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Doreen mum Tracey Disantedicola is urging locals to hit the pavement this month in support of premature babies. Tracey gave birth to son Jordan in December, 2020, at 24 weeks gestation. Jordan’s due date was in April, 2021. Tracey said it was a difficult road for the family as soon as Jordan was born. “He had to be resuscitated,” she said. “In his second day of life, he had a massive bleed on his lungs. “The doctors said that they didn’t know where he got his second wind from, but he survived.” Jordan has undergone 12 surgeries since his birth. Tracey said COVID-19 restrictions impacted the ability of her family and friends to provide support. This month, Life’s Little Teasures Foundation is hosting its annual Walk for Prems – virtually. The event raises money to help the foundation and its volunteers to support ‘prem parents’. Tracey said the foundation made sure support is always available. “You’re not alone. There’s always light at the end of the tunnel,” she said. Details: www.walkforprems.org.au
Scam letter ‘appalling’ By Michaela Meade Hume councillor Naim Kurt says he is “beyond disgusted” after a scam letter – purporting to be from him – was sent out to ratepayers, directing them to pay money to Hume council or risk being jailed. The letter, seen by Star Weekly, was sent to “at least 100” Hume ratepayers around Gladstone Park, according to Cr Kurt. It directs people to pay $187.87 to a bank account, which the letter claims belongs to Hume council, and threatens jail time if the person does not pay within two days. “I have reviewed your rates and found that
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unfortunately you are currently in breach of the council rates and invoices act,” the letter claims. “As your local councillor, I have managed to arrange a great discount for you. If you pay just $187.87 as a one-off payment, I can manage to wave (sic) your rates for the next 12 months. This is a discount on account of Covid crisis. “If you do not pay your rates, then there is nothing I can do. You will be reported to the local law enforcement agency who will arrest you with severe jail time! “This could result in your being placed into the local prison system for up to 20 years without parole. I will not be able to protect you
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at this point. “I can protect you but only if you make this payment.” Cr Kurt said his signature was forged on the letter, which also bears the Hume council and Victoria Police logos. The letter has been reported to police. Cr Kurt said he was “beyond disgusted that my name is being used to scam money from residents”. “This letter is aimed at vulnerable residents, who don’t speak English as a first language,” Cr Kurt said. “To think someone would misuse council and police logos and threaten people with jail
time if they don’t make a special payment to me, is appalling.” Hume chief executive Sheena Frost said council was “disappointed and frustrated” at the scam. “This is an appalling stunt against our community, and we are co-operating with police in their investigation,” she said. “We have placed an alert on council’s website and Facebook, and our customer service team has been notified of the letter to help residents confirm the authenticity of their rates notice.” Victoria Police was contacted for comment. If you receive the letter, report it via scamwatch.gov.au
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COVID is ‘scary’ says ICU nurse A Northern Health nurse has shared harrowing details about caring for COVID-19 patients. Nurse unit manager Jacqui Harper told a press conference on Sunday that she had seen patients go from sitting in a chair to saying their goodbyes within one hour. “The clinical deterioration is so sad,” she said. “COVID-19 is a terrible illness, the patients we see coming into our hospitals are seriously, seriously ill.” Northern Hospital is currently operating three COVID wards in addition to its ICU.
It had 65 COVID patients as of last Wednesday. Ms Harper said the virus was “affecting younger and younger ages groups”. “COVID is real … and it’s scary,” she said. “They find it difficult to breathe, some needing high levels of oxygen, ventilators and ICU support. Many regret not being vaccinated earlier.” Ms Harper joined Royal Melbourne Hospital nursing unit manager Michelle Spence in calling for all eligible Victorians to get vaccinated. It comes as the state government yesterday
launched walk-up Moderna vaccination clinics at a number of state-run hubs including Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC) in South Morang, the former Ford factory in Campbellfield and La Trobe University in Bundoora until Sunday, October 10. The government also slashed the time between Pfizer doses yesterday, with people now able to receive their second dose three weeks after their first dose. Premier Daniel Andrews said vaccination was the “best defence” against more pressure being put on healthcare workers.
“All of our health workers are working their guts out to be there for us and they need us all to do our bit and get vaccinated, so we can continue on our pathway to opening,” he said. The Department of Health reported 1377 new locally acquired cases on COVID-19 Monday from 67,789 tests. There were 233 new COVID cases in the 24 hours to Monday in Hume, bringing the municipality’s total number of active cases to 3258. Whittlesea recorded 112 new cases during the same timeframe, bringing the total number of cases in the municipality to 1179.
Woolworths under pressure
Budding authors are being encouraged to enter the Furry Tales Children’s Story Competition. (Supplied)
A purr-fect furry writing competition Storytellers of all ages are being invited to showcase their creativity in the purr-fect way, in a writing competition by the Cat Protection Society of Victoria. The ‘Furry Tales Children’s Story Competition’ is calling for writing enthusiasts to write a unique story, aimed at children that helps educate the community on responsible cat ownership, and to raise the profile of cats as companion animals. Society marketing and communications manager Rachel Bitzilis said stories could be as broad as the author wished.
