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Driven by a love of art

Gladstone Park Secondary College Art Teacher, Luke Sinclair will be submitting his oil on canvas self-portrait for the 2023 Archibald Prize. (Damjan Janevski) 323987_04

Gladstone Park Secondary College art teacher Luke Sinclair plans to drive to New South Wales to hand deliver his submission for the 2023 Archibald Art Prize. The prestigious prize is awarded annually to the best portrait by an Australian artist with the winner taking home $100,000. Mr Sinclair said he has no expectation of winning, instead his motivations for entering the competition stem from the classroom. “I want the students to see that I’m doing something with my skills and not just teaching art, but practising it too,” he said. “I’m doing this because I want to give them a little bit of a kick and encourage the idea that this is possible and they can do these things too.” Mr Sinclair pays homage to his teaching identity throughout the self-portrait, with the initials of both his own former teachers and current year 12 art students running along the spine of the painting’s frame. “A lot of people study art with the intention of keeping it as their own sort of personal world – but I like sharing it, that’s the whole point of this painting. I think teaching art is the more genuine way to be an artist, because you’re actually giving, not taking.”

Rates rise in Whittlesea By Hannah Hammoud Whittlesea residents can expect an average rate rise of 3.5 per cent and more than $77 million worth of improvements in the municipality under the council’s proposed 2023-24 budget. The council announced an operating budget of $294.85 million to go toward priority services for the community, which includes a capital works program of $77.83 million to provide essential infrastructure and improve roads and facilities around

the Whittlesea area. Acting chief financial officer Aaron Gerrard delivered the proposed budget and said the rate increase is in line with the state government’s Fair Go Rates System and council is not seeking a variation to the rate cap, which would allow council to propose an increase above the cap. “Our key focus is on ensuring people of all ages across our community have access to programs, activities and services that will enhance their health and wellbeing.“ he said. The budget includes a proposal for council

to continue to subsidise waste charges by 22.4 per cent at a cost of $6.7 million, specifically the state government’s Landfill Levy in recognition of the economic pressures on households and businesses. Waste charges in 2023-2024 are proposed to increase by 20 per cent or $30.55 per household which will mean a total charge of $183.30 for the average residential household. The capital works budget includes commencing the design and site preparations of the Regional Aquatics and Sports Centre in

Mernda, completing the design, commencing construction of an Aboriginal Gathering Place and commencing construction of a community activity centre in Donnybrook among others. The proposed budget will be advertised on Wednesday, March 29, allowing public comments and submissions to be received up until 5pm, Tuesday, April 25. The final budget 2023-24 is scheduled to be considered for adoption by council on Tuesday, June 27, following consideration of any submissions by council.

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Hopes for a pet ‘miracle’

Second Chance Animal is appealing for support Rescue (SCAR) House for Pets program to keep its Safe The program provides running. for the pets of owners temporary care as victims of domesti facing challenges c and family violence. SCAR chief executiv Debattista said the e Marisa program allowed owners to find safe, permanent housing without worrying about their animals. “We safely house the escaping violent situationpets of people s and look after these animals while their owners seek safe refuge,” she said. “Once they have secured permane nt safe housing we reunite “The tears and look them. owners’ faces when of pure joy on they are reunited with their pets again time is just incredib after a traumatic le.” Ms Debattista said SCAR received calls daily asking for struggling to make help, but that it was ends the program’s continua meet, putting She said SCAR was tion at risk. “looking for a miracle” to keep the refuge Details: secondchancean open. imarescue. com.au

260172_02 (Damjan Janevski)

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MARISA DEBATT

ISTA WITH LEXINGT

50-metre pool a reality

Michaela Meade

By Michaela Meade

issue in the commun ity, with plans presente The Whittlesea to the former council community will Financial forecasti multiple times in 2019. d be able to dive into a ng at the time revealed Councillors initially 50-metr god-awful political opted to develop the centre would cost $80.3 million, with Whittlesea council e pool from 2025, business nonsense, it’s glorious including see our cases for a centre a $55.7 million 50-metr finally endorsing to with and without group of competition-leng th e pool, compared a 25-metre pool. a $75.6 million, pool to inside two years appointed administrators – including a $51 million for the Mernda Sports as its preferred option – do exactly what the The decision resulted 25-metre elected pool. Hub. previous council couldn’t in in community After numerous reports backlash, with residents 10 years.” A report tabled at council Mr Hogan said calling for a 50-metr last two years, Whittles to council over the pool to be last Tuesday stated e the overall leisure, included. ea’s administrators development” to have it was an “amazing voted last Tuesday aquatics and sports At the time, the the night to include a facility court would cost over $113 council said it couldn’t Chair administrator project promised. 50-metre afford pool in the new sports million. Lydia Wilson said a 50-metre pool. Extend the Pool in precinct. it was the “most Mernda The Mernda Sports significa campaig Then, in Decemb nt” infrastructure n leader project Ryan Hogan said Hub on Plenty Road the administrators he would “believe will house leisure, council’s administratorser, 2020, Whittlesea can swim it when I upon. would ever resolve aquatics and sports it”. resolved to investiga facilities. court two new te designs for “Build it and they “It is a legacy will swim,” he said. The aquatic centre 25-metre pool and the centre – one with a “After years upon has been a contenti the other with a 50-metr importance to the project of paramount ous pool. Whittlesea commun e Whittlesea demand years of the people of Ms ity,” Wilson said. “This proposal … will be and being told ‘we’ll ing this development benefit a to children, families look into it’ and and older people some of all backgro unds.”

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Broadmeadows Country Supermarket 7 Olsen Place Broadmeadows IGA Friendly Supermarket 10 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Broadmeadows Newsagency 21 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Milk Bar - Broadmeadows 23 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Broadmeadows Central SC 1099 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Coles Supermarket 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Woolworths Supermarket 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Phil - Asian Grocery Business 16 Railway Crescent Bundoora Foodworks Bundoora 1 Andrew Place Bundoora Andrews Place Milk Bar 4 Andrew Place Bundoora Frank Milk Bar 19 Balaka Place Bundoora Good & More Asian Grocery 6/42 Copernicus Crescent Bundoora Bundoora Fruit Market, Uni Hill Town Centre, Janefield Drive Bundoora Mr Asian Grocer 1 Janefield Drive Bundoora Uni Factory Outlets 2 Janefield Drive Bundoora Uni Hill Town Centre 5 Janefield Drive Bundoora RMIT Campus Store Building 202 Level 2, Plenty Road Bundoora Gugu Asian Grocery 3803/43 Plenty Road Bundoora Woolworths Supermarket 69-85 Plenty Road Bunndora Shell Service Station 127-133 Plenty Road Bundoora Coles Supermarket Summerhill 850 Plenty Road Bundoora Caltex Woolworths Service Station 959-969 Plenty Road Bundoora BP Service Station 1050 Plenty Road Bundoora Polaris 3083 Shopping Centre 1056 Plenty Road Bundoora Woolworths Polaris Cnr Plenty Rd & Nain Drive Bundoora Coles Supermarket Bundoora Sq SC Settlement Rd

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Campbellfield Chris and Marie’s 1477 Sydney Road Campbellfield Barry Road Milk Bar 331 Barry Road Coolaroo Meadow Heights Newsagency Shop 16, 55 Paringa Boulevard Coolaroo Melba Vale Country Club 1390 Pascoe Vale Road Craigieburn Craigieburn Convenience Store 19 Bank Street Craigieburn Hume City Council 75-95 Central Park Avenue Craigieburn Coles Service Station 42-44 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Connections - Craigieburn 59 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre 340 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Harry Brown Liquor G03/420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn The Foodary Caltex 420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Freshplus Craigieburn 420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 10 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Coles Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Windrock Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd Craigieburn Quality Food Store Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd Craigieburn Milk Bar Store 100 Fairways Boulevard Craigieburn Nanak Indian Grocery Highlands SC 300 Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 300 Highlands SC Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Highlands News & Lotto 300 HighlandsSC Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Hothlyn Drive Milk Bar Hothlyn Drive Craigieburn Foodworks 130-132 Hothlyn Drive Craigieburn Caltex - now Ampol 315 Hume Highway Craigieburn Metro Petroluem 330 Hume Highway Craigieburn IGA Xpress Grand Boulevard 27-29 Princes Circuit Craigieburn Moey’s Milk Bar 2 Smeaton Court Doreen TSG Riverstone Convenience Cafe Shop 1/121 Elation Boulevard Doreen Laurimar Centre Newsagency Shop 8, 95 Hazel Glen Drive Doreen Woolworths Supermarket 95 95 Hazel Glen Drive

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Doreen Doreen General Store 920 Yan Yean Road Epping Foodworks 10/351 Dalton Road Epping Pacific Epping Shopping Centre 571-583 High Street Epping The Groove Train 571-583 High Street Epping IGA Plus Liquor 1/53 McDonalds Road Epping Greenbrook Milk Bar 2/53 McDonalds Road Gladstone Park Gladstone Park SC 8-34 Gladstone Park Drive Glenroy Pascoe Vale Road Market 815 Pascoe Vale Road Glenroy Glenroy Newsagency 773 Pascoe Vale Drive Greenvale Coles Supermarket 1-11 Greenvale Drive Greenvale Greenvale Newsagency Shop 4, 1 -11 Greenvale Drive Lalor Woolworths Supermarket Hurtle Street Lalor Lalor Library 2A May Road Lalor Dandy Mart 17-19 May Road Lalor No 1 Fruit Market 37 May Road Lalor Coles Supermarket 47-71 May Road Lalor Lalor Plaza Newsagency Shop 22, 17 McKimmies Road Lalor Lalor Plaza Shopping Centre McKimmies Road Lalor Coles Supermarket Lalor SC Cnr McKimmies Road & Darebin Drive Lalor Santino Continental Grocery 296 Station Street Lalor Afghan Supermarket 322 Station Street Lalor Everfresh Fruit Market 346 Station Street Mernda Coles Mernda Mernda Junction SC Cnr Plenty Rd & Bridge Inn Rd Mernda Riverdale General Store 33 Riverdale Boulevard Mernda Mernda Post Office 50 Mernda Village Drive & Galloway Drive Mernda Woolworths Supermarket Mernda Village Drive & Galloway Drive Mill Park Centenary Drive Milk Bar 147 Centenary Drive Mill Park 7 - Eleven Mill Park 252 Childs Rd & Morang Dr Mill Park The Stables Shopping Centre Childs Road Mill Park Grenda Milk Bar Grenda Drive Mill Park Coles Supermarket McDonalds Road Mill Park Westfield Plenty Valley 415 McDonalds Road Mill Park Shriji Supermarket 522 Plenty Road Mill Park Woolworths Shop 8/538 Plenty Road

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Mill Park Rivergum Village Shopping Centre 538 Plenty Road Mill Park Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Redleap Ave & Childs Rd Roxburgh Park Woolworths Supermarket Somerton Road Roxburgh Park Coles @ Roxburgh Village SC 250 Somerton Rd Roxburgh Park South Morang South Morang Milk Bar 15 Gorge Road South Morang Westfield Plenty Valley SC 415 McDonalds Road South Morang North City Accountants 7/545 McDonalds Road South Morang Coles Supermarket Mill Park Lakes, The Lakes Boulevard Thomastown Foodworks 126 Alexander Ave Thomastown Caltex Thomastown Cnr Dalton Road & Wood St Thomastown Thomastown News & Lotto 223 High Street Thomastown Thomastown Library 52 Main Street Thomastown BP Service Station 72 Keon Parade Thomastown APCO Service Station 228-234 Settlement Road Thomastown Shell Service Station 27 Cnr Spencer St & Dalton Rd West Meadows Shell Petrol Station West Meadows 36 Fawkner Street West Meadows The Old Broadie Milkbar 40 Fawkner Street West Meadows Claudio’s IGA Supermarket 12-23 Fawkner Street West Meadows Caltex Petrol Station - West Meadows 227 Mickleham Road Whittlesea Whittlesea Bakery 34 Church Street Whittlesea NewsXpress Whittlesea 45 Church Street Whittlesea Whittlesea Courthouse Information Centre 74 Church Street Whittlesea IGA Supermarket - Whittlesea Shop 2, 22 Church Street University Hill Coles Supermarket Uni Hill 224 Plenty Road University Hill Wollert Wollert Post Office 491 Epping Road Also available from Real Estate Agents everywhere

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Crime rate climbs across Hume By Hannah Hammoud Crime in Hume increased by 1.7 per cent in 2022, according to new data from the Crime Statistics Agency. Hume recorded 313 more offences in 2022 compared to 2021, with a total of 18,201 criminal offences. Most of the criminal offences took place in the Hume suburbs of Broadmeadows and Campbellfield. Whittlesea’s crime rates dropped by 5.1 per

cent, with a total of 12,479 offences recorded, a drop in 665 offences compared to 2021. Whittlesea Inspector Chris Allen said it is pleasing to see Whittlesea’s crime rate continue to drop. “We give a lot of attention to examining crime trends and making sure our resources are in the right place at the right time to ensure community safety,” he said. Whittlesea suburbs of Epping, Thomastown and Mill Park were responsible for the highest number of criminal offences.

