Star Weekly - Wyndham - 11th February 2026

History for sale

By Jaidyn Kennedy

The federal government’s announcement that it will sell RAAF Base Point Cook has been met with backlash, with some locals fearing 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 Forcewouldbeoneof67militarysitesfully orpartiallydivested.

Nearby RAAF Williams Laverton will be partially divested, per the recommendations of a defence audit publicly released alongside the announcement.

PointCookresidentBenBatchuluunsaid “history and community will be losing a limb”ifthebaseissold.

“All over world history is what’s left, it is supposed to be protected, preserved and included in every budget, every year, and by any government,” Mr Batchuluun said.

“It’spartoftheidentityofthepeopleand the identity of the future people here as well.

“Notonlyisitaheritagesitebutitiswhat makes our community what we are, the neighbourhood with planes flying over it constantly.

“The kids love it, my friends and guests loveitwhentheyvisitus.

“Lastly, from my experience and my knowledge of history, tearing down and belittling the past and history in general, deprioritising historic sites and viewing themfromacostperspectiveisshameful.

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

Wyndham councillors Susan McIntyre and Jasmine Hill said the site is too integral to the suburb’s identity to be sold, and the possibility of developers purchasing the land for housing would be disastrous.

“I am personally opposed because this is not just land– it is the birthplace of the Royal Australian Air Force and one of the most significant defence heritage sites in Australia,”CrMcIntyresaid.

“To see it listed for total divestment is shocking and deeply concerning. Once public ownership of a site like this is lost, it is gone forever. That is a line we should not becrossing.”

She has concerns about further housing development.

“Adding further growth without guaranteed infrastructure would seriously undermineliveability.”

Cr Hill said she supported the historical value of the site, but as a high school teachersaidthesiteshouldbealsokeptfor educationalpurposes.

“I have VCE students who aspire to become pilots and pursue aviation pathways through RMIT and training connectedwithRAAFBasePointCook,”Cr Hillsaid.

“This is a living training ecosystem, not justahistoricsite.”

She proposed that the site be used as a specialised engineering and aviation education precinct, in partnership with universitiesandindustry.

Point Cook MP Mathew Hilakari has 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 or supportedthesale.

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

“While this is a decision made by

the Commonwealth, we welcome the opportunity 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 planningprocess.”

Gellibrand MP Tim Watts said he would work with the community to ensure the heritageofthesitewouldbepreservedand infrastructure built before any additional housingwasdeveloped.

The Department of Defence was contacted and referred Star Weekly to its publicly available information. The federal government has not unveiled any plans beyondsellingthesite.

Support for abuse victims

By Jaidyn Kennedy

TheWesternRegionCentreAgainstSexual Assault (WestCASA) is offering several free support services for people who may be affected by alleged sexual assaults in childcare centres.

Located in Werribee, the organisation is offering confidential services including initial engagement and assessment; single-session crisis support; brief interventions of one to four sessions; and referrals for longer-term counselling.

Chief executive Annette Vickery said more than 200 impacted individuals, families and community members have booked to attend education sessions, ac-

cessed brief intervention counselling sessions and requested other support.

“Since the alleged childcare sexual assaults came to light, we’ve seen a significant and urgent increase in people reaching out for support—proof that when harm is exposed, our community seeks connection, safety and care,” Ms Vickery said.

“The surge in people seeking our support since this news broke shows both the deep impact of sexual harm and the courage of a community choosing to speak up and seek help.

“With support from the Government, WestCASA has been able to widen our support to early educators in kindergar-

tens and primary schools.

“All people who work with children have been impacted and can come to us for the help they need.”

Families directly affected are welcome tocontactthecentre,andsupportservices are offered to anyone older than 12 years.

WestCASA also has strong partnerships with local western metropolitan based servies, such as Support After Sexual Harm (SASH), which provides sexual assault counselling for children and young people under 18 years, and GenWest who provide family violence supports and community wellbeing services.

WestCASA is delivering an extensive number of trainings to early childhood

Toastmasters celebrate the spoken word

Werribee Toastmasters celebrated a pretty significant milestone on Wednesday 4 February, clocking up their 1000th meeting.

For decades, the group has helped localsfromallwalksoflifeworkonandgain confidence in public speaking.

President Shylendra Zalke said the milestone was the reflection of many lives ofenhancersacrossavarietyofindustries.

“This milestone meeting celebrates not just a number, but the impact the club has had on personal growth, inclusion, and confidence-buildingwithinthelocalcommunity,” he said.

Currently, people aged 18 to 75 participate and share an array of experiences with one another.

Having been part of it for two years, Mr Zalke said speaking well is the gateway to opportunities.

“People who come there are mostly migrants or students at a stage of life where they want to change and they become aware that speaking is one of the most important ways of doing so.

“I feel that sometimes we don’t get opportunities because we are not able to speak, so we hold ourselves back because we think we aren’t good enough.

“Everyone has a story to tell…but you don’t become a confident speaker overnight.

“Personally, I worked in the finance industry for 25 years and am now getting into coaching, which requires you to speak to people.“

While the Toastmasters may be proud of their history, they are equally eager for their future and want more people to come along.

Thoselookingtoimprovetheircommunication skills, confidence, or leadership presence in a supportive environment can email werribeetoastmasters@gmail.com

Upgrades to parks offer residents more recreation choices

Wyndham council is encouraging members of the community to make use of severalnewparkandplaygroundfacilitiesthat have been recently installed or upgraded. Lincoln Heath Boulevard Reserve in PointCookhasreceivedanewplayground, set of barbecues, and a drinking fountain as part of the Park Asset Renewal Program, a $4.4 million fund council uses to refresh reserves. In the same suburb, Tom Roberts Parade has freshened play equipment, a garden makeover, and an irrigation upgrade to make it safer to use.

Over in Werribee, Latham Street Reserve now features a brand-new playgroundwithswings,atrackrideandmultiplay unit, upgraded fitness equipment and improved landscaping.

