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28 SEPTEMBER, 2021

Dogs’ dream shattered

( AAP Image, Richard Wainwright.)

Melbourne rained on the parade of the Western Bulldogs, winning this year’s AFL grand final. With the grand final in Perth and lockdown restricting parties, fans took to social media and got creative decorating their houses to show their support. The western suburbs was tuned red, white and blue in support of the Bulldogs. While the cheer squad was stuck in Melbourne, about 12 diehard Bulldogs fans were able to get together in Beveridge to make the banner, which was then couriered across to Perth. While the support was well felt by the club and players, it wasn’t enough to get them across the line. After leading by 19 points in the third quarter, it all went wrong for the Dogs as they kicked just one more goal for the game. The Demons started to fire on all cylinders and ran away with an historic 21.14 (140)-10.6 (66) win, breaking a 57 year premiership drought. For more on the game and how fans showed their support, turn to page 15.

Jobs push for Brimbank By Tara Murray Finding more ways for Brimbank residents to be employed locally is behind a new program designed by Brimbank council. At last week’s meeting, the council unveiled its Local Jobs for Local People program, with the aim of helping more people into jobs in the local area. The program includes a five-year action plan and recommended key performance indicators Lucid Economics, which prepared a report for the council, found that 68 per cent of Brimbank residents leave the area to work. The program aims to provide jobs for local residents, including new jobs being filled by a

higher proportion of local residents. While the council acknowledged that it can’t control these outcomes, it will look at actions to support finding local jobs for residents. The jobs push includes strengthening employment networks, supporting education and training networks, enhancing the public realm and supporting the promotion of local procurement. The council spoke with businesses in designing the program, with many saying they prefer to employ local people. Business owners and managers, along with other stakeholders, said the council had a role to play in employment. Brimbank is an area of significant

disadvantage with the unemployment rate higher than the state and Melbourne average and the statistics have only got worse due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Federal government labour market data showed that Brimbank has one of the highest unemployment rates in the state, with a jobless rate of 10.9 per cent as of March. Many suburbs had a much higher rate. Councillor Virginia Tachos said that there were currently more people in Brimbank than there were jobs available. “There is a drive to employ more local people, which our council supports wholeheartedly with this initiative,” she said. “Our community needs to leverage off the tremendous knowledge

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of our diverse skilled CALD [culturally and linguistically diverse] community who bring a tremendous knowledge and skills base from around the world. “It is our diversity that makes it great.” Councillor Victoria Borg said there was a disconnect between demand and supply and the council needed to help close that gap, while Councillors Jasmine Nyugen and Sarah Branton said the council needed to play a role in helping find jobs locally. Councillors also voted in favour of a plan for the council’s procurement policy to include a provision which supports the use of local business in providing services and supplies to council.

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9, 2021

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Life’s road trip record ed

Xiang Li.

(George Russell OAM)

Inset: Xiang

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

Li’s artwo rk. (Supplied)

Crackdo wn on h oons

By Tara Mur

Tara Murr

ray

Brimbank on duty Highway last Mon crack ing patro day nigh down on surprised t, hoon drive l officers are rise in hoon fatalities. that either incidentsaid they were rs amid a meet recent Senior Cons s. The didn’t end A fema le in fema four occupants of table Aym police were le and three on Dalr ympl the after being was left with signi males, were Commodore, a 60 to 80 vehicattending hoon with e said ficant injur ejected meets, up wrap taken to people les in atten ies occu non-life-t hreatening ped arou from a car that a week. pants were dance, multwith up to Dela injuries. hospital people per car, you’re nd a pole ended hey. Two of the looking ejected iple times who turne in Kings “It’s unfo Senio at 450-5 d up. Park, belie r Constable from the car. In a secon rtunate, “Highway 00 said. it is expe d accident, Dalr ympl patrol was ved both four in the cted now, e investigato accidents out in force Last Mon “Both ” he Furlo vehicles were obser were hoon said they appe second accident was rs . -related. ared to be ng Road on ved racin were told who we were high speed on the freewThe car not far fromday, two serious g crash heading towa ramp near call crash well.” ay es, with drive The inexp the less rds Derrimutand Leading a hoon meet in Derr es occurred and cars split up on about 11pm. than 10 years erienced drivers rs Leading the Western imut. a short time as they have as expe Senior ConsSenior Constable “Seat rienc Ring belts seem later one e,” he said. Rod Hold Senior Cons Senior Constable table Dalr of the cars, Road to be an Lead table Dalr ymple, whoHudson and the en Commodore Hudson crack ing and ymple said back of a sedan, collid a black that ing Senior Cons issue too.” were both down vehicle trave 15 minutes polic table Huds on hoon ed into road. state and driving acrose were befor lling on the same into the pole, there e the first car on said cars that had a significan t database s the crashed atten Derrimut was a gathe -Lave on the Senior Cons ded hoon events. ring in the “There were rton area. attend hoon table Dalr ympl 150-plus e said meet cars, with about three $800 under couns in Brimbank those who can be cil laws, offences. on top of fined police OUT

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

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

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

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2 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 September, 2021

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Calls intensify for a carers hub By Tara Murray People with disabilities and their carers need a dedicated space in the new Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre according to a Brimbank councillor. At last week’s council meeting, Councillor Maria Kerr raised concerns about the lack of space in the centre for carers and people with disabilities. She called for a report to look at considering how space for carers that is safe, private and low sensory can be provided at the hub. The report will also look at how the hub will

‘‘

I believe it is vital that this centre is 100 per cent inclusive - Maria Kerr

’’

support and engage with carers and people with a disability. Cr Kerr said the hub needed to provide spaces so everyone in the community can use it and feel safe. She said such a space should have been provided to begin with. “The Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre

is one of the biggest projects to be delivered by the Brimbank City Council,” she said. “I believe it is vital that this centre is 100 per cent inclusive, accessible and available for all to be utilised. “I have put forward this motion as a result of direct feedback from the local community and residents who are carers and or living with a disability. “As a carer myself of a child with autism, I understand the importance of accessibility and inclusion. I have real lived experience in fighting for equity for my son. I know the feeling of being turned away from programs

for children with a disability.” Cr Kerr said she would continue to advocate for a space, even if it meant being built at another location. Councillor Victoria Borg said currently the space proposed for carers and people with a disability in the hub is not suitable as it’s not fully inclusive. “Unfortunately the needs of people with disabilities, more specially children who are high on the spectrum that require a safe low sensory space, was overlooked,” she said. “It’s imperative the needs of carers and residents are met through a dedicated hub.”

Slight easing of restrictions

A new vaccine hub has been set up at Caroline Springs.

(Damjan Janevski) 251660_10

New vaccine hub in Caroline Springs A new vaccine hub in Caroline Springs is expected to help boost low vaccination rates of Brimbank and Melton residents. IPC Health opened a pop up centre last week at the Caroline Springs Leisure Centre, with the centre to be open six days a week. IPC Health’s chief executive Jayne Nelson said the centre would provide more opportunities for people to be vaccinated. “Our pop-up vaccination services are smaller and provide an alternative to mainstream health vaccination services,“ she said. “The latest figures show a rise in vaccination

rates in Brimbank and Melton, so we know our efforts have been contributing to these improved statistics. “IPC Health remains very committed to supporting the community and improving vaccine delivery in Melbourne’s west.” Ms Nelson said the centre, which is booking only, would be running until at least the end of December. IPC Health is aiming to deliver over 2500 jabs per week of a combination of Pfizer and AstraZeneca, depending on supply. The hub will look to help specific cultural groups including Pasifika, Vietnamese,

Burmese, Chin, Afghan and Sudanese communities get vaccinated too. It comes as residents in Melbourne’s north and west will benefit from additional vaccines from the federal government and a rapid expansion of vaccination sites across the region as part of a three-week vaccination blitz. Meanwhile, Brimbank council will write to the federal government to fast-track its distribution of Pfizer and Moderna doses to Melbourne’s west.

