Star Weekly - Northern - 17th February 2026

Celebrate year of the fire horse

Whittlesea Chinese Association (WCA) is welcoming the year of the fire horse in style, with traditional, vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations.

WCA president Albert Yew said he is excited to bring the community together for a day of festivity.

He said the event on 28 February, will be particularly special for anyone born in the year of the fire horse 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 and now 2026.

“We will give away what we call ‘lucky money’, which is the red packet to those people,” he said.

“The red packet passes good fortune and prosperous money to them.”

He said the year of the horse encourages people of all Chinese zodiac signs to embrace new beginnings.

“The 2026 Year of the Horse encourages all signs to move forward confidently, to act boldly, trust your instincts, and follow passions that light your inner fire.”

Mr Yew said the event will reflect this passion and fire through the traditional lion dance.

You can celebrate this Chinese New Year with the WCA at the Epping Memorial Hall from 1pm to 4pm.

Plea to save stops

By Courtney Black

An Epping man is calling on his neighbours and the wider community to help save the bus stops along Lyndarum Drive and Rockfield Street.

As part of updates to Wollert and Epping North bus routes and services plan, the state government is proposing to abandon the bus stops along these roads where Tony Francis often relies on the arrival of the 357 bus.

“I regularly use the 357 bus, getting off and on at Abercrombie Grove-Lyndarum Drive because of its reliability in getting

me to the train at Epping rail station ... and major, often medical, appointments on time,” Mr Francis said.

He said is unable to drive, and now relies on buses because he is at risk of having epileptic seizures.

“This is something urgent to deal with, I am a bit nervous and anxious about losing these bus stops.”

According to a state government report out for community feedback, removing the route along Lyndarum Drive would speed up services.

“Itmeansafasterandmoredirectjourney between the estates north of Craigieburn

Road and key destinations such as the shoppingplazaandtrainstation,”thereport said.

According to the report, people who currently use the Lyndarum Drive and Rockfield Street stops will need to use stops at Edgars Road, Epping Road and Manor House Drive, a walk of a further 300-500 metres.

Mr Francis said that under the proposed changes, passengers from north of Cooper Streetwouldneedtotravelbackandforthto access Thomastown station.

He said the changes would result in the bustravellingviatheNorthernHospitaland

Pacific Epping Shopping Centre to Epping station, turning around and going to the same stops before Thomastown station.

Mr Francis said it is important that locals have their say on these proposed changes, and keep themselves informed.

“Most bus travellers will have little idea of the full bus route system for Epping North and Wollert,” he said.

“It is challenging to find out what bus needs are for other passengers, so it is important that the survey reaches as many people as possible.”

Details: https://engage.vic.gov.au/ project/WollertBus/

Clubhouse now open

Over 55s resort-style living in Mickleham

Experience the security of a private gated community and the convenience of a brand-new clubhouse with resort-style amenities right at your doorstep.

Make new friends, join social clubs, and embrace a lifestyle where you can do as much or as little as you like. Life after 55 isn’t about slowing down; it’s about living more.

1 Whites Lane, Mickleham

Open Monday to Friday: 10am-4pm Saturday: 12pm-4pm.

Hume trolley crackdown

Hume council is cracking down on trolley dumping by seeking to bring back trolley impounding, fining responsible retailers and make trolley dumping illegal.

At Monday night’s council. councillor Sam Misho said the council’s previous initiatives were not strict enough to stop trolley dumping.

“The retailers didn’t take it seriously… we still continue to have problems,” he said.

“These trolleys are unsightly, they cause risks, safety concerns and environmental issues.”

Cr Misho’s proposal to make trolley dumping illegal, fine retailers and impound

abandoned trolleys was endorsed at the 9 February council meeting.

The council will adopt the changes in the council’s 2026-27 budget.

“If you have an unregistered car on your street, that’s a breach and you get fined… but those billion dollar retailers, we don’t fine them and we don’t recover costs.

“We collect 11,400 [dumped] items per year.. illegal dumping has been a topic that we’ve talked about for decades.

“It is time to act… and make [trolley dumping] a breach of local law.”

Fines received for trolley dumping will remunerate the $15,000 to $25,000 cost of

amending local law, according to the officers report.

Fees imposed on retailers are also predicted to offset the $205,000 annual cost of monitoring and impounding dumped trolleys.

Cr Misho said these penalties will incentivise retailers to implement trolley locking systems that council is trying to enforce.

“They will invest in technology that ensures the trolleys remain within their boundaries.

“I guarantee you within two years, we won’t have these trolleys on our streets.”

Councillor Naim Kurt said they need to

New home for neighbourhood house

Thomastown Neighbourhood House (TNH) has a moved from the Thomastown Library to a new location, called ‘The Hub’ at Thomastown West Primary School.

TNHmanagerLizSkitchsaidsheisproud to provide a new safe, welcoming space.

“We grew out of the library … in this space we can have the nature craft program outside and the English classes inside, and everyone is able to access the new coffee cart,” Ms Skitch said.

The coffee cart was funded by a $19,800 grant through the Scullin Stronger Communities Programme in August 2025, to provide work experience for locals with disabilities.

“The grant allowed us to purchase the

coffee cart and have it set up for our coffee team which is made up of young adults living with disabilities,” Ms Skitch.

“We’re creating a professional environment where this can be a stepping stone for them to get a paid role in a coffee shop.

“This place creates a sense of belonging and helps grow their self-belief and confidence.”

Ms Skitch said The Hub has also been a hit with teachers, students and the wider Thomastown West Primary School community.

“We are on education department land … so the school not only benefits from the rent we pay but also our services,” she said.

mandate that every supermarket within Hume has to have a perimeter fencing system.

“That way when you leave the car park, your shopping trolley locks up and you can’t take it any further,” he said.

“Without that issue we’re not going to have trolleys ending up in the creeks…. or by the side of the road.”

Cr Kurt supported the trolley impound program, and said it would be a powerful deterrent.

“I’m very happy to collect the trolleys… and have a ceremonial crushing… to show those supermarkets that we mean business.”

Have your say on the future of the Yan Yean Reservoir Park by providing feedback on Melbourne Water’s plans to revitalise the site.

Melbourne Water said its Yan Yean draft future directions plan aims to improve the reservoir for the next 50 years and beyond.

“The draft plan aims to improve visitors’ experience … while protecting the site’s cultural and environmental values,” Melbourne Water said.

The plan proposes new and upgraded walking trails, cycling paths, picnic sites, playgrounds and lookouts to encourage recreational activities. Melbourne Water said the plan also identifies the opportunity for future investigation into fishing, boating and on-water activities at the reservoir.

“We share our space with the school for certain programs, they have their breakfast club here every morning.”

Ms Skitch said the TNH community will continue to grow.

“This is not our forever home … but for the next five years … we are going to make this a really fabulous and safe space,” she said.

“This is just the beginning.”

The Hub is at Thomastown West Primary School, 112 Main Street, Thomastown, and is open from 8am-4pm Monday-Friday, walk-ins are welcome.

Petrol-powered boating, swimming and mountain biking are among the activities that will continue to be prohibited, regardless of community feedback.

The plan also aims to safeguard the reservoir’s role as a water source, enhance biodiversity and landscape values and improve community health and wellbeing.

You can share with Melbourne Water which opportunities you value most by completing the online survey before 8 March.

Details: https://letstalk. melbournewater.com.au/ yan-yean-reservoir

Playground petition

By Courtney Black

Residents have launched a petition urging Whittlesea council to deliver an inclusive, all-abilitiesplaygroundinThomastown.

The e-petition to deliver an all-abilities playground at the Nick Ascenzo Reserve gainedover90signaturesinaweek.

Better Deal Whittlesea founder Nick Brain said he started the petition because theparkisaprimecandidateforrenewal.

“An all-abilities playground would transform the park into a truly inclusive communityspace,”MrBrainsaid.

The petition calls on council to investigatehowanall-abilitiesplayground could be implemented, and to commit to fundingthisinthe2026-27budget.

“This is exactly the kind of infrastructure Whittlesea council needs to deliver more of to improve our community’sliveability,”MrBrainsaid.

A council spokesperson said the design stage for the Nick Ascenzo Reserve has commenced and that inclusive and accessible play outcomes will be considered.

“This includes opportunities for all-abilities play where feasible and consistent with the endorsed master plan, available budget, and technical requirements,”thespokespersonsaid.

The spokesperson said the reserve master plan was developed through community consultation and it reflects priorities for safety accessibility and inclusiveplay.

“Thisisaddressed[intheplan]through improvements to lighting, landscaping, paths,andplayspaces.

“Thecommunitywillhaveanopportunity to provide feedback on the design in thecomingmonths,constructionisanticipatedtocommenceinlate2026.”

Thomastown resident and mother of neurodivergent children, Subina Subedi said all-abilities playgrounds create powerfulinclusion.

“Having an all-abilities playground in Thomastown would give more children a safe,familiarplacetoplay,toregulate,and toconnectwithfriendsclosetohome.”

She said existing all-abilities playgrounds like Mill Park are often overcrowded, and can be overwhelming forchildren.

“Inclusion shouldn’t require travelling or waiting for [an all-abilities playground] toexistinourlocalpark.”

Details:www.change.org/playisforall

Workshops to help landholders

Whittlesea council is launching a new agriculture workshop series to support rural landholders.

The six-part The Regenerative Agriculture for Rural Landholders workshop seriesaims to improve land management and strengthen environmental outcomes.

Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox said “We know many of our rural landholders are facing a range of challenges, such as drought, changing weather conditions and pest pressures.”

“The workshops provide landholders the opportunity to learn from experts, share experiences, and strengthen the connections that help make rural communities resilient.”

The workshops have been developed in collaboration with the Whittlesea Landcare Group, and will be hosted by Stephen Murphy, author of ‘Recreating the Country’. There will be collaborative discussions, and expert presentations on topics including soil health and pasture management, revegetation, drought and climate resilience and rabbit control. Experts will also assist landholders in learning how to successfully apply for environmental and community grants.

The free workshop series will run fortnightly from Wednesday 4 March to Wednesday 13 May from 6pm to 8pm.

