Star Weekly - Northern - 20th January 2026

Kurt’s tasty idea

By Georgia Tacey

We all know and love the Big Pineapple, the Big Banana and the Big Strawberry, but how about the Big Baklava or the Big Kebab?

This is just what the city of Hume needs, according to Cr Naim Kurt.

Cr Kurt introduced the idea of a ‘big thing’ installation in Hume with a notice of motion during the 15 December council meeting.

Under his motion, officers would explore the potential benefits for installing a big thing for a report to be presented back to council.

“Around the country, big things have been really celebrated parts of Australia,” Cr Kurt said.

“If you go up to Queensland, you’ll know theBigPineapple,ifyougotootherpartsof Australia, you’ll see the Big Apple and the Big Ram and the Big Marino.”

Cr Kurt had a few ideas of what he would like to see as Hume’s big thing.

“Across Hume, food plays a really significant part in the expression of our community culture through bringing people together, from baklava, kebabs and samosatodifferentversionsofthesedishes which are shared across much of our European, Middle Eastern, South Asian and African communities,” he said

“A large-scale public artwork representing one of these culturally significant foods would create a playful, welcoming and uniquely Hume statement and explore a big thing installation and an opportunity to … create some local pride.”

However, not all councillors in the chamber were convinced of the idea, with only Cr Jarrod Bell and Cr Steve Gagen voting in support with Cr Kurt.

However, Cr Kurt still believes his idea has merit for Hume, and said it would be a good tourist venture for the city.

“Big things have been such an iconic part of Australian history for some time … they’ve become a tourist point to bring people into the town and get that instagrammable photo,” he said.

“We’ve got the largest multicultural community in all of Victoria, we’ve got a whole lot of food offerings on offer and … I think there is an opportunity to do some artwork and do a big thing that would celebrate our multicultural identity, to celebrate the great food cuisines we

have in our community and also to bring people into our community and be a tourist generator and job generator for our community.”

Cr Kurt said he would love to see a Big Kebab, a Big Baklava, or even a Big

“To put one in different parts of Hume I thinkisreallygoingtoworkandformeIjust

reallylovefoodandIloveourmulticultural identity and the fact that it is able to bring our community together.”

Cr Kurt said while his motion may have been lost on the night, he hopes to reignite it to bring more art installations to the city.

Fight for Assyrian school

By Courtney Black

The effort to build an Assyrian school in Melbourne’s north continues as Hume council calls for clarification on the state government’s proposed location.

In July the state government informally proposed 3 Kosciuszko Drive, Craigieburn, as a potential location for the school.

Council officers have since advised this location is not appropriate as it is within the protected Aitken Hill Reserve.

Speaking at the December council meeting, Cr Sam Misho, said council was not adequately informed the land had been suggested by the government.

“The state government could have approached the council and asked the council about this parcel of land before they got to the community and given them hope,” he said.

Cr Misho said council will engage with the state government to understand how and why the site was identified, and the level of support it will provide.

Hundreds of members of the Assyrian community crowded the council chambers.

Former councillor Joseph Haweil said the Assyrian community and church would like to work more closely with the council and see more enthusiasm about the proposed location.

“The community and council… has been inconvenienced simply to ask for an inquiry to be fully explored… something that should already have happened.”

Assyrian Church of the East Bishop, Mar Benjamin Elya, said the proposed school will benefit more than just the Assyrian community.

“It is a project rooted not only in educational need but in cultural continuity, resilience and genuine contribution to the broader Australian society,” he said.

Resident Hindreen Youkhana said the portion of land was recognised by the state government as a centralised location without any major planning risks.

He said there have been consistent

Hume’s inaugural war memorial record

A new book about war memorials across Hume has been released by a committee dedicated to validating and recording the municipality’s history.

The Craigieburn War Memorial and Remembrance Committee (CWMRC) president Kevin O’Callaghan said of the 370 printed books, 200 were given away.

ongoing delays and escalated costs for the community during their fight for the school.

“We found that the goals and the goalpost for what was a workable proposal continued to shift at each stage,” he said.

Cr Jim Overend said in 2022 the school was endorsed by council but was then rejected by the state government in 2023, despite support from local members of parliament.

Residents also raised concerns during the council meeting about the use of Aitken Hill for the school.

Resident Aaron Carr said he was alarmed to read about the proposal to build a school on the land.

By-election after councillor resigns

Whittlesea councillor Nic Brooks has resigned.

Star Weekly has confirmed that the Thomastown Ward councillor resigned Sunday 11 January.

According to council, Mr Brooks advised that he was resigning his position effective immediately for personal reasons.

Mr Brooks was elected to council at the October 2024 council elections.

Council said residents enrolled to vote in the Thomastown Ward will be required to vote in a by-election. A date has yet to be set for the by-election.

Council said it encourages Thomastown residents to contact the mayor, deputy mayor or other councillors while the position is vacant.

The Thomastown by-election will be the second held in Whittlesea since the October 2024 elections.

In August, Lalor Ward voters had to cast their votes again after the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) voided the ward’s election result.

“When we started looking at some of the memorials, we were talking to council, and there was only one councillor that really knew much about them… so we decided to make a catalogue,” Mr O’Callaghan said.

Mr O’Callaghan said the project to publish the book started in 2020, but road upgrades and lockdowns delayed the commit

“We’ve given each [Hume] councillor 15 books, they’re going to give them to schools within their ward. and we’ve given copies to the various RSLs,” Mr O’Callaghan said. War memorials within the city of Hume, which was released on Remembrance Day 2025, includes photos of every war memorial across areas like Broadmeadows. Campbellfield, Craigieburn, Mickleham, Sunbury and Tullamarine.

tee’s research and photography.

Mr O’Callaghan said many of the photos were taken professionally by CWMRC member Philip Whitehead while Alec Mead individually verified each veteran listed.

Mr O’Callaghan said one serviceman was listed as a Craigieburn resident, but was not found until the team followed a rumour about his family history, and verified him through New Zealand records.

