Star Weekly - Northern - 14th May 2024

Battery life extended

The Big Battery Rescue has returned for another year, and one local school is eyeing off a big campaign of collecting.

Gilgai Plains Primary School in Kalkallo has been a participant in the program for the last three years.

The Big Battery Rescue aims to batteries away from landfill.

Gilgai Plains assistant principal Scott Woolcock said the school was encouraged to join the campaign by partners Stockland, but have continued on their own.

“We have gained a lot from being part of the Big Battery Rescue, our students have learnt lessons on looking after the environment and the amount of unnecessary rubbish that ends up in landfill each year,” he said.

“We had a performance earlier in the year from the National Theatre for Children that emphasised the fact that 14,000 tonnes of batteries end up in landfill each year.”

Mr Woolcock encouraged other schools to join the initiative, but warns that they are striving to be hard to beat as the north’s best recyclers.

“Last year we finished in 19th place nationally with 159kg of batteries, but this year we are hoping to crack the top 10, which would be around an average 380g of batteries per student,” he said. Schools that sign up receive free recycling kits and a large battery bin that is regularly collected and recycled.

Upgrade delay ‘shambolic’

By Gerald Lynch

The state opposition has slammed the state government for failing to allocate funding to andgetworkstartedonthetheYanYeanRoad upgrade, following last week’s state budget.

NorthernVictoriaLiberalMPWendyLovell saidthegovernment’shandlingoftheroadhas seen it fall into disrepair.

“Yan Yean Road is a disgrace, and the process for planning and delivering the stage two upgrades to Yan Yean Road has been “shambolic”.

“This future road infrastructure is critical

for connecting the growing northern suburbs.

“The government must stop delaying this project, and get on with funding and completing the upgrades to Yan Yean Road.”

The project has been in its planning stage formultipleyears,andtheoppositionsaidcars are regularly being damaged by potholes and “chronically congested roads” between Bridge Inn Road and Kurrak Road, meaning the upgrades are urgently needed.

The opposition said the lanes on Yan Yean Roadare narrow and congested, making for a dangerous scene and increased chance of accidents.

On Saturday, April 13, a young local was struck by a car while walking on the dark and narrow on Yan Yean Road. He is currently in ICU, in an induced coma.

The stage two upgrade involves widening Yan Yean Road between Kurrak Road, Yarrambat, and Bridge Inn Road, Doreen.

According to the Department of Transport andPlanning(DTP),theprojectunderwentan environmental effects statement process (EES) in 2020, which was presented to the planning minister in February, 2021.

The minister gave the upgrade the green light in March, 2021, pending changes to the

scope and design of the project.

Major Road Projects Victoria is currently working to refine the project design, obtain environmental and planning approvals required and address the outcomes of the EES to ensure the best outcome for road users, the community and the surrounding environment.

DTP completed major maintenance works along Yan Yean Road between Worns Lane and North Oatlands Road at the end of 2023.

DTP also has upcoming maintenance works between North Oatlands Road and Ashley Road in the coming months.

Gurnoor, Aarna and Bentleigh from Gilgai Plains Primary School are embracing the Big Battery Rescue. (Damjan Janevski) 404643_02

HIDDEN VALLEY GOLF COURSE

Health the big winner in budget

By Gerald Lynch

Health was the big winner for Hume and Whittlesea residents in this year’s state budget, withahugefundingcoupforNorthernHealth.

The Northern Hospital in Epping has been allocated $813 million, which will deliver up to 70 extra treatment spaces, alongside a new emergency department with a dedicated paediatric zone.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the funding will create better healthcare for residents.

“This record investment allows us to deliver

better facilities and more healthcare workersmaking sure every Victorian gets the best care, no matter their address,” she said.

“The new emergency department will include an alcohol and other drugs hub, dedicated acute behaviour treatment space and a dedicated paediatric treatment zone.”

The state government is also progressing the delivery of community hospitals to provide more public healthcare options tailored to the localcommunity,withhospitalsinCraigieburn and Sunbury due for completion in 2024, and in Mernda in 2025.

Twonorthernsecondaryschoolsarewinners

in the budget, receiving $11.7 million each for modernisation of existing facilities.

Gladstone Park Secondary College and Whittlesea Secondary College are receiving upgrades,withcompletionearmarkedbetween October and December 2026.

Stage one of the Mickleham Road Upgrade will continue to be worked on, with $47.7 million estimated to be spent in the next financial year, as a completed date of April to June 2026 is estimated.

The Victorian Asbestos Eradication Agency will receive $19.3 million to ensure the safe removal and disposal of asbestos

Sixty years of helping those in need

This May, The Salvation Army in Melbourne’s north are urging the local community to get involved in the Red Shield Appeal, which will raise vital funds to continue supporting the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in our region.

Across the country, the Salvos are aiming to raise $38 million for the Red Shield Appeal, whichisAustralia’slargestandlongest-running door-knockappeal.Thisyearmarks60yearsof the appeal.

The Salvation Army’s Major Warren Elliot said help is needed, now more than ever.

“Times are tough. We are seeing more people come through our doors every week, new families who have never done it this tough

before, and people are feeling the pinch. They are skipping meals, unable to afford utility bills or medication for their kids. This is why we need your support,” he said. “There is no better way to support your community than through volunteering and we would love to have you as part of our Red Shield Appeal army this year. Grab a mate, some work colleagues or the entire family and join us. We can’t do our work in the community without you.”

Last year, The Salvation Army provided assistance to one person every 17 seconds across Australia, with more than 1.2 million beds and 1.63 million meals given to people in need.

There are many ways you can get involved

– collections in shopping centres or other key locations, door- knocking, online fundraising or organising a collection at your workplace, school or sporting event.

The Red Shield Appeal weekend is May 25 and 26, but there are many volunteering opportunities throughout the month of May.

All funds raised locally will remain in the local community, allowing the Salvos to meet the specific needs of the most disadvantaged and marginalised residents throughout Melbourne’s north.

Volunteer: salvationarmy.org.au/ red-shield-appeal

Gerald Lynch

in government-owned buildings. Asbestos fragments have been found in more than 10 parksacrossMelbournesincethestartofApril, including Seabrook Reserve in Broadmeadows. Hume council expressed mixed emotions about the budget.

Mayor Naim Kurt said council was grateful for the investment in education but disappointed the Growing Suburbs Fund had been cut to $5 million, down from $10 million. “It jeopardises the ability for us to partner and deliver much needed community infrastructure for our growing communities,” he said.

Whittlesea council has appointed Belgravia Leisure as the facility managers for council’s swim and recreation centres Mill Park Leisure, Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre and Whittlesea Swim Centre.

Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the new contract had significant community benefits for the one million visitors who attend the centres each year.

“The appointment promises to deliver efficiencies and benefits to community by ensuring services are accessible and inclusive to all people and enhancing participation by offering a diverse range of program and activities,” she said.

Belgravia Leisure will engage with the community to develop a wide range of exercise programs to ensure residents of all ages and at all stages of their life have access to health and wellbeing initiatives.

The programming will have a particular focus on older adults, children, women and girls, people with a disability and people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds through community programs including the successful learn-to-swim initiative.

Details: www.millparkleisure.com. au, www.trac.com.au and www. whittleseaswimcentre.com.au.

Further delays for troubled Melbourne Airport Rail Link

There seems to be no end in sight for the blame game being played between the state governmentandMelbourneAirport,following a decision in last week’s state budget to delay the Melbourne Airport Rail Link by at least four years.

Treasurer Tim Pallas handed down the 2024-25 state budget on May 7, revealing the airportraillinkhasbeenhitwithfurtherdelays of at least four years from its initial estimated completion date of 2029.

Mr Pallas said while the Metro Tunnel, the West Gate Tunnel and the North East Link projects are still being delivered, the state government has a “huge amount of funding tied up with the Melbourne Airport Rail project”.

“We need to be realistic about the project and its timeline,” Mr Pallas said.

“We’ve made the sensible decision to acknowledge the project is now at least four years delayed.”

The state government and Melbourne Airport have failed to reach an agreement on the location of the proposed Melbourne Airport train station, with the airport holding firm in its preference for it to be constructed underground while state government’s plans released in 2022 said its preference was to have an above ground station.

A Melbourne Airport spokesperson said the timing of the project has always been a matter

for the government.

“MelbourneAirportwaspartofaconsortium that offered up to $7 billion towards an underground airport station and express tracks from Sunshine,” the spokesperson said.

“The state government rejected this.”

In April last year, then Transport Minister Jacinta Allan flagged that the Melbourne Airport Rail project would not be completed by 2029, citing “challenging” negotiations with Melbourne Airport as a contributing factor to the delay.

“Ithasbeenchallengingtonegotiatewiththe airport about how the project will be delivered on the land that they lease from the federal government to run the airport,” Ms Allan told

ABC Radio at the time.

“It’s been slower than I would have liked.”

A spokesperson from Hume council said council was disappointed by the delays and hoped to see the project be catered to soon.

“We knew that Victorian infrastructure projects would suffer as the state government seekstoreignindebtthroughitslatestbudget,” the spokesperson said.

“We are disappointed that the airport rail link has been delayed as a result of this as it’s a project that Melbourne’s north has long deserved, and we would expect it to be a top priority for future infrastructure funding.”

Hannah Hammoud

A child enjoying the Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre (TRAC). (supplied)

Major Jeff Philp from the Mill Park Salvation Army corps.

(Damjan Janevski)

Plate pinching concerns

By Gerald Lynch

Hume ranks third among municipalities in the state for number plate thefts, with 987 sets reported stolen in the 12-month period ending March, 2024.

Statewide, a 23 per cent increase in stolen plates was seen from the previous 12 months according to data from the Victorian Crime Statistics Agency, with the number rising from 15,009 to 18,481.

RACV and Neighbourhood Watch Victoria are encouraging motorists to take precautions to protect their vehicles following a sharp rise in number plate theft.

HumeresidentandcommunityadvocateAlly Watson said the high rate of theft is a concern and causing a great deal of inconvenience.

“There are legitimate and significant safety concerns held by our local community.

Property theft and break ins are becoming far too commonplace. It’s unsettling, disruptive and people are fed up,” she said.

“I remove valuables and lock my car to secure it. I’ve installed anti-theft screws on my plates to deter thieves. I park my car in my garage as much as possible. Even taking these precautions,IconsiderwhereIwillparkmycar and avoid certain areas. When possible I’ll get dropped off to the train station to avoid leaving my car there. Occasionally I’ll get an Uber to the station. It may cost me in fees, but that’s better than the inconvenience of having to deal with stolen plates.”

Neighbourhood Watch Victoria chief executive Bambi Gordon highlighted the importance of addressing the issue and the wider implications of number plate theft.

“While having your number plate stolen may just seem like a low-level crime, the reality is it can have very serious ramifications for motorists–includingthepotentialinvolvement

in identity theft and criminal activities,” she said.

The Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC) reports that over 50 per cent of fuel theft and various other crimes involve stolen number plates.

“No matter where you live or how you use your vehicle, you can be susceptible,” Ms Gordon said.

AspokespersonforVictoriaPolicere-iterated that plate thefts are often part of more serious crime. “Stolen and cloned number plate details are often used by offenders to hide the identity of a vehicle when committing other crimes, such as burglaries, ram raids, petrol drive offs, toll evasion and to evade police,” the spokesperson said.

“Under the Road Safety Act, it is an offence to forge or fraudulently alter or use any vehicle identifier, including an identification number plate.

“Wetakethistypeofoffendingveryseriously and we are committed to identifying and holding offenders to account.”

