Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 11th February 2026

Hospital move on

By Cade Lucas

Having worked as a doctor at Footscray Hospital for 35 years, including a period as director of its emergency department, there’snotmuchthatProfessorAnne-Maree Kelly hasn’t seen or experienced when it comes to the health system.

And there will be even less once Wednesday18FebruaryisoverwithandDr Kelly and her Western Health colleagues have completed their move from the current Footscray Hospital on Gordon Street,toits$1.5billionreplacementonthe corner of Ballarat and Geelong roads.

“It’s a pretty rare event completely moving a hospital,” Dr Kelly said of the move which will begin at 7.30am and involve about 180 patients being transported the 1.3 kilometre distance between the old hospital and the new.

“A lot of hospitals have been built new. I think the last big move was when Prince Henry’s closed and Monash (medical centre) opened (in 1991).

“This is a move from one hospital to another,thesamehospitaltoanotherplace so it’s quite a rare event.”

A rare event and a big undertaking, but accordingtoDrKelly,onethatisnotbefore time, especially where the emergency department (ED) is concerned.

“I came to Footscray Hospital when the ED that we have now was relatively new,” Dr Kelly said.

“Over the years we’ve adapted it and the spaces are quite different now and we’ve done the best we can with it, but it’s now not fit for purpose.

“It’s very old and tired and the patient experience is not great.”

DrKellysaidthelargerandmoremodern ED at the new Footscray Hospital will provide a better experience for patients and their families, as well as for staff.

Not that leaving their current rabbit warren for newer and more spacious surrounds won’t have its drawbacks.

“It’s quite compact, it’s quite easy to talk to everybody else,” Dr Kelly said of the old ED.

“The new one is very big.”

And for all its shortcomings, Dr Kelly said the compact surrounds of the old ED had been great for staff morale.

“We’re actually a really tight team,” she said.

“When you work in a space that’s quite cramped and difficult you become like a

footy team, you come together to make it work.”

While almost all current ED staff are moving to the new hospital, Dr Kelly will be among the last to join them, instead spending the first day supervising the final departures from the old Gordon Street site.

That won’t be that case though for anotherlongservingdoctoratthehospital, Professor Phong Tran, who will be working at the new Footscray Hospital from day one, and if he has his way, for the rest of his career.

“Iwillprobablybetherefortherestofmy life, I love it,” Dr Tran said.

A surgeon and head of orthopaedics at Western Health, Dr Tran joined the team at Footscray Hospital in 2007 and said the facility was showing its age and struggling to meet the demands of the growing western suburbs.

He could barely contain his excitement attheimpendingmovetothenewhospital.

“I’ve been describing it to the team as a game changer,” Dr Tran said.

“We won’t recognise ourselves and I don’t think the west of Melbourne will recognise it either, it’s going to transform healthcare and also the community in the west.”

Dr Tran said the new hospital’s close proximity to Victoria University’s FootscrayParkcampuswouldbeespecially beneficial.

“We’re about to launch an app called

Healthy Joints in partnership with Vic Uni (VU) that’s built in Vietnamese and English to help patients deal with their osteo-arthritis and what’s been exciting aboutthatissharingtheexpertisebetween the two institutions,” he said.

Metro tunnel ‘bottleneck’

By Sam Porter and Cade Lucas

The new timetable for the train network’s ‘Big Switch’ has come into effect, integrating the new Metro Tunnel with the widertransportnetwork–butnoteveryone ontheSunburylineishappyaboutit.

Brimbank resident Linda Marijanovic boards the train at Keilor Plains Station and gets off at Southern Cross Station to work her job in the Docklands precinct. She said her commute has become longer and more tedious since the Big Switch.

To get to Southern Cross Station Ms Marijanovic must now transfer to the

Werribee-Williamstown line at Footscray Station, which currently runs directly to Flinders Street Station.

On the first day of the timetable change she described “hordes“ of people transferring lines at Footscray Station.

“It was very hectic. There were so many peoplejumpingoffthetrain.Itlookedlike more than half the train,” Ms Marijanovic said.

“We had to go through the barriers, tap off, walk to platform five, tap on again. So you lose time.

“The tap on, tap off does cause a bottleneck.

“For the elderly it’s not so easy anymore

…. What about people with disabilities and wheelchairs?”

However, Braybrook resident Alan Nguyen said the change had helped his commute.

“Prior to the “Big Switch”, services from West Footscray were infrequent, with waits of 20 minutes or more at times, which limited flexibility for getting into the city for work and study,“ Mr Nguyen told Star Weekly.

“Sincetheswitch,I’vereallyappreciated the improved frequency, with trains running every 5–10 minutes for much of theday,particularlyduringpeakperiods.“

According to the state government,

Sustainable festival for green living in February

The Maribyrnong Sustainable Living Festival is now underway, with residents able to learn how to live healthier, more environmentally friendly, and potentially cheaperlifestylesuntiltheendofthemonth.

The free community festival began on Monday 2 February with a celebration markingWorldWetlandsDayandameeting of the nature warriors volunteer gardening program.

The sustainable living festival will continue through the month, with the final eventstakingplaceon26February. Between now and then the festival

program will feature clean up and tree planting events, a rubbish runners club, children’sactivities,gardening,composting and sewing workshops, clean energy presentations and many other attractions, with all of them taking place in and around theMaribyrnongcouncilarea.

Oneofthemostkeenlyanticipatedevents on the festival program is a presentation and question and answer session hosted by GetoffGasfounderBrendanLang.

An electrician and environmentalist, Mr Lang started Get Off Gas to help accelerate the transition away from fossil fuel based

energy sources like gas, to renewable energy.

Mr Lang’s presentation will explain how households can do this by moving to electrified buildings, utilities, transport and appliances and powering them with renewableslikerooftopsolarandbatteries.

The Get Off Gas presentation is at Maribyrnong Community Centre on 17 Februaryfrom6.30-8pm. Entryisfree,butbookingsareessential.

Details: https://www.maribyrnong. vic.gov.au/Residents/Our-environment/ Maribyrnong-Sustainable-Living-Festival

Footscray security patrols reducing safety according to report

Security guard patrols in the Footscray CBD have made the area less safe and shouldbeimmediatelyscrappedaccording to research conducted by an organisation opposedtothetrialprogram.

Footscray Community Response (FCR) has been researching the security guard patrols since a six-month trial began in Septemberlastyear.

The findings of that research are contained in a report which FCR has released ahead of Maribyrnong council’s first meeting of the year next week, where councillors will vote on whether to make thetrialpermanent.

The FCR report recommends councillors voteno,findingthepatrolshavedonemore harmthangood.

“The program has not created a safer environment and has instead harmed some of Footscray’s most marginalised residents,

FCR spokesperson and lawyer Shifrah Blusteinsaidthegroup’sresearchincluded observations of the patrols, discussions with those who had interacted with the securityguardsandalegalanalysis.

“FCR’s evaluation is damning,” Ms Blusteinsaid.

Maribyrnong council didn’t respond directlytothereport,butmayorMohamed Semra said a mid-term review of the Footscray CBD security program had recently been completed and would be

considered at the 17 February council meeting.

The security guard trial was introduced to tackle rising violence and anti-social behaviour in the Footscray CBD, particularly the Nicholson Street Mall where Johara Mohamed has operated Johara’sMegastorefornearly10years.

She disagreed with the findings of FCR report.

“It’s not less safe, it’s now safer” Ms Mohamed said of the impact of the trial on theFootscrayCBD.

“The presence of the security guardshasmadeitwaybetterthanbefore.”

duringpeaksontheSunbury,Cranbourne and Pakenham lines, trains will run up to every three minutes between Dandenong and West Footscray.

Outside the peaks, trains will run at least every 10 minutes between the city and Watergardens from 6am-9pm.

The Werribee and Williamstown lines will temporarily run directly to Flinders Street, before connecting with the Sandringham Line for a new cross-city service later in the year.

Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the changes will take time for passengers to get used to.

Too big, too expensive

Over summer, it was revealed that the Victorian government is washing its hands of Hobsons Bay City Council’s controversial multimillion-dollar redevelopment proposal for the Williamstown lifesaving club.

And now, residents’ questions at Council meetings have exposed five new concerns:

1 - Council has misled the community about how much money it has given the club for this redevelopment. Its “Your Budget 24/25” brochure says Council is contributing $5.5 million. But officers now say it’s $3 million.

2 - Council intends to keep secret the official heritage advice about this proposal until just before councillors vote on the plan.

3 - Council won’t tell ratepayers how much it is prepared to spend defending this proposal before VCAT.

4 - Council requires residents proposing to redevelop their home to abide by heritage protection rules, but appears willing to ignore those rules when council itself is proposing a Bunnings warehouse-style development in this heritage precinct.