Twilight cancer fundraiser

Team Kill Cancer (TKC) is hosting its first twilight family day event raising funds for people with cancer and their families.

The event at Yarrambat Golf Course on 21 February will include live music from three performers, food trucks, kids entertainment and free Harley motorbike rides.

Mark O’Shea is one of the four TKC founders,andsaidheisexcitedtosharethe charity with the next generation.

“Our current members can bring their families along and get to know us and and what we’re all about and raise funds, it’s good awareness,” Mr O’Shea said.

The charity has been giving money to locals with cancer for 12 years, providing funding to meet their individual needs from essentials to dream holidays.

“There are families that can’t work while supporting their partner or their children

with cancer,“ Mr O’Shea said.

“Sometimes it’s not just a three month battle, it can be two years, so if we can help with rental support for 6-12 months… it really helps.“

Anyone can become a member of Team Kill Cancer for $25 and nominate up to three people with cancer for the charity to help.

Mr O’Shea said another great way to support the charity is to attend fundraising events throughout the year.

Golf lovers can also participate in the 10th annual golf classic and a barbeque lunch from noon, the team cost to enter is $660.

Tickets to the twilight event from 4pm are $25 for adults and $10 for under 16s, kids under 3 are free.

Details: https://www.teamkillcancer. com/

Briefs

Hume community grants

Hume council has opened round two of the 2026 Annual Community Grants. The grants are for community-led initiatives with up to $1500 available. Groups can also apply for up to $5000 to cover essential day-to-day costs. Applications close at 4pm on Friday 27 February. Details: hume.vic.gov.au/ Community-Grants-Program

Garage fire

Police will investigate a suspicious garage fire that broke out in Craigieburn on 11 February. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and CFA crews were called to the scene on Highlander Drive at 8.07am following multiple reports of a backyard fire. Firefighters arrived on scene to find a car fire that had extended into a garage that connected to five other garages. The garages were either on fire, or issuing smoke as firefighters attacked the blaze. The fire was controlled at 8.31am, and later deemed suspicious by Victoria Police.

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Plans to keep Hume cool

Hume councillor Naim Kurt has put heat on keeping community centres doors open on hot days.

At the 9 February council meeting, Cr Kurt asked for council investigate the current support options available to the community during heatwaves.

This includes investigating extending opening hours of community facilities such as libraries, global learning centres, leisure centres and senior centres as cooling spaces.

Cr Kurt said the heatwaves were a hazard to the community, especially with

many residents experiencing cost of living pressures.

“Sometimes even running an air conditioner is simply not always affordable, and sometimes even our own households aren’t energy efficient and able to keep our houses cool,” he said.

Cr Kurt said during the recent heatwaves, plenty of councils opened up libraries and leisure centres for the community, some with extended hours, but the same services weren’t provided in Hume.

“I think there is an opportunity for us

Food relief funding starved

Lalor Neighbourhood House (LNH)

volunteers have been left unable to feed over 90 families after the state government cut $45,000 in funding.

LNH project co-ordinator Hala Attalla Saba said losing food relief funding this year had been devastating for the weekly food drive.

“It is not fair to start funding and then stop it … I couldn’t sleep for three days when I found out,” Ms Attalla Saba said.

“We have had to ask people to pay $5 if they can … and we can barely feed 30 families.

“Mothers come crying to us saying they have nothing left to feed their children.”

LNH volunteer Katherine Walsh said she once relied on food relief herself and it was disheartening to see struggling

families miss out.

“As the piles of food get smaller and smaller, people get anxious and try to push forward because they’re worried they’re not going to get anything,” Ms Walsh said.

A state government spokesperson said community food relief funding was doubled to $9 million last year.

“Organisations in Whittlesea shared in more than $170,000 to upgrade facilitiesanddeliverfoodrelief,alongside ongoing support for neighbourhood houses,” the spokesperson said.

According to the state government grants were based on geographic coverage and community need.

as a council … to step forward to look at some of the ways that we can open some of our council facilities up, make them available for our community when there is prolonged heat days in a row, perhaps over 35 degrees where it goes three or four or five or six days in a row,” he said.

Cr Kurt’s motion comes as council was forced to close the Hume Global Learning Centre in Sunbury on two days in January due to air conditioning failures. These days were both in heatwaves.

Cr Jarrod Bell said he acknowledged the issue in Sunbury.

“There wasn’t a policy position in place that says that if the library were to close we were to make another space available there and I think our officers did ultimately do something in that space but … a decision has to be made on the day and wasn’t guided by a policy position or a program, we had to do that intentionally,” he said.

Council assets, operations and sustainability director Danielle Prentice said the air conditioning issue was caused by a component failure during the extreme heat, which has been fixed.

How does your MP behave?

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Federal politicians are used to the public and pundits scrutinising their every word, but now AIhasjoinedthelonglistofwatchdogskeeping tabsonourelectedofficialsinCanberra.

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 theirparliamentspeakingprivileges.

According to the data, veteran MPs Andrew Giles and Rob Mitchell spent more than half their time engaging in partisan attacks or spruikingtheirownparty’saccomplishments.

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 McEwenelectorate.

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 Idoasministerforskillsandtraining,“hesaid.

ChiefgovernmentwhipandLalorMPJoanne Ryanwasadistantthirdat40.6percent.

When it came to discussing actual policy, Assistant Treasurer and Fraser MP Daniel Mulino came out on top with 59 per cent of timeatthelecternspentdiscussinglegislation.

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 amountoftimeonthiscategory.

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

promotion,wasanothercategorymeasured.

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

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 personalinsults,attacksorheckling.

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

OutofthepackBendigoMPLisaChesterwas theworstbehaved,spending2.9percentofher timefeuding,whileMrRaewasthebestatonly 0.1percent.

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 0.7onformalities.

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

“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 moretimeathomewiththeirfamilies.”

AMPLIFY used AI to categorise more than 625 hours of speeches from mid-July 2025 and December2025tocompilethedata.

MrMitchell,MsRyan,DrMulino,MrRae,Mr Watts, Ms Briskey, Mr Abdo and Ms Chesters werecontactedforcomment.

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

What’s on

Community Festival

Join us for a free family-friendly day celebrating community, connection and fun. Bring your family, friends and even your pets for a relaxed day out.

Enjoy live music, theatre shows, pet expo, community stalls, food trucks, youth zone, face painting and more.

When: Sunday 15 March, 11am to 5pm

Where: Civic Centre Lawns, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang

The full program will be released soon.

For more information, visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/communityfestival

Applications now open for 3 and 4 year old Kindergarten

Give your child the best start in life. Kindergarten helps children get ready for school and builds a lifelong love of learning.

Applications are open for:

• Three-year-old Kindergarten in 2027 and

• Four-year-old Kindergarten in 2028

Apply by 30 June to be considered in first round offers.

For more information and to apply, visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/kinder

Explore Sherwin Rise and meet celebrity chef Iain

When it comes to finding a place that truly feels like home, many locals are choosing Sherwin Rise - a welcoming retirement community in the heart of Wollert designed to support your wellbeing, independence, and sense of belonging.

Enjoy modern designer homes, new facilities, and access to an on-site health and wellbeing coordinator - all while being moments from everything you need at Aurora Shopping Village.

To experience Sherwin Rise for yourself, join us at our free Friends & Family Day on Saturday 28 February, 11am –2pm at the Sherwin Rise Clubhouse, 40 Chetwynd Grove, Wollert.

On the day, you can look forward to:

• Meeting celebrity chef Iain ‘Huey’ Hewitson, who’ll be demonstrating how to make a fresh Thai salad - and go in the draw to win a signed copy of his book!

• A live dance performance by The North Golden Dance Group

• Chatting with our welcoming residents and hearing what village life is really like

• A social, complimentary BBQ with fellow visitors and residents

• Taking a guided tour of our new homes and clubhouse

And, for a limited time only, reserve your new home and enjoy $10,000 to make it truly yours*. Whether it’s creating your dream interiors or adding those personal touches, this is your chance to retire with confidence.

To RSVP or learn more visit sherwinrise.com.au or call 1800 550 550.

*T&Cs apply.

Family

Saturday 28 February | 11am–2pm 40 Chetwynd Grove, Wollert

Enjoy a free, family-friendly event with delicious food, live entertainment and the chance to meet Australia’s much-loved celebrity chef Iain “Huey” Hewitson.

Join us as we come together to celebrate our vibrant community.

To RSVP or to learn more visit sherwinrise.com.au or call 1800 550 550 Retire with confidence

More than just four walls

For people who are socially isolated, culturally diverse or part of the LGBTQIA+ community, finding a space where they feel safe and welcomed can be a challenge. Courtney Black discovers how neighbourhood houses and other service organisations are working to change that.

When people think of a safe space, they might imagine comfort or security. But for people who are socially isolated, culturally diverse or part of the LGBTQIA+ community, safety can be shaped by far more than just four walls.

A new report by Neighbourhood Houses Victoria (NHV), titled Safe and Welcoming Community Spaces, reveals what matters most to these groups, and what determines whether someone walks through the door of a community space, or turns away.

NHV president Keir Paterson said a key first step in creating a safe space is implementing visible signs of inclusion.

“We looked into what cultural and linguistically diverse (CALD) people find welcoming in a space and it can be something really simple like having the word ‘welcome’ in different languages,” he said.

“They walk into a space and they know immediately that this is somewhere that’s accepting of them and their culture.”

The report found that visual signs of inclusion made many cohorts of diverse people feel safe and comfortable when entering a space.

“Some cohorts in the community might be carers, or neurodiverse people, or they might have lived experience of social isolation… it is important they feel welcome,” Mr Keir said.

Whittlesea Community Connections (WCC) quality coordinator, Anas Qishta said visual inclusion is significant in safe spaces, but it is important that this is not tokenistic.

“There are things organisations can do like a ‘welcome here’ sticker or a pride flag or a trans flag to help people feel welcome,” he said. “It’s even more important that the safety and risk mechanisms behind those are actually in place.”

In the report, participants emphasised that the culture of an organisation was more important in shaping their sense of safety than visual cues.

Mr Qishta said the community services sector was shifting from focusing on safe spaces to creating affirmative ones.

