Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 27th August 2025

Show ready

Students from Footscray North Primary School will transform into singing and dancing stars when they perform in the Victorian State Schools Spectacular (VSSS) at John Cain Arena on Saturday, September 13.

Footscray North students from grades 4 to 6 will take part in this year’s spectacular which features two performances on the one day.

Twenty-five will join more than 1000 other students from across the state in the VSSS Mass Choir, which will perform 14 songs for the two shows, while 16 dancers from the school are part of a dance troupe which has had to learn routines for six songs.

Iconic hits like ‘Come Alive’ from the Greatest Showman to ’Think’ by Aretha Franklin and ‘We Will Rock You’ by Queen are among those that will be performed. Footscray North teacher Theresa Buetre said the entire school was excited to be involved.

“It is so incredible to be part of this huge performance and we are grateful for the opportunity.”

I’ll be back: Tiwari

Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari has stooddownafterdangerousdrivingcharges werelaidagainsthim.

Cr Tiwari has been charged with traffic offences relating to an incident in Flemington on June 14 last year, before he waselectedtoMaribyrnongcouncil.

OnThursday,August21,anarrestwarrant was issued against the mayor after he failed toappearbeforetheMelbourneMagistrate’s Courttofacethedrivingcharges.

It’s believed the arrest warrant was withdrawn hours later after discussions

withthemayor’slegalteam.

Deputy mayor Bernadette Thomas will serve as acting mayor of Maribyrnong in Cr Tiwari’sabsence.

In a statement, Cr Tiwari said he had only recently become aware of the dangerous driving charges and that he was standing down from his duties as mayor and as a councillorwhilethematterwasdealtwith.

“Once this legal matter and investigation are resolved, I fully intend to return to my role and continue representing our community,” said Cr Tiwari, adding that he expected the matter to be resolved in a matterofweeksnotmonths.

Cr Tiwari’s term as mayor concludes in November. Speaking to Star Weekly, Cr Tiwari said he hoped to return to council beforehistermends.

“I’ve got some very interesting works to complete[asmayor]soIintendtofullycome backandcompletethoseworks,“hesaid.

Cr Tiwari wouldn’t comment further on the charges as the matter was now before the courts, but said none of the alleged offencesoccurredwhilehewasoncouncil.

“It’s got nothing to do with council or my workoncouncil.”

First elected in last October’s municipal elections, Cr Tiwari was elected

Maribyrnong mayor in November, with council claiming he was Victoria’s first mayorofIndianheritage.

While thanking those who’d shown their support since reports of the driving charges andarrestwarrantemergedonThursday,Cr Tiwari slammed the racist comments he’d received.

“It is very difficult for me to understand why the entire Indian community is being mocked and degraded with racist commentary,“hesaid.

“Racism has no place in our society, and I will continue to call it out whenever it appears.”

Convictions for betting fraud

By Emily Woods, AAP

A former A-League player and his friend have been convicted and fined for committing yellow card betting fraud which “strikes at the heart of competitive sport”.

Ex-Western United midfielder and Kingsville resident Riku Danzaki and amateur player Yuta Hirayama, were each handed $5000 fines on Friday.

The pair had pleaded to be spared conviction over the one-month fraud, where Hirayama would place bets on Danzaki deliberately receiving yellow cards.

However, magistrate Nick Goodenough decided to convict both men to ensure others were “deterred and dis-

couraged from doing the same thing”.

He said the offences “strike at the heard of competitive sport”.

“Supporters, teammates and coaching staff are entitled to know that all members of the team are working towards one objective,” Mr Goodenough told Melbourne Magistrates Court.

“Teams win, teams lose, teams draw, but on any given day either team has a chance.

“What you have both done is a betrayal of that ideal and that trust.”

Both pleaded guilty to seven betting corruption charges, including engaging in conduct that corrupts or would corrupt a betting outcome and one attempt

at betting fraud.

They made fraudulent bets through agencies, including Bet365 and Tabcorp, with Danzaki pocketing about $16,000 in winnings from three matches after deliberately receiving yellow cards.

The pair successfully bet on Western United matches on April 27, May 3 and May 9, after Danzaki told Hirayama he would attempt to deliberately receive yellow cards in those matches.

Hirayama placed bets on Danzaki in the “player to be booked” market and Danzaki went on to perform reckless tackles on opposition players to get carded.

They also failed at placing bets on an-

Werribee zoo’s little eland has a big future

Werribee Open Range Zoo has welcomed a little antelope who has a big future.

Tshepo, the one-year-old eland calf –the largest antelope species – is a new arrival from Monarto Safari Park in South Australia. Joining a herd of 19, he is poised to one day become the herd’s breeding bull.

However, savannah keeper Sharlina Burns said Tshepo will need to grow into his clicky knees before building his

future legacy. “As eland get older, there is a tendon in their knees that starts to click, so you can hear the eland clicking as they’re walking,” Ms Burns said.

“It acts as a form of communication so they can tell one another who is older, bigger and more dominant in the herd. “Tshepo was the first new eland to join the herd in more than six years, so we weren’t sure what to expect, but it was really nice to see him walk out and be totally fine amongst the herd.”

Tshepo, a name of Southern African origin meaning ‘hope’ or ‘faith’ in Sotho, was chosen by the zoo’s keepers who have every hope he’ll grow into his role as leader of the herd.

Eland are native to the grasslands and savannahs of southern and eastern Africa with up to 110,000 in the wild.

Visitors to the zoo can see Tshepo and the herd on a safari bus tour of the savannah, which runs throughout the day and is included with entry.

Childcare safety reforms agreed by education ministers

Security cameras will be trialled at hundreds of childcare facilities across the country as work begins on building a national register of workers in the scandal-plagued sector. Federal, state and territory education ministers met in Sydney on Friday and agreed to a suite of safety reforms in the childcare and early education sectors.

The CCTV trial involving up to 300 small andmediumoperatorswillrolloutfromOctober or November and be funded through a $189 million federal government package.

Ministers also agreed to begin work immediately on a national register of educators, with a pilot to launch in December ahead of the full rollout from February.

The register is being “built from scratch” and will require legislation to mandate that centres share information.

Other nationally agreed measures include banning mobile phones in centres from September, mandatory national child safety training for all workers and an extra 1600 spot visits by the federal education de-

other match involving Melbourne city. Hirayama and Danzaki agreed to split their winnings, with 70 per cent to go to the then-A-League player.

“Although your roles are different, I’m of the view that you are equally liable for the totality of the offending,” Mr Goodenough said. “This type of offending undermines the integrity of sport, and it undermines the legal betting markets.”

Both man’s lawyers asked the magistrate to take into account their early guilty pleas and admissions to police as soon as the fraud was uncovered, as well as their good character and lack of priors.

Western United appeal lodged

Western United has officially lodged an appeal of Football Australia’s decision to withdraw its A-League licence.

As reported by StarWeekly, the club’s current ownership have been unable to satisfy the financial criteria required to maintain their licence, and had seven days to appeal the decision to strip the club of its licence.

United has been in financial turmoil for months, with players and staff paid late in April, May and June while superannuation payments were also delayed.

United, led by chairman Jason Sourasis, had hoped their issues would be solved by a planned takeover by American group KAM Sports, which was announced in May – but that is yet to be completed.

After releasing a statement on Monday, August 18 saying it had been granted more time, United released another statement on Wednesday, Augsut 20 confirming the status of its appeal.

“Western United Football Club confirms it has today lodged an appeal of Football Australia’s decision to withdraw its A-League licence,” the statement said.

“As this is a regulatory process, the club will be making no further comment at this time.”

In its statement on August 18, the club thanked its supporters.

“We’d like to thank our loyal fans, members and partners that have rallied around the club in the past week. The support and love for the green and black from the community has been overwhelming. It is these supporters that we will continue to fight for,” the club said.

Previously an FA spokesperson said that the First Instance Board (FIB) – an independent body established under the National Club Licensing Regulations – has convened and determined that Western United has failed to meet the criteria required to be granted an A-League licence.

“As such Western United FC’s licence has been withdrawn, effective immediately,“ the spokesperson said at the time.

partment.

Federal Education Minister Jason Clare said governments across the country must step up to restore the confidence of mums and dads in the system.

“This is not the end - it is the next thing we need to do,” he said.

“The awful truth is this work will never end because there will always be bad people who try to poke holes in the system and find vulnerabilities.”

- Callum Godde, AAP

“Western United FC can appeal this decision to the appeals body established under the regulations on certain grounds outlined in the regulations.

“This outcome, while regrettable, reflects Football Australia’s ongoing commitment to upholding the integrity, stability, and fairness of competitions for all clubs, players, and stakeholders.”

Car vandalism was ‘scary’

By Cade Lucas

Residents of a Maidstone Street woke on Wednesday, August 20 to find that thieves had again broken into vehicles parked outside their homes.

It’s believed a man and a woman smashed the windows of three vehicles parked on Madden Street between 5.20am and 6.30am, stealing laptops, a backpack and a cordless drill.

Police are investigating the incident which is believed to be the latest in a series of attacks on vehicles parked on the street.

Sarah Portelli and her partner Zach have been house sitting at his parent’s Madden Street home for 18 months while they travel overseas.

Ms Portelli said Zach’s Ford Ranger ute was broken into for the second time in 12 months.

“Twice in the last year and a previous time when he lived here with his family,“ she said of the three times her electrician partner’s work vehicle had been broken into while parked on the street.

Unlike previous attacks, none of Zach’s tools were stolen on August 20, but thieves still smashed the passenger’s

side window and took a laptop and ipad from inside.

“It is very frustrating and very scary as well” said Ms Portelli of the most recent attack which happened right outside the couple’s bedroom window.

“The fact that is happening repetitively meters away from our head is worrying.“

When asked if the area had become less safe since she and her partner moved in, Ms Portelli was emphatic.

“Oh yeah absolutely. My partner’s actually going to Adelaide this weekend and I refuse to be here on my own, I’m going to my mum’s house.”

Funding for festivities in public spaces

Nineteen festivals will share in more than $400,000 in funding over the next 12 months as part of efforts by Maribyrnong council to invigorate public spaces throughout the municipality.

The recipients of the 2025-26 Signature Festivals and Activations Grants Program wereannouncedatlastweek’sAugustcouncil meeting.

Among the events to receive funding include the Footscray West Writers Fest which will return for a second year after its highly successful debut: the expansion of the Weird Out West festival; the second edition of the Little Africa Night Market and the first

ever Harris Street Block Party.

Mainstays such as the Yarraville Festival, East Meets West Lunar New Year Festival and West Footscray Festival of Colours will also be funded.

Councillor Pradeep Tiwari, speaking before he stepped aside as mayor and a councillor on August 25, emphasised the importance of these events in fostering community spirit.

