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DECEMBER 3, 2019 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS + SPORT + PROPERTY GUIDE

Carols keep spirit alive Get into the spirit of the festive season at Hume council’s carols by candlelight this Saturday. The annual carols event at Craigieburn’s Anzac Park will be hosted by singer and actor Johnny Ruffo and will feature performances from local singers, as well pop group Chantoozies. ABC Kids’ Bluey will also make a special appearance. Hume mayor Carly Moore said more than 10,000 people are expected to attend the event. “Each year, people gather at Anzac Park in Craigieburn to enjoy the free and family friendly Hume Carols by Candlelight,” she said. “We have some of Australia’s best entertainers to get you into the spirit of the season. “I’m looking forward to seeing Craigieburn Anzac Park full of families, enjoying the music, food and free entertainment.” The carols start at 5pm and will finish with a firework display at 9.20pm. A free community bus service will be available to pick up residents from designated locations around Hume. To book, visit hume.vic.gov.au/carols Laura Michell

Cr Carly Moore and children Lachlan, Chloe and Hudson. (Damjan Janevski) 200966_01

Council’s $1m headache Whittlesea council’s decision to appoint an acting chief executive while Simon Overland is on indefinite leave from the council will cost ratepayers close to $1 million per year, a councillor has claimed. Mr Overland announced he was taking leave on November 20, citing concerns about his health and safety. “The situation has been very difficult now for two years, but with recent changes on council, I now regrettably find my own health and safety significantly affected,” he said. Speaking in State Parliament last week, Yan Yean MP Danielle Green described the council as a “toxic workplace”.

“I have heard that there has never been such a poor situation of bullying. I ask the City of Whittlesea councillors to have a good darn look at themselves,” she said. Former Geelong council boss Kelvin Spiller was appointed as acting chief executive at a confidential council meeting on November 23. Cr Tom Joseph said the decision to appoint Mr Spiller would cost ratepayers. “We now have a situation where the ratepayers have to fork out close to $1 million a year for two CEOs,” he said. “Why? Because of unacceptable behaviour by some councillors that has forced the CEO to go on leave.” According to the council’s 2018-19 annual report, Mr Overland’s salary is between

$390,000 and $399,999 per year. Mayor Emilia Lisa Sterjova said Mr Spiller is being paid on a contract basis which is “commensurate with a local government CEO role and his experience”. Cr Joseph said appointing a council director as acting chief executive would have cost ratepayers “substantially less”. Traditionally, a council director is appointed in the role while Mr Overland in on leave. City transport and presentation director Helen Sui and former partnerships, planning and engagement director Liana Thompson have both assumed the role in the past when Mr Overland is on leave. Cr Sterjova said councillors appointed a chief executive outside the organisation because

Mr Spiller has “extensive experience” leading councils. “Council believes he will provide certainty and create confidence amongst staff and the community,” she said. Cr Joseph’s claim comes amid suggestions Mr Overland has made a complaint to WorkSafe. Cr Lawrie Cox, who last week raised concerns about the council being an unsafe working environment, told Star Weekly it was his understanding Mr Overland had contacted WorkSafe. Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek said it would be inappropriate for him to comment as the situation at the council was “under investigation”. ■ Call

for intervention: Page 5

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Foul faeces attack on bus driver By Laura Michell A bus driver has been unable to return to work after being hit in the face by a bag of faeces in Wollert. The driver had stopped in Harvest Home Road near Greenfields Drive about 9.40pm on November 13 to let a passenger off the bus, when a man approached the bus doors. The man lobbed a bag of faeces at the driver before running off. Transit Safety Division Acting Sergeant Todd Little said the bag hit the security

‘‘

Understandably the driver was very stressed about the - Todd Little situation

’’

meshing and splattered throughout the driver’s compartment, landing on his face, jacket and in his eyes. “Obviously the faeces has gone all over the driver,” he said. Sections of the bus interior were also impacted but no passengers were affected. Acting Sergeant Little said the bag was

believed to contain human faeces and a number of small rocks. “It’s a particularly heinous event and it has left the driver, who was just going about his day-to-day work, shaken,” he said. “It is an absolutely disgusting act and we are doing our best to identify this male and hold him to account.” Police believe the incident was premeditated. “It appears the driver doesn’t know who the male was and has no indication of people being unhappy with services,” Acting Sergeant Little said. “Understandably the driver was