“The general sentiment is that a safe space without affirmation is encouraging neutrality,” he said.

WCC hosts rainbow support groups at local high schools, which he said acts as an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.

He said when young people see tangible examples of lived experiences they can relate to, it helps them feel seen and connected to staff.

“They know straight away whether or not people are going to be okay with who they are as a person,” he said.

“Perhaps there will be a staff member in the group who is from a multicultural or migrant background and is also queer-

identifying themselves ... that really helps with affirmation.”

He said when direct representation was not possible, it was important that the content shown to students reflected their identities.

“There is power in representation … for example we show them examples of people in media who are gender diverse which really bridges the gap.”

In the report, privacy also emerged as a key concern beyond visual inclusion and affirmation. Mr Qishta said confidentiality is essential in creating safe spaces for diverse young people.

“We create an autonomous, student-led space for young people … our role is to give them the tools to do so safely.”

He said his hope for the future is to see more casual drop-in spaces for youth.

“Our students are lacking … longterm access, it takes a lot of time to build that rapport before all that work is in some

ways lost.

“That’s the first thing that needs to happen, creating those spaces where young people from different groups can actually come in and hang out.”

The report found that there is a desire forcasualdrop-inspacesformorethanjust LGBTQIA+ people but also seniors, CALD and socially isolated people who often cited increased hesitation in participating in formal, structured programs.

Mr Paterson said there is an overall lack of drop-in spaces, and it is difficult to deliver this without further support.

“People told us they’d really like spaces where they can just drop in, have a seat, have a coffee and catch up with someone,” Mr Paterson said.

“If a neighbourhood house is owned by council, that means working with council to see how [drop-in spaces] could be implemented and whether funding is available.”

Creating an informal environment was important to Thomastown Neighbourhood HousemanagerLizSkitchwhendeveloping her new community hub.

“There are so many barriers to so many other spaces … to go into a coffee shop you might have to buy something … in another space you face discrimination,” Ms Skitch said.

“We allow walk-ins, people don’t even have to book online because bookings can be a barrier,” she said.

Socially isolated groups consistently felt negatively about formal protocols in community spaces, such as reporting to an office or signing in, as it reminded them of institutional settings, the report stated.

The report recommended community spaces create an informal atmosphere instead, with simple visuals like an open front door, couches, colourful artwork or garden beds to encourage people to enter.

Ms Skitch said she creates familiarity and comfortability through consistent programming.

“Our development model is about providing the community with what they want … once we know a program works we keep it.”

She said most programs at TNH run at the same time every week, with some operating for more than five years without schedule changes.

“It’s reassuring for people to know it’s on at the same time every week.”

Ms Skitch said programs would continue even if attendance numbers were low, or if a volunteer was unavailable.

“The worst thing is when people turn up and an activity is not on.

“Ifavolunteerissick,I’llruntheprogram myself … it’s about quality, not quantity.”

Mr Paterson said the report is an important step to making spaces safer, but that there is more work to be done.

“We’re always trying to make sure that each neighbourhood house is responsive to their communities... but as a sector, we need to evolve and we get better at meeting the needs of specific cohorts,” he said.

Fines over underpaid staff

The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) has secured a total of $112,985 in penalties against the former operators of three Cash Converters stores in Melbourne’s north and west.

The Federal Circuit and Family Court imposed a total of $94,175 in penalties against SNNB Enterprises ($49,500), Taylors Business ($24,875) and Yarraville Business ($19,800), which operated Cash Converters stores at Epping, Delahey and Yarraville, respectively.

In addition, the sole director of the three companies, Graeme Grainger, was penalised $18,810.

The penalties were imposed in response

to the companies’ deliberate failure to comply with compliance notices requiring them to calculate and back-pay seven full-time workers’ entitlements.

Mr Grainger was involved in the contraventions, the FWO said.

Fair Work inspectors issued the companies with compliance notices between November 2022 and February 2023 after forming a belief they had underpaid the seven affected workers, who had been engaged as store managers, retail employees and shop assistants.

The inspectors formed a belief the companieshadfailedtopaytheworkers’accrued but untaken annual leave entitlements at

Top award for headspace

Craigieburn’s headspace has been nationally recognised for its outstanding contribution to student placement programs.

Craigieburn headspace centre manager, Nadya Fullerton, said she was excited to accept the award that celebrates her team.

“It’s really quite lovely for the staff, because they’re the ones that support the students,” she said.

Ms Fullerton said the centre is going into its fifth year with the early career program, but it has hosted students since opening 10 years ago.

“We hosted our 100th student by the end of last year … on average about 10 students a year, which is quite a lot for a small team.”

Since the program began in February 2022, it has supported 140 allied health

graduates and 1000 students nationwide.

“Often students say they have really enjoyed their placement and would like to eithercontinueworkinginheadspaceorcoming back to the centre,” Ms Fullerton said.

“People working at headspace are passionate about working in youth mental health… the students get that sense.”

Ms Fullerton said each student brings something different to the team.

“We have occupational therapy, social work and psychology students.

“They might run groups or do some community work… it’s very much dependent on what the learning goals are for the student.”

Ms Fullerton flew to Canberra to accept the award at the inaugural ceremony on 11 February.

the end of their employment, and had underpaid five of the workers’ minimum wages for work performed during 2022.

The combined amount the companies were required to pay the workers to comply with the compliance notices was $58,605, with required payments to individual workers ranging from $2972 to $16,833.

The three stores have now closed.

The court also ordered the companies to comply with the compliance notices, including rectifying any outstanding entitlements, plus interest.

It was the second time the FWO has taken legal action against Yarraville Business.

The company was penalised $16,000 in

court in 2024 for also failing to comply with a compliance notice which required it to calculate and back-pay entitlements to a worker.

In her judgement, Judge Heather Riley found that the failure to comply with the compliance notices was “deliberate” and she said that regardless of a company’s size employers needed to comply with compliance notices.

Judge Riley said assertions by Mr Grainger that if he had his time again he would do things differently did not amount to a “genuine or heartfelt expression of remorse … they were just an opportunistic and formulaic use of words”.

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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 ChinafortransporttoGalle.

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, 5000tobeexact.

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 enabledhimtoslitherundetectedthrough theship’shiddentunnels.

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’sdishonestwork.

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 aholetocontainthecoins.

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,bothlivinginWilliamstown.

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 hadboughta120acreproperty.

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 sumofsovereignshiddenwithin.

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 punchtothepoorInspector’ssolarplexus. The man doubled up in agony and off went Martinwiththespeedofagreyhound.

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 thestillmissing3500sovereigns.

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 doorshut.

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 abrightsovereigntobeslylypocketed.

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,atInverloch,aged32.

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 lockedupinPentridge.

Years later, a few gold sovereigns were found in Gippsland, but there were still 3225missing.Theyarestillmissing. 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-losttreasurefinallyunearthed.

Tackle tyre dumping: Council

By Courtney Black

Hume council is advocating to the federal government to implement tyre recycling systems that aim to deter illegal dumping.

Councillor Naim Kurt said he was excited by the recommendation for stronger illegal dumping penalty infringements.

“Over 4500 tyres are dumped in our city every year ... we’re going to come down hard on these cowboys,” Cr Kurt said. He said tyre fires and illegal dumping affect Hume more than any other municipality in Melbourne.

“In 2016 we had a fire which [started in

Broadmeadows] and stretched over all of Melbourne, then the [Coolaroo recycling plant fire] the year afterwards,” he said.

Another of the council’s recommendations is to develop a circular economy with a nationwide free tyre recycling program. Cr Kurt said this would support the environment and cut costs.

“It can be less than $2000 for a corporation to dispose of waste … and when it is dumped it costs the council up to six times as much,” he said.

“Through the circular economy we can recycle tyres here. .. we can get renewable infrastructure that will develop jobs for our community too.”

Migrants lend their support

Five migrants and former refugees who sought help to find employment after arriving in Australia are now part of a team successfully supporting other new arrivals build new lives in Melbourne.

The five all became clients of the AMES Australia’s employment service in the northern suburbs over the past three years.

Now they are part of the AMES team that delivers employment services to the region’s large population of newly arrived refugees and migrants.

Hani Abushaban, who arrived last year as refugee from Gaza, is now an employment mentor with AMES.

“I arrived as a job seeker with one suitcase and little hope. AMES believed in

me and gave me dignity, a future, and a purpose. Now I sit across from the next scared refugee, speak their language, and prepare them to begin their life again,” Mr Abushaban said.

Firas Balhawi, who arrived as a refugee from Iraq in 2021, is also an employment mentor.

“For me this isn’t just a job — it’s a new way of seeing the world. Each time a client succeeds, it feels like my own victory,” Mr Balhawi said.

The other team members with lived experience are Luma Khoshaba, Sandy Hasado and Rabab Aldresi.

Cr Kurt said another important recommendation was to create a national education campaign on the impacts of illegal dumping.

“This needs to be backed by the federal government… we can’t pick up the burden ourselves.”

Cr Jarrod Bell said stockpiles of dumped tyres and fires have been an ongoing issue.

“People who have disrespected our city thought it was appropriate to dump tyres in our community and light them on fire,” he said.

He said it is important that the council is part of the solution to stopping tyre fires and dumping.

“If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu… it is our council’s obligation to be part of the conversation.

“Our recommendations aren’t going to be the golden bullet, but it’s a step in the right direction.”

Council will also recommend that the federal government strengthen tyre recycling legislation, monitor sites at risk of tyre stockpiling and start a nationwide education campaign on illegal dumping.

“We have a very real lived experience… of thick black choking billowing smoke which does not deserve to go above our community.”

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

MY PLACE

Hiam Al Yussef is a Lalor Neighbourhood House volunteer who migrated to Australia four years ago. Courtney Black sat down with Hiam and her translator Zahita to talk about her experiences.

How did you come to be in Lalor?

I immigrated from Syria during wartime to Lebanon and stayed there for four years. The final year in Lebanon my husband had a stroke. There was no support and the rent and medical care was expensive. We were not entitled to work, because we were from Syria. We stayed in Lebanon for four months after his stroke before we got our visa to Australia and came to Lalor in 2022.

What are some of the issues you faced when you moved to Australia?

