DECEMBER 18, 2018 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
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Council in limbo over CEO By Laura Michell
Simon Overland at the Whittlesea council meeting. (Eddie Jim/The The Age Age)
Council officers had recommended the council issue a planning permit for the development on Tuesday night. Mayor Lawrie Cox said the absences were unacceptable. “[Ratepayers] elect councillors and pay them an allowance. If they can’t turn up, it is not acceptable to the community,” he said. The delays come after the Herald Sun reported Mr Overland asked for an increase in his termination payment from three months to six months’ pay on November 23 – 10 days before the Royal Commission was announced. The council received a confidential report from the chief executive officer employment matters advisory committee – comprising councillors Alessi, Monteleone, Cox and Kris Pavlidis, as well as an independent person – at last week’s meeting. A special meeting has been called by councillors Kirkham, Desiato and Kelly for Tuesday to discuss Mr Overland’s employment. Cr Cox previously declared the council’s confidence in Mr Overland.
(Damjan Janevski)
Whittlesea council business has been placed on the backburner as a result of the controversy surrounding chief executive Simon Overland. Mr Overland is under pressure to stand down from the council ahead of a Royal Commission into Victoria Police’s use of a criminal barrister as an informer from 2005 to 2009. Mr Overland was a deputy commissioner at the time the lawyer, known as Informer 3838, provided police with information during Melbourne’s gangland war. Five councillors failed to attend last week’s council meeting after raising concerns about Mr Overland remaining in the council’s top job. Cr Norm Kelly has called for him to step down without pay until the Royal Commission concludes. The absence of Cr Kelly and his colleagues Alahna Desiato, Ricky Kirkham, Mary Lalios and Caz Monteleone from last Tuesday’s meeting meant the council couldn’t deal with a planning application for the Mernda Town Centre and a petition from a group of Mernda residents. The items had to be deferred to a future meeting after Cr Sam Alessi declared a conflict of interest in the town centre and Cr Emilia Lisa Sterjova declared a conflict of interest in the petition, leaving the council without a quorum for both items. The town centre development saga has been going on for nine years. The council originally approved a development plan for the site from Woolworths in July 2009. Since then, there have been a number of delays and revised plans.
Christmas is a gift for all It’s the time of year when sleigh bells are ringing, carols are being sung and houses shimmer with Christmas lights. Children across the west – including seven year-old Andi – are looking forward to celebrating the festive season with their families and friends. Excited youngsters are hoping the man in the big red suit will leave them some surprises under the Christmas tree. Alesha Capone
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Road design adds to traffic challenge: Residents Motorists will have to drive through 12 sets of traffic lights over six kilometres on Craigieburn Road if a proposed design for the road’s duplication is adopted. The Major Road Projects Authority has released its design for the duplication of Craigieburn road, which is being upgraded as part of the state government’s northern roads package. Work is expected to start in 2020. The authority is proposing to add seven sets of traffic lights and a pedestrian crossing to the road. There are currently five sets of lights and one pedestrian crossing.
Lights will replace roundabouts at Mickleham Road, Waterview Boulevard and Hardy Avenue. New lights will also be added at Balyang Way, Dorchester Street and Cimberwood Drive intersection, as well as at the entrance to Craigieburn Road from the Hume Highway. A pedestrian crossing will be installed near DS Aitken Reserve, while a number of intersections will be changed to only left in, left out. Many residents have taken to social media to complain about the number of traffic lights
included in the proposed design, suggesting that some of the lights should be replaced with roundabouts to keep traffic flowing. Craigieburn Road duplication campaigner Jim Overend said the proposed design didn’t provide residents with a lot of information. “We need a lot more details,” said. “We need proper drawings of what is proposed, not just 14 yellow dots on a line. There are a lot of traffic lights, which means traffic will be pushed through side streets.” Major Road Projects Authority suburban roads upgrade director Peter Jones said the
“crucial” upgrade would slash congestion, improve traffic flow and boost access for more than 28,000 drivers a day. “Locals who’ve spent years grappling with bad traffic during peak times on Craigieburn Road can now help shape a better and safer road, with extra lanes and intersection improvements,” he said. Residents can have their say on the design until January 13. Details: your.roadprojects.vic. gov.au/craigieburn-road Laura Michell
Fallen officer’s loving memorial By Laura Michell Broadmeadows police officer Neil Clinch died after being shot while on a job at Fawkner. The Blue Ribbon Foundation last week paid tribute to Constable Clinch, naming a high-acuity wing in the paediatric area of Northern Hospital’s emergency department in his honour. Constable Clinch had been in the force just short of two years when he has shot on April 4, 1987. The 22-year-old was one of a group of police officers who went to a flat in Lorne Street, Fawkner, to investigate a stabbing. Police surrounded the building and Constable Clinch was sent to the rear of the property. A man armed with a .22-calibre rifle came out of a rear door and was tackled by Constable Clinch. At the same time, a police officer fired two shots. Constable Clinch was struck in the head by one of the bullets. He was taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital, where he died the following day. Constable Clinch’s brother, Lindsay, said it was a sliding doors moment that led to his brother’s death, as he wasn’t meant to be working that day. An avid footballer, he had arranged to have Saturdays off to play for West Coburg, but was reported a couple of weeks earlier and suspended for the April 4 match. “Because he wasn’t playing, he got a phone call the night before to fill in for a sick colleague,” Mr Clinch said. “It could seem like fate.” Constable Clinch graduated from the academy in June, 1985, and was initially stationed at Moonee Ponds before moving to Heidelberg and then Broadmeadows. “For such a short career in the police force, he obviously made an impact,” Mr Clinch said. “I think he was going to be a very good police officer.” Mr Clinch said the Northern Hospital tribute meant his brother’s name would continue to live on.
