1410 Plenty Road has been identified as the preferred site for the hospital. The preferred location is close to the Mernda train station and road links into the future
town centre of Mernda. The new hospital will be nearby to several community facilities including a new retail and dining precinct and future community hub. In 2018, the state government pledged to spend $675 million to build 10 community hospitals, including in the City of Whittlesea. Another will be built in Craigieburn. According to the VHBA, construction of the City of Whittlesea Community Hospital is expected to begin in 2022 and will be completed in 2024, however the exact timing of
construction is yet to be determined. The new City of Whittlesea Community Hospital will be operated by Northern Health and will provide a range of integrated community health and specialist services. Strong links to specialist services, community health providers and social support services will improve follow-up treatment and support for those requiring complex care, according to the state government. The new hospital will take pressure off nearby major hospitals including Northern Hospital
in Epping – allowing it to focus on critical care and acute health issues, emergency care and more complex surgeries and procedures, the government said. Health Minister Martin Foley said: “We’re getting on with delivering the largest pipeline of health projects in Victoria’s history, so Victorians can access the care and services they need, when they need them. I thank [Yan Yean MP] Danielle Green for her advocacy, and I look forward to working with her to deliver this important project”.
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Cr Naim Kurt in front of the bluestone building in Westmeadows. (Damjan Janevski) 249184_01
Old bluestone building ‘left to rot’ A historic Westmeadows bluestone building has been “left to rot”, according to the community. A building proposal for a residential hotel at 11-17 Ardlie Street, Westmeadows, which included partial demolition and works within a heritage overlay, was refused by Hume council in April. The proposal was met with 252 objections from residents, including a petition with 679 signatures. The developers have lodged an appeal
with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), with a compulsory conference scheduled for Tuesday, September 14. Residents say that the building is now the subject of vandalism. Westmeadows resident Kaylene Wilson said the state of the bluestone building was a “slap in the face”. “It’s just ridiculous that this old building, that’s close to our hearts, has been left to rot,”
she said. “There’s glass everywhere, I don’t think there’s a window in the building that isn’t smashed. “It’s just derelict.” Hume councillor Naim Kurt said he has asked council to investigate what they are able to do to stop the vandalism, but said that “council cannot compel the owner to secure the property”.
Aspiring students will be able to explore campuses and speak to course and career experts from the comforts of home, as Kangan Institute’s open day moves online. The open day will feature 3D tours of campuses and facilities, as well as one-on-one video chats with course and career advisors, and information sessions about student life, support services and pathways. Kangan Institute’s chief industry engagement and education delivery officer Arron Wood said hosting the event online ensures everyone has an opportunity to explore educational options at TAFE. “Education does not stop during these uncertain times and is vital as we seek to build skills in growth industries to rebuild our economy post COVID,” he said. Kangan Institute’s virtual open day aims to ensure anyone who wants to learn can easily log on and explore our campuses, talk to experts and learn about courses, training pathways, Free TAFE, scholarships and more. “It’s an interactive experience and the perfect opportunity for aspiring learners to get all their questions answered.” More than 200 courses are available at Kangan Institute’s campuses in Broadmeadows, Docklands, Cremorne, Moonee Ponds and Essendon. Courses range from automotive, construction and industrial, through to health and community services, professional and creative industries, and food and fibre disciplines. Kangan Institute’s virtual open day is on Wednesday, September 15, from 4-8pm. Register at: https://events. kangan.edu.au/open-day-2021
Michaela Meade
Support Local Doing things differently during covid-19? In Whittlesea, it takes almost 14 minutes*
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Dad runs for little Levi By Benjamin Millar When little baby Levi had his first seizure on his very first night home from the hospital, parents Steve and Karsha Trowbridge weren’t quite sure what had happened. When he had his second while a midwife was visiting the family at their Wollert home the next day, she arranged for him to be rushed straight to hospital. Mr Trowbridge said the experience was one of the scariest of his life. “The first seizure was the first night that we got out of the hospital, our first night as a family at home,” he said. “It was completely out of the blue, it was just so scary just watching him.” Levi was transferred from Northern Hospital straight to the Royal Children’s Hospital, where just over three weeks later he was diagnosed with KCNQ2 Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy. “In the first three and a half weeks of his life he had roughly around 20 seizures,” Mr Trowbridge said. “The doctors couldn’t tell us anything about what was causing it at this stage, he was having all these blood tests and needles and all these other tests, but we were lucky enough to get a diagnosis in the first month of his life.” There is no known cure KCNQ2 and its rarity means little is still known about its long-term impact, however medication is available to limit the seizures. Mr Trowbridge said Levi is now almost 20 months old and still taking medication twice a day. “The plan is that once he grows in height and weight they will hopefully try and ween him off him the medication and see how he goes – in some cases the seizures come back come back and in some they don’t.”
Steve Trowbridge with his son Levi.
(Damjan Janevski) 248634_01
Adding to the anxiety is the lack of information available about such a rare condition, affecting less than three out of every 100,000 live births. The family has joined a Facebook support group with other affected families with similar experiences. “My wife and I have struggled a bit, it’s not just the seizures it’s also development delays, physically and mentally,” Mr Trowbridge said. “He’s about 10 months behind, he is not crawling or walking yet, and we know his brain is not going to be the same, especially with all the seizures he had.”
Mr Trowbridge plans on running the Melbourne half marathon next month to raise awareness and money for research into Levi’s rare genetic condition. “All the money will be linked straight in to the KCNQ2 cure foundation for research and development so that hopefully one day a cure can be found,” he said. “Levi’s my inspiration but doing it for all of the kids - 21 kilometres is going to be pretty hard for me, but not as hard as they have it.” Details and donations: gofundme.com/f/ helping-levi-find-a-cure-for-kcnq2
NEWS
Virtual twist on children’s expo A popular forum run by Whittlesea council is taking a digital turn this year. The Bringing Up Kids Expo, which each year gives parents and carers tips, hints and tricks for raising their kids, will run through Facebook from September 8-10. The expo will include seminars, online activities and interactive fun and games. Council’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said content would be posted over the course of the expo. “The Bringing Up Kids expo brings together family support agencies to provide information on services, programs and events offered in the city of Whittlesea for your family, and it’s a really popular annual event,” Ms Wilson said. “Lockdowns mean we’ve had to get creative with our delivery this year, but we’re excited to still be able to run the event online. “It’s really important to stay connected in these challenging times, and we hope lots of families can join us to access valuable information, tips, advice and support on raising children.” The council has flagged the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Storytime, parenting information sessions from local family support agencies, and sensory play experiences as potential highlights for both parents and their children. The council said it is hoped that an in-person event can be held later in the year, COVID-19 restrictions permitting. The expo can be attended digitally through the City of Whittlesea Facebook page.
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Police from Greensborough Highway Patrol arrested a 15-year-old Doreen boy after receiving reports of motorised bicycles performing wheelies along Montville Street, Doreen, on Tuesday, August 31. Police said he is expected to be charged on summons with a number of traffic offences including unlicensed and unregistered riding. The motorised bicycle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $895.
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An artist’s impression of the Granite Hills Park. (Supplied)
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Whittlesea residents are being reminded to have their say about the proposed features of a new major community park at Quarry Hills Regional Parkland. A concept design for Granite Hills Park in South Morang includes play equipment, giant slides, a 50-metre flying fox, barbecues and picnic settings, a lawn maze, nature and water play, public toilets with a Changing Places facility and connected walking trails. The park will be one of four major community parks in the City of Whittlesea,
providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the co-designed play features and explore the picturesque natural landscape, council said. Granite Hills Park will be built in stages, starting in 2022. The project will be delivered by the City of Whittlesea with the support of the Victorian government. Residents can have their say about the park’s proposed design by completing an online survey until September 12, via: www. engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/granite-hills
Witness appeal Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward following a collision between a vehicle and a motorcycle on Saturday, August 28. Police said the collision occurred between 4.30-5.30pm in the vicinity of Hollywood Drive, Roxburgh Park. Contact 9303 4433. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
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Freeway interchange now open By Michaela Meade Drivers in the northern suburbs now have easier access to the Hume Freeway following the opening of a long-awaited freeway interchange at O’Herns Road in Epping. The diamond interchange opened last week, alongside a new lane in each direction on O’Herns Road between the Hume Freeway and Manor House Drive, and a new lane in each direction on the Hume Freeway between
Cooper Street and O’Herns Road. Traffic lights have been installed at Edgars Road, Gateway Boulevard and Koukoura Drive, and the bridge over the Hume Freeway has been widened to help improve traffic flow to the new interchange. Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said the completion of stage two of the O’Herns Road upgrade would provide better connections for the community. “This area of Melbourne is one of the
fastest-growing regions in the country and this upgrade will help people to get home safer and sooner and create opportunities for businesses right across the region,” Ms Allan said. “It’s a huge win for the local community who’ll spend less time stuck in traffic and more time with friends and family doing the things they love.” Thomastown MP Bronwyn Halfpenny said the upgrade would “transform” the way
people travel across the north. “This upgrade will provide a quicker, safer and more efficient journey for the 30,000 vehicles who travel along this section of O’Herns Road each day,” she said. Minor finishing works on O’Herns Road will continue until later this year. The project was jointly funded, with the federal government committing $50 million and the state government committing $105 million.
