Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 20th January 2026

Garden takes root

The Sunshine Hospital dementia management unit has unveiled its new dementia-friendly garden which is designed to enhance wellbeing and comfort for patients who often have an extended stay in hospital.

According to Western Health, the garden’s redesign seeks to minimise behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia such as agitation, anxiety, confusion, and aggression.

Divisional director of aged, general medicine, and subacute services Kellie Vivekanantham said “We are incredibly grateful to Lendlease for enabling these vital improvements so we can provide a safe, welcoming, and fit-for-purpose space to support patients living with dementia and their carers, and loved ones during their stay.”

The garden was designed utilising dementia friendly design principles, and features sensory plants, a new water feature and bird bath, a workshop and potting shed, clothesline, safer walking paths, a rain gauge and spaces for quiet reflection, activities and games, or family gatherings.

Bats in heat hell

By Sam Porter

At least 800 grey-headed flying foxes were recorded dead in Brimbank Park during an extreme heat event this month, with rescue volunteers and politicians saying lives could have been saved if the state government had coordinated a statewide emergency response plan.

Temperatures climbed past 40 degrees on Wednesday 7 January, causing heat stress among the threatened bat species huddling in camps — tree patches where bats roost during the day.

In the late afternoon, bats in Brimbank Park began dropping dead from severe heat exhaustion.

Head of volunteer wildlife rescue organisation Fly By Night Tamsyn

Hogarth said bats were in the direct sun for up to four hours.

“It just got too much for them so they started coming to ground. That’s when we started getting volunteers that were availabletoheadstraightthere,”shesaid.

Ms Hogarth said volunteers were horrified by what they saw.

“[The bats] seek comfort when they’re dying so they all gravitate, start clumping on each other, and then they start suffocating. We try to prevent it getting to that point,” Ms Hogarth said.

“When they start clumping on branches, branches can fall from the

weight as well and then they have crush injuries.

“It was obviously very traumatising and horrible for those rescuers to just see mass deaths.”

Bat deaths were exacerbated by a period of starvation due to an unusually cold and wet spring, according to Ms Hogarth.

A week earlier, Ms Hogarth contacted the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), asking for a coordinated plan for land managers and volunteer organisations ahead of the extreme heat day.

UndertheVictorianEmergencyAnimal Welfare Plan, DEECA is responsible

for planning animal welfare support services in emergency preparedness, response, relief and recovery.

MsHogarthsaidthatafteraperiodofno response, DEECA announced at the last moment it had only enough resources to attend three bat camps across the state, leaving scores of others, including the Brimbank Park camp, without support.

“I was just left pretty disappointed that there were no contingencies for this kind of situation; where [DEECA] have no resources to allow the volunteers to work with the land managers to get more resources in there,” Ms Hogarth said.

Continued: Page 6

Odour plagues suburbs

By Sam Porter

Locals have complained of a consistent strong and sickly odour affecting suburbs including Sunshine West, Sunshine North, Brooklyn, Deer Park, Ardeer and Altona North.

Brimbank resident Liz Barrow first noticed the pungent smell on Monday 5 January when she was driving near Little Boundary Road and Pipe Road in Laverton North.

“It‘s pretty revolting. It makes you feel like you want to throw up ... Just imagine a rotten, chemical smell and you can’t escape it,” Ms Barrow said.

Ms Barrow said the odour was likely worsened by extreme hot weather days and wind this month.

“[The odour] is not constant at least,” she said.

Ms Barrow was among multiple locals who submitted odour reports to the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) throughout the week.

In an email response to Ms Barrow, sent onTuesday13January,EPAsaiditsofficers conducted odour surveys on Wednesday 7 January, and believed the odour was coming from a meat waste processing plant in the Brooklyn area regulated by the EPA.

In the email, the EPA said it will “assess

compliance by the established deadlines” but did not provide specific dates.

“If compliance is not achieved, escalation via other enforcement tools will be applied,” the EPA stated in its response to Ms Barrow.

EPA west metro regional manager Julia Gaitan told Star Weekly the EPA prioritises odour reporting, particularly in the Brooklyn area.

“In this instance, our officers have inspected a business, a local rendering plant known to us, they believe was the source of multiple reports from the public,” Ms Gaitan said.

“We have been in contact and expect

Young Brimbank achiever nominated

BrimbankresidentAristeaHavelashasbeen

nominated for the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards (YAA) for her advocacy work supporting people with disabilities and young carers at local, national and global levels.

The 24-year-old said her experiences caring for her brother from a young age helped shape her passion for advocacy.

“I’ve always known that service is a part of my life,” she said.

Ms Havelas began her advocacy and leadership journey with the non-profit Autism Angels, founded by her parents, before becoming a youth carer ambassador with Little Dreamers Australia.

She has contributed to several projects and sits on the organisation’s advisory committee, while also working with the National Leadership Forum to support

young leaders across Australia.

As a global youth ambassador for children’s charity Theirworld, Ms Havelas advocates for equal access to education internationally, drawing on her own upbringing.

“Education’s been a big thing in my life. Growing up with a brother with disability; he’s been in a special education setting whereas I’ve been at mainstream so I’ve definitely seen the differences from when we were younger play out,” she said.

“It’s no fault of both systems but you do see the inequality between the way in which we were both raised in terms of access to education.”

Ms Havelas said many young carers are unable to continue secondary and tertiary education because of their additional re-

sponsibilities.

“For me it’s about doing justice to not only my younger self but to the younger kids like my brother who, 20 years ago, couldn’t be included in a mainstream setting because there was no integration. It was very much segregation and my idea is to bring both sides of the coin together,” she said.

Ms Havelas, who will complete a Master of Peace and Conflict Studies this year, hopes to work in diplomacy with the Australian government.

“That’s my main goal... It would be an honour and a dream. Anywhere I can help my community whether it be in Australia or abroad,” she said.

The 7NEWS YAA winners will be announced on 1 May.

Get involved in politics with youth council applications now open

Locals aged between 12 to 25 years can apply to be part of the Brimbank Youth Council (BYS) for 2026.

As part of the six-month leadership program, BYS said youth council members will represent young people in the municipality, and work on a collaborative youth-led project to create positive changes. In 2025, the BYS project focussed on youth homelessness.

According to BYS, the 2025 council group presented on the issue at the Western Region Youth Forum, delivered

community and school engagements to raise awareness, produced an info-sheet of services that provide support to at-risk homeless youth, and created care packs of essential items for young people engaged with homelessness services.

In the program, members will also have the opportunity to meet councillors across four meetings throughout their term.

Youth council members will meet weekly on Wednesdays from 5-6.30pm with off-weeks scheduled throughout the year during peak exam time or school holidays.

the business will look into their processes to ensure they’re doing as much as possible to reduce the risk of odour releases, as is required under the general environmental duty provisions of the Environment Act.

“Further action is likely by EPA but as with any legally enforceable action, EPA must respect due process and limit its public commentary while those processes are worked through.

“EPA encourages community members to report odour so we can track it down and take appropriate actions.”

The EPA said it was not able to name the company, citing legal reasons.

Police briefs

SOG arrests

Two western suburbs men have been charged after being arrested by the Special Operations Group (SOG) in Melton West om 13 January. The arrests formed part of several ongoing investigations into incidents, some involving firearms, since October last year. A 29-year-old man from Altona is facing 12 charges including stalking, prohibited use and possession of a firearm, reckless conduct endangering death/life, possessing a drug of dependence, cultivating cannabis and handling stolen goods. The charges relate to an ongoing dispute between parties where it is alleged a tracker was installed onto a vehicle on 7 December, as well as an incident on 28 December where it is alleged several shots were fired at various objects in the street in Altona using a 3D printed firearm and a warrant executed at a property in Altona where suspected stolen goods were seized. A 29-year-old man from Sunshine is facing 10 charges including prohibited use and possession of a firearm, reckless conduct endangering death or life, burglary and theft.

The Sunshine man’s charges also relate to the same incident in Altona on 28 December, as well as the alleged theft of a mail parcel on the same day, an alleged burglary and theft at a property in Dromana on 7 December and the theft of food and drink from a convenience store in Dromana on 24 October.

Flat tyres stop stolen truck

Meetings are also able to take place online.

BYS said it requires participants to attend the majority of meetings and to communicate when they cannot attend.

“We understand that young people can have a range of responsibilities and acknowledge commitment to meetings can be challenging,” BYS said.

In addition to the age requirements, applicants must live, work, study or socialise in the City of Brimbank.

Applications close Sunday 1 February.

Details: shorturl.at/8LkGg

A who fled a fast food drive-thru in Altona North in an allegedly stolen truck has been arrested. Police said the truck was stolen from Footscray about 5.15am on 16 January, however, the driver didn’t get very far, making a stop at the yellow arches on Blackshaws and Millers roads. Police deployed stop sticks as the stolen truck left the drive thru. With a warm breakfast – but flat tyres – the driver continued down Blackshaws Road. He came to a stop on Chambers Road where he was arrested. The 39-year-old Hoppers Crossing man was taken into custody where he will be interviewed.

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Concerns over median strips

By Sam Porter

Brimbank residents have expressed safety concerns about significant grass and weed growth on median strips across the municipality that have remained unattended.

Local Chris Vella called it an “absolute disgrace”.

“Edges overgrown into gutters, large weeds growing all around traffic lights, every median strip’s grass is overgrown,” Mr Vella said.

“When you’re driving around it makes the whole area look untidy. Obviously with the thunderstorm asthma and pollen risk, with all the seeds that can be released from

that grass, it’s not healthy either.”

Mr Vella said the unattended median strips are also a fire risk.

On social media, one resident commented that the growth obstructs views of oncoming traffic when turning right or performing a U-turn at intersections.

Brimbank council infrastructure and city services acting director Matt Durham said council understands the issue is of great concern to the community.