Constable Neil Clinch. (Supplied)
A Neil Clinch Award is presented by Broadmeadows police to its most outstanding officer each year, while West Coburg Football Club has named a trophy in his honour. “[The high-acuity wing] is a dedication to our brother and son and adds a bit of solace to unfortunate events,” Mr Clinch said. “I can remember it vividly … it is hard enough to lose a brother, but a child …” Blue Ribbon Foundation northern metro branch president Helen Walsh said choosing to name the wing after Constable Clinch was an easy decision. “We knew he was such a worthy recipient,” she said, making a special mention of Constable Clinch’s mother, Evie. “It means a lot to be able to say to her that not only is Neil not forgotten, but his memory will live on for generations,” she said.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation pays tribute to Constable Clinch. Pictured top: Assistant Commissioner Russell Barrett and Blue Ribbon chairman David Mann with Evie Clinch and her children. (Pictures: Marco De Luca)
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Student placement volunteers Rita and Tuba are ready to take donations. (Joe Mastroianni)
Call for Christmas cheer Hume residents are being encouraged to make a donation to Uniting’s Food for Families appeal to ease the burden on struggling families ahead of Christmas. Uniting Vic Tas, which has an office in Broadmeadows, is collecting non-perishable items which will be distributed to families who cannot afford food. Broadmeadows emergency relief co-ordinator Fiona Fisher said there had been an increase in families seeking help this year. The office provided more than $140,000 of crisis and emergency support for 1084 families in 2017-18, with 582 people approaching Uniting for help for the first time. Ms Fisher said most people sought food relief or help with energy bills.
“We are assisting more and more families because of rising rents, mortgage stress, casualisation of the workforce; everything is converging together and making it tougher,” she said. “For so many people, if they are working it is casual or part-time and the pay rate is not great.” Ms Fisher said the appeal was important because families often cut back on food. “If we can provide food relief, they can get their bills back on track knowing they are not going hungry.” Donations can be dropped off at 413-419 Camp Road, Broadmeadows. Laura Michell
Three men have been arrested following a series of alleged burglaries and thefts in Melbourne’s north-west. It’s alleged the burglaries and theft of motor vehicles occurred in Moonee Ponds and Essendon from November 18. A Craigieburn man, 27, was charged with more than 20 offences, including burglary, theft of a motor car and deceptions. A Meadow Heights man, 28, was charged with 45 offences, including burglary, theft of motor car and deceptions. Another Craigieburn man, 28, is under police guard in hospital with a pre-existing condition. He will be interviewed at a later date.
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Spike in family violence reports By Laura Michell Family violence reports in Whittlesea have soared by more than 35 per cent in the past five years, new data reveals. The Crime Statistics Agency’s family violence database reveals that in 2017-18 there were 3190 reports of family violence incidents made to Whittlesea police – up 36 per cent from 2013-14 when there were 2349 reports. In Hume, there were 3376 reports in 2017-18, up from 2906 in 2013-14. The two municipalities were in the top three for family violence reports across the state.
Casey recorded the highest number of reports (4378). Whittlesea Police Inspector Andrew Falconer said Whittlesea’s high rate of family violence meant the municipality’s family violence unit was staffed at double the levels of neighbouring areas. He said the rise in reports since 2013-14 could be attributed to increased education in the community about family violence. “The family violence unit has been very pro-active in providing education to the wider community about the issues and to encourage reporting,” Inspector Falconer said.
