Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 17th October 2023

Established in 1924 as the

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proudly serving Brimbank and the North West

17 OCTOBER, 2023

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Wednesday 18th October — Tuesday 24th October 2023 260 TAYLORS ROAD, DELAHEY, VIC 3037

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7am – 10pm, 7 Days a Week www.supavalu.com.au/catalogue Pictures used for illustration purposes only. While stocks last. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores.

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IGAVI9327_181023 2W BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

Established in 1924 as the

proudly serving Brimbank and the North West

17 OCTOBER, 2023

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SIG N U P N O W!

Art of health

Lee Agius with the strength cards on display at the Bowery Gallery in the St Albans Community Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 362994_04

An oversized deck of strength and recovery cards has taken pride of place at the Bowery Gallery in St Albans.

Qualified creative arts therapist Lee Agius has led the project.

“These cards serve as a reflection of the continual challenges, emotions, and feelings that can impact our mental well-being, either by hindering or supporting it,” she said.

“The exhibition aims to create an interactive and immersive experience where visitors can explore and engage with the themes surrounding mental health, gaining insights into the factors that affect it positively or negatively.”

Lee said creative arts therapy offers a non-threatening way for children, adolescents and adults to express their inner feelings without any need to be artistically proficient.

“Combining psychotherapy with creative media in either the visual arts, movement, music and storytelling can offer a support system that strengthens coping skills and a sense of self to explore challenges and issues in life both on an individual basis and within the promotion of group wellbeing,” she said.

Spray over health worry A local resident has described Brimbank council’s use of a glyphosate-based weed killer as ‘deeply concerning’, with rising fears that the substance is linked to cancer.

In early 2020, council stopped using glyphosate herbicides in response to community concerns about possible links to some forms of cancer.

However in 2022, council re-introduced the use of glyphosate herbicides and adopted what it considered as a ‘sensible approach’ to balance the benefits of the substance along with any concerns relating to workplace and public health and safety.

In March 2015, the World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classified glyphosate as ‘probably carcinogenic to humans’.

Founder of the Brimbank Sustainability and Climate group Shannon Meilak said the associated health risks remain a cause for concern within the community.

“I find it deeply concerning that a substance that was previously phased out due to associated health risks, has been reintroduced to our community by council,” she said.

“Whilst barriers may be installed to prevent people entering the impacted areas, it does not stop the dangerous chemical from becoming airborne and inhaled deep into our lungs. Equally troubling is that a barrier would be insufficient in protecting our wildlife and companion animals from ingesting the toxic substance, or unwittingly spreading the substance outside of the contained area.”

Council said it had trialled the use of alternative products but they were deemed

to be ineffective and did not meet council’s requirements for a safe and effective weed control program.

“Council’s decision to re-introduce glyphosate-based products as part of its weed control program was informed by the relevant standards and guidelines as set out by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) and WorkSafe, who are the regulatory authorities in this space,” council said.

Debates surrounding the use of the substance are heating up while a class action lawsuit takes place in the Federal Court, where more than 800 non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients are alleging a popular herbicide containing glyphosate is linked to their disease.

Council said it has introduced a range of measures to ensure the substance is applied

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safely, including using herbicides in a selective and targeted manner, displaying appropriate signage, barriers, and exclusion zones from the public whilst spraying, avoiding the use of herbicides near childcare facilities, playgrounds, kindergartens and community facilities, and the introduction of a ‘No Spray’ register for residents who wish to nominate their property abutting a council road or laneway, as one they wish to commit to manage the weeds without the use of glyphosate-based weed killer.

“By following guidance from the relevant regulatory authorities and implementing council’s safe working procedures, the spraying of chemical herbicides remains an efficient and effective component of the council’s weed control program,” said council.

12523703-CG50-21

By Hannah Hammoud

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

New centre to transform lives A new 24/7 mental health and wellbeing centre has opened in Sunshine, with the first patients set to be admitted this month.

Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt officially opened the Sunshine Mental Health and Wellbeing Centre located at Sunshine Hospital on October 8.

“This new facility will ensure Victorians with acute mental illness receive the immediate and specialised treatment they need in a therapeutic setting, supporting their path to recovery,” Minister Stitt said.

The new centre which features 52

acute hospital-based beds follows on from recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.

The state government will provide 260 new acute public mental health beds across Victoria as part of the mental health beds expansion program to address increased demands on the system.

The new beds aim to reduce pressure on the Sunshine Hospital emergency department and give Victorians experiencing acute mental illness access to urgent treatment in a

specialised, safe, and high-quality setting.

Multidisciplinary care will be provided by psychiatrists, mental health clinicians and nurses for diagnoses like schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar and severe personality disorders, and severe depression or anxiety.

Designed in consultation with people with lived experience of the mental health system, the facility features sensory rooms, de-escalation rooms, internal courtyards and enclosed garden areas, staff and family lounges, and treatment rooms.

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch welcomed

Open invite to celebrate milestone For the Duke Street Community House (DSCH) in Sunshine, the local community has always remained at its core over the past 50 years.

On Saturday, October 21, locals are invited to join the community house in celebrating its 50th birthday.

Duke Street Community House manager, Emma Price said the milestone is significant for both the team and community.

“It’s a huge achievement to be celebrating 50 years of working with, and for the community, and a testament to the committed and passionate staff and volunteers that made this possible,” she said.

“For 50 years we’ve been providing services,

support, education, and information to the local community. With around 300 community members accessing our programs each week, we remain an important part of our local community.

Over the years, Ms Price said the DSCH which borders both Sunshine and Braybrook, has witnessed significant changes in the community, demographics and the local physical environment.

“As such, we’ve seen many changes in the needs and desires of our community. The one thing that has remained constant across the years is that Duke Street Community House has continued to remain responsive to these changes and endeavoured to always meet the

needs of our community,” she said.

To mark the birthday celebrations, the DSCH will be hosting an open house event at 27 Duke Street in Sunshine, from 10am-2pm on October 21.

The day will feature coffee and ice cream vans, musical performances and Welcome to Country, stalls, raffles, children’s activities, and a scavenger hunt.

Community members are also invited to contribute to the children’s mural project and adult’s art garden.

Details: https://www.dsch.org.au/50th Hannah Hammoud

the opening of the new centre that is set to serve the growing community of Melbourne’s west.

“Having this facility in the heart of the west is going to make a big difference for people in our community experiencing mental illness – also ensuring their family can be close by to provide support when they need it,” she said.

The state government said it is estimated the centre will provide more than 18,900 days of care to more than 1,150 more people every year.

Beware of ’pies It is swooping season and Wildlife Victoria wants people to be prepared for potential attacks.

Native birds such as Magpies tend to swoop at this time of the year to defend their young for the six – eight weeks between when they hatch and when they leave the nest.

Wildlife Victoria said all Victorian native wildlife is protected by law, and it is illegal to harass or harm native birds and other wildlife without authorisation.

According to Wildlife Victoria, swooping birds can be a frightening experience but not all birds swoop to protect their eggs and young during the breeding season.

Locals should not be concerned simply because there are magpies or other common swooping birds in the area, which Wildlife Victoria said does not mean an attack.

According to Wildlife Victoria the top 10 tips to protect yourself against swooping birds is to know your local swooping hotspots, avoid the area, move quickly, cover your head draw eyes at the back of your head, do not harass wildlife, do not destroy nests, don’t feed swooping birds, travel in a group, notify others, swooping birds.

Some hot spots for the Brimbank area listed on the Wildlife Victoria’s online Victorian Swooping Bird Map, include along Parsons Street in Sunshine, and at Keilor Park Recreation Reserve.

Details: https://www.wildlife.vic.gov. au/managing-wildlife/swooping-birds? fbclid=IwAR3Gweav3ZTBV7XZi6zmF g2jjug_FqMeFh-YFm-8cXYuiGbqiS_ mhUZcEWY

Celebrations are in order for the Duke Street Community House. Pictured at the front is community house manager Emma Price.

(Damjan Janevski) 364965_03

Early warnings are key to avoiding future floods An investigation into the October 2022 Victorian floods has found Melbourne Water must improve its flood forecasting and early warning systems to avoid a repeat of the damage inflicted on homes and businesses.

The review instigated by Melbourne Water and led by former Federal and Victorian Supreme Court judge Tony Pagone, investigated the causes and contributors to the floods.

Amongst the findings, the report recommended Melbourne Water should undertake more regular reviews of flood models, considering the best estimates of climate change. It also recommended investigating long-term sustainable flood mitigation options for the Maribyrnong River.

Another recommendation was that a

hydraulic model be developed to confirm the impact of the Flemington Flood Wall and the efficacy of the associated downstream compensatory works. This is expected in April 2024.

Melbourne Water was advised to implement flood forecasting at intervals of less than two hours and consult with the Bureau of Meteorology to develop rainfall forecasts more frequently than every 6 hours.

Melbourne Water managing director Nerina Di Lorenzo said the water authority would work to implement all the recommendations.

“We have been working closely with the community in Maribyrnong and other affected locations over the past 12 months,“

2 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

she said.

Ms Di Lorenzo said this included community sessions across the impacted areas where the authority had received more than 60 submissions and heard from more than 100 residents during the community consultation.

As well as the community consultation, Ms Di Lorenzo said since last October’s flood, Melbourne Water had begun providing new flood modelling for every river catchment in Melbourne by the end of 2026.

“That includes climate change impacts projected to the year 2100,“ she said.

Maribyrnong Community Recovery Committee (CRC) chair Madeleine MF Serle said the report held no surprises.

“All of the recommendations and recommendations could have been written before the panel began its work,“ she said.

“As Chair of the CRC, I have not changed my view that the Review was set up with flawed process and Terms of Reference.

“And now the flood affected community’s own understanding has been confirmed unreservedly, Melbourne Water did not do its job.

“Clearly, Melbourne Water now must work very hard to build expertise and systems to perform its role and discharge is statutory obligations.“ Jennifer Pittorino

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CCTV helps boost public safety

By Hannah Hammoud Closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) have been installed and are now operating in selected locations in the Sunshine Activity Centre.

Brimbank council, in partnership with Victoria Police and the Sunshine Business Association, received $388,000 in grant funding from the state government to deliver the CCTV system.

Thirty-four cameras have been installed in the northern and southern parts of Sunshine Activity Centre with a focus around the Hampshire Road shopping area, Clarke Street, McDonald Lane, Bennett Place, City

Place, Sun Crescent and near the Sunshine bus interchange.

These are in addition to cameras already located at Sunshine train station.

The CCTV system aims to help Victoria Police address crime in the town centre, by deterring unwanted activity, and assist them to apprehend offenders.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said council has an important role to play in maintaining community safety and supporting police efforts in reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

“We hope the introduction of CCTV in busy areas of the Sunshine Town Centre will help improve perceptions of safety and encourage

more people to come out and about, and visit the many wonderful businesses you’ll find in Sunshine,” Cr Lancashire said.

“The CCTV system is part of a wider program to continue improving and developing Sunshine as an exciting, attractive and welcoming place to shop, work, live and visit.”

