Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 2nd November 2021

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Bloomin’ beautiful The biggest sunflower display in Melbourne’s west is set to bloom for another year. The project, known as Blooming West, saw over 150,000 sunflower seeds planted at Woodlea estate this week, bringing joy and colour to the Aintree community and surrounding Rockbank area. Woodlea community development manager Claire Mouser said Blooming West aimed to bring the community together after what has been another challenging year. “Connecting with your local community has never been more important and Blooming West aims to bring everyone together to enjoy the mass installation and share happiness across the entire community – bringing some much needed sun(flower) shine to everyone,” Ms Mouser said. “Through this initiative, we’re encouraging people to come and visit the sunflowers, and enjoy the outdoors and neighbouring parks after what has been a trying year for many families.” The sunflower installation is set within a 2800 square metre site. The sunflowers are anticipated to bloom in March, 2022. Woodlea resident Alex Perdio with baby Archer enjoying last year’s blooms.

(Supplied)

COVID relief the priority By Michaela Meade Support for the community is at the forefront of Melton council’s COVID-19 recovery plan, with the council set to lose over $500,000 in income. The 2021-22 Fees and Charges Waivers and Reductions report was adopted by council at last week’s meeting, and highlighted council’s commitment to providing ongoing support to the municipality. According to the report, council will have an estimated loss of income of $527,236 as a result

of reducing and waiving fees and charges for residents and services. Council finance manager Sam Rumoro said the report reflected the dedication of council to Melton’s recovery from the pandemic. “In response to the ongoing impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, Melton City Council has been working to ensure ongoing support is provided to our community through continuing changes to service delivery, and financial support to our residents and businesses,” Mr Rumoro said. “[The changes] provide further support to

businesses, community groups and individuals most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the food and hospitality industry, the business network, community sporting groups and … ratepayers in general.” As part of the recovery plan, all penalty interest on rates will continue to be ceased, equating to a further loss of $65,000 per month. Mayor Kathy Majdlik commended the council for putting “extra relief” for the community on the agenda. “We know that they are doing it extremely tough during this COVID period,” Cr Majdlik

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said. “It’s just another great way that Melton City Council is assisting them in any way that we can to alleviate some of that stress from this pandemic.” The council will also reduce food act and health registrations fees by 50 per cent. Sporting groups property hire fees, Venture Melton Business Network membership fees, Western Business Accelerator and Centre of Excellence maintenance fees, library fees (overdue fines), and permit application fees associated with outdoor dining applications will all be waived entirely.

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Toxic soil court case dismissed By Michaela Meade Melton and Moorabool councils’ court proceedings brought against Planning Minister Richard Wynne over proposals to dump toxic soil within their municipalities have been dismissed. The councils launched legal action late last year after Mr Wynne approved the use and development of the Melbourne Regional Landfill at Ravenhall and Maddingley Brown

Coal near Bacchus Marsh for the storage of toxic spoil from the West Gate Tunnel Project. Mr Wynne also approved the use of Hi-Quality’s site in Bulla. That site was chosen to receive the soil earlier this year. Melton and Moorabool councils argued that Mr Wynne’s decisions were made by error of the law, citing the EPA’s decision late last year to revoke environment management plans for the sites. The plans were eventually approved earlier this year.

Mr Wynne had made decisions to amend planning schemes of both councils, to allow for the spoil management at either proposed site. Supreme Court of Victoria Justice Melinda Richards said in her judgment that Mr Wynne’s decisions were not affected by jurisdictional error, or by error of law, and that his amendments to planning schemes of both councils were “valid”. “The minister’s reference to the EPA’s

approval of the EMP under the Spoil Management Regulations was, at its highest, a finding of fact that was open on the material before him,” Justice Richards said. “While the minister was mistaken, because the approval was not valid, his mistake did not involve an error of law.” Justice Richards said both proceedings “must be dismissed”. Moorabool and Melton councils were approached for comment on the decision.

Victoria hits vaccine target

Tilly, 6, playing on the replaced Hannah Watts slide.

(Damjan Janevski) 255592_04

Slippery fun as slide is resurrected A much-loved slide in Melton has been replaced after vandalism dulled its shine. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the slide at Hannah Watts Park in Melton was replaced after being vandalised earlier this year. “In September, part of the slide at Hannah Watts Park was stolen, making the play structure unsafe to use,” Cr Majdlik said. “It was incredibly disappointing that one of our city’s favourite playgrounds was vandalised. “We’re pleased to bring this slide back to the community.

“I’m sure our city’s young residents are thrilled to have this much-loved big slide back, and I look forward to seeing more families enjoy the full range of play equipment at Hannah Watts Park again.” In a statement to the City of Melton Facebook page last week, council shared the news of the reopening with residents. “One of your favourite big slides is back!” the statement said. “It’s now ready for play, so come and join the fun!” Residents took to the comments section to

share their approval of the reopening. “Great to see [council] keeping Melton parks up-to-date,” one commenter said. Hannah Watts Park was one of three parks opened in June, 2019, after a redevelopment. Melton mayor at the time, Bob Turner, said the new spaces, which also included redeveloped Bill Cahill Reserve and new Arnolds Creek Play Space, would encourage local residents to spend time outdoors.

Melton and Moorabool residents were able to enjoy a weekend of freedom after restrictions eased last Friday and vaccination milestones were reached. Retail, hairdressers, gyms and shopping centres opened their doors to the public, many for the first time in months. Travel between metropolitan and regional areas opened up, with many city-siders venturing to the coast or the country. More than 80 per cent of eligible Victorians have been double vaccinated as of Sunday, putting the state well on track to reach its upcoming targets. The most recent vaccine data shows more than 95 per cent of Melton residents over the age of 15 have received at least one dose, while 72.4 per cent are fully vaccinated. Moorabool has seen 95 per cent of its residents receive their first dose, with just over 79 per cent fully vaccinated. Melton recorded 65 new locally acquired cases in the last 24 hours, and Moorabool recorded nine. There are currently 1572 active cases in Melton and 82 in Moorabool. On Sunday, the state recorded 1036 new cases, which was the smallest single day case increase since September 28. The total number of active cases in Victoria now sits at 22,013. The state government is now focusing on improving vaccination rates for 12 to 15 year olds. Minister for Employment Jaala Pulford said “the young ones are bringing up their 80 per cent a day later. I think we’re just a smidgen under 80 per cent for the 12 and ups, but they have caught up”. Sarah Oliver

Michaela Meade

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Plan ‘not ambitious enough’ By Michaela Meade The 30-year plan for Melton and the western region of metropolitan Melbourne is not ambitious enough, according to a council submission about the Western Metro Land Use Framework Plan (WMLUFP). The WMLUFP is an extension of Plan Melbourne 2017-2050, which is the metropolitan land use and planning strategy for the greater Melbourne area. In a report about the submission tabled at a council meeting last week, council officers

stated that the WMLUFP was not ambitious enough for a 30-year plan. “While Melton City Council is supportive of a WMLUFP being prepared, it is concerned that the framework plan reads more like a 10-year infrastructure plan rather than a 30-year land use framework plan,” the report said. “It is disappointing to see that most of the infrastructure items identified in the plans are projects that have been committed to in the current budget or have recently been constructed.

“As such the plan fails to detail strategies that will prevent current problems of poor public transport, traffic congestion, poor access to jobs, schools, and community services from getting worse.” The submission requested the WMLUFP be amended to include “more aspirational and visionary infrastructure projects” for residents of the west in 2050, to better meet their needs. “Council is concerned that the WMLUFP appears to be taking a business as usual approach to infrastructure provision in the

west,” the submission said. “Council believes there are better ways to plan and deliver infrastructure in the west, which would result in the infrastructure delivery problems experienced in the cities of Brimbank and Wyndham not being replicated in the city of Melton.” The submission called for an “aligned whole of government” approach to planning that would focus on meeting the needs of the community rather than “deferring costs in the form of social and economic impacts on greenfield communities”.

Grants open for community projects

Natalie Hutchins MP with members of the Indian Seniors Association-West.

(Supplied)

Multicultural groups welcome funds Multicultural seniors’ groups across Melton and Moorabool will have more support to stay connected to culture and community, thanks to state government grants. More than 900 multicultural seniors’ groups across Victoria are set to receive $2000 per year over the next four years to support a reduction in isolation, to help foster social connections, and to help build stronger connections with community. Local recipients include Australian Bosnian Women’s Association Zena Zeni, Caroline Springs Seniors Fishing Club Inc, Indian Seniors Association-West Inc, Macedonian

Senior Citizen Group of Hillside Inc, Macedonian Women’s Group of Hillside Inc, and Australian Integrated Fijian Association of Victoria Inc. Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins said it was important to support the groups that create a safe space for the older generation to connect with one another. “It is so important for our multicultural seniors to be able to reconnect with their communities and celebrate their cultural connections as Victoria emerges from the pandemic,” Ms Hutchins said. “This funding will help support community

groups to deliver social and cultural activities in person or online.” The state government also encourages any newly established multicultural seniors’ groups or those who did not receive a direct funding offer to apply online through the Multicultural Seniors Support program. Applications for funding close February 28, 2025. Details: vic.gov.au/multicultural-seniorssupport.