5 - Council proposes to erect a 6.6-metre-high building along the Williamstown Esplanade, apparently to store surf boats. There’s no indication council officers have questioned whether Williamstown needs a fleet of surf boats and why they need to be stored in a big new building on the beach. After all, there’s not much surf at Willy. Williamstown’s lifesaving clubrooms need upgrading. But this proposal is too big and expensive. Council should reduce the size and scope of the redevelopment, so the club becomes one of the best-equipped in Victoria, but without unduly damaging this precious place.

Paul Austin,

‘Save Our Beach’ community group.

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Bulldogs hero remembered

One of the heroes of Footscray’s 1954 VFL premiership team, Doug Reynolds, has died aged 92.

Reynolds, who kicked a goal and was named among the Bulldog’s best in their grand final victory over Melbourne, died on Saturday 31 January at an aged care home in Yarraville, the suburb where he lived for almost his entire life.

His son Scott Reynolds said it was a life defined by football.

“He had no other hobbies other than football. In his retirement he’d sit there and watch all the old games and grand

finals and reminisce.”

Born in Yarraville in 1933, Reynolds interest in the game began early through kicking a makeshift football made up of old newspapers in the street with friends.

The sudden death of his father in a workplace accident when he was in his early teens, forced Reynolds into the workforce as an apprentice fitter and turner at the Spotswood glassworks.

Joining the nearby Spotswood Football Club, the speedy wingman was soon on his way to VFL stardom.

“He played at Spotswood and won the

Emergency closure time set

Footscray Hospital’s emergency team wants the community to be aware of a very specific time – 8am on Wednesday 18 February.

“That’s when the emergency department at the original Footscray Hospital will close to new patients,” said Dr Ainslie Senz, director of the Footscray Hospital emergency department.

“And at exactly the same time, the emergency department at the new Footscray Hospital will open.”

Dr Senz said public awareness about the opening time of the new ED was vital.

“Patient safety is always our top priority, so it’s really important that our community is aware of this very significant time,” she said.

“Please do not present to the ED on

Eleanor Street after 8am. Our new ED on Geelong Road will be open and fully operational from that time.

“We also ask that members of the public do not visit the new or original Footscray Hospital on this day, unless they need emergency care.”

Western Health has done extensive planning over several years to manage the move safely.

“We’re really looking forward to caring for our patients at our new hospital,” Dr Senz.

The new ED can be accessed from both 89 Ballarat Road, Footscray, and 20 Geelong Road, Footscray.

Details: https://westernhealth.org.au/ location/new-footscray-hospital

Life comes full circle for centenarian

When Thelma Powell blew out the candles on her 100th birthday cake on Monday, she did it in the same suburb where she was born a century ago.

Surrounded by family, friends, Footscray MP Katie Hall, Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra, and representatives from her beloved Western Bulldogs, Ms Powell celebrated her centenary with a party at the BaptistCare Westhaven aged care home on 9 February.

Born in Footscray in 1926, Ms Powell has lived through the Depression, the war years and everything since.

As a young woman, she attended Footscray North State School before training in dressmaking and tailoring at the School of Domestic Arts, now known as Footscray High.

During World War II, she did her bit for the war effort in a Footscray factory that recycled men’s suits, turning old fab-

best and fairest at Spotty and then the football manager at the Dogs cottoned on to him and he was recruited then,” Scott Reynolds said of how his father went from suburban football to his brief but spectacular career with the Footscray.

“He started at the Dogs at 18, he played in a premiership at 19 and he left the Dogs at 21.”

Reynolds left Footscray for two years at Richmond, but his brief spell with the Bulldogs would have a lasting impact.

It was where he met his wife Shirley, with whom he would have three chil-

dren, while he would spend nearly 50 years working for his father in law’s hydraulics company.

And for decades he was member of the Bulldogs one and only premiership team, until that changed with the club’s second flag in 2016.

“He was extremely happy to see another win for the Dogs and as dad explained, it was good for Footscray,” Scott Reynolds recalled of his father’s reaction.

Doug Reynolds is survived by his wife Shirley, children Tracey, Scott and Louise and their children and grandchildren.

ric into new garments.

Post-war, her adventurous spirit took her on a sailing trips to Western Australia and Cairns, catching the track back home both times.

Later, she he spent years running the cafeteria at Tangambalanga School in Victoria’s Kiewa Valley, before returning to Footscray to care for her ageing father.

Following his death, she worked at the Palms Motel and became an active member of the local senior citizens.

Her nephew, Greg Powell, said his aunt has lived a life of service to family and community.

“Thelma has been a loving sister, aunt and great aunty to her family as well as being a dedicated volunteer throughout her life,” he said.

“Not to mention a passionate Footscray-Western Bulldogs supporter.”

How does your MP behave?

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Federal politicians are used to the public and pundits scrutinising their every word, but now AIhasjoinedthelonglistofwatchdogskeeping tabs on our elected officials in Canberra.

AMPLIFY, styling itself as an independent community-led organisation working to rebuild broken political promises, analysed how MPs in Melbourne’s north and west spent their parliament speaking privileges.

According to the data, veteran MPs Andrew Giles and Rob Mitchell spent more than half their time engaging in partisan attacks or spruiking their own party’s accomplishments.

As skills and training minister and Scullin MP, Mr Giles spent 54.6 per cent of his time on political theatre, while Mr Mitchell spent 51.5 per cent doing the same on behalf of the McEwen electorate.

Mr Giles said it was a privilege to speak on behalf of the people of Scullin in the parliament.

“AsaMP,Iusemyvoicetocelebratethebestof thecommunity,highlighthowourgovernment is delivering for Scullin, and progress the work I do as minister for skills and training,“ he said.

ChiefgovernmentwhipandLalorMPJoanne Ryan was a distant third at 40.6 per cent.

When it came to discussing actual policy, Assistant Treasurer and Fraser MP Daniel Mulino came out on top with 59 per cent of time at the lectern spent discussing legislation.

Hawke MP Sam Rae also fared well in this regard, spending 54.8 per cent of his time on policy.

Mr Mitchell (25.4 per cent) and Gellibrand MP Tim Watts (25.7 per cent) spent the least amount of time on this category.

Recognition, defined by paying tributes, community recognition, shout outs and

promotion, was another category measured.

Mr Watts emerged as the region’s master of the shout out, using 36 per cent of his time to praise others.

First-term MPs, Maribyrnong’s Jo Briskey (29.3 per cent) and Calwell’s Basem Abdo (26.1 per cent) were the next likely to give acknowledgements.

AMPLIFY’s report also scanned for bad behaviour, based on what was perceived as personal insults, attacks or heckling.

Compared to the rest of the country, all MPs across the north and west were relatively well-behaved.

OutofthepackBendigoMPLisaChesterwas the worst behaved, spending 2.9 per cent of her timefeuding,whileMrRaewasthebestatonly 0.1 per cent.

First-time Gorton MP Alice Jordan-Baird’s split was 36.2 per cent on policy, 38.4 per cent on political theatre, 23.5 per cent on recognition, 1.1 per cent on bad behaviour and 0.7 on formalities.

“When I’m in parliament, I’m fighting for the issues that matter most to our wonderful community in Melbourne’s western suburbs,” she said.

“I’vespokeninparliamentabouttheneedfor improved infrastructure in the west, including upgrading Calder Park Drive interchange and the Western Freeway – because westerners deserve to spend less time on the roads, and more time at home with their families.”

AMPLIFY used AI to categorise more than 625 hours of speeches from mid-July 2025 and December 2025 to compile the data.

MrMitchell,MsRyan,DrMulino,MrRae,Mr Watts, Ms Briskey, Mr Abdo and Ms Chesters were contacted for comment.

Details: https://www.amplifyaus.org/ our-work/housemonitor

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Call us today to find out how your IPC Health Care Finder can support you.

New bin app

By Cr Rayane Hawli

As councillors, we often hear from the community about getting the basics right, withwasteandrecyclingafrequenttopicof conversation.

It’s exciting to see council take steps to continue to make life a little easier for residents, with the launch of a new and improvedbinapp.

Thenewappisfreeandeasytouseforall smartphoneowners.

It includes important features such as bin collection schedules, news on upcoming waste and recycling events, and a comprehensive guide to help you know whatbincertainitemsgoin.

So if you’re not sure which bin an item goes into, just jump on the app, search the itemandtheguidewillletyouknowwhere itbelongs.

This will play an important role as we continue to improve our recycling standard, sending more items that can be recycledtoberecycled,hopefullymeaning lessisgoingtolandfill.