‘‘
The family violence unit has been very pro-active
’’
- Andrew Falconer
“We know that there are many barriers to people coming forward, and we have been at community events and forums to help break down these barriers. “The aim of our family violence unit has been to reduce recidivism and repeat victimisation. They have been very successful in stopping any repeat serious incidents to victims.”
Inspector Falconer said family violence was a complex social issue with several contributing factors. “Whittlesea police service area has had a very large population growth with many young families … often on lower incomes,” he said. “They often carry higher levels of debt with home loans. We have significant gambling losses incurred. The pressure on these families can often lead to alcohol and drug abuse. “This only causes a downward spiral, which – combined with culture, family background and individual temperament – can lead to family violence.”
Auskick grant kicks off Merrifield community development manager Tennille Bradley-Ow said the recipients are groups which support the thriving Merrifield community. “From grassroots groups to major sporting clubs and key community services, it’s fantastic to see the wide range of wonderful ideas and initiatives coming from within our local community which aim to enhance and enrich the lives of others,” she said. Laura Michell
Auskick coach Steven Strong, Izabelle, 11, Madisyn, 9, and co-ordinator Glenn Herring. (Damjan Janevski)
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Merrifield’s Auskick program is set to receive new uniforms and equipment, thanks to a community grants program. The Auskick program is one of 10 Mickleham-based community groups to share in $50,000 from the Merrifield Community Partnership Program. The fund aims to help groups in the Merrifield estate. The successful groups were chosen by a committee which includes representatives from Hume council and Merrifield developers MAB Corporation and Gibson Property Corporation. Grants of between $500 and $20,000 are awarded across five categories: culture, opportunity, health, connected and smart. Other recipients include a choir, a chess club and a community garden. Merrifield Auskick will also use its grant to create a committee to develop the program.
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Fireworks plea for the pet set
Romeo Tonna works on his handmade nativity scene. (Damjan Janevski)
A vision of Bethlehem By Laura Michell Romeo Tonna has been carefully crafting – and displaying – his vision of Bethlehem in his Craigieburn garage for eight years. At close to six metres wide and featuring more than 7500 pieces, running water and fairy lights, the nativity scene has become a must-visit for Craigieburn families during the festive season.
The hand-built display features buildings including a stable complete with baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, shepherds and their flocks, trees and a host of animals and people moving around the town. Every piece has been made from plaster by Mr Tonna and then painted and carefully positioned in the display. Mr Tonna said he began the display in 2010 as a way to mark Christmas.
“Christmas is a very special time for me,” he said. “I like that lots of people come. People really seem to enjoy it. My kids think I am crazy, but I love it.” Mr Tonna said the display had become a hobby and a great way to pass time over the years. The display will be open every day until January 1 from 8pm ’til late, at 11 Parramatta Walk, Craigieburn.
Hume pet owners are being reminded to keep a close eye on their pets in the festive season, especially during fireworks. Mayor Carly Moore said that while most people enjoyed the colour and excitement of a fireworks display, pets often become frightened and try to escape the noise. “Dogs and cats have incredibly sensitive hearing,” she said. “Some pets that are normally placid and not prone to escaping or running away often become frightened and will try to escape the noise. “While cats are more likely to instinctively hide, dogs can jump a fence that under normal circumstances is high enough to secure them – either way, nobody wants their pets to go missing.” Pet owners are being encouraged to contain their animals in their houses or garages overnight, or leave them with a friend or family member. Cr Moore said council rangers found many pets wandering the streets after being spooked by fireworks. “Owners need to do everything they can to ensure both cats and dogs are safe and secure,” she said. “All Hume residents should also ensure that their pet is microchipped, registered and wearing a current registration tag – this will help council reunite the cat or dog with its rightful owner.” To report a stray animal, phone 9205 2200. Laura Michell
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Tyre path treads a recycle route By Laura Michell Close to 3600 used car tyres have been transformed into a South Morang footpath. In a first for Whittlesea, the tyres have been turned into a cycling and walking path between Williamsons Road and the Mernda rail line as part of the Yan Yean Pipe Track. The path is soft under foot, but firm enough for walking and cycling. Mayor Lawrie Cox said the path had been constructed in an innovative and sustainable way.