Inspector Allen said since arriving in 2021, getting the maximum amount of resources out on the road to serve the community has been a high priority of his. “We have a dedicated team of police who are assigned to our local Neighbourhood Policing Unit that solely looks after safety concerns raised by our community. “We are also backed up by a really proactive Criminal Investigation Unit who support our efforts on the ground to ensure those that commit crime are held to account.

Family violence incidents in Whittlesea and Hume dropped, with a decrease of 8.7 per cent and 3.5 per cent respectively. Inspector Allen acknowledged family violence can often go unreported and encouraged anyone experiencing family violence to reach out to police and support for assistance. “We work really hard with our stakeholders to ensure services to those impacted by family violence are accessible in times of need and those committing family violence are held to account.”

Training centre started Construction is under way at Kangan Institute’s Broadmeadows campus for a new Health and Community Centre for Excellence. Training and Skills and Higher Education Minister Gayle Tierney turned the first sod to mark the start of the building project. The new centre will deliver high-quality training needed for some of Victoria’s most in-demand jobs, including aged care, mental health, disability, nursing, pathology, allied health and health care education services. Kangan Institute chief executive Sally Curtain said that the new centre will equip students and teachers with state-of-the-art facilities. “The Health and Community Centre of Excellence will deliver the health and community training needed to support the growing northern corridor,” she said. The centre is being built at Kangan Institute’s Broadmeadows campus in Pearcedale Parade,

with construction expected to be completed in late 2024, creating 300 jobs. Kangan Institute has collaborated with local healthcare providers, including DPV Health and Northern Health to support future training needs and offer placements to students studying at the centre. Northern Health director of partnerships Neela Konara said that this collaboration aims to bring together training and service provision for each organisation. “Kangan Broadmeadows is one of the key partners Northern Health works with to provide timely access to healthcare services to some of the most disadvantaged community groups in the local area.” Hannah Hammoud Work begins at Kangan Institute’s new Broadmeadows Health and Community Centre for Excellence. (Supplied)

Year seven student Lucas with his grandparents, Jane Georgiou, Sofia Simopoulos and Loucas Georgiou. (Damjan Janevski) 323419_01

Classes in for grandparents Year seven students from St Monica’s College in Epping welcomed grandparents and special friends to their school to watch them at work. Spanning across two days, the special invitation is one of the exciting calendar days of the first term for year seven students. Guests were treated to a presentation from principal Brian Hanley, a tour of the college including the students’ homeroom, a special musical performance from the students and morning tea. Mr Hanley said the day is a highlight for the students. “Year seven is an exciting time as the students progress from primary to secondary

education and there is genuine excitement as they have the opportunity to welcome their grandparents on campus,” he said. “The students have also made a gift to present to their grandparents at the end of the tour. “Students take their grandparents into their classrooms, meet their teachers, inspect the general college facilities and then celebrate with morning tea.” More than 300 grandparents and special friends accepted the invitation to join in on the celebrations across the two days. Hannah Hammoud

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EPA fine Somerton recycling company Close the Loop has been hit with a $5000 fine by the Environmental Protection Authority. The fine was issued to the company for disobeying an EPA instruction to stop accepting recyclables at its Somerton centre. The EPA issued the company with a remedial notice requiring it to stop accepting most types of recyclables until there were the proper separation distances to meet fire safety requirements, but further inspections showed the site was still accepting recyclables.

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Pupiks from Coolaroo South Primary School read to shelter pets at the Lort Smith Animal Hospital and Adoption Centre. (Supplied)

EDITORIAL

Story time at shelter

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Coolaroo South Primary School pupils marked Australian Reading Hour by reading books aloud to shelter and therapy animals. The heart-warming display was a unique opportunity for grade three and four students who were welcomed behind the scenes at the Lort Smith Animal Hospital and Adoption Centre to read aloud to the animals, as part of the nationwide Australian Reading Hour Initiative. Lort Smith Animal Hospital community programs manager Megan Nutbean said the initiative was a win-win for everyone involved. “For kids who struggle or lack confidence with reading, it can be hard to read to other people,” she said. “But we know that reading to the right animal, who has no expectations and passes no judgements on reading ability, can improve reading confidence.

“It takes the pressure off and helps kids find joy in reading.” The community initiative involved a northern collaboration between Coolaroo South Primary School, Lort Smith Animal Hospital, Hume Libraries, and Australia Reads. Hume youth services librarian Megan Becke said it is important to make reading fun to support children in building positive associations with learning. “It was a really beautiful experience, we were thrilled with how much the students got into the reading aspect of it, as well as the animals,” she said. “It’s important to engage children in books that they’re interested in and find these unique opportunities to show them how much fun it can be.”

FREE ACTIVITY

The Broadmeadows Civic Plaza upgrade is now complete and open for use, with more opportunities for locals to meet, relax and play. In response to community feedback, council installed colourful footpath decals, new furniture, planter boxes, shelter and more lighting. The upgrades are intended to encourage further activity in and around the civic plaza, by making it more appealing for gatherings and social activities. The project was delivered in partnership with the state government who contributed $450,000 through the Suburban Revitalisation Program.

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Hannah Hammoud

at Mernda Town Centre these School Holidays! Scan the QR code to book a session for FREE! Get in quick as spots are limited.

Civic plaza finished

The Easter Bunny will be han ding out chocola tes on

APRIL 1st

11am - 2pm

SESSIONS AVAILABLE

APRIL ̪̫ ͪ ̪̮

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180 Riverdale Blvd, Mernda VIC merndatowncentre.au 12593939-AI13-23

4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

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Milestone reached for virtual ED By Hannah Hammoud Northern Health’s Victorian Virtual Emergency Department has marked 100,000 virtual presentations since its launch in October, 2020. Housed at Northern Hospital in Epping, the VVED is a public health service which triages and treats patients virtually for non-lifethreatening emergencies. The virtual service is the first of its kind in Australia that is available 24 hours a day,

seven days a week. The VVED first opened in 2020 to help patients in the north with COVID-19 symptoms, relieve pressure on emergency waiting rooms, and treat more people from the comfort of their home. The program is now open to all patients across Victoria. VVED nurse unit manager Hayley Grey said since the beginning, the VVED has been committed to providing convenient, fast, and safe emergency care to patients across Victoria.

“Thanks to this innovative technology, patients can access emergency medical care from the comfort of their own homes, without having to endure the physical and emotional stress of traveling to the hospital,” she said. “The VVED has been instrumental in reducing both pressure on emergency departments across the state, and wait times for urgent medical care.” VVED acting director Suzie Miller said looking ahead, the VVED will continue to play a critical role in the delivery of

emergency medical care. “We’re proud to use this milestone to recognise the contributions of the VVED physicians, nurses, and staff, who have worked tirelessly to provide exceptional care to patients across the state,” Ms Miller said. “This is a testament to their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of all Victorians. “As virtual medicine continues to evolve and expand, the VVED will remain at the forefront of this exciting and transformative industry.”

Our community heroes Recipients of the 2022 Whittlesea Council Community Awards were crowned at the Community Festival on Sunday, March 19, for their contributions to making Whittlesea a better place to live and work. CFA member and netball umpire Deborah Azzopardi was named Citizen of the Year for her work in both roles spanning across more than 20 years. Retired GP Mark Beeby received the Senior Citizen of the Year Award for his commitment toward looking after the community. Young ambassador of the Sanskriti community group, Hanskiaa Sharma received the Young Citizen of the Year award to acknowledge her work in supporting women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Kim Huat Lim received the Access and Inclusion Citizen of the Year award for his volunteer work as a bus driver for Whittlesea Community Connections for over three years. Tanya Sharma, 11, was presented with the

Sustainable Environment Citizen of the Year to recognise her efforts in promoting an education campaign on the dangers of cigarette butt litter. Whittlesea council administrator Peita Duncan said there were 27 nominations across all five categories. “As a committee we were so impressed by [the] calibre of the nominations which really highlight the strong community spirit … it really is quite heart-warming, and especially wonderful to see so many young people stepping up to make a difference so early in their lives,” Ms Duncan said. Hannah Hammoud

Whittlesea Council 2022 Community Award Recipients, Kim Huat Lim, Hanskiaa Sharma, Deborah Azzopardi and Mark Beeby. (Supplied)

Draft Budget 2023-24 and Draft Community Plan Action Plan 2023-24

Local better New roads infrastructure libraries

Business support

Have your say on the draft Budget and Community Plan Action Plan 2023-24 Visit engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Tackling dumped Customer rubbish improvements Submissions open Wednesday 29 March and close 5pm Tuesday 25 April 12587974-SN13-23

Tuesday, 28 March, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 5

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Whittlesea endorses trails plan By Hannah Hammoud Whittlesea council has endorsed the Northern Trails 2022 strategy, which will plan and develop regional trails in Whittlesea and the north over the next 10 years. The strategy was endorsed at a council meeting on Tuesday, March 2, in a joint collaboration with Banyule, Hume, Merri-bek, Darebin and Nillumbik councils As part of the strategy, Whittlesea council will identify the priority walking and cycling

trails in the municipality to establish a strategic framework for the planning and development of the trails. The strategy identifies priority projects for each of the six local government areas as well as top priorities for the overall region. These have been identified through community and stakeholder consultation and assessed according to a range of criteria such as the proximity of the trail to population centres and transport hubs. Whittlesea council chair administrator

Lydia Wilson said it was important for the northern councils to work together on establishing a regional trail network for the community to enjoy. “We know that our community love to be active and get out for a walk or bike ride, and this strategy provides the blueprint for developing a connected, off-road trail network across the northern region,” Ms Wilson said. Northern Trails 2022 identifies the top 10 currently unfunded priority projects across

the region, as well as the top 10 unfunded projects within the Whittlesea Council, including Whittlesea shared trail and missing sections of the Yan Yean pipe track, Merri Creek trail and Darebin Creek trail. “Together with the Northern Council Alliance, we will continue to strongly advocate to the state government for a 10-year pipeline of funding to complete these projects and deliver a safe, accessible and connected trail network for our community,” Ms Wilson said. Details: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Dogs paws the pressure Therapy dogs Scout, Leo and Larry provided comfort and cuddles to the hard-working staff at Northern Health as part of the Delta Therapy Dogs Paws the Pressure program. Staff were greeted with wagging tails and big smiles from the pups in an initiative aimed at improving employee wellbeing. The Paws the Pressure program works to reduce stress and boost morale by providing calming cuddles and friendly paw-shakes with Delta Therapy Dogs. Northern Health wellbeing team senior psychologist Casey O’Brien said the aim of this initiative was to empower staff to have open conversations about what wellbeing means to them, in a fun and enjoyable environment. “As soon as the dogs and volunteers walked in, you could feel the energy shift in such a positive way. People’s eyes really lit up and you could see how happy they were,” she said. “It’s amazing how such a short interaction can have such a huge difference in the way people feel.