Brimbank residents will get a small easing of restrictions as the state hits 80 per cent first dose of vaccinations. Victoria is set to hit that target on Tuesday with restrictions to slightly ease from 11.59pm that night. The changes include the 10 kilometre travel radius from your home extending to 15 kilometres, personal training being able to take place with five fully vaccinated people and additional restrictions that were in place at playgrounds have been lifted. Residents across the whole state will now be able to undertake ‘contactless’ recreation at outdoor facilities, such as boating, tennis or golf. It’s hoped that Victoria will hit its next major milestone of 70 per cent double vaccinated by late October, which will result in a number of other restrictions easing. The most recent vaccine data shows that 64.2 per of Brimbank residents over the age of 15 have received their first dose, while 34.9 per cent have received both doses. The breakdown shows 72.4 per cent of residents in the Keilor area have had their first dose, while 45.3 per cent are fully vaccinated. Meanwhile, there were 705 cases and one death announced on Monday morning. As of Sunday there were 370 active cases in Brimbank. There have been 2576 cases overall. There are currently exposure sites in Braybrook, Burnside, Caroline Springs, Deer park, Derrimut, Keilor, Ravenhall, St Albans Sunshine North, Sunshine West, Taylors Lakes, Taylors Hill and Tullamarine. Among the exposure sites is the Victoria University campus in Sunshine and Keilor Primary School. Tara Murray

Tara Murray

Campaign set to push for more infrastructure funding Brimbank council’s campaign for better funding and infrastructure in Brimbank as part of the Melbourne Airport Rail centres around four key areas. At last week’s council meeting, the council released it’s ‘Transforming Brimbank, Let’s Build it Better Together’ document which will form the backbone of the council’s advocacy on the project. It follows the council and residents launching petitions for the state government to reconsider its plans for a proposed Airport Rail flyover via Sunshine and adopt a staged approach to delivering MAR by initially utilising existing at-grade tracks.

The council is planning to launch an official campaign next month. The council’s plan wants to leverage the existing funding and commitments of the Melbourne Airport Rail project, seeking major additional investments across the Sunshine priority precinct, the Sunshine superhub, Albion station and the Albion quarter and sunRISE (Research, Innovation, Science and Enterprise) precinct. They want Sunshine station redeveloped into a regional super hub, Albion station constructed into a fit-for-purpose public transport interchange and the integration of both stations into the surrounding precincts.

Brimbank Mayor Ranka Rasic said the council is calling for the establishment of a ‘Brimbank community offset package’, which recognises Brimbank will experience the brunt of a decade of construction and disruption for the benefit of other communities across the state. She highlighted previous state government programs which saw funding allocated to areas affected by large infrastructure projects. The council is also calling for the establishment of a business, jobs, skills and procurement taskforce. Councillor Virginia Tachos said the

taskforce was one of the most important parts of the campaign to ensure that local people are getting roles in the build of this project. “This is a call to action for our community to deliver and receive the full suite of what was promised by the state government even if it is a staged process,“ she said. “We understand that it can’t all be delivered at once but we want the full suite of what was promised in full. “We want to maximise local community outcomes and not just see it as a transport project, we want to realise the full potential of the sunshine precinct.”

Tuesday, 28 September, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 3

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

Time for a spring clean? For many of us, spring means time for a clean out. Book a no-charge at call hard waste collection service with Brimbank City Council to ensure your unwanted items are either recycled or responsibly disposed of. Every residential household in Brimbank is entitled to one ‘no charge’ at call hard waste collection service each financial year, additional services can be booked at a cost. Council will pick up bulky items like white goods, mattresses, bed bases, televisions, computers and green waste from your home. All you have to do is book it and we’ll pick it up! You book it. Book at hardwaste.brimbank.vic.gov.au or call 9249 4728. We’ll pick it up.

$100 million secured so far Calder Park Drive Level Crossing Removal announced Planning underway for a new Calder Park Drive Interchange Much more needed! “We’ve achieved a huge amount so far, but there is so much more to go! Let’s keep pushing the Federal and State Governments to finish the work they’ve started. Sign the petition to show your support.”

Cr Ranka Rasic

School Holidays There’s still so much to keep the kids busy these school holidays: • Together with the Bowery Theatre, Bukjeh is running Home Away From Home, an arts program for children aged 3–17 years, with classes in English and Arabic • Keep active and win prizes with the Western Region Activity Challenge, with suggested activities suited to all ages and abilities • Spring into September with Brimbank Libraries’ series of native events For more information and bookings, visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/events Meet Brimby Meet Brimby, the new virtual assistant on the Council website that can answer a range of common questions about Council services and information.

Mayor, Brimbank City Council

SIGN OUR PETITION fixthecalder.brimbank.vic.gov.au

MELBOURNE AIRPORT RAIL

If you’ve got a question for Brimby, visit brimbank.vic.gov.au and look in the bottom right hand corner. Carers Week Carers Week (10-16 October) is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate, and raise awareness about the diversity of Brimbank’s carers and their roles. We’re celebrating with a special home-delivered lunch over zoom on Wednesday 13 October, RSVP by 4pm on Friday 8 October at brimbank.vic.gov.au/carersweek2021 National Mental Health Month October is National Mental Health Month and we are reminded of the importance of looking after our mental health and wellbeing. Council will be hosting a number of online events to mark the occasion, for further information visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/events

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

Use Brimby, the new online virtual assistant

let s’ build it better together This image was taken before current health orders.

This will be the biggest investment in Brimbank for decades. We have a unique opportunity to benefit the whole community, not just commuters. “We’ve started work with the State Government to make sure this $10b investment kick-starts better local outcomes for our whole community. Sign the petition to show your support.”

Your Councillors are always happy to hear from you

Cr Ranka Rasic

Cr Victoria Borg Cr Sarah Branton Cr Thuy Dang Cr Sam David JP Cr Maria Kerr Cr Bruce Lancashire Cr Trung Luu Cr Jasmine Nguyen (Deputy Mayor) Cr Jae Papalia Cr Ranka Rasic (Mayor) Cr Virginia Tachos

Mayor, Brimbank City Council

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

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

All information was correct at the time of printing. For latest information about the impacts of COVID-19 on Council’s services visit brimbank.vic.gov.au. For the latest information on restrictions visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au 4 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 September, 2021

SIGN OUR PETITION yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/mar

329 - 0921

Visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au to share your ideas and feedback on issues and projects that matter to you. Learn more about projects that are open for comment including: • Creating Streets for People – • Communications and Did you know that streets make up Engagement – Tell us how we can 60% of Brimbank’s public realm? continue to improve the way we We are developing a new Creating communicate and consult Streets for People Policy which will • Fix the Calder – Sign our petition guide future works and upgrades calling for the Calder Freeway to be to streets in Brimbank, for walking, fixed between the Western Ring cycling, exercising, socialising, Road and Melton Highway. shopping, dining, catching public • Melbourne Airport Rail in Sunshine transport, and of course driving. and Albion – Sign our petition.

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Residents call for consultation By Tara Murray The Brimbank Ratepayers and Residents Association is calling for increased accountability and transparency from Brimbank councillors. The association recently wrote to all councillors with concerns that many aren’t responsive to resident enquiries, don’t reply to emails or phone calls, nor engage via social media platforms. In a media release, the association said many residents are frustrated about the lack of support from councillors about specific issues, such as the Barro landfill fires, and want

councillors to advocate on their behalf to state MPs or attend community forums. “There is a belief amongst the community that only a handful of special interest groups are being heard at present, whilst most residents have no voice,” the release stated. The group also questioned the allocation of only 30 minutes for question time at council meetings. The group said it had looked at how other councils interact with residents and run council meetings and believe Brimbank can do a better job. The group wants the council to look at either monthly public forums or ward forums,

Taliah’s big win

on its dedicated ‘Your Say’ website, as well as face to face workshops (when restrictions allowed) and through receiving written feedback from the community,“ he said. “Once it is safe to do so, council also looks forward to introducing more ways for community members to meet and chat to their councillors. “Community members can also contact council with requests or ideas, through phone, email or letter.” Mr Hogan said the question time was limited to two questions per person to share it around and that it was limited in time due to having to deal with other matters at the meeting.

Police station counters open

Taliah Pistikakis was proud for many reasons after winning the Essendon District Football League under-10 mixed four best and fairest, but one stood out more than the others. The 10-year-old who plays for Taylors Lakes, was the runaway winner in the best and fairest finishing on 23 votes. “I felt so excited,” she said. “My dad won a league best and fairest, which is really cool. He taught me a lot of my skills.