“At the society, we know the incredible star power of cats, and can’t wait to see how budding writers bring their furry tales to life,” Ms Bitzilis said. “Short story entries can be focussed on a cat who has found themselves seeking refuge at our adoption shelter, about a cat who is adopted into their purrfect forever home, about the challenges faced by a cat living on the street without a home to call its own, about your own family cat, or a cat that has had a profound impact on your life!” The competition will have two categories; a junior category for children 12 years old and
under; and an open category for anyone 12 years old and above. An animal behaviourist and author, a primary school teacher and a representative from the society will be sitting on the judging panel for the competition. The Furry Tales Children’s Story Competition is open for submissions until Sunday, October 17, with winners announced at the start of November. Details: www.catprotection.com. au/furry-tales
Woolworths stores in the northern suburbs have been faced with staffing shortages as a result of COVID-19 exposure. The supermarket giant had over 1000 Victorian employees isolating as of Wednesday, September 29. Over the Grand Final weekend, four out of 13 Woolworths supermarkets in the north were identified as tier one exposure sites, forcing the retailer to limit trading hours and services available for impacted stores. A Woolworths spokesperson said the flow-on effects of stores being exposure sites were felt by staff and customers. “A large number of our team members have had to isolate and follow health advice [and] as a consequence, some of our stores haven’t had enough team members to operate our normal trading hours or in-store offerings,” the spokesperson said. “We understand this is frustrating and regret the impact it’s had on our customers. “We’re working very closely with the Victorian government to see if we can find ways to safely maintain our team member availability when stores are listed as exposure sites.” Epping Woolworths on High Street was listed as a tier two exposure site last week. Meanwhile, Woolworths stores at Craigieburn Plaza, Craigieburn Central, Highlands Shopping Centre and Greenvale Lakes have all been listed as exposure sites over the past fortnight, although have since been cleared. Woolworths have had more than 25,000 team members over the past three months required to isolate. Trading hours of stores is available at www.woolworths. com.au/shop/storelocator
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More paramedics to hit the road By Michaela Meade More paramedics will be on the road in Hume, following the launch of a new Medium Acuity Transport Service. The service hit the roads last week, providing “world class” care for code two and three patients, with 22 vehicles and 165 dedicated staff. The service will free up other resources to respond to the most urgent and time-critical emergency cases. According to Ambulance Victoria, code
two incidents are acute and time sensitive, but do not require a lights and sirens response. Code three incidents are those that require a non-urgent response. Recent Ambulance Victoria data revealed the average response time for code two incidents in Hume was 37 minutes and 48 seconds for the June quarter. According to the data, the average response time for code two incidents in Hume at June 2020 was 19 minutes and 36 seconds. No data was available for code three incidents.
Fifteen crews will operate in Hume, Wyndham, Casey, Greater Dandenong, Knox, Kingston, Maroondah, and Mornington Peninsula each day as part of the Medium Acuity Transport Service. Ambulance Services Minister Martin Foley said the new service would ensure Victorians continued to have access to the care they needed. “Our paramedics are some of the hardest working in the country and this investment reinforces that we will always back them – and the extraordinary work they do,” Mr Foley said.
Fussy eater workshops A new Whittlesea council workshop will offer parents and carers a reprieve from mealtime battles with their youngsters. The council had joined with DPV Health to deliver the free, dietitian-led ‘raising adventurous and colourful eaters’ online workshop, on Monday, October 11, where parents can learn tips and tricks to broaden their children’s diet horizons. Wollert mum Tanya Yee said the workshop would be useful for her, as her son Liam, five, struggles to eat certain foods. “Even getting him to eat vegetables has been quite a task; we blend them up and put them in pastas or juices to try to get some nutrients into him,” Mrs Yee said. “I feel like the workshop will be pretty beneficial – at the moment I’m just googling.” Community wellbeing director Kate McCaughey said the workshop would provide information and practical advice on ways parents and carers could encourage kids to eat
a variety of healthy and nutritious foods. “Anyone with young children can appreciate the frustration of serving up a tasty meal you’ve spent ages cooking, only to have your kids turn up their noses and refuse to eat it,” Ms McCaughey said. “This workshop will offer families some practical ways to encourage children to be more adventurous with their eating – no more cooking multiple meals, or serving up bland and boring food to accommodate fussy eaters.” Bookings are essential and must be made by Friday, October 8. Details: trybooking.com/BMUPN Michaela Meade
Liam, five, struggles to eat some foods. (Supplied)
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4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 October, 2021
“We’re creating jobs while boosting the paramedic workforce to ensure Victorians receive world class care when they’re needed most – protecting our health system and saving lives.” The service partners new paramedic recruits with experienced paramedics, and is the first stage of a $266 million investment from the 2021-22 state budget to improve patient care and drive down response times. The investment is also set to deliver expanded secondary triage services, new paramedics, and additional support staff.
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North’s jab rate hailed By Michaela Meade
Liam, 15, getting his Moderna vaccine administered by pharmacist Hinad Almir. (Damjan Janevski) 252083_01
disproportionately represented in this current outbreak and the community members have done a great job in getting vaccinated.” Yuroke MP Ros Spence said: “I am so proud of our local community who have shown that with increased availability they were ready to get vaccinated. “Let’s get this done together and put lockdowns behind us.” Premier Daniel Andrews last week said: “I
must say I’m very, very impressed with Hume, the north and the west.” “Those northern and western local government areas [are] where we’ve seen a concerted effort [and] really hard work on half of so many people.” It comes as the vaccine roll-out expanded, with Victorian pharmacies beginning to administer the Moderna vaccine to locals last week.
COVID tracked via Facebook Residents of the 3064 postcode are turning to a Facebook group for updates about COVID-19 exposure sites, as the health department’s official website falls behind amid rising case numbers. The public Facebook group, 3064 exposure sites, was created on Monday, September 20, and garnered 2000 members in less than a fortnight. The 3064 postcode makes up Hume suburbs Craigieburn, Roxburgh Park, Mickleham and Kalkallo. The area has been identified by health department data as the top postcode for active COVID-19 cases for weeks, despite vaccination rates in Hume increasing. One of the creators of the group, Jo-Ellen Pickerd, said she saw a need for the community to keep each other informed about exposure sites. “I started the group as I [saw] a lot of comments on different posts about exposure sites and thought it would be good to have it all under one group so people can get the [information],” Ms Pickerd said. “It’s been a great response. I just wish there was a way to confirm the exposure sites and the tier.” With the health department under strain from the amount of exposure sites to update the state about – many of which are within the 3064 postcode – Ms Pickerd said she understood the overwhelming information they were grappling with. “Sometimes I feel it’s easier to list places that do not have exposure sites!” Michaela Meade
Cultural heritage grants
Upgraded dog off-leash parks
The next round of the program is now open and offers grants up to $2000 to support projects which showcase and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of the City of Whittlesea. Applications for the latest round of Cultural Heritage Grants close 1 November 2021.
