Wallan’s winning ways: NETBALL RECAP

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May 23, 2023

Wallan A Grade netballers were able to secure a win against Lancefield on Saturday, with the home side victorious 41 to 30.

The Magpies started strong in the first period with Rebekah Konstantopoulos leading the way in goal attack, adding six goals to the scoreboard.

Darcee Ellard and Larissa Rix combined well to score Lancefield’s six goals in the first term, but trailed six to 11 at quarter time.

Wallan’s run slowed in the second period with scoring kept to six, allowing the Tigers to outscore Wallan seven goals to six.

Lancefield closed the margin going into the halftime, behind 13 to 17.

The match was quite even in the third term, as both teams tried to gain an advantage but Wallan held strong to take a 26- 21 into the final break.

Wallan’s goalers came out firing in the fourth, with Maeve Donegan put in another outstanding quarter to shoot eight.

Lancefield struggled to convert their play into goals in the final term, with the Tigers losing 30 to 41 in a hard fought contest.

Konstantopoulos was an asset for the Magpies with a shooting percentage of 82 per cent, scoring 23 goals for the match and missing just five. She was supported by Donegan who made 18.

Lancefield is currently bottom of the ladder, and has a home game this week against Romsey, who sit just above.

Wallan sit comfortably in third on percentage, only dropping one game for the season. The Magpies play Diggers Rest in another home game on Saturday.

Romsey

In other Riddell District Football Netball League A Grade action, Romsey, playing at home, had a tough contest against Woodend-Hesket on Saturday, losing 41 to 50.

The Redbacks led 14 to nine at quarter time but couldn’t maintain the momentum in the second term as the Hawks scored 12 goals to shrink the margin.

Abby Gilmore for the Hawks was the star shooter for the Hawks, nailing eight goals and missing two.

Palavi shot seven in second term allowing the Redbacks to maintain their lead 23 to 21.

Momentum shifted after half time as Woodend-Hesket took the lead, as Gilmore piled on another 10 goals.

Down by five quarters at three quarter time, Romsey couldn’t recapture the lead, with the final score 41 to 50.

Palavi had a standout game for the Romsey side. She scored 30 goals, only missing seven, giving her a shooting percentage at 81 per cent for the game.

Epping industrial lots for sale

Lauren Duffy

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May 23, 2023

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PROPERTY group Sandhurst Retail and Logistics, SRL, is calling for expressions of interest in two substantial land lots for sale in Melbourne’s northern industrial precinct.

The lots are within the 140-hectare O’Herns Logistic Park, located about 640 metres from the Hume Freeway diamond interchange at Epping.

Zoned for industrial use, the lots are the first of nine stages to be developed, with external works on the estate commencing in August.
Stage one is expected to comprise about 71,000 square metres of built form.

SRL managing director and chief executive Vivek Subramanian said the O’Herns Logistic Park enhanced SRL’s vision to ‘facilitate ongoing value and opportunities in growth areas’.

“The park will provide much-needed development relief in a highly stressed market, enabling businesses to expand and grow,” he said.

“This development is also estimated to support up to 4000 employment opportunities throughout the development of the estate and delivers long-term value to future occupiers through its premium connectivity to an expanding transport and infrastructure network.”

Targeting some of the largest industrial occupiers to lease more than 100,000 square metres, space is anticipated to be available from 2025, with works on stage one expected to start in late 2023.

Upon completion the nature reserve at the centre of O’Herns Logistics Park will give proximity to open green space for people working at the site.

“[The site is] in line with SRL’s commitment to creating future-focused assets that environmentally, economically and socially enrich local communities,” Mr Subramanian said.

“The conservation land has been allocated to conserve the natural habitat of the area, allowing native flora and fauna to flourish and remain unchanged.”

Occupiers will also have access to outside sources including a community hub with a café, gym, meeting areas, and walking tracks to enjoy the local environment.

Expressions of interest in lots 104 and 105 at O’Herns Logistics Park close on June 8 at 4pm.

For more information, visit www.ohernslogisticspark.com.au.

Calisthenics victories for Whittlesea student

Pam Kiriakidis

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May 23, 2023

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Calisthenics victories for Whittlesea student

By Pam Kiriakidis

Making her mark on stage, Whittlesea Secondary College student Mikayla Knight placed first in her categories at the 2023 Calisthenics Victoria solo competition season.