The outdoor space at Woodville Childcare Centre in Hoppers Crossing has also received an upgrade, with new play equipment, a cubby house, water play area, vegetable garden, refreshed sandpit, refurbished yarning circle and improved landscaping.

More upgrades are scheduled, with improvements to the outdoor space at Wood-

education centres across the Western Region to offer tailored education and wellbeing sessions.

These include: guidance on prevention; responding sensitively to child’s disclosure; and creating supportive, emotionally safe environments for children and staff.

WestCASA is also seeing a strong interest in training from primary and secondary schools on how best to support wellbeing staff and teachers, who are often the first trusted person a child discloses to.

If you are interested in training, counselling or other support, call WestCASA’s directlinefrom9am-5pmonweekdayson 9216 0444 or visit westcasa.org.au.

Junubi welcomes youth support

A $750,000 boost from the state government designed to support South Sudanese youth across Melbourne has been well received by a local community leader.

AnnouncedattheendofJanuary, the investment will put more bicultural youth workers on the ground and provide additional family support packages.

Poly Kiyaga, the manager of community education and support group Junubi Wyndham, said sharing in the pool of $750,000 will help local youth immensely.

“The provision of this funding is going to be able to allow us to recruit more cultural workers on the ground,” Mr Kiyaga said.

“We need more people on the ground to engage with, I think this is going to go a long way.”

Mr Kiyaga said that some of the money will allow more young people to enter and stay in sport for longer.

“It will also help us have access to sporting grounds because even if they are owned by the council, we have to pay a fee to use them.

“We know that sports are one of those things that brings young people together … It is something young people get interested in.

“We also know that it is not all about sports, but they learn about working in a team and making new friends.

“After being on the pitch for a couple of hours, they were really tired and they just wanted to relax …so they won’t be loitering around.

“If young people are not really engaged after school, they are going to be around shopping centres, and even if they aren’t doing anything wrong they are going to be a nuisance.“

ville Kindergarten in Hoppers Crossing on track for completion at the end of January.

Playground and landscaping upgrades are also underway at Point Cook’s Penton WayReserve,andsixotherprojectsduefor completion in the coming months.

Mayor Josh Gilligan said the ongoing works ensure outdoor spaces remain safe, accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

“Localparksplayavitalroleinthelifeof a community – they provide space for exercising, playing, socialising with friends and family or relaxing and unwinding,” Cr Gilligan said.

According to Mr Kiyaga, one of the biggest issues the South Sudanesecommunityfacesisthecurrent cost-of-living crisis making it difficult for families to be home with their children or fund team sports.

“Some of the families are not available because they are out doing shift work–mum and dad have to be out working and put a roof over their head.”

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

Digital birth certificate trial

has been announced as part of a trial of digital birth certificates.

Minister for Government Services Danny Pearson announced the trial of digital birth certificates in three local government areas – Wyndham City Council, the City of Casey, and Mitchell Shire Council - during a visit to an early learning centre in Point Cook on Monday.

“The digital birth certificate will make it quicker and easier for Victorian parents to enroll their kids into kinder,“ Mr Pearson said.

“This means you will have access to this important document anytime, wherever you are – which is one less thing to worry about. This is all part of our digitisation

agenda – updating how government works so that Victorians can use services more easily and more efficiently.”

Under the new system, participating parents can now store their child’s birth certificate securely on their smartphone, using the Service Victoria app’s digital wallet feature.

The use of the digital birth certificate will be optional for those eligible, and physical copies will continue to be issued to all Victorians. The trial is now live.

New vehicle for Wyndham SES volunteers

Wyndham SES volunteers have received the keys to a handy little vehicle that will help them do what they do best.

A new Isuzu four-wheel drive crew cab, more specifically.

Unit controller Mark Schier explained a few of the specifications and how it will enhance the unit’s capabilities.

“It is going to replace a current vehicle we have that has reached the end of its life and is part of a standardisation on some vehicles,” Mr Schier said.

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.

Police cars rammed

“I think this one is a little roomier inside for people going inside, a bit more fuel efficient and a bit lighter.

“The equipment is organised a bit more efficiently on the truck too.”

The unit also has one truck, two support four Ford Rangers, a rescue boat and a couple of trailers for different purposes.

The Isuzu is also expected to improve the actual safety of operations through newer attached equipment and being more nimble than older models or larger trucks.

“They are being rolled out across the state as part of a fleet replacement program.

“Also what this means is some of the equipment itself we are using will be updated ....., so that provides better safety for users,“ he said.

“We do storms and floods, help when trees go down, attend to water damage and water inundation situations.

“It means we are able to operate more efficiently and be able to get into some less accessible areas.“

The unit is always looking for new volunteers. Expressions of interest can be lodged via https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/join-us

Wyndham council wants to hear the views of young people

Young people living across Wyndham are being invited to share their opinions and experiences in order to inform local policy and resource allocation.

Run by Wyndham Council every two years, the youth survey is open to people aged 12-25.

Young people are urged to share thoughts and opinions on a range of topics relating to safety, their interests and mental health among other topics with the responses providing a snapshot of who young people are in Wyndham, their challenges and expectations.

The feedback will be used to shape the programs and activities that Council delivers to ensure Wyndham’s young people are engaged, empowered and connected members of the community.

Council dedicates sections of their operations to providing a range of recreational, educational and employment opportunities which support the development and wellbeing of young people.

Successful projects have included mental health events in collaboration with high schools, volunteer groups and service providers such as mental

health clinicians.

Popular ongoing social activities delivered annually include the school holiday program, battle of the bands and movie nights.

If questions, surveys and the like aren’t typically up your alley, there might be an incentive to break patterns and give it a shot.

