Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 17th September 2025

Kangaroo

great Anthony Stevens writes exclusively for Star Weekly

Chorus for curfew

By Cade Lucas

The state government is exploring a possible truck curfew on Williamstown Roadtopreventaspikeinheavyvehicleuse once bans and tolls are enforced nearby.

Last week, Footscray MP Katie Hall joined a growing chorus of local residents, communityandindustrygroupsconcerned that even more trucks could end up on Williamstown Road once no-truck zones are enforced on nearby Francis Street and Somerville Road and heavy vehicles are charged for using the new West Gate Tunnel and West Gate Bridge.

Speaking in state parliament on September 9, Ms Hall called on Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne to consider overnight and weekend truck curfews on WilliamstownandMillersroadstoprevent them being used by trucks drivers as alternative routes.

“While these roads remain important freight arterials, a curfew would help to address residents’ concerns around safety, as well as noise and other pollutants,” Ms Hall said.

In a social media post on Monday, September 15, Ms Hall said she’d had positive discussions with the minister on the matter.

“Minister Horne has confirmed she is seeking urgent advice and modelling from her department on how a curfew could work and be enforced.

“I’m encouraged by this and grateful to Melissa for listening and acting.”

MsHorneistheMPfortheneighbouring electorate of Williamstown which both roads run through.

The prospect that measures designed to remove trucks from inner-west roads could actually lead to an increase has been a source of frustration for residents and campaigners like Graeme Hammond who criticisedthegovernment’shandlingofthe matter.

“It’s diesel smoke and mirrors,” said Mr Hammond, a spokesperson for the Save Willy Road campaign.

“The government keeps claiming it is

taking 9000 trucks off inner-west streets, but our street will end up with more than 2000 extra trucks every day.”

Mr Hammond was particularly critical of plans to toll trucks using the West Gate Bridge, arguing drivers will easily be able to avoid them by using Williamstown Road.

“The tolling points create a financial incentive for truck drivers to exit the freewayanddrivepastourhomesinstead.”

The potential increase in trucks on Williamstown Road is of particular concern to Yarraville resident Fay Salem who is worried about the effect of even

more air pollution on her family.

“We’ve got an 18-year-old son with asthmaanditbothershim,”MsSalemsaid.

“He was in hospital only two months ago as a result of his asthma.”

Ms Salem lives on Chirnside Street, about 150 metres away from Williamstown Road and near the notorious intersection with Somerville Road.

“Even when they’re (trucks) on Williamstown Road and they’re turning onto Somerville Road, you’ve got to stand right back because they come onto the footpath.”

National Bulk Tanker Association

ADVERTISEMENT

chairman Justin Keast said while his organisation sympathised with residents living near Williamstown Road, banning trucks from even more roads in the inner-west would just shift the problem from one community to another.

“Tankers accessing the long-established fuel and chemical terminals need multiple saferoadoptions,notfewer,”saidMrKeast, who was also critical of the planned tolling system.

“Unless changes are made, Victorians face higher costs, less safe roads and a problem that’s only been moved, not solved.”

Four arrested in drug bust

Four men from the western suburbs were arrested and charged after a largescale drug laboratory was discovered in Shepparton during a national week of action targeting illicit drug and organised crime activity.

On September 4, police executed a search warrant at a rural property in Toolamba, which was found to house a large sophisticated drug lab along with various chemicals and equipment including about 500kg of pre-cursor chemicals and large quantities of methylamphetamine and MDMA.

A 30-year-old Deer Park man was arrested and charged with a range of drug offences.

A subsequent warrant was also executed at a Braybrook storage facility on September 5, with police locating further equipment and chemicals.

A further three people from St Albans were arrested including a 40-year-old man, a 39-year-old man and a 38-year-old man.

The trio were all charged with a range of drug offences and all four men have been remanded in custody to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on March 4.

The investigation remains ongoing and the Toolamba lab is still in the process of being forensically dismantled, police said.

The investigation was part of ‘Operation Vitreus,’ a joint initiative between all Australianstateandterritorypolice,Australian

Federal Police, Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre and New Zealand Police.

This year’s week of action ran from September 1 to 5, with Victoria Police seizing drugs with a street value of $14 million across the state.

Just over 70kg of various drugs including heroin, methylamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, cannabis and synthetic opioids were seized in Victoria, along with 550kg of various pre-cursor chemicals, 90 cannabis plants and just over 23L of 1,4-butanediol, police said.

Victoria Police arrested 194 people, issued 438 charges and executed 39 search

Forum to raise awareness of Parkinson’s

A support group for people affected by Parksinson’s disease in the western suburbs is holding its annual community forum next month in an effort to increase knowledge and awareness of the condition.

The 2025 ParKanDo Community Forum will be held in Newport on October 11 and will feature presentations from those with clinical and research backgrounds as well as people impacted by Parkinson’s themselves.

“Key speakers are Dr David Finkel-

stein from The Florey Institute, Melbourne, who will be speaking on the latest research into Parkinson’s, an expert on Deep Brain Stimulation, the CEO of Fight Parkinson’s, Emma Collin, a consultant on navigating My Aged care and a carer for a newly diagnosed family member,” explained ParKanDo co-leader Peter Wall of who will be speaking at this year’s forum at the Newport Community Hub.

The free event was first held in 2020 to provide those suffering from Parkinson’s

and their families with a greater understanding of the disease and how better to live with it.

ParKanDo itself was also established in 2020 with similar aims to the community forum. As well as monthly meetings, ParKanDo also holds regular activities tailored for those with Parkinson’s.

To join, visit: parkando.west@gmail. com Entry to the community forum is free, but bookings are required: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1447946

Blood donors urgently needed to help boost Victorian supplies

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is urgently appealing for people to donate blood and help boost critical supplies.

The urgent call follows record high demand for blood during winter, coupled with peak appointment cancellations and seasonally lower bookings.

Lifeblood needs 12,500 additional donors to give blood and plasma over the next week to ease the strain on its blood and plasma reserves.

In Victoria, Lifeblood needs 4350 additional donors.

Data shows demand for blood reached

record levels in June, July and August with the demand surge coinciding with the highest appointment cancellation rates since the COVID-19 pandemic, severely impacting the supply of multiple blood types, according to Lifeblood.

Lifeblood chief executive Stephen Cornelissen said a perfect storm of record high winter blood demand, peak cancellations, and seasonally lower appointment bookings means donors are urgently needed in spring to stabilise low blood stocks.

“We’re used to seeing a spike in cancellations and lower appointment bookings

warrants as part of the operation. A total of $835,000 in cash was seized as well as 18 firearms.

Victoria Police organised crime division Detective Acting Superintendent Matt Volk said Australians are continuing to see increasing levels of illicit drug consumption within the state and nationally.

“As the cost of living has risen, we are not seeing the appetite for illicit drugs go down in any way. We know that Australians have consistently had a significant appetite for illicit drugs and as such, our willingness to pay a premium for them has made us an attractive market for serious and organised crime groups involved in the drug trade,” he said.

Hobsons Bay records animal cruelty increase

Reports of animal cruelty and animals being seized or surrendered increased in Hobsons Bay in the 12 months to June 30.

The results are included in RSPCA Victoria’s annual Animal Cruelty Report for the 2024-25 financial year, which showed 141 reports of animal cruelty in Hobsons Bay for the year to June 30.

The figure was 18 more than the 123 cases of animal cruelty recorded in the municipality for the 2024-23 financial year and the highest since 149 were recorded in 2021-20.

Including complaints such as animals having insufficient food water and shelter, the amount of animal cruelty cases in Hobsons Bay ranked it 27th among Victoria local government areas (LGA), up two spots from the previous year and the highest in five years.

Coming in one spot higher than Hobsons Bay was its neighbouring council area, Maribyrnong, which recorded the 26th most animal cruelty cases with 144.

While still three more than its southern neighbour, Maribyrnong’s figure is substantially lower than a year earlier when 158 animal cruelty cases were recorded, putting it in the top 20 LGA’s in the state.

Maribyrnong’s total for 2025-24 was it’s second lowest in the last five years, seven more than the 138 recorded in 2023-22 and 16 less than the highest number of 161 registered a year earlier in 2022-21.

While the two municipalities recorded similar numbers of animal cruelty cases, the amount of In the number of animals seized or surrendered in the last fast final year was starkly different.

Hobsons Bay also recorded an increase in the number of animals seized or surrendered with 40 in 2025-24, up from 24 the previous year and almost three times the 14 recorded two years earlier.

Maribyrnong however recorded fewer than five for 2025-24, the lowest category possible and a reduction on the nine animals seized or surrendered a year earlier.

during the winter months due to cold, flu and COVID-19, but this winter hit particularly hard,” he said.

“At the same time, we experienced our highest ever winter demand for blood, which has significantly impacted Lifeblood supplies.

“We’re urging anyone who is eligible and feeling healthy and well to book a donation immediately and help restore our blood stocks.”

To book a donation call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Lifeblood App.

Statewide, both categories increased, with more than 10,000 animal cruelty reports made and 1,870 animals seized or surrendered, almost double the number recorded a decade earlier.

High rise plans revealed

By Cade Lucas

Apartment towers up to 12 storeys high could be built near West Footscray, Middle Footscray and Tottenham stations under draft plans released by the state government.

The draft maps for 25 of the 50 train stations and tram corridors across Melbourne earmarked for high density housing developments, were released on Wednesday October 10, with West Footscray, Middle Footscray and Tottenham the only stations in the western suburbs included.

Under the draft plans, the area around WestFootscraystationwillbesubjecttothe

most development, with apartment buildings of up to 12 storeys in height allowed at four locations along Barkley Street and at another near the corner of Cross and Hocking streets behind Whitten Oval.

A maximum height of 10 storeys will apply to a site on the Barkly Street side of Whitten Oval as well as two more locations further up the street towards Barkley Village.

Eight and six storey apartment buildings will be permitted on either side of Barkly Street between Summerhill Road and Russell Street, while four and three storey limits will apply for the rest of the surrounding zone.

The southern corner of Ashley Street and South Road will be the only 12 storey site allowed near Tottenham Station, with a maximum height of four storeys permitted on the opposite side of Ashley Street and three storey limits applying elsewhere.

The Middle Footscray station activity centre will have no apartment buildings above six storeys and these will only be allowed along a stretch of Victoria Stree, between Buckley and Charles streets in Seddon.

Three and four storey height limits will apply to much of the rest of the area surounding Middle Footscray station, though up to six storeys could be permitted on

Engage the senses by the Maribyrnong

Sunday, September 28 is World Rivers Day and unsurprisingly inner west residents are being invited to mark the occasion by the banks of the Maribyrnong.

