Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 7th May 2024

Celebrating all mums

Mum’s across the west will take centre stage on Sunday.

Their kids have been busy crafting homemade cards, shopping up a storm at the school Mother’s Day stall and putting the finishing touches to their breakfast in bed menus ahead of Mother’s Day.

Among those eagerly anticipating the special day is Jessica McCalman, who is looking forward to having a reason to celebrate Mother’s Day this year.

The first-time mum from Brookfield lost her mum 11 years ago and said Mother’s Day has been a hard time of the year for her since.

But this year, Jess will mark the special day with her 10-month-old son, Theodore (Teddy).

“I’m looking forward to celebrating it again,” she said.

“I’m suppose I’m looking forward to spending time with my son. We are going out for dinner.”

Jess said she was enjoying motherhood.

“I’m loving being a mum,” she said, “It probably helps that Teddy is very happy and sleeps well.”

Dreaming of road safety

By Zoe Moffatt

A Diggers Rest advocacy group is calling on the state government to use uncommitted infrastructure funds to widen and improve the safety of Vineyard Road, following new crash data.

The DREAM advocacy group obtained data from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) which showed there were 54 crashes from the intersection of Obeid Drive and Vineyard Road, to the intersection of Diggers Rest – Coimadai Road and Vineyard Road,

from 2018 to June, 2023.

During this time, 71 people sustained injury, with 22 people sustaining serious injury, requiring acute hospital admission.

The group, which started last year, said this issue is not receiving the attention it deserves, and it is only set to get worse as Melbourne’s growth continues to sprawl through the growth corridor.

“DREAM group has sent multiple requests for additional safety treatments for this road to various parties, including our state member [Sunbury MP Josh Bull], over the last couple

of years,” a statement from the group read.

“Indeed the emails back from our elected state member were decidedly non-committal with regard to following up on behalf of the community about this road.

“Sincethesendingoftheemail,theDREAM group has had some responses from the various parties but we remain unconvinced the state government is taking the safety risk seriously.

“[We want to] arrange a meeting with the minister for transport and Mr Bull to seriously discuss fixing this issue … our goal

as always is to have a safe and well supported community.”

With the topic of money – or lack thereof –at the forefront of everyone’s mind amid state budget time, the DREAM group wants the government to tap into unused Growth Area Infrastructure Contributions (GAIC).

The GAIC fund is a one-off contribution payable by landowners developing land that has been zoned for urban use and development in the Hume and Melton areas, among others.

Continued: Page 6.

Jessica McCalman with son Teddy. (Damjan Janevski) 404934_10

Grieving refugee’s heartfelt plea

By Hannah Hammoud

Selvaranjini Manokaran’s home in St Albans is filledwithvisitors,butthehouseremainsquiet.

The only noise you can hear is Selvaranjini calling out for her mum. All she is met with are sorrowful eyes and the warm hand of her husband as he consoles her.

Selvaranjini received the news that her mother died in Tamil Eelam on April 22. And while her first instinct is to book a flight there and say her final goodbye to her mother, Selvaranjini has no choice but to stay in Australia.

‘‘ It feels like it’s a repeat of the same cycle … we still have no results, just trauma and pain ’’ - Thishoban

SelvaranjinihasbeeninAustraliasince2013, yetsheisoneofmorethan10,000refugeeswho have been denied a permanent visa. She and her family received a bridging visa E (BVE) in 2019, that allows them to temporarily stay in Australia while they wait for an immigration decision to be made.

One of the many conditions of the BVE includes that the visa holder cannot leave the country. If they leave Australia, their visa will end immediately.

Now, after 11 years of being separated from her mother, Selvaranjini is grappling with the reality that she will never see her mother again.

A wooden picture frame with a photo of Selvaranjini’s mother sits in the living room of her St Albans home. Above it, the television is streaming a video call from a relative in Tamil Eelam as he shows Selvaranjini her mother’s

body. It is the closest she can get to saying goodbye. As she takes in the image of her mother’srestingbody,shecallsoutforheronce again. But all she hears are the echoes of her own cries as they reverberate around the room.

Selvaranjini’s son, Thishoban, sits on a plastic chair across from his mum. He attempts totranslateforherbutasshestrugglestospeak, he instead steps in and speaks on her behalf.

Thishoban says his family came to Australia as refugees, hopeful that a better life awaited them.

“My parents told me they left due to war

and troubles living back home. Even when we were at home [Tamil Eelam] we were living in a refugee camp, so we had no country to call home,” he said.

In 2023, Selvaranjini joined 21 other refugee women who walked from Melbourne to Canberra in a fight for security.

The refugee women set out from the ImmigrationMinisterAndrewGiles’officeand trekked 640 kilometres calling for permanent protection visas for 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, Mr Giles said it made “no sense” to keep people who were working and paying taxes in limbo.

This year, the federal government moved to abolish the “fast-track“ process created by the former coalition government, with effect from July 1, 2024. But Thishoban says his family and many others under that system are still yet to receive a decision on their claims.

Thishoban says the story of his mother being unable to leave the country and say goodbye to a loved one is an experience shared by many other refugees.

“My dad lost both his parents in about a year difference after coming to Australia,” he said.

“It feels like it’s a repeat of the same cycle … we still have no results, just trauma and pain.”

Selvaranjini is one of eight children, and the only member of her family living in Australia. She has lost four of her siblings and now both her parents.

Thishoban says once again his family, and thousands of other refugees, are calling on the federal government to provide them with a permanent stay in Australia.

“Thankfully [with] our visa we can work, which is what pays our bills and puts food on our plates,” he said.

“The only thing we want is a permanent residency. I came here when I was seven years old so I don’t see any other home other than Australia. I’ve lived all my life here, I grew up here, my childhood, my teenage years, everything.

“Every day we’re living with fear, we don’t know what tomorrow is going to be like.”

Mr Giles was contacted for comment.

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2025.

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Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder

Selvaranjini holds a picture of her late mother. (Damjan Janevski) 402809_02

High Street traffic change flagged for Melton

High Street, Melton, could be reduced to one lane in each direction under a council plan to revitalise the town centre.

MeltoncouncillorsadoptedtheMeltonTown Centre Revitalisation Plan, which provides a vision for the future of the precinct, during a meeting on Monday, April 22.

Under the plan, council will seek to reimagine High Street as the heart of the town centre, strengthen McKenzie Street’s role as a community spine, create an active public realm along Toolern Creek, incentivise small business to activate the public realm

and develop key strategic sites. It also wants to support diverse housing options in the town centre, support community health and wellbeing, improve safety, make it easier for people to use public transport and develop the town centre sustainably. In a bid to re-imagine High Street as the heart of the town centre, the plan recommends council “redistribute space allocated to the carriageway”, resulting in landscaping, public space, cycling movements, and in some cases, more car parking.

“This could be achieved by reducing High Street from two lanes in either direction to one

lane in either direction,” the plan stated.

Cr Bob Turner said he didn’t see the advantage of reducing High Street to one lane in each direction and could not support the proposal.

“Traffic is quite busy now, if we reduce it to one lane each way, it will be worse. Leave it as four lanes,” he said.

“Ijustcan’tsupportasinglelaneeachwayon our High Street.”

However, Cr Sophie Ramsey said she liked that the report included a “spine of roads” which would be able to “take traffic away from

Draft budget adopted

Road maintenance and reconstruction is front and centre of Moorabool council’s draft 2024-25 budget.

Counciladoptedtheproposedbudgetduring itsmeetingonMay1,outlininga$46.48million capital works program for next financial year.

According to the draft budget, council is proposing to spend $22.007 million on new capital works in 2024-25.

Projects highlights by the council include a reseal program worth $2.165 million; replacement of the Woolpack Road, Bacchus Marsh bridge ($1.5 million); re-sealing and re-sheeting Ballan-Meredith Road, Ballan ($1.099 million); reconstruction of Yendon No.2Road,Yendon($2.45million);re-sheeting of the gravel Doyles Road, Elaine ($688,000); shoulder renewal along Ballan-Meredith Road, Fiskville($580,000);and$750,000forworkson

Clarendon-Lal Lal Road, Lal Lal.

Council is also proposing to spend $730,000 on the Bacchus Marsh Bowls Club pavilion and bowling green, and $975,000 on the Ballan library.

Councilisplanningtoliftratesbyanaverage of 2.75 per cent in 2024-24, in line with the state government’s rates cap.

Council said it did not apply for a rate cap variation because it is “very aware of the cost pressures on individuals and businesses”.

Ratepayers will notice a $2 decrease in their waste management service charge in 2024-25, dropping from $120 to $118, while the overall waste collection charges will also fall by $2 from $258 to $256.

Moorabool’s kerbside green waste service charges will decrease from $101 to $95 and the state landfill levy will drop from $69 to $65.

Plans for new power infrastructure

Electricity distributor Powercor has applied to theEssentialServicesCommission(ESC)fora licence that would allow it to plan, design and build transmission infrastructure within its current distribution footprint across western, central and northern parts of the state.