Growing food for a cause Budding gardeners from Epping Secondary College are getting their hands dirty for a good cause at Greenbrook Community House. The students have been growing vegetables to help community members in need of extra support during COVID-19 lockdowns. About 25 year 11 and 12 VCAL students have been hard at work in the grounds of the Whittlesea council-managed neighbourhood house every Thursday, in between lockdowns, since March, digging and earthmoving, mulching and soil reconditioning, planting and watering and weeding and seeding. Council’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the students were proud to donate four boxes of organic fruit and vegetables to Thomastown Neighbourhood House and Countrywide Community Mission shortly before the May circuit breaker lockdown. “The gardening groups decided to donate their produce once they harvested it and saw how beautifully it had grown, and they were proud to choose local organisations to support,” Ms Wilson said.
“The food relief organisations were thrilled to receive boxes of organic spinach, carrots, spring onions, broccoli, lettuce, beetroots and potatoes, but even more excited to know the harvest had been grown and donated by local secondary school students.” Ms Wilson said the grounds of Greenbrook Community House were looking sensational, with the students also chopping and trimming branches, weeding, raking, placing nets over fruit trees, creating mosaic signs and sanding back boards for artworks. “They’re looking forward to getting back into the garden and growing more seasonal produce and are happy to be playing a small part in making life easier for people who could use some extra support during the pandemic,” she said. Epping Secondary College teacher Antoinette Rehak said the students loved being out in the garden, away from technology and involved in a local community house. “They have learnt about gardening and how a little bit of love can go a long way,” Ms Rehak said.
Buses replace trains on the Mernda Line
Nicholas, Blake and Jason mulching the orchard area at Greenbrook.
(Supplied)
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT (SECTION 52 OF THE Planning and Environment Act 1987) The property affected by the application is located at 18 (Lot 5413) Neptune Terrace, Mernda. The application is for a permit to Variation of restrictive covenant PS732006F to allow for the construction of a verandah outside the prescribed building envelope within 0.5 metres of the eastern boundary. The applicant for the permit is Renee Borg. You may look at the application and any documents that support the application on the City of Whittlesea website via the following link www. whittlesea.vic.gov.au/building-planning-development/planning/advertising/
Thanks for your patience as we build the Metro Tunnel, remove dangerous and congested level crossings and undertake maintenance works.
The application reference number is PLN-37025
7 to 9 Sep 20 to 23 Sep
8.50pm to last train
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority: City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang.
Clifton Hill to Reservoir
16 Sep
8.50pm to last train
This can be done during the office hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. This service is free of charge.
Clifton Hill to Mernda
26 to 29 Sep
8.10pm to last train
Buses replace trains in both directions Epping to Mernda
Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority.
There will be further disruptions throughout October.
An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.
Works on the Mernda Line are progressing with strict COVIDSafe Plans in place. The health and safety of our workforce and community remains our top priority. For more information and advice about coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 21 September 2021. If you object, the responsible authority will inform you of its decision.
1285
Find out if you’re affected at bigbuild.vic.gov.au 12505208-BL37-21
For information regarding access to Planning documents relating to this application please contact Council’s Building and Planning Department on 9217 2259. 12511341-SN37-21
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Program gets people job ready By Michaela Meade A free program is providing training for those interested in working in the disability sector. OnCall Australia, an organisation that provides professional support personnel for people living with disabilities, as well as families and youths in need, is running a free program – JobReady. The program gives free disability sector training, and guarantees participants with a job at the conclusion of the program. Craigieburn resident Bikash Gautam is one
of the people taking advantage of the program, having lost his job in hospitality after 10 years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr Gautam said he was excited to have the opportunity to help people who need it most. “I’m loving it, working in the sector,” he said. “The best part is helping someone that needs it, to get their goal, or realising what their dream is. “You become satisfied with helping them reach it. “You can encourage them to live their life to the fullest.
“There’s empowerment that comes with it for [the people I work with].” Mr Gautam said the JobReady program was a very smooth process that he would highly recommend. “The program is useful all the way through your career,” he said. “You start with a lot of hours, and the more you get experience, the more you can actually do. You get more clients who want to work with you as well. “It was seven or eight days of training, and if you needed any help, they’re [the instructors] always there to help you.
“You can build confidence and experience, and can then work with clients with more intense needs or behavioural concerns. “The work’s truly rewarding … You’re helping people to reach their goals.” Mr Gautam said anyone wanting to take advantage of the JobReady program needed to be ready to face all it brings, the good and the challenging. “They must be very patient, compassionate and able to listen and understand the client. [They need to] help them according to their needs, and to respect them and their choices.”
Empathy in tough times The Whittlesea Womenhood Association Inc (WWAI) is extending a helping hand to families who are experiencing a tough time during the COVID-19 lockdown. WWAI president Niharika Dawar and vice-president Sanaz Nasirpour said the non-profit organisation, which was established in March, supports women from diverse backgrounds – including those recently arrived in Australia who may have limited social connections and who may not speak English as a first language. Mrs Dawar said that with an approach of “empathy not sympathy”, WWAI aims to make a difference in areas such as women’s health, lifestyle and empowerment. Mrs Nasirpour said that thanks to a state government grant, WWAI has been providing free groceries, along with women’s and children’s essentials, to residents facing hardship during lockdown. Volunteers pack items including fresh fruits
and vegetables, children’s clothes, women’s scarves, masks and sanitiser for delivery to homes in suburbs including Mernda, Wollert, South Morang, Donnybrook, Epping and Thomastown. WWAI uses contactless delivery and notifies recipients via calls or SMS. “We are providing for whoever calls us or approaches us, the main requirement is that they are going through hardship and require assistant,” Mrs Nasirpour said. Mrs Dawar said WWAI purchased the items from small and local businesses, which are struggling due to COVID, and donates them to the community. She said WWAI also helps women with mental health and breast and cervical cancer awareness sessions and finding employment. “We really want women to come forward and contact us if they need any support from us,” Mrs Dawar said. Details https://www.facebook.com/wwaInc or 0468 366 566.
President Niharika Dawar (front) with volunteer Saba Fahad and vice-president Sanaz Nasirpur. (Damjan Janevski) 248109_03
The Victorian Government is making it easier for families to find a three and four-year old kinder learning program they can count on.
LED BY A QUALIFIED QUA TEACHER TEA The K Kinder Tick recog recognises kinder prog d programs that are led by a qualifi q ed teacher.r.
LOOK FOR THE KINDER TICK
10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021
P PLAY-BASED LEARNING PROGRAM L M I highlights kindergartens and It d llong day care centres that o offer play-based programs to h help children learn and grow, b before they start school.
FU FUNDED AND APPROVED BY A THE VICTORIAN TH GOVERNMENT G It also a identifies se services that are ap approved for Victorian G Go Government funding.
Find out more at vic.gov.au/kindertick
STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
NEWS
Rental stress hits Hume hard By Michaela Meade Lockdown has impacted Hume residents’ ability to pay their rent, new data reveals. The Tenants Victoria data, released late last month, examined the impact of Victoria’s fifth lockdown in July on renters’ ability to pay their rent. Tenants Victoria identified Hume as a rental stress hotspot after more than half of the respondents to its survey reported rental stress. Sixty-three per cent of respondents in Hume reported trouble making payments during the fifth lockdown. The municipality was listed as the third
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Victorian renters are telling us they are struggling - Jennifer Beveridge
’’
highest local government area (LGA) for rental stress. Great Dandenong took out the top spot, with 67 per cent of respondents reporting rental stress. Tenants Victoria said landlords’ and real estate agents’ attitudes were a key factor in renters’ ability to manage their financial situation when it came to their rent.
Tenants Victoria chief executive Jennifer Beveridge said the organisation was “really worried” about the extent of rent stress in the community. “People’s financial struggles have really accelerated as a result of public health lockdowns,” Ms Beveridge said. “Significant numbers of Victorian renters are telling us they are struggling to pay their rent and they face the very real risk of eviction at a time when, for the sake of our health, we are still being directed to stay at home. “The policy response from the Victorian government must include the suspension of evictions during a lockdown period and
financial grants for renters.” Respondents to the survey were asked to share their own experience of renting during the pandemic. One renter said: “I have had to rely on my savings to pay my rent … I am 49, have no income and do not own a home”. “I only have $30,000 superannuation. I will end up homeless when I retire.” Tenants Victoria community engagement director Farah Farouque said: “We need to strengthen the safety net available to struggling renters or else we run the risk of creating a whole new class of vulnerable Victorians.”
