Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 3rd March 2026

CFA recruits wanted

Caroline Springs Fire Brigade is on the lookout for new recruits.

“Whether you’re interested in responding to emergency calls, helping behind the scenes, or supporting community safety, there’s a place for you,” the brigade wrote on social media.

As a Country Fire Authority (CFA) volunteer, locals can take on a range of roles, including operational positions that involve becoming a trained firefighter and responding to fires, road rescues and other emergencies, as well as support roles in administration, logistics, events, social media and community fire safety.

There are also community engagement roles, where volunteers educate local residents about fire safety and prevention, as well as training and equipment roles, where they assist with readiness, maintenance and drills.

Anybody aged 18 and over can sign up, however they must live within eight minutes of either Caroline Springs or Hillside fire stations.

No previous experience is required and full training is provided.

Noise backlash

By Sam Porter

Locals have raised concerns about a high-pitched noise device being used to deter rough sleepers at the Brimbank multi-deck car park on George Street, near Sunshine Leisure Centre.

Brimbank resident Sam O’Reilly described the sound as a pulsating, high-pitched siren and said it was a form of hostile design.

“Rather than addressing the issues, it’s just pushing people to the next spot,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“That location can mean shelter in bad weather. Nobody wants to sleep rough.”

He also raised concerns about possible health impacts, particularly for residents

who live and work in the area.

“We take my son to swimming lessons each week and you can hear it from a few hundred metres away,” he said. “I can’t believe it was allowed in the first place.”

Director of community mental health and homelessness at cohealth, Brett Murphy, said the use of the noise device was “a disappointing and shortsighted misstep” by council.

He said the measure was “counter to the manypositiveinitiativesthattheBrimbank City Council has introduced to address the needs of the growing number of people experiencing homelessness in Brimbank.“

“In addition to the negative health impacts for people subjected to the noise, it also further stigmatises homelessness by

inhumanely moving people on.”

He said cohealth and its service partners remaincommittedtoworkingwithcouncil and the community on responses that address housing, social, health and safety needs in Brimbank without adding further distress.

A Brimbank council spokesperson said the device installed in the car park was a protective measure designed to keep critical pathways clear and safe during emergencies.

“Council is required, under Victoria’s Building Act 1993 and Victorian Building Regulations, to fulfil its duty of care and protect people from danger by ensuring that emergency exits in all public facilities remain clear and functional at all times,”

the spokesperson said.

Council said the system currently emits a constant low-level hum, and that adjustments are underway so that it will activate only when triggered by movement in the fire stairs to reduce the fire safety risk.

The spokesperson acknowledged community feedback about the volume of the noise and said sound levels had been reduced and would be monitored.

“Our priority is to work with other levels of government and community organisations to ensure everyone in our community has access to safe, dignified housing rather than seeking shelter in high-riskenvironments,”thespokesperson said.

Airport rail works commence

Works on the long-awaited Melbourne Airport Rail Link (MARL) have begun, marking the first step in the development of Sunshine into a transport superhub.

According to the state and federal governments, the $4.1 billion joint investment will untangle the complex rail junction at Sunshine, realigning the Sunbury line to make way for airport rail and a future electrified Melton line.

The construction announcement comes as early designs for the new Sunshine interchange were released.

The project will create six kilometres of new track and two rail bridges.

Sunshine station will also be expanded

with a longer concourse and two new regional platforms.

The state government said the Sunshine station upgrades will remove bottlenecks and allow for more regular train services while connecting regional services, the Metro Tunnel and future airport trains in one central location.

Upgraded lighting and CCTV will also be built into the station improvements.

Accordingtothestategovernment,$143 million will be invested into improving the precinct around the station.

As part of the surrounding upgrades, a new, fully accessible Tottenham station will be built on the realigned Sunbury line.

The new station will include upgraded lighting and a pedestrian underpass with early designs to be released in the coming months.

Construction on the new Tottenham station is set to begin next year.

A new Albion station will also be built with the project expected to be completed in 2030.

Development Victoria and Precincts Minister Harriet Shing described Sunshine as being on the cusp of a remarkable transformation.

“And with new pedestrian and cycling links, an improved bus interchange, new

Local young leaders converge on summit

Seventy-five students from high schools across Melbourne’s north-west attended a student leadership summit on Friday 20 February, providing an opportunity for young people in the region to develop leadership skills and create local connections.

According to Overnewton Anglican Community College, who has hosted the eventforthreeyearsnow,therewererecord numbersofattendanceontheday.

The school said a highlight was the keynote address delivered by Gorton MP AliceJordan-Baird.

Speaking to students about leadership in public life and community advocacy, Ms

Jordan-Baird said it was important to listen toyoungvoices.

“Thisiswhereouramazingyoungleaders are.Hearingfromthemaboutwhatmatters to them is so important”, Ms Jordan-Baird said. “These young voices are literally shaping national policy. The more young people I meet, the more I can champion theirviewsinParliament.”

Ms Jordan-Baird also ran a question and answersession,providingstudentswiththe opportunity to gain insight into leadership atanationallevel.

Throughouttheday,studentsparticipated in dynamic workshops facilitated by Youth LeadershipAcademyAustralia.

Sessions focused on self-leadership and service leadership, and communicating withteamsandthecommunity.

Students were then guided through a practical activity to identify issues within their communities and begin developing meaningfulprojectstoaddressthem.

College principal Emily FitzSimons said engagement throughout the day was exceptional.

“The student leadership summit provides a meaningful platform for young people to refine their skills, explore their capacity to influencepositivechangeandrecognisethe responsibility that comes with leadership,” shesaid.

station forecourts with open space and local improvements – we’re creating safer placesandconnectionsforlocalfamilies,” Ms Shing said.

The Sunshine superhub project is expected to be completed in 2030.

Locals can help shape the designs and new open spaces around Sunshine station by visiting engage.vic.gov.au/ airportrail-stage1 by 29 March.

Community information sessions will also be held from 3-6pm on Wednesday 11 March at Derrimut Hotel, 132 Durham Road, Sunshine, and from 9am-1pm on Saturday 14 March at Whitten Oval Foyer, 417 Barkly Street, Footscray.

Measles exposure sites

The Department of Health has listed six measles exposure sites in Tullamarinesince10February.