very stressed about the situation and he had to have a couple of weeks off work and is receiving ongoing medical and psychological help after the incident.” The offender is described as a Caucasian man, aged 30-40-years-old, of medium height and build, with a fair complexion and beard. He was wearing a beige beanie, a yellow and black high-vis jumper with its hood up, and dark pants with a white stripe down each leg at the time of the incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Primary school site selected for Merrifield A primary school is a step closer to being built in Mickleham’s Merrifield estate, with the state government acquiring land for the school. Merrifield West Primary School will be built on Blackmore Road and is expected to open in 2021. The Merrifield West Northern Community Hub will be built next door to the school and will provide three and four-year-old kindergarten, as well as maternal and child health services. The hub is also expected to open in 2021. Yuroke MP Ros Spence said building the school next door to a kindergarten would help end the “dreaded double drop-off ” for parents. “Making Victoria the education state starts with the early years – that’s why every new primary school being built from 2021 will feature a kindergarten on-site or next door, to ensure children can get continuity of education,” she said. “This means children living in and near Merrifield will not only get the best start to life at kinder, they’ll also get the most out of their primary education at a great new local school.” Merrifield West Primary School is one of five new schools opening in Hume by 2022. Elevation Secondary College in Craigieburn will open next year, followed by Greenvale North West Primary School in 2021, and Kalkallo Common Primary School and Greenvale Secondary College in 2022.

Liam, Tanya and Nash on top of the mural. (Joe Mastroianni) 200575_01

Mural to put drivers on roo alert A group of kids have joined forces to paint a bright mural on an Epping fence to alert drivers to a nearby mob of kangaroos. Grace, 13, Liam, 12, Nash, 8, Kole, 2, Georgie, 7, and Liam, 4, painted the mural depicting a kangaroo and the words ‘kangaroos crossing’ onto Tanya Lay’s back fence, which faces Findon Road. Ms Lay said the children are the kids and grandkids of the members of a wildlife rescue group known as the Boral Mob Warriors.

She said a mob of about 130 kangaroos live in the area near Boral Quarries. “We thought we needed to highlight our beloved mob and remind drivers to slow down because unfortunately, we have had to pull many of our mob members and their joeys off the road,” Ms Lay said. “We don’t have street lighting or even a footpath on our stretch of road.” Ms Lay said the mural also pays tribute to her kids’ favourite kangaroo, Heff.

She said Heff used to sit at a nearby bus stop every day. “The kids played a big part in Heff ’s burial because he was so special to us. The kids made a special hessian covering with drawing and love hearts then helped cover him up,” she said. “The kids really just wanted to show their appreciation for Heff as he was well known by locals around here for so long.”

Laura Michell Laura Michell

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3 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 December, 2019

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Briefs

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Bus service starts

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Mickleham and Kalkallo residents will have access to a public bus service for the first time from later this month. The new route 525 services from Donnybrook to Craigieburn will begin on December 22. The timetable will be available in the coming weeks.

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Let’s go fishing Anglers of all abilities are being encouraged to head to Yarrambat Lake, with 600 rainbow trout recently added to the lake. The catchable-size fish were added to the lake by the Victorian Fisheries Authority as part of the state government’s Target One Million plan to get more people fishing. A daily bag limit of five trout applies to families fishing at Yarrambat Lake, of which only two trout can exceed 35 centimetres. Details: vfa.vic.gov.au/holidaytrout

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Lessons without lectures A theatre group striving to break the culture of underage drinking has taken to the stage at Mount Ridley College. Educational theatre company Gibber Australia performed its Smash Project show at the Craigieburn school late last month, highlighting the dangers of underage drinking. Gibber Australia chief executive Tim Watt said the show aims to reduce alcohol-related harm in young people and give students the confidence to deal with peer pressure to drink. He said the theatre group viewed the performance as an effective way to engage

young teenagers on the risks of alcohol misuse as it brought the topic to life in a dynamic and credible way. “Young people in this age group don’t respond well to being lectured and value having open and honest conversations about drinking and how this can impact their physical and mental wellbeing,” Mr Watt said. “The results are clear that students and the teaching staff are responding well to our fun, interactive yet educational style of program.”

Parents will be able to have their car restraints checked for free at neighbourhood houses from next year. The state government has funded a child restraint checking program, enabling neighbourhood houses and Kidsafe to check 14,000 restraints. To be alerted to a checking day near you. Visit: https://bit.ly/2DnGyYb

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Laura Michell

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4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 December, 2019

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Councillor calls for intervention By Laura Michell

Timeline

Whittlesea council has become an “unsafe” working environment, according to a former mayor. Cr Lawrie Cox – who was mayor for the past 12 months – has called for Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek, Local Government Victoria or the municipal inspector to take action in light of Simon Overland’s decision to take indefinite leave from his job as the council’s chief executive. In a statement released by the council, Mr Overland said he was taking leave because his health and safety had been “significantly affected”. “… In many respects the behaviours of some councillors have deteriorated, therefore increasing the risks to health and wellbeing,” he said in a statement released by the council. “The situation has been very difficult now for two years, but with recent changes on council, I now regrettably find my own health and safety significantly affected.” Cr Cox told Star Weekly instances of “abuse, harassment and bullying” by some councillors had “intensified” since the council’s November 7 statutory meeting during which Cr Emilia Lisa Sterjova was appointed mayor. “I believe the City of Whittlesea has become an unsafe working environment,” he said. “Staff have been very uncomfortable because one thing the CEO did do was protect his staff.” Cr Cox said the government had a responsibility to act. “We cannot have people attempting to do their job in this environment,” he said. Cr Cox said Mr Overland has “been under the hammer” for the past two years, adding he felt a couple of councillors were determined to remove Mr Overland from his position.