Teacher walks the talk A teacher at Hume Anglican Grammar is ensuring his year 12 students stay socially connected during Victoria’s sixth COVID-19 lockdown. The lockdown has meant high school final year students are unable to be at school, but physical education teacher Mitchell Lee is making sure his students’ social connections are as strong as ever, organising morning “walk ‘n’ talk” sessions, featuring video chats while exercising. Mr Lee said discussions with his students led to the program. “It became quite clear that student motivations were wavering, and stress levels were increasing,” he said. “When asked why, many responded with a lack of routine being a driving factor. “This initiative is about re-establishing routine to decrease stress and anxiety as well
as increase concentration and focus for the day ahead.” Student Angelina said the program provided a sense of normality otherwise missing. “It also allows me to get back into a familiar and strict routine that ultimately makes me moreproductive throughout the day as I feel more awake, motivated and aware, improving my work ethic,” she said. Elise said the program allowed her to maintain social interactions despite being physically isolated from others. “The walks have also significantly improved my mental health as I feel more connected to others and less stressed and anxious about school, lockdown and personal life,” she said. Michaela Meade Hume Anglican Grammar physical education teacher Mitchell Lee.
(Supplied)
I HAD TO SEE MY DOCTOR FOR SOMETHING ELSE. AND THAT’S WHEN WE TALKED ABOUT THE VACCINE I’ve had the same doctor for years. I trust her advice on everything - I always have. So when it came to the COVID-19 vaccine, I knew I could ask her any questions I had and get the advice I needed to get vaccinated.
Get informed and get vaccinated. Have a talk with a doctor or pharmacist. GO TO CORONAVIRUS.VIC.GOV.AU OR CALL 1800 675 398 Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 11
NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Pool program for vision impaired A one-of-a-kind program is helping vision impaired people in Melbourne’s north-west get in the pool. The aqua fit classes have been tailored to suit the needs of blind and vision impaired people, with staff trained in vision loss awareness teaching the participants water aerobics. The program has been established as a pilot program by Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria with support from Sport and Rec Victoria and Hume council. Program manager Miriam Bilander said the classes were designed to fill a gap in programs accessible to blind and visually impaired people in Melbourne’s north-west.
“It is commonly reported that people with vision loss are more sedentary, and that affects their physical and mental health,” Ms Bilander said. “Usually for water aerobics classes, the instructor is outside of the pool, but our instructor is in the water giving tactile instruction and descriptive commands. “It’s a really great way for people to keep fit and connect socially with each other, you should see how happy everyone is when they’re in the water.” Ms Belindar said the classes had been taking place every Monday at the Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre before lockdown
restrictions came into place, with nine regular participants. Among them was Mufeed Zakariya, an Iraqi refugee who is blind. “I like the exercise, being able to move in the water, it is is good for my body and my joints,” Mr Zakariya said “I’ve also found it to be very social, because the group of people who are all blind can share their feelings. The classes are open to all adults that are blind or vision impaired, with each class costing $5 . Details: https://bit.ly/3kdOFLP Oliver Lees
The most borrowed books Children’s books • Dog Man: Grime and punishmen t by Dav Pilkey (231 loans) • WeirDo 15: Planet weird! by Anh Do (196 loans) •WeirDo 14: Vote WeirDo! by Anh Do (182 loans) Youth books •The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins (190 loans) •Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer (158 loans) •Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas (129 loans)
Librarian Esther Tomsic preparing books to be delivered during lockdown. (Supplied)
Adult books •The Survivors by Jane Harper (327 loans) •The Godmothers by Monica McInerney (196 loans) •The Sentinel by Lee Child (188 loans)
Libraries read the mood More than 671,000 items were borrowed from Hume’s libraries in 2020-21, including close to 30,000 items which were delivered to homes during lockdowns. Hume Libraries recorded an increase in new library members, digital borrowings and social media followers between July 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021, a report to a recent council meeting revealed. Hume Libraries Express – the libraries’ home delivery service launched in response to the pandemic – resulted in the delivery of 28,921 items to 2452 households during that period, the report stated. A further 3248 customers collected 13,676
click and collect items. Councillor Carly Moore described the home delivery service as “amazing”. “You call the library and you say what age your child is, what kind of books that they like to read, and the library staff will go through and they will select the books for you,” she said. “I think it is absolutely amazing just … how well they have been able to adapt and to continue to be able to provide literacy resources to our children who absolutely are struggling without them.” According to the report, 360,700 people visited Hume’s libraries in 2020-21 – down 39.9 per cent from 2019-20 as a result of three
separate lockdowns. The report said Hume Libraries’ Facebook page had the most followers of any single council public library Facebook page in Victoria in 2020-21, with the number of followers growing by 38 per cent from the previous 12 months. Cr Jarrod Bell said the report demonstrated Hume Libraries’ commitment to lifelong learning. “… Our libraries continue to provide our community with access to services, support, education and employment opportunities,” he said.
Mufeed Zakariya at a aqua fit class at the Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre. (Supplied)
Help shape Whittlesea’s events People who live, work and play in the City of Whittlesea are invited to help shape the municipality’s arts, festivals and events calendar. Whittlesea council is inviting feedback and ideas about the types of events and activities people would like to see – such as exhibitions, community festivals and concerts – at different venues across the municipality in 2022. Council’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the City of Whittlesea was proud of its diverse events program and was keen to hear the community’s ideas on what else could be included when people are able to get out more. “Our events calendar is designed to get the community out and having fun when we’re safely able to, and we want to make sure we’re including the right mix of events so there is something everyone can access and enjoy,” Ms Wilson said. “While we’re unable to run in-person events because of lockdowns at the moment, we’re using this time to really evaluate our program so we can have a bigger and better program in 2022 and beyond. “Council is proud of its vibrant and rich arts and cultural events calendar, and we’re looking forward to hearing community members’ ideas on how we can enrich it further. “It might be live music, food stalls, community festivals, come-and-try workshops or children’s entertainment – tell us what local events in the City of Whittlesea you would enjoy going to the most.” Residents can have their say by completing an online survey at engage. whittlesea.vic.gov.au until Friday, September 10.
Laura Michell
Assumption College Kilmore crowned football premiers Assumption College Kilmore’s undefeated firsts football team has taken out the 2021 Associated Grammar Schools of Victoria (AGSV) Premiership. Despite an interrupted season due to COVID restrictions and lockdowns, Assumption’s firsts football team maintained a comprehensive training schedule for players, ensuring the team as a whole was prepared for the year ahead. Assumption maintained a seven-match winning streak to secure its status of undefeated premiers for the season. The team was led by captain Darcy Stewart and vice-captain Steele Simpson. “This year’s … side ensured Assumption College Kilmore continued their tradition 12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021
of having a stronghold on the competition,” principal Kate Fogarty said. “No matter the restrictions and conditions, the team worked together, changing routines to ensure they were both mentally and physically fit to play.” Since joining the list of AGSV football teams in 1958, Assumption College has won 38 Premierships. “Assumption College has a longstanding reputation for sports excellence – a diverse sports program built on the foundation of rich history and tradition,” Ms Fogarty said. “We have a rich footballing history with many well-known AFL and VFL players have come through these doors. Past students
include Neale Daniher, Francis Bourke, Billy Brownless, Peter McCormack, Peter Crimmins and Shane Crawford, to name just a few.” Darcy said: “It was a very difficult season coming in and out of lockdown, not knowing if we would play the next week or not. All of the team really pulled through when it mattered and the results showed that. “I couldn’t be prouder of the boys and how far we’ve come. As a graduating year 12 student, I’m really going to miss pulling on the Assumption jersey, but this is great way to end my time with the team.” Elle Cecil
Captain Darcy Stewart and vice-captain Steele Simpson. (Supplied)
STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
COMMENT
MY PLACE Jamie Totino and Mayuri Naidoo are the co-owners of Brush by the Vines in Mill Park. They spoke to Michaela Meade about running Australia’s largest “paint and sip” studio. What’s your connection to the northern suburbs? I [Jamie] grew up in Epping so it always has and will have a special meaning to me. To see the area develop over the last 15-plus years is so exciting. I remember Westfield when it was just Plenty Valley with the Coles. It’s come a long way. This really does open to the door to more businesses to enter the area and especially for those who have grown up in here, they have the ability to impact the local community. Mayuri fell in love with it once she met the community – the people are so welcoming and kind, it really is family.
How did Brush by the Vines start? We’re both skilled in the arts and business, and wanted to fill the gap in the market, elevating the concept of a Paint ‘n’ Sip studio and doing it in a suburb where it was highly wanted. What has the response been like? The response has been absolutely mind blowing. We have received nothing but love throughout the six months of us being open. The communities continuous support and guests that have become family.