You can order a copy of the book for $30 plus postage, by contacting contact@craigieburnwarmemorial.com

The October 2024 council election result in Lalor Ward was referred to VCAT by the VEC in the days following the election as part of an investigation into suspected vote tampering in the ward. Long-serving councillor Stevan Kozmevski had been elected to represent the ward in October 2024, but subsequently lost his seat on council at by-election, with Michael Labrador elected to represent the area.

House prices on the rise

By Courtney Black

House and unit prices across Melbourne’s northern suburbs mostly recorded growth in the three months to December 2025, according to new Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) data.

In Hume, price growth was led by Keilor, with the median house price jumping 17.3 per cent over the quarter to $1.2 million.

Diggers Rest followed with an 11 per cent rise to $716,000, while Greenvale climbed 8.2 per cent to $930,000.

Kalkallo is one of the more affordable suburbs rising 6.7 per cent to $680,000,

while Gladstone Park rose 5.5 per cent to $850,000.

However, Roxburgh Park and Tullamarine bucked the trend, recording quarterly declines of 3.5 per cent and 4.2 per cent respectively.

In Whittlesea, houses in Mernda and Doreen led growth rising by 4.8 per cent to median prices of $770,000 and $844,000.

Wollert recorded one of the lowest median house prices in the municipality at $740,000, a 4.2 per cent increase in the quarter.

While Mill Park and Bundoora recorded jumps of over 4 per cent to $950,000

and $901,000, the neighbouring suburb of South Morang dropped by 4.2 per cent to $815,000.

There were even more significant changes to unit prices across the north, with Broadmeadows surging 15.2 per cent to $565,000 and Meadow Heights rising 15.1 per cent.

In some areas of Whittlesea unit prices fell sharply. In Bundoora unit prices fell 16.1 per cent to $470,000 and in Wollert units were down 5.4 per cent and Thomastown 2.7 per cent.

Across metropolitan Melbourne, median house prices increased 1.8 per cent

Helping parents save with cloth nappies

A local mum is running free workshops showing parents how to be sustainable and save money by using cloth nappies.

Iman De Vos said she cares deeply about the environment and the community, which drove her to start using reusable nappies.

“I wanted to do better for my baby, our budget and the planet,” she said.

Ms De Vos completed the environmental champion program with Hume council which she said helped her to create her Nappy Wise workshops.

“I decided to help other parents on a larger scale rather than talking one on one,” she said.

Ms De Vos said she hopes to help parents feel less hesitant about cloth nappies.

“These workshops are going to be to demonstrate how to use them… it can be confusing to fit them properly.

“A lot of parents have tried and failed… and never go back to using it.

“I also want to demystify how terrible it is to wash dirty nappies, it is very simple.”

Ms De Vos said she has been using cloth

nappies on her two-year-old son since he was one month old.

“I started with 30 nappies initially fulltime, but for part-time you could start off with one nappy at a time.

“Once you get the routine right then you can add more and reuse them again with other children.”

The first two workshops will be held at Mickleham North Community Centre from 10am-11am on February 12 and March 26.

Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ modern-cloth-nappy-workshop-55sdfp4y

Council invests in upgrades to Gladstone Park seniors centre

Hume council will invest in upgrades to the Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Centre in the 2026/2027 budget.

The plan to invest in the site was endorsed at the 15 December council meeting following a condition audit completed in May.

Councillor Naim Kurt said parts of the centre are not suitable despite it being formally identified as fair and compliant 35 years after it was constructed.

“The Gladstone Park Senior Centre is the only senior centre which is growing

in membership and there’s parts of that senior centre which are probably not fit for purpose,” he said.

Cr Kurt said he would like to see facility upgrades where dementia and Alzheimer’s disease services are run.

“Gladstone Park is a community which has a lot of residents who initially bought into the area when the estate was established in the 1960s and early 1970s.

“There’s a growing cohort of senior members.”

Cr Kurt said the second part of the up-

over the quarter to $973,500, while unit prices rose 2 per cent to $656,500.

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’s a core part of Victoria’s housing mix,” he said.

Mr Balazs said the growth comes after constrained housing supply and sustained population growth.

“Medium-density housing is an increasingly sought-after option… providing a more affordable entry point into the market,” he said.

Briefs

Car fire

A car caught fire after colliding with a 4WD and a roadside barrier on the Western Ring Road near Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows, on 18 January. Police were told a white Toyota Corolla collided with the rear of a 4WD in the east bound lanes of the Ring Road about 4.40am. The Corolla then crashed into a barrier and caught fire, before the occupants were quickly picked up by another vehicle and left the scene. The occupants of the 4WD were not injured in the collision.

Non-fatal shooting arrests

Five people have been arrested following a non-fatal shooting in Lalor on 11 January. A 23-year-old man from Box Hill was arrested on 14 January and charged with 14 offences. The offences include reckless conduct endangering life, intentionally causing injury, public possession and prohibited use of a loaded firearm. A 23-year-old Thomastown man, a 20-year-old Lalor man and two other people were arrested at the Box Hill address where a handgun, imitation firearm, cocaine and cash were seized. Police will allege that shots were fired in a carpark on Mosaic Drive, Lalor at about 3.30am on Sunday 11 January, injuring a 29-year-old man. Police believe the incident was targeted and that the parties involved were known to each other.

Somerton crash witnesses

Police are appealing for witnesses to a fatal crash in Somerton in December. Police said that an orange garbage truck was travelling north on Hume Highway about 7.45am on 9 December when it was involved in a minor collision with a red sedan near Austrak Drive. The truck then crashed into the pole, causing it to fall onto a siler Honda which was travelling on the opposite way on the highway, according to police. The 21-year-old driver of the Honda, a woman from Kalkallo, was killed. Those with information are urged to contact crime stoppers 1800 333 000.

