Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 24th September 2025

Kangaroo great Anthony Stevens writes exclusively for Star Weekly

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Angelic play explores desire

I Met an Angel Named Jacques, a new play which opens at Footscray Community Arts next month, is an exploration of how love, ambition, and ego collide, especially in queer black lives where identity and desire are always under some kind of scrutiny.

The latest work by renowned multidisciplinary artist Gideon D. Wilonja, I Met an Angel Named Jacques premieres on October 1, which is the start of International LGBTQ History Month.

The work is deeply personal for writer Wilonja who also stars alongside Ras Samuel (Kingdom of the Planet of The Apes, The Clearing), with Ben Chisholm, Sasha Hannequin, and Atinuke Abraham completing the ensemble. It is rooted in the queer black experience and examines why we cling to relationships that don’t serve us and why validation feels like survival.

The production is part of the 2025 Jewel Box Performances commission, created by Footscray Community Arts with the aim of supporting early career black, Indigenous, and PoC artists.

Road safety green light

By Cade Lucas

Maribyrnongcounciliscallingonthestate governmenttohelpfundtheinstallationof traffic lights at two notorious intersections whichcouldcostupto$10millioneach.

Notices of motion calling for the installation of traffic signals at the intersection of Hampstead Road, Emu Road and Crefden Street in Maidstone and Hopkins Street, Hallenstein Street and Moreland Road in Footscray, were both endorsed at a council meeting on September16.

Both intersections are on state managed roads and the state government would be

required to fund the bulk of the funding with council contributing the rest through developercontributions.

The motion calling for traffic lights at the Hampstead Road intersection was moved by councillor Susan Yengi who said despite two community petitions and multiple complaints from residents, nothing had been done to improve safety at the busy intersection which was a fatality waiting to happen.

“It is not a matter of if but a matter of when,”CrYengisaid.

The same phrase was used by Cr Samantha Meredith speaking in support of her motion calling for traffic lights at the

corner of Hopkins and Hallenstien streets andMorelandRoadinFootscray.

However, unlike in Maidstone, the intersection near the Joseph Road apartment precinct has already had one fatality when Footscray resident Frances RamirezwaskilledthereinNovember2023.

“That was a big moment losing a community member and we don’t want to loseanother,”CrMeredithsaid,addingthat thepopulationoftheareahadcontinuedto grow since then and was now home to an increasingnumberofshopsandbusinesses, includingasoontoopengym.

“This sharp increase is placing substantial pressure on the existing road infrastructure.

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“Without the installation of a fully signalised intersection public safety will continuetobecompromised.”

Council chief executive Celia Haddock pointed out that unlike Hampstead Road, no developer contributions were available for the Hopkins Street traffic lights, meaning the state government would need tofoottheentirebill.

Both motions were passed unanimously and have already been submitted to the state government for inclusion in next year’sbudget.

Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Hornewascontactedforcomment.

Fighting for IVF families

By Cade Lucas

Awesternsuburbswomanisleadingacampaign for greater regulation of Australia’s IVF industry.

Michelle Galea from Hobsons Bay is the founderandchairofAssistedReproductive Treatment Families Australia (ARTFA), a newly established not-for-profit organisation advocating for families navigating IVF, assisted reproductive treatment (ART), and donor conception in Australia.

Australia’s IVF industry has come under scrutiny this year following errors involving fertility company, Monash IVF, where

in two separate incidents, patients at its Melbourne and Brisbane clinics were implanted with the wrong embryos, the latter resulting in a women giving birth to a stranger’s baby.

Ms Galea, who conceived her son through IVF more than a decade ago, highlighted the need for a national regulatory system to oversee the IVF industry.

“AtpresentIVFregulationisapatchwork of regulations varying state by state, some states only adhere to guidelines as there is no regulation in their state,” she said.

“We also have a system where donors can donate at multiple clinics across multi-

plestatesasnooneiscrosscheckingwhere and when donors donate or how many families are being created.

“This all equals a perfect storm for a disaster that the politicians keep ignoring.”

Ms Galea and the ARTFA have launched an e-petition before federal parliament which calls for urgent reform of the IVF and donor conception sector, including: independent regulation of the industry; greater transparency and accountability; the creation of a national donor registry and donor bank and stronger protections for donor-conceived people and families.

At time of writing the petition had close

and 54th anniversary with the

colleagues on Monday, September 15. (supplied)

Footscray SES icon Denis Brain honoured

TheFootscrayStateEmergencyService(SES) Unithashonouredoneofitslongest-serving members, Denis Brain, who celebrated his 80thbirthdaylastweekalongsideanextraordinary milestone of 54 years of volunteer service.

A surprise gathering was held at the Footscray SES headquarters on the evening ofMonday,September15,wherevolunteers, family, and community members came together to recognise Mr Brain’s decades of commitment to emergency response and community safety.

MrBrainjoinedtheSESintheearly1970s

andhassinceplayedavitalroleincountless flood and storm responses across the west.

Over more than five decades, he has mentored generations of new recruits and become a cornerstone of the Footscray unit which he is still an active member of, attending training regularly and conducting training for new and existing members.

Speakingattheevent,FootscraySEScontroller Mike Bagnall said Mr Brain’s contribution could not be overstated.

“Denis is the heart of our unit,” Mr Bagnall said.

“His commitment, resilience, and gen-

erosity of spirit have inspired us all for decades.

“It was an honour to celebrate not only his 80th birthday but also his extraordinary record of service to the community.”

The celebration drew a wide range of guests, including representatives from Maribyrnong council, current and former members of the Footscray SES unit and neighbouring units who shared stories about Mr Brain’s role in major flood and storm operations, his calm leadership during emergencies, and his humour, warmth, and humility.

More feedback wanted on Bulldogs childcare lease

Just two months after negative feedback forced a backflip on its previous plans, Maribyrnong council is again conducting community consultation on the lease arrangements for the Bulldogs Community Children’s Centre in Footscray.

After the previous lease on the centre heldbytheWesternBulldogsexpired,council passed a motion in June that removed a clause stipulating that the Bulldogs ChildcareCentrecouldonlybeoperatedbyanotfor-profit.

The move angered local parents who wereconcernedattheprospectofthecentre

being run by a for-profit operator.

During the public consultation process that followed, more than 400 formal submissions opposing the removal of the notfor-profit clause were received, while a petition calling for its reinstatement attracted more than 2570 signatures.

“We heard community feedback loud and clear during that period, and saw how important the centre is to its community,” said deputy mayor Bernadette Thomas of the backlash which forced council to reinstate the not-for-profit clause at its meeting on July 22.

to 950 signatures, with Ms Galea hoping to reach2000bytheclosingdateonOctober3.

She said the issue was gaining momentum.

“Families across Australia are coming forward to share their experiences, many of which highlight not only emotional and financialexploitationbutalsofailuresinrecord-keeping and protections for children.

“ARTFA was founded to give these families and donor-conceived people a collective voice.”

To view and sign the petition go to: https://www.aph.gov.au/e-petitions/petition/EN7525/sign

Police arrest train protester from SA

A woman who climbed on top of a freight train as it crossed the Maribyrnong River on Wednesday morning said she was aiming to disrupt an economic system causing “global ecocide and genocide“.

Mia, a 27 year old from South Australia representing the activist group Whose Future, was arrested by police just after 9am on September 17 after being brought down from on top of a freight train on the Bunbury Street Railway Bridge in Footscray.

Protesters from the activist group had earlier halted the train as it crossed the rail bridge about 7.30am, with Mia believed to have then climbed aboard one of its containers from Maribyrnong Street. It is alleged she then spray painted ‘resist or die’ on top of the container as well as hanging a banner in relation to a future protest.

In a statement released prior to the protest, Mia said the action deliberately targeted a bottleneck in a global economic system responsible for everything from wealth inequality to climate breakdown and to genocide in Gaza.

“Our future is not looking so good,” she wrote.

“The system hasn’t failed, it’s working as it was intended. Business as usual has led us to this point. Business as usual won’t get us out of this mess. Resist or die.“

It’s the second action by Whose Future aimed at disrupting operations at the Port of Melbourne this week, following a similar protest at Webb Dock.

The group called the protest on Tuesday a‘peoplesembargo’aimed at stopping goods being exported to Israel, while they also claimed to be involved in the occupation of Fraser MP Daniel Mulino’s office on Monday where protesters demanded an end to arms sales, trade and diplomatic relations with the Netanyahu government.