Council consulted with Victoria Police, the Sunshine Business Association, and a CCTV specialist to determine the best locations to support police efforts in crime detection and investigation.

Council said community safety is of vital importance and the installation of the CCTV system is one of a range of initiatives

to improve perceptions of safety in the town centre, as well as assist Victoria Police in crime investigations.

The cameras are owned and maintained by council. Victoria Police will monitor the cameras in responding to incidents and collecting evidence to support criminal investigations.

This is the second time CCTV has been installed in a Brimbank activity centre for public safety, with CCTV being in place at the St Albans Activity Centre since 2018.

Navigators get to work

Locals can pop into the West Sunshine Community Centre to buy, sell and swap their pre-loved goods with their neighbours. Pictured is Fernanda Lawrence and Kerry Thynne. (Damjan Janevski) 366334_01

Follow the garage trail of treasure Across two weekends in November, Brimbank locals are encouraged to hit the streets in search of pre-loved bargains.

The Garage Sale Trail is Australia’s festival of pre-loved stuff, taking place on November 11-12, and 18-19. The weekends are set to feature garage sales happening across Brimbank, and is a chance for locals to turn their stash into cash or for others to shop their pre-loved items at retro prices.

Brimbank residents will have the opportunity to join the neighbourhood

treasure hunt in the search for a bargain and practice recycling at the same time.

Sales are set to spring up across Brimbank, including at the West Sunshine Community Centre on Saturday, November 18, which will be packed with more than 300 items from 30 stalls, in a group garage sale from 10am-2pm.

The Garage Sale Trail helps neighbours connect, make some money and keep their good stuff out of landfill. Selling or shopping at garage sales is a fun and simple action locals can take to reduce their impact

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on the environment.

As part of its commitment to creating a circular economy, Brimbank council has opened up free registrations that include how-to guides and promotional resources to help out those who are keen on hosting their own sale Details: www.garagesaletrail.com.au/ brimbank

Students at Sunshine Special Developmental School will soon get the help they need to make the most of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding and support available to them.

The state government announced it is investing $21.2 million to introduce NDIS Navigators into all specialist schools by the end of 2025.

NDIS Navigators will provide direct support to families and carers to help them to navigate the NDIS, including how to access the NDIS, prepare for plan reviews and access the right supports.

More than 30 schools across Victoria, including Sunshine Special Development School, will now have the funding to hire a NDIS Navigator who will work with families to navigate the NDIS system – and they will be in every one of the state’s 86 specialist schools by the end of 2025.

Education Minister Ben Carroll said, “Our investment in special school infrastructure, support and the nation-leading Disability Inclusion reforms are giving students with disability the support they deserve.”

These latest initiatives build on investments in inclusive education, including upgrades to every single specialist school in the state, more support for students in the classroom and facilities so every child gets the chance to play, learn and grow, no matter their needs.

Hannah Hammoud

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Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 3

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Garage Sale Trail returns to Brimbank We’re bringing Australia’s festival of pre-loved stuff back to Brimbank this spring as part of our commitment to creating a circular economy.

Tens of thousands of garage sales will be occurring across Australia on the weekends of 11-12 and 18-19 November.

The Garage Sale Trail is a great chance to turn your belongings into cash or shop for epic stuff at retro prices.

Buying and selling pre-loved items is planet friendly. Over three million kilograms of items are saved from going to landfill each year thanks to Garage Sale Trail shoppers and sellers. The sales are also a great way to save cash by finding a bargain at one of your local garage sales.

Brimbank residents can register for free and take advantage of some great resources for setting up your own sale. Resources available include how-to guides and promotional resources. To learn more or register for free visit garagesaletrail.com.au/brimbank Cal Wilson was a creative force.

Ray of sunshine Visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au to share your ideas and feedback on issues and projects that matter to you. Learn more about projects that are open for comment including: • Development Contributions Plan 2022 and Planning Scheme Amendment C214

Teddy Bear Picnic in the Park

Enjoy Local

Celebrate Children’s Week with us at the Brimbank Playgroups Teddy Bear Picnic in the Park, on Wednesday 25 October, 11am-2pm.

Bring a favourite soft toy or teddy, and a picnic lunch to join the fun at Sunvale Community Park, in Sunshine. The day includes performances on stage by Picnic Fairy and Teddy Bear, an Afro-Latin band on stage, and more. Visit brimbank. vic.gov.au/events to learn more.

There’ll be arts and crafts, face painting, glitter tattoos and balloon crafts at our Enjoy Local event at Dumfries Street, Deer Park, on Saturday 28 October, 4-6pm.

Our Enjoy Local events give you the chance to shop and dine local and enjoy some family friendly entertainment and activities. Learn more at brimbank.vic. gov.au/events

Carers Week in Brimbank

Carers Week in our chance to acknowledge the vital contribution carers make in our community.

Victorian Seniors Festival We’re delighted to provide some great There’s still lots of great activities during the week to give activities to enjoy at the something back to carers between Victorian Seniors Festival in 15 and 20 October. Activities for Brimbank, till end of October. registered carers in Brimbank include The activities include walking a movie screening of My Big Fat Greek football, walking group, Wedding 3 and an exercise class. Bookings walking basketball, chair yoga, are essential. Learn more at brimbank. and gold Zumba. Visit brimbank.vic.gov. vic.gov.au/disability-and-care/ au/seniors-festival-2023 to learn more. support-carers or call 9249 4974.

Contact us: Online or by phone

Report It Lodge a service request reportit.brimbank.vic.gov.au

brimbank.vic.gov.au

Stand-up comedian, writer and actor Cal Wilson, who died aged 53 this week, had a soft spot for her adopted suburb of Sunshine. In 2019 the much-loved comedian wrote of her affection for the often maligned suburb for the RACV. This is what she wrote.

I proudly live in Melbourne’s Wild West, specifically Sunshine. Formerly one of Melbourne’s punchline suburbs, Sunshine has come up in the world. Now when I say we’ve lived here for 12 years, people don’t say, “You bought in Sunshine?” they say “You bought at the right time.”

Sure, Sunshine is no Brighton, but it’s finally become a respectable place to live. I mean, there was an auction in the next street recently, and they had a coffee van turn up.

A COFFEE VAN. On purpose. Not burnt out and dumped.

That was a tiny joke for all of you who still respond to hearing that I live in Sunshine with “Ewww SCUMSHINE?!” like it’s a clever thing you thought up by yourself.

There’s so much that I love about Sunshine: my excellent neighbours, for starters, and our extended community, and I love that it’s so multicultural.

There are so many great places to eat in Sunshine, including Pho Hien Saigon for the best pho, Co Do for the best prawn spring rolls, and Sunshine Social for the best burgers, and most innovative use of an old service station.

In fact, I thought about rewriting ‘I’ve Been Everywhere’ as ‘I Eat Everywhere’ but I got stuck on finding a rhyme for Afghan Master

Kebab, so I had to stop.

I love the industrial heritage of my suburb – there’s a Sunshine Harvester suspended above the Brimbank City Council foyer – which is either a lovely nod to history, or some truly innovative parking.

The suburb started out as Braybrook Junction but changed to Sunshine because singing, “You are my Braybrook Junction, my only Braybrook Junction,” just didn’t have the same ring to it.

The only thing we’re missing is a good nickname (no, not Scumshine). As a Kiwi, I’ll never quite get my head around the Aussie rules for shortening a name though.

Wollongong is “the Gong”, but you’d never call Geelong “the Long”.

Closer to home West Footscray has got all fancy and become ‘WeFo’. I guess we could go the same route and turn Sunshine into ‘SuShi’, but telling people, “I live in sushi” would only lead to confusion and concern for my wellbeing.

Other nicknames I’ve been toying with are Sunzie, Shine-O, Shiny, and The Shine, but that just sounds like a Breakfast Radio crew.

Maybe I should posh it up a bit and just start claiming I live in Upper Seddon, or Yarraville Valley Heights.

 9249 4000

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Your Councillors are always happy to hear from you Cr Victoria Borg Cr Sarah Branton Cr Thuy Dang Cr Sam David JP Cr Maria Kerr Cr Bruce Lancashire (Mayor) Cr Jasmine Nguyen Cr Thomas O’Reilly Cr Jae Papalia Cr Ranka Rasic (Deputy Mayor) Cr Virginia Tachos

0429 365 527 0407 836 064 0437 744 803 0429 355 239 0437 796 630 0429 637 689 0437 740 042 0409 210 431 0437 838 710 0437 861 296 0428 915 671

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4 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

CrBorg@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrBranton@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrDang@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrDavid@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrKerr@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrLancashire@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrNguyen@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrOReilly@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrPapalia@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrRasic@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrTachos@brimbank.vic.gov.au All information was correct at the time of printing.

Artist Andrea Huelin and with Cal Wilson and her Archibald Packing Room Prize portrait at the Art Gallery of NSW in April. (AAP Image/Nikki Short)

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Campaign to tackle knife crime Crime Stoppers Victoria and Victoria Police are urging young people to cut the violence in a bid to reduce knife-related crime which can devastate families and leave communities reeling.

The ‘Cut the Violence’ campaign has been developed in consultation with secondary school students aged between 15-18 years to reinforce the risks and consequences for those carrying a knife.

To build the ‘Cut the Violence’ campaign, Crime Stoppers Victoria invited students from St Albans Secondary College to take part in consultations across an eight-week period, exploring topics including laws related to knife carrying, the perception of knife crime in the community, and the messaging that would resonate with them when it comes to reducing knife crime in their cohort.

During consultation, students recognised that fear, force, and control may be the main motives for those carrying an illegal knife.

Working alongside the Crime Stoppers team, students co-created campaign messaging and concepts to encourage potential offenders to consider the dire consequences of picking up a knife.

Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith said education played a vital role in stopping knife crime in the community.

“No parent or family member should ever have to receive a phone call to hear that their child or loved one has been stabbed,” she said.

“There is simply no excuse for carrying a knife illegally - and through this campaign we want to show the potential devastating consequences of knife crime.

“Carrying a knife as a weapon is illegal - it doesn’t make you tough or protect you, it only increases the chances of you spending time behind bars, being injured or dying.”

Students from St Albans Secondary College joined with Scoresby Secondary College students to help build the ‘Cut the Violence’ campaign with Crime Stoppers Victoria. (Supplied)

In May of this year, a 16-year-old Melton South teenager died after being stabbed in Sunshine.

Less than six weeks later, a 14-year-old Braybrook teenager was killed in June, after being hit by a car and knifed by two attackers in St Albans.

Victoria Police North West Metro Commander Michael Cruse said police will continue to target the carriage and use of knives and weapons in a number of

different ways.

“Police, like the community, remain concerned about any form of violence on our streets.

Any death or injury caused by a knife attack is sadly one too many and we have zero tolerance for those who think that carrying a knife in the community is acceptable.

“Police will continue to target the carriage and use of knives and weapons from all angles, including dedicated OMNI operations

which enable us to detect weapons, protect community safety, and deter anyone who may think that carrying a weapon in the community is acceptable.”

“We are imploring those young people out there who feel the need to arm themselves with a knife to listen to the messages from those impacted by this – it’s simply not worth it and is not going to achieve anything other than destroying someone’s life.”