Man dies after arrest

grade plan is to consult with the community on how to use the remaining vacant land on the site.

“There is a lot of vacant land there with absolutely nothing on it… it has not been addressed for six or seven years.

“It could be a community garden, a dog park… it could include a play space or a half basketball court.”

Community consultation will open later this year.

A 27-year-old man died in hospital after being arrested in Craigieburn, on Friday January 9. Police were called to a Discovery Close address responding to reports of a man behaving erratically. The police arrived at about 2.55pm, and arrested the man when he became unresponsive. The man was treated by paramedics and taken to hospital where he later died.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Lanes open on Epping Rd

All lanes are now open on Epping Road afteryearsofmajorworks.

The four-kilometre stretch of upgraded lanes opened in December and will boost travel in Melbourne’s north, according to the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority(VIDA).

A VIDA spokesperson said the upgrade willmaketravelsaferandsmootherforthe 35,000 drivers who use the road between EppingandWollertdaily.

While major construction has finished, crews will continue to finish works along EppingRoadoverthecomingmonths.

VIDA said temporary lane and side road closures will occur at times to protect workers and the community during this phase.

VIDA said the upgrades which started in

mid-2022,weredeliveredonschedule.

“Thisupgradenotonlymorethandoubles road capacity but also strengthens local connectionsforpedestriansandcyclists.“

As part of the works, five intersections were upgraded and traffic lights were installedatParkStreet.

Other upgrades include improved pedestrian traffic lights and shared pedestrian and cycling paths between Lyndarum Drive and Craigieburn Road East.

Crews also installed 6.8km of safety guardrail, and planted 102,000 native plantsalongtheroad.

The project was delivered as part of the federalgovernment’s$3.3billionsuburban roadsupgradefunding. Details:bigbuild.vic.gov.au/epping

Briefs

Measles exposure sites

The Department of Health has listed five measles exposure sites in the northern suburbs. The exposure date for Melbourne Airport in Tullamarine, terminal 2 was Sunday 11 January, from 10.45am-12.30pm. Jetstar flight JQ18 was another exposure site that departed Phuket and arrived at Melbourne Airport between 10.50pm on Saturday 10 January to 11.20am on Sunday 11 January. Those present at these exposure sites during the listed times should monitor for symptoms up to Thursday 29 January. Three more exposure sites were listed as Epping Hospital, Dallas Platinum Medical Imaging and Meadow Heights Medical Practice in December, but the window to monitor for symptoms lapsed on 4 January.

Australia Day hours

Some Hume council services will be impacted or closed during the upcoming Australia Day public holiday on Monday 26 January. Customer service centres will be closed, issues can be reported online, and the after-hours service line 9205 2200 is open for emergencies. Leisure centres will be open with reduced hours from 8am to 5pm. Waste collection will continue as normal, but tips will be open from 8am to 4pm. All Hume libraries will be closed, but after-hours return chutes are still available.

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Web: starweekly.com.au

Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Community grants flow

By Courtney Black

Whittlesea council has allocated $524,000 ingrantsandfundingsupporttocommunity groups and not-for-profit organisations.

The community grants were awarded to six of the 13 organisations and groups that applied in September 2025.

Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox said he was proud of the program that has been running since 2023.

“We are able to continue to support our community in delivering a huge range of events, programs and initiatives.”

Cr Cox said the council was investing in activities that keep the community

connected, active and strong.

Three approved small grants totalled over $7000 and three medium grants came to just over $40,500.

Cr Martin Taylor said he was grateful for the feedback from 90 people who attended grant writing workshops in September.

“It very significantly assists them to make an application for a grant,” Cr Taylor said.

Council also continued to fund the six neighbourhood houses in the municipality awarding them $40,000 each.

Cr Cox said councillors were aware of the neighbourhood houses’ ongoing

campaign for state government funding.

“Our neighbourhood houses spread throughout Whittlesea do a wonderful job for the community on what is a small budget,“ he said.

At the 16 December council meeting, Cr Michael Labrador requested the breakdown of the neighbourhood houses service agreement be presented in a future council briefing.

“I know that they’re struggling at the moment, financially,” he said.

Council also has a service agreement with Whittlesea Community Connections which received $120,000.

A one-off sum of $60,000 was award-

Local bowls out cricket superstar’s son

Local cricketer, Blake, 11, had a moment he will never forget when he bowled out cricket legend Ricky Ponting’s son, Fletcher.

Blake’s dad, Wayne Dow, said it was exciting to witness the moment from the sideline.

“I was happy to see him getting a son of a gun out, who still has a long way to go in his career,” Mr Dow said, speaking of Fletcher.

Mr Dow, who is also the head coach of the Lalor Stars Cricket Club, said he got a

photo of his son with Ricky Ponting before the game started.

“Most of the boys were starstruck by him being there… Ricky said it was his day off.”

Mr Dow said it may have been hard for Ricky Ponting to see his son bowled out, but everyone moves on quickly in under-12s.

“Cricket is a good leveller… there’s high highs and low lows.”

Mr Dow said he was proud of his son who worked hard to get into the Dia-

mond Valley Cricket Association.

“For him to make that side in the first place… and then to get a wicket of that calibre, name-wise… he’s pretty happy with that.”

Blake Dow and the Diamond Valley team went on to win the match against Inner South East on Monday January 12, chasing 10-117 to finish on 8-120.

“[Blake] hit the winning runs… he works hard on his game,” he said.

“Its a work in progress… he’s getting better each and every single game.”

More weekday peak V/Line services on the Seymour line

Commuters travelling on the Seymour line can expect more weekday V/Line services from February.

A new morning peak service will depart from Donnybrook station at 6.46am, arriving at Southern Cross Station at 7.35pm. This service will fill the 47-minute gap between the existing 6.23am and 7.10am services.

Kalkallo MP Ros Spence said local residents raised the need for more services during peak travel times.

“These additional services will provide more flexibility, relieve pressure on peak

services and improve travel for commuters,” Ms Spence said.