Based on the feedback, council also removed the first right of refusal clause from the new lease, which would have given the Bulldogs automatic priority.

Now council wants more community feedbackonwhethertheleaseshouldbefor fiveor10yearsandwhatmattersmostabout the childcare centre.

“Before council is presented with an updated lease, we want to hear from our communitytoensuretheleasereflectstheneeds andexpectationsofthecommunity,”saidCr Thomas of why more community feedback was being sought.

Mia has been taken into custody and is expected to be charged with trespassing on a railway premises, stopping a rail vehicle, mounting a place not intended for travel, hanging a flag on rail premises, graffiti, possessing graffiti implements, criminal damage and obstructing police.

Transit police are continuing to investigate the incident.

Bank marks a milestone

Having opened its doors on July 1, 2000, the Altona and Laverton Community Bank is marking 25 years of being more than just A financial institution, but a cornerstoneofthelocalcommunity.

Chairperson Henry Da Silva, recalled how what began as a response to the withdrawal of major banking services fromAltonaandLaverton,developedinto a thriving, locally owned and managed communitybank.

“As one of the founding directors in 1999, alongside Michael Pernar and a dedicatedgroupofvolunteers,Iwitnessed first-hand how community input shaped ourmission,”saidMrDaSilva.

“Residents didn’t just want banking, they wanted a bank that reinvested its profitsintothecommunityweallcherish.”

Over the last quarter century that reinvestment into the local community has totalled more $6.8 million in the form of grants, donations, sponsorships anddividends.

Mobil begins demolition of former Altona refinery facilities.

Demolition work at Mobil’s Altona site commenced this month as we remove a number of tanks, former refinery process units and associated infrastructure. These facilities were part of the Altona refinery and are no longer needed to support our reliable supply of fuel to Victoria from our Altona site - home to one of Australia’s largest and most efficient fuel import and distribution terminals. Liberty Industrial are leading the demolition works that will continue through to the end of 2027. Liberty have a strong track record in safely demolishing oil and gas facilities, both in Australia

This funding has underpinned local sportingandrecreationalgroups,cultural and educational organisations, social welfare and vulnerable community support.

“These contributions have enabled localpartnerstodeliveressentialservices that sustain both social and economic wellbeing,”saidMrDaSilva.

“Our success stems from organisations that truly embrace the meaning of ‘community’ and we remain fiercely committedtothesevalues.”

The bank will be celebrate its silver jubileewithafreefamilyfestivalatCherry Lake Park in Altona on Sunday, October 12.

A children’s activity bus, egg and spoon races, craft, face painting, wizards and free sausage sizzle are among the attractions on offer at the festival which willrunfrom11am-3pm.

For more details contact: bdm@ hobsonsbaycfs.com.au.

Briefs

Safety breakfast

WorkSafe is taking expert advice on the road next month with a workplace safety business breakfast in Altona on October 2. Held at Hobsons Bay Council Chambers from 7am to 9am, the breakfast is one of a host of workplace safety sessions WorkSafe will hold across Victoria to coincide with Health and Safety Month. The free expert-led sessions will give workers and employers the chance to learn about current trends and issues, with a spotlight on high risk industries including construction, manufacturing, agriculture, health care and the public sector.

WorkSafe charges

A freight transport company has been charged by WorkSafe after a forklift driver was fatally crushed by bulk bags of animal feed at its Tottenham warehouse in May 2024. Cargo Freight Services Melbourne Pty Ltd faces two charges under section 21(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act for failing to provide and maintain a safe working environment. It is alleged the company failed to reduce the risk of stacked bulk containers becoming unstable and collapsing onto workers. It’s further alleged the company failed to inform its employees of the risk. The matter will be heard at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 25.

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“We are proud to be working closely with Liberty Industrial for the Altona demolition works. Their history of safely executing complex projects like this made them the ideal candidate to carry out this work in our unique suburban setting,” said Melbourne Terminal Manager, Rhys Kelly.

Given the nature of the works, there may be a noticeable increase in noise from the site from time to time. Mobil and Liberty have implemented measures including completing most work during the day and using dust suppression to minimise any impacts on our neighbours.

“Together with Liberty, we are carefully executing the demolition work to ensure it is managed safely and with minimal impact to our neighbours.

“We will also closely monitor the works so that we can quickly respond to any unexpected impacts if they occur.

“Following the demolition, we look forward to working with relevant stakeholders as we develop plans to make some parts of the site available for alternative uses in future, subject to rezoning,” said Rhys.

Since works to transition our Altona site to a world-class terminal began in 2021, Mobil has refurbished a number of tanks at the Altona site, increasing our fuel storage capacity by almost 250 million litres to ensure we can meet the federal government’s minimum fuel storage requirements, as well as maintain our vital role in supplying around 40% of Victoria’s fuel needs.

Honouring police lives lost

By Sam Porter

The day the Tim Lewczuk bridge was renamed in the senior constable’s honour, thelatepoliceofficer’sparents,Richardand DotLewczuk,gatheredinagreenareaatthe bridge’sbase.

They said they were overcome with emotions.

“We did that there on the day with our other son and his children … and it was overwhelming,”Dotsaid.

“It’salwaystoughlosingsomebodybutwe wereveryproud,”Richardsaid.

Tim joined the police force in 1989, after

having worked various jobs, including as a maintenance fitter and a football fitness advisor.

“He came into our house one night and said ‘I’m going to join the police force,’ and that’sit,”Richardsaid.

On a Saturday night in 1997, Senior Constable Lewczuk and Senior Constable Kylie Towk pulled over a vehicle on the bridge over the Western Freeway, and parkedthepolicecarbehindit.

As Senior Constable Lewczuk was questioning the driver, another car crashed intothepolicecar.

Senior Constable Lewczuk was thrown

Protest at MP’s office

Agroupof20residentsfromMelbourne’s westernsuburbsprotestedoutsideFraser MP Daniel Mulino’s office on Monday September, 15, calling for Australia to end its diplomatic ties with Israel.

The group eventually moved into the foyer of Dr Mulino’s office where they stayed for four-and-a-half hours, chanting and playing war sounds from Gaza.

Spokesperson for the group, former senator and Footscray resident Janet Rice, said the protest aimed to disrupt business as usual.

“Multiple local residents and community groups have contacted Daniel Mulino, our local representative, aboutthegenocidethatIsraelisinflicting on Palestine and actions that Australia couldtaketohelpendthestarvationand the killings,” Ms Rice said.

“Dr Mulino has refused to meet us. We cannot accept silence in the face of

MY PLACE

genocide. We are occupying his offices to get him to unlock his door to listen to his constituents. We are breaking the silence about our government’s complicit relationship with Israel,” Ms Rice said.

Ms Rice said the federal government could do more to apply pressure on Israel.

“Until Israel ends its crimes, the Australian government must sanction Israel as we are sanctioning Russia, end trade with and stop arming Israel and enddiplomatictieswithIsrael,”shesaid.

“Recognition of Palestine is not enough. Words are not enough… Sanctions speak louder than words.”

DrMulinowascontactedforcomment.

Twenty protesters gathered at Fraser MP Daniel Mulino’s office on September 15, calling for the federal government to end its diplomatic ties with Israel. (Supplied)

over the first car onto the highway below, andtragicallydiedatthescene.

It was the day that changed the family’s livesforever.

RichardandDotsaidtheywereemotional after learning Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart were shotandkilledinPorepunkahlastmonth.

“For anyone that’s lost somebody while they were on duty, it brings it all back.,” Dot said.

“Time goes on and you have to learn to live with it. It never goes away, and things likethatbringitalltothefore.”

Dot said National Police Remembrance DayhelpsTim’slegacytoliveon. “It just means that he’s never forgotten,” shesaid.

ANationalPoliceRemembranceday/Blue Ribbondaymemorialservicewillbeheldat ClubItalia,128-152FurlongRoad,Sunshine, onThursday,September25at11am.

National Police Remembrance Day will beobservedonMonday,September29,with moreservicesbeingheldacrossthestate.

Donations to the Victoria Police Legacy remembrance fund for families of Porepunkah tragedy can be made here: https://www.policelegacyvic.org.au/

Kingsville’s Sarah Gray is a pharmacist and nutritionist who treats women suffering from the symptoms of perimenopause, a hormonal condition that occurs in women in the years prior to the onset of menopause. She spoke to Cade Lucas about her life in the inner-west.