Powercor, which services a large part of Melton and Moorabool, is hoping by adding competition it will deliver lower costs and faster connections for major projects such as solar and wind farms.

Chief executive Tim Rourke said if it was granted the licence they would provide major businesses and renewable energy proponents more choice when it comes to connecting to Victoria’s electricity grid.

“An additional provider and operator in the marketwillsupportmoreinvestment,creating the competition needed to significantly drive

down transmission connection costs and reduce delivery timelines for people wanting to invest in our state and create jobs in our regional communities,” he said.

If granted the licence, Powercor will deliver transmission infrastructure, including new terminal stations and 220 kilovolt powerlines, to connect customer-related projects to the grid. These projects would include large-scale solar and wind generation, battery storage, data centres and commercial and industrial businesses.

Powercor said It will not be delivering large transmission line corridors as part of its projects.

Powercor will host a webinar to provide customersandstakeholdersmoreinformation on May 16 at 12pm. Details: www.powercor. com.au/transmission.

High Street”.

Cr Lara Carli said the plan would revitalise the town centre.

“It is no secret the town centre has been struggling to decline with increased competition from nearby shopping centres and we want to help it reach its full potential,” she said.

“This plan will help us develop new opportunities and advocate to the state government, as well as the private sector, for future investment.

“We want to see a thriving town centre.”

Have your say on roads

Melton residents are invited to have their say on rural and growth area roads that need reviewing and upgrading.

Council is seeking feedback on issues like unsealed or narrow roads, regular maintenance issues, missing footpaths, unsafe locations, poor lighting and flooding as part of its Rural, Interface and Growth Area Road Upgrade Strategy.

Roads being reviewed as part of the strategy include: rural roads which are sometimes isolated, with little to no through traffic, often surrounded by farmland properties; interface roads providing a connection to growth and established areas, experiencing increasing traffic demand; and growth area roads which are existing roads identified to be upgraded to an urban standard in a precinct structure plan.

The strategy will not include state and federal roads, upgrades in established areas or road duplication.

Cr David Edwards described the the draft budget as “fair” and “reasonable” “It’s a good draft … it’s benign,” he said. “It’sactuallyjustimplementingthethingswe have agreed to over the last four years.”

However, Cr Tom Sullivan was concerned that a municipal charge had not been included in the budget.

He said the charge was needed “to dampen the extremes” in council’s finances.

Moorabool residents can have their say on the draft budget until 5pm on Thursday, May 30.

Submission on the draft budget will be considered by council during a special meeting on Wednesday, June 12, with the final budget to be adopted on Wednesday, June 26.

Details: Moorabool.vic.gov.au

Council is reviewing pavement conditions, public lighting, drainage and cyclist and pedestrian connections based on each road’s needs.

Mayor Kathy Majdlik said feedback would help inform where residents believe improvement is needed and help prioritise improvements

“As Australia’s fastest growing municipality, it’s important our local roads are safe and accessible for all users,” she said.

To see which roads will form part of the strategy and have your say, visit: conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ RIGARUS

Consultation closes on Monday, May 20.

FAMILY LAWYER

Natasha Papaelia

Senior Family Lawyer

Bachelor of Law with a focus on family law and dispute resolution. Member of the Law Institute of Victoria. Natasha is committed to delivering effective legal solutions, support, and advice with compassionate consideration of family law matters.

Square, Melton • Phone: 5332 1584 www.saineslucas.com.au

Moorabool mayor Ally Munari at the site of the Ballan library. (Damjan Janevski) 81_01

Rise and run in the west

By Hannah Hammoud

Residents of the western suburbs have a new reason to lace up their shoes and hit the pavement, with the launch of a vibrant community initiative – the Western Suburbs Breakfast Run Club.

Spearheaded by local resident Montana Mercieca, the inaugural social run event took place on Sunday, April 28, marking the beginning of what promises to be a regular gathering for fitness enthusiasts of all levels.

Participants are invited to join at 8am, with the flexibility to run, jog, or walk at their own pace. Following the exercise session, attendees have the opportunity to unwind and socialise over coffee or brunch.

Ms Mercieca shared her inspiration for the initiative, emphasising the need for accessible fitness options in the western suburbs.

“Discovering how inaccessible run clubs were in our local municipal, and my personal quest for social fitness, was what ultimately inspired the breakfast run club initiative,” she said. “Whilst managing my demanding schedule, and having learnt early on in my careerasaprimaryhealthcarepractitioner,the sheerlackofsocialengagementresources,Iwas on a mission to propagate change.”

The Western Suburbs Breakfast Run Club is not just about physical fitness, it’s also a platformforsocialengagementandcommunity building.

“The main consideration when formulating the fitness group was factoring in an inclusive, welcoming environment for individuals of all physical capabilities based in the western suburbs of Melbourne,” Ms Mercieca said.

“After promptly recognising the demand for the initiative like breakfast run club, I was inspired to spread awareness of the group making it accessible to a broader community,

Montana Mercieca is inviting locals in the west to get their legs moving on Sunday mornings. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 402911_02

not Caroline Springs alone.”

With a commitment to accessibility and variety, the run club aims to rotate its meeting locations throughout the western suburbs,

ensuring that residents from all corners can take part in the initiative.

Details: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/406661072251060/

Transport Accident Commission (TAC) data showed there were 54 crashes on the road in red from 2018 to June, 2023.

Have a say on Melton council

From late May, randomly selected City of Melton households will be asked to participate in a survey measuring community satisfaction with council services, programs and facilities.

Residents will be asked about everything from their satisfaction with local programs to planning.

Data will show where council is meeting people’s needs and where gaps need to be addressed.

The survey is face-to-face and conducted independently by Metropolis Research.

In 2023, council recorded an overall satisfactionscoreof6.9percentoutof10, a six per cent increase over the previous year.

Satisfaction at an ’excellent’ level was recorded across garbage collection and recycling, library services, community eventsandfestivals,animalmanagement and Melton Recycling Facility services

Mayor Kathy Majdlik said the survey was a great way for residents to tell council how they feel about the services and facilities it provides.

“This survey will help guide service provision by informing us about any gaps, raising important issues and attitudes held by the community,“ she said.

“We look forward to hearing from members of our community about what they think council is doing well, and any improvements we can make for the future.”

Details: melton.vic.gov.au/ satisfactionsurvey

Dreaming of road safety

■ From page 1.

“Currently, according to the GAIC website, there is [more than $100] million of uncommitted funds in the Hume growth areas fund, this represents uncommitted amounts of 46 per cent of the total funds collected,” the group said. “Given most of the GAIC collected in the Sunbury – Diggers Rest area is in fact from Diggers Rest and is for the purposes of state projects, we are unsure why this hasn’t been allocated already.”

According to the GAIC website, the Melton area has more than $120 million of uncommitted funds, which equates to 62 per cent of the total funds collected.

Mr Bull said locally, the area will benefit

from more than $11 million worth of projects, including $940,000 for active transport connections along Vineyard Road, which will improve safety.

“I have met with the DREAM group and a small amount of other local stakeholders on this issue and will continue to engage in good faith,” he said. “I take matters of community safety very seriously, and continue to advocate for my community for improvements and upgrades in my capacity as the local member.”

In response to questions about the uncommitted GAIC funding Mr Bull said the question was best directed to the Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny. Ms Kilkenny was contacted for comment.

GAIC: https://mapshare.vic.gov.au/gaic/

Hide + Seek Festival returns

Musicians, singer-songwriters, artists, makers and growers who call Moorabool home are being encouraged to apply to take part in council’s award-winning Hide + Seek Festival. The inaugural festival was held over four weekends across June and July, 2022, with the towns of Blackwood, Gordon, Bacchus Marsh and Ballan each hosting a leg of the festival. This year’s event will run from Saturday, November 2 to Sunday, November 10, with activities planned throughout the shire. Bornasacouncilproject,inpartnershipwith the state government’s Live Music Office, the festival provided performance opportunities to more than 60 established and emerging musicians from the regions in 2022.

Boost for girls’ financial literacy

A female-led recruitment social enterprise operating across Melbourne’s west has joined calls to improve financial literacy standards among school-aged girls.

Earlier this month the Financial Basics Foundation released findings that girls were leaving school with a lower standard of financial education than their male counterparts.

The synthesis of peer reviewed research found that although schools offer classes in this area, the delivery of this course material negatively impacts girls’ confidence and engagement, leaving them at a disadvantage when they enter the workforce.

Often key skills such as budgeting, saving andinvestmentarelumpedintomathematics classes, where girls often underperform.

Sally Caruana is the founder of Sheforce, a social enterprise designed specifically to

‘‘ We know that financial wellbeing is inextricably linked to our individual and social wellbeing ’’

-

Katrina Samios

get more women into the workforce and to provide job training where necessary.

Ms Caruana said she has seen many women seeking employment but lacking key skills.

“Most of our people at Sheforce come from disadvantaged backgrounds and have not had the support and guidance at home,” she said.

“We built our Sheforce wellness program to focus on supporting our people in the areas of health, wellbeing and financial literacy to assist in making good decisions and planning for their future so they retire with enough.