Those who take the survey to go into the draw to win a PlayStation 5 or a Nike voucher. Feedback closes 30 June 2026. For more information: https://theloop. wyndham.vic.gov.au/youth-survey-2026

Police have charged a teen after two police vehicles were rammed in Hoppers Crossing on 2 February. Officers from the dog squad spotted an allegedly stolen Hyundai Getz parked on Geddes Crescent about 1.30am. Police attempted intercept the vehicle, when it’s alleged the driver deliberately rammed two police vehicles. It is alleged the two occupants fled on foot but were located by a police dog and its handler nearby. The alleged driver, a 16-year-old boy from the Wyndham area, has been charged. His alleged passenger, a 14-year-old boy from the Wyndham area, was cautioned. It is alleged the vehicle was stolen from a Tarneit gym on 31 January.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

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 and the back of his throat into his stomach, 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.

A great Valentine’s team

What the world needs now is love, sweet love, and Trent and Olivia Burgess might be pretty good ambassadors for Valentine’s Day.

Thecouplehavebeentogetherfor15years, married for three and co-own a business in Werribee.

“Olivia was a bartender at a local pub and I was there having a few drinks in Ballarat,” Mr Burgess said.

“To be honest, what I like most is how she drives me about my work and my career.”

Teamwork certainly seems to be the dreamwork, according to Ms Burgess.

“I think for me, we are not just husband and wife,” she said.

“We are friends first– we enjoy each other

and always have.

“We always say we are a team.“

They were asked if they could impart any advice to budding couples who want to stand by each other for the long term.

“For me communication and respect are key, two equal hearts make one,” she said.

Away from the hustle and bustle of running a tattoo studio together, the couple have two children that keep them busy.

Like many true romances, this one is represented by a favourite song that the pair first danced to and frequently reprise.

In this case, it is I Want to Grow Old With You from The Wedding Singer, a classic Adam Sandler movie.

Briefs

Mamma Mia at Kelly Park

Anyone looking for a romantic summer evening with a free movie can enjoy the special Valentine’s Day outdoor screening of Mamma Mia at Kelly Park in Werribee on Saturday 14 February. Bring your loved ones, a picnic rug, and your best singing voice for a night of feel-good fun and classic ABBA hits under the twilight sky from 5-8pm. No bookings are required, by checking Wyndham Council’s social media for updates as poor weather may lead to cancellation.

Williams Landing Baby Time Sing, move, and bond with your baby sharing favourite songs and reading tips. Baby Time runs every week on Monday at 10.30am as well as Monday, Thursday, and Friday at 2pm during School term. This 30-minute session will include songs, rhymes, and fingerplays to encourage interaction with your baby in a fun environment with other parents. To attend you must have a baby aged 12 months or younger. No bookings are required.

Pop-Up Library Tarneit

Wyndham’s free Pop-Up Library will be making the rounds to 65 Wooten Road on Monday 16 February. The van will be open and books available to read and borrow between 3-4pm.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

MY PLACE

Luciana Manrique de Aragon is a community advocate and volunteer. She discussed her connection to Wyndham with Jaidyn Kennedy.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do?

I am a community advocate and “bridge-builder” born in Salta, Argentina. For a decade, I’ve aligned my professional life with my soul’s values: integrity and lasting relationships. As a canopy resilience practitioner, a role dedicated to preparingcommunitiesforclimatechange adaptation and resilience, and woman of faith, I am developing strategies to heal the environmental and social stressors facing our Latin American community in the west. My background in journalism draws me to give a voice to the vulnerable and ensure the creation is protected. My childhood motto remains my compass: “Do not fear giving; you will never give too much if you give gladly. In doing so, you are not just giving, you are becoming more.”

What is your connection to Wyndham? Wyndham is where my heart lives. For 14 years, I’ve been sewing seeds through service, from welcoming refugees into my homeforhelpwithhousingandtranslations to sharing secret recipes at local picnics. Through the Werribee Uniting Church and UCAN, I strive to influence policies, so we leave this place better than we found it for future generations.

What is your favourite thing about Wyndham?

It is the profound resilience of our people. I love seeing the whole world reflected in a single Wyndham street. As someone from a multicultural background, I find it beautiful that we are a mosaic of stories speaking a common language of kindness. We don’t just live side-by-side; we carry a collective strength that makes this city a vibrant, living organism.

Where are some your favourite spaces to spend time in Wyndham?

I find peace at Werribee South at sunrise, it is a magical place. I also love the Werribee

River. It reminds me of Salta’s rivers, except back home you’d never dream of spotting a platypus! I love the role that water plays in nature and that’s why I support Environment Victoria and Uniting World. We must be stewards of this beauty; protecting our natural resources is my passion. What is something people might be surprised to know about you?

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago 12 February 1986

A $20 million waste management park for toxic industrial wastes could be located on the Board of Works farm at Werribee.

30 years ago 14 February 1996

The federal president of the Australian Labor Party, Mr Barry Jones, has done an about-face in little more than a week on the suitability of an enlarged Point Cook to replace Essendon Airport.

I am a runner. I never thought I could run for two minutes, but after the pandemic, my kids encouraged me to try. Joining Wynfit, I swapped office shoes for runners. During a Sunday training, I unexpectedly ran my first half-marathon! I’ll never forget the crew stopping to cheer me through those final kilometres. That collective encouragement is a memory I’ll keep forever.

Is there anything you would change or fix about the area?

I want our “social heart” to grow with our suburbs.Wemustfixtransportdisconnects, like the two-hour struggle from Wyndham Vale to the Harbour. I dream of safe ciclovias (bike-paths) bridging gaps, like Point Cook to Williams Landing. We need parksofeverysizetobalancepollutionand extreme weather.

20 years ago 8 February 2006

New requirements for housing poultry are forcing Wyndham egg farms to make million-dollar upgrades, threatening their livelihoods.

10 years ago 10 February 2016

Wyndham could be home to an exclusive estate with “acre-sized“ blocks if one Wyndham councillor gets his way.

MP reflects on first year

By Jaidyn Kennedy

For most people, seeing a photo of themselves at their parent’s house would hardly be unusual.

But for Werribee MP John Lister– who fought last year’s Werribee by-election as the Labor candidate – it was a shock to see his face on campaign material firmly planted in his mum’s front lawn.