What’syourconnectiontoMaribyrnong?

I have lived in Kingsville for 12 years. I have played cricket with Williamstown CYMs and supported women in the area, whenitcomestohealthandwellness.

What do you like about living/working here?

The great community spirit and how we all support local businesses and each other. Also the amazing restaurants and of course the iconic Sun Theatre and Bookshop.

What, if anything, would you change aboutthearea?

Better traffic control on Williamstown Road, with truck curfews and enforced speed limits to help reduce noise for local residents.

Where is your favourite local place to spendtime?

The Sun Theatre Bookshop where I am lucky enough to be holding a book launch event in November. Also, Navi restaurant andbar.Thefoodisincredible.

Tell us something people would be surprisedtoknowaboutyou.

I recently published a book called ’Its Not You, Its Perimenopause’. And I also run marathons.

Sarah Gray with her debut book ’It’s Not You, It’s Perimenopause.’ (Ljubica Vrankovic) 498327_04

Show your love for the west

Maribyrnong residents are known for their loveoftheareaandandthewesternsuburbs as a whole, but now they’re being asked expressthatloveinanewcompetition.

Maribyrnong council’s ‘Love Your West’ competition is now officially open, inviting locals to share their favourite things to see and do in the municipality for a chance to winfantasticprizes.

Thecompetitionisstraightforward.

To enter, contestants just have to simply comment on one of council’s Love Your West competition reels and posts on social media or submit their entry via the Love Your West website, sharing their favourite westsidehighlights.

From parks and local eateries to markets and neighbourhood experiences, there is no shortage of potential answers for Maribyrnong locals to choose from and

everyanswercountsasanentry.

Winners receive gift certificates ranging from$50to$100invaluethathavedonated by local businesses and are redeemable at theirestablishments.

The competition is already underway withfirst-roundwinnersdrawnlastweek, Anthony Spiteri, Sarah Macdonald, Matt Coad and Sandra Jones were the lucky locals to have their names drawn and

Flash tattoo fundraiser at Duke Street

Fundraisersareadimeadozenthesedays, with a school, charity or sporting club holding an event or launching an appeal onlineseeminglyeverydayoftheweek.

But as common as they are, most fundraisers are still largely the same: raffles, auctions, concerts and sausage sizzles or a campaign through an online platform.

However, on Sunday, September 28, Sunshine’sDukeStreetCommunityHouse will be doing something a different to generatemuchneededfunds.

The “Flash and Find” event involves

people getting a flash tattoo in order to support Duke Street Community House, whilefundswillalsoberaisedthroughold fashioned means like market stalls and a sausagesizzle.

The event will be held at Kisume Canvas tattoo studio in Footscray and Duke Street manager Emma Price thanked owners KisumeandDeefortheirsupport.

“More and more we are having to look at creative ways of fundraising, so it is amazing when community focused local business owners like Dee (and Kisume) havethesefunandexcitingideasandwant

to help support our work,” said Ms Price who explained what initiatives the money wouldgotowards.

“Funds raised will support pivotal community programs including our social inclusion activities and our food relief service.

“I love the thought that people will be able to look at their beautiful tattoos and know they’ve also contributed to supportingcommunity.”

For more information about Flash and Find and Duke Street Community House, goto:http://www.dsch.org.au/

received their gift certificates from deputy mayor Bernadette Thomas on Monday, September15.

More entrants are wanted and anyone livinginMaribyrnongcangetinvolved.

For more information and to enter the competition, keep an eye on Maribyrnong council’s social media accounts or visit the Love Your West website: https:// loveyourwest.com.au/

Gun, cash found after arrest

Police have charged a man who was allegedlyfoundwithaloadedfirearm and $2000 cash when arrested in Maribyrnong early on Tuesday morning.

The 22-year-old was arrested near Rosamond Road about 12.40am on September 16 after dumping his vehicle and attempting to flee on foot, having earlier been followed by policeacrossthecity.

As the man was running from the scene, he allegedly threw a bag into bushesonavacantblock.

The bag was later recovered by police who allegedly found the cash andloadedguninside.

The man first drew the attention of police when they noticed his Mercedes speeding along the Nepean Highway at Brighton East about12.15am.

Officers attempted to intercept the allegedly stolen vehicle however the driverrefusedtopulloverandfledto Melbourne’s north-western suburbs wherehewasfinallyapprehended.

The Mercedes was allegedly stolen from a Cairnlea property on the eveningofAugust2.

The Truganina man was interviewed by detectives and has since been charged with possessing a prohibited firearm; possessing ammunition without a licence; theft of a motor vehicle; driving a vehicle with cloned plates; failing to stop on police directions; dangerous driving while being pursued by police; driving without L plates and driving unsupervised while on a learners licence.

He was bailed to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on January16.

Bengali cultural day

Melbourne’s Bengali community is ready to put on a dazzling display at its annual Durga Puja spring festival.

Running from September 26-28 at Riverbend Primary School in Wyndham Vale, Melbourne Bengali Association (MELBA) is inviting people from all ages and interests to join in the festivities.

Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival, that is particularly popular in West Bengal, AssamandothereasternIndianstates,that celebrates the triumph of good over evil.

This year’s festival will include the opportunity for cultural exchange, the chance to sample delicious Indian cuisine andhaveplentyofactivitiesonofferforthe kids.

Mandira Ghosh, one of the organisers, said the event, now in its 12th year, has grown in spades.

“We love doing it and that is why we started this one in Wyndham, because it is very hard if people have to go far away to participate in [Durga Puja].

“It has grown heaps, even people from regional Victoria come along now.

“We also want to exchange our culture with other people’s cultures, so that’s why we invite other cultural groups to participate in our cultural program.”

The cultural exchange, one of the main events of the festival, is a platform for different cultural groups to showcase their

talent via song and dance.

However, Ms Ghosh said the event ultimately helps younger members of the Bengali community proudly preserve their traditions.

“We want to pass on our traditions and culture to the next generation, so they will alsoknowhowwecelebrateourtraditional culture.”

Don’t miss colourful Kyneton performance

KynetonTheatreCompanyisgearingupfor its next performance, and it’s one not to be missed.

The next show will be Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s showstopping performance, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.

Performed thousands of times across the globe, including multiple runs in the West End and on Broadway, Joseph has become one of the world’s most beloved family musicals.

KTC’s production features a line-up of local talent from across the Macedon Ranges, with the two casts including Michael von Bonin and Chris Sliwczynski as Joseph, Katy Somerville and Erin

Haberecht as The Narrator, Iain Grant and Jayden Andrea as Pharoah – and lots more familiar and new faces.

The casts will be singing all the classics from the hit musical, including Any Dream

Will Do, Close Every Door, There’s One More Angel In Heaven and Go, Go, Go Joseph.

Taking over the Bluestone Theatre in October, many local families will take to the stage as well, with plenty of young talent making their KTC debuts.

Alongside the performers, the KTC band will also be returning for the shows, bringing its line-up of local talent.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat will be showing at the Bluestone Theatre, Hutton Street, Kyneton, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Friday, October 3 until Sunday, October 26. Tickets: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1446898

Enjoy Americana music in Australia at Seaworks

Out On The Weekend, the greatest one-day celebration of alt-country and Americana music in Australia, kicks off a new decade of good times on Saturday, October 11 at SeaworksinWilliamstown.

Leading the charge is Nashville outlaw Nikki Lane & Her Band, bringing grit, glamour and rhinestone swagger to the Seaworks’stageforthefirsttimein11years. Joined by first time visitor, Texan troubadour Vincent Neil Emerson and his band, and groove-heavy road dogs Cordovas.

Also confirmed for the 2025 line-up:

local cosmic cowboys Lost Ragas, rising Californian folk songbirds Sylvie, Irish-American pickers and clawhammers Dug touring Oz for the first time, the down-home and dirty charm of husband-and-wife team Laid Back Country Picker, and Canadian folk duo Kacy & Clayton.

Homegrown favourites Sskyscraper Stan & The Commision Flats, Ella Hooper, Loretta Miler Band and Midnight Chicken add to the local flavour alongside the Henry Wagons & The Tennessee Studs performing the good n gritty Cash: A Journey Through

Night of magic in Moorabool

Prepare to have your senses awoken and your mind blown, as a magic show graces the Bacchus Marsh Public hall next month to raise money for an important cause.

