Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 24th October 2023

Established in 1924 as the

SUPA

proudly serving Brimbank and the North West

CRAZY

24 OCTOBER, 2023

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Wednesday 25th October — Tuesday 31st October 2023 260 TAYLORS ROAD, DELAHEY, VIC 3037

Australian Pre-Packed Brown Onions 1kg 89¢ per kg

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SUPA

CRAZY

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DEALS

*Retail quantities apply

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SAVE $3.45 Schweppes Mixers 4x300mL Selected Varieties $2.88 per Litre

$ 45

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Fantastic Rice Crackers 100g Selected Varieties $1.15 per 100g

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1

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Betty Crocker Cake Mix 450-540g Selected Varieties

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$ 99

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SAVE $4.81 Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain 765g

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Boss Coffee 4x273mL Selected Varieties $9.82 per Litre

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$ Bertocchi Middle Bacon

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99 Yummy Natural Almonds 500g KG

$1.20 per 100g

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Heinz Baked Beans or Spaghetti 300g Selected Varieties 53¢ per 100g

$ 59

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Cadbury Sharepacks 144-180g Selected Varieties

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Don Donskis Pork Crackle 50g $4 per 100g

Wednesday 25th October — Tuesday 31st October 2023 260 TAYLORS ROAD, DELAHEY, VIC 3037

2

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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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2W BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

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proudly serving Brimbank and the North West

24 OCTOBER, 2023

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Creativity on show

Catholic Regional College St Albans students, Mariam, Siena and Noor, with the ‘To Be Known and Loved’ -Community Arts Project. (Damjan Janevski) 367773_01

This Thursday, Catholic Regional College St Albans will host its annual ‘IMAGES’ art exhibition, a highlight of the school calendar that has been running for more than 15 years.

Arts leader Clarence Marshall said the exhibition is a celebration of the college’s young people and their creativity.

“IMAGES is a wonderful opportunity for the school community to come together and see the incredible work from our Visual Arts, Media and Visual Communication students,” he said.

Mr Marshall said every student from years 7 through to 10 will have a piece of art on display at the exhibition.

“We hope that the art, design and media work will provoke conversation between the artist and their peers and families, around processes and meaning,” he said.

“A special focus for the exhibition is an artwork inspired by our 2023 school theme, ‘To Be Known and Loved’. Our school community produced monoprints which reflected who we are as individuals within a school community.”

‘Hijack’ sparks walkout

By Hannah Hammoud Councillor Maria Kerr stormed out of the Brimbank council meeting on October 17, after she said her motion to introduce a regular public forum meeting was ‘hijacked’.

In July this year, Cr Kerr raised a notice of motion to allow residents to ask live and unscripted questions of councillors through a proposal to establish a regular public forum meeting for the community.

However at the most recent meeting, council said it would not be introducing public forums at this time leading Cr Kerr to raise an alternate motion suggesting that a monthly, one hour, online forum be created.

Before Cr Kerr could speak to her alternate

motion, Cr Ranka Rasic put up an amendment to change the forum from monthly, to quarterly, and require that submissions be made one week prior to the forum ultimately undoing the ‘unscripted’ intention of the original proposal.

“My original alternate motion is being hijacked … why does someone else have a precedence over my original motion?” Cr Kerr asked.

Packing up her things, Cr Kerr said, “I think the community has seen enough”, before walking out of the meeting.

Cr Kerr said she found it “absurd” that council could not dedicate one hour per month to speak with residents.

“I feel sad for the community, the community

has lost out. It was absolutely appalling that councillors could not allocate one hour per month for community engagement,” she said.

“I could not sit there and be a bystander and see democracy be squashed.”

As Cr Kerr left the chamber, the council meeting was simultaneously adjourned for more than 15 minutes as residents seated in the gallery shouted ‘corruption’ and ‘sell-outs’.

As the meeting resumed in a much quieter fashion, both Cr Kerr’s original alternate motion, and Cr Rasic’s amended motion were debated amongst the councillors.

Cr Rasic said moving the forum to a quarterly basis would allow council to assess the volume of submissions, adding that if

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there was a high volume of submissions she would be happy to have the meetings take place on a monthly schedule.

Local resident Dianne Cappelli said that Cr Rasic’s amended motion added “no value” to the original proposal. She said residents are already able to submit questions to council via monthly council meetings and it would provide no benefit to have an additional quarterly meeting that also answered pre-submitted questions.

“If you are going to do quarterly online forums [then] just by virtue of it being quarterly there is also going to be a backlog of three month’s worth of submissions,” Ms Cappelli said.

Continued page 3

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24 October 2023

Mayor’s message Cr Lara Carli

STAY INFORMED

It’s been an honour and privilege to serve as Mayor of Australia’s fastest growing municipality for the past 12 months. It’s been rewarding and challenging, but it has filled me with pride watching our safe, thriving and accessible community grow.

Council has left no stone unturned when it has come to advocating to all levels of government to ensure our City becomes an even better place to live, raise a family and work.

Over the past 12 months, we have delivered a significant capital works program including community centres, new and upgraded playground and road upgrades. One of those projects was the Thornhill Park Children’s and Community Centre, which was officially opened last week and has improved access to early childhood and health services for this community.

Other highlights include a new sports pavilion and major upgrades at Taylors Hill Recreation Reserve and continued work on the Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve.

A commemorative space, co‑designed with the Wurundjeri Woi‑wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and the Melton Historical Society was established in the Melton Cemetery to acknowledge the unmarked graves of Aboriginal Ancestors and early settlers.

These initiatives complement more than 100 community services Council offers to residents and our hugely successful major events.

Thank you to everyone who supported me as Mayor. I look forward to continuing to represent my community and advocate for your needs as a Watts Ward Councillor.

Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council-related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au or visit my Facebook page at: facebook.com/Cr.LaraCarli

Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

The Djerriwarrh Festival is back Iconic Australian band, Regurgitator, will headline this year’s Djerriwarrh Festival, supported by music legends, Pseudo Echo.

When: Saturday 11 November 2023.

Adding to the high‑profile live music line‑up will be exciting free activities and performances in the kids’ zone, a big street parade to kick things off, market stalls bursting with wares from local artists and designers, a food truck alley serving delicious treats, a pet expo, and captivating performances at the intercultural stage.

Climb inside a police car, learn CPR and jump on a fire truck at the emergency services display. And if you’re keen to get a little more active over summer, the Get Active Expo will provide plenty of inspiration.

The jam‑packed day of activities and entertainment will be topped off with fireworks.

Free green waste disposal

Cambridge Ward with Cr Goran Kesic

Summer is just around the corner and that means getting ready for the fire season. To help with that, City of Melton residents can drop off green and garden waste for free at the Melton Recycling Facility, from 1 November until 31 December.

Available to both property owners and renters in the City of Melton, this Council initiative encourages people to prepare for the upcoming fire season. The Melton Recycling Facility is open seven days a week between 8am to 4.30pm. Free disposal will be available until December 31 (except for Christmas Day).

Details and conditions at melton.vic.gov.au/gardenwaste

I’m pleased to provide residents with an update regarding some of the exciting road infrastructure projects planned for Cambridge Ward.

As outlined in Council’s 2023/24 Budget, planning and design works have commenced on major roads upgrades in Caroline Springs and Taylors Hill, not least of which is Caroline Springs Boulevard.

With around 27,500 vehicles travelling along the boulevard between Taylors Road and The Crossing each day, and around 34,000 travelling between The Crossing and Rockbank Middle Road, it’s important to ensure everyone can drive, cycle, and walk safely through our beautiful City.

To this effect, one of the key projects we have in the works is upgrading the roundabout on the corner of Caroline Springs Boulevard and Rockbank Middle Road to a signalised intersection.

This $3.7 million project is expected

Where: High Street, Melton. Between Smith Street & Hannah Watts Park.

Time: 11.30am–9pm

More details: djerriwarrhfest.com.au

to commence before the end of the year.

The roundabout at The Crossing will also be upgraded to a signalised intersection, and this $634,509 project is currently in the tender stage.

To round off major works along the boulevard, a $1 million project to upgrade and duplicate the intersection at Taylors Road is also in the design phase.

Last, but certainly not least, a $361,000 project to upgrade the roundabout at Taylors Road and Westwood Drive in Taylors Hill to a signalised intersection is currently in the design phase.

Residents can keep up to date with all these projects by visiting budget.melton.vic.gov.au or by following Council’s Facebook page @cityofmelton.

Please feel free to contact me on 0437 241 436 or goran.kesic@ melton.vic.gov.au regarding any Council issues.

Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details

Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Deputy Mayor Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 12587356-AV43-23

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

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Marching for protection visas

By Hannah Hammoud After a gruelling 640 kilometre walk from Melbourne to Canberra, tired but determined, 22 refugee women arrived at the steps of Parliament House on October 18.