(Damjan Janevski) 245645_03
What are some of your favourite memories? As cliché as it sounds it’s hard to mention one. Through Brush By The Vines we have been able to be part of milestone anniversaries, make a child’s birthday unforgettable or a Hen’s party memorable.
JAMIE TOTINO AND MAYURI NAIDOO
What’s your favourite local cafe/restaurant and why? That’s a really tough question. Against the Grind for coffee, Jolly Miller Uni Hill for a hot chocolate. La Porchetta for a pizza. Dessert,
well, all of them! What’s something people would be surprised to know about you? After playing professional football, I [Jamie]
did a bodybuilding competition and came second. I [Mayuri] was vegetarian for seven years and don’t like vegetables.
Tips to lighten the mental load Adjunct Associate Professor Christopher Carter Ceo North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network Construction workers, including tradespeople, are twice as likely to die by suicide as their peers, and have twice the rate of anxiety and depression. This might come as a surprise if you buy in to the ‘tradie’ stereotype. That is, a ‘she’ll be right’ bloke with an easy job and few cares in the world, beyond keeping the knock-off beers ice-cold. Yet this kind of thinking has allowed us to overlook the significant contributions and sacrifices tradespeople make, and the pressures they face. Here’s one scenario. You’re self-employed, with two young children at home. Money is tight, and cashflow erratic. You’re working long physically demanding hours onsite, often by yourself, or with responsibility for others less experienced, and still need to come home at night and manage the business – including sustaining a pipeline of work so you can keep paying the rent. The industry tells us that scenarios like this are common. Job security, financial pressures and the nature of solo work, as well as other life stresses, affect male and female tradespeople of all ages. Stigma about mental health, and alcohol and drug dependence, are also common issues. On top of this, sole-traders and their families often don’t have access to the support that medium and large businesses, unions or trade organisations can provide. And Melbourne tradies have faced increased pressures due to issues created by COVID-19, such as having to limit work to emergency or vacant premises during lockdown. As anyone on a worksite knows, if you need to carry something heavy, you get help. Sadly, this logic is not applied when we are carrying heavy emotional loads, with tradies much
A new mental health campaign aimed at tradies features Nathan, Zane and Jacob showing that sharing the load helps everyone. (Supplied)
less likely to seek help early than the general population. That’s why we’ve created the ‘Lighten the Load’ campaign, and enhanced our HeadtoHelp service to better meet the needs of tradies. Check out Headtohelp.org.au/tradies. Staff at HeadtoHelp – a free, 100 per cent confidential service – are now trained to
support tradies, their mates or their families. All you need to do is make a free call to 1800 595 212. You’ll talk to a professional, who’ll listen carefully to understand what’s going on, and give you advice or connect you to what you need. This might be mental health support including counselling at one of the HeadtoHelp hubs, which is also free.
As a tradie in one of our ‘Lighten the Load’ videos says: ‘The longer you carry stuff, the heavier it gets … So talk to someone who can help, before it really weighs you down.’ Details: HeadtoHelp 1800 595 212 (free call), 8.30am – 5pm weekdays (excluding public holidays). Call triple-0 in an emergency. Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13
BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Sheds are a vital wellbeing tool The coronavirus pandemic may have kept Victoria’s Men’s Sheds locked up for lengthy periods, but the strong bonds that have been formed have held firm throughout. Benjamin Millar looks at the important role the sheds continue to play across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs.
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or Melton’s Joe Doyle, the local Men’s Shed is a home away from home. Along with his wife Carole, Mr Doyle was instrumental in the Melton Men’s Shed’s formation a little over a decade ago. As a team leader, the Vietnam veteran was a familiar face at the shed week in, week out, until the COVID-19 lockdown hit. Mr Doyle, 76, is just one of thousands of men around the country who find the sheds a welcoming place to ply their craft or simply have a chat, staying connected with their communities during a stage of life many men otherwise find themselves adrift. “My wife Carole had an idea about starting up a Men’s Shed in Melton like so many other suburbs were doing,” he said. “I’ve got PTSD, I was a Vietnam veteran, so it’s been a great place to go and meet other people and to get out of the house. “I used to be isolated at home and didn’t want to go out or anything, it gave me an out, somewhere to go and look forward to it.”
Joe Doyle has been part of Melton Men’s Shed since it started a decade ago. (Damjan Janevski) 249607_01
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It’s a place for likeminded people to come and have a coffee or a chat - Joe Doyle
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Over the past 10 years the shed has gone from strength to strength, attracting men of all ages to join activities throughout the week, from woodwork and cooking to cycling and games. Describing himself as “a bit of a handyman” who likes working with his hands, prior to lockdown Mr Doyle could often be found tinkering on his own projects, helping other people with repairs or training up others in the use of the machinery. While the practical side is certainly part of the attraction, it’s the camaraderie that Mr Doyle has grown to cherish. “It’s a place for likeminded people to come and have a coffee or a chat, we don’t discriminate against people, we take people as they are,” he said. “I’m 76, but it’s all different ages, you don’t have to be an old bugger like me.” That welcoming attitude can be found across the growing number of Men’s Sheds scattered across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs. John Owen from the Taylors Hill Men’s Shed was in a similar boat to Mr Doyle, looking around for something to keep his hands and mind occupied after retirement. “I’ve always been a very busy person and very practical, so when the Men’s Shed started here about at about four years ago I thought I would give it a go,” he said. “It provides a good community, you are able to chat with the guys and talk about your issues and problems without judgment and that’s great. “A lot of the guys that are there are lonely, perhaps they’re widowed and they find it good to be able to go somewhere and be able to talk.” Mr Owen, 80, said one of the things he is proudest of is the mentoring program the shed runs for children who are struggling a little bit at school. “We spend two hours a week for six weeks with them and during that time we get them to do a little project like a pencil case or a small table with legs that fold out that they can give to their mum,” he said. “There was one boy who was struggling to go school, after he started with the program with us he totally changed, his mother came around one day and said they couldn’t believe the difference.” More than 1200 Men’s, Women’s and Community Sheds have now popped up 14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021
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1/ John Owen from the Taylor’s Hill Men’s Shed. 2/ Whittlesea Men’s Shed president Phil Berchdolt. 3/ Romsey Men’s Shed president Steve Goodman, vice president Douglas Tozer and members Laurie Bellingham and Stevan Janusko at the shed’s opening earlier this year. 4/ Rod Jackson working in the Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury workshop. 5/ Barry Burbridge tending the Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury vegie gardens before lockdown. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski and supplied) across the country, providing meaningful connections that help stop people fall through the gaps in their later years. Speaking during Men’s Shed Week (August 30 to September 5), Australian Men’s Shed Association chairman Paul Sladdin said the fundamentals of Men’s Sheds are connection, community and camaraderie. He said while the lengthy lockdown has made it difficult for people to meet in person, participants have found ways to stay connected throughout.
“The pandemic has certainly got in the way of Shedders getting together in person as much as they’d like to over the last 18 months,” he said. “But like us, Men’s Sheds around the country have found ways to stay in touch and to support their mates by other means and that’s what we’re celebrating this year.” Mr Doyle said even though nobody has been able to head down to the Melton shed sessions, the men have still kept in touch and regularly check in on each other.
“The telephone is our go-between, we’re not allowed out so we can’t go visit, so we keep in contact on the telephone,” he said. He’s nevertheless looking forward to returning to the shed once restrictions ease and thinks the men aren’t the only ones looking forward to the day. “When I first started a lot of the wives told their husbands to ‘get down to that Men’s Shed and give me peace’,” he said. “It gets the men out of the house so the women can have some peace.”
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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
Bringing up kids expo The Bringing Up Kids Expo will bring together family support agencies to provide information on services, programs and events offered in the City of Whittlesea for your family. Running from 9am to 4pm, September 8-10. ■ https://bit.ly/38uNjqJ
Youth theatre workshops Whittlesea council is offering free drama workshops every Thursday until December 16, resuming once COVID-19 restrictions allow. Anyone aged 12 to 18 years old can come along to civic centre Innovation Hub, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang, 4-6pm. Learn skills, build confidence, make friends and become part of the Fresh Theatre community. ■ events@whittlesea.vic.gov.au or 9217 2172
Community lunch Hume council is hosting weekly community lunches on Wednesday, September 8 and Wednesday, September 15, 11.30am-1pm. Enjoy a free bowl of hearty soup at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Drive, Roxburgh Park. ■ https://bit.ly/2VYDLRV
Solo exhibition Hume-based artist Louise D’Amico’s debut solo exhibition is available now to view as an online exhibition exploring the theme of flowers, the phenomenon of their explosive colour, and how they make you feel happy. Available for viewing until Sunday, November 21. ■ https://theexhibit.io/exhibition/ability-tomake-by-louise-damico
Book week Young readers are being encouraged to be book critics as part of the CBCA Book of the Year awards. Readers can download the Beanstack app and earn badges for writing a review of the one of six shortlisted titles in the ’2021 CBCA Book of the Year Awards: Younger Readers’ category. Entries go into the draw to win a $30 book voucher. The challenge runs until September 30. ■ https://www.beanstack.com/
This canola field near Truganina caught the eye of photographer Damjan Janevski. (248986_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
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 welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury 12.30-3.30pm.