Search for ‘LoopedIn Councils’ in your app store, select Hobsons Bay once prompted and away you go. And make sure to delete our old app, which will be decommissionedthisJune.

We’re also helping you with food waste, withfoodscrapbinlinersnowavailablefor free. These paper bags fit perfectly in our kitchencaddiesandareeasytouse.

Justpoptheminthecaddyandputthem straight in your garden waste bin (green lid).

You can pick yours up from the civic centreoranyofourlibraries.

Once you’ve downloaded your bin app

There is power in your truth.

andgotyourfoodbinlinerstosortoutyour waste management at home, why not lend a hand to help the rest of our community withCleanUpAustraliaDay.

The annual event is back on Sunday 1 Marchandisagreatopportunitytogetout andaboutandhelpmakeapositiveimpact onourenvironment.

You can join a local clean up, host your own event or make a donation if you aren’t abletogetinvolvedthisyear.

To learn more and find out how you can get involved, head to: hobsonsbay.vic.gov. au/community-clean-ups

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

Scan the QR code to find out more or contact us

Briefs

Creative West Workshops, events and drop-ins sessions are scheduled for later this month to get public feedback on the Creative West project proposed to help revitalise the Footscray CBD. A pop-up event featuring a talk from local author Alice Pung as well as live music performances and workshops, will be held on 14 February, while a drop-in session will be held at the Braybrook Hub from 4pm-6pm on 26 February. Residents are also invited to join stakeholder workshops, with expressions of interest open now, while those unable to attend in-person events can have their say online until 1 March. Details: www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/ cw

Summer Sounds

Looking to impress on Valentine’s Day? Head down to Logan Reserve in Altona and spoil your date with free live music and a beach breeze at Summer Sounds. A free concert presented by Maribyrnong council, Summer Sounds will feature performances by Adrian Eagle, Horns of Leroy and Hobsons Bay Coast Guard, and while a perfect event for lovers, is great for the whole family too. So pack a picnic rug (and maybe a rose), grab a bite from a local eatery and enjoy the summer tunes on an afternoon of good vibes. Details: https://shorturl.at/eKG0l

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Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Feeding tubes nourish life

February 1-7 was Feeding Tube Awareness Week, which aimed to increase the understanding of tube feeding. Jena Carr spoke with two women with feeding tube experience - one who lives with a permanent surgical tube and another who is the mother of a toddler who relies on a feeding tube.

Tess Swift, 31, was diagnosed with gastroparesis, which means her stomach is partially paralysed and can’t digest food properly, after a trip to Thailand more than 10 years ago.

“The gastroparesis was caused by a really rare parasite, and it has done a lot of damage to other parts of my body as well,” Tess explained.

“I first got sick in 2015 after a family holiday to Thailand and battled with hospitals and doctors for the first two and a bit years before I was diagnosed with gastroparesis.

“I got my first feeding tube in 2018. I thought it would just be short-term, and hereIameightyearslater,soitwasapretty big adjustment in the early days.”

Tess now has a permanent surgical tube that goes into her small intestine so that her stomach doesn’t have to try so hard to digest food.

“I’ve got some pretty gnarly scars now, butIguessthebiggestthingformewasjust reminding myself that without having it, I wouldn’t be alive,” she said.

“I enjoyed not having it visible on my face, but I had to go through a large open abdominal surgery for that, and I was only 23 at the time, so it was a big change to my body.

“Unfortunately, my health is still in a pretty terrible position as, on one hand, having a feeding tube is great because it has helped keep me alive this long.

“In terms of tube feeding, it’s very up and down as it is kind of hard to live with a medical device that you need to survive, but can also cause a lot of problems at the same time.”

Tube feeding, also known as enteral nutrition, provides essential nourishment for people who are unable to eat or drink orally, or who require additional nutritional support.

Tesssaiditwasimportanttohelpeducate the wider population about feeding tubes, and there were a lot of different reasons why someone may need a feeding tube.

“There’sprobablyalotmorepeopleinthe world who have feeding tubes than people realise,” she said.

“I have no issue if people out in the real world or on social media want to ask questions because humans are curious by nature.

“I would so much rather have a conversation about my feeding tube and why I have it and what it’s for than deal with people speculating or judging.

“My advice for people who have either recentlystartedorarestartingonafeeding tubejourneyisnottobeembarrassedabout it, as everybody needs to eat and drink; it just looks different for some people.”

People of all ages may use feeding tubes, including babies, children, teenagers, and adults, with nutrition delivered directly intothestomachorsmallintestinethrough a feeding tube.

Two-and-a-half-year-old Alfie was born premature and developed an undiagnosed geneticdisorderthatmimicscerebralpalsy and requires him to live with a feeding tube.

Mum Jessica Willder said Alfie has had a feeding tube for about 12 months as he had trouble eating and drinking.

“What he doesn’t drink orally goes down his tube, which some days could be all of it and other days could be half or a quarter of it,” she said.

“His feeding tube goes down the nose andthebackofhisthroatintohisstomach, whichhastobereplacedeverytwotothree months.

It shouldn’t be a taboo subject...and it shouldn’t be something that people stare at or make assumptions about - Jessica Willder

“Then with all the tape on his face, we havetochangeitwheneveritstartstocome off, which could be every couple of days or once a week if we’re lucky.

“It’s rather traumatic as we have to wrap him up so that he can’t get his hands on the feeding tubes and pull them out while we’re changing all his tape.

“It takes me, my husband, and then my twodaughterstohelpholdhimstillandget allthetapeoffandputmoretapebackonto keep the tube in place.”

Jessica said it was important for people insimilarsituationstoknowthattheywere not alone and encouraged people to reach out to others.

“It shouldn’t be a taboo subject...and it shouldn’t be something that people stare at or make assumptions about,” she said.

“You take each day as it comes, and each daywillbeslightlydifferent,butitcanhelp to link in with other parents who have that experience.

“The number of times that I have been asked what sort of cancer my child has has been a lot, but he doesn’t have cancer.

“Most people think feeding tubes are for people that have cancer...and there are so many other reasons why people need feeding tubes.”

ManylocationsacrossAustraliaandNew

Zealand lit up blue and purple for Feeding Tube Awareness Week (1-7 February), which is held by charity ausEE.

Chief executive Sarah Gray said the annual week aimed to increase the understanding of tube feeding, share reliable information and resources, and foster connection and support within the community.

“Purple is a common colour of feeding tube supplies, while blue represents what flows through the tube; whether that’s formula, blended foods, breastmilk, or water,” she said.

Visit feedingtubeaware.com.au for more information and support networks.

Clean up was crystal clear

Dozens of Hobsons Bay locals have been doingadeepcleanofabelovedunderwater attraction.

A collaboration between marine protection organisation Protect What You Love, Snorkel and Dive Safari Altona Beach and the Jawbone Marine Sanctuary Care Group, the Clean Up The Crystals events have often involved more than 80 participants removing rubbish from the The Crystals reef just off the Williamstown Beachrockwall.

At a recent clean up event the combined efforts of snorkellers, scuba divers, and land-based volunteers resulted in almost 850 litres of rubbish being removed, filling

two 420 litre bins - one with general waste andonewithrecycling.

The regular clean up events have also helped promote ongoing efforts to have The Crystals added to the nearby Jawbone MarineSanctuary.

A petition calling for the Jawbone sanctuary to be expanded to protect The Crystals now has more than 5300 signatures.

To sign the petition, go to: https://www. change.org/p/protect-the-crystals-extendjawbone-marine-sanctuary

Photos courtesy of marine photographer DomBuyers.

Faces of the west

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

RAAF history up for sale

By Jaidyn Kennedy

The federal government’s announcement that it will sell off defence sites in the western suburbs, including RAAF Base Point Cook, has been met with backlash, as many locals fear history might be turned into housing.

On 4 February, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles revealed the 342-hectare site and birthplace of the Royal Australian Air Force would be one of 67 military sites across the country to be fully or partially divested. Uptheroad,RAAFWilliamsLavertonwill

be partially divested, while the divestment of the 127-hectare Maribyrnong Defence Site will continue.

However, it was the potential sale of RAAF Base Point Cook that most upset locals, including Point Cook resident Ben Batchuluun who likened it to losing a limb.

“It’s part of the identity of the people and the identity of the future people here as well,” Mr Batchuluun said of the base.

“Not only is it a heritage site but it is what makes our community what we are, the neighbourhood with planes flying over it constantly.

“The kids love it, my friends and guests

love it when they visit us,” he said.

“I believe all historic elements, military or otherwise, should be left intact.”

PointCookMPMathewHilakarihassince launched a petition calling on the federal government to consult the community on future land use, and to guarantee local infrastructure that would benefit the community.

He did not state whether he opposed the sale itself.