A mother of three from St Albans led the march of 22 refugee women, many from Brimbank, who are calling on the fedral government to grant permanent protection visas for 10,000 refugees who have been living in limbo in Australia for 10 years.

The 22 women from Iran and Sri Lanka, ranging from ages 19 to 52, are living on short term bridging visas. The women are calling for permanent protection visas for the 10,000 ‘victims’ of the fast track assessment process.

These refugees and asylum seekers were left out of the February 2023 announcement from the federal government that allowed for 19,000 refugees who arrived over a similar period to apply for permanent residency.

At the time, Immigration Minister Andrew Giles said it made ‘no sense’ to keep people who were working and paying taxes in limbo.

On the final day of their walk from Melbourne to Parliament House, the 22 refugee women called on the government to act immediately to offer a clear path to permanent residency for people failed by the fast track process.

Rathi Barthlote, a Tamil refugee from Albion and co-founder of Refugee Women Action for Visa Equality, said for the past four weeks, the women have been on a journey on foot to call for an end to the uncertainty that 10,000 refugees in Australia are facing.

“We are refugees who came to Australia seeking safety, but after a decade still do not

The 22 refugee women arrived at Parliament House on October 18 after trekking each step of a 640 kilometre journey from Melbourne. (Supplied)

have a clear pathway to permanent residency.

The last government stacked the refugee system against us. They called this system ‘Fast Track’ — but it wasn’t fast and it wasn’t fair,” she said.

“I lost my first child because of the Sri Lankan civil war and I haven’t seen my mother for 18 years. It breaks my heart that my mother is living alone and I cannot reunite with my family. Now Australia is our home and our children’s home. There are 10,000 of us, living as part of communities across Australia. Many of us are prevented from working or studying

and our children cannot go to university like other children. All of us are still waiting, after 10 years, for a permanent place to call home, a place to belong.

“We have walked to Parliament House to ask the Albanese government to end the dreadful mental health toll that uncertainty has and give 10,000 people a clear path to permanence.

After a decade, our home is here.”

Supported by a network of churches, faith groups, unions and community and refugee organisations, the women are asking the federal government for permanent protection

visas for all refugees left in limbo in Australia, work and study rights for all refugees, the abolishment of the fast track system and the Immigration Assessment Authority (IAA) and permanent settlement in Australia for all refugees from the processing centres in Nauru and Papua New Guinea.

The Immigration Minister Andrew Giles was contacted for comment.

Find the petition here, https://www.change. org/p/women-s-walk-for-freedom-grantpermanent-protection-for-all-refugees-leftbehind-by-the-system

‘Hijack’ sparks walkout

The Brimbank community was celebrated at the Western Rainbow Awards on October 6. (Supplied)

Over the rainbow about awards Brimbank council staff, programs and partnerships were celebrated with five awards at the first ever Western Rainbow Awards, hosted by Hobsons Bay council earlier this month.

The Western Rainbow Awards recognise LGBTQIA+ community related achievements across a variety of categories, with awardees including businesses, individuals, partnerships, programs and services, located anywhere in the western metropolitan region.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said the establishment of the awards are a benefit for the entire west.

“Brimbank City Council is extremely

honoured to receive five awards highlighting the amazing work and dedication staff and members of the community have put towards ensuring Brimbank is an inclusive, safe and empowering space for LGBTQIA+ community,” Cr Lancashire said.

The Western Rainbow Awards recognise work specifically in relation to inclusion and empowerment of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Brimbank Youth Services’ Crystal Queer Program took out the Youth Focused Award.

The team also won the Project or Program award alongside Maribyrnong Youth Services for the Teachers

Breakfast partnership.

Member of the Crystal Queer program and the Disability Advisory Committee, Spencer Morgan was recognised with the Young Person award.

Youth support and inclusion officer and LGBTQIA+ project officer Jacob Tiauli took home the Leading Change award.

Honoured with a Life Time Achievement award, Anastasia Le from MatchWorks Sunshine was acknowledged for their work with Brimbank council.

Details: https://www.hobsonsbay.vic. gov.au/Community/Community-services/ LGBTIQA/Western-Rainbow-Awards

From page 1 “It is also not timely. If I submit a question now then I won’t get a response until three months. If the issue is something that’s happening right now in the community then I want an answer at that time.

“I am not happy with what happened at the council meeting and the community isn’t either.”

In Brimbank’s neighbouring municipality, Moonee Valley council is an example of Cr Kerr’s original proposal in action.

Moonee Valley council hosts a public forum once a month that allows residents to raise questions directly and without notice, unlike council meetings where questions must be submitted beforehand and are read aloud by council on behalf of the resident.

The Moonee Valley council website states that the public forums take place in a less formal setting than council meetings and provide another opportunity for residents to play a role in civic matters.

It took Brimbank council more than 40 minutes to reach a resolution which resulted in both Cr Rasic’s amended motion and Cr Kerr’s alternate motion being deferred to the next council meeting on November 21 where both motions will return for consideration.

Brimbank councillor Maria Kerr.

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 3

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Three options floated for park

By Hannah Hammoud Brimbank council has shortlisted three proposed Traditional Owner names for the renaming of Sydenham Park in Keilor North.

At the council meeting in July last year, council considered a notice of motion raised by Cr Bruce Lancashire on changing the name of Sydenham Park to an appropriate Aboriginal name suggested by local Aboriginal groups.

At the most recent council meeting on October 17, council revealed three shortlisted names that were received from the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.

One of the names for consideration is ‘Yaluk barring Park’, meaning river trail in the Woi-wurrung language. The name represents the trails people walk along and near the Maribyrnong River.

The second name is ‘Yerrin taydo Park’, meaning bush walk in the Woi-wurrung language and represents the paths that will

run through the parks that people will walk through connecting people to ‘Bundjil’ - or mother earth.

The third name for consideration is ‘Wurrwu baan Park’, meaning running water in the Woiwurrung language. The name represents the flow of water in Kororoit and Jackson creeks in the north of the park.

Community consultation on the three recommended Traditional Owner names will be open from November 1 until November 30.

Community members will be able to provide feedback on the renaming proposal, including through written submissions from council’s “Your Say Brimbank” online platform.

Cr Virginia Tachos said each of the proposed names have a great authenticity and meaning behind them.

“I think that it’s only appropriate if you walk

through Sydenham Park that you certainly feel that there is something quite amazing about this place, that it needs a name that reflects it,” she said.

In the report presented to council, officers noted that it is ‘foreseen’ that community members may express concern regarding the renaming of Sydenham Park to a name with an unfamiliar pronunciation. However the report cited section 7.3.6 of Victoria’s Naming Rules which states that when taking community feedback on Traditional Owner naming into account, council should consider that although the name might seem initially complex, over time it will become familiar and easy to use.

Following community consultation, a report will be presented to council on the consultation process undertaken and submissions received for council’s consideration.

Drop off your used goods

Caroline Springs RSL members Wendy Mason, Ross and Gill Wiltshire and Andrew Marshall, with students from local schools Jessica, Jackson, Vivian, Maria, Jerome and Brandon. (Damjan Janevski) 367646_01

A minute to reflect on November 11 The Caroline Springs RSL is inviting the community to join it in taking a moment to reflect this Remembrance Day. The service will take place from 10.30am at the Memorial Site on Lake Road, Caroline Springs from 10.30 am on Saturday, November 11. Since the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month of 1918 marked the end of WWI, Remembrance Day has been a day for remembering and honouring people for their military service.

At the age of 17, Caroline Springs RSL member Ross Wiltshire enlisted in the Royal

Australian Airforce and served at various RAAF Bases around Australia for a period of 22 years in Logistics.

He said Remembrance Day is a day for the community to reflect on the ultimate sacrifices that thousands of young men made not only in WW1 but all following conflicts to ensure for a freer, safer and better place for us of today to live in.

“The importance of Remembrance Day to me is a bit more significant as my grandfather had two tours of duty to France at Flanders, 1915 and 1917 with the British Army,” he said.

“We are not glorifying war, but, paying homage to those who have served.”

The RSL will be joined by local students for the service to perform the traditional service which will include Prayers for the Fallen, The Ode to the Fallen, The Last Post, a minute silence, the Rouse, a Wreath Laying and more.

The RSL will also be out selling poppies from Thursday, November 2, to Friday, November 10, from 9am to 4pm at Caroline Springs Shopping Centre, Taylors Hill Shopping Complex, Burnside Hub and Watergardens Shopping Centre.

Brimbank council is inviting local residents to drop-off their unwanted household items for reuse at the Reusable Goods Drop Off Day happening in Keilor Park on Saturday, November 25.