‘‘

where councillors attend and engage with the community in a more casual format allowing community members to express concerns and ask questions. BRRA president Irene Stokes believes that the municipality, which is one of the largest in Melbourne, should be a leader and the group wanted to work with the council. Brimbank council advocacy partnerships and community director Dan Hogan said the pandemic had limited their ability to consult in person. “Council is engaging regularly with the community through COVID-safe channels such as online forums, forms and quick polls

I was running around and hugging everyone

’’

- Taliah Pistikakis “I was jumping all over him and I was running around and hugging everyone.” Taliah, who didn’t think she had any chance of winning, spent most of the season in the midfeld, but also kicked eight goals to finish third in the goal kicking. She said she enjoyed playing football with the boys. “They tackle harder and they are always trying to tackle me.” The Collingwood fan, who loves Oliie Henry and Chloe Molloy, is obsessed with football and takes a football to bed every day. She’s also constantly annoying her sister by tackling her at home. Taliah has big dreams for the future. “I would love to play AFLW for Collingwood.” Tara Murray Taliah Pistikakis won the Essendon District Football League under-10 mixed four best and fairest. (Supplied)

The reception counters at three of the four local police stations closed early last week due to COVID-19 cases, reopened on Thursday. The front counters at Sunshine, Keilor Downs, Caroline Springs and Melton police stations were shut after six staff members across the local division tested positive for COVID-19 between September 17 and 19. A number of other staff across those stations had to isolate as a consequence. A police spokesperson said that the counters at Sunshine, Keilor and Melton had re-opened on Thursday, but the counter at Caroline Springs remained closed. “The Caroline Springs reception counter remains closed after officers in the division tested positive to coronavirus (COVID-19),“ the spokesperson said. “The reception closure allows for more police to be out on the road while some officers are safely isolating due to the coronavirus exposure. “Police continue to work from the stations and are actively patrolling the community 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “Victoria Police’s priority first and foremost is to ensure the safety of its people and the community.” Those who had non urgent matters were encouraged to call 131 444 or use the online reporting service. The spokesperson said Victoria Police wouldn’t be providing updates on how many officers had tested positive for COVID-19. Tara Murray

Financial incentives for kinder teachers. Giving Victorian children the best start means more qualiﬁed teachers are needed across the state. Teachers not currently working in the sector: Join or re-join the sector and be ﬁnancially rewarded with $9,000. All qualified teachers: Get up to $50,000* on top of your salary for positions at high-priority services. Search and apply for a position that suits you via the new Jobs Board at vic.gov.au/kinder *Terms and conditions apply, visit vic.gov.au/kinder

Tuesday, 28 September, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 5

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A college of importance By Tara Murray Brimbank councillors will fight to save the heritage buildings at the old Sunshine College sites. At last week’s council meeting, councillors raised their concerns about plans by the state government to demolish the old schools at 129 and 111 Derby Road, Sunshine, due to vandalism and anti-social behaviour. This is despite the Heritage Council Victoria website as of last week, claiming the buildings are still in generally good condition.

‘‘

Those buildings are significant for Sunshine. It would be sad to see them demolished - Sam David

’’

The council has lodged nominations to Heritage Victoria for both the Sunshine Technical School building and the Sunshine Girls Technical School building to be listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. As of September 7, no final decision had been made regarding demolition. Councillors expressed their concerns about the decision to demolish the buildings without any consultation with the council and the community. Councillor Sam David said he had been contacted by a number of residents, including former teachers and students of the school, concerned about the decision. “I think we should keep them for further directions and use by the community,” he said. “Those buildings are significant for Sunshine. It would be sad to see them demolished.” Cr Virginia Tachos questioned why the

The state government is looking to demolish the old Sunshine Secondary College buildings. Damjan Janevski) 249559

buildings have deteriorated in such a short period of time since closing at the end 2020. She also asked where was the security to ensure the buildings weren’t damaged? Cr Trung Luu said councillors needed clear information from the government what it plans to do with the site, as they were currently getting mixed messages. Residents also continue their push to save the schools. In a letter to resident Neil Head, the office for Footscray MP Katie Hall said they had followed up with the minister. The letter said that Victorian School Building

Authority had been advised that there has been a nomination to include the buildings in the Victorian Heritage Register and they would consider their options when they receive formal notification. The letter said the intention is for the open space to be made available for interim community passive recreational use until the sites are activated for a future education use. A petition to save the buildings has been started by the Greater Sunshine Community Alliance. To sign the petition: https://chng.it/ z6KbgLFRkV

NEWS

Parking rules under review New developments in the Sunshine and St Albans activity centres could be required to provide less parking under a new draft parking overlay. Brimbank councillors at last week’s council meeting voted in favour of the draft Sunshine Metropolitan Activity Centre and St Albans Major Activity Centre car parking plans. As part of this, new developments in certain parts of the St Albans Major Activity Centre, and all land zoned activity centre zone within the Sunshine Metropolitan Activity Centre, won’t be required to have as many car parks included in planning permits. The council hope that by adopting the lower proposed rates, it will provide greater certainty for council, developers and the community regarding the appropriate amount of car parking that is needed in each of the centres. Councillor Bruce Lancashire said parking had been something the council had been working on for some time. He highlighted the changes could reduce the number of planning permits that end up being appealed at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal by proponent seeking to reduced parking requirements. “Parking is at a premium in both locations,” he said. “It’s not possible to have a situation where a new development solves all of the existing parking problems in one area. “We certainly want to see encouragement for the development in St Albans and Sunshine.”

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Tuesday, 28 September, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 7

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VU Polytechnic will provide industry-backed digital skills training for Victorians reimagining their careers. The university has partnered with the state government on a $64 million initiative, the first of its kind in Australia, designed to address Australia’s growing need for digital skills. Across the next three years the program will equip up to 5,000 mid-career Victorians with future focused digital skills and place them in paid, short term digital roles with Victorian businesses. Successful candidates will undertake a 12-week training course in digital skills, followed by a 12-week paid internship with a business in a digital role.

(Supplied)

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Afghan support

Online help for students An online event early next month will focus on the challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects on the daily life of students. EdConnect Australia, which provides support in classrooms, has teamed up with Hume council to run the event which is aimed to help students as they negotiate this difficult period. Experienced teacher, journalist, educational writer and producer Simon Garner is the main speaker. EdConnect east coast manager Danie McNeil said it was an important topic that needed to be acknowledged. “Being a student in the 2020’s is tough,” she said. “Young people may already be experiencing a rough time as they explore who they are, their friendships, discover what

they enjoy and what they can contribute to the world. “Add COVID-19 to the mix and it presents further difficulties that can make it hard to cope. The challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic have had a huge impact on daily life. It has particularly affected school students. Young people nowadays are facing obstacles that have never happened on this scale before.” Mr Garner said young people needed to be exposed to, and interact with older people more than ever. The online session is on October 7 at 11am. To register: https://us06web. zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZYrfu6gpjIsHNJDz6mVjm8ZwhYfnp7UsF4n

Too many workers face this every day It’s never ok

worksafe.vic.gov.au/itsneverok

8 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 September, 2021

Tara Murray

Brimbank council is joining more than 300-plus organistions, businesses and community groups calling for immediate action on the situation in Afghanistan. Councillors voted in support of the council signing a letter by Refugee Council of Australia to Prime Minister Scott Morrison and all federal MPs and senators. The council will also join the Mayor’s Migration Council in its Global Mayors Statement which welcomes Afghan refugees into the cities of those who have signed the statement.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Flood frustration rises

BeKind online A new Brimbank council online campaign is set to target cyberbullying. Brimbank council last week announced the campaign, BeKind Online, which aims to highlight issues around online cyberbullying and trolling, and the importance of treating people online like you would in person. The campaign will include a video that will be shared on social media asking users to join the #bekindonline movement and call out behaviours that do not contribute to meaningful and constructive debate. The council report said the importance of creating and promoting safe online spaces is particularly relevant in the context of being a council strongly represented by women, with statistics showing women experience significant levels of abuse online. At the council meeting several councillors shared their experiences of cyberbullying, with others seeing that behaviour online. Mayor Ranka Rasic said it’s a simple campaign with a big message. “Kindness matters,” she said. “We all have unique experiences and perspectives to share. “BeKind online is about creating safe digital spaces where we can share our opinions without being bullied or attacked. “As the mayor of Brimbank, one of eight female councillors, I have unfortunately experienced online bullying, something that some of my councillors have experienced and it’s far too common for women in general.” Details: https://youtu.be/ pEOzcPwgYKY

By Tara Murray Frustrations continue to grow over flooding and limited access to Brimbank Park. As Star Weekly previously reported, due to heavy rain some of the fords flood, leaving residents unable to access the other side of the park. Brimbank councillor Virigina Tachos has been vocal about the matter on social media and was left frustrated following a council briefing with Parks Victoria, which manages the park. “In a nutshell there is a proposal for a bridge between Brimbank Park and Horseshoe Bend - but no funding for it,” she said on Facebook. “There is a proposal for 1000 steps for greater activation… However again no funding available for this project. “Current funding will only be allocated to ongoing maintenance of existing infrastructure.” Long time Keilor Downs resident Sabina Anderson is among the residents who have been left disheartened at not being able to cross to the other side of the river. “I have three grandchildren that I encourage to walk with us along with a husband who has a medical condition. “While he is encouraged to walk as much as possible for his health, he does have to stop to rest. “By not being able to cross at the fords, which you won’t know are flooded till you actually arrive there, it is discriminating against people such as my husband, every moderately disabled person or child, parents with prams and young children that need to access the toilets and playgrounds and cyclists.” Parks Victoria has confirmed its looking at a fitness steps project which also includes a pedestrian bridge, but didn’t answer questions

Flooding in Brimbank Park has been an issue.