The most recent exposure incidents occurred on Wednesday 18 February at Melbourne Airport, terminal 4 from 9.25-11am, and on Jetstar flight JQ505 from 7-9.55am, which departed Sydney and arrived atMelbourneAirport.

Those present at the exposure sites during this time should monitor for symptomsuptoSunday8March.

On Sunday 15 to Monday 16 February,anotherexposureoccurred at Melbourne Airport, terminal 2 from11.05pm-12.40am.

Those present should monitor for symptomsuptoFriday6March.

On Sunday 15 February, the Emirates flight EK408, departing Dubai and arriving at Melbourne Airportwaslistedasanexposuresite from3am-11.35pm.

Those present should monitor for symptomsuptoThursday5March.

Two further instances were listed atMelbourneAirportandonaVietJet AirflightinFebruary.

The listed flight was VietJet Air VJ81, departing Ho Chi Minh City and arriving at Melbourne Airport onTuesday10February.

The exposure times for the flight werebetween11.05am-12.25am.

The exposure date for Melbourne Airport, terminal 2 was Tuesday 10 to Wednesday 11 February from 11.55pmto1.30am.

Those present on the flight and at terminal 2 during the listed times should monitor for symptoms up to Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 Marchrespectively.

Barro granted another extension to prove why it should

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria has granted the operator of Kealbalandfill,BarroGroup,anextension to19Marchtodemonstratewhyitslicence should not be suspended.

ItisthesecondtimetheEPAhasgranted the extension, citing it was doing so “to allow procedural fairness in this complex matter”.

On 5 December last year, the EPA announced its intention to suspend Barro’s licence to operate at the entirety of the site – where underground fires have beenburningforsixyears–sayingit“does not believe Barro has the systems in place to manage the risks from their operations to keep the community safe”.

Since 2019, nearby residents have been significantly impacted by noxious odours from the four hotspots, three of which have now been extinguished.

AccordingtotheEPA,thelastinspection of the landfill occurred on Thursday 19 February with no odour detected onsite.

From the recent inspection, the EPA also noted progress has been made on implementing the environmental audit recommendations, with onsite remediationandmanagementcontinuing in line with the EPA notice.

The announcement to suspend Barro’s licence last December came as the

EPA informed the Victorian Civil and AdministrativeTribunalitcouldnolonger defend the revocation of Barro’s previous operating licence, which was based on hotspot remediation only.

The EPA said it was holding Barro to account with new and broader regulatory actions.

Residentsandlocalpoliticiansprotested in response, saying the EPA should do more.

At the time, Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos said the community would like Barro to be shut down completely.

“Suspension still allows for appeal. If the laws aren’t working, change the laws

keep licence

because our community is suffering,” she said.

The same month, St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman launched a community petition to oppose Barro Group recommencing any form of operations at Kealba Landfill.

“I am fighting hard to ensure that the gates at the landfill are kept locked and look forward to continuing to fight for our community”, Ms Suleyman said. Barro cannot currently accept waste or operate the landfill until the remaining hotspot is extinguished, following an EPA prohibition notice issued on 1 December last year.

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Lunar New Year celebrations

About 100 locals attended a Lunar New Year celebration on Thursday 19 February, hosted by Djerriwarrh Community and EducationServicesatitsSunshinecampus.

Students, alongside friends, family and local politicians, welcomed the Year of the Horse, symbolising energy, passion and creativity,inavibrantcelebrationofcolour and culture.

Many attendees wore traditional dress.

The celebration featured a traditional Lion Dance performance, followed by lunch and karaoke performances with the festivities continuing until the early afternoon.

Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services chief executive Trish Heffernan said the event was about acknowledging culture, belonging and the important role education plays in building community connection.

“LunarNewYearisaveryspecialtimefor many of our students, and this celebration is about honouring their cultures while bringing people together,” Ms Heffernan said. “Many of our students are from migrant and refugee backgrounds, and events like this help create a sense of belonging, confidence and joy — not just in the classroom, but across the wider community.”

Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos was in attendance along with councillors Kim Thien Truong and Lucy Nguyen.

The event also marked the launch of Djerriwarrh’s ‘gold class’, a new part-time English program.

According to Djerriwarrh, the class will combine English language learning with social connection and excursions, helping community members who may be older or isolated stay engaged and connected.

Briefs

Taylors Lakes fire

A major fire tore through a home in Taylors Lakes on the evening of Friday 20 February. Crews arrived at the Australia Drive address at 7.30pm to find a residential garage fully ablaze and spreading to the attached double storey house. Firefighters located an elderly male occupant, who was brought to safety but who suffered burns to his face. An elderly female evacuated without injury. The fire was declared under control at 7.52pm, 22 minutes after crews arrived. The house sustained significant damage.

Entrepreneur program

Brimbank council is offering a program for entrepreneurs, intraprenuers and small-business owners looking to future-proof their business.

According to council, the CUL-TI-VATE program is designed to accelerate the process of validating an idea, understanding if there is a market for it and then determining its viability. The program runs over a seven-week period commencing on 22 April (Wednesday evenings) at a pace that encourages quick and iterative thinking, council said. As part of the program, participants will receive six master classes, one-on-one sessions, access to online learning platforms, networking opportunities, and more.

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$4.5 billion airport upgrade

A $4.5 billion expansion is on the cards for Melbourne Airport’s international terminal.

Melbourne Airport said the expansion incorporates several projects, including an expansion of both international check-inandbaggageclaimhallstobetter accommodate the increasing number of passengers flying in and out of Australia’s largest 24-hour gateway, according to the airport.

Five new gates will be added to the existing international pier, which Melbourne Airport said would give airlinesmoreflexibilitytoscheduleflights to more destinations at the times people want to fly.

According to Melbourne Airport, key projects include five new aircraft stands, an expanded waiting area, and an expanded check-in hall with high-tech, common user baggage facilities.

Other projects include an expanded terminal footprint with improved waiting areas, lounge facilities and retail offerings as well as an expanded baggage reclaim with extra baggage carousels and additional space for border agencies.

Theexpansionprogramwillbedelivered in stages and is enabled by the opening of new pick-up and drop-off zones in the T123 Transport Hub in September, which

the airport said will pave the way for the international terminal to push out into the existing forecourt.