Water is able to drain through the rubber path and if tree roots start to grow through the path, the surface will flex rather than crack like concrete. Cr Cox said the path was a great and fitting addition to the municipality as the region housed two of the biggest car tyre plants in the country – Dunlop at Somerton and Goodyear at Thomastown “We are always looking for ways to improve the way we do things,” he said. “This technology is great for the environment in so many way. The tyres have been saved from
landfill and the rubber allows the path to move with trees as they grow. “This is a great way to recycle product many of our residents would have been involved in making in the first place.” The path is one of many the council will be installing in the next few months.
Car tyres were recycled to create this cycling and walking path. (Supplied)
Caroline is a cut above Four years of hard work have paid off for Epping’s Caroline Daoud, with the young hairdresser named Kangan Institute’s outstanding hairdressing apprentice. Ms Daoud received the award at Kangan’s recent end-of-year fashion show, which features work from fashion, millinery, hair and beauty students. She said the award was recognition of the effort she had put into her studies. “They were the hardest days of my life, but I think every young apprentice has to remember that everyone was once at the same stage,” she said. “Receiving the award really motivates me to do well.” Ms Daoud decided to pursue a career in hairdressing after getting her hair styled for her deb as a teenager. “It was the first time I had my hair done and it made me feel so confident. I realised that I
wanted to be able to do that for other people,” she said. “I love that doing someone’s hair builds up their confidence and self-esteem.” Ms Daoud hopes to one day work at New York Fashion Week. Two other northern suburbs students picked up awards at the show, with Meadow Heights’ Alexandra Perroni named certificate III in hairdressing student of the year, and Lalor’s Carolynne Shamoon named most dedicated hairdressing apprentice. Laura Michell
Caroline Daoud was named Kangan Institute’s outstanding hairdressing apprentice for 2018. (Marco De Luca)
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New boss on the beat By Benjamin Millar Assistant Commissioner Debra Abbott knows she has a big job ahead of her – but she is relishing the challenge. As Victoria Police’s new commander in the North West Metro Region, Assistant Commissioner Abbott is in charge of all policing from the CBD out to the city’s northern and western fringes – one of Australia’s fastest growing regions. A 30-year veteran of Victoria Police, she most recently served as the head of state emergencies. “I’m actually very fortunate that my career has been really diverse,” she said. “I have led a large number of programs and projects, including the roll-out of new police uniforms.” Assistant Commissioner Abbott is keen to bring her experience into one of Melbourne’s most complex policing regions. “The good thing about working in the region of the north-west is that it is such a diverse area,” she said. “Every single day is different. “It’s enormously fulfilling – every day I pinch myself I’m so lucky.” The rapid change of pace in both the CBD and growth corridors in the city’s north and west means police must constantly adapt. Assistant Commissioner Abbott said that when she first worked in the region, very few people were living in high-rise apartments. “Now it’s growing, and growing so fast, which means we do have to police differently and respond to different challenges,” she said. Assistant Commissioner Abbott said that despite the constant change, basic principles had remained constant in her three decades in Victoria Police. “We’re there to do our utmost, that doesn’t change,” she said. “The things that haven’t
Debra Abbott is the new North West Metro police commander. (Damjan Janevski)
really changed are dealing with greed and rage and jealousy and power. What does change is the environment in which we operate. We have a growing community, we have a growing population, our roads are carrying more cars, more pedestrians and more cyclists.” Assistant Commissioner Abbott takes seriously her role to protect the community, but also knows their sense of safety is also important. “The perceptions of safety are as important
as safety itself,” she said. “Some parts of the community are in pain or struggling. My thought is the police are the community and the community are the police – there are parts of policing that we can’t do alone.” Keeping up with crime trends and new forms of policing is one thing, getting ahead of them is another challenge altogether, she explains. “It’s also really important to keep a really open mind on the things ahead on the horizon,” she said.
Council opts out of MAV Whittlesea council won’t be re-joining the Municipal Association of Victoria this year, citing concerns about the governance of the organisation. The council has also decided to not become members of the Victorian Local Governance Association, pending a review of the association’s constitution. In June, the council decided to review its membership to both organisations to ensure they were beneficial and there were no duplication of services. MAV chief executive Kerry Thompson and VLGA chief executive Kathryn Arndt were invited to make a presentation to the council outlining the benefits of membership to their organisation, after council officers found there was “little” duplication of services. But at last week’s council meeting, councillors voted to not participate in either organisation. They will review their decision as part of the 2019-20 budget. The membership fee for the MAV is $55,628 annually, while the VLGA fee is $37,760. Cr Sam Alessi said there were a number of issues that needed to be addressed before the council would rejoin the organisations. “The MAV CEO said there is a number of governance issues [the organisation] will be looking at over the next 12 months. We need to see how they are dealt with before we rejoin,” he said. “At budget time we will know if the governance issues have been solved.” Laura Michell
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MY PLACE Dr Neil Cowen is retiring as the chief executive of DPV Health. He chats with Laura Michell about his more than two decades of work in community health. What’s your connection to Hume and Whittlesea? My primary links have been through my leadership of first, Dianella Community Health and then DPV Health. The community of Hume and Whittlesea is the community embraced for health and wellbeing for all. How long have you worked with DPV Health and Dianella? Since 2014 – so over four years. It has been eight months since we formally merged.