(Damjan Janevski) 251763

about funding. Parks Victoria district manager Craig Bray said they were aware of local community feedback about access at Brimbank Park, but on average flooding restricted access 20 to 30 days a year. “The park can be accessed by vehicle on these days,“ he said. “Given Brimbank Park is located on both sides of the river, there are approximately eight to 10 kilometres of walking tracks accessible to

NEWS

pedestrians when the fords are closed on the Kealba and Keilor sides.” Melbourne Water’s north west regional services team leader Jesse Barrett said higher than average rainfall totals had resulted in water level rises in low-lying areas, such as the fords within Brimbank Park. “Melbourne Water will continue to work with Parks Victoria and Brimbank City Council to determine potential improvement options for pedestrian access to Brimbank Park.”

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With the Big Woolworths Supermarket Tuesday, 28 September, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 9

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

28 September 2021

STAY INFORMED

Mayor’s message

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

Cr Kathy Majdlik

COVID-19 restrictions: dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

I was very excited to announce the finalists for the 2021 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards this month and I’d like to again congratulate the businesses that made it as finalists among a high calibre of applications.

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

These awards are one of many Council initiatives helping local businesses thrive in the City of Melton and we look forward to celebrating their innovation and talents when we announce the winners in November.

GET VACCINATED

Join in the school holiday fun

I’d also like to acknowledge our business community more broadly. We have so many exceptional services and products on offer here in the City of Melton, and many deserving business operators who have shown incredible resilience throughout the pandemic. It’s so important that we continue to support local businesses at times like these and I’d like to remind you that the Melton City Much More app and Facebook page are a great place to find local deals and discover fantastic new businesses you may not have heard of yet.

There’s also a variety of exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy on our Melton Learning Directory YouTube channel.

Our Teenage Holiday Program has places available for UNO night, a dance workshop, and a fitness class this week. Get in quick to secure your spot in some awesome free virtual programs by registering at melton. vic.gov.au/yha

We have a hip hop class for juniors, yoga classes, a paper weaving tutorial, drawing classes, a list of cooking videos and so much more. To join one of YouTube classes, visit youtube.com/c/ MeltonCityCouncilLearningDirectory

Community achievement awards

As your ward Councillor, my priority is not only to work towards improving the overall health and wellbeing of our residents, but to ensure we all have access to the services and infrastructure we need to thrive in all aspects of life.

There are five categories celebrating different areas of community leadership: Citizen of the Year , Young Citizen of the Year, Gender Equity Leader of the Year, Disability Access and Inclusion Leader of the Year, and Intercultural Engagement Leader of the Year.

It’s another way we’re keeping you up to date with the big things happening in your neighbourhood and across our city every month. The first issue is packed with updates about some of our big projects, key Council services, free online activities for lockdown and much more.

GET TESTED If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, have been in contact with someone who is unwell, or have visited an exposure site, get tested. Drivethrough testing: Djerriwarrh Health Service, Barries Road, Melton West.

Coburn Ward with Cr Julie Shannon

Do you know someone worthy of being the City of Melton’s next Citizen of the Year? Now is the time to nominate them in this year’s Community Achievement Awards.

Staying connected is very important right now, and I’m really pleased to tell you that we’ve launched our first City of Melton e-news to help do just that.

There are now even more places to get your COVID-19 vaccination in the City of Melton. Go to coronavirus.vic.gov.au or findapharmacy.com.au

It may be lockdown, but we’re still hosting some fantastic online activities for students of all ages these school holidays.

To this effect, I recently raised three Notices of Motion to address some key issues affecting residents: workplace bullying, vaping, and the reliability of internet services in some of our remote communities.

To read it and subscribe, visit bit.ly/meltonenews

Whether it’s someone who encourages community participation, breaks down barriers or readily helps others, nominating them is a really special way to say thank you.

You’re welcome to contact me regarding council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

Nominations close Wednesday 13 October, 5pm. Details: melton.vic.gov.au/ CommunityAchievementAwards

Council has moved to facilitate training and information sharing through our Venture Melton business network, to encourage local businesses to adopt appropriate policies around workplace bullying and create positive environments for staff to work safely. We also moved to engage with local primary and secondary schools to address the issue of vaping in the

community and discuss ways to address the rise of this concerning activity, particularly in young people. Finally, Council will work with telecommunications providers servicing Eynesbury, to advocate for improvements regarding the reliability of internet services, so everyone can successfully undertake work and remote learning during a time of constant flux. On a positive note, I am very excited to see the Melton Weir Committee recently held its first meeting. This resulted from my Notice of Motion presented earlier this year, and I eagerly anticipate some wonderful leisure outcomes for our community in future. Feel free to contact me regarding Coburn Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 302; email: Julie.shannon@melton.vic.gov.au or like my Facebook page @ julieshannonformelton

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

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

Deputy Mayor Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Steve Abboushi

10 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 September, 2021

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Moira Deeming

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

202109214149_2-JW40-21

2021 AFL PREMIER

Pictures: AAP Images, Richard Wainwright

202109173234_1-JW40-21

ERS - MELBOURNE

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Passionate Doggie supporters show their love of the red, white and blue. (Leanne Sutton)

Western Bulldodgs Zaine Cordy takes a grab in front of Tom McDonald.

Ben Hopper’s dog checks out the family’s freshly painted front fence in Seddon. (Supplied)

(AAP Image, Richard Wainwright)

Demons rain on Dogs’ parade By Tara Murray Thousands of people in the western suburbs were left shattered on Saturday night as the Western Bulldogs’ AFL premiership dreams came crashing down. A dominant second half performance from Melbourne ended the longest premiership drought in the VFL/AFL competition. The Demons piled on the goals in the last two quarters to seal the 21.14 (140)-10.6 (66) win. Hours earlier fans from both teams were eagerly awaiting the biggest game of the year, which was held at night for a second straight year. Many people had started preparations two weeks beforehand, with fences painted, banners made and houses became red, white and blue, while a few red and navy popped up as well. On game day, platters were made, Norm Smith sweeps were created and guernseys were on display. Lockdown meant that families had to watch alone, so Zoom and video chats were also going on in many houses before, during and after the game. Once the pre-game entertainment ended, the game got underway. It was all the Demons early on and as they got out to the ideal start. There were multiple goals to Bailey Fritsch, while Christan Petracca and Clayton Oliver were getting plenty of the ball. The second quarter would see the Bulldogs finally get into the game. The deficit was quickly gone and the Bulldogs hit the front. They would lead by eight points at half time. Jason Johannisen, one of the stars of the 2016 premiership win, and Marcus Bontempelli kicked the first two goals of the third quarter to extend the lead to 19 points and early thoughts of maybe this was the Dogs’ day started to creep in. The game again turned on its head. The Demons would take control of the game with the next seven goals in the third quarter. It would be much the same in the last quarter. An Adam Treloar goal at the 21 minute mark in the last quarter was a rare highlight for the Bulldogs in the second half. Petracca was clearly best on field with 40 possessions and two goals, winning the Norm

Cass Geerling’s house decorated for grand final day.