April 2016 David Turnbull is replaced as Whittlesea council chief executive after nine years in the job. Former CFA chief executive Michael Wootten is appointed to the role. October 2016 Current councillors elected. March 2017 Mr Wootten’s contract is terminated by council. Yan Yean MP Danielle Green raises concerns about a “culture of bullying and abuse of councillor power” at Whittlesea council in State Parliament. July 2017 Simon Overland is appointed as chief executive on a five-year contract. April 2018 Cr Ricky Kirkham calls for the council to be thrown out and an administrator appointed if the behaviour of councillors doesn’t improve. May 2018 Council asks the state government to appoint a monitor for six months to review the governance of council. June 2018 The state government refuses the request for a monitor.

Cr Lawrie Cox is calling for action. (Supplied)

September 2018 Council releases a probity auditor’s report revealing Cr Mary Lalios made a complaint against Mr Overland. The probe cleared Mr Overland.

Simon Overland. Overland (Eddie Jim)

December 2018 Crs Kirkham, Lalios, Caz Monteleone, Alahna Desiato and Norm Kelly raise concerns about Mr Overland remaining chief executive during the Royal Commission into Lawyer X. Cr Kelly calls for Mr Overland to step down without pay until the royal commission concludes. February 2019 Residents call for the council to be sacked after it was unable to deal with a planning application for the Mernda Town Centre at three consecutive meetings due to absent councillors. Mayor Lawrie Cox warns councillors to show up or resign. April 2019 Cr Tom Joseph says council’s administration is denying councillors access to vital information required to do their job. November 2019 Mr Overland takes indefinite leave from council. Kelvin Spiller is appointed acting chief executive.

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Foot pain is extremely common, affecting more than 80% of people at some point in their lives, with heel pain being the most common of all human foot complaints. Despite their frequency, these conditions are often mismanaged and incorrectly treated, leaving many sufferers spending time and money on treatments without long-term solutions or relief.

5 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 December, 2019

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Summer pain for commuters By Laura Michell Northern suburbs residents are facing a summer of road and rail disruptions as construction of several major infrastructure projects ramp up. The summer construction blitz will affect motorists in Epping, Mernda and South Morang, as well as Mernda bus users and Mernda and Upfield train passengers. Buses will replace trains on the Mernda line between Mernda and Thornbury from December 3-15.

The suspension of train services will allow crews to work around the clock to remove the level crossing at High Street, Reservoir. Sections of Plenty Road will be reduced to one lane between January 6-24 as part of the second stage of the Plenty Road upgrade. The road is being widened to six lanes between Bush and Riverdale boulevards and to four lanes between Riverdale Boulevard and Bridge Inn Road. There will also be lane closures on sections of McDonalds Road during the same period. As part of the Plenty Road upgrade, motorists

will be unable to perform a right turn at the intersection of Old Plenty and Plenty roads until March 31, 2020. The upgrade will also affect bus services on routes 382 and 386, with bus stops on Plenty Road south of Riverdale Boulevard closed until April 15, 2020. Citybound passengers can use the stop near The Parkway, while Mernda-bound passengers can access bus services via a stop near Waterview Drive. In Epping, Cotters Road will be closed at O’Herns Road until March 31, 2020 as part of the O’Herns Road upgrade. Motorists are

advised to use Rockfield Street and Redding Rise or Manor House Drive and Lyndarum Drive instead. Buses will replace trains on the Upfield train line between North Melbourne and Upfield from February 7-9. Premier Daniel Andrews said summer was a quieter time on the state’s roads and trains. “Over summer, construction crews will be getting on some of the biggest transport projects in Victoria’s history. Without these vital upgrades, our city and state would grind to a halt,” he said. Details: bigbuild.vic.gov.au

Chinese circus swings into town Impressive acrobats and daredevil aerialists will perform in South Morang in the coming weeks as part of the Chinese Circus Spectacular. The circus features 18 Chinese artists who were selected from the Heibei Acrobatic Troupe, which is one of China’s largest and most elite acrobatic groups. Circus director Damian Syred described the 90-minute performance as enchanting. “It’s a chance to not only witness a unique acrobatic troupe but also a new cultural experience for our customers who may have never been to a big international show before,” he said. “The Chinese circus is unlike any other production I have ever presented.” The circus will be at Central South Morang until December 22. Tickets: chinesecircusspectacular.com.au or 0474 220 050. Laura Michell

The Chinese Circus Spectacular is performing in South Morang. (Pictures: Supplied)

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Display warms the heart By Laura Michell Thomastown couple Antonio and Matilde Filippini have transformed their house into a Christmas wonderland to help raise money to fight heart disease. The Filippini’s spent two months creating their festive display before switching on the lights on November 28. The couple has been illuminating their house each Christmas for 27 years, but in 2004 they decided to make their annual display a fundraiser for the Heart Foundation.