We were in and out of hospital and medical care since we arrived here, but we weren’t entitled to any financial support because we were immigrants. A year before my husband passed away, we were entitled to support but it only covered two hours, three days a week. It was not enough. I bathed him and took care of him all day every day, and really suffered at the time.

How is life four years after immigrating?

As a single mum I am not entitled to much, only minimum wage which is enough to pay rent and bills. I am grieving my husband but I am also grieving the time I lost with my daughter. I was caring for my husband so I couldn’t give her that nurturing love that I desired.

What do you like about Lalor?

I love the Lalor Neighbourhood House. After my husband passed away I was severely depressed and referred during counselling to the neighbourhood house. I first started with English courses and I am now at a level three. I have also done computer and cooking classes. I volunteer every Thursday at reception helping with

the weekly food drive. This centre helped my mental health, I socialise now and have my driver’s licence and want to volunteer more.

Are there any other local places you enjoy spending time?

I love having a coffee at the Lalor shops and

catchingupwithfriendsandfamilylocally. I enjoy being social and around people in gatheringsatlocalsportsandevents.Ihave recently enjoyed my work as a volunteer helping 30 families in a food drive.

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

InSyriaIwasaprincipalinahighschoolfor 30 years and my husband was a university professor. I loved working in the school’s performing arts leading traditional dance classes, teaching students folklore, hosting performancesandmakingcostumes.Once my English is up to date I want to work again.

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.

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.

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!

Scouts mark 10 years

By Courtney Black

EppingNorthScoutsiscelebratingits10th yearin2026,andgroupleaderLauraGame said she is proud of how far the group has come.

“I’m passionate about this group after [being involved for] so long it’s been excitingtowatchusgrowandshapeinthe community,”MsGamesaid.

Shesaiditisrewardingtoseehowmuch youngpeoplegrowinscouting.

“Kids that join scouting are more confidentinthemselvesandmorelikelyto keepoutoftrouble.

“The growth that I see from a kid who startsatfivewhoisshy,andthentheyturn outasanindependent12-year-oldshowing youngeronestheway.

“Scouting is really great socially, spirituallyandfortheirpersonalgrowthas well.”

Ms Game said a large part of Epping North Scouts has been giving back to the communityandtheenvironment.

“We always have fundraisers and barbecues, at the Whittlesea community festival we do crafts and rope tying with thecommunity.

“Wedotreeplantingdayswhereweplant 200 trees over one weekend, we also plant, look after and document a community garden so anyone can go and pick herbs andusethem.”

She said scouting has come a long way since being founded in the early 20th century.

“Its not just for kids, adults can do scouting too… it is also not just for boys, wewelcomeasmanyfemalesaswedoour males.”

Ms Game said since becoming group leader three years ago, she has been passionate about growing her scouting community. “I love that we cater towards all kinds

of diversity, if we have children with disabilities, mental health or special needs we will tailor our program to ensure that they can benefit at their full potential.”

Jumpstarting driving help

Anewprogramwillhelpyoungpeople from refugee backgrounds learn to drive.

Roads and Road Safety Minister MelissaHorneannouncedthelaunch of the L2P Refugee Pilot Program, which will assist young learner drivers involved in the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing’s RefugeeMinorsProgram.

Over the 12-month pilot, eligible learners will be matched with volunteer mentors from Kinetic –one of Melbourne’s major transport operators – to help them build essential road knowledge and log the drivinghoursrequiredtoobtaintheir probationarylicence.

“We’redelightedtosupportthisnew pilot as part of the TAC L2P program and assist in teaching young refugees about road safety and putting that knowledge into practice,” Ms Horne said. “The connections formed betweenmentorsandlearnersisvital inbuildingconfidence,independence and engagement with the wider community.”

Building on the existing TAC L2P model, the pilot helps overcome key barriers faced by young refugees who may not have access to a car or a fully licensed driver to support their learning. The program is focused on collaboration and community connection, benefiting learners while strengthening relationships between mentors and young people across Melbourne.

Empowering young minds at Aspire – enrol for 2026!

More than just childcare, Aspire is a community built on connection. Our educators take the time to truly know eachchild,creatingclassroomsfilledwith warmth, joy and a sense of belonging. Families can feel confident knowing their children are safe, supported and thriving eachday.

Guidedbyourfourpillars—Exceptional Care, Every Day; Joy in Every Moment; Learning That Sparks Curiosity; and Together, We Grow - Aspire partners with families to raise confident, curious and capablelearners.

We’re proud to offer a wide network

of Aspire centres with 5 centres across Melbourne’s north, giving families flexible, high-quality early education options close to home. With limited vacancies available at Aspire Arramont Wollert, Aspire Wollert and Aspire Beveridge, families can secure their place now. With so many convenient locations, findingtherightfitforyourchildandyour routinehasneverbeeneasier.

Each of our centres offer high-quality programs that are tailored to support the transitions throughout a child’s educational journey, from our nurseries, all the way through to kindergarten.

Through our inspiring and safe learning environments, children are supported to helpthemreachtheirfullpotential.

Because these early years matter most, and at Aspire, we make them extraordinary.

We go above and beyond to empower young minds with curiosity, confidence, andcompassionthatlastsalifetime.

With 2026 enrolments open, there has never been a better time to begin your Aspirejourney.

Come and see the difference genuine care makes and enquire now at our nearestAspirecentre.

Community grants flow

By Courtney Black

A sports playgroup for toddlers, a STEM school holiday program, a community volleyball initiative and a Pasifika community program are among the projects to receive funding from developer MAB.

The funding was provided by MAB as part of the Merrifield Community Partnerships Program.

Junior Active Kids Playgroup (JAK) founder Ashleigh Taylor-Kemp said she received an almost $10,000 grant which will help to kick off her new program in Merrifield.

“We are a sports playgroup designed for toddlers aged between 18 months to three years… [the funding] will help get this program off the ground and give it a running start,” she said.

Ms Taylor-Kemp said the funding has gone towards buying equipment, staff training, insurance and hiring out the room on a weekly basis.

“Because of this I am able to provide the playgroup completely free of charge … which removes a significant barrier to local families,” she said.

“Ideally I can utilise the funding from MAB,withalittleguidance,tofuture-proof the playgroup and keep it free for families.”

“As a local Merrifield resident I can directly see the impact that this playgroup will have on the community.”

The other recipients in this year’s Merrifield Community Partnerships Program include STEM Catalyst, which will run a STEM holiday program for children aged five to 12, and Paperazzi Design Studio, which will deliver a 10-week senior art and craft program. Additional grants were awarded to Seed Six for a community playgroup, a kids’ holiday program and a music, dance and storytime playgroup, Sal Sharma for the Merrifield Community Volleyball Initiative, the Multicultural Community Network Incorporated for a women’s wellbeing and active living program and Gaayip-Yagila Primary School for the Pasifika Communi-

New homes get the green light

A $155 million housing development in Mill Park has been approved by the state government.

The approval paves the way for 254 new houses to be built on Bush Boulevard, where a new medical centre is also being delivered.

Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambriosio said the development will be particularly beneficial for young people.

“More homes in Mill Park means more opportunities for families and young people to live close to the public transport, jobs and services they rely on,” she said.

The state government said this development would provide more homes close to Westfield Plenty Valley Shopping Centre, the 386 and 387 bus routes, and services.

The project was approved along with a $158 million housing development in Windsor and a further $70 million project in Sandringham.

Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny said the three developments were approved to get more homes off the ground faster.

ty Connections project.

MAB said the grants support activities and events designed to build community connection and wellbeing in Merrifield, with individual grants ranging from $500 to $10,000.

Since the program began in 2017, almost $400,000 has been awarded through 56 individual Merrifield Community Partnerships Program grants.

As these housing projects must deliver at least 10 per cent affordable housing, there will be at least 25 affordable houses delivered in Mill Park through the development.

Get a sneak peek of the lifestyle you could enjoy at our free Open Home event. Explore our community, inspect our display home, discover our social activities, chat with our friendly team and find out if retirement living will suit you.

8 Pottage Circuit, Macleod Thursday, 5 March (10-11am)

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

10 years ago 8 March, 2016

A third train station, near Hawkstowe Parade, is likely to be incorporated into the proposed extension of the South Morang line to Mernda in response to community concern.

7 years ago 26 February, 2019

Hume council has criticised SKM Services for failing to properly manage its recycling plants.

5 years ago 23 February, 2021

Aged care residents in Whittlesea and Humewillneedtowaitatleastonemore week before receiving the COVID-19 vaccination, with all aged care homes in both municipalities left off the week one vaccination schedule.

1 year ago 18 February, 2025

A group representing Epping North and Wollert residents is demanding Whittlesea’s councillors immediately remove Aidan McLindon as mayor and dismiss him from council following his decision to contest the Werribee state by-election.

Meet the Principal

Timothy Cottrell

Prepare to lead…

We are no ordinary learning environment. A safe, stimulating, and inclusive setting that’s committed to smaller student teacher-ratios, we are passionate about academic rigour, positive student outcomes and creating a confident self-image for every young person.

Our educators are highly experienced professionals drawn from across Melbourne, dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement for their students and for themselves.

Every year 12 student (bar none) discovers a very positive pathway, be it academic, vocational or training-based.

We place our students in the finest universities and training organisations and prepare them to imagine and create their careers. Our students also have the unique opportunity for early University entry during year 12.

Secondary education is an adventure that should flow smoothly from the primary years providing excitement, growth, and joy into adolescence and beyond. Our teaching and learning emphasises humanity, kindness and empowerment for leadership in a changing world. Our families are our close partners throughout. We celebrate your child’s learning experience with you, providing reassurance and regular communication – we are like one big family.

With continued facilities enhancement, and our proximity to the natural heritage of Darebin Creek, we enjoy one of the most beautiful school campuses in Melbourne.

We offer very substantial student scholarships in every area of achievement, designed to maximise academic, physical, social and emotional growth.

It would give me enormous pleasure to meet with you and your children to share the wonderful educational environment of Lalor North Secondary College.