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Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 5

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Calder Park Dr works blitz

(L-R) Deputy Vice-Chancellor external relations and partnerships Wade Noonan, Professor Alex Parker, Aymaan, Ihaab, Benjamin, WB community foundation and government relations general manager Kashif Bouns, Qudsiyya, and chief student officer Michelle Gillespie. (Supplied)

Working for students

By Jennifer Pittorino At least 600 secondary school students a year will benefit from a new partnership between Victoria University (VU) and the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation (WB Community Foundation).

The new initiative called ‘The WB Community Foundation School Workshops, with VU as the Presenting Partner’, will deliver workshops focused on mental health and resilience.

Other topics will include leadership skills development, education pathways, employment pathways, social responsibility, gender equity and goal setting.

Each school will select the number of co-designed sessions and topics best suited to the needs of the students, which are then

presented by experienced professionals from WB Community Foundation and VU. VU Vice-Chancellor professor Adam Shoemaker said he was proud to confirm this partnership.

“Beyond our deep, shared history of delivering accessible programs tailored to the needs of the west, we have a united vision for the future, one that is committed to addressing inequity in all its forms,” he said.

WB Community Foundation community and government relations general manager Kashif Bouns said the partnership could not have arrived at a better time.

“At the WB Community Foundation, we take pride in delivering evidence-based programs co- designed in consultation with our community,” he said.

“This has been made possible through our

long- standing partnership with VU. “It’s truly wonderful to deepen this collaboration, creating more opportunities for young people in Melbourne’s west through customised school workshops.”

VU and WB Community Foundation have previously collaborated on a number of projects which have been tailored for the west including research into the WB Community Foundation initiatives, the Sons of the West and Daughters of the West, as well as the WB Community Foundation CALDplay program.

There will also be exciting new opportunities for VU students to ‘learn in the workplace,’ with a number of work integrated learning (WIL) placements to enhance opportunities for students working in social work, community services and youth work.

Major works are underway to remove the Calder Park Drive level crossing by building a new road bridge over the rail line, which will bring the Sunbury Line one step closer to being level crossing free in 2025.

Throughout October construction crews will finish building a temporary road next to Calder Park Drive, which will help keep the community moving while works continue into 2024.

They will also start the relocation of essential services in the area, including drainage works and power relocation, and continue important earthworks and ground improvements as part of the project.

The level crossing will be gone for good in 2025 and the new road bridge will provide safer access across the rail corridor for vehicles travelling between the Calder Highway and Plumpton Road.

The Level Crossing Removal Project team said improving the traffic flow at Calder Park Drive will allow for the closure of the nearby Holden Road level crossing and the removal of every Sunbury Line level crossing.

Planning is also underway to remove level crossings at the Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road, Diggers Rest, which will make the Sunbury Line level crossing free when the Metro Tunnel opens in 2025.

The Metro Tunnel will allow for more trains, more often on the Sunbury Line as commuters gain access to five new underground stations in Melbourne.

Seeking nominations for the Melton Heritage Advisory Committee

Colette McInerney, Jude Twyman and Patrick Massaguoi at the West Welcome Wagon warehouse.

(Damjan Janevski) 350127_01

The Melton Heritage Advisory Committee promotes local heritage projects, assesses applications for the City of Melton Heritage Assistance Fund and the City of Melton Heritage Awards, and drives programs that encourage an appreciation of heritage in the City of Melton.

There are three positions on the committee available for a two year term.

Applications for three positions close: Friday 3 November 2023.

To apply: melton.vic.gov.au/heritagecommittee For further information: contact Council’s City Strategy Team on 9747 7200 or email citysupport@melton.vic.gov.au

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all

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6 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

Birthday bash for the west From humble beginnings in 2013, West Welcome Wagon (WWW) will mark its 10 year anniversary this month.

The organisation now supports over 2,700 clients from 42 different countries, and has distributed more than 12,000 material goods and assistance this year alone.

West Welcome Wagon chair Chris Scerri has been part of the organisation for seven years. He said the 10 year milestone is an opportunity to recognise those who established the organisation, and those who have helped it flourish and grow ‘beyond all expectations’.

“I joined [WWW] in 2016, initially through a donation to the organisation followed by a desire to help people seeking asylum and refugees settle into their homes in the western suburbs of Melbourne,” he said.

Over the years, Mr Scerri said WWW has been able to establish a warehouse that has enabled the organisation to store more donations, and efficiently support more

people in the west.

“One constant has been the support of our western suburbs community and fantastic support from a core group of committed volunteers,” he said.

To celebrate the occasion, WWW is looking for support from the local community to help raise critical funds needed to keep the wheels of the organisation turning.

West Welcome Wagon’s 10th anniversary fundraising event will take place at the Seaview in Williamstown on Thursday, October 26, from 6-9pm. Tickets are $100.

Mr Scerri said the night will feature a silent auction, merchandise to purchase, and donations will be accepted throughout the evening.

“Invitation is open to all who would like to celebrate our past successes and contribute to our future sustainability,” he said.

Details: https://shorturl.at/akHX0 Hannah Hammoud

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Move to single-councillor wards

By Hannah Hammoud The structure of Brimbank council’s wards will soon be changed, with a preliminary report due to be released this week following an electoral structure review.

The review follows on from requirements introduced by the Local Government Act 2020 which detailed several changes, including that all metropolitan, interface and regional city councils must now have single-councillor ward electoral structures.

Brimbank council must transition to a single councillor ward structure prior to the 2024

council elections.

Thirty-nine Victorian local councils, including Brimbank, are in the process of undergoing these reviews.

The reviews have been conducted by two electoral representation advisory panels appointed by the Local Government Minister Melissa Horne to make a recommendation to the Minister on electoral structures.

The panels are considering the appropriate number of councillors and wards for each council, the location of ward boundaries, and ward names.

To help explain the review process and

answer any questions, the Victorian Electoral Commission is hosting an online public information session at 6pm, on Tuesday, October 17.

The preliminary report will be published on Wednesday, October 18, with the period for submissions opening on the same day.

People interested in making a response submission to the preliminary report can map the ward boundaries for their proposed electoral structure online using the public submission tool available on the VEC website as part of their submission.

Response submissions will close at 5pm,

on Wednesday, November 8. At the end of the review, the panel will make a final recommendation to the Local Government Minister. It is then up to the minister to review the recommendation and decide what is best for Brimbank council.

Once the minister has made her decision, any changes will apply at the next local council elections.

The final report will be provided to Ms Horne on December 13.

Details: https://shorturl.at/AFIMN

Sunshine champion honoured with ageing award program, which includes fundraising for ANZAC and Remembrance days. She organises the ANZAC Day Community Commemoration March, arranging council permits, and the participation of a range of organisations.

Since 2007, Lesley has also coordinated the weekly Sunshine Harvester Day Club, which provides social activities, two-course meals, entertainment, and trivia for older members of the community.

And for the past decade, Lesley has been volunteering for St Vincent de Paul’s Maribyrnong Soup Kitchen.

For Lesley, she said that volunteering is something that was instilled in her as a young child, “It’s just something you do,” she said.

Ageing Minister Ingrid Stitt said the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of older Victorians.

Sunshine local Lesley Twidle has been recognised for her volunteering efforts with a Council on the Ageing Awards (COTA). (Supplied)

“I’m proud to present these awards as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival, which is in its 41st year. I encourage all Victorians to get

along and join the celebrations that honour our valued seniors,” she said.

Hannah Hammoud

12627487-AA42-23

There is a no-frills attitude about Sunshine local Lesley Twidle.

Lesley has been volunteering in the community for more than 17 years, something she said she does simply because she likes it.

With an impressive resume stretching across the Brimbank community, it is no surprise that she was awarded with a Council on the Ageing Award (COTA) at the 2023 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.

On October 11, Lesley joined 14 other senior Victorians at Government House who were recognised for their significant contributions to local communities.

Lesley was acknowledged for her long-standing commitment to volunteering including secretary of the Sunshine RSL Sub-Branch.

For more than 17 years, Lesley has coordinated the sub-branch’s welfare

Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 7

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Help when every minute counts As October continues to creep by, Zoe Moffatt talks to a cardiac arrest survivor and paramedics to learn how an app is saving lives and changing the way people respond.

O

n an overcast day in the Macedon Ranges, nine people gather outside the Gisborne Ambulance Branch. They were all brought together through an unlikely meeting involving a health scare, chance and an app called GoodSAM. The first time the cohort met was on a gloomy winter’s night on June 21. Damian Fewster had just suffered a cardiac arrest and nearby resident Helen Barker was the first to respond.

“I was in my pajamas, I had just got into bed and [was] scrolling [on my phone] before going to bed,” Helen explains.

“Then this noise went off. I hadn’t heard it before, it’s like a real loud siren.”

Helen’s app GoodSAM had just gone off, alerting her that someone nearby had suffered a cardiac arrest and was in need of help.

“It’s probably just 17 years of intensive care unit experience, I was just like ‘I have to go’.

“In my pajamas, I grabbed my coat, grabbed my keys and I saw it was only around the corner. I guess it’s like an instinct to go and help.”

‘‘

I always feel that if you can make a difference in someone’s life [you should], maybe it’s the nurse in me or the innate [desire] to help - Helen Barker

’’

When Helen arrived she saw Damian with his two young kids.

“When I got there and it was just two young boys and Damian, it took me back a bit, especially because they were frightened. I knew by looking at him and years of nursing that I just needed to start CPR. “I know that every minute counts. When looking at the kids, it sounds silly, but I was like ‘he can’t die on me’.”

While Helen has had the app for years, the experience was one laced with chance and timing.

“This is the first time [the app has] gone off.

It won’t send you notifications if you haven’t updated it with your registration – I literally had only done it a couple of weeks before,” Helen said.

This feeling of chance and opportunity was one shared by Damian, who was only staying in Gisborne for six months while the family home in Bullengarook was being renovated.

“I was very lucky for Helen to be there. If that had happened at any other time, there would have been no one around,” Damian said.

“My son Liam, 10, called my wife, Donna, and then she called the ambulance. It was only my two younger sons at home when it happened.”

Damian is back at work now and said he is feeling good, but doesn’t remember the details of the night very well.

“I went to the gym that afternoon and then I had chest pains when I got home, and then I basically just rolled over and that was it, I was out.

“All these other guys sort of know what happened more than I do, I’m just being relayed stories.

“It’s good to meet everyone, since it’s happened I haven’t tried to wipe it from my memory but I’ve just moved on with life.

“I have young kids so there’s no time to really standstill and assess what’s happened.”

Damian’s story is one synonymous to many people around the state, with about 20 Victorians suffering a cardiac arrest each day.

However, only one in 10 survive.

Last year there were more cardiac arrests

Damian Fewster and GoodSAM responder Helen Barker.

(Pictures: Star Weekly)

Damian and his family meet paramedics Emily Wilson and Jack Sullivan, and GoodSAM responder Helen Barker.

than ever before in Victoria and paramedics responded to 7361 patients, which is a six per cent increase.

GoodSAM has saved more than 55 lives, thanks to more than 12,000 GoodSAM responders across the state.