“Women are the future face of poverty and homelessness in Australia, they need to become financially independent to retire comfortably and not in poverty.”

Joint research published by the University of South Australia and the the University of Adelaide found that women tagged 55 or older were the fasting growing group of homeless people in Australia.

Financial Basics Foundation chief executive Katrina Samios said there needs to be a shift in current practices to support future generations.

“We know that financial wellbeing is inextricably linked to our individual and social wellbeing,” she said.

“We also know that schools have a key role to play in the social, emotional and intellectual development and wellbeing of their students.”

Live acts performing folk, bluegrass, pop, blues and rockabilly music played across 20 venues throughout the shire, including unique settings like an antique shop, a chapel and a caravan-stage.

The festival was designed to boost tourism, as well as working towards cultivating a sustainable regional music industry with a local focus. Mayor Ally Munari said the 2024 festival enable people to discover the hidden gems of the shire.

“Hide + Seek will provide exposure to Moorabool shire’s landscape, growers, artists, makers, spaces, and places – it was a great success in 2022 and we’re looking forward to it beingevenbiggerandbetterthisyear,“shesaid.

A full program will be announced soon. In the meantime, expressions of interest from food producers, artists and businesses to get involved with the festival are open and close on June 2.

Drop-in sessions are being held to help people decide how they can take part in the festival. The first session will be held at Grey Matter Cafe, 136 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh, on Tuesday, May 7, ay 9am. Sessions will also be held at Ballan Neighbourhood House, 143 InglisStreet,Ballan,onThursday,May9at3pm; Gordon Public Hall, 68 Main Street, Gordon, on Monday, May 13 at 11am; and online on Tuesday, May 16, at 6pm via Microsoft Teams.

Email: arts@moorabool.vic.gov.au

Cat Moser, a musician who lives in Blackwood, was one of the curators of the 2022 festival, as well as performing in the duo Cat and Clint. (Damjan Janevski) 292987_07

Afternoon tea for mum

Enjoy an afternoon cuppa and scone all for a good cause this Saturday.

The Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Bacchus Marsh is hosting a charity Mother’s Day Devonshire tea afternoon.

All funds raised this year will go to the Salvation Army for its Mums in Crisis program.

The church’s Heather Swensen said they were looking forward to the afternoon.

She said they had more than 100 people attend last year and were able to raise a couple of $1000 for the victims of the Exford bus crash.

“We got a new vicar, The Reverend Andrew Gifford, and he wanted to help the community,“ Ms Swensen said was behind the fundraisers.

“We would think we would get about 100 people minimum this year, but we’ll put in as many as we can.

“Come along for a scone and bottomless cuppa.”

There will be live music and a hamper raffle. Entry is $10 for adults and $5 for children

It will be held at church hall, on Gisborne Road, between 2pm-4pm Details: 0410 773 280

Briefs

Melton West crash

A 32-year-old man has been charged following a collision in Melton West on Sunday. It is alleged a bus collided with a motorcycle on High Street about 4.15pm. The rider, a 43-year-old Melton man, was taken to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition. It is believed three passengers were on board the bus and were not injured. The bus driver, a Strathtulloh man, has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury. He was bailed to appear in court on May 9.

Community survey

Victoria Police has opened its community sentiment survey until May 31, and is calling on community members to respond. Police said the findings of this survey will identify the issues the community cares about most, and will help the police develop ways to tackle them. The survey will include questions about safety in the local area, ideas to improve the work the police do and how the community wants to engage with police and PSOs. Details: https://bit.ly/4bi4I4h FOR

Web: starweekly.com.au

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Heather Swensen, Margaret Lister-Brown, and Sylvian and Peter Halloran are preparing for the charity afternoon tea. (Damjan Janevski) 404771_02

Mayor’s message

Cr Kathy Majdlik

The Plumpton Aquatic and Leisure Centre took a big step forward last month, when Councillors voted to approve a new draft masterplan for community consultation.

Hosting a range of activities not available elsewhere in our City, this state-of-the-art hub will transform the community, support health and provide space for local businesses.

The Centre will feature indoor pools, splash play areas, water slides, a sauna, sensory aquatic space, health and fitness areas, allied health spaces, change facilities, and commercial space.

Our innovative water sensory play area will be the first of its kind in Australia.

We’re also investigating whether an additional meeting space and a rooftop deck could be incorporated with an additional level. Now, we want to hear from you.

Council is seeking feedback on design themes, and how you can see yourself using the centre. Community response so far has been fantastic, with hundreds of residents telling us what they think about the draft masterplan. Feedback closes on 21 May.

We’re hosting the following pop-ups:

• Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre: Wednesday 8 May 4pm – 6pm

• Taylors Hill Shopping Centre: Saturday 11 May 10am – 12pm

• CS Square: Saturday 11 May 2pm – 4pm

• Caroline Springs Library and Learning Hub: Friday 17 May 9am – 11am

To find out more, visit: conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ plumptonaquatic

You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

Melton Careers Expo

Explore new employment and training opportunities at the City of Melton Careers Expo.

Young people and job seekers can expect a huge raft of local, state-wide education and training providers and businesses providing information and looking to hire new talent.

The 2024 event will be held on Tuesday 28 May from 9.15am-2.30pm at Cobblebank Indoor Stadium.

Registrations for attendees and exhibitors are now open.

Find out more: melton.vic.gov.au/CareerExpo

Rural Roads strategy

Residents are invited to have their say about the future of the City’s rural and former rural roads.

Rural, Interface and Growth Area Road Upgrade Strategy (RIGARUS) will review existing rural, growth area and interface roads, and identify areas that need to be improved.

The strategy will not include state or

federal roads, upgrades for roads in established areas or road duplications.

Feedback will inform where improvement is needed and help prioritise projects and upgrades.

Have your say: conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ RIGARUS

Cambridge Ward with Cr Steve Abboushi

The Plumpton Aquatic and Leisure Centre will transform our community – and we want your thoughts on the state-ofthe-art facility.

The centre, to be built in Fraser Rise, will offer inclusive and accessible facilities which support a healthy, connected community. A range of different pools, play areas for the kids, health and fitness areas, allied health spaces and commercial space are just some of the features.

Council is seeking your feedback on the design themes, the importance of individual features and how you see

yourself using the centre. Residents can do this online or at a series of drop-in events. Visit conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/plumptonaquatic for the dates, times and venues.

The City of Melton is blessed with many fantastic parks and reserves, and we are always striving to make them better and more accessible. One of those is Earlington Square Reserve in Burnside where we are adding accessible play experiences for a broader range of ages, exercise equipment and extra picnic facilities.

The Parkway Reserve will see an improved footpath network, picnic

Free flu vaccines

Melton City Council’s immunisation team is providing free influenza vaccines for anyone eligible through the National Immunisation Program. Eligible people include:

• Children aged six months to under five years.

• Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy.

• People aged 65 years or over.

• First Nations people aged six months and over.

• People aged six months and over who have medical conditions putting them at higher risk of serious disease.

If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for the free vaccine, please speak to your GP or pharmacist for options.

Find out more: melton.vic.gov.au/ immunisations

facilities and expanded play area to include additional activities for older children and teens.

Finally, the upgrades to Cobblestone Green Reserve that include better paths, new play equipment and more trees are set to be finished this month.

Visit conversations.melton.vic.gov.au for more information on these and other projects.

Please feel free to contact me for Cambridge Ward or Council related issues on 0437 231 680 or steve. abboushi@melton.vic.gov.au, or like my Facebook page @AbbsMelton

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

Deputy Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon Cr Bob Turner Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

Second chance at an AFL dream

After missing out on fulfilling a childhood dream in last year’s AFL draft, young guns from Melbourne’s west aren’t giving up just yet, and are putting their hands up at a lifeline this mid-season draft. Gerald Lynch speaks with the talented stars about dealing with setbacks and earning a second chance.

While most kids grow up dreaming of pulling on the colours of their favourite football team, only very few are granted the opportunity to do so.

For Lachlan McArthur, a big GWS Giants supporter and a star Western Jet, falling just short has only motivated him more.

“I was obviously a bit flat initially but got some good feedback which kick-started the preseason and had a lot of support around me helping me get better and better,” he said.

“My last year was a bit different to some, I found like I blossomed a bit later than many others which didn’t give me enough time to showcase all traits as a halfback … yeah there was some interest late which got me a combine invite which was a valuable experience, although it didn’t fall my way.

“I got invited to Footscray (VFL) where I did the majority of the preseason and just honed in on what the feedback was and focused on thingsIwantedtobettereachandeverysession whileusingtheresourcestheretoaskquestions and get guidance from surrounding the more technical side of the game.

“It’s a bit different training with the bigger bodies there, they hit harder and the sessions are of higher intensity, but you gain a lot of knowledge working with them.

“Guys like Trent Bianco who has just come off an AFL list … you can sort of just watch how they work and take little bits off them to get better.”

For McArthur, coming fresh out of school and being overlooked in the draft meant he needed to find a way to fill the time.