Behind the visual spectacles and magic mastery is Pentland Hills Landcare Group member and magician Mark Mayer, who is volunteering his skills and time to raise awareness and funds for an issue of high importance in Moorabool – serrated tussock.

WhenMrMayermovedtoPentland Hills from Fitzroy, he said it was only through the Landcare group that he began to learn about the extent of the problem that ravages land across the region.

“Over the years, we’ve really enjoyed being there and being a part of the Pentland Hills Landcare Group, and then, at a couple of meetings,theyweretalkingaboutthe serrated tussock and what a problem itis–andhowmostpeopledon’teven know about it or know what it is,” Mr Mayer said.

“I’m a … professional magician, I have been for over 20 years, and I thought ‘well, if I could do a charity show that raises awareness, then we can use that money and awareness to buy more equipment, buy more poisons … and help people with their farms,’” he said.

“[Serrated tussock] is very, very tough–it’sdroughttolerant–andthe headscanproduce100,000seedsand get blown in these hot winds we have around here.”

MrMayersaidattendeescanexpect plenty of audience participation at this family-friendly event – titled ‘Mind Games’ due to the interactive and playful nature of the show.

The show will end with an awe-inspiring final magic track that will share an important message aboutserratedtussockinMoorabool.

There will be a live jazz band, drinks, food, and raffle tickets – with prizes donated by local businesses.

The event was funded through a Moorabool council grant, and all funds raised from the show will go towards Pentland Hills Landcare’s fight against serrated tussock.

The Landcare group will also have an information stand at the event.

Hosted at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Saturday, October 18, doors will open at 6pm and the show will begin at 7pm.

Further details and prices are available on the event page.

Details: stickytickets.com.au/ ryoxa/mind_games_with_mark_ mayer.aspx

TheAmericanRecordings. Make your way to the Pirate’s Tavern Honky Tonk for sets by James Ellis & The Jealous Guys and J.Taylor Bell & The Ding Dongsalongwithtwosteplessons. With its trademark mix of excellent live music, hand selected booze, fine food, and feel-good vibes, Out On The Weekend is the place to be for lovers of Americana, twang, andgoodol’countryandwesternforadayof celebration, old friends, musical discovery andlookinggooddownbythewater.

Ticketsonsalenowat:outontheweekend. com.au

Your next voyage awaits...

By Lee Mccarthy

GazeuponNordicSplendourwithViking’s 15-day‘IntotheMidnightSun’voyagefrom LondontoBergenorviceversa.

The cruise will traverse deep-cut fjords along the fabled Norwegian coast, sail across the Arctic Circle where the midnight sun shines 24 hours a day and gives passengers a chance to follow in the footsteps of Vikings between the remote beauty of North Cape and the windswept ShetlandandOrkneyIslandsofScotland.

Bergen is the second-largest city in Norwayandastrollthroughthepicturesque outdoor fish market, Fisketorget where the fresh catch of the sea awaits from cod and prawnstolocalcaviarandicyoystersisnot tobemissed

Geiranger is the gateway to some of coastalNorway’smostmagnificentnatural treasures with the Seven Sisters Waterfall which tumble 1,000 feet into the fjord’s water, while directly across the fjord, the Suitor Waterfall also plunges down a steep face.

Throughout Scandinavia winter shows off pristine landscapes surrounded by snowcappedpeaksandtheauroraborealis, whose magical lights dance across the nighttimeskies.

SailtotheShetlandIslandscharacterised by dramatic landscapes, this incredibly scenic archipelago is one of Scotland’s mostremoteislandoutposts.

Explore the history of the Scottish Orkney Islands where Neolithic remains, including the ancient site of Brodgar, predate Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids.

There is no capital quite like Edinburgh, with its gorgeous setting on green rocky hillocks and splendid views of the sea. Edinburgh Castle, home of the Scottish Crown Jewels and countless medieval treasures, overlooks the city from Castle Rock.

The Royal Mile unfurls Edinburgh’s architectural gems in all their finery, from the Canongate to St. Giles’s Cathedral to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish residenceofBritishroyalty.

As the ship sails across the North Sea take advantage of the array of delicious cuisine offered on board. Guests can visit Mamsen’s, Viking’s casual gourmet deli, any time from early morning to late at night for a taste of traditional Norwegian fare. Or dine at Manfredi’s and savour an authentic Italian meal, with options

ranging from Milanese risotto to Tuscan inspiredclassics.

Arrive in Greenwich, home to the Royal Observatory where the world’s longitude ismeasuredfromtheprimemeridian,and GreenwichMeanTimesetstheglobaltime standard.

At the port, the clipper ship Cutty Sark, one of Greenwich’s renowned historic landmarks, is preserved as a fascinating museum.

Upriver,LondonishometoBuckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. In addition, this major economic and cultural hub boasts a long tradition of arts and architectural innovation from Shakespeare’s Globe TheatretoWestEndmusicals.

Viking Guests have the opportunity

to extend the stay in the British Isles with Viking’s four-night Great Homes, Gardens and Gin pre-extension in Oxford from $3,499 per person.

Extension guests will enjoy a flavour of English nobility and experience an exclusivelookatseveralcountryestates.

Included is a Privileged Access visit to Highclere Castle, the home of TV’s Downton Abbey as well as learn the histories behind the families of Broughton Castle, recognisable from Wolf Hall, and Chavenage House, best known for its appearance in Poldark and admire the idyllicgardensatHighgrove,homeofTheir Majesties King Charles III and The Queen Consort.

Viking’s inclusive value includes

everything guests need with a guided excursion in every port, all onboard meals including alternative dining venues, wine andbeerwithlunchanddinner,unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty tea, coffee, and bottledwater,accesstothestate-of-the-art Nordic spa, self-service laundry and all tipping.

With no kids, no casinos, fewer than 1,000 guests, and all veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take travellers as close as possible to each destination. Viking’s ‘Into the Midnight Sun’tripofalifetimeispricedfrom$13,395 per person, departing 17 June 2026, in a Veranda Stateroom with companion fly freesavinguptoAU$2,500perbooking. For further information please visit www.viking.comorphone138747.

FULLY ESCORTED TOURS OF

Full-Board River Cruise

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

Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat

Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Hotel Stays

3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

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

Fully Escorted Barossa Valley Tours

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

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

Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours

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

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

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*.

MAGNIFICENT MEKONG

Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi or vice versa

15 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES

16 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: JAN-APR, AUG-DEC 2026; 2027; 2028

From $12,395pp in French Balcony

From $14,195pp in Veranda Stateroom

PHARAOHS & PYRAMIDS

Roundtrip from Cairo, Egypt

12 DAYS | 1 COUNTRY

11 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: JAN-JUN, AUG-DEC 2026; 2027; 2028

From $11,295pp in Standard Stateroom

From $13,595pp in Veranda Stateroom

PORTUGAL'S RIVER OF GOLD

Lisbon to Porto

10 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES

8 GUIDED TOURS

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

From $8,995pp in Standard Stateroom

From $12,695pp in Veranda Stateroom

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit

Altona VIEW Club

VIEW stands for Voice Interest and Education for Women. Altona VIEW Club has just celebrated its 26th Birthday, and is not-for-profit. The club welcomes ladies from the Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and other areas to join us on the third Wednesday of each month, at 11am, at the Altona RSL. The club is closely affiliated with The Smith Family and sponsors nine children through the Learning for Life program. Come along for lunch and enjoy the speakers each month. Other outings are arranged. Great opportunity to make new friends.

 altonaview@gmail.com or Julie, 0421 315 846

Mahjong Mondays

Learn how to play Mahjong at Altona North Community Library. Beginner or expert, everyone is welcome to come, chat and unwind.

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

Westgate diabetes support group

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

 Elaine, 0415 030 996

Weight loss group

A new weight loss support group has started, with meetings held every Monday 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

BUSINESS PROFILE

Wednesday the week prior to publication

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

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

Walking group

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

 0411 566 862

Musicians Wanted

Westgate Concert Band, Established in 1979 is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am-noon at Braybrook College.