For Damian, the GoodSAM app and Helen’s quick response made a big difference to his recovery and life.

Paramedic Emily Wilson attended to Damian and said the app probably saved his life.

“Having somebody there doing good CPR five or seven minutes before we got there meant that he had circulation happening in his body and he had oxygen going to his brain,” she said.

“That’s really important.”

Fellow paramedic Jack Sullivan agreed and said it makes an enormous difference to the survival chance.

8 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

“Increased survival from GoodSAM is huge,” he said.

“Being first on the scene and able to establish CPR from the get go prior to our arrival is amazing.”

For Helen downloading the app was a no-brainer and one way for her to make a difference.

“I always feel that if you can make a difference in someone’s life [you should], maybe it’s the nurse in me or the innate [desire] to help,” she said.

“I just know that a few minutes can make the difference between Damian now and having severe brain injury or death.”

Anyone over 18 years old, who knows hands-only CPR can become a GoodSAM responder, and accepting an alert is voluntary.

Details: www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/ shocktober

The life-saving app GoodSAM app.

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Food and fundraising

Briefs Call for volunteers

Kon Karapanagiotidis has dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of people seeking asylum and refugees, founding the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC), and now he has found a new passion in cooking.

Together Kon and his mother Sia developed a Greek vegetarian and vegan cookbook, titled Philoxenia: A Seat At My Table, of which all the proceeds from the sales will go back to the ASRC. “I created this cookbook because I wanted to have the chance to share this with my mum,” Kon said.

“I wanted to be able to create something beautiful with my mum because I lost my father at 17 and regretted all the things I never learned about my dad or asked my dad about.

“I thought her recipes and her stories would be great to pass them on generations to come.”

In addition to creating this keepsake for his mum, Kon said he wanted to raise money for the ASRC. “I wanted to be able to raise money to provide food security to refugees.

“All the money I’m making from this cookbook I have donated back to the ASRC to provide food security to refugee families.”

Kon sold 6,300 copies of the book during the presale period from February to June.

Including those sales, so far Kon has raised more than $211,000 on the book, which Kon said was created to celebrate and encourage people to be kind and compassionate towards those doing it tough and to be welcoming in the power of food.

“My mum and I are really proud of how it’s turned out, I hope this will also encourage men to get to the kitchen and step away from gender roles.”

Vinnies Sunshine is looking for local volunteers to join the team and donate their time to the store. Those who are interested are welcome to visit the store, call on (03) 9311 3448, or register online at, https://vinniesvic. carrd.co/.

Man dies in factory fire Police are investigating after a man died in a factory fire in Derrimut on October 12. Emergency services were called to Swann Drive to reports of a chemical explosion, about 9.45am.

At least 30 people were forced to evacuate the building, while fire crews brought the blaze under control.

A deceased 44-year-old Hoppers Crossing man was later discovered inside the building. No one else was injured. The circumstances surrounding the fire are yet to be determined.

Help keep motorcyclists safe Road safety authorities are urging local motorists to be on the lookout for motorcyclist. The Transport Accident Commission has joined with the Department of Transport and Planning, and Victoria Police, for Motorcyclist Awareness Month during October. This year to date, there have been five lives lost on the roads in Brimbank, one of which was a motorcyclist fatality.

Kon Karapanagiotidis. (Sarah Pannell)

The book was released on Wednesday, October 4.

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

Jennifer Pittorino

12637647-RR42-23

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Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 9

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Friends caring for Organ Pipes Loretta Beliniak has always been a river person.

Born in Corowa on the Murray, she moved to Sunbury when she was 10 years old.

Her childhood home, not far from the confluence of Blind and Jacksons creeks, was her base for creek adventures, including playing in the creek, climbing trees, rafting and canoeing.

Twice a day she crossed Blind Creek on her school journey.

“The creek has always been part of my life”, she said, “my playground … it was formative”.

Perhaps it is no surprise that she finds herself now Convenor of the Friends of the Organ Pipes National Park.

“I moved back from Western Australia in 2018 and saw a join us invitation on a noticeboard at the park. Becoming convenor happened very quickly.”

Set in the valley formed by Jacksons Creek, the Organ Pipes is the closest National Park to Melbourne and an amazing example of landscape rehabilitation.

After early overgrazing by settlers, the park was largely denuded and 90 per cent noxious weeds.

Now, thanks to the efforts of parks staff but particularly volunteers, it has been substantially revegetated.

It is a haven for kangaroos, swamp wallabies, echidnas, sugar gliders, platypus, frogs and raptors.

Loretta helps to organise monthly working bees, social media and in 2022, the group’s 50th year anniversary. The friends group is the main weed manager.

Prickly pear, boxthorn and artichoke thistle keep invading the park, stretching volunteer resources. Not to mention feral goats.

The task can seem overwhelming but

Friends of the Organ Pipes National Park convenor Loretta Beliniak (supplied).

Loretta keeps her perspective by looking back at old photos of the park, when there “weren’t any trees in the valley and it was covered in boxthorn and artichoke thistle.

“We’ve done a really great job and volunteers have always been there to do all this work.”

It’s not all about maintenance though.

Loretta and her friends group have a vision for improvements to the park they love.

“Our next project is bringing back

grasslands along the Calder. The stretch from the Organ Pipes Road to Kings Road (Sydenham Park).”

Down in Jacksons Creek, the 2022 floods were both amazing and destructive.

“I’ve never seen so much water charging through there,” Loretta said.

That water affected her in another way, when her workplace in Kensington on the banks of the Maribyrnong River was inundated.

12439267-CG04-20

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“We had a metre of water go through the entire place.”

Out of action for seven weeks, there was widespread alarm at the prospect of a national shortage of their main product, the dim sim.

Sometimes a source of joy, sometimes threatening and destructive. Creeks and rivers will continue to course through Loretta’s life.

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10 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

In an unwavering commitment to nurturing tomorrow’s leaders, University Park Primary School exemplifies a mission that transcends the confines of mere academic excellence.

At University Park Primary the focus extends to cultivating responsible and compassionate individuals who are poised to guide their communities. Rooted in the school’s core values of responsibility, collaboration, honesty, and respect, staff dedicate ourselves to shaping future leaders among the student body.

The journey of responsibility commences early in students’ lives, as even the youngest members of the community take on leadership roles as class captains. Central to the school’s ethos is a culture of collaboration, fostering teamwork and idea sharing through roles such as school captains, house captains, junior school councillors, and class captains.

Honesty and respect, the cornerstones of the school, find expression in student-led

assemblies. Within this supportive and inclusive environment, every child is afforded the opportunity to develop their unique leadership skills.

This week, grade 5 students took part in a specialised leadership program, providing them with the skills to excel in their roles.

These young leaders are not just role models for their peers but also architects of a school environment that is secure, thriving, and supportive. Witnessing students identify their strengths and discussing how these attributes can bolster their leadership roles for the upcoming year is indeed heartening.

Proud principal, Andrea Federico, aptly notes, “At University Park Primary School, student leadership is more than a concept; it’s a way of life. We work together to shape the leaders of tomorrow, enabling them to leave a lasting impact on their communities and the world”.

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Building gender diversity Threat A local Keilor construction company has partnered with Melbourne City Football Club in an effort to help boost female representation across male-dominated industries.

Nostra Homes, founded by proud Keilor local Anthony Caruana, has signed a new multi-year partnership deal with Melbourne City Football Club.

Both partners are working to promote inclusivity and diversity in their respective male-dominated industries – construction and sport.

The state government reports that women account for just 2 per cent of workers in the Australian construction industry. Although there are more women active in the Victorian labour market now in comparison to previous years, Nostra says the industry still remains an area that has proven to be highly resistant to change.

By working with SheForce, a female-led recruitment and labour-hire social enterprise in the construction industry, Nostra is hoping to spearhead this change, boasting a workforce comprised of of 36 per cent women.

Football Australia reports that women make up 22 per cent of Australia’s participation base, with plans to grow this base to 50 per cent by 2027 through its Gender Equality Action Plan.

Nostra Homes founder Anthony Caruana said joining forces with Melbourne City will assist in elevating both brands’ efforts in empowering female representation across the two male-dominated industries.

“Sporting bodies are doing an amazing job to encourage greater women participation and now, the construction industry needs to open its doors to more female talent, as greater diversity only makes our workplaces stronger,” he said.

and assault charges

Keilor-based construction company Nostra Homes has signed a partnership deal with Melbourne City Football Club in a bid to promote gender diversity. (Supplied)

As part of the deal, the Nostra logo will feature on the sleeve of City’s A-League Women’s home jersey for season 2023-24,

and on the front of the playing shorts for all matches. The logo will also feature on the back of the A-League’s Men’s playing shorts.

Police have charged a Cairnlea man, along with another man, as part of a series of incidents linked to the Coffin Cheaters Outlaw Motorcycle Gang in the western suburbs.

A 27-year-old Cairnlea man and a 31-year-old Armstrong Creek man were arrested on October 10, and interviewed by police.

The pair have been charged with threats and assault related offences.

The charges follow several incidents over the past few weeks in Laverton and Altona North.

Police said the first incident allegedly occurred on September 27, at a business premises in Laverton where a man was threatened and assaulted.

The second incident allegedly occurred at the man’s business premises in Altona North on October 2, where an employee was threatened and assaulted following a minor traffic incident involving a company vehicle.

The third incident allegedly occurred later that day on October 2, at the same Altona North premises where it’s believed a number of men were involved in an affray at the property.

The investigation into the incidents remains ongoing. Any witnesses or anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www. crimestoppers.com.au

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Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 11

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Webinar to tackle gambling harm

By Jennifer Pittorino Young people in Brimbank and Maribyrnong will be able to attend a free webinar about gambling and gaming run by IPC Health’s Financial Counselling and Gambler’s Help team.

The webinar is being run in support of Gambling Harm Awareness Week running from Monday, October 16 to Monday, October 22.

The webinar will be held on Tuesday, October 17, in partnership with Brimbank and Maribyrnong councils.

Community engagement officer Sarah-Jane

Blunt said Brimbank and Maribyrnong are partners with the Young Leaders of the West program funded by Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation.

“Our Gambler’s Help program provides service to the local community who are experiencing gambling harm in Brimbank and Maribyrnong,” said Ms Blunt.

“This webinar will provide information to parents about the relationships between online gaming and gambling.

“We will be looking at topics such as what is safe gaming, ways of purchasing things to advance to the next level, like loot boxes or skins, and risk and harms of gambling.”

One of the webinar’s main objectives is to increase parents’ awareness of the relationship between in-app purchases and gambling later in life.

“Also, to make parents aware of the signs and risks of gambling harm and gaming harm, as well as how to seek help for anyone impacted by gambling harm.”

Ms Blunt said gambling can easily become normalised among young people because they have grown up in a world where gambling is seen to be normal.

“People can gamble 24 hours a day, seven days a week without leaving their homes, there are 948 gambling advertisements shown on

free to air TV in one day.”

For every person experiencing gambling harm there are 6-10 other people also impacted.

Ms Blunt said some signs to look out for which might mean someone close to you is experiencing gambling harm can be their increasing social isolation, friends borrow money but never returning it, and friends who are unable to watch a sports game without gambling.