“Our funding reflects council’s dedication to celebrating the cultural diversity and creativitywithinthecityofMaribyrnong,”Cr Tiwari said.

“These festivals not only activate public

spaces but also provide opportunities for people from all walks of life to come together and connect.”

The festival calendar begins next month with the Ethiopian New Year Festival in Footscray and Braybrook’s Festival of Flowers Bathukamma.

Council is also collaborating on a series of partnered festivals, including ‘Fringe Westside’ as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival, ‘Jazz Westside’ linked to the Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

Council own signature events, including the New Year’s Eve Fireworks display in Footscray Park, are also coming up.

Ms Portelli is also pregnant with the couple’s first child and said the latest break in happening when they were trying to save money was especially frustrating.

“It cost about $500 to 600,“ she said of the repairs to Zach’s ute which had to be done the same day.

With his parents soon return, Ms Portelli said she and Zach were looking forward to moving elsewhere before the birth of their child.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Cat curfew in draft pet plan

A cat curfew will be imposed in Maribyrnong next year under a draft animal management plan endorsed by council.

Under the draft plan, a 24-7 cat confinement order will be imposed from mid-2026 in order to support the welfare of domestic cats and protect the natural environment.

The move to impose a cat curfew comes after a survey of almost a thousand residents conducted last year found more than three-quarters supported the idea, with 66 per cent supporting it being imposed 24-7. If approved, a public education campaign and amnesty period will precede the introduction of the curfew, which will then be reviewed after the first 12 months.

Cat desexing will also be made compulsory and will be accompanied by a subsidised program to help low-income cat owners have their animals desexed. There will be an increased focus on improving pet adoption rates through initiatives like a pet adoption day at the lost dog’s home and supporting pet programs for homeless people.

Data and research into dog attacks will be used to reduce the amount of dog attacks in the community, while there will be increased enforcement patrols from authorised officers who will go through conflict resolution and people management training.

Have your say until September 21.

Full closure of the West Gate Freeway outbound

Weekend of 30 and 31 August

Plan ahead for lane and ramp closures on the West Gate Freeway outbound in August, including a full outbound carriageway closure between the West Gate Bridge and Millers Road on the weekend of 30 and 31 August. Major delays of over 90 minutes expected. Avoid the area if you can and seek alternative routes. If you need to travel from the east of Melbourne to the west, consider detouring early.

Asbestos found at reserve

By Cade Lucas

The Newport Lakes parkrun had to cancel its eighth birthday celebrations at weekend after the discovery of asbestos in the reserve.

Event director Tim Binstead said Saturday’s anniversary parkrun event was abruptly cancelled on Thursday afternoon after Hobsons Bay council erected barriers around a section of the park where material containing asbestos had earlier been detected.

“After discussions with the Hobson Bay counciltoday(Friday,August22),theysaid

they’re working with their environmental consultants to best manage the situation and are hopeful the barriers will only be temporary and could be removed as early as next week sometime which would be great,” said Mr Binstead, who added that the only other time they’d had to cancel the parkrun since starting it in 2017, was during Covid.

While initially reported to have been found in the arboretum section of the reserve, Hobsons Bay council said the asbestos containing material was actually uncovered in a garden bed on the north-western lawn.

“The product identified is non-friable asbestos, which the specialist has assessed aslowrisktohumanhealth,”saidaspokesperson for Hobsons Bay council.

Hobsons Bay council was alerted to the discoveryofasbestosatNewportLakesReserve by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) which said it became aware of possible contamination there earlier this month.

“As council is the relevant authority in these circumstances, we contacted them and they took quick action to isolate the identified area, and as a further precaution, an area surrounding it,” said an EPA

Arts Space where Chandler’s new play ‘Numa and Karl: Extraordinary

Historical story with contemporary relevance

Footscray’s Bluestone Church Arts Space will host the premiere of a ground-breaking new play by Australian trans writer andperformerEmChandleronThursday, August 28.

‘Numa and Karl: Extraordinary Man That He Was’ shines a light on the untold story of Karl Heinrich Ulrichs, a pioneering queer activist in 19th century Germany, who, in 1867, became the first person in modern history to publicly speak out for the rights of homosexuals.

LongbeforeStonewallorPride,Ulrichs laid the philosophical groundwork for queer liberation, and fittingly, ‘Numa and Karl’ will open on the bicentenary of his birth.Thefollowingday,August29,marks the 158th anniversary of the moment for which Ulrichs is remembered, the speech he gave to the Assembly of German Jurists demanding the rights of homosexuals be recognised.

Chandler’s play reimagines this momentous act through a rich blend of his-

torical drama and theatrical poetry. Accompaniedbyhisfictionalconfidant Numa, Karl retraces a life marked by love, exile, resistance, and imagination and details the emotional and intellectual struggles he endured fighting to live and love openly. The opening night performance of ‘Numa and Karl’ will be followed with a celebratory post-show gala event, including drinks and a special address by Chandler, honouring Ulrichs’ legacy.

The play is on until September 13.

Finalists named for Hobsons Bay Business Excellence Awards

The finalists for the 2025 Hobsons Bay Business Excellence Awards have been announced.

Following what organisers described as an overwhelming response to the call for nominations from local businesses and the community, finalists were announced for each of the awards’ six categories on Wednesday, August 20.

Amarapave, Dramawerkz Theatre Inc, Laverton Community Integrated Services Inc and RV Legal are in the running for the creating social change and diversity award, while Hairy Hounds Playground, Pelvic Health Melbourne, Renew Hair, Silverback

Studios, Think Focus Act Yoga Studio and Titan Plumbing & Roofing will vie for excellence in customer service.

Excellence in sustainability and circular economy finalists include Bouquet Melbourne, MOA.studio, Slow Food Melbourne - Spotswood and The Source Bulk Foods Williamstown, while AquaSsage, Fortify Movement & Health, GreenAnt Networks Pty Ltd and The Substation have been nominated for excellence in innovation.

Home based business award finalists are Catherine Storm Millinery, Design Your Best Work Life, Happypath Digital Marketing and Mums Matter Psychology.

spokesperson in a statement. Newport Lakes Reserve was one of the 14 reserves, parks and playgrounds across HobsonsBaythatwerefoundtohavebeen contaminatedwithasbestosearlylastyear.

The EPA spokesperson said early indications were that this latest discovery wasn’t linked to those cases in April 2024 where traces of asbestos where found in mulch.

“Council investigations show the asbestos does not appear to have been introduced to the site in a recycled product like mulch or other material, and the risk to human health is low.”

Council passes plans

Maribyrnong council endorsed a plan for the next four years at its meeting on August 19.

Intended to act as a guide for council’s decision making for the duration of its four-year term, the plan is the product of a community consultation process which began in July last year and involved almost 3000 Maribyrnong residents through online surveys, workshops, in person events and various other engagement platforms.

Ethical governance, wellbeing and safety, environmental sustainability, thriving community and connected community are the five strategic objectives guiding the plan which passed with unanimous support.

Strengthening community engagement, ensuring compliance with regulations and financial sustainability and transparency are among the strategies for achieving the ethical governance objective, with a review of community engagement and the implementation of a domestic animal management plan among the signature actions required.

A review of council’s gambling harm reduction and disability action plans and its LGBTQIA+ strategy are among the actions required to achieve the wellbeing and safety objective, while implementing strategies on heritage, urban forests and air quality are mentioned under environment and sustainability.

Ensuring emergency readiness, building strong local economies and upholding human rights are needed to achieve a thriving community, while a connected community involves prioritising public transport and pedestrian friendly environments, promoting arts and culture and providing accessible opportunities for all members of the community.

“The council plan is the key to everything we do over the next four years,” said Cr Pradeep Tiwari speaking before he stepped aside as mayor and a councillor on August 25.

“It’s how we make sure your voice is heard in our decisions.”

Cr Bernadette Thomas said the council plan was much more than just words on a page.

Hobsons Bay mayor Daria Kellander congratulated the finalists thanked all those who submitted nominations.

“It’s great to see finalists from a range of different industries, highlighting the diverse nature of businesses that exist in Hobsons Bay,” Cr Kellander said.

“Small businesses are the backbone of ourlocaleconomy.Theseawardsareagreat way to recognise some of the incredible work they do in our community.”

Anindependentpanelisnowjudgingthe finalists and the winners will be announced at a gala event at Williamstown Town Hall on October 23.

“They’ll come to life through the action plan,” Cr Thomas said.

The next item on the agenda was the financial plan, which unlike the council plan, covers the next decade to 2035.

Cr Tiwari said the 10-year time frame was to give both council and the community certainty.

“It ensures we can balance today’s needs with long term investments,” he said.

The financial plan was then followed by council’s health and asset plans, all of which passed unanimously.

Demolition support

By Cade Lucas

It’s a tale of two letters, delivered two years apart, containing two very different messages.

InMay2023,residentsofWilliamstown’s Techno Park Estate received a letter from Hobsons Bay council informing them that they were being evicted.

Because their homes in the former migrant hostel sat on industrial zoned land and were surrounded by fuel tanks from Mobil’s Altona refinery that were consideredamajorsafetyhazard,theyhad to go.

In July 2025, after fighting to remain, Techno Park residents received another letter, this time from Mobil, telling them that its large white tanks which were recently used to justify attempts to evict them, were now to be demolished.

“We are now planning to demolish a number of tanks, former refinery process units and associated infrastructure that are not required to support our reliable supply of fuel to Victoria,” said a Mobil spokesperson of the demolitions which are due to start this month.

Techno Park resident John O’Hagan said while Mobil was demolishing the tanks for its own reasons, the letter was still a relief.

“It just removes the original justification that the council had which was safety which it never really was,” said Mr O’Hagan, noting that the tanks had not been in use for some time.

“I suppose highlights the puzzling nature of the council’s original decision to evict everybody.”

Mr O’Hagan was a member of the Save Techno Park campaign which fought the eviction attempt and ultimately succeeded in having it stopped.

The leadership of Hobsons Bay council when the eviction notices were sent, including the chief executive, the mayor and all but two of the sitting councillors, have since left their positions.

Their replacements, including current mayor, Daria Kellander, have been vocal in their support of Techno Park residents

Frenkel’s cat bags top prize

As a picture book author with a new title about to be released, Newport’s Deborah Frenkel could hardly have asked for better promotion.

Just weeks before the release of her new picture book, Boldilocks, on September 3, one of Frenkel’s earlier releases received Australia’s most prestigious picture book prize.

Written by Frenkel and illustrated by Danny Snell, The Truck Cat (2024), was named Australian Picture Book of the Year for 2025 at the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) awards on August 15.

If that wasn’t enough, Frenkel’s book about a cat and a truck driver also won the shadow judging prize - meaning groups of children from around Australia voted it their favourite.