The free event will run from 9am-2pm opposite the Brimbank Operations Centre, on Stadium Drive in Keilor Park.

Residents can drop-off the following items in good condition for reuse including, televisions, computers, small household appliances (such as vacuums, rice cookers, toasters and kettles), furniture (small items that will fit into small apartments), coffee tables, bikes, bed bases (all sizes but no mattresses), homewares, bags of clothes, shoes, handbags, backpacks, bags of towels and linen.

Items such as furniture, clothing or homewares that are broken, damaged, ripped, stained or in any way faulty cannot be donated.

Residents are also reminded to not bring anything hazardous including asbestos, chemicals, oil, gas bottles, construction waste, biological waste, sharps, fluorescent tubes, smoke detectors, broken monitors, or large bulky items like whitegoods, large furniture or mattresses.

Only cars, small vans or small trailers will be able to drop-off items, no trucks or commercial quantities allowed.

Items in good condition will be donated to local charities, West Welcome Wagon and Helping Hands Mission.

Details: ReuseDay25Nov.eventbrite. com.au.

Positive outcomes for youth: Program leads way The Embedded Youth Outreach Program has received a gold award in the police-led category of the 2023 Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards (ACVPAs).

The ACVPAs recognise best practice in the prevention or reduction of violence and other types of crime in Australia and play a vital role in highlighting effective community-based initiatives to prevent crime and violence before it occurs.

Led by Victoria Police and delivered with the Youth Support and Advocacy Service, the Embedded Youth Outreach Program

is an evidence-based frontline partnership where police members and youth workers collaborate to deliver after-hours services when young people are most likely to be at risk of offending or victimisation.

Earlier in the year the program was rolled out in Brimbank and Melton as concerns for youth crime continued to rise. The program has been successful across other parts of Melbourne’s west for almost five years, including Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong.

Program director Commander Mark Galliott said through partnering with youth

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

workers and acknowledging their skills and expertise, the program has been successful in reducing youth offending.

“This opportunity for co-delivery of services, youth engagement and service linkage would not be available with police members responding alone,” he said.

By engaging with a young person, assessing their needs and referring them to youth-specific supports, the program aims to reduce the risk of long-term involvement in the criminal justice system.

An independent evaluation demonstrated

that young people in crisis are connected to services immediately, and youth offending and victimisation are reduced. The benefits of the program outweigh the costs and provide significant long-term government savings.

Australian Institute of Criminology deputy director Dr Rick Brown said the program has identified at-risk youth and developed a framework which targets their needs and interrupts the offending pathway.

Early engagement and support referrals are becoming increasingly effective in the youth crime and violence prevention space,” he said

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Odds stacked against hotel bid

By Hannah Hammoud Two local councils have joined forces to call on the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) to reject a hotel’s application for extended trading hours in its gambling room.

At their respective council meetings on October 17, both Brimbank and Maribyrnong councils moved a notice of motion to make a submission to the VGCCC opposing the Braybrook Hotel’s application to extend the trading hours of its gambling room from 1am to 3am.

In 2022-23 Brimbank recorded the highest

losses to electronic gaming machines of any Victorian local government area, totalling $172.8 million.

Speaking at the Brimbank council meeting, Cr Virginia Tachos said the notice of motion was crucial in protecting the community from gambling harm.

“I’m very concerned about the devastating impacts that gambling has on our community and in particular the prevalence and accessibility of electronic gaming machines,” she said “... The Braybrook Hotel is also located within the city of Maribyrnong but lies just a metre away from the Brimbank border. This is deeply concerning for our community and the

Maribyrnong community so that’s why this is a joint resolution.”

Cr Tachos said an extension of the gambling room’s trading hours is likely to have a negative impact on the community, and will set a precedent for other venues in Victoria to also apply for an extension of trading hours.

“Other clubs close their doors and then the patrons will just move on to this [hotel] and continue the spiral of gambling,” she said.

Speaking at the Maribyrnong council meeting, Cr Cuc Lam said she supported council making a submission to the VGCCC to oppose the increased trading hours.

In 2021-22 Maribyrnong recorded more

than $50 million in losses to electronic gaming machines.

During the same year, in 2021-22 the VGCCC reported that players at the Braybrook Hotel lost more than $7 million though the hotel’s electronic gaming machines.

Cr Lam said gambling can cause significant harm.

“Maribyrnong council plays an important role in the socioeconomic impact that Victorian clubs and hotels with electronic gaming machines have on the community and local businesses,” she said.

The Braybrook Hotel was contacted for comment.

Taking strides for stroke: Fundraiser to kick off Suffering a stroke at age 37 in June 2022 changed Taylors Hill resident Chris Short’s life forever.

“It has been without a doubt the hardest challenge of my life,” he said.

“For a long time I thought my life was over and I’d never regain the functions I lost.

With hard work, discipline, a never give up mindset and my family behind me I’m on a healing journey of a life time and I will never quit.”

During November, Mr Short is participating in Stroke Foundation’s major annual fundraiser, Stride4Stroke.

The month-long campaign encourages people to get moving to reduce their stroke risk, all while raising much needed funds to support survivors of stroke and their families, and to improve stroke treatment and care.

Chris Short. (Jacob Pattison) 367387_03

Mr Short said he’s doing this challenge for two reasons.

“One, to help the Stroke Foundation in

any way I can to help those in the future who have to endure what I have. I’m also doing it to challenge and better myself as one of

my biggest hurdles has been overcoming debilitating fatigue,” he said.

“My ultimate goal is to recover 100 per cent and I won’t stop until I do.”

Stroke Foundation chief executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy said there’s still time for anyone interested to sign up for the fundraiser or sponsor a participant.

“We all have different lifestyles, passions and abilities, how you get active will look different for everyone, that’s the benefit of Stride4Stroke, there are no limits to what you can do,” she said.

“Every dollar raised helps us get one step closer to preventing more strokes, saving lives and enhancing recovery for more Australians.”

Details: https://www.stride4stroke.org.au/ fundraisers/chrisshort/stride4stroke

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 5

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Gathering at the Big Blue Table October marks Mental Health Month across Australia. Throughout the month, Australians are encouraged to gather around the table and talk about mental health. Hannah Hammoud discovers more about Beyond Blue’s ‘Big Blue Table’ initiative.

N

early half of the people living in Australia will face a mental health condition in their lifetime.

Across the nation, Beyond Blue is encouraging everyone to share a meal and start a conversation about mental health to support those impacted by anxiety, depression and suicide.

Big Blue Table fundraising events will take place throughout October – Mental Health Month – to help fight the stigma surrounding mental health, one meal at a time.

Beyond Blue lead clinical advisor Dr Grant Blashki said the best piece of advice he can give to people participating in the Big Blue Table, is to remember that you don’t need to have all the answers.

“Never underestimate the value of just listening,” he said.

“You don’t need any special qualification to do that. People just want the opportunity to share their concerns or share their stories. It’s tempting sometimes when people start talking about their own issues, to interrupt them and jump in with your own stories, but if you can just sit back a bit and just listen, that’s often very valuable.

“Remember, you don’t have to be a psychologist. That’s something that some people can find a little bit daunting. All it is, is a good conversation, an open chat, and an opportunity to link people with support - but you don’t need to have all the answers.

“One of the exciting things about the Big Blue Table is that human beings have for thousands of years sat around for a meal, and shared their feelings together. It’s one of the great ways to make people feel relaxed, and not rushed and it’s really part of our DNA to sit around together and talk about things.

Dr Blashki said there has been a big change in the national conversation surrounding mental health, especially amongst young Australians, a development he describes as ‘beautiful’.

“The conversation is much less loaded than it used to be. People are beginning to talk about mental health in the same way they might speak about their physical health, it has become very open,” he said.

Working as a GP, Dr Blashki said there has been a ‘cascade’ of challenging events that have happened in the past few years, from the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather events and the current cost of living pressures which have seen mental health front and centre for many Australians.

“Even though people are much more comfortable talking about mental health issues now, the reality is that many people don’t go and get help,” he said.

“About one third of people don’t go and get help, and there’s different reasons for that. Some people might think their issues aren’t serious enough, or that they should work it out themselves, and some people are also worried about the costs of mental health services. These sorts of barriers are still very much there.”

“Our message is for people to put up their hand early, get some help and like any sort of health condition, the earlier you get onto it the better.

“There is a lot going on in the world at the moment, and it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed with the avalanche of information out there.

People should feel reassured and important to remember that there’s a lot of good help out there. Whether it be through a GP, mental health professionals, Beyond Blue or other mental health organisations.”

Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, where more than $570,000 was raised, Beyond Blue is encouraging people to gather around the Big Blue Table again in 2023.