Neighbourhood Watch and RACV are working together to deliver programs that make communities safer, protected and more connected. They are running 30 safe plate day events in the coming weeks, and have issued a set of tips to help prevent plate theft.

They say Hume residents should use anti-theft screws, utilise security cameras, consider purchasing anti-theft devices, and park in well-lit areas where possible.

Home care service boost

Older residents in Whittlesea are set to benefit from an expansion of Ageing Well program services to include Home Care Packages (HCP).

In March, council endorsed the notification to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission for council to become an approved provider of Home Care Packages for older adults.

Currently, council delivers the CommonwealthHomeSupportProgram (CHSP), offering basic, entry-level services such as domestic assistance, personal care, respite, property maintenance, social support programs and meals.

However, with the introduction of the Home Care Packages program, tailored support for older people with more complex needs becomes possible, ensuring continuity of care without the necessity of changing providers once a higher level of service is required.

The expansion of services will enable council to deliver enhanced and innovative service offerings, ensuring older residents can remain independent for as long as possible.

Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said, “By offering this service, our older residents can have continuity of care from a trusted provider, ensuring they maintain a sense of security and support as they age”.

Council will notify the federal government of its intention to become anapprovedproviderwiththeexpansion of services to commence once this is finalised,whichisexpectedtobeby2025.

RACV and Neighbourhood Watch Victoria are encouraging motorists to take precautions to protect their vehicles following a sharp rise in number plate theft. (Supplied)

Overcrowding concerns

By Gerald Lynch

Five Jacana residents have fronted a Hume council meeting to express their concerns about a proposed seven-bedroom dwelling on Sunset Boulevard.

Council received an application for the double-storey development at 70 Sunset Boulevard, which has one existing dwelling.

Debby Stockdale, who lives opposite the address, was one of five residents in attendance atcouncil’sApril29meeting.Shesaidwhileshe understands the need for affordable housing, she doesn’t think it is the right place to build a dwelling of its size.

“Aseven-bedroomdwellingatthebackofthe

current residence, that’s not a standard normal everyday home,” she said.

“What provisions will be in place to stop it from being utilised unofficially as a boarding home? … That’s one of my concerns.”

She has further concerns about the dwelling only having two or three parking spots, meaning other vehicles are likely to crowd the street. She said garbage trucks are struggling to travel through Sunset Boulevard and the adjacent Bannister Street.

Another resident in Sunset Boulevard, Bernadene Cilia, was worried about the parking situation.

“I can barely get my car out of the driveway as it is, I have to stop my car and go knocking

on doors to find who has parked over our driveway,” she said.

“I don’t condone this build to go ahead.”

KellieHaroaalsolivesinthestreetandsaidit cannot fit any more cars.

“I have had to replace three of my wing mirrors when I have parked on the street,” she said.

Councillor Joseph Haweil said he can empathise with the residents and understands the difficulty and concerns.

Hume councillors voted to defer the decision to allow council officers to further investigate the issues and the eligibility of a permit to buildthedwelling,anditwillreturninafuture council meeting.

Tax cuts for every taxpayer

Partnership to improve outcomes

Northern Health has been working with Swinburne University and Medibank to create a new certificate III in community services (health navigation) with help of a $2.4 million Workforce Training and Innovation Fund (WTIF) grant.

In a 2022 policy brief on patient navigators, the World Health Organisation (WHO) highlighted key programs globally where peer health navigators have not only overcome barriers to care for vulnerable and disadvantagedgroups,buthaveincreased prevention and health promotion within hard-to-reach communities.

Peerhealthnavigatorrolesmayinclude providing patients and communities with information about their conditions to support self-management, providing more holistic patient-centred care, identification and resolution of barriers to health care, and linking individuals and communities into health and social services.

Studies in migrant communities have found that peer health navigators improve adherence to chronic disease care, increase cancer screening up to 24 per cent, and result in significant improvements in exercise and dietary habits.

Shared experience, culture and language are key contributors to the impactofpeerhealthnavigatorsonhealth care engagement and improved patient outcomes for migrant communities.

The WTIF grant has provided Northern Health an opportunity to position itself as a leader in a field that is fast becoming recommended practice.

The 2023-2033 Australian Cancer Plan identified health navigation as a priority area for action.

In December 2023, the final report of the Independent Review of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) also identified the need for all people with disability to have access to a health navigator.

“Integration and co-operation within the health system and employment within health care services have been identified as one of the most important enablers for these roles. Positioning this work within a health care organisation is critical to ensuring adoption of the roles into practice,” said Dr Rebecca Jessup, director of research and evaluation of the Staying Well Program and principal investigator on these projects.

“In line with the 2022 WHO policy brief, there is a need for an agreed level of capability and competency in the Australian context to develop appropriate training curriculums and vocational programs for these roles, in conjunction with delegation and supervision frameworks.”

Protests outside the HTA Global facility in Campbellfield. (Supplied)

Protest is ‘intimidating’

By Gerald Lynch

The front of Campbellfield’s HTA facility has been the home of constant Pro-Palestine protests since January, with staff refusing to work due to fears of safety and detriment to their mental health.

HTA Group chief executive Norm Tucker took to radio to speak to the troubles the company is facing to continue operating.

“It’ssointimidatingforsomeonetowalkpast these people yelling at us, calling us names I can’t repeat on radio,” he told 3AW.

He said beliefs that the Melbourne facility is responsible for the heat treatment of fighter jet parts, which is causing the community pickets, are wrong.

“They think we’re doing military components there [in Melbourne], which is incorrect, it’s misinformed. We’re doing that

outofourBrisbaneplantofcourse,butnothere in Melbourne,” he said.

“We heat treat parts for local companies for wheelchair frames.”

Mr Tucker said the protesters come to the facility twice a week for half a day at a time, prohibiting workers from entering and exiting the site, as well as padlocking and cutting powertothegate,andheadmittedithascaused some employees to not come to work.

“Absolutely, it’s been so intimidating for us to walk past people yelling at us and calling us names I can’t repeat,” he said.

“The greatest thing is the mental health on the staff … they just don’t want to come to work.“

Residents, workers and activists have held community pickets at the HTA facility for more than 12 weeks to ‘stop work on weapons in the suburbs’.

What’s on

Neighbourhood House Week at Greenbrook

Join us for an exciting week at Greenbrook Community House as we celebrate Neighbourhood House Week.

Neighbourhood Houses are the heartbeat of our local community. There is something for everyone, so don’t miss out on the excitement of our come and try sessions.

Tuesday 14 May: Painting and Drawing

Wednesday 15 May: Get Crafty Social Craft Group

Thursday 16 May: Marvelous Mosaics

To book in to one of the sessions, email greenbrookch@whittlesea.vic.gov.au

The news from Mr Tucker has been seen as a win by activists of the weapons out of Hume campaign,althoughtheysayitisachangefrom publicly available information.

At a press conference on Wednesday, May 1, a Hume for Humanity spokesperson said the groupwasproudofitseffortsofpicketactivists.

“It seems that weapons production has been moved out of the facility because of sustained community picketing,” the spokesperson said.

“HTA’s operations are integral to the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter supply chain.”

The group says its fight is long from over.

“The campaign against HTA Global is not over,” the spokesperson said.

“We’re going to continue to target weapons manufacturing facilities and any company that is complicit in the genocide until they stop arming Israel.”

Community centre named

A name has been decided on for a long-awaited community centre in Westmeadows.

At a Hume council meeting on April 29, it was decided to approve the name Valley Park Community Centre for the building at 44 Village Crescent in Westmeadows.

The centre is scheduled to be ready at the end of June.

Councillor Joseph Haweil said the centre will greatly benefit the local community.

“This is a new and long advocated facility in that part of the world, which will make an excellent contribution to the lived experience and wellbeing of residents,” he said.

“This name will be easily identifiable for its location and purpose.“

Cr Haweil said he visited the construction site previously and was impressed by the project.

“It will be a smaller scale facility than we’re used to in Hume, we are building megastructures all over the place,” he said.

“It’s one of the smallest we’ve done in many years … but it will be very well utilised by the community.”

Council based the name on the Valley Park estate. The community wasn’t consulted on the decision.

The facility will provide spaces for local service and program delivery, including maternal and child health, playgroups and spaces for residents to enjoy shared activities.

Come and celebrate IDAHOBIT with us

Wear your brightest colours and join us for a Q&A panel in support and recognition of International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersex Discrimination and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

There will be light refreshments and a photobooth to celebrate after, so come along for an afternoon of fun!

When: 3.15pm to 5pm, Wednesday 15 May

Where: City of Whittlesea Civic Centre, Great Hall, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang For more information, visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events

A boot load of sales

BDS Support Services is urging the community to open their car boots for sale with a new initiative to promote inclusivity.

The first edition of the sale is set for Sunday, May 19, from 8am to noon, on 241 Camp Road in Broadmeadows.

BDS business development manager

Michael Bzdel said anyone can put forward an expression of interest to sell at the event and he encourages the community to get involved.

“Proceeds from hire for stall holders will go back into costs associated with running the event and improving facilities at BDS Support Services as we are a not for profit organisation,” he said.

“We are keen to invite the community onto our grounds and increase awareness of what we do and promote inclusivity.

“Wehopetobridgegapsbetweenthebroader

community and people with disabilities. We want to provide opportunities that enable everyone to participate together rather than delivering services in a segregated manner.”

He said they are looking to utilise the big open space they have, and hosting it at their location on Camp Road makes it extremely visible and attractive for passers-by.

“We are catering for 50 stallholders and anticipate that a few hundred people would attend over the duration of each car boot sale,”

Mr Bzdel said.

BDS Support Services is a non for profit organisation that seeks to support people with disabilities of all ages.

It works with the NDIS to provide care and respite to families.

Gerald Lynch

Briefs

Suspicious Thomastown fire

A suspicious fire occurred on Dalton Road, Thomastown, on Tuesday, May 7. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to a building fire in Thomastown at about 4.15am. The first FRV crew arrived in under six minutes to find a fire on the ground floor of a three-storey industrial building. Firefighters donned breathing apparatus and attacked the fire as it engulfed the entire ground floor restaurant, managing to bring it under control by 4:42am, 20 minutes after arriving on scene. The fire was contained to the ground floor of the building. A total of 29 firefighters attended the scene. FRV conducted a search of the premises and can confirm no-one has been found. The fire has been deemed as suspicious and will be investigated by Victoria Police.

Life threatening shooting

A 50-year-old Truganina man is being treated for life-threatening injuries after being shot in Jacana. Police were called to the M80 Ring Road near Pascoe Vale about 12.10pm on Tuesday, May 7, before learning the man had already presented to a hospital in Parkville with suspected gunshot wounds. While investigations remain ongoing, police believe the attack to be targeted. Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

BDS chief exeuctive Philip Brookes and business development manager Michael Bzdel. (Damjan Janevski) 398330_02

Speaking out about violence

By Zoe Moffatt

Throughout the country thousands of women have gathered to protest family and gender-based violence, amid heartbreaking stories and shocking new statistics.

In Hume, this nationwide issue was recognised at a council meeting on April 29, with a notice of motion to express council’s concern and to call on the state government to provide sustainable funding to the response sector.

CouncillorsvotedtowritealettertoPremier Jacinta Allan, expressing council’s concern

regarding the persistence of family violence rates and ongoing commitment to prevent family and gender-based violence through the delivery of coordinated action.

Cr Jack Medcraft said this is a serious situation and too many women have been murdered in the community.