I love the diversity of the staff that matches the diversity in our community. The people who work in community health in the north are committed to helping the vulnerable and making a difference. I have also wanted my life and actions to make a positive difference for other people. Working in community health in the north has allowed me to do that. It has also allowed me to work with people from cultures that previously I had little knowledge and therefore grow as an individual. What, if anything, would you like to change?
funds wisely to improve outcomes. There is rapid development happening in the north. I would like developers to contribute to the community assets such as buildings that can allow community health services to be delivered, i.e. actually creating the infrastructure centrally located with good
public transport as part of major developments. to the clients holding the funds rather than block funding but this has been a challenge. It What has been the biggest challenge facing has created uncertainty about the future for our staff. Some of the changes have reduced funding health providers in Hume and Whittlesea? for certain types of services and we have had to The changes to the funding of health services look at the sustainability of our models of care has been a major challenge. I support the move for some programs.
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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 communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is noon Tuesday.
Summer at the showgrounds
during school hours. Must be over 21, a great listener and have a genuine interest in working with young people. ■ melbourne@raise.org.au
Santa visit
Enjoy an evening at the Whittlesea Showgrounds on Thursday, December 20, with great food and a performance by Gary Eastwood. There will also be a market stall, classic car show, face-painting and a visit from Santa. At McPhees Road, Whittlesea, 4-11pm. ■ whittleseafc@bigpond.com
Meet the man in red at Lalor library on Friday, December 21, 10.30am-noon. Santa will visit the library for a festive-themed morning, featuring stories and crafts. At 2A May Road. ■ 9465 2353
Parkinson’s exercise group
Mernda carols
Join Plentylife Anglican Church at Mernda’s Pasture Park, Galloway Drive, on Monday, December 24, 5.30-8pm for community carols. There will be a visit from Santa Claus. ■ 0430 505 593
Punchin Parkos Victoria has launched unique non-contact boxing exercise classes designed for people living with Parkinson’s disease in Craigieburn. New members welcome. ■ 0425 782 294
Movie night
Head to Craigieburn library with the kids on Thursday, January 10, to watch a family-friendly movie. Bookings essential. At 75-95 Central Park Avenue, 6-8pm. ■ 9356 6980
Walk through Bethlehem
Games night (iStock)
Take a walk through Bethlehem at St Peter’s Primary School’s live nativity from Friday, December 21 – Saturday, December 23. It will be held from 7.30pm-midnight at 32 Wedge Street, Epping. ■ 0477 942 254
Reading club
Join Yarra Plenty Regional Library’s summer reading club and get lost in a good book. Open to children aged three-18, the club offers rewards for reading and runs until Thursday, January 31. The more you read, the more chances you get to win prizes. ■ yprl.vic.gov.au
Community Market on Sunday, December 23, 9am-3pm. There will be a variety of stalls with handmade, new and bric-a-brac goodies. At 10 Craigieburn Road, Craigieburn. ■ facebook.com/hcmcfieldcburn
buy seasonal produce and local crafts. At the Merrifield Neighbourhood Park, corner Balmain Road and St Georges Boulevard, Mickleham. ■ facebook.com/merrifieldfarmersmarket
Community market
Farmers market
The Raise Foundation is seeking mentors to work with secondary school students in Epping and Lalor for two hours a week
Finish your Christmas shopping while supporting local small businesses at Hume
Visit the Merrifield Farmers Market on Saturday, December 22, 9am-1.30pm to
Become a youth mentor
Visit the Broadmeadows library every Thursday night during summer for an evening of board games. The library has a collection of strategic, social and collaborative games, new and old, waiting for keen gamers. At 1093 Pascoe Vale Road, 7.30-10pm. Bookings required. ■ 9356 6900
Doco night
Visit Mill Park library on Thursday, January 3, for a night of award-winning documentaries as part of Yarra Plenty Regional Library’s Libraries After Dark program. At 394 Plenty Road, 5.30-9.30pm. ■ 9437 8189
PLAN AND PREPARE The reasons are black and white emergency.vic.gov.au
Download the VicEmergency app
It’s your responsibility to be fire ready this summer, so prepare your property, fire plan and emergency kit now. When hot, dry, windy days are forecast, check Fire Danger Ratings in your district daily and monitor conditions via local radio, the VicEmergency website and app. On high-risk fire days, leaving early, before a fire starts, is always the safest option. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
11 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 18, 2018
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Dr. Tony Stubbs, Eye Surgeon, says that just about anyone can have their vision restored and be rid of their glasses for most of the time. And this is without the use of laser surgery.