“My mum has always had a corflute or a poster out the front of the house for nearly every election that’s happened since I was 18…we had Tim Pallas, Joanne Ryan and Julia Gillard,” Mr Lister said, listing the Labor luminaries who have enjoyed his family’s election support in the past.

“Then to go past my mum’s house one day and to see my face on the front lawn, that’s when it really hit me that I have gone from being private citizen John to representative John.“

Mr Lister, 32, took his seat in state parliament last February after winning the by-election that was triggered by the resignation of long-time Victorian treasurer Tim Pallas.

A teacher by trade, Mr Lister moved to Werribee at the age of six with his family and said his desire to help people led him into classrooms and politics when the opportunity arose.

“When the opportunity came up to run in the by-election, I had always been a Labor person...so this was almost like the planets aligning and saying this is a way to do what you have always wanted to do, which is help your town, “ he explained.

“I made the decision to become a teacher because I knew I could go back and help young people wherever I moved– but the intention was always to come back to Werribee.”

Entering public office has been a challenge, but a year into the job he said the sacrifices demanded of MPs have been worth it.

“Being an MP is not a 9am-5pm job–

you are always thinking about doing the job 24 hours, seven days a week,” Mr Lister said.

“I think finding that balance between family life and just being a person who lives in Werribee who just wants to go for a run on the weekend and hangs around town to bring that face on the billboard has been a big adjustment, which can make it quite hard, but people put that trust in you to do that job for them.”

Mr Lister said the thing that surprised him most was how much influence he can have as a local MP.

“What I have realised is as a member of parliament there is so much you can do… and being part of that Labor team, I have been able to influence policies particularly around community safety.

“I never realised how much influence I had over that process… I don’t think I realised during the by-election just how much I could do in this role.”

An anthropology student at university, Mr Lister studied how communities function and has spent time in the South Pacific for field work, and is still a keen volunteer with the CFA in Werribee. He was asked what matters most to him personally.

“I am really, really passionate about learning and by extension I am really passionate about helping young people,” he said.

“Protecting our environment, especially as someone who wants to raise kids in this town, is also really important to me.”

Crushing for 60 years

Queensland’sGraniteBeltcomesalivethis month for the long-running Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival - a celebrationoffood,wineandcommunity.

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 Beltsospecial–cool-climatewines,apples at their peak, passionate growers and producers, and a community that knows how to welcome visitors and put on a propercelebration.

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

The Diamond Jubilee honours that historywhileinvitingpeopletoexperience itfirst-hand.

The main festival weekend brings the energy to the streets of Stanthorpe, with thetownbuzzingfrommorningtonight.

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 uptheStanthorpesky.

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,andhands-onharvestmoments.

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 themainstreet.

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 bigGrandParade.

Sponsors are Balancing Heart Vineyard –votedBestSmallCellarDoorbyGourmet Traveller Wine – just one of the many Vineyards worth a visit while in the area forthefestival.

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

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

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

With accommodation filling quickly and ticketed events close to capacity, visitors areencouragedtoplannow.

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

7 Nights

Dec 2026 - Mar 2027

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

MEDITERRANEAN’S ICONIC SHORES

Barcelona to Istanbul or vice versa

29 DAYS • 8 COUNTRIES • 23 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL • JUL, AUG 2026; FEB-MAY, JUL SEPT 2027; MAR, APR, JUL, AUG 2028

From $24,595pp in Veranda Stateroom

From $30,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

ANCIENT ADRIATIC TREASURES

Venice (Chioggia) to Istanbul or vice versa

15 DAYS • 5 COUNTRIES • 12 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • MAR, APR, JUN, AUG 2026; MAR-MAY, JUL-OCT 2027; MAR, APR, AUG 2028

From $12,995pp in Veranda Stateroom From $15,795pp in Penthouse Veranda

MEDITERRANEAN ODYSSEY

Barcelona to Venice (Chioggia) or vice versa

13 DAYS • 6 COUNTRIES • 10 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • MAR-OCT 2026; FEB-NOV 2027; APR-SEP 2028

From $10,995pp in Deluxe Veranda From $12,295pp in

Action group’s focus areas

By Jaidyn Kennedy

The Point Cook Action Group is back in action for 2026 and has outlined its most pressing priorities for the rest of the year.

President Karthick Thanigaimani said the group is focused heavily on helping to boost jobs in the area through advocating for the activation of the East Werribee Employment Precinct.

“IT parks, research hubs, and innovation centres would bring more local jobs and attract global talent,” he said.

“It would help create a healthy environment as well as help small businesses

start up locally within Wyndham.”

Part of that advocacy vision is bringing more educational opportunities to the locality, and in particular to East Werribee.

“I don’t think the universities in the west and the campuses out here cover all the specialities, so that is another challenge as students have to waste time commuting to the CBD and beyond,“ Mr Thanigaimani said.

“I know some friends who have kids who go to the eastern suburbs for Monash and spend more than three hours travelling back and forth.

“It would be helpful for kids not to

travel so far and it would attract more people locally, encouraging them to work and start businesses here.

“Attending university online is an option– there’s no doubt about it– but it’s in-person helps with people seeing each other and working together.”

Next on the agenda is focusing on crime by continuing their stance of calling for more cops on the beat, and the expansion of youth programs where possible.

Pushing for an indoor multipurpose sports stadium in Point Cook, an indoor pool, and a multicultural arts and perfor-

Hoppers Crossing CFA stalwart honoured

A stalwart of the Hoppers Crossing community and CFA captain has been honoured by his former brigade.

Paul DiMartino served the Hoppers Crossing CFA brigade for 25 years before relocating with his family and was recently handed life membership.

Having joined as a volunteer when he was 20, Mr DiMartino spent six years as brigade captain and led it through Covid. He was also was heavily involved in fundraising events such as the Good Friday Appeal. He would be forgiven for expecting the

accolade, but was humble about the honour.

“I felt very humble and honoured to be one of the few that are selected as a life member of the brigade– I was lost for words which I said to the brigade which is very unusual,” Mr DiMartino said.

For the former captain, the ability to comfort someone on the worst of days and watch his community thrive were the highlights of his time.