“While Brimbank council had proactively maintained these grassed areas for many years,werecentlymadethedecisiontohand back the maintenance of these roads to the state government due to the rising costs of

Film festival is a family affair

A western suburbs family has been selected as film festival finalists for each of their short films.

Filmmaker Tez Frost (Tez Vi Truong), his seven-year old daughter Alexis and his five-year old son Charlie will head to the Sydney Opera House in January for the SmartFone Flick Fest (SF3) gala finals, with all three of their films to be screened on the night.

SF3 is one of the world’s biggest smartphone film festivals, celebrating stories shot entirely on smartphones and tablets.

Tez said the whole family is excited by the news.

“For us it’s quite a big deal, all three of us. The reason why I wanted to join is so I could be a part of this event for my kids,”

he said.

Alexis entered the festival last year as the youngest director in the competition

This year, her brother Charlie will take the title as SF3’s youngest creator.

Alexis’ short film is titled, ‘Maxton and the Moon’, and Charlie’s stop motion film, ‘Looking for Parking,’ was completed when he was only four.

Tez’sshortfilm,‘The5-MinuteEmpire,’ will be the first film ever to be screened in SF3’s AI (artificial intelligence) category.

The SF3 Gala Finals will be held on Friday 23 January at the Sydney Opera House Playhouse Theatre.

maintenance and the lack of funding from the state to enable council to continue this work,” Mr Durham said.

“Brimbank council has written to the Department of Transport to express its concern and has requested that the department takes urgent action to rectify and maintain these grassy areas.

“We are working to improve the information available via our website, and we will continue to call upon the department to better maintain the grassed areas it is responsible for.”

A Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) spokesperson told Star Weekly grass cutting along Brimbank’s arterial roads was

last undertaken in late 2025 with the next cuts scheduled for February.

“We work alongside councils and emergency services to plan our mowing and vegetation management programs, targeting the highest-risk areas as a priority,” the spokesperson said.

“We currently have roadworkers out mowing arterial roadsides right across Victoria as part of our planned maintenance.”

According to DTP, department crews attend to about 45,000 kilometres of roadside grass and weeds each year.

DTP encouraged locals to notify the department of their concerns by calling 13 11 70.

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Call for beefed up security

By Sam Porter

Sunshine station and the surrounding precinct need a stronger officer presence to keep the local community safe, according to Laverton MP Sarah Connolly.

Ms Connolly is calling for Sunshine station to be included in a new state government scheme targeting crime at train stations and shopping centres by deploying more Protective Service Officers (PSOs) to high and medium-risk areas.

In a letter to Police and Community Safety Minister Anthony Carbines, Ms Connolly said she believes the station would greatly benefit from a constant

PSO presence under the new scheme.

“Sunshine station is a major transport interchange in Melbourne’s west and is set to become a major Superhub with Metro Tunnel, Melbourne Airport Rail, and future projects,” Ms Connolly said.

“This station is frequented by thousands of commuters daily and has unfortunately seen an increase in criminal incidents over the past few years, including an incident that resulted in the death of a school student.”

As part of the scheme, to be rolled out this year, PSOs will be deployed to areas according to crime data and intelligence, potentially resulting in longer coverage

at stations if needed.

Stations deemed ‘high-risk’ will have a static PSO presence from 9am until the last service, extended from 6pm.

Ms Connolly asked that Sunshine station be strongly considered for the highest designation.

“So that once this scheme commences, there is a regular PSO presence at the station and the surrounding precinct at all times of the day,” she said.

Under the scheme, PSOs will also travel on trains in addition to remaining on station platforms.

Victoria Police is responsible for determining the deployment of PSOs to

Family embraces the container game

A Caroline Springs family has turned the act of recycling into a game, a valuable life lesson and a way to give back to the community.

The Jassal family has recycled bottles and cans as part of Victoria’s container deposit scheme for nearly two years now, donating money earned from collections.

Mum Sonia Jassal said her sons, Armaan and Aryan Singh, enjoy the recycling process.

“They rush up to me saying, ‘mummy, mummy, look, I’ve found another one

we can recycle’,” Sonia said.

Sonia said while living in India, she used to separate containers with her family before collection.

“We’ve seen the effects of pollution and waste, and we know future generations will suffer because of it. If we start now, we can do our part for society and take pride in it,” Sonia said.

She has now turned the initiative into a teachable moment.

“We have a Sikh practice called Dasvandh, where we give 10 per cent of our income back to the community. It’s

something I teach my kids, and when they return containers, it helps them to learn about the importance of giving back to the community,” Sonia said.

The children donate money raised to the local Gurudwara, a tradition Sonia learnt from her parents.

“It’s a three-part process, we’re protecting nature, we’re giving back to society, and I believe in Karma, so it’s also a spiritual practice,” she said.

“Even if it makes a one per cent difference, when everyone does it, it all adds up.”

Have your say on 2025 federal election conduct during inquiry

Locals are being encouraged to provide feedback on the conduct of the 2025 federal election as part of a federal government inquiry.

The federal government said the inquiry intends to direct its focus on aggressive conduct at polling booths and how the Australian Electoral Commission may respond.

Gorton MP Alice Jordan-Baird said Australians should never be confronted with aggressive behaviour when exercising their democratic right to vote.

“Conduct of this nature at polling booths is unacceptable and undermines confi-

dence in our democratic processes,” Ms Jordan-Baird said.

“It’s important to regularly assess conduct associated with Australia’s federal electoral processes to ensure our electoral system remains safe, fair and accessible for all voters.”

The Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters, which adopted the inquiry, held hearings between October-December last year in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and the ACT, where members of the public had opportunities to put short verbal statements on record.

certain locations.

A police spokesperson said the Sunshine precinct is patrolled by local police every day and night, and that PSOs currently operate in the area at night.

Victoria Police did not say whether it would extend PSO coverage at Sunshine Station throughout the day, but said more information on which stations would receive additional PSOs would be released in the first half of this year.

Crime in the Sunshine area remains steady, increasing by one per cent on the year prior, according to police.

Bats in heat hell

From page 1

Ms Hogarth said preparations could have been made to have volunteers and vets on standby, and water tanks nearby to mist the camps to help hydrate bats and give them the energy to seek other areas for shade.

“We’re not saying that there would be no deaths, in that kind of temperature it’s pretty likely to have some deaths, but it would’ve reduced a lot of the suffering and we would’ve probably saved a lot more,” she said.

Northern Victorian MP Georgie Purcell joined Ms Hogarth in criticising the state government for its lack of preparedness.

“Make no mistake - it’s not a shock this happened. The warnings had been made in advance, and we know all too well that heatwaves can be deadly for bats. The government could have been more prepared for this, but the sad reality is that they weren’t,” Ms Purcell said.

“Our hardworking volunteers, who responded to this tragedy, deserved every support from the Department and it’s shameful that instead they were met with bureaucracy and inconsistent messaging.

“It is simply unacceptable that bats literally fell to their death. To not have a state-based, statewide response is nothing short of a failure.”

DEECA said its approach to managing flying-fox heat stress focused on human safety as the highest priority.

“We understand how distressing it can be for communities when flying foxes and other wildlife are impacted during extreme heat events,” a DEECA spokesperson said.

“Flying-foxes can carry diseases harmful to humans including rabies and members of the public should not touch flying-foxes under any circumstances. If you find a flying fox on the ground, do not touch it – keep pets away and call DEECA on 136 186 or use the Help for Injured Wildlife Tool to find a local wildlife rescuer.”

DEECA didn’t respond to Star Weekly’s questions about being under-resourced, and why a statewide response wasn’t coordinated ahead of the extreme weather event.

Committee chair Jerome Laxale MP said the committee has learnt a great deal from the personal submissions and statements received to date.

“But we know there is still much more left to hear. We want to continue to hear from community members and organisations about their experience of the 2025 federal election,” Mr Laxale said.

Written submissions to the inquiry close 28 February.

More info: aph.gov.au/2025federalelection

Ms Hogarth said locals could help flying foxes by removing netting from fruit trees a week before heat-induced emergencies to allow bats greater access to food sources.

“We really want people to understand that flying foxes are an important species, they’re a major pollinator,” she said.

“We wouldn’t want 800 koalas or 800 platypus or any other threatened species to be lost in an afternoon.”

West is best this Midsumma

Midsumma Westside is back again, with plenty of events happening across Melbourne’s western suburbs between 18 January until 8 February. Georgia Tacey dives into all the events happening over the festival, including a chat with First Nations drag artist Cerulean, who is cohosting Blak & Fabulous in Footscray.

Over 22 jam-packed days, Midsumma Westside will take over Melbourne’s western suburbs in one of the biggest celebrations of the LGBTQIA+ community in Victoria.

With 25 events across the west, expect to find performances that move you, exhibitions that inspire and conversations that matter, all falling under this year’s theme of ‘Time and Place’; exploring the past, current and futures of the community, including First Nations voices.

Venues like Pride of Our Footscray are set to host a variety of events, with one of their most popular highlighting an important section of the community.

Blak & Fabulous will bring an intimate evening of performance and discussion featuring drag and variety performers who will share both their talents and stories, in this showcase celebrating LGBTQIA+ First Nations performers.

Cohosted by First Nations (Meriam/ Erub Kebi and Torres Strait Islander) drag artist Cerulean and Kija drag artist and singer 2JOOCEE, a variety of performers will take the stage for a night celebrating culture and community.

Cerulean, a resident performer at Pride of Our Footscray, said they have been involved with the showcase for a number of years, and was excited to host the event for the second time.

Cerulean said this event will not only be a teaching moment, but also a space for the community to celebrate black joy in the queer community, alongside plenty of drag and performance.

“This is a really cute event where we get to discuss being queer and First Nations within Melbourne.