Gambler’s Help provides free counselling for everyone impacted by gambling harm.

Help is available 24/7 on 1800 858 858.

Registration: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1097283

Budding scientists embrace university event Year 10 and 11 students from St Albans Secondary College were among 120 students from across Victoria to attend the Annual Biomedical Sciences Day at the University of Melbourne.

Students and their teacher had the exciting opportunity to experience life as a biomedical scientist at the event presented by the University of Melbourne’s School of Biomedical Sciences and the Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC).

The University’s Head of School of Biomedical Sciences, Professor Jennifer Wilkinson-Berka, encouraged the students to think about the science behind what creates, sustains and threatens people’s lives in Australia and beyond.

Professor Wilkinson-Berka spoke of the revolutionary work underway at the school, and the Gene Technology Access Centre— including biological processes to better understand human health, computational biology, 3D printing to replace bones, genomics: new tools for cancer treatments, and new vaccines to combat disease.

Students worked alongside researchers in the Gene Technology Access Centre Laboratories to photograph specimens using light, fluorescence and scanning electron microscopes, and had the opportunity to enter the images into their own Under the Microscope Coverslip Competition.

They also took a behind the scenes look at the University’s Harry Brookes Allen Museum of Anatomy and Pathology and uncovered real tissue specimens and historical anatomical models, and a tour of the Digital Learning Hub which allowed students to experience how innovative digital technology is used to study the human body.

“Holding a beating heart in VR was really cool,” said one student. Their teacher said the students had a wonderful learning experience, and the use of all the great technology and scientific equipment was a real highlight for them.

Local students took on the role of real-life biomedical scientist. (Supplied)

Students embraced the day of learning to mark Biomedical Sciences Day. (Supplied)

St Albans Secondary College students stepped inside the southern hemisphere’s largest biomedical precinct. (Supplied)

There was plenty to see on Biomedical Sciences Day at the University of Melbourne. (Supplied)

Year 10 and 11 students joined more than 100 students from across Victoria to attend the Annual Biomedical Sciences Day. (Supplied)

Students were able to experience how innovative digital technology is used to study the human body. (Supplied)

12 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

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Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 13

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Stage set for community festival The Lions Club of Taylors Lakes is inviting locals to attend the 6th annual Community Festival and Market, promising to deliver another ‘terrific’ day for the community.

The festival is set to take place on Sunday, October 29, from 10am-2pm, for a day filled with more than 60 market stalls, food vans, entertainment, community information and a chance to raise funds for charity and the Lions projects.

All funds raised from the day will go towards the Taylors Lakes Lions Club projects including the development of a community garden for Taylors Lakes, as well as support to the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation which works to help find cures and treatments for childhood cancer.

Held in the beautiful surrounds of the Taylors Creek Linear Park on Chichester Drive in Taylors Lakes, the festival has become a highlighted event on the local calendar.

Lions Club of Taylors Lakes president, Phil Clinkaberry said the group is pleased to bring the local community together for another fun-filled day.

“There’s something for everyone at our community festival – and it’s for two very good causes,” he said.

“Come and join us for a day of fun, food, activities and entertainment.

This is great example of how your local Lions Club strengthens community, at the same time raising valuable funds for very worthwhile causes. We’d love to see you there.”

Stallholders, as well as community groups wishing to hold a display or raise valuable funds are still welcome to make contact.

Details: https://shorturl.at/iyzK7

The day will feature plenty of children’s entertainment, including face-painting, plaster painting, a jumping castle, craft and planting activities, and two special children’s discos. (Supplied)

Jonny, serving from the Taylors Lakes BBQ at last year’s Community Festival and Market. (Supplied)

The centre stage is fully booked, with live acts including Vietnamese dancers, dance and callisthenics troupes, secondary college music students, music school presentations and local soloists. (Supplied)

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Verley and Bob MacGregor in their Mount Martha retirement unit.

Bob MacGregor (right) with Rex Roberts enjoying activities at Uniting AgeWell Andrew Kerr Care Day Centre in Mornington.

Even a brave Sea Wolf needs regular breaks!

Caring and taking a break from caring, looks different to everyone. And time out for Verley MacGregor is running into the waves at a Mount Martha beach early each morning with a group of women friends all howling like wolves!

Verley, who cares for her husband Bob, is a member of Sea Wolves – a group of up to 80 fun-loving women who do just that.

“It’s exhilarating!” she says.

During National Carers Week (October 15-21), Uniting AgeWell is highlighting the range of supports it offers carers, like Verley, in what can be a difficult and exhausting journey. Knowing there is support every step of the way can bring carers a sense of relief and peace of mind. “Our families are scattered across the world, so when it comes to looking

after Bob, I’m it!” she laughs.

“But of course I couldn’t do it without Uniting AgeWell in my corner. They’re great!”

Bob, 83, has Alzheimer’s disease and receives services through his home care package with Uniting AgeWell. While he’s receiving personal care in the morning, Verley nips out for her swim, and when he attends the social connections program at Uniting

AgeWell Andrew Kerr Care Day Centre in Mornington twice a week, Verley has time to sort things out at home.

When Verley was recovering from surgery, Bob was able to access longer stay respite at the Andrew Kerr Care residential care facility.

No matter where you live in Melbourne, there is help at hand. See www.unitingagewell. org or call 1300 783 435.

Support for those who care for someone in the community Caring for a loved one can be challenging.

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Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 15

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Huge lineup of shows, festivals As we enter the last quarter of the year, the west of Melbourne is abuzz with festivals and Western Melbounrne Tourism has been curating a festival season hit-list.

Western Melbourne Tourism executive officer Richard Ponsford said the coming shows and festivals feature big names and emerging performers alike.

“There is a rich tapestry of activity always across the region with some many great venues, driven by our diverse arts community and multicultural population,” he said.

“As we emerge out of the pandemic there is more and more happening. Melbourne’s west has an ever- expanding program of what’s

on. We are working hard on the engagement of the west in the Melbourne major events calendar. For this month in October, the west has a strong ‘sub-programs’ as part of the Melbourne International Jazz festival (Jazz Westside) Melbourne Fringe (Fringe Westside) and the Always Live program later in November.”

In the coming days there’s still a chance to check out some Fringe Westside between October 19 and 22 including Puppet Mayhem at Williamstown Seaworks, The Astonishing Comet Box at Bluestone Church Arts Space in Footscray, or fly high above Footscray station with Swing.

For lovers of beer, connoisseurs and casual enjoyers alike can head to the Westie Beer Festie for tastings on October 21.

On October 29 Jazz Westside returns to Maribyrnong with a take over of Footscray’s hidden civic square for an afternoon of incredibly diverse, hip-swinging rhythms and beats flowing out of Africa including NIASHA, Yusupha Ngum and The Affia Band and Sylent Nqo and The Experience.

Moving into November, on the 11th Melton’s Djerriwarrh Festival kicks off, the huge program of family friendly events and activities will be headlined with massive music acts including Regurgitator, Pseudo Echo,

FOOLS, Jess Hitchcock and Lotte Gallagher.

As November ends the Always Live festival kicks off, beginning with rap star ILLY performing at Plaza Tavern in Werribee, then on December 2 the Jamaican Music and Food Festival hits Williamstown seaworks, with Soul Trains featuring Lee Fields & The Expressions on at Mama Chens in Footscray the next day.

Williamstown will round out the Always Live Festival with End of The Line at Commonwealth Reserve featuring Alex Lahey, Alice Skye and Meghna & Philly.

Details: www.melbourneswest.com.au

Plea to plan for asthma events

Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino with St Bernadette’s Primary School principal Brendan Gill. (Supplied)

Major primary school refurbishment St Bernadette’s Primary School in Sunshine North has been given a million-dollar facelift.

Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino recently joined staff, students, parents, the current and former parish priest and other dignitaries to formally open the newly refurbished school.

The refurbishment included new learning spaces, an administration area, parent and student lounge areas, a library, a resource centre, a community kitchen, and arts studios.

Dr Mulino said modern education facilities are important in providing the best possible learning environment.

“It is a stunning makeover,” Dr Mulino said.

“Built in the 1960s, the school has been

transformed into a school fit for the 21st century.”

Previously, classrooms were located on both sides of a dark corridor. “Now the school is full of light, with soaring ceilings, lovely open spaces, music and art rooms and even a multimedia room,” Dr Mulino said.

“And the modern community kitchen allows the school community to make good use of the fruit, vegetables and herbs that grow in the school garden.”

After the blessing performed by parish priest Fr Silvio Bezzina, Dr Mulino and principal Brendan Gill unveiled the plaque to mark the opening of the facilities.

The redevelopment of St Bernadette’s was delivered with support of federal government funding of $1.1 million through the capital grants program for non-government schools and a generous contribution from the school community.

“It is obvious that a lot of thought went into planning this redevelopment to make it not only fit for purpose now but for well into the future,” Dr Mulino said.

Former principal Joanne Webster, under whose leadership the redevelopment work was conceived and carried out, also attended the opening.

Victorians, including those in Brimbank, are being reminded to protect themselves and their loved ones from the risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma by using Victoria’s world-class risk forecasting system this grass pollen season.

Grass pollen season, which typically runs from the start of October until the end of December, brings with it a seasonal increase in asthma and hay fever – and the chance of thunderstorm asthma.

Epidemic thunderstorm asthma occurs when many people develop asthma symptoms over a short time caused by high amounts of grass pollen and a certain type of thunderstorm.

Victoria’s forecasting system, which is operating from October 1, until December 31, enables people who have asthma or seasonal hay fever – and who are at risk – to plan ahead and reduce their risk.

The forecasting system, launched in 2017, gives a three-day forecast showing the risk of this type of event, from low (green), moderate (orange) to high (red) risk, across the nine Victorian weather districts.

The epidemic thunderstorm asthma risk forecast is available daily through the VicEmergency website and app, and community members can set up a watch zone to receive advice and warnings for their area.

The forecast is also on health.vic.gov. au and the Melbourne Pollen website and app.

Identifying youth social exclusion in early stages crucial An alarming 60 per cent of young people experience social exclusion, which is a key determinant of poor mental health, according to a newly released study by Orygen and Mission Australia.

Orygen is a youth-focused mental health organisation that provide specialist mental health services for young people aged 15 to 25 who reside in the western and north-western regions of metropolitan Melbourne, including through headspace Sunshine.

The 2022 Mission Australia Youth Survey found that of the 18,800 people aged 15-19 surveyed, 60 percent had experienced social exclusion in the last 12 months and these people showed significantly poorer mental

health and wellbeing scores compared to their peers who were not socially excluded.

‘Social exclusion’ refers to a lack of available resources and opportunities needed to participate in society in a meaningful way, and is divided into relational difficulties, financial hardships, housing challenges and edu-employment issues.

Orygen senior research fellow and report co-author Dr Kate Filia said experiences such as loneliness can have lasting effects on things like academic achievement, cognitive functioning, physical health, social functioning and mental health, and the impacts can last a lifetime.

