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Funding shot in the arm
Keilor little athlete Ryan.
Keilor Little Athletics Centre can jump a funding hurdle thanks to a $4400 grant from the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund. Keilor Little Athletics Centre president Wayne Mangion said the funding would help the centre to “survive and thrive”. “Our club has been in the community for over 50 years and initiatives like the Coles grant will help us to provide community sport to local kids for another 50 years,” he said. “The Coles grant will enable us to buy new marquees so that we can make the little athletics experience more enjoyable for our athletes and volunteers who spend hours out in the sun each week.” Coles Little Athletics Australia president Andrew Pryor said the grants would help develop the next generation of Olympic athletes. “Around 75 per cent of the Australian track and field team who competed in the Tokyo Olympics and a further 23 percent of para-athletes in the Paralympics, had their start in Little Athletics - that’s why support like this from Coles is so important,” he said. Keilor Little Athletics Centre registrations are now open.
(Supplied)
Brimbank’s hot property By Michaela Meade Brimbank’s real estate market is hotting up, with sales on the rise in 11 of the municipality’s suburbs, according to a new report. The Spring 2021 Price Predictor Index, issued by residential property researcher and writer Terry Ryder through his investment advice website Hotspotting.com, reveals that house sales are increasing in Albanvale, Deer Park, Keilor, Keilor East, Kings Park, St Albans, Sunshine, Sunshine North, Sunshine West, Sydenham, and Taylors Lakes.
According to the report, the real estate market is reporting an increase in interest from buyers across most of Melbourne. “The number of plateau markets is the lowest we have recorded in six years,” the report stated. “The 76 per cent of suburbs with rising sales volumes is the highest percentage of all the market jurisdictions across Australia – and 94 per cent of Melbourne suburbs have recorded growth in their median house prices in the past 12 months.” Albion, Ardeer, Cairnlea, Delahey, Derrimut,
and Keilor Downs were revealed to have plateauing markets. Meanwhile, Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) data reveals that Albanvale and Sydenham had the largest annual growth in median sale price in Brimbank in the 12 months from June, 2020, to June, 2021. Albanvale’s median house price increased from $514,000 in June, 2020, to $585,000 in June, 2021, an increase of 13.8 per cent. Sydenham’s median house price jumped 11.9 per cent, from $599,750 to $671,000 over the same period.
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The RIEV data also revealed a strong median house price in Ardeer ($681,500), while the median price in Darley hit $605,500 in June, 2021. “This growth can be attributed to the relative affordability – Brimbank’s popularity is rising because the median prices in its suburb areas are comparatively affordable to other Melbourne postcodes,” a REIV spokesperson said. “Strong infrastructure investment in the west would be a contributing factor, as would the movement of Geelong-based passengers travelling to the CBD via Sunshine.”
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Let’s get the #Jabdone! Transforming Brimbank 2050 Brimbank vaccination rates are rising. Let’s keep going and get the jab done, Brimbank! Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 helps protect you and your community. Under the Victorian Government’s Roadmap to Deliver the National Plan, reaching targets of 70 and 80 per cent double dose vaccination means businesses can reopen and community can more easily see family and friends.
Need to book an appointment? You can book a vaccination appointment through state vaccinations centres and pop-ups, as well as a growing number of GPs and pharmacies. There are also walk in clinics available, that don’t require you to make a booking. You’ll find all the information you need at brimbank.vic.gov.au/COVIDvax For questions about vaccinations, the best person to talk to is your doctor/GP.
Let ’s build it better, together! MELBOURNE AIRPORT RAIL PROJECT
ADVOCACY PRIORITIES Brimbank Council is asking the State Government to work closely with the local community and Council to deliver a Melbourne Airport Rail Project that also considers local needs and aspirations.
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: • Communications and Engagement – Tell us how we can continue to improve the way we communicate and consult • Fix the Calder – Sign our petition calling for the Calder Freeway to be fixed between the Western Ring Road and Melton Highway • Melbourne Airport Rail in Sunshine and Albion – Sign our petition
It’s vitally important that the project delivers local benefits for the community, not just commuters and that it focusses on people not just places.
As part of a trial project, Brimbank City Council will be turning the lights on at Errington Multipurpose Court after sundown. Every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday nights until 31 October the lights at the precinct will be switched on from sundown to 8.30pm. For more information, visit brimbank.vic. gov.au/events/lighting-errington
ARC independent member needed The Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) is an independent advisory committee, that provides oversight and advice on Brimbank City Council’s governance, audit, financial management, and strategic risk management functions. Brimbank City Council is looking to appoint an experienced independent member for the ARC who can demonstrate requisite skills and experience, particularly in local government, business information technology, and fraud and asset management. For more information, and to apply, please visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/careers Expressions of interest close at 5pm on Monday 25 October 2021
Contact us: Telephone 9249 4000
National Mental Health Month
• The Sunshine Priority Precinct
October is National Mental Health Month and we are reminded of the importance of looking after our mental health and wellbeing. Brimbank City Council has organised a range of informative sessions and hands on events to help improve your mental health and wellbeing. For more information on these events, visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/ events
• Sunshine Superhub • A new Albion Station, and • Unlocking investment in the Albion Quarter. Council is also seeking a fully funded ‘Brimbank Community Offset Package’ which: • Recognises that Brimbank will experience the brunt of a decade of construction and disruption for the benefit of other communities across the State • Addresses any rail construction plans that do not meet community expectations
Parents as Career Transition Support
• Ensures that Melbourne’s West is allocated its fair share of infrastructure funding from both the Federal and State governments.
Join a three-part series of workshops to develop the skills of parents and carers, to coach young people with disabilities to understand their strengths and how to turn them into employment. Held at 5.30pm on 13, 20 and 27 October, via zoom. For details and bookings, visit brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au
brimbank.vic.gov.au 131 450 Local call costs apply
Done right, major transport infrastructure investment coming to Brimbank will make our city world class.
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Your Councillors are always happy to hear from you Cr Victoria Borg Cr Sarah Branton Cr Thuy Dang Cr Sam David JP Cr Maria Kerr Cr Bruce Lancashire Cr Trung Luu Cr Jasmine Nguyen (Deputy Mayor) Cr Jae Papalia Cr Ranka Rasic (Mayor) Cr Virginia Tachos
0429 365 527 0407 836 064 0437 744 803 0429 355 239 0437 796 630 0429 637 689 0437 826 450 0437 740 042 0437 838 710 0437 861 296 0428 915 671
CrBorg@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrBranton@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrDang@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrDavid@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrKerr@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrLancashire@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrLuu@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrNguyen@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrPapalia@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrRasic@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrTachos@brimbank.vic.gov.au
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AND BUILD A BETTER FUTURE FOR BRIMBANK: YOURSAY.BRIMBANK.VIC.GOV.AU/MAR
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 12514195-NG42-21
2 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
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Lighting Up Errington
The Melbourne Airport Rail project is an opportunity to also focus on integrated development for:
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‘Severe’ crimes fall in Brimbank By Michaela Meade Crimes that leave “severe and longstanding” impacts on victims have decreased across Brimbank, according to Inspector Trevor King. Recent Crime Statistics Agency data revealed that in the year ending June, 2021, crime in the Brimbank municipality decreased by 8.1 per cent, with 14,357 offences recorded. This is compared to the previous year’s 15,628 offences recorded. Inspector King said the data revealed a reduction in crimes that left a big impact on
victims. “The latest crime statistics release indicate several crimes that leave severe and longstanding negative impacts on not only victims, but the entire community’s perception of safety, have reduced over the last 12 months in Brimbank,” Inspector King said. “The reduction in these types of crime can be attributed to both the coronavirus pandemic and associated restrictions, as well as ongoing operations targeting high volume property crime such as burglaries and car thefts, as well as serious and violent crimes.”
Theft offences declined from 7770 in the year ending June, 2020, to 6159 in the year ending June, 2021, while assault and related offences, and burglary/breaking and entering, both decreased over the same period, from 1642 to 1471, and from 1375 to 1152 respectively. Inspector King said ongoing operations continued to target offending in Brimbank. “Brimbank police are determined to ensure offending remains as low as possible, with a number of ongoing operations under way to keep the community safe by detecting and deterring criminal offending and bringing
offenders before the courts,” he said. “Ongoing operations in Brimbank continue to target everything from non-violent offences such as hoon driving, which we know cause extreme annoyance and concern within the community, to youth gangs, who are responsible for committing some of the more serious and violent crimes. “Police are also working hard to keep high volume property crimes such as burglaries and car thefts low, with regular proactive patrols in known hotspots, such as carparks, residential streets and transport hubs.”
COVID-19 cases reach a daily high
Happy Camper Pizza worker Kay Day.
(Supplied)
Business pays it forward with pizza Happy Camper Pizza in Braybrook is running a “pizza-it-forward” initiative, donating pizzas to Duke Street Community House to make a positive impact on their community. Co-owner Sonia Lear said the COVID-19 pandemic had hit the business hard, but a spark of inspiration from friends began the initiative of giving back. “Our West Footscray friends, Kirsten Mackenzie and Randall Wee, are the ones who inspired our ‘pizza-it-forward’ initiative,” she said. “When we were at our lowest, they donated some money to [the business] and asked for it to be used to make pizzas for people in need.” Ms Lear said they chose to donate to Duke Street Community House because of its charitable work during Melbourne’s
lockdowns. “Prior to COVID, [Duke Street] offered early childhood and educational programs to the community and occasional care, but found there was so much need in the community when COVID hit, it started making hampers using donated food and volunteer staff,” she said. “Many of their clients have lost jobs during COVID, are students or refugees and rely on regular food hampers from Duke Street to get by. “Treats are the first to go when you’re under financial hardship. But it’s not just the physical pizzas that makes the initiative special, it’s the sharing of good will and positive vibes.” Ms Lear said even when restrictions ease, the business will continue to provide the donations.
“There was so much excitement about our pizzas from Duke Street that we decided we’d just keep donating as a business, no matter what, as well as add a ‘pizza-it-forward’ option to our takeaway menu and see if we could get some support locally,” she said. “But in all honesty, it’s been hard to get word out and we’ve been a bit hesitant to push it too hard in case it comes across as us blowing our own trumpet. “We leave it to our customers to decide if this is something they’d like to support. “We donate a batch from our own business every fortnight regardless of how many donations we get, and weekly if we have enough pizzas from our customers.”
Brimbank recorded its highest number of daily cases in the latest COVID-19 outbreak on Sunday. Cases have steadily grown in the area over the last week, with 150 cases announced on Sunday as the state recorded its highest daily total to date. Brimbank recorded more than 100 cases on five of the seven days last week. A man in his 50s from Brimbank was among five people who died in the 24 hours to Sunday. He was the second Brimbank resident to die from coronavirus in the last week. Brimbank currently has the fourth highest number of active cases in the state, behind Hume, Whittlesea and Casey. The neighbouring Melton municipality has also seen an increase in cases, with 154 on Sunday. The 3023 postcode, which was earlier in the week announced as a target area due to lower vaccination rates, has the most active cases in Brimbank, with 427 active cases. The 3037 postcode which was also on the vaccine target list, is also in the top 10 for active cases. Despite the increase in cases in the area, only four Brimbank suburbs have exposure sites according to the Department of Health. They are Braybrook, Derrimut, Sydenham and Tullamarine. Meanwhile, the state government has announced that crowds will be allowed at the Melbourne Cup. Up to 10,000 people will be able to attend the Melbourne Cup under a COVIDsafe plan. If the state is yet to hit the 80 per cent double vaccination rate, it will be limited to people who live within 25 kilometres. The final two days of the Springs Carnival will also be open to crowds, if the vaccination threshold has been met.