The privately funded expansion will be delivered over several years due to the challenges of building in a 24-hour live operating environment.

Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said the expanded international terminal would provide an improved experience for passengers and complement the airport’s third runway, which is due to open in 2031.

“As Melbourne grows, demand for air travel is growing too and we are investing billions of dollars to deliver the

New onsite kinder creates connection

GlengalaKindergarteninSunshineWestis one of 24 new kinders that have opened on ornearschoolsitesinVictoriathisyear.

Glengala Primary School principal Kristy Herridge said having the onsite kinder helps children transition from kindergartentoschoolmoreeasily.

“Children become familiar with the environments, the adults and the expectation of the school in a calm and supportedway,”MsHerridgesaid.

She said it also helps parents who have children attending the school and the kindergarten.

“For families, it really helps with their

dailyroutine.It’sinoneconvenientlocation and strengthens the early relationships with the school community,” Ms Herridge said. “It’s an exciting opportunity to collaborate across the two sectors. We’re hopingthatwillgrowinthenextfewyears.”

Ms Herridge said the collaboration also allows the school to teach its values of being passionate, respectful, open to learning, understanding and driven from theget-go.

“Havingthatkindergartenonsiteisareal opportunity for us to work with the kinder on those values from the beginning,” she said.

The new kinder consists of two rooms thataccommodateupto66childrenatone time.

According to the state government, the 24 new kinders that opened onsite or near schoolsthisyearwillcreate3250additional spotsforchildren.

Laverton MP Sarah Connolly said high-quality kinder sets children up for schoolandforlife.

“We’re delivering services like Glengala Kindergarten where families need them most – like close to home, on school sites with more places than ever before,” she said.

infrastructure we need to accommodate that,” she said.

“Increased capacity on our airfield and terminals will allow airlines to schedule more flights to more places, which will give consumers and exporters more choice.

“We’ve spent several months working collaboratively with the airlines to ensure these plans meet their needs, while also deliveringanimprovedexperienceforour travellersinbotharrivalsanddepartures.“

Preliminary works on the first stage of the international terminal expansion will beginfollowingtheopeningofMelbourne Airport’s new road network in September.

Residents to name ‘biggest ever’ Melton build

Melton council is calling on locals to help shape the identity of Fraser Rise’s upcoming aquatic centre, Melton’s‘biggestever’capitalproject. Communityconsultationwillsoon open,givinglocalsthechancetogive their input on what they think the new aquatic centre should be called, with four key themes to help guide thenamingprocess.

Names will be based on its link to place, a recognition and use of traditional owner languages, gender equality and using commemorative names.

Located on Beattys Road within the Plumpton Precinct Structure Plan, the new two-storey aquatic and leisure centre is set to include a number of indoor pools, splash play areas, water slides, spas, a sauna, health and fitness areas, an outdoor pool with an accessible beach entrance, change facilities, and a café.

Construction on the new aquatic and leisure centre began in November last year and is expected tobecompletedbyearly2028.

Residents will be invited to give their input on the preferred naming theme during a first round of community engagement, with suggestionswelcomedforaproposed name.

Cr Kathy Majdlik said excitement is brewing as the new aquatic centre comestolife.

“Itisexcitingtoseethenewaquatic and leisure centreinFraser Risetake shape,”shesaid.

“This is council’s biggest ever capital project …It will be a huge assetforourcommunity.”

Roofing company fined after putting workers at risk on building sites

Aroofingcompanyhasbeenconvictedand fined after repeatedly putting workers at riskoffallsonfourresidentialconstruction sitesinMelbourne,includinginFraserRise andMickleham.

Proform Roofing (Vic) was found guilty of nine offences under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations on Thursday12Februaryandfined$700,000.

The company was sentenced ex parte at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court to an aggregate fine of $350,000 for failing to use passive fall prevention devices and fall protection, and for failing to have a safe

work method statement (SWMS) across threesitesinFraserRiseandClydeNorth.

The court also imposed an additional aggregate fine of $350,000 for offences at a Mickleham construction site for failing to haveasafesystemforworkingatheightand failing to perform high risk construction workinlinewithaSWMS.

The company was also ordered to pay coststotalling$12,965forthetwomatters.

The court heard that Proform was engagedtoinstallsteelroofingatthreesites inFraserRiseandClydeNorth.

In April 2023, a WorkSafe inspector

visited the Fraser Rise construction site, following a complaint about lack of fall protection.

The inspector saw a worker on the roof without perimeter guard railing or safety harnessesinplace.

The worker said no SWMS had been prepared, despite working at heights of 2.9 and3.2metres.

In July 2024, a WorkSafe inspector responding to a complaint about a townhouse construction site in Mickleham sawtwoworkersonthelowerroofinstalling roofbattenswithoutfallprotectioninplace.

Both workers were at risk of falling three metresandnoSWMSwasavailable. The court heard it was reasonably practicable for the company to have implemented fall protection measures, such has handrails, perimeter guardrails, harnesses or scaffolding, as well having a SWMS where appropriate and performing high-risk construction work in accordance withit.

WorkSafe chief health and safety officer Sam Jenkin said the hefty fines sent a clear message to employers who repeatedly ignoredtheirhealthandsafetyobligations.

Faces of the west

Mayor’s message

Cr Lara Carli

Each year on 8 March, we celebrate International Women’s Day and recognise the extraordinary contribution women make to our lives.

This year’s theme, Balance the Scales, is a reminder that while progress has been made, achieving true equality requires ongoing effort, in our workplaces, in leadership, in sport and in everyday life.

Council is proud to support International Women’s Day with a range of free activities and workshops across our City from our Melton City Girls Can “Come and Try” sports sessions to library events, film screenings and creative workshops, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.

I encourage everyone to stop and reflect on this special day, explore what’s on offer and take a moment to celebrate the women who shape our community.

Last week, we also marked an exciting milestone with the official opening of the new Rugby and Gridiron Pavilion at MacPherson Park.

This project forms part of the long-term redevelopment of this regionally significant sporting precinct, and delivers modern change rooms, social spaces, kitchen facilities and upgraded amenities to support our growing clubs and their members. Facilities like this strengthen social connections, promote wellbeing and create spaces where people feel they belong.

Council invested over $4.3m in this project, with Sport and Recreation Victoria contributing $1m through their Local Sports Infrastructure Fund – Female Friendly Facilities stream.