He is working part-time at Melbourne Airport as a baggage handler for the time being,buthiscareeraspirationsiffootydoesn’t work out are firmly surrounding sport.

“Down the track I wouldn’t mind going to uni and equipping myself with some further skills in business and sports science, which could benefit me outside of football and also throughout football with learning more about the body and how to manipulate it to get the most out of it,” he said.

A utility player who prefers to be in defence, McArthur described his game as being emulated on two Giants stars in Lachie Whitfield and Lachie Ash, “their run and gun off half back and their very neat foot skills” are the traits he embodies and admires.

However, he feels he didn’t get to best showcase his ability in the Young Guns series, but is hopeful he showed signs of his talent.

“I’m very grateful for being a part of them [Young Guns matches] and that group,” he said.

“IthoughtIwasdefinitelymuchbetterinthe first game then the second though I showed

some glimpses in both games. Ultimately though I think I’m better playing halfback and didn’t get a full run in that position which isn’t great but I thought I did well playing forward.”

ForAFLclubswithlistspotsintheupcoming mid-season draft looking for some class and poise, it seems they don’t need to look further than Melbourne’s west, as Calder Cannon Ryan Brodie plays a similar brand to his Young Gun counterpart.

“I try to liken myself to someone like Lachie Whitfield, who produces good movement off the half back line and uses the ball really well,” he said, as I felt a looming sense of deja vu.

“Yeah, missing out on last year’s draft was a bit disappointing but it didn’t really affect me too much as you sort of get a fair idea leading up to it.

“I seemed to deal with it pretty well, where the Calder Cannons told me they would take me on as a 19-year-old player giving me an

opportunity to have another crack at Coates League level which was pretty exciting.

“The group seemed to gel really well together having not known each other up until our first game which made it really enjoyable. For me personally, I just tried to bring my strengths to the games such as run and carry as-well as kicking which I was pretty happy with.

“Beinginvolvedintheyounggunsserieswas another exciting experience, being selected to playamongstsomeofthebestaroundVictoria.

“As of right now, I’m just working in retail andmakingmywayaroundfootball,whereI’m thinking of going into university in exercise sciencetotrytostaywithinthesportsindustry, but I’m not 100 per cent yet.”

The Young Guns program has been running since 2022, and it has been successful in putting young talent into the eye-line of recruiters, including Massimo D’Ambrosio, a former Western Jet who now plies his trade for

Hawthorn.

“Seeing guys like D’Ambrosio get drafted through the same pathway I’m currently in does give me good confidence that I can still have a good crack at making the AFL even if it may not be the traditional way,” Brodie said. Oskar Smartt is also a chance to be selected, after the Keilor Football Club local impressed in the Young Guns series, and holds a spot on Essendon’s VFL list.

The mid-season draft is on Wednesday, May 29, with 16 list spots up for grabs, should clubs elect to use them.

Locally, Carlton, North Melbourne, and Richmond have two picks, and Collingwood, Essendon, Melbourne, and the Western Bulldogs have one each.

However, a move interstate could be possible for the boys, with Adelaide and Brisbane holding two picks each, and Fremantle and Gold Coast also having one.

Lachlan McArthur, Ryan Brodie and Oskar Smartt representing the Young Guns. (Pictures: Rob Lawson and Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos)

Trekking for chances at success

Five purpose-driven organisations and individuals participated in a three-day fundraisingtrekwithWesternChances.

Western Chances is a non-for-profit organisation empowering young people in the westwhoarefacingfinancialbarrierstoachieve theirpotential.

The Western Chances Three Peaks Trek was held across three days last month, trekking through the Victorian alps to reach the summit of the three peaks; Mt Buller, Mt Stirling, and MtTimbertop.

Activations and communications co-ordinator Anthony Tran said the Western Chances team was blown away with the fundraiser. which has already surprised its $50,000goal.

“As it currently stands, the fundraising amount has greatly surpassed our goal of $50,000 and is currently sitting over $65,000,” hesaid.“We’reanticipatingreaching$70,000by theendofit.”

All of the funds raised will go towards the Western Chances scholarship program, which MrTransaidwillfund70ormorescholarships, asonescholarshipisusuallyworth$1000.

“Seventy thousand dollars is equivalent to supporting three classrooms of talented and motivated young people with scholarships,” hesaid.

“Everyone who participated on the trek developed a lifetime bond with Western Chances, the alumni who participated were the starsoftheshow.”

Across the three-day trek, six teams of 20 people in total and five alumni contributed to raising$10,000forthecause.

SponsoredbyMultiplex,theotherteamswere PanPacifichotels,legalfirmMauriceBlackburn, MelbourneAirportandVictoriaUniversity.

The Western Chances alumni invited were Sadiya Tabassum, Jemmah Nix, Archie Dinh, KatharineNikolic,plusaPanPacificmember.

“The alumni got along well with the teams and had the chance to share their stories,” he said. “They also displayed great resilience and couragetoactasproudambassadorsofWestern Chances.”

One of the alumni, Ms Tabassum, led the trekondaytwoandthreeandsaid,“Thankyou for the amazing experience, taking back the strengthIdidn’tknowIhad.

“Such great work Western Chances is doing, always ready to help young people. Thank you fortheopportunity.”

Details: https://western-chances. grassrootz.com/westernchances-3peaks2024?tab=donations

Group shot during the trek to Mt Buller.

Top left: The Western Chances team and alumni during their trek to Mt Timbertop on day one. WC corporate partnerships and events manager

Frank Scifo, Western Chances chair Terry Bracks, Archie Dinh, Katharine Nikolic, chief executive Zac Lewis, Jemmah Nix and Sadiya Tabassum.

Top right: Group shots at the summit of Mt Stirling on day two. Above: Multiplex team during their trek to Mt Timbertop. Regional director Chris Szambelanczyk, regional managing director Ross Snowball, project co-ordinator Amber Shiel-Jones and design manager Lina McIvor. (Pictures: Supplied)

Downsize to a bigger life at Lifestyle Communities

Lifestyle Communities is a world where downsizing your home means upgrading to a more vibrant life filled with unlimited possibilities.

The Lifestyle Communities team are leaders in community living. They’re not just builders; they’re architects of unforgettable experiences, creators of lifelong connections, and designers of homes filled with an undeniable sense of belonging. They cater to the young at heart in their 50s and above, whether still working, retiring to reinvent, or just ready for a change. Lifestyle Communities is a place where neighbours become lifelong friends and where warmth, laughter, and fun never get old.

Twenty years of enriching lives

Two decades of passion, innovation, and commitment have shaped Lifestyle Communities into a haven for those seeking a purposeful and joyful way of living.

Managing director and co-founder James Kelly shares, “Our homeowners are the

heartbeat of our community. From day one, our mission has been clear: to be a ’business for purpose’ that enriches lives and fosters meaningful connections”.

“We set out to create a different experience for downsizers, to offer a space that strikes the perfect balance between connection and privacy, independence, and activity. With a clearly defined purpose and a steadfast commitment to this goal, 20 years later, we’re proud to say that we still lead the market in our product offering.”

Elevate your lifestyle

Enter a world of beautifully designed, low-maintenance homes surrounded by state-of-the-art amenities. The Clubhouse is the pulsation hub of the communities and will become your home away from home. It’s a sophisticated arena of leisure, social mingling, and wellness designed to make every moment a cherished memory. Communityfacilitiesincludeafullyequipped gym, croquet or pickleball court, a dog wash,

games room, private cinema, heated indoor and outdoor pools, a workshop, shared electric cars and a fishing boat available at coastal communities. You can join friends for a delightful lunch, break a sweat in the gym, or unwind by the pool.

Timeless excellence

With over 25 communities across Victoria, Lifestyle Communities sets itself apart with its unwavering long-term commitment to looking after its communities. They’re not just building communities; they’re nurturing them for the long haul.

“We reimagine, revitalise, and reinvent, ensuring that each community is aligned withour pursuit of excellence. Lifestyle Brookfield, our inaugural community, stands tall as a testament to our enduring dedication,” Mr Kelly said.

Holiday your way

Fuelled by passion, the dedicated Lifestyle team are constantly striving to exceed

expectations and create unforgettable experiences for their homeowners. They were proud to recently launch Club Lifestyle at Lifestyle Bellarine, which offers free seaside escapes to all Lifestyle Communities homeowners across Victoria. Homeowners can choose to stay in a cosy villa, bring their caravan down and enjoy one of the premium-powered caravan sites, or embark on a road trip in a fully equipped Lifestyle Motorhome.

It’s a Lifestyle revolution

For those yearning for a lifestyle that screams ‘cool’, a home that wraps you in luxury, recreation, and conscientious living, then Lifestyle Communities is calling your name. It’s not just a community, it’s a vibe where ‘unlimited’ is so much more than just a word – it’s a lifestyle!

For more information, visit

Life. Unlimited. Downsizer homes now

Horticultural jewel of the west

Located in a prime location opposite the beach, Williamstown Botanic Gardens date back to whenthegatesfirstopenedin1856.Thismakes it one of Victoria’s first public gardens.