Organising a lunch with co-workers, a group picnic in the park or inviting friends for dinner and creating a safe space where

Beyond Blue says hosting a meal with your guests can help create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable talking about mental health. (Supplied)

“One of the exciting things about the Big Blue Table is that human beings have for thousands of years sat around for a meal, and shared their feelings together.”

- Dr Grant Blashki people can express how they truly feel can be life changing.

Over in the west, the team at Barry Plant Werribee are looking to top their fundraising effort for this year’s Big Blue Table, after raising more than $12,000 in 2022.

One of the lead organisers, Martin Nardo said the occasion is a chance to get the community together and raise money for a ‘good cause’.

Mr Nardo said he first heard of the Big Blue Table on the radio, and wanted to do something for the local community.

“In the community alone we had seen a number of local residents fall into depression in the last two years with the added pressure of the pandemic. It was just an opportunity to spread awareness and give an opportunity to people who might have been struggling during that time,” he said.

Mr Nardo is encouraging locals to grab a ticket for this year’s event that will be hosted at the Sporting Globe in Werribee on Friday, October 27, offering live music, finger food, and best of all, a chance to chat and meet others in the community.

“We are hoping to beat last year’s fundraising amount, and everything goes directly to Beyond Blue. It’s a good cause for us all to get together and bring the community together,” he said.

Tickets to the event are $100. For those looking to attend, contact the team at Barry Plant Werribee.

Big Blue Table events can take place for any meal, including brunch or afternoon tea, and in any setting such as at home, the workplace or local sporting club.

People who register early will receive a free host kit, which includes a guide, table

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

Last year the Wyndham community came together to raise more than $12,000. (Supplied)

Beyond Blue is calling on Australians to bring their support to the table this Mental Health Month.

(Supplied)

decorations and conversation starters designed to get the discussion going. Hosts are also provided with tips and tricks, including budget friendly hacks, to create a tasty, cost

effective and stress-free event.

To find out more about the initiative and register to host your Big Blue Table event, visit bigbluetable.com.au.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Council preps for more housing

By Hannah Hammoud Brimbank council has endorsed its draft Housing and Neighbourhood Character Strategy that will prepare for an influx of 34,000 more residents by 2041.

Council said the strategy plans to accommodate the projected population growth over at least a 15-year period and provide clear direction on locations where growth should occur, with an emphasis on the Sunshine/Albion and Sydenham/ Watergardens precincts.

The draft strategy establishes that council should plan for at least an additional 34,000

residents and 14,000 dwellings by 2041.

The strategy identifies that the establishment of more dwellings is reliant on infill development in residential areas within existing dwelling stock.

The framework of the strategy seeks to outline the opportunities for redevelopment while also keeping in line with the character of Brimbank’s neighbourhoods.

The report presented to council on October 17, outlines that currently, 80 per cent of Brimbank’s housing supply is separate houses and will not meet the housing needs of an increasingly diverse and ageing population.

Councillor Virginia Tachos said the strategy

acknowledges the need for greater housing diversity and more affordable housing options that are well-located within the municipality.

“With housing affordability becoming more challenging and given our disadvantaged demographic, it’s imperative that we get the strategic development of where this housing will go - right,” she said.

“There is an extensive breakdown in this report of all the precincts in Brimbank that paints a very hopeful picture about how we, as a growing LGA do have the capacity for a diverse housing mix, that highlights and encourages housing to be considered next to transport routes and activity centres

… creating denser, yet well-designed and well-landscaped neighbourhoods. “ … I support the vision that by 2041 we will be a city of green, connected and diverse neighbourhoods offering a range of high quality sustainable housing choices for everyone at every stage in their life.”

Community consultation is now open for residents to give feedback on the draft strategy up until December 13.

Details: https://yoursay.brimbank.vic. gov.au/housing-neighbourhood-characterstrategy

Lighting up for Diwali Fraser Rise Community Centre will be illuminated with lights and diyas on November 3 for a Diwali Celebration hosted by the Indian Senior Citizen Association from 6pm to 10pm.

Association president Anil Puri said Diwali is one of the biggest festivals celebrated by Indian across the world.

Diwali symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. It marks the day Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi and brother Lakshmana returned to their homeland Ayodhya after 14 years in exile.

The free event will be hosted by an emcee and include captivating singing and dance performances, games and quizzes, festive food and sweets that showcase the spice-forward flavours of India will be available for purchase and a DJ specialising in Bollywood

Entertainment playing music all night.

Mr Puri said he is excited to bring the community together to celebrate something that is very close to his heart.

“I want children of our community to feel connected to their Indian heritage and hope that efforts like these each year makes Diwali feel special for them,” he said.

“It is heartwarming to see the long-held traditions of Diwali celebrations being passed on to our new generations hoping for these traditions to be carried forward. Watching little kids wearing colourful clothes dancing and celebrating with their families and friends is a real treat for me.

“The event is also open to the public and people from all backgrounds and religions are welcome to join and celebrate with us.”

Indian Senior Citizen Association members. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 367450_05

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

New breast cancer technology Women living in Melbourne’s western suburbs now have access to a new, ‘game-changing’ surgical technique used in the treatment of breast cancer.

Earlier this month, Kathleen Carlisle became the first Victorian in the public healthcare system to benefit from a new radar localisation technology used in breast cancer surgery.

Called SCOUT, the new technology allows surgeons to operate with unprecedented precision, resulting in more successful surgeries, optimising breast conservation strategies and enhancing outcomes for women.

Kathleen, 70, retired dancer and gym instructor, underwent breast cancer surgery at Sunshine Hospital on October 6, using the new technique.

“When I heard about this new technology from my surgeon I jumped at the chance,” she said.

“The old way of doing things sounded really uncomfortable and I’m so grateful to Western Health and my surgical team at Sunshine Hospital for giving me the chance to try this new procedure”.

The traditional method of locating a tumour in breast cancer surgery is for a radiologist to insert a wire into the tumour on the morning of breast cancer surgery, with the surgeon then using the wire to locate and remove the tumour. For the patient, this effectively means two procedures in one day and sometimes an uncomfortable and stressful overnight stay.

Kathleen’s surgeon, Dr Sophie Nightingale, described the new technology as “game-changing”.

“This technology is amazing. It’s much less invasive, and less stressful for patients,” she said.

“It allows us to be more accurate, and patients lose less breast tissue during their

Kathleen Carlisle and Dr Sophie Nightingale at the Sunshine Hospital. (Damjan Janevski) 365970_04

surgery compared to the wire method.”

The SCOUT Reflector can be implanted ahead of the day of surgery and allows real-time radar detection of the location of the tumour with millimetre accuracy.

The technology works by implanting a small “reflector”, the size of a grain of rice, into the breast tissue. This can be done days

or weeks before surgery and can potentially be combined with a breast tissue biopsy, to further reduce the number of procedures for a patient.

Western Health acting head of surgery Dr Bernard Allard said the team is excited to have the technology at Sunshine Hospital.

“As well as the clear benefits to patients,

it will help us work more efficiently. We’ll have less down-time and more flexibility in booking times for surgeries which saves our healthcare system money and allows us to help more people in our community,” Dr Allard said.

Overnewton Castle shares the legacy of William Taylor, of which neighbouring suburbs Taylors Lakes and Taylors Hill were named after.

Located at 51 Overnewton Road in Keilor, the castle is more than 170 years old. (Supplied)

(Supplied)

Scottish festival marching back in to Keilor Gather your clan and don your kilts, the Scottish Festival is returning to Keilor this November.

The team at Overnewton Castle is inviting the community to spend their Sunday soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and sampling the very best Scottish products, food and drinks on November 26.

The festival promises to bring Scottish culture and the joy of St Andrew’s Day to Brimbank for one day of fun, food and frivolity.

The gates will be thrown open from 11am to 4pm on November 26, for the annual Scottish Festival and market day to celebrate

St Andrews Day and the Scottish heritage of the castle.

Locals can enjoy a showcase of live entertainment and activities for all ages, with a procession of bag-pipes starting at midday.

In Scotland, and many countries with Scottish connections, Saint Andrew’s Day is marked with a celebration of Scottish culture, and with traditional food and music.

In Scotland, the day is also seen as the start of a season of Scottish winter festivals encompassing Saint Andrew’s Day. Originally constructed in 1849, Overnewton Castle was the masterpiece of Scotsman William Taylor. The festival will include a

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

display of the castle’s history and founder, William Taylor that will be exhibited in the castle’s Chapel room.

Overnewton Castle owner Emma Scott said the team is excited to celebrate the life and legacy of the father of Keilor, William Taylo.

“Overnewton is one of the last heritage-listed, family-owned reception venues in Victoria. We’re looking forward to opening up to the community to share all things Scottish,” she said.