Caroline Springs, Burnside and Burnside Heights not-for-profit groups are invited to apply for a financial grant to support their local community projects. The 2021 Modeina Community Fund, now in its fourth year, is an initiative of the Dennis Family Corporation (DFC) the developer of Medeina estate. Dennis Family Group director Grant Dennis said the fund has been successful in supporting community groups each year of its run. “The Modeina Community Fund has assisted a broad cross section of the Caroline Springs, Burnside and Burnside Heights communities to help make many programs and projects possible,” Mr Dennis said. “We’re proud to continue to support local communities by providing financial assistance in areas where we operate our business, and our Community Fund presentation nights have become an annual highlight for us and the many not-for-profit groups that we assist. “This year we look forward to adding even more community groups from the Melton area to our long list of deserving Community Fund recipients.” To be considered for a grant, not-for-profit community groups must operate within the Caroline Springs, Burnside and Burnside Heights area. Groups must also meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the application form. An independent judging panel will assess applications, with successful applicants to be notified in late November. Details: modeina.com.au/ community-fund-form-2021 Michaela Meade

Michaela Meade

Frontline workers bear pandemic brunt finds new survey The COVID-19 pandemic has placed incredible strain on already stretched frontline healthcare workers, according to a national survey led by Victoria University researchers. Almost 6670 Australian frontline healthcare workers have shared their experiences at the height of the pandemic in 2020, responding to a question about the main challenges they faced. The study revealed that COVID exacerbated cracks in a system already under stress in terms of job satisfaction, workforce retention and patient care. 4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 2 November, 2021

Lead author Karen Willis from Victoria University said the study arrives as the Australian Medical Association releases modelling that predicts hundreds of beds in the nation’s hospitals could be permanently full of COVID-19 patients each day as restrictions ease, leading to overcrowding in emergency departments and extended wait times for elective surgeries. “The study shows that the COVID-19 pandemic had added pressures to an already strained workplace and has created new stresses and challenges for our frontline healthcare workers including increased

workloads, unfamiliar tasks outside their usual scope of work, disruption of established teams and rapidly changing procedures,” she said. “The overriding message was that there is a need for a safe workplace, where frontline healthcare workers feel valued and where there is a focus on retaining and supporting the workforce, which then translates into high quality patient care.” The data was collected as part of the anonymous online Australian COVID-19 Frontline Healthcare Workers Study by Victoria University and Monash University

researchers. Professor Willis said that even before the arrival of COVID-19, some frontline healthcare workers described their work environments as “extreme”, with COVID-19 exacerbating work-life imbalance, impacting their personal lives, and presenting a range of work-based challenges. The study also highlighted concerns about changes to the provision of patient care, job uncertainty and rapid changes to work practices and guidelines. Benjamin Millar

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AusNet responds to concerns By Michaela Meade AusNet has responded to claims that it is entering residential land without consent. Moorabool council expressed concerns early last week over reports the company was entering residents’ land without voluntary consent for surveys of land connected to the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project (WVTNP). The WVTNP’s proposed 190-kilometre transmission line would stretch from Bulgana near Stawell through Moorabool and Melton to

Sydenham, requiring land surveys across the areas. According to section 93 of the Electricity Industry Act 2000, AusNet is able to enter property without prior consent. AusNet notified Moorabool council of its intention to begin surveys of residential land from Monday, October 18. AusNet said there have been rescheduled surveys since. WVTNP executive director Stephanie McGregor said AusNet was working with landowners. “In the past two months we’ve worked closely with more than 108 landholders who have

provided consent to conduct surveys on their land,” Ms McGregor said. “The studies look for potential habitats for threatened species and areas of Aboriginal cultural heritage. “Our preference is always to work with landholders to reach voluntary consent and agree protocols to help make sure our visits have the least amount of impact on their activities. “The community will have an opportunity to review the studies and provide further feedback through the Environment Effects Statement process as the project develops.”

AusNet said landowners are given at least one week’s notice of visits in certified mail, along with multiple emails, letters and phone calls over more than a month prior, to obtain voluntary consent. A team of experts attends visits together, to avoid having to visit properties on multiple occasions than necessary, the company said. Moorabool council said: “There is significant work required for the project to gain the social licence required to be a success, including a detailed and genuine investigation into underground options.”

Waves of fun Melton Waves Leisure Centre is excited to welcome back guests as Victoria once again opens up. Bluefit chief executive Todd McHardy said it was a “really exciting” time for the community to be able to take advantage of the facility once again. “It was hard for everyone, but people have realised that facilities like ours are vital for health and wellbeing,” Mr McHardy said. “They also provide social connection for people, so it’s great that people have been able to recognise that. “We’re excited to see people back, whether it’s swimming clubs, lap swimmers, or families.” Melton Waves officially welcomed some crowds back this past weekend, with more amenities like the 50-metre outdoor pool, group fitness and learn to swim lessons returning early this month. Strict COVID-19 guidelines will be in place to ensure the health and wellbeing of all visitors.

Todd McHardy with Melton council acting chief executive Maurie Heaney. (Damjan Janevski) 255628_06

Michaela Meade

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Pricing under the pump

Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

‘‘

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC

’’

- Steve McGhie

Mr McGhie said he has taken the issue up with the Consumer Affairs Minister Melissa Horne and will be contacting federal Gorton MP Brendan O’Connor to discuss this issue soon, as fuel prices are regulated by the federal government. “In the interim I strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC [Australian Competition and Consumer Commission]” he said. The ACCC’s latest petrol monitoring report showed that average petrol prices rose in the 2020 September quarter after a record low earlier in the year. Although the ACCC does not set fuel prices, it does monitor retail fuel prices on a daily basis. A spokesperson said it has the power to investigate where it sees issues of concern. “Where we find sufficient evidence we will take action to protect consumers against misleading and anti-competitive conduct by fuel retailers.” Mr McGhie’s promise to take action was widely welcomed on social media, where some residents said they had seen price differences of up to 50 cents per litre between Melton and Watergardens.

Fuel prices at Melton petrol stations last week. (Damjan Janevski) 226880_01

Melton’s Andre Peters said the lack of independent competition makes it easier for the major fuel companies to keep prices inflated well above those in neighbouring suburbs. “Sadly there is no competition in Melton as there are no independents,” he said. “Generally we pay at least 20 cents a litre more at times in Melton.” A BP spokesman said petrol prices at the pump can be impacted by a number of different factors.

He said while there are currently about 1400 BP branded sites across Australia, about three quarters are owned by independent business partners who set their own retail pricing. “When it comes to retail fuel pricing, our aim is to be competitive and attract customers to our sites,” he said. “Generally speaking, the price at the pump is impacted by a number of different factors. In particular, international product prices and competition between service stations in a local

area. There are also other factors including exchange rates, taxes and local operating costs.” On Monday, unleaded 91 pump prices at Melton’s BP, Coles Express and 7/11 Mobil were all at 155.9 cents per litre, according to price comparison website Petrol Spy, with Woolworths Caltex at 168.9. Meanwhile Bacchus Marsh BP, Coles Express and 7/11 Mobil prices were 129.9 cents per litre – 26 cents less per litre – and independent outlets were just 119.9 cents per litre. 628174

Melton’s petrol prices are coming under greater scrutiny with a local MP vowing to help take action to bring prices in line with neighbouring areas. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the area’s families are being unfairly hit with higher prices than people in neighbouring suburbs, often paying more than 20 cents per litre extra at the pump and spending at least $10 more every time they fill up.

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By Benjamin Millar

Melton’s petrol prices are coming under greater scrutiny with a local MP vowing to help take action to bring prices in line with neighbouring areas. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the area’s families are being unfairly hit with higher prices than people in neighbouring suburbs, often paying more than 20 cents per litre extra at the pump and spending at least $10 more every time they fill up. “I have had many constituents raise concerns regarding the prices of petrol in Melton being noticeably higher than in other areas,” Mr McGhie said. “I am deeply concerned that families in Melton are paying more than they should be.”

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Job help aimed at young people ‘‘

This is all about supporting young people

By Michaela Meade Young people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in Melton and Brimbank can take advantage of a new program rolling out in the west. The Opening Minds, Building Futures program – being delivered by refugee and migrant settlement agency AMES Australia – will provide information sessions, workshops and one-on-one counselling to year 7 to 10 students from Pasifika and South Sudanese communities. Program director and AMES Australia community development manager Maria

’’

- Maria Tsopanis Tsopanis said the new initiative would deliver a variety of services for CALD young people, to empower them to meet their career goals. “The aim of the project is to engage, inform and empower young people to identify careers that they might not have thought they could embark on,” Ms Tsopanis said. “It will also work to build confidence in the parents and school influencers who are advising them.

“This is all about supporting young people to explore the opportunities and career pathways open to them and allowing them to reach their full potential.” Ms Tsopanis said the program would have flow-on benefits for the broader community. “We want these young people to develop increased confidence and knowledge of their opportunities,” she said. “They, in turn, will become role models and agents of change in areas and in communities suffering socio-economic disadvantage. “We are combining the expertise and skill sets of multicultural youth workers and career counsellors to support young people through

a strength-based, co-designed and culturally sensitive approach.” Indian migrant Manisha Kulai said she is one young person who has already experienced the benefits of the organisation’s programs. “Joining the program gave me confidence, improved my English and gave me connections with people in Australia,” she said. “I also learned about how to find a job in Australia and about the resume and interview process.” The program is being delivered in partnership with the Centre for Multicultural Youth.