From 10.30am to 12.30pm the Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association (MRWA) will hold a river sensing session at Pipemakers Park where locals will come together and reflect on what the Maribyrnong and and other waterways mean to them.

“River sensing is a kind of way of getting people to connect to the river and their waterways and the focus is on sensory awareness,” explained MRWA education lead Angela Clarke of what river sensing entails.

“People have a different way of tuning in to the environment so we focus on sights, sounds, smells, touch , all the senses.”

Ms Clarke said the river sensing ses-

Garage Sale Trail returns to the

inner-west

sions, which the MRWA holds three to four times a year, not only had wellbeing and therapeutic benefits but environmental ones too.

“It gets people thinking about how water is managed, water security, the ethics of water management and thinking about rivers as living entities,” she said.

Details: https://maribyrnongriver. org.au/events/

larger sites.

Maribyrnong council has yet to comment on the draft plans which have been criticised by other councils such as Boroondara and Stonnington due to what they claim was a lack of consultation from the state government, claims Planning Minister Sonia Kilkenny dismissed.

“We’ve listened to the community through the first round of consultation, and we’ll continue to do so,” Ms Kilkenny said.

“We’re prepared to make changes that reflect the feedback we get.”

Community consultation: https://engage.vic.gov.au/activity-centres-program

Outdoor activities to boost mental health

A not-for-profit organisation providing outdoor adventure programs for people with mental health challenges is calling for participants from Melbourne’s west to attend its next event at the end of this month.

Out Doors Inc. is holding a conventioninRaglan,nearBeaufort,from Monday, September 29 to Friday, October 3.

The convention will feature to a keynote speaker at each morning session from 9am to 10am from Tuesday to Thursday.

Workshops will then be held from 10.30am to noon, before outdoor activities take over the afternoons from 1pm to 5pm.

Abseiling, hiking, rock climbing, rafting and cycling are among the outdoor activities offered at previous conventions, while creative programs like bush art and drumming are also available.

The aim is to boost the confidence and improve community and social connections for people living with, or at risk of a mental health condition.

Participants must be aged 16 or older and activities are catered for all fitness and experience levels.

Details: www.outdoorsinc.org.au/

Australia’s biggest second-hand treasure hunt, the Garage Sale Trail, is returning to the inner-west this November.

Designed to reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfill and provide the community with ways to reuse unwanted items, the Garage Sale Trail will be held in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay across two weekends; November 8 and 9 and November 15 and 16.

The garage sales can be hosted by individuals, community groups, schools or entire streets and apartment blocks, providing an opportunity for hosts to extra income or raise funds while getting rid of unwanted goods.

For shoppers, they’re a chance to pick up a bargain and find something unique, whilst helping the environment.

In 2024 Maribyrnong hosted a record number of 90 stalls, attracting 3426 bar-

gain hunters who gave 10,351 items a second life, with 39 per cent of those goods saved from landfill.

Sellers pocketed $46,883 while shoppers kept an estimated $128,000 in their wallets by choosing second hand.

Registrations for this year’s Garage Sale Trail opened on September 1 with locations in Maidstone, Footscray, West Footscray, Kingsville, Seddon and Yarraville already signed up in Maribyrnong, while Altona, Altona, North, Laverton and Newport will host sales in Hobsons Bay.

Despite the name, a garage is not needed in order to host a sale, with expert tips, promotional resources and a free sale listing available to those who sign up.

Details: www.garagesaletrail.com.au/

‘Greenlight’, at www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au.

you do not have internet access, contact Council on 1300 179 944 between 8.30am and 5.00pm to make other arrangements. Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Council in writing by 10 October

, including the reasons for an objection and stating how the objector would be affected. Objectors will be advised of the decision.

West fires investigated

Taskforce Hawk detectives believe two suspicious fires from earlier this year – one in Maribrynong and another in Derrimut – are linked and connected to corrupt activity within the building industry.

The first fire occurred outside a residential property on Scenic Drive, Maribyrnong on April 6 where two vehicles at the address were set alight shortly after 1.30am.

The CCTV shows two offenders dousing the vehicles in accelerant before setting them alight.

The residence was not damaged and the family inside the address was not physically injured.

The second fire occurred at a factory in Derrimut on May 27.

Emergency services were called to the Calarco Drive business about 5.35am after a member of the public spotted the building fire.

It’s believed offenders forced entry into an office area, spread accelerant throughout, then set the building alight before leaving the area in a silver Lexus SUV.

Police are looking at the possibility the

two fires may also be linked to further incidents.

Taskforce Hawk detective acting inspector Ross Mitchell said while police aren’t certain of the motivation behind the fires, similar past crimes within the building sector suggest criminals used the incidents to send a message.

“It just seems to be the crime of choice in relation to dealing with corruption or criminality in this sector because it has such a severe impact and it causes such fear,” Acting Inspector Mitchell said.

He said criminal activity within the

Cyclo-cross comes westside this weekend

Riders from around Melbourne will descend on historic Jacks Magazine in Maribyrnong for the inaugural JaCX Magazine Cyclo-Cross this weekend.

Held on Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21, the event will involve riders racing through the tunnels and over the ballast mounds of the heritage listed former explosives facility.

Saturdaypromisestobeafamilyfriendly affair with food, coffee, stalls and tours of Jack’s Magazine taking place alongside

an open cyclo-cross event and kids races.

But as Matt Rodd from the Westside Cycle Club which organises the event said, the following day is when things will get serious.

“Sunday is the main event with graded racing, prize money and gift packs for the first 100 entrants,” said Mr Rodd.

Races will be held on a 2.5-kilometre circuit around Jack’s Magazine with categories ranging from under-15’s through to A-grade.

Described as a collision of cycling worlds with elements of road racing, mountain biking and BMX, cyclo-cross is an off-road cycling discipline usually run over winter.

. Registration is essential for those interested in competing and are open until 6pm on Saturday night.

To register: https://entryboss.cc/races/26157

Details: www.westsidecycleclub.org. au/jacx-magazine

Crime Stoppers podcast shines light on technology abuse

A new Crime Stoppers Victoria podcast reveals how everyday technology is being weaponised in abusive relationships and how bystanders can help.

Crime Stoppers Victoria has launched The Bug Hunter: Uncovering the Hidden Threats in Family Violence, a gripping new podcast that shines a light on the chilling ways technology is being twisted into a weapon of abuse.

Featuring Stephen Wilson, one of Australia’s leading experts in risk management and victim safety, the episode pulls

back the curtain on the often-unseen dangers of tech-facilitated abuse. With a 37-year career in policing, national investigations and high-level security, Mr Wilson brings rare insight into how perpetrators exploit devices to monitor, control and intimidate their victims.

Listeners will hear how phones, trackers and cameras are turned into tools of fear, the warning signs that someone may be monitored, and why these behaviours are often an early red flag of escalating violence.

building industry was a national issue and “definitely greater than the union.”

Detectives are keen to speak to anyone with information about the fires, including who may be involved and why.

Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Taskforce Hawk was established last year to specifically target criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry.

Awards for west recycling firms

A group of recycling companies from Melbourne’s west have been recognised for their efforts to make the industry more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

The Brooklyn Recycling Group (BRG) was honoured with the Greenstart Award at the 35th Australian Freight Industry Awards on at Crown Casino on Saturday, September 6.

Comprising EcoGypsum and Fertilizer, City Circle Group, ResourceCo, and Delta Group, BRG were awarded for developing a plan for the entire Brooklyn industrial precinct to reduce emissions, reduce dust pollution and improve air quality in the area.

Under the Better Environment Plan (BEP) businesses in Brooklyn’s industrial precinct are committed to implementing strategies such as establishing natural wind breaks, installing dust monitors in more locations, planting more trees and providing regular updates to local residents.

The first plan of its type in Victoria, the BEP includes objectives and actions developed with the support of the Victorian Government’s Clean Air for All Victorians Strategy (2022) and the recommendations of the Inner West Air Quality Community Reference report, released in 2020.

The plan was approved by Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) and began operation in October last year.

Accepting the award on behalf of BRG, EcoGypsum’s Christian Buxton thanked Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA), Victorian Transport Association, National Transport Insurance, local councils and the inner-west community for helping them implement the BEP.

“In the waste and recycling industry, we know we can compete in the marketplace — but tackling complex challenges, like improving air quality in Melbourne’s west, demands collaboration. By working together, we can create real, lasting change,” said Mr Buxton who invited other operators and businesses in Brooklyn and the inner-west to join them.

“We can achieve so much more with greater numbers, united by a shared commitment to sustainability.”

“Toooften,whensomeonesays,‘Ithink I’m being watched’ or ‘I feel like I’m being followed’, the first reaction by others isn’t concern, it’s disbelief,” Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith says.

“But stalking, coercive control and tech-facilitated abuse are very real, and ignoring those early warning signs leaves people exposed and unsafe.”

The Bug Hunter: Uncovering the hidden threats in Family Violence is available now through the Crime Stoppers Victoria website.

The Greenstart Award recognises individuals, groups, or organisations making efforts to improve environmental sustainability within the transport, freight, and logistics industry.

Other winners on the night included Mariella Teuira from Peter Sadler Removals & Logistics who received the Women’s Leadership Award and TOMRA Cleanaway who won the Waste & Recycling Business of the Year Award.

We’re building the Metro Tunnel and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel and its five new underground stations, with three stations now complete. Work is continuing on two stations, and we’re testing trains through the tunnel to make sure they operate smoothly and safely.

While we work, disruptions could affect your travel

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Sunbury Line 11pm 20 September to last train 21 September

Between North Melbourne and Sunbury

22 to 24 SeptemberBetween Flagstaff and Sunbury

Williamstown Line 11pm 20 September to 24 September

Werribee Line 11pm 20 September to 6am 21 September

6am to 8.30pm 21 September

6am to 8.30pm each day, 22 to 24 September

8.30pm to last train each night, 22 to 24 Sepember

Between North Melbourne and Williamstown

Between North Melbourne and Werribee

Between North Melbourne and Newport

Between Flagstaff and Laverton, including Altona Loop stations

Between North Melbourne and Werribee, excluding Laverton and Altona Loop stations

Bright by name and nature

The late Bob Bright was a pioneer of Australian pop music, a 60’s teen idol turned TV star, radio DJ and voice-over artist. He was also a much loved mentor to young musicians and a proud adopted son of Melbourne’s west. Cade Lucas spoke to those who knew Bobby best.

It makes sense in hindsight, but at the time Susie Gamble was taken aback at how emotional her friend Bob Bright was.

The pair were at the June memorial service for 60’s Australian pop-star Marcie Jones who’d died earlier that month aged 79.