Michaela Meade
Brimbank COVID vaccine rate is among Victoria’s lowest Brimbank is in the top 10 local government areas (LGAs) for low COVID-19 vaccination rates, as west metro COVID-19 vaccination program director Lisa Smith encouraged more participation. According to recent health department data, Brimbank had a first dose COVID-19 vaccination rate of 78.3 per cent – the seventh lowest across Victoria. Brimbank’s second dose percentage – 43.7 per cent – was revealed to be the second lowest in the state. The Yarra LGA had the lowest vaccination
rate in the state for first dose coverage, according to the data, with 72.5 per cent, while the Greater Dandenong LGA was the lowest for second dose coverage at 40.7 per cent. Ms Smith said the program being run for the western suburbs of metropolitan Melbourne was successful, but still wanted to encourage her community to come forward for the jab. “The west metro COVID-19 vaccination program has so far administered 902,000 vaccinations, including almost 260,000 at Sunshine Hospital, which is our major vaccination hub in Brimbank,” she said.
“We are working closely with the local council and community providers to encourage vaccine uptake.” Ms Smith said vaccination against the virus that has locked metro Melbourne down for the sixth time was imperative. “I’d encourage everyone who is eligible to be vaccinated to make an appointment as soon as possible,” Ms Smith said. “Vaccination really is our only way out of this pandemic.” Meanwhile, Premier Daniel Andrews last week announced a vaccine push for 27 postcodes with first dose vaccination rates
below 75 per cent. Two Brimbank postcodes, 3023 and 3037, will be among the postcodes targeted in the vaccine push, Mr Andrews said. Burnside, Burnside Heights, Cairnlea, Caroline Springs, Deer Park, Deer Park North, Ravenhall, Calder Park, Delahey, Hillside, Sydenham and Taylors Hill are part of those two postcodes. To book your vaccination: 1800 675 398 or cvms.powerappsportals.com/ Michaela Meade
Tuesday, 12 October, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 3
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Jail time for offender who twice drove at police A man who twice drove at police at high speed while being pursued has been sentenced to more than three years in prison. Matthew Ennis, 30, pleaded guilty in the County Court last month to charges of dangerous driving in the course of a police pursuit, conduct endangering life, reckless exposure of a police member to risk by driving and possession of a drug of dependence, as well as summary offences including drive whilst unlicenced. The court heard police observed Ennis driving along Gibbons Road near Lara 3.28 am on December 30, 2019, behind the wheel of a silver Commodore wagon with false
number plates and one of the headlights not working. Police activated their flashing lights and their siren and Ennis performed a U-turn to face the stationary police car. He drove towards the police car, which was forced to take evasive action to avert a collision, then fled the scene. In the next incident around 12.15am on January 1, he was driving the same car with different ‘homemade’ registration plates and with his girlfriend also in the car. Ennis drove through a red light in Sunshine, speeding away from pursuing police and turning off his lights.
Judge Michael Tinney said the driving over the course of the pursuit was “just ridiculous”, including hitting speeds of 180 kilometres per hour in an 80 zone and veering in and out of traffic and driving through multiple red lights at high speed. “You endangered the life of your passenger who was pleading with you to stop, as well as many other road users,” he said. The court heard Leading Senior Constable Craig Gibson attempted to deploy stop sticks on Somerville Road in Sunshine West when Ennis drove at him at high speed. “You braked heavily and swerved in an arc towards him and he leapt to the right and rolled
on to the road surface to try to avoid impact and he succeeded,” Judge Tinney said. About 2.45am Ennis drove over stop sticks on the Melton Highway, yet continued to drive before abandoning the car and hiding behind a hedge in a garden at the front of a property in Hillside. He was arrested after a struggle and taken to the police station, where an oral fluid test showed methylamphetamine in his system. Ennis was sentenced to three years and four months in prison, with at least 19 months before he is eligible for release on parole. Benjamin Millar
Events on for mental health
WEstjustice lawyer Thea Debler-Depold and Francesca Lai. (Damjan Janevski) 252447_01
Plea for more legal help By Goya Dmytryshchak An organisation providing free legal help for people in Melbourne’s west is calling on the state government to provide school and TAFE-based education on work rights. WEstjustice has released a report, Ignorance is NOT bliss, which also calls on the government to make available free legal advice to all Victorians aged under 25. Report author Francesca Lai said a need for more local education and legal support on work rights and responsibilities had been identified in the west, leading to the Youth Employment Justice Program. “This program ran for the last two years and we recently launched our report detailing the positive outcomes it has enabled plus recommendations for government,“ she said. “The program ran 37 education sessions to over 1800 local young people in Melbourne’s
west. It also provided free legal advice and assistance to 110 clients over two years. “This empowered participants to exercise their rights at work and led to over $150,000 owed to young people being repaid by employers. “We found that young people are often locked out of work, exploited by employers and fired unfairly or unlawfully for questioning their pay or conditions. Lack of knowledge combined with insecure and poorly paid jobs was driving this.” Stephanie, a young person supported by the program, said her employer had been systematically underpaying staff for many years and ignoring requests to discuss entitlements under the award. “I approached WEstjustice to get information on what my legal rights were and they gave me a clear picture of my situation,“ she said.
“They also helped me formally approach my employer and seek over $2000 in wages owed to me for the previous four months. “In the end, I was repaid over $2000 and the information WEstjustice provided led to others getting back pay as well - almost $20,000 in one case. “Many people don’t really understand their work rights and what to expect from employers, especially young people who are often just grateful to have a job. “If we learned about employment issues at school then at least we would go into jobs with our eyes open. “Having legal support to resolve problems and make sure we are not being ripped off is the other half of the problem. “Right now, many jobs for young people are more about exploiting them than giving them a chance to learn skills and start a career and that needs to change.”
Brimbank council is marking this year’s mental health month by organising events aimed at helping residents’ mental health and wellbeing. October is National Mental Health Month, which advocates for and raises awareness of mental health and wellbeing throughout the month. Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said prioritising mental health has been “more important than ever” during the COVID-19 pandemic. “With social isolation a part of daily lives for the time being, we want to give our community ways to stay active, healthy and connected during this difficult time, and to keep a check on their mental health,” Cr Rasic said. “The pandemic has had a major impact on us all physically, mentally, financially, professionally and socially. “It has also caused significant and understandable emotional distress. I encourage community members who may be struggling to reach out to the support and services available.” Council has organised a range of events including; online yoga and meditation; ‘social connection and mental health’ online session; ‘art for everyone’ workshop series; community conversations; an interactive dance party; ‘wellness for carers’; and ‘learn how to create a wellbeing plan’. Cr Rasic said she was “extremely passionate” about improving access to mental health support. “Mental health support is vital for the wellbeing of our community,” she said. “We are committed to supporting our community and residents suffering from mental health conditions. “I’m very pleased that earlier this year council welcomed a state government announcement that Brimbank will become the home of a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Service, as part of the state’s response to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.” Details on events: brimbank.vic.gov. au/events
Call for more freedom for physios to treat in lockdown Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) Victorian branch president Tom Hindhaugh is calling on the state government to give physiotherapists greater discretion over which patients they can treat while lockdown restrictions remain in place. Since Melbourne entered its sixth lockdown in response to the spread of COVID-19 in August, physiotherapy practices have only been able to see patients on an urgent basis. According to Mr Hindhaugh, this means that physiotherapists can only see patients if
they are at risk of deteriorating to the point of hospitalisation. Mr Hindhaugh said physiotherapists are responsible for delivering critical care such as pain relief, and should be given greater freedom to provide treatment while the state remains in lockdown. “It’s important to remember that physiotherapists are registered health practitioners just like doctors. They are trained in the use of PPE [personal protective equipment] and infection control,” he said.
4 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
“We think it’s really short-sighted and irresponsible to restrict all allied health services who treat patients with issues such as chronic pain.” Brimbank physiotherapist Anthony Belcher said he’s seen firsthand the contradiction of the current restrictions affecting allied health. “I’m going out for lunch tomorrow at a restaurant in regional Victoria. It’s pretty obvious that is less essential than seeing a physiotherapist, but there are harsher restrictions in place there,” he said.
Mr Belcher said many of his clients at Back In Motion Sydenham have declined to continue treatment via a telehealth service and are therefore receiving no care for their ongoing ailments. “Early intervention has been proven to work in our industry, we need to treat early and treat a lot,” he said. “We should be treated the same as GPs. The question is, how much longer can some people wait?” Health Minister Martin Foley was contacted for comment.
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Serving meals and hope
Youth mental health squeeze
By Goya Dmytryshchak The Nourish Project food relief program has provided locals with more than 3000 meals so far this year and rescued more than 1.4 tons of food from ending up in landfill since the current lockdown started in early August. Five neighbourhood houses across Maribyrnong and Brimbank last year launched the pilot, distributing free meals to combat food insecurity.
‘‘
These vital services can really make a difference in people’s lives
’’
- Christine McCall
Yarraville Community Centre, West Footscray Neighbourhood House, Braybrook and Maidstone Neighbourhood House, Angliss Neighbourhood House and Duke Street Community House joined forces for the project. Together, they are rescuing surplus food and providing free, nutritious vegetarian meals for people doing it tough. Meals are prepared by qualified staff in the Yarraville Community Centre kitchen and distributed by the five neighbourhood houses. Yarraville Community Centre chief executive Christine McCall the project had especially helped people during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Over the past 18 months we’ve seen incredible work being done to support our local community, from the dedicated volunteers delivering free healthy meals to people in need for our food relief program, to staff going above and beyond volunteering their time to teach their skills online as well as supporting
Volunteers Sam, Michelle, Kevin and Chris preparing meals for the Nourish Project at Yarraville Community Centre. (Joe Mastroianni) 252253
vulnerable youths in our area and much more,” she said. “I am very proud of the service we provide and will keep providing to our community.” New initiatives at Yarraville Community Centre include free online health and wellbeing workshops and cooking classes and the Chatty Cafe where people can connect in a safe and
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friendly space while having a cuppa and conversation. “These vital services can really make a difference in people’s lives and support their mental and physical health and wellbeing whilst in lockdown,” Ms McCall said. Details: www.ycc.net.au/communityengagement/news/help-inlockdown/
Headspace in Sunshine is exploring alternative options for young people to be able to access more timely interventions. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on the mental health of many, including young people who have had their lives turned upside down. An increase in people seeking help has seen wait times for many services blow out. Headspace Sunshine’s clinical services manager Sasha Preece said one issue often raised was the long wait times to access therapy through headspace under the Medicare Benefit Scheme. “At Sunshine headspace our team of mental health clinicians respond to young people as promptly as possible to guide them through the many options available,” she said. “We offer a range of support options for young people including a variety of brief and medium term therapy options, access to a world first online based therapy platform, a variety of groups, and weekly psychologically based classes. “In addition, we offer support through our work and study team, peer and family support workers, health nurse, alcohol and drug workers and support for young people at risk of homelessness. “There is also a nationally available e-therapy option through headspace conducting web based and phone support. Most of these services are accessible very quickly, whilst others might take a few weeks to access.” Ms Preece is keen to hear from any registered mental health clinicians interested in working for Headspace.
