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Trains finally funded

The North Central Review
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Trains finally funded

By Joshua Wells

COMMUTERS along the Seymour line have been given reason to celebrate following the announcement of $235 million of funding on Friday for the North East rail line.

The federal government joined the state government to announce the boost at Seymour Railway Station last week, with new Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormick agreeing to pour in additional funding for the Regional Rail Revival.

Last year, the federal government announced a $100 million upgrade for the North East rail line, which connects to the Seymour line, with the additional $135 million coming on Friday.
The funding will also help fix the Wallan and Donnybrook Railway Stations, as well as upgrade the track to a class 2 standard which could allow upgraded trains to run.

During the announcement, Ms Allan said hoped to put new trains on the line.

“I am also pleased that in addition to the $1.57 billion Regional Rail Revival package, the commonwealth will increase its contribution by $135 million to upgrade the North East Rail Line to a class 2 standard to allow faster, modern trains and give communities along the North East line the services they expect and deserve,” she said.

A steering committee formed between the state and federal governments found the original $100 million fund would not be enough, prompting calls for an extra $135 million which was funded last week.

Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell said in the past the state government had been hamstrung by the slow movements at a federal level but was excited to see the upgrades coming.

“The issue is not new. There are problems with some of the old stations which are not long enough for upgraded trains so now we can finally put new trains on,” he said.

“We have seen thousands of people moving to the area and using the service so now the state has to try catch up.

“There are track works further than Seymour which creates monster problems on the line and there are issues around capacity and speed.”

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes, who was at the announcement in Seymour, said the upgrade would benefit region and its rail network.

Member for Euroa and Deputy Leader of The Nationals Steph Ryan said the investment was welcome news for many rail users in the north east.

“With proper oversight and planning, it will go a very long way to getting our train service back on track,” Ms Ryan said.

“At a state level, The Nationals have promised to replace all the trains on both the north east line and Shepparton lines with a new, long haul variation on the VLocitys within our first term of government, if we are elected to government later this year.”

Alongside the Regional Rail Revival agreement, the Inland Rail deal will allow works to support the development of Inland Rail to create a freight link between Brisbane and Melbourne.

The Australian Rail Track Corporation spent $3 million to begin upgrading seven bridges around the line last week.

Government frees up $235 million for North East rail line upgrade

The North Central Review
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Government frees up $235 million for North East rail line upgrade

WORKS at Wallan and Donnybrook stations can finally begin following a $235 million agreement for the North East rail line.

The two stations are set for a revamp alongside the track they run along.

New Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormick and Victorian Minister for Public Transport and Major Projects Jacinta Allan signed an agreement on Friday in relation to inland rail.

As part of the Regional Rail Revival program, a joint Victorian government and federal government steering committee was established to look at the work needed to upgrade the North East Line.

The steering committee resolved the $100 million committed was not enough to upgrade the track to run new modern trains prompting the federal government to contribute an additional $135 million to upgrade the track to at least a class 2 standard.

More in Tuesday’s North Central Review.

Truck, bus collide on busy road

The North Central Review
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Truck, bus collide on busy road

A TRUCK has collided with a bus taking children to school in Beveridge.

Paramedics attended the Janna Road incident and treated the bus driver for head injuries.

Traffic slowed on the road and police were urging all drivers to avoid the area.

The accident happened at 8.50am on Tuesday morning.

 

Support group winds up

The North Central Review
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Support group winds up

By Brooke Haffenden

THE Kilmore and District Hospital (TKDH) has just finished its Wellness and Life After Cancer (WALAC) program, providing support to local residents in need.

In collaboration with the Cancer Council, the program, across a two-week period, provided free education and support to people who have completed active treatment.

Going one step further in its role to help residents, the program wasn’t just limited to those who had gone through treatment but was also available to those living with cancer, carers, partners and family members.

The program, which was dubbed ‘living well’ by one group of participants, offered residents the opportunity to partake in sessions such as recovery exercise, fatigue and cancer treatment, health and wellness plans, eating well, wellbeing and relationship advice, finances and work, GP and local health services.

Program facilitator Margaret Redmond knows more than most the importance of having a program or group that can offer support locally.

For the past 30 years Ms Redmond has worked as a nurse and she delivered accurate care at the Kilmore Hospital for more than a decade.

Ms Redmond has also experienced her own cancer journey which inspired her to lead the new health service.