With over 18,000 registered dogs in the City of Whittlesea, there are lots of amazing spaces for our cuddly canines to stretch their legs and socialise with other dogs. Two new dog off-leash areas are now open in the following locations: • Lyndarum Wetlands, Manor House Drive, Epping • Creek Park, corner of Plenty Road and Mernda Village Drive, Mernda To find a dog park near you, visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/dogoffleash
Help showcase and celebrate your cultural heritage with the Cultural Heritage Funding Program.
For more information and to apply visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/grants
There are so many pooch-perfect places to explore this spring!
Visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/covidsupport for more information about food relief, financial assistance, mental health support.
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Prominent figures in Melbourne’s north are celebrating the area’s success in increasing COVID-19 vaccination rates, amid an outbreak that has seen the region record thousands of cases. Last week, health department deputy secretary Kate Matson said Hume and Whittlesea’s vaccination rates were “extremely pleasing”, with almost 74 per cent of Hume residents receiving their first vaccine dose as of September 26, and first doses nearing 72 per cent in Whittlesea. Last month, the municipalities were among the lowest vaccinated areas in the state. “Hume and Whittlesea … have seen the highest level of first dose in the state in the past week,” Ms Matson said. “Hume has grown by 9.3 percentage points, and Whittlesea has grown 8.2 per cent. That’s well above the state average.” Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said the increases were “inspiring”. “It’s inspiring to see so many people stepping forward to protect not only themselves, but their community,” he said. Whittlesea chair administrator Lydia Wilson said she was happy with residents’ enthusiasm for the jab. “Thank you to everyone who rolled up their sleeve to get vaccinated this week,” she said. “We know people in the city of Whittlesea are keen to get back to what they love and businesses are ready to reopen.” Northern Health operations director – infection prevention, Madelaine Flynn, said: “It feels phenomenal to see the community rally around this vaccination program to protect themselves and their community. “The northern suburbs have been
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Cr Medcraft backs monitor call By Michaela Meade Hume deputy mayor Jack Medcraft has backed calls for a monitor to be appointed to oversee the council. As reported by Star Weekly, Cr Jodi Jackson called for a monitor last month after eight arbiter’s reports were presented to a council meeting, costing ratepayers $49,500. Eleven allegations of breaches of Hume’s Councillor Code of Conduct were investigated as part of an internal arbitration process into the conduct of Cr Trevor Dance. This arbitration process was instigated by a group of councillors who were represented by
Cr Carly Moore. The arbiter’s report found Cr Dance contravened eight clauses of the Code of Conduct. Cr Dance submitted seven applications instigating internal arbitration processes against mayor Joseph Haweil and councillors Moore, Jack Medcraft and Karen Sherry. The arbiter ruled that none of those councillors had breached the Code of Conduct. The reports followed an earlier arbiter’s report, which was tabled at the July 12 council meeting, and cost ratepayers $3000. At the council’s September 13 meeting,
Cr Jackson said a monitor was needed to help address “deep cultural issues among councillors at Hume”. Cr Medcraft said he was initially against Cr Jackson’s suggestion, but he has since changed his mind. “There’s something terribly wrong here [at council],” he said. “I was against it at first, but I’ve come around and think … it’s the best way to go. “I think a monitor might work well.” Cr Medcraft said he hopes the appointment of a monitor would prevent more “frivolous“ complaints. “Those complaints should be handled
in-house,” Cr Medcraft said. “It’s easier, less cumbersome, and doesn’t cost the ratepayers money.” Cr Medcraft said the number of reports was unprecedented over his serving terms at council. “I’ve been on council for 14 years, and up to this term, only had four complaints against me, which were all handled in-house,” he said, “That’s the way you do it. “You mediate … and find a common ground between the parties. “Mature councillors should be able to do that.”
Acts of COVID kindness A Kalkallo resident and her daughters have brought joy to their community during the extended COVID-19 lockdown. Carley Quinn and her daughters Skylar, five, and Indie, three, decided to complete ‘14 days of kindness’ for their Kalkallo family. “With all the negative and nasty stuff going on, we wanted to put smiles on people’s faces,” Ms Quinn said. “It was also about teaching morals like kindness to my girls, that’s really important … I learned that from my mum. “The community appreciated it all so much, which was wonderful.” Ms Quinn said some of her favourite projects the trio completed were delivering little gifts to random households, lemon juice and orange juice stands, homemade playdough for passersby, scone packs for the winners of a “funniest joke” activity in the Facebook group,
and chalk drawings at a local park, where they left the chalk behind so that people could add to the art. Ms Quinn said one aspect of the community response was unexpected. “The girls actually received some gifts in return,” she said. “We didn’t expect that, that’s not why we did it.” Ms Quinn said the project brought her closer to her community. “We made a lot of friends along the way, and it made us feel safe with everything going on,” she said. “It felt like home.” Michaela Meade Carley Quinn and her daughters Skylar and Indie. (Damjan Janevski) 251842_01
Support Local Doing things differently during covid-19? In Whittlesea, it takes almost 14 minutes*
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*Ambulance Victoria’s performance 2020/21 quarter 4 average response time minutes
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FEVER OR COVID FEVER? The only way to be sure is with a test at the first sign of any symptom.
For testing locations, visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne
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Quarantine centre builder found Fleetwood Limited has secured the construction contract for the 1000-bed Mickleham quarantine centre. The principal contractor of the Centre for National Resilience in Melbourne, Multiplex, has selected Fleetwood as one of several suppliers of modular buildings that will make up the facility. Under the arrangement, Fleetwood will build modular accommodation units as part of the delivery of the first 500 beds by the end of 2021. Fleetwood chief executive Bruce Nicholson said the company was delighted to be playing a key role in COVID-19 pandemic response.