“To prevent this, we need to get better at

16 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

identifying and addressing social exclusion at an early stage, and the action cannot be piecemeal – it requires the full engagement of individuals, communities, educators, governments and service providers,” she said.

The survey also found 25 per cent of young people experienced social exclusion in multiple domains, young people who identified as gender diverse, Indigenous, living in lower socioeconomic areas, regional or remote areas, or who reported speaking a language other than English were excluded more often across the domains and edu-employment issues was the domain in which social exclusion was most commonly experienced at 39 per cent.

Young people who reported going through

any of the four domains of social exclusion reported high psychological distress at more than double the rate of their peers.

The survey results and study have prompted Orygen and Mission Australia to recommend seven key actions to address the issue investing in in enhanced social connections, funding a trial of the F-SIM16 social exclusion measurement tool, addressing financial barriers to mental health, a national trial of a social prescribing approach for young people experiencing mental ill-health, develop support resources, address the impact of housing exclusion on young people and support young people’s engagement in education.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

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

Lions community festival The Lions Club of Taylors Lakes is holding its 6th annual Community Festival and Market on Sunday, October 29. Held in the lovely surrounds of the Taylors Creek Linear Park, the day features community displays and performances, over 60 market stalls, a variety of food vans including the famous Lions BBQ, kid’s activities and more. From 10am-2pm.

Enter on Chichester Drive, Taylors Lakes.

There are still some stall spaces open.

■ https://events.humanitix.com/lionscommunity-festival-and-market-2023

Live Well for Life IPC Health’s Living Well team is offering a new, free five week program called Live Well for Life. The program is for people who are at risk of developing a chronic health condition, who have diabetes, heart disease or would like to learn how to improve their health. The group will meet weekly on Thursdays from 10am to noon, commencing on November 2, at IPC Health Deer Park. Registration is required.

■ Call IPC Health on 1300 472 432 and ask to speak to Brodie from the Living Well program

Walking football Brimbank council is inviting locals to celebrate the Seniors Festival with a weekly walking football program running every Wednesday for the month of October.

All skill levels are welcome. Equipment provided.

■ https://www.trybooking.com/CKQDW

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of performers at the Bluestone Church Arts Space, with Angela Cooper at the front. (Damjan Janevski) 365578_01

434 082

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

Al-Anon Family Groups

St Albans senior citizens

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental.

Confidentiality is protected. The group meets every Wednesday at Sydenham Neighbourhood House from 1-2:30pm.

New members are welcome.

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm.

Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton.

■ Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Try fencing Western Swords is offering free fencing training every Thursday during school terms, from 6:30-8pm, at St. Albans Meadows Primary School. All ages from 7 on up are welcome, and all gear is there to borrow.

■ https://www.westernswords.org/

Girl guides Brimbank Distict Girl Guides is inviting locals to come and try Guides before committing to join. Girls aged 5 to 18 and adults over 18 are invited to enjoy the fun and friendship of guiding.

■ Carolyn 0418 536 084

National Seniors Australia - Deer Park branch Deer Park Branch of National Seniors Australia hosts a lunch on the third Friday of each month at different venues. The group also arrange activities each month, sometimes to the Theatre, Morning Melodies, train or bus trip. The group also holds a General Meeting at The Club in Caroline Springs on the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm. Locals are invited to join in for lunch or just attend the meeting and make new friends.

■ Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com.

Sunshine Halloween Street Party The Sunshine Halloween Street Party will return this year on Tuesday, October 31.

The event will take place along Hampshire Road from 4-7pm. The family-fun day will feature trick or treating, face painting, costume parade and street performers.

■ https://shorturl.at/dknIW

Sunshine Repair Cafe Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Cafe in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

■ sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413

Card games Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday from 7-10pm at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine.

■ Leisa, 0425768808

Parkinson’s support group

Caroline Springs Rotary The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm.

■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton Ladies Probus Keilor Day View Club The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.

■ Robyn, 0425387880

Palliative volunteers needed Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Meets from 10am on the second Wednesday of each month at Melton Country Club on Reserve Road, Melton. All visitors are welcome.

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.

■ Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays from 7.30pm.

Melton Bridge Club The Melton Bridge Club has recommenced weekly social Bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you.

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

The Gap on Graham The Gap provides a place for Melton youth to hang out, socialise, play games and learn new skills. The centre holds a night for girls aged 10 to 18 years at 5 Graham Street, Melton, on Wednesday evenings. There is also a drop-in night for anyone aged 12 to 25 years old.

■ Val, 0414 769 605.

Melton Men’s Group Deer Park Lions Club

The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month 10.30am–12.30pm at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers welcome.

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday from 5pm to 8pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre, 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on Senior Men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool or table tennis.

■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

Take weight off naturally Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and

Melton Friendship Group.

Join the Melton Friendship Group for singles 55 and older. Meet fortnightly for coffee and chat nights and organised affordable outings and events.

■ 0406 493 734

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club The Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 10am at Melton Country Club.

New members welcome.

■ Ann 0425705150

Melton South Knit & Natter All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa.

■ 9747 8576

Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 17

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

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

2 9 5 7 7

8 1 5

4

4 8 5 6 9 3

7

medium

7

5

3

8 4

6 8 2 3 2 5 2 9 9 1

9

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Scanty (6) Large quantities or numbers of people (6) In the midst of (5) Urban dwelling (9) Assertion (9) Fat (5) Wired (6) Conjectural (4) Ridge of rock, sand or coral just above the surface of the sea (4) Dairy product (6) Collector’s book (5) Invigorating drug (9) Place in new arrangement (9) Live (5) 14-line poem (6) Grain (6)

1 3 9 11 12 13 14 15 19

20 24 25 27 28 29 30

No. 155

Photograph (8) Cute (8) Male name (7) Natives of Stockholm (6) Long seat (6) Labyrinth (4) Breed of dog (7) Inexperienced (coll) (5) Poor labourer of low social status (7) Calming (8) Abstaining from liquor (8) Regret (7) Place of residence (5) Seal’s tusked cousin (6) Get (6) Wild mountain goat (4)

1 2 4 5 6 7 8 10 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 26

DECODER

No. 155

5 3 2

4 6 8 4 3 8

2

6 hard

5

3 8

6

1

9

10 11 12 13

C

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

ALOUD AORTA ASKED ATONE BORES BRATS BRAVO CARGO CARPS CARTS CODED CRUDE EDGED EDICT ESSAY FREER FURRY GEESE GONNA IDEAL MEETS

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

P

Today’s Aim: 11 words: Good 16 words: Very good

L

N

I

U

C A

I

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

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

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

4 LETTERS DABS DEAD DIPS DISH DOGS DUES LYRE ODDS RODS SEEM SLED SWAM TOSS TSAR

1

What term is more commonly used to refer to a socket wrench?

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

2

Sophie Okonedo (pictured) played Tatiana Rusesabagina in which film?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

3

Is Lake Argyle a natural or artificial lake?

4

Who has appeared the greatest number of times in Time magazine’s annual list of most influential people in the world?

No. 155

I

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R O A S T A C U T E M E D I A

18 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

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7 LETTERS DRAWERS ERECTED HALTERS SENSORY TRESTLE WHISPER

6 LETTERS CIRCLE CLIENT HEATED SCREEN

8 LETTERS CURTAINS SERVANTS SHRAPNEL TRINKETS

20-10-23

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MESSY NEEDS OBOES OCTAL ODOUR OFFER OILED OTHER OZONE PAGAN REUSE ROUGE ROUND ROUTE RUING SAUNA SAVER SCENT SCRAM SIEVE SLEPT

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No. 155

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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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hard

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medium

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easy

1

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

WORDFIT

5

Who wrote the 1971 novel The Day of the Jackal?

6

Yerevan is the capital of which country?

7

Ashkenazi Jews are those descended from medieval Jewish communities in which country?

8

What are the four stages of a butterfly’s life cycle?

9

Which is the richer source of vitamin A: a) egg, b) mango or c) broccoli leaf?

10 What derogatory term is used to refer to the alien population in the film District 9?

ANSWERS: 1. Ratchet 2. Hotel Rwanda 3. Artificial 4. Oprah Winfrey 5. Frederick Forsyth 6. Armenia 7. Germany 8. Egg, larva, pupa, adult 9. c) broccoli leaf 10. Prawns

No. 155

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SUDOKU

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Grants to breath easier Businesses in Melbourne’s inner west, including Brimbank, are able to access grants of up to $100,000 in a bid to help reduce air pollution.

The state government announced the second round of the $2.84 million Air Quality Improvement Precincts grants is now open, which aims to reduce dust and smoke polluting the air.

“Clean air is essential for our health and wellbeing which is why we are delivering the Air Quality Improvement Precincts grants program to Melbourne’s west,” said Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos.

Up to $1 million in grants will be allocated to businesses located or operating in the city’s inner west.

The establishment of Air Quality Improvement Precincts is part of the state government’s Clean Air for all Victorians – Victoria’s Air Quality Strategy, Victoria’s first overarching plan to address air pollution.

Clean Air for all Victorians was released in 2022 and sets out the state government’s approach to reducing air pollution. Over the next decade, the strategy will reduce air pollution and improve air quality, while also addressing the challenges of climate change and population growth.

Applications for the grants program close on Thursday, November 9.

Details: sustainability.vic.gov.au/ air-quality-improvement-precinctsgrant-program.

Sheru the pride lion (left) with his three clubs, Mwezi, Kianga, and Jango and another lion at Werribee Open Range Zoo. (supplied)

King of the zoo and kids He might be king of Werribee Open Range Zoo, but pride male lion, Sheru, is not above a bit of baby-sitting.

The six year old father is spending an increasing amount of time looking after his trio of three month old cubs, much to the delight of zoo visitors.

The sight of Mwezi, Kianga and Jango clamouring over their formidable father is now a common one in their enclosure on the zoo’s African River Trail and their keeper Lydia Whiteway said Sheru is growing into life as a parent.

“Sheru spends a lot of time laying down and

allowing the cubs to pounce on him. They will then jump, climb, playfully bite, and paw at his mane,” she said.

“After all the action, they also have some really nice quiet time. We often see them lying between his paws and resting together, which is lovely to see.”

Ms Whiteway said the growth in strength and resilience of the cubs is enabling them to spend longer periods of time with Sheru and also in view of Zoo visitors.

“During the past three months, the cubs would often tire very quickly after small periods of play and retreat to the comforts of

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their den with their mother Nilo,” she said.

“Now, the cubs have the stamina to explore their habitat for an entire day at a time.”

African lions are listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List, with their population declining to around only 39,000 in the wild in sub-Saharan Africa.

The lion pride at Werribee Open Range Zoo is part of the Australasian zoo breeding and conservation program.

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Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 21

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Alfa Romeo Tonale Ti road test

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Right now, this is your cheapest ticket into the glamorous, alluring world of the Italian marque Alfa Romeo.

The Tonale is a small SUV that is available at the moment only as a fuel-saving hybrid, which could be a real bonus depending on your perspective.

Some drivers may hunger for something a bit spicier, say the larger more powerful 2.0-litre turbo from Stelvio.

Named after a mountain pass in Northern Italy, Tonale sits on the same platform as the Jeep Compass and is a little brother to the mid-sized Stelvio, but still seats five like Stelvio.