Details: https://www.overnewtoncastle. c o m . a u /e v e nt /s c o t t i s h -f e s t i v a l - a tovernewton-castle/

There is lots to enjoy at this year’s Scottish Festival, including a bag-pipe procession.

(Supplied)

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Briefs

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

CONTACT US

Better bus survey

PHONE \ 03 8318 5777

The Melbourne Transport Forum (MTF) is encouraging frequent bus users to share their thoughts on how bus services could be improved to better suit their needs. The MTF is conducting a Better Bus Community Survey that is open to the entire community. The input will be used to support 26 Melbourne councils, including Brimbank, in advocating for enhanced bus services. The survey is confidential and closes on Sunday, November 12. Details: mtf.org.au/ buses/better-buses-community-survey/

LOCATION \ Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 DISTRIBUTION \ 1300 656 678 distribution@fermax.com.au

ADVERTISING GENERAL SALES INQUIRIES westads@starweekly.com.au CLASSIFIEDS \ 1300 666 808 EMAIL \ sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

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Electoral Structure Review The Live Life Get Active program aims to build fitter, healthier and happier communities right across Australia. (Supplied)

EDITORIAL GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

Living their best life

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au

Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas.

All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

During the week at Errington Reserve in St Albans, you can find a group of locals doing their bit to stay active.

Personal trainer Rod James has been running the sessions as part of the ‘Live Life Get Active’ program that specifically looks at addressing health, fitness and happiness issues facing people today.

The activities on offer include, Active Yoga, Active Boxing, and Active X Training.

Sessions are available at 5:30pm, 9:30am and run Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday during school terms.

Sponsored by Brimbank council, the daily boot camps are open to all members of the public and have been running since 2019.

Rod says the aim of the program is to help

keep people moving regardless of their fitness level.

“Everyone is at a different level and we make adjustments based on where they are at. I don’t want anyone to miss out just because they think they can’t do it, there’s always something you can do,” he said.

Rod says it is important to recognise the widespread benefits exercise can bring to people, tackling issues such as obesity, diabetes, mental health, and illness recovery.

“I’ve never had anyone leave the session unhappy. That’s what exercise does for you, it makes you feel good.” https://livelifegetactive.com/location/ vic-melbourne/st-albans-grantham-greenhall/

The preliminary report for Brimbank council’s electoral structure review has been released and is now open for community feedback. Response submissions can be made until 5pm on Wednesday, November 8. Details: https://yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ electoral-structure-review

Dumfries Street Festival Join in one the spooky celebrations at the Dumfries Street Festival. Kids and families are invited to attend the festival on Saturday, October 28 from 5-7pm at 71-77 Dumfries Street, Deer Park.

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

K EIL OR CEME T ER Y

Gallery of the Saints Mausoleum NE W ADDI T ION · S TA GE 5

JOIN US FOR A

Mass for All Souls’ Day U LT I M A C O N F E R E N C E C E N T R E K E I LO R

The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust is planning to build a new addition to the Gallery of the Saints Mausoleum.

We’re pleased to offer families the opportunity to register their interest, to purchase a crypt(s) in the new addition (stage 5) to the Gallery of the Saints Mausoleum.

The proposed addition is adjacent to the existing mausoleum.

To register your interest or find out more, please call 1300 022 298, or email enquiries@gmct.com.au or visit gmct.com.au/gallery-of-the-saints

11am Saturday 4 November 2023 Join us for a Mass service at the Ultima Function Centre, located nearby Keilor Cemetery.

Ultima Conference Centre Corner Keilor Park Drive and Ely Court, Keilor East

For more information, please call 1300 022 298, or email community@gmct.com.au or visit our website gmct.com.au.

12642994-ET43-23

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Vincent, 4, working away. 367665_01

Artist Jo Mott with budding artists Kara, 7, and Andi, 8. 367665_04

Young artists unleash creativity The ‘Kids Art Lab’ art sessions have returned for Term 4, with young local creatives invited to drop in to one of the weekly sessions.

During the sessions, kids use a range of different materials and techniques to create artworks to be displayed in Brimbank, or taken home.

The free sessions take place every Wednesday during the school term, from 4-5pm at the St Albans Community Centre located on 33 Princess St, St Albans.

Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC paid a visit to one of the sessions to capture the creativity in action.

The last Kids Art Lab session of 2023 will be held on Wednesday, December 13.

Auvaa, 5, busy at work during the Kids Art Lab session. 367665_10

Vincent, 4, proudly shows off his masterpiece. 367665_14

The Kids Art Lab session run every week on Wednesdays. Pictures is Manjot, 11. 367665_15

Leo, 6, creating his masterpiece. 367665_05

Amelia, 10, let her creativity flow at the St Albans Community Centre.

367665_11 10 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

It was all smiles at the St Albans Community Centre. Pictured is Leo, 6.

367665_08

Young artists are encouraged to join in on all the fun. 367665_13

Sachpreet, 6, alongside Artist Jo Mott.

367665_17

DINING OUT

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and every time.

Taman Grill House is now taking bookings for Christmas parties and family catchups.

The team also hosts birthdays, baptisms, gender reveals and many more rememberable events. Whether it be in-house or through Taman Grill House’s catering service, you will be able to find all the information on the website at www.tamangrillhouse.com.

Look out for weekly specials including Thursday steak night, Friday parma night and plenty of other weekly specials.

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 11

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Reserve opens doors to youth A local community network has formed on the grounds of Errington Reserve in St Albans to help foster a safe space for young people in Brimbank.

On the evening of Thursday, October 19, Errington Reserve was transformed into a youth drop-in centre, featuring a free barbecue, special guests and giveaways for local youth.

Youth worker and drop-in centre director Sam Brown said he hopes the centre will operate as a way to give the reserve back to the community for its intended purposes, and to also provide a space for young people to visit without feeling at risk.

Mr Brown said the reserve is there to serve the whole community, from sporting clubs on game-day, to young people enjoying the playground and sports facilities, and groups making use of the public barbecue.

“Errington Reserve is an under-utilised space and the end goal is for that space be enjoyed and used to it’s full potential by the local St Albans community,” he said.

“It’s important to have because as well as the community deserving to have access to their reserve, all our young people need someone to affirm and support them towards being better.

Having that right someone, in the right place, in an ongoing and regular capacity is vital to seeing this shift and this is a step in that right direction.“ The team spoke with local council on the day to discuss the potential to establish a weekly Youth Drop In Centre in Brimbank.

Mr Brown said the community can help to support local youth by participating in these initiatives and encouraging young people towards engaging with them.

“Our people deserve a safer community and all our young people deserve an opportunity at a better life,” he said

Students Valentino and Shori hang out with Anyaak, Nori and Marcus from The Zone. (Supplied)

Zach, Sergeant Brown and Kyan take a break from kicking the footy.

Faraaz, Kyan and Sam with the winning prize. (Supplied)

(Supplied)

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COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Lions market 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 fungi expert, Ema Corro who is hosting a BacchChat event at the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh. (Damjan Janevski) 367040_01

share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

■ sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082

Come and 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

at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays from 7.30pm.

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens Al-Anon Family Groups 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.

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

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

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

Deer Park Lions Club 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

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

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

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.

get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere?

Come and 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

Parkinson’s support group 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 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

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 Melton Men’s Group 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

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

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

5 3 1 8 1 4 7 5 2

9

8 2 7

7 6

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

2 3

Clients (9) Land measure (imp) (4) Insect before butterfly (11) Circus (8) Strut (6) Cross-cultural internet joke (4) Disregarded (7) They’re found in laksa or pho (7) Small case for small articles (4) Heavenly body (6) Aligned (8) Diversion (11) River in Hades (4) Sounds made to indicate an incoming call (9)

14 19

24 25 27 28 29

DOWN Subterranean burial chamber (8) Medical term (8)

1 2

medium

8 9 7 1

7 8 3 5 7 6 6 1

4

No. 156

Flower (6) Apart (9) Slave (4) Arrest (6) Merited (6) Sea robbers (7) Action (9) Limb part (7) Male horse (8) Ways of speaking (8) Playing suit (6) Swampy (6) Type of nut (6) Mark left by a wound (4)

3 4 5 7 8 9 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 26

ACROSS 1 6 10 11 12 13

20

1

9

QUICK CROSSWORD

DECODER

No. 156

5 2 3 1 9 3 6 4 7

6 2

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9

19

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24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

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

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

I

Today’s Aim: 21 words: Good 31 words: Very good

E

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CUTER DEEDS EDGER ELUDE ELVES ENTER FACED FIVER FROGS GENES HARED HOVEL IDEAL IMAGE MACHO MATED NAIVE NESTS NOTED ODDER OMEGA OUNCE

4 LETTERS ANEW DEEP EELS MUGS RIFE SLAY SLIP SNOB STEM TUGS 5 LETTERS AGILE ALIBI ALOUD APART BOSSY CARAT COMBS

PACTS REVUE RIVAL SEEDY SHOPS SHOTS

6 LETTERS CALLER HARROW KETTLE NOBLES PASSER TRUCES

SOLED SPENT STRAY STYLE THERE TIERS TIMED

7 LETTERS CAREFUL CONFINE ENTRIES OVEREAT PATTERN VERTIGO

8 LETTERS AMERICAN DEPORTED DESERVED HOMESPUN 10 LETTERS DISTRESSES PRETENSION

TRACE TRAIL TRIBE UNITS VERGE WOODS

27-10-23

No. 156 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

H O S

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QUICK QUIZ

1

Which team won the 2013 AFL Grand Final?