“Everyone involved really appreciated the experience and it was great seeing the teams get together and connect in such a positive and uplifting way.” Delta Therapy Dogs is a national not-for-profit organisation who believe that the connection between humans and animals is a unique bond that can help to improve quality of life. Hannah Hammoud

Northern Health speech pathologist, Joyce Chiu with therapy dog Leo. (Supplied)

LET’S CREATE A BIT OF

MAGIC & WONDER THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

BUILD-A-BUNNY WORKSHOPS

APRIL IN WONDERLAND MAZE

Tues 11 – Fri 14 April Session times: 9.30am, 11am, 1pm, 2.30pm

Mon 17 – Fri 21 April 10am - 2pm daily

$5 KIDS MEAL DEALS ARE BACK! Only available during the School Holidays

Located in the Kmart Quadrant

Located in the Big W Quadrant

Join the Build-A-Bear team and make your very own cuddly bunny friend! Cost includes bunny, heart ceremony, colouring sheet and kids meal voucher.

Join Alice, The Mad Hatter and The Queen of Hearts in our Wonderland-themed maze with lots of fun at every turn. There’s cookie decorating, hourly story-telling with Alice, life-sized chess and more! PLUS complete our Wonderland Scavenger Hunt for a chance to win fun prizes. FREE

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL! Additional accessories are available for purchase at each session.

$10 PER CHILD

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Tuesday, 28 March, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 7

STAR WEEKLY FEATURE

Meet the Principal Nick Scully

Mr Brian Hanley OAM St Monica’s College, Epping is a coeducational Catholic College that was established in 1964 and is based on two campuses in Epping. The College offers a modern curriculum with a wide choice of subjects. Our cocurricular activities are highly regarded with many options in sport, arts and STEM.

We have a shared vision that “everyone grows” at Kolbe Catholic College. Students, staff and families are encouraged to pursue incremental improvement in all they do. Our students celebrate progress towards personal achievement and our

Our principal, Mr Brian Hanley OAM, commenced as principal in 1991. He has overseen the ongoing development of the College infrastructure as well as ensuring our curriculum meets the challenge to give our students the education they need to take them forward in life.

teachers are coached to become the best possible educators. This culture of learning now pervades our entire school. A key goal for 2023 is to continue to raise the

“I am committed to ensuring that we provide the best education we can to the youth of the northern suburbs of Melbourne, supported by the best staff and modern facilities. At St Monica’s College every student matters and we leave no student behind,” Mr Hanley said.

expectations we have of our students. Whether a student wishes to enter into a trade-based career, or pursue one of academic excellence, they can do so with great support from the College. These dreams can be achieved in a school, such as Kolbe, with a

Brian was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his services to secondary education in 2021.

Catholic ethos that educates the whole person. Kolbe Catholic College has become the “school of choice” for many families in our region. Due to the demand for enrolments, Kolbe will be opening a

12595578-AI13-23

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new Year 7–12 campus in Mickleham in 2026.

KOLBE CATHOLIC COLLEGE

ST MONICA’S COLLEGE, EPPING

Lysterfield Drive Greenvale VIC 3059 Phone 03 8339 3060 | www.kolbecc.catholic.edu.au

400 Dalton Road Epping Vic 3076 Phone (03) 9409 8800 | www.stmonicas-epping.com

Bill Sweeney

Chris Caldow

Hume Anglican Grammar is an independent Prep to Year 12 coeducational School with campuses in Mickleham, Donnybrook and Kalkallo. We proudly offer an affordable private education with a focus on educational excellence and student wellbeing.

We are a Catholic co-educational College situated on two campuses in Broadmeadows and Glenroy. We are pleased to offer the opportunity for boys and girls, to be educated within our close knit, caring Catholic secondary environment. A defining characteristic of our school community is our sense of welcome.We look beyond ourselves to ensure that everyone feels welcome, valued and included as we endeavour to create a sense of belonging for all at Penola. We welcome all faith traditions who seek and respect our values. We work together to create outstanding young women and men who model these values locally, nationally and abroad.

‘Student wellbeing at the core’ — is the message that echoes throughout our school. Our fundamental belief is that young people who are genuinely happy will engage, aspire and thrive within our learning community. By establishing high standards in all that we do, every student is encouraged and supported to discover and fulfil their unique potential.

Our exceptional learning facilities are continually being updated to meet the challenges of the 21st Century and I am confident that you will be impressed by what we have to offer.

We welcome all enquiries and I encourage families to visit us and experience our School first-hand. School Tours are conducted on a regular basis. To book a tour or find out more information simply contact us on 8339 6900 or visit our website at www.humegrammar.vic.edu.au

I look forward to sharing the Penola Catholic College experience with you.

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www.penola.vic.edu.au

HUME ANGLICAN GRAMMAR

PENOLA CATHOLIC COLLEGE

Campus Locations: Mt Ridley - Donnybrook - Kalkallo Phone 03 8339 6900 | www.humegrammar.vic.edu.au

Junior Campus (Years 7-8) Glenroy | Senior Campus (Years 9-12) Broadmeadows Phone 03 9301 2777 | principal@penola.vic.edu.au 202206151458_1-AV25-22

8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

STAR WEEKLY FEATURE

Meet the Principal Leanne Sinnadurai

Mark Aiello

It is an honour and a privilege to be the founding

Parade College is the first Edmund Rice School in Australia. With campuses in Bundoora and Preston, the College has been at the forefront of educating boys for over 150 years.

principal of the Wayi School. I have been a committed educator and leader within specialist settings for over 20 years and draw on my learnings

Mark Aiello, our Principal, commenced at Parade in 2013 and was previously the College’s Deputy Principal.

and experiences to ensure that our teachers confidently improve student engagement and

“Our teachers and staff choose to work at Parade because they love working with our students and families. We recognise that boys learn in many varied ways and perform better when they form a connection with their school and do things that they enjoy”.

learning outcomes. As the principal, I utilise this opportunity to empower and inspire every member of our learning community; I need teachers to know I support them to be creative and innovative when teaching.

Across our two campuses we are able to offer an extensive range of elective subjects and, at the senior levels, over 70 VCE subjects and 32 different VET Certificates. We have a comprehensive support network in place for our students so they can excel in all they do. Our cocurricular offerings cater for the needs and interests of all students and our facilities are state of the art.

Through collaborative partnerships we provide learning that is individualised and holistic to ensure our students become valued and contributing members of the community. The name of our school is extremely important to us as it is the Woi-wurrung word of the Wurundjeri people meaning ‘us’. We work together, in partnership, supporting our students as a team. We know that our students benefit from the efforts, expertise, and commitment from all of ‘US’ - inclusive of family, educators, and community.

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E: leanne.sinnadurai@education.vic.gov.au

WAYI SCHOOL 1200 Aitken Boulevard, Craigieburn, 3064 Phone 03 7300 6600 | Wayi.School@education.vic.gov.au

PARADE COLLEGE Bundoora Campus, 1436 Plenty Road, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083 Preston Campus, 8 Clifton Grove, Preston, Victoria, 3072 Phone 03 9468 3300 | www.parade.vic.edu.au | enquiries1@parade.vic.edu.au

Timothy Cottrell Discover Lalor North Secondary College and meet its new Principal and team at 6pm on 4th of April. As I approach the end of my first year as Principal of our wonderful college, I find myself increasingly proud of our community’s achievements. With enrolments continuing to grow across all year levels, our grounds looking very beautiful and the great endeavour of our students – both in their studies and in extra-curricular areas - everywhere evident, we can’t help but feel excited for the years ahead. Our dedicated staff continue to work hard every day to bring every possible opportunity to our students to enjoy success. We thank them, and we celebrate the continuous learning of our students.

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Currently many prospective new families are contacting us about year 7 in 2024, and it is a great pleasure to share with them the range of innovations in learning planned for the college. Should anyone in our community know of families seeking a fine education for their children, please encourage them to contact the college to find out more or to enjoy a tour. It is pleasing also to note the many families of grade six children who continue to express interest in our new range of scholarships across the curriculum for 2024. Our information evening – the 4th of the 4th at 6.00pm – , I hope to personally greet many families on this occasion. Please see the Lalor North Secondary College website to book into this exciting information session.

LALOR NORTH SECONDARY COLLEGE 114 Childs Road Epping Vic 3076 Phone (03) 9401 3888 | lalor.north.sc@education.vic.gov.au | www.lalornthsc.vic.edu.au 202206151458_1-AV25-22

Tuesday, 28 March, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MY PLACE Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) volunteer and Mill Park local Kylie Van Grondelle, tells Millicent Spencer about her unique role as a volunteer at the shelter. team are all well connected on social media and the feeling of watching a sad, hurt or sick animal go ahead in leaps and bounds before going to their loving forever home is second to none! I also love the team at the shelter everyone is approachable, from the vollies to reception, vet staff, and the CEO. It’s a great little community.

What suburb do you live in, and what do you like most about it? I have lived in Mill Park for the past 18 years. In that time there has been so much change that I don’t feel it’s considered an outer suburb any longer. Everything is close by, schools, shopping, medical, and recreation. I also work five minutes from home which is never a bad thing!

What do you get out of volunteering that you might not get in a job? It’s the satisfaction of knowing there are like-minded people out there who are all striving to make a difference to the lives of animals regardless of getting paid or not; plus all the cuddles and pats you can dish out!

What is your connection to Melbourne’s north-west? My partner grew up in this area and after moving from Geelong, I was attending university in Melbourne, so it just made sense to buy a home here. We also have family and friends close by which is very important to us.

When you’re not volunteering what do you do? I’m an avid reader (mostly fiction but don’t mind the occasional biography) and love hot yoga. I’m also currently study to become a certified Canine Remedial Massage Therapist. (Damjan Janevski) 317323_01

Tell us a bit more about what you do at SCAR? I have been a volunteer with Second Chance Animal Rescue for almost five years and a foster carer for the past 12 months. Prior to Covid, I worked a regular shift at the shelter which involved cleaning kennels and cat rooms, doing laundry plus playing/walking with the resident cats and dogs. During Covid I began full time work again, so unfortunately I had to stop my regular weekday shifts but was able to go in each Saturday to assist with the newest initiative, the Pet Pantry. This was a great free pet food program that allowed struggling residents of the North-West the opportunity to provide for their fur babies during those financially insecure few years. Since Pet Pantry wrapped up, I now volunteer at a few fundraising events throughout the year and a year ago joined the foster care program. We have two cats and

a dog of our own, but I wanted to bring the experience home to my kids so that they could see the benefits of helping stray, abandoned or surrendered animals. Currently we have a Queen who recently gave birth to six beautiful kittens, and it has been amazing an amazing

thing to witness. What do you like the most about volunteering at the SCAR? The Happy Home Tales! As well as my own personal fostering experiences, the SCAR

Where is your favourite local place to spend time? It’s hard to pick just one as there are quite a few lovely cafes around this area however if I can find a good coffee, I will go back! Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you… I’m an open book and wear my heart on my sleeve! If there’s something people don’t know about me, it’s because they never asked! To volunteer at SCAR visit: https:// secondcha ncea nima lrescue.com.au/ how-you-can-help/volunteer/

Francis Boulevard closed at Sunbury Road Detours in place from 11 April to mid-May

Jithmi Rathnayake celebrates Harmony Day at the badge making workshop. (Damjan Janevski) 324941_05

We’re upgrading Sunbury Road to make your journey safer and more reliable by installing traffic lights on Francis Boulevard.