It’s also available as a more expensive plug-in hybrid, while a re-badged, re-styled version is sold as the Dodge Hornet in the United States.

Styling Tonale is available in three grades: Ti, Veloce and Plug-In Hybrid Q4. Prices start from $49,900 for Ti, $56,400 for Veloce and $77,500 for Plug-In Hybrid Q4 - all prices before on-road costs.

Metallic paint is $1600 and our test vehicle, the entry Ti, was fitted with the $4500 Lusso options pack includes perforated leather trim, a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, power adjust driver and passenger front seats with driver memory and 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio.

Standard kit includes 18-inch alloys, keyless entry and go, anodised brake calipers, auto high beam, electric park brake, auto dimming mirror, auto lights and wipers and front and rear park sensors.

You also get a body-coloured rear spoiler and door handles, gloss black painted body kit with satin chrome inserts, black painted power-fold heated exterior mirrors with Italian flag, and automatic full LED matrix headlights with adaptive driving beam and dynamic turn indicator.

Inside there’s dual zone climate air with rear air vents, carbon cloth and leatherette seats with ‘Electro’ welded Alfa logo and Biscotto stitching, manual adjust front seats with power lumbar for driver, leather steering wheel with start button, soft-touch dashboard finisher with beige stitching and 3D insert, 60:40 split rear seats with ski-pass, black headliner, front and rear floor mats and aluminium pedals.

Colours available in Alfa White, Alfa Red, Alfa Black, Vesuvio Grey Metallic, Misano Blue Metallic and Montreal Green Tri-Coat (Veloce only).

Tonale is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with five-year roadside assistance. Service intervals are 12 months or 15,000km.

Infotainment An all-new infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system, with AM/FM/ DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and six-speaker audio.

There’s also wireless phone charging and front and rear USB A/C ports and 12-volt outlets in the front and cargo area.

With the My Alfa Connect app users can remotely access their vehicle using their mobile phone using services such as vehicle finder and remote operations.

Engines/transmissions A 1.5-litre four-cylinder, petrol engine coupled with a 15kW electric motor produces 118kW of power at 5750 rpm and 240Nm of torque at 1500 rpm. Power is transmitted to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

Safety Five-star safety includes six airbags, a rear-view camera and autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with vulnerable road users.

There’s also adaptive cruise control with stop and go, forward collision warning, lane support system (lane departure warning + lane keep assist), driver drowsy detection, traffic sign recognition with intelligent speed

Tonale - you can’t beat that million-dollar style.

Tonale - you can’t beat that million-dollar style.

assist and tyre pressure monitoring.

Driving Tonale sits 4528mm long and weighs 1491kg, with a braked towing capacity of 1500kg.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 8.8 seconds and it has a top speed of 212km/h.

With a 55-litre tank, it takes premium 95 unleaded with fuel consumption a claimed 5.6L/100km.

Energy is recovered during periods of decelerating and braking, which is stored in the 0.8kWh battery for later use. It can operate on electric power alone at speeds of up to 15km/h, which means silent starts and happy neighbours.

The fully independent suspension features McPherson struts and ‘unique’ sway bars at either end, while the 18-inch wheels are shod with chunky Continental 235/50 series rubber.

Koni supplies frequency selective dampers that adjust the level of hydraulic damping based on the road surface, improving handling but retaining a comfortable ride.

A space saver spare is provided.

Matrix LED headlights are able to shut down individual LEDs, keeping high beam active but preventing on-coming traffic from being dazzled, in a kind of halo effect.

Unique brake-by-wire technology delivers strong, aggressive braking.

The 48-volt mild hybrid delivers respectable performance and fuel economy, but we expected a little more excitement.

It is after all an Alfa and that’s why people buy them the last time we checked.

The hybrid is happy to comply, with a rasp

22 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

when you punch the throttle, but ultimately lacks torque when it comes to firing out of corners.

And then there’s an all too familiar ‘jerky’ twin clutch tranny and surprising lack of gear change paddles, which is not exactly encouraging.

It smacks of cost cutting and together with the price, suggests the premium brand is looking to pick up a bit of mainstream action.

The more expensive Veloce gets paddles, while the plug-in scores a conventional six-speed auto.

Switching to dynamic mode is transformative and the engine tries hard with a little help from its electric friend, but it really needs some more get up and go.

On a more positive note, ride and handling are excellent, especially the ride quality which sets a new benchmark for the brand.

The car corners flat with plenty of grip from the Continentals, on well-formed bitumen at least.

Dirt is another story.

The brake-by-wire stoppers are similarly impressive, biting hard and fast. But the steering is odd. It’s sharp and responsive and provides good feedback, but is very light and doesn’t seem to weight-up even in Dynamic mode.

Of note our test vehicle had a rattle from the instrument cluster which is sure to drive someone crazy trying to figure out where it is coming from.

Sometime later the dash began flashing a warning.

Lane Assist was not available - clean windscreen! Is that all it takes?

The instrument cluster itself is fully digitised, but offers just the one theme that is designed around analogue-style gauges, with a central information area that can be scrolled, but working out how to do this is a challenge.

Physical buttons are provided for the aircon and a roller-style volume control for audio in the centre console.

While Android Auto is conveniently wireless, actually connecting to it with our phone was also problematic.

The phone told us to follow prompts from the car touchscreen, but there were none and it took a couple of minutes to find Android Auto buried in the menu system.

When it did finally hook up, it worked fine.

We were getting 6.8L/100km after 360km of mixed driving.

Summing Up The Alfa Tonale Ti is a likeable car offered at an attractive price.

While there’s no mistaking it for an Alfa, close your eyes and it doesn’t feel like an Alfa.

The drive experience is not engaging and we wonder how many corners Alfa cut to get the car down to the price.

More power, paddle shifts and the Lusso pack should all be part of the deal – or you could spend $6500 more for the Veloce.

Effectively, however, adding the Lusso pack is the only way to get power-adjust seats with either grade.

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SPORT

A new off-field look for Sharks Hillside has strengthened its women’s program in the Essendon District Football League, bringing in a new coach and operations manager.

Blaise Ferraro will coach the Sharks’ senior women in 2024. Ferraro is the Sharks’ current games record holder, a former senior men’s premiership captain and life member. He also has nine years of assistant and head coaching experience under his belt.

Ferraro has retired from playing to take the role with the women’s side.

“That was a big decision for me personally,” he said.

“I’ve had some experience with the women’s program before, when we started up the juniors at the club, I coached one of the teams.”

The Sharks finished in sixth position in the EDFL premier division this season, with four wins from their 13 matches. With the aim next season, to boost up the ladder.

“While they finished towards the bottom of the ladder, they weren’t really at any threat of relegation,” Ferraro said.

“There are no confirmed outs at the moment, all of the team of the year players and the VFL [Victorian Football League] experienced players are all committed to play next year which is good.

“We’ve got a handful of players returning who have been away from the club for the last few years.

“So far it’s looking promising so hopefully we can move up the ladder sooner rather than later.”

To team up with Ferraro the club has added Chris Baba to oversee its women’s program.

Baba comes with a wealth of experience, with a background in sports administration and has worked at Carlton and the Western Bulldogs football clubs in various business development and sponsorship roles. He also spent a couple

Blaise Ferraro. (Supplied)

of years working within the recruiting team at the Bulldogs being responsible for scouting and reporting on prospective AFL talent.

“The experience he brings is invaluable really,” Ferraro said.

“We’re really lucky to get somebody like that involved and want to be involved.

“People with that resume and who are that enthusiastic, you can’t put a price on it.”

With Ferraro and Baba now steering the ship, the goal is simple.

“To play finals will be the main goal,” Ferraro said.

“They’re a pretty close group already which

is handy and they are all excited and ready to go.

“Pre Covid they were playing finals and making prelims, so they have experience being there, they’ve had a taste of it before so they definitely want that back.”

Harper Sercombe

SPORTS QUIZ 1. F1 athlete Carlos Sainz is known for singing which song post-race, for which fans have also declared his nickname?

2. How old was Jess Fox when she won her first medal at the Olympics?

3. The Geelong Cats play at which stadium, commonly known as ‘the cattery’?

4. In which city was the first Winter Olympics held?

5. For the first time in history, which two Italian cities will host the 2026 Winter Olympics?

6. Which tennis star called her coach’s departure ‘immoral’ following his decision to train Naomi Osaka mid-contract?

7. For the first time, what day will next year’s Australian Open start on?

8. Who won 2022 AFLW best and fairest?

9. Which Aussie tennis player was disqualified at the Shanghai Masters tournament for hitting an umpire with the ball?

10. Who is the only AFL coach to have never played a game of AFL/VFL? 11. Who did Australia lose to in their opening match of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup?

David Beckham

Simone Biles

14. Taylor Adams and Brodie Grundy have joined which AFL side for the 2024 season?

15. How long was the doping suspension served by Australian swimmer Shayna Jack?

16. How many games did the Wallabies win at the 2023 Rugby World Cup? 17. And who will host the 2027 edition of the Rugby World Cup? 18. Who won Collingwood’s Best and Fairest Award for the 2023 season?

19. Who won Penrith’s Player of the Year Award for the 2023 season?

20. Which NBL team plays some home games at the State Basketball Centre?

21. Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum broke the marathon world record competing in which US city?

22. How many balls did it take Jake Fraser-McGurk to make the fastest ever one-day century in a 50-over cricket match?

23. Damian Lillard plays for which NBA team?

24. How many club best and fairest has Clayton Oliver won for the Melbourne Football Club?

25. Husband and wife Adam Elliott and Millie Boyle both play for which NRL club?

28. How many times has American artistic gymnast Simone Biles been crowned all-around world champion?

29. David Beckham played five games during his senior EPL career on loan to which soccer club?

30. Dick Butkus played for which NFL team?

26. Lacrosse, squash, baseball, softball, flag football and which other sport have been proposed for inclusion at the 2028 Olympics?

27. Australian professional baseballer Curtis Mead plays for which MLB team?

1. Smooth Operator 2. 18 years old (London 2012) 3. GMHBA Stadium 4. Chamonix, France (1924) 5. Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo 6. Zheng Qinwen 7. Sunday 8. Emily Bates 9. Marc Polmans 10. Chris Fagan (Brisbane Lions) 11. India 12. Shane van Gisbergen 13. West Indies 14. Sydney 15. 24 months 16. Two 17. Australia 18. Josh Daicos 19. Isaah Yeo 20. South East Melbourne Phoenix 21. Chicago 22. 29 23. Milwaukee Bucks 24. Four 25. Sydney Roosters 26. Cricket 27. Tampa Bay Rays 28. Six 29. Preston North End 30. Chicago Bears

2010

12. Richie Stanaway and which other driver won the 2023 Bathurst 1000?

13. Hayley Matthews is a star batter for which cricket team?

Tuesday, 17 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 23

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

One of the AFLW’s most exciting prospects It’s been a challenging year for the Western Jets’ Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner, however things are looking promising in the lead up to the AFLW draft.

The midfielder who can double as a key forward is an extremely exciting prospect, with undoubtable athleticism and talent.