‘‘

We enjoy bringing a bit of festive cheer to our street

’’

- Antonio Filippini

They chose the Heart Foundation because Mr Filippini suffered a heart attack in 2002. “After recovering from my heart attack, I wanted more people to be aware of heart disease and the impact it has on your health and your family,” he said. “We enjoy bringing a bit of festive cheer to our street, but more importantly, I want to encourage people to know the warning signs of a heart attack and get help quickly by calling triple-0. Any delay in seeking treatment can cause damage to your heart.” The Filippini’s display features more than 150,000 lights and decorations covering the house and front yard. This year, they’ve added snow machines to add to the winter wonderland theme. They will also be running a raffle, which will be drawn on December 21.

Antonio and Matilde Filippini have created a Christmas wonderland. (Supplied)

Heart Foundation Victorian chief executive Kellie-Ann Jolly said the Filippinis have raised more than $170,000 for the Heart Foundation. “With the generous support of families like the Filippinis and their local community, together we’re putting a spotlight on heart

disease to help raise funds for lifesaving cardiac research and to provide support for those living with heart conditions,” she said. The display is at 118 The Boulevard, Thomastown and is on until December 28. Entry is via a gold coin donation.

NEWS

Top business in Hume A Mickleham business which is a household name has been recognised as Hume’s business of the year. Hume council recently hosted its annual Hume Business Awards, crowning Dulux as the municipality’s top business. The company, which is based in the Merrifield Business Park, was recognised for its innovation, contribution to the community and creation of local jobs. Dulux was also named the manufacturing business of the year. Mayor Carly Moore said Dulux had created more than 60 jobs since opening its Mickleham factory in 2018, with most of its new employees living locally. “As part of its strong community focus, the business has helped more than 350 community organisations through fundraising, volunteering and direct donations,” she said. The Hume Business Awards recognised 15 local businesses and their contribution to the community. Other winners included Mickleham’s Marnong Estate which was named cafe and restaurant of the year; Campbellfield’s Advantage Caravan Repairs which was named small business of the year; and Broadmeadows’ Brite Services which received the diversity award. “Hume businesses employ over 100,000 people, making a strong contribution to the local, state and national economy,” Cr Moore said. Laura Michell

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Don’t wait for somebody else to do the right thing

It’s easy to tune out during rush hour. But it’s good to stay present and be aware of other commuters. We all have a role to play in calling out sexual harassment. Respect women: call it out.

www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au 7 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 December, 2019

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Melbourne Victory players Andrew Nabbout and Elvis Kamsoba meet Jaii. (Luke Hemer) 201118_03

Victory for hospital children with early Christmas cheer. “It’s lovely to see the kids’ excitement and smiles on their faces which makes their hospital stay that little bit easier,” she said. “We even had one boy not wanting to be discharged home just so he could meet the players.” Melbourne Victory players have made a number of visits to the hospital in recent years. Laura Michell

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A visit to The Northern Hospital by Melbourne Victory players has helped brighten the day of the hospital’s littlest patients. Players Andrew Nabbout and Elvis Kamsoba visited the children’s ward and emergency department last week, taking time to pose for photographs and sign autographs with the young patients. Children’s ward nurse unit manager Courtney Lowry said the visit provided the

THE ODDLY SEXY ONE

THE LOPSIDED ONE 12435603-LB50-19

8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 December, 2019

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NEWS

Commuter anger over train delay By Laura Michell Upfield commuters have slammed plans to delay increasing train services on the Upfield line until after the Metro Tunnel is complete in 2025 – and only as far as Gowrie station. Brunswick Greens MP Tim Read recently received confirmation from the state government about plans to increase capacity on the line from 2025, with six services to run between Gowrie station and the city. However, Upfield station commuters will have to rely on the existing three services per

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Upfield line passengers will still be lumped with a half-rate - Denis Watson ... service

’’

hour, according to Mr Read. Currently, the Upfield line has just eight morning and eight afternoon peak services – the lowest on the network. The line is also plagued by short-shunting of services – when trains are turned back before reaching their final destination – leaving

commuters north of Coburg stranded. Upfield Transport Alliance member Denis Watson said the government needed to act to improve train services to Upfield before 2025. “Upfield line passengers will still be lumped with a half-rate metropolitan train service for at least six more years,” he said. “Trains will be cancelled regularly and turned around at Coburg. People in Melbourne’s northern suburbs are transport poor and this government has no plans to provide equitable access to public transport to anyone living in Melbourne’s outer suburbs.”