Garden club 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
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
Zonta club meets The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420
Mahjong group Interested in learning to play Mahjong? U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. ■ u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016
volunteer@ms.org.au
Thompson Street, Williamstown. 9397 6168
■ Renee,
Patchwork 25th anniversary Wyndham Patchworkers is celebrating their 25th Anniversary Quilt on Saturday, September 11 10am-3.30pm at St James the Apostle Catholic Church Hall, 336 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing. For an entry fee of $15, you can enjoy morning and afternoon tea, and hear guest speaker Veronique Diligent. BYO lunch, the day will include a raffle, door prizes, show and tell, and local traders. Pre booking is mandatory. No door sales. ■ www.trybooking.com/BRGRN, Donna, 0417 268887, WyndhampatchworkersInc@ hotmail.com
AL-ANON meets AL-ANON provides support for families and loved ones living with alcoholics and problem drinkers. The group meets Mondays at St Thomas Anglican Church foyer, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee, from 7.30pm, and on Tuesdays at the St Mary’s Tennis Club rooms, 204 Grimshaw Street, Greensborough. ■ 0412 432 760
Hobsons Bay band 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
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
Women’s choir 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
First aid courses 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 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
Deer Park probus
MS volunteers
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 are welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580
The Multiple Sclerosis Community Visitors Scheme is seeking female Maltese and Italian volunteers to make a weekly visit to aged care residents in Altona Meadows and Point Cook. ■ Sue, 9845 2744 or
Additional needs support
Friendship Group
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
Altona Day View Club (Voice Interest Education of Women) meets at 11am on the third Wednesday of the month at Altona RSL. ■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176
Diabetes support group The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996
Guided walk Enjoy a leisurely 90 minute walk with guide, John, starting at the Williamstown Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place, each Tuesday starting at 9.20am. Each week covers a different route in the local area. ■ John, 0418 377 336
Laverton Community Choir Free computer workshops Williamstown Community and Education Centre is running free computer workshops on internet banking (October 6) and setting up a MyGov account (November 7). Workshops are at Joan Kirner House, 14
All welcome for a friendly singing get-together, suitable for all ages and abilities on Thursday nights from 7pm during school term at the Laverton P-12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton. ■ Ada, 0419 116 013 Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 15
FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING
Advertising feature
McKenzie Aged Care Group welcomes you to the family McKenzie Aged Care Group was founded by a family who saw a need to create an environment that truly felt like a family home. For over 20 years, McKenzie Aged Care Group has been based on the foundations of family values, resulting in the creation and growth of 17 homes that have become warm and welcoming communities. Like the core of any strong family McKenzie proudly stands by the principle that “we put people first.” The McKenzie family vision – to provide aged care homes that they’d be proud to live in – started when sisters Sally and Mary-Ann McKenzie opened their first home in 2001, in the inner Melbourne suburb of Windsor. Their vision continues today with homes around Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales, where the needs of residents remain the focus at every stage, and where they truly feel like part of the McKenzie family. “In a world where we are all impacted by the effects of COVID-19 and continually experiencing periods of isolation, lockdowns and separation from our loved ones, the family unit has never been more important,” says Mary-Ann McKenzie, one of McKenzie Aged Care’s directors. “When families entrust their loved ones into our care, they will feel happy knowing that we are a family business that will care for their loved one like one of our own.” Each McKenzie home has its own unique character. Surrounded by beautiful gardens that offer a place to enjoy a coffee in the sunshine with friends and family, all homes feature a library, activities rooms and welcoming living spaces where you can enjoy the company of others. The light and spacious bedrooms include their own ensuite, while some feature a private courtyard or balcony. Residents are encouraged to bring personal items, such as pictures and
Your loved one will feel at home with the McKenzie family.
their favourite quilt – important elements that help make the transition into their new home feel more comfortable. “At a time when family really matters, we want to provide the community with the confidence they need when it’s time to make a decision to enter aged care,” explains Sally McKenzie, director of the group. “McKenzie is a place where they’ll know that
(Supplied)
their family will matter.” McKenzie understands that the decision to move into a home is a big step. That’s why they have dedicated team members ready to assist at every stage of your family’s journey into care. “What we say about ourselves is never as important as what families say about us,” says Sally. “The letters and messages of gratitude we receive from residents and families confirms to
us that we are providing the quality care and support at a time of their lives when they need it most.” Your nearest McKenzie Aged Care home is The Ashley, in Reservoir. To learn more and discover the quality care that McKenzie can provide for your loved one, call 1300 899 222 today or visit www.mckenzieacg.com.
12506349-DL33-21
16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021
FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING
Advertising feature
It’s all smiles at friendly Primedent Denture Clinic Situated in the heart of Thomastown, Primedent Denture Clinic is continuing to provide quality care and denture services to the community, despite the pandemic. Director and senior dental technician, Martin Pankrat is joined by dental prosthetist Goran Sabotski. Both men have a particular concern for the elderly. “We aim to take care of older people, helping improve their lifestyle, as well as their physical appearance,” Martin explained. “We want to see them smile with confidence again!” The talented, highly credentialed pair provide a quick, high-quality service bringing a combined 50 years’ experience in clinical and technical dentistry. “Our work is a real passion. We really listen to our patients and their individual needs, and maintain a focus on their overall oral health at all times.” The clinic includes a dental laboratory, where high-quality dentures are made to suit the exact profile of each patient. All products are 100 per cent Australian-made and support other local businesses. “We work closely together, taking an individual approach to exceptional service, quality and product accuracy and precision. All our patients are promised optimum outcomes for comfort, suitability to purpose and aesthetics. “We also maintain post-service care – our patients are welcome back anytime, whether for a check-up, adjustment or a friendly cup of coffee.” Martin and Goran, who are fluent in Macedonian and Polish respectively, are looking to provide on-site services to aged care and nursing home facilities, as well as cooperating with sporting clubs. Very much a community-facing service,
Senior dental technician Martin Pankrat, practice manager Emilia Zdunek and dental prosthetist Goran Sabotkoski. (Supplied)
Primedent Denture Clinic offer home visits at no extra charge for patients who are struggling to attend the clinic in-person. The clinic’s services include full and partial dentures, relines and additions, mouthguards
and express one-hour repairs. Taking all necessary precautions and following government safety guidelines, Primedent Denture Clinic is located at 145 High Street, Thomastown.