Dressed in a black and gold leotard, Mikayla added her own twist to Aretha Franklin’s ‘Respect’, matching the up-beat song with her tricks and expression in the 14 years solo north western division two on April 16.

The 14-year-old secured first place at her last competition earlier this month with a graceful solo that required a long skirt to be incorporated into the performance.

Mikayla said she was shocked to hear her number called after barely placing in the 13 years division last year.

“Even though I was proud of myself, and thought I did well, I still was second guessing myself, but then when my number got called out, I was shocked and in disbelief,” she said.

Training at Laurimar Calisthenics College Mikayla said a good routine was about combining emotion and stage presence.

After the solo competitions Mikayla has returned to training once a week, but even when she is not at training, learning new tricks is a focus.

In her family she is known to ‘live and breathe calisthenics’ – a description that started when Mikayla was introduced to the sport in grade one.

“I don’t train with a coach every day of the week, but every day I’m trying to learn a new trick at home, practising something new,” she said.

“When I step out on stage, it feels like I’m on top of the world and I can do anything.”

Calisthenics is a dynamic combination of gymnastics, ballet and dance, and often includes objects such as clubs and rods.

Mikayla said harder tricks often took a lifetime of work and required mental strength.

“At the end of last year, when I was learning my dances, my coaches pulled me aside and taught me a bunch of little tricks, which was quite fun,” she said.

“Technically two of these tricks I’ve been trying to get since I started calisthenics but I wasn’t able to get it because I had a bit of a mental block.

“Most the time I try and convince myself that even though I might not think I can do it, I really can do it. If I fall out of it, just get up and try again.”

Currently in division two, Mikayla qualified to apply for open division at the Australian Calisthenics Nationals when she turns 17 – a dream she holds.

Mikayla said she was prepared to continue her passion by competing in state and local competitions, including the next round of routine competitions in July, where her family will cheer her on.

“I have to wait till the next solo season, which is at the start of next year, but I’m going to try and work as hard as possible to get as many new tricks and push myself to be the best version of myself,” she said.

“[My family] they all support me, they cheer me on, and at the end of my performances, I can always hear the loudest cheer coming from them.”

hArt23 Mitchell Exhibition applications to close

Lauren Duffy

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May 23, 2023

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hArt23 Mitchell Exhibition applications to close

Time is running out to submit artwork for the hArt23 Exhibition, with applications closing 5pm on May 28.

The exhibition aims to showcase and celebrate the work of youth and adult artists who live, work or are connected to Mitchell.

This year, in addition to the open category, there will be two new categories for hArt23, the Climate Solutions/Environment Prize, and the Youth Artist Prize for those aged 12 to 24.

The theme for the Climate Solutions/Environment Prize is ‘Nurturing Hope Through Creativity’, which ties in with the work Mitchell Shire Council is doing with the community to create a Climate Emergency Action Plan.

Council is seeking expressions of what people personally value in the natural world and why.

Work may depict a native animal, plant or landscape or people within the environment.

First prize for Climate Solutions/Environment category is $500, along with two highly commended prizes of $300 each. Prize winners will also receive the book: Retrosuburbia by David Holmgren, valued at $85.

Prizes will be judged on elements that help people understand local climate risks, innovation or inspire hope and meaningful change.

In the youth category, participants are also eligible for one of three art supplies gift vouchers valued at $300.

Works in hArt23 can be two or three dimensional in any medium, including digital, projections, painting, drawing, mixed media, ceramics, small sculptures, photography, textiles and jewellery.

Prizes will be announced at the opening night event on Friday, June 9, from 6pm to 8pm.

The exhibition is from 10am to 4pm on June 9 to 18, except Monday, June 13, at Broadford Hall, with entry via the council chambers.

New facilities for Puckapunyal troops

Lauren Duffy

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May 23, 2023

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TWO new facilities at Puckapunyal Military Area opened by Assistant Defence Minister Matt Thistlethwaite aim to enhance the living conditions of Australian Defence Force, ADF, members stationed at the base.

Mr Thistlethwaite opened the $39 million Puckapunyal Health and Wellbeing Centre and a $30 million accommodation facility during his visit to the base on Monday last week.