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New plumbing courses New plumbing qualifications are now available at Kangan Institute’s Broadmeadows campus, creating more training opportunities for locals. The two courses – certificate III in plumbing and certificate IV in plumbing and services – will be delivered at the TAFE’s $5.6 million Trades and Skills Centre, which is soon to be completed. Kangan Institute chief industry engagement and education delivery officer Arron Wood said the new courses would address a strong industry demand for skilled workers in the community. “The development of the new facility addresses a skills training gap in the north-west corridor,” Mr Wood said. “Offering these additional plumbing courses will allow Kangan Institute students to continue their learning beyond the certificate II course currently offered at Broadmeadows
campus. “This makes it so much easier for our students who can stay with Kangan Institute to complete their studies in full.” The new Trades and Skills Centre will have capacity to train 300 additional students – mostly apprentices. The facility was developed with support from the Victorian government’s TAFE Asset Maintenance Fund, and will also feature electrical training laboratories and welding bays. Enrolments are open for certificate III in plumbing for commencement in late October. Certificate IV in plumbing and services will launch in 2022. Details: www.kangan.edu.au/tafe-courses/ plumbing-306 Michaela Meade
Northern Hospital has extended its virtual emergency department operating hours for COVID-19 patients to 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The move is in response the current COVID-19 outbreak which has seen a high number of cases in the northern suburbs. Emergency physician Loren Sher said the hospital wanted the community to have easy access to professional health advice if their COVID-19 illness was worsening, or if they needed assistance with symptom management. The virtual ED is currently seeing around 50 patients per day, with about half of these related to COVID-19. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
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
8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 October, 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
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This exciting new sporting initiative to build on our 150 years of sporting excellence continues at our Preston Campus. This Program has been developed to: ■
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PARADE COLLEGE SPORTS INSTITUTE
This exciting new sporting initiative to build on our 150 years of sporting excellence continues at our Preston Campus. This Program has been developed to: Q
focus on the long term athletic progression of each participant
Q
bridge the gap between youth and professional athlete development
Q
provide a holistic educational environment for student athletes
Q
maximise athletic and academic performance
Q
work closely with Parade College partners: LaTrobe University, Manchester City, Melbourne City, Northern Knights and Diamond Valley Basketball
Details and applications available via the college website www.parade.vic.edu.au Further information can be obtained by emailing Parade’s Director of High Performance Sport, Mr. Paul Groves Paul.Groves@parade.vic.edu.au
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Streamlining infant healthcare Adjunct Associate Professor Christopher Carter Ceo, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network As every parent knows, looking after an infant can be a fast route to frustration and fear. Very little kids can’t explain when they feel ill, or tell anyone where it hurts. And their carers often experience awful anxiety when their darlings suddenly go off food, don’t sleep well, start to lose weight or develop rashes. GPs and maternal child health nurses are the first ports of call for worried mums, dads and other carers. To help our doctors and nurses provide strong, compassionate and consistent care for little ones North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) has created a new suite of tools, called Infant Pathways. Available to all medical professionals, Infant Pathways are designed to streamline the management of health matters in the really young. As well supporting GPs and specialist nurses in their work, the system also reduces stress and anxiety for the tiny patients – and their parents. There are 10 Infant Pathways. Some concern common baby issues such as being unsettled (or ‘colicky’, as your grandmother probably called it), sleeping poorly or loss of appetite. Others concern less frequent conditions, such as prolonged jaundice or hip problems. Then there are others that focus on premature or low-weight infants, plus things such as birthmarks, rashes or skin lesions. All these together we call the Routine Infant Check. There have been similar pathways in place for older children for a while now, and these really help to fill the gap in information and planning for doctors and nurses, as well as parents and carers. For clinicians, each pathway contains detailed information on possible causes
’Infant Pathways’ will help streamline care for the north-west’s youngest residents. (iStock)
for infant distress, and includes treatment options, red flags and assessment tools. It’s a very efficient way to identify and deal with the common hurdles of infancy, but also opens up directed guidelines for a whole atlas of less common issues. These include plain language and easy processes for, if necessary, referrals to hospitals or specialists. The Infant Pathways mean that everyone
involved in a consultation – clinician, infant, and parent – is supported and well informed throughout the process. Care is maintained at the highest standard and – equally important – stress and anxiety are kept at a minimum. This approach ensures that every consultation is thorough, and that parents and carers are kept fully in the loop about diagnostic decisions – whether these involve
pharmacy medications, onward referrals, or the (always welcome) news that there is no need to worry and the matter will clear up all by itself. And that reassurance is important. Hopefully it will be an important first step in setting up enduring relationships with medical practitioners, based on a firm foundation of compassion and care.