WHEN YOU NEED US , BUT NOT THE SIRENS There’s a new way to contact the police for non-urgent matters. Call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or for online reporting, go to police.vic.gov.au
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Lost dogs and cats will be able to reunite with their owners sooner, with new legislation introduced in Victoria last week. The change means that Victorians will soon be able to take a lost dog or cat to a participating vet clinic or registered animal shelter to be returned to their owners, instead of relying on councils. The new arrangement will come into effect by October 1, 2022.
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Brimbank residents are being encouraged to take part in this year’s bird count, set to be the largest yet. The Aussie Backyard Bird Count, organised by BirdLife Australia, is one of Australia’s biggest citizen science events. Now in its eighth year, the count asks participants to explore their backyard, local park, or favourite outdoor space and count the birds they see, and what species they are. BirdLife Australia national public affairs manager and chief bird nerd for this year’s count, Sean Dooley, said the bird count, while fun, also provides a “snapshot” of what is going on with Australia’s most common birds. “We actually know more about some of our most endangered birds than we do about how our most common birds are going,” Mr Dooley said. “The results of the Aussie Bird Count help us fill in the gaps and each year we get a clearer
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picture of what’s going on. “Looking at the trends that have emerged from the first seven years of the Aussie Backyard Bird Count, we have discovered that while some of our most common birds such as Rainbow Lorikeets, Noisy Miners and Little Corellas have become even more numerous, many of our small garden birds like the beautiful Superb Fairy-wren and colourful Silvereye are being seen half as often as they once were in cities like Melbourne. “This information is then used by some of the 100 plus local councils we deal with to try and manage their parks and reserves to try and encourage these birds to survive.” Mr Dooley said more than 108,000 people are expected to participate this year. Details: aussiebirdcount.org.au/ Michaela Meade
A man was arrested in St Albans and cannabis plants were located in Ravenhall last week. Police arrested the 42-year-old man in Douglas Street on Wednesday, after officers attempted to intercept the man as he allegedly drove away from the address. The man allegedly rammed two police vehicles before being forcibly removed from the car by police. During the arrest, police said the man sustained non-life-threatening injuries after he was bitten by a police dog. He was taken to hospital for treatment, where he remained under police guard. Police said a warrant was subsequently executed at a property in Ravenhall where police located 340 cannabis plants. Information to Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au
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Back to school
Twins Colby and Sebastian, and Rania and Dania, were among the excited pupils starting school at Furlong Park School for Deaf Children last week. By Tara Murray The school reopened for 2021 on Two western suburbs advocates are calling for government action after a waste management Thursday and there was plenty of fire fun for in Brooklyn last week.
6 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
Tara Murray
Fire sparks call to arms There have been at least eight factory, waste management or tip fires across the west and Hume since October, while the Kealba landfill has had underground fires burning continuously for more than a year. Former LeadWest chief executive Craig Rowley and former state MLC member Colleen Hartland say enough is enough. “It’s a long-running issue,” Mr Rowley said. “It doesn’t matter which party has been in power at the time, they haven’t done enough clean-up of the west.
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Twins Colby and Sebastian, and Rania and Dania, were among the excited pupils starting school at Furlong Park School for Deaf Children last week. The school reopened for 2021 on Thursday and there was plenty of fun for the two sets of twins and their school friends. Colby and Sebastian, 8, and Rania and Dania, 6, are two of three sets of twins at the school this year. The school has about 65 students. A third set of twins will start on February 11 and will be part of the school’s early years program. Principal Lee Bullock said it was possibly the first time the school had welcomed three sets of twins.
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“The urgency to clean it [industry] up has never been greater.” Mr Rowley said during his time with LeadWest, from 2010-18, one of the biggest concerns raised by local councils was the need for a cleaner, greener and more liveable western metropolitan area. “We were constantly talking about it with the other tiers of government, about the investment needed in the west to make it cleaner and greener. “It just seems that it is taking a long time to get there.” Mr Rowley said an Environment Protection Act, which changes how the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regulates pollution, waste and contamination in Victoria, had been
delayed for 12 months. “We’ve been waiting for so long to have confidence to be able to breath fresh air. Confidence that our creeks aren’t going to be polluted.” He suggests forming a steering committee which would include the EPA, WorkSafe, MFB and council representatives to have a co-ordinated approach to industry clean-up. “I don’t think questions are being asked on Spring Street as often as they should.” He also proposed government funding to help bring old industrial estates up to the 21st century and the introduction of better air quality monitoring systems. Ms Hartland is a member of the Facebook group Anti-Toxic Waste Alliance, which was
set up after the West Footscray warehouse fire which spewed toxic fumes across the western suburbs for days in August 2018. She said the group, a non-political alliance of community groups, organisations and individuals, wants action. “There’s been a spate of these fires,” she said. “There’s been three in the last 10 days. “The EPA and the state government don’t seem to be taking it seriously.” Ms Hartland said the group wanted more regulation on industrial sites, clear information about when the EPA is called in and when and for how long air quality equipment is set up. She has also called for the act to be introduced. ■ Fire
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Call for public transport upgrade By Tara Murray Bus and train service upgrades are needed in Sunshine, according to a new report by the Victorian Transport Action Group. The group last week released the “Service Step-ups for Sunshine” report which says that Sunshine needs to be accessible by all transport modes for it to reach its full potential as a National Employment and Innovation Cluster (NEIC). The report showed that typical train frequencies outside of peak hour for Sunshine
were significantly longer than trains on the Box Hill, Dandenong, Frankston and Werribee lines. “Access needs to be good to all parts of the Sunshine NEIC, not just the portion near the station,” the report said. “Sunshine CBD has infrastructure advantages due to its junction location on the rail network. “However it also has service disadvantages due to it receiving the least Metro rail service relative to the patronage of its station.” The report calls for a maximum of 20
minute wait on the Sunbury line, which services Sunshine, with train services every 10 minutes, during peak and off-peak weekday and weekend daytime services. The report also highlights that bus frequency typically falls short of the “turn-up-and-go” standards that a major centre needs. It said there were a number of difficulties encountered for short trips within the Sunshine NEIC area and particularly low service levels on some feeder routes, including those passing Sunshine Hospital. Among the suggestions were a Sunshine
to Melbourne Airport shuttle run operating every 15-20 minutes, seven days a week, a Sunshine to Highpoint route, a Ballarat Road mega bus which would run like a tram service, and a number of other local bus service upgrades. “These are all modest cost upgrades which can be implemented independently of waiting for the Metro Rail Tunnel and Airport Rail Link opening,” the report said. “Some mainly utilise existing bus resources but make better use of them and provide more direct connections to key destinations.”
The Stallions give back The Brimbank Stallions women’s side wanted to give something back to the community, while finding something to do during lockdown. The team has put together two different initiatives to try and help others in the community. The club’s technical director, Sebastiano Disco, said the group wanted to do something together. “We used to get together once a week online to check in on each other,” he said. “The girls came up with an idea that they wanted to do something together and see what happened. “There’s now two different actions. One is a GoFundMe page set up to help support Safe Steps, which supports families, women and children affected by family violence. “One of our players had had a similar experience, in part why we choose that organisation.” The second part was making themselves
available for anyone who was just looking for a chat, to provide support to those in need. The team, who have also made a video, have set up one on one and group online chats, while setting up fitness activities that females can get involved in. Mr Disco said there is no commitment for those getting involved to join the club, but he said they would love to see more females get involved in the club.” Details: http://ow.ly/e6hR50Gj5b1 Tara Murray
Brimbank Stallions women’s side. (Supplied)
AkzoNobel Sunshine North Community Forum #4 AkzoNobel is committed to continuous engagement with the community as it addresses residents’ concerns about odour and noise at its site at 51 McIntyre Road, Sunshine North. Our fourth Community Forum will take place on Tuesday, 26th October, to provide an update, hear your concerns, and answer questions. You will hear from AkzoNobel, EPA Victoria and technical experts. Date & Time: 26 October, 6:15-7:45pm.
RSVP essential: October 25th Online: https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/KRSTNRV
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Format: Due to COVID restrictions the Forum will be conducted via Zoom. A link will be provided in advance.
Phone: 0432 218 681
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Tuesday, 12 October, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 7
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Concern over poor credit scores By Tara Murray Brimbank has recorded the fourth-lowest average credit score in the state, according to a report from financial technology company ClearScore. Credit scores, also known as credit ratings, are often used by financial institutions when assessing whether to approve loans. Higher credit scores are usually the result of an individual displaying a history of on-time payments and low balances on their credit card. Late or missed payments and a high credit
card balance is often viewed as negative. ClearScore’s report into average credit scores across Australia, based on information from the credit bureau Experian, found that Victoria’s average credit score was 684, only behind the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. An Experian credit score of 700 or higher is considered “very good“. Brimbank, which is one of the lower socio-economic areas in the state, recorded a credit score of just 658, one of the lowest in the state.
In Victoria, it was only ahead of Mildura (647), Latrobe Valley (654) and the neighbouring Tullamarine-Broadmeadows area which had an average credit rating of 655. In comparison, Stonnington East recorded the state’s highest average credit score of 743, followed by both Bayside and Boroondara both on 737. The ClearScore report said that most of Melbourne’s top 10 credit score areas were concentrated in the eastern and north-eastern parts of the city, where median property prices tend to be more expensive.
In March, Consumer group CHOICE released an analysis of 31,000 complaints which the Australian Financial Complaints Authority received about credit products, between November 2018 and December 2020 CHOICE chief executive Alan Kirkland that with mortgage lending at record highs, the housing boom was “pushing home ownership out of reach of many more Australians”. As reported by Star Weekly, many Brimbank residents have suffered rental stress while a large number have had to receive COVID-19 assistance payments the last 18 months.
Taylors Road upgrades A key stretch of Taylors Road in Fraser Rise will be upgraded to provide better lighting and safety. Following a request by councillor Steve Abboushi in February, council officers reviewed street lighting along the Taylors Road corridor, considering both interim and permanent arrangements. A road safety audit and public lighting assessment of Taylors Road was undertaken, with a report presented to the recent council meeting highlighting interim or permanent options for better lighting along the road. “The road safety audit identified two intersections and the consideration for lighting improvements, comprising of an upgrade of the existing lamps,” the report stated. “This, together with a range of other improvements including linemarking, signage and delineation works, have been scheduled to occur over the coming months.” A public lighting assessment conducted
by Traffics Works in August identified an ‘interim’ option featuring nine new lighting poles between Plumpton Road and City Vista Court, costing about $150,000, or an ‘ultimate’ option with 45 new lighting poles, costing about $900,000. The review found despite the increasing traffic on the road, Taylors Road does not currently provide formalised kerb, channel, footpaths, or underground drainage. Street lighting has been provided where the road is formalised with footpaths, pedestrian facilities, traffic islands and key intersections but the remaining sections of Taylors Road is considered rural in nature and no street lighting is provided. The ‘Taylors Road Corridor Study’ includes planned signalised intersection upgrades at the intersections of City Vista Court, Sinclair’s Road and Plumpton Road, all due to be completed by June 2023, including street lighting.