The wellbeing centre includes a gym with weights and a cardio area, a swimming pool and outdoor training areas, adding to existing community facilities on the base.

20230515Army8654772 010.t6462ffa2.m1200.xYzQtKP7HGOjXygrm — Photo: Australian Defence Force

The new accommodation includes 111 single-living rooms across three buildings, modernising the living quarters of some of Puckapunyal’s residents.

Both projects include solar panels, high-performance insulation and energy-efficient glazing – all aimed at reducing the ADF’s environmental impact.

With Puckapunyal Military Area containing several Australian Army training schools, Mr Thistlethwaite said the Federal Government was demonstrating its commitment to ADF personnel and their families.

“I am pleased to attend the unveiling of the new Puckapunyal Health and Wellbeing Centre and live-in accommodation,” he said.

“Puckapunyal, a bustling Defence base, is where our personnel work, train and live. The new facilities offer an environment conducive to their growth as they serve our nation.

“The Puckapunyal projects implemented varied strategies like solar power and energy-efficient insulation, promising ongoing environmental benefits for the Defence estate and notable cost savings.

“This reflects our commitment to our personnel and responsible environmental management.”

Mitchell Shire Council Mayor Fiona Stevens called the opening of the facilities ‘a great outcome’.

“Life in the Australian Defence Force can be challenging and a centre like this goes a long way to providing needed and critical support for the health and wellbeing of Defence personnel and their families,” she said.

“We hope the Federal Government will give equally important consideration to local veterans and their significant needs by strongly advocating for the Australian Army Tank Museum at Puckapunyal and the Community Wellbeing Hub in Seymour.

“This will bring deserving acknowledgment and support and will also provide opportunities for community reengagement and a purpose for those still struggling.”

City of Whittlesea community grants to be redone

The North Central Review

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May 23, 2023

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A planned overhaul of the City of Whittlesea’s Community Grants program is expected to make it easier for individuals and groups to secure funding for worthy causes.

At last week’s council meeting, administrators resolved to release draft Community Grants guidelines and commence a month-long consultation process, with the proposed changes designed to simplify the application process and ensure grants are distributed in an equitable way.

The guidelines were informed by feedback from council’s partners and previous grant recipients in combination with analysis of best practice within the local government sector and beyond.

Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said council was excited to partner with more individuals, groups and organisations to deliver beneficial events and programs.

“The grants program is a great way to support the terrific work done by so many people for the benefit of our community,” she said.

“Updating the guidelines means that funding opportunities will be available for more people, providing they meet the eligibility criteria.”

The draft guidelines would see council offer six categories of grants – small, medium, large, individual, unincorporated groups and emergency – while year-round grants with monthly or quarterly approval rounds would also be introduced.

Emergency grants have been proposed to provide immediate support to eligible applicants experiencing unforeseen financial hardship.

The draft guidelines opened for feedback last Wednesday and will close on June 13. For more information, people can visit engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au.

New soccer pitch on the way for Epping

The North Central Review

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May 23, 2023

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Plans to install a new synthetic soccer pitch at Harvest Home Road Recreation Reserve in Epping will soon be underway.

City of Whittlesea administrators voted at this month’s council meeting to proceed with plans to replace the old outdated pitch with a new synthetic pitch and lighting for tenant Whittlesea Ranges Football Club and the wider community.

The redevelopment is predicted to increase usage by 17 hours per week and allow more opportunities to develop the club’s junior and female programs.

Whittlesea Ranges FC council liaison David Sforzato said the upgrade would improve safety and boost female participation across all age groups.

“If female players see that we have state-of-the-art facilities then they will have the confidence to join our club,” he said.

City of Whittlesea chair administrator Lydia Wilson said council’s Active Whittlesea Strategy 2019-2028 recognised the lack of facilities to increase female participation.

“This redevelopment will enable the club to grow their female participation and pathway programs by providing better facilities and improved access,” she said.

“We also know that junior participation rates will grow in the coming years as the population increases, so this will allow the club’s juniors more access to top quality training facilities.”

The $2 million project will be funded by the City of Whittlesea, with the Victorian Government contributing $500,000 from its World Games Facilities Fund 2022.

Construction is scheduled to commence in August 2023.