A state government spokesperson said it would consider working to unlock the site for housing.

“While this is a decision made by the Commonwealth, we welcome the oppor-

Backwash, bridge reimagined by artist

For more than 20 years, multi-disciplinary artist Carmel Cosgrove has explored the layered cultural and environmental histories of Melbourne’s western suburbs, observing how urban landscapes change over time, shaped by both human activity and nature.

Much of that observation and exploration has taken place a short walk from Cosgrove’s Yarraville home at the StoneCreekbackwashundertheWestGate Bridge.

And now, through the use of projection, video, photography and suspended

elements, Cosgrove has reimagined and reconstructed one of the most polluted places in metropolitan Melbourne for her new exhibition ‘This is Now’ which opens on 19 February.

TheexhibitionatOutsideGalleryfeatures 11 images of the backwash, the West Gate Bridge and the nearby Hyde Street Reserve that reveal their history, pollution, decay and resilience, while also inviting viewers to pause, reflect and see the landscapes in a new way.

“That backwash is loaded with quite a bit of history and industrial history,” Cosgrove

said of why she was drawn to the place where Stony Creek empties into the Yarra River and where dozens of workers were killed when the West Gate Bridge collapsed during construction in 1970.

“It’snotthemostglamorousarea,it’squite polluted, but it keeps pulling me back in.”

The ‘This Is Now’ exhibition will be launched next Thursday at the Newport Bowls Club, next door to the Outside Gallery where Cosgrove’s work will be displayed until September.

Details: www.artandindustryfestival. com.au

tunity to work together to unlock land for more housing,” the spokesperson said.

“Any future proposal would be considered on its merits and subject to a planning process.”

Gellibrand MP Tim Watts said he would work with the community to ensure the heritage of the site would be preserved and infrastructure would be placed before any additional housing was developed.

The Department of Defence was contacted and referred Star Weekly to its publicly available information.

The federal government has not unveiled any plans beyond selling the site.

Police briefs

Shots fired

Police are investigating a firearms incident in Hillside on Monday 2 February. Shots were fired outside a Penshurst Court home about 1am. There were no injuries reported. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Train assault

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a sexual assault incident on a Sunbury bound train last year. It is believed the offender approached the victim on a train travelling between Melbourne and Middle Footscray station about 5.15pm on 15 October. The offender, described as a man in his late 50s to early 60s, is believed to have then sexually assaulted the victim.

Pedestrian dies

A man has died following a collision in Maidstone. Emergency services were called to reports a car had struck a pedestrian near the intersection of Richelieu Street and Ballarat Road about 12.15pm on 29 January. The pedestrian, a 68-year-old Maidstone man, was transported to hospital with critical injuries where he has since died. The driver of the vehicle, a 32-year-old Maidstone woman, stopped at the scene and was not injured.

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

Gold thief comes unstuck

Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the tale of a crafty carpenter who hatched an audacious plan to steal gold sovereigns destined for auction in Ceylon.

Williamstown has many visible attractions, like numerous parks, black swans,thetimeballtower,cafes,lovelyold buildings and much more. However, there might, just might be an attraction waiting to be located, and should you choose to seek it, a good metal detector is highly recommended.

Our beloved port has seen the arrival of manypeopleoverthecenturies,both good and bad, but few have been as resourceful, audacious and determined than a little Norwegian fellow who first arrived here in 1873, married a Melbourne girl in 1875, andhadadaughterbeforesailingoffagain.

Martin Weiberg was a ship’s master carpenter on board the Royal Mail Steam Ship, Avoca, when she docked at Sydney awaiting the cargo of 30,000 freshly minted gold sovereigns from the Oriental Bank of Sydney. Though they were due to be auctioned at Port Galle, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), a shipping contract stipulated that they first had to be shipped to Williamstown, then loaded onto the SS China for transport to Galle.

The crafty carpenter had different plans for the fate of those sovereigns. Rather than go to investors and merchants in Galle,theyweretogointohis moreworthy pockets - at least, just a fraction of them, 5000 to be exact.

His chance came when requested to repair a lock to the bullion room. As adroitly as a stage magician, he took a wax impression of the key and none of the watching officials noticed a thing. Thus gaining entrance to the bullion room, he quietly fashioned a secret hatch that enabled him to slither undetected through the ship’s hidden tunnels.

His next lucky break came courtesy of a violent storm that drowned out the soundsofhischisellingopenabox.Inside, insulatedbysawdust,wasasmaller,sealed box.

The seals were easily dealt with Martin heated a knife, melted the wax and took the loot. Lesser mortals may have let out an ill-judged scream of triumph. Not our dogged little Scandinavian. Quietly he loaded the box with iron pieces similar in weight to that of the other five boxes, repaired the box til it looked almost pristine, and just as quietly squeezed through the hatch and returned to his cabin, richer by 5000 sovereigns for an hour’s dishonest work.

Now, his sole problem was hiding the treasure, and this he did by secreting the sovereigns in bars of soap and his own carpenter’s plane, previously drilled with a hole to contain the coins.

Contrary to normal practice, when the bullionroomwasopenedatWilliamstown, the six boxes were not handled singly, but collected together and loaded onto SS“China.

Thus,thetamperedboxanditsminuscule difference in weight went unnoticed. The ChinaglidedoutofHobsonsBayandsodid Martin. Without so much as a resignation letter to his employers, he hotfooted off to be reunited with his wife Rosina and their daughter, both living in Williamstown.

Unfortunately, Martin’s usual caution deserted him and he just couldn’t resist having a bit of a spending spree, and the stolen coins began to circulate around Victoria. This caught the attention of the

police,wholearnedthatMartinandfamily hasskippedoutoffWilliamstownandwere livingneartheTarwinRiver,whereMartin had bought a 120 acre property.

In anticipation of a fine reward and a promotion or two, off sped Inspector Secretan, Detective Mackay and Senior Constable O’Meara from Melbourne to Gippsland. To their enormous surprise, they came across their prey quite by chance. Equally surprisingly, the carpenter went meekly into the cells after being divested of the few sovereigns in his pocket.

Then the police ransacked his hut, their effortsyieldingnothing,untiltheyrealised that the carpenter’s plane was abnormally heavy.Theybrokeitopen,and foundatidy sum of sovereigns hidden within.

Very pleased with themselves, they returned to the lock-up and requested Martin to take them around the property, where, they were certain, he had his “plants”, hidey-holes inside trees or under rocks. The polite little carpenter led them on a merry old dance around the Tarwin groundsbeforesuddenlylandingaterrible punch to the poor Inspector’s solar plexus. The man doubled up in agony and off went Martin with the speed of a greyhound.

He spent five months on the run before

being recaptured at Paynesville and dragged back to Melbourne. There, a hard-hearted court gave him five years in Pentridge to repent of his sins, and, hopefully, confess to the whereabouts of the still missing 3500 sovereigns.

Martin did neither. On his release, he went to Hobart and splashed out on a fine yacht, Neva and sailed across Bass Strait to anchor at Waratah Bay in Gippsland. There he tried in vain to persuade Rosina and his younger daughter – the elder, born in Williamstown, was now living with another family - to join him. They refused. By now, Rosina was becoming somewhat tired of a marital life that had given her children but a mostly absent husband. Telling him to enjoy his cruising, she handedhimsomesuppliesandbangedthe door shut.

Martin rowed away, intending to board the anchored Neva, but a sudden, massive storm capsized the boat, which washed ashore the following day. There wasn’t a trace of Martin, and Rosina thanked her lucky stars to have escaped his presumed fate of drowning, Still, as his widow, she did the right thing by organising several searches. The police combed the beaches formanymiles,butfoundnothing,noteven a bright sovereign to be slyly pocketed.

The SS Gazelle assisted in the search, captained by Captain John Leith, who investigated several islands for a glimpse of Martin. Few believed that such a strong swimmer had really drowned. Now and thentherewerereportsoflightsonislands, or of seeing the fugitive, but he was never found, and presumed to have died on 6 October, 1883, at Inverloch, aged 32. Finally, Captain Leith towed the Neva to Melbourne, with Rosina and her daughter on board. The widow found herself becoming very fond of the gallant Captain Leith, and had no hesitation in marrying him the following year. Her new husband, though unlikely to ever give her gold sovereigns to spend, was dependable and hard working, a far better catch than the wicked little Norwegian who ran around punching policemen and getting himself locked up in Pentridge.

Years later, a few gold sovereigns were found in Gippsland, but there were still 3225 missing. They are still missing. So, if visitors to Williamstown notice people intently waving metal detectors at Shelly Beach, Point Gellibrand, or anywhere else on this peninsula, please wish them well and check what they find. Martin’s hoard , or part of it, might be the long-lost treasure finally unearthed.