Improve the comfort of your home and save Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio The Andrews Labor government Home Heating and Cooling Upgrades program helps low income and vulnerable households to replace their old heater with a more efficient electric split system. As we transition to a more sustainable energy future, one of the many important steps we must take is considering how we heat and cool our homes. There are many newer technologies available to us which are more energy and cost efficient than our old gas, woodfire or inefficient electric heating systems. In order to make these newer technologies accessible, particularly for our most vulnerable households, the Andrews Labor government has introduced a new rebate program called the Home Heating and Cooling Upgrades program. This program provides $1000 rebates to eligible low income and vulnerable households to replace their old heater (or no heater) with a more efficient electric split system model. Where necessary, $500 is also available to upgrade electrical switchboards and $200 is available to cap old gas heaters, to ensure upgrades are safe and efficient. In May of this year, this program was first opened to community housing organisations to apply for these rebates on behalf of their residents, helping some of our most disadvantaged Victorians save money and contribute to our fight against climate change. And after the success of that first stream of rebates, on August 1 I was pleased to announce the program is open to even more Victorians – with eligible owner-occupiers now able to apply. This means if you own your own home and
hold a concession card, or have a combined household income of less than $90,000, and your home is fitted with an inefficient heating system, or no heating system, you can apply for a rebate to get a new heating and cooling split system through one of our many approved suppliers. In the north in particular we have many older homes fitted with old gas or woodfire heaters. This program will allow many in our area to improve the comfort of their homes and save up to $300 per year on their energy bills, all while lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Since we opened this second stream of rebates only one month ago, already over 1,800 Victorian households have been approved for a $1000 rebate. As our weather starts to warm up, we expect this program to be even more popular. One of the many benefits of this rebate program is that it replaces old and inefficient heating with split systems that can keep households cool in the summer, as well as warm in the winter. This program is just one part of the Andrews Labor government’s unprecedented $797 million Household Energy Savings Package from the 2020-21 Victorian State Budget – the largest energy efficiency package of any state government, ever. And it’s all part of supporting our Victorian Climate Change Strategy – our ambitious yet achievable plan that puts Victoria amongst global leaders delivering real, sustainable action on climate change. In order to apply for a rebate, or to learn more, you can visit heatingupgrades.vic.gov. au or call 1300 376 393 for help finding an approved supplier near you. Otherwise if you need any assistance you can reach out directly to my office on 9422 5171 or at lily.d’ambrosio@ parliament.vic.gov.au
Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio.
(Supplied) Tuesday, 5 October, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13
FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING
Advertising feature
Feel at home among family at McKenzie Aged Care 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
Families will feel happy knowing that their loved one are being cared for as a part of the McKenzie family. (Supplied)
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 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 homes are in Lynbrook, Melton South, Reservoir, Rosebud and Templestowe. 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.
“Everyone “All theat staff have been excellent. The Ashley care They make each aboutresident our loved ones feel worthy and special.” as if they are family.” – Bob Jones, Edna’s son. – Sharon, daughter of The Ashley resident.
Our Victorian Residences: Our Victorian Residences: Lynbrook Park
The Ashley 42 Olive Road, Lynbrook 17-21 Ashley Street, Reservoir The Ashley 17-21 Ashley Street, Reservoir Lynbrook Park Rosebrook 42 Olive Road, Lynbrook
441 Waterfall Gully Road, Rosebud
Sutton Park Newmans on the Park 33 Newmans Road, Templestowe 126-134 Exford Road, Melton South Charlesbrook
Rosebrook 1 Innisfallen Avenue, Templestowe 441 Waterfall Gully Road, Rosebud Sutton Park We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest We understand that the decision to join our life they can. So by providing the right care, the very We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest We understand that the decision to join our you see for yourself the level of care and compassion best professionals, beautiful surroundings and caring life they can. So by providing the right care, the very our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.
best professionals, beautiful surroundings and caring
you see for yourself the level of care and compassion our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.
Newmans on the Park 33 Newmans Road, Templestowe Charlesbrook 1 Innisfallen Avenue, Templestowe
1300 899 222 | mckenzieacg.com 12513913-JW41-21
14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 October, 2021
PUZZLES No. 049
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
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2 4 6 9 8 5 5 2 8 6 1 3 8 7 5 8 2 6 3 4 7 2 8 1 5 9
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QUICK CROSSWORD 3 5 6 7 8 10
ACROSS Plant yielding oil (6) Band (8) Existence (5) Subdue (9) Additional (5) Assessed too highly (9) Fruit (plural) (8) Monty Python member, — Chapman (6) German capital (6) To weave strands through (8) Professors (9) Fossil resin (5) Brazen (9) Baghdad native (5) Developing (8) Frisk (6)
1 4 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 18 23 24 26 27 28 29
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No. 049
Nomad (7) Family members (6) Sovereign (7) Enchanted (9) Domain of an earl (7) Layer that absorbs most of the sun’s UV radiation (5) Citrus preserve (9) I don’t know (colloq) (5,2) Titanic sinker (7) Entertainers (5) Assay (7) Twirling religious fanatic (7) Cooing bird (6) British PM, 1997–2007 (5)
DOWN Corrupt (7) Woman’s garment (5)
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DECODER
No. 049
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2 5 8 4 1 7 2 3 5 6 3 1 8 3 8 9 7 5 9 8 3 6 hard
5 6 9 3 1 2 6 4 9
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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”.
C
Today’s Aim: 16 words: Good 24 words: Very good 33 words: Excellent
E
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A F
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3 LETTERS ACE AGO APE APT BRA DIG DOE EVE FOX GAB GAP ICE IDS IMP LEE LET PER PEW RAT SEE TEE THE TOE TOP UGH WOO 4 LETTERS BABE BEST DOER DOZE EELS FORE HOLE HYMN LABS MATT MESH ODES PREY ROAD ROTE
TAXI TIED USED 5 LETTERS ACRES AGAIN AGILE ALLEY ALLOY ALONE AWARE BLOOM BOSOM EDGER ENDED ENDOW EPOCH FLOWS HAPPY HELLO
No. 049
HERDS LAMBS LAUGH LEPER MAMAS MAMMA MISTY MOOSE NIECE NOISE OASIS OBESE OVERT PARSE PASTY SEIZE SEMEN SHEET SLOPS SLYER SPEED
STORE STRUM TONED TRIMS WAFTS WASPS YODEL 6 LETTERS ERRANT SYSTEM 7 LETTERS EMPEROR FORELEG
OPPOSED PERHAPS REPLACE SYSTEMS 8 LETTERS CHAPLAIN DREAMERS METEORIC SOFTENED 10 LETTERS HORSEPOWER TYPESETTER
acne, acre, afire, cafe, cairn, cane, canine, cannier, care, crane, earn, erica, face, facer, fain, fair, fancier, farce, fare, fear, feria, fiance, finance, FINANCIER, franc, inane, infra, nacre, near, niacin, race, rain, rani
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1 8 5 3 2 9 6 7 4
7 2 3 4 8 6 1 9 5
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3 9 4 5 6 8 2 1 7
8 5 7 1 4 2 9 3 6
5 7 6 2 9 3 8 4 1
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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
6
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WORDFIT
08-10-21 12491600-JW21-21
SUDOKU
If your refrigeration seals are moldy, brittle or torn, then Seal-A-Fridge is here to help... Replacing a fridge is costly, so by fixing your refrigeration unit seals, it will instantly save money on electricity, shelf life of consumables and general wear & tear on your unit. We are mobile and will come to you and repair the Seals on the spot for both Domestic & Commercial Units. For a limited time only, follow us on Facebook to receive a 10% discount on the first fridge, just type in Seal-A-Fridge NE Melbourne, like and follow and show Shane when he arrives.