Mr Watson said the decision to only increase services as far as Gowrie would divide residents. “The increasing number of people moving to the northern growth corridor will still have no trains. They will remain car-dependent, exacerbating congestion in Melbourne’s north,” he said. Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan did not answer questions from Star Weekly about why services would only be increased as far as Gowrie station. Instead, a spokesman for Ms Allan said the Metro Tunnel would boost capacity on the line by 71 per cent.

Job skills enabled works with young people with disabilities, helping them to learn essential skills to help them gain employment. She said 760 people had been helped by Enable since 2014. “Environmental sustainability and breaking unemployment cycles for disadvantaged people is the driving force behind our operations,” Ms McKay said. “This award acknowledges the real-life impact Enable is having on our community. It pays homage to the fact there are alternative models to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.” Laura Michell

Founder and managing director Julie McKay. (Damjan Janevski) 201684_03

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A Broadmeadows company striving to reduce waste while helping jobseekers find employment pathways has been recognised by the state government. Enable Social Enterprise recently took out the top honour at the Premier’s Sustainability Awards, receiving the Premier’s Recognition Award for its dedication to reduce waste and unemployment. Enable founder Julie McKay said the company started in 2014 in a bid to improve sustainability and social equality. She said the company set up a commercial venture called Enable IT Recycling, allowing it to reuse, repair or recycle technology while providing work and learning opportunities for jobseekers. In 2018, the business created 10 employment pathways and diverted more than 133,000 kilograms of e-waste from landfill. Ms McKay said the organisation mainly

9 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 December, 2019

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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.

E-waste recycling

exhibition is open Monday-Friday between 9am-5.30pm, at 10 Dimboola Road. ■ hume.vic.gov.au

Dispose of old, small electronic items such as televisions, computers, lamps, toaster or vacuum cleaners at Whittlesea council’s e-waste recycling day on Wednesday, December 4, at Whittlesea Community Activity Centre, 57-61 Laurel Street, Whittlesea, 11am-1pm. ■ 9401 0579

Community fitness sessions Join in free fitness sessions at Cloverton in Kalkallo, Monday to Saturday, during the school term. Classes in cross-training, yoga and boxing. Stockland Cloverton sales and information centre, corner Dwyer Street and Design Way. ■ Livelifegetactive.com

Frogs of Epping north Join Waterwatch and Merri Creek Management Committee for a night of frog discovery in Epping North on Thursday, December 5. Learn about the frogs living in the area and what they mean for the health of waterways. Meet at Lehman’s Farm Park, corner of Broadleaf Drive and Zinnober Lane at 7.30pm. ■ 9380 8199

Discover Frog Court

Carols by candlelight Get into the festive spirit at Whittlesea council’s carols by candlelight on Friday, December 13, 7-9.30pm at the civic centre lawns, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang. ■ 9217 2174

Thomastown Neighbourhood House’s last market for 2019 will be a twilight craft market on Thursday, December 12, 6.30-9pm at 52 Main Street. There will be crafts and bric-a-brac for sale, a barbecue and Santa’s workshop. ■ 9464 1864

Working bee Help the Alister Clark Memorial Rose Garden to bloom by taking part in a working bee on Friday, December 6, from 9am at the corner of Green Street and Bulla Road, Bulla. Bring your own gloves, boots and some morning tea or lunch to share. ■ 9205 2306

(iStock)

Twilight market

Movie night Get the family together and head to Lalor library on Thursday, December 12 for a family movie night, from 6-8pm. At 2a May Road. ■ 9465 2353

Probus Club The Probus Club of Craigieburn meets on the second Monday of each month at

Craigieburn Bowling Club, 233 Craigieburn Road. ■ 8339 7340

Town hall exhibition Town Hall Broadmeadows is hosting its inaugural exhibition until Friday, December 6, celebrating the architectural and artistic collaborations that shaped the redevelopment of the iconic building. The

Visit Frog Court Wetland, Craigieburn, on Wednesday, December 4 from 8pm to learn more about wildlife that has been found during Hume council’s fauna surveys of the area. Participants will be given copies of the Fauna of Hume and Birds of Hume field guides. ■ environment@hume.vic.gov.au

School choir performance The Jacana School for Autism’s choir will perform at Broadmeadows library on Friday, December 13, 11am-noon. The library is at 1093 Pascoe Vale Road. ■ 9356 6900

Community garden Visit Roxburgh Park Community Garden on Saturday, December 7 to meet the gardeners and find out how to become involved in the community garden. At Homestead Community Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Drive, from 11am. ■ hume.vic.gov.au