Investigation into COVID-19 homelessness

Aintree scout group leader Angela Carew and her family at the site of the future centre.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Vital boost for Aintree scout group The Aintree Scout Group is celebrating a funding boost thanks to the Building Better Regions Fund. The fund aims to deliver better facilities and economic opportunities for regions. The group has been granted $520,000 for the construction of its $1.04 million Aintree Scout and Community Centre. Group leader Angela Carew said the funding would help provide a space the group could inhabit that is all their own.

“We’re a group in its infancy – less than a year old – and are currently operating out of a school gym,” Ms Carew. “All of our equipment is currently piled in garages and rooms of houses … we are really limited in our ability to bring our Scouts together to do some of the activities that scouts like to do. “We need a single, safe and comfortable point for everyone to gather and build a sense of community.”

Ms Carew said the funding was “extremely helpful”. “The cost of a Scout hall is far greater than you’d expect – and without a grant like this, it can take many years for a Scout Group to raise sufficient funding to build a hall,”’ she said. “This grant has put the Aintree Scout Group many years ahead of where it would otherwise be in its journey.”

Melton council will investigate how the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to homelessness in the municipality. Cr Julie Shannon moved a motion during last week’s council meeting, calling on officers to present a detailed report to council about the pandemic’s impact. “[I move] that council officers present a detailed report back to council, drawing from any council services and any other applicable local organisations, including not for profits, on the following; how COVID-19 has contributed to the issue of homelessness in our municipality, including hidden homelessness such as couch-surfing and other casual accommodation options, and also people that are at high risk of homelessness,” Cr Shannon said. According to the 2016 Census by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), more than 300 Melton residents were homeless. A report into the causes of homelessness by the ABS, titled ‘Census of Population and Housing: Estimating Homelessness’ listed youth homelessness, overcrowding, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander homelessness as key areas that may be driving the homeless rate. The motion was carried unanimously, with council officers expected to begin engaging and collating data for a report, set to be presented in a future council meeting. Michaela Meade

Michaela Meade

Withdrawal of pandemic support hurts most vulnerable A new report has found that the withdrawal of pandemic-related government support has caused widespread problems among the state’s disadvantaged and homeless populations. Uniting Vic.Tas and Swinburne University’s Centre for Social Impact recently released the report, following the removal of the federal government’s $550 COVID-19 JobSeeker income supplement and the state government’s moratorium of private rental evictions and rent relief earlier this year. A total of 113 people who accessed Uniting Vic.Tas’ emergency relief and homelessness services at locations including Werribee, 6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 2 November, 2021

Ballarat, Bendigo, Mount Waverley, Ringwood and Wodonga, between May 10 and June 21, participated in surveys which contributed to the report’s findings. Almost two-thirds of those surveyed said that when the government income support was withdrawn, their mental health suffered. Sixty-one per cent of respondents said that an end to support impacted upon their ability to “eat well”. More than 44 per cent of people said that when the supports came to an end, they struggled to pay their rent or mortgage. About a third of parents found it more

difficult to care for their children properly. Sixteen per cent of those surveyed said the end of the support put them at risk of family violence. The report said that overall, this data presented “compelling evidence of the positive impact of the income and housing support measures provided during the first year of the pandemic, with life-improving for the majority of consumers”. Uniting Vic.Tas chief executive Bronwyn Pike wrote a foreword to the report, in which she said: “It is clear that we need a permanent increase in the base rate of JobSeeker and

other social security payments. “These payments should support people so they are above the poverty line and should be benchmarked to wage growth. “There should be an increase in Rent Assistance so that everyone around the country can live in a decent home. “The JobSeeker and parenting payments are not handouts; they are about giving people a basic standard of living while they get back on their feet. “Nobody should have to make a choice between paying the electricity bill and buying necessities like food or medicine.”

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Brookfield shooting charges A man has been charged following a shooting in Brookfield late last year. The 46-year-old was arrested at a Melton South property last Thursday and interviewed by police. Police said he has been charged with a range of offences. The arrest follows an alleged incident where a man was shot in the ankle on Clarkes Road, Brookfield, just after midnight on Wednesday, December 30, 2020. The 46-year-old man appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates Court last week.

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WVTNP community session Moorabool and Melton residents can have their questions answered about the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project (WVTNP) at an online community session with AusNet Service. AusNet Services is preparing an Environment Effects Statement for the WVTNP, according to Moorabool council. Residents can submit questions and join the online community session on Thursday, November 11. Details: bit.ly/3BdliQt

Outdoor dining vouchers Outdoor Economy Package vouchers are now available for Melton and Moorabool residents to aid in COVID-19 recovery. There are more than 7000 vouchers valued at $2000 available.

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EDITORIAL

Banchory Green Reserve.

(Damjan Janevski) 255593_01 GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

Reserve set for revamp Hillside residents are invited to have their say about the revitalisation of Banchory Green Reserve. Melton council is encouraging residents to provide feedback on the concept plan for the reserve, located on Banchory Avenue. The plan for the reserve includes features such as a variety of accessible play experiences for a broader range of ages, improved turf kick-about spaces, increased shaded areas, as well as seating and improved pedestrian path networks to the site’s amenities. In a statement on the Melton council website, officers said the feedback from residents would provide much-needed insight into the needs and wants of the community for the reserve. “Your feedback will help us revise our concept plan and the insights gathered will

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provide further understanding of what is the most important to the community and why, as well as identify any other opportunities,” the statement said. “The design will be refined based on community feedback (subject to project scope and budget) and the updated park design will be endorsed by council.” A birds-eye view image of the concept plan is available on the web page with the feedback form. The concept image outlines where proposed footpaths, a garden bed, proposed seating, and additional proposed trees would be located. Construction on the project is anticipated to begin in mid-2022. Details: https://bit.ly/BUZqeZ

Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

Michaela Meade

Tuesday, 2 November, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Council bats for cricket increase By Alesha Capone An indoor cricket training facility in Truganina will be allowed to expand its patron numbers from five to 40 people after Wyndham council approved the proposal. The council also allowed the centre, at 27b Apex Drive, to extend its operating hours to 9am to 11pm, Monday to Sunday, and have six staff instead of three. Town planner Melanie Ellis spoke on behalf of the cricket facility’s applicants at the council meeting. Ms Ellis said the 12 existing car parks located at the training facility would allow 40

patrons to be onsite at once, as many players would carpool. The council initially refused the original proposal for the training facility, but the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) approved the application in April. The VCAT decision only allows for five patrons to attend the centre at any one time. A report by Wyndham council officers, presented at last week’s meeting, recommended the council refuse the proposal to extend the training facility’s patron cap and operating hours. The report said that the cricket centre was located within the Truganina Employment

Precinct Structure Plan and that extending the cricket facility’s patron numbers and operating hours would “compromise” the ability of existing industrial operators to function safely. However, Cr Sahana Ramesh suggested the council approve the centre’s requests to allow “fair and equitable” provision of sports facilities in the area. In May 2019, VCAT overturned a council decision to refuse a table tennis and badminton centre in Infinity Drive, Truganina, which is located about 600 metres from the cricket facility. Cr Peter Maynard said he agreed with Cr

Ramesh. “I think it’s only fair that the operator of this particular facility is given the same opportunity to operate at the same level as the one in Infinity Drive,” he said. A majority of councillors supported Cr Ramesh’s stance, although Cr Jennie Barrera and Cr Heather Marcus disagreed. Cr Barrera said Apex Drive could be an unsafe location for children who might leave the centre while unaccompanied. “I don’t know how they can guarantee that children will not leave that site, I don’t think there was any evidence to support that,” she said.

New hotel for Watergardens

Buninyong MP Michaela Settle with Mt Egerton Primary School pupils.

(Supplied)

Funding injection for school tutors Mt Egerton Primary School will share in a funding injection to retain its tutors that have supported pupils throughout 2021. The school, located on Church Street, will be one of 25 government primary and secondary schools to share in $2.4 million for the tutoring program. In 2021, the Tutors in Schools program enabled all Victorian government schools to employ over 6400 tutors to support more than 160,000 students across the state.

The funding ensures the tutor program can successfully continue into 2022. In addition to this cash splash for support, Mt Egerton will also be provided with $14,410 to construct a permanent shade structure over the playground at the front of the school. Buninyong MP Michaela Settle said the shade sail would be a welcome addition to the playground. “At the moment the sun hits the playground area just around lunchtime, so it can get really

hot,” Ms Settle said. “The new shade sail means students at Mt Egerton can still enjoy the outdoors while being protected from the sun.” This funding is part of round six of the School Shade Grants program. Through the program, the Victorian government is helping children to be sun smart and prevent skin cancer, while still embracing the great outdoors and keeping fit, active and healthy. Michaela Meade

Construction on a new serviced apartment hotel at Watergardens is set to get under way. The Quest project, is part of the next stage of mixed-use evolution at the shopping centre, and will be built on Kings Road directly adjacent to Watergardens’ foodie haven The Marketplace. Construction is set to commence this month. Watergardens centre manager Trish Gardiner said the team was pleased to be able to commence works, after COVID-19 delays put the project on hold last year. “We see the delivery of Quest Watergardens as an important stage in our evolution at the centre, introducing a new dimension to our mixed-use town centre offer,” Ms Gardiner said. “As a community partner with a longstanding investment in the region, this new collection of serviced apartments will provide a new modern hotel offer for visiting families and business travellers. “Located directly adjacent to Watergardens, Quest will offer visitors to Melbourne’s north- west a convenient and comfortable respite with self-contained living features and convenient access to the range of fantastic dining, entertainment and retail experiences on offer at the centre. “Guests staying at Quest Watergardens will also be able to take advantage of our dynamic food and beverage offer at The Marketplace, alongside vibrant dining and entertainment options in our newly refurbished Station Street.” Quest Watergardens will contain 86 serviced apartments across five levels, including studio, one and two-bedroom apartments.