So, make your move now and call Shane on 13 14 79. FRIDGE • FREEZER & COLDROOM SEALS • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL
13 14 79 Tuesday, 5 October, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 15
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The Kluger powers on for Toyota By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Car companies continue the battle to save the planet by snuffing out polluting fossil fuel propulsion in favour of electricity. Toyota is powering on with its petrol / electric combination. Latest model to receive the hybrid treatment is the Kluger seven-seat sports utility vehicle. Toyota Australia Vice-President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley says the addition of hybrid to the fourth-generation Kluger further demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to delivering on electrified options in its line-up. Offering improved driving dynamics, a larger and more refined cabin, a stylish new look and the latest in safety technology, the all-new model is available in three trim levels - GX, GXL and Grande - in petrol two-wheel drive, or hybrid, or petrol all-wheel drive. Standard equipment includes smart entry and start, manual front and rear dual-zone air-conditioning, rain sensing wipers and automatic lights, and five USB ports. GXL models gain power heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, power tailgate and satellite navigation for the latest-generation multimedia system. On test was the top-of-the-range Kluger Grande, which adds a panoramic moonroof, hands-free opening power tailgate, ventilated front seats, head-up display, a panoramic view monitor, leather-accented seats and premium 11-speaker JBL audio. The new Kluger is covered by Toyota Warranty Advantage, with five-year unlimited kilometre cover, extending to seven years on engine and driveline, with capped-price servicing for the first five years / 75,000 km and each 12-month / 15,000 km service costing $250.
Styling There’s nothing out of the ordinary in the new Kluger’s looks. They are from the standard read traditional (old fashioned?) - SUV script. No sleek coupe crossover curves here. Toyota calls the shape ‘sculpted’. I call it ‘square’ in both its meanings. The MY21 Kluger is 76 mm longer (4966 mm) and, at 1755 mm, 25 mm higher than the previous model. While overall width has increased by a mere 5 mm to 1930 mm, 20 mm wider flared wheel arches give the car a robust appearance. As befitting a seven-seat SUV, the bold character is reinforced by large upper and lower trapezoidal grilles split by the front bumper. Slimline LED light clusters with integrated daytime running lights are situated above deep recessed LED fog lamps integrated into the flared front end. On the plus side, an extended and flatter underbody and spats in front of the wheels contribute to improved aerodynamics. The Grande rolls on 20-inch wheels with a polished chrome appearance.
Interior The broad dash, in smart soft-touch materials, houses the instrument cluster, a central 8-inch touchscreen display and air-conditioning controls and vents. A lower centre console is separated by a panel that stretches the width of the car. The lower centre console incorporates the transmission lever, drive and AWD mode select switchgear, electronic park brake and two large cupholders. Other storage includes a 15-litre lidded centre console box, overhead glasses holder, front door bins with 700 ml bottle holders, rear door bins with two 700 ml bottle holders and eight cupholders. The boot space is 50 mm longer and 13 mm wider, providing an increase of 46 litres of luggage space to a total of 241 litres. With the third-row seats folded flat, this increases to 552 litres while folding the second row 60 / 40-split seat back as well, the Kluger provides
The Toyota Kluger has tapped into hybrid power with its latest update.
an expansive 1150-litre capacity. A removable luggage cover is standard on all models and can be stored neatly under the luggage space deck board.
(Pictures: Supplied)
AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP GX 2WD petrol $47,650
Infotainment
GXL 2WD petrol $56,850
Petrol models offer traditional tacho and speedo displays in the instrument cluster, while Hybrid versions replace the tacho with a hybrid system indicator that enables the driver to check the output and regeneration status of the hybrid system to monitor driving behaviour and achieve the greatest efficiency. All models feature the latest generation multimedia system with AM / FM / DAB+ radio, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and myToyota apps including Waze and Stitcher (IOS) and WebEx (Android). The Kluger GXL grade adds satellite navigation with Grande versions delivering superb sound reproduction through an 11-speaker premium JBL audio system.
Grande 2WD petrol $68,900
Engines / transmissions The hybrid system is available in all GX, GXL and Grande grades in combination with the e-Four electric all-wheel drive. It combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with three electric motor generators - two at the front and one in the rear - and a large Ni-MH battery to provide seamless performance and traction in all road conditions. Under the bonnet, the petrol engine generates a maximum power of 142 kW at 6000 rpm and peak torque of 242 Nm at 4400 rpm, enabling a combined urban / highway fuel consumption as low as 5.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The test vehicle recorded as low as 5.1 litres per 100 kilometres.
seven airbags - front and front side, full length side curtain and driver side knee.
GX AWD petrol $51,650 GXL AWD petrol $60,850 Grande AWD petrol $72,900 GX AWD hybrid $54,150 GXL AWD hybrid $63,350 Grande AWD hybrid $75,400
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Toyota dealer for drive-away prices.