Learning in harmony

6050

Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

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From 11 April to mid-May, Francis Boulevard will be closed at Sunbury Road. Local detours will be in place so please allow extra time.

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

Students from Melbourne Polytechnic ran workshops at the Harmony Week Festival in a celebration of culture and diversity. Jithmi Rathnayake is a student studying English as an additional language at Melbourne Polytechnic. She participated in the festival by running a badge design workshop that enabled students to share their culture with others. “We shared with others the meaning behind the colours and symbols of our country flag,” she said. “Students had the opportunity to design their own badge with their country flag and learn how to say ‘hello’ in their language. “Harmony day is important to me because it’s all about being inclusive and sharing my culture and learning about other people’s cultures.” Student engagement officer Anh Pham said

Harmony Day is an important reminder to acknowledge the contributions migrants have in our community. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate all the different cultures that make us who we are,” she said. “This year, we worked with our Young Adult Migrant English Course students and Adult Migrant English Program students to manage six cultural workshops which allowed them to create a sense of belonging, respect and inclusion in the school and community by bringing people together to reflect, discuss and acknowledge everyone’s identity.” Hannah Hammoud

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Residential waste fee voted in By Zoe Moffatt Hume council has voted to introduce a flat-fee for waste services at residential properties, with a decision on commercial and industrial properties moved to a later meeting. In the meeting on Tuesday, March 14, it was decided a flat-fee methodology would be used when the waste services charge is implemented in the 2023-24 financial year. Cr Carly Moore said the flat-fee model ensures residents will pay the same irrespective

of their property size. “For me, it means that if our residents are receiving exactly the same service then they should be paying exactly the same amount,” she said. The council decided to separate the decision on the waste fee for commercial and industrial properties after it was discussed how much these properties would be charged under the capital improved value (CIV) method originally proposed by council officers. Cr Naim Kurt said under the CIV model,

the highest valued commercial and industrial property in Hume would pay $70,000 per year in public waste fee. “The highest [rate paying property] in Hume is a commercial property, which lists at $225 million. And so under the CIV model for a public waste fee, they’ll be paying $70,000 per year in public waste fee,” he said. “If we move to a flat base model, they’ll be paying $214.” A decision will be made at a future meeting on how commercial and industrial property will be charged for waste services.

Cr Karen Sherry said the waste services charge only achieves cost recovery and does not generate a surplus or profit for council. She said council has faced increased costs delivering waste and resource recovery driven by changes including the China Sword Policy and the Victorian Government’s Municipal and Industrial waste levy. “The lovely [Environment Protection Authority] levy which has gone right up, which has been passed on to us in the usual cost shifting fashion,” Cr Sherry said.

Business is the whole package Sustainable packaging manufacturer PACKQUEEN is one of 25 Victorian finalists in the 2023 Telstra Best of Business Awards, which are held to recognise the achievements of small to medium-sized businesses. The Thomastown-based manufacturer is one of four Victorian finalists in the Promoting Sustainability category, which celebrates the achievements of businesses that are driving sustainable change within their individual industries for a cleaner and healthier planet. PACKQUEEN has been manufacturing postage boxes and bags, food and wine packaging, gift boxes and packaging filler, including providing custom printing, for businesses Australia-wide from its Melbourne factory for the past 15 years. It is one of the largest suppliers of standardised packaging in Australia and currently employs 12 staff. This year, PACKQUEEN collaborated with One Tree Planted, ensuring one tree is planted

for every packaging order completed, to help customers further reduce their environmental impact. PACKQUEEN owner Monique Samara says sustainability can no longer “be swept under the rug”. “We all have a responsibility to do our bit to change our ways and become more environmentally aware. Small changes can and do make a difference and choosing sustainable products that are recyclable, reusable or compostable benefits our environment hugely,” Ms Samara said. “At PACKQUEEN, we have always produced sustainable products since the start. We use 100% recyclable materials and we recycle all of our off-cuts during the production process. This has been at the core of what we did when we first opened. We feel it is our responsibility now to educate other businesses and provide them more information on sustainable

packaging.” Ms Samara is a mum to 11-year-old son Oden and 6-year-old daughter Zoe and says her love of packaging came from working with her grandparents in their antique store, where she learned to package items for customers, including gift packing. In the early days of the COVID pandemic in 2020, she pivoted her packaging business to manufacture face shields to meet the shortfall for Australia’s frontline workers, particularly those in the aged care sector. “To be narrowed down to one of 25 Victorian finalists from a pool of 20,000 plus nominations nationally for the Telstra Best of Business Awards is beyond humbling! To make it all the way through to the finals was such amazing recognition for the whole team.” PACKQUEEN owner Monique Samara. (Supplied)

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The rhino calf was the first born at the zoo in almost a decade.

JANUARY 26, 2021 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

(Supplied)

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School journey starts Twins Avinoor and Parinoor are eagerly counting down the days until school starts. The sisters are among 168 preps starting at Hume Anglican Grammar next week, with 84 enrolled at each of the school’s two campuses at Mt Ridley and Donnybrook. Schools across Hume and Whittlesea will begin welcoming their 2021 prep pupils from Thursday. This week will also mark the opening of three new primary schools in Hume and Whittlesea. Mickleham’s Gaayip-Yagila Primary School, Greenvale’s Keelonith Primary School and Wollert’s Edgars Creek Primary School will all open their doors for the first time. They are among eight new schools to open in Hume and Whittlesea over the next four years, with Kalkallo Commons Primary School, Greenvale Secondary College, Wollert East Primary School and a Catholic primary school in Mickleham scheduled to open in 2022. A Catholic primary school in Greenvale is expected to open in 2023.

Laura Michell

Airport bid for more power Melbourne Airport has asked the state government to give it more power to intervene in developments which could impact aircraft operations or lead to noise complaints. Airport operators Australia Pacific Airports (Melbourne) has made a submission to the state government’s Melbourne Airport Environs Safeguarding Committee, which was set up to advise the planning minister on improvements to the planning provisions safeguarding the airport. In its submission, Melbourne Airport called for the government to designate it as a referral authority, meaning applicants would formally be required to consult with the airport on any

developments in the surrounding area. The submission stated that the airport is currently notified of planning permit applications as though it were a “third-party objector”. “Unlike a determining or even recommending referral authority, its position on any application has no statutory significance,” the submission stated. The submission cited recent applications and approvals which had the potential to generate a large number of noise complaints or impact on aircraft operations, including housing development in Phillip Street, Dallas, and a waste to energy facility proposed for Craigieburn. It stated the airport receives about 20 noise complaints per month – a figure the airport says will rise in the coming years given the

number of people now living in areas impacted by aircraft noise. Operators fear that if they are not granted a greater say in nearby developments, the airport could face constraints on its operations, such as a curfew or a reduction in airspace. “Constraints such as restrictions on flight paths, aircraft volumes (even during daylight hours) and aircraft types are all potential risks to the flexibility that Melbourne Airport’s operations presently enjoy,” the submission states. “The introduction of any such restrictions would have significant and far-reaching consequences for both Melbourne Airport, and its contribution to the state economy.” Melbourne Airport chief financial officer Grant Devonport said that if approved, referral

authority status would ensure the airport is consulted from the outset on developments subject to noise impacts, and those that have the potential to impact on aircraft operations. A Hume council submission to the inquiry stated the council “remains committed to protecting Melbourne Airport’s 24-hour curfew free operation”. It said meeting the needs of the general population growth of Melbourne, Hume and other aircraft noise-affected municipalities, has been a source of tension at the planning permit stage. “How to strike an appropriate balance between facilitating community needs and expectations against protecting the operations of Melbourne Airport is a difficult question that needs to be given very careful consideration.”

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pending and due in two weeks. First-time mother Kipenzi gave birth just before 4am on Tuesday March 21 following a 16-month pregnancy. Following the birth, keepers observed an absence of healthy bonding, with the calf not thriving as expected during the important first hours of infancy. After consultation with the zoo’s veterinary team, the calf was brought to the zoo’s vet clinic for medical checks and supplementary feeding. The calf was being provided with around-the-clock feeds of colostrum and milk obtained from its mother and was in the process of being reintroduced to mum. However, remained under veterinary care during the critical early days. “We know this news will bring sadness to our zoo community, and our kind thoughts are with them and all who cared for this precious calf, and particularly with our vet and keeping teams who worked tirelessly to care for the calf over the past five days,” Dr Pilgrim said.

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The Southern white rhino calf born last week at Werribee Open Range Zoo has died from internal injuries sustained after her birth. The five-day-old female calf suffered a neurological episode just before midnight Saturday, followed by cardiac arrest. Zoo veterinary staff were unable to resuscitate her.Werribee Open Range Zoo director Mark Pilgrim said staff were devastated but had done an excellent job in caring for the newborn during these first critical days. “The death of any animal is challenging for all involved, but we can find comfort in the knowledge that every action was taken to ensure the calf was receiving the best care possible,” Dr Pilgrim said. A necropsy conducted at the University of Melbourne veterinarian school confirmed the calf sustained a broken scapula, attributable to interactions with her mother in the immediate hours post-birth. It’s suspected blood clots at the fracture site led to the neurological signs and cardiac arrest. Histopathology results are

(Damjan Janevski) 225262_01

Zoo staff mourn rhino calf

JANUARY 26, 2021 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A history of murder and madness A Moorabool historian has spent half of the last century collating information about the history of Blackwood, a town near the north-west corner for the Lerderderg State Park. Margot Hitchcock has documented a rich history of an early Victorian mining town, but old newspaper documents also uncovered a striking tale of madness and murder that Ms Hitchcock has dubbed “The Billy Pincombe Tragedy”, as Liam McNally discovers.

“S

he kept repeating the biblical injunction, ‘If thy right hand offends thee, cut it off – my right hand hath offended me.’ “She was found in the yard later with an axe in her left hand and her right hand severed at the wrist.” This is how The Leader newspaper described an incident involving Annie Pincombe in an article from over 100 years ago. Ms Pincombe was a resident of Blackwood as the town was winding down from the gold-mining boom it was built on. In 1906 she was incarcerated at a nearby “lunatic asylum”. Her husband, gold-miner Billy Pincombe, blamed the local preacher Harold Robinson, for his wife’s diagnosis of “religious mania”. At noon on Friday June 19, 1908, Mr Robinson was pacing on the verandah of his vicarage next to All Saints Anglican Church in Blackwood reading a religious text – On Faith and the Creed by C.A. Heurtley.