As Principal of Kolbe Catholic College, I am honoured to lead a faith-filled and future-focused community across our Greenvale and Mickleham campuses. Our college continues to grow not only in numbers, but in spirit grounded in Gospel values and strengthened by the partnerships we share with families, parish and the wider community.

2026 is a significant year for Kolbe as our Mickleham campus begins

Meet the Principal

Bill Sweeney

Since commencing as Principal at Hume Anglican Grammar in 2013, Bill Sweeney has demonstrated a strong commitment to meeting the needs of a growing community. Over the past 13 years, the School has developed from a single campus to three thriving campuses in 2023, with a fourth planned to open in 2033.

Bill’s dedication to the education of young people is reflected in the School’s steadfast commitment to providing local communities affordable, high-quality, independent co-education, in a caring and inclusive environment.

Hume fosters a culture of excellence, grounded in its Vision for Student Wellbeing and Teaching and Learning. The impact of this approach is reflected in the achievements of its students. In 2025, the Hume Dux achieved 99.95 for their ATAR, the highest ATAR possible and, this year, two Hume students have been elected to be apart of the 2026 Hume Youth Council.

It’s no wonder that Hume Anglican Grammar has become the school of choice in the northern suburbs of Melbourne.

If you’re curious to see what makes this school so special, come to the Open Day on Saturday 28 March, where there will be an opportunity to meet Principal Bill Sweeney in person –humegrammar.vic.edu.au/openday.

HUME ANGLICAN GRAMMAR

recreational facilities.

While our community continues to grow, our foundations are unchanged. Our School is one built on high expectations, consistency and care, and our campuses work closely together to ensure students experience a connected and cohesive journey throughout their schooling. We offer a calm, structured and purposeful learning environment where students are encouraged to aim high and feel supported along the way. Academic achievement sits alongside wellbeing, character and personal growth to form what we proudly call an Education for Life. I warmly invite you to visit us and experience our school in action. A tour is the best way to see our learning culture and understand why so many families choose to join our community.

Dan Symons joins Global Village Learning as the Campus Lead for New Gisborne, bringing a thoughtful, relational approach to leadership and learning.

Dan has spent much of his professional life exploring how schools can shape culture, not just through programs and outcomes but through the way daily learning experiences support curiosity, belonging and growth. His work is shaped by a deep interest in how young people make meaning, form identity and connect with their communities. These questions are central to the learning journey at GVL.

With a strong focus on wellbeing, Dan pays close attention to how learning environments interact with stress, anxiety and neurodiverse ways of being. His practice is grounded in care and connection, and he sees education as a trustbased partnership between learners, families and Guides. He also brings a love of storytelling, often using film, literature and shared narratives to spark thoughtful conversation and deeper reflection with young people. Dan chose to join Global Village Learning because it brings together the elements he values most: a learnerled, community-connected, human-centred approach to education. He is excited to contribute to a growing community that places relationships, relevance and

Tracey Kift

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Kalkallo sports fest

Join ex-BBL cricketer Ryan Carters, and Dutch soccer player Tom Ruijs for an afternoon of free sport and games for dads and kids. Have fun with your kids, connect with other dads, learn tips from a former BBL cricketer. The free event is on Friday 20 February at the Kalkallo Community Centre 4-5.30pm. Open to dads and kids aged 4 to 10 years, all family members are welcome to come along.

 Register, https://dadfit.au/sportsfest

DadFit Kalkallo

A free 5-week program to help you be the best dad you can be come along to get active, connect with other dads and share experiences. The program will run on Thursdays from the 26 Feburary to 26 March, 7-9pm in Kalkallo.

 Register, https://dadfit.au/sign-up

Yarrambat CFA Open Day

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 Thisweek’sphotographer’schoice pictureisofRavineKellywhoisthe manager,coachandjudgeofRampFest inBraybrook.(DamjanJanevski)533209_01

The volunteers of Yarrambat Fire Brigade invite the community to join them for a barbecue, station tours and a chance to meet firefighters and see the fire trucks up close. The event is on Sunday 22 February, from noon to 2pm. Celebrate the 25th anniversary of Yarrambat’s modern fire station, and commission the new turnout room, at 446 Ironbark Road, Yarrambat.

Hume Interfaith Network Free Event

Join the Hume Interfaith Network for a fun-filled day to celebrate harmony through sport. The free community event at Kalkallo Recreation Reserve will include “Come and Try” soccer, cricket, AFL football, rugby, mat pilates, cultural performances and more. There will also be a community barbecue and information about different programs and services in Hume. The event will be held on Saturday 28 March, noon-3pm.

 Celia Chang, celiach@hume.vic.gov.au

Whittlesea Probus Club

Members of The Combined Probus Club of Whittlesea will meet on Monday 2 March at the Whittlesea Bowls Club at 9.30am. This will be the annual general meeting, visitors are welcome. The April meeting will be held on Monday 30 March due to Easter. Probus is open to all retired and semi-retired members of the community.

 whittleseaprobus@hotmail.com or 0427 021 592

Bridgewater Retirement Village Dance

Bridgewater Retirement Village is holding a free afternoon dance. There will be a bit of line dancing and some new vogue. The dance will occur on the third Sunday of every month, 1pm start. Everyone is welcome. 9 Wedgewood Road Roxburgh Park.

 Liz Munro, 0409 712 613

Craigieburn Country Women’s Association

The Craigieburn Branch of CWA welcomes women of all ages to their meetings and craft sessions which are held on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Meetings begin at 10.30am followed by lunch and a craft or socialising session. Meeting venue is St Thomas’s Uniting Church corner of Rayfield and Dianne Avenues in Craigieburn.

 craigieburncwa@gmail.com or Karen, 0499 821 754

Gladstone Park Probus Club

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

 Chris, 0422 017 907

Bundoora Probus

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

 Leanne, 0419 004 997

Young parents group

DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young parents every Thursday, from 10.30am-noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 Mcdonalds Road, Mill Park.

 Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819

Chatty Cafe

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

 https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/

TAC L2P Program

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle

to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.

 Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

Community singing group

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

 Sonja, 0429 587 285

Adult education

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

 9309 8531

Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

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

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

Craft and Conversation

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

 humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Mernda Repair cafe

Located at Mernda Neighbourhood House, the Mernda Repair Café will be open monthly for residents to come and have

their faulty or broken items fixed. Staffed by skilled volunteers from the community. A range of repairers will be available at each session with skills in repairing items including bikes, small electrical items, clothing and jewellery.

 Mernda Repair Cafe Facebook page for bookings each month.

Regular Storytime for Kids

Yarra Plenty Regional Library offers a range of children’s services and programs across their network of libraries. They are run every day with sessions for young babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and families. Come along to help your child develop those crucial language skills and social connections.

 yprl.vic.gov.au

Inclusive tennis

A free weekly tennis program for people with disabilities and/or special needs, or if you’re just struggling to access mainstream sport programs. Held at Epping Tennis Club, 861 High Street, Epping, on Thursdays from 5-6pm.

 play.tennis.com.au/eppingtennisclub. com.au

Craigieburn Probus Club

Craigieburn Probus Club offers retired people an opportunity to socialise, go on monthly bus trips, enjoy dine outs and morning melodies among other activities like general business, morning tea and an interesting speaker. Every second Monday of the month at the Craigieburn Bowling Club, 233 Craigieburn Road, Craigieburn.  Bill, 0411 517 217 or Marion, 0407 052 774

New chapter for festival

Lovers of literature rejoice!

The Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival is returning next month for its biggest event to date.

Thirty-four events will run over six days, from 12-17 March, featuring artists, cooks, gardeners, film makers, songwriters, book authors and a dating expert.

Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos said the program offers a diversity of stories and perspectives that reflect the community.

“For 21 years, the Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival has played an important role encouraging writing talent in Brimbank and Melbourne’s western region.

And to celebrate we are presenting the biggest festival to date with a huge line-up of creative talent,” Cr Tachos said.

The festival’s opening night will spotlight author Nam Le, winner of the Dylan Thomas Prize and the Prime Minister’s Literary Award for fiction and author of ‘The Boat’ and ‘36 Ways of Writing a Vietnamese Poem’.

Le will share stories about cultural heritage, family, and collective identity.

Author Andy Griffiths, who has sold more than 19 million books in over 35 countries and is renowned for his cheeky and irreverent humour, is also part of the

line up.

Other festival highlights include Alita Brydon (‘Bad Dates of Melbourne’), comedian Nelly Thomas (‘The Single Life of Us’), authors Darryl Jones and Dave Witty, artists Callum Morton and Jen Berean, filmmakers Adrian Ortega, Kalu Oji, Kaede Miyamura and Goran Stolevski, and media professionals professor Andrea Carson, author and journalist Margaret Simons and ABC radio journalist Luke Siddham Dundon.

Other authors include Deborah Ong, Kate Mildenhall, Santilla Chingaipe, Aunty Fay Stewart-Muir, Andrea Rowe, Marguer-

Get ready to rock to Queen classics

This tribute band will rock you with their Royal Rhapsody Tour bringing the iconic music of Queen to South Morang in March.

Jason Hess is ready to transform into Freddie Mercury, and take you back in time along with the rest of the QUEEN ROCKS tribute band at Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC).

Hess said he was excited to see fans dance and sing along to hit tracks like ‘We Will Rock You’ and ‘Somebody to Love.’

“Our aim is to have the audience sus-

pend belief momentarily and imagine they are actually at a Queen concert in their heyday.”

Hess even performs Queen’s trademark call and response audience interaction, capturing the essence of Freddie Mercury.

“We get the audience to clap and sing along at different stages throughout the performance.”

Hess said his favourite on-stage moment is getting the audience to join in at the end of ‘Somebody to Love’.

“The audience will become the Plen-

ty Ranges choir and join in when the song builds.”

Hess said the performance transports the audience to a simpler time.

“It gives people of the same generation as the band a sense of nostalgia, and simple joy.”

He said more young people have attended the show since the release of the Bohemian Rhapsody biopic film.

QUEEN ROCKS will perform at PRACC on Saturday 21 March at 7.30pm. Tickets are available online at https://www.pracc.com.au

Models request the pleasure of your company at February gig

Iconic Melbourne band and ARIA Hall of Fame inductees, Models bring their post-punk -new wave vibes to Kindred Bandroom in Yarraville on Friday 20 February.