Feel free to contact me about Sugar Gum Ward or our City more generally on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au

Labour Day operating hours

Our offices, libraries and animal pound will be closed on Monday 9March 2026 for the Labour Day public holiday. There is no change to kerbside bin collections, so if your bin day is Monday, please put your bin out Sunday night for Monday collection.

The Melton Recycling Facility is open 8am – 4.30pm.

Coolibah Ward with Cr Brandi Morris

This year has started with great momentum across our community.

The new Children’s and Community Centre in Weir Views is now open. This wonderful space provides Maternal and Child Health services, three and four-year-old kindergarten, meeting rooms and play areas.

This year I am proud to be a Councillor representative on Council’s Arts and Culture, Melton Weir, and Safe City advisory committees. This gives me the opportunity to connect directly with community and bring their voices back to Council. The ensures the decisions we make reflect the needs of the people who call our City home.

I’m also delighted to represent Council on the Metropolitan Transport Forum and to have recently been appointed to the forum’s executive committee. Through this role I will strongly advocate for critical transport

upgrades, including an improved local bus network.

Council recently announced six key advocacy priorities focused on jobs, transport, education, health, environment and financial sustainability. Top projects, like upgrading the Western Freeway and expanding higher education opportunities, are critical to supporting our growing community.

Finally, I’m pleased to share that some improvements to Cobblebank Stadium are now complete. The installation of an additional scoreboard, and new evaporative cooling to the general courts, will enhance comfort and functionality for our community.

Feel free to contact me regarding Coolibah Ward or our City more generally on 0418 999 577 or email brandi.morris@melton.vic.gov.au

Saturday 21 March, 12pm – 8pm

Lake Caroline, Caroline Springs

Bring your family and friends and enjoy a day by the lake full of free entertainment, delicious food, market stalls, and roving performers while celebrating our diverse community!

Live music will feature throughout the day across two stages with indie-rock band The Vanns headlining the Main Stage. A second Harmony Day Stage will showcase intercultural performances, music and interactive workshops in celebration of Cultural Diversity Week.

Twilight fireworks will wrap up the day in spectacular style.

This fun, family-friendly festival is not to be missed. For information visit melton.vic.gov.au/ LakesideAlive

Girls leading change at Global Village Learning

At Global Village Learning, International Women’sDayisnotjustacknowledged.Itis lived.

Across our Developmental Learning Hubs, girls are launching ideas, leading initiatives and, in many cases, starting real businesses. They are not waiting for adulthood to step into leadership. They are doingitnow.

GVL’svisionisclear:empoweringlearners tobuildcommunitiesthatpositivelyimpact the world. For many of our young women, that impact is already visible across our localcommunity.

Through EDventurous Projects, learners

identifyauthenticproblems,researchdeeply and design practical solutions. Girl-led initiatives have included launching small social enterprises, running fundraising campaigns, creating community events and developing products that respond to realneeds.

In our Entrepreneurship and Social Impact hub, young women pitch business ideas, manage budgets, apply for startup funding and collaborate with local organisations. They learn how to communicate professionally, think strategically and turn ideas into action. Some are running pop-ups. Others are

building service-based ventures. All are buildingconfidence.

Importantly, this leadership is visible. Womenplayasignificantroleinshapingthe direction and culture of GVL. Our learners see women leading strategy, guiding learning and building partnerships across theMacedonRangesandbeyond.

International Women’s Day at GVL is a celebration of capability and courage. It is a reminder that when girls are trusted with responsibility, supported by strong role models and given meaningful opportunities, they do not just participate intheircommunity.Theybuildit.

Work still to be done on International Women’s Day 2026

International Women’s Day (IWD) has a long and powerful history in Australia, reflecting more than a century of activism, reform and progress toward gender equality.

The origins of International Women’s Day lie in the global labour and women’s suffrage movements of the early 20th century. The first official International Women’s Day was held in 1911 following a proposal by German activist Clara Zetkin at an international socialist conference in 1910. In Australia, the day was first marked in 1928 in Sydney, organised by the Militant Women’s Movement. Early rallies demanded equal pay, an eight-hour day for shop girls, paid leave and an end to unemploymentforwomen.

Australia was already considered progressive in some respects — white Australian women gained the right to vote and stand for federal parliament in 1902 (although Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanderwomenwereexcludeduntil1962). However,despitetheseearlygains,women continued to face entrenched inequality in pay, employment, education and political representation. International Women’s Day became a focal point for calling out theseinjustices.

Through the 1930s and 1940s, IWD gatheringsinAustraliafocusedonworkers’ rights and peace movements, particularly during the world wars. In the 1960s and 1970s,thedaytookonrenewedenergywith theriseofsecond-wavefeminism.Activists campaigned for equal pay, reproductive rights, access to childcare and protection from discrimination. In 1969, Australian women won equal pay for equal work in principle, followed by the landmark 1972 equal pay case that extended this to work

ofequalvalue. The 1970s also marked a turning point internationally when the United Nations officially recognised International Women’sDayin1975,duringInternational Women’s Year. This global endorsement helped broaden the day beyond labour activism, embedding it in mainstream

institutions, government and corporate Australia.

Today, International Women’s Day in Australia is observed annually on March 8 and has evolved into both a celebration and a call to action. Events range from grassroots rallies and community breakfasts to major corporate conferences

and awards ceremonies. Organisations such as UN Women Australia play a significant role in promoting annual themes that highlight issues including gender-based violence, economic inequalityandwomen’sleadership.

TheimportanceofInternationalWomen’s Day in Australia remains clear. Despite decades of reform, gender inequality persists. The national gender pay gap, whilenarrowing,continuestofavourmen. Womenremainunderrepresentedinsenior leadership roles across business, politics and many industries. Rates of domestic and family violence remain a national crisis,disproportionatelyaffectingwomen.

IWD provides an opportunity to reflect on progress made while acknowledging the work still to be done. It also creates space to recognise the achievements of Australian women across all fields — from politics and science to sport and the arts —andtoelevatethevoicesofFirstNations women, migrant women and women from diverse backgrounds whose contributions havehistoricallybeenoverlooked.