Taylors Road in Frasers Rise. (Damjan Janevski) 252443_01
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Exhibit in the City of Melton in 2022 Calling artists, curators and artist groups to exhibit at: CS Gallery Melton Library and Learning Hub 12449138-FA20-20
Melton Civic Centre Apply from 4-29 October at melton.vic.gov.au/exhibition2022 Contact 9747 7200 or email artsandculture@melton.vic.gov.au
Image depicts sculpture by Rudi Jass, Cosmic , 2016
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Education offers empowerment By Michaela Meade Sunshine’s Jasper Zeven had battled mental illness for much of his life, struggling to find stable employment. But he credits his studies at Kangan Institute, where he completed a diploma of community services, with empowering him to help others with their mental health recovery journey. Mr Zeven is currently working as a peer support worker at Neami National, and was named Kangan Institute’s Community Services Gold Medallion and overall 2021 Student of the Year. Mr Zeven said his journey to recovery and employment was initially defined by hardship and challenges.
“I’m a member of the LGBTQI community and I’ve undergone gender transition, which was quite a battle for myself facing different stigmas and hardships,” he said. “I’ve challenged and battled through mental illness growing up, having relapsed and struggled through various points in my life. “Having lived in over 30 houses in my lifetime so far and 10 different schools growing up has been quite a challenge within itself.” Mr Zeven had struggled with finding stable and long term employment for over a decade, and then found a turning point, undertaking the free TAFE initiative at Kangan Institute and graduating early 2021. “I heard of the free TAFE course initiative and saw that Kangan Institute was offering the
Diploma of Community Services,” he said. “Studying a diploma of community services would help to give me hope and purpose in life, and to make a difference and improve the life of others. “The teachers have been fantastic, insightful and supportive. Within the class we developed our own sense of community which made each day in class bright and positive. “My studies have allowed me to self-reflect, to see my potential and see the differences I can make. Kangan has taught me so much about the professional field, what to expect and how to embrace it, alongside so many personal life skills I utilise in my daily life.” Details: www.kangan.edu.au/tafe-courses/ diploma-of-community-services-3079
Sunshine local Jasper Zeven.
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Sunshine West father of two and long-time member of Freemasons Victoria’s Western District, Emmanuel Marabeliotakis is riding for the kids this month, and raising much needed funds for Barnardos Australia. Barnardos Australia listens, acts, and advocates for the safety of children who are at risk of abuse and neglect, and provides family support programs and services that empower children. Mr Marabeliotakis has set a goal of riding 200 kilometres and raising $5000 for the organisation this month, taking on the Champions Ride challenge. Mr Marabeliotakis said he is very motivated to jump on his bike and, with help from the community, hopefully exceed his fundraising goal.
“No one deserves to live in fear, especially not our kids,” he said. “They need all the support and as many opportunities as possible, to get the start they need in life, and have a positive future. “If I can help just one child to reach their potential through my ride for Barnardos Australia, then I will be happy.” Mr Marabeliotakis said he wanted to call on the Brimbank community to support him on his ride as he “clocked up the k’s” for vulnerable children. Mr Marabeliotakis has raised over $7300 so far, and is halfway to his kilometre goal. To support his fundraising efforts: https:// bit.ly/3iEuF59 Michaela Meade
EMMANUEL MARABELIOTAKIS
(Supplied)
Riding for kids’ safety
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12 October 2021
STAY INFORMED Council services and facilities: melton.vic.gov.au/COVID19 COVID-19 restrictions: dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
Burnside Heights senior oval on track Reconstruction of the senior oval at the Burnside Heights Recreation Reserve is on target for completion in April next year. Funded through the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, the $1,750,000 project will be a welcome upgrade for local clubs. The clubs engaged with Council to ensure works could kick off immediately following the scheduled completion of the football season. FOR MORE INFORMATION on this and other major projects in your area visit melton.vic.gov.au/majorprojects
Mayor’s message
Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial
Cr Kathy Majdlik
Explore your care options online Carers, older people and people with disabilities will have the chance to talk directly with service providers about enhancing their wellbeing at Council’s online CARE Melton Expo.
Workshops include cooking with Carly, learning how to draw and shade, Millions of Reasons to Care: self-care workshop, laughter yoga, gentle exercise with Adrian, mandala drawing and African dancing. One lucky participant at each workshop will receive a great giveaway.
Over forty exhibitors from the City of Melton who deliver care and support services to carers, people with a disability and seniors, will be available for either a video or text chat on Thursday 14 October from 10am – 2pm.
To attend the fun and interactive online workshops, carer’s can register at melton.vic.gov.au/CARE
Get vaccinated
Get tested
There are now even more places to get your COVID-19 vaccination in the City of Melton. Find out where your nearest vaccination centre is at health.gov.au/vaccine-clinic-finder
If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, have been in contact with someone who is unwell, or have visited an exposure site, get tested. Drive-through testing: Djerriwarrh Health Service, Barries Road, Melton West.
Coburn Ward with Cr Bob Turner I hope everyone is staying safe and well during these testing times. While I encourage everyone who is able to get vaccinated, to get vaccinated, I’d also like to offer my support to those in our community who, for their own personal reasons, are unable to get the vaccine at this time. Please have a discussion with your doctor for personal, individual advice and ensure you’re making informed and appropriate decisions not only for your wellbeing, but also for the wellbeing of others. On a different note, I’m pleased to advise that Council adopted its Council and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025, Financial Plan 2021-2031 and Asset Plan 2021-2031, following an extensive community engagement process.
To attend the expo, visit virtual.melton.vic.gov.au and click CARE Melton Expo.
The Council and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025 sets out Council’s strategic directions for the next four years and was informed by a range of key documents including the community vision, Melton City 2041: The City We Create and the COVID-19 Social and Economic Impacts Report.
Following extensive community engagement, we recently adopted our new Council and Wellbeing Plan for 2021-25, as well as our 10-year Financial Plan and Asset Plan, all of which will help us deliver the key programs, services, and infrastructure you need to thrive in the City of Melton. Most importantly, these plans were informed by you, our residents, through the community vision, which was also developed earlier this year, so I’d like to thank you for your input and encourage you to take a look at the plans can be found on our website. At our recent Council meeting, we received a report on how the organisation has responded to the COVID crisis by providing support and relief initiatives to members of our community doing it tough. As a result of the great work that’s been already done, I’m pleased to advise that Council has extended these initiatives, by allocating a further $100,000 to our COVID-19 Relief Fund, and supporting the extension of our Community Connector Hub food relief program. In addition, to help our hospitality businesses, Council has worked to expand available outdoor dining space in the City and has also waived outdoor dining permit fees until June 2022.
In closing, I’d also like to take this opportunity to encourage residents to support our local businesses as retail and services begin to open up. Our local traders have done it tough during lockdown and need all our support to help recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
And finally, it’s a pleasure to let you all know that Maurie Heaney has been appointed as our Acting CEO, following the announcement that our current Chief Executive, Kel Tori, would be retiring after 10 years of service. Council wishes Kel all the best in his future endeavours and we look forward to working with Maurie until our new CEO is appointed.
I am available to meet with residents most Saturday mornings from 9am, by appointment. Please contact Barb McKenzie on 9747 7200 to book a time, or contact me on 0412 584 224 or bob.turner@melton.vic.gov.au
You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.
If you’d like to view any of these important documents, please visit our website at melton.vic.gov.au/councilplan
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
Cr Lara Carli
A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 10 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
Cr Moira Deeming
Cr Sophie Ramsey
Cr Julie Shannon
Cr Bob Turner
Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg
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Frank keeps learning every day By Tara Murray Frank Brancatisano jokes that he will have to be wheeled out of St Albans Meadows Primary School. Having recently been recognised for 40 years of teaching, Mr Brancatisano still loves turning up to work each day. “It is very special,” he said. “There has never been a boring year during the whole time. Every year is different. “I just enjoy working with the kids and it’s an amazing experience. They keep me on my toes.” Mr Brancatisano said the key to teaching was not looking too far ahead, as it is always changing. He said there’s always new ways to learn and the systems are always changing. Mr Brancatisano started his career at Broadmeadows Primary School, before taking on a different role elsewhere. He then went to Bunswick North ,which presented a different challenge. “It was an amazing school,” he said. “There were 2000 kids there and three mini-schools. “There were a number of different languages introduced to the school. There were a whole lot of interesting programs running at the time, with the state government running programs to help people who had come from disadvantaged backgrounds.” Mr Brancatisano took those experiences to his next school, Niddrie Primary School, where he introduced language classes. He then stepped away from teaching for a number of years. “I took leave and took a break from teaching,” he said. “I experienced the business world with coffee and run my own fish and chippery. I came to
Frank Brancatisano has recently been recognised for 40 years of teaching.
realise how special teaching was and how I missed it.” Mr Brancatisano returned to Niddrie where he ‘retired’. As part of the old teaching system, teachers at certain point could retire and then come back on a contract. It opened up a number of opportunities for Mr Brancatisano to explore. “I retired on the Friday and they had me back on contract on the Monday,” he said. “I did PE for a year, library for a year. “I did more contract teaching in Thomastown, Keilor Views, Essendon North and Sunshine.
(Damjan Janevski) 251800_01
“Eventually I arrived at St Albans Meadows.“ Mr Brancatisano fell in love with the school and eventually resumed teaching full-time. From there, Mr Brancatisano combined his passion of teaching, cooking and gardening. “It started with an electric fry pan in the kitchen,” he said. “The kids loved it and I thought why not have a program. I spoke with the principal and administration… I got the support and put in a submission to the Stephanie Alexander Foundation. “I was lucky enough to be successful. “There’s a full kitchen, garden program,
Fired up protestors make their point Protests against high-voltage transmission lines running through properties have heated up, with hundreds of landowners fired up about the plans joining the latest action against the project. Community members along the proposed Western Victoria Transmission Network Project (WVTNP) transmission corridor recently lit up the skies with bonfires in a joint stance against the proposed 190-kilometre transmission line stretching from Bulgana near Stawell through Moorabool and Melton to Sydenham. Community alliance Stop AusNet’s Towers spokeswoman Emma Muir estimated more than 460 landowners lit up bonfires as part of the COVID-safe protest. Ms Muir said the community demonstrated a united stance “against this appalling and ill-conceived project” and showed they are prepared to stay the course. “AusNet’s continued absence of genuine community consultation and its recent stand over tactics and bullying as they attempt to gain access to private properties across Western Victoria has a community ready to boil over,” she said. “It was amazing to see a line of 460 plus fires along the line, the community really came together. We could see bonfires all around our property for miles.” A community campaign backed by Moorabool council has been pushing for the lines to be buried underground, a proposal AusNet says remains on the table. Ms Muir said Energy minister Lily D’Ambrosio must be held accountable and send the project back to the drawing board. “Victorian’s deserve a renewable energy future that is founded on innovative, reliable and scalable technology, because we do not want to see our energy future disabled with outdated and dangerous technology like the WVTNP,” she said.