“I feel like there aren’t many (queer) First Nations events around, so it’s really cool to see that Pride of Our Footscray is supporting that.

“I’ve done it for the last few years and every year it’s been amazing. It’s been sold out as well, so make sure to get tickets.”

Cerulean has been heavily involved with Midsumma, performing at some of the biggest events like street party in Melbourne.

“I love the community. I feel like Midsumma is a great time for the queer community to come out together.”

The Melbourne-based artist said Tarsh Jago, a proud Palawa woman and stand-up comedian and Tharawal and Yorta Yorta artist and dancer Jyden Brailey will also take to the stage for Blak & Fabulous, with moreFirstNationsartiststobeannounced.

“This is a really cool opportunity to be able to hear First Nations voices within

this space and also to see up and coming First Nations drag artists as well,” Cerulean said.

“We’ve got a new generation of drag artists that are coming through that we hope to see on the night at Blak & Fabulous, so make sure to come down and support them.”

Blak & Fabulous will be coming to Pride of Our Footscray Community Bar from 7pm on Saturday 31 January.

Blak & Fabulous is an 18-plus event, with tickets ranging from $19 to $25.

Find a full list of events at: midsumma. org.au/whats-on/events/queer-westside-studios-session/

Your guide to Midsumma Westside

Stand Out Exhibition, 18 January-8 February, Altona Meadows Skatepark, AltonaMeadows

Presented by Hobsons Bay artist Tara Mathews, this exhibition brings bright colours and their distinctive style, in a display dedicated to queer women and gender-diverse individuals who feel like they don’t fit in.

2099: Messages to Our Queer Future, 20 January- 4 February, Louis Joel Gallery,Altona

This exhibition invites artists, creatives

and makers of all ages to create a love letter, in any medium, to the future of queer community, exploring the hopes of queer liberation in the future and showcases a time capsule of the unique intricacies of queer culture today, curated by The Artist Known as Foot.

Stories for All Seasons, 20 -21 January, 100StoryBuilding,Footscray Open for LGBTQIA+ teens aged 12 to 17, these creative writing workshops offer fun writing exercises, creative activities and guidance from experienced facilitators. Participants will develop confidence, explore identity and connect with like-minded peers.

Queer Comedy Gala, 7pm on 22 January, Pride of Our Footscray CommunityBar,Footscray

The gala features a stacked line-up of seven LGBTQIA+ comedians ready to make you laugh, hosted by the iconic MC Dolly Diamond and Reuben Kaye.

All Star Pride Drag Bingo, 7pm on 23 January, Pride of Our Footscray CommunityBar,Footscray

Join four fabulous drag hosts for an evening of fun bingo games, camp drag shows, comedy, cocktails, prizes and much more. Balls drop 7.30pm sharp, so

please ensure you arrive with plenty of time before the show starts.

Pride Pool Party, 10am on 24 January, SunshineLeisureCentre,Sunshine Celebrate Brimbank’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ community with a fun day out in Sunshine, featuring activities, inflatable slides for the little ones, live music, catering and much more in this inclusive event.

Save the Bears!, 6.30pm, 28 January, PrideofOurFootscrayCommunityBar, Footscray

‘Save the Bears!’ is the pilot episode of a new animated show Summontown by Jimmy Twin, inspired by fantasy role-playing games and 1980s sitcoms. Come and have a drink while viewing the pilot episode, followed by a Q&A. A small exhibition of concept artwork and select artworks by Twin will also be on display.

Queer Westside Studios Session, 5pm, 5 February, Newport Community Hub, Newport

Open for LGBTQIA+ youth aged between 15 and 24 years, this special Midsumma Edition of Westside Open Studios is a chance to create, connect and chill in a fun and supportive space. Youth can hop on the mic, jam with others, perform for peers or just catch a set.

The Self Possessed, 5 -7 February, BluestoneChurchArtsSpace,Footscray The Self Possessed is a showcase of performance and vocal repertoire from over three centuries, featuring works written by Handel, Gluck, Scarlatti, Gilbert and Sullivan, Noel Coward, and Billie Eilish.

Snuff Salooon, 6-7 February, Footscray DrillHall,Footscray

Step into the shadowy heart of Snuf Puppets’ workshop turned salooon, where spectacle descends into fun chaos. The first half of the night unleashes chaos: queer performance art, live music, puppet shows that shouldn’t be left unsupervised. Loud DJ music takes over and the whole room transforms – giant puppets loom over the dance floor, live drawings flicker overhead like transmissions from another dimension. Sprawlonhugebeanbags,lettheSaloonatic cocktails flow, and become one with the spectacle.

Community cleans-up lake

A group of Caroline Springs residents are taking action to clean up rubbish left around Caroline Springs Lake.

Local Nimita Alphonse, who has lived in the suburb for 15 years, said she became fed up seeing large amounts of litter on her regular walks around the lake.

“It’s been more of an issue in recent times,” Ms Alphonse said.

She decided to call on the community to tackle the issue.

“With the amount of rubbish that’s around I knew I couldn’t do it on my own. So I posted in the [Facebook community group] a while back,” Ms Alphonse said.

She was joined by locals for the first clean-up event in October when they filled about 10 large garbage bags with litter in the first two hours.

“It’s just sad really for people that love taking care of the environment. Having a bunch of rubbish around is really bad. You can’t even see the landscaping properly,” Ms Alphonse said.

“People have started to say Caroline Springs is in decline … It kind of feels like someone comes into your home and chucks rubbish there.”

Now, the group meets monthly to clean up rubbish at the lake.

Residents are currently deciding the January date for the next clean-up.

Ms Alphonse said she hopes more locals join the group.

Locals interested in joining the clean-up group can find more information on the ‘Caroline Springs Community’ group on Facebook, and can reach out to Ms Alphonse directly as well.

Caroline Springs resident Nimita Alphonse. (Supplied)

Briefs

Measles exposure sites

The Department of Health has listed Melbourne Airport and a Jetstar flight as a recent measles exposure sites. The exposure date for Melbourne Airport in Tullamarine, terminal 2 was Sunday 11 January, from 10.45am-12.30pm. The flight that has been listed as an exposure site is Jetstar flight JQ18 which departed Phuket and arrived at Melbourne Airport. The exposure date for the flight is Saturday 10 to Sunday 11 January from 10.50pm to 11.20am. Those present at the exposure sites during these times should monitor for symptoms up to Thursday 29 January. Measles symptoms usually start with fever, cough, runny nose, red or sore eyes or feeling generally unwell. This is usually followed by a rash which often starts on the face before spreading down the body If symptoms develop, seek medical care.

New library app

Brimbank libraries has announced its new library app. According to Brimbank libraries, locals can use the app to carry digital library cards, browse a digital library, search and reserve items from the catalogue and print documents. Users can also scan any book, from anywhere, to check if it’s available at the library, log reading sessions with a reading tracker feature, book study rooms and gaming sessions, and more.

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Mayor’s message

Cr Lara Carli

Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed quality time with family and friends over the Christmas break.

I’m looking forward to the year ahead and seeing further progress on major projects, including the Cobblebank Community Services Building and the Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Fraser Rise— fantastic assets that will serve our growing community.

This year, we will also continue to focus on improving and making our local roads safer. During the school holidays, we have been taking advantage of quieter roads to complete some important projects. To see what’s happening in your area, visit melton.vic.gov. au/roadworks

Summer is definitely here now, and with the recent weather events I’d like to thank our local CFA’s and SES for going above and beyond to support and protect our community. Your commitment and hard work don’t go unnoticed.

It’s a timely reminder to look after yourself in hot weather. You can also visit Council’s libraries to stay cool if you need. If you live or work in a high risk fire area, ensure you have a plan in place. For more information, visit melton.vic.gov. au/heatwave.

Finally, on Australia Day we’ll proudly welcome 400 new Australians at a citizenship ceremony at Cobblebank Indoor Stadium followed by a community event including a BBQ and entertainment for families. Our cultural diversity is one of our City’s greatest strengths, and I look forward to celebrating this special day with our community. Feel free to contact me about Sugar Gum Ward or Council related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au

Community Volunteer Achievement Awards now open

Nominations are open for Melton City Council’s 2026 Community Volunteer Achievement Awards. The annual awards recognise volunteers who inspire pride, strengthen community spirit, and contribute to a more inclusive and supportive community. Residents can be nominated across five award categories:

• Citizen of the Year

• Young Citizen of the Year

• Disability Access and Inclusion Leader of the Year

• Gender Equity Leader of the Year

• Intercultural Engagement Leader of the Year

Nominations close Saturday 28 February 2026, with winners to be announced in May. For information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/ volunteer-awards

Hilltop Ward with Cr John Verdon

Happy New Year! I hope everyone enjoyed a relaxing break over the holiday period. Things are starting to pick up for 2026, and I know I’m looking forward to another big year.

What a wonderful festive season we had across our community to round out 2025. Council supported two great community Carols by candlelight events, at Diggers Rest and Caroline Springs, with large turn outs at both events. The Sydenham Hillside Cricket Club held its own community Christmas party which is always wonderful and we had Council’s Carols by Candlelight event that rounded out a great holiday season calendar of festivities.

I’d like to acknowledge the terrific work that went into coordinating our incredible Christmas decorations. Residents have been asking for more festive displays for a long time, and it

was exciting to see the first year of this new program come to life. I’m looking forward to watching it grow in the years ahead.

There are plenty of exciting projects to look forward to in Hilltop Ward. This year will see the start of community consultation for new recreation spaces and a community centre in Diggers Rest, so keep an eye out for opportunities to get involved.

Finally, if you have a great idea for a project or initiative you’d like Council to consider as part of our 2026/27 Council Plan and Budget process, I encourage you to share it on Melton Conversations. Submissions close Tuesday 27 January.