It is open 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday and by appointment on Saturday. Inquiries: 9497 9666 or www.primedentlab.com.au
Where to pick up your FREE NORTHERN Broadmeadows Country Supermarket 7 Olsen Place Broadmeadows IGA Friendly Supermarket 10 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Broadmeadows Newsagency 21 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Milk Bar - Broadmeadows 23 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Broadmeadows Central SC 1099 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Coles Supermarket 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Woolworths Supermarket 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Nextra Lotto & News 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Phil - Asian Grocery Business 16 Railway Crescent Bundoora Foodworks Bundoora 1 Andrew Place Bundoora Andrews Place Milk Bar 4 Andrew Place Bundoora Frank Milk Bar 19 Balaka Place Bundoora Good & More Asian Grocery 6/42 Copernicus Crescent Bundoora Bundoora Fruit Market , Uni Hill Town Centre, Janefield Drive Bundoora Mr Asian Grocer 1 Janefield Drive Bundoora Uni Factory Outlets 2 Janefield Drive Bundoora Uni Hill Town Centre 5 Janefield Drive Bundoora RMIT Campus Store Building 202 Level 2, Plenty Road Bundoora Gugu Asian Grocery 3803/43 Plenty Road Bundoora Woolworths Supermarket 69-85 Plenty Road Bunndora Shell Service Station 127-133 Plenty Road Bundoora Coles Supermarket Summerhill 850 Plenty Road Bundoora Caltex Woolworths Service Station 959-969 Plenty Road Bundoora BP Service Station 1050 Plenty Road Bundoora Polaris 3083 Shopping Centre 1056 Plenty Road Bundoora Woolworths Polaris Cnr Plenty Rd & Nain Drive Bundoora Coles Supermarket Bundoora Sq SC Settlement Rd Campbellfield Chris and Marie’s 1477 Sydney Road Campbellfield Barry Road Milk Bar 331 Barry Road Coolaroo Meadow Heights Newsagency Shop 16, 55 Paringa Boulevard Coolaroo Melba Vale Country Club 1390 Pascoe Vale Road Craigieburn Craigieburn Convenience Store 19 Bank Street Craigieburn Hume City Council 75-95 Central Park Avenue Craigieburn Coles Service Station 42-44 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Connections - Craigieburn 59 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre 340 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Harry Brown Liquor G03/420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn The Foodary Caltex 420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Freshplus Craigieburn 420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 10 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Coles Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Windrock Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd
Craigieburn Quality Food Store Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd Craigieburn Milk Bar Store 100 Fairways Boulevard Craigieburn Nanak Indian Grocery Highlands SC 300 Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 300 Highlands SC Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Highlands News & Lotto 300 HighlandsSC Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Hothlyn Drive Milk Bar Hothlyn Drive Craigieburn Foodworks 130-132 Hothlyn Drive Craigieburn Caltex 315 Hume Highway Craigieburn Metro Petroluem 330 Hume Highway Craigieburn IGA Xpress Grand Boulevard 27-29 Princes Circuit Craigieburn Moey’s Milk Bar 2 Smeaton Court Doreen TSG Riverstone Convenience Cafe Shop 1/121 Elation Boulevard Doreen Laurimar Centre Newsagency Shop 8, 95 Hazel Glen Drive Doreen Woolworths Supermarket 95 95 Hazel Glen Drive Doreen Doreen General Store 920 Yan Yean Road Epping Foodworks 10/351 Dalton Road Epping Pacific Epping Shopping Centre 571-583 High Street Epping The Groove Train 571-583 High Street Epping IGA Plus Liquor 1/53 McDonalds Road Epping Greenbrook Milk Bar 2/53 McDonalds Road Gladstone Park Gladstone Park SC 8-34 Gladstone Park Drive Glenroy Pascoe Vale Road Market 815 Pascoe Vale Road Glenroy Glenroy Newsagency 773 Pascoe Vale Drive Greenvale Coles Supermarket 1-11 Greenvale Drive Greenvale Greenvale Newsagency Shop 4, 1 -11 Greenvale Drive Lalor Woolworths Supermarket Hurtle Street Lalor Lalor Library 2A May Road Lalor Dandy Mart 17-19 May Road Lalor No 1 Fruit Market 37 May Road Lalor Coles Supermarket 47-71 May Road Lalor Lalor Plaza Newsagency Shop 22, 17 McKimmies Road Lalor Lalor Plaza Shopping Centre McKimmies Road Lalor Coles Supermarket Lalor SC Cnr McKimmies Road & Darebin Drive Lalor Santino Continental Grocery 296 Station Street Lalor Afghan Supermarket 322 Station Street Lalor Everfresh Fruit Market 346 Station Street Mernda Coles Mernda Mernda Junction SC Cnr Plenty Rd & Bridge Inn Rd Mernda Riverdale General Store 33 Riverdale Boulevard Mernda Mernda Post Office 50 Mernda Village Drive & Galloway Drive Mernda Woolworths Supermarket Mernda Village Drive & Galloway Drive
Published Tuesday (fortnightly) Mill Park Centenary Drive Milk Bar 147 Centenary Drive Mill Park 7 - Eleven Mill Park 252 Childs Rd & Morang Dr Mill Park The Stables Shopping Centre Childs Road Mill Park Grenda Milk Bar Grenda Drive Mill Park Coles Supermarket McDonalds Road Mill Park Westfield Plenty Valley 415 McDonalds Road Mill Park Shriji Supermarket 522 Plenty Road Mill Park Woolworths Shop 8/538 Plenty Road Mill Park Rivergum Village Shopping Centre 538 Plenty Road Mill Park Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Redleap Ave & Childs Rd Roxburgh Park Woolworths Supermarket Somerton Road Roxburgh Park Roxburgh Village Shopping Centre 250 Somerton Road South Morang South Morang Milk Bar 15 Gorge Road South Morang Westfield Plenty Valley SC 415 McDonalds Road South Morang North City Accountants 7/545 McDonalds Road South Morang Coles Supermarket Mill Park Lakes, The Lakes Boulevard Thomastown Foodworks 126 Alexander Ave Thomastown Caltex Thomastown Cnr Dalton Road & Wood St Thomastown Thomastown News & Lotto 223 High Street Thomastown Thomastown Library 52 Main Street Thomastown BP Service Station 72 Keon Parade Thomastown APCO Service Station 228-234 Settlement Road Thomastown Shell Service Station 27 Cnr Spencer St & Dalton Rd West Meadows Shell Petrol Station - West Meadows 36 Fawkner Street West Meadows The Old Broadie Milkbar 40 Fawkner Street West Meadows Claudio’s IGA Supermarket 12-23 Fawkner Street West Meadows Caltex Petrol Station - West Meadows 227 Mickleham Road Whittlesea Whittlesea Bakery 34 Church Street Whittlesea NewsXpress Whittlesea 45 Church Street Whittlesea Whittlesea Courthouse Information Centre 74 Church Street Whittlesea IGA Supermarket - Whittlesea Shop 2, 22 Church Street University Hill Coles Supermarket Uni Hill 224 Plenty Road University Hill Wollert Wollert Post Office 491 Epping Road Also available from Real Estate Agents everywhere
Or, get your FREE Digital Editions, News Updates, Breaking News and competitions delivered to your email inbox.
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Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 17
PUZZLES No. 045
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.
easy
2
8
9 1 6 3 6 5 1 6 2 9 1 9 7 4 5 3 4 7 8 4
7 9 2 3 6 8 3
9
5 7
medium
5
9
3 2
2 3 8 1 3 1 5 7 4 5 6 2 9
QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS
DOWN
Constable (9) Matures (4) Eggs (3) Booking (11) Pseudonyms (3-5) Project (6) Wildcat (4) Teased (7) Expresses disapproval (7) Tract (4) Come back (6) NY theatre district (8) Bases (11) Bedridden (3) Artist, — Ono (4) Adorn with glitter (9)
1 6 10 11 12 13 14 15 20 21 25 26 28 29 30 31
No. 045
Punctually (8) Studying (8) Grain (6) Be naughty (9) Benchmark (4) Ushered (6) Did wrong (6) Axe (7) Infamous (9) Gatecrash (7) Surfing (the web) (8) Colour (4,4) Sly (6) Hit (6) R&R spot (3,3) 27 Wound with a knife (4) 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 16 17 18 19 22 23 24
DECODER
No. 045
5 1 4
9 5 4 9 8 9 2 5 1
6 hard
6 3
9
3 2 7
7 3
1 5 7 9
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
4
Q J
6
23
24
25
26
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
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”.
N
Today’s Aim: 20 words: Good 30 words: Very good 40 words: Excellent
I
T
E
A
Y B
R
G
3 LETTERS ACE ADO ADS AGE ALE ARE ATE AXE BOA COO DIE DOE EEL ERA EWE HER NIP ODE OLD RAM RUM SAC SAT TEE TEN VIP 4 LETTERS ARTS BABE CAPE DYES FAME GATE HERO INNS LADS ONCE ONES RIDE ROOK SARI SECT
SOME TALC VAST 5 LETTERS ADULT ALLAH ALONE ASSET AWAIT CAMPS DELTA DEPTH EDICT ENSUE ERODE FELTS GASES GASPS HEELS IDEAL
No. 045
IDIOM IDLER INLET LADEN LINER MANOR METRE MULTI NAMES NOSED PLIED PLODS POLIO RADIO SAVER SEEMS SLIDE SMITE SOLAR SORRY STEAL
STONE TEASE TERSE TILDE VEILS VILLA YESES 6 LETTERS ELEVEN ENTITY 7 LETTERS ERRATIC EXPANSE
FALSITY LATTICE ORDERED TYPESET 8 LETTERS CHASTISE DIABETIC STOCKADE TIRELESS 10 LETTERS HENCEFORTH PRINCESSES
airy, angry, baying, betray, BETRAYING, binary, brainy, bray, braying, briny, byre, byte, entry, eying, gaiety, gantry, gayer, gentry, grainy, grey, gyrate, gyre, nary, nearby, rainy, raying, retying, tangy, teary, tiny, tray, trey, trying, tying, tyre, yarn, yean, year, yearn, yeti
2 5 1 4 7 6 8 3 9
1 7 2 3 9 6 4 5 8
5 9 3 4 1 8 7 6 2
4 6 8 2 7 5 1 3 9
9 4 1 6 8 7 3 2 5
8 3 7 1 5 2 6 9 4
6 2 5 9 3 4 8 7 1
3 8 6 5 2 1 9 4 7
7 5 9 8 4 3 2 1 6
2 1 4 7 6 9 5 8 3
3 4 9 8 2 5 1 6 7
6 8 7 9 3 1 4 5 2
8 7 2 1 5 9 6 4 3
4 9 6 3 8 2 5 7 1
5 1 3 6 4 7 2 9 8
1 6 8 7 9 4 3 2 5
9 2 4 5 1 3 7 8 6
7 3 5 2 6 8 9 1 4
8 9 2 4 5 7 3 6 1
5 3 7 6 8 1 2 9 4
6 1 4 3 9 2 5 8 7
3 5 9 8 1 4 6 7 2
2 6 8 5 7 9 4 1 3
7 4 1 2 6 3 9 5 8
4 8 5 1 2 6 7 3 9
1 7 3 9 4 5 8 2 6
9 2 6 7 3 8 1 4 5
Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
22
hard
21
medium
20
easy
19
8 9
18
1
17
8 1 2
16
6
15
2 9
4
C UD Y E BWKN R G X H
7
3
T S Z L F I VMAO PQ J
8
7
2
14
3
1
WORDFIT
10-09-21 12491600-JW21-21
SUDOKU
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So, make your move now and call Shane on 13 14 79. FRIDGE • FREEZER & COLDROOM SEALS • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021
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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which Rabbitohs player recently received a sixweek suspension for a reckless high tackle?