In recent years, International Women’s Day in Australia has increasingly emphasised intersectionality — recognising that gender inequality intersects with race, disability, sexuality and socioeconomic status. This broader understanding reflects a more inclusive andcontemporaryfeministmovement.

More than a commemorative date, International Women’s Day in Australia is a reminder that rights were won through sustainedactivismandmustbecontinually defended. It honours the legacy of those who marched before, while inspiring new generations to push for a more equal and justsociety.

Nominate an inspiring

role model today

Celebrate the extraordinary! The Victorian Mother of the Year Award honours role models and community caregivers who create a just world—where everyone belongs. This award shines a light on women who inspire, empower and positively impact their communities.

Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Nick Reece, will announce the winner. This year’s winner will receive $10,000 in funding from the Y’s charitable fund to support initiatives uplifting young people and families in need.

Scan to nominate!

Nominate now: 2026 Victorian Mother of the Year Award

YMCA Victoria is calling for nominations for the 2026 Victorian Mother of the Year Award: a celebration of the women who showupforyoungpeopleandcommunities inpowerful,practicalandinspiringways.

This award recognises women of all ages and stages who are role models in action.

From mums and carers to sports coaches, mentors, fundraisers and grassroots leaders, we’re celebrating women building stronger, more connected communities across Victoria. They create opportunities, advocate for fairness, and help young people feel seen, supported and like they trulybelong.

Previous award recipients reflect the diversity and impact of this honour. Carla Raynes, a mum of two, was recognised for her tireless work with BridgeIt, supporting

young people experiencing homelessness and insecure housing. Michelle Galea, an IVF mum and founder of Australian Solo Mums By Choice, has united and supportedsinglemumsacrossAustralia. The 2026 recipient will be announced by the Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Nick Reece, at a special ceremony at Melbourne Town Hall in the lead up to Mother’s Day. The winner will also receive $10,000 from the Y’s charitable fund to support initiatives that uplift young people and families in need.

If you know a role model making a difference (big or small) now is the time to recogniseher. Nominate an extraordinary Victorian today: https://victoria.ymca.org.au/ victorian-mother-of-the-year/nominate

Celebrating strength in leadership, the arts and science

International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to recognise the influence, courage and commitment of women in education. At Braemar College, we are fortunate to have remarkable role models whose leadership extends well beyond their classrooms and into the broader professionalcommunity.

Liz Benson is our new Head of Middle School, and her work is grounded in a simple but powerful belief: every student deservesagreatteacher,andeveryteacher deserves the opportunity to be great. Through her leadership development initiatives and involvement in ACEL’s Pivotal People Middle Leaders’ Network, Liz has intentionally created spaces for women in leadership to connect, learn andthrive.Hercommitmenttonurturing and celebrating women’s leadership strengthensnotonlyBraemarCollege,but theprofessionmorebroadly.

In the Arts, Coralie Kane brings a lifetime of creative excellence shaped by her early experience with the Australian Ballet and her studies at the Victorian College of the Arts. Her mastery of figurative printmaking, painting and sculpture reflects a deep understanding of the body, spirit and emotion. Coralie’s workhonoursgenerationalcraftsmanship and, as an educator, she empowers students to discover their unique creative voices. Through art, she fosters social unity and shared human understanding.

DrAdeleHudsonembodiesintellectual curiosity and scientific discovery. From completing her PhD in novel water treatments to teaching galaxies, the Big Bang Theory and Year 12 Chemistry, Adele models a lifelong love of learning.

possibilityandimpact.

Harness the power of connection in your next chapter

As we get older, our priorities shift. Success is measured less by how busy we are and more by the quality of our days and the people we share them with.

Research consistently shows strong social connections are vital to healthy ageing. Regular interaction supports mentalwellbeing,benefitsphysicalhealth and may even increase longevity. A coff with a friend, a shared laugh over bowls, or simply knowing someone nearby cares — these everyday moments matter.

Yet staying connected can become harder with age. Families are busy, neighbours change, and large homes can feel quiet and isolating.

That’s where community living makes a meaningful difference.

At Avington Living in Point Cook, connection happens naturally. Designed exclusively for over-50s, the community brings together like-minded people who value independence alongside friendship and shared experiences.

The clubhouse is the social heart of the community, offering inviting spaces to meet and unwind. Residents can swim in the heated indoor pool, join a craft group, enjoy movie nights in the cinema, or relax with neighbours in the library. Opportunities to connect are always close to home.

Privacy is equally respected — you can be as involved as you choose, but you’re never alone unless you want to be.

There’scomfortinneighbourswhowave asyoupassandcheckinifyouhaven’tbeen seen for a few days. It creates a genuine sense of belonging, something not always found in a traditional suburban street.

At Avington Living, you’re not just moving house — you’re joining a community. Conveniently located near shopping, healthcare and leisure facilities, Avington Living offers easy access to everything Point Cook has to offer.

Our Most Spacious & Entertaining Home

The Tilbury is designed for those who want more. More space, more comfort and more room to entertain. An expansive wrap-around verandah, premium European appliances and high-end finishes create resort-style living without compromise.

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For a limited time, Avington is offering a $20,000 rebate* on new homes. With limited homes remaining in Stage 10, now is the time to book a private tour. Display homes are open Monday to

Friday, 11am–3pm, or Saturdays by appointment. Visit www.avingtonliving. com.au or call (03) 8400 0408 to learn more. Terms and conditions apply.

2026

ROUND 13

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

Water rise (4)

S in the NATO phonetic alphabet (6)

Privately (10)

Exaction (9)

Rummaged (9)

Debris (6)

Interval (6)

Scent (5)

25 Waterway (5)

26 Great Barrier – (4)

Today’s Aim:

18 words: Good 27 words: Very good 36 words: Excellent

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”. I C N I T S E U J

3 LETTERS

BERRY BLUED BREAK CARGO DENTS DRESS DUSKY EBONY ELOPE ERODE EXILE EXPEL FELON FENCE FORTE INERT LILAC OCEAN PURER RESTS RHINO SALAD SASSY SCALD SHAFT SLYER SNEER SNORE

1 The French name for bite-sized confectionary, 'petit four', translates to what?

2 Alexis Bledel and Lauren Graham (pictured) co-starred in which US comedy-drama series?

3 Released in 1969, The Edible Woman is the debut novel of which Canadian author?

4 True or false: the unicorn is the national animal of Scotland?

5 Toum is a staple condiment of Lebanese cuisine; what is its star ingredient?

6 What colour are the flowers of a wisteria plant?

7 Located between Asia and Africa, the Suez Canal connects which two seas?

8 Performed in 1997 as a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales, Elton John’s Candle in the Wind was originally written for whom?