There is also a new evening peak service departing Southern Cross Station at 5.57pm and arriving in Donnybrook at 6.46pm.

This reduces the wait time after the 6.33pm service from 31 minutes to 24 minutes.

Yan Yean MP Lauren Kathage said extra services give commuters more options when heading into the city for work and study.

“More than that, it means we have

ed to Energy Smart Homes for its Solar Savers program, and almost $60,000 was awarded to Whittlesea Cruise Nights and Mission Smile for their shared Diwali and Whittlesea colour carnival events.

Cr Cox encouraged businesses to apply for the 2026 business-to-business grant program which offers up to $10,000 to help local businesses grow.

“We know the program delivers in helping establish or grow businesses that employ locally and are located in our city.” Round 2 applications are now open, more information is available at whittlesea.vic.gov.au/businessgrant.

Have your say on open spaces

Community consultation is open for Whittlesea’s draft public open space plan until 15 February.

The 2026-36 plan will shape the future of parks, reserves and public spaces over the next 10 years.

Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox said he wants everyone to have great open spaces close to home, places to connect with nature and be active.

“Our vision is to create welcoming, well-designed public spaces that support healthy lifestyles and protect our natural environment,” he said.

“The plan will guide us to create greener, cooler and more accessible parks, trails and town centres that are vibrant, safe and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities.”

The draft plan was endorsed at the 16 December council meeting, though council rejected an amendment about preventing bushfires.

Councillor Michael Labrador raised the amendment, proposing to proactively reduce the risks of bushfires by removing dead wood, undergrowth and dense scrub.

“We don’t want another Black Saturday… we need to be proactive not reactive,” Cr Labrador said.

Cr Labrador said hazardous material in the area stoked the flames and added to the disaster in February 2008.

The amendment was not carried as a majority of councillors agreed the additional wording had not been carefully considered.

Cr Jarrod Lappin said while it is good to reduce fuel and bushfire risk, he doesn’t want the commitment to go overboard.

“I want to make sure that the undergrowth is looked after in a sustainable way and it isn’t just gotten rid of prematurely or in a way that would be a detriment to the environment,” Cr Lappin said.

“A lot of our smaller native wildlife use that undergrowth for their protection from other animals.”

Cr Martin Taylor also voted against the amendment though he said he understands the sentiment as he witnessed Black Saturday.

“There’s a 30-metre wall of fire rushing at you, like a locomotive… you’re armed with 600 gallons of water and you’re trying to put it out and protect the community.”

more seats across the peak services,” Ms Kathage said.

According to the state government, these timetable changes were made possible by the completion of the Metro Tunnel.

There will also be minor timetable adjustments to existing trains as well as buses and coaches to accommodate the new peak services.

Passengers are encouraged to check the latest information before travelling.

The new V/Line timetable will begin on February 1, and can be found at https:// www.vline.com.au/

Cr Taylor said he wants to leave feedback up to the community before making changes to the plan.

Councillor Aidan McLindon said the draft plan sends a clear message to developers about the future of the municipality.

“We’ve got unprecedented growth… and we don’t want sardine cans, we want open public spaces that can be enjoyed by… the next generation,” he said.

Details: https://engage.whittlesea.vic. gov.au/openspaceplan

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MY PLACE

Saba Tanveer is exhibiting her art collection ‘The Story Behind’ which explores concealed identity at the Town Hall Gallery in Broadmeadows until March 6. She spoke to Courtney Black about her connection to the community and how this influences her art.

What is your connection to Hume and Whittlesea?

When I first came to Australia, I lived in the northern suburbs and exhibited in a group show at the Whittlesea Annual Art Exhibition. I also volunteered in Thomastown, which helped me connect with the local community. Then someone told me about the Hume Art Exhibition, so I applied and was selected as a solo exhibitor.

What do you like about the Hume and Whittleseacommunities?

I like that there are so many different cultures and people from diverse backgrounds living together, creating a strong sense of connection and belonging. Thisopennessanddiversityinspiresmeas anartist.

What would you want to see more of in thesecommunities?

I would love to see more opportunities for creative expression, especially for emerging and migrant artists. Programs like exhibitions, workshops, and community art projects can help people sharetheirstoriesandexperiences.

Do you have a favourite local place you go to?

I enjoy visiting local parks, libraries, cultural stalls, community events, and exploring the neighbourhood. These places inspire me and give me quiet moments to reflect and develop ideas for mywork.

What does the title ‘The Story Behind’ mean to you?

Ichosethetitle‘TheStoryBehind’because this body of work reflects my journey over the past few years and explores hidden perspectives of reality, like emotions, struggles, memories, and experiences thataren’talwaysvisible.

My paintings carry stories that unfold over time, much like a human life. I paint the backs of frames and canvases to

show the hidden side of a picture. I use hyper-realism with trompe-l’œil to create illusions that show reality isn’t always whatitseemsandcanbecomplex. What inspired you to explore visibility and concealment?

My own life experiences, especially migration, uncertainty, and personal struggles, inspired me. I realised that much of what we feel and experience

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

10 years ago

2 February, 2016

ATullamarinebusinessownerrecently locked himself inside his office with the lights off in fear of out-of-control late-nighthoonsoutsidehisbuilding.

7 years ago

29 January, 2019

FormanyintheWhittleseacommunity, February 2009 will never be forgotten. The devastating fires on February, 7, 2009 – now known as Black Saturday – caused catastrophic destruction and claimedthelivesofmanypeopleacross theregion.

remainsinvisible,noonecanjudgewhat’s happening inside just by looking at the outside. What impact do you hope to have on these audiences?

In today’s fast-paced world, I hope my work encourages viewers to pause, observe, and reflect on what is true and what is not. By revealing the hidden and invisible layers in my paintings, I want

5 years ago

26 January, 2021

Melbourne Airport has asked the state government to give it more power to interveneindevelopmentswhichcould impact aircraft operations or lead to noisecomplaints.

people to consider the unseen stories, emotions,andstrugglesintheirownlives andinthelivesofothers.