Smith Medal. Fritsch would finish with six goals and finished second in the Norm Smith voting. For the Bulldogs, Caleb Daniel battled hard all day and got plenty of the ball with 37 possessions, while Treloar had one of his best games for the club with 27 possessions and three goals. Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge said his team gave Melbourne full credit for the performance they put out. “To think we were 19 points up during that third quarter and for the scoreline to end up like it was, was a considerable show of power and strength out of the middle,” Beveridge said in his post game press conference. “We couldn’t stem the tide and we couldn’t get a clearance, couldn’t get into our half. It happened so quickly and to think in the blink of an eye, the game is almost gone. “All you can do is credit them. I couldn’t be more grateful in what our players have done to get us to that stage. When you look at the scoreline I don’t think it’s a great reflection on our year.” Beveridge said he was proud of the group and what they had achieved this year. “Our guys showed a lot of heart to fight

Young Bulldogs supporters prepare for the game. (Kristen Egan)

(Supplied)

their way back and get up but in these games when there is no tomorrow. “We had a period of uncertainty key personal going down at different times, players played critical roles in doing everything they could to get us to the biggest stage. “I would rather be here then not, but obviously they’re all hurting. We know we are capable of more than that.“ Bulldogs skipper Marcus Bontempelli said the group was pretty disappointed and felt like it was a missed opportunity. He said the result was a hard one to swallow after getting themselves into a strong position. While Western Bulldogs supporters were left disappointed, there were some good feel stories to come out of the Demons side. Ben Brown wasn’t sure what his footballing future held 12 months ago. On the outer at North Melbourne, Brown chose to head to Melbourne. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, with Brown spending time in the VFL early in the season. He would get back into the senior side and hold his spot. He kicked three goals in the win. A premiership is a long way from when he arrived in Victoria to play in the VFL with Werribee in 2013.

It would be at Werribee he would be turned from a ruckman into a key forward. The rest is history. “Absolutely surreal,” Brown told the AFL website. “I’ve had a very up and down 12- 18 months... To cap it off with this, I’m so thankful for where I am now. “I definitely had some mental battles, some mental hurdles to get over. It probably could have gone two ways to be honest. Thoughts am I up to it? Can I get back to that level?” Former Romsey star Jake Lever entered the grand final as the only Demons player to have grand final experience. He played a key role for the Demons in defence. “The last one didn’t go to plan,” he told Fox Footy after the game. “Half way through the second quarter I thought it was going to go the same way, but to everyone’s credit, the way the midfield, the forwards and even the backs turned it around.“ Another key player in the Demons run was former Werribee coach Mark Williams. The 2004 premiership coach joined the Demons at the start of the year and was able to provide plenty of experience.

Tuesday, 28 September, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 15

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Players wanted Keilor Park Cricket Club is on the lookout for senior men and women’s players, along with junior players for the upcoming season. ■ Interested players can contact the club via the club’s Facebook page.

Deer Park probus The Deer Park Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at The Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, from 10am. New members and visitors are welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580

Adult learning month Brimbank council is running a range of different online sessions throughout October. The sessions include money skills and staying safe online, managing your money, practicing your English online and getting started with E-resources. ■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/events

Goal setting for seniors EdConnect Australia, with support from Wyndham council, will run a free lunch and goal setting strategies workshop for seniors, which will cover using open-ended questions to elicit goals from young people or students and other topics, on Wednesday, October 20 from 10am – 1.30pm at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. ■ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/lunchand-learn-about-goal-setting-strategiestickets-164272773287

Melbourne’s skyline in the distance amid dark clouds, while the canola fields in the outskirts shine with bright yellow under the sun. A perfect metaphor for the times in which we live. (Damjan Janevski) 251035

Diabetes support group 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

The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

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

Wicking Garden Workshop

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. ■ Frank, 0423 392 884

Learn how to make a wicking garden bed system in a raised container. Come along to Sunbury Community Garden on Saturday, October 30 from 10am to 1pm to learn how to turn a raised fruit crate into a water saving wicking system. Bring your gardening gloves, enthusiasm and desire to learn. This event is free but a light lunch and tea or coffee will be provided for registered participants. ■ https://bit.ly/3tlRZsH

Zonta club meets

Interested in learning to play Mahjong? U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. ■ u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

Expressions of interest to start a Fibromyalgia and CFS Support Group in Manor Lakes and surrounding areas. Connect with real people and share information, experiences, problems and solutions. ■ wyndham.fibrogroup@gmail.com

Cricket at Rupertswood

First aid courses

MS volunteers

Come join the volunteer community litter clean-up crew in Hoppers Crossing, which meets on the third Sunday of the month, 10.30am-noon. ■ Karen, 3029@loveourstreet.com.au

Come and play cricket at Rupertswood this season, with junior players wanted from under-11’s to under-17’s. Registration days will be held from 9am to noon on Saturday, October 9 and Sunday, October 10 at 1 Macedon Street Sunbury. ■ www.rupertswoodcc.org.au

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

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 volunteer@ms.org.au

Quilt In

Community visitors

People of all ages and cultures are welcome to join the Wyndham Patchworkers Inc, which will host its 25th Anniversary Quilt In on November 6 from 10am-3.30pm at the St James the Apostle Catholic Church, 336 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing. The event will feature a guest speaker, a raffle, door prizes, morning and afternoon tea, a show-and-tell and local traders. Entry: $15. BYO hand stitching, mug and lunch. Pre-booking mandatory. ■ www.trybooking.com/BRGRN.

The Office of the Public Advocate is seeking volunteers in the Melton area to become Community Visitors, upholding the human rights of people with a cognitive disability who are living in supported care. Community Visitors monitor and report on the adequacy of services being provided to residents, talk to residents to identify issues of concern and write a brief report at the conclusion of the visit. Training and reimbursement of expenses are provided. ■ opavolunteers@justice.vic.gov.au or 0418 931 247

Dads’ playgroup

Singing group

Tarneit Community Learning Centre hosts a dads’ playgroup every week on Thursdays. The morning starts at 9.30am and promises to be a chance for male caregivers to connect with each other and form new friendships. ■ Shaun, 0455 521 154

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

Fibro/CFS Support Expressions of interest to start a Fibromyalgia and CFS Support Group in Manor Lakes and surrounding areas. Connect with real people and share information, experiences, problems and solutions. ■ wyndham.fibrogroup@gmail.com

Love Our Street 3029

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

Fibro/CFS Support

Melton Probus Club

Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South

16 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 September, 2021

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

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.

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

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

Garden club

Free computer workshops

The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Williamstown Community and Education Centre is running free computer workshops on internet banking (October 6) and setting up a MyGov account (November 7). Workshops are at Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown. ■ Renee, 9397 6168

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

(Unsplash)

Probus is one big family

BEHIND THE NEWS

Probus Day 2021 will be unlike the celebration of past years, with probus members across metro Melbourne under strict COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. However, as Romsey/Lancefield Probus Club newsletter editor and member Vicki Wilkinson tells Michaela Meade, that will not stop the probus family commemorating the day.

s Wilkinson said probus clubs allowed for connectivity among older Australians. “It’s retired or semi-retired folks who like to get together with like-minded people to enjoy conversations about a range of different things,” Ms Wilkinson said. “Every time we have a meeting, we have a morning tea and we stop for about 30 minutes and have a good old chat, before we have a speaker… it’s unbelievable, fantastic.” The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns throughout Victoria have impacted the ability of probus clubs from around the state to get together for consistent meetings and celebrations. Ms Wilkinson said that despite metro Melbourne’s numerous lockdowns and the restrictions that come with them, she will still be making an effort to commemorate Probus Day. “I’ll be sending out an email to all of our members,” she said. “The email will wish them a happy Probus Day, and wish them all the best, and hopefully give them some good news to look at as well. “We’re hoping that we can have a meeting soon, we haven’t had one in quite some time. “Hopefully we can have one where we’re all there to celebrate sometime soon. “We’ve even changed venues to accommodate for more people and social distancing. “Being the age group that we are, we’re all fully vaccinated, so when we can catch up. It’ll feel almost normal. “It’s still very hard to get out, and it makes it so difficult for a lot of people to stay connected, but we’re trying.” Now in her third year with the Romsey/ Lancefield Probus Club, Ms Wilkinson said the club has been a positive social experience for her. “We’re like a family, a very big family,” she said “Our motto is family, friends and fellowship. That’s really what we’re all about. “One of the reasons I joined was to get to know people in a similar position in their lives that I am, to have conversations with them and to meet new friends. “We go out, have coffees, have meals on

Romsey/Lancefield Probus Club members at Nooeilm Estate Nagambie in 2019 (top left); at Kangaroo Island (above); and on a trip to Ballarat which included a visit to the Ballarat Flower Festival in 2018. (Pictures: Supplied)

occasion… it’s just great to get together.” Reflecting on the pre-COVID world and lockdowns, Ms Wilkinson said apart from the social connection with others, her favourite aspect of being a part of a probus club was listening to interesting speakers. Ms Wilkinson said the speakers invited to the Romsey/Lancefield Probus Club have ranged from a lawyer, a park planner, a world traveller, a speaker from the Kyneton Treehouse, and a local fire brigade officer. “We have speakers on a large variety of things,” Ms Wilkinson explained. “Different people about different things is, I think, the key. “I’ve got something out of all of them [the talks].