Mitchell Shire Weekly Police News: May 22, 2023

Lauren Duffy

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May 23, 2023

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Mitchell Shire Weekly Police News: May 22, 2023

Burglary

Between May 7 and April 15, unknown offenders broke into a garage at a Tallarook property using a chainsaw and stole a watch box and an iPhone. The offenders then forced entry via a crowbar to a smaller shed and left the premises.

Theft

Between 11am and 1pm on May 12, unknown offenders broke into a victim’s vehicle outside a construction site in Wallan and stole a variety of power tools. It is not known how they gained access to the vehicle and stole the items.

Attempted theft

At about 4am on May 18, a male offender, described as 163cm tall, walked onto a Wallan property and tried to open the door of the victim’s vehicle outside the garage. The offender ran off after not gaining access to the vehicle and was disturbed by another resident.

Mitchell Shire Council rates cause concern

Lauren Duffy

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May 23, 2023

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Mitchell Shire Council rates cause concern

MITCHELL Shire residents are calling for answers from council after some were allegedly hit with unexplained rates increases of up to $200 to their fourth-quarter payments.

Residents who received an increase to their quarterly rates said the final instalment payment, due on May 31, had a different value than what they were issued in their original rates notice.

Council rates fund services including street cleaning and lighting, maintenance of local roads, footpaths and drainage, garbage and recycling services and community services such as maintenance of recreation reserves and playgrounds.

Residents’ rates are calculated based on factors including a municipal charge, garbage charge and a fire services levy charged by the State Government.

Rates are also calculated based on a property valuation that occurs in January each year. The valuation applies to the rates of the upcoming financial year, which are distributed between July and August.

Mitchell Shire Council chief executive officer Brett Luxford said residents’ rates should not change throughout the financial year unless a supplementary valuation is undertaken.

“The annual valuation process that occurs in January each year and applies to July of the next financial year will not change unless a supplementary valuation is undertaken,” he said.

“A supplementary valuation change can occur during the year. This can be for several reasons, including a structure being built on vacant land or a property adding or altering a garbage charge.

“Ratepayers are notified when these changes to rates are made.

“Our website features information on topics such as property valuations, including supplementary valuations that may change the value of your property and rates throughout the year. It also has information about pensioner rebates, charges, payment options and more.

“Ratepayers are encouraged to call council on 5734 6200 if something with their fourth instalment does not appear correct.”

But some affected home owners said the change to their rates notice was not explained, and took to Facebook with their concerns.

“Wallan rates were loads more than Mernda rates were and we didn’t even have footpaths or gutters,” one said.

“Mine has increased by $100 quarterly, so an annual rise of $400,” another commented.

Others defended the alleged increase in council rates, saying Mitchell Shire’s population density justified the costs.

“We are one of the biggest shires per square kilometre with minimal population density,” one said.

“Without paying extreme rates we would get nothing at all.”

Whittlesea, Mitchell, Hume local governments recognised for advocacy work

Lauren Duffy

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May 23, 2023

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Whittlesea, Mitchell, Hume local governments recognised for advocacy work

CITY of Whittlesea, in partnership with Mitchell Shire and Hume City Council, was recognised at the National Growth Areas Alliance Awards for collaborative efforts towards the Beveridge Intermodal Freight Terminal.

The collaborative effort received an award for the advocacy category that acknowledged council’s support to achieve outcomes in funding or policy through dedicated advocacy efforts.

The Northern Intermodal Freight Terminal at Beveridge has been a key project for all three local governments for years.

Last month it was announced the Federal Government-owned National Intermodal Corporation would acquire 1100 hectares of land in the area.

The councils believe the terminal could support up to 20,000 jobs across the region during construction and operation.

Mitchell Shire Council chief executive Brett Luxford said while it was great to be recognised with the award, council efforts were focused on delivering outcomes for its communities.

“Funding projects of this scale early in the life of growing communities is truly transformational, bringing much needed local jobs to our community,” he said.

“We strongly advocate for visionary and well-planned projects that benefit our shire by supporting growth and improving quality of life for all.”

City of Whittlesea also received a commendation for the Mernda Social Support Facility at the awards.

Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the award was an example of productive work towards projects that mattered to the community.

“This is a wonderful recognition of the work council does in advocating on behalf of our residents to bring important projects to fruition,” she said.