“Rescuing someone and helping them out of a difficult situation is one of the best

things…we are usually there on a person’s worst day, is one way of thinking about it.

“I would go into the same area each Christmas Eve with the firetrucks and we would watch a young boy develop.

“Watching the kid’s faces when you bring Santa out in a firetruck is priceless.”

Some of those things take you away from the sadness you experience in those roles.

Mr DiMartino has moved to the Connewarre Rural Fire Brigade and Gerry Green has now formally taken over the role as captain.

mance centre are part of that equation.

“A lot of families and kids are coming up so when they finish school and get free time it will be good to engage them with things like this,“ Mr Thanigaimani said

He also said that Eagle Stadium in Werribee is very busy and difficult for many residents to access due to poor public transport links.

As reported by Star Weekly ast year, the group is still focused on duplicating Point Cook Road from Aircraft Station to Saltwater Estate, expanding local bus routes and increasing their frequency.

Riverbend park feedback opens

Wyndham council is calling on residents to have their say on the future of a beloved local park.

Locals can contribute to the concept designs on Riverbend Historical Park in Werribee by submitting ideas through council’s feedback portal The Loop.

Among the things that are open for consideration are an upgraded picnic area with new shelters, barbeque and seating.

New public toilets, a drinking fountain and a pedestrian path linking the carpark to the Werribee River Trail as well as new steps connecting to Melbourne Water’s proposed floating pontoon are part of the concept plans.

New paths have been proposed to better connect people with key destinations within the park and to formalise grass and garden bed areas that have become worn from frequent use.

Several drop-in sessions to discuss the plans will be held at the car park entrance on Heaths Roads. They will take place 10am-noon on Saturday 14 February and 3-6pm on Tuesday 17 February.

With the resident feedback, and engagement report will be published in April and the concept plan will be finalised in June. Works are expected to commence late this year or by mid-2027.

Feedback must be provided by Monday 2 March to be considered.

PUZZLES

Nations (9)

Flagrantly bad (9)

Grumpy (9) 17 Resident of Jerusalem or Tel Aviv (7)

Mildly irritates (7)

Opinions (5)

Shifts (5)

Small river (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

Walking group

Every Wednesday morning The Grange Community Centre hosts a free walking group which spends 45 minutes through local streets and parks. Suitable for all fitness levels and the session begins at 9.15am.

· enquiries@grangecommunity.org.au

Werribee Bowls Club

Enjoy a relaxed Sunday of live music at Werribee Bowls Club from 2-5pm on Sunday 15 February featuring Cardboard Mountain. Entry is $10, with BYO nibbles and drinks at Bowlo prices. The club is open 1-6pm. Limited seating – bookings recommended. Chirnside Park, 237 Watton Street, Werribee · 9741 3229

Crafties at Iramoo

The Crafties meet at Iramoo Community Centre every Wednesday between 12-2pm and put their knitting and crocheting skills to use. The crew make items for themselves and participate in charitable causes.

· 8742 3688

Live Well For Life Group

IPC Health is hosting a free five-week program that will cover healthy lifestyle changes, including expert tips on heart health, diabetes, stroke prevention, nutrition, exercise and more. The group runs 10am-12pm every Monday until 2 March at IPC Health Hoppers Crossing campus, located at 117-129 Warringa Crescent. Adults who want to improve their health or reduce risk of chronic conditions can join.

· Call 1300 472 432 to register

Multicultural Eid Bazaar

A three-day community celebration to be held from 13–15 March at the Werribee Racing Club.. The event will be a vibrant cultural festival showcasing the joy, heritage, and community spirit of Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations observed by Muslim communities worldwide.

Victoria State Rose Garden

The Victoria State and Rose Garden Supporters group are always welcoming new members to help keep Werribee Park beautiful. The volunteers work 7am-noon on Wednesdays and 7-11am on Saturdays. If you enjoy gardening, roses or just enjoy the company of like-minded people, visit www.victoriastaterosegarden.com.au

Wyndham Makers and Farmers

Market

This market serves as a hub for talented artisans and small businesses to display their unique creations, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and take their ventures to new heights. Food trucks, live music and children’s activities are regular staples. Runs on the third Sunday of every month at Werribee Racecourse. Gold coin entry.

Altona VIEW Club

Altona VIEW is a not-for-profit club that welcomes ladies from the Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and other areas to join in for lunch the third Wednesday of each month, at 11am at the Altona RSL. Come along and enjoy the speakers each month. Other outings are arranged and it is a great opportunity to make new friends. Contact · altonaview@gmail.com or Julie, 0421 315 846

The

Creative Corner

A program to create an inclusive environment for young people from different schools to come together and learn new skills and ways to be creative. The program will aim to teach a variety of different skills and allow young people to create projects with different mediums each week.

Meets every Monday from 3.30-5.30pm at the Youth Services Centre, 1 Everton Road, Truganina.

· Jordyn Griffiths, YouthInWyndham@wyndham. vic.gov.au

Baby Bump and Beyond program

The Bump Baby and Beyond program is a free service, excluding small fees for some excursions, that is offered to pregnant and or mothering young women up to age of 25 years who live, work or study in Wyndham. The group meets every Wednesday between 11.00am - 1.00pm at the Youth Services Centre, 86 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing.

· Wyndham Youth Services team, 8734 1355

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

Lizzy Bizzy Food Swaps

Come along to the Manor Lakes Community Centre to exchange excess homegrown food. From vegetables, fruits, eggs to seeds and oils, members of the

community are encouraged to participate and help reduce food waste. Runs between 10am-12pm last Saturday of every month.

· Liz, 0448 781 111

Resume Help

Wyndham council is providing resume workshops for young people aged 15-25. Book into a one-on-one session, online or in person, with an education and youth services librarian to get some help crafting your resume and answering interview questions. Sessions run at 9am, several times a week.

· resumehelp@wyndham.vic.gov.au

Wyndham Rotary

If you have an hour or two to volunteer in a local project Wyndham Rotary would love to hear from you. If you have an idea and you want some help taking the idea to action, contact us. If you want to connect with friendly, like-minded people, come and chat to us. Meeting locally each week, you will be made welcome.