2

7

In 2023, which artist broke the record for most Grammys in history?

Which band released the albums The Getaway, Stadium Arcadium and The Uplift Mofo Party Plan?

8

3

What is the capital of Greece?

What is the West African dish Fufu?

9

4

Who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the 2022 awards?

What is the chemical symbol for lead?

10 Which Australian TV singing contest returned in 2023?

C O W L

S

5

L I T S U G H T N L A Y

F O I

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W

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No. 156

( / 9 ( 6

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

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17

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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

F

4

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hard

5x5

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F G Y AME S N C O D B V

medium

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14

easy

1

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

WORDFIT

Jennifer Coolidge (pictured) plays Tanya McQuoid in which 2023 series?

6

In which US state is Yosemite national park located?

ANSWERS: 1. Hawthorn Football Club 2. Beyoncé 3. Athens 4. Troy Kotsur 5. The White Lotus 6. California 7. Red Hot Chili Peppers 8. Mashed starchy root vegetables 9. Pb 10. Australian Idol

No. 156

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SUDOKU

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 15

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Deadline

V Trades Business Profile

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Deadline for all classifications is 2:30pm Friday.

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Contact Adam 0422 250 675

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly

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LAWN MOWING • ALL GARDEN MAINTENANCE • DRIVEWAYS & PATH CLEANING (High Pressure)

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AA CABINETS

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12418345-SN21-19

• 40 Years Family FR Owned & Operated QUO EE TES • 25 Year Warranty • Senior/Pensioner Discount #1 in KEILOR DOWNS

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SAME DAY TV ANTENNA SERVICE

Ph: Paul 0427 680 870

V Cabinet Makers 12586003-MS03-23

0425 804 593 or 0425 876 176

"We do all the small jobs that the bigger companies don't have time for" Up to 60 square metres Shed floors, paths, driveways etc.

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ADVERTISE UNTIL SOLD*

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Specialist in • Lawn mowing • Edging Pruning / Hedge Trimming • Regular Maintenance • Rubbish Removals • Tree Lopping • Gutter Cleaning

Call Joe 0498 375 094 - 7 days

$

29 .00

• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.

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Wyndham Star Weekly Run my advert in:

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ADD A PHOTO FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8.00.

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

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Handyman darren

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& ARCHIE’S

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Drain Cleaning, CCTV and all Drain Repairs.

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Lic 30742 12595228-MS12-23

Services • Repairs • Maintenance Over 30 years experience, All types of Air Con, Evap Cooler & Gas Heating System AU31693

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Contact Bluey today! 0448 444 233 12426454-DJ37-19

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Trees Pruned Reshaped Grubbed out.

All Foliage/Rubbish Removed Fully Insured $10m Pensioner Discount 12553448-JC23-22

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It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

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section of Network Classifieds.

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• Full Insurance • Building permit supplied • Pump to be used • 100% Computer leveling • Since 1999

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If you would like to be a part of a progressive company - we would love to hear from you!

- MR Driver's licence as a minimum - VIC Driver's Accreditation Certificate obtained from CPVV - VIC Working with Children's Check

BusBiz are also seeking relief drivers for existing driver base.

Contact: Human Resources 5032 1068 www.busbiz.net.au

EXTREME REBLOCKING The best Reblocking & Underpinning

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

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Motoring V Wrecking

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7 days a week service Call Gus for a free quotation on

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CALL 1300 666 808 Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 17

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

‘S’ puts on a Jolion show

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring The Chinese automobile maker GWM Haval has spiced up its popular small petrol sports utility vehicle segment with the addition of a Jolion S, as well as doubling up on the hybrid models to two.

With the Jolion Premium acting as the entry-level, at $28,490 drive-away, the ‘S’ variant ($36,990), slots in the six-model range between the Ultra and the two hybrids, the lesser with Lux trim and priced the same as the S. The Jolion Ultra Hybrid ($40,990) tops off the line-up.

The new Jolion S, on test here, stands alone from the rest of the model range with a pepped-up power plant, fresh multi-link rear suspension and various unique black exterior features for a sportier appearance.

Inside the cabin, only on the ‘S’, is a new layout of buttons directly under the centre dash infotainment screen, preventing their accidental operation.

Owners benefit from GWM’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty and economical capped price servicing costs for five years.

STYLING Setting the Jolion S apart from other models are black 18-inch wheels, black door mirror caps, black roof rails, black side garnish, and blacked-out lower front and rear bumpers.

Jolians in general, feature a multi-faceted pattern of daytime running lights bookending LED headlamps and fog lights. The grille adds to the shine with sparkling finish and horizontal accents to create a bold, if flashy, show.

The car’s profile is standard SUV lines with a coupe-like roof curve approaching the C-pillar. Except having more badges than a Scout jamboree, the rear is as plain as the front is glitzy.

INTERIOR The general occupant opinion was that heated front seats were some of the most comfortable in this class of car, while faux leather with contrast stitching and Haval logo was good enough to give the impression of the luxury of the real thing.

That as maybe, but the lack of angling the driver’s seat base for added comfort and the absence of lumbar support shaved off some of the shine.

The leather-clad steering misses out on reach adjustment. It’s angle only.

Thanks to a long wheelbase the bench-like back seat accommodates three across with generous legroom.

In addition are air vents, USB charge ports behind the centre console, rear map pockets, bottle holders in the doors, and a fold-down centre armrest with extra cup holders.

Headroom is compromised by the sloping roofline and sunroof, as is the rear view is restricted by the angled window.

Storage is taken care of by a central bin and a pair of cup holders in two sizes in the centre console, while door pockets can fit bottles.

Boot space checks in at 430 litres (enough to take a couple of big suitcases) and 1133 litres with the 60:40 second row stowed. There’s room only for an under-floor space-saver spare.

The Jolion S has pepped up the Haval SUV range.

INFOTAINMENT A 12.3-inch touchscreen crowns the central dashboard and a 7-inch digital display sits directly in front of the driver. Topping this off is a head-up windscreen display featuring digital speedo, speed limits and lane discipline diagram.

Connectivity consists of the 12.3-inch colour multimedia touchscreen linked to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Audio is handled by a six-speaker system, which misses out on a volume knob or toggle, other than on the steering wheel. The front passenger is left out, limited only to using the audio menu via the touchscreen.

The Jolion S continues the quirky driver focused camera constantly checking whether he or she is paying attention to matters at hand.

A camera fixed to the A-pillar serves up an audible ding and the admonishment ‘Hey, don’t stray!’ on the touchscreen on catching what it thinks is concentration wavering.

Chinese checkers? It’s all a bit naff to me.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS The Haval Jolion S is powered by an upgraded 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine hitched up to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission driving through the front wheels.

This is enough to come up with a maximum 130 kW and 270 Nm, 20 kW and 50 Nm above the trio below it in the line-up.

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

SAFETY Standard safety features include seven airbags including front-centre, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection.

There’s lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with stop/go and safe exit warning. Unfortunately, some of the assistance is a tad too keen comfortably to help out.

Cameras create an all-round plan view of the vehicle, while Haval’s A-pillar-mounted spy camera keeps a check of the driver’s behaviour behind the wheel. All Jolians are rated five stars for safety on 2022 testing.

DRIVING Despite upgrades to the powerplant, the turbo turned out to be a little hesitant to connect, especially on inclines. This was even more pronounced in reverse gear, when power came in annoying bursts.

Once on the move, however, the Jolion S put on a boisterous (some would say harsh) performance, especially when wound up.

Ragged edges did appear in stop/start city motoring.

As stated by the maker, expect a combined urban/highway fuel consumption of around 7.5 litres per 100km, compared to the standard 1.5’s 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres. A 55-litre tank takes 91 RON unleaded petrol.

The Jolion S is the only model in the line-up

to be fitted with a multi-link independent rear suspension, in place of the standard torsion beam set-up, which the maker claims offers ‘enhanced ride and handling’.