9 In what year did colour TV come to Australia?

10 Which French Impressionist painter is well-known for painting ballet dancers?

A perfect week in paradise

By Lucy Waldron

The moment the Save the Date landed in the mailbox, I knew this wasn’t going to be just another wedding, it was going to be an adventure. Printed in simple, bold letters was the location: Koh Tao, Thailand.

A destination wedding. A celebration in paradise.

For my cousin Jamie and his partner Hope, this was more than just a ceremony. It was a chance to bring together family and friends from the US, Argentina, and Australia for a week on a tiny island in the Gulf of Thailand, a place where time felt slower and joy came easily.

I imagined warm breezes, barefoot evenings, and the sound of the ocean in the background. And from the moment we arrived, Koh Tao delivered exactly that, and so much more.

Our first taste of island life came, quite literally, in a Thai cooking class. Hosted by Thai Cooking with Joy, we learned how a handful of humble ingredients could create flavours that lingered long after the plates were cleared.

The star of the class? Spring rolls. What looked simple turned into a hilarious test of rolling skills. Surrounded by the scent of sizzling garlic and an ocean view stretching to the horizon, it became one of those rare moments you want to bottle up forever.

The festivities officially kicked off with a welcome party. We’d spent the afternoon carefullyperfectinghairandmakeup,only to climb into the island’s version of a taxi: the back of a Ute.

Within minutes, curls unravelled, makeup melted, and any illusions of glamour were left on the roadside. But it didn’t matter. Everyone arrived equally windswept, and somehow, that made it perfect. Under warm air and soft lights, conversations flowed, laughter echoed, and the night blurred into something quietly beautiful.

If the welcome party broke the ice, the Queens Cabaret melted it entirely. Drag queenslitupthestagewithsequins,power ballads,andpurejoy,acelebrationofmusic andqueerexpressionthathadeveryoneon their feet.

It became one of the week’s most talked-about moments. If you ever visit Koh Tao, add this to your must-do list. The next day brought calm seas and slow magic. We boarded a boat and drifted around the island’s reefs, snorkelling through crystal-clear water. Koh Tao,

meaning “Turtle Island,” lived up to its name, we spotted a turtle gliding lazily beneath us, unbothered by its human audience.

There were also three baby blacktip reef sharks, darting through coral gardens as schoolsofcolourfulfishswirledaroundus.

Then came the big day. The wedding opened with a downpour, the kind that makes the world hold its breath. And just minutes before Hope walked down the

aisle, the rain eased and the sun spilled across the shore.

With the ocean as a backdrop and loved ones gathered close, Jamie and Hope said, “I do.” It felt cinematic, like the island itself had conspired to set the scene.

“Having our wedding celebrations on Koh Tao was a dream come true,” Hope said.

“Duetoourfamiliesbeingfromdifferent countries, we decided to invite 60 of our

closest friends and family to our favourite little island in Thailand.

“Seeing everyone we love explore and enjoy Koh Tao was so special, and I am so grateful that everyone made the long journey to Thailand to be with us.”

For Hope and Jamie, the week was overwhelming in the best way possible.

“When you looked around and realised all these amazing people are here because of Jaime and I, we felt so loved and supported and were so happy to see everyone relaxed and on holiday mode,” Hope said.

The celebration stretched long into the night, shoes abandoned, music loud, laughter louder. The next day was slow and sun-drenched, spent lazing on a nearby island, letting the hours stretch like soft linen.

But Thailand had one last plot twist. A storm rolled in just as we left the island, turning our little boat ride into something straight out of an action movie.

Waves crashed, the wind howled, and we clung to the sides, laughing through the chaos. By the time we reached land, we weresoaked,windswept,andgrinninglike fools.

Leaving Koh Tao was unexpectedly emotional. Teary hugs, promises to meet again, that quiet ache that comes from sayinggoodbyetosomethingtrulyspecial.

A wedding had brought us together, but the island gave us so much more, shared adventures, new friendships, and the kind of memories that only happen when you’re far from home and fully in the moment.

Koh Tao, you were paradise.

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SPAIN, PORTUGAL & THE MEDITERRANEAN

Lisbon to Rome or vice versa

Circumnavigate the Iberian Peninsula, calling at Andalusian gems. Visit Barcelona and the Sagrada Familía.

15 DAYS • 6 COUNTRIES • 11 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • NOV 2026; JAN-JUN, SEP-DEC 2027; JAN-JUN, SEP 2028

From $8,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

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GRAND MEDITERRANEAN

Istanbul to Lisbon or vice versa

Embark on a grand voyage across the Mediterranean to visit iconic cities and uncover the heritage of civilisations. Trace the French Riviera and circumnavigate Italy’s boot.

36 DAYS

SEPT 2027; MAR, AUG 2028

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Nordic spa facilities

Shore excursions

Choice of 8 dining options

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Wine & beer served with lunch & dinner

24-hour room service

Newest small ship fleet

MY PLACE

Richard Popczyk is a long-term Sunshine resident who works in real estate. He will celebrate his 80th birthday in early March. He spoke to Sam Porter about his memories of living in Sunshine.

What’s your connection to Sunshine?

I came to Australia in 1950 as a four year-old and we settled in North Sunshine in 1953. We came from Europe and we were then called ‘displaced persons’. My mum and I lived in a hostel in Mildura. My older brother and dad worked in the city and I think it was 1952, they bought a block of land in North Sunshine and built a bungalow. And when it was completed, mum and I came down and there were about five or six bungalows, two houses, no water, no electricity, no roads, nothing. There was one house with water and my dad had to pick up the water nearly every day.

Growing up here, I went to St Theresa’s and I was there for five or six years. Then I wenttoOurLady’sinSunshineforacouple of months and then went to Sunshine North Primary. I got into Sunshine High and finished my education there, got a job, and married a local girl from Ardeer, and ended up buying in Sunshine. I’ve been in the same house for about 50 years I think.