“Every time we have a speaker, we learn something new. “It’s about everyday things, that you might not have known were around. “They’ve never been boring.” Ms Wilkinson said the 52 members of the Romsey/Lancefield Probus Club are trying to keep up their connections with one another, despite restrictions, via the newsletter. “We ring each other [and] I try to get every member involved in the newsletter in some way,” she said. “Last year, because we didn’t have meetings [due to COVID-19 lockdowns] I’d get people to send in photos of their projects, photos of people working. “They all sent different things - gardening,

tinkering about with machines and things. “We have quite a few members - men - who are also part of the men’s shed, so they send in photos of what they were working on. “It’s been very hard to keep in contact with everyone. “We usually take two big trips each year. We have a lunch every couple of months and coffee mornings each week. “Coffee mornings had 25 people attend each week before COVID hit - they keep people happy… it’s not the same with all the restrictions, but it’s still good.” Ms Wilkinson said she would encourage others to join their local probus club and discover the connectivity and happiness that goes along with it, just like she did. “The day I joined the probus club was the day I became the newsletter editor,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed it ever since. “There’s so many different people. We have members in their 90s, so there’s a wide age range represented. “A big thing for us every meeting is to make it fun and enjoyable. “We’re a chatty bunch, we listen, we learn, we get along really well and there aren’t any cliques - we all mingle. “We’re open for discussion on anything. “Every time we meet, we ‘fix the problems of the world’. “You’ve got a vast range of ideas, and so if anyone’s got a problem, we’ll have a conversation and we’ll fix it. “If someone’s having a problem, we work it out… we help each other. “It’s amazing what talking does.” According to Probus South Pacific Limited, a probus club provides members with an opportunity to join together for social interaction and activities with retirees in your community. Probus Day, celebrated on Friday, October 1, is held in line with the United Nations Day of Older Persons,. The 2020 celebration was the inaugural commemoration of Probus Day for Australia and New Zealand. To find your nearest probus club visit www. probussouthpacific.org

Tuesday, 28 September, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 17

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 048

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

ACROSS

easy

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

3 7 9 8 7 1

DOWN

Disappoint (4) African island nation (10) Sovereign (7) Yield; submit (7) Understandable (8) Come in (5) Clone (4) Part of airport (10) Taking something by force (10) Laid bare (4) Woody plants (5) Cutting tool (8) Hockey-like game (7) Annoying (7) The share in relation to the whole (10) Ditch (4)

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

No. 048

Nourish (4) Extempore (9) Contract (9) Holding (5) Very old (7) Tally (5) New South Wales electoral division (9) Cedar, acacia for example (4) Romance (9) Undergoing mental anguish (9) Storehouse (9) Accepting without resistance (7) Mistake (5) Vision (5) Cause (4) Internet joke (4)

1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 24 25

1 5

DECODER

No. 048

4 3 7

9 1 8

2 8 1 7 5 2 6 8 1 5

1 8 5

4 3

8 hard

6 7

10 11 12 13

D K 23

5 LETTERS ABETS ADORE AORTA AURAL BAGGY BASKS BITES BLISS CELLO CYSTS EAGER EARLS EASEL EDGER EDICT ELITE ENDOW EVADE EVENT GAPES

Today’s Aim: 15 words: Good 23 words: Very good

M O

4 LETTERS BATS BEER EATS GEAR MATS MESS OPEN PIER PURR SEAL STIR TARS TEEM VOWS

No. 048

GENIE GONNA GREET INLET IRATE LARVA LINGO LUPIN PALER PONDS RENDS RESTS RIVET SAILS SCANT SIEGE SILOS SLATS SLEDS SOLAR SPADE

STAID TIARA TONES TOPIC URINE USERS USING VEILS YESES 6 LETTERS ITALIC OTTERS SLEEKS SNEAKS

7 LETTERS COTTAGE DUSTBIN ISSUING PASSION PERSONA PURSING 8 LETTERS ENTANGLE ESPECIAL IDEOLOGY YODELLED

4 1 3 2 6 5 8 7 9

2 5 6 7 8 9 1 3 4

7 4 2 6 1 8 5 9 3

amble, balm, beam, biome, blame, embalm, emboli, iamb, imam, IMMOVABLE, lamb, lame, lemma, limb, limbo, lime, loam, mail, maim, male, mambo, meal, mile, milo, mime, mobile, moil, mole, movable, move, movie

S A Y

E A D S R B I T A U N A

5 9 1 3 2 7 6 4 8

3 7 8 5 4 6 9 2 1

6 2 4 8 9 1 3 5 7

7 4 2 1 9 3 8 5 6

8 6 9 2 4 5 7 3 1

6 7 5 8 1 9 3 4 2

2 9 4 3 5 6 1 8 7

3 1 8 4 2 7 5 6 9

9 8 1 6 3 2 4 7 5

4 2 7 5 8 1 6 9 3

5 3 6 9 7 4 2 1 8

8 9 2 1 3 5 6 4 7

5 6 4 8 7 9 2 1 3

7 3 1 9 2 4 8 5 6

4 2 8 6 5 1 3 7 9

6 5 9 7 8 3 4 2 1

1 4 3 5 9 6 7 8 2

9 7 6 2 4 8 1 3 5

2 8 5 3 1 7 9 6 4

18 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 September, 2021

In what year does the original Blade Runner take place?

Which planet in our solar system is the most massive?

And who stars as Blade Runner K in Blade Runner 2049?

Approximately how many days does it take to incubate a chicken egg?

Sarah Gadon (pictured) plays the lead role in which 2017 Margaret Atwood adaptation?

In what year did Victoria start observing a public holiday for the AFL grand final?

QUICK QUIZ

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

E R S

1 6 9 4 5 3 7 8 2

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

No. 048

8 3 5 9 7 2 4 1 6

3 1 7 4 6 2 5 9 8

01-10-21

R O S

1 5 3 7 6 8 9 2 4

9 8 7 1 3 4 2 6 5

U E

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”.

9-LETTER WORD

31 words: Excellent

A R

medium

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

easy

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

4 1 7 9

hard

5x5

5 6 4 1

8 6 2 5 8 1 3

3 LETTERS ADO AIL AIM ANY ARE ASH ASS AVO BOA BOO DAD EAR GOT HUE KIT LSD NEE OVA POT RED SAD TIE TNT TOO

E VMU C N T Y G F A J O

7 4 6 3

4 7 6 5

L Q P X B RW I Z H S D K

WORDFIT

Which ocean basin is the most recently named: the Southern, Pacific or Atlantic Ocean?

A musical group of five players is usually known as a what?

The study of writing and solving codes is called what?

10 Who directed the first two episodes of US sci-fi series Raised by Wolves, released in 2020? ANSWERS: 1. 2019 2. Ryan Gosling 3. 21 4. Southern Ocean 5. Quintet 6. Cryptology 7. Jupiter 8. Alias Grace 9. 2015 10. Ridley Scott

medium

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Life without limits in the Navara By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring The Nissan Navara PRO-4X utility was launched in December 2020 to replace the previous N-Trek Warrior as the brand’s top-end serious off-road vehicle. As such it competes against vehicles like the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, Toyota HiLux Rogue, and Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain. Like most of its competitors Navara is sold in a variety of bodies, everything from a bare bones cab-chassis, through single cab and extended cab to a four-door double cab, all with automatic transmission as standard but many with the option of a manual gearbox. In ascending price order, the full Navara model range runs SL, ST, ST-X and PRO-4X. Prices range from $32,000 to $60,630 plus on-road costs. That top spot in the Navara range was recently taken over by the new PRO-4X Warrior which arrived in August 2021 and is priced at just under $70,000. Both the PRO-4X, which is our review vehicle, and the Warrior will sell alongside each other.