Dr. Tony Stubbs Eye Surgeon MB BS BSc(Hons)B Med Sc MS FRANZCO
Dr Stubbs formerly at the Royal Victorian Eye Hospital who has worked with the Fred Hollows eye department at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, says he began his career through the inspiration of his father, Dr Maxwell Stubbs. “My father was a pioneer in cataract implant surgery from 1963! He has now passed away but some of his patients still come in for a checkup. Not only is this inspirational, it also demonstrates that good surgery outlasts the surgeon,” Dr Stubbs says. A specialist who helps people who have been advised they are unsuitable for laser surgery, Dr Stubbs is also committed to demonstrating that age, corneal distortion or astigmatism are no barriers to eliminating the need for glasses.
Dr Tony Stubbs’ Collins St Practice Coates Building, Suite 2, Level 2 20 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000 Tel: +613 9650 8044 | Fax: +613 9650 8099
The Williamstown Eye Centre 120 Ferguson Street, Williamstown 3016 Victoria, Australia Tel: +613 9397 8989 | Fax: +613 9397 8984
One of my best moments was treating a 12-year-old girl who was struggling at school because of poor vision due to congenital cataracts even with the use of thick glasses. Now 10 years later, she still has 20/20 vision without glasses. That inspires me. “Seeing my patients’ bright smiles after surgery, as they stop squinting and can read without glasses, is definitely the best part of my job.” No referral is needed and no out-of-pocket expenses are incurred for an assessment to enable all options available to be considered.
13 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 18, 2018
SPORT Plenty left in the tank despite losing first T20 game Plenty Valley has lost its first Victorian Premier Cricket Women’s T20 game. After winning their first two games of the competition, the Bats were hoping to keep the momentum going against Carlton-Brunswick on Wednesday night. However, making just 76, the Bats were always going to be on the back foot. Just four Bats players scored double figures. They put up a fight with the ball, but it wasn’t enough with Carlton-Brunswick making the runs in the second last over, finishing 6-79. Speaking before Wednesday’s game, Bats coach Adam Drinkwell said they had been happy with the start to the T20 competition. “It’s come along really quickly,” he said. “We’ve got five games in 11 days and it’s a really good opportunity to get the continuity in
games and have some really good cricket.” Drinkwell said Sophie Day had started the competition well with the bat, while Sophie Reid was doing a good job as captain in the absence of Rhiann O’Donnell who has Women’s Big Bash League duties. With most sides missing players to the WBBL, Drinkwell said the competition was more even than it would have been otherwise. He said most teams were still in the mix for finals, with only the top two progressing. “For us it’s about having fun and playing cricket and we’re now expecting to have some success,” he said. “If we can head into the break with three or four wins, we set ourselves up.” It isn’t just in Premier Cricket the Bats are having some success.