Crushing for 60 years

Queensland’s Granite Belt comes alive this month for the long-running Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival - a celebration of food, wine and community.

The event, starting on Friday 27 February and running through to Sunday 8 March, marks its 60th anniversary this year, making it one of Queensland’s longest-running and most successful festivals.

For 60 years, the festival has celebrated what makes Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt so special – cool-climate wines, apples at their peak, passionate growers and producers, and a community that knows how to welcome visitors and put on a proper celebration.

The biennial event is a celebration of the GraniteBeltregion’sproduceandbooming wine industry, which attracts an average of 70,000 people, making it arguably Australia’s leading harvest festival.

The Diamond Jubilee honours that history while inviting people to experience it first-hand.

The main festival weekend brings the energy to the streets of Stanthorpe, with the town buzzing from morning to night.

TheQueenslandCountryBankthree-day Food and Wine Fiesta fills the park with Granite Belt flavours, 18 local wineries, breweries and meaderies, local producers and live music, while the streets host the much-loved Grand Parade, a vibrant

street carnival, bustling markets, and the challenge of the Ergon Energy Mt Marlay Run.

As the sun sets, the weekend is capped offwithcrowd-favouritefireworks,lighting up the Stanthorpe sky.

Across the full 10 days, festival-goers can also enjoy live music, Open Gardens broughttobyBraesideHomestead,cooking demonstrations, creative experiences like Bubbles and Brushes, orchard and farm tours, and hands-on harvest moments.

The festival has something for everyone, including things you might not expect – like the Australian National Busking Championships.

Buskers will be dotted along the street

on Saturday 28 Feburary with “Busking Tokens” available to drop in a favourite performers bucket and judges wandering the main street.

This all culminates in the Winners Concert at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre for announcement of the Grand Open Champion and all the other winners and a chance to enjoy more fabulous entertainment.

Then there’s the iconic Balancing Heart Grape Crush. This event is already nearly sold out, with only limited places remaining for those keen to take part in one of the festival’s most memorable experiences.

The foot stomping, grape crushing fun is

aniconichighlightoftheStanthorpeApple and Grape Festival with the community grape crush on Friday 6 March and Celebrity Crush just after the main parade inthemainstreetneartheStanthorpePost Office on Saturday 7 March just after the big Grand Parade.

Sponsors are Balancing Heart Vineyard – voted Best Small Cellar Door by Gourmet Traveller Wine – just one of the many Vineyards worth a visit while in the area for the festival.

The 60th anniversary is a significant milestone for both the festival and the region, according to the event’s president, Russell Wantling.

“This festival has been shaped by generations of volunteers, growers and community members, and reaching 60 years is something we’re incredibly proud of,” he said.

“The Diamond Jubilee is about celebrating our history, our harvest and the people who continue to make this festival what it is.”

With accommodation filling quickly and ticketed events close to capacity, visitors are encouraged to plan now.

Many experiences have limited availability and will sell out. Tickets, program details and the full festival calendar are available at www.appleandgrape.org.

Wonders

Murray River & Kangaroo Island Tour

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Dec 2026 - Mar 2027

unforgettable holiday

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

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

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

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

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Barcelona to Istanbul or vice versa

29 DAYS • 8 COUNTRIES • 23 GUIDED TOURS SET

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Choice

Learn to make a spin drum

Eachmonth,StephanieMartinezwillshare anexcitingcraftprojectdesignedtoinspire and spark creativity.

Stephanie starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting.

JoinStephanieassheexplorestheendless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary. This month, Stephanie is creating Chinese New Year spin drums.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago 12 February, 1986

A $6000 Western Suburbs fishing club development in Williamstown could face a State Government demolition order because it didn’t receive a permit to carry out the work.

30 years ago 14 February, 1996

Laverton and Altona residents have blasted the Federal Government over its plan to close Essendon Airport and move traffic to Point Cook.

Chinese New Year spin drums

Materials - cardboard - cord - 2x beads - rounded craft stick

Equipment - scissors - glue gun - awl (or something sharp to poke a hole) - pencil - ruler

Step 1: Cut out 2 cardboard circles (9cm) and 1 cardboard strip (3cm wide) long enough to wrap around the circle.

Step 2: Curve the strip and glue it around the edge of one circle to form the drum.

Step 3: Before closing the drum, poke one hole on each side, directly opposite each other.

Step 4: Thread a piece of cord through both holes and tie a bead to each end on the outside.

Step 5: Poke a hole in the centre of the bottom of the drum. Slide a rounded craft stick into the hole and glue it in place to make the handle.

Scan QR code and follow the links for more creative fun.

Step 6: Glue the second cardboard circle on top to close the drum.

Step 7: Decorate the drum.

Step 8: Hold the handle and twist the drum side to side to play. Happy Chinese New Year!

20 years ago 14 February, 2006

Bashedandleftfordeadatthebottomof the Irving Street entrance to Footscray train station, Nathanael Raimundo, 17, says he is not angry or looking for revenge on his attackers.

10 years ago 10 February, 2016

A Yarraville family is pushing for a change to Maribyrnong council guidelines after the council ordered it to tear down its nature strip vegetable garden.

PUZZLES

or upheaval (9) 13 Nations (9) 14 Flagrantly bad (9) 15 Grumpy (9) 17 Resident of Jerusalem or Tel Aviv (7) 18 Mildly irritates (7) 21 Opinions (5) 23 Shifts (5)

1 How many legs does a butterfly have?

2 Which European country’s major cities include Brest, Grodno and Mogilev?

3 Who hosted the 2025 Logie Awards?

4 Harper Lee won the Pulitzer Prize for which novel, and in what year?

5 Swimmer Ian Thorpe (pictured) has won how many Olympic gold medals?

6 What does the term Terra AustralisIncognita mean?

7 Name the hurricane that passed through New York City in August 2011.

8 What abnormality do the words fly, myth and rhythm have in common?

9 Who was the first president of Türkiye, from 1923?

10 Who released the album Mayhem in 2025?

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Altona North Grandparent Playgroup

A friendly weekly opportunity for grandparents and their grandchildren to play, have cuppa, cake and chat, $5. During school terms, Monday 10am-noon at Eastona Park Community Facility, 13 Collins Ave Altona North (old kindergarten venue).

 Marnie, 0478 011 981

Free walking basketball

Love basketball, but not the running? Join the Westgate Basketball Association’s walking basketball program. Walking basketball is ideal for those returning from injury, looking to get back into fitness and perfect for seniors and active adults. A great way to connect with others. Starts 18th February 10am at Recwest Braybrook. Register your interest now.

 westgatebasketball.com.au/walkingbasketball-1, or Penny, 0409 014 121

Heritage Walks

Enjoy a leisurely one/two hour walk around Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.30am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place.

 John Becroft, 0418 377 336

Williamstown Bridge Club

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

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

Sing with WIllin Wimmin choir

Discover the joy of group singing with the friendly women at WiIlin Wimmin choir in Williamstown. New members are always welcome, no audition. The choir sings contemporary, folk, choral and world repertoire in acapella style. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings during school terms, 7.30-9.30pm at the Dennis Reserve Centre, 109 Ferguson Street, Williamstown.

 willinwimmin.org.au, or willin.wimmin@gmail.com

Mainly music

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

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

Social square dancing

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

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

Free English conversation classes

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

 Jill MacKenzie, 0439 994 705 or jill.mackenzie111@gmail.com

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

Footscray CWA

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

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

Walking group

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

 9317 5610 or jodie@bmnh.org.au

Computer classes

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

 Lynne, 9397 6168

Laverton Bowls Club

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

 9369 1034 or secretary@lavertonbowls.com.au

Musicians welcome

Do you play any percussion, brass or

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

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

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings

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

 https://williamstown.aagroup.org.au/, aawilliamstown@gmail.com or 1300 222 222

Women Working Together

A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay.

 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or https://cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/ Musicians Wanted

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

 westgateconcertband@gmail.com

Prep for employment course

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

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

Everyday English language course For women of all ages and backgrounds

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

Laverton Community Choir

It’s that time of the year - the Laverton Community Choir are busy rehearsing Christmas songs for the festive season, and would love to add more voices. Everyone is welcome, and you don’t need to be able to read music - just come and experience the joy of singing in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The choir meets on Thursday evenings from 7-9pm to sing, have supper and a chat, and then sing some more. You will leave feeling so much better! Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton.  Sue, 0418 386 147 or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com

Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga Classes are running at Brooklyn Community Hall and the Healing Garden Williamstown. Classes are held every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Classes are costed for the community: $8-$25 per class. Star Weekly readers can get a complimentary first session to try it out. Yin Yoga is a gentle, passive practice that invites stillness and subtlety - offering up powerful physical benefits by targeting the body’s connective tissues, joints, and fascia. For all bodies - stiff, sore, injured or just in need of deep release!  Hong, 0412 112 422, or yogawithhong.com

Craft, laugh and connect Join us for a fun, calming session filled with creativity and connection. All craft styles and skill levels are welcome. Bring your favourite craft - knitting, drawing, colouring, puzzle, anything that brings you joy (no painting please).