The year 11 student said she is enjoying this exciting time in her life and trying her best to embrace what is being thrown at her.

“I’m very nervous but I’m also very excited,” she said.

“I’ve just been trying to take it all in and take a deep breath and actually enjoy what’s happening because it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Weston-Turner unfortunately suffered a broken wrist after just two games of the Talent League season which saw her miss the next 12 weeks of footy.

“At that time I felt really stressed because I wasn’t sure what would happen because clubs hadn’t seen much of my footy,” she said.

“They would go off last year a little bit but over summer I really improved on everything that I wanted to and I was really keen.

“I felt super fit going into the season and then to have that happen kind of felt like a knife in the back.

“But I was just going to focus on what I can do, and that was running, what I can’t do is play footy but I can still sit on the sidelines, I can learn from my games, I can do vision with my coaches.

“I didn’t want to let my negative energy impact the team… I always wanted to stay in a happy mood and I think that definitely helped.”

Weston-Turner didn’t miss a beat upon her return to the field, kicking two goals and

having 19 touches on her Jets return and then kicking 1.4 for Vic Metro as well as being named amongst the best players.

Being a professional footballer has always been the dream for Weston-Turner, from playing juniors in a team full of boys, believing she would grow up to play in the men’s competition, to women’s pathways opening up and her taking full advantage of them.

“To be in a professional environment where I get to live out my dream, and eventually and hopefully work full-time just doing it, being a professional athlete would mean the absolute world to me,” she said.

“Living out my childhood dream, which my family and friends are all so supportive of and just want the best for me.”

Harper Sercombe

Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner (Graham Denholm, AFL Photos)

Baskaran is a rising star

Logan Morris (Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos)

Draft ‘means everything’

By Harper Sercombe Five weeks is a long time in football but for one young gun the next 30 days couldn’t move quicker.

With the AFL draft scheduled for November 20, it’s an interesting time in the life of the Western Jets’ Logan Morris, as each day passes, nerves and excitement builds.

“I’m feeling pretty confident,” Morris said.

“Getting a bit nervous now that it’s getting a bit closer but I’m trying to take it week by week and trying to do other things to distract me and not think about the draft too much.”

The Werribee District’s product is a 191 centimetre hybrid player who has proved himself at both ends of the ground, showcasing his range of talents and work ethic.

Morris enjoyed a dominant year for the Jets booting 30 goals from his 10 outings for the club.

The 18-year-old also applied his craft for Vic Metro, including a four goal haul against Western Australia, and slotted two in his Victorian Football League debut for Werribee.

“I feel like I’ve had a pretty good year, off the

back of a massive preseason,” he said.

“Trying to set myself up to have a big year and try to play consistent footy.

“Setting myself up and going out week by week and just focusing on training, having a big week on the track and then trying to back that up on the weekend.”

Playing across a variety of teams throughout the season has helped Morris enhance his football by picking up bits and pieces from across the board.

“Training at the highest level and being surrounded with elite players and players that I look up to and try and base my game off, you learn so much,” he said.

“And get better as an athlete and as a person, being around an elite environment.”

An AFL player that Morris looks up to and said he bases his game around is Collingwood’s premiership key forward, Brody Mihocek.

“We’re similar heights and his ability to get up the ground and his work rate, ability to hit the scoreboard and take contested marks,” Morris said. “[Contested marking] is definitely one of my strengths and I try to use that the best I can in games and ability to hit the scoreboard

24 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 October, 2023

is probably my other strength.”

To further encompass all of what Mihocek does, Morris said he is still working on his fitness, although it’s an area he has seen improvements in.

“Definitely trying to build my tank,” he said.

“Especially if I do get onto an [AFL] list, that’s probably the main thing that I need to get better at, just to cover the ground a bit more, get to more contests.

“That’s the one thing I’m working on this pre-season, just to get as fit as I can leading into next year.”

It truly would be a dream come true for Morris if he were to find his way into an AFL club next month.

“It would mean everything,” he said.

“I’ve been working to this for my whole life, and it’s something I’ve dreamt of since I was a young kid.

“To make my family proud and myself as well, just for the hard work I’ve put in and to get the reward for it, I’d be grateful for that and I can’t wait to see what my future holds.”

Former Western Jets’ talent now Hawthorn midfielder Charlotte Baskaran has been recognised as a round six AFLW rising star nominee following a strong outing against St Kilda.

In just her 16th game at the highest level, the 18-year-old put in an impressive performance in Moorabbin with 14 disposals, including 11 contested possessions, along with a game-high 12 tackles.

Baskaran has shown gradual improvement across her six games this season, averaging 13 disposals, 5.8 contested possessions and 4.3 tackles per outing.

Since being drafted by the Hawks with pick nine last year, the Aberfeldie product has played every possible game for the brown and gold, along with balancing her year 12 studies last season.

Baskaran joins fellow midfielder Jasmine Fleming as Hawthorn’s second rising star nomination in 2023.

Hawthorn general manager of football operations Max Bailey congratulated Baskaran on her recognition.

“It’s fantastic to see Charlotte get rewarded for the work she’s done,” Bailey said.

“The nomination is a reflection of the hours she’s put in and as the youngest Hawk on our list, we’re excited to see her development continue.

“She is the sort of player who is willing to take on any challenge in front of her, which was highlighted by her ability to balance her Year 12 studies just last season.

“Charlotte has really leveraged off the senior players around her which we hope will lead to a long and bright future in brown and gold.”

Essendon’s Amber Clarke was also nominated for her two goals and 16 disposals in the Bombers’ 10-point win against Geelong.

Hawthorn’s Charlotte Baskaran (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images via AFL Photos)

SPORT Darren Boyall to lead Roadrunners North Sunshine has appointed Darren Boyall as its men’s coach for the 2024 season.

The struggling Roadrunners have only been victorious once in the last five years, however, things are starting to look positive for the club with a new coach and off field stability under president Andrew Scimone Boyall has captained and played in successful sides at the former clubs Moomba Park and Fawkner Park.

More recently Boyall was coach of Essendon District Football Club Northern Saints senior thirds team, where he also served as a midfield and senior assistant.

While Boyall said he knows the task ahead of him, he said he is looking forward to it.

“It is a challenge, but all’s going well so far, so hopefully we can win a few games and challenge other teams and go forward,” he said. “[We want to] be competitive with sides and

obviously the club’s been down and out a little bit over the last few years but that’s what we are all working towards with Andy [Scimone] and the committee and myself.

“Andrew and the committee are in a good place and the culture from what I’ve heard has changed, all for the better for the North Sunshine footy club.”

Recruiting players to the club is high on Boyall’s priority list to help his side move forward.

“Number one for me is good quality people,” he said. “[We want] probably a few key position players and quick ball runners who use the ball well.

“50-50 [split between recruiting youth and experienced players], I’m all for the young blokes jumping on board and getting their senior football underway, I was there once.

“It’s one of those things, you want a bit of

youth because one good things with kids is that they’ll try 100 per cent for the whole 120 minutes.”

Via social media, the club said it was excited by this appointment, and said there were some more things in the works behind the scenes, including player and assistant coaching announcements.

“Darren impressed the selection panel during the interview process with his clear communication skills and vision for the club,” it said.

The Roadrunners have already announced plenty of re-signings and a couple of fresh signings including that of Kelsey Rameka from Melton South in the Ballarat Football League.

Harper Sercombe Darren Boyall (Supplied)

Sports shorts AFL Former Western Jet Zak Butters has capped a breakout year by winning the John Cahill Medal as Port Adelaide’s 2023 AFL best and fairest player.

The 23-year-old was remarkably consistent after a slow start, polling votes in all but two of the club’s 25 games. The John Cahill Medal win caps a strong season where Butters earned his first All-Australian blazer and won the AFL Coaches’ Association Champion Player of the Year award among other accolades after a move from the forward line into the midfield.

“I’ve put more into myself as I ever have this year,” Butters said in his acceptance speech. “If you keep showing up, you get what you deserve, so the more you put in the more you get out of it. I like to live like that as well.”

EDFL

Michelle Anderson (GEM Photography)

Eagles look to expand

By Harper Sercombe The Western Eagles are continuing to build their successful women’s program.

Following an undefeated FV state league 4 season, the Eagles are continuing to expand and develop women’s soccer at the club, with plans to add in another senior and junior teams.

The Eagles were fantastic this year under coach John Bilcharz, winning 14 of their 16 matches, drawing the other two, with a positive goal difference of 36.

Bilcharz said the growth of women’s soccer at the club has been great with the team consistently having an excess of players, forcing Bilcharz to rotate through his squad.

“It’s been fantastic… the numbers are there and the retention of the players are very similar to last year, we didn’t lose many,” he said.

“I’m super keen for next year to try to get two teams up and running across a couple of divisions so it’s really good.”

Trying to fit a squad of 26 into a game day maximum of 17 players was always going to be tricky for Bilcharz. He said a key to his team’s success was the messaging he relayed to his squad in virtue of securing promotion.

“I was pretty honest and upfront at the start of the year that our intention was to win the league,” he said.

“If that meant us having to play our better players more regularly… then we would do that.

“If our messaging is clear and concise then I think everyone has got that honesty from me… it will alleviate a lot of the problems.”

The messaging is the same to his players ahead of the 2024 season, with the Eagles back on the training track last Thursday night.

“In state 3 at a minimum, I definitely want to survive and not come back down [to state 4],” Bilcharz said.

“At a maximum I would think it would be grouse if we could get promoted to state 2, that would be fantastic, the momentum’s there.

“I’m looking forward to next year and there’s no reason why we can’t go again and potentially win the league.”

While the hope is that the Eagles will be able to add another women’s side, more junior girls teams are to be expected in 2024, which is something that Bilcharz is passionate about.

“I spent a lot of years with my daughter at Keilor Park… they had girl’s teams from under nines all the way through the ages up into the senior squad… I’d like to mirror that if we can at our club,” he said.

“Then we’ve got a pathway of girls coming through at whatever age group, I’d like to be involved in that program.

“There’s no reason why we can’t get some of our girls to train some of the younger girls to give them some exposure.

“I’ve got visions of how I want it to work, the next step is putting it in place.

“We definitely want a junior program of girls coming underneath so it rejuvenates the senior side in years to come.”

Burnside Heights has appointed a new women’s coach to take them forward in the Essendon District Football League. The Bears announced Michael Davis as their new coach last week.

Davis is no stranger to the Bears having been the club’s inaugural under 18’s boys coach back in 2014.

Davis has coached previously at both junior and senior levels and more recently was the under 18’s girls coach at Taylors Lakes. On social media the club congratulated Davis.

“We congratulate Michael on his appointment and can’t wait to see him lead our Women’s team to success in season 2024,” it said.

In other EDFL news Deer Park has split with premiership coach Heath Scotland. The former Collingwood and Carlton player indicated to the club that he would be pursuing opportunities elsewhere regarding coaching in 2024.

Under Scotland’s leadership, the club was able to achieve the ultimate prize in the EDFL division 1 in 2023, its first year in the league. The club said it is grateful for Scotland’s contribution and recognises the bond that will forever exist between premiership coach and club.

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