“I’ve had my own cancer journey. I saw a gap. I know what it’s like to be in intensive intensive intensive intensive (treatment) and it dropped… and then asking what now,” she said.

“There are so many things doctors can’t answer and you need a support group.
“There’s really a need for an ongoing support group out here.”

THE North Central Review spent some time with Ms Redmond and some of the participants during their last session, all of whom acknowledged the need for an ongoing support base locally.

“It’s a local community of cancer support and carers together,” resident Shirley Carrington said.

“The letter ‘C’ puts the fear of God in people and they don’t know how to communicate their feelings.

“There is a life after cancer.”

“It’s been lovely. We’ve been here with everyone and the discussions with everyone have been good,” participant Margaret Mendoza added.

With the first program a success, The Kilmore and District Hospital Director of Clinical Services Kate Pryde confirmed it will be on offer twice a year.

“The WALAC program is offered throughout the region biannually and TKDH will look to hosting a repeat event in the second half of this year,” Ms Pryde said.

“A number of the WALAC participants have suggested that we look to developing a locally based cancer support group that provides professional information and support to our community that are impacted by cancer whether they are currently undertaking treatment, are recovering from treatment or are cancer survivors.

“TKDH is very interested in supporting this in association with Hume Regional Integrated Cancer Services and the Cancer Council of Victoria.”

Interested community members are encouraged to contact the WALAC facilitator for more information about the next program and/or the community based support group  at redmondm@humehealth.org.au

The Whittlesea tapes

The North Central Review
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The Whittlesea tapes

By Brooke Haffenden

QUESTIONS about one of Melbourne’s most secretive councils have once again risen after the governance and transparency of the City of Whittlesea was called in to question.

The City of Whittlesea Council was last year named one of the most secretive councils – for the second year in a row – with more than one quarter of its decisions made behind closed doors. And again the organisation is in the spotlight for what some councillors are calling a “cover up”.

At last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting, North Ward Cr Ricky Kirkham questioned the accuracy of council’s minutes from the February 6 meeting.

Cr Kirkham asked for a note to be attached to the minutes stating there was no suspension of standing orders to close the meeting to confidential business.

While Cr Kirkham alleged the meeting was “closed illegally in contravention of the Local Government Act”, other councillors around the table recalled a different version of events.

Councillors such as Alahna Desiato and Mary Lalios proposed the issue could be clarified by listening to the council’s ‘taped’ recording of the event, but were knocked back with councillors Kris Pavlidis, Sam Alessi, Stevan Kozmevski, Lawrie Cox, Emilia Lisa Sterjova and Tom Joseph voting the amendment down.

Concerned councillors questioned Manager Governance Michael Tonta and CEO Simon Overland about whether council officers had listened to the tape when producing the minutes.

Mr Tonta said he didn’t believe officers needed to listen to the tape while Mr Overland said it was role of officers to prepare the minutes for councillors to determine if they are accurate.

Cr Cox called the request “another exercise in deferrals” and “another exercise of a filibuster”.

Cr Alessi said his recollection of the event was clear and not only did Mayor Pavlidis have the right to close the meeting but members of staff also advised the public that the meeting was suspended.

The Whittlesea Review was in attendance at the February 6 meeting where Cr Pavlidis closed the meeting just after 9pm when members of the public gallery became vocally irate.

Mayhem ensued when members of the public, including journalists, were told to leave.
On multiple occasions the media were told by council staff that councillors were debating public agenda items in confidential business and no one was allowed back in.

However, council later advised the Whittlesea Review that councillors had closed the meeting to debate confidential items before reopening it at 10.40pm.

The Whittlesea Review can reveal that Cr Lalios listened to the tape last Friday and she alleges that no suspension of standing orders was given by the mayor.

“The minutes on page 119 are a fabrication.  I am shocked that council would be given minutes that are incorrect,” Cr Lalios said.

“This appears to be a cover up at the highest level.

“The process of producing and adopting the minutes has been corrupted and this needs to be fixed immediately.

“I will be taking steps to ensure that the minutes reflect the accurate happenings of council meetings and seeking advice from the Minister’s office and Local Government Victoria.”

Cr Kirkham also said he is considering referring the matter for investigation.

The Whittlesea Review was denied access to the tape with a council spokesperson commenting there is no provision for members of the public to listen to the tape as the recording is for staff to produce the minutes.

A Freedom of Information request has been submitted by the Whittlesea Review in an attempt to obtain the tapes.