It’s a great way to meet people, connect with your library and explore new creative activities.The craft sessions are held at Altona North Library from 1-3pm. Free of charge and no bookings required.  9932 3005, 0407 247 087 or https:// www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Libraries

Aussie icons head west

Powerhouse vocalist Casey Donovan will join a star-studded season of entertainment at The Clocktower Centre in a year that will also bring some of our country’s best-loved and most enduring performers to the north-west.

More than 20 years after she won hearts as the winner of Australian Idol, Casey Donovan has amassed an impressive theatrical resume and cemented herself as an icon of New Year’s Eve entertainment.

Her new show, ‘THIS IS ME’, features highlights from The Sapphires, We Will Rock You, Chicago, 9 To 5, & Juliet and

Sister Act, alongside NYE favourites and never-before-heard original songs.

Donovan will take to the stage in Moonee Ponds on Sunday 24 May.

The 2026 Clocktower season will open on Friday 27 February when guitar virtuoso Slava Grigoryan joins Melbourne Chamber Orchestra for ‘Flexible Sky’.

On 27-28 March, musical theatre’s Rachael Beck will perform ‘In Their Own Words’, weaving anecdotes from the likes of Ita Buttrose, Marcia Langton and Carlotta, with the music of famous Australian songwriters such as Missy Higgins, Kate Miller-Heidke and Kate Ceberano.

In April, Na Djinang Circus will bring together Indigenous Australian, migrant, and colonial histories in one physical theatre performance; ‘Of the Land on which We Meet’, while on 1-2 May, audiences will have the chance to experience playwright Tom Holloway’s ‘Beyond the Neck’, a profoundly compassionate portrait of a community living with loss.

In August, music lovers will get the change to see a different side of The Whitlams’ frontman Tim Freedman at an intimate solo show, ‘Moonlit Deck’. As part of the show, Freedman will explore the untold stories behind some of his

Fleetwood Mac tribute band hits Melton

TUSK: The Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show is rolling into town on Saturday 28 February with a golden anniversary celebration that promises to be a night of pure dreams.

In 2026, TUSK is marking 50 years of Fleetwood Mac, turning back the clock on five decades of iconic harmonies, mystical lyrics and relationship drama that perfectly still lives up on vinyl - and even better live.

With new songs, new moves and a fresh gypsy spirit, the show transforms themilestoneintoafull-scalecelebration that’s equal parts nostalgia and dance-

floor therapy.

It’s one big Fleetwood Mac festival, and where better than Mac’s Hotel in Melton?

Lead vocalist Penni Jones embodies the true essence of Stevie Nicks on stage, and said TUSK has been evolving for more than a decade, sparked by a throwaway comment that led to the birth of the iconic tribute act.

“A sound engineer once told me I sounded like Stevie Nicks after hearing me sing Dreams. I had no idea how significant that would be 15 years later,” she said.

Jones will be joined on stage by James Towers, Dalys Timpanaro, Grant Canterbury, and Marty Grech, who bring the same booming talent as their Fleetwood Mac counterparts.

While the band is yet to play Mac’s Hotel, their excitement is brewing, and Jones said the Melton crowd already harbors a legendary reputation.

“Fleetwood Mac is like a time machine, we get to stop time and take people somewhere else.”

TUSK comes to Mac’s Hotel, Melton on Saturday 28 February. Doors open at 8pm.

Pop hits and Priscilla at Melbourne’s biggest Pride film party

Pride of our Footscray has two very big, but very different events coming up on consecutive nights later this month.

On Wednesday 18 February, the HopkinsStreetvenuewillhostitsmonthlyPride Film Party, described as a the biggest queer film night in Melbourne.

The February version will be especially big though with the iconic queer film and Australianscreenclassic,TheAdventuresof Priscilla Queen of the Desert, being shown.

Directed by Stephen Elliott and starring Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce and the late

Terence Stamp Stamp, ‘Priscilla’ became a worldwide hit upon its release in 1995 and later won an Academy Award for best costume design.

It’s soundtrack featuring the likes of ABBA. Gloria Gaynor and the Village People has become almost as iconic as the movie itself and audience members are encouraged to belt out some of the well known hits and re-enact some of the film’s iconic scenes.

ThefollowingnightonThursday19February, Australian cinema will be replaced

most loved songs.

Everyone’s favourite sister act, Vika and Linda, will bring their signature blend of harmonies and storytelling back to the Clocktower stage on 4 September, before ‘Temple of Desire’ – a sumptuous and subversive Indian dance piece that even audiences to stay behind for the afterparty – takes over on 6 November.

School holidays programming includes Junkyard Beats in April, a visit from Spot the dog in June and The Teeny Tiny Stevies in September.

Details: clocktowercentre.com.au/ clocktower-theatre-season/

Who are these Australians?

The iconic ‘Three Well-Known Australians’ has made its way to Melbourne’s west for a limited time.

The work, painted by Martin Shaw in 1982, depicts three figures – a blue, a red and a green person – against a yellow background.

Shaw invites viewers to record who they think the figures are in the yearbooks, with some of the public’s answers displayed as part of the exhibition.

He described the touring exhibition as a “passing parade” of Australia which forms a portrait of the country over time.

“WhenIdidthepainting,Ididhavethree Australians in mind, or Australian themes,” Shaw told Star Weekly.

But he has never revealed who the identities are.

The touring exhibition has been travelling across the country since 1983, with its stop in Brimbank marking its 267th visit.

“Some people put contemporary names, some have put the past. Some have given me realistic opinions, some are more abstract themes,” Shaw said.

“SomepeoplehaveputdowntheReserve Bank, some put Bondi Beach. Other people put down political parties.

“Ned Kelly, he’s the most prominent person to be recorded in the book.”

Among those who have provided answers is Premier Jacinta Allan who guessed Lauren Jackson, Uncle Jack Charles and Julia Gillard for the blue, red and green figures respectively.

Last year, the first person to ever record their responses died.

withChineseandEnglishpopmusicasSilk Road New Year Vocals takes over Pride of our Footscray.

A live music celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, the show features soulful renditions of Chinese and English pop hits performed by the likes of Tom Diva, Shawnsingz, Dixon Lee, and Emily Chu.

JC The Guy while serve as MC.

Tickets for 18 February: https://www. trybooking.com/DIPDF Tickets for 19 February: https://www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1533666

On 30 April, 1983 Ian Gude, a solicitor from Mannerim, wrote his guesses of Malcolm Fraser, Andrew Peacock and John Halfpennyastheblue,redandgreenfigures. Shaw said members of the public, especially those who are younger, may not recognise any of the names guessed by Gude.

The one figure in the painting that doesn’t remain a mystery is a small black and white dog painted toward the right side of the work.

The dog is Shaw’s beloved Pea who died in 1991.

“I’vetoldyouwhoPeais,nowyouhaveto tell me who the Australians are,” Shaw said.

‘Three Well-Known Australians’ can be viewed for free at the Brimbank Gallery and Sunshine Library, 301 Hampshire Road until Friday 27 February.

Notice of intention to grant a lease – Laverton Swim and Fitness Centre, 26 – 62 Jennings Street, Laverton VIC 3028

Hobsons Bay City Council (Council) gives notice under section 115 of the Local Government Act 2020 of its intention to enter into a new lease with BlueFit Pty Ltd ACN 127 508 230 and BlueFit Group Pty Ltd ACN 623 370 552 for the Laverton Swimming and Fitness Centre on part of 26-62 Jennings Street, Laverton VIC 3028 (the Proposal).

The Laverton Swimming and Fitness Centre has been a community facility located at the current site since 1976. Major upgrade and refurbishment works were recently completed in 2025.

The premises is located on Council Freehold Land. Principal terms of the proposed lease will be: Commencement date: March/April 2026 – exact date to be confirmed

Expiry Date: 31 July 2032

Further terms: Nil

Property address: 26-62 Jennings Street, Laverton VIC 3028

Permitted use: Operation of a gymnasium, aquatic centre and leisure centre. Feedback on the Proposal must be lodged in writing to the Property team at property@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au.

The closing date for providing feedback is 5pm on 12 March 2026. Any enquires regarding the Proposal should be directed to the Property team at property@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au.