Community members along the proposed Western Victoria Transmission Network Project (WVTNP) transmission corridor light up the skies with bonfires in protest. (Pictured: Supplied)
Bunninyong MP Michaela Settle recently added her voice to calls for a rethink, writing to Australian Energy Market Operator Daniel Westerman demanding a complete redrafting of the plan. AusNet argues the selection of the preferred
corridor route takes into consideration the location of private residences, the surrounding landscape, the environment, cultural significance and the agricultural use of land.
cooking and dining area. The kids are so wonderful here and it’s a holistic approach.” Mr Brancatisano said he had tried to keep the children interacted with the program while in lockdown. He said seeing kids in the classroom was what brightened his day. As for the future, Mr Brancatisano has no plans to retire - again. “I’ll keep going as long as the school feels I’m still contributing. “Whole experience is too good that I don’t want to stay away.”
Free courses now available Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) is offering six free industry-recognised courses for Brimbank residents. AMCS has over 35 years of experience supporting older Victorians to live safely at home for as long as possible. The organisation aims to provide older Victorians, families, community groups, individuals and carers with quality services and reliable support, according to AMCS. The six courses available to residents of the Brimbank municipality are: careers in aged care; employment pathways; introduction to MYOB software; multicultural leadership; navigating Microsoft Office; and skills for work and study. Former course participant and now AMCS emergency relief officer Thelma said a personal experience led her to complete an AMCS course. “I took the Careers in Aged Care course because my 73-year-old mother-in-law moved from Brazil to live with us,” she said. “I wanted to help her. She does not speak any English.” Thelma also completed the Multicultural Leadership Course and said that the lessons “brought me not only knowledge and passion but also an incredible job at AMCS.” “I am forever grateful. Assisting people makes my day.” Expressions of interest: Vesna, 0422 226 105 Michaela Meade
Benjamin Millar Tuesday, 12 October, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 11
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Homeless charities ‘inundated’ By Alesha Capone Homelessness workers in the northern and western suburbs say they are being “inundated” with requests for crisis accommodation. They are calling on the state government to permanently extend the pandemic support it has provided for people sleeping rough. At the weekend, the Northern and Western Homelessness Networks – which is made up of 50 specialist homelessness and family violence organisations - released a report titled Crisis in Crisis II: A Way Forward Report.
The report, a follow-up to a 2019 study the networks completed, was funded through the Department of Health and Human Services (now the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing). The latest report found that rising demand for crisis accommodation and limited resources is leading to homelessness services having no choice but to house people in poor-quality and unsafe private properties. Western Homelessness Network co-ordinator Sarah Langmore said that at present, many homeless people from the west were being accommodated in about 45 hotels, including in the city and southern suburbs.
Ms Langmore said the state government has provided increased funding to support those sleeping rough during COVID lockdowns, including ’From Homelessness to a Home’ packages which last for 18 months. She said that about 400 residents of the west who have received a package are residing in hotels. “It’s a really good initiative, which we would love the government to expand,” Ms Langmore said. Ms Langmore said that despite the increased funding, there was still issues. “Even though there’s more money, we are still struggling to find hotels to take our
referrals,” she said. She said that often the better-quality accommodation providers wanted a “hefty bond” in addition to rent, which was too simply still too expensive. She said that as a result, many people “are having to end up in really low-end hotels and rooming houses”. Ms Langmore said both women and men reported feeling unsafe in these places. “After the first report, we started boycotting the worst of the rooming houses,” she said. “Now, there are 16 fewer rooming houses in Brimbank.” Details: www.nwhn.net.au/
Podcast talks start-ups Victoria University and Startup Victoria have launched a podcast in which they interview start-up founders about the realities of growing their businesses in a global pandemic. The Duct Tape mini-series features 10 episodes in which co-hosts Lara Chan-Baker, Hannah Gee, Jordan Gianfrancesco Judy Anderson and Poppy Trewhella talk to the founders. Duct Tape began as a magazine and its podcast series is being referred to as “issue two”. The podcast talks to people from a wide range of start-ups including Mindset Health, a business producing hypnotherapy programs to manage a number of health issues like including anxiety and Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Swoop Aero, which works with partners such as non-government organisations to deliver
medical supplies using drone technology. Startup Victoria chief executive Judy Anderson said that each Duct Tape episode told a unique and inspiring story. “The interviews capture the true spirit of tenacity as start-up founders share insights into how they tackle the unique challenges that arise when you’re building a business from the ground up,” she said. “Collectively, the founders featured in Duct Tape issue two have generously shared an enormous amount of invaluable insight and along with Victoria University, we are extremely proud to have been a part of their journey.” Details: https://ducttaped.co/ Yarraville resident Lara Chan-Baker is a co-host, producer and narrator of Duct Tape.
(Supplied)
Zoo’s primates tuck into spring Spring has stirred up seasonal treats at Werribee Open Range Zoo, with its resident troop of Vervet monkeys finding one particular wattle blossom absolutely irresistible. While in bloom, zookeepers are hanging whole branches of the flowering native throughout the monkeys’ habitat to encourage their natural foraging behaviours. African River Trail keeper Kristin Garcia said that, while the vibrant yellow colour is alluring for the Vervet troop, it’s the taste that appeals to them most. “This Acacia species is so irresistible to our monkeys because it’s high in sugar, resembling something like a naturally occurring fairy floss,” Ms Garcia said. As with any sugary treat, the wattle is provided in moderation and offered occasionally amongst a rotating daily schedule of food-based, sensory and physical enrichments. “We provide different enrichment items every single day,” Ms Garcia said. “These blossoms are only available for a short while in late winter and spring. So, it’s a great opportunity for us to offer them something new and novel, and something we know that they will love. “We try to replicate food items and experiences that the Vervet monkeys could come across in the wild environment. In this case, wattle replicates endemic acacia species that exist throughout Africa.” Ancient Acacia was prolific across the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana, which
A vervet monkey enjoying flower enrichment.
(Supplied/Zoos Victoria)
is why numerous sub-species are also found in Africa, South America and India. Much of Vervet monkey habitat overlaps with the Acacia woodlands of Eastern Africa. Vervet monkey populations are adaptable and fairly widespread. However, the species
12 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
is now absent from large areas of their original geographic range. Human-impacted habitat destruction is a continuing threat, causing fragmentation of smaller, vulnerable populations. Werribee Open Range Zoo is currently
closed to members and visitors in line with current COVIDSafe directions. However, animal lovers at home can stay connected through Zoos Victoria’s Animals at Home livestream cameras at zoo.org.au/ animals-at-home
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Planting program branches out From little things, big things grow. Efforts to turn the western suburbs green are picking up pace with thousands of trees to be planted this spring as part of the ‘More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West’ initiative, as Benjamin Millar reports.
D
rawing together Parks Victoria, local government and community groups already working on the ground, ‘More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West’ is part of a concerted campaign to help Melbourne’s west catch up on the historically greener canopy enjoyed in the ‘leafy’ east by planting 500,000 new trees. From street tree planting across St Albans to creating new woodlands at Cherry Lake in Altona, planting will begin this spring and continue next autumn and into the years beyond. In 2018, Melbourne’s west had just 5.5 per cent canopy cover in urban areas compared to 17.4 per cent in the inner south-east and 25.9 per cent in the east. The western suburbs therefore experience the greatest urban heat island effect across metropolitan Melbourne. Energy, environment and climate change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the new trees in the project’s $5 million first phase will provide more shade and green spaces, drive down pollution, improve air quality and build the city’s resilience to climate change.
Park Victoria will be planting trees across locations throughout the western suburbs.
(Pictures: Supplied)
‘‘
The increased plantings will help create more green canopies and cooler outdoor spaces - Michael Clarke
’’
“We are planting more than 30,000 trees across six local council areas in Melbourne’s west this spring and next autumn in the first phase of our More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West initiative,” she said. “Under the initiative, 500,000 new trees will be planted across the western suburbs - on residential streets, outside schools, in parks and along trails including in the Organ Pipes National Park, Maribyrnong Valley Parklands and Werribee River Regional Park.” Tree planting will take place on public land around parks, rivers and creeks across Maribyrnong, along Little Blind Creek Reserve in Kurunjang and at Toolern Creek Regional Park in Strathtulloh. There will be extensive street tree planting across Hobsons Bay and in Melton suburbs including Hillside, Taylors Hill and Caroline Springs. Parks Victoria will focus on providing more shade for park visitors at Brimbank Park, Werribee River Regional Park and Organ Pipes National Park. More shade will also be provided in local streets around schools and throughout parks and reserves in Wyndham. As well as adding to the enjoyment of the areas being targeted, the new trees will also contribute towards meeting Victoria’s goal of halving emissions by 2030. Maribyrnong mayor Michael Clarke said a $250,000 state government grant will help fast track greening efforts with more mature trees. “The increased plantings will help create more green canopies and cooler outdoor spaces across the municipality,” he said. “Increased tree plantings contribute to an improved environment and healthy outcomes for our community – I look forward to joining our ‘Friends of’ groups to help in the upcoming community planting days.” Hobsons Bay council received $221,500 in funding and plans to kick the project off by planting 200 advanced trees along the Skeleton Creek Trail in Altona Meadows in coming weeks. Two tree planting events with 750 new trees will be held at Kororoit Creek and Newport Lakes next year in partnership with The Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek and The Friends of Newport Lakes. Hobsons Bay mayor Jonathon Marsden said increasing the area’s tree canopy has
Melton Council is boosting tree planting along Little Blind Creek Reserve in Kurunjang. (Damjan Janevski) 253076
Werribee Park. (Supplied)
many benefits including improved air quality, reduced ground temperature, enhanced liveability and more shade on buildings and open spaces. “The funding from the state government will help us towards achieving our target of increasing our tree canopy from 7.5 per cent to 30 per cent by 2040, contributing to the health and wellbeing of our community,” he said. “As a council, we’re also providing initiatives to residents to help green Hobsons Bay and plant trees on their private property.” Brimbank council will be putting its $250,000 towards projects including planting almost 600 street trees in St Albans and Kings Park as an extension of the council’s Street Tree Planting Program. It will partner with the Department of Transport in tree planting along Sunshine Avenue in St Albans, while the Department will also plant more trees along the shared user path on the Deer Park bypass freeway reserve in Derrimut. Mayor Ranka Rasic said delivering a greener, cooler Brimbank remains a key priority for the council. “Council is working hard to ensure we plant more trees to increase our canopy coverage and
Organ Pipes National Park. (Supplied)
create greener, cooler and more sustainable spaces for our community,” she said. “This planting will help provide greener streets and spaces and supports Council’s long term effort to create a cooler greener Brimbank.” Wyndham climate futures office manager Peter McKinnon said planting will begin later this month with 130 mature trees in streetscapes and reserves near Manorvale Primary School, Truganina South Primary School and Tarneit p-9 College, after the council received $250,000. “Wyndham City thanks the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning for investing in a greener and cooler future for our community,” he said. “We are pleased to be planting more trees across Wyndham to create healthier, happier and more liveable spaces for our residents.” Planting of 13,000 tubestock will get underway next year across nine locations, including waterways, conservation and nature reserve areas and other open spaces to help expand the area’s urban forest and biodiversity. Melton council’s city design and strategy manager Darren Rudd said the funding will provide additional trees at Little Blind Creek
Brimbank Park.