Safety Chief among these is the autonomous emergency braking pre-collision safety system that is able to detect pedestrians day and night, cyclists during the day, oncoming vehicles and pedestrians at intersections when making turns, and assist you to take evasive action if there is potential for a collision. The system provides varying levels of assistance from visual and audible warnings, braking assistance, steering assistance, and full emergency braking if the driver fails to respond. Grande variants feature a camera with a panoramic view monitor that offers a variety of different views depending on the transmission mode selected, including an overhead bird’s-eye view. Passive safety features in the new Kluger include a structure and body designed to absorb impacts in a controlled manner and
Driving The hybrid system delivers a combined maximum power of 184 kW through a smooth electric continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) that offers driver selectable Normal, Eco and Sport modes. Hybrid AWD models are also fitted with a Trail mode switch for more demanding off-road performance that is able to adjust throttle control, shift schedule, drive force distribution and brake control to deliver optimal traction for the conditions. For enhanced off-road performance in varied conditions, the AWD Kluger also features a multi-terrain select system with Mud and Sand and Rock and Dirt modes that in the Grande can also be disconnected to improve fuel economy. Side mirrors have been relocated lower on the door panel to improve forward visibility and reduce blind spots. Access into the second and third row two-seat bench has been made easier with the fold down levers for both rows now located on the outer shoulder of the seats, which, for the third-row seats, also automatically folds the head rests in one action. The rear hatch offers easy access into the expanded luggage space with power operation for GXL variants and a ‘kick sensor’ for the Grande version that allows the hatch to be opened and closed hands-free.
Summary Off to a slow start with sales when the Kluger came out in 2003 as a mid-size SUV, years later the Kluger is a large SUV with a big following. That is about to become bigger with the addition of hybrid power. Tuesday, 5 October, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 17
SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Hume’s Dockerty Cup win in 2019. (Mark Avellino/Football Victoria)
Weier makes it to the big time By Tara Murray When Michael Weier arrived at Hume City from Brisbane as a 19-year-old, his soccer career was just starting to take off. Five years later, he leaves the club as one of the best goalkeepers in the country and with an A-League contract. Weier now calls the Newcastle Jets home after signing with the side for the upcoming A-League season. Weier said he had no idea that he was on the Jets’ radar until he got a phone call from the club. “It is good, it is something I’ve worked towards for five years or so,” he said. “It’s good when all the hard work pays off. It’s now about taking that opportunity. “The boss gave us a call and I guess that was my clue. In terms of preparations, we hadn’t played for four weeks. “I was sitting there doing nothing for four weeks, it wasn’t the best of preparation. The Jets boss let me ease into things.” Weier didn’t have long to let the news settle in that he had signed a contract, moving to Newcastle in the following days. Like Melbourne, Newcastle is in lockdown. Weier is the first to admit he struggled when he first took to the training track. “I’ve got some mates who have played for the Jets over the years and they speak highly of the place,” he said. “Speaking to them and getting their feedback, it was exciting knowing I was coming here. “I haven’t seen much of Newcastle yet, from what I’ve seen the beaches are great, weather seems to be nice every day, I can’t complain. “Obviously the preparation wasn’t the greatest. Trying to back up the next day after a big session it was tough and the body wasn’t handling it too well. “I had to get in a lot of ice baths and do all the little things to ensure that I was training every day. Once I got through that two week period, my body has handled it now and I’m able to keep backing up.” Weier is no stranger to expectation, following in the footsteps of goalkeeper Chris Oldfield at Hume City. Oldfield won NPL goalkeeper of the year the year prior to Weier joining the club. Weier would win that title in 2017 and 2019, with Oldfield winning it at Avondale in between. Weier’s heroics in the FFA Cup also made headlines nationally. Weier was quick to praise the impact of Hume City on his life. “Going down to Hume, the club treated me like family from day one,” he said. “That helped me really settle in there. Trusting a young keeper, I knew I had to repay 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 October, 2021
Michael Weier. (Pictures: Shawn Smits) 204646
them one way or another. It’s been a good five years at Hume and I’m grateful for them, it was a great time.” Weier’s time at Hume has coincided with the most successful period in the club’s history, including winning the club’s first piece of silverware; the Dockerty Cup in 2019. The club has made the final of this year’s competition, which has been postponed due to the pandemic. It made the final 32 of the FFA Cup. “The football was fun,” Weier said. “Playing
with the characters that I did, through the ups and downs it was always good to stIck around the club. “Bringing the Dockerty Cup to Hume for the first time … It was a special time, we were looking forward to doing it again over 2020 and 2021, but COVID didn’t allow us to do so. “I know the club is at a strong point and they will keep on and win more championships and I have full confidence in them.” Weier thinks there will be more titles in the coming years.
“The club grew me personally on the field and off the field,” he said. “I didn’t think anything of it when I went down, I thought I would give it my best shot. With the facilities the club has, the personnel in the boardroom, it allows you to grow on and off the field. “I owe a lot to that club and I’m grateful for my time there.” Weier now is looking forward to getting onto the pitch once restrictions end in Newcastle. “We’ve had a lot of intra club games,” he said. “As soon as anything is opening up we’ll be trying to get on the pitch. “You can do as much as you like in training, but at the end of the day it’s what you put on the pitch that matters. “I love to play game day, it’s what you work for.” Jets manager Arthur Papas, who coached against Weier in the NPL, said the club was very happy to have secured Weier for the upcoming season. “Michael has been the outstanding NPL goalkeeper for some time now where he also captained his side Hume City,” Papas said. “Since training with us Michael has impressed everybody with his character and his qualities, and the goalkeeper position is the same as any other position where we need to have players competing daily.”