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, 0439 972 074, or ms.sarah.allard@gmail.com

Altona North Combined Probus

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

 Lesley, 0414 481 442

Mainly music

A music-playgroup program for kids and their carers from birth to school age. Held every Thursday 9.30-10.30am during school term at Westgate Baptist

Community, 16 High Street, Yarraville. The cost is $7 per family, per week.

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

Walking football (soccer)

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

 Mike, 0423 291 708

Social square dancing for beginners Come along to the Maribyrnong Community

 westgateconcertband@gmail.com

Fiddle group

The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, 6.30-8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.  https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong

Jayco’s Great October Sale is your ticket to adventure

Prestige Jayco Geelong is rolling out its biggest event of the season with the Great October Sale starting Friday, October 2 until Sunday, October 4.

It’s the perfect chance for families and first-time buyers to secure their dream van at a great price with expert advice from the Prestige Jayco team, offering decades of knowledge to help you decide which Jayco is right for you.

Come in and enjoy the fun family atmosphere with a free sausage sizzle, live music, giveaways with Krock and BayFM street team and kids’ entertainment all weekend including a jumping castle and face painting.

“Every year, our Great October Sale is a highlight,” said Prestige Jayco owner John Spence.

“This is your best opportunity to secure a great deal before the summer holiday season. Prestige Jayco Geelong has always been known for its great customer service, and we’re excited to showcase our huge rangeofvansalongwithournewAfterSales Care Centre that will help more people discover the freedom of travel with Jayco”. Don’t miss this once-a-year chance to join the Jayco family. With stock ready to rollandgreatdealsavailable,PrestigeJayco Geelong’s Great October Sale is your ticket to unforgettable adventures.

Prestige Jayco Geelong’s Great October Sale, Friday October 2 until Sunday, October 4 at 182 Bellarine Highway, Newcomb

Not all hearing aids are equal. And when it comes to your hearing, the “cheap option” often becomes the most expensive. At Active Audiology, we focus on results — not sales targets. No rush, no pressure. Just genuine, expert care from a trusted local team. Call to book an appointment or scan the code to find out more.

1300 364 007

Not all hearing aids are equal. And when it comes to your hearing, the “cheap option” often becomes the most expensive. At Active Audiology, we focus on results — not sales targets. No rush, no pressure. Just genuine, expert care from a trusted local team. Call to book an appointment or scan the code to find out more.

1300 364 007

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

1 Dine (3)

3 Increase in value (10)

10 On the way (2,5)

11 Make clear (7)

12 The study of speech sounds (9)

13 Head cook (4)

15 Greatly impressed by fame (10)

17 Sunrise (4)

19 Stead (4)

20 Professed (10)

23 Exclamation of surprise (4)

25 One who restrains an impulse (9)

27 Repeats (7)

28 Hard to define (7)

29 Widespread destruction; disclosure (10)

30 Newt (3)

1 With embarrassment (10)

2 Pierce (9)

4 First showings (9)

5 Sways to and fro (5)

6 Opportunity (6)

7 Tolerate (5)

8 Irish singer (4)

9 Constraint (6)

14 Affection (10)

16 Dispiriting (9)

18 Eggplant (9)

21 Follow to the end (3,3)

22 Fruit (6)

24 Big, grey, herbivorous mammal (5)

25 Fastidious (5)

26 Operatic air (4)

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 ending in “s”.

1 Miranda is a moon orbiting which planet in our solar system?

2 Which fruit is traditionally used in a Liverpool Tart?

3 In the story by Carlo Collodi, what is the name of the woodcarver who created Pinocchio?

4 Which animal is the mascot for Nesquik?

5 True or false: the vampire bat consumes blood?

6 What type of cloud produces rain?

7 Julianne Moore (pictured) won the Academy Award for Best Actress for which movie?

8 What bakery food is Homer Simpson’s favourite?

9 A mawashi is worn as part of which sport?

10 Who had a hit with the 1987 single Never Gonna Give YouUp?

SPORTS QUIZ

1. What is the official nickname of the New Zealand men’s national soccer team?

2. Former Tottenham Hotspur coach Ange Postecoglou is the new coach of which Premier League team?

3. Which country defeated

4. And which member of that country’s team was named the EuroBasket 2025 MVP?

5. Following their recent victory against the Springboks, how many consecutive games have the All Blacks won at Auckland’s Eden Park?

What is the nationality of golfer Scottie Scheffler?

Marking 25 years since the Sydney Olympics, how many athletes were recently inducted into Stadium Australia’s hall of fame?

The final stage of which road cycling race was cancelled with more than 55km still to race, due to disruptions from protesters?

After winning the 2025 US Open, which book did Aryna Sabalenka credit for her mental resilience?

Why did Magnus Carlsen withdraw from the 2024 World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships?

Which team did the Gold Coast Suns defeat by one point to win their first ever AFL final?

Australian soccer player Ellie Carpenter recently made her debut for which Women’s Super League

13. Which West Indian batting allrounder has played over 700 T20 cricket games so far in his career?

14. The World Athletics Championships was held in which city and country this month?

15. Which Australian motor racing driver announced his retirement from all forms of competition recently?

16. Car manufacturer Ford has been the sponsor of the Geelong Football Club since which year?

17. Which former New Zealand cricketer has come out of retirement to play for Samoa in the T20 World Cup regional qualifiers?

18. In which country is the annual Cheese Rolling competition held, in which participants chase a wheel of cheese down a steep hill?

19. The Australian national men’s soccer team is set to make what number consecutive World Cup appearance in 2026?

20. Which Australian tennis great was suspended for two weeks over an allegation he pushed a 60-year-old anti-doping volunteer?

21. Which Matildas star recently returned to the field for the first time since January 2024?

22. The upcoming Tasmania Devils team will wear what colour not currently worn by any AFL team?

23. Which Australian runner won bronze in the 1,500m final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships?

24. Late boxer Ricky Hatton lost how many of his 48 career fights?

25. Which Brisbane Broncos player was fined for a headbutt in the team’s final against the Canberra Raiders?

26. Which AFL player recently had a tense confrontation with a photographer during a training session?

27. Which AFLW team plays home matches at Brighton Homes Arena?

28. Which nation topped the medal table at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games?

29. Which nation recently knocked Australia out of the Davis Cup tournament?

30. Which AFL team holds the all-time longest premiership drought, with a 72-year gap between wins?

Power play to hybrid heights

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

With the landing of its Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in Australia, Great Wall Motors has shot its big ute into a leading spot in the segment, the Chinese maker claiming the PHEV sets a new yardstick in performance, range, and capabilities for electrified vehicles in the segment.

GWM’ssecondmodeltoenterthegrowing PHEV market in Australia, following the Haval H6GT PHEV, the Cannon Alpha PHEV comes in two variants, the Lux and Ultraonthemarketfor$63,990and$68,990 respectively, driveaway.

The maker claims the Ultra (on test) has an EV range of 110km (even off road and in 4WD) and a combined ICE and EV touring range of 880km, utilising the 75-litre petrol tank. Charging times from a DC fast charger are reckoned at 24 minutes from 30 to 80 per cent charge.

The Cannon Alpha PHEV is backed by GWM’s comprehensive customer-care program offering an eight-year unlimited kilometre battery pack warranty, seven-year unlimited kilometre new car warranty, seven-year roadside assistance with 24/7 support, and seven years capped price servicing.

Styling

On first glance, the Cannon PHEV is instantlyrecognisable,ifnotforalltheright reasons. The spare wheel sits up to the right of the tub (blame the battery pack), taking up precious load space, while the split tailgate, on test, was an open-and shut case – press the button once to drop the lot, or twice to split it. Sometimes it went to script, others not so.

Up in size compared to the ICE Cannon ute, just shy of five-and-a-half metres long (13.1m turning circle), with a tidy 3350mm wheelbase, the Cannon Alpha leaves Ranger, D-Max and HiLux in the shade. A panoramic sunroof, on the other hand, opens up the cabin to the great outdoors.

Interior

The Cannon Alpha Ultra PHEV is decidedly commercial vehicle plush, with quality

features including leather accented seats, driver’s seat eight-way electric adjustment, front passenger seat six ways, heated/ ventilated/massage front seats.

Heated/ventilated rear outer seats have a recline function and two-way electric adjustment. Surprisingly, leg room is not limited by the adjustments. Oh, and there’s a heated steering wheel and a twee analogue clock in the centre stack.