Feel free to contact me regarding Hilltop Ward or Council related issues on 0418 444 883 or email at John.Verdon@melton.vic.gov.au

Hard waste collection or drop off

If you have been busy decluttering or cleaning out your home over the holiday period, don’t forget to take advantage of your hard waste collections or drop-off entitlements. Each household receiving a Melton City Council kerbside bin service is entitled annually to:

• Two free Council hard waste collections (up to 3 cubic metres each), or

• Two free drop-offs at the Melton Recycling Facility (up to 1 cubic metre each), or

• A combination of one of each.

These entitlements apply to both tenants and property owners. For information or to book a collection, visit melton.vic.gov.au/hard-waste

Australia Day operating hours

Our offices, libraries and animal pound will be closed on Monday 26 January. There is no change to kerbside bin collections, so please put your bin out Sunday night if Monday is your usual collection day.

The Melton Recycling Facility is open 8am – 4.30pm. For information or to report an issue visit melton.vic.gov.au

Tragedies at Chirnside

When brothers Thomas and Andrew Chirnside escaped the dreary climate of Scotland to try their luck in Australia, they brought with them a love of horses, drinking, observing the Sabbath and hunting foxes.

As pioneer pastoralists, their labours brought them wealth and the building of a fine mansion in Werribee, completed in 1877.

The substantial estate provided employment for a large labour force of cooks,maids,butlers,gardeners,carpenters andgrooms.

There they hosted grand dinners, picnics and balls, gave generously to charities, and, to complete their happiness – though not that of the native wildlife or future generations -– imported foxes to enable themtoridetohounds.

Thomas, a former director of the National Bank of Australasia, never married. The one love of his life was Mary Begbie, whom brother Andrew had treacherously wooed and married without informing Thomas untilitwasfaitaccompli.

In the hope of at least being able to see and speak to Mary, Thomas allowed her, Andrew and their three children to move intoChirnside.

As the property contained 60 rooms, family members were able to maintain someprivacyiftheywished.

In 1887, family and staff noticed that Thomas was becoming gloomy and drinking heavily. At first this was attributed to age – he was 72 years old – but when he beganhintingaboutendinghislife,medical expertisewassummoned.

Depression was little understood in those days; Dr Fitzgerald did what he could, but Thomas sank deeper into melancholy and self-medicatingwiththewhiskeybottle.

On Saturday, 25 June, 1887, following a sombrelunchwithhisfamily,hedemanded a glass of whiskey. Fearing that this would only worsen his mood, his relations refused topoursomuchasadrop.

Whatever demons were clawing away at Thomas’s mind, probably stemming from the shock of his brother’s marriage, this refusal seems to have provided the tipping point.

Without further ado, he went outside and shothimselfinthehead.

DidthesadghostofThomasdriftaround, affecting and influencing those who lived there? Andrew died three years later, and Mary, the woman who was the most likely cause of Thomas’ overwhelming sadness, wasburnedtodeathin1908.

Or did the shock, grief and guilt which invariably follows a suicide create a long-lastingatmosphereatChirnside?

In the years that followed, Henry Fitzsimmons, rabbit trapper, lived with his wife Mary and his father-in–law, Frederick Jenkins, in a two-roomed hut on the Chirnsideestate.

As married people often do, the couple quarrelled at times, their bickering happily egged on by old Fred, a former wharfie who, crippled by rheumatic fever, found that domestic fights - as long as he was not physically involved - provided some much0needed entertainment in his otherwisedullandrestrictedlife.

That plus the arrival of Mary’s brother John, who had unexpectedly bobbed in from New South Wales and showed a strong disinclination to ever leave, only exacerbatedthefamilytensions.

Henry was becoming extremely fed up with having to support a crippled family member, which had been the condition set by the old man before giving permission to wedhis19-year-olddaughterin1890.

Henry was 27, a former industrial school boy when he married. Since then he had been a labourer and rabbit trapper at the Werribeeestate.

Hewasagoodworker,mostlysober,and thingswentalongfairlysmoothlyuntilthe birth of two boys , not twins, but so close in age that they were considered such, placed more pressures on the crowded occupants.

This put Henry into a permanently foul mood from sleep deprivation. Sometimes Mary went away to stay with friends in Melbourne rather than put up with her husband’s grumbling, her brother’s teasing, and her dad’s moaning. Two screaming babies were more than enough for any woman to endure without the men’s aggravatingways.

A huge marital fight erupted on the night

of Wednesday 13 December, 1893. The following night’s fisticuffs were even worse, and old man Jenkins, deciding that what hadoncebeenaninvigoratingandamusing spectacle was now looking extremely dangerous, planned to flee on Friday with Maryandhisgrandchildren.

The following day, before Fred could put his plan into effect, Henry asked John to get the horses harnessed in the cart. John had to search over the plains to find them and when he returned, it was to find his sister and father lying together on the kitchen floor, battered almost beyond recognition. Mary managed to tell her brother that Henry had walked into the kitchen with a melodramatic, albeit polite, “Prepare for death.I’mgoingtocutyourthroat”.

Henry then smashed her head with a pick handle, fracturing her skull. Alerted by his daughter’s screams, Fred crawled painfully into the kitchen to her aid, only to be felled by his son- in- law who dealt the old man a severe bashing. Believing thembothdead,Henrywalkedtoanempty

hut, drew out a razor and slashed his own throat. Horrified, John raced to inform the Werribee police.

Mary, Fred and Henry were taken to Melbourne hospital. Doctor Lyons k new that operating on Fred was futile, but thought that Henry and Mary would survive.

Police constables were placed on guard atHenry’sbedsidelestheescapeorattempt furtherself-harm.

What had triggered this outburst of violence?Duetohisthroatinjuries,hecould notspeak,butcommunicatedbywritingon a slate. Now calm, he expressed concern for hiswife’swelfareandclaimedthatFredand Johnhadbothattackedhim,andhisactions wereself-defence.

Dr Lyons’s judgment was proved correct when Fred died on 17 December but his hopes for the killer’s survival were dashed when Henry died two days later. An inquest held on the same day found that he was guilty of the murder of his father- in- law andtheattemptedmurderofhiswife.

MY PLACE

Fred Ackerman is an executive committee member of Keilor Historical Society (KHS) and wears many other hats as a local community leader and advocate. He spoke to Sam Porter about his work and his community.

What’s your connection to Brimbank?

I came to live in St Albans in 1993. Our two daughters were born at Sunshine Hospital and attended St Albans East Kindergarten.In2000webuiltanewhouse in the final Taylors Lakes estate, and our daughters attended Overnewton Anglican Community College from prep to year 12. My wife, Amanda, taught at Stevensville Primary School. I am a member of the Rotary Club of Keilor; Keilor Historical Society; Melbourne Airport Community Aviation Consultation Group, representing Taylors Lakes; convenor of Keilor Taylors Lakes Action, and a Justice of the Peace.

What do you like about where you live?

We live in an attractive court location in a friendly neighbourhood where we know the people in our street. Most of us built new homes around the same time. We are close to Calder Freeway with easy access to the city, Melbourne Airport and open space. We have accessible public transport – buses and trains, good community facilities,WatergardensShoppingCentreis nearby, and Keilor Village shopping strip is a short distance away.

What, if anything would you change about where you live?

Despite ongoing tree planting, the western suburbs have a tree canopy of less than ten per cent and therefore continue to be a heat island. I have long advocated for the greening of the western suburbs to reduce the heat island effect, provide more attractive recreational and sporting space, andgenerallyimprovetheaestheticsofour suburbs.

Where is your favourite place to spend time?

I enjoy the outdoors, including yaluk barring park (formerly Sydenham Park),

Brimbank Park and the various smaller local parks and gardens.

What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?

I grew up at Marysville in the Yarra Ranges on a dairy farm where I milked cows, raised calves, and learnt to drive on a grey Fergusontractorataveryyoungage.

I am a former teacher, school principal, president of the Victorian Principals Association and senior manager in the EducationDepartment.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

22 January, 1986

An elderly St Albans family, two members of which were terrorised, bound and robbed by two masked and armed bandits last week, are planning to sell their home.

30 years ago

24 January, 1996

An Ardeer woman has sought legal advice on compensation for one of the largest contamination scandals in Australia’s history.

What do you enjoy about being part of Keilor Historical Society?

The wider Keilor region has a very rich heritage, beginning with Indigenous culture from 63,000 BC, through 1830’s European settlement - including early farming,1850’s Gold Rush, early 20th Century manufacturing,1920-30s innovative irrigated market gardening, and 1950s post-World War II migration. Believingthatthecelebration,preservation and sharing of our heritage is important, I volunteer with Keilor Historical Society

to achieve these aims. As an executive committee member of KHS, I am responsible for organising the society’s key events, including Harrick’s Cottage and Police Hut Open Day, Keilor ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies. Going forward, I would like to see a transport heritage centre developed locally, depicting and celebrating the evolution of transport from settlement through to today; from wheelbarrows and horsedrawn carts to motor vehicles and aircraft.

20 years ago

January 24, 2006

Concerned property owners in the North Sunshine Industrial Estate want Brimbankcounciltouseitsenforcement powers against landowners in the estate who flout laws against dumping rubbish on their own land or roadsides.

10 years ago

19 January, 2016

One of Victoria’s most disadvantaged suburbs is being tipped as a canny investment buy this year in a national property report.

Volunteers weed ’n water

Faces around the west

Each week Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing events and people across the west.

Melton Waves staff Courtney O’Keeffe, Jackson Eekelschot and Tahlia Rogerson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 527206_04

4, Derinda and Lilly-Jade, 9, at

Aquatic and Wellness Centre. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 526798_03

Did you experience child sexual abuse in a Victorian government school or certain non-government school prior to the year 2000?