When they formed in the late 1970’s, Models were hailed as one of the most innovative and imaginative Australian bands and were often spoken of in the same breath as the Birthday Party, The Sports and INXS.

Four decades later, and while plenty about the band and their contemporaries has changed, their approach to making music hasn’t.

Models have always done things their own way.

As the authors of The 100 Best Australian Albums (which featured Models’ The Pleasure Of Your Company) stated “Melbourne electronic outfit Models followed a distinctly perverse and disjointed course from the outset”.

The long and winding course will see them stop by the inner west next weekend, not far from where founding bass player, Mark Ferrie, and current drummer, Ash Davies, live.

Sean Kelly and Andrew Duffield round out Models current line-up and will be

ita Stephens, Andrea Carson, Jen Berean, Darcy Green, Thomas Vowles, Jax Bulstrode and many more.

The festival also offers a range of workshops for participants looking for help to share their own stories.

Topics include, how to write picture books, self-publishing, reliable writing practice, writing for reels, and healing through poetry, among others.

Funded by Brimbank council and Victoria University, all events and activities are free to attend.

Details: brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au/ BWRF

Guitar virtuoso to take centre stage

The tiny, yet very mighty, Melbourne Chamber Orchestra is making its way to the west later this month.

The orchestra will present its new show Flexible Sky, starring Slava Grigoryan, on Friday 27 February at the Clocktower Centre in Moonee Ponds.

The show celebrates innovation and aims to delight audiences with a world-premiere performance by Joe Chindamo, a composer celebrated for his cross-genre fluency.

Grigoryan’s artistry will shine in Vivaldi’s D major Concerto, a baroque gem sparkling with charm and vitality.

In Flexible Sky, Melbourne Chamber Orchestra showcases Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata before finishing with a rhythmically charged and emotionally satisfying close in Matthew Hinderson’s Song and Dance.

Oftendescribedasawizardoftheguitar, Grigoryan has built a prolific international reputation as a classical guitar virtuoso. His long-standing relationships with Sony Classical, ABC Classics in Australia, ECM in Germany and his own label Which Way Music have resulted in more than 30 solo and collaborative albums spanning a wide range of genres.

joining Davies and Ferrie for the special one-off show which kicks off at 7.30pm.

Despite more than 40 years together, punters attending the show shouldn’t expect a nostalgia act.

Models have had long periods in hibernation, but have never broken up and have continued to record and release new material.

Andrew Duffield said even their earlier songs still sounded fresh.

“We don’t think of them as being old,” he said.

Models never go out of style.

Details: https://shorturl.at/DAa9f

He has appeared at numerous national and international arts and guitar festivals, won four ARIA Awards for Best Classical Album, and performs regularly as a soloist with all of Australia’s symphony orchestras. Grigoryan has completed three critically acclaimed tours with the Australian Chamber Orchestra and has performed at many of the world’s leading venues, including London’s Wigmore Hall and Royal Festival Hall, New York’s Carnegie Hall, Vienna’s Konzerthaus and Tokyo’s Sumida Triphony Hall, consistently captivating audiences worldwide.

The Melbourne Chamber Orchestra isled by artistic director Sophie Rowell.

The show starts at 7.30pm.

Details: https://clocktowercentre.com. au/flexible-sky/

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Dr. Tony Stubbs, Eye Surgeon, says that just about anyone can have their vision restored and be rid of their glasses for most of the time. And this is without the use of laser surgery. Dr Stubbs formerly at the Royal Victorian Eye Hospital who has worked with the Fred Hollows eye department at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, says he began his career through the inspiration of his father, Dr Maxwell Stubbs.

“My father was a pioneer in cataract implant surgery from 1963! He has now passed away but some of his patients still come in for a check-up. Not only is this inspirational, it also demonstrates that good surgery outlasts the surgeon,” Dr Stubbs says.

A specialist who helps people who have been advised they are unsuitable for laser surgery, Dr Stubbs is also committed to demonstrating that age, corneal distortion or astigmatism are no barriers to eliminating the need for glasses.

One of my best moments was treating a 12-year-old girl who was struggling at school because of poor vision due to congenital cataracts even with the use of thick glasses. Now 10 years later, she still has 20/20 vision without glasses. That inspires me.

“Seeing my patients’ bright smiles after surgery, as they stop squinting and can read without glasses, is definitely the best part of my job.”

No referral is needed and no out-of-pocket expenses are incurred for

options available to be considered.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. In TheWaterboy, what is the nickname of the team Adam Sandler’s character eventually plays for?

2. Who is Australia’s Chef de Mission at the 2026 Winter Olympics?

3. Quentin Peterson last

4. Which Ipswich-born Australian sprinter recently announced he will not be competing at the 2026 Commonwealth Games?

5. Brisbane Broncos prop Payne Haas will play

The national netball team of which country is known as the Sunshine Girls?

Los Angeles Laker Jaxson Hayes recently served a one-game suspension

Australian golfer Elvis Smylie recently won the 2026 edition of which LIV

Which two teams took part in the 2026 AFL Origin

Who will Australia face in the opening game of the 2027 Rugby World Cup?

11. In curling, what is the object thrown known as?

12. And what are they made of?

13. Who created the martial art Jeet Kune Do (JKD)?

14. To the nearest million, what is the 2026 AFL salary cap?

15. Which NBA player is nicknamed ‘The Beard’?

16. Which sport league is abbreviated as NPB?

17. Which team won Super Bowl LX (2026)?

18. And in that game, who became the second Australian to play in a Super Bowl?

19. Which running back was awarded the MVP of Super Bowl LX?

20. Which politician was booed during the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony?

21. What is the last name of English cricketing brothers Tom and Sam?

22. Which 2026 reality TV show pits Australian athletes from different sporting codes against each other?

23. How many players are there in a handball team?

24. Which two countries participated in the Olympic ice hockey game known as the ‘Miracle on Ice’?

25. And in which year was that Olympics held?

26. Alongside Josh Giddey, which other Australian basketballer will earn $38 million in 2026?

27. In snooker, what colour is the ball that is worth five points?

28. Which MLS team shares its name with a firstresponder NBC show?

29. True or false: ultimate frisbee is a contact sport?

30. Mark Evans is currently the CEO of which AFL club?

YOUR NEW CAREER

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

1 Supplicates (5)

4 Provider of information (9) 9 Belittle (5)

10 Middle Age armour (5,4) 11 For blinking (6)

12 Formal request signed by many people (8)

14 Choice (10) 15 Exclamation of surprise (3) 17 Tentacle (3)

19 Public estimation (10)

23 Slow (8)

24 Skilfully produces (6)

26 Purifying (9) 27 Greenish (5) 28 Game birds (9) 29 Frozen shower (5)

1 Heavenly body (6) 2 Non-professional (7) 3 Local law enforcer (7) 4 Measure of length (imp) (4) 5 Brotherhood (10) 6 Length of a film (7)

Miraculous (7) 8 Masterful (8) 13 Relative dimensions or size (10)

16 Disability (8)

18 People of Malta (7)

19 Viewing figures (7)

20 Fears (7)

21 Disconnected (7)

22 Appearance (6)

25 Ova (4)

1 What is a cowslip?

Is Quito, the capital of Ecuador, in the Northern or Southern Hemisphere? 3 Actor Kristen Stewart (pictured) stars in a 2016 music video for which rock band?

4 What unit of measurement is used to measure the height of a horse? 5 A Robin Hood statue is located in

7 What is the only type of penguin found above the equator?

8 What pen-name did writer Eric Blair go by?

A hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat and coated in breadcrumbs is known as a what?

10 The first episode of Doctor Who aired in which decade?

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Further bonus for Ioniq 5

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

The Ioniq 5 burst onto the local electric vehicle scene more than three years ago likethegreyhoundfavouriteoutofatrapat theDaptoDogs.

The Dapto dishlickers have since gone to thedogs,withthetrackwindingup,butthe Hyundai-built Ioniq 5 crossover SUV has continued to live a storied life, which has included being named the 2022 World Car oftheYear.

Now the MY25 Ioniq 5 five-seat SUV locally has won styling updates, new features and technology, and two new battery sizes delivering up to 570km of range. Three model grades are on offer, with the choice of Standard (440km) and Extended (up to 570km) range of powertrains, plus optional N Line and DigitalMirrorPacks.

ThebaseBEV,with63kWhbattery,comes tomarketat$69,800,pluson-roadcosts.

With an 84kWh battery from the Ioniq 5 N,thepricegoesupto$75,800.ADynamiq, withthelatterbattery,sellsfor$80,800and anEpiqtopsoffthelotat$84,300.

The N Line Pack adds exclusive styling and unique 20-inch alloy wheels, while Epiq gains LED projection headlights with anintelligentfrontlightingsystem.

All Ioniq 5 models are covered by Hyundai’s five-year, unlimited kilometre vehiclewarrantyandeight-year,160,000km high-voltagebatterycover.

Styling

Already a leader in the design of electric vehicles, Hyundai stylists were cluey enough to lay a light hand on the iconic Ioniq5.

The new look is highlighted by a revised front bumper, skid plate and ‘hidden’ lighting,plusflataluminiumbadging. New 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels

reshape the car’s unique profile, while at the rear, a revised bumper, spoiler and the addition of a windscreen wiper, and one of 10exteriorcolours,completethelook.

Interior

A nod to the past is a reworked centre console with simpler seat heating and ventilation controls via buttons. Also givenaliftareseatpattern,steeringwheel, instrument cluster bezel and multimedia screen.

Lookingintothefuture,theMY25Ioniq’s cabin introduces the latest iteration of Hyundai’sConnectedCarNext-Generation Cockpit, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluelink Connected Car Services and Over-The-Air updates.

The entry-level Ioniq 5 now has single-tone black wool and eco-processed leather upholstery in place of the previous two-tone cloth. An eco-processed black leather is now standard on Dynamiq and Epiqinteriors.

Cargo storage ranges from 527 to 1587 litres; 57 litres up front in the rear-wheel drive and 24 litres the all-wheel drive. There’s a centrally located large bin and cupholders, plus a wireless smartphone charger.