(Supplied)
Reserve in Kurunjang, Toolern Creek Regional Park in Cobblebank and street tree planting along sections of the Melton Highway, Calder Park Drive and Westwood Drive. He said tree planting will commence this month and then continue after summer in the cooler weather, to optimise planting conditions. “The City of Melton experiences a number of environmental challenges with low annual rainfall, reactive soils, strong winds and rising temperatures, however, with careful tree species selection, soil preparation, passive irrigation and maintenance we are gradually increasing and improving tree canopy quality,” he said. “Last year, council planted around 3000 trees through its annual Street Tree Planting Program and over 6000 street trees, as part of greenfield development works, as well as additional trees through new and upgraded park projects.” Like other western suburbs councils, Melton is keen to participate in Phase 2 of the More Trees for a Cooler Greener West project in coming years. Phase 2 will begin next year, with all projects due to be completed by June 2023.
Tuesday, 12 October, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 13
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
at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. 0415 030 996
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. ■ www.facebook.com/keilorparkcricketclub
■ Elaine,
Community visitors 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
Junior players wanted Selwyn Park-based Sunshine United Cricket Club are looking for junior boys and girls to play in their U11s & U13s Friday night & U15s Saturday morning teams. Our juniors learn and enjoy the fundamentals of cricket, taught by our team of experienced coaches. We celebrate all backgrounds and skill levels, developing every player to become the best they can be. ■ Terry Nichols, 0418 392 180
Singing group Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre on the first and third Tuesday of each month. ■ Sue, 0400 082 413
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
Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576
Solo exhibition Hume-based artist Louise D’Amico’s debut solo exhibition is available now to view as an online exhibition exploring the theme of flowers, the phenomenon of their explosive colour, and how they make you feel happy. Available for viewing until Sunday, November 21. ■ theexhibit.io/exhibition/ability-to-makeby-louise-damico
Zonta club meets The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420
Youth theatre workshops
Mahjong group
Whittlesea council is offering free drama workshops every Thursday until December 16, resuming once COVID-19 restrictions allow. Anyone aged 12 to 18 years old can come along to civic centre Innovation Hub, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang, 4-6pm. Learn skills, build confidence, make friends and become part of the Fresh Theatre community ■ events@whittlesea.vic.gov.au or 9217 2172
Interested in learning to play Mahjong? U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. ■ u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016
Plant sale The first New Gisborne Scouts Annual Tomato Sale is happening on October 30 and 31. All plants will be sold at $5 and are to be collected from the Church of Christ 31 Saunders Road, New Gisborne, between 10am and 1pm. ■ 0400 140 630
John Safran Join writer John Safran and host Tony Wilson for this special digital event where John and Tony will take a look into the tobacco and vaping industry. The event will be run online in partnership with the Wheeler Centre on Wednesday, October 13 from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Tickets $10. ■ www.wheelercentre.com
Equiculture webinar Join along with Stuart Myers from Equiculture, for this online event run in part with the Macedon Ranges council to discuss some simple changes that could vastly improve your horses lifestyle. The event will be held online on Tuesday, October 12 from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. This is a free event. ■ jmcainch@mrsc.vic.gov.au
Sounds of silent The Sounds of Silent are a five-piece ensemble featuring some of Melbourne’s most versatile and accomplished musicians recreating the silent movie experience from the 1920s and 1930s. They will be performing at Kyneton Town
Photographer’s choice pic of a baby goat taken at Edgar’s Mission Farm Sanctuary.
First aid courses
(Damjan Janevski) 252588_01
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
Hall on Friday, October 22 from 11.30am to 12.30pm. Full price tickets are $25 while seniors get in for $22. ■ 1300 888 802
in Manor Lakes and surrounding areas. Connect with real people and share information, experiences, problems and solutions. ■ wyndham.fibrogroup@gmail.com
Compost research webinar Join Macedon Ranges council and Dr Jim Radford from La Trobe University for this talk on compost use in agricultural settings. Dr Radford will share his local research insights and promote farming practices that have positive outcomes for agriculture. The event will be held on Tuesday, November 9 from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. ■ 0455 210 436
Hannah Gadsby Hannah Gadsby, world class, award winning funny person has a brand new live show Body of Work, showing at the Kyneton Town Hall. She will be performing two performances on Saturday, November 13 5pm 60 6.10pm and 8pm to 9.10 pm. ■ 1300 888 802
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
Love Our Street 3029 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
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
Women’s Choir Quilt In 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.
Dads’ playgroup 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
Fibro/CFS Support
Diabetes support group
Expressions of interest to start a Fibromyalgia and CFS Support Group
The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month
14 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
Melton Probus Club
The Willin Wimmin choir meets every Wednesday in school terms from 7.30-9.30pm. During COVID restrictions, the choir meets via Zoom. When permitted, it will return to the Church of Christ hall in Douglas Parade, Williamstown. There are no auditions and no need to be able to read music. Sopranos especially welcome. Term four starts on October 6. Join for a free try out. ■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com
Friendship Group Altona Day View Club (Voice Interest Education of Women) meets at 11am on the third Wednesday of the month at Altona RSL. ■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176
Guided walk Enjoy a leisurely 90 minute walk with guide, John, starting at the Williamstown Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place, each Tuesday starting at 9.20am. Each week covers a different route in the local area. ■ John, 0418 377 336
FEATURING ... EDUCATION
Advertising feature
Fighting feelings of stress during exams It’s important for VCE students to properly manage their stress during exams. (iStock)
As VCE students would be well aware, exams are a time of stress, uncertainty and hard work. It is important to balance this stress with relief, uncertainty with predictability and hard work with relaxation. Studies show that small, regular breaks between study sessions can improve mood and productivity. As you approach your exam period, remember that it is not maintainable to be constantly anxious. You should have time to destress and think about something other than exams and study for a while.
Here are some ways to combat feelings of stress during exam time: Positive self-talk: using negative language with yourself is neither beneficial nor deserved. Make an effort to recognise how much work you’re putting in and allow yourself to see how well you’re doing. You have worked hard to get this far, and a few weeks of study and exams won’t undo all of it. Try to think of five things that you’re proud of yourself for doing either in or outside of your school life and reiterate that you’re capable of what you want to achieve. Visualise yourself doing well in your exams
and receiving positive news when results are released. Use some tangible grounding tools: have a cup of tea, play with your pet or scribble in an adult colouring book. It’s okay to forget about exams for a while. In fact, it’s beneficial to spend some time after you study to allow the information to consolidate in your brain, so pick up a book or make yourself a snack and keep your mind occupied for a moment. Move your body: get the blood flowing! Whether you put on your favorite dance playlist and boogie around your room for a
while, do some yoga or go for a stroll with a friend, getting active will refresh not only your body but your mind as well. It will also assist in creating and releasing endorphins to improve your mood and relieve feelings of stress. It’s likely that you’ve heard it plenty of times, but VCE exams are not the be-all and end-all of life. Despite the outcome you receive on ATAR day, there are always a variety of ways for you to get into your desired career. Life will go on after high school and it is there to be lived, so make sure you make the most of it. Best of luck to all VCE students!
12476812-SG42-21
Tuesday, 12 October, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 15
FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING
Advertising feature
Enjoy the benefits of downsizing to Lifestyle Deanside Buying and selling a house can be stressful. It should be a pathway to an exciting change in life; it often equals upheaval, pressure, and mind-boggling contracts. Ensuring a customer focused and smooth-as-possible buying process for prospective homeowners is one of the specialities of Lifestyle Deanside. The other specialty is catering to the needs of future downsizers so they can be ready to live their best life. Bruce Ealam didn’t know that when he decided to downsize at age 68. After 16 years in the same house, Bruce knew he wanted low maintenance and easy living, but it had to be in his preferred location of the beautiful north-west. He looked through the display homes at both Deanside and Wollert to get a feel of what was on offer. Then, within a fortnight, he’d signed on at Lifestyle Deanside, knowing that this was home for him. Bruce moved into the neighbourhood in June this year. His new home is on a corner allotment with a relaxing porch that promises to soak up the sun, one of the must-haves on his wish list. “The picture painted for me was excellent; I was able to explore the different house types, designs and block sizes, all without pressure. They gave me plenty of time to think about it,” Bruce said. “I liked the idea that the houses were independent, they’re attractive to look at, and all have different designs and colours.” Providing all the information a prospective homeowner needs to make an informed decision is vital to the Lifestyle team. In addition, they work closely with every homeowner through the buying process to help match homeowners to their perfect home. Bruce said the Lifestyle Deanside consultants were terrific through the purchase process,
Bruce Ealam is living his best life at Lifestyle Deanside’s beautiful community. Inset: The beautiful and practical homes provide homeowners with security, comfort and confidence. (Supplied)
checking in each week to see how he was going and if he needed anything as he began the job of packing to move. “They go out of their way to facilitate what people need and want. It’s so well organised. For example, the contracts are written in plain English,” he said. “They are very professional in how they approach everything, right from the start.” Lifestyle Deanside offers convenient living in a safe and gated community. It’s an up and coming development located minutes from
Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs with light-filled and modern homes made for easy living. The welcoming Clubhouse is a significant drawcard. Homeowners get incredible amenities, including a business centre and billiards room, an outdoor and indoor pool, gym, and cinema with access to different playing courts. Lifestyle Communities has years of experience in establishing developments with baby boomers in mind.
“They’ve thought of everything,” Bruce said. “I like the whole concept of Lifestyle Communities. “One of the things I liked about it was that it’s gated. I like the fact that as I get older, there is that security and safety. This is important to a lot of people, and not only as you get older.” Bruce is enjoying the connections he’s made in Lifestyle Deanside since the move in June. “I was a little bit hesitant at first. I wondered what the people would be like, and from day one, we hit it off together. We’re all new and finding our way,” he said. “There are some exciting people who live here, with fascinating backgrounds and careers. “Friendships have already been formed, and I look forward to continuing to live my life here and continuing to grow and develop. “I’m so glad I chose to come here.” Secure your downsized home and upsized life at Lifestyle Deanside. With brand new homes starting at only $378,000, they come with ongoing financial incentives such as no stamp duty, council or water rates payable. Call 1300 50 55 60 and arrange a virtual tour of these incredible communities today.
There are so many upsides to downsizing. For starters, take offloading all the stuff you haven’t used for years, and a family home you’ve long since grown out of. Downsizing to a bigger life at Lifestyle Deanside gives you the perfect chance to start afresh in a spacious new home with fresh, beautiful rooms bathed in natural light, stone benchtop kitchens with stainless steel appliances and designer bathrooms. And the biggest surprise is how affordable your bigger life will be at Lifestyle Deanside with brand new homes starting at only $374,000*.
No stamp duty | No council rates | No water rates
Call 1300 50 55 60 to book your in-person tour today
There’s no better place to be
*From price correct as at September 2021.