“Violence against women is not accepted and needs the appropriate bodies, such as [the] government and our legal profession, to acknowledge the seriousness of this crime,” he said. “Governments need to not cut funding, they need to increase funding to assist the agencies that support these people. Violence

Year of runs celebrated

Woodlands Historic Park parkrun is celebrating one year on Saturday, May 25. Since its inception in late May last year, the free, five-kilometre run has taken place every Saturday at 8am.

Participants can run or walk the track, and dogs and prams are allowed to take part as well. Typically, about 70 people volunteer, walk and run the track each week.

Event director Jorge Soto has a history of being involved in organising parkruns in other parts in Victoria, and one day stumbled upon the Woodlands track on a run of his own. He reached out to Parks Victoria to gather support for a parkrun in the space, and the rest, he says, is history.

He said the first year of Woodlands Historic Park parkrun has been a big success, and he has seen many people benefit from attending.

“It’s not just about the running, walking, and volunteering, it’s great for encouraging

people to get outdoors and have a better lifestyle,” he said.

“For everyone it can be different. It can be to get fitter for some, but for others it can be to meet people or catch up with friends and just engage more with the community. We appreciate our ‘hi-vis’ heroes (volunteers) who make parkrun possible each week.

“There are many benefits, and it’s not just physical it’s mentally as well, it’s great for wellbeing.”

The parkrun is held at the Woodlands Homestead in Greenvale, starting at 8am. Participants pass former racehorses in the Living Legends paddock, and enjoy a coffee at the Woodlands Homestead Café afterwards.

Jorge said he can’t wait to see the turnout on the first anniversary run, and encourages participants to wear yellow.

Details: https://www.parkrun.com.au/ woodlandshistoricpark/

Lighting up Roxburgh Park

Roxburgh Park United Soccer Club is rejoicing following the announcement of a major lighting upgrade to their home turf.

As part of the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund from the state government, the Arena Recreation Reserve in Roxburgh Park will receive an investment of $112,000 to install new lighting on its secondary pitch.

RoxburghParkUnitedSoccerClubpresident Ayad Botres said the club’s junior program has seen significant growth, and the lighting will helpaccommodateeveryaspiringyoungplayer.

“These new lighting upgrades provide a significant boost to our club. With the demand for soccer higher than ever, the improved lighting enables us to extend our hours of play and training, granting more individuals access to enjoy the beautiful game,” he said.

Community Sport Minister Ros Spence said thefundingwasintegraltokeepingupwiththe growing demand for community sport.

“We’re building new and upgraded sports facilities across the state so that all VictorianS

is not just physical attacks, violence is also psychological attacks.”

Cr Medcraft said he would also like to see a register,wherepeoplecouldlookupifsomeone has any convictions for assault or worse.

“I think we need to get a grip on this. I’m glad to see the rallies that were put on the other day, because it showed that people have had enough.

“They’re the sort of demonstrations I think are worthwhile.”

Cr Carly Moore said it’s time to challenge the attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate violence against women.

“This includes respecting women at all times, in the home, in social settings, in the workplace,evenhereinthechamber,”shesaid.

“This isn’t just a women’s issue, this is a human rights issue … we must break the silence and speak out against all forms of violence, whether physical, emotional or physiological.

“We must stand together as a community, united in our commitment to ending this epidemic once and for all.

“Our mothers, our daughters, our sisters and our friends deserve better. They deserve to be safe, and as a nation we must do better.”

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

haveaccesstohighqualitysportandrecreation infrastructure in their local communities,” she said.

“I’ve been to this ground a number of times and there’s always been two issues … there’s more people that want to play here than can be accomodated, and, if there was more lighting, we’d be able to have more hours of play.”

The project at Arena Recreation Reserve will allowforRoxburghParkUnitedSoccerClubto host more training and night competitions.

A further $6 million of funding was also announced, as part of a state government Get Active Kids Voucher program.

Eligible families include those with health care cards or other concession cards and can apply for vouchers of up to $200 per child to help with the upfront costs of memberships, registration fees, uniforms and equipment across a wide range of sporting codes and recreation activities.

Gerald Lynch

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part Time sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

Students from Roxburgh Rise Primary School with Greenvale MP Iwan Walters and Community Sport Minister Ros Spence at Arena Reserve. (Gerald Lynch)

Steve Cantwell, Paul Cananzi, Jorge Soto, Tayla Croft with the horse ’Santa Ana Lane’, Annette Deegan and Konrad Moore at the Woodlands Homestead. (Damjan Janevski) 404789_02

Paramedics say get your flu shot

By Gerald Lynch

Paramedics in Melbourne’s north are urging residents to get their flu shots and COVID vaccinations ahead of winter, and to access alternative care options where possible.

IthasbeenasuccessfulperiodforAmbulance Victoria (AV) services throughout Hume and Whittlesea lately, with both municipalities sitting inside the top 10 for response time for code one cases.

Compared with a year ago, Whittlesea has seen a decrease in average response time of one minute and five seconds.

Ambulance Victoria metropolitan regional director Michael Georgiou attributes the

success to people utilising alternative services.

“Some of the biggest drivers of that are the other care models people now have access to such as GPs, priority primary care sitters, and the Victorian emergency department service online,” he said.

“These additional services are taking unnecessary burden off of ambulances, allowing them to respond to emergencies faster.”

He said it is important to take preventative action this winter to avoid illness as best as possible.

“Winter is a particularly bad time for the spread of illness. The good news is getting your flu shot and staying up to date with your

COVID-19 vaccinations will help you and the people around you stay well. Book in now with your pharmacist or doctor.

“Along with simple things like staying home if you’re unwell and washing and sanitising your hands often, these routine winter vaccinations can protect what’s most important to all of us – our health.

“And if we look after our health – it will also make a real difference to our busy paramedics who again face rising demand as we head into winter.

“We also encourage all Victorians to take care of themselves, keep regular check-ups with your GP or specialist – and if it’s not urgent, get familiar with alternative care pathways.”

Anthony Brancatisano runs a mens walk and talk group in Mernda. (Damjan Janevski) 403796_02

You’ll

never walk alone in Mernda

When Mernda local Anthony Brancatisano moved to the area three years ago, he had two goals; meet new people and explore the area.

Upon searching the web and community forums, he couldn’t find any programs suitable for what he had in mind, so he took matters into his own hands.

The Mernda Menergise walk and talk group walks weekly on Thursdays from 7pm, and Mr Brancatisano, who is also on the committee for Men’s Wellbeing Australia, said it’s the perfect opportunity for men to shoot the breeze in the breeze.

Acting clinicaloperationsexecutivedirector Andrew Keenan said while ambulances are always provided to patients when required, about one in five calls to triple-0 do not need an emergency ambulance response.

“FromJanuarytoMarch,39,227peoplewho did not need an emergency ambulance were instead connected to more appropriate care by paramedics and nurses in AV’s Secondary Triage team,” Mr Keenan said.

“We again remind everyone to save triple-0 for emergencies – this is to ensure the sickest Victorians receive life-saving care. If you do need an emergency ambulance, always call triple-0.”

The Mernda line back in full flight

Trains have returned to the Mernda line and are now running on two rail bridges over Keon Parade, following seven days of 24-7 works on the rail line.

As buses replaced trains throughout the Mernda line, construction crews finished work on the concrete bridge structure, removed the old rail tracks andboomgatesandcontinuedworkon the new Keon Park Station platform. The team also connected the new section of track to the existing Mernda line at either end, and installed lift shafts at the station.

Work will now continue on the road surface at Keon Parade as crews remove rail infrastructure, resurface the road and complete line marking. The road will re-open to traffic, level crossing free on Monday, May 20. Please allow extra time when travelling through the area, and plan your journey.

The new Keon Park Station will open to passengers in late June providing better access and improved connections to local neighbourhoods, buses, shops and cafés.

“It’s just that get together, outside of the normal sporting or pub aspect, hence why we hold it on a Thursday night,” he laughed.

“I wanted to create that sense of community, and connection among men.

“For the mental side it’s really great … you’re workingallday,it’shustleandbustle…wehave alotoffamilyguys,singleguys,andguysgoing through a lot of stuff, and we find that they all open up and have a chat, it’s really positive.”

He said the group is built on sovereignty and confidentiality, which has built a mutual

While the hour-long walk does wonders for physical health, he said its benefits go far beyond that.

respect that fosters a safe and comfortable environment for all men who attend.

The group meets at the Mernda Neighbourhood House to begin the walk, and with the colder, wetter months approaching, some nights will instead be spent withinthecomfortofthecentre,stillgivingthe group a space to chat when the weather doesn’t permit.

The group typically has anywhere from five to15walkerscurrently,withagesrangingfrom early 20s to their oldest walker who is 82.

Gerald Lynch

Open Space Strategy goes out for public consultation

Hume council has endorsed its draft Open Space Strategy for six weeks of community consultation, in the aim to set out directions and commitments to meet the ongoing community open space needs.

Intheagenda,councilsaidthestrategyseeks to protect and grow Hume’s open space assets by setting priorities for the next 15 years.

The Hume area is home to more than 588 reservesand440walkwayscoveringmorethan seven per cent of the municipality.

At a meeting on April 29, councillor Jarrod Bell said across Hume almost 95 per cent of

homes are within a 400 metre walk of an open space in the municipality.

“However, there are certain within our community that don’t have that access,” he said. “We have a draft plan to have a look at fixing that.

“This [strategy] updates our 2010 plan and talksaboutourplansandourprioritiesmoving forward into the next 15 years.

“We need a plan and strategy to guide and leadusasacommunity,asanorganisationinto supporting [and] improving these open scapes, ensuring they continue to be relevant, useful

and enjoyable places.”

Cr Bell said the plan has been developed in conjunction with traditional owners, with a goal of protecting things like waterways.

“I encourage the community to take a moment,havealookatthedocument,consider whatitmeansforyouandyourfamilyandhave your say to make this document … better,” he said.

The draft strategy applies the framework of protect, optimise and grow. Council said it seeks to protect conservation, heritage and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung values, in addition

to protecting open space against development and climate change.

Council said the strategy commits to designing and maintaining open spaces for a mixofvisitorexperiences,includingincreasing tree canopy in open space reserves to 70 per cent canopy cover by 2050.

In focusing on growth, council said the high proximity to open space falls to 69 per cent in the Somerton precinct and 79 per cent in the Broadmeadows precinct, and the strategy aims to address these inequities.

Zoe Moffatt

Greater governance for councils

By Gerald Lynch

New legislation introduced by the state government is seeking to improve the governance and integrity standards of councils across the state.

The reform of the Local Government Act 2020 will elevate governance and integrity standards in Victoria’s 79 councils, set to be in place for the new council term following the local government elections this October.

Thegovernmentsaidthatfollowingextensive consultation with the sector, councils will have anuniformcouncillorcodeofconducttocreate consistent standards of behaviour and increase

accountability. A program of mandatory training will also be introduced for councillors and mayors, including annual professional development.

The bill will introduce stronger sanctions for councillormisconductandimprovedprocesses to resolve conduct matters earlier, according to the government.

Since the last council elections in 2020, 56 councillors have resigned and 11 councils have had municipal monitors appointed, with one council suspended and one dismissed as a result of governance issues.

Whittlesea council was sacked in April of 2020 after monitors found the council to have

Teacher makes history

Hume Anglican Grammar teacher Natalie Shephard has been awarded the 2024 History Teachers’ Association of Victoria Award for Excellent and Sustained Contribution to the Teaching and Learning of History and to the History Teachers’ Association of Victoria (HTAV).

The award was chosen by the HTAV board, president and a volunteer panel, and a number ofnomineeswerereviewedbeforeMsShephard was chosen as the winner.