When another pop-star of that era, Normie Rowe got up to deliver the eulogy, Gamble saw a side of her friend she never knew existed.

“Bob just put his head in his hands and he sobbed.

“I had never in my life seen Bob cry before,” said Gamble who’d seen more of him than anyone else.

The pair first met in the early 1960’s when Bob was Bobby Bright, a pop star himself and one half of the duo Bobby and Laurie alongside Laurie Allen.

WithhitslikeIBelongwithYouandHitch Hiker’, the pair joined the likes of Rowe, Jones and numerous others at the forefront of Australia’s burgeoning music scene.

“He was on a radio program called Dick Cranbourne’s Country Music Jamboree,” said Gamble of the first time they met.

“My mum and I went along to the recording of the shows quite often, and I knew Laurie and he introduced Bob.”

Like many other schoolgirls at the time, she was impressed.

“He had a fabulous voice, and he was just uber handsome, all the girls loved him.”

Gamble soon became a friend, a fan and confidant to Bright as he and Allen hit the big time and then after they spilt, he embarked on a five-decade career in showbiz doing everything from music, to radio, to acting to voice overs for television commercials.

He did this mostly while based in his beloved western suburbs, living in

Williamstown and then latterly in Altona.

But it all started when he moved to Melbourne from Adelaide in the early 60’s having emigrated with his mother from the UK a few years before that.

Once in Melbourne he met Jones, then the lead singer of girl group Marcie and Cookies. It was Jones who introduced him to Allen, who then introduced him to Gamble, who six decades later he sat beside sobbing at Jones’ memorial service.

“He didn’t even cry when Laurie died [in 2002], he kept it all in, he was very stoic,” said Gamble of why she found Bob’s reaction so out of character.

“But Marcie’s passing, because of their connection way back, Bob just lost it and literally all I could do was rub his back and tell him it was all right,” said Gamble, who never saw Bob again.

“Little did I know when I left him that afternoon that I would speak to him [on the phone] one more time.”

A month later on July 22, Bright died aged 80, following years of ill-health, including cancer and a more recently, emphysema.

“I’ll say this, he was ready to go,” said Gamble who now sees the connection between his reaction at the memorial service and his own failing health and sense of mortality, something she said was also evident in their last conversations.

“All he kept saying was, Susie, I’m tired.

“His illness and all the problems he had with his health had literally derived him of his once very vibrant life.”

It was a vibrant life that illuminated plenty of others too, as evidenced by the tributes that flowed in after news of his death broke.

Bright’s days as an actor on TV shows like Homicide, The Sullivans and Blue Heelers were remembered as were his roles in the mini-series Power Without Glory and as

His illness and all the problems he had with his health had literally derived him of his once very vibrant life - Susie Gamble

’The Doctor’ in the 1973 production of The Who’s rock opera Tommy.

Former colleagues on Melbourne radio recalled his stints as a DJ at stations such as 3XY and Nu Country.

However, it was his fellow musicians who spoke most glowingly of Bright and his legacy as a pioneer of Australian pop.

“Theamazing,talentedMrBobbyBright,” began fellow singer-songwriter Mike Brady in a tribute video posted on social media.

“I started playing with Bobby in a band called The Hearsemen when I was 14. We had a coffin onstage,” laughed Brady, who before he became synonymous with singing Up There Cazaly’’ before the Grand Final, was a contemporary of Bobby and Laurie.

“I was jealous of them, I can admit that now I’m an old man,” he said before recallingthetimeheheardtheirbiggesthit, Hitch Hiker’.

“I heard this song when I was at home at my mum and dad’s place and it made me cry. Cry with joy.”

Bright was also much admired by younger musicians, particularly those in Melbourne’s inner- west, who recently celebrated his life with a memorial gig at the Newport Bowls Club.

Among the performers was Jessica Paige, a singer-songwriter from Werribee who became friends with Bright after a chance

meeting at a Williamstown wine bar seven years ago.

“Theguythatownedtheplacesaid“that’s Bobby Bright,” recalled Paige, who had no idea who he was.

“He was kinda famous,” added the owner before Paige went over and introduced herself.

“He was kinda shy because he’d been quite well known and for Bob making new friends could be quite intimidating but after meeting a few times he kinda warmed up.”

Paige soon joined other local musicians at Birght’s place for regular ‘soirees’ where they’d jam and write together.

Before long, Bright was joining Paige on stage at some of her gigs.

“We’d pick him up and take him because he was getting older and needed extra support,” said Paige, adding that Bright returned the favour by teaching her how to drive a manual.

Despite being long retired, in poor health and decades past his heyday, Bright continued to make music until shortly before his death, including recording a track with Paige that she plans to finish and release.

“It’s called Santa’s Got a Gun, it’s a reggae song,” she laughed at the song’s irreverent title and unlikely genre for a retired pop-star.

ForPaige,itsumsupwhatmadeBrightso endearing.

“He was just so intelligent and would put me onto so much great music. He had such broad taste,” she said before adding, “as a great a musician and artist as he was, he was an even better person.”

Bright is survived by his daughter Lauren Bright and grandson Grier Peters-Bright who scattered his grandfather’s ashes into Hobsons Bay on September 1.

Destined to be carers

By Cade Lucas

Having always loved being around children, Yarraville couple Vince Attard and Kym Phillips knew they were destined to become carers.

The couple have been foster carers for 22 years, including the last six with their current foster care provider OzChild.

With Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia marking Foster Care Week fromSeptember14to20,thecoupledecidedtosharetheirownfostercarejourneyto help inspire others to take on the role too.

“I was born to be a carer, by my early teens my sisters had children and I loved it,” said Kym.

“I love seeing them grow and move forward in their lives.“

More than two decades of foster care experience has taught the couple that caring for a child means participating in all aspects of their lives and supporting them to be the best version of themselves.

“Wedon’tlookatitasashort-termthing it’s the end goal that’s important, completingschool,furthereducation,settingthem up for a successful future,” said Vince.

As a same-sex couple, the duo said caring for children and young people from diverse backgrounds was one of the most rewarding aspects of the role.

“We feel children are very adaptive to our lifestyle, it does have its challenges at times, but we work through them together,” said Kym.

While most children under their care havereturnedtobewiththeirfamilies,the coupleiscurrentlycaringfora22-year-old who has been with them since he was 15.

Kym said after a rough start, he’s now thriving at school and in life.

“When he first came, I wasn’t sure he would be here for long, he had significant trauma of the passing of a parent and he was behind in school, when I gave him the

houserules,hethoughtitwastoostrictbut within the first three months, he got his first A at school and was so excited as he was now doing homework and had structure.”

Details: www.ozchild.org.au/

Spotswood level crossing feedback open

The removal of the Hudsons Road levelcrossinginSpotswoodisastep closerwithcommunityconsultation on the project now open.

Last week, Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams announced that community consultation was now open on plans to remove the level crossing by 2028.

The proposal, which includes a building a new rail bridge and a brand new Spotswood station, is thelatestinaseriesoflevelcrossing removals in the inner west aimed at making the Werribee Line level crossing free by 2030.

Using the so-called sky rail approach similar to those used at Bell andPrestonstationsinthenorthern suburbs, a new rail bridge built over Hudsons Road, elevating Spotswood station and the Werribee line from their current locations and easing traffic congestion.

A community feedback survey on the proposal asks residents what they would like to see the new space used for, their preferred look and colour scheme for the new station and how much parking, seating, greenery and landscaping they would like to see added to the station precinct.

Feedback is open until October 6 at: engage.vic.gov.au/lxrp-spotswood.

The West Gate Tunnel will transform travel from Altona to Melbourne when it opens at the end of the year. You will be able to enter the new tunnel from the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road and travel quicker to destinations such as universities, hospital and sports events.

Drive the West Gate Tunnel through our driving simulator at Altona Gate 12 to 21 Sept

Scan the QR code for upcoming events and to explore Melbourne's newest roads with our Explore Your Journey Tool

Events for all

By Cr Rayane Hawli

One of the things I love most about our council is what we offer to our community at both ends of the age spectrum.

From new families to young people, all the way to our older residents, we engage with groups of all ages.

In coming weeks, it will be a particularly busy time with some popular festivals getting up and going once again.

This month we have seen the return of Youth Fest, taking place across Hobsons Bay and Victoria to provide young people the opportunity to engage with a variety of youth- focused activities and events.

ThefestivalwillrampuphereinHobsons Bay over the spring school holidays, with outdoor activities like rollerblading and a cricket skills session to keep active, while the youth mental health first aid training session for 18- to 25-year-olds is a great way to support our young people.

The month will cap off with Youth Con onFriday,October3atWilliamstownTown Hall. It will be a day of fun with live bands and performances, a pop-up market, food stalls and lots more.

Attention will then turn to Seniors Festival in October to engage with our older community members.

This year’s program is jam-packed, full of activities and events to get moving, learn something new, and get out and about to enjoy the best of Hobsons Bay.

From tackling tricky tech issues to tours of some of our beautiful landmarks and more, it is sure to be another great festival.

Events and celebrations like Youth Con and Seniors Festival are such important ways for us to engage with our community.

They provide avenues for various sections of our community to feel a sense of belonging.

By being active participants in events like these, they enrich our city, continuing to add value to our already special community.

So if you are interested or know someone who might be, make sure to get along and make the most of these great events.

Briefs

Demon slayer

A Maidstone man has been warned by police after taking his cosplay a little too seriously. Officers rushed to Southland Shopping Centre on the evening of Wednesday, September 10 after security reported seeing a man walking around armed with a sword outside the cinemas. Upon their arrival about 7.20pm, police found a 24-year-old man dressed in costume to attend a screening of the anime movie Demon Slayer - complete with a life-like imitation sword. The man’s prop was seized and police advised the cosplayer that it was best to leave all weaponry at home next time. No demons were slayed and the man enjoyed watching the movie without further incident.

Shed fire

Firefighters contained a fire in a backyard shed containing gas bottles in West Footscray last week. Crews arrived at a property on Busch Street, West Footscray, about 1.20am on Wednesday, September 10 after a caller to triple-0 reported that the shed in the backyard was on fire. Firefighters found the three square metre shed containing various materials, including gas bottles, engulfed in flames and the back fence also alight. The fire was quickly extinguished and the incident deemed under control by about 3.11am.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Braybrook cocaine bust

Victoria Police seized 38 kilograms of cocaine worth $12.3 million and arrested three people this week, with a trafficking syndicate alleged to have been operating out of Braybrook and Fraser Rise.

Policeallegethesyndicatewasalsousing two vehicles to travel interstate.

Police intercepted one of the vehicles on the Hume Highway near Euroa and the other at an address in Sunshine on Monday, September 8.