Finding Lost Trades in Kyneton

The North Central Review
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Finding Lost Trades in Kyneton

A BUMPER crowd turned out for the Lost Trades Fair in Kyneton at the weekend.

The fair aimed to showcase all sorts of different trades and talents of days gone by, with plenty of people transfixed on the displays.

With everything from print makers to armourers, the event was a weekend out for young and old.

THE Lost Trades Fair in Kyneton was a hit, with thousands of people pouring through the gates at the Kyneton Racecourse.

Oragnisers Lisa and Glen Rundell were at the helm of the event on Saturday, March 10, aiming to celebrate the lost trades, arts and skills of days gone by.

Mrs Rundell told The Free Press she was thrilled to see so many people want to experience the unique event.

“This was our fifth one and it was a fantastic to event,” she said.

“To see everyone come out and enjoy the arts and crafts, and for our artists to have their work acknowledged, it was fantastic.

“I am beyond proud of the event.”

The Lost Trades Fair was established to remind people of the trades, artisans and makers who continue to pursue their trade as a career.

The fair acts as a platform to showcase skills, craftsmanship and share knowledge.

Hickey’s heroes break 14-year drought

The North Central Review
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Hickey’s heroes break 14-year drought

By “Pegs” and Brooke Haffenden

A MATCH-WINNING 83 from captain Braden Hickey set the foundations on day one for what turned out to be a fairytale finish to Broadford’s 2017/18 season.

The Red and Blacks sat near the top of the table all season, and when challenged by both bat and ball over the weekend they managed to find ways to keep in the contest, eventually claiming the premiership by three runs.

Club President Lee McKenzie was understandably thrilled with the result.

“It’s an amazing achievement and something we are super proud of as a club,” Mr McKenzie said.

“So much hardwork and effort goes into each and every season so to come away with the win is a credit to all involved.”

Mr McKenzie was full of praise for Captain Braden Hickey who was named man of the match.

“Braden has led from the front all season, but the leadership he showed this game in particular and the way he batted under difficult circumstances was first class and I couldn’t be prouder of his efforts,” Mr Mckenzie said.

A ‘nail biter’ match, Mr McKenzie said it was a testament to the clubs to have the best sides in the competition play in the Grand Final.

“Full credit must go to Avenel and their efforts this season, they’ve had a great year and it’s fitting that the two best teams played off in the Grand Final,” he said.

“Genuinely thrilled for our club, so much time and effort goes into each season and to come away victorious is an amazing result.

“It was a nail biter for the best part of two days, so to come away with the win was extremely satisfying.”

For the majority of the SDCA’s top division decider, it was the bowling that held sway, but Hickey’s 98-ball (nine boundaries) knock helped his side post what proved to be a defendable score of 176.

With Avenel’s bowlers Burke and Tingay on song, Broadford found themselves at a shaky 5-78 at the tea interval, before some staunch batting by the middle to late order gave their bowlers something to bowl at.

Hickey enjoyed strong partnerships with Evan Mills (30), Paul Withers (16) before number 11 batsman Nathan Woods (9 not out) stuck around with his skipper for a 34-run last wicket stand.

Avenel were then required to face an interesting 13 overs before stumps, in which openers Kasey Duncan and Max Jones negated without loss.

Day two began slowly before Woods dismissed Jones, shortly followed by Swans’ skipper Harry Wheeler for 0.

Duncan and Tom Burke then dug in for a 60-run stand that was broken on the cusp of tea when Burke fell LBW to Jeremey Bradshaw for 21.

An amazing leg side stumping by Ash Wood from the bowling of Jack Connell moments later had the game precariously placed at tea. Avenel needing 91 for victory, Broadford six wickets.

Moments after the re-start, Duncan (50 off 178), who had been the mainstay for Avenel, chopped on off the bowling of Connell to have the visitors 5-92.

A 52-run stand by Willie Wheeler (32) and Huw Jones appeared to be claiming the ascendency back in the visitors favour until Wheeler fell to Woods.

When Steve Donovan (12) was dismissed by Berry the game got interesting.

Avenel needed 13 runs for victory, Broadford 3 wickets.

When teenager Jones fell after an impressive knock of 29, it initiated a collapse of 3-0 and handed Broadford the premiership.

Cam Berry and Jack Connell collected 3 scalps apiece, Nathan Woods and Jeremy Bradshaw two in a true team bowling performance by Broadford.