Up front, decor is de rigueur for a big ute with panelling across the dashboard, while piano black and satin metallic-looking section are suckers for smudges and spots. Cupholders take up positions down near the centre console, and a wireless charging padunderaslidingpanel.Poweroutletsare easy to get at.

Infotainment

The Lux grade includes 360-degree view monitor, 12.3-inch full-colour driver instrument cluster and similar-size touch screeninfotainmentsystem,wirelessApple

CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, plus front and rear USB outlets

Ultra adds nice touches with a 14.6-inch full-colour touchscreen infotainment system in place of the Lux 12.3-inch display.

Also upgraded are premium Infinity audio system with 10 speakers and amplifier, wireless phone charger (front and rear) and head-up windscreen display. There are physical controls on the steering wheel, and volume controls on the swipe-down, but a volume knob wouldn’t go astray.

The Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid’s infotainment system does allow for a lot of special controls around the powertrain – camping modes, power preservation, charging cycles and energy consumption.

Engines/transmissions

Powered by GWM’s Hi4-T Plug-in Hybrid EV technology and equipped with a 37.1kWh ternary lithium battery, the 2-litre turbo-petrol engine delivers a combined 300kW of power and 750Nm of torque. The two ternary lithium batteries under theCannonAlphaof15.2kWhand21.9kWh adduptototalbatterycapacityof37.11kWh.

PairedwithGWM’snine-speedautomatic transmission, it offers up to 110km of pure EVdrivingrange,withacombinedrangeof 880km – 10 per cent more than its nearest rival.

GWM’s 9AT gearbox is no bigger than a conventional six-speed auto. Despite this, the unit achieves an impressive 97 per cent efficiency by utilising a lower viscosity gearbox oil and is engineered to handle a maximum of 750Nm.

Safety

The all-new Cannon Alpha PHEV has received the maximum five-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program, following months of close collaboration between GWM and ANCAP.

Contributing to the top rating are seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking,

AEB junction assist, lane change assist and lanekeepingassist,hilldescentcontroland rear collision warning.

Driving

For a start (literally), setting off in the Cannon Alpha PHEV can be something of a mystery with acceleration – from pedestrian to spritely – out of proportion to the pressure on the pedal. Initial response was not without a deal of lag.

Open road fuel consumption on test was recorded at 26.8kWh per 100km and 0.7 litres per 100km. The multimedia screen displays charging status and time, as does the GWM app. Filling the fuel tank with petrol is per ICE vehicles.

The system has multiple modes to suit drive conditions such as EV priority, full EV andintelligentmodes.TheHi4Ttechnology allows the engine to remain in EV mode in 4×4 high range mode, in addition to supporting EV-only driving at highway speeds, a first for the segment.

Alpha PHEV in EV mode is primarily rear-wheel drive. Lock into 4x4 and the transfer case directs a 50:50 split front-to-rear.Offroad,4x4iseasilyengaged via a centre-console push button.

The battery supports DC fast charging of up to 50kW, enabling a rapid 30 to 80 per cent charge in just 26 minutes. When using an AC home charger, the battery recharges from near empty to full in approximately 6.5 hours.

Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities of up to 3.3kW output is included and enables the Cannon Alpha to provide AC power to devices and some home appliances.

Class-leading 3500kg maximum braked towing capacity is carried over from ICE models, while an impressive 800mm water wading depth and 224mm of ground clearance ensure flexibility and versatility.

Summary

For those wishing to take an each-way bet on electric vehicles taking over the automotive world and with public charging infrastructure lagging, the plug-in hybrid – external chargeable electric power with ICE back-up – is an early favourite and the GWM Alpha PHEV well handicapped.

All set for a classic finale

Grand finals are the ultimate test - talent, system and nerve colliding in front of 100,000 at the MCG. This year it’s a classic: Geelong’sstructureanddisciplineagainst Brisbane’s pressure and flair.

Geelong’s Case

The Cats have been ruthless all year, built on a system that strangles opposition ball movement, forces turnovers, and grinds teamsdown.Theyrelyondisciplinerather than individual brilliance.

But the loss of Tom Stewart is massive. He’s their defensive general, and without him, Sam De Koning must rise - intercepting, organising, and driving rebound.

That makes De Koning’s role critical. If he holds firm, Mark Blicavs can stay locked in the ruck, where his athleticism and endurance are vital. If not, Geelong risk dragging Blicavs back to plug holes - and losing balance at both ends of the ground.

Brisbane’s Case

The Lions thrive on chaos. Their midfield intensity - Dunkley’s tackling, McCluggage’s polish, Rayner’s bursts - is tailor-made for finals. Charlie Cameron remains the lightning rod, but the swingman could be Logan Morris. At just 20, he must play the Joe Daniher role of 2024: presenting up the ground, crashing packs, and bringing the ball to ground for

Brisbane’ssmalls.Ifhecompeteshardand keeps Geelong’s defence honest, the Lions can pile on enough pressure to rattle the Cats’ structure.

The Decider This grand final is system versus surge. Geelong will look to slow it down and own territory. Brisbane will want to speed it

up, thrive on chaos, and feed their small forwards.

Prediction: Geelong by 16 points. I’m basing this on Lachie Neale not playing with his calf injury. If he misses, Brisbane lose their most composed clearance player, and Geelong’s system will hold firm.

AFL grand final week: the greatest show in football

Grand final week isn’t just another week of football - it’s the greatest theatre our gamehas.Fortheplayers,thecoaches,and the fans, it’s a blur of colour, noise, nerves and history pressing down on your shoulders.

Fortheboysluckyenoughtobeoutthere, nothing compares. The parade on Friday feelslikeyou’refloating-tensofthousands liningthestreets,kidsonshoulderswaving scarves, supporters crying just to get a glimpse. You smile and wave, but deep down you’re wrestling with the nerves of what’s coming. You know you’re about to walk out in front of 100,000 people at the MCG and carry the weight of your jumper, your club, and every supporter who’s lived and breathed the journey.

I’ve been there. In 1996, when North broke a 19-year drought, the joy was overwhelming - the kind of joy that stays in your bones forever. In 1998, the disappointment was just as deep, because we knew we’d let one slip. And in 1999, batteredandbroken,wefoundredemption.

That’s the essence of grand final week: the line between ecstasy and agony is paper thin.

And that’s what makes it so powerful. Behindthepageantryistheharshestreality in sport. For every player strapping up an ankle or hiding nerves with a grin, there’s another told they’ve missed selection. I’ve seen tears in September that no camera captures - teammates gutted, knowing the dream has gone for another year. That’s

the human cost of grand final week, and it’s just as much a part of the story as the celebrations.

But when Saturday comes and you burst through the banner, everything fades. The nerves, the doubts, the bruises - they all disappear in the roar of 100,000. It’s just footy.

Hard, uncompromising, desperate footy, where reputations are made and legends are written.

That’s why grand final week is the greatest week in Australian sport. It’s not just about the cup at the end - it’s about the spectacle, the heartbreak, the joy, and the chance to etch your name into history. Because for players and fans alike, nothing else compares.

Pulling out the big plays

Werribee Districts shone bright when it counted most while the Werribee Softball Association held its biggest weekend of the year. Star Weekly’s LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was there to capture all the action.

Michael Middleton steps up at Laverton as new coach

By Tara Murray

New Laverton coach Michael Middleton is focused on making sure the pathway from the club’s under-18s and juniors into the senior program is as strong as possible.

Middleton has been named the Magpies new coach as he steps up from being the coach of the joint Laverton and Manor Lakes under-18 side last year.

Middleton said he had always wanted to take that step into senior coaching.

“I’mlookingforwardtosteppingup,”he said. “I’ve been developing our under-16s and under-18s and the next progression is into senior football.

“We’re creating that journey through so they can see what we can create for

them and make sure the pathway is stronger.”

Middleton said most of their under-18 group this season was bottom age, so it will be 12 months before most of them are ready to play senior football full time.

The group finished the season in third spot and played finals this year in a big boost for the club.

“We had 24 bottom age players,” he said. “It’s been quite some time since the club has seen some solid success.

“Laverton from the senior side and Manor Lakes from the junior side collectively we’ve been able to build a solid program to get them up there.

“Hopefullytheywillgettherenextyear.

“There are some who will get to play

some senior football this year.

“We’re building a younger side to go with the strong core group that we have. Wewantthatlongevityforyearstocome.”