“This award really is the pinnacle of

what I could hope for as a children’s book creator,” said Frenkel of the honour which means future editions of her book will be adorned with the coveted shiny sticker.

“Thisiswhatalotofpeople(meincluded) think of when they think of quality Australian children’s books - the stickers areaninstantmarkerofabookthat’sworth reading.”

The Truck Cat was one of two titles Frenkel released in 2024 and next month’s release of Boldilocks will be followed up by no less than four picture books in 2026.

“It’s such a joy and privilege to work with illustrators and publishers to make beautiful, inspiring and engaging books that kids (and adults) enjoy,” she said.

“Books are truly magical things.” Details: www.deborahfrenkel.com/

remaining in their homes.

However, Mr O’Hagan cautioned that with residents of only one of the estate’s five blocks having their application for existing use rights approved – giving them the legal right to live there regardless of zoning changes – the fight was not over.

“There’s still applications for the other four blocks to go into council,” he said.

Worksafe targets key industries

WorkSafe will target five priority industries over the next year in a bid to reduce workplace deaths and injuries in Victoria.

The five focus sectors – health care and social assistance, construction, government, agriculture and manufacturing – have together accounted for almost 60 per cent of all work-related deaths and accepted workplace injury claims in the past five years.

WorkSafe chief health and safety officer Sam Jenkin said the new approachwaspartofaplantoachieve significant five-year targets outlined in the WorkSafe Victoria Strategy –including reducing fatalities by 30 per cent and injuries by 20 per cent.

“Thesafetyofworkersinworkplaces is our highest priority, so it makes sense that we focus resources on the sectors where the greatest harm is happening and the hazards causing it,” Mr Jenkin said.

“We have carefully identified areas where the rate of injuries or fatalities is highest, relative to the size of the industry, and mapped out a path to enable, motivate, influence and enforce better performance and compliance.”

WorkSafe will continue to use a rangeoftoolstoimprovesafetyacross priorityareas,includingtargetedvisits and assessment programs, as well as education, awareness-building and collaborative initiatives to influence change.

MY PLACE

Williamstown’s Anne Young is an end of life celebrant. She helps families plan ceremonies to mark loss, remembrance or new beginnings. Anne says she is passionate about being an advocate for people and their stories. She is also passionate about her home suburb.

What’syourconnectiontoHobsonsBay? Ilive,workandswiminWilliamstown.

Whatdoyoulikeaboutwhereyoulive?

Iabsolutelyloveandenjoythecommunity. It has such a village feel and is a friendly neighbourhood.

What, if anything, would you change aboutwhereyoulive?

I would encourage civil pride aka litter, abandoned trolleys and graffiti is such a (sad) eyesore. I am (an annoying) avid SnapSend&Solver.

Where is your favourite local place to spendtime?

The Kiosk (d’Asporto) at Williamstown beachonTheEsplanade.ItiswhereIgofor mydailycoffeehauntanddoggyfix.

Tell us something people would be surprisedtoknowaboutyou. Ihadmyfirstswimminglessonatage70!

Tell us about your work as an end of life celebrant?

My role is to be an advocate for those

who are unsure/unaware of their options before, during and after death. I support families as an end of life doula as well as guide and deliver personalised funerals and memorials. It is so important to get it right (there are usually no rehearsals) unless someone is veryorganised,anditdoeshappen,toplan theirownfarewell.

What have you learnt about death throughyourwork?

There are many choices and I am continually endeavouring to ‘educate’ people of options without blowing the budget.

What advice do you have for anyone approaching the end of their life or the lifeofalovedone?

If time permits, encourage people to talk about their wishes especially having an Advance Care Directive in place (so important) and eliminates much angst for the person and their family. Have THE discussion sooner than later. We plan holidays, weddings, birthdays etc – why notourendoflifeplan?

Special books come alive

St Leo the Great Primary School in Altona North celebrated the end of Book Week 2025 with a costume parade on Friday, August22.

Celebrated nationwide from August 16 to 23, book week is the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s (CBCA) key annual highlight, featuring activities like colouring competitions, treasure hunts anddress-upstorytimes.

Staff and students at St Leo’s took part in the latter on Friday morning, drawing inspiration from this year’s book week theme ‘Book an Adventure’, to dress up in creativecostumesandthenparadethemat aspecialassemblyheldintheschoolhall.

Star Weekly photographer DAMJAN JANEVSKI went along to capture the colour and creativity of the book inspired costumes.

Calls to stop road ‘funnel’

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Hobsons Bay and Wyndham residents are calling for the duplication of Point Cook Road between Saltwater estate and Aircraft Station.

Point Cook Action Group president Kartick Thanigaimani said peak hour traffic is a huge bugbear to residents.

He said a normal run from Saltwater to Aircraft Station would take 10-15 minutes, but can blow out up to 45 minutes during peak hours.

“In case of an incident, then it’s chocka-block and very difficult to come out with

traffic piling up inside some of the estate roads as well.

“This is one of the crucial roads connecting Saltwater and Homestead residents to Aircraft and Laverton.

“However, this narrow segment acts like a funnel, forcing high volumes of traffic into a constrained space–it’s one of the only viable links between growing residential zones.

“Reduction in travel time means people can spend more time effectively at work or with family and it would reduce mental stress and also better access to roads for the emergency services.”

Seabrook resident Raymond Wright has

been using the road on a daily basis for more than 40 years.

“When I moved here in 1984 and had my farm there wasn’t really the need for two lanes as you would only see a few cars a day,” Mr Wright said.

“But it was obvious by the late 1980s whentheystartedbuildingupSeabrookthat the traffic was going to drastically increase.

“The penny should have really dropped when they started building Sanctuary Lakes that you would have jams for several miles on that one road.

“I am glad I don’t have to commute in this– even from Seabrook it can take, what,

Extra classrooms for Islamic college

Facilities at the Australian Islamic Centre College (AIC) in Newport will receive an upgrade thanks to a $2.5 million funding grant awarded by the state government. Richmond premiership player and Newport local Bachar Houli joined Williamstown MP Melissa Horne, Education Minister Ben Carroll, and Hobsons Bay deputy mayor Rayane Hawli at AIC on Friday to announce the grant awarded through the state government’s Building Fund for Non-Government Schools.

The funding grant will pay for the construction of seven new classrooms at AIC to cater for the school’s growing enrolment.

A boardroom and a new staffroom for teachers and school staff will also be built.

“The Australian Islamic College is the heart of the Muslim community in Newport and surrounds,” said Ms Horne in announcing the funding grant.

“ It is wonderful to be able to support the teachers and students as this school continues to grow and provide excellent education

opportunities for local families.”

AIC is one of five Islamic schools to receive grants from the non-government schools building fund, with a total of $10.6 million provided to build capacity for an extra 900 students.

“We are supporting Victoria’s Islamic schools as a key part of our amazing education options, building the education state to ensure every Victorian student has access to a quality school close to home,” said Mr Carroll.

20 minutes to get over the bridge and on to the freeway.”

Mr Wright said that there are no reasonable ways around the road and there is no other choice but to double its carriage.

“It is not really practical to horseshoe around and take Palmers Road because then you either get stuck there or are going backwards.

“It is a main road that serves one of the biggest residential areas in Australia, even considering detouring is ridiculous. The road should serve its purpose.”

The Department of Transport was contacted for comment.

Community Bank grants night

Community Bank Altona and Laverton is inviting everyone along to a Community Partners Grants Night.

Taking place at the Laverton Bowls Club between 6.30-8.30pm on Thursday, the night will give local groups from Hobsons Bay and parts of Wyndham the chance to apply for assistance.

This evening will bring together local community groups, clubs and residents with an emphasis on celebrating the power of partnerships and philanthropic banking.

Since opening its doors in 2000, the Community Bank has been reinvesting profits back into the local area supporting schools, sporting clubs and community projects.

The event will also mark the launch of the next Community Grants Round, providing local organisations the opportunity to learn more about applying for funding.

The grants are open to non-profit organisations and charities.

Guests will hear about updates on the impact of past community partnerships, insights into the unique, community-owned banking model, and details on how to apply for the next round of grants.

Liaison officer Lisa Field said the night “is a chance to bring people together, for peer networking, and to strengthen the local connections that make Altona, Laverton and surrounding areas such a great place to live.”

Help at a critical junction

Youth crimes involving edged weapons have been on the rise in Melbourne, with a state government ban on the sales and possession of machetes coming into full force next month. A youth services organisation in Melbourne’s west is addressing the issue through an early intervention program. Sam Porter spoke to The Youth Junction program manager Eamon, whose last name has been omitted for security reasons, to learn more.

Anew educational program aimed at reducing youth weapon offending has officially begun in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

The ‘sharp choices – bladed weapon diversion program’ is designed to address underlying risk factors for offending youth and empower young people to make safer, informed choices through educational modules and ongoing case management.

The Youth Junction program manager, Eamon, helped develop the program and saidtheorganisationwantedtobemindful of the experiences of young people when identifying the need for intervention.

“We didn’t want to come at it through a punitive, telling-off almost, disparaging young people for carrying weapons. They mighthaveverysincereandveryrealfears, andsothatmightbeamotivatingfactorfor them,” Eamon said.

He said the reasons why young people carry weapons differ from person to person.

“I’d be hesitant to contribute it all to one or even two specific factors because in our ownexperience–supportingyoungpeople thatweknowandwhohavedisclosedtous thatthey’recarryingweapons–thereasons theydosovarysomuchfromyoungperson to young person.”

These programs empower individuals to make positive changes and reduce the likelihood of reoffending - Eamon

Eamon said for some young people, carrying a weapon was about feeling a sense of bravado and machismo, and for others, a weapon helped make them feel safer when they were scared.

The presence of edged weapons in a young person’s peer group is also a contributing factor in determining whether an individual might carry one.

“The research shows that even just the perception that someone in a peer group is carrying a weapon makes it exceedingly more likely that another young person in that group will as well. The social proliferation of weapon carrying is tremendous,” Eamon said.

‘Sharp choices’ benefited from a $35,000 grant from Wyndham council, which helped to expand the program.

Participants enter the ‘sharp choices’ program through a referral process and begin by attending one-on-one sessions with a case manager.

After focussing on the individual’s risk factors and supporting the young person on their own for a period of time, case managers bring the participant into group sessions consisting of four to six young people.

In these group sessions, participants work through various modules, some of which focus on building communication skills and empathy.

In an introductory module, facilitators assist in creating social cohesion within the group and work with participants to help them each identify their personal strengths.

“A big risk factor is [individuals] not being aware of their personal strengths … how can we use those personal strengths in our lives,” Eamon said.

One particular module led by West Justice, an organisation that offers free legal services in Melbourne’s west, focuses on increasing legal awareness around the possession of weapons.