Police said a searched of both vehicles found 32 kilograms of cocaine, money and several mobile phones.

Warrants were then executed the same day at a property on Royal Avenue, Braybrook, as well as the following day at

addresses in Fraser Rise, Sunshine and Cairnlea.

Police allege to have found a sophisticated drug lab along with various chemicals, equipment and weapons at the Braybrook house.

Further drugs, including six kilograms of cocaine and 16 kilograms of methylamphetamine were seized from the addresses, as well as three handguns, two 3D printed firearms, ammunition and about $70,000 in cash. It means police seized a total of 38 kilograms of cocaine, which has an estimated potential street value of $12.3 million.

The16kilogramsofmethylamphetamine seizedbypolicehasanestimatedpotential

Brooklyn is driven to help

Graduate ambulance paramedic Brooklyn

Ash’s drive to become an Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedic didn’t come from the fast-paced world of lights and sirens, but rather from witnessing paramedics in action.

When she was 15, Brooklyn and her mother were driving home along a dark freeway after a basketball game when they wereinvolvedinatraumaticroadincident.

Although both escaped unharmed, Brooklyn witnessed a severely injured patient and immediately called triple-0.

Amid the whirlwind of the emergency response, what struck Brooklyn the most was the professionalism and care shown by the attending paramedics.

“I never wanted to be in a situation like that again and not know how to help. In

Advertising

that moment, I knew I wanted to be like those paramedics,” she said.

Brooklyn studied a bachelor of nursing and worked as an anaesthetic nurse for four years to help build her clinical knowledge and people skills. However paramedicine was still her goal, and after completing more study, Brooklyn put on her AV uniform for the first time three months ago.

Brooklyn is based at Laverton and is part of the Medium Acuity Transport Service (MATS) team. Long-term, she has her sights set on becoming a Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedic.

“I love this job. I wear this uniform with such pride and feel like I contribute towards keeping my community safe,” Brooklyn said.

FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

Foot or heel being a pain?

Foot pain is extremely common, affecting more than 80 per cent of people at some point in their lives, with heel pain being the most common of all human foot complaints.

Despitetheirfrequency,theseconditions are often mismanaged and incorrectly treated. This leaves many sufferers spending time and money on treatments without long-term solutions or relief.

But why are such common problems seemingly so hard to treat effectively?

Musculoskeletal podiatrist Dr Paul Dowie,oneofAustralia’sleadingfoot,knee and leg pain experts and practitioner to some of the world’s best athletes, explains.

“Besides the fact that the feet are one of the bodies most complex structures and we are on them all the time, there are two major reasons foot pain and particularly heel pain treatment is often ineffective, especially long-term. Either only the symptoms are being addressed and not

the underlying cause, or the exact nature of the condition is not being identified or understood,” he said.

“For example, most heel pain is incorrectlyassumedtobeaninflammatory conditionwhenitisnearlyalwaysaresultof nerveimpingementortissuedegeneration.

Tissue thickening is often mistaken for inflammation, contributing to incorrect diagnoses and treatment. This is a big problem because treating a degenerative condition with anti-inflammatory treatments can actually cause further tissue damage, making your condition worse.”

This is why it is so important to get advice from an experienced lower limb, musculoskeletal expert for any foot and leg pain, injury or degenerative concerns.

If you have any foot, heel, knee or leg pain you can see Dr Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinic in Williamstown. Call 1300 328 300.

street value of $9.6 million.

A 30-year-old Sunshine man was arrested and charged with trafficking large commercial quantities of cocaine and methylamphetamine and possessing equipment for manufacture.

A 31-year-old Cairnlea man and a 26-year-old Fraser Rise man were also arrestedandchargedwithtraffickinglarge commercial quantities of cocaine.

All three men have been remanded to appearattheMelbourneMagistratesCourt on January 30.

Major Drug Squad Detective Inspector Jamie Walker said drug trafficking does not just affect those using the substances –it drives violence, crime and trauma right

across the state.

“Asthecostoflivinghasrisen,wearenot seeingtheappetiteforillicitdrugsgodown in any way. We know that people have consistently had a significant appetite for illicit drugs and as such, our willingness to pay a premium for them has made us an attractivemarketforseriousandorganised crime groups involved in the drug trade,” he said.

The arrests form part of an ongoing 18-month investigation focused on dismantling a sophisticated and organised drugtraffickingsyndicateoperatingwithin Melbourne’s west and north-west. Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

The funny side of marriage

As a civil marriage celebrant, Jai Cameron doesn’tworkinsidechurches.

But Cameron will make an exception early next month when the celebrant/ comedian performs his first-ever cabaret, Til Death (or Court) Do Us Part, at the Bluestone Church Arts Space in Footscray as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

Described as Disney meets MAFS, Til Death (or Court) Do Us Part is a one-man cabaret show that takes Cameron back to his comedic roots while drawing on his experienceasacivilcelebrant.

He plays Keith Maiden, a wedding celebrant, professional heart-holder, and part-time delusional romantic. After two decades of officiating other people’s happily-ever-afters, Keith is finally getting marriedhimself...toanEgyptianprincehe metonline.Whomayormaynotbereal.Or alive.

What begins as a joyful celebration of queer love quickly unravels into a hilariously filthy, painfully honest deep diveintomoderncommitment,scammers, rom-com delusions, and the true cost of believingin“forever.“

Featuring songs like Love Boat, White Wedding,LoveisintheAir,ITouchMyself, TrueColoursandRememberMe,TilDeath (or Court) Do Us Part is part cabaret, part ceremony,partcryforhelp.

“Come for the vows, stay for the breakdown,” said Cameron encouraging peopletoattend.

“Because love is in the air... and so is trauma.”

Til Death (Or Court) Do Us Part runs on Wednesday, October 1 to Sunday, October5.

Tickets:melbournefringe.com.au

Stage show will ignite young imaginations

Children and families can get lost in their imagination in a stage adaptation of Alison Lester’s beloved book ‘Imagine.’ The show tells the story of a granddaughter and grandmother who are communicating with each other over long distance through video calls. They have nostalgic conversations about ‘Imagine’ and interact with the book creatively.

Writer,directoranddesigneroftheshow

Jolyon James said he’s always felt a strong connection to the book, which he would read to his two young boys regularly.

“It was just this beautiful freedom to play…Sometimeswe’dopenthebookand just stay on the page for one hour because it allows you to do that,” James said.

“I approached [Lester] because the themes in it are just still so relevant and it deals with the environment and our place in it and our need to take care of it but it’s also about how important play and creativity is for everyone.

“I’mcertainlycomingfromaperspective that play and imagination and the ability to problem-solve builds really smart, resilient kids.”

The show incorporates puppetry, technology and is underscored by live, original music composed and performed by Nate Gilkes.

“It’s a pretty complex work underpinning it all but on its surface it’s joyful, hilarious, playful and creative,” James said.

Imagine, Live will be showing at the Bowery Theatre on Saturday, September 20 at 11am and 2pm.

Ticket prices range from $12 to $18 with a family ticket option for $35.

Details: creativebrimbank.com.au

Enjoy an afternoon of orchestral movie magic

The music of the silver screen will fill the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall for an afternoonoforchestralmagicthismonth.

The Moorabool Light Orchestra –composedentirelyoflocalmusicians–will perform a range of film soundtrack pieces, ranging from Old Hollywood classics to modernhitsandeverythinginbetween.

Moorabool Light Orchestra conductor Reuben Morgan said the event provides a historyofcinemathroughmusic.

“I’ve selected pieces of music from throughout history, starting with movies like Gone with the Wind and Wizard of Oz,trackingallthewaytothepresentwith music from films like How to Train your Dragon and Pirates of the Caribbean,” Morgansaid.

“And so in between, we sort of cover a bit of everything – music from superhero movies,spaceoperas…StarWars,Batman, western … just covering a bit of everything aswellastellingthestoryofhowfilmmusic

A group of Moorabool Light Orchestra members at a previous concert. (Supplied).

hasdevelopedoverthelastcentury.

“It promises to be a very fun concert – we’re trying to keep it as engaging as possible. It’s got something for everyone [andis]definitelyfriendlyforkids.”

The group will also be joined by powerhousesolovocalistIzzyFarrah.

Titled At the Movies, the event will be hosted from 2–4pm on Sunday, September

Queen to rock Wyndham

If you have mortgages on homes and stiffnessinyourbones—oranyother of life’s stressors— the Queen Rocks tribute is coming to Wyndham to helpyouletlooseforanight.

Yes, you read that correctly. Wyndham,notWembley.

The show will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the ‘A Night at the Opera’ record, which contains Bohemian Rhapsody, but will incorporate the very best of Queen’s catalogue.

Jason Hess as Freddie Mercury, Josh Boult as Brian May, Darren Hulcombe as Roger Taylor, Martin Boult as John Deacon, and Brendan Grabau as Spike Edney does not sound like an exciting band introductioninprint.

But make no mistake, they will rockyou.

The two-hour set has been tailored to raise the mercury in the room and getpeopleinafrenzy.

None of that time will be for losers, butyou’llonlyfindchampionsatthis gig.

There is nothing wrong with flying solo,butnothingisquitelikesharing the moment with your best friend or theloveofyourlife.

The showmanship, musicianship and majestic power that saw Queen rock stadiums all over the world is guaranteed to blow your mind every time.

When you are under pressure, there are certainly better things to turn to than Moët & Chandon– even ifitcameoutofaprettycabinet.

Socomedownandhelptherockin’ worldgoround.

Tickets: https://tickets.wyndham. vic.gov.au/Events/QUEEN-ROCKSBohemian-Rhapsody-50thAnniversary-Tour

28, at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, with ticketsandpricingavailableonline.

The orchestra is also welcoming new members and those interested in joining are encouraged to attend this event to introduce themselves and witness the groupinaction.

Details: eventbrite.com.au/e/at-themovies-tickets-1646403530279

Visit Downton Abbey’s

By Lee Mccarthy

VIKING is well known for its destinationfocused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world but what is not as wellknown is the company’s partnerships and philanthropicpursuits.

The company has partnered with Focus Features, Universal Pictures, and Carnival Films to celebrate the highly anticipated returnoftheglobalphenomenon,Downton Abbey.

The Grand Finale was released in Australia on 11 September and Viking’s corporate sponsorship of the celebrated series masterpiece, which began in 2011 continues today as part of the company’s ongoingcommitmenttoenrichingcultural programming.

Karine Hagen, Viking’s Executive Vice President of Product said, “Downton Abbey has long held a special place in the hearts of our guests, many of whom were introduced to Viking and Highclere Castle through the series.”

“A key aspect of the Viking way of travel is offering our guests Privileged Access to cultural treasures around the world, and our exclusive experiences at Highclere Castle, which are co-created with the Carnarvon family, have become favourites amongourguests.”