Ms Shephard joined Hume Anglican Grammar in 2022.

Ms Shephard was honoured to win the award, and said her passion for history has lad herdownagreatpathwhereshecanextendher skills and knowledge onto the next generation.

“History is something that I have always been fascinated and passionate about. When I first moved to Australia, I knew little about the

Australian history curriculum, so I joined the HTAV,” she said. “Over the past decade, I have presented regularly at conferences, contributed to publications and textbooks and acted as a mentor to teachers new to teaching history at VCE.

“In this way I hope that I can support them to instil in their students a love of learning, critical thinking skills, and an appreciation for the complexities of the human experience.”

She attributed her success to the HTAV, saying the supportive nature of the group makes for an ideal teaching environment.

“The HTAV is a fantastic community of educators who share their passion for History and value the camaraderie, support, and opportunities of collaboration that come with being part of the association,” she said.

Gerald Lynch

a “toxic” and “dysfunctional culture”.

The government appointed administrators to perform the role of councillors for this term of council, with councillors to be re-instated at the October local government elections.

A spokesperson for Whittlesea council said, “Weunderstandthebillhasbeenintroducedto parliament and we will await the outcome. We welcome any legislation that delivers improved outcomes for our community”.

A spokesperson for Hume council said council welcomes changes to improve and promote good governance.

“Our primary objective is to lead our community with sound governance, with the

best outcomes for our residents at the centre of all our decision making,” the spokesperson said. “Hume City Council welcomes any changes to local government reforms which improve council governance and integrity standards for the sector.

“Whilst not all our submission asks were met, we appreciate this is a complex issue in trying to manage councillor behaviour within 79 Councils across Victoria.”

Local Government Minister Melissa Horne said“Victoriansdeservecouncilsthatrepresent them and meet their needs – our reforms will enhance governance and accountability across all our councils.”

All-natural

100%

Helps

Natalie Shephard, history teacher at Hume Anglican Grammar. (Damjan Janevski) 404288_05

FEATURING ... EDUCATION

Cash for education and training in the state budget

Last week’s state budget included millions of dollars for education, including a one-off $400 bonusforeverystudentatagovernmentschool.

The once-off $400 School Saving Bonus can be used by families to cover the cost of uniforms, camps, excursions and other extracurricular activities through the year and also applies to eligible concession card holders in non-government schools.

The budget also tripled the Glasses for Kids program, benefitting an extra 74,000 young Victorians – providing free vision testing and prescription glasses to prep to Year 3 students, with an extra $6.8 million.

The government claims that the budget builds on the more than $700 million already invested in healthcare support in schools – adding to the doctors, nurses and mental health practitioners who support our kids. The government will invest a further $21.8 million for psychologists, speech pathologists and social workers, $6.3 million for the Primary School Nursing Program and $13.9 million to deliver mental healthcare in schools.

Thegovernmentsaysitiscontinuingtoback teachers and support staff with an extra $17.9 million to boost the workforce, attracting more teachers from overseas and enabling school leaders to work more flexibly around their lives.

An investment of $63.8 million will also give school staff more mental health and wellbeing support, helping to bolster recruitment, increase retention and support those returning to the workforce.

The government is also investing $10.7 million to reduce the admin burden on school staff – with initiatives that give principals more time to support staff and students, as well as extra support for teachers in their curriculum and assessment planning.

An investment of almost $17 million will

extendtheStudentExcellenceProgram,which helps support high achieving students across all government schools – from excursions to extra classroom resources and extension programs.

The government will also continue the Primary Mathematics and Science Specialist Program, training an extra 100 teachers as STEM specialists to make sure students are getting the skills they need for the future, and will invest $8.2 million to lift outcomes by supporting the English Online Interview, supporting learning literacy through phonics.

There is also $4.8 million for new programs that will give students in Year 9 and 10 the opportunity to experience vocational courses

and studying at TAFE. This includes support for vulnerable kids to stay in education and break the cycle of disadvantage, with $71 million to support them to finish Year 12 and secure a post-school pathway. A further $28.4 million is invested for a suite of initiatives to support students in the justice system. The government will also invest $8.4 million to better support students in out-of-home care and strengthen the LOOKOUT program in schools and kinders.

Community Language Schools are supporting more than 40,000 kids to learn or maintain nearly 50 mother and heritage languages this year alone. The government will invest $10.5 million, as well as delivering

an extra $41.5 million for the English as an Additional Language program.

The budget makes a new $51 million investment to improve education and wellbeing outcomes for Victoria’s First Nations students. It includes more than $32 milliontosupporttheAboriginalcommunitycontrolled sector, and measures to strengthen self-determination and ensure cultural safety in schools.

After a summer of too many tragic, preventable drownings on Victorian beaches and waterways, the government will invest $115.8 million in the Active Schools program – including more than $73 million for swimming and water safety education.

St Monica’s celebrates its diamond anniversary in 2024

St Monica’s College, Epping, was established in 1964. We are a co-educational college which this year celebrates its diamond anniversary – 60 years serving the northern suburbs of Melbourne.

Our curriculum delivers education at the highest levels whilst ensuring our students’ personal development is fostered.

A diverse range of VET courses are offered

including Allied Health where students are prepared for jobs in the medical industry and, along with VET Community Service, students are being educated to work in all facets of medical and health areas. VET Automotive Studies prepares students for employment in the automotive industry. STEM is a constantly changing area of education with a variety of relevant studies

for boys and girls that prepare them for the modern workplace. The college’s new state-of-the-art STEM building provides the best support possible for all students.

We continue to provide the best resources to facilitate learning in modern buildings that are student focussed.

The college also offers a wide choice of sports supported by top level coaches

committed to ensuring each student reaches their potential.

The Arts Faculty offers a full range of dance, drama and music programs. We also offer programs for accelerated learning students and special needs students. At St Monica’s College, Epping, we meet the diverse needs of students and ensure no student is left behind.

Principal Brian Hanley with students.

FEATURING ... EDUCATION

Empowering students to become active citizens

Assumption College, set on 100 acres in Kilmore, 30 minutes north of Craigieburn, is where students and their families value the beautiful and spacious facilities as well as the warmandkindrelationshipsthattheirchildren form with each other and the staff.

Assumption College students are connected through multi-age home groups, known as Learning Mentor Groups, often grouped alongside their siblings where a strong bond can be formed between the Learning Mentor, children and their parents.

The innovative myMAP curriculum focuses on ‘stage not age’ learning, offering a vast range of offerings. As students enter their senior school years, they can personalise their VCE journey with courses including the VCE, Vocational Education and Training or School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships. Students can complete accelerated VCE studies within the myMAP years and enter accelerated university subjects during VCE that contribute to their ATAR.

Subjects such as High-Performance Sport, with partners such as Liverpool Football Club, Essendon Football Club and Netball and Cricket Victoria, are further ways our students find connection, along with an extensive co-curricular program and activities.

At Assumption College, we believe in nurturing students by enriching them academically, morally, socially, spiritually, and empowering them to become active and compassionatecitizens.Studentsworktogether to achieve their best and share their pride in these collective efforts. This collaboration is transferable, where working with their peers becomes one of the foundation elements that they need to enhance their skill development, knowledge and understanding.

Applications now open for Year 7 2026 with limited positions across all year levels available for 2024-2025.

Assumption College staff and students.

Imagine the finest possible education for your child…

We are no ordinary learning environment. Our rapidly growing school has emerged as a highly innovative alternative, focused relentlessly upon the unique needs of every individual and a determination to allow all to flourish in learning, wellbeing, and a feeling of community.

We are uncompromising in pursuit of this goal, and it permeates all our activities and programs.

A stimulating, intimate, and inclusive setting, committed to small student teacher-ratios, we are passionate about academic rigour, physical and mental wellbeing, positive student outcomes and a confident self-image for every young person.

Our educators are highly experienced professionals, dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement for their students and for themselves.

Every year 12 student (bar none) discovers a highly positive pathway, be it academic or vocational and we congratulate them all, for they are our future.

And our students have the opportunity for early University entry while they are still in year 12 through our partnership with the Centre of Higher Education studies.

Secondary education is an adventure that shouldflowseamlesslyfromtheprimaryyears providing excitement, growth, and joy into adolescence and beyond.

Therefore, positive student engagement, careful guidance, and genuine, authentic human relationships in learning is our priority.

Our families are our partners and we join with you closely throughout your child’s learning experience.

We provide great careand close communication every step of the way.

Withcontinuedinfrastructureenhancement

Lalor North SC

The benefits of an education at Lalor North SC:

•฀Small฀Class฀sizes

•฀Inspiring฀innovations฀in฀learning

•฀฀We฀know฀every฀individual฀and฀their฀ needs

•฀Close฀family฀connection

•฀Safe,฀friendly฀place฀to฀be

•฀Beautiful฀grounds

•฀฀High-level฀excellence฀in฀sporting,฀ creative฀and฀music฀programs

•฀Generous,฀engaging฀scholarships฀in฀ all areas (express interest now)

at the college and in our local area, and our proximity to the wonderful natural heritage of Darebin Creek, we are blessed with surely one of the most beautiful campuses in Melbourne.

We offer very substantial student scholarships in every area of achievement, and these are designed to maximise academic, social and emotional growth and opportunity for our young people.

Every year we are adding to innovation in teaching and learning.

This year we have formally commenced ‘language lab’, because we like to ask students whichlanguagetheywouldliketolearnrather than telling them what they shall.

We do this through carefully managed on-line learning program that you have to experience to believe.

Our Elite Sports Program is hugely popular and joins our system leading music program that brings 2000 strong audience of local families to witness students from across the Northern Suburbs to perform.

College principal Timothy Cottrell with Maryam Belal, Dux 2023.

Lalor North Secondary College. Timothy Cottrell, principal

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.

‘‘ I

can still have a good crack at making the AFL even if it may not be the traditional way

’’ - Ryan Brodie

“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. “I thought I was definitely much better in thefirstgamethenthesecondthoughIshowed 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.

“Thegroupseemedtogelreallywelltogether 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

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

Hume’s ‘bizarre’ pokies decision

By Zoe Moffatt

Hume councillors have rallied together to criticise their own council for allowing a sporting club to establish a new children’s play area,inadealwhichresultedinnorealremoval of onsite electronic gaming machines (EGMs).

In an announcement in February, Hume council said the Sunbury United Sporting Club would reduce its gaming machine licence capacity from 50 to 40 machines, for the addition of a new children’s play area and additional events space.

At a meeting on April 15, Cr Joseph Haweil

criticised this decision by council, which he said was made under delegation by the chief executive in February, 2024.

“I must [express] my disappointment in a decision … to provide the Sunbury United Sporting Club owners consent to establish a new children’s play area on council land,” he said

“In turn the tenant has promised to reduce its licence capacity to 40 poker machines.

Despite council’s deep interest in gambling harm matters … we were not consulted and to date have not been advised of the decision.”

Cr Haweil said council put out a “bizarre”

Interactive fun for free

Hume council is offering a free interactive and immersive storytelling experience in Craigieburn.

The In My Neighbourhood VR experience is inside the Gee Lee-Wik Doleen Gallery at the Hume Global Learning Centre.

Createdby22emergingwritersfromHume, the virtual neighbourhood takes audiences into a fictional world where they have the opportunity to unpack a wide range of stories, addressing key issues such as migration, mental health, and family and gender-based violence.

Originally created during the COVID19 lockdowns in response to the United Nations 16 Days of Activism, the work includes everything from poetry, short stories and testimonies to animations and illustrations.