‘‘

I thought it was my job to let it be known what happened, to keep our - Margot Hitchcock history alive

’’

All the while, Mr Pincombe, a “crack shot” of the Blackwood Rifle Club, lay on his bed in his house opposite, with his gun aimed through a partially opened window. When Mr Pincombe let his shot fly, the bullet pierced the preacher’s book and came to rest in his heart. Mr Robinson died reading St Augustine’s Sermon to Catechumens, containing the prophetic lines of the “quick and the dead... He doth judge both, giving to each their due reward”. Shortly after a shootout occurred between Mr Picombe and police constable Charles Saunders. The encounter left the constable with a bullet wound in his shoulder, and Mr Pincombe was shot in the head. Mr Pincombe died of his wound six days later on June 25, 1908. On the same day as Mr Pincombe’s death The Age reported on the “exceptional courage” of the police officer “in confronting a man such as Mr Pincombe”, and on July 10 constable Suanders received a Valour Medal and £50. This dramatic sequence of events is the centre of a book by Blackwood historian Margot Hitchcock, The Billy Pincombe Tragedy, who said she felt it was “a story that had to be told”. “It’s like Captain Moonlite, Ned Kelly, All these stories if they’re not told, they’re lost in time. I thought it was my job to let it be known what happened, to keep our history alive,” she said. Ms Hitchcock’s connection to Blackwood began with her holidaying at a house her grandfather had built there in 1929. In 1973 Ms Hitchcock was a founding member of the Blackwood Historical Society that converted the old Blackwood police stables into the Police Stable Museum. On March 11 the historical society, which Ms Hitchcock is the last original member of, celebrated its 50th anniversary. The museum opened to the public for its birthday, and displayed The Billy Pincombe Tragedy, along with a surviving artefact from the episode – the preacher’s religious text with a bullet hole in its centre. Ms Hitchcock, who is now 83 years old, said she is still “passionate” about her role as Blackwood’s historian. She said the story of Blackwood is one of a 12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

Main: Blackwood Historical Society secretary Elizabeth Hall. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 325268

Left: Margot Hitchcock at the 2014 launch of her book in the Blackwood Museum with Stuart Duff (left), who launched the book, and Margot’s son Philip Hitchcock. (Supplied) Below: The book that preacher Harold Robinson was holding when he was shot dead in Blackwood in 1908.

19th century gold rush town that has slowly transitioned into a luscious holiday destination, with a “tremendous community” keeping it going at its core. “I just love the history of the area … I’m on my computer every day,” she said. Ms Hitchcock said she met a man at the historical society’s 50th anniversary who said his great, great grandfather, Henry Lawson, lived in Blackwood. Ms Hitchcock was able to find that Mr Lawson died in Blackwood in 1855 and has one of the oldest headstones in the town, and was able to direct the grandson to his ancestors gravesite. “It’s exciting, when I find something that’s

rewarding or something that’s interesting to somebody else, I feel really happy that I can do that,” she said. “I had a stroke 14 years ago and when I was in rehab I asked to use their computer, and I think that it’s what got my brain going again, because it made me think.” Ms Hitchock has another book, a 700 page epic titled Blackwood History and Pioneers. She said she is unsure how she is going to publish it, but wants the story told. “I don’t want it to be not published when I’m gone, I want it to be there for the people to know all the history I’ve researched,” she said. The display Tragedy of Billy Pincombe Display will be available to the public over

Easter weekend during the Blackwood Woodchop and Easter Carnival. The Blackwood Historical Society will be holding stalls on Saturday, April 9, and opening the Police Stable Museum, with the Pincombe display, on Sunday, April 10, from 10am to 1pm. Historical society secretary Elizabeth Hall said getting up close to the bullet-holed book is “surreal”. “It’s intriguing just to think that something like that happened in Blackwood,” she said. “Blackwood is a lovely place to come to, and it has got so much history, and we really need to keep this history going, we don’t want to shut it away.”

FEATURING ... MY BUSINESS

Advertising feature

RG Restaurants celebrate a new KFC for Craigieburn The north will soon welcome a brand-new restauran,t with the grand opening of KFC Craigieburn East. There will be discounted go buckets, merch giveaways and a ribbon cutting ceremony. The date is still to be announced so keep your eyes peeled! This is a special occasion for the Retzos family as they are opening their 60th restaurant. The Retzos family, operating RG Restaurants, have been specialising in KFC for over 30 years. The group takes pride in a few regional Victorian areas and many northern and western Melbourne suburbs in which their stores are located. They now provide 3500 plus jobs to Victorians and stive to continue growing and offering new and exciting opportunities to local communities. In the processes of preparing for the opening, restaurant manager Bec and her two assistant managers, Matilda and Aleyna, have worked tirelessly and exceptionally, with special mention of their area coach, Carmel, who has been an integral part of KFC in the northern suburbs for 17 years. The team has recruited 60 staff from the local area who have trained at nearby restaurants in the north. This restaurant will be a welcome addition to the existing Craigieburn store which has been booming for four years and remained strong throughout COVID-19. The new store will provide added convenience for those living at the eastern end of Craigieburn, fulfilling residents’ fried chicken cravings as well as an easy stop off for traffic travelling the Hume Highway. The team look forward to inviting customers to this exciting new store located at 650 Hume Highway, Craigieburn.

The new Craigieburn restaurant is set to open soon.

Toys and Costumes

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Order online now!

aussietoysonline.com.au Tuesday, 28 March, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13

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FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

9 years ago

7 years ago

5 years ago

1 year ago

March 25, 2014

March 22, 2016

March 27, 2018

March 22, 2022

Super A-Mart storeman Joe Etimani, of Craigieburn, is one of about 35 Somerton warehouse staff who have been locked out for two weeks, with negotiations over a pay rise bogged down in legal action.

Hume has experienced a 43 per cent hike in gun crime in 12 months, according to the Crime Statistics Agency.

Ice-related ambulance call-outs in Hume have surged in recent years, with paramedics attending to more than 100 patients in 2016-17.

Westmeadows residents are calling for Hume council or the state government to declare that “buffer land” between the closed Tullamarine landfill and existing houses can never be built on, after plans to build an industrial and residential precinct on the site were knocked back.

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Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark salescareers@starnewsgroup.com.au

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14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

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COMMUNITY

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

Creative arts and fitness Banksia Gardens Community Services is running yoga and jewellery making classes every Tuesday. ■ 9309 8531

Craft and Conversation Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group from 1-3pm and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends. ■ humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association.The lunch will be held every Wednesday from 11.30am-1pm at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. ■ www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Roxburgh-Park-Homestead-Communityand-Learning-CentreWeekly-CommunityLunch-317411976767

Tai Chi for health Come along to Homestead Community and Learning Centre in Roxburgh Park for a lesson in tai chi, a low impact exercise program to build strength. Everyone is welcome. It’ll be held every Monday from 10.30-11.30am. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Tai-Chi-for-Health-317365848797

This week’s photographers choice is Kiara, 10, and Bridie, 8, enjoying the sunflowers at Bolwarrah Springs. (Damjan Janevski) 324710_01

Adult education Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills. ■ 9309 8531

at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. ■ www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Roxburgh-Park-Homestead-Communityand-Learning-CentreWeekly-CommunityLunch-317411976767

Senior citizens meet The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park. ■ Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead Walking Group Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesday’s for a 30–45 minute walk. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Homestead-WalkingGroup-493400784027

Farmers and makers market The South Morang Farmers and Makers Market, which supports local farmers, artisans and businesses, is on at the Civic Centre car park, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang, on the third Saturday of the month, from 9am to 1pm. ■ 9217 2346

Women’s Only Swimming Women only swimming program provides a place where women can feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying the benefits of the pools, spa, steam room and sauna. Sessions are held each Sunday. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Womens-Only-Swimming-BroadmeadowsAquatic-and-Leisure-Centre

Whittlesea Monday Market Located at the Whittlesea Showgrounds and open from 8am to 1pm every Monday, the community run Whittlesea Monday Market is your destination for delicious food and great shopping that supports local farmers, craftspeople and stallholders. ■ https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/artsevents-recreation/things-to-see-and-do/ events/whittlesea-monday-market-20march/

Free healthy lifestyle programs In partnership with Monash University, Whittlesea council are seeking children aged 7-13 who are above healthy weight to support them to improve their eating and activity habits. Until Friday, July 7. ■ Brooke McDonald, 1300 822 953

them to an activity/ social event or outing and then taking them back home. Our clients are older people and people with disabilities. DPV Health has friendly and supportive staff, training opportunities, volunteer recognition and special volunteer celebrations. ■ 0417 351 220

Hume Harmony Week Celebration The Hume Interfaith Network invites the Hume community to celebrate harmony through sport. This is a free community event. All ages and abilities are welcome. The event will be held on Saturday, April 1 at the Arena Recreation Reserve, 175 James Mirams Drive, Roxburgh Park. ■ Celia Chang celiach@hume.vic.gov.au

DPV Health Community The DPV Health Community Phone Connect Program is a free community service for older people and people with disability, living on their own in the Hume and Whittlesea regions. Through the Community Connect Program, you will receive regular phone calls from a volunteer to check that you are safe, secure and well. ■ 8301 8863

Mill Park Library Carer Group

To get rid of your unwanted small household electrical items in an environmentally friendly way, bring them to this free E-waste collection event. Running on Wednesday, April 5 from 11am-1pm at the car park at Partridge Recreation Reserve, 40-60 Partridge Street in Lalor. ■ Kate Lansbury, 9401 0579

Are you a Carer - here is your opportunity to connect with carers in your area, get together and have a chat, share stories, maybe a little art/craft occasionally, and support one another over a cup of tea/ coffee. First Group - Every Wednesday 1.30-3pm at the Bluestone School House, 879 Plenty Road, South Morang. Second Group - Each fortnight, Thursdays 1.30-3pm at the Mill Park Library. All Carers welcome. ■ 0401 673 842

Volunteer minibus drivers required

Art and Craft Group Exhibition

No special licence required, commitment time is one day a week 9am-3pm. The role involves supporting staff in picking up clients from their homes and taking

The Phoenix Macedon Ranges Art and Craft Group Exhibition and Sale. Come and see the exquisite art and craft work and speak to the artists who created them.

Lalor e-waste collection event

The exhibition and sale will run on April, 1 at 10am to 4pm, and April, 2 at 9am to 3pm at the Old Gisborne Court House (4 Hamilton Street, Gisborne). All items are handcrafted and made locally by their artists. Original works are on display and for sale and entry is free. The group is also open to new members. ■ Kay, 9744 2646

Sunbury Art Society The Sunbury Art Society meets each Friday and Saturday from 10am to 3pm up at the Boilerhouse, Jackson’s Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people. We are a happy and friendly bunch who are always willing to help and support each other. Newcomers and beginners most welcome. ■ Ken, 0407 062 568 or Robyn, 0438 383 639

Lego Club Calling all Lego builders! This drop in session is for primary school age children, Wednesdays 3.30pm-5pm during school term. Children must have a caregiver with them at all times, caregiver participation is welcomed. Lego, tea and coffee are provided. Gold coin appreciated. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Ellizabeth Drive Sunbury. ■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Creative Arts Exhibition CWA Central Highlands Group welcomes members, friends, family and the community to visit them and see their skills and competitive spirit on show across 222 entry categories. The exhibition will take place at the Mechanic’s Institute in Lancefield on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 April, with the announcement of winners and presentation of trophies will take place at 1.30pm on the Sunday. Entry to the Exhibition is $5, with children under 16 free.