The test car took to sweeping around fast bends with the tail fixed firmly to the road.

However, the suspension was susceptible to a bang or two from behind on bumpy roads.

The rotary gearshift is wayward in selecting (D)rive or (M)anual mode and spins without any transmission connection if not careful.

On the other hand, new push-button climate control switches on the centre dash have alleviated the previous faults with the touch controls, which were easy to catch accidentally while resting the palm when working the touch screen.

SUMMARY While the price of the Haval Jolion S is $3000 up on the past petrol flagship, the Ultra, there is more in the newbie’s performance and packaging to more than justify the financial jump.

RATINGS n Looks: 7/10 n Performance: 6/10 n Safety: 8/10 n Thirst: 7/10 n Practicality: 8/10 n Comfort: 7/10 n Tech: 8/10 n Value: 7/10

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Western United’s dream start Western United kicked off its 2023-24 campaign in outstanding fashion, defeating Melbourne City 2-0.

Lachie Wales broke the game open with a neat finish in the 60th minute but Melbourne City debutant Tolgay Arslan equalised just two minutes later.

There were chances at both ends but United was awarded a penalty in the final five minutes of normal time, which Noah Botic duly dispatched to send the Green and Black faithful into raptures.

The win is United’s first in the opening round of the season since the Club’s first ever season, getting the season off to a dream start.

Coach John Aloisi named four debutants in his first starting XI of the season, with Tom Heward-Belle starting in goal and Daniel Penha, Angus Thurgate and Riku Danzaki lining up across the midfield.

Botic started up front with Wales alongside and Josh Risdon led the team out as club captain for the first time.

Post game Aloisi said he was extremely happy with Botic’s work, scoring the team’s second goal.

“The first year he (Botic) was here, he played an NPL (National Premier League) game and we had a penalty, and he didn’t take it,” Aloisi said.

“And I said to him, ‘Why didn’t you take that penalty?’, and he said ‘Someone else wanted it’.

I said, ‘You’re a striker, you want to score goals, be that player to score those important goals’.

“That’s how much he’s matured and grown.

He’s only 21 but he’s still matured in the sense that he believes he’s the one that can lead the line.

“We’ve got players that can help him with

Noah Botic (Western United)

that, but he showed good composure when he was fatigued right at the end of the game to win it.

“He didn’t have a lot of opportunities but he kept on believing that his moment would come. It did and he took it.”

Following a difficult spell, Botic joined United in 2021, but it took until the 2022-23 season for him to truly show the competition what he was all about, scoring six goals in 21 games after finally earning consistent opportunities in the senior side.

With Serbian striker Aleksandar Prijovic departing, he looks set to lead the charge up-front in United’s 2023-24 season.

United return to action next Saturday night, when they face Western Sydney Wanderers in Sydney.

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which GWS star called the AFL ‘inherently biased’ in regards to the ‘favoured treatment’ of Victorian clubs?

2. What was the reason the Constellation Cup Game 1 between the Diamonds and the New Zealand Silver Ferns was halted?

3. Of the 24 rounds in the 2023 AFL season, how many games resulted in a draw?

4. How old was Simone Biles when she won her first gold medal?

5. Name the Australian speed skater who won Olympic gold after after all his competors crashed?

13. What team does Mary Fowler play for in England’s Women’s Super League?

14. AFL player Tyler Brockman was recently traded to which team?

6. How many premierships has Collingwood won to date?

15. How many NBA teams has Ben Simmons played for in his career?

7. St Kilda veteran Jade Gresham has officially been traded to which club?

16. At which Olympics did athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos make their famous Black Power Salute?

8. Which tennis star announced she would be returning to play professionally in 2024 after her pregnancy?

9. Which tennis tournament will Rafael Nadal be making his Grand Slam return to?

10. Which AFL player has a viral cooking channel on TikTok? 11. Which nation did England lose to by 69 runs in the ICC Cricket World Cup?

Ben Simmons

12. Which Australian boxer recently defeated Brian Mendoza in a title bout?

Rafael Nadal

17. Australian punter Arryn Siposs last played for which NFL team?

18. Which former cricketer recently received a payout from the BBC for an accident on the TV series Top Gear?

19. The NHL team Boston Bruins has which animal as its mascot?

20. Bonnie Toogood and Stephanie Cain are the co-captains of which AFL Women’s team?

21. Which former professional surfer was recently elevated to legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame?

22. Which former rugby union player was recently elevated to legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame?

23. Kai Jones most recently played for which NBA team?

24. Which Brisbane Bullet was recently given a five-match suspension after a game against the Cairns Taipans?

25. Which horse won the 2023 running of The Everest thoroughbred horse race?

27. And which retired NBA player was recently named Reebok’s vice president of basketball?

28. Australian cyclist Saya Sakakibara won the 2023 World Cup title in which variety of racing?

29. Michael Prior is coach of which AFLW club?

30. Which player scored in England’s recent 1-0 win over the Socceroos at Wembley Stadium?

26. Which retired NBA player was recently named Reebok’s president of basketball?

2710

1. Tom Green 2. Power outages 3. Two 4. 16 years old 5. Steven John Bradbury 6. 15 (VFL/AFL) 7. Essendon 8. Naomi Osaka 9. 2024 Australian Open 10. Christian Petracca 11. Afghanistan 12. Tim Tszyu 13. Manchester City 14. West Coast 15. Two (Philadelphia and Brooklyn) 16. 1968 Mexico City Olympics 17. Philadelphia Eagles 18. Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff 19. Bear 20. Essendon 21. Layne Beachley 22. Mark Ella 23. Charlotte Hornets 24. Aron Baynes 25. Think About It 26. Shaquille O’Neal 27. Allen Iverson 28. BMX 29. West Coast Eagles 30. Ollie Watkins Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 19

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Twins inspire Davis’ return to Bears Burnside Heights has appointed Michael Davis as its seniors women’s coach.

Davis is no stranger to the Bears having been the club’s inaugural under 18’s boys coach back in 2014. He has coached previously at both junior and senior levels and more recently was the under 18’s girl’s coach at Taylors Lakes.

Coaching again wasn’t on Davis’ mind, however the lure of coaching his twin daughters got him back involved at the club.

“They asked me to put my hand up… it wasn’t on the horizon that I’d ever do it again, but when your kid asks you to do something, you have to do it,” Davis said.

“I coached my boy so I have to do the right thing by the girls.”

The Bears had a great Essendon District Football League division 1 home and away season this year, finishing in second position, losing just three games.

However, all of their good work fell away in finals, going out in straight sets to Greenvale and the eventual premiers Essendon Doutta Stars.

“It’s exciting to see where we can go together,” Davis said.

“By adding a game style or a game plan into their general ability.

“There’s a good strong core of footballers there, it’s just a matter of working with the lesser lights and getting them up to speed to take the pressure off the better football players.”

One of the best players in the team and competition, is midfielder Krissy Trang who won her second league best and fairest this season.

She also won the award in the premier division in 2019 and she was runners up last season.

“Most of the squad at this stage is returning,” Davis said.

“Our plan is to see where we set up and make finals and then after that, we’ll see what happens.

“There are other clubs fielding teams for the first time this year, so there’ll be more challenges and you don’t know where these players have come from.

“But we’re talking to a few girls that I’ve coached in the past and I know, and we’ve had a couple of people reach out that want to join the Bears.

“There’s probably four [women] that I’m aware of at this point in time, but it’s still early, we’re still four weeks away from preseason starting.”

Former coach Jeff Stevens stepped down from the role after having five seasons at the helm of the Bear’s women’s program.

Harper Sercombe Michael Davis (Supplied)

Sports shorts WRFL Braybrook has confirmed that its coach, Geoff Maddern will continue to coach its Western Region Football League side next season. Maddern came on board during this season, following the club’s premiership in 2022. “Geoff came on board in 2023 under challenging circumstances, and has flourished in the role. We look forward to seeing what he can achieve with this group with a full pre-season under his belt,” the club said via social media.

Caroline Springs has added to its senior women’s program bringing in Shaun Rainer as a senior assistant coach to Alex O’Shea in 2024. The club said that Rainer will bring a breadth of knowledge and experience to our girls, having a vast coaching experience at different levels. “He spent 7 years as a coaching assistant at Hoppers Crossing Football Club to their senior men, before joining our own senior men’s coaching team,” it said via social media.

Chris Daley is set to take the Sharks forward (Ljubica Vrankovic) 353250_32

Daley to lead the Sharks

By Harper Sercombe Hillside has announced Chris Daley as its new men’s coach.

Daley has been involved in football for over 40 years with over 25 years of experience within the Essendon District Football League.

He joined the Sharks for the 2022 season, serving as an assistant coach under Charlie Denaro.