Rear-seat legroom is limited by the battery pack lodged under the body. Headroomisjusttheopposite.

Infotainment

The latest Ioniq 5 features the award-winning Connected Car Next-Generation Cockpit, incorporating multimedia and instrumentation in an all-in-one interface inspired by the interfaceoftheubiquitoussmartphone.

The all-new 12.3-inch multimedia system features a CPU with four times more computing power and 15 times

more graphical processing power than the previoussystem.

Added to this is a high-definition 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster displaying sat nav directions, visual SmartSense safety alerts, plus speedo, tacho, fuel and temperature info in digital formorclassicneedle-typegauges.

Bluelink Connected Car Services and Over-The-Air software updates are available across the range, the former free forthefirstfiveyearsofownership.

Engines/transmissions

The MY25 Ioniq 5 2WD comes with a 63kWh battery in Standard Range and is upped to a 84kWh battery in Extended Range, with a lithium-ion permanent magnet synchronous electric motor and single-speed automatic transmission

putting out 125kW of power and 350Nm of torquetotherearwheels.

Safety

Seven airbags, including front centre, side are the prelude to top safety, which also includesforwardcollision-avoidanceassist 2, forward with oncoming vehicle, evasive steering assist, smart cruise control and laneassist.

Intelligent front lining automatically dips the beam in the face of oncoming traffictoavoiddazzlingdrivers.

Driving

As I’ve said before, I’m not a fan of flush door handles, which are not the easiest to operate with one hand. That said, I cannot fault the smooth, quiet powertrain operation and general lack of intrusive cabinturbulence.

As well as battery boosts extended the Ioniq5operation,theMY25modelhas undergone improvements to ride and handling through increased chassis rigidityandrevisedsuspensiontuning. Chassis changes include upgraded body reinforcements in the B and C pillar door surroundsandanunderbodycrossbar.The increased body stiffness has led to positive impacts.

These include improved steering response and feedback, reduced vibration throughthesteeringwheel,enhancedbody control and stability, plus improved noise, vibrationandharshnesssuppression.

Summary

“With greater range and an array of safety and technological upgrades, the refreshed 2025 iteration of our award-winning Ioniq 5 gives EV buyers an even more persuasive SUV package,” says Hyundai Motor Company Australia chief executive Ted Lee.Mythoughtstoo.

Sport around the grounds

The Stars have work to do

By Tara Murray

Everything is on the line for the Lalor Stars in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Money Shield in the remaining two rounds.

The Stars sit second last with two rounds to be decided with the bottom three teams to be relegated as the competition is restructured.

It means the Stars need to beat Montmorency, which sits bottom of the table, in this round if they’re any chance of avoiding relegation.

Greensborough, Penty and Bundoora Park are all within six points of the Stars in the relegation battle, many every run and wicket is important.

Some of those teams are still in the finals

battle as well with how close the season is.

Stars coach Wayne Dow said they weren’t where they wanted to be at this time of the season.

The Stars haven’t won a match since November 22 after winning several games early.

“It’s definitely a big match for us,” he said.

“We have been in positions to win games but unable to get over the line in those pressure moments to get a couple more wins.”

On Saturday, Montmorency won the toss and decided to bat in perfect conditions.

It finished with 170 as it was bowled out in the 75th over.

Dow said they would have been happy

with that total at the start of the day but it could have been better for them.

“It would have been nice to have got the last couple of wickets a little bit easier,” he said.

“We’re happy to chase 170, it’s a good fast outfield.”

Dow said Montmorency started hitting out late in the innings while they went away from their game plan.

The last wicket pair batted for more than seven overs.

“There was a little bit of both with the last wicket,” Dow said. “We were trying to close it out and get the last wicket.

“They played some good shots, that’s just cricket.”

Mitchell Komen took 5-41 for the Stars

Demons ready for Money Shield challenge

By Tara Murray

Mernda is hoping to lock in a win this Saturday and with it a spot in at least the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Money Shield for next season.

The Demons are in fourth spot after the first day of play in the second last round of the season.

While the Demons have one eye on a finals spot in their first season back up in the Money Shield, they also have one eye on relegation.

With three sides to drop down come season’s end with the competition going to four shield competitions, the Demons aren’t safe just yet.

Demons’ president Rob Corrigan said things were travelling nicely around the club with people up and about with a few teams looking to make finals.

“We are about where I thought that we would be,” he said. “At the start of the season we wanted to stay in the Money Shield so

making the top five was our objective.

“Hopefully we get the win and a couple of results go our way and we can tick that off.

“We had a couple of good recruits in Gareth Sharp and Arshdee Singh and they have helped us. They’ve been good and we’re pleased where we are at the moment.”

While survival is one thing, a finals appearance would be a huge boost for the group and show the growth of the side.

The first thing the Demons need to do to achieve that is beat Bundoora Park this Saturday.

Corrigan said the match was evenly poised after day one.

“We will need to get a couple of early wickets,” he said. “The aim was to bat 80 overs and we were about 20 short.

“We were in a good position at 2-70 before we had a bit of a collapse and last wickets in clumps.

“We had a partnership to get us to 160. It would have been good to be nearer to 200.”

The Demons were bowled out in the 56th

while skipper Jordan Steele took 3-31.

The Stars will resume at 0-9 having got through five overs unscathed.

Josh Nixon will resume on one and Sam Skinner on eight not out.

Dow said they were just focusing on getting the win this weekend and let things play out.

“We need to get this win before we start looking at other factors,” he said.

“If we win a couple more games where we were chasing in the 100s with 80 overs we aren’t having this conversation and we’re potentially talking about finals.”

Dow said their second XI was in a good position after day one of its match while the third XI is on track to play finals this season.

Warriors on top

Westmeadows took the rights on day one of its match with Craigieburn in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.

The two Hume rivals are both looking for wins to finish the season, with finals a long shot for both sides now with two rounds remaining.

The Warriors were sent in by the Eagles. They lost three early wickets before they were able to steady with the middle order standing up.

Lead by Stephen Mihelakos-james (91 not out) and Tallan Wright (57) the Warriors made 5-251 from their overs.

Darren Wotu took two wickets for the Eagles.

The Warriors early declaration meant the Eagles had to face five overs at the end of the day.

Craigieburn was able to get through unscathed and will resume at 0-2.

Meanwhile in the Steve McNamara Shield, Tullamarine was unable to extend its good form against PEGS.

The Demons were bowled out for just 164 in the 60th over.

Yasindu Athukorala top scored with 40, while Shehan De silva scored 39 to rescue the innings.

PEGS finished day one at 1-72.

In the Roy Picone Shield, the Greenvale Kangaroos made 7-306 from their overs against Point Cook Centrals. Babar Aziz top scored with 72 off 81 balls.

Jacana, Donnybrook and Roxburgh Park all have work to do in the Russell Pollock Shield.

over for 160.

Bundoora Park will resume at 2-30 having faced 24 overs.

Corrigan said they were confident that their bowlers could get the job done.

“We were in a similar position against Research [Eltham Collegians] the week before and won.”

It’ll be a big weekend for the Demons who are in the Money Shield summer smash grand final on Sunday.

The Demons won a final over thriller to win through to the grand final.

The Demons will face Lower Plenty in the grand final which is one of four for the day.

“We made the semi finals last year in the Mash Shield,” Corrigan said. “We’ve gone one step further.

“Lower Plenty are a pretty tough team and on top of the Money Shield at the moment. We’ll give it our best shot and see how it goes.

“The juniors start the day off, it’s a good addition from the DVCA.”

The Jaguars were 9-153 in 57 overs when their innings came to an end against the Williamstown Congs. Thanura Gunasekara top scored with 65.

The Congs will resume at 3-95. Donnybrook has a battle on its hands in the top of the table clash with Burnside Springs United. Donnybrook was bowled out for just 140.

Gurwant singh Virk top scored with 38 at the top of the order.

Burnside will resume at 2-31.R

Roxburgh Park will have to bat well on day two against Moonee Ponds which made 9-220 from its overs.

Sohaib Bhutta and Umar Farooq took three wickets each for the Falcons.

Demons, Kookas through

Mernda is through to the Diamond Valley Cricket Association summer smash grand finals after winning a thriller, while Rivergum is also through.

The Demons were able to hold their nerves against Research Eltham Collegians in the Money Shield competition to win in the final over.

The Demons made 8-129 after deciding to bat. Alex Mitris top scored with 36 not out.

The Collegians were on top of the run chase at 5-109 when disaster struck.

Mernda took 3-5 in the 17th and 18th overs to give the Demons a chance.

Another wicket in the 19th wicket left the Collegians needing seven off the final over.

James Baker bowled tightly and the Col-

legians innings ended with a run out with one ball remaining.

Nathan Ashton took 4-16 for the Demons.

The Demons will play Lower Plenty which piled on the runs against Lalor Stars.

Lower Plenty made 5-191 in its semi final with the Stars finishing 6-169 in reply.

Jordan Steele finished 82 not out off 44 balls for the Stars.

Rivergum’s hopes of going one step further in the Mash Shield summer smash are alive.

After making the grand final in the first season of the competition, the Kookas are again through to the final game of the competition.

On Tuesday night, the Kookas beat

Hurstbridge in the semi finals. Hurstbridge was restricted to 7-101 from its overs. Hurstbridge had been 0-38 to start the innings.

Jarrod Bannister took 3-8 off his four overs for the Kookas.

While the Kookas lost an early wicket, they were able to get the runs with ease, finishing 3-102 in 16.2 overs.

Matthew Perri top scored with 37.

The Kookas will face Keon Park in the grand final, after Keon Park knocked out reigning champions Dennis.

In the Barclay Shield, Epping was knocked out by North Eltham Wanderers.

The Wanderers made 6-112 from their overs after deciding to bat.

Skipper Lachlan McLeod led the way

Special moment in game 500 for Alberti

By Tara Murray

After 500 games of cricket you wouldn’t think there would be many more firsts for Thomastown legend Lou Alberti.

But on Saturday, as he walked out to bat in game 500 for Thomastown’s Diamond Valley Cricket Association E grade match with Banyule on February 7, he got to share one of the most special moments of his career.