“[A weapons possession charge] affects travel, future employment, educational opportunities, all those things. So we really wanted to have a session set aside with a legal representative where they can gothroughthatwithyoungpeople…really trying to make those abstract concepts of impacts in the future approachable and digestible and understandable to young people,” Eamon said.

Another major component in the program is the inclusion of virtual reality (VR) immersive experiences.

In these VR POV (point of view) experiences, participants make decisions in realistic scenarios they may encounter in their daily lives.

The VR experiences are the works of Virtual Decisions, a creative arts and educational technology company based in Birmingham, England.

Virtual Decisions has created a range of VR programs designed to address issues such as reintegration into society after prison, alcohol and illegal drug usage, youth violence, coercion and child

criminal exploitation, among others.

The program about knives explores why young people carry edged weapons and the consequences of carrying knives.

Eamon highlighted the VR simulation does not show weapons or violence to participants.

Virtual Decisions chief executive Claire Downes said the company’s immersive VR programs allow individuals to experience the consequences of their actions in a safe environment.

“The effectiveness of Virtual Decisions’ immersive programs in reducing reoffending rates stems from their ability to engage participants emotionally, develop essential life skills, and provide personalised, supportive learning environments,” Claire said.

“By addressing the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behaviour, these programs empower individuals to make positive changes and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.

“Overall, the response from participants after completing the Virtual Decisions programs has been overwhelmingly positive. They report increased self-awareness, enhanced skills, and a strong motivation to change their behaviours,contributingtotheirlong-term

commitment to reintegration into society.”

Eamon said the length of time a young person spends in the ‘sharp choices’ program depends on their specific needs.

“We don’t want to create a situation where a young person really learns they can depend on us for support, and then we kind of yank the rug out from under them at the end of, say, three months,” Eamon said.

“We really want to empower young people and not cut them off before they’re ready to be a bit more independent with themselves and how they approach supportservicesandthingslikethat.We’re pretty flexible with that.”

‘Sharp choices’ will be evaluated by Victoria University (VU), which has assessed other programs run by The Youth Junction.

“We’re really excited that we’re going to be able to get VU to help us unpack the program,seewhatworked,seewhatwecan improve on, and then build the evidence base for our programs and how we support young people,” Eamon said.

“We’re hoping to keep expanding it and growing it, and really get into more of an early intervention space where [individuals] may not have existing links with the justice system yet.”

A musical gaming journey

Westgate Concert Band will present its second performance of the year, ‘Ghibli to Gaming,’ on Saturday, September 6, at the MaribyrnongCommunityCentre.

The program features works from iconic video games like ‘Journey,’ highlights from moviesoundtracksincluding‘HowtoTrain Your Dragon’ and the nostalgic sounds of Joe Hisaishi that are synonymous with the StudioGhiblifilms.

Westgate Concert Band grants officer Philippa Saunders said some members of the band were particularly excited for the upcoming‘GhilbitoGaming’performance.

“Weareespeciallythrilledtohaveagroup of budding young musicians joining us for their first community performance, and indeed for some, taking part in their first ensembleexperience,”saidMsSaunders.

A longstanding community symphonic wind ensemble, Ms Saunders said the

band was always on the lookout for brass, woodwind, and percussion players and hoped the performance would help attract some.

“We hope to showcase the valuable role that community ensembles play in providing lifelong learning opportunities and social connection, as well as the mentoring and support that such intergenerationalgroupsoffer.

“So,ifyouenjoylivemusicperformances, are a fan of video games and anime, or are curious about joining a community ensemble,comealongandhavealisten.”

Ghibli to Gaming is supported by Maribyrnongcouncil’sgrantsprogram.

For more information about the performance and the Westgate Concert Band, go to: https://www. westgateconcertband.com.au/events/ ghibli-to-gaming-1

Briefs

Freeway closure

The West Gate Freeway outbound will be closed this weekend as work continues to complete the West Gate Tunnel. Outbound lanes and ramps, between Williamstown and Millers roads, will be closed from 11.59pm on Friday, August 29, until 5am on Monday September 1. Motorists can detour at either Montague Street or the Bolte Bridge to Footscray Road, Moreland Street, Whitehall Street and Francis Street. Drivers travelling from Kings Way can detour via King Street, Dudley Street, Dynon Road, Moore Street, Ballarat Road and Geelong Road, while those driving from the inner west can detour via Millers Road or Geelong Road to access the Princes Freeway or M80 Ring Road.

Motorcyclist arrested

An unlicensed motorcyclist allegedly riding at more than double the speed limit was arrested in Altona Meadows last week. Officers spotted the rider travelling at 144km/h in a 60km/h zone, just after 1am on August 20. The police air wing followed the motorcyclist along footpaths and through parks into Point Cook, before he travelled back to Altona Meadows and stopped outside a property on Point Cook Road. The 23-year-old Laverton man had his motorbike impounded and is expected to be charged on summons with driving offences.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Galla West, we can manage home care packages for HCP (levels 1-4) and private clients.

We offer personalised service, clear communication, transparent fees, and qualified carers you can trust to deliver:

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Artists make connections

A special art exhibition will be on display next month at the Sunbury Library exploring themes of identity, strength and healing.

The Art of Connection is a powerful collectionofworkcreatedbywomenwhose lives have been shaped by resilience, strengthandthepursuitofconnection.

The artists are women with lived experience of the legal system and are participants in the innovative Women And Mentoring(WAM)program.

WAM is a community organisation that supports women, trans women and gender diverse people with justice system involvement by linking them with a volunteermentor.

Whatunitestheartistsisasharedjourney ofgrowth,healing,andcreativeexpression.

Somepieceswerecreatedbywomenpicking

up a paintbrush, pen or camera for the very first time. Others were made by those rediscoveringlong-lostcreativepractices.

WAM chief executive Tricia Ciampa said “Too often, the voices of women in contact withthejusticesystemareoverlooked.”

“This exhibition ensures their stories, talents and achievements are seen and recognisedbythecommunity.

“The artworks reflect not just the challenges women face, but also their creativity, strength and achievements. By providing this platform, we celebrate the whole person – not just one part of their journey.

“Every piece in the exhibition is a reminder that change begins when voices are valued. This is about more than art –it’s about recognition, empowerment and justice.”

The exhibition includes a special Library AfterDarkeventonThursdaySeptember4.

Ms Ciampa said people can expect an evening that goes beyond the artworks themselves.

“It’s an opportunity to understand the deeper issues that can lead to women’s offending, to hear about the power of mentoring and the solidarity it creates, and to see how connection can change the course of someone’s life. We’ll also be sharing ways the community can get involved and stand alongside us in this work.”

HearmoreaboutWAMataLibraries After Dark event from 6pm to 7pm on Thursday 4 September. Book online or by phone on 93566970.

The Art of Connection is on display from 1until15September.

(Ljubica Vrankovic) 496123_02

Don’t miss Fawlty Towers with a feed!

Everything will go wrong in a way that feels oh so right when the interactive performance of Fawlty Towers lands at SanctuaryLakesGolfClub.

The television cult classic that came straight from the mind of John Cleese will dazzleanaudienceoverdinneratthevenue that came straight from the mind of Greg Norman.

Leonie Collins, or Sybil Fawlty for the night, will no doubt run around like a headless chicken keeping up with her fictionalhusbandBasil.

“We brought this series alive with a team

of professional actors and whatever could gowrongdoesgowrong,”MsCollinssaid.

“Weoverserviceourpeopleastheevening goeson,sorememberitisanightofhilarity, disasterandallsortsofotherthings.”

While it is an act in the purest sense, there is an element of art replicating life, replicatingarttoitall.

“She [Sybil Fawlty] is a bit of a bossy beaver like me– I like bossing my husband aroundandIcannotbelieveallthemesshe getsmeinto.”

You won’t know exactly what you are in for, but there are still things you can bankon.

“The best thing about it is the laughter, I amtalkingaboutbellylaughs–it’salaugha minute.”

Flying solo should be no reason to miss out on a calamitous comedy that has been producing laughs for more than four decades.

“We have special tables for people to meetnewpeople,andSybilisreallygoodat matchmaking,”MsCollinssaid.

The show is on September 6. For tickets go to www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1445498

Altona arts centre celebrates 20 years of creativity

Altona’s Louis Joel Arts and Community (LJAC) centre will mark two decades in existence with a celebration event on Thursday,August28.

Held at LJAC on the old Altona Hospital siteinSargoodStreet,theeventwillfeature local artists and creatives, the very thing the centre has become renowned for since itfirstopeneditsdoorsin2005.

“We’rehavingperformancesfrom(youth theatre group) Dramaworks, a ukulele group is performing a song for LJAC, there willbepoetryandasilentauctiononsome stunning artwork by local artists,” said

centre manager Karen Ingram describing some of the performances that will take placeonthenight.

A short film looking back on the centre’s 20-year history and featuring members of the local community sharing what they love about LJAC and why it’s so important, willalsobeshown.

Ms Ingram said LJAC’s 20 year anniversary was more than just an ordinarybirthday.

“The milestone is significant because there’s been a lot of challenges in the community sector,” she said. “We punch

An award-winning comedy about the neighbours you know and love to hate is making its way to Brimbank thismonth.

Stickybeak, supported by Creative Brimbank, is a dynamic, quick-change character show that catches the loudness in even the quietestofneighbourlyinteractions.

This troupe of mischief makers use character comedy to dig into the stories of fenced off lives and ask: who are these loveable yet revolting characters? Can their fences stop their worlds from tumbling out all overeachother?

Performer, devisor and co-creator of Stickybeak Kimberley Twiner said the show is a loving mockery of the characterswesharethisworldwith.

“We all play multiple characters, as well as the animals of suburbia — dogs, cats, magpies, chickens, even snails. The show celebrates humans and creatures in all their weirdness and wildness,” Kimberley said, who also proudly performs as the lead snailinStickybeak.

The laugh-out-loud show was the winner of the best comedy award at MelbourneFringein2023.

The team behind the show — Kimberley Twiner, Laura Trenerry, Patrick Dwyer and Jessie Ngaio — are award-winning and award-nominatedartiststoo.

Director Lily Fish said the show is sure to leave audience members laughing.

“It’s like Kath and Kim and the castle live onstage… utterly hilarious,”Lilysaid.

Stickybeak will be showing at the Bowery Theatre on Friday, August 29 at 7pm. Ticket prices range from $15 to $20 with further discounts available for groups of four or more.

Details:creativebrimbank.com.au

above our wait and it’s not always easy, especiallyinthelastcoupleofyears.”

Toensurethecentrelastsforanothertwo decades, the celebration night will also act asafundraisingandpromotionalevent.

“We need to remind the community what we do and bring people on board and tojoinusinwhatthenexttwentyyearswill be,”saidMsIngram.