Sherman ready to lead Craigieburn into 2022 Craigieburn’s incoming senior coach Justin Sherman is ready to get stuck into the 2022 pre-season, and his life with the Essendon District Football League division 1 club. Sherman comes to the club with an extensive history and knowledge of football, having played 139 AFL games between 2005 and 2012 for the Brisbane Lions and Western Bulldogs. Sherman has since been a player, assistant coach and head coach for various clubs, most recently as an assistant coach for NAB League club, the Northern Knights. Sherman said his stint with the Knights was a learning experience. “Being assistant coach the last 12 months with the Knights, I was able to learn a lot about myself and my coaching,” Sherman said. “I’ve definitely missed being the head coach and being able to do all the planning.” Sherman said the player development opportunities attracted him to Craigieburn. “They’re a successful club, and it’s got a real
family feel,” he said. “It feels right, it feels like home. “My strengths are the relationships, I’m able to build with people over time, so I’m excited to get to know people. “I just want them to feel safe, I want them to feel good, I want them to feel like part of the family. “I’m looking forward to showing the junior players that there is a pathway within their own club to progress to senior football. That development is important to me.” Sherman said he was “really excited” to get started with Craigieburn. The Eagles were winless this year in premier division and have been relegated. “I’ve already had a Zoom call with the boys – they’re a great group. “I’m really looking forward to meeting them in person and making those connections. “We’ve all missed the footy, so to get back out there and play, it’ll be great.”
Sherman said there weren’t any “defined goals” he’d set for the club yet as he didn’t want to put the pressure on just yet. “We’re going to build that defined base of fitness first, and build up our fundamentals. “It doesn’t guarantee any success, but it gives you a good chance of being there and playing that final game of the season.” Sherman said considering the COVID-19 pandemic situation in Melbourne – that halted 2020 community sport entirely, and has severely impacted the 2021 season, ending it early - he would be taking pre-season and each game as they come. “We’re under no illusions that we might need to make adjustments with COVID,” he said. “[The time before pre-season in November] will allow me time to have a few weeks off work and get some planning done. “That’s the most exciting part for me.” Michaela Meade
Justin Sherman with club president John Perrone. (Supplied)
Jarrad Waite signs with Whittlesea
Joint best and fairest winners Emily Paterno and Gemma Wright both polled 15 votes. (Pictures: Shawn Smits; and Jamie Morey Photography)
Tie for best and fairest By Tara Murray Two of the biggest names in the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division have shared the league best and fairest. Hillside’s Emily Paterno and Westmeadows Gemma Wright both polled 15 votes to share the award in what was a close count. Paterno started the season on fire, with four successive best on ground performances, with Wright coming home strong in the back half of the season. Both polled votes in the final round to finish one vote clear of Keilor’s Kaitlyn O’Keefe. Paterno, who finished second in the goalkicking and was named in the team of the year, was quick to praise everyone at Hillside. Paterno started her career at the Sharks before going on to play VFL. She returned to the Sharks in 2019. “Congratulations to Gemma Wright, who I share this award with, you had a fantastic season and you really deserve this one,” she said in a video on the league’s social media page. “While this is recognised as an individual
award, I don’t see it that way. “I would firstly like to thank all my teammates down at Hillside, I was lucky enough to run out alongside a champion team every single week and all their work up and round the ground is what has afforded me this opportunity.“ Paterno thanked her coaches for making her a better player and also praised the club’s volunteers. “You guys are honestly the heart and soul of every footy team, the reason why we are able to get out on the park every weekend and do what we love.” Wright was a standout for the Tigers in her first season, having joined the club for the cancelled 2020 season. As well as playing in the senior side, she coached the club’s second women’s side this year. The league best and fairest win is her first after finishing in the placings twice before. She was third in the best and fairest in 2017 and runner-up in Northern Football League best and fairest in 2018, both times behind her twin sister, Sarah. Gemma Wright also has a VFLW Carlton
best and fairest to her name. A post on the Westmeadows Facebook page said Wright had fitted in with the team and had become a leader and mentor to the playing group. “Her wealth of football experience and knowledge assisted in both of our women’s teams placing in ladder positions to have a real crack at a premiership.” Wright was also named in the EDFL premier division team of the year. Players from every team were selected in the team of the year, with Oak Park and Keilor having four players selected each. Kaitlyn O’Keefe was named captain of the side and Maribyrnong Park’s Charlie Fenech was named coach of the year. In the premier men’s competition, Aberfeldie ruck Nick Meese was awarded the Reynolds medal. Meese, in his first season at the club after stepping down from the VFL, finished on 14 to finish one vote clear of Thomas Baravi It’s the second straight season Baravi has finished second in that award.
AFL great Jarrad Waite’s signing with Whittlesea Football Club has got the whole town exhilarated, according to coach Blair Harvey. Waite’s AFL career spanned over 16 years with Carlton and North Melbourne, with 244 games and 377 goals to his name. Waite has also played at VAFA powerhouse St Kevins Old Boys in the premier division for the last two years. He joins WFNC as playing assistant coach. Harvey said the news was “really exciting”. “He’s without a doubt the biggest signing we’ve ever had,” Harvey said. “The whole town is excited as well, which is awesome. “To get someone [with his experience] for our younger groups is great. “He’ll be showing leadership on and off the field as well.” Harvey said as a younger coach, he was looking forward to gleaning some expertise from Waite. “To be able to bounce my ideas off him will be fantastic,” Harvey said. “We’ll be able to really gain something from all of his experience with the AFL … after 250 games, you’d have a lot to share.” Harvey said the news was “massive” in lifting player spirits during metro Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdown. “It’s been a tough time for everyone … this news sparked everyone up,” he said. “It’s a huge announcement, not just for the club, but the community as well. “To see their excitement and enthusiasm has been great.” Harvey said Waite had already begun to put his mark on the club. “He’s great, he’s already been really helpful,” Harvey said. “He’s getting on the front foot with everyone, getting to know the boys and everything. “It’s been great to see.” As for the 2022 season, Harvey said they were fired up. “We’re really happy that 95 per cent of out playing list has re-signed,” he said. “We’re really going to establish ourselves in division 1 next year.” Michaela Meade Tuesday, 5 October, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19
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