The stories can be experienced as video projection, interactive game, pure audio, or

in virtual reality during special scheduled sessions.

Hume council described the experience as a celebration of emerging and powerful storytelling talent and the heartfelt observations and experiences of many women in the local community.

The experience is recommended for those aged 15 and up, but younger audiences are welcome with family supervision.

Located in the heart of Craigieburn, the gallery is open for visitors to come in and endure the many experiences free of charge, every Tuesday, from 10am to 4pm.

Gerald Lynch

Eight-year old Gunieve enjoying the experience. (Damjan Janevski) 405319_03

Saver Plus marks 21 years

TheBrotherhoodofStLaurencehascelebrated 21 years of its Saver Plus program in Mernda.

The Saver Plus program has been a beacon of support for individuals and families across Australia for over two decades.

By encouraging regular savings habits and offering matched savings, Saver Plus has empowered countless Australians achieve their financial goals, whether it’s purchasing educationalsuppliesorinvestinginvocational training.

McEwen MP Rob Mitchell and Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth attended the Jindi Family and Community Centre in Mernda to celebrate the occasion.

The pair met with program participants, volunteersandstaffmemberstogainfirsthand insights into the transformative effects of the program.

“TheSaverPlusprogramembodiesthespirit ofcommunityandempowerment.For21years, it has been instrumental in fostering financial

press release, which did not disclose that the club in fact only operates 40 machines anyway, so there were not net changes.

“We all know this industry is a harmful one and you think it would have occurred to someone that the last suitable place in the world for a children’s playground is a couple of metres away from 40 roaring poker machines,” he said.

Cr Sam Misho said he was also very disappointed to find council has granted such licences without councillors knowing.

“I was not aware that this had happened, so I’m very disappointed,” he said.

“I think we [should not] invest in anything that encourages children to have exposure to something that would lead them to gambling.”

In the February press release by council, it said the “unprecedented change” was a “win for the Hume community”.

In this same release, mayor Naim Kurt said council is “happy to support [the clubs] plans to reduce their gaming machine licence capacity as it aligns with council’s objectives in minimising gambling harm.”

A Hume council spokesperson said council did not grant licences to the venue or make investments in its redevelopment.

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

independence and bridging socio-economic disparities. I commend the Brotherhood of St Laurence and all stakeholders involved for their dedication to helping individuals and families thrive,” Mr Mitchell said.

“As Australians continue to navigate economic challenges and social inequalities, the recognition for initiatives like Saver Plus reaffirm the government’s recognition of the vital role played by community-driven programs that enhance financial literacy and empower individuals and families to achieve their aspirations.”

Throughout its 21 years, the Saver Plus program has expanded its reach, touching the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

Its’successliesinitscollaborative approach, partnering with financial institutions, community organisations, and government bodies to create a robust support network for participants.

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part Time sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

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

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

McEwen MP Rob Mitchell (second from left) and Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth (fifth from right) with workers and community members. (Supplied)

Cooking for one in style

Cooking for a crowd can be challenging, but cooking just for yourself is no picnic either. Most recipes are designed for four people, and quartering a recipe just seems a hassle, meagre and almost pointless – plus somehow in the conversion process, the taste even seems to change.

However, there are alone times when the urge hits for a really tasty lunch or dinner, even if it you cook it just for you. And if a good excuse is needed to crack the bottle of white you’ve been saving, this is it.

Giving your cooking a sense of occasion can do wonders for morale, while adding a candle to the table and using a crystal glass for the wine will take it to the next level –and don’t forget music.

Now what’s needed is an elegant recipe, onethatdeliversonbagsoftastethatbelieits essential simplicity. The recipe below fits the fill nicely, so go on…get your self-pamper on.

PRAWNS WITH LINGUINE

Ingredients:

Coarse salt and ground pepper

60g linguine (about a 2cm-wide handful)

1 tablespoon cold butter, cut into pieces

1 garlic clove, minced Cayenne pepper to taste

1/3 cup dry white wine

125g large prawns, peeled and deveined

1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish

Method:

1/ In a large saucepan of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente.

2/ Meanwhile, in a small non-stick pan, melt half the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and pinch of cayenne; cook until fragrant – for about a minute.

3/ Raise heat to medium-high; add wine. Cook until reduced by a third, about a minute.

4/ Add prawns and season with salt and pepper; cook until opaque throughout – one-two minutes. Remove skillet from heat; swirl in lemon juice and remaining butter.

5/ Add pasta and toss to combine. Serve, topped with parsley.

Volunteering is fulfilling

Volunteering as a senior can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. There are many opportunities available where your skills, experience,andwisdomcanmakeasignificant impact.

Here are some ideas to consider:

• Mentoring: Offer your time to mentor younger individuals or even peers who may benefit from your guidance and expertise. Many organizations, schools, and community programs are always in need of mentors.

• Tutoring: Help children or adults in your community with their education. You could volunteer at local schools, libraries, or community centers to assist with homework help, literacy programs, or adult education classes.

• Senior Centers: Many senior centers have volunteer programs where you can help organize activities, lead classes or

workshops, or simply spend time socializing with other seniors.

• Nonprofit Organizations: There are countless nonprofit organizations that rely on volunteers to carry out their missions. You could volunteer at a food bank, animal shelter, hospital, environmental organization, or any cause that you’re passionate about.

• Virtual Volunteering: If mobility or health issues make it difficult for you to volunteer in person, consider virtual volunteering opportunities. You could provide online tutoring, assist with social media management for nonprofits, or participate in virtual support groups. Remembertochoosevolunteeropportunities that align with your interests, skills, and schedule. Volunteering not only benefits others but also provides a sense of purpose, connection, and fulfillment in your own life.

Volunteering not only benefits others but also provides a sense of purpose within your community.

Heritage Epping transforming dementia residents’ lives

Heritage Epping’s Memory Support Unit (MSU) and Laughter Care program are transformingthelivesofresidentslikeUrsula, while strengthening their relationships with others.

Ursula, 91, was the first resident at Heritage Epping to move into the MSU when it opened in December last year (having originally entered the home in early 2020). In just a few months she has experienced a marked transformation, with significantly reduced levels of anxiety and a corresponding increase in her sense of calm.

It’s a transformation noted by her daughter Linda, carers, and management alike.

KateKaur,clinicalcaremanageratHeritage Epping says “Ursula’s newfound tranquility is really shining through lately, showing the care team a happier community member that is connecting with other residents, staff and loved ones.”

Ursula’s move into the smaller 14-resident MSU community has also helped her to relax withotherdementiaresidentsandtrustinnew forms of care therapy - including the Laughter Care program. Ursula looks forward to the weeklyvisitsoflaughtercarespecialist,Penny, who engages with residents in the program through connection, play, and music.

Julie, the lifestyle coordinator, has been a supportive figure for Ursula within the MSU.

“I’m pleased we’ve been able to break down the walls with Ursula,” Julie said.

‘It’s about fostering a sense of trust and connection, being patient, while helping Ursula adjust and feel comfortable in her new surroundings. We want Ursula to feel safe, valued, and heard.”

Linda fully endorses the MSU model, the Laughter Care program, and the quality of staff at Heritage Epping.

”Mum’s life has been transformed since

she came into the MSU,” Linda said. “It’s also strengthened our relationship.”

Many families struggle to meet the needs of a loved one living with dementia. At

HeritageCare,staffsupportpeoplelivingwith low-dementia, as well as high-dementia care needs through dedicated Memory Support Units.

To find out more about the Heritage Epping Memory Support Unit and Laughter Care program – please visit the website: heritagecare.com.au

Ursula and Linda in the Heritage Epping Memory Support Unit.

FEATURING ... SENIORS

How do you know if you need Hearing Aids?

In a world filled with captivating sounds, it’s disheartening when our ability to hear begins to fade. If you find yourself frequently asking others to repeat themselves or struggling to engage in conversations, it might be time to explore the possibility of hearing aids.

Recognising the signs

Myrna Warda is an experienced audiologist from Active Audiology and reports “Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it challenging to notice the changes. However, there are signs that can alert you to a potential hearing impairment.”

Myrna further adds, “If you frequently find yourself turning up the volume on the television or radio, experiencing difficulty understanding conversations, or feeling isolated in social settings due to communication challenges, these could be indicators of hearing loss. Other signs include ringing or buzzing sounds in your ears (tinnitus) and struggling to hear high-pitched sounds like birdsong or the ring of a telephone”

The impact of untreated hearing loss Ignoring hearing loss can have significant consequences. Communication difficulties can strain relationships, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. Studies have also linked untreated hearing loss to cognitive decline and an increased risk of developing conditions such as dementia. Additionally, diminished hearing can impact your overall well-being, hindering your ability to fully engageinactivitiesandenjoytheworldaround you. Recognising and addressing hearing loss isessentialformaintainingyourqualityoflife and emotional well-being. Myrna reports that clients are often embarrassed and ashamed to ask others to repeat themselves.

“Many of my clients attend professional meetings. After a second time, they will stop asking someone to repeat themselves because it’s simply embarrassing”.

Benefits of hearing aids

Hearing aids are remarkable devices that can transform your auditory experience. They are designed to amplify sounds, improve clarity, and enhance your ability to communicate effectively. With advanced technology, modernhearingaidsarediscreet,comfortable

to wear, and offer customisable features to suit your specific needs. A recent client from Active Audiology was overwhelmingly happy when he was able to hear music again. He realised just how much he had been missing the individual differences between the violin and the viola. He was amazed at how aids had enriched his life by enabling him to hear the subtle differences in music.

Taking the next step

If you suspect that you may need hearing aids,

Above: With advanced technology, modern hearing aids are discreet, comfortable to wear, and offer customizable features to suit your specific needs.

the first step is to schedule a comprehensive hearing assessment with a trusted hearing careprofessional.Selectanindependentclinic, someone who is unbiased in their technology recommendations. They will evaluate your hearing abilities, discuss your concerns and lifestyle requirements, and recommend the most suitable hearing aid options for you.

Active Audiology is located at South Morang and Roxburgh Park. Phone 03 9480 2228.

Left: Audiologist Myrna Ward consults in Roxburgh Park and South Morang.

The art of active ageing with Centennial Living

Ageing is a natural part of life’s journey, but it doesn’t mean slowing down or relinquishing the joys of living. Instead, it’s an opportunity for active ageing, a lifestyle celebrating physical vitality, mental sharpness, and emotional well-being throughout your senior years.

1. Prioritise physical activity

Physical activity is the cornerstone of active ageing, and Centennial Living Retirement communities provide the ideal environment for staying physically fit. Centennial retirement villages have a range of amenities, many have a senior friendly gymnasium, an indoor heated pool or spa, and even a bowling green for those who enjoy this leisurely sport.

2. Stay mentally sharp

Mental agility is crucial for active ageing, and Centennial Living Retirement communities provide opportunities for mental stimulation. In the well-appointed libraries, you can relax and immerse yourself in books or join book clubs for stimulating conversations. The arts and crafts rooms and computer spaces offer places for creative expression and thinking.

3. Cultivate social connections

Social engagement is a fundamental aspect of active ageing, and Centennial Living’s retirement communities are designed to foster a strong sense of community. With a Community Centre, bar and lounge, and regular resident events and social gatherings, you’ll have ample opportunities to connect with your neighbours and form lasting friendships. Join clubs, participate in trivia nights, or enjoy happy hour socials – Centennial Living Retirement communities are vibrant and bustling with social activities.