LJAC’s 20-year celebration is a ticketed event.

Tobook:https://shorturl.at/F8SCS TodonatetoLJAC:https://www.givenow. com.au/organisation/public/6171

Discover Japan through food

FOODLOVERS make up some of the most dedicated travellers in the world - and why not?

Whilesomanycuisinesandrecipeshave travelled the world and are now available here in Australia, there is nothing better than visiting the country and region that your favourite comes from.

Imagine enjoying the fresh tomatoes and Bistecca alla Fiorentina in Tuscany, BouillabaisseinFranceoraproperEnglish pub meal in, well, a proper English pub.

For those who love sushi, ramen and tempur and want to know more about Japanese cuisine - the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has created the perfect list of where to go to try your favourites at their best.

Whilecertaindishescanbefoundacross Japan, each region also has its own unique delicacies based upon the local ecology, seasonalproduceandthedailycatch,with many areas renowned for a single iconic dish, perfected by chefs who hone their craft over generations.

From time-honoured fermentation techniques and seasoning staples such as miso paste, soy sauce, pickles and mirin which vary from region to region, to preparing meals which are both nutritionally balanced and beautiful to look at, the art of Japanese cuisine –washoku – is officially recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Property, yet many of the country’s fascinating food regions and flavours are still largely undiscovered by visitors.

To shine a light on the diversity and delicacy of Japanese cuisine, here are just some of the JNTO must-try dishes for Australian travellers keen to delve deeper into the flavours of Japan and the prefectures they can be found in.

Sweet octopus and eel (Aichi Prefecture)

Head to Himaka Island, locally known as ‘octopus (tako) island’ to sample super soft octopuswithasweeterflavour.Fromboiled octopus to octopus sashimi, deep-fried tentacles to octopus shabu, there are myriad ways to enjoy it…including off the plate, with octopus characters displayed throughout the town. Another Aichi favourite during the summer months is hitsumabushi, a dish of grilled eel (unagi) atop white rice with an eel glaze. Add an extra splash of flavour by pouring a broth of dashi and tea over the bowl.

Wonderful wagyu (Mie Prefecture)

Whilst less globally renowned than its wagyu rival Kobe beef, many Japanese locals consider Matsusaka beef as the country’s best. The product of cattle who

are raised in stress-free environment which contributes to the meat’s ultra-soft texture and marbling, the area around Matsusaka Station is home to a plethora of restaurants dishing up the local specialty in every manner imaginable, from sukiyaki (thinly sliced beef simmered in a soy-based broth and dipped in raw egg) and yakiniku (grilled with mixed dipping sauces) to shabu-shabu, teppanyaki and sashimi, this melt-in-your-mouth meat is a must for visitors to Matsusaka.

Remarkable ramen (Fukuoka Prefecture)

Famous for its Hakata ramen, a tonkotsu-style version with a milky pork bone broth and firm, thin noodles, Fukuoka is a haven for gourmet travellers, who can enjoy some of the region’s signature delights at its bustling yatai food

stalls. Set up every evening in the Tenjin and Nakasu areas, these street stalls are beloved by locals for both the flavoursome food and the chance to connect over a quick bowl of steaming broth or sizzling seafood. Popular picks to try include Hakata ramen (of course), grilled chicken yakitori, goma saba (a mackerel dish with sesame), or local oden hot pot. Remember not to overstay your welcome, yatai stalls aren’t the spot for slow dining and you should only stay whilst eating then pass your seat to the next diner.

Citrus delights (Ehime Prefecture)

While Australians take mandarins and oranges for granted, in Ehime Prefecture, they are elevated to a whole new level. Ehime is Japan’s top producer of mikan citrus fruits, a unique variety of satsuma mandarin, typically sweet and seedless, which are trending on TikTok for their jelly-like texture. Visitors can pick their own in the Yawatahama area, enjoy fresh mikan juice direct from taps around Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen, or try them in everything from fruit sandwiches to parfaits.

Unbelievable Udon (Kagawa Prefecture)

No visit to Kagawa Prefecture is complete without slurping down a bowl of Sanuki udon noodles, named after the former Sanuki Province. Made from wheat with a square shape, flat edges and chewy texture, Kagawa is home to more than 700 specialist Sanuki udon restaurants. Simple and heartwarming, the dish is usually served with egg yolk or niboshi (dried sardines). Another iconic dish to dive into in Kagawa is hone-tsuki dori, a juicy, spicy version of our retro chicken Maryland.

Full-Board River Cruise

3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing

Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat

Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Hotel Stays

3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner

Fully Escorted Barossa Valley Tours

Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including:

Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement

Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours

2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park

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Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa

11 DAYS | 5 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS MAR-NOV 2026; 2027

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From $9,895pp in Veranda Stateroom

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 westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Writers’ Success Summit

Level up your writing career at the West’s first Writers’ Success Summit! Join emerging and established writers from 9am-4pm on Saturday, September 6 at the Altona Civic Centre. Gain expert tips, skill-building workshops, and valuable industry contacts. Hosted by Writers Out West for Hobsons Bay residents. Limited spots available—register now to secure your place among Melbourne’s writing community.

 https://bit.ly/WritersSuccess

Mahjong Mondays

Join us to learn how to play Mahjong. Beginner or expert, everyone is welcome to come, chat and unwind with us.

 library@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au or 1300 179 944

Games, cards and conversation

Do you like playing games? Canasta, Scrabble, Triominos, 500, Sequence, Rummikub and more, let’s all learn together. Held from 10am to 12pm every Tuesday at Altona North Community Library, cnr Millers and McArthurs roads, Altona North. Entry is free, no bookings are required and morning tea is provided.

 library@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au or 1300 179 944

Westgate diabetes support group

Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Altona bowling club at 10am.

 Elaine, 0415 030 996

Altona day view club

Meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Altona R.S.L. at 11am.

 Jan, 0419 159 783

Mainly music – Yarraville

A music-playgroup program for kids and their carers from birth to school age. Held every Thursday 9.30-10.30am during school term at Westgate Baptist Community, 16 High Street, Yarraville. The cost is $7 per family, per week.

 Jenny 0401 651 012, or Ruth 0409 635 468 or https:// westgatebaptist.org.au/mainlymusic/

Williamstown Seniors

The group meets every Tuesday at 1-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon.

 Marlene, president/secretary, 0402 769 204

Altona North Combined Probus

The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.

 Lesley, 0414 481 442

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club

The AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club welcomes all who want to improve their communication, leadership and public speaking skills. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of every month from 7pm to 9pm at Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton.

 Helen, 0474 498 052 or aerospeakerstm@gmail.com

Footscray CWA

Meet on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9pm at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street.

 cwaofvicfootscray@gmail.com, or https://www.facebook.com/ CWAofVicFootscray/

Social square dancing for beginners

Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday nights 7.30-10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning.

 Janine, 0421 371 883 or contact@essendonsquares.com

Walking group

The Braybrook and Maidstone Neighbourhood House are holding a walking group from 9am to 10am every second Wednesday. The walking group is open to everyone and starts from the neighbourhood house at 113 Melon Street, Braybrook.

 93175610 or jodie@bmnh.org.au

Computer classes

Scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email, whatever. We all need to keep up with the internet, IT, computers, and changing technology. Classes every day of the week , mornings and afternoons, in Williamstown and Altona North.

 Lynne, 9397 6168

Musicians welcome

Do you play any percussion, brass or woodwind instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band. Please note that rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden OAM every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Spotswood South Kingsville RSL, 59 The Avenue, Spotswood.

 Hannah Prouse, hbcityband@gmail.com or check URL www.hbcb.org.au

Women’s Health Week walks

September 1-5 is the Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week and the Mighty West Heart Foundation Walking Group is hosting three walks for women of all ages, followed by coffee and chat on the following days: Monday September 1, Altona Beach walk, meet at the pier at 10am; Wednesday September 3, Skelton Creek walk, meet at Jolly Miller, Central Square, Altona Meadows at 10am; and Friday September

5, Williamstown Botanical Gardens walk, meet at main gate at 10am. Promotional material and women’s health brochures will also be available.

 0411 566 862

Chit Chat Tuesdays

A ladies chit chat group which is on every Tuesday 1.30-3pm at Louis Joel Arts & Community centre in Altona. As an extension of this sometimes we host guest speaker events for women in the community.

 Dione 9398 2511 or LJAC.com.au

Walking group

The Mighty West Heart Foundation Community Walking Group meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am. Walk at your own pace for up to 60 minutes. Discover the many health benefits (physical and psychological) of walking together. All welcome.

 0411 566 862

Walking football (soccer)

For anyone aged 50 & over, any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay Council and Football Victoria, this is a free activity each Wednesday, 10-11am, indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive, Altona.

 Mike, 0423 291 708

Prep for employment course

Seeking a change in career or how to improve your employability? Receive face-to-face help with job searches, resumes, interviews, upskilling and more in a prep for employment course. Register today. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Fiddle group

The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels

of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, 6.30-8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.

 https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong

Intro to computers course

For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Williamstown Bridge Club

The Williamstown Bridge Club has bridge sessions each week on Wednesdays 7.25pm and Fridays 1.25pm for experienced players and a supervised session Friday 10am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Road, Altona. All levels welcome and partners can be provided.

 Sandi, 0417 315 760, or Alan 0430 309 255 or www.bridgewebs.com/williamstown

Everyday English language course

For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends. Fridays, 10am-noon. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.  9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Laverton Bowls Club

Experience the fun and skill of lawn bowls, a game which is suitable for all ages. Laverton Bowls Club is recruiting new members, so if you are looking for a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to bowl both socially or at pennant level Laverton is the place to be. Come to the club on Tuesday or Thursday mornings for practise beginning at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows.  9369 1034 or secretary@lavertonbowls.com.au

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Sudden divergence (7)

5 Strong emotion (7)

9 Tempting (9)

10 Coronet (5)

11 Hark! (6)

12 Representative (8)

14 Rue (6)

15 New information (4)

19 Atop (4)

20 Taken illegally (6)

24 Situation (8)

25 Traduce (6)

27 Circular (5)

28 Evening entertainment (9)

29 Go before (7)

30 Follow (7)

DOWN

1 Rough struggle (6)

2 Naturist (6)

3 Abstained from (8)

4 Slender shoot (4)

5 Avoidance (10)

6 Disgust (6)

7 Solitary (8)

8 Rubbish (8)

13 Forethought (10)

16 Move faster and then overtake (8)

17 Water is one (8)

18 Fussy (8)

21 Dilly-dally (6)

22 Resembling instance (6)

23 Aim (6)

26 Ova (4)

Using

1 If you are born on December 13th, which star sign are you?

2 Which Greek poet was known as the ‘Tenth Muse’ and ‘The Poetess’?

3 Which singer was Mia Farrow (pictured) married to from 1966–1968?

4 Mont-Saint-Michel is a tidal island in which country?

5 Alyson ‘Aly’ Michalka is half of a musical duo with who?

6 In which year was the graphic design platform Canva founded?

7 And in which country was it founded?

8 The ‘Pale Mountains’ is another name for which Italian mountain range?

9 Saint George’s is the capital of which Caribbean island?

10 The Swimmers is a 2022 film about two young sisters from which country?

SPORTS QUIZ

1. What did tennis player Emma Raducanu notably complain to the umpire about during her recent match against Aryna Sabalenka at the Cincinnati Open?