· Julie, 0406 196 630.

Point Cook Combined Probus Club

Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook.

· John Sloan, 0436 480 728 or sloanrisk@gmail. com

Wyndham Ladies Probus

Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am.

· Pat 0411 316 795

With One Voice Wyndham Choir With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee. · wyndham@withonevoice.org.au

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips. · Yvette, 0411 952 706

Werribee River Association

New volunteers to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace. · admin@werribeeriver.org.au, or www.werribeeriver.org.au

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.

Morethan20yearsaftershewonhearts as the winner of Australian Idol, Casey Donovan has amassed an impressive theatricalresumeandcementedherselfas 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 virtuosoSlavaGrigoryanjoinsMelbourne 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

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 puredreams.

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 the milestone into a full-scale

celebration that’s equal parts nostalgia anddancefloortherapy.

Fans can look forward to wall-to-wall hits in Go Your Own Way, Little Lies, Rhiannon, Landslide, Edge of Seventeen andofcourse,Don’tStop.

It’sonebigFleetwoodMacfestival,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 commentthatledtothebirthoftheiconic

tributeact.

“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,” shesaid.

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

TUSKcomestoMac’sHotel,Meltonon Saturday28February.Doorsare8pm.

Experience live Celtic music with instrumentalist Rennie Pearson

Multi-instrumentalist Rennie Pearson is bringing the warmth and mystique of Celtic musicbackdownthehighwaytoLittleRiver andGeelongthismonth.

Channelling the traditions of Ireland, Scotland and Maritime Canada, the virtuoso’s wooden flute, Irish whistles, guitar, fiddle, bodhrán, and voice will tell talesoldandnew.

He was down this way last year, but this timeanewlayerwillbeaddedtohissound.

“Thesewillbethefirsttwoperformances withapercussionistinvolved,”Pearsonsaid.

“I have been quite excited about doing something with percussion for a while, we have had a flute playing melody, keyboard doingharmonyandnowthepercussionwill

bedrivingtherhythm.

“Ithinkitisgoingtobeareallyfullsound.

“The reason why I chose this guy is becauseheisveryfamiliarwithCelticmusic andheisverysensitive.”

The intimacy of the music will not be

the untold stories behind some of his most loved songs.

Everyone’sfavouritesisteract,Vikaand 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 audiencestostaybehindfortheafterparty – takes over on 6 November.

Schoolholidaysprogrammingincludes Junkyard Beats in April, a visit from Spot thedoginJuneandTheTeenyTinyStevies 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 limitedtime.

Thework,paintedbyMartinShawin1982, depicts three figures – a blue, a red and a greenperson–againstayellowbackground.

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

He described the touring exhibition as a “passing parade” of Australia which forms a portraitofthecountryovertime.

“When I did the painting, I did have three Australians in mind, or Australian themes,” ShawtoldStarWeekly.

But he has never revealed who the identitiesare.

Thetouringexhibitionhasbeentravelling acrossthecountrysince1983,withitsstopin Brimbankmarkingits267thvisit.

“Some people put contemporary names, somehaveputthepast.Somehavegivenme realistic opinions, some are more abstract themes,”Shawsaid.

“SomepeoplehaveputdowntheReserve Bank, some put Bondi Beach. Other people putdownpoliticalparties.

“Ned Kelly, he’s the most prominent persontoberecordedinthebook.”

Amongthosewhohaveprovidedanswers isPremierJacintaAllanwhoguessedLauren Jackson, Uncle Jack Charles and Julia Gillard for the blue, red and green figures respectively.

Last year, the first person to ever record theirresponsesdied.

lost with the thudding of drumsticks, but it’s probably better to let Pearson try and describewhatit’slike.

“The melodies have these ethereal qualities that go beyond the mortal realm, and the driving rhythms are dance music throughandthrough.

“Another one is the connection with ancient times, it’s kind of got this otherworldly element where the tunes and songshavebeenpasseddown.

“It’sanabsolutejoytobeapartof.”

The music will flow at the Door Gallery Cafe 8pm on Friday 20 February and at the Little River Mechanics Hall 3pm on Sunday 22 February. Tickets: www. renniepearsonmusic.com/

On30April,1983IanGude,asolicitorfrom Mannerim, wrote his guesses of Malcolm Fraser,AndrewPeacockandJohnHalfpenny astheblue,redandgreenfigures.

Shaw said members of the public, especially those who are younger, may not recogniseanyofthenamesguessedbyGude.

Theonefigureinthepaintingthatdoesn’t remain a mystery is a small black and white dogpaintedtowardtherightsideofthework.

The dog is Shaw’s beloved Pea who died in1991.

“I’vetoldyouwhoPeais,nowyouhaveto tellmewhotheAustraliansare,”Shawsaid.

‘Three Well-Known Australians’ can be viewed for free at the Brimbank Gallery and SunshineLibrary,301HampshireRoaduntil Friday27February.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Pakistan has announced that it will boycott its 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup group stage match versus which team?

2. Who won the 2026 Australian Open women’s singles title?

3. Which NBA player was recently suspended for 25 games for violating

4. What sport was at the centre of the 2017 ABC television series The Warriors?

5. Kylian Mbappé and Sam Kerr were the cover athletes for the Ultimate Edition of which FIFA video game?

6. Usman Tariq bowls rightarm off-spin for which country’s national T20 team?

Rocky Elsom represented Australia internationally in which sport?

8. Former Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding represented which country at the 2002 Winter Olympics?

Which men’s singles title did Carlos Alcaraz win to become the youngest man to complete a ‘Career Grand Slam’?

In 2025, which performer headlined the Super Bowl LIX halftime

What does it mean to ‘free solo’ a skyscraper, as recently demonstrated by Alex Honnold?