The Forum is a safe space for you to share your experience and contribute to the public record.

Help Victoria better prevent and respond to child sexual abuse in schools now and into the future.

The Forum is open until 18 March 2026. 1800 967 933 (free call)

contact@truthandrecognition.vic.gov.au PO Box 256, Collins Street West, VIC 8007

Scan the QR code to find out more or contact us

Discovering Dunedin

By Kylie Mitchell-Smith TRAVEL WRITER/ PODCASTER www.travellingsenorita.com

HAVING explored the tourist meccas of the South Island of New Zealand (Queenstown and Christchurch) I thought it was time to venture further afield and head to the more hidden gem that is Dunedin in the SoutheasternregionofOtago.

Dunedin often likened to a mini-Edinburgh (the Edinburgh of the south), complete with Scottish vibes, the four seasons in one day weather and even it’s own castle. And that was our first stop on our ‘Discover Dunedin’ itineraryLarnach Castle perched high in the hills above Otago Harbour.

The surrounding Peninsula is a hilly slither of volcanic land, abundant in flora and fauna – a place to see Sea Lions and Penguins and one of the few accessible places where Albatross nest.

Larnach Castle is like stepping back in time and swapping hemispheres. Commissioned in 1871 by local character William Larnach, the castle is a gothic masterpiece with plenty of stories to tell. The property was derelict for quite some time after William’s passing with a New Zealand couple - the Barkers – buying it in 1967 and bringing it back to life.

Thelibraryanddininghallhostlongtable dinners showcasing all the South Island has to offer. While the tastefully decorated stable and lodge accommodation offers breathtaking views across the harbour. There’s also a garden cafe and exquisite groundstowandermakingthecastleatrue ode to the past.

Following our tour we check into Distinction - a downtown hotel in the centre of the city before we head out again to admire the colourful murals that adorn the streets. We wander the high street and devour a classic cheese roll at Good Oil Cafe, a locals juice at Buster Greens and a hearty pub meal at Speights Ale House. We are getting the sense that this city is all

about bakeries and breweries.

The next day we plan a trip on the Taieri Gorge Train. The train leaves from the Dunedin Railway Station – one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Built in 1906 it’s famed for its renaissance architecture. The train takes us across Otago’s sweeping countryside, with towering viaducts and the gushing Taieri River below-while the onboard storyteller recounts tales of a gold rush era.

As the sun sets over Otago Harbour, we take a short trip to the surf beaches, stopping at St Clair for Cocktails at Piccolo, Pasta at the Esplanade and Dessert at Sorello-housed in an iconic beachfront location. We stroll along the promenade and admire the locals as they brave the newly opened (heated) saltwater pools.

The next day we jump on our trusty e-bikes and take on the newly opened bike and pedestrian path that follows the harbour to Port Chalmers, a quaint port town. From there we book a water (bike) taxiacrosstheharbourtoprettyPortobello, passing Quarantine and Goat Island along

the way.

Lunch is served at the local Portobello Pub, fresh Blue Cod and chips washed down with a local Speights ale and Central Otago wine, which really hit the spot. After lunch we cycle up the road to a new farm gate cafe, Augustine, for the tastiest of scones with lashings of berry jam and local cream.

We take in the sights of the University of Otago - billed as a leader in education it ranks in the top 200 Universities in the world. There’s a vibrant student population living on the outskirts which has attracted cafes like Strictly Coffee - a roaster with one of the best brews around.

We take a bespoke tour to the tip of the Otago Peninsula with local guides, ClearwaterWildlifeTours.Walkingthrough a working farm to the rugged clifftops and pristine beach of Cape Saunders, spotting sealions and yellow-eyed penguins along the way.

A trip to Dunedin isn’t complete without a visit to the Otago Farmers Markets, held each Saturday in the carpark adjacent to

therailwaystation.WetasteDunedinCraft Distillers Gin made from bread scraps and sample a delicious Short Black chocolate from local makers Ocho (Otago Chocolate Company).

Rug up and discover the delights of Dunedin, it’s the ideal stopover to explore the South Island, with direct flights from the East Coast it’s fast becoming the next ‘go to’ New Zealand destination. EAT-

LarnachCastledining PortobelloHotel

• PiccoloStClair

• NobleDunedin PLAY-

• Speight’sbrewerytour

• ClearWaterWildlifeTours TairiGorgeTrain OtagoFarmersMarket STAY-

• LarnachLodge

• DistinctionHotel

Iconic Experiences, Expertly Escorted

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

Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase

National Park

Full-Board River Elegance

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

Hand-Picked 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

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,

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

Army Duck tour of the rainforest

wine and dine service and entertainment Iconic Experiences, Expertly Escorted Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway tour including^: Kuranda Village, Rainforestation Nature Park, Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, Tropical Fruit Orchard, Dreamtime Walk, Koala and Wildlife Park, and Amphibious

‘Reef Magic’ Great Barrier Reef cruise, including: Airconditioned catamaran transfers, 4 hours of reef time, marine life touch tank, underwater observatory, and fish feeding presentations

Hand-Picked Hotel Stays

1 night four-star hotel stay in Brisbane at the Amora Hotel Brisbane

5 night four-star hotel stay in Cairns at the Crystalbrook Bailey

All hotel stays include breakfast

All Flights & Taxes

EUROPEAN SOJOURN

Amsterdam

From

GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR

Budapest to Amsterdam or vice versa

15 DAYS • 4 COUNTRIES • 12 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • MAR-NOV 2026; APR-NOV 2027; MAY-DEC 2028

From $8,895pp in Standard Stateroom From $12,995pp in Veranda Stateroom

PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE

Budapest to Bucharest or vice versa

11 DAYS • 5 COUNTRIES • 8 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL • MAR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; MAR-NOV 2028

From $7,195pp in Standard Stateroom From $9,095pp in Veranda Stateroom

Albion leads in unit price jump

By Sam Porter

Albion recorded the sharpest increase in median unit prices among metropolitan suburbs in the December quarter of 2025, with prices nearly doubling to $557,800, according to the latest Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) data.

It comes as the state’s median unit and apartment price increased two per cent over the quarter to $656,500, compared with a 1.8 per cent rise in house prices to $973,500.

Unit and apartment living is increasingly providing the first step on the property lad-

der for many Victorians, according to REIV. REIV chief executive Toby Balazs said the data confirms both market growth and a structural shift in housing.

“Unit and apartment living is no longer a secondary option – it is a core part of Victoria’s housing mix, providing a more affordable entry point into the market,” Mr Balazs said.

“With constrained land and housing supply and sustained population growth, medium-density housing is an increasingly sought-after option.“

Across Brimbank, the latest data revealed Keilor as the suburb with the most

significant median house price increase last quarter, jumping 17.3 percent to $1.2 million.

Brooklyn came in second place with a 14.2 per cent increase to a median house price of $868,000 followed by Albion, where house prices grew 13.4 per cent to $870,000.

Kings Park and Albanvale rounded off the top five suburbs in Brimbank for median house price percentage increases, jumping 8.6 per cent to $730,000 and 6.9 per cent to $721,000 respectively.

Keilor’s $1.2 million median sale price made it the least affordable suburb in the municipality followed by Keilor Lodge,

Sunset Safari returns to Werribee zoo

Sunsets are pretty good, but sunsets on the savannah are wild.

Werribee Open Range Zoo’s Sunset Safari event is returning this year and will feature a big addition– to say the least.

For the first time, guests can witness the zoo’s herd of nine Asian Elephants roaming around their incredible 21-hectare world-class habitat.

While elephants have been stealing the show in Werribee, visitors are reminded that there is more to the savannah than tusks and trunks.

Guests will have access to the zoo’s waterhole walking trail to view zebra, os-

trich, camels and oryx on foot.

A safari guide will teach those who come along about the behaviours of African wildlife, the plight of threatened species in the wild and how to support Zoos Victoria’s conservation efforts.

Three new cheaters ready to make their names will be around the scene, and Jabulani the rock star rhino will be strutting his stuff for all and sundry.

Humans will be able to enjoy some culinary pleasure as well, with access to cocktails, an African-inspired barbeque, and dining in the Meerkat Bistro.

The sounds of the savannah are also

not to be missed, with African drumming keeping the rhythm steady for the summer.

Sunset Safari helps Zoos Victoria support international conservation partners, not-for-profits and other causes that promote the protection of wildlife.

The eight-week event is held between 5.30pm to 9pm on Saturdays, running from 10 January to 21 February.

Entry costs $62 for adults and $32 for children. Tickets can be pre-purchased online via Zoos Victoria’s website.

More: www.zoo.org.au/sunsetsafari.

which recorded a median house price of $1 million.

The most affordable suburbs for houses in Brimbank last quarter were Ardeer, which recorded a median house price of $718,000, and Albanvale.

The Brimbank suburb with the greatest drop in median house price percentage was Cairnlea, recording a decrease of -7.1 per cent to $900,000 followed by Taylors Lakes and Sunshine North where prices fell -6.7 per cent and -4.5 per cent respectively. It comes after Sunshine North’s median house price jumped 13.8 per cent the previous September 2025 quarter.

Have your say

Brimbank council is seeking feedback for the draft of its community facilities hire licences and leases agreement policy.

According to council, the purpose of the policy is to provide direction for the ongoing allocation and management of community facilities in Brimbank, to ensure fair and equitable access and use of community facilities to community groups and Brimbank residents, and to ensure optimal use of community facilities to meet community needs.

Community facilities covered under the policy include community halls and meeting rooms, guide halls, scout halls, senior citizens centres, sports pavilion community rooms designed for community use during business hours, neighbourhood houses and community centres, St Albans Community Centre Community spaces for hire, and Brimbank Learning Futures community spaces for hire.

Council said it last updated the policy in 2016.