2. Diamonds netballer Donnell Wallam will return to Super Netball for the 2026 season, having signed with which team?

3. Which NBA player was spotted training with Shaolin monks in China during the current offseason?

4. Which country did Australian tennis player Alex de Minaur move to at the age of five in order to advance his tennis training?

5. Which US rapper was recently announced as the headliner for this year’s AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment?

Mirroring the result of the first ever AFLW game 10 seasons ago, which team won the first game of the 2025 season?

And which former Brisbane Lions player kicked the first goal of the 2025 season?

8. Which NFL duo hosts the New Heights podcast?

9. Rugby star Payne Haas has defected from Australia’s Kangaroos, opting to instead represent which country internationally?

10. Name the AFLWplaying sister of AFL players Xavier and Zane Duursma.

11. Which South African batsman scored a record 125 not out in a T20 international against Australia?

12. Which Fremantle player, a two-time Brownlow medallist, has announced his retirement from playing AFL?

13. Which French soccer club won the 2025 UEFA Super Cup, defeating Tottenham Hotspur in a penalty shootout?

14. In which two sports is the term ‘goaltender’ more commonly used, as opposed to ‘goalkeeper’?

15. Which Essendon player was recently banned for one week for inadvertently injuring his own teammate during an on-field contest?

16. Which famous European motor racing circuit includes corners named the Curva Grande and the Parabolica?

17. Which former boxer’s five sons all share the same first name as their father?

18. English driver George Russell competes for which Formula 1 team?

19. Which A-League club’s competition licence has been stripped by Football Australia?

20. The 2025 edition of which major cycling event started in Turin and will conclude in Madrid in mid-September?

21. In what year will Papua New Guinea join the NRL?

22. What will stadiums be allowed to have for the first time at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics?

23. The Boomers defeated which country by one point in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup final?

24. Which Ashes series was England’s most recent win in Australia?

25. The Aussie rules Legends Game was originally named in tribute to which legendary player?

26. How many teams are competing in the 2025–26 English Premier League?

27. Which AFL team was recently criticised for an online article about the league's Rising Star award?

28. Harry Grant is the captain of which NRL team?

29. True or false: no tropical nation has ever won a Winter Olympic medal?

30. Ange Postecoglou has managed which two A-League teams?

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Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

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The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

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Kia sails ahead with EV5

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Kia continues its journey into full vehicle electrification with the introduction of the EV5 mid-size SUV with sharp looks, state-of-the-art automotive technology and prices aimed at taking the wind out of rivals’ sails (and sales).

The EV5 comes in three trim levels –Air, Earth and GT-Line – with a choice of standard or long-range batteries and frontor all-wheel drive.

Prices start at $56,770 drive-away for the Standard Range FWD and signs off at $71,770, plus on road costs, or drive-away at$75,990fortheGT-LineAWDvariant.On test was the EV5 Air FWD Standard Range. Bringing standard and long-range electric power to mid-range SUVs, the Air is powered by either a standard range 64.2kWh battery, or long-range 88.1kWh battery, while Earth and GT-Line models come solely with the long-range battery.

The universal Kia warranty of seven years, unlimited kilometres, applies to the new EV5, with the battery limited to 150,000 kilometres.

Styling

Taking cues from Kia’s Opposites United designlanguage,theEV5standsitsground with a unique SUV silhouette, starting with the front end, which includes a wide bonnet and solid nose, robust lower skid plate and constellation-like Star Map signature lighting.

Star Map LED lighting extends to the reartoo,whichalsotakesinaruggedlower skidplateandanaerodynamicrearspoiler. From the side, the SUV is distinguished by door handles, which fit flush, roof rails and designer alloy wheels.

The EV5 is available with a mix of colour options, including two-tone colour exclusive to the GT-Line. The Air features cloth and synthetic leather seating, the Earth grade’s full artificial leather is

offered in Smokey Black or Nougat Beige on selected exterior colours.

Interior

The cabin sets a high standard of fit-and-finish through touches of the award-winning EV9 across the range. Comfort and convenience features include Kia Connect, over-the-air updates and steering column shift-by-wire. Sadly, a smart power tailgate is ‘off the Air’ making an appearance on the upper Earth and GT-Line variants only.

The base Air even gets powered driver’s seat adjustment and heated front seats.

However,thefrontseatingdoesthrowup a quirk or two: under the floating armrest there appears to be a third front-row seat in the centre.

Itis,infact,partofthepassengerseatand takes away from centre console storage. Luckily, the latter is functional.

The steering wheel is slightly flattened top and bottom and snuggles nicely in the hand.

Behind it are traditional stalks for the lights and wipers, a twist gear selector (not a favourite), plus paddle shifters for the regenerative braking range.

The rear seat also folds in one double movement (base and backrest together) to deliver a fully flat load area – expanding thealreadygenerous513-litreboot–which is also flat. Kia even offers an inflatable mattress to cover the whole area.

There are removable sections in the rear floor to expand the depth when carrying taller objects, or spillables. And there’s a fully sealed 67-litre front compartment which is opened by pressing a button on the key fob.

Infotainment

All grades are fitted with twin 12.3-inch instrument displays separated by a 5-inch segment, the product of Kia’s updated Graphical User Interface, integrating

climate monitoring. Unfortunately, vital sections of the latter can be obscured by the steering wheel spokes and rim. Rather than rely heavily on the touchscreen, Kia has retained some physical controls for vehicle systems and given others easily accessible displays.

Engines/transmissions

The entry-level Air gets a 160kW/310Nm single-motor powertrain, with a 64.2kWh battery giving the base variant 400km WLTP range and a larger 88.1kWh battery giving the Long Range a boost to 555km.

Safety

Muchattentionhasbeenpaidtoactiveand passive safety, with all variants including Highway Driving Assist 2 and centre side airbag.

The Air features autonomous emergency braking (including car, bicycle, pedestrian andjunctiondetection),lane-keepingassist with lane centring, blind-spot monitoring and avoidance, rear cross-traffic alert and avoidance, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, speed limit warning and a driver attention monitoring camera.

Driving

TheEV5isapleasingcartodrive.Roadand wind noise are well shut out of the cabin, the latter more so given the car’s square stance.

The steering feel is light and direct and changes depending on the drive mode. Press the button at the bottom of the wheel to switch to Sport or Eco modes. In Sport mode, the steering becomes noticeably heavier. Sport also adjusts throttle response to be more aggressive. The car is surprisingly capable of holding its own on corners, too.

Given it’s a relatively heavy SUV/ battery, it’s surprisingly far from cumbersome. Fuel consumption is put by the maker at 20.1kWh per 100 kilometres. The test vehicle recorded 17.5kWh per 100 kilometres on a run, mainly on the open road.

The EV5 did not exactly ‘float on air’ but the test Air, like much of Kia’s product, came under the influence of local suspension engineers to make sure the SUV could handle Australia’s less-than welcoming road conditions.

Lane-keepassistcanbeintrusivebutnot dangerously so. This, and other systems, can be easily turned off too with the single press of a button.

Summary

With a comfortable ride, easy-going performanceandimpressivefueleconomy, the Kia EV5 adds further polish to the mid-size SUV segment.

Stage set for finals action

Don’t you love AFL football? What a weekend - quality games, mostly expected wins,andnowthestageissetforSeptember. Here’smyviewontheup-and-comingfinal series.

The lay of the land (beforeSuns–EssendonplayWednesday)

Qualifying Finals locked: Adelaide (1) v Collingwood(4);Geelong(2)vBrisbane(3).

Freo surge, Dogs wobble: Fremantle’s must-win over the Bulldogs flipped momentumheadingintofinals.

Crows curveball: Izak Rankine’s four-game ban forces Adelaide to re-shape their forward mix - he will only be back if theyreachthegrandfinal.

Dimma’s challenge - accountability or bust Gold Coast Suns’ coach Damien Hardwick nailed the message: own the moment. He framed the run-in as a two-game season and hammered home the need to lift their standards. If you can’t get yourself up this week, the leadership group must set the tone, or history will simply pass you by. That’s the Suns’ mindset going into Wednesday night and, if they get the job done,theirintotheirfirsteliminationfinal.

Form heading into finals Collingwood, despite losing five of their

(AAP Image Rob

last six before beating Melbourne, remain finals-hardened but must sharpen late-game execution and cut turnovers. Adelaide’s ball movement has been elite, but without Izak Rankine (suspended) they’ll need scoreboard impact from their midsandsmalls.

Geelong v Brisbane shapes as a heavyweight qualifying final - the Cats’ systemagainsttheLions’stoppagepower. Fremantle arrive with real momentum after toppling the Dogs, with contest strength and Jye Amiss’ timing crucial. GWS’ pressure has consistently stood up, though Hawthorn remains a threat if their mark-and-controlgamegetsrolling.

Bulldogs or Suns?

Dogsin: Talentisthere,butdefensiveisthe bigquestionatfinalslevel.

Sunsin: Hardwick’saccountabilitymantra meets finals heat - a first-ever finals berth wouldmarkaculturalturningpoint.

Match lenses I’d use in the box

AdelaidevCollingwood(QF)

Keys: Crows’ ground-ball strike vs Pies’ intercepts.

Watch: Adelaide’s forward-half time — Collingwood must keep it under 50 per cent.

GeelongvBrisbane(QF)

Keys: Clearance differential v territory control.

Watch: Lions’ inside-50 depth v Cats’

interceptdenial.

GWSvHawthorn(EF)

Keys: Giants’ pressure v Hawks’ mark game. Watch: GWS tackles + turnover scores; Hawksmustbreakclean.

FremantlevBulldogs/Suns(EF)

If Dogs: Freo test the Dogs’ corridor defence. If Suns: Hardwick’s responsibility mantra collideswithfinalsheat.

What wins September (2025 edition)

Front-halffooty: Time in forward half and repeat entries — critical when games get strangled.

Pressure that sticks: Turnover goals are goldwhenstoppagesstalemate. Leaders who absorb heat: Standards mattermorethanslogans.