Highclere Castle is the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the iconic filminglocationofDowntonAbbey.

Since 2014, Viking has offered guests a variety of ways to experience life at Highclere Castle, with pre and post land extensions that include the highly rated Oxford and Highclere Castle and Great Homes,GardensandGinextensionswhich are available for guests on select river and oceanvoyages. Additionally, for guests on the popular Nile River itinerary, Pharaohs and Pyramids, Viking offers the British Collections of Ancient Egypt land extension.

The five-day extension provides guests with an introduction to Egyptian antiquities in preparation for their Nile River experience and includes retracing the steps of the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor, the Fifth Earl of Carnarvon.

Guests experience Privileged Access to archives and museum exhibits not normally accessible to the public, and at Highclere Castle, guests have the

opportunity to view the Earl’s magnificent privatecollectionofEgyptianartifacts.

Lady Carnarvon said, “For over a decade, it has been a pleasure to open our doors to Viking guests and truly provide Privileged Access, sharing with them the stories, traditions and treasures that have made this estate special for more than 300 years.”

“The personal and professional ties between Viking and Highclere run deep, and our longstanding relationship is rooted in a shared devotion to heritage, culture and the enrichment that comes fromgenuineexploration.”

Lady Carnarvon has also welcomed

viewers to Highclere Castle on Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV.

Inherseries,‘AtHomeatHighclere’,Lady Carnarvon offers virtual Privileged Access tothehistorichomeanditsgrounds.

Viking’s close friendship with the Carnarvon family has also extended to its fleet. Lady Carnarvon is the ceremonial godmotherofaVikingLongship,theViking Skadi and an ocean ship, the Viking Mars.

In 2022, Lord Carnarvon became Viking’s first godfather, fulfilling the role for the Viking Osiris and in 2024, their son, the Hon. Edward Herbert, became godfather oftheVikingHathor.

Viking is proud to offer Australian residents a chance to win a grand prize of a trip for two on Viking’s eight-day river voyage, Paris and the Heart of Normandy, with a three-night Privileged Access extension to Oxford and Highclere Castle.

The winner will also receive Eurostar transportation between London and Paris for two. Entries close on 1 December 2025 and to enter, visit the Viking website and searchfor‘SpringCompetition’.

For further information on Viking cruises destinations and tours, please call 138 747 or visit their website www. vikingrivercruises.com.au.

Full-Board Cruise

35 night full-board cruise on board Noordam

Transfers not included but can be added on at the time of booking Your Holiday Includes

Visiting: Sydney, Brisbane, Alotau, Kiriwina Island, Conflict Islands, Cairns, Townsville, Torres Strait (scenic cruising), Darwin, Broome, Exmouth, Perth (overnight in port), Albany, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Melbourne, Phillip Island, Hobart, Port Arthur, Sydney

Complimentary Ocean View to Verandah Upgrade

Complimentary Hotel Stay

1 night four-star hotel stay in Sydney at the Rydges Sydney Central with breakfast

Complimentary Flights & Taxes

Spring is a season of renewal and the perfect time to plan your next unforgettable journey. With exclusive airfare offers, you can experience the world The Viking Way —in comfort and with more included. Book a river voyage and fly free, or book an ocean or expedition voyage and your companion flies free. Be quick, offers end 1 December 2025*.

BRITISH ISLES & IRELAND

Belfast to London or vice versa

15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES

13 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: APR-MAY, JUL-SEP 2027; APR-SEP 2028

From $13,195pp in Deluxe Veranda

From $15,695pp in Penthouse Suite

IBERIA, FRANCE & ENGLAND EXPLORER

Lisbon to London or vice versa

12 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES

8 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: SEP 2026; APR, SEP 2027; APR, JUN, OCT 2028

From $9,195pp in Veranda Stateroom

From $11,195pp in Penthouse Veranda

FRANCE'S FINEST

Paris to Avignon or vice versa

15 DAYS | 1 COUNTRY

13 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: MAR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027

From $10,695pp in Standard Stateroom

From $14,095pp in Veranda Stateroom

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Mahjong Mondays at Altona North Community Library.

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

Weight loss group.

A new weight loss support group has started, with meetings held every Monday night at 7pm at the Williamstown Community Education Centre, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown. The sessions are run by healthcare worker, registered nurse and counsellor Sarah Allard who has lost nearly 30 kgs since commencing weight loss loss injections and wants to share her knowledge of the medication effects and understanding as a counsellor of the highs and lows of treatment. The group is for anyone who is battling weight loss and is using injections or considering it. It is for sharing successes and failures in a private group setting, or just showing up to listen.

Sarah Allard, 0439972074,ms.sarah. allard@gmail.com

Games, cards and conversation at Altona North Community Library. 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

Heritage Walks

Enjoy a leisurely 90 minute walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John Becroft. Walks start at 9-20 am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. John Becroft 0418-377-336

Westgate diabetes support group

Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Altona bowling club at 10am. Inquires, Elaine: 0415 030 996

Altona day view club

Meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Altona R.S.L. at 11am Inquires Jan: 0419 159 783

Mainly music – Yarraville

A music-playgroup program for kids and their carers from birth to school age. Held every Thursday from 9.30am to 10.30am during school term at Westgate Baptist Community, 16 High St, Yarraville. The cost is $7 per family, per week. Contacts: Jenny 0401 651 012, Ruth 0409 635 468 or https://westgatebaptist. org.au/mainlymusic/

Footscray CWA

Meet on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9m at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street. cwaofvicfootscray@gmail.com, https:// www.facebook.com/CWAofVicFootscray/

Free English conversation classes

If English is your second language and you want to improve your English language skills, practice speaking with friendly volunteer tutors in informal and interactive group sessions held every Monday at 1 pm-3pm in the meeting room at Altona Library, 123 Queen St Altona. Light refreshments provided. Come along and make new friends!

Contact Jill MacKenzie 0439994705 or jill.mackenzie111@gmail.com

Chit Chat Tuesdays

A ladies chit chat group which is on every Tuesday from 1.30pm until 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 visit: LJAC.com.au

Angling club

The Essendon Angling Club Est 1903 is looking for new members. If you are interested in fishing come along and join fellow minded anglers and help our club grow strong. The club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 7 pm at the club rooms 44 The Boulevard Moonee Ponds. On the 3rd Wednesday of the month there is also a social get together where people talk about fishing and make some great friendships

Email president@essendonanglersclub. org.au or phone 0432 744 802

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

Willin Wimmin choir

Join the wonderful women at Willin Wimmin choir in Williamstown for some singing fun! Try us out for free for two weeks to see if it’s your thing. The group is all about the joy of group singing, and we welcome new members. There are no auditions required. Members sing a mix of contemporary, folk, choral, and world music in acapella style. The choir meets on Wednesday evenings during school terms from 7:30pm to 9:30 pm at The Dennis Reserve, 109 Ferguson Street, corner Melbourne Road, Williamstown. willinwimmin.org.au or email willin. wimmin@gmail.com

Women Working Together

A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay. 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or https://cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/

Musicians Wanted

Westgate Concert Band, Established in 1979 is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am to 12noon at Braybrook College. For more information email westgateconcertband@gmail.com

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, outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

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, outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Tuesday or Thursday mornings for practise beginning at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows. 9369 1034 or email : secretary@ lavertonbowls.com.au

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

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings - Williamstown

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support to anyone who wants to stop drinking. The Western Unity AA Group holds weekly in-person meetings in Williamstown. If you think you may have a drinking problem, you are welcome to attend. Friends and family members supporting a loved one are also encouraged to come along.

For more information: Visit https:// williamstown.aagroup.org.au/ email: aawilliamstown@gmail.com or call 1300 222 222

Williamstown Bridge Club

The Williamstown Bridge Club has bridge sessions each week on Wednesday night at 7.25pm and Friday afternoon at 1.25pm for experienced players and a supervised session on Friday 10.00am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Rd, Altona, 3018. All levels welcome and partners can be provided. Sandi 0417 315 760, Alan 0430 309 255 or visit 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, outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Laverton Community Choir

The choir is welcoming new members, especially male voices. If you love singing and would like to be part of a choir, come along and try out your vocal cords with this fun and welcoming group of singers. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. The group meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton, from 7-9pm. Sue, 0418 386 147, or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com

PUZZLES

To

Sudoku

1 Innocuous (8)

5 Neckwear (6) 10 Fat (5)

11 Philosophy without morality (9)

12 Logical (6) 13 The smell of the ocean (4,3)

14 One of the colours of the ocean (3,5)

15 Materialise (6)

18 Relaxed (2,4)

20 Ridicules (8)

21 Hang by attachment (7)

24 Wanders (6)

27 Forcibly remove from power (9)

28 Indigenous people (NZ) (5)

29 Screech (6)

30 Process of mesmerisation (8)

implement (5)

Alarmed (8)

Mollusc (7)

Mexican hats (9)

Parasitic plant (4)

Photos (9) 16 Named after a particular person (9) 17 Raised track over low ground (8)

19 Apparition (7)

22 Show contempt (5)

23 Earth (4)

25 Japanese noodles (5)

26 Insult (coll)

four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns

Melissa McCarthy (pictured) starred as Sookie St. James in which television drama series?

2 Who of the following was not a wife of Zeus: Hera, Leto, Metis or Aphrodite?

3 Beginning with ‘G’, what is the name of the stew that is the official cuisine of Louisiana, US?

4 Robert Smith is the lead singer of which English rock band?

5 What is the name for the side of the triangle opposite from the right angle?

6 ‘He was soon borne away by the waves, and lost in darkness and distance’ is the final line of which famous gothic novel?

7 Julia Roberts played which US environmental activist in a 2000 film directed by Steven Soderbergh?

8 What pivotal event in world history took place on November 9, 1989?

9 Which French writer and philosopher is generally credited as being the father of the essay genre?

10 Clove hitch, butterfly loop, sheet bend and carrick bend are all types of what?

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which Australian surfer became a world champion after winning her maiden title at the World Surf League finals in Fiji?

2. In which year did Jimmy Barnes and the Black Eyed Peas perform at the AFL Grand Final pre-show?

3. Which English club does Socceroos winger Sam Silvera currently play for as he competes for a spot in

4. The phrase ‘Up there, Cazaly!’ originated from fans of which 1920s Australian Rules footballer, and later became a popular and unofficial anthem for Australian football?

5. A Polish CEO went viral during Kamil Majchrzak’s US Open match for doing what?

6. Which NBA player for the LA Clippers is at the centre of a $43 million salary cap scandal?

Following a recent victory against Adelaide, which Collingwood AFL player dropped an F-bomb on

Due to a careless high tackle against a Broncos player, how long has Melbourne Storm prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona been suspended for?