12. A triple axel is a signature move in which sport?

13. At the Australian Open, how much does a singles player earn for losing in the first round of the main draw?

14. As Swans fans celebrated Buddy Franklin’s 1,000th goal at the SCG, two supporters honoured their late grandmother in a very unusual way: what did they do?

15. In surfing, what is the term for catching a wave that another surfer is already riding, breaking surf etiquette?

16. Australian Open semifinalist Jessica Pegula’s father is the billionaire owner of which NFL team?

17. Mafaufau Tavita Lio Mafaufau Sanerivi Talimatasi is the birth name of a retired Samoan-New Zealand boxer, better known as who?

18. Which two countries are banned from competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics?

19. Name any of the three 2000 Sydney Olympics mascots.

20. Paul McBeth has accumulated over US $867,000 in prize money playing which sport?

21. Netflix show FindingHer Edge follows characters in which sport?

22. In which year was the stand rule introduced in the AFL?

23. How many darts is a perfect leg in a single game?

24. Australian Peter Siddle is known for what coincidental achievement?

25. How many bird-themed teams are there in the NFL?

26. And what are they?

27. In which year did ice hockey make its Olympic debut?

28. What is the nickname of Premier League team Brentford?

29. Who won the women’s WWE 2026 Royal Rumble?

30. And who won the men’s?

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 N Line pack consisting of exclusive 19-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, driving the front wheels.

The petrol motor put out 132kW of power and 264 Nm of torque.

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 and 270 volts.

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, are a great help when parking.

Driving Quick, yet quiet is the best way to describe the Tucson hybrid’s behaviour. The turbo dials up the power, while the electric motor plays its part in smooth going, as does the six-speed auto transmission.

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 sharp side if rushed into action.

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 as drive modes.

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’s running around town.

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

Giants claim a big scalp

By Tara Murray

Werribee Giants had one of their performances of the Baseball Victoria summer league premier 1 first nine season to upset Essendon.

Sitting at contrasting ends of the ladder, it was the bottom of the table Giants that got the win against Bombers, who sit in the top two.

Giants coach Cameron Brown said it was really good for the group to have a result like that.

It’s the second time the Giants have beaten the Bombers and it was their first win since 11 November.

“We were rapt with the whole thing, we did really well,” he said.

“I think it shows where we’re really at.

“A lot of the season we’ve had difficulties with injuries and there’s been ebbs and flows.

“We’ve had a lot of close games and to get that validation for them was really pleasing.”

The Giants got the 12-7 win the hard way on Saturday.

They were down 7-2 after three innings before scoring four runs in the fourth innings to bring the margin back to one.

“They had the momentum and it was going their way,” Brown said. “We were able to bring it back to 7-6 and then take a one run lead and then add a few more.

“It was a clean game. We were the better team on the day.”

Brown said having the likes of Andrew Christou, Addison Bishop-Worn and Simon Riches back in the side had helped with the performance.

WesDeJongpitchedforthefirsttimeina numberofweekswhichwasanotherbonus for the Giants.

The win was the Giants third of the season.

Brown said they hoped they could put a few more performances together like this for the rest of the season.

There’s five rounds remaining.

“It was good recognition for the hard work and we’re trying to do that in every game,” Brown said.

“We have a good opportunity against Williamstown and we’ll try and take the

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.

Theaward,namedafterbaseballlegend 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 monthlywinnerLouisKiangwereawarded 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.”

Stewartsaidforasportthatdoesn’thave 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.

Hewasoneoftheyoungestcompetitors.

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

Whileonlyhavingjustturned20,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.

“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.

Jobejokedhewouldholditoverherthat he won the overall award.

“Istartedyoungandshewasmysparring 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

good form into tomorrow [Tuesday night].

“We’ve got a full team back in and things are relatively good.Hopefully we can keep building and keep the hard work going.”

The Giants also face Fitzroy on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Giants women had a big win against Blackburn in the state competition.

The Giants won 17-0 after starting with seven runs in the first innings.

The Giants sit atop the table with two rounds remaining, one win ahead of Melbourne.

This week the Giants are away to MelbourneonSaturdayinatopofthetable clash.

The Giants will finish their season against Springvale.

Sports shorts

Big V

Wyndham has announced the signing of Alex Holcombe for the Big V men’s championship season. “Alex arrives at Wyndham as one of the most feared rim protectors in the game, bringing a defensive presence that is set to anchor the paint,” Wyndham said on social media. “Alex’s highlight reel is a masterclass in interior defence— showcasing his elite timing for shot-blocking, his ability to dominate the glass on both ends, and his explosive finishing above the rim. After proving his status as a premier defensive specialist internationally and in Australia, Alex returns to the Australian landscape ready to provide the elite rim protection and rebounding.”

VTCA

Point Cook is through to the next round of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 group B competition after beating East Coburg. East Coburg made 7-146 from its overs, with the Warriors sharing the wickets around. The Warriors middle order set the tone as they finished 7-147. Chathura Demuni top scored with 42. The Warriors are one of four sides left.

Bowls

Werribee’s hopes of a top two finish in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant division 2, section 1 competition took a hit on Saturday. Facing second placed Club Sunbury 2, the Bees lost 87 (16)-67 (2). The Bees are in fourth spot heading into the final round. In division 3, section 1, Hoppers lost to Altona 3 and slipped to second on the ladder.

NWMCA

Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale

and

and

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

Bellbridge was on the winners list in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association women’s south-west T20 competition. Bellbridge made 3-128 from its overs with Andrea Gaylard top scoring with 35 not out. Spotswood made 5-58 in reply. Bellbridge sits fourth on the ladder. Elsewhere, Mambourin lost to Gellibrand (2), while Hoppers Crossing forfeited against Williamstown Imperials. FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Tigers are purring along

By Tara Murray

Werribee got the bragging rights and moved up to second on the table after a convincing win against local rival Hoppers Crossing in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west.

The Tigers set up the win on day one with the ball, before a classy top order batting performance got the job done on Saturday.

Tigers’ coach Brad Robertson said it was a pretty good day for the club.

“It was a solid disciplined performance,” he said. “We were pretty happy with it.