Styling The most noticeable external differences between the PRO-4X and the rest of the Navara range are the black features that replace the chrome. These include the grille with its dark grey surrounds, side window surrounds, privacy glass, stainless steel sports bar, door hands and mirrors, roof rails, and fender flares. The black is offset by small red highlights on the Nissan badges on the grille and tailgate, front bumper and at the apex of the wheel arches. The wheels are 17-inch black alloys which are at odds with the PRO-4Xs off-road credentials and large wheel arches although they do come with Yokohama Geolander all-terrain tyres. Four body colours are available: White Pearl, Burning Red and Black Star which it shares with the other models in the range together with Stealth Grey which is exclusive to the PRO-4X and which was our test vehicle. A full-size steel spare wheel is bolted beneath the tray.

Interior The Navara’s size can make entry and exit challenging for smaller occupants but fortunately the combination of a running board and grab handles is there to assist. PRO-4X gets leather accented seats with red and white stitching on the sides and a ribbed finish at the back. The front seats don’t have power adjustment or heating / cooling. There’s plenty of head and legroom and three adults can travel is reasonable comfort though, as is generally the way, two and a child would be preferable. The rear seat base can be lifted to provide a couple of secure spaces while the centre section of the three-panel rear window can be opened for extra air flow or to provide limited access to the tray. The touchscreen and controls are all large and sensibly located to be within easy reach of the driver.

Engines / transmissions Power for the PRO-4X comes from a Renault-sourced 2.3-litre twin turbo diesel engine which Navara shares with the Mercedes-Benz X-Class ute. It’s paired with the choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission. Maximum power is reached at 140kW with peak torque of 403 Nm with the manual gearbox and 450Nm from the auto from 1500rpm to 2500 rpm.

Safety Navara PRO-4X gets an extensive range of safety equipment that includes seven airbags; stability and traction control; enhanced ABS brakes; Hill Start Assist and Descent Control; Trailer Sway Control; Daytime Running Lights; Intelligent Forward Collision Warning; Intelligent Emergency Braking and

Chrome gives way to basic black with on the Nissan Navara PRO-4X.

Driver Alert; LED High Mounted Stop Light; automatic headlights; reversing camera; reverse parking sensors; Lane Departure Warning and Intervention; Blind Spot Warning and Intervention; Rear Cross Traffic Alert; two IsoFix child seat anchor points; and Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection.

Infotainment Display is through an 8.0-inch high-definition touchscreen with buttons on either side for quick access to the various features as well as voice activation. There’s integrated satellite navigation, DAB+ digital radio as well as wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. There are three USB sockets in the front and one (charge only) in the rear plus 12V outlets in the front although there is no wireless smartphone charging.

Driving The seats are large, supportive and comfortable although the lack of reach adjustment on the steering wheel did restrict our choice of driving position. Large windscreen, side windows and mirrors provide excellent visibility to the front and side although the three-panel rear window and large side headrests do restrict the rear view somewhat. There are four driving modes: Standard, Sport, Tow and Off Road. Standard for routine driving; Sport adjusts the gear changes for some driving fun; Tow maximises low down torque; while Urban driving is effectively the same as it would be in an equivalent SUV although

(Pictures: Supplied)

the 12.5-metre turning circle did require a bit of extra caution in car parking with the combination of reversing and 360-degree ‘overhead’ cameras and parking sensors doing their bit. Out onto the motorway and backroads the cabin has quite a refined feel with intrusion from wind or road noise kept to a minimum. There’s also a reassuring feel to the Navara’s handling and cornering. PRO-4X has a 220 mm ground clearance with a 32-degree approach angle and 19-degree departure angle. It is a full-time 2WD with the options of 4WD high and low settings. Fuel consumption of 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle is listed at for the PRO-4X. We averaged 9.4 L/100 km during our week-long test. On 4WD high with the Off-Road drive mode selected and the around-view camera helping to guide us we covered some moderately rutted and slippery terrain without any issues. We will save the more serious stuff for a future test of the new Warrior.

Summing up Realistically the PRO-4X is more about looking more rugged than the other models in the Navara range and the change from chrome to black, at least to our eyes, certainly succeed. While it is capable enough off-roader if you’re looking to get stuck into some serious off-road adventures, we’d suggest doing a comparison test between the PRO-4X and the new Warrior to decide whether the latter can justify the extra $9000-odd outlay. All Nissan models now come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE SL Single Cab Chassis Cab 4x2: $32,300 (manual), $34,800 (automatic) SL Single Cab Chassis Cab 4x4: $39,300 (manual), $41,800 (automatic) SL King Cab Chassis Cab 4x2: $38,800 (automatic) SL King Cab Chassis Cab 4x4: $45,800 (automatic) SL Dual Cab Pickup 4x2: $39,600 (manual), $42,100 (automatic) SL King Cab Pickup 4x4: $47,600 (automatic) SL Dual Cab Chassis Cab 4x4: $44,800 (manual), $47,300 (automatic) SL Dual Cab Pickup 4x4: $46,600 (manual), $49,100 (automatic) ST Dual Cab Pickup 4x2: $47,780 (automatic) ST Dual Cab Pickup 4x4: $52,280 (manual), $54,780 (automatic) ST-X Dual Cab Pickup 4x2: $51,270 (automatic) ST-X King Cab Pickup 4x4: $58,270 (automatic) ST-X Dual Cab Pickup 4x4: $55,770 (manual), $58,270 (automatic) PRO-4X Dual Cab Pickup 4x4: $58,130 (manual), $60,630 (automatic) PRO-4X Warrior Pickup 4x4: $67,490 (manual), $69,990 (automatic)

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges.

Tuesday, 28 September, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 21

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Rugby Rebel with a cause By Peter Howe Antonio Sipa Masina is one of the lucky ones with his post-year 12 career already mapped out. The year 12 student at Werribee’s Grange P-12 College is about to embark on every young person’s dream, a professional sporting career having signed a three year contract with Super Rugby side Melbourne Rebels. Having progressed through the junior ranks, Masina has his eyes on the big time. “I played volleyball alongside my father, but my real passion is rugby union,“ he said. “I eat, sleep and breathe it.” Sport runs in the family for Masina with the family supportive of all members’ different sporting achievements. Masina played rugby league, rugby union and volleyball at junior state level. “My father, Venu, was an international volleyball player for Samoa and New Zealand,” he said. “My older sister played rugby in the Super W League with the Melbourne Rebels and my three younger siblings are all into their sports. “My mother, Malia, is the backbone of our family.” Masina really started to focus on rugby union in 2017 when he was hand-picked to join the Rebels Academy for 2018. It would be a big year in the sport for Masina as he toured Europe as part of the Victorian state schools team. “It was an amazing experience. We travelled and played England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland and Belgium in the month we were away,” he said. “I learned so much about being in a travelling team and playing some great teams.” After the highs of 2018, it was a much tougher 2019 when Masina suffered a significant setback to his sporting dream when he broke his ankle playing for the Brimbank Rugby Club

in a game. An operation to reconstruct his ankle and a two-year battle to return to playing certainly made Masina more resilient. “I have always had to work hard to improve my skills, after this injury I had to work four times harder,” he said. “Recovery was critical and I spent many hours in recovery mode. I was never sure I was going to be able to play at the level again.” With last season shut down due to COVID-19, Masina had more time to get himself right and returned to the field earlier this year for the Rebels Academy under-18 team. Masina, who plays as the number seven or open side flanker, had been attending the Rebels Academy training three times a week. Outside of that Masina has become well known around his neighbourhood dragging or flipping tyres, while running laps around the block or using a punching bag in the front yard. Masina, who is also a senior house captain at this school, was chosen in July to become part of the Rebels’ elite player program. “I am looking forward to 2022 as I embark on my professional sporting journey,” he said. “I will spend my first year playing in first or second grade with a Victorian Rugby Union team overseen by the Rebels. “My immediate aim is to press for an under-20 Australian selection next year. “From there, to become a Melbourne Rebels core player in their senior squad. My ultimate aim is to represent Australia.” Masina is the Sunshine Western Region Sports Club September Don Deeble Sports Star Award winner. His award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank and the Deer Park Club. To nominate a monthly winner email: swrsportsclub@gmail.com or sms 0408 556 631.

Antonio Sipa Masina.