What made you decide to exhibit this body of work?

Sharing these works together lets viewers experience their full stories and hidden layers, reminding us that, like life, every moment and every emotion has depth beyondwhatwefirstsee.

1 year ago

21 January, 2025

He’s been mayor of Whittlesea for just nine weeks, and now Aidan McLindon has his sights set on representing the peopleofWerribeeinstateparliament.

Kids have fun in the sun

Kids are beating the heat with fun, outdoor water play this school holidays. With temperatures soaring above

30 degrees on January 6 and 7 families headed to Whittlesea’s splash parks. In Doreen, kids cooled off at the new

What’s on

Artist EOIs now open

Calling artists connected to the City of Whittlesea. Our much-loved annual art exhibition is back in 2026 and we’re inviting you to take part

This year’s theme is BELONG. Belonging shapes who we are and how we connect to people, place and community. It can be personal, shared, joyful or complex. We want to see what belonging means to you

Submit your work and be part of an exhibition that celebrates local stories and creative voices EOIs close 16 March at 11:50pm

For more information and to apply, visit www artexhibition

hill top splash park for the first time. In Mill Park, the all abilities play space had kids of all ages splashing around.

Detox Your Home - Epping

Got old household chemicals you don't know how to get rid of? Bring them along to this free Detox Your Home event, run by Sustainability Victoria.

Disposing of chemicals in the rubbish can be dangerous. They can leak, catch fire or react with other waste. This event gives you a safe and responsible way to dispose of them.

9

Epping Works Depot, 68-96 Houston Street, Epping

This free service is for household chemicals only. Paint will not be accepted. For more information, visit events

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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.

Brigades band together

By Courtney Black

Fire brigades across the northern suburbs have banded together to fight the ongoing Longwood bushfire.

According to Yarrambat Fire Brigade, the CFA crew prepared on Thursday night, January 8, for likely deployment the following day.

Yarrambat Fire Brigade captain Andrew Napoleone said the brigade is always ready to serve wherever its expertise is needed.

“This is how CFA works… our volunteers train and respond to emergencies all year round,” Mr Napoleone said.

On January 9, a mixed crew of firefighters from Yarrambat, South Morang and Plenty CFA brigades were deployed to the fireground on Yarrambat Tanker 1.

“When there is a major incident, we can contribute to the state-wide response in dealing with it.”

The Yarrambat Tanker 1 crew was deployed as part of Strike Team 1421 and has been fighting fires in the Alexandra, Eildon and Yarck areas.

Mr Napoleone said the tanker was part of a strike team of five tankers, working alongside other CFA crews and Forest Fire Management.

“Yarrambat Fire Brigade thanks everyone who has helped out.”

Other Yarrambat CFA volunteers were deployed with Whittlesea and Diamond Valley crews. A second tanker and a forward commandvehicleremainedinYarrambatin case of local emergencies.

Mr Napoleone said it is important that every member of the community does their

part during the fire season.

“Be alert on hot days, don’t let a fire take you by surprise, have a fire plan so everyone in the family knows what to do.”

He said residents should clear away dry grass, leaves and bark from around their homes and outbuildings.

“Make sure your property has clear access for a tanker in case we need to get to you quickly.”

Mr Napoleone also reminded residents to share only official information and not rumours.

You can stay updated on current bushfires and fire danger periods via the VicEmergency App or the CFA website: cfa.vic. gov.au

Roads a priority for Hume council

Hume council has set its sights on achieving a number of key road duplications but has rejected calls for more public transport links to Melbourne Airport as part of its Advocacy Framework for 2026-2030.

Council will advocate to both state and federal governments for a number of infrastructure and services projects as endorsed at the 15 December council meeting.

During the meeting, Cr Steve Gagen forwarded an amended motion following a number of public comments on the item calling for more public transport advocacy to Melbourne Airport.

His motion called for the airport rail link advocacy, as well as the extension of tram route 59 and bus services to connect the airport to other areas of the municipality.

However, this motion was ultimately lost with only himself, Cr John Haddad and Cr Naim Kurt in support of adding these as priorities.

The original motion, which was passed, included the duplication of several roads including Sunbury Road from Melbourne Airport to Bulla-Diggers Rest Road, Mickleham Road from Craigieburn Road to Donnybrook Road, Donnybrook Road from the Hume Freeway to Donnybrook Train Station, and Somerton Road from Roxburgh Park Drive to Mickleham Road.

Set amidst beautifully maintained gardens, Springthorpe Retirement Living is a vibrant community in Macleod, just 16km northeast of Melbourne’s CBD.

Residents enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, as well as activities like happy hour and social events in the grand community centre.

Modern and spacious 2 bedroom villas are now selling. Don’t miss the perfect opportunity to explore the low-maintenance lifestyle you’ve always imagined.

Wheelchair tennis action

The Victorian and Melbourne wheelchair tennis open has brought local and international talent into Craigieburn again this summer.

Hume Tennis and Community Centre manager Tim Connelly said the Victorian Open, played between January 17 and 19, had players from 16 countries compete.

The Melbourne wheelchair tennis open is on until January 23 at the Hume Tennis andCommunityCentre,225MarathonBoulevard, Craigieburn.

PUZZLES

of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

Spiritualists’ meeting (6)

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)

Pronounce not guilty (6)

Stubborn (9)

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?

3 Who won the 2009 Brazilian Grand Prix?

4 What was the name of Julia Roberts’ (pictured) character in the film Pretty Woman? 5 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?