The latest draft includes an alignment of the policy with council’s ‘social justice framework’ to ensure equity and equality, and an update to the categories under which fees are charged to better reflect community needs and make it easier to understand and implement, according to council.

Consultation for the draft policy closes Friday 13 February.

PUZZLES

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.

Tramp (8)

Elicit (5)

Accept reluctantly (9)

Gather piecemeal (5)

Talents (9)

Tollway (8)

Lifts balloon (3,3) 16 Help (6) 18 Emblem of Islam (8) 23 Relating to the body (9)

Low woody plant (5)

Hosiery (9)

Person of English ancestry (5)

Astonishment (8)

At one (6)

Japanese emperor from 1989–2019 (7)

Stubborn (9)

8 Sideboard (7)

10 Startled, disconcerted (5)

14 Storage tank (9)

16 Charges (7)

17 Cue sport (7)

19 Guidelines (5)

20 Support (7)

21 Forbidden (7)

22 Sport (6)

25 Just (5)

1 What is the capital of the Bahamas?

2 Who played Samuel ‘Sam’ Loomis in the 1998 remake of Psycho?

Who won the 2009 Brazilian Grand Prix?

What was the name of Julia Roberts’ (pictured) character in the film Pretty Woman?

The MacDonnell Ranges are in which Australian state or territory?

6 Who wrote the 2009 novel Wolf Hall? 7 A waltz is usually danced in what time signature?

9 Which chemical element has the symbol Y?

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Library holiday fun

Kids can attend Brimbank libraries these school holidays for a fun mix of creativity, learning and community events. All activities are free, and great for kids of all ages. Highlights include a water safety storytime, a young makers workshop, an Augmented Reality session, a bushland biodiversity workshop, Lunar New Year Festival activities, NGV Kids on Tour, rainbow storytime and a dinosaur discovery event with Museums Victoria. shorturl.at/meUmv

Over 50’s club

The Keilor Over 50’s Recreation Club meets at Kealba Hall, 24 McShane Drive, Kealba, on Tuesdays, from 10am-3pm, and Wednesdays, from 7-10pm. Have a coffee and a chat, play social table tennis, pool and card games, go on organised outings and enjoy barbecues. First two visits are free then annual membership fees apply.

Graeme, 0404 809 640, keilorover50@ gmail.com, www.keilorover50.com.au

Sunshine Community Brass

Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm. Andrew, 0419 444 620

Deer Park Probus Club

The Deer Park Probus Club meets at the Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, Deer Park on the second Wednesday of the month from February to December. Meet at 10am followed by lunch available from 12pm. The club offers bus trips, lunches, morning melodies etc. New members welcome. 0427 495 584

Keilor Park Tennis Club social night

Join the club on Monday nights for a free social hit and get to know other club members. All levels are welcome. Female players are also required for Thursday competition from 10am-2pm and also for the B-grade mixed team on Wednesday, 7-9pm.

keilorparktennis@gmail.com

Brimbank Book Group

Be inspired by thought-provoking books with a group of like-minded, literary fans with our Brimbank Book Group. All welcomed. This group, for adults, meets on the first Monday of the month, from 2-3 pm, at Deer Park library. Bookings are not essential, but please feel free to register your interest.

library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Create & Chat

Dig out your craft projects and get inspiration from fellow like-minded crafters with the create and chat sessions at Sunshine Library, from 10-11am, on the first Tuesday of every month. All skill levels are welcome. library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

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 Brimbank. 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/

National seniors meeting

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities

such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.

0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@ outlook.com

Card games

Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from 7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine. Leisa, 0425 768 808

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.

Robyn, 0425 387 880

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.

Roma, 0435 991 064

Caroline Springs Rotary

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall, from 7pm. rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Sunshine Repair Cafe

Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Cafe in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity

to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Delahay Community Centre, 70 Copperfield Drive every Wednesday, from 1-2:30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary. Helpline, 1300 252 666

Musicians Wanted

Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Do you play Woodwind, Brass or Percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music?

Rehearsals are held Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am-noon, at Braybrook College. westgateconcertband@gmail.com

Deer Park Lions Club

Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park. Michael, 0417 307 572

Avondale Heights Probus Club

The club meets at Doyle Street Community Centre, Avondale Heights on the third Wednesday of the month at 9.30am. For retired or semi-retired people. The club offers lunches, bus trips, card and games days, walking groups. New members welcome. Vee, 0400 886 758

Every hall has a story

Valentine’s Day. Many will spend it over a candlelit dinner or a romantic movie.

If that is not the style for you or your beloved, then why not head down the highway and learn a little about Little River.

Damian Callinan will be delivering his show Hall Stories with his trademark irreverence and cheek.

The celebrated actor, comedian, and creator of the hit Netflix film The Merger will combine his storytelling skills and

stand-up knack to pull back the curtain on his own tour stories.

At the same time, he examines the quirks, traditions, and characters of Australian halls and meeting.

In this particular show, Callinan will also spend time with the local community to delve into the history and characters of the Little River Mechanics Institute Hall, and the role that it plays in the broader community.

As well as the show, he will later deliver a podcast to document the story of the Little River Mechanics Institute Hall.

There is barely a bakery in regional Australia that hasn’t had one of Damian Callinan’s show posters blu-tacked to its window– and it will be him at his absolute peakinwhatyoucouldcallacomfortzone.

Hall Stories is Callinan doing what he does best, where he does it best.

He knows how to talk over a bubbling

Start your engines, Bacchus Marsh

Get set for engines to roar and propellers to spin as Bacchus Marsh Wings, Wheels, and Coffee returns for 2026, promising a high-octane day where horsepower meets skypower.

Taking off on Sunday 1 February, the much-loved and jam-packed event will run from 9am to 4pm at the Bacchus Marsh Airfield on Cummings Road, Parwan, transforming the tarmac into a playground for motoring and aviation fans alike.

This open event welcomes all motorsport enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive mix of classic and modern cars, bikes and aircraft.

Whether you prefer your machines hugging the road or dancing through the clouds, there’s plenty to keep you grounded in excitement, and occasionally looking straight up.

One of the biggest drawcards is the aerobatic and classic aircraft flying displays, with some of Australia’s top pilots set to put on a show that’s sure to be plane awesome.

On the ground, car builders and enthusiasts will roll in with machines polished to perfection, offering spectators plenty of chrome, curves and craftsmanship to admire.

It’s not just for rev-heads and aviation tragics. The family-friendly day promises food trucks, activities for kids, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to park yourself for hours.

All car and aviation clubs are welcome, with a simple invitation: drive in or fly in.

Entry is $15 per vehicle or aircraft, and every dollar goes toward supporting local community and health charities, including the Royal Children’s Hospital, Blue Light Disco, Barista Blue, and local sporting clubs.

Clotheslined to clobber Footscray on Australia Day weekend

Inner-west punters should prepare to get well and truly cleaned-up and checked for concussion when five of Melbourne’s toughest and hardest bands take over Footscray this Australia Day weekend.

Headlined by the appropriately named, Clotheslined, the night of ferocious, no-frills rock takes place at Mama Chens on Saturday 24 January.

Renowned for blistering live shows, metallic hardcore lords, Clotheslined, top the five-band bill, and if the four bands coming before don’t knock you out, the Melbourne

four-piece surely will.

Helping them to kick-off the long-weekend will be local young guns Blackbird, who’ll be keen to demonstrate why their considered one of the best early-2000’s metalcore revival bands around.

If hardcore punk is more your go, Lockjaw, will have you covered with tracks from the recent self-titled demo.

Local bands also get a look in, with Footscray’s own, Knifepoint, bringing their heavily New York influenced hardcore to the inner-west.

urn; wind up when the Country Women’s Association heads into the supper room, and stack the chairs in fives at the end of the night.

This gig is better for mature audiences as it may contain coarse language and adult themes.

The show starts at 7.30pm on 14 February, and runs for 90 minutes with no interval.

Midsumma festival fun in Brimbank

The Midsumma Festival is coming to Brimbank this summer in a burst of colour and culture.

Running from 18 January to 8 February, the Midsumma Westside program brings events to Brimbank venues, celebrating local LGBTQIA+ stories and community.

Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos encouraged locals to attend.

“We’re proud to be part of Midsumma Westside, supporting our LGBTQIA+ community by bringing the colour, creativity and connections of Australia’s premier queer arts and cultural Midsumma Festival to venues across Melbourne’s west,” Cr Tachos said.

A major highlight is the Brimbank LGBTQIA+ History Exhibition, supported by the Australian Queer Archives.

The exhibition maps and celebrates LGBTQIA+ history, showcasing the rich stories and connections that define Brimbank’s vibrant queer heritage.

“The exhibition contains objects and artworks of notable westies like Leigh Bowery, Kween Kong, Nathan McGlynn, Q West, Sunshine Gay Girl and more!” Cr Tachos said.

Locals are invited to the exhibition’s opening night gala at 6pm on Thursday 22 January at the Bowery Gallery, St Albans Community Centre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans.

While entry is free, bookings are essential for the gala.

The exhibition itself runs from 16 January to 4 April, giving visitors months to explore the exhibition.

Adding to the summer festivities is the pride pool party in Sunshine, an LGBTQIA+ inclusive event taking place on Saturday 24 January at Sunshine Leisure Centre.

And opening the night with a thump will be the so-called ‘westside beatdown crew’ Destroyed, with pit-inducing tracks such as their current single ‘Gambler.’

Don’t be fooled by the name though. The local four-piece sound nothing like Kenny Rogers.

The mayhem begins at 7pm and entry is free.

Mama Chens is located at 42 Albert Street, Footscray.

Details: https://mammachens.com. au/26-01-24-clotheslined/

The free event will feature inflatable slides for youngsters, live music and catering. For full event details and free ticket bookings, visit Creative Brimbank or midsumma.org.au.