4. Seek preventive healthcare Regular health check-ups and screenings are essential for early detection and prevention of health issues. Centennial Living’s retirement villages often have an on-site nurse or wellbeing co-ordinator and are located close

to medical centres and nearby healthcare providers for ease of access to medical services.

5. Maintain independence Independence is a core aspect of active

Serviced apartments from $155,000

ageing, and Centennial Living’s retirement villages are designed to support you maintain independence and autonomy with features like an emergency call system 24/7, on-site nurses, and close proximity to shops and transport.

Laffan hits it for six in Vanuatu

It’s been a big 12 months for Chris Laffan who has gone from coaching Craigieburn to taking charge as the head coach of the Vanuatu cricket program. He chats with Tara Murray about the journey and the incredible result that got the world talking.

When Vanuatu’s women’s team upset Zimbabweatthewomen’sT20cricket

World Cup qualifying tournament last month, among those watching from the side lines was Craigieburn’s Chris Laffan. Laffan, a former player and coach at Craigieburn, has had a big role to play in the Vanuatu program in recent times.

LastMayhewasappointedVanuatucricket’s high performance manager and national coach, and it has been a massive 12 months since.

‘‘ The country has been able to jump on board and it’ll hopefully be able to ignite the passion into young men and women to take up the game ’’

- Chris Laffan

“It’s been a bit of a whirlwind,” he said. “All starting to come together and I can start to see some of the things that have been put in place and that’s really pleasing.

“I guess that 12-month mark gives you a good time to make an assessment on a lot of that as well.”

Laffan said the role had been a learning curve as he’s made the transition across from Australia.

He said he’s had to wear several different hats to make everything work.

“Sometimes you’re a little bit jealous of some of the other [sports] coaching staff and numbers that they have, thinking what you coulddowiththosesortsofnumbers,” hesaid.

“Weknow,Iandwhoevertakesuptheroleat Vanuatu … wear a lot of hats.

“But at the same time that’s one of the enjoyments and something that definitely drives you from a passion point of view to get up in the morning and know that you know,

it could be a bit of a different focus and where we’ve got to drive our energy from.

“Whether that’s, you know, conversations around from a nutrition point of view or fitness point of view and back to cricket games and skill.

“It’s been a great experience so far.”

Laffan said when he came into the role he knew that while soccer often dwarfs cricket in termsofpopularityintheVanuatu,cricketwas the highest-ranked sport in the country.

That is based around the women’s program which is ranked number 30.

At the recent World Cup qualifying tournament, the Vanuatu side beat Zimbabwe which is ranked 12th in the world.

To even get to the qualifying tournament, they had to beat Papua New Guinea, which is ranked number 11 in the world and a team Laffandescribedasthe‘gatekeeper’ofwomen’s cricket in their region.

Laffan said the win was massive for the team and the country as a whole.

“To see us be able to take that forward and

go somewhere we haven’t been before, is so pleasing from my point of view,” he said.

“But also from the support. The country has been able to jump on board and it’ll hopefully be able to ignite the passion into young men and women to take up the game and see it as a really great pathway to get on the international stage.”

Laffan said they had a really young group that were happy to be there and take on these opportunities.. He said the group was just there to learn and get better and improve.

“I think it really shows the mentality of the group that you know, they’re not really going to get lost in that one win which is fantastic,” he said.

“To put out their best foot forward to continue and while they got beaten quite convincingly two days later … There were so many pleasing signs against a world class side.

“We spoke about it in our build up and how important it was about creating history, we managed to do that.”

Vanuatu finished with just one win for the

tournament but it’s put the side in a good place to move forward.

On the other side the men’s team came off a disappointing tournament in Malaysia, missing out on qualifying for the Challenge League, which is a step to trying to qualify for the 50-over World Cup.

The loss will have an impact on funding for thewholeCricketVanuatuprogram,including all staff and many programs that run.

Laffan said it was a huge shake up but was one that they didn’t see coming.

“To finish off where we did, “We made the super six stage.

“There were some pleasing results, we got into some positions that we could have gone through.

“There’ssomefantasticprogressionthorough the men’s side at the same the overhanging pieceofdisappointmentfronthelasttoughnot securing the funding and go through.”

Now with 12 months nearly under his belt, Laffan is keen to see where the journey takes them next.

Vanuatu’s women’s side with coach Chris Laffan (pictured right). (Pictures: Supplied)

MY PLACE

Harsimran Kaur has her sights set on running for Hume council later this year. For now, she tells Star Weekly about why Hume has become home.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

I am a Craigieburn resident, mum of two and anengineeringprojectmanagerbyprofession.

I am passionately community-minded and pursue community services in biodiversity, pragmatic sustainability, youth work and social support with equal passion.

What’s your connection to Hume?

Hume is home. I have moved here from south-east Melbourne after migrating to Australia and have loved it ever since. I find joy by being involved with the local community through volunteer programs, some of which are council-led. I started by volunteering at the school parent club and have been on the school council for six years, currently vice -president. I did the Hume Enviro Champs program and went on to do a project at Malcolm Creek, then moving to being a volunteer with Gardens for Wildlife program. I volunteer as a youth worker for Hume’s local Victorian Learning Networks as well as the City of Maribyrnong. I keep myself aware of people asking for support and try to provide or refer. I also attend community forumsbyorganisationsregularlyandprovide my inputs.

Accolades are not something I do volunteering for, but it felt great to be recognised by winning Hume’s Community Excellence award last year among eight residents.

What do you like about where you live?

I feel we are blessed to have open spaces to enjoy as well as so much diversity of cultures andfoodtoenjoy.Iloveourlibrariesandenjoy the programs that they run with my kids.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

I think Hume as a city is rapidly changing, especially with huge infrastructure projects

led by both levels of governments. When completed, they will have a positive impact for all of us. I believe we can at the same time work towards building a cohesive community

where all sorts of lifestyles are cared for and have access to support systems.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

I like a quick walk to Malcolm Creek and love going to different parks around Craigieburn and surrounding suburbs. Coffee places around Craigieburn are also great to catch up with friends.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?

Maybe not surprising, I love to doodle while listening to music and prayers. I am an avid gardenerandIlovesharingplantsandproduce from the garden with the community from my frontyardfence.Iwanttobuildsomethinglike a street library box for sharing the same.

Why do you want to run for council?

Hume is a huge and growing council. I have seen rapid growth in the last five years and I believe we need people who are wanting to make a positive social impact through purpose-driven servant leadership. I have a vision to see my locals kinder and connected to each other. I want to be able to create more future leaders from the community so that everyone can thrive with good governance. I will tick all of these boxes and be available and aware.

I was one of the 63 women selected for a fellowship to do the Women Leading Locally program across Victoria last year. I have recently finished the course under great mentors which prepared us to enter politics and will put my best foot forward on this journey.

(Damjan Janevski) 401462_01

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

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30–45 minute walk.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Homestead-WalkingGroup-493400784027

Adult education

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

■ 9309 8531

Senior citizens meet

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.

■ Beulah, 0411 422 398

Phone connect program

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

■ 8301 8863

Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker ,and on the third Saturday, and a dance from 7-11 pm. All are welcome.

■ Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, or lizmunro7@gmail.com

Craft and Conversation

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

■ humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

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

■ https://shorturl.at/cER26

Craigieburn Toastmasters

Craigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. They meet the first and third Thursday of the month, from 7-9pm, at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton Street, Craigieburn.

Tai chi for health

Come along to Homestead Community and Learning Centre in Roxburgh Park for a lesson in tai chi, a low impact exercise program to build strength. Everyone is welcome, every Monday, from 10-11am.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Tai-Chi-for-Health-317365848797

Education and community centre

Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner English and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn

Avenue, Craigieburn.

■ 9308 1477 or https://www.craigieburn.org.au

Creative arts and fitness

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

Whittlesea Historical Society

The Whittlesea Historical Society meets on the third Sunday of each month at Whittlesea Bowls Club at 2pm. Visitors are most welcome to attend.

■ 0414 740 778 or www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au

Indigenous Community Gardens

Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month 11am-noon, to showcase the gardens at the corner Toora Drive and Redan Court. All are welcome.

■ Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com

Craigieburn Residents Association

Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening re-roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? Go along to the Craigieburn Residents Association and tell them about it. The association liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. It also gives annual donations to a local charity each year. It meets on the last Wednesday of the month at Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn, 7.30pm.

■ craigieburnresidents@gmail,com, or 0401 369 311

Everyman Gathering

Men’s Gathering, it’s happening for the first time since covid on May 17-19 at Eureka Camp, Yarra Junction. A chance for men to get together in the outdoors.

■ https://bit.ly/3JoBC7h

Sunbury Art Society

The Sunbury Art Society meets every

Friday and Saturday from 10am-3pm at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people. New members welcome.

■ Ken, 0407 062 568 or Yvonne, 0429 994 828

Menergise men’s walk and talk

Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House, a nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze.

■ 0475 454 133

Community lunch

Enjoy a light lunch in the company of others in a friendly social setting. Lunch will be prepared by the Northern Turkish Women’s Association, in partnership with DPV Health. From 10.30am to 1.30pm every Wednesday at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Drive, Roxburgh Park.

■ 9205 2760

Family History and Heritage Society

If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and your own family history, come along to meetings at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month, which from May will be at room three at the Global Learning Centre in Sunbury.

■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ

Rotary club

The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury from 7pm.

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Ladies probus

The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45am.

■ Leonie, 0401 764 182

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club

The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms.

■ Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170 142

Sunbury Combined Probus Club

The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am.

■ Jo, 0410 834 272

Rose garden working bee

Join us for a working bee at Alister Clark Memorial Rose Garden in Bulla. Regular working bees are held throughout the year and new volunteers are encouraged to come along and learn about the roses, perennials and share their love of gardening. Please wear boots or sturdy shoes, a hat and gloves. The next cleaning bee is Sunday, July 6, from 10am to 2.30pm.

■ helenc@hume.vic.gov.au

Toastmasters

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

■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sunbury Seniors

Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays from 10am-3pm. They are temporarily relocating to 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat.

■ 0434 400 754

Probus Club Of Sunbury

Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling club at 9.30am. It’s a friendly men’s group open to visitors and new members, with a number of great events held each month.

■ Greg, 0417 593 035

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Star Wars characters visiting sick children, including six-year-old Tiana, at Sunshine Hospital to help brighten their day. (Damjan Janevski) 405369_01

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine

ACROSS

1 Underground railway (6)

4 Water-surrounded land (6)

10 Chickens, pigeons etc. (5)

11 Social exclusion (9)

12 Provider of information (9)

13 Rainforest vine (5)

14 Of Troy (6)

15 Over (4)

19 Currency unit (4)

20 Antelope with lyre-shaped horns (6)

24 Happen (5)

25 Encouraging (9)

27 Male name (9)

28 Proclaimer (5)

29 Proof-corrector (6)

30 Fruit (6)

1 Temperance (8) 2 Shoeless (8)

3 German-speaking country (7) 5 Mollusc (7)

6 Shoe brand (6) 7 Humiliate (6)

8 Scottish island (4) 9 Law (7)

16 Bed-bound person (7) 17 Italian church (8)

18 Large marsupial (8) 19 Procession (7)

21 North African country (7)

22 Deadbeat (6)

23 Outline (6)

26 Sham (4)

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 nouns ending in “s”.

3

Riley Keough (pictured)

Futuristic Staria is a head-turner

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

The Hyundai Staria people mover and Staria Load commercial van arrived here in mid-2021 toreplacethepreviousiMaxandiLoadvehicles.

Both come with a strikingly futuristic look with a steeply sloping front with a wide body-colouredradiatorgrilleflankedbylow-set LED headlights and a full-width horizontal LED strip above comprising a centre lamp and daytime running lights.