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

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

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

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

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

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au

Tucson hybrid quick yet quiet

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Hyundai’s mid-sized SUV Tucson has been around since 2004.

The current (fourth generation) was released here in February 2021 with the latest (MY2025) upgrade launched here in mid-2024 and adding a hybrid variant for the first time.

Tucson comes with a choice of 17 variants with Tucson, Elite, Premium and N-Line equipment levels and the choice of 2.0-litrenaturallyaspiratedpetrol,1.6-litre turbo-petrol and 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid powertrains as well as two or all-wheel drive.

The Tucson has plenty of pull, boasting a 1900kgtowingcapacity,plusafirst-in-class panoramiccurved12.3-inchinfotainment/ driver display backed by wireless Apple CarPlay, Bluelink, connected car services and over-the-air remote software updates.

The maker’s SmartSense safety system now has Highway Driving Assist, while a new head-up display presents important driving and navigation information. On test was the Tucson Elite Hybrid N Line front-wheel drive, selling for $48,600, plus on-road costs.

The new hybrids are covered by Hyundai’s five-year unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty and eight-year 160,000 kilometre high-voltage battery warranty, as well as Hyundai’s Lifetime Service Plan, Premium Roadside Support and satellite navigation updates.

STYLING

We love the adventurous styling route that Hyundai has taken with the Tucson.

The large hatched grille gives a bolder look than before and is fringed by five LED daytime running lights in a crescent formation. The headlights are full LED and automatically adjust to the sides for improved cornering visibility.

Our test vehicle came with the optional NLinepackconsistingofexclusive19-inch wheels, grille, front bumper and skid plate, plus N Line badging. The rear sports a new rear bumper, skid plate and twin exhaust outlets.

Interior

The MY25 cabin has been given the once-over to especially appeal to the lifestyle active family. The steering column has a mounted drive-by-wire shift selector and floating centre console.

The Elite and Premium variants feature classy leather appointed seats for up to five while the N Line pack goes further with black leather and suede, red stitching, plus exclusive N Line seat and steering wheel emblems.

General storage includes large door pockets and a deep lidded console box. Cargo space runs from 582 litres to 1903 litres depending on the seats in use. The spare wheel is a space saver variety. A height and speed adjustable tailgate is operable via a button on the key fob or by simply standing at the back of the vehicle with the key.

Infotainment

A 12.3-inch touchscreen, introducing Hyundai’snextgenerationuserinterface,is standardacrossthe2025Tucsonrangeand comes up with four times the computing power and 15 times the graphical processing power of the previous system.

A host of functions is led by wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, AM/ FM/DAB radio, Hyundai Bluelink, Bluetooth multiconnection, USB-C input, quick control (swipe down) menu, and over-the-air updates.

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 8/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 7/10

Value: 8/10

Elite and Premium variants add Bluelink sat nav with turn-by-turn directions, live trafficupdates,voicecontrol,SMSplayback and split screen function. Bluelink connectionisfreeforthefirstfiveyearsand includes automatic collision notification, emergency call access, remote control climateandvehiclefunctions,amongother things.

A similar-size configurable digital instrument cluster takes on a classic look with needle-style gauges. Hybrid versions canbecustomisedtodisplayapowergauge or tachometer. Depending on the drive mode.

Engines/transmissions

Tucson Elite N-Line test vehicle was powered by a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol/electric hybrid system, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission, drivingthefrontwheels.

The petrol motor put out 132kW of power and264Nmoftorque.

The electric motor contributed a further 47.7kW of power, making a combined maximum of 172kW. The latter made use of

a lithium-ion polymer battery of 1.49kWh and270volts.

Safety

The Tucson Hybrid has a five-star ANCAP safety rating on 2021 testing. The vehicle body features high-strength, lightweight constructiontomaximisetorsionalrigidity.

Active safety comes with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite, which includes forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, blind spot collision avoidance, safe exit warning, driver attention warning,highbeamassistandsmartcruise control.

A surround 360-degree view of the car and rear-view monitor, plus distance warning,areagreathelpwhenparking.

Driving Quick, yet quiet is the best way to describe the Tucson hybrid’s behaviour. The turbo dialsupthepower,whiletheelectricmotor plays its part in smooth going, as does the six-speedautotransmission.

Road noise on coarse road surfaces is the only intrusion into the cabin. The

suspension coped with generally few complaints, while the brakes had their sharpsideifrushedintoaction.

Gear selector is a twist-shift to the right of the steering column which takes some getting used to but clears the way for an uncluttered centre-console controls such asdrivemodes.

These include Eco and Sport, of which the latter added sharpness all round to the drive.

Smart mode switched the car between Eco and Sport to ostensibly maximise economy and performance, if that’s possible.

Hyundai claims combined urban/ highway fuel consumption of 5.3 litres per 100km. The test vehicle came up with 4.6 litres per 100km on the motorway and averaged up to 9 litres per 100km during a week’srunningaroundtown.

Summary

It’s anybody’s guess whether buyers will take the hybrid route to Tucson electric vehicles. It’s a veritable traffic jam in this segment.

The season’s heating up

Brasher makes his debut

By Tara Murray

Footscray’s Dylan Brasher was almost the hero for Victoria in his Sheffield Shield debut last week

After piling on the runs at Victorian Premier Cricket and for Victoria’s second XI, Brasher finally earned his chance.

Named in the squad for a one-dayer, Brasher had to wait until a few days later to make his debut for Victoria in the Sheffield against Queensland at the MCG.

Out for just two in the first innings, Brasher top scored with 72 in Victoria’s second innings when runs were hard to come by. He was the last man out as the Victorians lost by 36 runs.

Speaking after the match, Brasher said there were some mixed feelings.

“Obviously I feel super proud and being out here was awesome, but to be 40 short in the end not ideal,” he said.

“It was pretty surreal to be fair, even walking out on the first day and there was a decent crowd here and a lot of family and friends.

“Probably let the emotion get to me the first day, tough not to.

“Felt pretty calm out there and pretty settled kind of helps making your debut a little bit older at 24 you get to learn a few things, felt like my game in a nice spot

“Nice to get a few, few more would have been nice.”

Brasher said he felt that he was batting better than he ever had after biding his time to get his shot.

He said facing Australian test bowler Michael Neser was some of the toughest bowling he had faced.

He said he felt at home for most of the game.

“After the first day when I forgot to use my bat, not so much,” he said, “It was nice to get a few today [Sunday].

“Once I got out there, I was pretty calm. I’ve got a few good processes in place.

“Hopefully this is only the start.”

Brasher batted at three in the first innings before moving to five in the second innings.

Stewart takes out Deeble award for 2025

By Tara Murray

Don Deeble winner for 2025 Jobe Stewart was left speechless on Wednesday night as he was awarded the honour.

Stewart was the last of 10 monthly winners nominated for the award run by the Sunshine and Western Region Sports Club. The award, named after baseball legend Don Deeble, recognises young sporting talent from across Melbourne’s west.

Stewart was awarded the $5000 first prize, ahead of co-runners up Smrithi Adepu and cricketer Jackson Martin, who were awarded $2500 each.

Cyclist Nicola Morris and the youngest monthly winner Louis Kiang were awarded encouragement awards.

Stewart, who is making his mark in taekwondo, said it was pretty special to win the award.

“I’m forever grateful to the people around me and the people in this room,” he said.

“So many people I’ve gone to school with, teachers, sporting staff. I’d like to thank the Western Region Sporting Club and all the sponsors making this happen.

“I had high confidence. I was a bit shocked that I had my name called and I came up and won the award.”

Stewart said for a sport that doesn’t have a lot of funding and backing, this money would have a massive impact for him.

His 2026 schedule is already packed with tournaments across the world.

“We’re having a Europe trip coming up, this will be a massive help going over there and competing,” he said.

Having started taekwondo when he was just eight because his mum said he had too much energy, he has risen through the gradings and achieved his black belt.

Stewart soon made inroads and represented Australia in his first World Taekwondo Championships in China in the 80-87 kilogram men’s competition last year.

He was one of the youngest competitors.

Stewart also competed at the under-21 World Championships in Kenya in December.

While only having just turned 20, Stewart isn’t shying away from the big goals.

“Next year I’m hoping to go to Kazakhstan for the World Championships and be world number one,” he said.

He said adding more flexibility to his game was something that he had worked on

“I think I came into the squad originally, I was pigeon holed as that opener,” he said.

“I thought I didn’t want to be stuck here and miss the boat.

“If there was opportunity somewhere else I would love to have opportunity batting at three, four, five, six, “I just wanted to play.”

Meanwhile, Footscray is in a good position against Essendon.

The Bulldogs bowled the bombers out for 172.