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16 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
Property news
Stamp duty and other taxes deplete property listings The Real Estate Institute of Australia and SQM Research have released a report showing the number of homes available to buy in Australia has fallen to 2.5 percent, down from 4.5 percent in 2008. The report suggests that taxes on purchasing homes, such as stamp duty, is making buying a home more difficult for Aussies. The number of available homes is considerably lower in major capitals and cities of Australia, as opposed to more regional areas. Figures in the report show that stamp duty in Australia has increased from 3.2 percent of the price of a home in 2011, to 4.2 percent of the price of a home in 2021. “We aren’t saying this is the whole reason, but this does seem to be a leading contributor,” says founder of SQM Research and author of the report, property analyst Louis Christopher. However, Mr Christopher notes that the percentage of listings in 2008 may also have been impacted by the global financial crisis, which would’ve seen an increase in people listing their homes for sale out of fear of financial harm or loss. The report also suggests that the current low level of listings are related to extended lockdown situations in Victoria and New South Wales. “There has definitely been a stamp duty bracket creep,” Mr Christopher says. “We think that has increased the overall transfer cost, and we believe that would be a fairly significant disincentive to move house.” Even more concerning is that overall property numbers in Australia have increased significantly. In 2008, there
The number of properties for sale in Australia has decreased, despite the total number of properties nin the country increasing. (iStock)
were approximately 8.6 million properties in total, but recent estimates suggest that this number is now 9.6 million. “We are at risk that over the medium term, listings could go even lower from here,” Mr Christopher said. “Unless we see a whole range of changes that are needed to address affordability.” Stamp duty percentages paid for houses in Melbourne currently make up 5.4 percent of the value of the house, up from 4.3 percent in 2012. Stamp duty on units in the city also increased from 4.2 percent of the value of the unit in 2012, to 5.2
able to afford the yearly fee. “All of the premiers have got to get their heads together and come up with something better than we have got now – particularly for the first-home buyers,” says Mr Kelly. Statistics provided by Deloitte Access Economics was included in the report, suggesting that abolishing stamp duty would result in an initial 30 percent sales increase, which would then increase to 60 percent over three years.
percent in 2021. Adrian Kelly, the president of the Real Estate Institute of Australia, is calling on state and federal governments to find an alternative to rising stamp duty fees to increase housing affordability. Other options include an annual land tax, which is supported by the Real Estate Institute of Australia and has also been recommended by the federal government’s Productivity Commission. However, the annual tax on land and homes has been met with disapproval on behalf of pensioners and retirees who may not be
Source: realestate.com.au
12515606-SN41-21
DAVID FALCONE
AUCTION
ONLINE CLOSING TUESDAY 26TH OCTOBER AT 6:00PM
10% DEPOSIT BALANCE 30 DAYS
AFFORDABLE DREAM! 1 City Vista Blvd Fraser Rise Simple Family Living Designed for simple family living, this home is ready for your family to move in. The open plan living combining the up to the minute kitchen which overlooks a meals and family area. The home itself boasts four good size bedrooms, all bedrooms are fitted with built in robes, the master including fully tiled ensuite and walk in robe. The extra Bonus is the double lock up garage with internal Access. The location is ideal as the property is positioned within walking distance to Springside West Secondary College, local shops, transport, beautiful parks and waterways.
4
2
2
Land size 406.8sqm
3 BED I 1 BATH I 2 CAR
25 ALAN STREET, KINGS PARK • 3 comfortable bedrooms, 2 with mirror builtin-robes • Spacious loungeroom • Vinyl wrap kitchen adjoining large meals area
Online Auction Saturday 16th October 4pm Agent Lorry Colussi 0418 337 751
• Bright updated 2-way bathroom • Double carport • Brilliant location, close to Delahey Village shops, schools & public transport
Features: polished floorboards, roller shutters & a large pergola area with concrete paving.
Agent Peter Travlos 0402 903 111
raywhitetaylorslakes.com.au 12514296-SG42-21
DAVID FALCONE I 0413 116 717 I davidfalcone@atrealty.com.au I www.atrealty.com.au Tuesday, 12 October, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 17
PUZZLES No. 050
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.
9 8
4 9 9 7 8 3 2 7 4 8 5 2 6 4 9 4 2 8 9 2 5 1 6 3 8 1 6 5 medium
3
Support for a column (8) US state (6) Happen (5) Emplaced (9) Nobel Prize-winning nun (6) Sketch (7) Abnormal conditions or infections (8) Time of the year (6) Entice (6) Spacious and sumptuous (8) Requiring (7) Plaster ingredient (6) Heights (9) Shrink with fear (5) Roving adventurously (6) Iterated (8)
1 5 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 24 27 28 29 30
No. 050
Start of tennis point (5) Brings to life (8) Flow from (7) More competent (5) Of the stomach (9) Employed (4) Release (9) Invigorating drug (9) Liberality (8) US president, Bill - (7) Come in (5) Divine beings (4) Provoke (5) Trudge (4)
3 4 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 25 26
ACROSS
easy
6
QUICK CROSSWORD
DOWN Forepart of a ship (4) Reduced (9)
1 2
DECODER
No. 050
1 5 2 9 4 2 3 8 3 2 1 7 4 9 8 7 3 9 6 4 1 4 3 9 2 7 hard
6
5 8 7
5 8 7
4 1
4
1
9 2
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
4
D Y
1 4
26
5 LETTERS ABODE AFTIE AGREE AMBLE ANNUL ARENA BADGE CASTE CLEAN DRUMS DUNNO ENACT FISHY FUSES GROSS INLET IOTAS IRATE LEACH LISPS
1
3
2
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
23 words: Very good
F
E
L
8 1 9 3 2 6 7 4 5
7 5 2 9 1 4 6 3 8
4 7 5 2 6 9 1 8 3
U
No. 050 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible
L
A S E
E
E D S
5 2 3 7 8 1 4 9 6
6 9 7 4 5 3 8 2 1
1 4 8 6 9 2 3 5 7
3 5 9 4 1 6 2 8 7
8 1 7 3 2 9 5 6 4
9 3 6 8 5 7 4 1 2
4 7 5 2 6 1 8 9 3
2 8 1 9 3 4 7 5 6
7 6 8 5 4 3 1 2 9
5 4 3 1 9 2 6 7 8
1 9 2 6 7 8 3 4 5
3 5 7 4 8 9 6 1 2
9 2 1 3 6 5 8 4 7
1 6 4 5 3 7 2 8 9
5 8 9 6 2 4 7 3 1
2 7 3 1 9 8 5 6 4
7 9 6 8 4 3 1 2 5
4 1 2 9 5 6 3 7 8
8 3 5 2 7 1 4 9 6
L
18 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
R A B S U R A E R I L L
S
MANIA OCTAL PANEL PASTA PATES PUREE RELIC ROAMS ROSES SEEDS SLAMS SLEDS SLEEP SNEER SNORE SNOWY SORES STALE STORE STRAW SUITE
TENDS TESTS TORSO TREES UNTIE USURP VERSE WHINE WISPS 6 LETTERS REPAIR RESIST STEREO YESMEN
7 LETTERS ENCORES INSPIRE LEOPARD POSTING RIBBONS SOMEONE 8 LETTERS ENLARGES INSANEST SUBURBAN TRIANGLE
15-10-21
S
9 8 1 5 3 7 2 6 4
E
C
4 LETTERS DYES ELSE GASH GUYS HEAR LASS PANE PENS RAGS REAR SWAM SWAP TILE WOVE
No. 050
acute, cattle, celt, cleat, cleft, cult, cute, cutlet, eclat, facet, fact, fate, faucet, fault, feat, felt, flat, FLUCTUATE, flute, late, left, lute, tact, tactful, talc, tale, taut, teal, teat, tuft, tutu
2 3 6 1 4 8 5 7 9
6 4 8 7 1 2 9 5 3
L
A
T
C A F
6 2 4 7 8 5 9 3 1
3 6 4 8 7 5 9 1 2
S
I E
25
S
24
Today’s Aim: 15 words: Good
A
A
23
F
22
T
U
A U
21
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”.
Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
C
20
9-LETTER WORD
31 words: Excellent
hard
19
medium
18
easy
6
17
7
16
8 3 1
15
1 2
3 LETTERS ARE ATE BOY DDT DIE EAT EEL ELF ERR FLU FRO GOD HE'S HIM ICE INN INS IRE MPS OHM OUR PEP RIM WED
C S Z N R I H WMQ F G U
5
OA K X V J E L B P T D Y
2 9
5x5
3
14
6
2
WORDFIT
QUICK QUIZ
1
In what year was the first direct wireless message transmitted from Britain to Australia?
2
In what year did Uganda gain independence from the UK?
3
What is the average life span of a giraffe in the wild?
4
Where in the Northern Territory was artist Albert Namatjira born?
5
Is foehn a style of furniture, a type of wind, or a brand of ice cream?
6
What is an ushanka?
7
Kathmandu is the capital city of what country?
8
On what river is the town of Wee Waa?
9
In what year did the Visigoths sack Rome?
10 The 1974 ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ boxing match between George Foreman and Muhammad Ali (pictured) was held in which African country? ANSWERS: 1. 1918 2. 1962 3. 25 years 4. Hermannsburg (Ntaria) 5. A type of wind 6. Russian fur cap with earflaps 7. Nepal 8. Namoi River 9. 410AD 10. Zaire (now Democratic Republic of Congo)
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SPORTS QUIZ 1. What is the current nickname of the prospective new NRL team based in Redcliffe?
7. What is the nationality of the two players Ash Barty has defeated in Grand Slam Singles Finals?
2. What NRL team recently launched a new logo?
8. What is the nickname of the NBL team based in Adelaide?
3. Former Richmond player Mabior Chol recently joined which AFL team as a free agent? 4. What ground is currently scheduled to host the first Ashes Test in December? 5. What professional US racing competition began in 1949?
14. By what name was the Red Bull Racing F1 team known as before being associated with the drinks giant? 15. Which former Brisbane player is the new coach of the Collingwood Football Club?
9. Jane Saville was famously disqualified from what event in the 2000 Sydney Olympics?
16. The Caulfield Guineas horse race is run over what distance?
10. What country won the 2021 edition of the America's Cup?
17. How many Australian men's tennis players are currently ranked inside the world's 100?
11. Who is the coach of the Australian women's cricket team?
6. Wallabies player Andrew Kellaway scored how many tries in their recent clash against Argentina?
Mabior Chol
22. By what score did Penrith defeat South Sydney in the 2021 NRL Grand Final?
18. Which major sporting event was recently held at a venue called Whistling Straits?
12. Who won the Clive Churchill Medal for being voted the best player in the 2021 NRL Grand Final?
23. Urban Meyer most recently coached which NFL team?
19. Spaniard Diego Castro is the captain of which A-League Men's club? 20. Which Australian middleorder batsman recently scored three consecutive fifties in the IPL?
13. For which EPL club does English soccer superstar Harry Kane play for?
21. Who recently became the first female Australian cricketer to claim 300 wickets and score 5000 runs at international level?
24. Liz Watson was recently officially named the captain of which Australian national team? 25. Woodville-West Torrens Eagles won the 2020 and 2021 premierships in which Australian Rules football league? 26. The 2021 United States Grand Prix is set to held in which American city?
27. New Carlton coach Michael Voss won three consecutive premierships playing for which VFL/ AFL team? 28. Benji Marshall last played for which NRL team? 29. American golfer Bryson DeChambeau is set to compete in a 12-hole head-to-head match with which fellow professional? 30. What jersey number will Australian basketballer Josh Giddey wear during his rookie season with the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder?