What do you like about where you live?

I find that it’s a very multicultural mix of people here which probably doesn’t get the recognition that it does. I’ve always felt Sunshine was pretty good to us, to me and my family. We all live around here. Sunshine has evolved. People have accepted that it’s a good area to live in and now people are very willing to come in and make their home in Sunshine and the surrounding suburbs.

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

I don’t think there’s much I’d change to be honest. The transport system maybe could

improve a little bit, but overall it’s pretty good.

Where’s your favourite local place to spend time?

I enjoy the walk along the Kororoit Creek walkway. I used to ride my bike there but mylegsaren’tasgoodnowsoIgoforawalk from time to time. And Sunvale Park, that’s quite interesting. I walk through there and I’ll use some of the gym equipment they’ve got there.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

5 March, 1986

The payment of $18,500 severance pay to a council officer who allegedly assaulted a senior officer has caused an uproar in the Sunshine council.

30 years ago 6 March, 1996

More than 800 mourners packed the Resurrection Catholic Church in St Albans West on Friday for the funeral of Keith Lane, shot dead at La Porchetta pizza restaurant in Niddrie on Tuesday.

What are your fondest memories of the area?

In the early part when we came to Sunshine, the original post office was a nice building that held fond memories. Around the railway line near the station there were very nice gardens there as well. Added a little bit of greenery to where the bus stop is there.

What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in Sunshine?

I think the popularity of the area. I could see the change and the popularity rise. I think [Sunshine] had a bit of a reputation, aswellasBraybrook,whichistheadjoining suburb. People looked down on it. It was never really that bad but there was a lot of publicity given to Sunshine if anything happened,whichnowhaschanged.Youdo get a little bit of publicity but what’s been a joy to me really is that people have started to recognise Sunshine as a good place to live.

20 years ago 7 March, 2006

Tensions reached boiling point at a Brimbank council meeting last Tuesday as residents and mayor Natalie Suleyman went head to head over the future of the Sunshine pool.

10 years ago 1 March, 2016

Sunshine’s residential property market is poised to crash through the million-dollar barrier this year after a price record was set at a recent auction.

Cleopatra’s story in dance

A powerful new ballet is set to captivate audiences in Caroline Springs this March, as a cast of passionate adult performers present Cleopatra, The Last Pharaoh at the Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs (CRCCS)PerformingArtsCentreonSunday 15Marchfortwoperformances.

Telling the dramatic story of Cleopatra, Ancient Egypt’s final ruler, this original production explores ambition, loyalty, betrayal and a fateful love triangle which shapedhistory.

Audiences are set to be drawn into Mark Antony’s powerful relationships with OctaviaandCleopatra,leavingCleopatrato fighttoprotectherkingdomandherlegacy.

The dancers are not full-time company artists, but members of the Moorabool community. They are former professional dancers,balletteachers,Pilatesinstructors, tutu makers, photographers; all lifelong loversofballet.

Western Ballet Project artistic director Sophie O’Donnell said the show provides morethanentertainment.

“This production is a celebration of experience,” she said. “These performers bring not only technical strength, but life experience,emotionaldepthandagenuine loveoftheartform.

“Passiondoesn’tdiminishasyougetolder

Separate from its strong, encapsulating story, the cast make this performance especiallyunique.

Community art on display

A vibrant collection of artwork by local residents, including people living with disability, seniors, those experiencing mental health challenges, and members of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, is now on display in Brimbank.

The community program ‘ArtAbility’, run by Action on Disability within Ethnic Communities (ADEC) and supported by Brimbank council, provides a welcoming, culturally safe space where art promotes healing,connection,andself-expression.

A defining feature of the project is the annual public art exhibition, which transforms participants’ creative work into apowerfulcommunitydialogue.

Local artist Linda Fry said her paintings intheexhibitionarecharacterisedbybright and vibrant colours. “My work has always beenarttherapy.Istarteddoingartbecause

Iwasreallyunwell.Ialwaysdrewbeforebut Ihadn’tpainted.IstarteddoingitbecauseI thoughtitwasagreatvehicletoexpresshow Iwasfeeling,”shesaid.

According to ADEC by showcasing locals’ stories through art, the exhibition challenges stigma, promotes inclusion, and celebrates the resilience and cultural richness of people living with disability fromCALDbackgrounds.

The ArtAbility exhibition will run until1 April at Hunt Club Community & Arts Centre, 775 Ballarat Road, Deer Park and is open Monday-Friday from 9.30am-4.30pm, excludingweekends.

Entryisfree,nobookingsrequired.

A community exhibition launch with morning tea will also take place on 12 Marchfrom10.30am-noonatthespace.

RSVP Kerry at kerry@adec.org.au by Thursday5Marchtoattend.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

-itgrowsstronger.”

Cleopatra, The Last Pharaoh is set to showcasethestrength,dedicationandtalent of the community’s talented adult dancers, whocontinuetotrain,rehearseandperform alongside careers, families, and businesses withinthecommunity,deliveringarichand emotionally charged performance which highlights both dramatic storytelling and classicaltechnique.

Cleopatra, The Last Pharaoh comes to the CRCCS Performing Arts Centre at 10-28 College Street in Caroline Springs on Sunday 15 March for two shows at 3.30pm and7pm.

Tickets are available at: https://www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1526055

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

Harrick’s Cottage and Police Hut Open Day

Keilor Historical Society is hosting an open day, launching its publication and exhibition about ‘early transport in the Keilor region’. It will be an opportunity for locals to learn about transport from the 1850s gold rush to today in the Keilor region. There will also be displays, information, tours and food stalls on the day. The event will run from 12.30-4.30pm on Saturday 14 March at 152 Harrick Road, Keilor Park. Fred Ackerman, 0418 170 372

Women’s only conversation English Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine. 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au

Zumba Class in Deer Park

Locals can vibe and move during sessions of Zumba Gold Toning classes at commUnity+ Neighbourhood House, featuring light dumbbells for strength building. Sessions run from 6-7pm on Thursdays at 822 Ballarat Road, Deer Park. No bookings required.

Budding Artists

Whether it’s your first time dabbling in art or you’re fully-fledged, Budding Artists is an art program for all abilities. This term’s theme is Celebrating Women in Art. Sessions are hosted by commUnity+ Neighbourhood

536964_01

House and run from 11am-12.30pm on Thursdays at 822 Ballarat Road, Deer Park. No bookings required.