Liam Mason took four wickets for the Bulldogs.

The Bulldogs will resume at 0-7.

Sports shorts

Western FL

Zac Evans is joining Laverton for the Western Football League division 2 season. Evans joins the club from Apollo Bay with the Magpies describing him as a dynamic and explosive mid-forward with senior experience across multiple leagues and played with St Patrick’s College Ballarat. “Zac’s athleticism allows him to impact contests all over the ground and maintain a high level of performance across all four quarters — a perfect fit for the way we want to play,’ the Magpies said.

Bowls

Yarraville Footscray and Altona will play each other in the first week of finals in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division. Altona finished the regular season with a 76 (15)-66 (3) win against Melbourne to lock in fourth spot. Yarraville Footscray suffered a final round loss to minor premiers Moonee Valley by had down enough to finish in third.

Western FL

“I’m more focused on myself and the World Champs ... but definitely the Olympics along the way.”

Stewart, who owns his own business, said his parents had been massive in influencing his career and helping him get to where he wants to be.

His other big inspiration is his sister, Reba Stewart, who has represented Australia at the Olympics at taekwondo.

Reba was a monthly winner of the Deeble award in 2019.

Jobe joked he would hold it over her that he won the overall award.

“I started young and she was my sparring partner,” he said. “I followed her and made my own path.”

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies, Team 639, Ray White Werribee, Noone Imagewear, Sims Sports, Anaia restaurants, Medway Golf Club. and Star Weekly Newspapers.

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

Newport has added a big target as another former AFL player joins the club for the Western Football League division 1 season. The Panthers announced that Ivan Maric had signed for 2026. “Big Ivan needs no introduction – he played 157 AFL games across a 13 year career at both Adelaide and Richmond,” the club said. “At 200 centimetres, the big man will slot nicely into our goal square next to Saady [Ahmed Saad]. “A forward line sure to bang in the goals and create plenty of headaches for opposition defenders.”

VSDCA

Spotswood has been knocked out of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 competition. After finishing top of the ladder after the pool rounds, the Woodsmen faced Balwyn on Tuesday night in the quarter finals. The Woodsman batted first after being sent in and made 7-138 from their overs. Jakson Knight top scored with 46. Balwyn was in trouble early in its innings before he middle order stood up for Balwyn to get it across the line finishing 7-141.

Eagles claim a big scalp

By Tara Murray

Yarraville pulled off its best win of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west season on Saturday, knocking off Spotswood.

The Eagles, who were on top for a lot of day two of the clash, ended up making hard work of the total.

But they were able to hit the winning runs in the 80th over.

Eagles coach Michael Sheedy said it was a really good weekend for the club.

“Ours ones and twos beat Spotswood,” he said.

“I’m not sure relief is the word but it’s a very proud coaching moment beating who I believe is the best red ball team in it.

“The club had only beaten them once in their time in Subbies. We’re still learning how to win and on the weekend we learned to

“It’s one that we will look back on fondly.”

Spotswood had made 220 on day one of the match.

Sheedysaidearlyondaytwotheythought they would get the runs with ease with Alex Wood (65) and Kamal Singh (94) putting on 133 for the opening partnership.

It was Singh’s first 50 for the side and his highest score at the top grade

But the Woodsmen weren’t going to give up without a fight.

“We lost some wickets in a clump,” Sheedy said. “We expected Spotty to throw everything at us and after tea they were fab-

ulous as a bowling unit.

“Nikhil [Suresh] who is only 15 and Akshat Buch were able to get the job done.”

The Eagles finished 7-221.

Dan Schuppan was the pick of the bowlers for the Woodsmen, taking 3-67.

Sheedy said the most pleasing thing for him was seeing some of the youngsters stand up in the big moments.

He said earlier in the season it was the more experienced players and it was kudos to those who got the job done on the weekend.

“We were pushing the young group through to Christmas,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of games into them now.

“We’ve been able to get some results and we saw that in both games on the weekend.”

Rams ready to hit the finals out of the park

By Tara Murray

Newport Rams are fine tuning things ahead of finals in the Baseball Victoria summer league women’s premier 1 first competition.

The Rams, who are the defending champions, will finish the regular season in second spot no matter the results in the last two games which will be both played this week.

Rams coach Dean Anglin said they were happy with how things were going.

“I think we’re in a pretty good position going into finals,” he said.

“We’ll finish the regular season in second. We’re in pretty good shape.”

The Rams were in action against Footscray on Saturday.

Anglin said they were wary of the Bulldogs who really stepped up this season and pushed sides in recent weeks.

He said their focus was to put a gap on them.

The Rams would come away with a 16-2 walk off win.

“The first innings was pretty quiet and so was the second,” he said. “In the third in-

nings we broke open the game and added a couple more in the fourth.

“We didn’t need the fifth innings.”

Hiro Kinjo and Lara Watson finished with three runs each for the Rams.

Ashley Patton and Emi Saiki were the run scorers for the Bulldogs.

Anglin said with their finals spot already secure they had started looking ahead.

“We’re trying to protect players as we want to be in as strong as position as we can for finals,” he said.

“We’ve been sharing the duties around and not relying on individuals. We want to be fit and healthy.”

The Rams will face Springvale in the first week of finals.

Anglin said it was always a team that they watched closely.

“They’re the benchmark of the competition,” he said. “They’ve been at the top for a number of years and we’re still an evolving program and getting more depth.

“We’ve beaten them once this season so we have some confidence that we can do it.

“We had success against them last year,

The Eagles sit in 12th spot with four wins for the season, while Spotswood has slipped to sixth.

The Eagles face Werribee in a two-dayer this weekend.

Sheedy said it would be another big challenge with the Tigers in some good form.

In other matches, Altona and Williamstown were both on the winners list.

The A’s were defending just 160 against Melton but it proved to be enough.

Melton was bowled out for 140 in the 67th over.

The win moves the A’s to second. Williamstown dealt Taylors Lakes finals hopes a blow.

Having made 228, the Seagulls were able to bowl Taylors Lakes out for 151.

VTCA T20 semi finalists set

Williamstown Imperials and Barkly St Uniting are among the teams through to the semi finals of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition.

Three of the four semi finals in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 group A finals will be senior division teams, while two division 5 teams are among the semi finalists in the group B competition.

Quarter finals for both competitions were played on Tuesday night with some thrilling results across the board.

In pool A, Williamstown Imperials won through to the next round with victory against Haig Fawkner.

The Imperials’ made 7-150 from their overs with Andrew Hendry making 61 at the top of the order.

Haig was bowled out in the second last over for 123. Hendry was again the star of the show as he took 4-9 off his four overs.

but it’s a different team so it’s completely irrelevant”

The Rams second side sits on top of the table and will play finals, while Anglin said a loss for their third side on Saturday likely ended its finals hopes.

He said overall the Rams women’s program has had a really strong season.

The Rams face Footscray on Wednesday again before finishing the regular season against Doncaster.

Footscray, which is fifth, will finish its season against Springvale on Saturday.

Meanwhile in the men’s premier 1 first nine competition, the Newport Rams lost to Geelong, 11-3.

Williamstown Wolves had a 9-2 win against Doncaster.

Earlier last week, Williamstown suffered a loss to Essendon on Tuesday night and Newport drew with Malvern 4-4.

After 22 games, the Rams sit in ninth spot and Williamstown in 10th.

There’s still six rounds remaining the season, with both sides in action on Tuesday night, after deadline.

Deer Park, Keilor and Airport West St Christopher’s are the other teams into the semi finals.

In pool B, the Barkly St Uniting upset the Greenvale Kangaroos, with the match going down to the final ball.

The Kangaroos made 5-132 from their overs with Kanishk Bollu top scoring 53.

Eiffel Soza and Jaskaran singh Gill took two wickets each.

The Dragons timed their run to perfection, finishing 8-133. Singh Gill top scored with 63. Kingsville was knocked out in a another thriller, losing to Burnside Springs United. Kingsville made 5-139 from its overs with Joshua Kelly taking 2-14 for Burnside. Mathison King guided Burnside to the win as it hit the winning runs off the final ball, finishing 3-140. King finished 64 not out.

OPEN DAY | DISCOVER RIVERVUE

See why residents say, “Life begins at Rivervue.” Join us for our Open Day and experience premium retirement living in a secure, gated community just 9km from Melbourne’s CBD.

Tour our stylish two and three bedroom homes, soak up views of the Maribyrnong River and Medway Golf Course, explore our extensive gardens and resort-style facilities, and meet our friendly team and residents.

On the day, enjoy lunch on us, live music and participate in village activities as you discover what life at Rivervue is really like.

WEDNESDAY

25TH FEBRUARY

11.30AM - 3.00PM