Bats speedster Tayla Vlaeminck made her debut for the Melbourne Renegades in the WBBL on her return from the World Cup. O’Donnell also made her WBBL with the Hobart Hurricanes. Drinkwell said it was good to see them get an opportunity. “They’re two girls from country Victoria who have come to play with us and done some hard years with travel, to now play professional cricket,” he said. “We expect Rhiann to play more games with the Hurricanes. “Tayla is leading the attack for the Renegades and we’re hearing a lot about her cricket at the moment.” England international Danni Wyatt, who played with the Bats in 2015-16, has also
aligned with the Bats this summer during the WBBL. She played in the Bats’ first T20 match. The Bats’ confidence in the T20 format comes after a successful first half to the one-day competition. The Bats have three wins and a draw, after just two wins last season. “We’re not in too bad a shape,” Drinkwell said. “We’re only six points off second spot and our seconds are on top. We’re playing some good cricket, hopefully it will continue in the second part of the season.” The Bats played a double header on Sunday against Dandenong and Prahran, which was after Star Weekly went to print Tara Murray
Marcus Murphy was the star with the ball for Epping. (Shawn Smits)
T20 title eludes NMCA
Kristy Rinaldi will provide plenty of experience for the Hume City Broncos. (Ballarat Courier)
Hume hunts for talent By Tara Murray Hume City Broncos are looking for experience as they recruit for next year’s Big V women’s state championship season. The Broncos, who made finals this year, will be a different side under new coach Dee Butler. Butler said one of the first things she noticed about the squad was a lack of experience. “It’s something we needed, particularly with the advancing of the program to bring it further along,” she said. “Wiser heads help in close games.” Former Ballarat Rush captain Kristy Rinaldi is one player expected to help fill that void. Rinaldi played nearly 300 games in 13 years with the Rush in the South Eastern Australia Basketball League (SEABL). Butler said Rinaldi was keen for a new challenge after so long at the Rush. “I played against her years ago,” Butler said. 14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 18, 2018
“She’s the type of player who can change the game quickly and defensively is consistently solid. She’s been captain of Ballarat for a number of years. “She will help build the culture and bring it to an elite level.” Another recruit who has played at the higher level is Teyla Evans. Evans has been playing in her home state in the Queensland Basketball League, after previously playing in the SEABL. She was also a development player for the Dandenong Ranges Women’s National Basketball League side. Butler said Evans wanted to get back to the WNBL. “One of the things you learn playing at the elite level is how to train,” she said. “She’s an athlete and hard working. “I’m excited to get her into the program with the way she goes about things, it will have a ripple effect. “The goal is for her to get her foot back in
the door in the WNBL.” The Broncos other new signing is Briana Babic. Babic joins her sister Bianca Babic. Butler said Briana is a different type of player to her sister, and wants to take the next step with her basketball. “We’ve got players who are training for something, not just to make the team better, they want to take the next step.” Butler said the new recruits now gave the team different guard options. Sophie Brynes and Nicole Zammit are among players who have re-signed with the Broncos. Butler said she was looking forward to working with Zammit, having coached against her for a number of years. She said they were still looking to add some size with their other signings and will probably give youth league players some opportunities. The club also hoped to sign its first import in the coming days.
All North Metro Cricket Association sides have been knocked out of the Northern Region T20 competition. Rivergum and the Cobras were the only two NMCA teams left as the competition headed into the knockout stage, but both teams were beaten on Tuesday night in a repeat of last year’s competition. Among those through to the semi-finals are Bundoora, Lalor Stars and Epping. Bundoora had little trouble against the Cobras, restricting the Cobras to 5-89, with Hatinder Pal the pick of the bowlers. The Bulls openers got off to a flyer, making 49 for the first wicket. David Tantsis-Hall joined Asharn Hodge at the crease and the two got the job done, with the Bulls making 1-93 with five and half overs to spare. Epping had an easy win against Montmorency. Epping bowled Montmorency out for just 78 in the final over of the innings. Marcus Murphy took four wickets for Epping, while Robert Tinsley took three. Epping needed just 11 overs to get the job done, finishing 2-80. Last season’s runner-up Lalor Stars is again through to the semis after beating Old Paradians. The Stars finished 1-162 in reply to Old Paradians’ 5-159. Banyule, Heidelberg, Research Eltham Collegians, Riverside and Lower Eltham are the other sides through. Tara Murray
STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
SPORT
Roxburgh Park bravely enters a whole new world Roxburgh Park is keen on ensuring it has the right balance of youth and experience as it heads into the unknown. After winning their first senior premiership this year, the Magpies will play in Essendon District Football division 1 for the first time since the league moved to three divisions. For Magpies coach Michael Farrelly, it’s an exciting challenge. “We’re not going in talking about being a premiership contender,” he said. “The big thing is personal development … we want to make sure we are getting better, whether win or lose. As long as we get better than the week before and continue to grow, we’ll be happy.” The first step for the Magpies has been trying to keep their playing list intact. They were successful in re-signing the whole premiership side from this year, while a number of under-19 players who will move up the ranks are also returning. In a bonus, most of the players who were part of the Magpies’ reserves grand final side are back on board.
