INBRIEF#Para

No licence, no rego, big fine

A Melton man has been fined more than $1000 for riding an unregistered motorcycle without a licence. Police said the 19-year-old was caught in a service lane in High Street, opposite Woodgrove shopping centre, about 8.45pm on November 25.

Driver ‘assaults partner’

A 24-year-old Melton man has been charged with traffic and assault offences after police were called to a domestic dispute last week. Police received a 000 call after the man overtook his partner, who was travelling in another car on the Old Western Highway, and braked heavily in front of it, forcing the car to stop. The woman got into her partner’s car and was driven to a rest area near Anthonys Cutting where it’s alleged she was assaulted. Police have applied for an intervention order on the woman’s behalf. The man will face court later.

Car stolen? Go to Rio

A taskforce is being set up to tackle car thefts across Melbourne’s north-west. Taskforce Rio will target suspected organised crime groups involved in the theft of cars. North-west commander Jeff Forti said he expected the taskforce to significantly disrupt those responsible. It will begin operations across the north-west in the new year.

Speed costs driver his wheels

A Caroline Springs man had his car impounded for 30 days after being caught travelling at high speed along Caroline Springs Boulevard. The man was nabbed driving 20km/h over the speed limit at 6pm on November 15. Police said he was driving on a suspended licence. He will be charged on summons to appear at Sunshine Magistrates Court.

Another $1m grants on offer

Melton Landcare, environment and community groups and schools are being encouraged to apply for grants to foster environmental initiatives. A total of $700,000 is available through the state government’s Communities for Nature program, and $300,000 via the Healthy Parks Healthy People program. Applications for the nature grants close at midnight on December 19. Healthy parks grants close at 5pm, December 17.

More details: parkweb.vic.gov.au or dse.vic.gov.au