9. Which former AFL coach was recently the victim of a home invasion?

10. The Carolina Panthers were unable to get in contact with NFL star Hunter Renfrow regarding a new contract because his daughter was using his phone to watch which Australian kids show?

11. Carlton AFL player Jack Silvagni has requested a move to which other Melbourne-based club for 2026?

12. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from which cricketing format at the international level?

13. Kansas City Chiefs NFL star Travis Kelce is engaged to which global pop superstar?

14. Racing Bulls F1 driver Isack Hadjar achieved what career-first milestone at the Dutch Grand Prix?

15. Olympic gold medallist Nina Kennedy competes for Australia in which athletics-based sport?

16. Which comedian broke ribs and punctured a lung in an on-field incident during a charity football match?

17. Which sport includes disciplines known as Spring Board, Single Buck and Hot Saw?

18. Which franchise won The Hundred cricket tournament for the third year in a row recently?

19. The Wallaroos played out a 31–31 draw against which nation in a Rugby World Cup Pool A match on August 30?

20. How many Australian soccer players currently play in the English Premier League?

21. Who won the 2025 Men’s US Open Tennis singles title?

22. And who won the 2025 Women’s US Open singles title?

23. Which Formula 1 driver has a burger named after him at restaurant chain Grill’d?

24. How many Brownlow Medals did retiring Fremantle player Nat Fyfe win during his career?

25. Which notable spectator’s arrival delayed the Men’s US Open tennis final for more than an hour?

26. The UCI is the governing body of which sport?

27. Which nation has

the most gold medals in curling at the Winter Olympics?

28. In what year did the Gold Coast Titans join the NRL?

29. How many teams compete in the 2025 NRL Women’s Premiership Season?

30. A foot stretcher is used in which water-based sport?

groups

• Local businesses and industry

Experience in aviation, public health, stakeholder engagement or environmental matters is welcomed but not essential.

Successful applicants will be appointed for a three-year term and are expected to attend regular meetings and actively participate in discussions.

For more information and to apply, visit: www.melbourneairport.com.au/community/cacg Help shape the future of your airport – apply today!

A Porsche competitor

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

One of our all-time favourites is the superlativeAudiS8luxurysportssedan.

Audi claims the S8 represents an extraordinary combination of high-performance motoring and absolute luxury.

Got that right. With 420kW of power, 800Nm of torque and a 0-100km/h time of just 3.8 seconds, it certainly takes some beating. Then along came the SQ8 TSFI Quattro, pretty much the same deal but dressed in the practical garb of an SUVwhichonetoget?

Think of it as a cheaper version of the Porsche Cayenne, Lamborghini Urus or Bentley Bentayga, with which all share the same Volkswagen Group MLB Evo platform.

Styling

Unfortunately,theS8hasjustbeencanned. ThegoodnewsistheSQ8isalotcheaper,at $178,000versus$286,000buckaroos.That’s pause for thought but leaves enough left over to buy a second car - another Audi to completetheset.

Interestingly, SQ8 is just $4000 more than its seven-seat sibling SQ7 which is propelled by the same 4.0-litre twin turbo V8. It’s also a lot less than the higher performingRSQ8whichis$255,800.

SQ8’s competitors include the BMW X6 M60i ($182,600), Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe ($190,900) and Porsche Cayenne GTSCoupe($211,500).

Our test vehicle was fitted with some options, pushing the price past the $200K mark, including the $14,000 sensory package, a $3000 set of 23-inch Sport wheels and - get this - another $1600 for what’sdescribedasAudiSportPaint.Paint that makes the car go faster? And it’s not red?

Thesensorypackageincludesa1920-watt Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound. System with 23 loudspeakers (not just ordinary speakers). Not that the standard 17-speakersystemistooshabby.

It also adds an air quality package that includes ioniser and perfume (two high-quality perfumes available in four differentintensities).

We lament the passing of the S8, a car that was as luxurious as it was quick, but afteraweekbehindthewheelofourgolden SQ8wehavetoadmitit’saprettyniceplace topassthetime.

The interior decor combines sporty elegance with advanced technology. It is and has always been one of Audi’s strong points.

The cabin features S sport seats, contrast diamondpatternedstitching,andexclusive materialssuchascarbonfibreandbrushed aluminium, power-adjust steering wheel position as well as power-assisted door closing, that combine to create a dynamic andsophisticatedenvironment.

The heated and cooled front seats are trimmed in Valcona leather upholstery withfour-zoneclimatecontrolair.

There’s also head-up display, adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assistance, auto high beam, auto dimming rear view mirror, auto lights and wipers, a sunroof, 360-degree camera and power-operated tailgate - not much is missing.

The SQ8 is covered by a five-year unlimitedkilometrewarranty.

Infotainment

SQ8 benefits from the latest MMI touch responsesystemandAudivirtualcockpit.

The 10.1-inch touchscreen boasts DAB+

digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with MMI navigation plus and Audi connect plus (Navigation & Infotainment + Security & Assistance services).

But to our eyes the size and location of thescreen(s)arestartingtolookdated.

Wireless charging is joined by two USB-C ports in the front and another two in the back, along with a 12-volt outlet plus another12-voltoutletintheboot.

Safety

With eight airbags and a long list of advanceddriverassistancesystems,there’s plenty to feel safe about. While diesel and 3.0-litre petrol versions of the Q8 score five stars for safety, this particular version however remains unrated. Draw your own conclusions.

Autonomous emergency braking (City, Interurban & Vulnerable Road User) as well as lane keep assist (LKA) with lane departure warning (LDW) and blind spot monitoring(BSM)arestandard.

Engines/transmissions

SQ8 is powered by a potent 4.0-litre twin turbo petrol V8, combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid, that delivers 373kW of power at 5500 rpm and 770Nm of torque from 2000-4000 rpm. The V8 is teamed with a conventional ZF eight-speed auto, with gear change paddles and auto engine stop-starttosavefuel.

Torque is distributed to all four wheels ondemand,allowingtheSUVtoaccelerate from 0 to 100km/h in a rapid-fire 4.1 seconds.

Driving Design-wise,theSQ8exudescharm,sitting low astride its 23-inch wheels and fat expensiverubber.ButIcan’tsaywe’rehuge fans of the Sakhir metallic gold paint job, althoughsomemightfinditappealing.

Audi tweaked the car last year, but the changes were minor at best. There’s no sensefixingsomethingthatain’tbroke.

Distinctive sport elements include a more aggressive front bumper, larger air intakes and quad exhaust tailpipes. These elements not only underline SQ8’s sporty bent, but serve to enhance aerodynamic efficiency. Innovative light technology includes Audi laser light and digital OLED rear lights, available for the first time as an option.

Thelightsofferavarietyofsignaturesthat canbeconfiguredthroughtheMMIsystem and feature a unique lighting design that is demonstrated in the front and rear lights withleavingandcominghomeanimations.

The hi-po V8 is complemented by four-wheel steering and sports-tuned adaptive air suspension, with a ride height that is 15mm lower that delivers the kind of ride and handling normally associated with a sedan. Dynamic mode drops the suspension by a whopping 40mm. If you want to go the whole hog, the $10,900 Dynamicpackaddsactiverollstabilisation and a sport differential with torque vectoring.

Six drive modes are available, Off-road, Efficiency, Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual.

Although the SQ8 is undeniably quick, it lacks the instantaneous punch of an EV.

Instead, it needs a couple of seconds to gather itself before launching down the road,butitisquicktomakeupforlosttime. Thepayoffisofcoursethefeelandsound of the blown V8, a sound unmatched anywhere in the world, with the deep, throaty artificially enhanced note (So what?)

Think of the SQ8 as a grand tourer with a large back seat and boot to match. Even better, there’s nothing intrusive about the driver assist support in this car. It understands you already know how to drive.

But with low profile rubber and a space saver spare, we wouldn’t be venturing downtoomanydirtroads.

The other point worth noting is that with three screens requiring your attention, the dashisverybusyandsomemayfinditalla littledaunting—especiallyatnight.

Being a V8, the SQ8 likes a drink and naturally it prefers the good stuff. Rated at 11.9L/100km,weweregetting12.5L/100km afterabout300kmofdriving.

Summing up

Not too sure about the colour, but the price compareswellwiththeS8.It’samootpoint really.AlthoughAudistilladvertisestheS8 we understand it is no longer available to orderinAustraliaasofthismonth.

There are no prizes for guessing the decision comes in the wake of declining sales and the shift towards SUVs in the market.

Audi has sold just three S8s this year (10 lastyear).

That’sadamnshame.

Stevo’s prelim predictions

Preliminary finals aren’t just another step to the Grand Final - they’re the biggest hurdle in football. This weekend, the MCG will decide it all: Geelong v Hawthorn on Friday night, and Collingwood v Brisbane on Saturday night. And in my eyes, two sideslookprimedtotearthegamesapart.

Geelong v Hawthorn

Hawthorn’sSeptemberrunhasbeengutsy. TheystunnedAdelaide,andJaiNewcombe was a bull through the middle - one of the best individual finals performances I’ve seen in a while. But prelims are different. They expose not just talent, but system, disciplineanddepth.

Geelong thrive in that environment. They’re ruthless in strangling opposition ballmovement,pinningteamsindefensive half and grinding them down until the mistakes come. Finals are built on repeat efforts and suffocating pressure — and no team executes that better than the Cats. Hawthorn will scrap, but system beats

spiritninetimesoutofteninSeptember.

Prediction: Geelong by 25 pointscontrolledfromstarttofinish.

Collingwood v Brisbane

This is the blockbuster. Brisbane are the

defending premiers and they look like a side ready to flex again. Their midfield intensity is enormous - Josh Dunkley’s tackling, their spread from stoppage, and the way they surge the ball forward under pressurewilltroubleCollingwoodbadly.

Upforward,thematch-breakerisCharlie Cameron. He loves the MCG stage, and against a Collingwood backline that hates chaosballinside50,heandtheLions’small forwards can do real damage. Add the pressure acts of Cam Rayner and Lincoln McCarthy, and suddenly Collingwood’s rebound game gets strangled before it starts.

Collingwood will fight - they always dobut their polish and ball use won’t matter if Brisbane bring heat for four quarters. This is where reigning premiers remind everyonewhytheywearthecrown.

Prediction: Brisbane by 19 pointsCamerontohaveanightout.