Farrelly said they had half a dozen potential recruits training with the club who they were hoping would sign on in the near future. The club has already announced the signings of some new players. Jay Barbera, who comes from Northern Football League division 1 side Hurstbridge, is the biggest signing so far. Barbera and Farrelly played together in a premiership for Hurstbridge in 2016, with Barbera finishing high in the club’s best-and-fairest that year. “We’re good mates and he was looking for a fresh start,” Farrelly said. “He came to us asking for an opportunity to start afresh and play somewhere different and wipe the slate clean. “He’ll be a leader at the club. He works hard.” Wally Abbouchi joins the club from the Northern Saints and will add another experienced leader to the side. This year he played against the Magpies and acted as a runner for their under-11 side. The Magpies latest signing is Matt Barnes,
who comes from Western Region Football League club Point Cook Centrals. The Magpies have also added young talent, including Nathan Anderson and Tylar Sorrentino, who are returning to the club. Farrelly said all the new recruits wanted to have an immediate impact at the club. Farrelly said the club was dealing with some off-field challenges. “When you go up a division, the base wage goes up,” he said. “With the salary cap higher in division 1, the club will be paying players more per game. “The ability to recruit players is huge. We’re looking for more sponsors to get on board.” The Magpies will start the season on April 6 against West Coburg. Tara Murray
Roxburgh Park playing coach Michael Farrelly in action. (Marco De Luca)
Coach signs on for more By Tara Murray Westmeadows Cricket Club coach Tarek Moughanie had no hesitations re-signing with the club. Moughanie, who joined the Victorian Turf Cricket Association club last season, has been reappointed as head coach for another two seasons. While the Warriors have been performing on field, it’s the development of the club as a whole, that motivates Moughanie. “The club is at its healthiest position it’s ever been in,” he said. “In terms of players, personnel and from a junior perspective and the junior club feeding into the seniors. “We’ve had two women’s sides again this season and we’re looking to have an all-abilities side as well. “The committee has grown, as a club we’ve grown the number of sides we have. We have signed on a major sponsor, Barry Plant Gladstone Park. “Anyone of any cricket ability and any background, everyone is welcome. “It adds value to the whole Westmeadows community.” Moughanie had an instant impact at the club, leading its top side to two premierships in his first season. They won what is now known as the Steve McNamara Shield division 2 and the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association T20 competition last season. Moughanie said the club’s ambition to play at the highest level matched his, and the players were keen to test themselves against the best. “It’s a true testament of the state of the club,” he said. “The juniors want to stay at the club and importantly you’ve got everyone wanting to play at the highest level they can. “At Westy everyone wants to be the best they can and it certainly adds to the culture. “We have a shared common goal and we make no secret of it, you have to play at the highest level you can.” Developing the young talented playing group was also a big motivation of staying with the club and Moughanie said there were a number of players coming through juniors and into seniors the next few years. Moughanie said culture was a big thing at the club and making sure the players had the best facilities and program was part of that. “We reinvest back into the club,” he said. “We keep our juniors fees at a reasonable rate, as low as we can. Seniors are the same. “Money is spent on balls and training gear and making sure the club has all the facilities is a priority for us.” Another part of the culture, was making
Westmeadows president Jeff Hubbard (back) and coach Tarek Moughanie. (Shawn Smits)
sure everyone felt welcome. The club held a Caribbean Christmas event at the weekend, embracing the culture of new recruit Darrel Brown.
The Warriors started their final match before the Christmas break on Saturday against St Francis De Sales. The match started after Star Weekly went to print.
Demons on recruiting drive Tullamarine’s off season recruiting haul was a little bit busier than anticipated. The Demons, who this year made the Essendon District Football League division 1 grand final, have been one of the busier division 1 teams in the off season. Coach David Connell said while they had planned to add some players, others had approached the club about coming across, in expectation the club was in a premiership window. Blair Cronin, James Harmes, Anthony Liberatore and Cameron Hare are all returning to the club after playing elsewhere in recent years. Hare and Cronin have spent large chunks of their careers at the Demons. Connell said it was important to get such players back to the club as they continue build their list. Nathan Sciberras, Travis Anderson and Ethan Hope also have all come on board. Former Hillside skipper Joel Bonnici added some more depth to the side, and Connell said he had made an immediate impact. “We knew early that he wanted to come on board,” he said. “He hasn’t missed a beat and has shown great leadership.” The Demons do have a battle on their hands to sign up Hayden Blythe, who is contracted with Glenroy. Blythe has played both VFL and TAC Cup football. Connell said they would look at all their options to get Blythe playing for them. The Demons have lost Luke Hampshire and Claudio Campos while Russell Laurie and Craig Steele have retired. Connell said it was promising to keep most of the squad together for at least another year. The past two times the Demons made grand finals, in 2014 and 2016, the club lost several players. “Everyone is wanting to stay on board,” he said. “The boys are here for the right reasons. “In the past we’ve made a grand final and it’s taken us two years to get back. “The motivation is high to get straight back.” Tara Murray 15 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 18, 2018
16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 18, 2018