Tuesday, 28 March, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES 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

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

5 1 4 3

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

People from Bagdad, Mosul etc. (6) Written words (8) Grub (5) Used to restrain criminals (9) Genius plural (5) Buttress (9) Plant yielding fragrant oil (8) Asserts the truth of it (6) Country of mounties (6) Confirming (8) From Oslo, e.g. (9) 'I don’t know' (colloq) (5) Particular events (9) Japanese camera company (5) Prize (8) Slows (6)

1 4 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 18 23 24 26 27 28 29

No. 126

Against the law (7) Brother of Moses (Biblical) (5) From Rome or Florence (7) Sour (6) Discreet (7) Egyptian queen (9) Siblings (7) Steed (5) Anatomical chamber of the heart (9) Monarch’s spouse (7) Clothes (7) Tips (5) Rhythm (7) Reasons (7) Diligence (6) Finnish phone maker (5)

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 10 14 16 17 19 20 21 22 25

DECODER

No. 126

5 2

6 9 4

6 5 9 4 4 5

3 8 4

5 6 2 1 hard

6 1 2 6 8

9 4 1 8 1 9

5 3

10 11 12 13

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

Q V

2 6

L T C P A U Y H B S I QV

3 LETTERS ALE ARE AWE DUO DYE EEL EKE ERA GNU HER HUH IDS LSD MEN NET NUN OUT PRO SUE TIP TOE TOO VAN VIE

ARENA AREN’T ARISE AROMA ASSET AURAL AWAKE AWARE CAPER CARTS CHAPS COURT EDGED EERIE ELITE ELUDE ENEMA ERODE HALLS LEADS LEAPT MEDIA

Today’s Aim: 17 words: Good 25 words: Very good

No. 126 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

L V E

R A P E I N E N S K E D

16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

4 LETTERS BETS BOOS CAME CASE CATS GENT HEED LADE LESS PASS SNAP SOUP SWAN WEED 5 LETTERS ALERT APPLE

MELON OPTIC PACES PANDA PAPAS PAPER PATES PIPES RATES RENTS ROSES SANDY SECTS SELLS SLATE SLOPE STALL START SUAVE TEENS THETA TREAD

TWINE USERS VENUE WIPER 6 LETTERS SERVED SERVER SPURTS UPROAR

7 LETTERS APPLAUD ARSENAL ENTAILS INTENSE REDHEAD RORTING 8 LETTERS DETERRED DWINDLES RELENTED TRIALLED

31-03-23

N E E R

achy, ARCHETYPE, chary, cheery, creepy, crypt, cypher, earthy, eatery, eyre, harpy, hearty, party, patchy, payee, payer, peachy, pray, preachy, prey, pyre, racy, repay, retype, teary, therapy, they, tray, trey, type, tyre, yacht, yachter, year

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

G L A

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

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

E E

A I

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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”.

34 words: Excellent

hard

medium

9-LETTER WORD

No. 126

6 8 $ 9 (

N O D F MW X K J G Z E R

2 9 3 6 9 5 easy

5x5

1 8 7 9 6 4

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

Which storyteller is the fable The Tortoise and the Hare attributed to?

Who directed the films Boyz n the Hood and Higher Learning?

In which decade was The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare written?

The Ganges river, Meghna river and Brahmaputra river all flow into which bay?

What was Madonna’s (pictured) seventh studio album, released in the US on March 3, 1998?

In what year did Barack Obama become president?

According to NASA, how many confirmed moons does Jupiter have?

How many teams play in the Australian Football League?

Which band released the albums Adrenaline and Around the Fur?

10 Gangkhar Puensum is the highest mountain in which landlocked Asian country?

ANSWERS: 1. Aesop 2. 1590s 3. Ray of Light 4. 95 5. 18 6. Deftones 7. John Singleton 8. Bay of Bengal 9. 2009 10. Bhutan

No. 126

3 $ & ( 6 & $ 5 7 6 & + $ 3 6 $: $ . ( $ / ( 5 7 $ 8 5 $ / 3 $ 3 ( 5 0 ( ' , $ 7 + ( 7 $ $ 5 ( 9 , ( + $ / / 6 1 ( 7 6 ( / / 6 & $ 6 ( 6 ( 5 9 ( ' $ 5 6 ( 1 $ / ' 8 2 6 : $ 1 / $ ' ( 6 8 $ 9 ( 6 2 8 3 ' ( 7 ( 5 5 ( ' 7 , 3 5 2 5 7 , 1 * $ 3 3 / $ 8 ' % 2 2 6 6 8 ( 5 ( / ( 1 7 ( ' 7 5 ( $ ' : ( ( ' + ( ( ' ' < ( , 1 7 ( 1 6 ( / ( 6 6 5 ( 1 7 6 8 3 5 2 $ 5 ( ( / 3 $ 1 ' $ * 1 8 3 5 2 $ 5 2 0 $ ( / , 7 ( 5 $ 7 ( 6 0 ( / 2 1 7 : , 1 ( 3 , 3 ( 6 $ 6 6 ( 7 6 ( & 7 6 7 ( ( 1 6

SUDOKU

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CLASSIFIEDS EARLY DEADLINES EASTER Classiﬁed deadlines for Tuesday, 11th April issue of the Northern Star Weekly as follows:

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Sydney Kings' Xavier Cooks made his NBA debut for which team just days after winning the NBL title?

3. Marcus Stoinis and Aaron Finch are among the Australian cricket stars signed to play in which new league in July?

12. Eighteen-year-old tennis star Carlos Alcaraz defeated which player to win the 2023 Indian Wells tournament?

2. Reigning premiers Geelong were beaten by how many points in their round one game against Collingwood?

4. In skateboarding, what is it called when you pop the tail of the board off the ground and get air?

13. Which F1 racer recently spoke out about being hesitant to race in Saudi Arabia?

5. Melbourne United captain Chris Goulding is currently playing basketball in which country?

14. In which year was the sports comedy soccer film Bend it Like Beckham released?

6. Who won the Australian Open women's singles title in 2014? 7. North Melbourne's Nick Larkey kicked how many goals in the Kangaroos' opening game of the AFL season? 8. Who won the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix? 9. Which recently retired Australian men's cricketer played 22 years of state cricket? 10. The Wests Tigers nearly staged a comeback in their game against the Bulldogs when they scored how many tries in four minutes? 11. Which AFL teams faced off in a nail-biting draw in round one?

Marcus Stoinis

15. What is the sports term for teams playing against each other who dislike each other? 16. Which professional soccer team did Englishman Joe Lolley play for prior to joining Sydney FC? 17. In pickleball, what is the two metre space on each side of the net where players aren’t allowed to hit a volley return more commonly referred to as? 18. The film Air, set to be released in April 2023, centres around which NBA star?

21. Which two teams qualified to face off in the 2023 WNBL Grand Final Series? 22. Who defended his UFC Welterweight Championship title by defeating Nigerian mixed martial artist Kamaru Usman at UFC 286?

28. The Final Four stage of the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament is set to be held in which US city?

23. After every victory, which NBA team launches a purple beam of light from the roof of their arena up into the sky?

29. Which horse won the 2023 All-Star Mile? 30. Which college team was ranked number one in the preseason, but did not qualify for the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament?

24. Which national team defeated Australia 4-3 in the quarterfinals of the 2023 World Baseball Classic?

19. What are the Brisbane Lions’ team colours?

27. Which Tasmania-born former Australian captain retired from cricket after playing 35 Tests and 35 One Day Internationals?

25. Which horse won the 2023 Golden Slipper Stakes?

20. Which Formula 1 legend died in February this year, at the age of 80?

26. Harry Sheezel plays for which AFL club?

Carlos Alcaraz 3103

1. Washington Wizards 2. 22 points 3. Major League Cricket in America 4. An ollie 5. France, for Paris Basketball 6. Li Na 7. Six 8. Sergio Perez 9. Shaun Marsh 10. Three 11. Richmond Tigers and Carlton Blues 12. Daniil Medvedev 13. Lewis Hamilton 14. 2002 15. Grudge match 16. Nottingham Forest 17. The kitchen 18. Michael Jordan 19. Maroon, blue, and gold. 20. Jean-Pierre Jabouille 21. Townsville Fire and Southside Flyers 22. Leon Edwards 23. Sacramento Kings 24. Cuba 25. Shinzo 26. North Melbourne 27. Tim Paine 28. Houston, Texas 29. Mr Brightside 30. North Carolina Public Notices and Event

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT (Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987) The property affected by the application is located at: 24 Main Street THOMASTOWN

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ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE 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

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT (Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987) The property affected by the application is located at: 14 Ambridge Street MERNDA The application is for a permit for: Variation of restrictive covenant PS640949J (Restriction No. 1) to allow for the construction of an outbuilding outside of the approved building envelope. The applicant for the permit is: T Kotsandis You may look at the application and any documents that support the application on the City of Whittlesea website via the following link https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ building-planning-development/planning/advertising/ The application reference number is: PLN-40633 You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the ofﬁce of the responsible authority: City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang. This can be done during the ofﬁce hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. This service is free of charge. Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected. The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 11 April 2023. If you object, the responsible authority will inform you of its decision. For information regarding access to Planning documents relating to this application please contact Council’s Building and Planning Department on 9217 2259.

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MOTOR

The new Nissan Pathfinder discovers new ways to SUV opponents. (Pictures: Supplied)

Nissan wagon finds its own path By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring How things change. Take the Nissan Pathfinder, for example, that over almost 40 years found its way from being a basic two-door compact wagon, through a big boofy 4x4, to the smart, sophisticated seven (or eight) seater sports utility vehicle of today. Originally designed for the North American market, the initial Pathfinder was the first of the segment to be offered in two-wheel drive guise. The fith generation has landed Down Under with new-found modern design and a stack of high-tech features and safety systems, albeit on a platform and with a V6 engine, developments of the superseded model. The continuous variable transmission has been let behind in favour of a new nine-speed auto. Three variants - ST, Ti and Ti-L - only are on offer in a mix of front and all-wheel drive. Diesel or hybrid options, unlike from rival carmakers such as Hyundai, Kia and Toyota, are not on the cards. Prices have gone up considerably, starting at $54,190, plus on-road costs, for the entry-level ST 2WD model, while the range topper signs off at $77,890 without ORCs. However, where the Pathfinder finds its appeal is the offer of two seating configurations, for seven or eight. The standard three-row set-up is for eight, but stretch to the Ti-L and get into a pair of luxurious leather captain’s chairs mid cabin separated by removable centre console storage. The test vehicle, a Ti 4WD costing $70,030, plus on-roads, came as an eight-seater with a 60:40 split second-row reclining bench. Access to the back twin seats is a doddle, even for grown-ups, with a one-touch button automatically flipping and folding the second row out of the way. All Pathfinders are covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty with round-the-clock roadside assistance for the same period.

Styling At more than five metres long the new Pathfinder has had its dated hard edges

Safety

smoothed out, replaced by a thoroughly modern SUV-cum-coupe shape able to take up to eight people in comfort. With black side moulding and body coloured door handles and black painted roof, highlights include chrome window surrounds and silver roof rails. The front carries on the Nissan V-Motion theme with a large grille flanked by LED automatic headlamps, daytime running lights and foglamps. Out back are the slimmest LED tail lamps, plus a high-mounted stop light. Each external rear vision mirror incorporates a turn signal. Privacy glass is fitted to second row and rear windows, while 205 litres of luggage space is let with all seats in place and 54 litres under floor, leaving room only for a temporary spare wheel.

The Ti features front parking sensors, a surround-view monitor and Nissan’s ProPilot semi-autonomous driver assist system that connects the adaptive cruise control with stop / start and lane keeping aid. Other features include autonomous emergency braking with junction, pedestrian and cyclist detection, rear AEB, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot warning and intelligent blind spot intervention, rear seat alert, a driver alert, traffic sign recognition and trailer sway control. Front seat airbags, side airbags (driver and passenger, second row outboard), front row far side airbag (centre), side curtain airbags (all rows) all helped the SUV earn a five-star safety rating recently.

Driving Interior Quality fit and finish are trademarks of the cabin. Black leather-accented seat and door trim is joined by a similar set-up steering wheel, the latter with tilt and telescopic adjustment. Up front is a 10-way power driver seat and six-way manual passenger seat. The front and second row outboard positions are heated. Child restraint anchorages with second row outboard seats with ISOFIX and tether, centre seat with tether and third row let side with ISOFIX and tether. The tri-zone climate control air-con comes with second and third row air vents.