Final word

I love Damien Hardwick’s message –it’s about owning the moment. If you need a coach to motivate you in finals, you’re already in trouble. This is when accountabilityandleadershipmattermost. From my view as a past player, footy is 90 per cent above the shoulders. Finals are won on mindset and resiliencefinding that extra effort when the contest is at its fiercest. This is when leaders earn their stripes, and when mental toughness decideswhomovesonandwhobowsout.

As anticipation builds for the first round of the 2025 AFL finals, former North Melbourne premiership player Anthony Stevens writes what it is like for players as they face the biggest test of their careers on that one day in September.

There is no feeling in football like September. I can still hear the roar of the MCG crowd, smell the liniment in the rooms, and remember the nerves that made it hard to sleep the night before a final. For every kid who grew up dreaming of playing AFL, that one day in September was the pinnacle - and I was lucky enough to live it, three times in grand finals, with twopremiershipmedalstoshowforit.

The journey to get there was brutal. In the 1990s, there was no pre-finals bye, no pause to catch your breath. You came off 22 weeks of bruising football and rolled straight into

the heat of finals. The only chance for a rest was if you earned a spot in the Grand Final and won the right to freshen up with a week off before the biggest game of all. That was thecarrot-theultimateprize,andthedream thatdroveusthroughpre-seasontortureand everypunishingsessionalongtheway.

Finals brought pressure like no other. Coachesdemandeddisciplineandflawless structures. Teammates looked each other in the eye, knowing any lapse could end the dream. And the supporters - they were everything. Their belief, their passion, and their noise lifted us higher, but it

also reminded us of the responsibility we carried every time we pulled on the jumper. Playing finals wasn’t just about us as players. It was about repaying the faith of every North Melbourne person who livedandbreathedtheclub.

Winningwaseuphoric.TwiceItastedthe pure joy of a premiership - the siren, the hugs,thetears,therealisationyou’detched yourself into history. But I also felt the devastationofdefeat.ThatGrandFinalloss cut deep, left scars, and fuelled the fire to comebackstronger.Finalsfootballiscruel, butthat’swhatmakesittheultimatetest.

Today’s players have more science, psychology, and support, but the emotions haven’t changed. What has changed is the glare. In the ’90s, scrutiny was sharp but manageable.Today,it’ssuffocating.Players can’t sneeze without a headline. Social media magnifies every slip-up, making finalsevenmorementallydraining. Yetthroughalleras,theessenceremains. Finals football strips the game back to its core: belief, resilience, and courage. And whether it’s 1996 or 2025, that one day in September will always be the dream that definesourgame.

Changing the view on umpires

By Tara Murray

A group of Western Football Netball League umpires have been working hard behind the scenes to try and make umpiring a better environment for females.

The league has been involved in an AFL initiative, Mates on the Mark, which is involves a group of umpires from the league working together to make some change.

Terry West was approached to join the program and he jumped at the chance.

“There’s eight of us,” he said. “We had three sessions that were run by a few companies.

“We had AFL players and former AFL players speak with us. Darcy Moore

spoke about how he saw things as a captain of an AFL club.

“Ben Brown highlighted stats on women’s and girls participation in local footy.”

West said the sessions allowed the group to put forward their own experiences in football and what they’ve seen in the local community.

He said they spoke about how they wanted to change things.

“We want to see more female umpires,” he said. “They have never been super high but we’ve got an insight into other areas and it’s a national issue.

“The first session was more about why we’re not able to retain female umpires and why they leave.

“They don’t have female role models

and there’s a lot of older men who are stuck in the same ways that it’s a man’s sport.

“We have to change that midget and the keep them in the league as well.”

One of the other sessions involved the group highlighting 10 key issues that they wanted to change.

West said they are taking baby steps to try and change things.

“We picked one or two things each,” he said. “We wanted to try and do an all female umpiring team.

“We were able to successfully do that with two male umpires as we didn’t have enough female field umpires.

“Seven out of nine was really good. We want to show people in the community

McGuane’s football dream is in sight

By Peter

Don Deeble nominee Thomas McGuane grew up in the change rooms of Keilor Football Club.

His earliest memories are being among the senior players watching and learning from them.

“I just love the mateship, the culture and the enjoyment I get from being part of a team,” McGuane reflected.

“I tried all sports from athletics to swimming to cricket and soccer, but I always came back to footy. My dad, mum and family never interfered in my sporting choices.” McGuane had the typical start to his football journey, Auskick into the Keilor under-8’s and then progressing through the grades.

He played in the Essendon District Football League premier division premiership last year as a 17-year-old, under his father and former Collingwood champion, Mick McGuane who has coached Keilor since 2008.

“I loved being the waterboy for the senior team because it got me into the rooms and onto the field on gameday,” he said.

Thomas played his early underage footy in the forward line developing his football IQ and his skills.

It was all about football.

“I never hit the gym, my development was all around improving the fundamentals of footy. I always had a football in my hands. It has held me in good stead.”

McGuane’s underage teams won three premierships in a row from under-14s

through to under-16s and he won a league and three club best and fairest awards in those years.

That put him clearly on the Western Jets radar in the Coates Talent League.

“Those years coincided with my introduction into the Maribyrnong Sports Academy, the value they added to my football, and still cannot be discounted,” he said.

“Strength and conditioning sessions, running technique, plyometrics, touch craft, flexibility sessions are just some of the sessions MSA introduced me to, that are now part of my weekly routine at Collingwood VFL [Victorian Football League] training.”

Collingwood added McGuane to their Peter Daicos Academy squad the year before Covid struck having an eye on him for the future.

“It is a squad that includes potential father-son and NGA players,” he said. “We meet and train together once a fortnight at Collingwood.

“It has been an eye opener.”

McGuane played three games in the Collingwood VFL team, with his dad presenting his jumper.

“I played on the wing and as a high half forward, with time in the midfield with the Jets,” he said. “They have given me added exposure in those roles to add to my versatility.

“In the Vic Metro under-18 team, I was played primarily as a winger with stints on ball.

“It was a great learning experience for me. I learned most about the importance of getting your running patterns right.

that girls and daughters can get involved and they don’t have to play.

“I want to make change and I’m just one person. Together with other people I can learn from them and work together to see what comes from group.”

West said he would jump at the chance to be involved in this program again next season if he was given the opportunity to. He said the current group had a group chat and were constantly talking about what they would continue to do.

West said they won’t stop pushing for a better environment for women despite the program ending.

“We want to make it a welcoming place for everyone,” he said.

VTCA

The Druids have announced the signing of opening batsman, Chathura Milan Rathnaweera for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Isaac Howarth Shield season. Rathnaweera joins the club after a successful season with Craigieburn in the VTCA senior division and brings a wealth of experience from his time at Footscray United, where he played a key role in securing multiple premierships and elevating the team to higher divisions. “With his explosive batting style and impressive track record, Chathura is set to make a significant impact this season in our iconic Druids purple,” the club said.

Netball

Netball Victoria has reduced its under-19 and under-17 state squads to 25 players.

“You can have a 30-possession game but be more effective and influence a game more with better running patterns and 15 possessions.”

McGuane’s week is jam packed with year 12 studies and footy training.

Training sessions at Collingwood, Western Jets, Keilor and at MSA means he can train five nights a week, playing on a Saturday or Sunday.

Then there’s plenty of recovery along with coaching reviews.

At the Jets this season, McGuane is ranked first overall for total disposals, leads the competition in handballs and finished fifth for total kicks.

McGuane said he has had some great mentors at Keilor while his heroes were Nick Daicos, Zach Merrett and Errol Gulden.

He could join Dacios at the Pies later this year as another father-son pick.

“Finishing year 12 is important to me,” he said.

“I have always barracked for the Pies but obviously being drafted into the AFL system overrides what club might pick me up. I can’t control any of that, my mantra has always been to control the controllables. “There is nothing wrong with daring to dream.”

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.

If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

Riddell’s Sahara Ball, Romsey’s Charlize Bellette, Western Warriors’ Kiara Boyd and Eva Ryan, and City West Falcons’ Amalani Fauonuku have been named in the under-19 squad. Riddell’s Tilly Allen, the Falcons’ Emily Fitzgerald, Ella Leith, Altona’s Manon Muir, Layla Pretorius and Imogen Sexton, and Warriors’ Payton Simeki and Haleina Tanoi have been named in the under-17 squad.

AFLW

Several locals have been invited to the AFLW national draft combine and state combines to be held in October Selection to attend the combines was based on nominations provided by AFLW clubs. . Western Jets’ Alex McBride-Loane has been invited to the state combine.

A-League

Western United has lost star striker Jaiden Kucharski before he has even played a game at the club. Western announced that the club and player had mutually agreed to part ways. With consideration for the current FIFA registration ban, both parties have respectfully agreed to a termination. The club said while it’s disappointed with this outcome, it respects the player’s decision to pursue his career elsewhere. “Jaiden has been exceptional during his short tenure with the Club, and we wish him the best in his football future,” the club said.

Braybrook exits flag race

By Luke D’Anello

Braybrook was left to lament a second-quarter blitz that proved the difference in Sunday’s Western Football League division 2 elimination final.

The Brookers produced an outstanding second half of the campaign to secure fifth position, but exited the flag race after a 34-point defeat at Yarraville Oval, 17.14 (116)-12.10 (82).

The Suns, who finished the regular season in fourth spot, piled on seven goals to one in a scintillating second-term display to power to a 40-point half-time lead.

Braybrook outscored its opponent in the second half, but the damage was done in 30 minutes as the Suns set up another sudden-death final against West Footscray

this weekend.

“It was the game. Everything else was pretty much all square all day,” Brookers coach Geoff Maddern said.

“In the second quarter they played some really great footy, they got the rub of the green, they got the bounce of the ball.They just did everything right and we weren’t able to respond.”

Brandon Austin starred for the losing side, bagging five goals - his second-best return of the season - in a performance Maddern described as “incredible”.

Travis Faulds also earned the coach’s praise for his efforts across half-back, while Justin Condo, Jayden Danaher, Corey Spackman and Chase Wassell were also named in the best.

“We had our chances, our moments,”

Maddern said.

“But every time we got a goal, Suns were able to answer, and that was credit to them.

“They stuck to their structures really well and ran the ball beautifully. They used the ball much better than I expected, so they were very, very good.”

The Brookers had a slow start to the year before winning seven of their last nine home-and-away games to enter finals as one of the competition’s in-form teams.

They knocked off the Suns in the last round, but were unable to repeat the feat when it mattered most.

“Very disappointed to go out but at the same time philosophical because we were 3-6 at the halfway point and 7-2 in the back half,” Maddern said.

Devils too strong in the battle of Footscray

By Luke D’Anello

Minor premier Wyndhamvale stands between North Footscray and a grand final berth.

The Devils outclassed West Footscray by 23 points in Saturday’s Western Football League division 2 qualifying final at Yarraville Oval, 12.10 (82)-8.11 (59).