(Rugby Victoria)

SPORTS QUIZ 1. In August, which male Australian cricket player took a hat-trick on debut in a T20 match against Bangladesh?

5. Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have all won exactly how many grand slam singles titles?

2. In which year was the inaugural season of the National Rugby League?

6. Which driver is the current leader of the Supercars Championship?

3. Australian midfielder Tyrese Francois plays for which English Football League Championship club?

7. Which classic 1998 Coen brothers film prominently features the sport of ten-pin bowling?

4. True or false: Ollie Wines became the first Port Adelaide player to win the Brownlow Medal?

8. Australian Tony David, whose nickname was ‘The Deadly Boomerang’, was a champion in which sport? 9. Which female Australian cricket player currently has a Test batting average of 78 and a bowling average of 18? 10. Tony Popovic is the current manager of which A-League team? 11. Which former Australian soccer player was recently sacked as head coach of fifth tier English club Barnet FC?

12. New Zealand basketball player Tai Webster last played for which NBL team?

Ashleigh Gardner

13. Which team did Melbourne Storm defeat in the 2020 NRL Grand Final? 14. Eighteen-year-old Darcie Brown recently became the youngest Australian cricketer to take how many wickets in a One Day International match? 15. Which team did the Brumbies defeat in the 2020 Super Rugby AU Final? 16. Which team did Richmond defeat in the 2020 AFL Grand Final? 17. Which national team recently defeated the Matildas 3-2 in Sam Kerr's 100th international appearance? 18. Lachie Neale, the 2020 Brownlow Medallist, plays for which AFL club? 19. The 2021 Ryder Cup golf competition is set to be held in which US state? 20. Ben Simmons most recently played for which NBA team?

21. Seven female taekwondo athletes from which country were recently evacuated to resettle in Australia? 22. Which Western Bulldogs player is known for his distinctive mullet hairstyle? 23. What city has a Major League Baseball team known as the Pirates? 24. In 2017, Ashleigh Gardner became the first Indigenous Australian to play in which prestigious cricket tournament? 25. What nickname is rugby union player Nick Cummins better known by?

26. What cricket ground has the biggest capacity in the United Kingdom? 27. In what year did 2021 Brownlow Medal winner Ollie Wines make his AFL debut? 28. How many games did NRL Wooden Spooner Cantebury Bulldogs win in 2021? 29. What weight division does Australian boxer Tim Tszyu compete in? 30. What was the nickname of the defunct NBL team based in Newcastle from 1979–99?

Roger Federer 1. Nathan Ellis 2. 1998 3. Fulham 4. True 5. 20 6. Shane van Gisbergen 7. The Big Lebowski 8. Darts 9. Ellyse Perry 10. Melbourne Victory 11. Harry Kewell 12. New Zealand Breakers 13. Penrith Panthers 14. Four 15. Queensland Reds 16. Geelong 17. Republic of Ireland 18. Brisbane Lions 19. Wisconsin 20. Philadelphia 76ers 21. Afghanistan 22. Bailey Smith 23. Pittsburgh 24. ICC Women's World Cup 25. The Honey Badger 26. Lord's 27. 2013 28. Three 29. Light-middleweight 30. Falcons

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22 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 September, 2021

Thunder on the move as it reaches new heights Keilor Basketball Association believes it now has the ideal pathway for its juniors after being accepted in the NBL1 South competition. The move for the Thunder is a massive one and makes them the only western suburbs association in the state’s highest competition. The Thunder joins Casey Basketball Association as the two new teams in the competition which is set to start in April next year. This year was the first time that the Thunder, who have been playing in the Big V competition, had applied to make the move up. Coaching director and men’s coach Liam Glascott said it had been a pretty nervous few weeks while waiting to find out if successful. “It was definitely a bit of a waiting game,” he said. “And we also had the news that the season [Big V] was cancelled so it was disappointing. “We were in a meeting with Basketball Victoria and we didn’t show many emotions when we found out. “We then got in our own Zoom and let loose. We had another meeting with them later on

and it was very exciting. “It’s very exciting for the program at the club and everyone who has been involved.” For the Thunder it’s the second time they’ve been in the state’s top competition. They were in the old South East Australia Basketball League between 1991 and 1996. Glascott said many of the players who were involved in those teams were still involved in the club now. “We still have the photos of the olden days in the early 90s,” he said. “There’s guys I know who are around the club and coaching now who always point them out.” Glascott said the biggest thing about being in the NBL1 South competition was having somewhere that their junior players can go. He said they already saw their junior program as a “powerhouse” which can now grow with players able to test themselves against the best from a senior perspective. For now, the Thunder is starting to look at putting together their squads. Glascott said they’ll start having discussions with their current playing squads about where

they see things going forward. He said they will also look to have conversations with former players who had left to play elsewhere. “We’ll start conversations with young athletes who are not part of our club currently. “There’s five kids across the men’s and women’s programs that are playing at other NBL1 clubs this season. “We’ll knock on their doors and try and get them back. We want build around them and they can be a big part of our success.” Among those players are Zac Triplett and Tess Heal, who have recently signed NBL and WNBL development contracts respectively. Glascott said they would also look at other players who live in the area, but may not have played for the club. We want to look after our one, but there could be players who are 18-19 and may not be playing in the Keilor ranks but live in the area. “We could potentially have conversations with them about coming into the program.” Tara Murray

Charleston Long.

(Shawn Smits) 251772_01

MAGGIE LIND

(Shawn Smits) 237918_02

Leo Lacroix (left) has joined Western United. (Picture: Supplied/Getty)

Lind caps off a big week

Swiss star joins United By Tara Murray Swiss star Leo Lacroix couldn’t turn down the chance to play in Australia when the opportunity arose. The centre-back, who made a name for himself in Europe, has signed a one-year deal with Western United. Speaking while in quarantine, Lacroix said he had heard so much about Australia that he had to come experience it for himself. “When you live in Europe, you say ‘I want to go to Australia for a visit for a holiday’, but you always say it’s a long trip and that you need maybe a one month holiday,” he said. “When I received this offer I spoke with my lawyer, with my wife and family and some friends, who came to holiday in Australia, they told me ‘Leo if you can do this, do it, because Australia is a very nice country’. “I was speaking with my family and said

‘yes, why not?’ I spoke with Alessandro Diamanti and I spoke with the coach [John Aloisi] and they gave me confidence, they explained about the team and the club.“ Lacroix, who played for Switzerland once, said he hadn’t had the opportunity to watch much of the A-League previously, but he had heard good things. His former Sion teammate Dario Vidosic spent several years in the A-League. “We spoke together when I was in Switzerland and Europe, but it was difficult to watch some Australian games. “In Europe when you speak about the A-League they think it’s like a little bit like MLS [Major Soccer League] in the USA. “They look to bring in some players from Europe with some experience and good career, to bring this experience for the players to the Australian players. “It will be a good adventure. I’m looking

forward to start this experience.” Lacroix will join his teammates in the coming weeks after completing quarantine in Sydney. He said it had been interesting quarantining with his wife and two small kids who, like all kids, just want to go outside and play.” Lacroix said he had some good conversations with new United coach John Aloisi and was excited to get started. “I like playing well and beautiful from behind and if I can score and help my teammates I will do. “When I come in on the pitch, I change my mindset. I’ll give my best all the time and try and do my best on the pitch, for my teammates, fans and club. “This is the objective. The club is young and they want to win something. We want to give something to the fans, the club and our families.“

City West Falcons star Maggie Lind has capped off a stunning week by sharing the Victorian Netball League’s top award. The midcourt star and Geelong Cougars shooter Julia Woolley were named the championship division’s joint best and fairest on Thursday night. The two players tied on 20 votes across the 11 games that were played before the season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s the second time the former teammates have claimed the award, with Lind winning the award in 2016 and Woolley going back-to-back after winning it in 2019. Both were also named in the championship team of the year. The Falcons, lead by Lind who was captain, finished the shortened season on top of the ladder undefeated. Lind’s strong form over a number of years was rewarded earlier in the week, signing with Collingwood’s Super Netball League side. Lind was a training partner for the side this year, making her Super Netball debut in round two and playing in two matches. Collingwood coach Nicole Richardson said the team is delighted to have Lind on board. Richardson had seen much of Lind’s development, having been a coach at the Falcons for a number of years. “Maggie’s call up is a huge credit to her constant effort and commitment. We’re looking forward to seeing where she can take her game at the next level.”

Tuesday, 28 September, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 23

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