Search for staff as Melbourne Airport gets ready to reopen Jobs galore are available at Melbourne Airport as the aviation industry opens up and travel allowed once again. With limited flights over the past two years, many businesses with in the airport precinct had to put off staff due to the uncertainty surrounding when travel would be back on the agenda. But state borders reopening and international travel on the cards, the rush is on to get new staff for all areas of the airport. Airport Retail Enterprises general manager David Yallouz said they are seeking more than 200 staff thanks to hospitality venues reopening in the next six months. Fifteen food and beverage outlets will reopen in a staggered approach and are looking to

St Ali Coffee is one of the stores that is looking for staff. (Supplied)

recruit baristas, waiters, chefs and restaurant managers. The company’s brands include ST. ALi,

8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 2 November, 2021

MoVida, Middle Ground by Shane Delia, Urban Provodore, and Brasserie Bread. “Without doubt, the devastation that COVID-19 has had on our entire operation within Melbourne Airport’s retail food and beverage business has been unparalleled,” Mr Yallouz said. “Tourism, particularly air travel, was one of the first sectors hit and we expect it to be one of the last industries to emerge. “Unfortunately when you have such significant drops in revenues, drastic measures needed to be put in place in order for our business to survive such a turbulent period. “Out of our 15 outlets only four remained open (and only opened around flight times). We had close to 300 staff pre-COVID, we

dropped to just 50.” Generally, 90 per cent of Airport Retail Enterprises staff live within 20 minutes of the airport, according to Mr Yallouz. He said the airport was hopeful domestic passenger numbers would recover to pre-pandemic levels early next year. “There is welcome change coming, the turning point is finally here for us. The staff are looking forward to welcoming back customers and passengers into our outlets to wine and dine in some of Melbourne’s most renowned cafes, restaurants and bars,” he said. More broadly, 30 hospitality venues will open across the airport this week. Tara Murray

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

BEHIND THE NEWS

Pop the corn, movies are back Victoria’s multiple COVID-19 lockdowns meant the closure of entertainment venues, including the big screens. But now, cinemas are back. Michaela Meade spoke to HOYTS Cinemas Victoria north west area manager Ryan Pascoe about how the pandemic has impacted the business, and looked at what upcoming releases are worthy of bringing out the popcorn and choc tops once more.

L

ockdowns put a stop to Victorians sitting in a darkened cinema with fellow moviegoers, enjoying snacks from the candy bar as stories unfolded in front of your eyes. But now, with restrictions of the state’s sixth lengthy lockdown easing, film fans have a chance to get back to sitting in front of the big screen. HOYTS Cinemas Victoria north west area manager Ryan Pascoe says it has been a challenging time for the cinema industry throughout the pandemic. “The ripple effect of the most recent COVID-19 lockdowns has impacted not only our employees and guests, but all of our suppliers and partners too,” Ryan says. “With our counterparts in the US and UK living with the virus, due to high vaccination rates, we have seen the industry start to bounce back and expect the same circumstances to positively impact the industry locally. “We know movie-lovers crave the entire big screen experience and we can’t wait to welcome them back.” As a result of high vaccination rates, cinemas began reopening on Friday, October 29, subject to density limits. Ryan says there are plenty of new releases for visitors to enjoy when they’re welcomed back to cinema venues across the state. “We have a really exciting slate of new releases when we reopen our cinemas,” he says. “Guests can expect to see all the major blockbusters from the last three months on the big screen including ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’, ‘Eternals’, ‘Halloween Kills’, ‘The Many Saints of Newark’, and more! “Plus, movie-lovers can get excited for some outstanding blockbusters for the rest of 2021 with ‘No Time To Die’, ‘Boss Baby: The Family Business’, ‘Venom: Let There Be Carnage’, ‘Dune’, and ‘Spiderman: No Way Home’, just to name a few!” A movie buff himself, Ryan says he is most looking forward to ‘The Many Saints of Newark’. “Being a big Sopranos fan personally, I can’t wait to see what this prequel will deliver on the big screen,” he says.

Film fanatics can watch the latest movies on the big screen now cinemas have reopened. (Shutterstock)

What to watch ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ Rating: M Genre: action, adventure, fantasy The next instalment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe stars Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, who must confront the past he thought he left behind, as he is drawn into the clutches of the mysterious Ten Rings organisation. This film is set to expand the MCU in more ways than one. Critics have praised its cast, and its standing as Marvel’s first Asian-led superhero outing. Recommended audience: Marvel fans who want to see the continuation of the story post ‘Avengers: Endgame’, and action adventure enthusiasts looking for something a bit different. ‘Halloween Kills’ Rating: MA Genre: horror, thriller The extended battle between infamous flasher killer Michael Meyers and his original ‘final girl’ Laurie Strode continues in this next chapter. The film follows on from the events of ‘Halloween’ 2018 – which picked up 40 years after the events of ‘Halloween’ 1978. The story will wrap up in the next instalment, ‘Halloween Ends’, slated for release next year. Jamie Lee Curtis returns to her breakout role of Laurie Strode. Recommended audience: lovers of the original ‘Halloween’ and its many sequels, and horror-thriller fans.

‘Halloween Kills’.

‘Free Guy’.

(HOYTS Cinemas)

‘Free Guy’ Rating: M Genre: action, adventure, comedy Ryan Reynolds stars as a bank teller who discovers he is a background character in a video game. These premise allows Reynolds to go all-out with his comedy, and the visual effects team created some standout visuals for the audience. Recommended audience: fans of Ryan Reynolds, or ‘Deadpool’, and anyone looking for a fun movie night watch ‘The Many Saints of Newark’ Rating: MA Genre: crime, drama This much-anticipated feature film prequel to the award-winning drama series ‘The Sopranos’ is set in the explosive 1960s, in the era of the Newark riots. The African-American and Italian communities are often at each other’s throats, and a young Anthony Soprano is caught in the mix. Recommended audience: fans of the original series, who want to see where it all began. ‘No Time To Die’

(HOYTS Cinemas)

‘No Time To Die’. (HOYTS Cinemas)

Rating: M Genre: action, adventure, thriller In Daniel Craig’s final turn as beloved spy James Bond, the character has left active service and is enjoying a peaceful life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when an old friend from the CIA turns up, wanting his help. A star-studded cast joins Craig on his final outing, which is sure to be a blast. Recommended audience: Followers of the series, and action-adventure lovers. ‘Eternals’ Rating: TBC Genre: adventure, fantasy, drama A new team of superheroes will join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in this new, epic adventure which spans thousands of years. Get the answers to why these immortal heroes did not intervene when Thanos posed a threat to half the universe. Directed by Academy Award-winning director Chloe Zhao, the first reviews for the film praise its visual style and storyline. Recommended audience: those who want Marvel to do something new, and diehard fans wanting the story to continue.

Movies are back on the agenda.

(Shutterstock)

HOYTS Cinemas reopened last Friday night. (HOYTS cinemas)

Tuesday, 2 November, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

COMMENT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Melton mayor reflects on term Councillor Kathy Majdlik’s term as mayor of Melton council will come to an end next week. She spoke with Michaela Meade about serving her community, and some mayoral highlights. Why did you become involved with council? In 2008, I first became elected – so that’s quite a few years now. Everyone knows, I have a daughter with a disability, who is also non-verbal. Because of that, I’ve always had a passion for speaking up, and I’m the person people come to with [issues]. I always have been, in my family, even though I’m the youngest. It’s the same thing on council, but now my family is 180,000 people. I’ve always had a passion for leading, butI don’t see my role as mayor as a boss role. It’s a humbling role; I’m there to serve my fellow councillors. My fellow councillors have put their trust in me, third time round, which is very humbling. They’re a great group of councillors, their heart is with the community. It’s been lovely to serve them as mayor. What has been your favourite part of acting as mayor for Melton? I’ve served as mayor three separate times; in 2015, 2017, and now 2020-21 The role of serving my fellow councillors is probably the most outstanding for me. Even the mentoring aspect – we have three new councillors. I hope I’ve been able to be a good mentor for them. They’ve picked up the role very quickly, [and] as a whole, they fit very well with the new council. Being able to mentor them, and being able to work with a passionate group that want to serve their community … that’s the biggest thing that I’ve gotten out of this mayoral term. We’re just a small snippet of what’s to come in the future. The growth here [in Melton] is amazing. It’s always been an honour and a privilege to be elected to council, but to be elected as mayor as well is incredible. What made this term special?