Middleton said ongoing coach Nick Waddellhadbeenabletoattractanumber of younger players across into the senior program

He said he wanted to continue not only what Waddell had done, but president and former coach Tony Jofre had done.

“We’ve got new club rooms, new jumpers,” he said. “He’s [Jofre] turned things around at Laverton and I wanted to do the same thing with the team.

“Iwanttobuildofftheworkhehasdone. I want to build on the senior program and the junior program.”

Middleton said they had a two-year planforthenexttwoseasonsandthensee where they are at as they build towards some team success.

The Magpies in their announcement said Middleton brings passion, education, and purpose to the role, with an unmatched ability to elevate young footballers into senior-level athletes.

“If a coach’s playbook was like a textbook guiding young talent to become doctors, then Micka is the professor,” it said.

“In just 12 months, he transformed the Laverton-Manor Lakes under-18s program from a simple idea into a first-year bottom-age side that became a well-oiled machine, reaching a preliminary final.”

Stunning win for Tigers

By Tara Murray

Werribee Districts won its second Western Football League division 1 premiership in themostamazingcircumstances.

Playingoffintheirfourthgrandfinalinas manyyearstheTigerswerekeentolevelthe ledger

While the Tigers are familiar faces on the final day of the season, their opponents Caroline Springs, were playing in its first division1grandfinal.

The two sides produced an absolute classic.

Two goals in the dying minutes from the Lakers sent the game into extra time to decidethisseason’spremiers.

The Tigers kicked the only two goals in extra time to come away with the premiership,11.9(75)-9.9(63).

Tigers coach Chris Gilham said the next day they were all starting to come down fromtheexcitement.

He said he wasn’t sure what they would have done had they lost, after losing to Hoppers Crossing by one point last year in thegrandfinal.

“We shouldn’t have been surprised,” he said. “We’ve had a number of close games thelastcoupleofyears.

“We drew twice last year and one this year, with two of them in the finals. Lucky foruswecomeoutontop.

“Itwasanexcitingnight.”

Gilham said both sides matched up really well with both clubs having some really talentedsquads.

Hesaidacrossalltheirgamessideswould haveperiodsofmomentumbeforetheother wouldfightstraightback.

On Saturday in the grand final, it was the Lakersthatgottheearlyjump.

Despite the Tigers having the wind in the first quarter, the Lakers led by 11 points at halftime.

The margin was 14 points at the main break.

“We didn’t start as well as we would have liked with the scoring end,” Gilham said. “Theywerehotearlyon.

“They took their opportunities and worrieduswiththeirpressureandpaceand theabilitytocarrytheball.”

Gilhamsaidwhiletheyweredisappointed they knew they would get their time in the sun and when it came they had to make the mostofit.

They kicked four goals to one in the third quartertoleadbysevenpointsheadinginto thefinalquarter.

Gilham said with the Lakers having the wind in the final quarter they needed to be infront.

“Wegotourflowandafterhalftimewegot betterandbetter,”hesaid.

“Being in front was massive and when we

scored first in the last quarter it gave us a littlebreather.

“We were a couple of minutes from winningthegame.”

Therewasanothertwistofthetail.

The Lakers kicked the next two goals to level the scores at 62-apiece and force the gameintoextratime.

This was nothing new for either club, havingplayedextratimeagainsteachother inasemifinallastyear.

Gilhamsaiditwasimportanttoscorefirst andthatiswhattheydid.

They would kick the only two goals of the extraperiod.

Gilham said having a couple of weeks off during the finals helped late with the fresherlegs.

Caroline Springs Cooper Pepi was awardedthebestongroundmedal.

For the Tigers, Lachlan Rainbow kicked threegoalswhileDanielNielsonkickedtwo goals.

Captain Dillon Viojo-Rainbow was namedtheTigersbest.

Gilham said he thought he was fantastic ashesetupalotofforaysforward.

It was a big weekend for the Tigers with theirreservesalsoclaimingthepremiership.

The reserves also beat Caroline Springs,

winning7.9(51)-6.4(40).

Gilham said it was pretty special to see both sides win the premiership and continuetheirstronglegacy.

The Tigers have played in 11 grand finals in the past four years, winning seven premierships across seniors, reserves and under-18s.

“We talk about the squad mentality,” he said.“Alotplayinreservesandseniors.

“To get the reward for a whole playing group.

“We’re very proud of it. We celebrate what we’vecreatedandtheculturethattheyboys havecreated.”

Roosters claim premiership

By Tara Murray

Twelve months ago, the Altona Roosters didn’t have a women’s side in the NRL Victoria metro competition.

Fast forward to the final day of the season, the Roosters were being crowned the women’s premiers as they beat the Truganina Rabbitohs in the grand final.

Captain Heavenly Kidwell said several days later the result was still sinking in.

The Roosters won the grand final, 20-14.

“It’s so crazy and it’s a heart out of body moment,” she said. “I believed in the team and I really thought we had a chance to take it out.

“It was a tough game. It was one of the

toughest games of the season.

“We went out there full throttle and they gave me 100 per cent and we came away with it.

“It’s super amazing, it still feels surreal.”

Kidwell joined the Roosters from Sunshine with many of her former teammates coming across to join her at the Roosters.

She said it was tough early days but the side had gained more support as the season went along.

Coach Jason Niwha it was pretty cool to walk about with the premiership.

“It’s pretty cool for the ladies, the coaching staff and everyone’s families,” he said.

“It was the dream. We wanted to get to finals and see where we could go.

“We got closer and closer and we thought we can actually go all the way.”

Niwha said there were plenty of nerves heading into the game against an experienced Rabbitohs outfit which had won last season’s decider.

He said the group backed themselves in and see what happened.

“We focused on ourselves and found the culture and what we wanted to do,” he said.

“About half way through the grand final I knew we had done enough.

“Everyone has a strong belief that we could do this. The ladies work for each other.”

Both said the biggest thing about the

Lakers’ heartbreak as premiership slips away

By Tara Murray

Caroline Springs is thinking what might have been after going agonisingly close to claiming two Western Football League division 1 premierships on Saturday.

The Lakers had both their division 1 seniors and reserves sides in action in the final games of the season.

Both sides faced an experienced Werribee Districts unit.

Both Tigers sides were facing off in their fourth straight grand finals.

The Lakers seniors side was playing in its first division 1 grand final. They hadn’t played in a grand final since they won the division 2 premiership back in 2016.

Just Lewis Tudor and Jerome Caterino played in that 2016 grand final, along with now Lakers coach Brian Lake.

The Lakers suffered a blow before the game with skipper Keenan O’Shea ruled out with a hamstring injury.

There were no early game nerves for the Lakers, who led by 11 points at quarter time despite the Tigers having the win.

Caroline Springs wasn’t able to make the most of the wind when it had it in the second quarter, kicking 1.4 to extend the

lead narrowly to 14 points.

The Tigers started to come in the third quarter and when they kicked four goals they turned the deficit into a seven point lead.

It became 13 points early in the last quarter when they kicked the first goal of the final term.

Caroline Springs, though, kept fighting.

When the Lakers kicked the next two goals, scores were locked at 62-apiece.

Tate Wood kicked the last goal in the final seconds of the quarter to put the game into overtime.

For the two sides, this was not the first time they had found themselves in this position.

The semi final between the sides last year was decided in extra time, with the Tigers winning through to the grand final on that occasion.

Reece Blackman kicked three goals for the Lakers, while Jamie Ristoski and Wood kicked two goals each.

Cooper Pepi was awarded the best on ground medal in a losing side.

Alexander Paech and Lewis Tudor were other standouts for the Lakers.

Speaking in the post game celebra-

success of the women’s side was making sure they’ve got a pathway for the next generation. The club has under-12, under-14, under-16 and under-18 girls teams.

“There’s so many girls, “ Kidwell said. “We want to be someone for them to look up to and inspire them in the women’s side.

“I hope those young ones come up.”

Niwha added he received lots of messages from parents of the girls at the club saying how inspired they had been by the whole season.

“The club has struggled for a long time having a women’s side,” he said. “It was important to bring some life into it.“

Police called to U18 WFL grand final

The Western Football League under-18 division 1 grand final has been marred after an ugly incident post match.

Newport defeated Sunshine, 10.10 (70)-9.3 (57) in the first game of the final day of the season.