8 Which country won the 2011 Rugby World Cup?

9 Which chemical element has the symbol Y? 10 In Japan, what does the word ‘seiyuu’ refer to?

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Whittlesea Probus

Members of The Combined Probus Club of Whittlesea will meet on Monday 2 February at the Whittlesea Bowls Club at 9.30 am. The presenter will discuss regenerative farming and environmental aspects. Visitors are welcome. Probus is open to all retired and semi-retired members of the community. whittleseaprobus@hotmail.com, 0427 021 592

Gladstone Park Probus Club

Have fun with like minded people if you live in Gladstone Park and surrounding suburbs. Monthly speakers, lunches, outings and bus tours. The probus club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 9.45am at the Good Shepherd Parish Hall, 88 South Circular Road, Gladstone Park. Visitors and new members welcome. Chris, 0422 017 907

Bundoora Probus

Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Alma Road, Bundoora at 10am. Make new friends at excursions, lunches, coffee mornings, walks and craft sessions. Hear guest speakers at monthly meetings.

Leanne 0419 004 997

Young parents group

DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young parents every Thursday, from 10.30am-noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and

develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 Mcdonalds Road, Mill Park. Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819

Community singing group

Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing. Sonja, 0429 587 285

Chatty Cafe

Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park. https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/

Cloth Nappy Workshops A local mum is running free cloth nappy

Out and about

workshops at the Mickleham North Community Centre. The first workshop is on February 12 at 10am. You can find out more on the Nappy Wise Facebook group. Iman, devos.iman@gmail.com

TAC L2P

Program

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.

Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

Adult education

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.

9309

8531

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk.

https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

The Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker. Enjoy a dance between 7-11pm on the third saturday of every month. All are welcome.

Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, lizmunro7@ gmail.com

Craft and Conversation

Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends. humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Each week Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing the people and events of Whittlesea, Hume and the Macedon Ranges.

lookout. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 527086_13 6/

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 places.

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 peak in what you could call a comfort zone.

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

10 years of colourful celebrations

10th

set to bring a vibrant day of festivities to the community this summer.

The vibrant event has been organised by Mission Smile to celebrate the traditional Hindu festival of colour, Holi.

Mission Smile spokesperson Nishthma Goel said the event is one of the biggest in Whittlesea.

“Holi is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and across south Asian communities worldwide.

“People of all ages, backgrounds and faith groups come together in a shared experience of colour, music and food.”

Ms Goel said there will be many traditional Holi activities symbolising the victory of triumph over evil.

“We will have powdered colour play, face painting, and multicultural performances.”

There will also be community groups with market stalls and emergency services representatives at the event.

A new addition to the carnival for 2026 is a musical depiction of the story of Holi which will be performed in the evening.

Ms Goel said she expects thousands of attendees at the event from diverse backgrounds.

Clotheslined to clobber Footscray on Australia Day weekend

Inner-west punters should prepare to get well and truly cleaned-up and checked for concussionwhenfiveofMelbourne’stoughest 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.

He knows how to talk over a bubbling 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.

(Supplied)

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.

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/

So grab a coffee, fasten your seatbelt, and get ready for a day that’s set to soar above the rest.

(24/7)

Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri)

Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

(include

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Actress Lila McGuire portrays which retired Australian tennis legend in a 2026 mini-series?

2. Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young was recently traded to which NBA team?

3. Which Belarusian tennis pro won the women’s singles title at the 2026 Brisbane International?

4. Jessica Hull, Oliver Hoare, Linden Hall and Jack Anstey won World Cross Country Championships gold in which event?

5. Which Russian tennis pro won the men’s singles title at the 2026 Brisbane International?

6. Brazilian professional soccer player Gabriel Martinelli last played for which Premier League

Australian freestyle skier Laura Peel won which women’s aerials medal at the recent World Cup event at Lac-Beauport, Canada?

Which former Socceroo is head coach of the Australian men’s national under-23 soccer

Which country’s premier baseball league is home to teams including the Carp, Swallows, Fighters and Buffaloes?

Lachie Neale last captained which AFL

11. In which two Australian cities are United Cup tennis matches held?

12. Which NBA team holds the regular-season record with 73 wins and only nine losses?

13. Former Rabbitohs player Keaon Koloamatangi recently signed a fiveyear deal with which NRL team?

14. Seventeen-year-old tennis star Emerson Jones hails from which Australian city?

15. Which Aussie tennis player partnered with Nick Kyrgios during the Brisbane International doubles tournament?

16. Spanning 428 weeks, which men’s tennis player has spent the longest amount of time ranked as world No.1?

17. The recently built NBA arena, Intuit Dome, is the home of which team?

18. Which English Test cricketer was fined $60,000 following an incident at a Wellington nightclub last October?

19. True or false: Major League Baseball stadiums all vary in size and shape?

20. Starring Timothée Chalamet, the 2025 film MartySupreme centres around which sport?

21. Sacramento and Los Angeles teams in the NBA and the NHL respectively share which nickname?

22. How many red balls are there in a game of snooker?

23. And how many colour balls?

24. Which sport is the focus of the 1986 movie Youngblood and its 2026 remake?

25. On a tenpin bowling scorecard, what does a circled number mean?

26. What are the names of the two pieces that slot together to make up the majority of a dart?

27. Which stadium was formerly known as Telstra Dome?

28. Matthew Wade and Brad Haddin are both known for what sporting role?

29. In which year was the first FIFA video game released?

30. And since then, which FIFA release has sold the most copies?

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.

BYD has sold more than 10,000 examples 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.

A smaller, separate 10.25-inch screen sits 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 planning any major off-road expeditions in 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.

Summer sport heats up

Hume locks in new signings

By Tara Murray

A former Western United player headlines the latest signings for Hume City ahead of the National Premier League.

Hume has announced four new signings in recent weeks ahead of the season kicking off next month.

Winger Adisu Bayew as its latest signing, with the 24-year-old have played 25 A-League games with United.

Previous to this, Bayew has played within the NPL system at Green Gully during two terms and at the Preston Lions, though injuries have limited his appearances in recent seasons.

“What drew me to join Hume City FC is the ambition to win,” Bayew said.