Harry Kane 1510
1. Dolphins 2. Wests Tigers 3. Gold Coast Suns 4. The Gabba, Brisbane 5. NASCAR 6. Three 7. Czech 8. 36ers 9. Race walking 10. New Zealand 11. Matthew Mott 12. Nathan Cleary 13. Tottenham Hotspur 14. Jaguar Racing 15. Craig McRae 16. 1600m 17. Six 18. Ryder Cup golf tournament 19. Perth Glory 20. Glenn Maxwell 21. Ellyse Perry 22. 14-12 23. Jacksonville Jaguars 24. Australian Diamonds (Netball) 25. South Australian National Football League (SANFL) 26. Austin, Texas 27. Brisbane Lions 28. South Sydney 29. Brooks Koepka 30. 3
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3 SEATER sofa with chaise in charcoal grey. Scotch guarded needs a shampoo about 5 years old. $800. 0412 053 022 ANTIQUE ROBES Male and female. Everything is original. French Polish needed. $1000 for both. 0412 053 022 LARGE TREADMILL Good working order. Turned a month ago, running well. $1,200. 0412 053 022 V
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In accordance with Section 134 (1) of the Local Government Act 1989, notice is hereby given that Melton City Council will consider the Annual Report for the year 2020/2021 at its Meeting to be held on Monday 25 October 2021 commencing 7pm. This meeting will be livestreamed with a link available on Council’s website. Notice is also given that the Melton City Council has received the Auditor General’s Report on Council’s Financial Statements and the Performance Statement for 2020/2021 year. The Auditor General’s reports are incorporated into the proposed Annual Report. Owing to the current Covid restrictions, the documents can be inspected by appointment at the Melton Civic Centre, from 11 October 2021 to 25 October 2021, during business hours or online at https://www.melton.vic.gov.au/ Council/Publications/Annual-report. KELVIN TORI CHIEF EXECUTIVE 12516584-NG42-21
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Sedan has a sting in its tail By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring The Stinger GT has a new spring in its step and added sting in the tail, thanks to a new factory-developed exhaust system and LED combination tail lamp layout, plus upgraded safety tech. The Kia MY21 sports sedan flag bearer heads a rejigged range, with a choice of a four cylinder or V6 engine, driving the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The twin-turbo V6 powered Kia has forging a strong link with police services around Australia as an operational intercept and road command vehicle. Buyers can get to experience the Stinger’s gran turismo personality with the entry-level 200 S and its turbo-charged 2.0-litre four-cylinder motor for a drive-away price of $53,090, while the much heralded 3.3 litre twin-turbo V6 GT, at $67,690 drive away, garners little touches that add greatly to the appeal. Then there’s the Kia seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
Styling Kia says designers toned down any brutal characteristics, combining elegance with an athletic look. Not that everything is soft and gentle. There is still the Kia signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille, bold LED headlamps and two twin oval exhaust pipes with larger tips than previously, while the clever dynamic bending headlights are retained. A flat underbody and rear diffuser enhance aerodynamics. A new alloy wheel design has thinner spokes than before to further highlight the high performance Brembo brakes. Indeed, the Neon Orange Stinger GT test vehicle was a sight to behold, a fact that did not go un-noticed on the street.
Interior Upgrades are led by a dash-mounted 1.25-inch touchscreen, with in-built satellite navigation and smartphone connectivity, allowing monitoring and control of a range of vehicle systems at the same time. Cabin ambience can be subtly controlled by a choice of 24 colours in a mood lamp. The steering wheel now features a metallic finish, while dashboard and doors are trimmed with a new stitch pattern. The seats of the GT were dressed in black Nappa leather.
The upgraded Stinger GT has taken on a greater ‘heroic’ mantle for the Kia sports sedan range. (Pictures: Supplied)
Infotainment Technology upgrades are led by Bluetooth multi-connection, which allows multiple smart phones to be paired simultaneously for greater convenience such as communicating on one phone while streaming music on another. A harman/kardon 15-speaker Premium sound system also does the honours here.
Engines / transmissions Kia Stinger GT’s engine basically remains unchanged, the Lamda 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 still winding up to 510 Nm of torque across a wide rev range, but the addition of a factory-developed bi-modal exhaust stumping up an extra 2 kW of power, boosting output to 274 kW. The turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder motor is carried over with its 182 kW of power and 353 Nm of torque. Both are mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Safety Improved autonomous emergency braking now has cyclist detection and junction assist, the latter using a camera and radar to apply the brakes if danger is detected while turning across oncoming traffic. Road edge detection has been added to lane keeping assist, if the car is heading off the road and lane following assist uses a camera to keep the vehicle out of the weeds. Rear cross-traffic
22 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 12 October, 2021
AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP Kia Stinger 200 S $53,090 Kia Stinger GT-Line $60,690 Kia Stinger 330 S $56,890 Kia Stinger GT $67,690
*All prices drive away
collision avoidance brakes to avoid traffic from either side when reversing.
Driving With 510 Nm torque topping out at a low 1300 rpm and sticking around until 4500 revs the Stinger GT is not shy on showing its versatility – on the one hand a grand tourer, on the other an out-and-out sports sedan. Then, there’s the 274 kW of power, peaking at 6000 rpm, with a nod to the racetrack with launch control. Left foot on the brake and gearshift in drive; flatten the accelerator pedal and release the foot brake, and whoosh. The drivetrain goes ga-ga with an accompanying turbo-boosted engine / exhaust noise. There’s a firm shove on the back as the car takes off and I couldn’t argue with the claimed zero-to-100 kilometre time of less than 5 seconds. With official combined urban / highway fuel consumption of 10.2 litres per 100
kilometres, the test car came up with 13-plus around town and 6.2 on a motorway run. There are five different dial-up driving modes – Sport, Comfort, Eco, Smart and Custom – the last had the car coming to terms with the highly variable road conditions found in Australia, while Sport produced a rough ride more suitable for the smoother racetrack surfaces. Eco held little attraction. Worth a mention is the blind spot monitor, which projects a camera image from the mirrors in the driver’s display as soon as the turn indicator is activated. The blind spot collision avoidance assist produces a warning and automatically controls the car to help avoid a collision. A steeply-sloped rear window presents a limited view for the driver and misses out on a rear wiper, which just about wipes out a clear view behind in wet weather. The smart key offers the chance to remotely start the engine and have the climate reach the optimum settings before getting into the cabin. Also smart is the power tailgate that can be set to four pre-determined opening heights from an in-car menu.
Summary The Stinger GT gives full vent to the sports sedan fan’s every wish … at a somewhat steep price. The cheaper alternative is to become a highway patrol police officer!
Paterno ties for best and fairest
Emily Paterno.
(Shawn Smits) 252541_01
Hillside footballer Emily Paterno has capped off a stellar season in the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division by sharing the league best and fairest honours. The Sharks senior women’s captain and Westmeadows’ Gemma Wright both polled 15 votes to share the coveted award. Paterno started the season on fire, with four successive best on ground performances, while Wright came home strongly 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 league for goalkicking and was named in the team of the year, was quick to praise everyone at Hillside in another frustratingly COVID-19
curtailed season. “I’m obviously disappointed that we didn’t get to finish off how we started in the first half of the season,” she told Star Weekly. In a video on the league’s social media page, Paterno was quick to downplay her own personal achievement. “While this is recognised as an individual award, I don’t see it that way,” she said. “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 started her career at the Sharks before going on to play VFL, returning to the Sharks in 2019.
Clubs fight FV decision
Caroline Springs George Cross FC president Mark Sultana.
“They didn’t have a COVID clause… which would make sure they didn’t send the message of failure.” Sultana said it was lax of FV to cancel the remaining competition without giving clubs the chance to have their voices heard. “Football Victoria had the opportunity to complete rounds 10 and 11, that would have made it so that all the teams had played each other once,” Sultana said.
Benjamin Millar
Two North Sunshine stars recognised
By Michaela Meade Caroline Springs George Cross Football Club, along with over 40 other clubs across Victoria, is fighting Football Victoria’s decision to cancel all 2021 competitions, without promotion or relegation. The 2020 FV competitions were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With Victoria’s recent struggle against outbreaks and a sixth lockdown, FV handed down the decision to cancel the remainder of 2021 competitions on Friday, September 3. FV also announced the decision to not promote or relegate any clubs. George Cross president Mark Sultana has joined forces with over 40 other club representatives from across Victoria and FV competitions - known as United Football - to dispute FV’s decision. Sultana said the united group will not let the issue slide easily. “We’re looking at all options, including legal ones,” he said. “This is not a situation where we can just walk away. “If there isn’t a clear resolution, we are looking at legal action. “It’s not just about the clubs, it’s about the code [of the sport].” United Football has presented FV with three options to consider; promotion and recognition of champions based on current standings or points per matches played method, with or without relegation; restructure of the leagues to achieve the desired effect of promotion/ relegation, completed in line with the 2021 Football Australia Performance Gap Report; or align with FV principles and fixture the outstanding games between teams who have not played against each other to complete the season and award promotion and relegation. Sultana said the latest communication from FV - prior to the September 3 decision - was that promotion and relegation were “still on the table”, on Monday, August 9. “I find it difficult to understand why [FV’s decision about the season outcomes] changed in such a short amount of time,” Sultana said. “We have to show that we don’t take this lying down. “This needs to be pushed, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. “This is for the betterment of the code of the game, and the betterment of the clubs and competitions within it.” Sultana said FV should have had contingencies in the event of more COVID-19 lockdowns, following the 2020 season’s shutdown and subsequent cancellation. “To not have a plan moving forward, to me is a dereliction of duty,” he said. “After last year, there would be a return to play plan in place, I would’ve thought.
She told Star Weekly she couldn’t be happier to be part of such a tight-knit group. “I’ve made the decision to not play VFL at the moment or pursue AFL, I think that comes down to my club and my team mates,” she said. “I think any local team especially has that tight community bond, that’s what we love about it.” Paterno said having two seasons hit hard by COVID-19 restrictions has been frustrating, but hasn’t dampened her passion for the game. “As long as they’re around I will be out there, obviously there is unfinished business,” she said. “Everyone wants to get back out there next year, if we don’t have hope what have we got?”
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“They could have used that as the chance to figure out promotion and relegation.” Sultana said FV had an opportunity to lift player and staff spirits during what has been a months-long lockdown. “It wasn’t a great message to send,” he said. “Rather than give everybody a setback, give them something positive. “People want rewards, especially during these times.”
Two North Sunshine stars just missed out on the gong for the Western Region Football League women’s division 2 best and fairest. The awards took place virtually last week to adhere to current COVID-19 restrictions. It was the first ever division 2 best and fairest after the division was split. Tashania Knapp Sirengo and Rainbow Ebert came runner-up and third, respectively, with Knapp Sirengo very narrowly missing out on the top spot. Knapp Sirengo took the runner-up position with 11 points, just one behind winner Chloe Muus from Wyndhamvale, who took out the title with 12 points. Ebert came equal third place alongside Madeline Johnson from Point Cook Centrals, both racking up eight points to their names. Knapp Sirengo was in front when the counting started after round 10. Muus was named best on ground in the round 11 match between Wyndhamvale and North Sunshine to hit the front. One vote in the final round was enough to secure the best and fairest award. Knapp Sirengo can also celebrate being named in the 2021 women’s division 2 team of the year. She was named in the team of the year along with teammate Jessica Mudie. Knapp Sirengo has been allocated as a third rover, and Mudie is part of the interchange line up. Muss was named ruck-rover in the team of the year. West Footscray’s Shane Windridge was named coach of the year. Windridge, who has been reappointed for next year, led his side to the minor premiership. Six Yarraville Seddon’s players were named in the team of the year, including Melanie Thompson-Allan. Thompson-Allan was named captain of the year. Five players from the Roosters were named in the team of the year, as well as five players from the Point Cook Centrals. Michaela Meade and Tara Murray
Tuesday, 12 October, 2021 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 23
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