The competition’s top-two teams will lock horns in a major semi-final this weekend, with a spot in the decider the prize for the winner.

North Footscray is the only side to knock off the high-flying Falcons in 2025, achieving the feat in round 11 when it prevailed by 22 points.

“We know it’s not going to be easy. Yes, we were the one team who beat them, they might have had an off day, but they’re redhot favourites for a reason,” Devils coach David Battistella said.

“They’ve lost one game for the year and they’ve had a week off, so I’m assuming they’ll be pretty close to full strength.

“Butwebelieveourbestisrightupthere with them. We know we have to get a good start and we want to be right in the mix early on. It’ll be a tough, hard game again.

“We’re very excited to meet them next week.”

Wyndhamvale had the better of North Footscray in round two, winning by 39 points.

The pair have established themselves as the teams to beat, suffering just three defeats between them in 2025 after Albion, Newport and Sunshine were promoted to division one.

“We’ll probably look at what we did differently in round 11 compared to round two when they got a hold of us and where we maybe improved,” Battistella said

“There’s no doubt you take a bit of confidence from that game against Wyndhamvale ... but we also have an understanding that they’re the top side for a reason.”

Battistella said the qualifying final was hard fought despite the fact his side led at each break.

He said the Devils had control in the first half but failed to take advantage, before the Roosters kicked 1.6 to 0.3 in the last term as they threatened to launch a fightback.

“Even if you win, we talk a lot about where we can get better and improve on, where our deficiencies are,” Battistella said.

“I thought it was a real pleasing game. It was close all day, it was tough, hard, and it was a real finals game. Both us and West are evenly matched. There’s not a lot separating us.”

Sharpshooter Matt Searfin bagged five first-half goals in an outstanding perfor-

mance for the winners, the haul taking his season tally to 87 majors from 16 games.

“His second half was still good. He just became a bit proppy on an ankle, but he’s a pretty tough character, Matty. He wasn’t keentocomeoffandstillbelievedhecould play a role,” Battistella said.

“He probably had three or four more

“We played a final every week for eight weeks. Our boys have been up for a long time and they just found a few cracks in our armoury (on Sunday) and were able to exploit it, and that’s the way sport goes. Sometimes it’s just not your day.”

The Roger Hand-coached Suns were well-served by Joshua Foster, Michael Ryan, Daniel O’Leary, Joshua Harris, Matthew Wright and Kyle De Rose.

North Footscray outgunned West Footscray in Saturday’s qualifying final, prevailing by 23 points, 12.10 (82)-8.11 (59).

Sharpshooter Mathew Serafin was among the best for the winners with five goals.

Minor premier Wyndhamvale will meet North Footscray in the major semi-final.

Cavanagh departs Williamstown

Liam Cavanagh will not continue on as the Williamstown’s Victorian Football League women’s coach next season.

Just days after the Seagulls season ended in the semi final, the club announced the coaching change.

“The Williamstown Football Club has farewelled VFLW senior coach Liam Cavanagh, who will not continue in the role for the 2026 season,” the club said.

“Cavanagh, only the second VFLW coach in the club’s history, joined Williamstown at the end of 2022 and led the program across three seasons.

During his tenure, he guided the Seagulls to finals in every season, including their first-ever finals appearance in 2023, his debut year.

The following year, his side claimed the minor premiership and recorded their first finals victory.

In 2025, the Seagulls progressed to the second week of finals, yet fell short of a premiership after being defeated by reigning premiers North Melbourne-Werribee in Cavanagh’s last game at the helm.

Across his three seasons, Cavanagh achieved a coaching record of 30 wins, 17 losses and two draws, and is credited with fast-tracking the development of the Club’s emerging program.

Speaking after the semi final loss, Cavanagh said it was hard to judge this season.

“It’s a funny old one,” he said. “There has been some improvement and some plateauing as well,” he said.

“We win one more game and we get the double chance. There was the element of some injuries throughout the year.

“We have 12 players on the injury list and other teams have about two or three.

“There’s been some inconsistency throughout the year. Our team of the year skipper from last year, Eliza Straford didn’t play until round 12.

shots in the second half, so he realistically could have walked away with seven or eight goals.”

Battistella also singled out best afield

Barnaby Sianos, Brody Vorano and Jackson Ryan for praise.

West Footscray will next face Suns in a sudden-death semi-final.

“Our team of the year centre half back Lori Stepnell didn’t really get going. It was a bit of a challenge and we found we were still a really good team.”

Eagles win finals debut

By Tara Murray

Yarraville Seddon’s first foray into Western Football League women’s finals will go for at least another week, after a first up win on Saturday.

The Eagles made their finals debut on Saturday in an elimination final against the reigning premiers, Werribee Centrals.

Despite not having that same finals experience, the Eagles were able to respond after being challenged.

The two teams traded the lead throughout the game with the Centurions leading by two points at three quarter time.

But two goals to one in the final quarter was enough for the Eagles to get the win, winning 7.3 (45)-6.4 (40).

Acting Eagles coach Emma Steel said it was pretty exciting for the group.

“It was massive,” Steel said. “It was our first opportunity in finals as a group.

“There was a lot of pressure going in and we were good enough to come away with the win. They had been there and done that before and it was entirely new for us.

“We’d had a couple of close losses against them this year which had been disappointing, but also heartening.”

The Eagles started well as they kicked the first two goals of the game. They still led by five points at half time.

Steel said the Centurions came at them a number of times but they were able to stand up when challenged.

“We set the standard early and we adjusted to the pressure,” Steel said. “Werribee came back as we knew they would.”

Down at three quarter time, Steel said they used what they had learned from the

week before against West Footscray when they came from behind to get the win.

Steel said having not done that previously it gave them plenty of confidence heading into the biggest game of the club’s history.

“We were able to dig deep and find a way to get the win.”

A big positive for the Eagles on Saturday was having all three of their AFLW players out on the park together, which had been something they were looking forward.

Akec Makur Chuot and Phoebe McWilliams were both named in the best, while Ashleigh Guest was also out there.

Steel said the trio bring a huge amount of experience.

Also in the side was co-captain Roise Ronan-Yates, who was named best on ground.

Seagulls’ exciting come-from-behind win

By Luke D’Anello

Williamstown conquered star-studded Collingwood on Sunday to extend its Victorian Football League finals stay into the second week.

The Seagulls booted the only three goals of the last term in the wildcard final to secure a rousing come-from-behind 12-point victory, 11.15 (81)-9.15 (69).

Justin Plapp’s side was the lowest qualifier after finishing in 10th spot, but the veteran coach declared “anything’s possible” as Williamstown prepares to tackle Casey Demons for the first time this season in an elimination final.

“That’s everything you play the game for - big games, finals, winning finals,” Plapp said.

“It was a pretty emotional day and it was a relief, but it was also really exciting too because we played a team that was chockfull of talent.

“There were three premiership stars in there with (Will) Hoskin-Elliott, (Tom) Mitchell and (Mason) Cox. Mitchell’s a Brownlow medallist. That’s pretty confronting for a program that trains two nights a week and you come up against 15 AFL-list-

ed players and a Brownlow medallist.

“Our ability to just play the game and not focus too much on what was put out on the park from Collingwood, I thought that was just a tremendous and really resilient effort from our players.”

Williamstown trailed by seven points at the final change at Victoria Park before kicking 3.4 to 0.3 in the last quarter.

Plapp said Collingwood was kicking with a two-to-three-goal wind and pointed to his team’s wasteful third term, during which it kicked 3.7.

“We had our backs against the wall,” Plapp said.

“We adjusted some things tactically and I felt our players really invested into that. We made the game a scrap and a real contest. We got the game looking the way we wanted and they got really panicky and at some stage they had to get desperate, and they did.It probably just worked into our hands a lot.

“It was a big last quarter from a strategy point of view, but from an effort point of view it was incredible.”

Former Adelaide player Lachie Gollant shone with a four-goal haul. Plapp said Gollant had endured an “indifferent sea-

She has played just six senior games this season.

“She can understand the flow of the game and can bring others into the game,” Steel said.

Katelyn Kissack was the leading goalkicker on the ground, finishing with three goals.

The Eagles now face Parkside Spurs in the preliminary final this Saturday.

The Spurs lost their qualifying final to Caroline Springs, which will await the winner of the preliminary final in the grand final.

Steel said while it’s a huge challenge from them, they were looking forward to it.

“They have beaten us during the season,” they said.

“We do have what it takes to beat them.”

son” due to suspension and injury before delivering his best performance of 2025 in the sudden-death final.

“His first quarter was probably one of the best quarters I’ve seen at VFL level,” Plapp said.

Tom Downie battled manfully in the ruck, while ex-Blue Luke Parks and Finn O’Dwyer continued their ever-consistent seasons.

Nathan Colenso worked tirelessly in the attacking half, first-year Seagull Damon Hollow contributed two majors and spearhead Brodie McLaughin stood tall in the pressure-packed final term.

Williamstown have knocked off Footscray (first), Southport (third), Frankston (fourth) and the Brisbane Lions (sixth) this year, while they lost to Box Hill (second) by 10 points.

“I don’t know what our ceiling is,” Plapp said.

“Maybe we underrate ourselves a bit ... if we get through this week (against Casey), I think anything’s possible.”

Plapp has also re-signed for 2026 and said it was a straightforward decision.

“I’mexcitedI’mbackonboard,butmore excited we’re still in the finals,” he said.

Varcoe steps down as coach

at Altona

Altona’s Travis Varcoe coached his last game for Altona on Saturday, announcing he would step down at coach.

Having coached the side the past two seasons, the Vikings announced on Sunday that Varcoe would step down and was looking forward to travelling and having extra family time in 2026.

“These past two years with Trav have seen some incredible growth in our young playing group and it’s all down to Trav’s compassionate and playful tutelage,” the club said.

“A string of unfortunate injuries in our senior list this year meant the season didn’t go as we would have liked.

“Even with these challenges he’s managed and maintained an ever optimistic outlook on the pathway forward.

“Never letting his emotions get in the way of his message, Trav made sure to develop each of our boys with the care and attention that the playing group required.

“Trav has established a solid foundation among our boys, one that we’re certain will be built upon in the coming era. So while his time with us has come to an end, we know that his impact will have a lasting effect on our club.”

The club said players had said it was a privilege to play under and alongside Varcoe

It said his experience and time in football is conveyed in a way that’s uplifting and makes the playing group want to strive to be the best they can for him.

“He’s lead by example and all players genuinely are blown away by how a man at the tail end of his career can still move a ball with the speed and power that Trav does,” the club said,

The Vikings finished their season on Saturday with a 14.10 (94)-9.11 (65) loss to Point Cook Centrals.

They finished the season in ninth spot.