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Rain halts Eagles’ winning run By Tara Murray Rain ruined Craigieburn’s chance of a perfect weekend in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1 north Tony Issacs Shield. In a double header of matches, due to a catch-up round, two wins could have helped set up Craigieburn’s season. Craigieburn ticked the first box by beating Westmeadows on Saturday in a good win against another side also looking to cement a spot in the top four. The Eagles were on track for a second win on Sunday against Royal Park-Brunswick when rain set it, with the match ending in a draw. On Saturday, it was a strong performance against a Westmeadows side looking to get on a roll. The Warriors made 9-120 from their overs, in a tight bowling performance by Craigieburn. Skipper Mick Bury took 4-16 off his eight overs, while Brodie Warren chipped in with two wickets. The run chase wasn’t an easy one, but Craigieburn got the job done, finishing 7-122 in the 36th over. Shupinder Taggar top scored with 33. Craigieburn backed it up on Sunday in the catch-up round against Royal Park-Brunswick. It was another good bowling performance by Craigieburn as it restricted Royal Park-Brunswick to 7-132. Josh Eaton and Warren took two wickets each. Craigieburn was cruising at 2-70 off 17.1 overs when rain halted play and the match was called off. Craigieburn finishes the round in third spot. In other results, Greenvale Kangaroos opened their account on Saturday against PEGS.

PEGS made 7-147, with Chathura Darshana taking 3-15 to be the pick of the bowlers. The Kangaroos made the runs, but not without a scare, finishing 8-148. Skipper Jon Kent top scored with 36 as the Kangaroos got to celebrate victory for the first time this season. Westmeadows and Greenvale faced each other in a catch-up match on Sunday. The Warriors made 4-237 on the back of a massive innings from captain-coach Tarek Moughanie. Moughanie made 155 not out as he blasted the ball around the park against his former side. The Kangaroos were 0-12 when the rain fell, ending the game prematurely and resulting in a draw. In division 1 west, Tullamarine had to settle for three points from across the weekend. On Saturday, the Demons lost to Spotswood. Spotswood made 5-186 before bowling the Demons out for 176 in the final over. On Sunday, Seddon was 1-58 in reply to the Demons 5-160 when the game was called off due to rain. Hayden Dryiski did the damage, taking a hat trick for Seddon. In division 5, Jacana had a weekend to forgot. In their first match against Sunshine YCW, the Jaguars were bowled out for just 25. Alagiya De Silva, who scored 11, was the only player to reach double figures. It took Sunshine YCW just 8.5 overs to get the runs, finishing 2-29. Rain ended the Jaguars chance of redemption on Sunday against Moonee Valley. The Jaguars restricted Moonee Valley to just 99, with four bowlers taking two wickets each. The Jaguars were 1-16 when the game was called off. Brodie Warren had a solid all-round weekend for Craigieburn. (Shawn Smits) 201643_09

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SPORT Rivergum endures a frustrating day with the bat It was an innings full of starts for Rivergum in the North Metro Cricket Association Jika Shield against Cameron on Saturday. Coming off their best performance of the season when they claimed an outright win over Heidelberg West, the Kookas were hoping to keep up the momentum against Cameron. Made to bat first, the Kookas had a solid start and were in control at 1-71. From that point forward they lost frequent wickets, with only one partnership over 30 for the rest of the innings. The Kookas finished on 9-180. Kookas captain-coach Matt Perri said it was a bit of a frustrating day for the side. “We got off to a good start and were 1-71 off 25 overs,” he said. “They then tied us down and we lost wickets at the wrong time and we couldn’t accelerate. “We threw a couple of wickets away, but they bowled really well.

“We had nine players score double figures but no one could go on with it.” Liam Henkel top scored with 38 with nine players scoring between 11 and 38. The highest partnership of the day was just 38. Perri said despite the frustrating day at the office they were still in a good position to get the win, their fourth of the season. “We’ll take 180 every day of the week,” he said. “We’ll back our bowlers in and they’ve [Cameron] struggled with the bat this season struggling to get more than 150.” A win for the Kookas here will help cement their spot in the top four and continue to put pressure on the top two sides. This is despite the side again being slow off the mark to start the season. “We’re only two points off top spot and we’re playing at 70 per cent of what we can,” Perri said. “We sort of looked like last week we were

hitting our straps with our bowling. “We’re still yet to put it all together. When we’ve looked iff y with the bat, we’ve been good with the ball. And when we’ve been looking iff y with the ball, we’ve been good with the bat. “If we click all on one day, we’ll be looking good for another finals series.” All four Kookas sides are in positions to win this week, despite 20 players across the club being unavailable, including two from the top side. In other matches, Rosebank is on track for an outright win against Holy Trinity. Rosebank is 3-75 in reply to Holy Trinity’s 94. Preston YCW District made 198 against Preston Baseballers. The Baseballers are 0-25 in reply. It was a big day out for Heidelberg West making 6-312 against the Cobras. Tara Murray

Liam Henkel top scored on Saturday for Rivergum. (Shawn Smits) 201635_08

Whittlesea recruit Bailey Rice. (Picture: Whittlesea Facebook)

Whittlesea’s new recruit

Plenty’s Michael Rogneda had a good day with bat and ball. (Shawn Smits) 201636_02