Denaro announced he was stepping down from the role during the season.

Now, at the helm of his own senior side for the first time he said he is keen to get going.

“Being fortunate to be an assistant for the last two years, I’ve had a good look at the list,” he said.

“The beauty of it is that we’ve actually signed the entire list before the senior coach was announced.

“So we’ve created a club and a culture that people are really happy to be a part of, the playing list is very tight, it’s very talented.

“We’ll just tweak it a little bit, add a couple of top end players to it and I think we can take some bigger steps again.”

Daley said he takes confidence out of the

players signing on at the club, demonstrating their willingness to fully buy into what the club is seeking to achieve.

“Where the club started from a couple of years ago, it was basically a complete rebuild from almost nothing,” he said.

“We lost quite a few players over the summer leading into the 2022 season, so to build on that and to get to where we’ve got to reasonably quickly speaks volumes to our program.

“The fact they re-signed immediately, shows they can see the light at the end of the tunnel and I’m pretty sure they want to be a part of it.”

This season the Sharks performed strongly in division 1, finishing fifth and defeating rivals, St Albans in the first week of finals.

It was the Sharks’ return to finals since the 2018 season. “[A premiership] would be the icing on the cake,” Daley said.

“But if we can improve again, I don’t think we need to improve a great deal.

“We were competitive against pretty much every side barring [eventual premiers] Deer Park.

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

“We showed great signs, we beat Rupertswood, we beat every other team in the competition.

“We won our first senior final in over 10 years and our first ever division 1 final.

“I think the path that we’ve taken and the growth that we’ve got within our group, if we just add a couple of top end players, and those boys will improve again straight away.

“There’s no real cap on what we might be able to do.

“At the end of the day every club wants to win the premiership, and as a club we’re in a much better space as a whole to go up, should that be the case.”

While Daley isn’t focusing on one particular position to add “top end talent” to, there was one prerequisite on the players entering the club.

“We’ll be looking to add valuable people to our club before we add the best players, and make sure they complement our list,” he said.

“We’ve created a great culture and we don’t want to damage that in any way, shape or form.

“You’ve got to be really careful about the player you bring in.”

Sunshine Heights has re-appointed Colby Blyth for his third season at the helm next year, where he is seeking to take the senior men’s side deeper into finals. Via social media the club said it has shown drastic improvement under Blyth both on and off the field.

“Colby’s ability to implement a strong game plan, paired with his player development skills, has resulted in improved on field performance which we wish to build on going forward,” it said. “I’m extraordinarily excited to continue coaching at Sunshine Heights. It’s a privilege to lead such a proud club and pursue our passion for happiness. This is an exceptional group that have my heart and I can’t wait for 2024,” Blyth said. The club has also announced the re-signings of Chris Sarandis and best and fairest winner, Kyall Parker. Parker had an incredible season in 2023, kicking 75 goals resulting in him coming third in the league’s best and fairest.

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

SPORT Young gun Oliver Lavale commits to the west Little more than a month on from his Australia Cup heroics, Oliver Lavale has affirmed his commitment to his boyhood club by signing his first professional contract at Western United.

The 18-year-old made headlines on his senior debut against Gold Coast Knights in the Australia Cup Round of 16, going on to score the side’s opening goal on the way to a 2-0 win.

Lavale started again in the quarter-final against Sydney FC, cementing himself among the first team and continuing to impress Western United coach John Aloisi and his coaching staff.

After making his senior National Premier League debut last season, Lavale took his game up another level to become a regular in Diogo Ferreira’s under 23’s side in 2023, scoring six goals.

Lavale said putting pen to paper on his first senior deal at a club that he loved was a surreal moment in his young career.

“It means a lot to sign with this club, I’m super excited and can’t wait to keep developing,” he said.

“I was really happy to make my first team debut and now have signed my first professional contract.

“I’m just buzzing to keep working hard and hopefully break into the first team and get some A-League men minutes.”

Aloisi hailed Lavale’s mental attributes alongside his quality, enabling him to transition seamlessly into the first team.

“Oli has made an impression from the moment that he arrived with us in the first team,” he said.

“Truth be told, we have been keeping an eye on Oli for some time in the Academy and we are extremely proud to offer him his first professional contract.

“For such a young player, Oli has tremendous maturity, commitment and mental toughness which will continue to hold him in good stead for his senior career.

“We are eager to see Oli continue to work hard and realise his potential at Western United, his boyhood Club and the club that he loves. These are the stories that we love to create and we are incredibly proud of Oli’s progress.”

Lavale has been in training with the first team throughout pre-season and will continue to work on the training pitch with an A-League Men debut on the cards this season.

Western United started its men’s season on Saturday against Melbourne City.

Oliver Lavale. (Angela Williams)

to Powerlifter Rome-bound Risdon lead United

By Harper Sercombe

Karl Di Falco of Taylors Lakes is once again ready to hit the world stage.

Di Falco is one of Australia’s best powerlifters, and currently holds the record for his squat and deadlift in his weight class.

Powerlifting is a unique sport and is measured by the total weight of a person’s maximum single repetition from their deadlift, squat and bench press.

Earlier this year Di Falco won his sixth national championship, competing in the 67.5 kilogram class. He recorded a 270 kilogram deadlift, 235 kilogram squat (both Australian records) and a 130 kilogram bench press, totalling an Australian record weight of 635 kilograms.

This is Di Falco’s 11th year competing, throughout his career he has also tried his hand at bodybuilding but admits the strength work has always been his forte.

Now he will be heading to Rome, Italy to compete in the world powerlifting competition later this month, in the 69 kilogram weight class.

“It will be held near the Colosseum, which is where I feel at home,” Di Falco said with a laugh.

“I’ll be trying to attempt the world squat record.”

The 69 kilogram weight class record has been held by him in the past when he recorded a 235 kilogram squat in Melbourne back in 2020, but has since been broken with a 240 kilogram lift.

However, now his focus is on preparing and getting his weight competition ready.

“I’m in a big [calorie] deficit, I usually walk around at 74 [kilograms],” he said.

“I’m down at 67 at the moment, so I’m refeeding a little bit back up to 69.

“The training volume and the training days are down to four days a week, because the weights are so heavy and the intensity is so high, you need a lot more rest.

“But I’m just keeping training very specific to the sport, so it’s a lot of compound movements, a lot of low repetitions and high intensity on the bar with heavy weights.

“Then just trying to recover and most importantly getting eight to 10 hours of sleep.”

Karl Di Falco. (Supplied)

Di Falco is heading to Europe with around 10 other Australian powerlifters and will be faced with competitors from 15 other countries and 120 lifters.

“This win would probably be the most prestigious to me,” he said.

“I’m under a lot more stress and I don’t have the ability to train for five hours like I used to.

“So amongst all the chaos to be able to achieve this goal, I feel like I’m in my prime right now, sort of in the twilight years too, it would finish off a great career.

“I feel like I have accomplished everything, but there’s always that fire that burns.”

While Di Falco is preparing himself for the

world stage, he also runs his own gym, KAOS Fitness and Recovery, featured on a Channel Seven reality TV show, Million Dollar Island, and is releasing his own line of supplements.

However, he still isn’t sure if this will be his last world championship performance.

“I think I might have one more left in the tank, but at the same time, I am very tired,” he said.

“It’s a hard one to sit down and make the assessment until after this competition.

“But I do feel like I’ve got a couple of years left.”

Di Falco will compete in Rome from October 30 to November 1.

Josh Risdon has been named as Western United’s second ever captain ahead of the men’s A-League season.

Alongside Risdon, fellow foundation players Steven Lustica and Tomoki Imai complete United’s leadership trident as vice-captains.

Having been the vice-captain for the past two seasons, Risdon wore the captain’s armband throughout the 2022 A-League finals series, including in a heroic grand final performance as United were crowned champions.

The club said Risdon’s character, resilience and determination on the pitch have been emblematic of the club’s values since day one, with the Socceroo having been the first Australian to sign for the club in 2019.

Western United general manager of football hailed the trio’s continued importance in setting standards for the team and the club as a whole.

“Josh, Tomoki and Steven are three ultimate professionals and their influence as foundation players has been fundamental to our growth as a club,” he said.

“After his outstanding work as vice-captain for two seasons, we are delighted to elevate Josh to the captaincy and we are equally pleased to have leaders like Tomoki and Steven to support him and drive our culture and expectations.”

Western United coach John Aloisi added his confidence that Risdon, Imai and Lustica would be able to drive the team to a successful season.

“Josh, Tomoki and Steven are all key voices in the dressing room and are a delight for me as a coach to have leading our group,” he said.

“Their influence and ability to get the best out of their peers will be crucial for us this season, and I am looking forward to watching their impact on the pitch each week.”

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 21

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