“I told the boys to try not to get out and not give Hoppers an early look.

“We were able to snuff out their hopes

and it was pretty clinical in the end.”

The Tigers resumed at 1-55 in reply to the Cats’ 205.

Dean Russ and Darcy Harmer put on more than a 100 runs early on day two to put the Tigers even further in control. The partnership ended up 167 across the two days.

While both fell with victory in sight, the Tigers still got the runs as they finished 4-209.

Russ got 73, but it was Harmer who had the moment of the day as he reached his century.

Harmer finished with 102 off 156 balls.

“It was fantastic for Darcy,” Robertson said. “Darcy is new to the club but his brother [Matt Harmer] is a stalwart.

“Matt got pretty emotional when he brought up his 100. His mum and dad were there too and it was the club’s past players day so there were a lot of people there.”

Arihant Rawal was the only multiple wicket taker for the Cats, finishing with two wickets.

The Tigers win and other results falling their way, they’re now up to third on the ladder.

The Cats have slipped to fifth, three points behind Werribee.

Robertson said they were pretty happy with where things were sitting and that things coming into finals were in their own hands.

“Things have come together,” he said.

Wyndham pair on the netball world stage

By Tara Murray

From the netball courts in Wyndham, to the national stage it’s been a fun journey for Reikken Brodie and Blake Cachia so far.

The pair have both progressed through the men’s netball ranks and were recently key members in the Australian men’s under-20 side in the Men’s Netball Nation Series.

While they were on the courts in Singapore their journey together started at Mackillop College and Wyndham Netball Association.

Cachia said he hoped they provided inspiration to the next generation of netballers in Wyndham.

“We’re so close,” said Cachia. “We have a connection on the court.

“We played mixed netball at school. When he came across it was such a good opportunity for me to have someone like him playing.”

Brodie added, “we’ve grown up together playing a lot of netball, playing against each other with each other.

“We know how each other plays and he’s probably one of my favorite people to

play with on the court.

“I never thought that I’d be playing in an Australian team with him.”

Brodie had the honour of captaining the Australian team the Netball Nation Series, which Australia won.

He was also named co-most valuable player of the tournament.

“It was quite an honor, it was my first time being a captain,” he said.

“I was a bit nervous, but got through the week fine and all the boys really enjoyed it and had a lot of fun, which was good.

“I wasn’t expecting them to be that big of scores, I was pretty happy. I walked away with the tournament MVP, so I was pretty proud of my performance.”

For Cachia, the chance to represent Australia again helped him gain more confidence in the midcourt which he has been only playing the past couple of years.

He even played wing defence at the national titles last year, further advancing his skills.

“I’m glad we won it,” he said. “It was my third international event and I had lost the other two by one point.

”I was happy with my own game in four

“We still have a lot of work to put in. It was pleasing to see a few statistical results show through as well.”

This weekend it’s Saturday-Sunday matches with Hoppers Crossing facing Altona and Werribee to take on Yarraville.

Meanwhile in the Cricket Victoria Womens Community Cricket Competition shield (1), Werribee lost to Melbourne University (2) in a thriller.

Melbourne University made 9-161 from 37 overs.

Puneet kaur Dhillon took three wickets for the Tigers.

The Tigers were then bowled out for 160 with one over remaining.

Dhillon top scored with 44.

Thunder holds on

Glen Orden Thunder held its composure to claim a one run win and a spot in the Western Suburbs Churches and Community Cricket Association T20 division 1 grand final.

The Thunder faced Williams Landing on Tuesday night for a spot in the grand final against Tarneit Central.

The Thunder won the toss and decided to bat, making 9-165 from its overs.

Sai Maniveer Dhulipudi top scored with 41 off 27 balls at the top of the order,

Lovepreet Singh took 3-20 off his four overs for Williams Landing.

Williams Landing started strongly with the bat and had the upper hand at 0-90.

Openers Jatinder Bhatt (58) and Harneet Singh (51) both made half centuries.

The game turned again in the last four overs.

Abhishek Balarammahanti swung the game back in the favour of the Thunder.

In the second last over, he conceded just three runs and took a wicket to give his side some believe heading into the final over.

Williams Landing needed six runs off the last six balls with Ranjith Nagabhiru, who had also been wicketkeeper through most of the inning, taking on responsibility to bowl the final over.

of the five games, playing centre and wing attack.

“One game was a bit iffy but it was a bit more physical.

“I’ve always had that wing attack ability … I need to play all three positions in the long term.”

Both players are preparing for the national titles with the Victorian men’s under-23 team which has been the dominant side in recent years.

Brodie said he hadn’t lost a national titles yet and was hoping to get that going this year.

Cachia, who is part of the Victorian Netball League reserves umpiring program, still has another year in under-20s in the national set up, but was hoping to have a chance to step up in the under-23s.

Brodie has his eyes on trying to make the open men’s side in Victoria in the near future and then Kelpies.

“The open’s coaches It’s really pushing for me to get into the opens program soon,” he said. “As soon as I get into that and start playing with more of the boys that are playing in the Australian squad, I’ll get my experience up and hopefully get a bit of an opportunity.”

The first four balls resulted in just three runs.

Two run outs on the final two balls would see the Thunder get over the line.

Williams Landing finished 7-164.

Balarammahanti was the only multiple wicket taker for the Thunder, taking two.

In division 2, Truganina Strikers won through to the grand with a nine run win against AATCC Legends.

The Strikers will face Altona Sports second XI which beat the Western Eagles on the second last ball.

In division 3, Indigos and Brimbank Stallions won through to the decider, while in division 4, Manor Lakes and Yarraville Club will meet in the grand final.

The grand finals are set to be played on 10 February.

Your Questions Answered

HOW DO I DO THIS?

Show your items to our expert buyers. After we have calculated the price based on its resale value, you can then decide to sell them to us or just walk away with a free assessment of your jewellery! WHY SELL?

Is it worth keeping old jewellery that you will never wear again? The extra cash may help now or in the future rather than unwanted jewellery sitting in your drawer!