Final Word

Geelong’s system is ruthless. Brisbane’s pressure is suffocating. When the smoke clears at the ‘G, it won’t be about romance or underdogs - it’ll be about the two sides best built to survive prelim football. And that’swhyIseeaGeelongvBrisbaneGrand Finalin2025

Why preliminary finals are the hardest games to win

Preliminary finals are the ultimate test in football.Theydon’tjustmeasureskill;they expose nerve, leadership, and resilience. You’re one step from the Grand Final, but thatstepisoftenthehardestofall.Prelims are where dreams are made and where seasons come to die.

I’ll never forget the 1994 Preliminary Final at the MCG. North Melbourne had Geelong on the ropes for most of the day. We controlled large patches, won the contests, and looked every bit like a Grand Final side in waiting. Then came the moment that still stings. Gary Ablett Snr marked 35 metres out, directly in front, as the siren sounded. The stadium fell silent. Onekicklater,theballsplitthemiddleand ourseasonwasgone.That’sprelimfootball in a nutshell - unforgiving, merciless, and brutally final.

From 1994 through to 2000, North Melbourne played in seven consecutive preliminary finals. It was one of the most consistent runs of the modern era, and every year reinforced how unique this stage is. In 1995, Carlton tore us apart

with power and polish. In 1997, St Kilda outlastedusinanail-biter.In1998,webeat Melbourne in the prelim but stumbled a week later against Adelaide. And in 2000, we ran into an Essendon side that barely lost a game all year.

But there were triumphs too. In 1996, we overcame Brisbane and rode that momentum all the way to premiership glory against Sydney. In 1999, we again beat the Lions in a bruising prelim, and a week later lifted the cup against Carlton. Those wins weren’t just about the brilliance of Wayne Carey, the courage of Glenn Archer, or the defensive strength of Mick Martyn. They also came because of the quieter contributions - the work rate of Peter Bell, the composure of Adam Simpson, the toughness of Anthony Rock, and the relentless running of David King. Prelims expose your depth - not just your stars.

And the stage itself adds to the weight. Prelims draw massive crowds, often 90,000-plus at the MCG, and the wall of noise becomes suffocating. Every

contested ball feels like life or death. The physical toll is brutal too - bodies battered from a long season, players carrying knocks into games that leave no room for excuses.

That’s what separates a prelim from a Grand Final. On Grand Final day, the week is a celebration. But in a prelim, it’s fear. Fear of wasting a year. Fear of being remembered for falling short. Fear that one fumble or one kick could haunt you forever. That pressure is heavier than anything else in football.

This week’s contenders are about to walk into that furnace. Whoever survives won’t just be talented - they’ll be tough, composed, and ruthless. Because history remembers premierships, but players remember prelims - and after all these years, I can still say it with certainty: the hardest game to win in football is a preliminaryfinal.

Get in the Game — Advertise Where It Matters

Why Advertise With

The sun was out and the wind was calm making it perfect weather for local sporting grand finals. Here’s some of the action.

Great day for grand finals

Devils lose grand final but in good spot for next season

By Luke D’Anello

Outgoing North Footscray coach David Battistella reflected proudly on a season of progress after Saturday’s Western Football League grand final loss to Wyndhamvale.

Battistella, a premiership coach at the Devils and East Keilor, has made the decision to step down after leading the club back to the big stage in division 2. North Footscray lifted itself from eighth in 2024 to runner-up, losing the decider by 35 points.

Battistella departs confident the Devils are in a strong position for success in coming years and said a succession plan was close to being finalised.

“I told them (the players) probably six weeks ago,” Battistella said.

“I just felt like the timing was right. With thepositiontheclub’sin,Icancomfortably walk away now.

“Unfortunately, we just fell short of the ultimatefairytale,butI’mnotcomplaining.

“The club already has things in process, so that’ll be announced soon enough.

“Thewayit’sbeensetup,fortheplayersit

will be barely an adjustment, which we’re very comfortable with.”

The Devils were the only team to knock off Wyndhamvale in 2025 and entered the deciderridingthehighofconsecutivewins over the minor premier.

The Falcons outclassed the Devils in the second half, however, to secure their second senior premiership.

The two teams will likely be among the contenders again next season, with no promotion and relegation after Sunshine,

Albion and Newport joined division 1 this year.

“As soon as the three teams went up, everyonealwaysknewWyndhamvalewere probably going to be the team to beat,” Battistella said.

“Then you gave yourself a big chance, as long as you improved a little bit, to make finals. That was our goal.

“As the year went on and we were the team that beat Wyndhamvale, you start to dream a little bit I suppose.

“I think we’ve exceeded all expectations. Nowtheboysaresetuptolaunchnextyear, but it’s not going to get any easier.”

Wyndhamvale’s accurate goalkicking and superior disposal proved telling in the decider.

Jackson Ryan, Barnaby Sianos (two goals), Brody Vorano, Mitchell Donovan, Adam Petridis, Lachlan Peterson were named the Devils’ best.

“They (the players) were probably more disappointed just because there were moments in the game when I felt we could get a bit of momentum. We had a lot of football,” Battistella said.

“Unfortunately, Wyndhamvale were just much cleaner than us – not just on the scoreboard, but they were cleaner around the ground.”

Battistella said North Footscray had recovered from the brink of folding two years ago to qualify for a grand final.

“Two years ago, at the end of 2023, we were very close to folding,” he said.

“We had 80 registered players (in 2025), and a lot have also re-signed, so the club’s in a very healthy spot now.”

Falcons’ crowning glory

By Luke D’Anello

Wyndhamvale coach Daniel Smith has declared he has “unfinished business” as he prepares to lead the club’s hunt for back-to-back premierships and promotion next season.

TheFalconsclaimedtheirsecondWestern Football League senior premiership on Saturday, rebounding from back-to-back lossesagainstNorthFootscraytoprevailin the division 2 decider.

Theminorpremierrosetotheoccasionon the big stage, with its accurate goalkicking and slick skills proving too much for the Devilsinthe35-pointtriumphatYarraville Oval, 13.2 (80)-6.9 (45).

“They’re definitely hard to win,” Smith said on Sunday amid the jubilation after the club added to its maiden division 2 flag in 2015.

“Talking to a few of the older boys, they’ve played in five or six losing prelims.

“You’ve just got to enjoy it because it might be your last one.”

While the club secured hard-earned silverware, it will remain in division 2 in 2026.

Sunshine, Albion and Newport were promoted to the top flight this year, with the league pushing pause on any changes to the senior grades.

The Falcons also lost to North Footscray by eight points in the reserves grand final.

“I think the boys are even hungrier now that they’ve tasted it,” first-year coach Smith said.

“The drive from the reserves boys unfortunatelygoingdownby(eight)points, they want to win it next year as well.

“The drive from the club is fantastic. I’ll let them have a week (off), and then we’ll start talking about next year.

“I’ve still got some unfinished business. I want to leave this club in a much better place than when I arrived.”

Smith said the Falcons had recruited with an eye to 2026 and a potential spot in division 1 by 2027.

But he is acutely aware all the hard work will start again once the premiership celebrations end.

“We went out with the goal of getting a younger age demographic and building a team to next year hopefully win it again. I can say again now,” Smith said.

“Then (we can) go up to div 1 with 18 months,twoyearsofkidsreallydeveloping and being good footballers. Then you

don’t have to go out and recruit as heavily hopefully.

“We’ve just got to keep the confidence and reinforce that you can get better.

“Alltheotherteamsaregoingtocatchup to us if we take the foot off the pedal.”

Wyndhamvale led at every change in the grand final, icing a superb season with a nine-goal-to-four second half.

Falcons star Jack Tessari capped a standout season by winning the medal for best afield.

“He had a fantastic year, and he stepped up in the final. It was hard to pick who was best, but Jack was definitely one of the handful that I thought would get it,” Smith said.

Spearhead Lewis Stanton booted six goals to finish the season with 125 majors.

Remarkably, Stanton kicked at least one goal in each of his 21 games. He was held to three goals in the opening two weeks of finals before finishing with another influential performance.

Co-captain Liam Scarborough, Oliver Brett, Noah Cooney and Damon Stephens also fired for the winners.

Wyndhamvale’s only two defeats of the campaign came against North Footscray –in round 11 and the major semi-final.

TheFalconskicked3.14inarain-affected final two weeks earlier, but there were no such issues on Saturday.

“Ithelpedwhenweputabitofscoreboard

pressure on them, which forces them to chase the game a little bit,” Smith said.

“But it was just a good game of footy. It was intense and everything a grand final shouldbe.Idon’tthinkweshutthedooron them until maybe halfway through the last (quarter), and then the boys just enjoyed the last five minutes of it.

“I just don’t think we executed well enough in that second semi, definitely in front of goal.

“It was probably the first wet game that we’d had all year, so it was just a few little factors.

“But North were better than us on the day…andwewereluckyenoughtoreverse it in the one that matters most.”

Ahmed Saad joins Newport

By Tara Murray

Newport has added some valuable experience to its list with the signing of former AFL player Ahmed Saad for next year’s Western Football League division 1 season.

Saad is the first new signing for the Panthers for next season as they look to build on their first season in division 1.

Saad played 33 AFL games after being drafted from the Victorian Football League.

He joins the club from Essendon District Football League premier division club Pascoe Vale and has played for West Preston Lakeside in the Northern Football League, having carved out a successful local football career.

The club said “Saady” will bring some serious forward firepower, leadership and high standards to our senior team.

Panthers coach Ali Hamad said the arrival of Saad was exciting for the club.

“He brings a wealth of experience and professionalism after playing at the highest level and at local footy,” he said.

“He adds to the squad and can give a great example on field and will be of some help during games.”

Hamad said the playing group would benefit from Saad’s preparation for game day and throughout training.

He said he leads by example.

Hamad said Saad had showed that he was still a high level goalkicker in recent years. This year he kicked 30 goals in 11

games for Pascoe Vale.

He said there was one big factor in Saad wanting to come across.

“We’ve got Bachar Houli in our team and they have known each other for a while,” he said.

“They want to play together.”

The signing of Saad is a welcome boost for the Panthers after a solid first season in division 1.

The club won six games and finished 10th on the ladder after being one of three teams promoted as part of a restructure.

A win against reigning premiers Hoppers Crossing was a highlight.

“We’re trending in the right direction,” Hamad said. “We had a couple of results that didn’t go our way.

League titles cap off big year for Seagulls

By Tara Murray

Williamstown Lacrosse Club almost completed the perfect season in the Lacrosse Victoria competition.

All of the club’s sides made it through to grand finals with every side but the under-16s winning the premiership over the past few weeks.

The club capped off the season on Saturday with its seniors and reserves claiming the respective state league titles.

State league coach Mike Sullivan said it’s pretty special to achieve something like that.

“We’re still celebrating,” he said on Sunday morning. “All the sides but the16s won which is pretty cool.