The gardens are heavily influenced by Victorian and Edwardian horticultural practices and traditions such as the Pinetum, a magnificent cluster of pine tree specimens of various ages and ornate stone water fountains and statues nestled within the gardens.

As you enter one of the entrance gates off Osbourne Street, you are greeted by a graceful avenue of Mexican Fan Palms that transport you along a pressed earth pathway, a little hypnotically, towards the shimmering ocean views. On the weekday I visited, I spotted a yoga class taking place, parents and babies picnicking on the plentiful lawns, social walkers and people and their dogs.

The Williamstown Botanic Gardens are maintained through the work of Hobsons Bay Council with support from the Friends of Williamstown Botanic Gardens volunteer group.

Intermsofnewdevelopmentsinthegardens, these are guided by an overall masterplan. There is a real focus on redevelopment of the Pinetum and a monitoring of the aging pine trees already planted. Some other exciting improvements include habitat beds that are planted with Indigenous (local) plant species. These are only a year old and have caused a real buzzamongstvisitorswhoenjoyobservingand

admiring their flowers as well as the insects that are busy pollinating them. Australian Indigenous species are not known for their flowers and many people are surprised to see they even have them. Alongside the habitat beds,arebedsfilledwithcoastalMediterranean plants.

New introductions such as these show that the garden team is evolving to respond to local climate and conditions. It is a real focus of those working in the gardens to work towards climate-proofing and to this end they are working on appropriate strategies alongside a team from Melbourne Botanic Gardens.

This very special public garden will turn 165 years old in 2025 and when you visit you

will see many incredible plants. The gardens contain over 400 trees and includes rare plants such as Asiatic lilies. Towering established trees within the gardens are a combination of exotics such as English elm tree and the afore-mentioned Mexican fan palms along with Australian native trees such as the Bunya, the majestic Moreton Bay figs, Norfolk Island hibiscus and brush box, many of these hailing originally from Queensland but thriving in their coastal Victorian setting.

To highlight one tree species, the Lophostomen confertus or Queensland brush box tree is an easy to tree to grow that can be

found as a street tree across Melbourne. It is an evergreen, fast growing rainforest tree with an attractive round shape that can reach up to 10m in cultivation. It tolerates poor soils and most pests and diseases as well as being resistant to smog, drought, poor drainage and heavy pruning. If your street could do with some more trees, why not plant one today or suggest it to your local council?

Zoo animals go nutty over peanut butter treats

Smooth or crunchy? A common household favourite condiment is winning the hearts of animals at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Peanut butter is on the menu at the zoo, with keepers revealing Western lowland gorillas, Vervet monkeys, Plains zebras and Slender-tailed meerkats like to tuck into the iconic tasty treat.

The gorillas consume it by smearing dollops of peanut butter onto their fingers, while monkeys seek and explore the condiment by climbingamongtrees.Meantime,themeerkats energetically forage for the nutty-tasting spread, and zebras enthusiastically lick up and devour their share.

The combination of the sweet and savoury taste is a drawcard for the animals, but Werribee Open Range savannah zookeeper Laura Harbridge said there’s also great health and behavioural benefits.

“Many of the animals including primates and Australian natives may find ground nuts in the trees and on the ground in the wild,” Ms Harbridge said.

“Peanut butter is just one of the foods and experiences that encourages the animals’ natural behaviours because it really fulfills their need to forage and find different foods as part of their daily routine.”

Peanut butter also has an important dual benefit when caring for animals at the zoo.

“It’s a really handy tool to use as part of our healthcare training programs,” Ms Harbridge said.“Ifweeverhavesupplementsorimportant medications

as part of a holistic approach to a balanced, healthy diet and always allow for individual preferences and choice.

“Some get it once a week, some get it once a

month. They always have the choice to either eat it or dismiss it if they want to. It really depends on each individual animal and their needs,” Ms Harbridge said.

Above: Sunlight slants through mature trees. Above centre: Succulents in the Pinetum (top); Moreton Bay figs. Above right: The magestic palm walk. Right: A postcard depicting the a gardens in 1917. (Pictures: Supplied)

A Slender-tailed meerkat, Western lowland gorilla, Vervet monkey and Plains zebra taste peanut butter at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

(Pictures: Alex Storer and Sam Rankin Zoos Victoria)

Community volunteers bring galactic cheer out west

The Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s (JKWC)hospitalwasbuzzingwithexcitement on May 2, as it played host to a special visit from a community group of volunteers.

Volunteers from the 501st Legion were deckedoutintheiriconicStarWarscostumes, as they brought a galaxy of joy to the hospital for the May 4 celebrations, affectionately known as Star Wars Day.

While the COVID-19 pandemic had disrupted their previous visits, the group returned to JKWC with a mission to spread cheer. Their presence was a familiar sight,

with memorable encounters for both children and staff alike.

But the festivities didn’t stop with the 501st Legion alone. Collaborating with the Starlight Children’s Foundation captains and Ronald McDonald House family room volunteers, alongside the hospital’s own dedicated volunteers, bringing smiles to the children and brightening their day.

The volunteers’ itinerary spanned the hospital’s paediatric outpatients and children’s ward, a team effort just ahead of the upcoming National Volunteer Week from

Volunteers came together to brighten the days of sick children at the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s hospital. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 404951

It was all smiles for Tiana, 6, as she was joined by Star Wars characters a resistance pilot, Jawa, a

Adhiraj, 5, with his new friend Jawa.

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

Ladies probus

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Thursday of each month for fun, friendship and fellowship at the Avenue Bowling Club, Main Street, Bacchus Marsh, from 10am-noon.

■ bacchusmarshladiesprobus@gmail.com

Community meeting

The Djerriwarrh Creek and Bridge Community Group will hold a public meeting on May 11 at the Avenue Bowing Club, Main Street, Bacchus Marsh, at 2pm, to discuss future preservation, solutions to ongoig dumping of rubbish and future plans and goals for the historic site.

■ Lita, djerriwarrhcreekcommunity@ gmailcom

Create your own website

Whether for personal or professional use, discover how to create your own website and tailor it to your needs in Melton South Community Centre’s eight-week Build Your Own Website course, running May 7- June 25, from 6.30-9pm. Learn fundamentals, tip and tricks while using the popular WordPress platform to create the site you want. Cost:$30/$20 concession.

■ 9747 8576

MYOB courses

Boost your accounting knowledge in Melton South Community Centre’s range of MYOB courses. Learn the basics of the cloud-based online version of MYOB, or if you’re already familiar with the software, join the MYOB Payroll course and learn more specific areas. Cost: $40/$30 concession. Daytime or evening sessions available; eligibility criteria apply.

■ 9747 8576

Bacchus Marsh CWA

Do you enjoy baking, crafting or fundraising to support the community? Check out what the Bacchus Marsh branch of the CWA do and meet like-minded ladies. The group goes on day trips, market stalls, enjoys local dining and craft days and hosts guest speakers. It is are open to the public on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am-noon for morning or Devonshire Tea at the Darley Community and Civic Centre, Hallett’s Way (enter from Wittick Street). Jams, knitted, crocheted and sewn items are for sale, as well as its cookbooks. It is running a Mother’s Day raffle until the May 9, only $2 per ticket.

■ bacchus.cwa@gmail.com

Cancer Support Group

MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group is for prostate cancer patients and their carers and meets on the first Thursday of the month from 12.30-2pm at Melton South Community Centre. Attendees are encouraged as members share their journeys through what could be a very traumatic time of their lives. Explanations of medical terminology used in the treatment of this cancer are given in this group.

■ Grenville, 0412 741 865

Chatty Cafe Melton

Are you feeling lonely, isolated or just wanting to make some new friends? If so, Chatty Cafe is for you. The group meets on Friday mornings at 10am for delicious free coffee from Latin foods and wines at 10 Wallace Square, Melton.

■ https://www.facebook.com/ groups/352071857283331

Women’s Support Group

Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The

group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House, 239 Station Road, Melton. The group can discuss most subjects that may be of help

■ https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

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

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.

Melton Men’s Group

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

■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

Take weight off naturally

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton.

women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton.

■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

U3A Melton

U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and older who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active.

■ 0419 563 016

Melton Combined Probus Club

The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am.

■ 9746 0271

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

The Rose Carers meet Wednesdays from 10am-noon at Maddingley Park, corner of Grant and Taverner streets, Bacchus Marsh, to maintain two beautiful rose gardens. New volunteers are always welcome – with or without experience.

■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119, or 0400 052 857

Melton Cycling Club

Melton Cycling Club meets for regular Sunday rides. There are three different riding groups to cater for different abilities starting at 7.30am. The rides finish at Lazy Moe’s for a cuppa.

■ 0403 057 003

Community singing group

■ 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 are welcome.

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

The Melton Bridge Club has 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

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

■ Ann, 0425 705 150

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

Zonta club meets

Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other

If you love to sing, come join the Melton Singers. The group rehearses regularly and also performs at aged care facilities. The group is very relaxed and sings songs mainly from the 1960s and 70s. It meets Tuesdays at 10am.