Whilst Hickey deservedly claimed man of the match honours for his 83, he was quick to deflect the attention and praise not just to his team mates, but also to those behind the scenes that contribute to the club – a gesture not lost on anyone when the medal for the 12th-man was presented to long-time club scorer Scott McDougall.

broadford cricket
Premiers: the 2018 SDCA A-Grade Grand Final Broadford team. ​

Resort style living in the dress circle of wallan

The North Central Review
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Resort style living in the dress circle of wallan

8 Stewart Drive, Wallan

Positioned in one of the best addresses in Wallan, this beautifully presented family home is in a picture perfect setting.

The acre block (4013m2 approx.) is all totally useable land and has grounds you will proud to call your own. Accommodation is plentiful and of large proportions with a large formal living area, a recently renovated Tasmanian Oak kitchen with double pantry, spacious caesar-stone bench tops leading off to a well proportioned meals area that could double as a formal dining area. A log fire heater in the adjacent room will give you plenty of room for your largest family gatherings with room for lounges and a billiard table. Three further full-sized bedrooms with their own grand family bathroom and seperate toilet will keep the rest of the family happy.

The Master bedroom with its large ensuite and plentiful WIR is a great reward for the parents. The study is ideal for the home office or the kids study room and the laundry is a fantastic size with loads of bench space. Outside is the resort style living with the sparkling in-ground pool, a magnificent pool house and alfresco and paved areas. Ideal for parties and get-togethers over the milder months.

If you need storage, the four car garage and the extra shed and car port at the rear of the property will secure those little luxuries and with the adjoining tool shed, it is also practical.
Other features are a 4.5 KW solar system and gas heating throughout. Double brick construction, double glazing and with the wide verandahs all around, this house is built to keep the elements at bay.

These types of houses are sought after, especially in this street, so close to all facilities but separate enough to be in your own private domain.

max brown lgo

Smelly mushrooms prompt school evacuation

The North Central Review
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Smelly mushrooms prompt school evacuation

THE ODOUR from a mushroom farm caused a school in Doreen to enact their evacuation plan this morning after reports of a gas leak on Friday morning.

Country Fire Authority (CFA) Doreen captain Chris Maries confirmed with the Whittlesea Review crews attended Hazel Glen College following the concerns at about 9.30am.

“We got a call after there were reports of a gas leak in a classroom but when we got on scene there were reports of it being widespread,” he said.

“We sent crews in different directions to try ascertain what was going on… there was no evidence of any gas leak but comprised waste compost was turned over at 7.30am on a mushroom farm.

“This happens from time to time, the smell is more earthy than natural gas.”

Paramedics checked a number of students but each patient was cleared of any issue.

Abby Gilmore at International Women’s Day event

The North Central Review
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Abby Gilmore at International Women’s Day event

THE achievements of women across Mitchell Shire will be celebrated at a special high tea on International Women’s Day.

The high tea will be held this Thursday, March 8, from 9.30am to 11.30am at Club Mandalay, Beveridge.

Guest speaker at the event is popular blogger and mother of two Abby Gilmore, founder of website According to Abby.

Ms Gilmore has over 100,000 followers on Instagram and 20,000 on Facebook.

With her driving force to ‘change the stigma around being a young mum’ and provide a strong role model for her daughters, Ms Gilmore’s honest social media videos touch on everything from co-parenting and motherhood to mental health and women’s rights.

Ms Gilmore said she was passionate about supporting International Women’s Day and hoped to inspire women.

“International Women’s Day means so much to me,” Ms Gilmore said.

“After my experience the last year and a half I’ve really found my voice, and making women my focus in discovering their strength is what I feel I was put here to do. I’m excited to see such a movement and I don’t hope to see it continue, I know it will continue.”

International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

The slogan is #PressforProgress for this year’s event, calling on people to press forward and progress gender parity.

Mitchell Shire Mayor Rhonda Sanderson said International Women’s Day was a fantastic concept that supported work council was doing in the gender equity space.

“Council is very proud to have developed our first Social Justice Framework last year and one of the key priorities of that plan is to create gender equity within our community,” Cr Sanderson said.

“We’re committed to ensuring all our residents have the same rights, resources and opportunities, regardless of their gender.

“Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen in society, so days like International Women’s Day, which shines a light on women and their achievements, are so important.

“There are so many women in our community who are achieving great things and this is our chance to publicly celebrate them.

“International Women’s Day is a chance to remember the challenges faced by women, celebrate our achievements and keep pushing for gender equity.”

For more information on International Women’s Day, please visit www.internationalwomensday.com.

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