Walking out to bat with him was his son Jonathon Alberti.

It may have been game 31 together but it was the first time they had batted together.

“He did really well,” Lou said. “It was good for me to teach him while I was batting.

“It was always in my head that we probably should have done it a bit earlier. It’s one of those things.

“We might have to do it again this week. Maybe even open the bowling together and take over this week.”

The decision to bat together was made during the week between day one and two.

Lou, who is captain of the side, said Jonathon was telling people they were doing it before he had agreed.

“It was quite exciting,” Jonathon said. “I always watch him bat pretty much every week now and I finally got the chance to bat with him.

“I was quite excited for it, It was quite a big moment.”

Lou said it was just another game for him but it was special to play at home and with his son and some mates.

Playing with his son is one of the highlights of his career.

“Winning some premierships,” he said.

“I hadn’t won any for 20 years and we won two or three in a row and.haven’t’ won any for a while again.

“That’s always pretty good. Playing with Jonathon as well.”

Thomastown and Thomastown recently recognised him and United legend Brett Leavold but naming a cup after the pair.

Jonathon said he always wanted to play with his dad.

“I’ve started and was about 13 playing in the fourths team, just for a bit of fun,” he said.

“Every year kept going up and made my way into the second XI and had the privilege to play with my dad.

“On and off the field he is great. During training sessions he just sits there and help you.

“He’ll help anyone with whatever they want

“In the game, as I was batting he was helping me get through the overs.”

Both said they love an Alberti combo, bowled Jonathon and caught Lou.

“I bowl and he takes a catch and almost drops it,” laughed Jonathon.

Both are keen to create some more memories.

“I’ll play as much as I can,” Lou said “I’m still okay at the moment.

“Playing together in a premiership would be my goal.

“Or I made 100 and Jono at the other end. Actually Jono at making a 100 that would be good.”

ThomastownpresidentJordanCugnetto said the Albertis’ are one of four father-son

with 55.

Ethan Kunelius, Naman Sharma and Jaedyn Kearney took two wickets each for the Pingers.

The Pingers got off to the worst start, losing a wicket without scoring.

At 3-61, the Pingers were still on track. They then lost 5-26 to halt any hopes of getting the win.The Pingers finished 8-79. Tom Emmins top scored with 30.

The Wanderers will face Rosanna in the grand final after Rosanna beat Riverside in the other semi final.

All three grand finals will be played on Sunday at DeWinton Park, Rosanna. The Mash Shield will start action at 11am followed by the Money Shield and the Barclay Shield to finish the day.

Sports shorts

Northern FL

South Morang has locked in one of its own for the Northern Football League division 2 season. Tyson Gresham, who was on the draft radar last year, is a mid-forward with the club saying he is known for his breakaway speed, high pressure and elite ground ball work.Gresham is Victorian Football League listed with Carlton this season.

EDFL

Westmeadows is set for a boost for the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 season. The Tigers have put in a clearance for former North Melbourne AFLW premiership player Sarah Wright. Wright retired from AFLW at the end of 2025, having missed last season. She joins her twin sister and Westmeadows coach Gemma Wright at the Tigers.

VPL

Bundoora United has received a massive boost ahead of the Victorian Premier League women’s competition. “We’re thrilled to welcome the most exciting attacking talent in women’s football to Bundy for the upcoming season,” the club said on social media. “After scoring 114 goals in her past two seasons at VPL level we are thrilled to announce the signing of Addison Steiner. This is a massive statement of intent for our brand new women’s side.”

Premier Cricket

combinations at the club along with the Cugnettos’, Potenzas’ and the Stewarts’.

“We pride ourselves on truly being a family club,” he said. “Nothing encapsulates family more than fathers and sons taking the field together.

“Louie has been a integral member of the club for well over 30 years, his on field accolades don’t encompass everything he has done on field for this club, he is truly a Thomastown Cricket Club great.

“We are forever in debt for all he has done for us. A much loved club person.”

Greenvale Kangaroos were able to avoid an outright loss to Melbourne University in Victorian Premier Cricket. The Kangaroos had a big task on their hands chasing down Melbourne University’s 9-409. The Kangaroos were bowled out for just 169 in reply. Odil Perera top scored with 35 at the top of the order. Melbourne University sent the Kangaroos back in to try and get an outright win. The Kangaroos were able to halt that, finishing 0-91 off 18 overs. Yaseen Muntasir finished 63 not out. The Kangaroos remain bottom heading into the final round against Geelong over the next two weekends.

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Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

New look Hume City ready

By Tara Murray

It’s been an off season of change for Hume City in the National Premier League.

While Hume finished in seventh and only two points out of finals there was a lot going on off the field.

Nick Hegarty returned to coach the side for the back part of the season, with Hume using it as a launchpad to kick off this year.

“It’s been a long pre-season, a super busy one,” Hegarty said. “We needed a bit of change after things that happened last year.

“It was the reason why I came back then. I sat back a little bit to see what was going on and the roots of the good and the bad things.

“We’ve got a good group and good people together. The proof will be in the pudding.

“We can not wait to get going.”

Hegarty said they had only kept about half a dozen players from last season’s list.

He said they had looked to bring in players at both ends of the scale.

“It’s good mix,” he said. “There’s a number of players under-23 and then some premier leaders at good NPL clubs

“There’s a little bit of hunger to prove themselves and to prove to themselves to us. We’ve instilled that in the playing group that they are the ones driving us forward.”

Winger Adisu Bayew, who played 25 A-League games, Steve Whyte, Chris Old-

field, defender Joshua Wilkins, centre back Brayden Spink, Frank Busasa, Chris Engelhart, Khoder Kaddour, Jacob Adams, Moonib Adus, John Paikopoulos, Aiki Tsukamoto and Taylor Schrijvers are among the signings for Hume.

Hegarty said they had signed five players under-20 with three being home grown talent.

He said providing opportunities for the next generation was something that they wanted to continue to do.

“Developing young people in the squad should be what clubs are about,” he said.

“It should be the foundation of the dna of a club and that should never change.

“We’ve got five in the senior level and a

New Broncos recruit feels right at home

By Tara Murray

One of Hume City Broncos new imports for the Big V women’s championship was sitting right under their nose.

Maddi Geislinger joins the Broncos having played with Melbourne University in the division 1 competition.

The Broncos say that Geislinger bring athleticism, defensive presence and guard skills that you don’t see often from players at her height.

Having called Australia home since she first came out to play basketball three years ago. She lives not too far from Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium.

“I’ve come and shot around before as it’s the closest stadium to home,” Geislinger said.

“I thought that it was a really nice stadium. I played in lower divisions like division 1 and always wanted to play in a champ outfit.

“It was actually really perfect.

“We ended up calling [acting general manager] Glen [Milner] myself and going hey to do you need an import and it worked out really well.”

“They really liked me and I appreciated what they could offer me and really like everyone here.”

Geislinger said she enjoyed her time at Melbourne University, after joining the side as she had a friend playing there.

The side fell just short against the eventual champions.

She said she could have never imagined where her career would have gone after coming out to Australia for the first time.

“I was playing semi-professional in America … This agent came up to me and asked the owner of my team, do I want to play in Australia

“Pursue more of a basketball career in another country, [Isaid] that would be awesome.

“I always wanted to travel and be in another country and it’s a really great opportunity coming to me like that.

“I thought I would come out her and then go back home and vice versa go home after the season, playing basketball back in America

“Ended up staying for almost two years without going home.”

While she’s been around the stadium, Geislinger said she didn’t know much about

lot of talent in the 23s and 20s that we will work with the next couple of years.”

Hume kicked off its season on Friday night against Altona Magic with a 3-1 loss.

Hegarty said they knew it might take a bit to get going.

“That is the reality,” he said.

“Whether we hit the ground running or take time to get into it we need to get points early on.

“We’re confident that we’re ready and some good players, well structured and organised.

“We’ll be hard to beat against Altona. The first game is always tough ask and it will give us a good idea of what is going on.

“We’ll get better week by week.”

Moore steps in as Eagles’ coach

Meadow Park has announced that Danny Moore will coach the club following the decision of Ian Anderson to step down as coach.

The Eagles announced that Anderson had stood down for personal reasons and to allow him to spend more time with his young family.

“Ian’s decision is entirely personal and was made amicably and with the full support of the club,” the club said on social media.

“While we are naturally disappointed to see Ian step away, we fully respect and support his decision and thank him sincerely for his outstanding contribution to our club.

“Ian has been an invaluable addition to our club. In his first season as senior coach, he led our senior men to the state league 5 north premiership, a significant achievement and one that will remain a proud chapter in our club’s history.

“Beyond results, Ian has played a key role in building a strong, respectful and united culture across our senior playing group - one founded on accountability, professionalism and genuine care for one another.

“Ian will always remain an important member of the Meadow Park Soccer Club family and will retain a special place in our club’s history.”

the Broncos before joining the side.

She said she was excited for the challenge to playing against tougher opposition.

“I’m really excited to have more competition and playing with another import and playing against the teams that have more than one import.”

After a tough season last year for the Broncos, the group is hoping to rise up the ladder.

Geislinger said they thought they had a really good balance within the side.

“I feel like we have a mix of players,” she said.

“A bit of the younger side and veterans and older players and some young talent coming up to give us some more energy.

“Our first practice matches are in February and I’m excited what we can produce against another team.”

Meanwhile,theBroncoshaveannounced their second import.

Kelly Heimburger will join the Broncos from America.

A graduate of Azusa Pacific University, Heimburger is a two-time All-PacWest honoree and was the conference’s player and defender of the year in 2023–24 and 2024–25.

The club said after an abbreviated but thorough and considered process, the committee had appointed Danny Moore as its new coach.

The club said that Moore was at the club for the right reasons.

“Danny brings a wealth of experience across senior playing and coaching pathways, with more than two decades involved at senior level,” the club said.

“As a player, he enjoyed a long and successful career, including multiple league titles and exposure to strong senior environments that shaped his understanding of elite standards, preparation, and winning cultures.

“Transitioning into coaching, Danny has built an impressive CV across senior and youth programs, including head coaching roles at senior men’s level.”

Anderson will work with Moore through a handover period.

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