Despite the pandemic, council as a whole has been able to achieve so much for the community. The first year of any term is always filled with opportunities and challenges there’s a lot of legislation, documents that we need to plan for. Having that first term really solidifies what we’re going to be able to achieve. Being able to set that culture within a new group of councillors [as mayor], and making sure we’re in the right place … was fantastic. [It will] hold us in good stead for the next three years. What are some highlights from your time as mayor? There have been many highlights during the 12 months I’ve been mayor. Securing the funding from the government for the Melton Hospital. It was not only me but fellow councillors, past and present, and community members before that, campaigning for it. To be able to secure the funding was amazing. Another highlight that’s very near and dear to my heart was being successful in stopping the toxic soil from being placed at Ravenhall. It was a big win for our residents, who have done it [Another highlight was] this year’s budget … has included our highest value capital works budget ever. It’s a much-needed investment for our fast growing community. What are you hoping your successor carries on? I feel I’ve worked very hard and dedicated all my time for the last 12 months, to set the culture and the standard for the rest of the term. I hope that the new mayor, and I’m sure they will, take that banner and continue in that way. I’m glad I was able to set that bar. We need to advocate for our community and I’m confident that the new mayor will do that.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik.

(Supplied)

Ensuring health equality for all in the north west Christopher Carter, chief executive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network “We are one, but we are many,” as the song lyric goes, and that sentiment is particularly true of our region. North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network encompasses 13 local government areas across 3212 square kilometres containing more than 1.6 million people who, between them, speak more than 200 languages. This glorious diversity speaks for itself, but across our community there is also another, less welcome, set of differences. Some groups have shorter lives and poorer health than others,and some have limited access to healthcare. Some available health and welfare services are not used by all those that need them, and some localities and communities carry a very high burden of disadvantage. We believe in a principle known as ‘health equity’ – the idea that every individual, group and community should have a fair chance to reach their full health potential without being disadvantaged by social, economic and environmental conditions. To help make this idea a reality for our region, we have just released the North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network Access and Equity Framework. The framework commits us to tackle the challenges of ensuring equitable access to health services across our highly diverse region. Importantly, community groups and members have been – and will continue to be – involved in designing strategies to boost access to health services in ways that are culturally

The North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network Access and Equity Framework strives to ensure everyone has equal access to healthcare. (Shutterstock)

appropriate. The whole process has been underpinned by a human rights approach to health. There is no excuse, we firmly believe, for anyone’s culture, age, or beliefs to get in the way of health advice, treatment or support. Our framework is backed by an action plan which will be rolled out over the next three years. At its heart is the recognition that ensuring health equity requires us to take into account non-medical factors – things like gender, education, employment, financial

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 2 November, 2021

situation, cultural and ethnic background. It is also very important that healthcare providers continue recognising, respecting and nurturing people’s unique cultural identity. A crucial matter in this regard is accepting that the idea of community is multi-dimensional. Across Melbourne, communities exist around shared language, for instance, or shared gender identities, shared histories, or shared beliefs. People often belong to more than one community. This is a concept known

as “intersectionality”. It recognises that sometimes a combination of factors can interact to produce complex and stubborn forms of inequity. Our framework includes the recognition of intersectionality as a guiding principle for its implementation. Ensuring health equity is not a simple matter – and we are committed to tackling it in even its most complex forms. We are one, for sure, but also many – and it’s important to do all we can to ensure all of us can sing that song in harmony.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

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

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

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

Melton South Knit & Natter

Guided walk

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

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

Community singers

Laverton Community Choir

The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

All welcome for a friendly singing get-together, suitable for all ages and abilities on Thursday nights from 7pm during school term at the Laverton P-12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton. ■ Ada, 0419 116 013

Mahjong group

Rotary club

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

Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. Visitors welcome. ■ Pam, 0418 347 691or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Zonta club meets

First aid courses Melton South Community Centre offers a number of first aid courses for people wanting to learn or renew these valuable skills. One-day classes are held on Saturdays throughout the year. ■ 9747 8576

Mouth organ band The Yarraville Mouth Organ Band meets Friday evenings at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. Great music, friendly atmosphere. New members, players or beginners welcome. ■ Heather, 9399 2190

This week’s photographer’s choice photo is of homeless camp at the playground of Errington Reserve, St Albans. (Damjan Janevski) 255128_01

Melton Probus Club The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63A Reserve Road, from 9.45am. New members and visitors are most welcome. ■ 9746 0271

Darley community market Darley Community Market is a rubble and riches/flea market style typically held on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 8am until mid-afternoon. Check the Darley Community Market Facebook page for confirmed market dates and updates. The market will not run on total fire ban days or extremely wet or windy weather. Next scheduled date is Saturday, November 6. ■ www.facebook.com/ darleycommunitymarket

Gurra open garden In support of Red Cross, the Red Cross Ballan Branch would like to invite you to the Gurra Open Garden. For $10 per person - and school children for free come down to 2081 Ballan Meredith Road, Mount Wallace on Saturday, November 20, 10.30am to 3.30pm. Tickets available on the day, EFTPOS available, and all money raised will go towards Red Cross

Shay Downer exhibit This exhibition will feature the work of Sunbury artist Shay Downer, who teaches drawing classes in the community. As a previous Hume Arts Award recipient, this exhibition will explore the art form of portraiture and will run from Monday, November 22 to Sunday, January 30 at the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre Gallery. ■ 9205 2200

Mini festival The Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group is running a mini Sustainable Living Festival at the Woodend Community Farmers’ Market on Saturday, November 6, 10am-1pm, next to Woodend Library. Come and chat with representatives from

our 12 action groups and explore ways that you can get involved in making the Ranges a more sustainable place to live. ■ https://mrsg.org.au or 0408 578 032

starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

BinGO MOVE

Senior citizens club Toastmasters meeting Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall. ■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens’ Club on Mondays and Fridays, from 10am-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. A variety of activities offered – carpet bowls, cards, snooker, darts, board games or just a cup of coffee and a chat. Lunch subsidised. If you’re over 55 years of age and would like to meet new people, come along. ■ Frank, 0423 392 884

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

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, 7.30- 8.30pm. ■ 0455 210 436

Sewing group The Sunbury Neighbourhood House Social Sewing Group meets on the first Saturday of each month to chat, share ideas and sew. Beginners through experienced welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury 12.30-3.30pm.

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

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 Saturday, November 13 at 5pm and 8pm. ■ 1300 888 802

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

Volunteers needed The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Community Visitors Scheme is seeking female Maltese and Italian-speaking volunteers to join its volunteer program within the Werribee and Point Cook areas to visit elderly residents in either an aged care facility or their own home. The scheme is also seeking a female volunteer with an understanding of MS to visit a mature lady in an aged care facility in Altona Meadows. ■ Sue, volunteer@ms.org.au or 9845 2744

AL-ANON meets

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

Altona North combined probus The Altona North combined probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. ■ Lesley, 9369 1785

Friendship Group

BinGO MOVE is a social exercise group which meets every Monday at 11am. It involves a fun interactive game where bingo numbers trigger an exercise or dance move. Activity suits all levels of ability, you can do seated or standing as suits. Currently running via Zoom, IPC Health will also offer face-to-face groups in Hoppers Crossing, when restrictions permit. ■ 8734 1400

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.

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

Love Our Street 3029 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

Tuesday, 2 November, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

Advertising feature

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Families will feel happy knowing that their loved one are being cared for as a part of the McKenzie family.

elements that help make the transition into their new home feel more comfortable. “At a time when family really matters, we want to provide the community with the confidence they need when it’s time to make a decision to enter aged care,” explains Sally McKenzie, director of the group. “McKenzie is a place where they’ll know that their family will matter.” McKenzie understands that the decision to

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(Supplied)

and support at a time of their lives when they need it most. Your nearest McKenzie Aged Care homes are in Lynbrook, Melton South, Reservoir, Rosebud and Templestowe. To learn more and discover the quality care that McKenzie can provide for your loved one, call 1300 899 222 today or visit www.mckenzieacg.com.

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12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 2 November, 2021

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FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

Connecting through music at Providence Aged Care

VMCH personal care assistant Eleanor played some classics for the residents.

(Supplied)

12517763-DL45-21

Residents VMCH Providence Aged Care Residence in Bacchus Marsh have not been letting lockdown stop them from enjoying one of their favourite pastimes – music. As aged care residences are not allowing visitors at this time, that also means that they haven’t been able to welcome performers who put on special shows for residents. Providence is a big fan of live performances, and so its residents have been missing hearing tunes from their younger years. As it was recently International Music Day, Providence’s wonderful Personal Care Assistant Eleanor offered to put on a special performance to mark the occasion. Eleanor, who has many musical talents, played some old favourites for the residents on the keyboard, double bass, and guitar. Providence’s Lifestyle Coordinator Annia says music is always something the residents connect with. “It brings back so many good memories and times of happiness for our residents,” Annia says. “They had a wonderful time singing along to the lovely melodies, and they were so very thankful and appreciative of Eleanor’s time.” Providence residents were also treated to a special Zoom performance from the Melbourne Recital Centre, and the Stiletto Sisters, who perform a blend of Hungarian folk, tango and love songs from around the world. The residents thoroughly enjoyed the performance, and brought back memories, especially for one resident, Teresa, who had a special request of her personal favourite, Blue Moon. VMCH residences can’t wait to welcome back its families, friends and performers back once again – but in the meantime, they are making sure residents are still able to connect with each other, over shared interests and entertainment. For more information about VMCH Providence Aged Care Residence, and to organise a tour, phone Sally 0419 147 380.