The BYD Shark is coming

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

It’s BYD’s Shark and it’s coming for you.

At least it is if you’re in the market for a ute because the Shark, or Shark 6 to be exact, has been a runaway success for the Chinese company.

BYDhassoldmorethan10,000examples of the dual cab utility since launch 12 months ago and just to set the record straight, it’s not an electric vehicle - but rather a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

That makes the Shark rather special but not quite unique with competitors such as the Ford Ranger and GWM Cannon Alpha which also come as PHEVs.

STYLING

There’s just the one grade offered, priced from $57,900 plus on-road costs. Premium paint adds $700.

Although the styling breaks no new ground, it’s a good-looking bus, especially at night with its full width LED light arrays front and back.

Interestingly, when you see one behind you in the traffic, it’s difficult to make out the brand because the BYD lettering is reversed in the mirror.

LOL.

Standard kit includes artificial leather trim, dual zone climate air with rear vents, a leather-cladsteeringwheelandpower-adjust frontseatsthatareheatedandcooled.

There’s also side steps, 18-inch alloys, head-up display, adaptive cruise control, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, blingy LED head and tail lights, auto-dimming interior mirror, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and start, front and rear parking sensors.

Shark is covered by a six-year/150,000km warranty.

A separate eight-year warranty is offered on the battery, along with roadside assistance for the duration.

INFOTAINMENT

Infotainment centres on a huge 15.6-inch centre touchscreen, with a separate 10.25-inch digital instrument.

There’s Bluetooth, voice control, FM and DAB+ digital radio, built-in navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound.

The cameras and navigation look great on the big screen, but the computer voice that delivers the directions is diabolical, almost unintelligible at times.

The directions are also a bit hit and miss, sometimes warning you not to take turn outsandatothertimescompletelyignoring side roads.

USB A + C ports are provided front and back, along with wireless phone charging and over-the-air updates.

It also has vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, with three power plugs in the tray and another three-pin plug in the cabin.

SAFETY

Shark gets a full five stars for safety from the ANCAP organisation.

Seven airbags, including a centre airbag are standard, plus reversing and 360-degree cameras and auto braking are standard (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction & Crossing, Backover and Head-On).

There’s also a lane support system, with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and an advanced speed assistance system (SAS).

Two ISOFix and top tether child seat anchors are supplied, but it’s a juggling act to fit the tether to the rear anchor.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS

The hybrid system consists of a 1.5-litre

turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, together with electric motors for the front and rear axles and a 30 kWh battery.

Combined output is an impressive 321kW of power and 650Nm of torque, with drivetoallfourwheelsviaareductionstyle one-speed automatic transmission.

DRIVING

Shark is 5457mm long with a 3260mm wheelbase, which makes it longer than Ranger.

It weighs a hefty 2710kg, with a big 13.5 metre turning circle, ground clearance of 230mm and a wading depth of 700mm.

Tow capacity falls well short of the mark at 2500kg, while the load capacity is cited at 790kg.

The cabin has an upmarket feel, with artificial leather trim, contrast stitching and bright, metallic orange garnishes.

The seats are reasonably comfortable and rear legroom is good, with aircon outlets for rear seat passengers.

The rear seat flips forward to provide access to child seat tether points, but it is almost impossible to pull the webbing taut to make it secure.

There’s USB A and C ports front and back, with a 12 volt outlet front and a 240 volt outlet in the back - plus wireless phone charging.

The Shark’s hybrid system is a bit of a mixed bag, operating in both series and parallel modes.

Below 70km/h it operates in electric only mode, above this speed the petrol engine kicks in to provide extra grunt to the front wheels.

Like the Nissan e-Power system the petrol engine acts as a range extender, recharging the battery on the go - up to a point.

Shark is surprisingly quick off the mark, with the dash from 0-100km/h taking only 5.7 seconds.

Drive modes include Normal, Eco and Sport, along with the addition of Mud, Sand, Snow and Mountain all-terrain options (not sure what Mountain is all about).

In Eco mode the rear electric motor basically shuts down.

With a 60-litre tank range is a combined 800km, or it can travel up to 80km on electric power alone.

Like most plug-in hybrids it has claimed fuel consumption of 2.0L/100km.

Energy or power consumption is rated at 21.2 kWh/100km.

But this low fuel consumption figure is entirely dependent on the support of the battery, which in effect means stopping and recharging the vehicle every 100km.

The battery takes its charge from the

petrol engine, as well as regenerative braking and of course when it is actually plugged into a wall charger.

That makes it a fairly clever system.

Around town it operates mainly in electric mode, which makes the ute quick and quiet.

But without electrical assistance, fuel consumption will revert to that of a conventional petrol vehicle.

We didn’t have the time or necessary access to recharge the battery. As such we were getting 6.8L/100km after just over 600km of driving, but that’s still pretty good for a vehicle this size.

We’renotsurewhythere’saneedforsuch a big touchscreen? Sure, it’s a selling point, but at 15.6 inches the one in the Shark is almost too big.

The screen rotates between portrait and landscape, but Android Auto and we presume Apple CarPlay doesn’t work in portrait mode.

Nor will you be able to see it in this mode if you are wearing polarised sunglasses. Asmaller,separate10.25-inchscreensits in front of the driver.

Voice control implies that Big Brother is listening and listening indeed it was as we discovered.

We were discussing travel plans and maybe the Cook Islands while driving alongthemotorwaywhenGooglesuddenly piped up, declaring that it could help us with these plans - or words to that effect.

OMG?

Therearephysicalrollervolumecontrols, on the wheel and in the centre console, but for temperature control you have to access the screen.

The Shark impresses with its strong off the mark performance and lack of background cabin noise.

We can imagine passengers turning and saying: ‘Wow. This is all right. How much is it, again?’

It’s not until you get the ute out of town and on to some rougher roads that its poorlysortedsuspensioncomestothefore.

The setup features double wishbones and coil springs front and rear, promising better on-road performance.

But it’s jittery, juddery and crashes over larger bumps in the road.

The Tasman feels like a magic carpet in comparison.

The brakes are ventilated disc front and back and sophisticated for a ute.

They slow the vehicle smoothly, but tend to jerk it to a stop right at the end - it’s quite annoying.

Off-road? That’s another story altogether.

Although Shark is all-wheel drive, it’s an unusual setup without the option of low range.

RATINGS

Looks: 7.5

Performance: 7.5

Safety: 7.5

Thirst: 7.5

Practicality: 7.5

Comfort: 7

Tech: 7.5

Value: 8

Overall: 7.5

The Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO) system is designed to provide a balance of power, efficiency and off-road capability, making it suitable for diverse driving conditions. Sure, it turns all four wheels, but without low range any physical connection between the front and rear wheels, there’s no apportioning of torque between the front and rear wheels (nor side to side for that matter).

So, despite the requisite ground clearance and approach/departure angles, this will be a limiting factor off road, with lots of wheel spin and a lack of forward progress.

A lack of suspension travel and what are basically Continental road tyres won’t be any help either.

Long story short, we wouldn’t be planninganymajoroff-roadexpeditionsin this vehicle.

The tub has a liner, but does not come with a tonneau, not just to cover the load buttokeepoutairturbulencefromcreating drag (which drives up fuel consumption).

A basic tonneau is $1162, a sports bar $1382 or a bullbar $3892.

There are six tie-down points, rear tray lights, and a damped tailgate, with three household power outlets for accessories. Afull-sizesparewheelisfittedasstandard.

SUMMING UP

It’shardtogetpastthepriceandimpressive levels of equipment offered by the Shark. It’s a looker too, although we’d gladly dispense with the glitzy, brightly coloured interior trim.

But does the touchscreen really need to be that big? You could attach a keyboard and call it a laptop for God’s sake?

Our main gripe however concerns the woeful ride quality.

There’splentyofshudderandshake,even on relatively smooth, well-formed roads. And without low range and any differential locks, Shark is going to be a bit of a show pony off-road.

Guys, the suspension really needs some work.

Fun in the summer sun

Eagles find winning groove

By Tara Murray

SunshineEagleshavegainedbackmomentum ahead of a few big weeks in the Baseball Victoria summer league premier 1 first nine competition.

After a red hot start to the season, the Eagles dropped two matches late last year to bring it back to the pack.

With a win in the final game before the break and now a win on Saturday in the first game back, the Eagles are back on track.

Eagles coach Stuart Clayton said the group was able to quickly regroup and focus on what they needed to do.

“We had one week where we could not score a run,” he said. “We turned it around and got back on track.

““Everyone is injury free and hopefully we stay that way,” he said. “We’ve got a good enough squad to go deep into finals and hopefully have a repeat of last year.

“We have a big match ahead of us against Essendon next week, they are sitting second on the ladder a game and a bit behind us.

“It will be good to see where we are at.”

The Eagles resumed their season against Waverley on Saturday.

TherewasabigEaglescrowdastheclub hosted its past players day.

It was the away team that got on the board first, before the Eagles hit straight back.

TheEaglesledthroughoutonthewayto an 8-2 win.

“It was a really good win and they are a really good side,” Clayton said.

“Theveryfirstbatterhitahomerunand we thought ‘oh my god’.

“It was a funny day with the wind and we thought it was going to be a tough day to score.

“At the bottom of the first AJ [Adrian Fittock] hit a home run and we got three batters home. That put us in front.”

Fittock hit a second home run later in

Tigers settling in, pressing for a finals spot

By Tara Murray

Sunshine United is slowly getting the confidence back and with it wins are coming in theVictorianTurfCricketAssociationIsaacs Howarth Shield.

The Tigers dropped back to division 1 this season and it took them a few weeks to find their feet.

Now with some wins on the board, the Tigers are pressing for a finals spot as the season starts to heat up.