Infotainment A 7-inch TFT Advanced Drive-Assist Display instrument cluster is joined by a 10.8-inch head-up and 9-inch touchscreen display with satellite navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto are backed up by a wireless smartphone charger, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and voice recognition. A Bose 13-speaker premium audio system includes dual subwoofer for AM / FM radio, DAB+ digital radio. USB-A and USB-C points feature throughout the cabin.

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Nissan dealer for drive-away prices.

Remote engine start has the Pathfinder firing up for a quick-ish getaway, with cabin insulation keeping the engine, wind and road noise at bay. Shit-by-wire technology is aimed at faster, smoother gearshits. Nissan claims a 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway fuel cycle. The test vehicle recorded 13-plus litres per 100 kilometres in the city and suburbs and 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road. Nissan engineers have fine-tuned the steering for a sharper response and reworked the suspension for improved levels of damping, increased roll stiffness and wider contact with the road. Overall, the Pathfinder turned in a good performance for such a big unit. Backing up are a range of dial-up drive modes, including Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand, Mud / Rut and Tow.

Engines / transmissions

Summary

Nothing to see here! Under the Pathfinder’s bonnet is the same 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, delivering 202 kW and 340 Nm as before. However, the continuously variable transmission has been given the push in place of a new nine-speed auto. The Pathfinder maintains its 2.7 tonne towing capacity.

No longer basic, neither is it boofy as in previous iterations, the fith-generation Pathfinder is the essence of the large SUV, with quality, comfort and safety to the fore, on and off road. Versatility is the byword, with nothing to match this, except perhaps the Hyundai Palisade.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Pathfinder ST 2WD: $54,190 Pathfinder ST-L 4WD: $61,790 Pathfinder Ti 2WD: $65,910 Pathfinder Ti 4WD: $70,030 Pathfinder Ti-L 4WD: $80,227 SPECIFICATIONS Nissan Pathfinder Ti 3.0L 6-cylinder petrol, 9sp automatic, 4x4 SUV

Tuesday, 28 March, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Summer season grand final joy There’s been grand final fever across Melbourne’s north-west in recent weeks, as the summer sports finish up their seasons. There’s plenty of good stories from across all competitions and here is four of them.

Sunshine Heights under-13 B team. (Supplied)

All-round performance seals win Sunshine Heights’ under-13 B side tasted premiership success in the Western Region Junior Cricket Association Friday north competition. Whilst Deer Park won the toss and batted first it was bowled out for 130 in 25 overs. Deer Park’s leading run scorer, Arjun Upadhyay top scored 37 runs off 33 balls, which included one four and three sixes. Noah Ramsey dismissed Arjun. Noah’s the youngest Ramsey to play with our club, along with his father, Shane and his two older brothers, Zac and Jhett. Noah’s bowling figures were 2-20 off three overs.

Epping’s second XI premiership side.

An emotional win for Epping The premiership success for Epping’s second XI in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association B-grade competition was extra special. Playing in their fifth grand final in seven seasons, the Pingers won their fourth title. This one was extra special as at the beginning of the season the club lost a young man who was one of their best mates. At only 18, Kade Lawry, who was part of the B-grade side, took his own life just before the cricket season, with the players dedicating the season to him. After losing to Diamond Creek during the regular season, the Pingers turned the tables in the grand final. Epping batted first and made 9-147 led by captain Jaedyn Kearney 46 not out and wicketkeeper Shanyn Kearney with 30. The Pingers then restricted Diamond Creek to 112 wickets, with Jordan Wilkins taking 4-27 and Jaedyn Kearney 3-20 to make it a special day for the club.

Sunshine Heights’ second best bowler was Sarim Tamoor who bowled three overs, taking 1-7. Manroop Singh took three outfield catches to help get Deer Park all out. Sunshine Heights got the runs as the sun set, finishing 5-132 off 28 overs. Sarim made 34 not out and Noah 31 not out, both retired and came back in with a 60-odd run partnership. Arlo Mykyta made a handy 14 not out to help guide Heights home. It was an all round team effort to defeat the top side away from home.

Epping’s second XI win was a pretty special one. (Pictures: Supplied)

Altona notches up a perfect season It was the perfect season for Altona in the Western Region Junior Cricket Association under-11 Friday south-east competition. After starting the season with one under-11 team, the A’s split into two teams due to the number of players. One team played in the south-east competition and the other in the club’s Friday east. In the south-east grand final, Altona faced Grand United. Altona batted first making 9-172 with Charlie Loft top scoring with 26. Grand United finished 13-140 in reply off its 20 overs. Alistair Culka took 3-14 off his three overs. In the club’s east competition, there were no finals. The team won eight games for the season. 20 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

Altona Sports second XI. (Supplied)

Back-to-back for Altona Sports Altona Sports’ successful season was capped off with a third senior premiership. After its division 5 side won a premiership, the club’s top side managed to go back-to-back, albeit in different competitions. The second XI made it a hat-trick of wins, winning the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association Barrie Clissold Shield against East Coburg. East Coburg batted first and were set to make a big total before Dean Bryden and

Jono Lang combined to take 8-63 to dismiss East Coburg for 146. Dean Mckensie and Daniel Mulcahy got Altona Sports away to a strong start before East Coburg started to take wickets before Lucas “The Kid” Meirers came in and showed wisdom beyond his years and steered the side to victory to score 8-147 to see Altona Sports home. It was back-to-back wins for the second XI.

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Broncos back in youth as they build for future The future is now for the Hume City Broncos in the Big V women’s state championship. The Broncos have focused on youth this season with the club wanting to build for the future. New coach Tim Devlin said they were pretty excited about what the group could do. Delvin coached the club’s youth league side last season. “Things are going great,” he said. “We are happy the majority of the players have come through the Broadmeadows system. “Some through the youth league and a lot of junior players. Everyone is familiar with each other.” Delvin said they had made a real focus of putting together a squad of local players. While Devlin is new to this role, he has coached all but two of the squad previously. He said it had made the transition into coaching the side easier. Delvin said there were plenty of exciting players to watch this season into the future, Last season’s Victorian youth league championship most valuable player Emma

Povh has made the set up into state champ. Chrisoula Triantafyllopoulos, who was the Victorian youth league leading rebounder, is another to step. She is currently out injured. Oriana-Rose Siamoa was the other youngster that Delvin is excited to see. The Broncos lost their first game of the season, losing to the defending champions Wyndham, 92-66. Import Kayonna Lee top scored with 15 points. Delvin said there was one area that was the difference in the game. “We are a really talented team,” he said. “I think what hurt us on Saturday was the physicality. “The physicality was the next level.” The Broncos had a double header this weekend, facing Camberwell on Saturday afternoon and then the Sunbury Jets on Sunday. It was a tough night against the Dragons. The Dragons won the first half by 12 points, before the Broncos reduced the margin to seven points at the last break.

The Dragons were too strong in the final quarter, winning the match 73-47. Lee top scored with 17 points. On Sunday, it was a better result for the Broncos getting their first win of the season. A 22-12 final quarter gave the Broncos the win, 71-64. Povh top scored with 14 points. Delvin said there were no expectations on this season. “We don’t want to put a ceiling on what we can achieve,” he said. “We want to play the best that we can and don’t want to limit ourselves.” Tara Murray

Emma Povh (Supplied)

Pacers big win

Courtney Strait (bottom right) with her Eagles teammates. (Supplied)

Eagle is Strait to action By Tara Murray New Craigieburn Eagle Courtney Strait had always wanted to play basketball in Australia. But with the COVID-19 pandemic she feared that dream may never come true. But the timing ended up being right for her and the Eagles for this year’s Big V season. It could have quite easily not happened with Strait considering retirement before deciding to join the Eagles. “I came to Craigieburn through a bit of effort and a bit of luck,” she said, “Before I had experience under my belt playing overseas, I emailed a number of teams in Australia just to get my name out there and hopefully create some contacts for the future. “Coach Andrew Seidel, who was working with a different team at the time, responded in the hopes that I could join his team back in 2020. “With COVID restrictions and clubs struggling with funding during the pandemic, unfortunately the opportunity fell through. “Fast forward to 2022, when I signed a contract to play with a team in Spain for the 2022-23 season. “My documentation to obtain a Spanish visa took months when I thought it was going to take weeks – which ended up being too long to join the team. “Following this upsetting news I was deciding whether it was time to hang up my

shoes and retire from basketball. “Then out of the blue, I received an email from Coach Seids – he remembered our email correspondence from years ago and asked if I was interested in coming to play at Craigieburn.” Strait admits to crying happy tears when she officially signed. Strait has played basketball since she was about six-years-old with her Aunt Rendall and her mum some of her biggest influences. After a successful high school career which included Mississippi Valley Conference Player of the Year, Cedar Rapids Metro Player of the Year, First-Team All-State, she was offered a scholarship to play basketball at Truman State University – a Division 2 school in Missouri. She played there for four years and was an all-conference honouree, a 1000-point scorer, and a Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament champion. Strait then travelled and played basketball in England, Croatia, Turkey, Ireland, Germany before landing in Australia. Strait is the first Craigieburn women’s import in a number of years. “I know taking on an import is a big decision – there is so much work done behind the scenes to make it happen,” she said. “Seeing the effort the club has put forth to provide this opportunity for me, in addition to seeing what a supportive, family-type atmosphere they have here, made it an easy

decision to sign on the dotted line. “The club has big goals and I am really looking forward to working with my teammates to achieve those goals. I’m also eager to help with youth camps, meet fans and young players within the club, and make a positive impact overall within the club.” Strait sees herself as a dynamic player who can fill a number of roles, including being a level headed leader. “Being a taller guard, I like to read defences, post up smaller guards, and drive past bigger defenders.” Strait said she was keen to make a positive mark on the Eagles and wants to be seen as more than a basketball players. “I want to help young players in the club improve, be there for my teammates on and off the court, and help the Eagles grow as a club overall. “On the court as an import player, I am always trying to boost my resume and maintain solid stats in the hopes of receiving an offer to play the following season. “But numbers aside it’s more important to me to be reliable and consistent for my teammates and coaches. As a team we have the collective goal to win a championship this season in division 1. We have been a bit overlooked so far so I am excited to turn some heads and make a statement in the Big V.”

The Whittlesea Pacers have sent an early message in the Big V men’s division 2 competition. After a 30 point in round one, the Pacers backed it up on Sunday in round two, with a big win against the Sherbrooke Suns. The Pacers jumped out of the blocks and led by eight points at quarter time, before increasing that to 15 points at the main break. The Pacers put their foot down in the third quarter to put the game beyond doubt. A 38-13 third quarter increased the margin to 40 points heading into the final quarter. The Pacers gave their bench a bit more of a run in the second half, with every player getting on the court and playing at least eight minutes. No Pacers player played more than 24 minutes, which was a positive as they could share the load. While having such a substantial lead the last break, the last quarter would have been slightly disappointing for the Pacers. The Suns won the final quarter 39-14, to reduce the final margin to 95-80. Skipper Jason Dirkx top scored with 19 points for the Pacers, while Pat Green scored 16 points and Zac Donoghue contributed 12 points off the bench. The Pacers this week face Altona on Sunday afternoon. The Pacers youth league women’s division 2 side had a mixed weekend. It was heartbreak on Saturday against the Bellarine Storm, losing by one point, 53-52. The Storm came home with a 14-8 final quarter to get the win. The Pacers bounced back on Sunday, beating the Southern Peninsula, 80-40. The Pacers youth league men’s side made it two from two on the weekend. The Pacers beat Melton, 103-64 on Saturday night. Every player hit the scoreboard with Ethan Bateman and David Barron having 20 points each. The Pacers backed it up with an 81-69 win the following day. Tara Murray

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Knights, Cannons start the season with wins The Northern Knights started their season with a thrilling win against Greater Western Sydney Academy on Saturday in the Coates Talent League. The Knights started their season at Highgate Reserve, in the first match of a big day of action. The Giants took the early lead, with two first quarter goals, while the Knights were without a goal in the opening quarter. The Knights started to hit the scoreboard in the second quarter and were able to reduce the margin to five points at the main break. The Knights were able to hit the front in the third quarter, but the lead could have been greater, as they kicked 3.10 for the term. The two teams were able to go goal for goal in the final quarter, with the Knights holding on to win 5.19 (49)-6.6 (42). It was all single goal kickers for the Knights, with Jesse Dattoli, Archie Franklin, Zac Johnson, Charlie Naish and Flynn Riley kicking goals. Aleksandr D’Arro led the way with 25 possessions, while Kristian Ferronato and Johnson had 22 possessions each.