“It’s been done before, but it’s very rare. To win all the senior comps has not been done for a while either.”

In the state league final on Saturday, it was a game of momentum against Malvern.

Williamstown led for much of the game and were 10-7 up at three quarter time and

seemed to be in control of the match having held strong

Malvern then got going to take the lead.

“At three quarter time we thought we had weathered the storm,” Sullivan said.

“We were then 10-12 down and needed to win the ball defensively and get the ball back.

“The last couple of minutes we were just focused on the next play.

“It was more about giving ourselves the next chance of getting the ball back.”

It was the Gibson brothers who stood up late for Seagulls in front of goal.

Cal and Harry scored the last three goals between them to put Williamstown back in front in the dying minutes.

It would be enough to get the title, with Williamstown winning 13-12.

Harry Gibson, who scored three goals for the game, was awarded the best on ground medal.

Sullivan said Gibson was also strong in defence.

He said Malvern had also a great game

“Going from division 2 to a premiership team in the first year wasn’t going to happen. We’re building a foundation for years to come.

“We had six wins …A lot of guys know what it takes in division 1 now. The preparation of game day, playing at a higher level.

“The second year will be much better than the first time.”

The Panthers have also announced the signing of Mahmoud Taha, who also crosses from Pascoe Vale.

Taha won the Calder Cannons best and fairest in 2024 and was a Vic Metro representative.

This year listed with Essendon’s Victorian Football League side.

FV to investigate abandoned state league 2 match

Altona East Phoenix has secured promotion in FV state league 2 north-west but it’s final round match was abandoned with Football Victoria conducting an investigation.

Altona East Phoenix and Uni Hill Eagles played each other in the final round, with both sides still in with a chance of finishing second.

The Phoenix was in the box seat with the Eagles needing a big win to overtake it. The finals round match was officially abandoned in the 43rd minutes after Eagles players’ alleged racist comments were directed at one of their players.

Star Weekly understands that an Eagles player alleged he was copping racial abuse from near the Phoenix bench.

The referees didn’t hear the alleged abuse and it continued on.

It’s then believed In the 28th minute, the Eagles captain decided to take a stand and pulled his players from the ground. Scores were locked at 0-0 at the time.

In a statement, Football Victoria confirmed it received a report on Monday from Uni Hill Eagles alleging racist comments directed at one of its players during the round 22 clash with Altona Phoenix.

and were unlucky not to come away with the trophy.

“Malvern did enough to win the game,” Sullivan said. “We wanted to win and that came through.”

It’s Williamstown’s first state league title since 2019.

Sullivan said they were continuing the strong tradition of the club which has had a lot of success over the years.

“We’ve got a core group with three older guys and a lot of younger guys,” he said. “A few had won the title and a few had not won one.

“This group learned how to win it come yesterday [Saturday].”

In the earlier game in the reserves competition, Williamstown also beat Malvern.

The Seagulls won 13-9 to win that title.

With a good group of players, Sullivan said things were looking bright for the future after the success the whole club has this year.

“The future is brighter than today,” he said.

“FV condemns discriminatory abuse of any kind and treats allegations of this nature with the utmost seriousness. An investigation into the incident has commenced,” the statement said.

“Following the conclusion of the investigation, FV may issue misconduct charge(s) with appropriate recommended penalties which align with the discipline regulations.”

Separately, FV competitions determined the outcome of the match, which was abandoned in approximately the 43rd minute, following the Eagles decision to leave the pitch. In line with competition rules and taking into account the referee’s report, scoreline and minutes played, FV has deemed the competition fixture a 0-0 no result.

The Eagles made a statement on social media saying it stands shoulder to shoulder with their players and their right to feel safe, respected and and supported.

Altona East Phoenix was contacted for comment.

Eaves shares VFLW award

By Tara Murray

The lure of returning home for Williamstown’s Emily Eaves is always there but playing for the Seagulls keeps her coming back for more every year.

Eaves capped off a brilliant season for the Seagulls as she shared the Victorian Football League women’s coaches most valuable player award at the league awards night on Monday night.

Eaves and Ange Cogos each polled 77 votes to share the award with Cogos, a former VU Spur and Western Bulldogs player going back-to-back in that award.

Eaves polled coaches’ votes in every game she played this year as she helped guide her side to a semi final.

“It’s nice to have a consistent season,” Eaves said. “I had a big pre-season this year and just wanted to have fun and see what I could do.”

After being a Sydney Swans train on player a few years ago, Eaves made the move to Victoria to broaden her football career.

She joined Williamstown and it has formed a special part of her life.

Eaves said the community at the club is second to none and makes everyone at the club play their best football.

“Every year I’ve been here, I’ve said it’s my last year and I’m going to go back,” she said.

“I stick around as Williamstown is probably the best footy club I’ve been a part of.

“I brag about it to everyone I talk to about

how good that footy club is.

“I feel like it’s like a local footy club with that professional environment. That sense of community in Williamstown is something, I want everyone to experience it.

“I can’t thank that football club enough for making me have a family away from home.”

Eaves also finished fourth in the Lambert-Pearce Medal which was won by Gogos.

Former coach Liam Cavanagh said multiple times throughout the season he thought AFLW clubs should be looking at Eaves for a spot on their list after her strong performances.

Eaves was named in the team of the year alongside teammate Jemima Wrigley. West-

Eagles fall short, grand final hopes dashed

By Luke D’Anello

Yarraville-Seddon’s young group came within a whisker of securing a grand final appearance on Saturday.

The Eagles led Caroline Springs in time on of the final quarter before conceding the last two goals of the preliminary final in an agonising seven-point defeat, 11.16 (82)-11.9 (75), which dashed their Western Football League division 1 flag dream.

But amid the gloom of a missed opportunity came reason to be bullish that success is on the horizon.

“We worked it out post-game that our average age was 19 and a half,” Yarraville-Seddon coach Brad Julier said.

“We believe we’ll get our time. We would have liked it to have been now, but there’s a hell of a lot to look forward to with that group.

“They’re really young and if they stick together their time will come. Hopefully there will be some sustained success there if we can keep them all together.

“There’s been some huge improvement getting games into them and getting them

to play three finals. (But) it’s a long road to get back there again.”

The Eagles have established themselves as one of the leading clubs in the top flight and went one week further after a semi-final appearance last year.

Little separated the teams at each break before Caroline Springs kicked two goals to one in the last quarter to set up a grand final clash with Werribee Districts, who have qualified for their fourth consecutive decider.

Daniel Snell booted three goals in a best-afield performance for the losing side, while Akol Deng, Ethan Williamson, Josh Helliwell, West Barker and Finley Neylan also impressed.

“Pretty disappointing. We felt like we controlled a fair bit of the game except probably the last five minutes, so it was pretty flattening at the end of the game,” Julier said.

“We’ve had five years of improvement. It was another step forward playing in a prelim.

“Caroline Springs have lost prelims (in 2022 and 2024), Werribee Districts have

ern Bulldogs’ Sarah Sansonetti was also named in the time.

Meanwhile, Seagulls Brodie McLaughlin was awarded the Frosty Miller medal as the leading goalkicker in the men’s competition.

He finished fifth in the J.J Liston Trophy award which was won by Southport’s Jacob Dawson.

McLaughlin, who said on the night he wasn’t sure what his future held, was named in the team of the year along with defender Luke Parks.

Footscray Bulldogs Cooper Craig-Peters and Ryan Gardner were named in the team of the year as well, with Bulldogs coach Stewart Edge being named coach of the year for a second time.

Bulldogs through

Footscray will face Southport in this weekend’s Victorian Football League decider after a dominant performance in Saturday’s preliminary final.

The Bulldogs outgunned Box Hill Hawks at Whitten Oval, prevailing by 31 points, 16.12 (108)-11.11 (77).

The minor premier established a 14-point advantage at quarter-time and extended it to four goals at the main break.

The second half was a tighter affair, but the Bulldogs managed to outscore their opponents to move one step closer to adding to their VFL flags from 2014 and 2016.

had some pain.

“We knew we were against it but still thought we were good enough to get there.”

Julier has completed five years at the helm of the Eagles and is contracted for 2026.

He led them to three wins from 12 games intheCOVID-impacted2021season,which was their first in their return to division 1.

Yarraville-Seddon won four games in 2022 and has contested finals the past three seasons.

Julier, a Port Melbourne Colts great who has also held coaching roles in the Victorian Football League, said the Eagles would look to add a key defender over summer.

“Retention is the key to start with,” Julier said.

“But probably a big key defender is the first one we’d sort of look for.

“We don’t want to go down the path of just bringing in some old guys just for the sake of it to fast-track what we’re doing.

“As disappointing as it is (losing a preliminary final), we’re on the right track and our time we’ll come, but we’ll definitely look to add something.”

Anthony Scott was outstanding for Footscray, racking up 37 possessions and seven tackles, while Adam Treloar had 31 touches and Jedd Busslinger 30. William Lewis helped himself to five goals in a season-best performance to take his 2025 tally to 38 from 18 matches.

Zac Walker contributed four majors, while Joshua Dolan and Cooper Hynes finished with two apiece.

Josh Kellett, Billy Crofts and Nicholas Coffield were also influential in the victory.

Footscray and Southport are yet to face each other this season, with the Sharks contesting their second consecutive grand final after last year’s defeat to Werribee.

The Bulldogs will enter the season finale in red-hot form, having won their past 13 matches with their last loss coming against Williamstown in May. They finished the regular season as minor premiers with a 15-3 win-loss record.

Perennial contenders Southport finished third with a 13-1-4 record and cruised to an 88-point win over Frankston on Saturday.

The grand final will be staged at Ikon Park on Sunday from 2.15pm.

Director Alex Karlis Leads River Edge Real Estate with local focus and dedication.

River Edge Real Estate may be a new name in town, but it brings with it over 100 years of combined experience in real estate sales and rentals, with a strong focus on the vibrant and growing community in the city of Maribyrnong. Located in the heart of the area, River Edge Real Estate offers a boutique, client-focused approach that stands out from the larger, impersonal agencies. At the helm is Director Alex Karlis, a seasoned expert with over 15 years’ experience specialising in Property Management. Known for his exceptional attention to detail and commitment to high standards, Alex is passionate about delivering tailored solutions that truly meet the needs of his clients. His vision for River Edge Real Estate is to create a welcoming, local hub where clients feel heard, understood, and genuinely supported through every stage of their property journey. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, lease, or simply seeking advice, the team is ready to help with in-depth knowledge of the property market in the city of Maribyrnong and surrounding suburbs. Alex personally invites locals and newcomers alike to stop by the office for a coffee and a chat — no pressure, just real conversations and professional guidance from people who care about the community they serve.