Tigers’ president Luke Magnabosco said for the group it was about building up the confidence after a couple of tough seasons.

“We’re slowly building,” he said. “We started some close losses and once we got a win we started to get some confidence.

“It’sreallygoodandagreatrewardforthe boys who have put in the hard work.

“The main part is everyone is learning their role and how to work together.

“We’re getting the confidence back and been able to win some tight contests.”

Magnabosco said they have a really good group that is getting closer week to week.

He said that was part of what they were building.

“We’vegotacoupleofguysthatwillcome back and strengthen the squad,” he said.

“The guys are really tight knit and are putting in the work and the main part is enjoying each other’s company and the results will take care of itself.”

On Saturday, the Tigers were able to knockofftheDruids,whoareinthetopfour.

The Tigers made 9-332 on day one of the match with Leniko Boucher making 135 off 136 balls at the top of the order.

It was Boucher’s first hit for the Tigers.

On Saturday, the Wizards started well with the bat and were in a good spot at 2-104.

The Wizards lost 4-9 to slip to 6-113.

While the Wizards were able to find another partnership, they weren’t able to stick around for long enough.

The side was bowled out for 244.

Leigh Sheridan and Ayush Khuttan took three wickets each for the Tigers.

The Tigers sit fifth on the ladder after eight games

the game to cap off a strong performance while also fielding well on the first base.

YoungsterDevinLeahyalsohadastrong gamewithfourhits,thefirsttimehe’sdone that for the Eagles top side. Claytonsaideachweekdifferentplayers keep stepping up.

“It has been fantastic,” he said. “The team is really sharing the load.”

The Eagles remain on top of the ladder where they’ve sat all season.

Midweek action resumes this week with the Eagles travelling to face Moorabbin. Claytonsaidtheywouldlooktomanage players through the back part of the season to be full strength for the pointy end.

Three re-sign for Keilor Thunder

Keilor Thunder young guns Macey Boyle, Nic Banon and Ryan Philippe have signed on for the National Basketball League 1 South season.

Boyle handled a heavy load last season, combining playing in the NBL1 women’s side while leading the way as the Thunder’s Big V youth league women’s side made the grand final.

Boyle won the Big V youth league champ most valuable player award and was named in the all-star five as she averaged more than 18 points a game.

“Macey is a defensive stalwart of our NBL1 women’s side, and won our 2025 most improved player award,” the Thunder said on social media.

“She is a dynamic and versatile player, creating turnovers, and averaged 3.40 RPG (rebounds per game[) in 2025, with a 38.5 per cent 3-point percentage.

“Outside of NBL1, Macey is an integral part of Keilor basketball, and is involved in Big V, coaching VJBL, and in programs such as Aussie Hoops, Walking Basketball and holiday camps. She is a firm fan favourite, and we are so pleased to welcome her back to our NBL1 side.”

Boyle joins Issie Bourne, Maddy Rocci and Nikki Metcalfe as signings announced by the Thunder.

BanonhasbeenpartoftheThunder’s men’s NBL1 side since the inaugural season in the competition.

Magnabosco said they have a few big weeksaheadofthemwithnineteamsstillin finals contention.

“We have a couple of important games,” he said. “We want to keep building and put in the work.

“It’s a younger group and a younger leadership group and they are learning their places.

“They will keep building.”

Sunshine United faces Seddon in a two-dayer over the next two Saturdays.

In other matches, Sunshine has slipped to second bottom on the table.

The Crows were chasing Doutta Stars’ 272.

The match went down to the wire, with the Crows bowled out for 264 with still 10 overs in hand.

Crows captain-coach Troy Stone scored 116.

While sitting second bottom, the Crows are just 12 points off to spot.

ElsewhereintheSteveMcNamaraShield, GrandUnitedbeatWilliamstownCYMSand PEGS lost to West Coburg St Andrews.

“He is a dynamic forward and brings relentless energy both on and off the court,” the Thunder said.

“Outside of NBL1, Nic is involved in all parts of Keilor basketball’s programs. He is our programs lead coach, coaches our 12.1 boys team and is a key part of our VYC [Victorian Youth Championship] men’s team in Big V.

“He was a finalist for the VYCM all-star five at the 2025 Big V awards.”

Philippe returns for his third season in Keilor’s side, having established himself as a key part of the Thunder’s 2025 lineup.

“He has a 45.5 per field goal percentage and averaged 7.45 points per game in 2025, with a high score of 20 points.”

Storm ready for challenge

By Tara Murray

Sydenham-Hillside is working hard to make sure it locks in a finals spot in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.

Having made the finals every season it’s been in the top flight, the Storm entered the mid-season break in sixth spot.

It was six points outside the top four and nine points from top spot.

But a loss on Saturday to Airport West St Christopher’s as seen the side slip to nine points outside of the top four.

Speaking after day one of the clash with the Eagles, Storm coach Anthony Alleyne said the first half of the season had been OK.

“It’s not too bad a start to the year,” he said.

“We dropped a few games where we should have got points from but we are still right there.

“The team is working really hard and hopefully we come back and play some good matches.”

Alleyne said the rain interrupting the first half of the season had been tricky with game plans having to change as matches have been shortened.

“The two-day games mean more time in the middle and more time on the park,” he said.

“We’ve had to adapt game plans and it has been a bit inconsistent.

“We’re not exactly where we want to be but we’re not in the worst position. We’re

in and amongst it and if you look at the table there’s quite a few teams on similar points.

“We will look to grab points where we can.”

The Storm resumed their season in a two-dayer against Airport West St Christopher’s on Saturday.

Sydenham-Hillside won the toss and decided to bat.

It made 231 as it was bowled out with five overs remaining.

Alleyne finished 92 not out off 189 balls.

“The game swung in the balance towards the end of the day,” he said. “We lost too many wickets towards the end of the day.

“We’ll have to bounce back and bowl

Lions hang on to make it four wins in a row

By Tara Murray

Taylors Lakes did just enough to make it four wins in a row on Saturday in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west.

The Lions match with Bayswater went down to the final ball, with the Lions able to get the job done in a good match for the spectators.

Lions coach Peter Brasher said they made it hard for themselves but were still able to find a way.

“It was of our own doing,” he said of the closeness of the match.

“It was a 40 over game to a 45 over game as we didn’t bat our overs out.

“We were a bit vulnerable.”

The Lions were sent in and lost early wickets to put them on the back foot.

Brasher said while they were able to get some partnerships, they would then lose wickets at the wrong time.

“It’s hard to be critical,” he said. “

“Charlie [Chalitha Chamoda] was well and truly in and then he skied a ball. It would have been nice for him to bat out the overs.

“We moved Omal [Palihapitiya] to opening a few weeks ago and he did a really good job to get 50.

“He held the innings together early and Charlie was there in the middle.”

The Lions were bowled out for 186.

Brasher said they thought they were about 25 runs short from what they needed.

The total though would prove to be enough.

“It was a funny game as we had periods on top and then lost a couple of wickets,” Brasher said.

“We would then turn it around.”

The Lions had Bayswater at 6-114 and on top, but Bayswater fought the match out to the end.

The match came down to the final over with Bayswater needing 14 off it for victory.

A boundary from Bayswater from what Brasher said was the first ramp shot of the day, gave Bayswater some hope.

It needed six runs off the final ball.

Chamoda was able to nail a yorker to restrict it to one run and gave the Lions the win.

Bayswater finished 8-182.

Shijit Chandran Poovathingal and Palihapitiya took two wickets each for the Lions.

Brasher said Aidan Brasher who took 0-7 off his first six overs kept them in the game early.

Aidan finished with 1-26.

The Lions now six three points outside the top six in seventh spot.

They are back at home this Saturday against second placed Noble Park.

Meanwhile in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association women’s competition, the Li-

ons lost to Westmeadows.

32 for the Lions.

The Lions have one win for the season. They face Glenroy this Sunday.

well this week.”

The Eagles survived two overs at the end of day one and resumed at 0-8.

The Eagles never looked in trouble in the run chase and made the runs with nearly seven overs to spare.

Airport West finished 4-235.

Alleyne was the only multiple wicket taker with two.

In other results, Keilor got an outright win against Craigieburn.

Craigieburn was bowled out for 99 in reply to the Blues 151.

The Blues quickly made 2-145 and sent the Eagles back in. The Eagles were bowled out for 89 to give Keilor all 10 points.

Deer Park had a big win against Aberfeldie.

Cobras add players with experience

Albanvale has further strengthened its squad, adding players with division 1 experience and a 300-game veteran for this year’s Western Football League division 2 season.

Ricky Howell returns to the Cobras where he was part of the club’s 2023 grand final team.

“Rickyhasplayedover300games, is a senior premiership player, best and fairest winner, team of the year representative, has the honour of being part of Braybrook FC’s team of the decade and brings with him invaluable leadership and experience, which has already made a huge difference to our young group across the preseason so far,” the Cobras said on social media.

“Rick has been working overtime this preseason to get the very best out of himself on field, so we are thrilled to welcome him (or welcome him back) to Albanvale for 2026.”

James Mcvey will bring some division 1 experience to the Cobras. He played most of his football with Point Cook, where he captained both under-16 and under-18 teams and played senior football as well.

“James is a midfielder who prides himself on winning the inside ball while also having the ability to run off half back,” the Cobras said.

“Recently, James returned from overseas where he was living, and now back in Melbourne and at only 22 years of age is ready to launch his senior footy career again!

“We are excited to see James grow and have a big impact.”

Josh Ingram will also pull on the Cobras colours this year.

He joins the club from Point Cook Centrals where he has senior experience and was vice-captain of the reserves team.

“Mainly a winger, but a versatile player who can play at either end to add some extra height, run and speed,” the Cobras said.

“His pace and endurance are his biggest weapons and he will no doubt add plenty to our group in 2026.”