“After conversations with senior coach

Nick Hegarty and the type of person he is, which is one hungry for success, it really resonated with me. I want to be part of a championship winning team, I want to win titles. “Also the style that I play suits the direction of Hume City.”

Defender Joshua Wilkins arrives at Hume having captained Northcote City in the Victorian Premier League 1 last season.

He brings plenty of NPL experience having been part of successful teams at Heidelberg and Port Melbourne.

Originally from Perth, Wilkins was part of the Heidelberg teams to win back-toback the NPL premierships in 2017 and 2018.

“I played against Hegs (Nick Hegarty, Hume coach) and I know who he is as a person and I’ve heard some fantastic things

about him as a coach, so I’m really excited to play for him,” Wilkins said.

“Obviously, Hume City is a fantastic club and rate them very highly, so I’m excited to represent the team.

“I really want to win trophies and I’m really excited to be back playing NPL. I’ve missed the competitiveness of playing at this level a lot.”

Centre back Brayden Spink has also joined Hume.

The 21-year-old started his football journey at the Gold Coast Knights before moving to Spain at the age of 17 to take an academy position. He also spenta pre-season with Newcastle Jets A-League youth team.

He joined South Melbourne last year and was part of the squad to win the inaugural Australian championship.

Cattach races ahead thanks to a big break

By Tara Murray

Whittlesea’s Ashton Cattach considered giving motorsport a number of times over the years but a love of the sport kept him going.

That decision has paid off with Cattach to race in the 2026 Toyota GR Cup series this year.

Cattach said he could have never imagined this happening a couple of years ago.

“It’s very exciting and it’s something that I’ve been working towards for a long time,” he said.

“Three years ago I never thought about racing a car, let alone at this level.

“Motorsport is a really tough sport and is really expensive.

“A lot of guys had a good backing behind them. I’ve got a really supportive family but we didn’t have a lot of money.

“I’m excited to put it together for this year and have a go.”

Cattach started racing in karts before stepping into cars.

He said going through the ranks was tough especially in the early days when

kids would say all sorts of stuff due to racing on a budget.

Cattach said it was the love of the sport that kept him going each year.

He said the original plans for this year were to stay in the same competition for another season.

Then the idea about going up a category became reality

He said it’s the right step for him going forward.

The GR Cup category is one of the top in the country. The VS Supercars is top followed by the second tier series.

Cattach said the GR Cup sits under those two.

“I would say it’s the third or fourth tier.” he said. “Some of the top drivers like Broc Feeney, Will Brown and Cameron Hill have come straight out of this series.

“It’s a pretty big step for sure.”

Cattach said while he would love to have careers like Feeney and Brown, who came second and third in the Supercars championship last year, he knows that’s on his own journey.

The Cattach name isn’t new to motor-

“I came to Hume City FC following a couple of chats with Hegs,” revealed Spinks.

“I liked the style he wants to play. I’ve heard good things about the club regarding its ambition and direction, which suits the style I want to play.”

Former Adelaide United youth player Frank Busasa is the other new signing.

A versatile player able to play left or right wing, 19-year-old Busasa was noted as a rising talent in South Australia’s NPL competition.

“I want to give the Hume City FC fans something to look forward to because I am hungry for success and I believe we can achieve it. That’s my aim and personally I want to contribute by playing good football.”

Bulldogs too good in smash

Bundoora United won the local battle as the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Summer Smash competition resumed on Tuesday night.

Playing in pool A of the Barclay Shield competition, the Bulldogs were too strong for Bundoora at Yulong Reserve.

Both sides entered the match searching for their first win of the competition.

Batting first the Bulldogs made 4-184 from their overs with Sam Harbinson top scoring with 55 off 41 balls at the top of the order.

Michael Fullelove took 2-18 for the Bulls.

The Bulls never got going in their run chase and were bowled out for 85 in the second last over.

Dhanush Ramayanapu played a lone hand with 30, with the next highest score being nine.

Girithar Logeswaran took 4-13 for the Bulldogs.

In the other pool A match, Epping cruised to victory against Rosebank.

Rosebank made 6-108 after batting first.

Robert Tinsley took 3-14 off his four overs for the Pingers.

The Pingers openers set up the victory as they put on 89 for the opening partnership.

sport.

His uncle, Wayne Cattach, is the former chief executive of Supercars and a Supercars Hall of Fame inductee.

Ashton said his uncle, who passed away two years ago, was his biggest supporter.

“He was the CEO of Dick Johnson Racing for many years and then worked at Supercars,” he said.

“Having that connection has helped me. He always gave me advice.

“He was the one that got me into it, but he didn’t mean to. He was always sending merchandise and model cars.

“I’m grateful for it. He would be happy as he knows how tough it was for me and knows how hard the sport is.

“I hope he would be proud.”

Cattach will kick off his racing season in late February.

He said he was putting too many expectations on himself.

“I know I what I can I do,” he said.

“I want to do everything to put in the work.If I do everything right and results will come.”

While David Graham was bowled for 42, the Pingers continued on to finish 1-109 with a couple of overs to spare.

Tom Emmins finished 48 not out.

After four rounds, the Pingers sit atop pool A having won all their matches.

The Bulldogs are in fourth and the Bulls are fifth without a win. Rosanna and Diamond Creek were the winners on Tuesday night in pool B.

Action in the Money Shield competition will resume on 20 January. In the Mash Shield, Hurstbridge chased down Panton Hill’s total of 106 in just 10 overs.

Thomastown United suffered a big loss to Keon Park on Thursday night. Keon Park batted first, making 7-130 from its overs. Riley Patterson took four wickets for Thomastown United. Thomastown United’s batters never got going and it was bowled out for just 43 in 10.1 overs

Panthers keep on going

By Tara Murray

Merrifield Panthers are continuing on their merry way in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association George Luscombe Shield.

Last season’s premiers, the Panthers sit undefeated after nine rounds and have gone a long way to secure their finals spot already.

The side sits 19 points clear of second.