Comparisons have been drawn to the now-defunct Space Shuttle.

Both Staria models are engineered from the grounduponadedicatedplatformsharedwith the Santa Fe.

We’ll focus on the people mover here.

Styling

While it may polarise opinions, the Staria certainly has the most imaginative design we’ve ever seen in either a people mover or commercial van. During our week behind the wheeloftheStariapeoplemoveritdrewalmost exclusively positive comments.

The same body colour is used for all the Staria’s frontal parts. It has a low belt line and large side windows. The rear has vertical tail lights and a wide rear window. It’s not all about style – the rear bumper is low to help make it easier to load and unload.

Three equipment levels are available, each withthechoiceof3.5-litreV6petrolor2.2-litre diesel power: Staria, Elite and Highlander – starting at $49,900, plus on road costs, for the Staria petrol and rising to $67,000 for the Highlander 2.2-litre diesel.

The three petrol variants are front-wheel drive, the diesels are driven by all four wheels.

Interior

As with the previous iMax, the Staria is an eight-seaterThelowerbelt-linesandpanoramic side windows provide excellent all-round visibility and create a feeling of openness in the large cabin. The Highlander lets in even more light via a front and rear sunroof.

Ifthat’stoomuchlight,secondandthirdrow sunshades can be used to reduce glare and heat of the sun. Sliding second-row seats have long runners for easy access and a step and ‘walk-in’ device sliding function for the second row creates extra foot clearance for easy third row access.

Two USB-A charging ports for each rear row, along with 10 cup/bottle holders and second-row seatback storage pockets make for happy families on the road. With all seats occupied, there is 831 litres of cargo space in the rear, while this can be expanded to a massive 1303 litres with the second and third row folded. Access is via power side sliding doors or ‘smart’ power tailgate, the latter that closes automatically when the smart key is no longer detected.

Engines/transmissions

The all-wheel drive 2.2-litre CRDI diesel generates 130 kW of power and 430 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is listed at 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine gets 200 kW and 330 Nm.

On test was the range topping Staria Highlander 2.2-litre petrol diesel.

Infotainment

Entry level Staria comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Elite and Highlander a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Likewise, only the two higher-spec models get satellite navigation with live traffic updates digital radio.

The 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia unit is integrated into the top of the dash and provides a clear view of navigation, audio and other info, including wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity.

All models have a 10.25-inch colour LCD screen in front of the driver but partially blocked by the steering wheel when we were driving. It displays a digital speedo, trip

RATINGS

Looks: 9/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 5/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 9/10

Value: 6/10

information, tachometer and visual warnings and system status updates from Hyundai SmartSense and other safety systems.

Engines/transmissions

Staria is offered with the choice of petrol and turbo-diesel engines, mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and front or all-wheel drive.

The 3.5-litre V6 produces 200 kW and 331 Nm and drives the front wheels, while the 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel dishes up 130 kW and 430 Nm through an all-wheel drive system.

Both engines are mated with an eight-speed torque convertor automatic transmission and can tow up to 2500kg with a braked trailer.

Safety

In addition to seven airbags – front, front-side, front-centre plus curtain bags on the A- and B-pillars – standard active safety across the range features include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection and junction assist, blind-spot assist, lane-keep assist and lane following assist.

There’s also multi-collision braking, driver inattention monitor, safe exit warning, rear cross-traffic assist and surround view monitor. The Elite adds safe exit assist and 3-D view surround-view camera.

The range-topping Highlander incorporates a blind spot view monitor, which projects a live feed of what’s in the blind spot to the instrument cluster.

There are IsoFix child seat anchors on the outboard second-row seats, plus top-tether anchors. There are no anchors in the third row.

Driving

With such a difference in load characteristics over eight seats, fuel consumption could be expected to have ranged wildly around the maker’s claim of 8.2 litres per 100km on the combined urban/highway cycle. Our test vehicle used a combined 9.8 L/100 km.

There’s a choice of four drive modes: Normal, Eco, Sport and Smart – offers a range of powertrain responses to suit driving conditions. Annoyingly they are selected by tapping a number of times on a lower screen thus diverting attention from the road.

Eco and Sport are at either end of the performance spectrum, with Normal the balance between the two.

Smart mode works with a driver profile system to tailor Staria’s performance to their preferences. That’s clever.

Despite its size Satria doesn’t feel it and it’s smooth and comfortable drive experience with ride and handling that’s up to class-leading standards.

Summary

All-new Staria is a head-turning eight-seater people mover alternative to the perennial class-leading Kia Carnival.

It comes with all the safety, comfort and convenience technology customers expect in a modern passenger vehicle.

All models come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, complimentary roadside assist for 12 months, 1500km complimentary first service, a dedicated customer care centre and an exclusive owner website.

Owners servicing with Hyundai also receive a 10-year satellite navigation update plan, plus roadside support for up to 10 years or more.

All-new Staria is a head-turning eight-seater people mover alternative to the perennial class-leading Kia Carnival. (Pictures: Supplied)

There was plenty of sporting action on the weekend and StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out and about shooting some of the great grabs, kicks and handballs.

Action from around the grounds

1/ Kain Hall. 406469_19 2/ Payton-Ani Ozols. 406471_03

Kaitlyn Portelli. 406467_16

Christian Scaffidi. 406464_04

Nathan Parkes and Sam Gilmore. 406464_11 6/ Charlie Goodwin. 406467_08 7/ Harry Butterworth and Sam Green. 06463_10 8/ Tye Hall. 406469_18 9/ Erin Robinson. 406471_18 10/ Bundoora against Heidelberg. 406463_14

Broncos injury concerns as new players settle in

Gellinganewteamtogetherishardenough,let alone if you’ve got a number of injuries like the Hume City Broncos.

With just two players from last season returning for this year’s Big V men’s state championship, the Broncos are learning on the go.

Broncos coach Matt Foster said there had been some challenges early in the season.

“We are banged up a bit,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot of new team members and we’re trying to figure each other out.

“We are working out what is best for us, but we were missing three players on the weekend.

“It doesn’t help when trying to figure out rotations and what sort of style that suits us.”

Recruits Trevon Clayton and Carlo Camp both missed the weekend’s match against Western Port, which the Broncos won on the buzzer.

Foster said with a lot of sides having

changed their lines up this season things that had previously worked might not.

With the changes has brought the competition closer.

“There’s been some teams that have had really good starts and then there’s results that you do not expect,” he said.

“You’ll have a good quality quarter and then one average quarter and sometimes the other way round.”

Despitethechallenges,theBroncosstillhave four wins from their six matches.

Foster said they were still to hit their straps.

“It’s good to get some wins on the board,” he said. “We’ve got four wins in a row now.

“We’re not super happy with how we want to play. We’re not playing well and still getting wins, that is a bonus.”

The Broncos faced local rival the Sunbury Jets on Sunday at Boardman Stadium.

The Jets entered the match in fifth spot, on

the same record as the Broncos.

“We’veplayedthemabout12timesinrecent years,” Foster said before the game started.

“It will be fun and they have a couple of coaches with a Broncos background.”

The Broncos were able to come away with the win, 97-92.

The Broncos set the win up in the first half, leading by 18 points at half time.

The Jets came hard but the Broncos held on to get the win.

Malik McKinney top scored with 27 points for the Broncos, while Scott Stone had 25 points.

The win moves the Broncos up to third on the ladder.

The Broncos women, who are also battling injuries, had a 65-57 loss to Warrnambool.

Tara Murray

Magpies clear the Fog

By Tara Murray

Roxburgh Park showed its resolve to come from behind twice against Moonee Valley in the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition.

The Magpies produced its best performance of the season so far to claim the points against the Fog.

The Fog led by five points at quarter time, before the Magpies took the lead to be in front by eight points at half time.

The margin was six points in the favour of the Fog at the last quarter, before the Magpies kicked six goals to none to seal the 14.11 (95)-8.16 (64) win.

Magpies coach Ross Terranova said it was an important game for his side and was really happy with the result.

“It was good to get the result and get the win for the boys,” he said. “They jumped us nice and early and challenged us a few times.

“We were able to challenge and were able to respond, which was really positive for us.”

Terranova said they were able to run the game out strongly which showed on the scoreboard with six goals to none in the final quarter.

He said the performance shows that they are able to adapt to different situations and the result would be a big confidence boost for the side.

Brendan Egberts kicked six goals for the Magpies as they had eight different goal kickers, which was another thing Terranova was pleased with.

He said Harley Short was the other standout in what was a really good performance with contributors across the board.

“All three lines played their roles,” he said. “The boys responded really well.”

The win was the Magpies second and moves them to sixth on the ladder after five rounds.

Terranova said they weren’t disappointed with how things had played out so far.

“It’s still about getting this group to gel and wanting to play the way that we want them to play,” he said.

Sports shorts

VTCA

Westmeadows’ Danielle Linton and Mikaela Fallins have been named in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association women’s team of the year. Linton also finished equal third in the player of the year. Elsewhere, Westmeadows’ Pathum De Mel was named in the men’s senior division team of the year, Tullamarine’s Danny Law was named in the division 2 team, Roxburgh Park pair Feroze Khushi and Sohaib Bhutta were named in the division 4 team, while Jacana’s Thanura Gunasekara and Donnybrook’s Vikram Mandhotra were named in the division 5 team.

NPL

Hume City had a rare loss in the National Premier League on Saturday. Facing the Oakleigh Cannons, Hume trailed 1-0 at half time after not making the most of its chances. The Cannons doubled their advantage in the second half to come away with a solid 2-0 win. Hume sits in fifth spot after 13 rounds.

NFL

Bundoora’s winless start to the Northern Football League division 1 season continues on Saturday. Facing Heidelberg, the Bulls trailed early on the with the margin 28 points at half time. Five goals to two in the third quarter in the favour of the Tigers put the result beyond doubt. While the Bulls scored the only two goals of the final quarter, it was too late with the Tigers winning, 14.13 (97)-8.1 (49).

“Against St Albans I think we had some chances and West Coburg towelled us up and we turned the ball over too much.

“Yesterday [Saturday] we were able to play the game the way we wanted to. At 2-3 happy with that, hopefully things fall our way with certain results from here on.”

The Magpies have another big test this week, facing Maribyrnong Park on Saturday.

Terranova said he was keen to see how they go against one of the top sides.

In other matches, Craigieburn had a dominant display against Rupertswood, winning 23.12 (150)-12.10 (82).

Tullamarine pushed Hillside but fell short, 13.11 (89)-9.9 (63).

In premier division, Greenvale returned to the winners list, beating Greenvale, 9.9 (63)-6.14 (50).

In division 2, Westmeadows lost its first match of the season, falling short against Burnside Heights.

AFL

Five Calder Cannons and four Northern Knights players have been named in the Victoria Metro squad for the AFL National Championships under-18 boys. Harry O’Farrell, Nash King, Isaac Kako, Damon Hollow and Jayden Nguyen have been selected from the Cannons, while Knights Jesse Dattoli, Zak Johnson, Thomas Sims and Gabriel Stumpf are also in the squad.

Cory Bellman. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 353161_20

Brenden Egberts kicked six goals on Saturday. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Power breaks through for first win

There was a sense of relief when Laurimar broke through for its first win of the Northern FootballLeaguedivision2seasononSaturday.

Having been promoted in the off season after winning the division 3 premiership, the Power have had their struggles at times playing in the higher division.

On Saturday, that was put behind it as the Power defeated Northcote Park, 12.7 (79)-11.8 (74).