An incident between Sunshine players and some crowd members then broke out after the match.

Footage seen by Star Weekly, sees spectators come over to where the Sunshine side was post game.

Further footage, shows players, team officials and supporters pushing and shoving, while some involved were throwing items.

There was also plenty of yelling.

Police were called to Avalon Airport Oval following the incident.

“Police responded to reports of people fighting at the conclusion of a local football match in Werribee on 20 September,” a police spokesperson said.

“There was no fighting observed on police arrival and the crowd had dispersed.

“It is understood a child may have been knocked over during a scuffle but was not seriously injured. Police are making further inquiries as to any offences that may have occurred.”

“The league released a statement following the incident.

tions, Lakers coach Brian Lake said this one hurt.

“Werribee Districts, that was an amazing game,” he said. “For the spectators out here, hopefully you enjoyed that

“What a fantastic year you have had.

“Only if we had an extra 15 seconds there at the end of that regular time. You’ve done that twice to us now, congratulations.

“To the boys, we put ourselves in a position, the reserves as well... position for success.

“We’ve got to understand loss and suffering and this is going to hurt for a while.

“Suffering is sometimes a good thing, we’ll learn from it.

“We’ll bounce back.”

Tigers coach Chris Gilham said the two sides matched up really well against each other.

“We shouldn’t have been surprised,” he said. “We’ve had a number of close games the last couple of years.

“We drew twice last year and one this year, with two of them in the finals. Lucky for us we come out on top.”

The reserves lost to Werribee Districts, 7.9 (51)-6.4 (40).

“The league is aware of a significant incident that occurred following the under-18 men’s grand final at Chirnside Park on Saturday 20 September,” it said.

“A thorough investigation into this matter is currently underway.

“Until the investigation is concluded, no further comments will be made.”

In the game itself, Sunshine led early before Newport hit the front in the second quarter.

The Panthers led at the middle two breaks and were able to hold its lead until the final siren.

The incident marred what was otherwise a big day for the league.

Werribee Districts won both the reserves and seniors, with the senior defeating Caroline Springs in over time.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Spitting incident alleged

An investigation into an alleged spitting incident in the Western Football League women’s grand final between Caroline Springs and Yarraville Seddon has concluded, with the league saying the allegation could not be substantiated.

In a statement released last week, the league said it received a report of an incident of spitting occurring in the 17 to 18 minute mark of the final quarter as a Yarraville Seddon player retrieved the ball following a behind.

The league said following an investigation, including a detailed review of available video footage, the player is observed collecting the ball and turning toward the group.

“However, there is no visual evidence of any individual spitting, and no witnesses in the immediate vicinity – including the

WFNL goal umpire – that observed the alleged act,” the league said.

“Accordingly, the allegation could not be substantiated.

“The league treats all such matters with the utmost seriousness. Respectful behaviour is a non-negotiable standard at all community sporting events. Heckling, abuse, or any form of antisocial behaviour is entirely incompatible with the values of community football.”

The league said it would like to thank the player involved for bringing the matter to our attention.

Both clubs then released their own statement.

The Eagles said they support and stand firm on the principles that their players and spectators should enjoy our game in a safe

and respectful environment.

“We do not condone nor accept that its acceptable behaviour for players to be mistreated from the sidelines,” the club said.

“We respect the statements made [by the league and Caroline Springs] but fully support our player and believe that the incident occurred.

“We acknowledge however, that in the world of community football, it is difficult to determine all of the facts with the tools available to us.”

Caroline Springs said the club takes the allegations seriously and immediately convened a panel to investigate the alleged incident.

“In conjunction with the league, the club conducted a thorough internal investigation, meeting individually with members

Dogs day out as favourites take the flag

By Tara Murray

Footscray Bulldogs held their composure late to hold off a comeback from Southport to claim the Victorian Football League premiership.

Having already claimed the minor premiership, the Bulldogs were favourites against a Sharks side in their second straight grand final.

When the Bulldogs kicked the first six goals of the game in the space of 20 minutes, the premiership cup looked like it was headed to Whitten Oval.

The Sharks kicked the next four goals before the Bulldogs responded to lead by 35 points at half time.

Southport again came hard in the third quarter as it kicked the only four goals of the third quarter to bring the margin back to six points heading into the final quarter.

Scores were level when Hewago Oea kicked the first goal of the final quarter.

The Bulldogs though wouldn’t be denied.

Billy Crofts converted after a loose ball

get from a throw-in, before Jedd Busslinger kicked a miracle goal from a set shot deep in the pocket.

Crofts then kicked a second goal to take the lead back out to 18 points.

The Sharks refused to surrender and threw everything at the Bulldogs in the final 15 minutes, however it wasn’t enough to stop the Sharks falling to their third grand final defeat in four years.

The Bulldogs won, 14.5 (89)-11.13 (79).

Cooper Craig-Peters was awarded the Norm Goss Medal for his 28 disposals, eight tackles and a goal performance.

Anthony Scott was also busy with 28 disposals, while Crofts had 22 disposals and two goals and

Both Scott and Crofts polled in the Norm Goss Medal voting along with Oskar Baker and Southport’s Boyd Woodcock behind Craig-Peters.

Speaking on the post game coverage on channel 7, a retiring Taylor Duryea said it was an unbelievable feeling.

“It makes it so much more rewarding,” he said. “A premiership you will take it anyways, but to fight out a win like that is

and supporters who were in the area where the alleged incident took place,” the Lakers said.

“The individuals in the vicinity of the area deny that any player was spat at, or that any spitting took place. This account has been corroborated by bystander witnesses, including an off-duty member of the Victorian Police, as well as the available video footage.

“We do not, and will not, tolerate any acts of gender-based violence. We do not accept the premise that ‘boys will be boys’ or that acts of gender-based violence are okay under the guise of banter, whether on the football field or not.”

Caroline Springs won the grand final by 17 points.

Tara Murray

United players finding homes

A-Leagues and overseas clubs have started picking the eyes out of Western United’s newly disbanded squads as the league moves on without the beleaguered outfit.

Sydney FC on Tuesday confirmed they had landed exciting attacker Abel Walatee on a four-year deal, while Perth snapped up full-back Charbel Shamoon on a two-year contract.

It follows teen defender Dylan Leonard joining 2.Bundesliga outfit Schalke 04, star midfielder Angus Thurgate penning a three-year deal with Western Sydney and attacker Matt Grimaldi signing with Melbourne Victory.

United were placed into hibernation for the upcoming A-League Men and Women’s seasons as they continue to fight both a court-imposed wind-up order and the withdrawal of their licence.

It meant all their players became free agents, with clubs clamouring to sign the best of the bunch.

Symbolically, Walatee heading north is particularly significant, given he is a prized United academy prospect and western suburbs local - exactly the type of player the club had hoped to be defined by.

Walatee believed Sydney was the “perfect place to keep developing” while the Olyroo will clearly add a fresh dimension to the Sky Blues’ attack.

so special.

“We knew what we had to do, there was still clarity. They brought the heat.

“They are a bloody good side and have been for a while.”

Craig-Peters said there was a real mix of emotions after claiming the premiership.

“I’m just rapt for all the boys,” he said. “All the ones that played and all the ones that didn’t.

“I just love the boys. They’ve given us everything.

“It’s really hard being a part time worker and a full time footballer in one.”

Craig-Peters said a performance like that gives him confidence that he can perform on the biggest stage.

He said he thought a performance like this would elevate him.

Coach Stewart Edge said there was a whole club mentality and it was an incredible thrill to coach the premiership.

“It’s pretty wild, isn’t it,” he said. “They are a fantastic side.

“Incredibly relieved. What we needed was three finals in a row or the season don’t count for anything.”

“Abel is an outstanding young talent with electric pace and mesmerising skill,” coach Ufuk Talay said.

“He’s explosive, can create dangerous opportunities out of nothing, and he adds another fantastic weapon to our armoury.

Highly rated defender Leonard, 18, travelled to Germany this week to sign until 2030.

Shamoon, 21, made his full senior debut for Iraq during World Cup qualifiers.

Attacker Ramy Najjarine also found a home, shifting to Wellington Phoenix.

On the A-League Women front, defender Sasha Grove has returned to Canberra after a season at United.

Melbourne Victory looms as a potential landing spot for Grace Maher, while Adriana Taranto has interest from Adelaide among other clubs. -AAP