■ Val, 0418 667 150

Garden Club

The Bacchus Marsh and District Garden Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month except January, from 7.30pm, at The Laurels, 229 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh. Guest speakers and supper provided. Yearly membership $15. New members welcome.

■ Michelle, 0421 106 268

Community band

The Greater Western Community Band holds rehearsals on Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm at the Bridge Road Community Centre, 260 Bridge Road, Strathtulloh. The group welcomes musicians young and old, to come along and join in with their local band. Woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. The group is available to perform at events and festivals.

■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

Over 50s Social Group

A friendly group of people aged 50 and older who enjoy each other’s company while attending events and outings such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you.

■ Marlene, 0498 329 290

BusyFeet Hillside

BusyFeet is a dance and movement class for children with intellectual and physical disabilities. Classes create a fun and inclusive environment for kids aged six to 16 to try new things and build social skills, as well as giving a chance for parents’ respite. It’s held from 11-11.45am Saturday mornings.

■ Ross, 0411 228 311

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Maombi Bongwa (front) Frances Sesay (back) with their handmade tote bags. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403140_08

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from

ACROSS

1 Kitchenware (4)

3 AD (4,6) 10 Non-professional (7)

11 Japanese paper folding (7)

12 A sweet cold drink (8)

13 Excuse (5)

14 Spindle (4)

15 Agitated (10)

18 Gratification (10)

20 Duster (4)

21 Adage (5)

23 Ponder (8)

26 US state (7)

27 Pirate’s sword (7)

28 Child of one’s child (10)

29 Principal (4)

DOWN

1 Worship (4)

2 Journeyed (9)

4 Account of events (9)

5 Layer that absorbs most of the sun’s UV radiation (5)

6 Largest of the Ryukyu Islands, south of Japan (7)

7 Baghdad native (5)

8 Started (9)

9 Note (4)

14 Annoying (9)

16 Relating to a specific discipline (9)

17 Neighbour of Mexico (9)

19 Member of ancient Germanic tribe (7)

22 Country (5)

23 Collision of one or more vehicles (5)

24 Very small amount (4)

25 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

9 words: Good 13 words: Very good 18 words: Excellent Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS

5

1 Which country does soy sauce originate from?

2 What

True or false:

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Nick Holman currently plays for which AFL team?

2. In order, which three sports comprise an Ironman Triathlon?

3. Which F1 team is Lewis Hamilton planning to join in the 2025 season?

4. Which former

5. Josh Garlepp, Harry Fitzgerald and Giorgio Savini host which sports podcast?

6. How many Grand Slam finals did Andy Roddick lose to rival Roger Federer?

7. NFL star Tom Brady led the Patriots to how many division titles?

Stefano Utoikamanu plays for which NRL

And what position does he play?

Which AFL coach is known by the nickname

Over what distance did Australian runner Torrie Lewis win at the the first 2024 Diamond League event?

12. Jack Hetherington and Reed Mahoney play for which NRL clubs respectively?

What does the acronym WADA stand for?

14. US golf professional Nelly Korda recently won how many LPGA Tour events in a row?

15. Which Australian tennis player will miss the 2024 Olympic Games after rupturing her Achilles tendon?

16. How many goals did Australia’s men’s under-23 soccer team score during their 2024 Asian Cup campaign?

17. Which team entered the 2024 NBA playoffs seeded number one in the Western Conference?

18. Which team entered the 2024 NBA playoffs seeded number one in the Eastern Conference?

19. US boxer Ryan Garcia beat which previously undefeated American in their recent super lightweight fight?

20. Which three Australian states appear set to host the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup?

21. When facing a dart board, which number is directly to the right of the 20?

22. In snooker, what colour are the main 15 balls?

23. Which team won the 2012 AFL Grand Final?

24. Curling is widely credited with having been created in which country?

25. Who was the first person to defeat Muhammad Ali?

26. English soccer player Cole Palmer plays for which Premier League club?

27. Who is the current CEO of the NRL?

28. Which major US sporting event takes place annually on Patriot’s Day?

29. In 2012, who became the first (and only) batsman to hit a six off the very first ball in a cricket Test?

30. How many points separated Essendon and Collingwood at full-time of the 2024 Anzac Day match?

Nelly Korda

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 6/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 8/10

Well equipped and keenly priced

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Launched here in 2004, the small Cerato hatch or sedan has been one of Kia’s biggest sellers, often sharing the Australian sales podium alongside Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30 and Mazda3.

The current, fourth generation, Cerato has been on sale here since 2018 with an upgrade in 2021 adding new tech features as well as the fresh new Kia logo.

The next generation Cerato is due early in 2025 but it will be given a name change, adopting the global name of K4.

Let’s hope that Kia doesn’t face the same negative buyer reaction that Nissan did back in 2006 when, under instructions from its Tokyo head office, the popular and well-established Pulsar nameplate was dropped and replaced by the unknown Tiida leaving potential buyers either confused, angry, or both

We don’t anticipate that happening with the Cerato/K4 change. Kia has one of the smartest marketing teams in the business, as shown by its brilliant sporting superstar advert for the upcoming Tasman ute.

But, enough about the future, the Cerato remains on sale now as an excellent alternative in its small hatch/sedan category.

It comes with the choice of four variants: S, Sport, Sport + and GT, all with either five-door hatchback or four-door sedan bodies. Prices rangefrom$27,060fortheSthroughto$36,860 for the GT. There’s no difference between the hatch and sedan.

Don’t get too excited about the use of the Sport and Sports + name. Both models get the same 2.0-litre petrol engine with the same modest outputs as the S. Sport and Sport+ do get 17-inch alloy wheels while the S has 16-inch steels.

Our test vehicle was the Sport + hatch.

Styling

The 2021 Cerato upgrade was one of the first models to get the new stylised badge which has now spread across the Kia range.

Other new features include a revised headlamp design extending the grille pattern out to the car’s flanks, the reworked front bumper adding a sleek sporty character.

Front foglamps are slotted into the air intake grille, sharpening the looks up front. In profile the Cerato hatch is a model of restraint, with one exception, An alternative design for the 17-inch alloy wheels differentiates the Sport and Sport + from the rest of the range.

At the rear the exhaust has been concealed for an up-to-date hatchback appearance.

Drivelines

Cerato S, Sport and Sport+ are powered by a 2.0-litre,four-cylinderpetrolengineproducing 112 kW and 192 Nm, while the GT comes with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder motor with 150 kW and 265 Nm.

The 2.0-litre engine is paired to a six-speed automatic while the GT’s turbo engine gets a double-clutch (DCT) seven-speed auto.

Minimal sales saw the demise of the previous six-speed manual gearbox at the 2021 upgrade.

Interior

Kia Cerato has a well-designed and practical interior with everything in the right place.

There’sreasonablerearlegroomalthoughthe sunroof in the GT does limit head space.

Rear seat occupants also get a fold down

armrest with cup holders, USB socket and air vents.

Sport+ has leather-appointed seats, heated upfront, that are comfortable without being supportive in a lateral context.

Other carryover features include electrochromic mirror, and power exterior folding mirrors, soft-touch trim, illuminated glovebox and passenger-side seat-back pocket. Luggage space with the rear seatbacks folded is 428 litres in the hatch and 502 litres in the sedan.

Infotainment

Standard across the Cerato range are a 10.25-inch audio-visual unit with an LCD screen and a 4.2-inch TFT LCD cluster.

The latter displays information such as drive mode (normal, eco, sport, smart), average and instantaneous fuel consumption, trip meter andodometer,fuelrange,lanekeepassiststatus driver attention level and compass bearing.

Built-in satellite navigation, with 10-year MapCareandSUNAtrafficupdates,alsoallows access to DAB digital radio, voice recognition, wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, plus the dial-up soothing Sounds of Nature.

To maintain occupant aural pleasure all round, a rear-seat sleep mode can be called on to limit the speaker level in the back for occupantstoenjoyamorerestfulenvironment.

Safety

Ceratocomeswithacomprehensivelistofsafety features that include six airbags, enhanced ABS brakes, stability control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane follow assist, lane departure warning and driver attention alert.

Therearealsofrontandrearparkingsensors, high beam assist; reversing camera; and two IsoFix child seat anchor points.

Sport + and GT add blind spot recognition; blind spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic alert, safe exit warning; and enhanced AEB to include pedestrian and cyclist recognition.

Anoptional$1000SafetyPackisavailablefor theSandSportmodelsthataddsaCyclistAEB, electronic parking brake; blind spot detection; and rear cross traffic alert.

Driving

As mentioned previously, performance from the 2.0-litre models is only modest but it’s the same story with its direct competitors. Zero to 100 km/h is just under 10 seconds. It’s left to the GT with 1.6-litre turbo power to carry the sporty flag, with the speed from a standstill coming up in roughly seven seconds. Ride and handling remain pleasantly unchanged, with the Sport + keeping the tried-and-true McPherson Strut front end and couple torsion beam axle at the back tuned especially for Australia by our own engineers.

Suspension is reasonably supple, though rough Aussie country roads can occasionally troubleit.Noiseandvibrationarewelldamped.