7. Australian-born tackle Jordan Mailata is currently with which NFL team?
13. Fabio Quartararo, the current leader of the MotoGP championship, is from which country?
2. Who defeated Australia 57-22 in Round 1 of the 2021 Rugby Championship?
8. What medal did Evan O’Hanlon win in the men's 100 metres T38 event at the Tokyo Paralympics?
14. Which English batsman has scored three 100s in three Tests against India in their series so far?
3. Bryson DeChambeau is a US professional in what sport? 4. Which city will host the 2021 AFL Grand Final? 5. Who lost in straight sets in the first round of the 2021 US Open to Roberto Bautista Agut?
9. Matthew Dellavedova has signed a three-year deal with which NBL team? 10. What year did Essendon last win an AFL final? 11. In the AFL, GWS defeated Sydney by how many points in their elimination final?
6. What medal did Lauren Parker win in the women’s PTWC event at the Tokyo Paralympics?
12. And who was suspended for three matches after making contact with an umpire?
Fabio Quartararo
15. A card game similar to bridge that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries is called what? 16. Which Australian tennis player exited in the first round of the US Open against American Taylor Fritz? 17. True or false: Odd Christian Eiking is the name of a current Norwegian cyclist? 18. How many full laps were completed in the Belgian Grand Prix, in which Max Verstappen was declared winner and earned halfpoints? 19. And which Williams driver finished second, his first ever podium finish and the team's first in four years? 20. Which AFL team removed the red and green colours from their guernsey in 2011?
21. Which AFL commentator was banned from entering Western Australia to cover the Grand Final?
26. The entirety of the women's Indian cricket team's tour of Australia will take place in which state?
22. What cricket nation is scheduled to play a Test match against Australia in Hobart later this year?
27. Who won the 2021 Super Netball Grand Final?
23. What NBA team did basketball legends Robert Parish, Kevin McHale and Larry Bird all play for? 24. In what year did the Port Adelaide Power debut in the AFL? 25. What is the informal nickname given to the sport of wheelchair rugby?
28. Which team ended the Melbourne Storm's winning streak during the 2021 NRL season? 29. Spain and Slovenia were the gold medallists in which new event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics? 30. Which Australian tennis player's first round match was delayed at the 2021 US Open because of an electronics fault?
Roberto Bautista Agut 1. Latrell Mitchell 2. New Zealand 3. Golf 4. Perth 5. Nick Kyrgios 6. Silver 7. Philadelphia Eagles 8. Bronze 9. Melbourne United 10. 2004 11. One 12. Toby Greene 13. France 14. Joe Root 15. Whist 16. Alex de Minaur 17. True 18. Two 19. George Russell 20. Fremantle Dockers 21. Eddie McGuire 22. Afghanistan 23. Boston Celtics 24. 1997 25. Murderball 26. Queensland 27. NSW Swifts 28. Parramatta Eels 29. Sport climbing 30. Ash Barty Massage Therapists
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An opportunity exists for lead cabinetmakers in a busy caravan business in Perth, WA. Self-motivated people to work in a state of the art production facility, in a family owned business. Relocation expenses to WA negotiable for the right people. Here is an opportunity to get involved with a growing brand, in a great state!
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The upgraded Mazda6 sedan’s swoopy coupe looks belie its mid-range passenger car status. (Pictures: Supplied)
Mazda’s new mid-range offering By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring While SUVs and pickup trucks reign supreme on the world’s automobile markets, the humble sedan can only stand by, looking on in envy. One such observer, the Mazda6, has paid the price for this fickle sales atmosphere. Despite this, the company has persisted with its mid-range passenger car in sedan and wagon form, while simplifying it to four variants - Sport, Touring, GT SP and Atenza. New kid on the block is the GT SP, which according to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, brings a distinctly sporty character to the range and builds on the local GT SP portfolio alongside the CX-9. The GT SP, along with the range-topping Atenza, take on a turbocharged version of the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine used across the range, developing 170 kW and 420 Nm. The Sport and Touring make do with the naturally aspirated unit delivering 140 kW and 252 Nm. As well as engine enhancements, the GT SP boasts 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive front lighting and leather upholstery on heated front and rear seating. The sedan sells for $46,690, plus on-road costs, the wagon $47,990. The entry-level sports sedan comes to market at a competitive $34,590, plus ORCs, the wagon $35,890. We were given a taste of the upgrades with the former.
Styling This is no white-bread model. In looks alone, the Mazda6 Sedan has earned the right to stand shoulder to shoulder with prestige product with a price sticker above and beyond its own. With its sleek, coupe-style profile and 17-inch alloy wheels, the car commands attention. The Mazda signature radiator grille is flanked by LED headlamps and daytime running lights, while rear lighting repeats the reliance on LED technology.
Interior Despite showing its age in decor, black cloth upholstery sets the scene with its look of quality, complemented by a leather wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifts. An electric park brake features a hold function. Rear seat leg and shoulder room is good and dual zone climate control incorporates rear vents but getting in and out of the back is a chore because of a pinched door opening due to the swoopy nature of the sedan. Boot space is a usable 474 litres.
Infotainment An 8-inch full colour touch screen atop the central dashboard displays info from the car’s MZD Connect system, including embedded satellite navigation. Bluetooth is hands-free capable and USB-audio input ports are iPod compatible. There’s a USB charging port in the rear seat armrest.
Engines / transmissions Sport and Touring sedans and wagons feature Mazda’s well-respected Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. The set-up produces 140 kW of power at 6000 rpm and 252 Nm of torque at 4000 revs. On 91-octane unleaded petrol, fuel consumption is a claimed 7 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle.
Safety A five-star safety rating is 2018 vintage. It includes intelligent speed assistance, smart city brake support, front and rear, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and driver attention alert. Also fitted are rear parking sensors, high beam control, rear view mirror with
auto dimming, reverse camera, traffic sign recognition and tyre pressure monitoring.
Driving The Mazda6 Sport Sedan offered up a quirky welcome, with a nod to the past in that the doors are unlocked by use of a key fob button - no modern touch of the door handle here and then discarded for a dash-mounted push button start to the engine. A further minor beef is fitment of the old 8-inch Mazda MZD Connect infotainment system and not the newer Mazda Connect as in the Mazda3 and CX-30. However, the familiar Command Control knob on the centre console does make access to info easy while the vehicle is on the move. Having said that, the entry-level Sport does what a mid-size passenger sedan is supposed to: carry occupants in comfort and safety and be a pleasure to drive. No worries. The six-speed automatic transmission did much to do this smoothly and efficiently, while the suspension was up to taking the rough and tumble of some scratchy roads no matter what load the car was carting. Don’t take the word ‘Sport’ literally. Performance is not the prerogative here. For that a step up is needed to the GT SP or Atenza, with the turbocharged 2.5-litre unit generating 170 kW at 5000 rpm and a robust 420 Nm at a low 2000 rpm. Mazda claims the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine of the Sport uses 7 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. The test car recorded 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the CBD and suburbs and 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the motorway.
Summary For those interested in buying a mid-size passenger car (are there any out there?) the Mazda6 Sedan serves the segment well.
AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Mazda6 2.5 Sport Sedan automatic $34,590 Mazda6 2.5 Touring Sedan (a) $38,890 Mazda6 2.5 GT SP Sedan (a) $46,690 Mazda6 2.5 Atenza Sedan (a) $50,090 SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE: Capacity: 2.488 litres Configuration: Four cylinders in line Maximum Power: 140 kW @ 6000 rpm Maximum Torque: 252 Nm @ 4000 rpm Fuel Type: Petrol 91 RON Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 7.0 L/100km BRAKES: Front: Ventilated disc Rear: Disc STANDARD WARRANTY: Five years / unlimited kilometres
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mazda dealer for drive-away prices. Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 21
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Kids have had their sport seasons disrupted over the past two years. (Jamie Morey Photography)
Kids drop the ball in lockdown By Tara Murray “For a lot of them life stopped.” That was the stark reality Jessica Suraci has come across through her role with Sports Chaplaincy Australia. As Victorians suffer through a second year of lockdowns and isolation, sport has been among the biggest casualties. Suraci is a chaplain with Taylors Lakes Football Club, but has also assisted at other clubs the last few years. She said this year’s lockdowns were harder than those we had last year. “Their support networks were taken away,” she said. “It takes away freedom. “We saw a lot of kids come this season, looking very different from where they were playing at the beginning of last year. “Not necessarily physically, but mentally as it took a really big toll on the mental health. When you’re a teenager, school is the worst. “Being at home this time round, [with] no other choice of being at home and seeing people on the internet, was really detrimental to so many people.” Suraci said being locked down and away from their mates meant many players just kept to themselves and hid how they were really feeling. She said she had implemented a system which encouraged people to get in touch, even just to start a conversation. “I can reach out and it’s easy for kids to say ‘yep all good’. If I can’t see them, I can’t see what is going on through their eyes, I don’t know. “I implemented an emoji system. It’s hard for kids to open up sometimes and they don’t want to talk about what is going on, they just need to know someone is there to help them. “They send me an emoji when they need someone to talk to, they don’t necessarily want to talk about it, they want a conversation starter.” Suraci said community sport played an important role. She said clubs were more than teams; they were families. “Sometimes it’s a kid’s only outlet,” she said. “If all we have besides sport is sitting at home playing games, it’s taking away the most important aspect in their lives. “It affects everyone differently. It’s about letting these players know they do have a support network. “It’s just a shame they’ve had to miss out on potentially building healthy relationships and building relationships with sport and the outdoors. “It’s just my hope that these kids all know there is someone to talk to.” Grant McMillian last week had to inform his under-14 girls’ Victorian Junior Basketball League team that their season had come to an end. The Bacchus Marsh team was sitting second on the ladder and full of confidence having knocked off the top team by 30 points. “It’s a real lifestyle change for them to be able to get their heads around,” McMillan said of 22 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021
The EDFL interleague side was one impacted by the lockdowns.
not being able to play. “I obviously try to keep in contact with the kids as much as you can to see how they’re going and give them some activities to do while they’re at home. “I’ve got a Zoom catch up with my rep basketball team next week for all their efforts, to just give the season some closure for them more than anything else.” McMillan, who is a football development manager for AFL Victoria in the Riddell District Football League region, said for children ,sport is more than a game. “They’re used to having that regular interaction with people through the season, they haven’t been able to do that regularly the last couple of years. “When that is taken away from you it’s like the saying ‘you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone’. “Hopefully the kids are resilient enough to bounce back.” The impact of two interrupted seasons hasn’t just impacted the players, with many coaches and volunteers hitting breaking point. McMillan was part of a football coaching seminar with 35 coaches last week. “Some of them are cooked,” he said. “I asked the guys … ‘how have you guys handled your mental health during this?’ “Jason Williams, who is the interim coach of the Calder Cannons, said he had been open about saying he has been seeing a psychiatrist
(Jamie Morey Photography)
A football clinic mid-year was one of highlights for some footballers.
and that he had done so for some time. “[Coburg coach] Andrew Sturgess was open about the things he does to manage his mental health. “They’ve [coaches] really taken on a role that is more than just about being a coach. Even at the best of times being a coach is also being a
(Jamie Morey Photography)
psychologist and psychiatrist and even more so the last two years. “One thing we don’t have a lot of visibility over in these times. We see them in their capability as coaches and volunteers, but we don’t know how their personal circumstances have changed though this time.”
Lockdown ends football, basketball seasons Premiership and championship dreams came tumbling down for many local sports players of all ages last week. The extension of the COVID-19 lockdown to beyond September 23 has left many of the winter sporting competitions with no option to bring to a close their seasons. It’s a bitter blow for many, after most players didn’t get to play at all in 2020. Basketball Victoria issued a statement saying that the Victorian Junior Basketball League, Big V and National Basketball League 1 south competitions would be cancelled. No champions will be declared in those competitions. In the Big V competition, Keilor Thunder men and Altona Gators women were the minor premiers in their respective divisions. Whittlesea Pacers, Craigieburn Eagles, Sunbury Jets and Hume City Broncos all had senior teams set for finals. Basketball Victoria’s under-12 skills days and
identification camp have been postponed. The eight metropolitan football leagues issued a joint statement on Thursday announcing the leagues had mutually decided to cancel all competitions for the 2021 season. Among the leagues are the Essendon District and Western Region football leagues, the Northern and Riddell District football netball leagues and the Victorian Amateur Football Association. The netball competitions for the relevant competitions have also been cancelled. “All leagues have been working diligently in the hope of enabling the remaining games in the 2021 season to be played,” the statement said. “However, it is now apparent this will not be possible in the current environment. “All leagues are committed to working closely with their member clubs, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria to manage the associated issues related to the cancellation of all 2021 competitions and working towards a return to
play next season.” The statement said operation aspects of the decision, like possibly awarding premierships or promotion and relegation will be provided by the respective leagues. The Ballarat Football Netball League has also cancelled its season, saying no premierships would be awarded. The Sunbury Lions and Melton were due to play in the senior football finals. On Wednesday, Football Victoria said the board of directors would meet and consider the impacts for all soccer and futsal stakeholders. “This will be communicated as quickly as possible to provide a roadmap for our community on the remainder of the season for each competition.” The extended lockdown is also set to impact the summer sports, with many seasons set to start in early October. Tara Murray
The Essendon District Football League season has been cancelled. (Damjan Janevski) 243420_01
Whitnall stands down at Craigieburn
Alana Barba in action for Essendon’s VFLW side. (Celie Hay)
Barba’s dream realised By Tara Murray The disappointment of not being taken in this year’s AFLW draft quickly disappeared for Alana Barba. Having missed out on being drafted for a third straight year, Barba thought her dreams were again on hold. But a phone call from the Gold Coast Suns hours after the draft changed everything. “I had an interview with them a couple of days before the draft, but obviously no promises were made, you can’t think too much into that,” she said. “A few hours after the draft, Cameron Joyce [Suns AFLW coach] gave me a call and let me know that there was a spot to fill and it was mine if I wanted it. “It was pretty surreal in that moment and I was shaking a bit, I didn’t know if I had heard him properly.” Barba had heard him properly and she was announced as a Suns player late last month,
with the club putting two other players on the inactive list. The Mickleham resident had to sit on the news until it was officially announced. “I can’t really believe that it has actually happened,” she said. “It was a pretty big secret I’ve had to keep and it was one I was happy to keep. “My phone was flooded with messages and all the support from all my family and friends has just been amazing and a lot of the Gold Coast girls have reached out, been lovely and really welcoming” Barba, who played most of her junior football with Roxburgh Park, made the move to Queensland following the official announcement. She said she had no hesitation in moving interstate to take up the offer. “It’s always in the back of your head, that I’ve been looked over three times,” she said. “In 2019 I was invited to the draft and I sat through the entire draft with my name not
being called out, it was obviously heartbreaking. “I think I have bounced back from that really well and if anything it has made me work harder to prove that I can play at this level. “I’m grateful that Gold Coast saw something in me and they’re going to give me this opportunity.” Barba heads to the Suns off a strong VFLW season with Essendon, playing a key role in their finals run. She said that playing VFLW had taken her game to the next level. “I think it prepared me for the next level, with the bigger bodies and the competition being a lot more professional, rather than NAB League level and I think I’m well prepared for the next level.” Barba said she was keen to get straight into work after completing hotel quarantine. “I’m grateful I can be here,” she said. “There’s a lot of hard work ahead and I’m looking forward to meeting the girls and getting to know them.”
Craigieburn is on the hunt for new football coach after premiership winning coach Lance Whitnall decided not to continue in the role. The Essendon District Football League club announced on its social media that Whitnall had stood down from the role after three years due to family commitments. Whitnall started at the club as a football manager in 2018 before taking on the coaching role the following season. He guided the side to the division 1 premiership in his first season earning the side a spot in premier division. After not playing last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Eagles struggled this year in the top grade following the departure of a number of key players. The side was winless and will be relegated to division 1 for next year. Eagles president John Perrone thanked Whitnall for his commitment to the club. He said Whitnall had worked tirelessly on teaching all the young boys, giving them his expert knowledge in football and in life. “He has shown strong leadership by bolstering the playing list in 2018 as the football manager for a period of time, which he changed the development program and culture of the young playing group which resulted in making the preliminary final in 2018,” Perone said in the statement. “We want to take this opportunity to thank you very much Lance for a fantastic journey we achieved at the football club, which will never be forgotten. “We wish Lance the utmost success in the future to him and his family, whom we have come to know as our family, Dane, Rory and lovely wife Rhiannon. “We wish you nothing but the best in whichever road you take. To your family, we thank you for your commitment to Lance and all the hard work he did for our club.” Tara Murray Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 23
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