Tuesday, 2 November, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

PUZZLES SUDOKU

QUICK CROSSWORD

No. 053

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

easy

5

6

4 9

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

DOWN

4 2

Effeminate (8) Upper house politician (7)

1 2

DECODER

4

No. 053

2 9

9

Small amounts (5) Superfluous (9) Proceedings of meeting (7) Elementary particle (7) Not artificial (7) Settle (7) Mediterranean islander (9) Agreement (4) Small island (4) Tending to plants (9) Corrected (7) Radio broadcaster’s accessory, often (7) First (7) In the midst of (7) Provider of information (9) Lecher (5)

26 27 28 29

medium

1 7 3 4 5 9

Gloomy (9) Consequential (9) Giver (5) Naming words (5) Type of acid (7) Dig (6) Compass direction (5-4) Animals that prey on others (9) 16 Firebrand (8) 18 Local law enforcer (7) 20 Visible (2,5) 21 Polynesian island (6) 23 Less wet (5) 24 River mouth (5) 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 15

ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 19 22 25

No. 053

7

5

1

6

9

3

3 3

1

8 1 7 6 5

7

hard

6 3 2

4 8

5 8 9

5

1

2 9 3 8

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

4

C D

9 7 4

J T V XQA S G E H I C D 18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

9-LETTER WORD

4 LETTERS ACRE APED ATOM AWED BADE BALM BAYS DARE DATA FAKE GERM GOAT MITE NEED OOZE

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”.

L

Today’s Aim: 10 words: Good 15 words: Very good 21 words: Excellent

8 4 6 3 7 2 5 9 1

7 2 9 1 4 5 3 6 8

9 8 4 6 2 3 1 5 7

2 1 3 4 5 7 6 8 9

5 6 7 9 8 1 4 3 2

3 7 2 5 1 8 9 4 6

4 5 8 7 6 9 2 1 3

6 9 1 2 3 4 8 7 5

8 3 1 7 2 9 4 5 6

7 6 9 5 4 3 2 8 1

1 4 5 8 3 7 9 6 2

3 9 8 2 6 5 1 4 7

6 7 2 9 1 4 5 3 8

2 1 3 4 9 6 8 7 5

4 8 7 3 5 2 6 1 9

9 5 6 1 7 8 3 2 4

6 3 2 4 7 5 9 8 1

9 4 5 1 8 3 2 7 6

1 7 8 6 2 9 4 3 5

4 6 9 8 1 7 3 5 2

8 1 3 2 5 4 7 6 9

2 5 7 9 3 6 8 1 4

7 2 6 3 9 1 5 4 8

3 8 1 5 4 2 6 9 7

5 9 4 7 6 8 1 2 3

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

T

A

D

R

Y A

O

3 LETTERS AGE ARC CIA CPA DIE EGG EVE FEZ GAG HOE IRE KEN LOT OAR OPT ORE PEA RAG RAM REV RPM RUE SAC UGH VCR WEB

U

No. 053

PAPA PAST PERT 5 LETTERS ADOBE AGENT ALIGN AROMA ASSET BASIS BEARD CHILD DREAM EDGES EERIE FLORA FORAY GONNA HOSTS IGLOO

LEASE LINEN LINGO LOCAL MALES MENUS MOLES MUFFS NIECE OLIVE OMENS OPERA ORGAN PARSE PEARL PROSE SCENT SEEMS SELLS SLEEK SNOBS

SONGS STAKE STERN TAPES THORN TIGER WHEEL 6 LETTERS BRANDS SENATE 7 LETTERS MICROBE MILEAGE

PEBBLED SEAPORT SNORTED SPRAWLS 8 LETTERS BRIGADES INSANEST SADISTIC TAMPERED 10 LETTERS AMPERSANDS SPEEDBOATS

ADULATORY, aryl, dory, dourly, dray, duly, duty, lady, LAUDATORY, layout, outlay, royal, tardy, toady, today, tray, troy, truly, tyro, yard, your

5 2 4 6 8 1 7 9 3

1 3 5 8 9 6 7 2 4

hard

17

medium

16

easy

15

9 4

Z R U F WM K Y N O B P L

5

14

8 7 1

1 2 3

WORDFIT

05-11-21

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14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 2 November, 2021

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Being appointed to a cemetery trust provides successful applicants with a unique opportunity to develop their competencies as a board member. The Department of Health provides free governance training to all trust members.

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Clarendon Cemetery Trust

robertjbowers@gmail.com 0427 417 578

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Buy, & Sell in our

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Victorian Class B cemetery trust Contact details

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ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

To register your interest please refer to the trust contact details below and provide your expression of interest to the applicable trust within two weeks of the date of this advertisement:

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Garage Sales

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Positions Vacant

First Year Electrical Apprentice

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Western Electrical Services is looking to hire a first year electrical apprentice to join our small team of three. If you're someone who is eager to learn and to expand on your skills within a family business dedicated to positive customer outcomes, then you're exactly what we're looking for. This role is ideally suited for a younger person, looking to start a career in the Electrical Industry. Please email a resume to: annasutlar02@gmail.com PAKENHAM OFFICER

Award-winning boutique hairdressing salon is seeking and an Experienced Hairdresser with skills in all areas of hairdressing and also a separate position for an Experienced Barber to join our outstanding team in Gisborne with immediate start.

Apply now: Phone 0411 161 563 gszatbooks@yahoo.com.au

12518327-HC43-21

MEAT PROCESSING ROLES We are currently recruiting for employees in a variety of positions for Meat Processing Roles:

Pakenham

Frock and awe

Step into Paradise with Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson

MOVIE GUIDE INSIDE

Looking for love

REE DIGITAL ED

REE DIGITAL EDITION

SIG N U P N O W !

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search for Brooke Blurton’s on love breaks boundaries Australia The Bachelorette

12496404-AV22-21

PAGE 3

Sweet treats a cool hit

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Slowly getting back to normal

• Boners • Slicers • Slaughter-men

Massage Therapists

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Angels Oriental Massage 12 Grant Street, Bacchus Marsh Vic 3340 Please call 0437 211 614 | www.angelspa.com.au

Massage Therapists

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

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Massage Therapists

RELAXATION MASSAGE 7 days, 10am - 8pm. St Albans. Phone 0458 891 066 or 0438 842 866.

Real Estate To Share

TARNEIT Granny flat for rent. 1BR, fully self contained. $200pw. Please phone: 0424 324 420.

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We are seeking experienced journalists to assist the production editor and liaise with our reporters both here in Victoria and also with our reporters interstate. You will assist reporters with their story lists, allocate stories to pages, ensure deadlines are met, provide feedback to reporters and ensure daily online story targets are met. Ideally you will be based in our Pakenham office with part time and full time positions available. Star News Group produces a number of news media titles across Melbourne and interstate with weekly printed newspapers and digital content. Star News Group focuses on the local news and information that affects the lives of our community, and broader issues that directly impact our regions. The Company is operated by experienced independent publishers and a local team of experienced media professionals. Please send your resume to garry.howe@starnewsgroup.com.au

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Positions Vacant

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Positions Vacant

2 POSITIONS

PLACE YOUR

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Positions Vacant

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Employment

Wanted To Buy

CARS wanted. Cash Paid. Buying all years and models. Call 0455 776 443 Lmct 11618

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Where to pick up your FREE MELTON & MOORABOOL Bacchus Marsh 7/11 Service Station 28 Baccus Marsh Road Bacchus Marsh Foodworks 1 Bennett Street Bacchus Marsh Coles Supermarket Cnr Bennett and Young Street (The Village Shopping Centre) Bacchus Marsh My Little Mates Convenience Store 151 Gisborne Road (Darley Plaza Shopping Centre) Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Newsagency 138 Main Street Bacchus Marsh Arbee Real Estate 140 Main Street Bacchus Marsh Sweeney Real Estate 164 Main Street Bacchus Marsh Stockdale and Leggo Real Estate 191 Main Street Bacchus Marsh Moorabool Shire 182 Halletts Way Bacchus Marsh Milk Bar the Avenue 208 Main Street Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Information Centre 215 Main Street Bacchus Marsh The Village Shopping Centre Main Street Bacchus Marsh Bellbrook Gardens Country Club 168 Underbank Boulevard Ballan Ballan Newsagency 133 Inglis Street Ballan IGA Plus Liquor - Ballan 135 Inglis Street Ballan Moorabool Shire - Ballan 15 Stead Street Brookfield Lifestyle Brookfield 111-139 Coburns Road Darley Champions IGA Bacchus Marsh Grey Street Diggers Rest FoodWorks 22 Glitter Road Diggers Rest Diggers Rest Post Office 76 Old Calder Highway Gordon Gordon Post Office 65 Main Street Harkness Foodworks 17 Claret Ash Boulevard Hillside Foodworks 595 Melton Highway Kurunjang Kirkton Drive Milkbar 203 Gisborne - Melton Road Melton E-View Real Estate Suite 10, 3 Alexandra Street Melton Blue Nile Groceries 39 Bakery Square Melton Melton Milkbar 44 Burleigh Road Melton Melton Waves Leisure Centre 206 Coburns Road Melton TAB Corp Park 2 Ferras Road Melton Melton Shire Council Offices 232 High Street Melton Sweeney Real Estate 266 High Street Melton Barry Plant Real Estate 273 High Street