The latest Korean models are almost up with the Europeans due to their driving dynamics being uprated to suit Australian drivers’ tastes.

Steering provides a quick response from good feedback.

Fuel consumption from the 2.0-litre engine is listed as 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the combined urban / highway cycle. We averaged 8.3 L/100km during our week-long test of the Sport + hatch.

Summing up

Cerato has played a significant part in the spectacular rise of Kia in Australia over the past decade or so. It’s been the brand’s best-selling model for much of that time and still, despite the current model due for imminent replacement, sitting in second place behind the Sportage SUV.

The modest performance isn’t especially important to most of its owners who just want a compact, affordable and reliable vehicle.

TheupcomingK4willalmostcertainlycome with a significant price hike so it might be an opportune time to check out the Cerato and do a bit of haggling with your local dealer.

Cerato has played a significant part in the spectacular rise of Kia in Australia over the past decade. (Pictures: Supplied)

Storm locks in coaching panel to lead it forward

Sydenham-Hillside has locked in a panel that will guide it even further in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association.

Having announced Tallan Wright as head cricket and the signing of two other players, the Storm announced the rest of the coaching group.

Deakyn McIntyre has been named cricket manager, while Anthony Alleyne will continue on as technical director.

Ishan Peiris will be an assistant coach, specialising on specific areas of cricket skills development, such as batting, bowling, fielding, or wicketkeeping.

All three will continue to be key players in the Storm first XI as well, Storm president Bob Kunesevic said while it was something different it was what they thought best after their review at the end of the season.

He said he knew that coach Warren Hackney was looking to take a step back which gave them time to start preparing for the future.

”We looked at what was working,” he said.

“We had seven senior men’s teams and two senior women’s teams.

“As far as the men’s program, we wanted to cover all bases and have the right people in those positions without impacting the culture that we already have.”

Kunesevic said they wanted to look to use the skills of the people they already have in the club.

Peiris now holds a level two coaching certificate and Alleyne has held his role since he joined the club.

McIntyrewasanassistantcoachlastseason shadowing Hackney.

“He has a bit of experience at the club and he has his own plans which are really impressive,” Kunesevic said.

Wright joins the club from Aberfeldie where he was captain-coach. He also has premier cricket experience.

On top of settling the coaching panel, the Storm has announced three new player signings, including Wright.

Cam West also crosses from Aberfeldie, while Sanka Ramesh crosses from Hoppers

Crossing.

Kunesevic said they still have room to move with player points if there was someone that came available that suits their needs. The club made the grand final in its first season in senior division and are hoping to build on that.

He said Adrian Neill is the only player who isn’t going to return.

“One of our big issues was depth,” he said. “ We had a couple of boys fall over in the last round with injuries.

“We still managed to make the grand final.”

Tara Murray

Centrals break through

By Tara Murray

Melton Centrals went back to what worked from them last season as it turned to the table to get their first win of the Riddell District Football League season.

After a tough couple of weeks, which included back-to-back 100 point losses, Centrals took home the points against Lancefield, which was also aiming for its first win of the season.

Centrals coach Mathew Sproule said it was nice to be able to turn things around.

“It was a good win,” he said. “Some reward after the last two weeks.

“Round one we were good and the last two weeks were so poor. There had been a real lack of transition and they [the opposition] were coming from our forward line to their forward line without us touching the ball.

“Our clearances were poor against Wallan as well.”

Sproule and co-coach Jake Thorton-Gielen decided after those two big losses to go back to basics.

He said they were finding that the things they had implemented in the off season weren’t quite working for them.

“It didn’t suit the group that we had,” he said. “Credit to Jake he implemented a lot of those things in the off season but realised they weren’t working.

Centrals led early on Saturday before the Tigers reduced the margin in the second quarter to about a goal.

Sproule said they were starting to think not again, but the playing group was able to respond and had control of the game for the rest of it, winning 14.10 (94)-7.8 (50).

The coach said it was his leaders that really showed the way.

“There was good pressure by Jake Thornton-Gielen, James Roberts, Jake Armistead and John Ferri.

“The third quarter we played some really good footy and were able to keep our heads in the game.

“Our forwards worked well together as well.”

Evan Donoghue was named Centrals best having taken about a dozen intercept marks while playing at centre half back.

Sproule said while Donoghue had played in the ruck last season they were keen to settle him in defence and he’d been really good for them this year.

Sam Apineru (Jacob Pattison)323330_02

Milan Savic took the ruck role on Saturday against the Tigers and was outstanding. Sproule said they wouldn’t see much of Savic this year, due to his commitments with the Melton Thoroughbreds in the Big V competition.

While happy with the win, Sproule is aware that the Tigers weren’t at their best with a number of key players out including Tom Waters.

Centrals have this weekend off with interleague before they face Riddell, the only unbeaten team in the competition,

“We then face Kyneton, Macedon and

Woodend-Hesket, three teams that are near us on the ladder,” Sproule said.

“We would have played the top four sides in the first five weeks of the season.”

In other results, Diggers Rest beat Woodend-Hesket, 13.10 (88)-5.7 (37).

Brodie Myers kicked five for the Burras, with Campbell Wearne named their best.

Darley got its third win of the season, while it was a tough day for Bacchus Marsh and Melton South in the Ballarat Football League on Saturday.

The Devils headed up the highway to face Ballarat and were able to come home with the four points convincingly.

The Devils led by just six points at quarter time, before the margin grew to 29 points at half time.

Another five goals to one in the third quarter made it a match winning lead.

The Devils finished off strongly in the last quarter to come away with an 18.11 (119)-8.7 (55) win.

Billy Myers and Leigh Spiteri kicked four goals each for the Devils. Spiteri and skipper Brett Bewley were named their best.

Afteracoupleofstrongperformances, the Cobras struggled to match it with the Sunbury Lions.

It was an even first quarter before the Lions started to kick away in the second quarter.

With the lead in their hand, the Lions continued to build on it in the second half to hand the Cobras a 17.12 (114)-8.13 (61) loss.

Jake Owen was the only multiple goal kicker for the Cobras, booting four goals.

Owen was named their best alongside playing coach Dennis Armfield.

Melton South had its worst performance of the season against East Point.

Having shown some positive signs in recent weeks, the Panthers were no match for the Kangaroos.

The Kangaroos had plenty of scoring opportunities throughout the game and keptthePanthersgoallessuntilthefinal quarter.

It ended up a 26.25 (181)-1.1 (7) win to the Kangaroos.

DarbySchilderandLachlanPritchard were named the Panthers best.

Melton had the bye.

Deakyn McIntyre. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Strikers are looking for momentum

Westside Strikers are trying to find their feet in the FV state league 4 west competition.

The Strikers were relegated from state league 3 in the off season and had a bit of a slow start to the season.

Having won their last three matches, the Strikers are now starting to find their groove.

Strikers coach Simon Vasconcelo said before the weekend’s win they were starting to find their way.

“It’s been good to win the last two games,” hesaid. “It’s alwayspleasing tohit abit ofgood form.

“We have our first home game back at Taylors Hill this week.

“Even though we’ve played two home games at Brookside, it’s a home away from home.

“Hopefully the boys are excited to be back at Taylors Hill. We’ll train there this week and hopefully they’ll enjoy their first game back.”

Vasconcelo said it had been a bit of a learning curve returning to state league 4 west after one season in state league 3.

He said the state league 4 competition was a strong one.

“There’s a lot of teams that have come up and are trying to go back-to-back and there’s some very strong sides.”

Vasconcelo said the focus for their group was to ensure they do enough to stay in state league 4. He knows it won’t be easy.

“We’ve got a different squad and there’s always a lot of player movement,” he said. “We have good culture at the club and hopefully we can keep them together long term.

“There’s a mixture of players and we’ll give it a good go this year. We want to up near the top and see what we need after this year.

“Afterrelegationiscanbeaslipperyslopand we wanted to build momentum. It [relegation]

kicks the wind out of the sails when that happens and we don’t want back-to-back relegations. We want some good results and we’ll see where it takes us.”

The Strikers faced the Truganina Hornets on Saturday.

Vasconcelo said before the match that they couldn’t take any match easy despite where a team was sitting on the ladder.

It was another good result for the Strikers, who came away with the points following a 3-0 win.

All three goals came in the second half through David Torres Suarez, Dagenet Belayneh and Mark Saric.

The Strikers now sit fifth on the ladder with 10 points.

TheStrikersareathomeagainthisSaturday, hosting Bell Park.

Tara Murray

Warriors fade badly

By Tara Murray

Consistency continues to be a focus for the Western Warriors after another disappointing loss on Friday night against the Wilson Storage Southern Saints in the Victorian Netball League championship.

The Warriors have had an up and down debut season and against the Saints they showed glimpses of their best and worst.

The Warriors were in control of the game in the first half, before fading with the Saints making the most of it, winning 59-45.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey said it was a pretty disappointing result in the end.

“We had a really good first half of the game but we gave up the lead in the second half which was disappointing.