Panthers president and first XI captain Harmandeep Bhathal said they were pretty happy with how things were going across the whole club.

“We’re pretty happy but it’s pretty hectic at this time of year with a lot of senior and junior sides,” he said.

“I think the first three sides won on Saturday and we have four senior sides in the race for finals.

“We should at least get two flags this year, that’s the aim and hopefully there will be more.”

In the Luscombe Shield, the Darebin Chargers made 173 on day one of the match with Sukhjinder Singh taking three wickets for the Panthers.

The Panthers made 343 across the two days with Adnan Khan (78) and Bhathal (74) both making half centuries to guide their side to a win.

Despite the match being won, the Chargers wanted to bat again and get some batting practice in.

They finished 6-206.

“They wanted to take the game until the end of the day,” Bhathal said. “It was a good game and they are a good side.

“We already have enough points so we never thought about going for an outright.”

Surinder Brar and Ran Shamsher Singh Sidhu took two wickets each for the Panthers in the second innings.

Bhathal said they tried a few different things with the ball with the game already decided as they started to look ahead to finals.

He said the next few weeks they would look to balance the side as they look forward to the pointy end of the year.

“We’re excited,” he said. “Hopefully we can do what we did last year.”

Elsewhere, Gladstone Park got the job

Warriors find form and pull off a big win

By Tara Murray

Westmeadows is starting to hit its straps in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.

After an up and down start to the season, the Warriors are starting to find form and pulled off their best win of the season the past two weekends.

Facing Yarraville Club, which was on top of the table, the Warriors had a strong allround performance to get the job done.

Warriors captain-coach Donovan Pell said it was important to win games like that.

“It puts us in the pack which is good,” he said.

“The whole game shows what we’re capable of and we’re happy it’s starting to come together at the right time.”

On day one, the Warriors were able to restrict the Clubbers to 9-166.

Pell said they felt they were starting to get their bowling right.

“We had a recruiting strategy to get some really good bowlers in the team,” he said.

“The pieces came together and bowled well last week and they are clicking which is good.

“It’s especially bringing in Tallan [Wright] and Ben [Willsdon] from the UK, it was always important for them to gel together.”

The Warriors resumed at 1-10 on Saturday.

Willsdon moved up the order to number three for this match and made the most of his opportunity.

“It was good for him to get some runs,” Pell said. “Jordie Kosteas came in and got 20 not out which is good as he hasn’t faced many balls.

“Good teams are fluid with their batting line and we haven’t had that the last few years. We know we can do it.

“It’s something where we’re becoming a really good team and a team has depth.”

The Warriors finished 3-170 in the 63rd over.

Willsdon top scored with 57, while Michael Pell (39), Kosteas (27 not out) and Donovan Pell (26 not out) all made contributions.

Donovan, who is the Warriors leading scorer this season, said it was different coming in at number five.

“I went down to five which I haven’t done at Westy,” he said. “It was good, but

done against the Preston Druids.

The Druids were bowled out for 182 on day one.

The Burras had no issues getting the runs, finishing 3-185 off 27 overs.

Gurpreet Mohain top scored with 45 not out.

The Burras sit fourth on the ladder after nine rounds.

In the Vic Kyte Shield, Lalor Warriors lost to Strathmore Heights.

The Warriors made 9-186 in their first innings with Strathmore Heights making 193 in reply.

The Warriors were 5-285 in the second innings when the game ended.

Lalor sits third on the ladder behind Merrifield and Donnybrook.

Big V Reigning Big V division 1 women’s most valuable player Briana Gray has signed with Craigieburn for a third straight season. Last season, Gray led the team to a grand final, with the side losing to a shot on the siren. Shawndale Jones will be the Eagles’ men’s import for this season, replacing Lewayne Grant who spent two years at the club and was a key in their 2024 division 2 premiership.

VSDCA

Plenty Valley was unable to hold off Brighton in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-south on Saturday. The Bats made 9-213 from their 45 overs with Abbas Rashid top scoring with 62. Brighton put on 105 for the first wicket to set up the win and chased the runs down with six over remaining, finishing 6-214. The Bats sit 15th after 10 rounds.

DVCA

Rivergum continued its unbeaten run in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Mash Shield, Chasing South Morang’s 9-179, the Kookas made the runs with ease, finishing 4-180. Arun Balasubramaniam top scored with 66 at the top of the order. In other matches, Laurimar lost to Old Ivanhoe Grammarians, Thomastown United lost to Lower Eltham, Mill Park lost outright to Keon Park and Thomastown fell shot against Hurstbridge.

weird to have the pads on for so long.”

The Warriors sit in sixth spot after eight rounds and are just three points outside the top four.

The Warriors face Sydenham-Hillside and Keilor before taking on two of the three bottom teams to finish the season.

“That’s one of five,” Pell said. “We have four more to win which will put us there when the whips are cracking.

“We are looking at finals and nothing short of that.”

Elsewhere, Craigieburn lost outright to Keilor.

The Eagles started day two at 5-65 in reply to the Blues’ 151.

They were bowled out for 99.

The Blues quickly made 2-145 before declaring.

Craigieburn finished 9-89 with Anthony Vernali not batting, to give Keilor an outright win.

In the Steve McNamara Shield, Tullamarine suffered a big loss to Williamstown Imperials.

The Demons were bowled out for 118 in reply to the Imperials’ 435.

The Demons made 4-96 in their second innings to avoid an outright loss.

Premier Cricket

Greenvale Kangaroos suffered an outright loss to Footscray on the weekend in Victorian Premier Cricket. The Kangaroos were sent in on Saturday and made 177, with six players scoring the 20s. The Bulldogs had chased that down on day one and continued to bat on Sunday, making 2-363. The Kangaroos tried to hold out in their second innings, but were bowled out for 183 giving the Bulldogs an outright win by three runs. Justin Galeotti top scored with 64 in the second innings. The Kangaroos remain with one win for the season.