Published Tuesday - weekly Melton Advance Stationers 283 High Street Melton Raine and Horne Real Estate 289 High Street Melton Melton Lotto 293 High Street Melton Harcourts Real Estate 306 High Street Melton Professionals Real Estate 317 High Street Melton MGS Grocery Store 358 High Street Melton Freddy's Fruit & Veg 393 High Street Melton YPA Real Estate - Melton 272-274 High Street Melton Morgans Supa IGA 335-345 High Street Melton Foodworks Shop 1, 415-429 High Street Melton Woodgrove Shopping Centre 533-555 High Street Melton Woolworths Supermarket 523-531 High Street (Coburns Shopping Centre) Melton Woolworths Supermarket 533-555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre) Melton Coles Supermarket 533-555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre) Melton Kurunjang Village Store 51 Kurunjang Drive Melton Melton Library 31 McKenzie Street Melton Melton Country Club 28-30 Reserve Road Melton Melton Indoor Sports Centre 65 Reserve Road Melton Coles 11 Station Street (Melton Station Square) Melton Lee Merchants 29 Wallace Square Melton South Station Square Shopping Centre 25 Station Road Melton South Coles Express Shop 1-9 Station Street & Brooklyn Road Rockbank Rockbank Newsagency 1157 Leakes Road Rockbank Sundowner Rockbank Caravan Park 2057-2083 Western Highway Toolern Vale Toolern Vale General Store Lot 23 Diggers Rest Road

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16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 2 November, 2021

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MOTORING

HiAce van has added attractions By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring If it ain’t broke don’t fix it: this could well be the case with the HiAce, Toyota’s iconic van, which the company stuck with for 15 years without replacing. The light commercial was around until a 2019 rebirth, now it becomes the subject of a range of upgrades. The HiAce van, and related Commuter bus and Granvia wagon, have been boosted with added technology and comfort and convenience features while offering a streamlined choice for customers. Long the leader in the 2.5 to 3.5 tonne van segment with sales this year increasing by 51.9 per cent, customer preference for diesel power, has led to the 3.5-litre petrol V6 for HiAce being discontinued in favour of Toyota’s tough 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, mated with an automatic transmission. New safety and security technology come with the fitment of Toyota Connected Services to all models. Inside, all benefit from upgraded features, with Granvia incorporating a higher level of luxury with rear privacy glass and carpeted front floor mats now standard. For HiAce, a large centre console box has been added to store paperwork while Commuter GL grades gain an LED lamp inside the box to aid vision, as well as upgraded USB charging ports. The added features adopted for HiAce come with price increases of just $990 across the range, while upgraded Granvia prices rise by less than two per cent. Both HiAce and Granvia are covered by the five-year Toyota Warranty Advantage and seven-year Toyota Warranty Advantage Extended Engine and Driveline. On test was the HiAce GL long wheelbase automatic van, selling for $47,230, plus on-road costs.

Styling The bonnet-forward design has enabled the engine to be ahead of the front axle and seats compared with the previous model where the engine sat under the front seats directly above the axle. It also provides easier access to the engine bay, improved safety and greater stability and ride comfort. The wide track gives the vehicle a planted stance, while the solid sides of the front bumper have been rounded off at the grille to improve working in tight CBD spaces. Aerodynamics are enhanced by a raked windscreen and side mouldings, chamfered rear corners and five stabilising fins on the side of the rear lamps. French Vanilla is now the only paint choice.

No standing still for Toyota’s iconic HiAce van. (Pictures: Supplied)

Engines / transmissions Interior Lack of a dedicated space for clipboard storage is a drawback, a centre console storage box as standard, replacing the existing console tray. Included in the new storage box is a removable in-box tray, an A4-sized binder rack, and a moveable partition at the rear of the box that can be used as a cupholder. Other range-wide standard equipment additions include front all-weather floor mats, 1.5-litre bottle holder and storage bin in each front door, with cup holders in the centre and on either side of the dashboard. There’s also a glovebox and spot to the left of the gearshift for small stuff.

Infotainment The multimedia system - Toyota’s latest - can be controlled via steering-wheel controls or the touchscreen that now offers pinch, swipe and flick gesture operation. The latter also incorporates AM / FM / DAB+ radio, USB and Aux inputs, full Bluetooth connectivity, satellite navigation with SUNA live traffic alerts, voice recognition, and Toyota Link apps including weather, fuel finder and travel times. HiAces will also come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other new applications include Siri eyes-free mode for iPhones and Miracast, which allows compatible smartphone screens to be duplicated onto the touchscreen. Delivering high quality audio are two front-mounted speakers.

All versions of the HiAce and Granvia are powered by Toyota’s 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, mated to an automatic transmission, with a six-speed manual gearbox also offered on HiAce LWB van. The turbodiesel engine develops 130 kW and 450 Nm when teamed with the six-speed automatic, however with the manual gearbox maximum torque is 420 Nm. In the HiAce Commuter, the turbodiesel engine produces maximum outputs of 120 kW of power and 420 Nm of torque.

Safety The addition of Toyota Connected Services automatically generates an emergency call to Toyota’s around-the-clock emergency call centre and relay the location of the vehicle in the event of a collision that requires intervention, or if an airbag goes off. Occupants can also manually trigger an emergency call to the call centre via an SOS button, allowing the determination of the vehicle’s location and co-ordination with emergency services. If the vehicle is reported stolen, Toyota Connected Services can help track the vehicle’s location through the stolen vehicle tracking service.

Driving The tried-and-tested diesel powerplant is muted and there’s little wind noise, leaving road

AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP HiAce LWB van manual $44,230 HiAce LWB van automatic $46,230 HiAce LWB van 4-door auto $46,230 HiAce GL LWB van auto $47,230 HiAce Crew LWB van auto $49,230 HiAce SLWB van auto $54,230 HiAce SLWB GL van auto $55,230 HiAce SLWB Commuter bus auto $69,230 HiAce SLWB Commuter GL bus auto $72,230 Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Toyota dealer for drive-away prices.

rumble to intrude into the cabin. Adding loads to the cavernous cargo area puts paid to much of this unwanted driving accompaniment. There was not much to argue with Toyota’s combined urban / highway fuel consumption figure of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres, with the test vehicle recording 9.7 litres per 100 kilometres under city delivery duties and 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres on a highway run. The stop / start system is one of the best encountered in any vehicle, with instantaneous fire-up from rest. For the automotive equivalent of ‘anti-vaxxers’ it can be switched off.

Driver and passenger seats are shapely, with thick cushioning for comfort and support. They are finished in quality, durable fabric. The driver’s seat offers six-way adjustment for height, slide and recline. Payload is up to 1095 kg, while the van is rated to tow a 1500 kg braked trailer. With 1268 mm between the rear wheel arches, there’s room for two standard Aussie pallets. Total load volume is 6.2 cubic metres. Loading through wide side doors was easy thanks to their easy slide functioning. The vertical lift tailgate - no barn doors offered - is no friend to the forklift but is a handy shelter while manual loading in wet weather. Ride and handling on test improved with load, as you would expect from a goods hauler with rear-wheel drive. Inclines offered little limit to performance and filtering into motorway traffic presented no white-knuckle stress. Extensive glassed areas all round and large exterior mirrors were complemented by a single window in the left side door, giving the driver confidence in overtaking, or pulling out from the kerb. A reversing camera was especially welcome in tight parking manoeuvres.

Summary While the HiAce relied for many years on its solid reputation to lead the field, Toyota has been quick to add fine touches to the latest generation of the iconic van in a bid to stave off any challenges from close rivals.

Tuesday, 2 November, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Gun defender bolsters Lakers By Tara Murray Caroline Springs has looked to strengthen its squad with the addition of one of the best local defenders in local footy and a former AFL player. The Western Region Football League division 1 club has wasted no time in looking to add some key players after one of the club’s best seasons. Aberfeldie gun Ryan Allan was the first big signing announced by the club and was quickly followed by that of former Essendon player Courtenay Dempsey. Lakers football manager Marc Raak said the club was excited by these two key signings. “Getting those two players in will improve our list,” he said. “To get in the calibre of those two blokes, who have been playing some good footy in the EDFL [Essendon District Football League]. “It will help the 19-to-22-year-olds on our list with football smarts on game day.” Raak said Allan would provide plenty of flexibility for the side. Allan was named the full back of the decade in the EDFL. This year he played forward and was named in the forward line in the premier division team of the year. “Ryan will play both roles,” Raak said. “He has the flexibility to play either centre half forward or centre half back. It gives us more flexibility at either end.” Dempsey has been playing with Greenvale in the EDFL since finishing his AFL career in 2016.

Raak said Dempsey could play a number positions but they were looking for him to play a key role up forward. “He’ll probably play 70 per cent up forward,” he said of Dempsey. “We want to kick more goals in games and he gives us another focal point in the forward line. “He gives us more height and it’s pretty good one on one.” Raak said these two signings showed the people outside the club were recognising what they had been doing. “A lot are seeing we are heading in the right path,” he said. “We’ve been climbing the ladder the last three to four years. We were looking at finishing in the top five [and playing finals] for the first time this year, but COVID mucked that up. “People looking at Caroline Springs are seeing the good things on and off the field.” Raak said not being able to play finals had been a kick in the gut, but at the same time exciting as the club was achieving things they had never achieved before. He said the group was keen to get training ahead of next season.