The Power led at quarter time by 11 points and then 19 points at half time.

A six goal to three third quarter blew the margin out to 28 points at the final break.

The Cougars came hard in the final quarter, but the Power did just enough to hold on.

Power coach Jimmy Atkins said it was nice to finally get some reward for effort.

“It has been a tough start and we’ve had to play a lot of the top teams,” he said. “We had

some opportunities against Lower Plenty and it could have gone either way.

“Against Thomastown we took a lot of steps forward.”

Atkins said against the Cougars it was just a matter of holding on in the final quarter.

“They threw everything at us,” he said. “They were fantastic.

“In the last four minutes they still needed a goal to win. We were able to keep our head and held the ball in the forward half and had a lot of stoppages which was good.

“We were out on our feet, they came from nowhere.”

Atkins said it was pleasing to see the group hold their nerve in the dying minutes to get their first win at this level.

Joel Lawson kicked three goals for the Power.

Micah Vecchio, Lawson and Bailey Macleod

were named the Power’s best.

Atkins said the win would give the group some more confidence going forward. But the group won’t look too far ahead.

“It’ll be nice on track on Tuesday,” he said. “All three teams had wins.

“It’ll be the same thing as normal, one week at a time. We’ll see how we go against Panton Hill.

“They haven’t been going too bad and are around us as well. We’ll look to have the opportunity to play some good football.”

In other results, Thomastown lost a thriller to Lower Plenty, 12.10 (82)-11.14 (80) and South Morang was also on the wrong end of a thriller, losing to St Mary’s, 9.10 (64)-9.9 (63).

Whittlesea remains undefeated having beaten Panton Hill, 12.9 (81)-6.3 (39).

Tara Murray

Raiders performing well

By Tara Murray

Despite a flying start to life in the Northern Football League, Old Paradians are still not putting any expectations on themselves.

The Raiders have won four of their first five gamesinthedivision3seasonandshowedthat they won’t be easy beats in this competition having crossed from the Victorian Amateur Football Association in the off season.

Coach Ben Turner said they were happy with how things had started.

“So far, so good,” he said.

“Coming into the season we didn’t set overly high expectations as we didn’t want to put expectations on ourselves.

“We wanted to see how we go and we’ve performed pretty well so far.”

On Saturday, the Raiders faced an improved Lalor side, searching for its third win of the season.

Turner said they were wary of the Bloods, saying they are a very different side to the last few years.

“We couldn’t take our foot off the pedal,” he said. “We needed to play as well as we could.”

It was the Bloods that led at quarter time, before the Raiders kicked six goals to none in the second quarter to open up a lead.

With the game in their control the Raiders were able to increase the lead in the second half to win, 15.16 (106)-8.9 (57).

Turner said they felt like it took them a little while to take control of the game.

“We were happy to walk away with a win like that,” he said. “We had a bit more polish.

“We were defending quite well and we didn’t concede a lot of inside 50s. We had a lot more down our end and were relentless inside 50 and took our opportunities which the scoreboard showed.”

LachieKerr,MarcusNolanandJackWitchell kicked three goals each for the Raiders.

Turner said that Kerr showed some exciting moments including nearly taking the mark of the year on more than one occasion.

He said Heath Phillips, who kicked two goals from half back, and Sam Gilmore in the

Noah Mooney (NWM

Bats lock in leaders

Plenty Valley has locked in its coaching panel for the 2024-25 Victorian Premier Cricket women’s season

Many of the same faces have returned for the Bats, but they’ve made some key appointments to strengthen its leadership structure.

“Chris Milne is a new addition to the club and has been appointed to the role of general manager of cricket,” president Darren Callahan said on the club’s Facebook page.

“In this role, Chris will have responsibility for oversight on strategy and execution for both the female and male program.

“Chris has a fantastic CV which includes extensive experience playing and coaching in high performance cricket environments as well as qualifications in sports psychology.

“Dalis Thomas has been reappointed to the role as head coach of our female program.

“Brett Cole will assume the role of director of junior talent and pathways in conjunction with assistant coach of the female program and match day assistant to Dalis Thomas and the 1st XI.”

The Bats will have a new captain for next season.

Callahan said Maryam Omar, who was captain in the recently finished season, has had to return to Kuwait for family reasons. Her return date is unknown at this stage.

ruck were the other standouts.

For the Bloods, Sam Rexhepi kicked five goals. Nathan Parkes and Hayden Hunt were named their best.

Despite the good start, Turner said they weren’t getting ahead of themselves with what they could achieve.

“We haven’t played everyone yet,” he said. “We’ll take the opportunity to play every team and see what it looks like.

“We’ve put ourselves in a good position and we’ll see where it takes us.”

The Raiders this Saturday face Kinglake. Turner said they wouldn’t take the winless side easily.

In other matches, Epping had a good win against Kilmore, getting the points 10.12 (72)-9.9 (63).

Mernda also got the points, beating Kinglake, 14.7 (91)-6.6 (42).

In division 2, Laurimar got its first win of the season, while Thomastown and Epping both lost thrillers.

Whittlesea also got a win.

“We wish Maryam the best of health and happiness and hope that she can return to Australia as quickly as possible; and return to the cricket field for Plenty Valley,” Callahan said.

Addy Campion has been appointed to the position of first XI captain and assistant coach.

She will work closely with the coaching group and all players to build a strong and very competitive squad.

Glenn Butterworth will continue in his role as assistant coach, match day coach of the second XI and coach of the Bats’ Marg Jennings team.

Josh Sandford will continue his role of assistant coach and match day coach of the third XI.

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Sam Gilmore (Ljubica Vrankovic) 406464_12

Knights players are embracing the challenges

Northern Knights players are buying into the journey in the Coates Talent League girls competition.

The Knights have started well with three wins after four matches. They had a bye on the weekend.

Coach Allana Dickie said the group had been really focused and it was showing in the results they were getting.

“We talk about role play,” she said. “We started before Christmas and are getting reward for effort.

“What we are working on from a team point of view is one thing to work on each week that we feel helps the results of the game as well as the learning and gelling.

“The good results are on the back of the principles we have and I’m glad to see them getting reward for effort and hard work.”

The Knights this season have a real mix of top and bottom agers with three under-19 players.

Speaking before the weekend Dickie said they were prioritising the older players earlier in the season before looking to give some of the younger players and players who will come up from their futures program an opportunity.

The is will push some of the older players into the Victorian Football League Women’s

system to get that next taste of higher level football. On

“We’ll have at least one play for Carlton this week,” Dickie said the 19-year-olds.

“There could be a couple of 18 year olds who do as well with us having the bye. Some will train with Carlton this week.

“They will start to see what the next level is and challenge themselves against bigger bodies and they’re excited for the opportunity.”

Dickie was on the mark with three players making their debuts.

Zoe Hargreaves, Hannah Scott and Holly Ridewood all made their VFLW debuts, while Evie Lee played for Carlton for the first time having played three games for Darebin last year.

Dickie said the partnership between the two clubs had been really strong with the group doing some of their pre-season camp

Jets will be ‘adaptable’

By Tara Murray

Greenvale has become more adaptable in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 competition this season.

With some injuries, unavailability and players out for long periods, the Jets have had to look at different players in different roles.

Coach Troy Newton said it had been a positive start to the season.

“I’m pretty happy,” he said. “We’ve played some really good quarters and looked good at times.

“Three out of four isn’t bad. Burnside Heights [who they lost to] we expect them to be hard to beat.

“Hopefully we’re at our best when we play them again.”

Newton said this season they were seeing more players in different roles out of necessity, which would only benefit the team in the long term.

They lost Chanel Caruso, who moved to play premier football with Hillside, while skipper Paige Caparello is out for the season

with pregnancy.

With the side not having a lot of height, Newton said the loss of Caparello, who has been their main ruck hurts.

Zoe Hardiman is yet to play this season due to work commitments.

“They are in our top half a dozen players,” Newton said of the three.

“It hurts but it gives some of the younger girls more opportunities which is good for their development.

“We’ve also lost our full back for the season after an injury in a practise match and we have another defender out for six to eight weeks.”

Newton said they were seeing encouraging signs for those who have taken on new roles.

Nicolette Paschalis is playing further up the ground, while Rhiannon O’Keefe has gone from playing in a pocket onto the wing.

Taliah O’Connor is another who has moved up onto the wing, but she is out for six to eight weeks with an injury now.

Recruit Sophie Pettman, who was set to play at either half back or half forward, has

at IKON Park.

Currently the Knights have three players in the Vic Metro squad which was named in the summer.

Hargreaves and her sister Phoebe Hargreaves are joined by Marlo Graham.

Two of them are bottom agers which is a real positive for the Knights, while Zoe Hargreaves was also part of the under-23 all star side earlier in the season.

Dickie said they were hoping to see a few more girls get the opportunity to trial for the final squad.

“That happens in June,” she said. “Hopefully we’ll have a handful of both top and bottom age players.”

The Knights faced the Bendigo Pioneers on Saturday.

It was a thriller with the Knights winning, 7.6 (48)-5.14 (44).

Tara Murray

Whittlesea keeps on winning

Whittlesea United continued its good formintheFVstateleague1north-west season with another big win.

Whittlesea came away with 4-1 win against Yarraville on Friday night to maintain its spot at the top of the ladder.

Whittlesea did most of the damage in the first half, scoring three goals to lead by that margin at the break. The heat had been taken out of the game in the second half and Whittlesea ended up a player down when Anthony Taranto was awarded a red card in the 72nd minute.

Whittlesea came away with the win 4-1.

Marcus Day scored a hat trick for Whittlesea.

Whittlesea remains on top of the table with five wins and two draws from its seven matches.

Upfield also had plenty of goals scored in its draw with Ballarat City.

Ballarat led 4-2 at half time with the game in its control. Upfield scored twice in the second half to level the scores and claim a point in the 4-4 result.

Vani Shamoon scored three goals for Upfield.

had to play in the middle of the ground and has been good, Riley Anderson has gone from being in the midfield rotation to playing in the back line.

“It gives us a bit more versatility,” Newton said. “It’s not something that we’ve had in the past.

“This year we’ll be more adaptable and can use that in the big games.”

The Jets faced Strathmore-Pascoe Vale, the only side they are yet to play this season.

Newton said they were keen to keep on building.

The Jets were able to come away with a big win, winning 14.9 (93)-1.2 (8).

The Jets led 39-0 at quarter time and were able to build on from there.

Alisa Magri kicked nine goals in a best on ground performance.

In other results, Tullamarine lost to Airport West, 9.14 (68)-3.3 (21).

Inpremierdivision,Westmeadowssuffered a 10.6 (66)-2.4 (16) loss to Maribyrnong Park. Indivision2,RoxburghParklosttoTaylors Lakes.

Upfield sits in 10th spot with one win and two draws so far.

In FV state league 2 north-west, Craigieburn City got its first win at this level, beating the Geelong Rangers on Saturday.

In its first season in state league 2, Craigieburn has struggled at times so far.

On Saturday it was able to come away with a strong second half to claim a 4-2 win against the Rangers.

In other results, Whittlesea Ranges lost 2-0 to Keilor Park on Friday night, Uni Hill Eagles lost to Altona East Phoenix 3-0, Lalor United lost to Westvale Olympic, 2-1 and Mill Park beat Hume United, 1-0.

After seven rounds, the Ranges sit in fourth, Lalor United in fifth, Mill Park seventh, Hume United in eighth, Uni Hill Eagles in ninth and Craigieburn in 10th.

Holly Ridewood (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Haylea Cooke. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 350281_09