“The Saints had Jessie Grenvold back which helped and she shut down Kim [Borger]. Kim has been such a focal point for us the last few weeks.

“Mia Van Wyk at wing defence also shut down our attack.”

Borger still finished with 26 goals, but didn’t have her usual influence.

Bailey said while their attack end was down, there had been some pleasing work from their defence end.

She said Elly Randall and Georgia Berry both came on and had an impact.

Bailey said the biggest thing for the group at this stage was just getting that consistency going.

“We’re still building relationships across the whole four quarters,” she said. “We’re getting to know each other and there are some issues that come with not having played that much together as a unit.

“We will improve as we go. We’ll do a bit more analysing and work out when we drop off as it’s not fitness.”

The Warriors now sit second bottom with two wins from the first nine matches. They are two games outside the top four, but have played an extra game than all teams but top side Boroondara Express.

The Warriors under-23s also suffered a loss to the Saints but it was a much better

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BNL

The wins keep coming for Darley in the Ballarat Netball League. On Saturday, the Devils were able to account for Ballarat, 59-29. Olivia Cawthray shot 29 goals for the Devils. Young Devils star Addison Wright made her debut in the win. In other results, Melton South beat East POint 46-36 and Bacchus Marsh lost to the Sunbury Lions, 98-27.

RDNL

Melton Centrals made it two in a row with a win against Lancefield in the Riddell District Netball League. Lancefield got off to a flier and led by eight goals at quarter time and then nine goals at half time. Centrals levelled the scores heading into the final quarter before continuing their strong form in the last quarter to win, 54-38. Meanwhile, Diggers Rest lost to Woodend-Hesket, 52-35 after trailing all day.

WFL

Caroline Springs won a thriller against Altona in the Western Football League division 1 on Saturday. The Lakers led all day in a low scoring affair. The Vikings saved their best for last but were able to hold on, winning 9.9 (63)-8.10 (58). Lukas Har and Steven Kyriazis kicked three goals each. The Lakers sit second on the ladder after four rounds with three wins and a loss. In division 2, the Western Rams again showed that they can put some scoreboard pressure but it wasn’t enough against West Footscray, losing 23.19 (157)-13.8 (86).

performance than the last few weeks.

The Saints took the win 52-47.

Bailey said they were happy with that performance.

“They have been decimated by injury and had three development girls in the team,” she said.

“To go down by five against a really good side was good.

“Three of their leaders are out in Eliza Gollant with a meniscus injury, Kiralee Collings who was away and Nerana Baker who was also unavailable.

“It was a much improved performance.”

Ella Closter shut 37 goals for the Warriors.

The championship side will have a bye this week with Gippsland Stars not having a side.

The under-23s will face the Stars with Bailey saying they believe they are a good chance for a win.

Bailey said the championship side would still train this week but would look to review things a bit more with the longer break.

After that the Warriors face the Casey Demons and Melbourne University.

WFL

Caroline Springs women’s side had no troubles at all against the Suns in the Western Football League women’s competition on Friday night, winning 8.9 (57)-1.5 (11). Jacinta Kondis, Nikki Perrett and Caitlin Pretty kicked two goals each. Jasmine Bongiovanni was named their best. After four rounds the Lakers sit in second spot with three wins. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool

Marcus Tasevski. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 350282_19

Julia Woolley (Netball Victoria/Grant Treeby)

Heza Son of Agun gives Craven his 1000th win

Prominent horseman Matthew Craven launched the meeting with a personal milestone when he chalked up his 1000th win in the sulky behind Heza Son Of Agun in the Allied Express Pace at Melton on Saturday night.

AGroup1winnerasatwoandthree-year-old, Heza Son Of Agun turned back the clock when he grabbed District Attorney on the line to get up and score a short half head in a mile rate of 1:53.4.

The 39-year-old Craven was pleased the son of Art Major was able to break a 12-month drought at Melton.

“It’s nice to get a win back in town with him, he’s been a lovely little horse for us and to get him back into the winner’s stall is very pleasing,” Craven said.

Craven said it took the entire length of the home straight to reel in District Attorney.

“Around the circle he just dropped me for a few strides and it took a little bit to wind him upandevenwhenhegottotheoutsidehereally had to work and dig deep to the line, full credit to him and hopefully he will just keep getting better every time he comes to the races,” he said.

“He did a lot of racing at two, three and four and we were lucky enough to give him a nice break.”

Later in the night the lightly raced Young Bluey completed a double for Craven when he careered away from his rivals in the straight to score from La Belle Bijoux and Beach Hopper.

“We might have just needed to get that 1000th win out of the way, when everyone else talks about it each week it puts a bit of pressure on,” he said.

“Thishorseneedsthingstogohiswaybutwe were lucky enough to get out at the right time

and he got home really well.

“While he is still learning a little bit, he is racing a lot kinder than he was his first couple of starts back and that will be the key to him going forward, if he can turn into a lovely little race horse then tucked away he’s always going to run a nice race.”

Favouritebackersheadedforthebarafterthe Aldebaran Park Vulcan Trotters Free For All where the favourite Ollivici held on the score by a short half head from the fast finishing Sebastians Boy.

The Chris Lang and Sonia Mahar trained Olllivici worked to the lead with a lap to go and appeared set for a comfortable victory before Sebastians Boy charged home late along the sprint lane.

Lang conceded the finish proved closer than he would have liked.

Georgies get third win

By Tara Murray

Caroline Springs George Cross continues to fight through the tough times in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition.

Having had an up and down season in their first season in the VPL1 competition, the Georgies managed to get their third win on the board on Saturday.

Facing the North Geelong Warriors, which had claimed four points from its last two matches, it was the Georgies that led 1-0 at half time.

Both sides scored in the second half, but that first half lead proved to be the difference, with the Georgies winning 2-1.

Georgies coach Eric Vassiliadis said the playing group continues to show plenty of fight and was happy to get another win on the board.

“It was an important win for us,” he said. “It was more than just about the score.

“It’s about making sure we don’t allow this period of disruption to dictate us.”

Vassiliadis said they were wary of the Warriors heading into the game on their recent form despite where they were sitting on the ladder.

He said they should have closed the game out a lot earlier than they did, but didn’t have any luck going their way which made it harder than it should have been.

“During the week there were a couple of things we could have been doing better,” he said. “It was about being a little bit more cleaner and positive with the way we do things.”

The win moves the Georgies to 10th on the ladder with three wins, three draws and six losses.

Vassiliadis said they were adjusting to things that aren’t going their way which might have gone their way in previous years.

“I don’t think we’re getting the results we deserve,”hesaid.“It’sthepsychologicalsideof things and we need to try and ensure we still have that belief.

“We’ve been struggling with some injuries

Thoroughbreds lose to Heat

Melton Thoroughbreds had a rare blimp on the radar on Sunday in the Big V men’s division 2 competition.

The Thoroughbreds have been leading the way in the division 2 competition, entering the round with just one loss for the year.

On Sunday, the Thoroughbreds hosted the Mildura Heat which had a double header in Melbourne across the weekend.

Despite having played a game the nightbefore,itwastheHeatthatstarted the better of the two teams, leading by eight points at the first break.

The margin increased to 12 points at half time.

The Thoroughbreds started to get back into the game in the third quarter and got back to within six points during that quarter.

The Heat managed to steady in the last quarter and were able to run away with the win, 93-79.

Darian Peterson top scored for the Thoroughbreds with 23 points, while Jeff Crowe provided vital support for the bench with 22 points.

The Thoroughbreds now slip to second on the ladder with a 6-2 record.

They have a bye this weekend.

In the youth league men’s division 2 competition, the Thoroughbreds men lost both of their matches.

andnursingplayersthroughoutthesquad.We should start getting some guys back the next few weeks.”

It’s a big few weeks for the Georgies who are still alive in the Australia Cup. They face Altona City on May 15 in round six of the Victorian stage.

A win would take the Georgies into the national stage. It would be the first time Vassiliadis has taken them that far if they get there.

“The cup is a great opportunity for the club,” he said. “We want to secure a spot in the final 32.”

In the VPL1 competition, Vassiliadis said they were hoping on the win would help them turn their season around.

The Georgies face Kingston City on Saturday night in the next round.

In the state league 4 west competition, Melton Phoenix had a 3-1 win against Barnstoneworth United.

In state league 5 west, Spring Hills had a 3-0 loss to Deakin University.

On Saturday night, the Thoroughbreds lost to the Southern Peninsula Sharks, 109-87.

The Sharks won the first three quarterstotakecontrolofthegameand out of reach from the Thoroughbreds.

Madiar Chipuowuo top scored with 32 points off the bench.

On Sunday, the Thoroughbreds were at home to the Western Port Steelers. It was a poor start that proved costly for the Thoroughbreds in the 85-79 loss.

The Thoroughbreds trailed by 13 points at quarter time but weren’t able to make up the gap in the second half.

Ryan Woolley top scored with 22 points.

The Thoroughbreds sit in 17th position.

John Dunne Heza Son Of Agun (Stuart McCormick)

Russell Currie (Ljubica Vrankovic)