Northern Knights Charlie Opie gets out of a pack. (Jacob Pattison)322002_05

Charlie Connell-Tobin and Jack Chubb were named the Knights best. Meanwhile the Knights had earlier in the week named Christian Mardini and Will Green as co-captains this season.

Lulu Beatty and Evie Lee have been appointed the Knights girls co-captains. Meanwhile, the Calder Cannons boys side also started its season with a win. Facing the Gold Coast Suns Academy on

Sunday, the Cannons led by two points at the first break. Three goals to one in the second quarter increased the Cannons lead to 15 points at half time. The margin increased to 20 points in the third quarter and with a goal apiece in the final quarter, were able to win, 8.9 (57)-5.7 (37). Isaac Kako kicked two goals for the Cannons, the only multiple goal kicker for his side. Harry O’Farrell, Corey Barbaro and Nash King were named the Cannons best in the win. The Cannons will be back at Highgate Reserve on Saturday, this time against the Sandringham Dragons. The Northern Knights will hit the road, travelling to Wangaratta to face the Murray Bushrangers. The Knights and Cannons girls sides will kick off their seasons this weekend too. The Knights girls side will also head to Wangaratta to face the Bushrangers, while the Cannons will face Dragons on Saturday afternoon. Tara Murray

proud Pingers fail with the bat Burras despite defeat By Tara Murray

A below performance with the bat proved costly for Epping in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Barclay Shield grand final on Saturday. Needing 174 to claim the premiership after Rosanna made 9-173 on day one, the Pingers knew they needed a good day with the bat. Having been their downfall at times during the season, Saturday was going to be the biggest challenge the side had faced this season. They were left disappointed after not putting it together, as the batting order collapsed on Saturday. The run chase started well, with the openers getting to 0-34, before the wickets started to fall. The Pingers quickly went from 0-34 to 5-46. The wickets continued to fall, with the Pingers soon all out for 78, in the 62nd over. Pingers coach Daniel Bramich said it was a tough day out and they just didn’t perform how they would have liked. “Rosanna had a game plan and executed it really well,” he said. “All season our batting has been a little bit up and down and didn’t turn out the way we wanted it. “It wasn’t to be our day and we got outplayed.” Skipper Thomas Emmins top scored with 22, as just three players reached double figures.. Bramich said they had a pretty special group of players at the club that would hopefully achieve that premiership success. “We’re not too far away from it,” he said. “We’re doing it the hard way. We made a preliminary final last year and a grand final this year. “Hopefully we can get the premiership next year. “It’s not just one game of cricket though, we have to get through the whole season and go for it again.” While disappointed not to walk away with a premiership, Bramich said there were a lot of good things to come out of the season. A few younger guys got opportunities in the top side at times, while the club walked away with two premierships, a women’s premiership and the second XI claimed the premiership. Bramich said there was good signs across the club. “At one stage in the pre-season it looked like we would struggled to get 22 players for two sides,” he said. “There’s plenty of depth across the side. “To have three full sides and the twos winning a premiership. There’s a lot of young talented boys who will put pressure on stalwarts. 22 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

Thomas Emmins top scored on Saturday. (Shawn Smits) 204988_20

“They are still really good cricketers, so the younger ones will have to play their best to take their spots. “Hopefully a couple can do that and hopefully

we can win the premiership next year.” Bundoora will return to the Barclay Shield after beating Eltham in the Money Shield grand final on Saturday.

Gladstone Park might not have walked away with the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association George Luscombe Shield, but are still winners. After winning the second division last season, the Burras came up and made it through to the grand final of the competition’s top flight. President Sam Anastasiou said they couldn’t have been prouder of the players this season. He said they couldn’t have imagined the success they’ve had at the start of the season. “It’s a good result for the club, first year back in the A-grade competition,” he said. “The firsts and seconds in the grand final up from B-grade. We have good relationships and everyone wants to be here. There’s no animosity and everyone wants to be at Gladstone Park. “It makes it easier for someone else wanting to come to Gladstone Park.” In the Luscombe Shield grand final, Buckley Park finally broke through to claim the premiership. Buckley Park batted first and made the best of the conditions, making 9-357 off its 80 overs. The Burras shared the wickets. Anastasiou said it was hard work on day one. “It was hot and windy which made it hard for the guys. They had their moments.” Anastasiou said they were still full of confidence heading into day two and were hoping to make the most of playing on a small ground. The Burras were bowled out for 225. Wayne Telford and Rahul Mall made 45 apiece in the run chase. In the second XI’s grand final, the Burras made 134, bowled out in the 55th over. The Chargers hit the winning runs in the 45th over, finishing 5-150. Anastasiou said they needed another 30-40 runs to have made it a more competitive run chase. He criticised the pitch saying it wasn’t up to standard. While the season has only just ended, Anastasiou said they already have their eye on the future. “We’re looking at hopefully going one better,” he said. “We’ve also been eyeing off eventually going to the VTCA [Victorian Turf Cricket Association] in a couple of years.”

Essendon delists five players from original squad The changes continue for Essendon as it finalises its list heading into the AFLW season eight supplementary draft. Last week,he Bombers announced five more players had been told they would not be offered contracts for next season. Eloise Ashley-Cooper, Caitlin Sargent, Jorja Borg, Megan Ryan and Federica Frew, who were all part of the club’s inaugural squads have been delisted. Ashley-Cooper was an integral part of the Bombers’ 2022 Victorian Football League premiership side, with the 20-year-old earning an AFLW spot off the back of three successful years at state league level, however, she spent the AFLW season on the side lines due to a season-ending foot injury. Borg also was ruled out of season seven after suffering a foot injury in Essendon’s practice match against Port Adelaide and was moved

to the inactive list ahead of round one. Frew was also a VFLW premiership-winning Bomber who was elevated to the AFLW side. The 26-year-old debuted in the Bombers’ round one victory over the Hawks and played six games. Sargent committed to the Bombers as an open-age player ahead of their inaugural year but couldn’t break into the AFLW side. Ryan signed with Essendon as an injury replacement player following Borg’s injury and went on to make her debut in round five against Collingwood, going on to play two games. Head of AFLW Aysha Ward thanked the five players for their contribution to the Bombers’ inaugural year. “I would like to thank Eloise, Caitlin, Jorja, Megan and Federica for their investment and dedication throughout our first AFLW season,” Ward said. “Each player has all influenced the

foundations we have built at the club in our inaugural season.” Meanwhile the Bombers VFL side started its premiership defence on Sunday against Hawthorn. There was nothing between the teams all day with the scores level at the first break, before the Bombers leading by 11 points at the main break. The Hawks reduced the lead to one point at the last break. A Renee Tierney goal in the final quarter proved vital, with scores level in the dying minutes. The match would finish that way, with the the final scored 4.3 (27)-3.9 (27). Tierney and Courtney Ugle finished with 18 disposals each for the Bombers. The match was also special with Mia-Rae Clifford playing her 100th VFL match. Tara Murray

Eloise Ashley-Cooper was delisted by Essendon. (Joe Mastroianni). 271083_10

Sports shorts FV Whittlesea Ranges remain undefeated in the FV state league 1 north-west after getting their first win on Saturday. Facing Strathmore, the Ranges took control early with three goals in the first 21 minutes. Strathmore hit back with two second half goals, but the Ranges held on to win 3-2. Upfield had a 0-0 draw with Yarraville Glory on Friday night, while Whittlesea United split the points with Westgate after a 2-2 draw.

NPL Hume City had a tough night against the Oakleigh Cannons in the National Premier League on Saturday night. Aiming for its second win of the season, Hume found itself trailing in the first half 1-0. The Cannons increased their lead through Alex Fiechtner to 2-0, before Hume scored one late. Hume couldn’t find a second, losing 2-1. After six rounds, Hume has one win and three draws.

Big V

Bundoora’s premiership side. (Supplied)

Bulls taste flag success By Tara Murray All the hard work has paid off for Bundoora in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association, winning the Money Shield premiership. Having been more than 20 years since they had won a first XI flag it had been a long time between drinks for the club. Coach Wayne Wunhym, who was part of that last premiership side, said it was pretty special. “It was really fantastic,” he said. “It was a really good feeling. “All the hard work that we’ve put in especially after Christmas, we turned it up a little more. “Everything that we do, we didn’t drop off like last season. “We did it the hard way losing eight wickets, we could have lost nine wickets as long as we got there.” The Bulls needed to get 187 for victory on Saturday after keeping Eltham to 186 on day one. Narinder Sharma took five wickets on day one.

The Bulls lost Prince Singh early on, before steadying and getting to 1-73. Nicholas Caracella was then run out before the Bulls continued on to be 3-159 and in control. Then the wickets started to fall, to give the Bulls some nerves. Able to steady and finished 8-188, hitting the winning runs with more than four overs to spare. Shanin Silva top scored with 51. Wunhym said there were a few nerves as the wickets started to fall. He said the guys just did their jobs like they had all season. It was somewhat fitting that Jason Kaminski hit the winning runs. “That was huge,” he said. “Especially after what he did in the semi final. He rolled his ankle and hurt his quad at the same time. “He was only 50-50 to play. He came into the grand final at 75 per cent fit. “After all the hard work he has done coaching the club over the years it was a great moment, He is the heart and soul of Bundoora.” Wunhym said it was special for Stuart

Adams as well, another player who had been at the club for a long time. Sharma, who made 21 to go with his five wickets, was named player of the match. Wunhym said the biggest key this season was that everyone brought into what they were doing. “We recruited really well this season,” he said. “Rubal Singh-Dhillon and Prince made a huge difference with the bat. Everyone knew what their roles were for the whole year. “The structures we had in previous years also helped.” The win means the club will be back in Barclay Shield next season, Wunhym said it was back where they wanted to be. “Everyone wanted to go back up,” he said. “We haven’t lost anyone with everyone recommitted for next season at this stage. “It’s a good thing for the club. “We maybe need one more guy, another bowler. “We don’t want to go up and be a number, we want to be competitive.”

It was a tough night for the Craigieburn Eagles in the Big V men’s division 2 competition on Saturday night. Facing the Mildura Heat, the Eagles were in trouble, down by 10 points at quarter time and 24 points at the main break. The margin blew out to 34 points at the last break, before the Eagles were able to show some fight in the final team. The Heat won, 98-76.

EDFL Tullamarine’s premiership winning captains will again lead in the Demons in the Essendon District Football League women’s competition. Tricia Devine and Taylah Hardman will lead the side which has been promoted to division 1 this season on the back of a division 2 premiership. Skyla Cain has been named vice-captain. The club had previously announced its men’s leadership group with Daniel Devine to captain the men’s team.

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