Courtenay Dempsey has joined Caroline Springs. (Supplied)

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Recently retired AFL footballer Easton Wood captained which club to the 2016 AFL premiership? 2. Which country's national rugby union team is known by several nicknames, most recently ‘The Brave Blossoms’?

7. Which two former tennis professionals are the current captain and coach of Australia's Davis Cup team? 8. Quinton de Kock most recently played for which national cricket team?

3. How many three pointers did Patty Mills make from his first 10 attempts of the 2021-22 NBA season?

9. Current Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco previously played for which NRL team?

4. Which team was Kim Garth playing for when she became the first player in Women's Big Bash League history to bowl three consecutive maiden overs?

10. Teams from the cities of Lucknow and Ahmedabad are set to join the 2022 season of which Twenty20 cricket league?

5. Ridden by jockey John Allen, which horse won the W.S. Cox Plate in 2021? 6. Which two Major League Baseball teams are set to compete in the 2021 World Series?

11. Who is the head coach of the Australia women’s national soccer team, the Matildas? 12. In the 2015 Melbourne Cup, the winner Prince of Penzance started at what odds?

13. Which fast bowler was player of the match in Australia's victory in their first fixture of the 2021/22 ICC Men's T20 World Cup against South Africa?

Patty Mills

14. Which current AFL coach won the Coleman Medal in 1990 for most goals in a season? 15. Craig Tiley is the CEO of which major sporting governing body in Australia? 16. How many A-League Men's teams start with the letter 'W'? 17. In equestrian terminology, 'dressage' means what word in French? 18. Which Queensland fast bowler took 10 wickets in a recent Sheffield Shield match against South Australia? 19. Which horse, named after an Eastern European country, won the Melbourne Cup in 1946?

22. Which European country will host the Davis Cup final in December?

27. Which event will close the calendar in the 2021 Supercars Championship season?

23. Recently-retired athlete Dani Stevens competed for Australia in which event at the Commonwealth Games?

28. Which English all-rounder was recently added to the upcoming Ashes touring squad?

24. Which NBA legend's sneakers were recently auctioned for a record $1.47 million?

20. How many F1 teams did Australian driver Mark Webber race for in his 12-year career?

25. Who was the lone NFL team to be undefeated after seven weeks of the 2021–22 Season?

21. Which NRL team recently signed Adam Elliott to a one-year contract?

26. The Seattle Kraken are a new team in which US sporting competition?

29. How many teams are there in the WNBL competition? 30. Which NBA team has a nickname inspired by a 1993 movie?

Mark Webber 1. Western Bulldogs 2. Japan 3. Ten 4. Melbourne Stars 5. State Of Rest 6. Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros 7. Lleyton Hewitt and Joshua Eagle 8. South Africa 9. Wests Tigers 10. IPL (Indian Premier League) 11. Tony Gustavsson 12. 100-1 13. Josh Hazlewood 14. Sydney Swans' John Longmire 15. Tennis Australia 16. Three (Wellington Phoenix, Western Sydney Wanderers and Western United) 17. Training 18. Mark Steketee 19. Russia 20. Four (Minardi, Jaguar, Williams and Red Bull) 21. Canberra Raiders 22. Spain 23. Discus 24. Michael Jordan 25. Arizona Cardinals 26. The NHL 27. Bathurst 1000 28. Ben Stokes 29. Eight 30. Toronto Raptors

0511

18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 2 November, 2021

Western United the ‘full package’ says Prijovic Western United provides the whole package, according to new striker Aleksandar Prijovic. Prijovic spoke with the media on Thursday, after getting out of quarantine early due to changes to the system. Prijovic, who joined United on a multi-year deal, has enjoyed a prolific career to date across Europe and the Middle East and will add another dimension to Western United’s attack. He most recently played with Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. The Serbian said it was nice to get out of the hotel and meet his new teammates. He will soon be joined by his family who will make the journey to Australia. “It has been tough with the quarantine,” he said. “I was lucky to get out earlier and join the team. I’m happy to be here … I’m very motivated to catch up the rhythm and get used to the team and to start the season. “I trained already on the side. Soon I will join

Aleksandar Prijovic at his first Western United training. (Supplied/Getty Images)

the team to train.” Prijovic, who has scored more than 150 goals in 400 games, said he had received many offers for this season. He said while many of the clubs had some benefits, many didn’t provide the whole package.

“Many offers from Europe, Asia also. At some point I was refusing many offers, [as] the whole package was not right. “Here was the whole package. The whole situation is that it’s a new club where we can do something big and build up something from the beginning, and this was for me a motivation to join this team.” Prijovic said he had watched some footage of the competition before coming to Australia and had played with some players who had previously played in the competition. Filling the role that was previously filled by Besart Berisha, the league’s leading goal scorer, Prijovic said he didn’t feel the pressure to produce the same output. “I’m very motivated and put enough pressure on myself all my life as a professional football player,” he said. “I’ve been doing pretty well so far. “I’m someone who works hard and wants to

compete and get better, i don’t see any pressure from outside, I do that already enough on myself. “I’m in my best years as a striker.” Prijovic said he was aiming to be fit for round one on November 20 and would work hard in the meantime to get himself up to fitness. The 31-year-old said he would look to help some of the younger strikers progress their career, something he had success in previously. He also gave United fans a hint of what to expect from him this season. “[I’m a] finisher in the box,” he said. “That’s my zone, that’s where I’m dangerous. I think my body is a plus in building up and holding up the ball.” United coach John Aloisi praised Prijovic’s continuity at the highest level and said it is a big plus to have the striker coming in with confidence and form on his side. Tara Murray

January start for Jets’ girls

Darley Cricket Club.

(Supplied)

Darley eyes ‘three-peat’ By Michaela Meade Darley are coming in strong to the 2021-22 Ballarat Cricket Association season, despite coach Brian Wheelahan not being able to attend trainings until this week. Wheelahan is based in Melton, meaning he was cut off from the club as a result of COVID-19 travel restrictions. Wheelahan said it has been a challenging time for him, trying to guide his club while restricted. “For the last six to eight weeks, with my being in Melton, it’s been a little bit frustrating,” he said. “Everyone wants to get back into training for themselves. “We can’t wait, and I can’t wait to get amongst the boys, and girls for that matter. “We’re really looking forward to having another crack.” Wheelahan said the strong leadership potential in the club allowed for the ‘slack’ of him not being at training in-person to be picked up. “There’s great leadership around the club,” Wheelahan said. “We had blokes chiming

in here and there, lending a hand and some guidance. “Obviously we’ve had to adhere to a lot of protocols, to make everything COVID-safe, with check ins and all that. “We’ve made it work. “Everyone’s loving playing the game again, getting around one another. “It hasn’t been ideal, but everyone’s in the same boat, so we’re not complaining.” Wheelahan said he was hoping to go for a “three-peat”. The club was awarded the 2019-20 premiership after finishing minor premiers when the season was called off before the grand final due to the pandemic. “We’re technically back-to-back premiers,” Wheelahan said. “We were crowned premiers and champions [in 2019], with a bit of mixed emotions. “Last year was the icing on the cake … We did it the hard way, we did it the right way. “We’ll definitely aim for a three-peat.” Wheelahan said he wanted to see the club advance more than just the trophy case. “I want us to be competitive,” Wheelahan said.

“We understand now we create a bit of a tension for ourselves. “We’ve got a really nice age group [in the team] mixture. “We’re in a really strong position … we just need to continue to improve. “It’s such an even competition, if you’re not on your game, you can get bitten.” Wheelahan said that beyond the strong results of his team, he’s more proud of attitudes within the club. “The thing that I’ve been most proud of… we’re never out of the game,” Wheelahan said. “Regardless of what the scoreboard suggests… we continue to fight to the death. “We’ve been able to get out of tough situations … with a belief in ourselves. “It gives you enormous belief to know you’re never out of the competition. “We’ve got quality players, and a mixture of players. “We’ve got the older, experienced ones, as well as the youth. “We can be pretty hard to beat.” Darley’s season will commence on Saturday, November 6.

The Western Jets’ girls’ team will return to the field in January under changes to the AFL Talent Pathway Program in 2022. The AFL have announced a remodeled boy’s and girls’ programs following a review into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The new calendar of football will have alignment with competitions across Australia and provide talented players with multiple options for football competition to showcase their skills and qualities ahead of the AFL and AFLW Drafts. It’s hoped the new program will allow for opportunities for elite development while keeping a connection to community football. The girls’ season will get under way on January 22, with the grand final to be played on the weekend of April 9. The Jets’ boy’s season will kick off on the weekend of April 2, with the boy’s grand final to be played in mid-to-late September. Both programs will kick-off pre-season in November. Under-16 and under-18 national championships will run, with the girls championships to run in March and April, while the majority of the boys carnival will be held in June and July. The national academies for the top players in the country will be announced in December. AFL national talent development and competitions manager Grant Williams said the model for 2022 will provide talented athletes the greatest opportunity for success – on and off the football field. “Australian football continues to attract the best young athletes in Australia and to maintain this momentum it is crucial the talent model provides all players and staff the greatest opportunity to succeed,” Williams said. “The talent pathway program focuses on developing the future of the AFL and AFLW with commitment to improving their on and off field capabilities.” “Every year we look forward to seeing the next generation grow as people and as footballers and their enthusiasm and commitment to the National program is a clear indicator that our game is strong and our pathway programs are made up of the best Australian sporting talent.”

Tuesday, 2 November, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

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