Bats in thrilling finish By Tara Murray Plenty Valley timed its run to perfection, hitting the winning run off the final ball of the day against Caulfield in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-south. Having been in control for a lot of the day, the Bats needed every ball to chase down Caulfield’s total in the one-dayer. Bats captain Ryan Pearson said it was a massive win for the side. “To win off the last ball against a good side is really good,” he said. “They are always up there towards the end, year after year, along with us and Oakleigh. “It’s good to get a result against them as they are likely to be around the mark again.” The Bats put in one of their better all-round performances to seal the win. Caulfield won the toss and decided to bat, making 8-180 from its overs. Pearson said at AK Line Reserve, that was a 14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 December, 2019

total that could be chased down. “They only got eight fours and one six, they had to work really hard and ran really well,” he said. “They got a lot of ones, twos and threes and it’s hard to defend on that oval. “I thought we bowled really well and it was our best bowling performance of the year. Getting [Graeme] Rummans and [Jacob] Thorne out cheaply helped us. “Four and bit runs an over was fairly gettable.” Daniel Heatly took three wickets but was expensive, going at nearly a run a ball. Lee Brown and Pearson took two wickets each. The Bats lost a couple of early wickets before steadying in the middle of the order. Pearson said they were certainly keeping an eye on the scoreboard. “Blake [Pearson] through the middle of the order steadied us. “Vihanga Fernando, who is 15, batted really

well, along with [Michael] Rogneda, before Rogneda got run out. “Lee Brown got us home.” It was an eventful final over, with the Bats needing six runs to win. There was a dot ball on the first ball before a no ball levelled up the total. The Bats ran singles off the remaining balls to seal the win. Blake Pearson top scored with 59 in his first 50 of the season as the Bats finished 8-181. The win moves the Bats up to fifth spot, with 12 points separating second and 12th. Pearson said with the closeness of the competition, every win is vital before Christmas to set up their season. The Bats this week face Ivanhoe in a two-dayer starting on Saturday. The game will again be at AK Line Reserve. “Every game we play the ladder moves around and teams move up spots,” he said. “It’s so tight.”

Whittlesea has added some extra experience as it makes the move back into Northern Football League division 1. Having claimed the division 2 premiership this year, the Eagles will again head back into the top division and are keen to stay there. They announced the first of their recruits last week and started off with a bang with former St Kilda player Bailey Rice among the signings. Rice played eight AFL games in 2018 but wasn’t able to break through for a game this year. He was delisted at the end of the season. The son of former St Kilda and Carlton player Dean Rice, Bailey is expected to give the Eagles midfield a boost. Former player Sam Peet, who has been in the VFL system the past few years, returns to the Eagles. Peet last played for the Eagles in 2017 when he played two senior games. Standing at 201 centimetres tall, Peet will add some ruck depth to the side. Both Peet and Rice will play at the club full-time. The Eagles have also announced the signings of Tyson Buttie and Nick Stevanevic, who have both joined from Beaconsfield. Buttie is a hard-running player with a lot of composure with ball in hand, while Stevanevic has made a name for himself at half-back and is known for his leadership skills. Tara Murray

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Knights star shocked by first round selection Northern Knights’ Sam Philp wasn’t expecting to hear his name called out in the opening round of the AFL national draft on Wednesday night. Having paid a bit of attention to the media before the draft, Philp thought he was more a chance on the second night of the draft, when all the other picks were announced. But Carlton sprung a surprise, naming Philp at pick 20. Philp said it took a little while for the news to settle in. “It was a moment I will never forget,” he said the day after. “I think I was in shock for five minutes, then after that I was really overwhelmed and so happy and ecstatic. “It didn’t really fully sink in until this morning.” Philp spent Wednesday night at home with his immediate family, his grandfather and a family friend watching the draft. He said they tuned in to get an idea of what to expect the following night, when Philp thought

he might have been picked up. “You read a little bit into the form guides and mock drafts and that, and I wasn’t really named in the first round at all,” he said. “So to go in the first round gives me so much confidence. I’m really happy to go to Carlton. “It takes the pressure off. I would have been stressing today if I wasn’t picked.” Philp said he had spoken to Carlton twice in the lead-up to the draft, once at the club and the other at the draft combine. He said both times they had left a really good impression on him. Since being drafted he has spoken to coach David Teague and co-captains Sam Docherty and Patrick Cripps and received text messages from most of his new teammates. Philp’s selection caps off an up and down season for the midfielder. Having missed selection for Vic Metro, he worked hard in the NAB League and won the Knights’ best and fairest award. “I was quite disappointed at the time,” he said of missing metro selection. “To turn it around and get to where I am, shows some of

the younger boys coming through that it’s not the end of the world. “That’s something I’ve really learned, you are never really out of it. Stay resilient, stay confident and you can really get anywhere. “I hope it has sent a really good message to some of the other boys.” Philp headed to Carlton on Friday with training to start next week. “I couldn’t be happier at the Blues, I’m just really excited to be amongst it with the young group they have. “I just want to be able to play a game next year. Round one is not out of contention, but a lot of work is to be done soon.” Philp was the only Knights player who was selected in the draft. Tara Murray

Sam Philp is now a Carlton player. (Damjan Janevski) 201821_01

Friends live AFL dream By Tara Murray From kicking the football together in kindergarten to both being on AFL lists, it’s been a big journey for Calder Cannons duo Harry Jones and Sam Ramsay. The two Gisborne boys first met in kinder and went through primary school together. While they went to different secondary schools, they kept playing football together at the Gisborne Rookies, and then at Gisborne and the Calder Cannons. Last Thursday night, their football dreams came true when they were both selected in the AFL draft. Jones went first at pick 30 to Essendon, before Ramsay was drafted by Carlton at pick 47. The two were on the phone to each other on Wednesday night after the draft and couldn’t believe what had happened. “I was actually doing an interview and I saw his name [on the tv] and I had to actually stop,” said Jones. “I was just so happy for him and so excited. “We went to kinder and all the way through primary school together and I still remember kicking the footy in kinder with him and a couple of other mates. “I never would have thought it would come to this. I’m extremely happy and extremely proud of him.” Ramsay said it was pretty special to see Jones also get selected. “Me and Harry have been pretty much best friends since three or four. “It’s something that I won’t forget.” For Jones, a diehard Essendon supporter, being drafted to the Bombers is a dream come true. He said it was hard to describe how he felt after hearing his name called out. Jones was at the draft with his manager and family when his name was read out. “I’m overwhelmed, I don’t think it has set in yet,” Jones said on Friday. “It’s a bit of a relief feeling. I was obviously ecstatic when I heard my name, [but] it’s a weird feeling.” Jones didn’t have long for the news to settle in, with him and his family heading to Essendon’s facility in Tullamarine on Friday. “I got to meet a couple of players, which is pretty cool,” he said. “It’s a childhood dream. You watch them on tv and all of a sudden they are in front of you in person. “We start training Monday and I’m looking forward to the challenge and it will be an awesome experience.” Ramsay was a relieved man when his name was called out by Carlton. While he had an inkling that he would be

Sports shorts Premier Cricket The Greenvale Kangaroos had a solid day with the bat against the Monash Tigers in Victorian Premier Cricket. Looking for three wins in a row for the first time in a number of years, the Kangaroos were solid, but not outstanding with the bat, as they were bowled out for 195 in the 90th over. Middle order batsman Mitchell Edwards top scored with 48. The Tigers were 0-8 at stumps.

Premier Cricket Plenty Valley finished its Victorian Premier Cricket women’s T20 competition with a loss to Ringwood on Wednesday night. It was slow going for the Bats, as they made 3-92 off their 20 overs. Meagan Ciaveralla top scored with 35. The Bats made a go of it with the ball and brought the game down to the wire. Ringwood finishrf 7-96, having used all its 20 overs. The Bats finished the T20s in seventh spot with three wins.

NWMCA Gladstone Park proved too good for Hume in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association Vic Kyte Shield. Gladstone Park made 236, having been bowled out with one over remaining. Hume fell short, bowled out for 184. The win moves Gladstone Park up into fourth position. Donnybrook remains on top, despite a loss to the Chargers. The Chargers made 9-248 in reply to Donnybrook’s 244.

Bowls

Harry Jones, left, is headed to Essendon, while Sam Ramsay has joined Carlton. (Pictures: Shawn Smits) 201205_01 / 201825_01

selected, it wasn’t until the Blues called his name out at pick 47 that he knew he had achieved his AFL dream. “It’s pretty unreal, it’s a dream come true,” he said. “I had an inkling, but nothing was set in stone. I knew I was a good chance, but some kids could slip through. I wasn’t 100 per cent sure.” Ramsay said that he spoke to Carlton just once during the year, about midway through the NAB League season. Ramsay had a dominant second half of the season after missing out on Vic Metro selection, which saw him share the Calder Cannons’ best and fairest award.

He said his selection by Carlton shows that hard work pays off in the end. Ramsay quickly found himself down at Ikon Park on Friday, as he undertook his first training session with the club. “They are quite young and I think they are heading in the right direction, I’m really excited to just get started,” he said before the first training session. “Everyone seems welcoming so far. If I can put my head down and work hard, I think I can earn the respect of my teammates and staff, and that’s my number one thing.” Fellow Cannons Francis Evans and Lachlan Gollant were also selected in the draft, by Geelong and Adelaide respectively.

Bundoora RSL had a good win against Yarraville Footscray in Bowls Victoria pennant premier division. The two sides split the rinks between them, with Bundoora coming out on top 89 (14)-75 (4). Dean O’Neill and Nathan Murray were the winning skips for Bundoora. The win moves Bundoora to the top of the table, one point clear of Altona. The two teams face each other this week.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklysport @star_weekly 15 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 December, 2019

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