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies. Robyn, 0425 387 880

Card games

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

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm.

Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day. Roma, 0435 991 064

Caroline Springs Rotary

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

Sunshine Repair Cafe

Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au or 0413 434 082

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Delahay Community Centre, 70 Copperfield Drive every Wednesday, from 1-2.30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.

Helpline, 1300 252 666

SPORTS QUIZ

1. How many gold medals did Australia win at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games?

2. And which country finished on top of the overall medal tally?

3. Which state finished on top of the 2025/26 Sheffield Shield cricket competition?

4. Who was the first boxer to defeat Muhammad Ali?

5. How many teams will be competing in the 2026 Formula One season?

6. Major League Soccer team LA Galaxy has won a record how many cups?

7. Former speed skater Steven Bradbury famously won gold at which Winter Olympic Games?

Which city will host Australia’s MotoGP race from 2027, replacing Phillip Island?

Super Rugby team Queensland Reds will play games in which European country in November?

10. Which car manufacturer has joined the 2026 Supercars Championship?

11. Which team will make their debut at the 2027 Rugby World Cup?

12. What does UFC stand for?

13. How many distinct scoring areas are there on a dartboard?

14. Which new team will join the NRL in 2028?

15. Where did taekwondo originate?

16. Which English soccer club did Socceroos striker Mohamed Toure successfully debut with in February?

17. Who was Player of the Match in game three of the Women’s T20 International Series?

18. What notable gaffe took place at the A-League Men’s match between Wellington and Auckland?

19. NRL prop Payne Haas dramatically defected from the Brisbane Broncos to join which other team?

20. Which team did the Matildas play in their opening game of the 2026 Asian Cup?

21. Australia’s poor form at the 2026 Twenty20 World Cup saw them only defeat Ireland and which other nation?

22. And which team finished top of the tournament’s Group B standings which Australia was a part of?

23. Winter Olympic gold medallist Eileen Gu was born in which country?

24. Mykelti Lefau plays for which AFL club?

25. Which country will host the 2030 Winter Olympics?

26. Hull Kingston Rovers defeated which NRL club in the 2026 World Club Challenge?

27. Which medal did the USA women’s ice hockey team win at the Winter Olympics?

28. Which ground hosted the opening match of the 2026 AFL premiership season?

29. Which comedian and actor, known as a baseball fanatic, signed a one-day contract with the New York Yankees in 2008?

30. The Suncorp Super Netball competition celebrates what anniversary in 2026?

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

Chinese answer to Citroen?

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

The Deepal S07 has to be one of the weirdest cars we’ve driven in years.

Apart from anything else, it’s got no dashboard. There is no instrument panel to tell you what’s going on.

It teleported us back to the turn of the century and the debut of the ill-fated Toyota Echo with its then unusual centre-mounted digital speedometer.

The difference being that although the Deepal EV has a large centrally-mounted, free-standing touchscreen, which swivels to welcome the driver – there’s still no instrument cluster and that means no speedometer.

S07 does have a head-up display which projects the car’s speed in the lower sectionofthewindscreenanditcanbethe only reason the car received the stamp of approval for sale here.

However,asanyonewhowearspolarised sunglasses can tell you, it’s not much good ifyoucan’tseeit–notunlessyoucockyour head to one side.

Nope. The only clue to how fast you’re going is a tiny, five-cent piece sized digital readout in the top right-hand corner of the touchscreen.

You do get used to it. In fact, you can get used to most things eventually. But why is this regarded as all right?

Those with a long memory, might also recall that the Echo reverted to a conventional speedo the second time around when it was and renamed Yaris.

Styling

The quirky Chinese brand is an apt replacement for Citroen which importer Inchcape ditched 12 months ago.

It also handles Subaru and Peugeot, but likeCitroentheDeepalS07islikelytohave limited appeal.

While the mid-sized, five-seat EV is an interesting offering, it may not be for everyone.

Deepal says the S07 represents a new era of electric driving that combines cutting-edge technology, ‘remarkable performance’ and luxurious design in an all-electric package that promises to redefine the SUV experience.

That’s a big call.

S07 comes in just the one grade, priced from $53,900 driveaway.

Our test vehicle was fitted with the optional 20-inch wheels which add $800 (premium paint is also $800).

Designed in Italy, the eye-catching exterior is matched by what Deepal describes as a luxurious, ‘yacht-inspired’ interior.

The dimensions of the car supposedly conform to what is known as the ‘golden ratio’, offering aesthetically pleasing proportions and often used in photography.

Asleeksilhouettewithslenderheadlights contribute to an impressive drag coefficient of 0.258 Cd, helping to reduce wind noise and energy consumption.

The modern aesthetic is enhanced by silent, electric-suction, frameless doors with double-glazed glass for driver and front passenger windows, along with hidden door handles – inside and out.

Interior

The spacious interior reveals a futuristic wrap-around two-level centre console, inspired by ’yachts of the Mediterranean’, including premium soft-touch materials and technology focused on delivering enhanced comfort and a luxurious ride.

Two-zoneclimateairwithrearairvents, with air purification and an energy-saving

heat pump are standard, along with synthetic quilted leather trim, heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats with six-way powered adjustment and electric lumbar support for the driver.

Adding to the ambience of the interior is 64-colour ambient lighting.

Other features include 19-inch alloys with hubcaps, adaptive cruise control, all-LED lights, traffic sign recognition, intelligent speed limit, auto high beam, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and auto dipping exterior mirrors, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, power-operated tailgate and a panoramic sunroof.

There’s also a built-in dashcam and questionable interior monitor.

This car doesn’t want for much.

S07 comes standard with a sevenyear/160,000km warranty and eightyear/240,000km battery warranty.

Service intervals are a relatively brief 10,000km or 12 months, after an initial complimentary 5000km or six months service.

There’s also fixed price servicing for seven-and-a-half years or 75,000km.

Infotainment

Infotainment comes in the form of a 15.6-inch touchscreen which rotates 15 degrees left or right for better viewing angles.

There’sBluetooth,voicecontrol,satellite navigation, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, wireless AppleCarPlayandAndroid Autoandpremium14-speakerSonysound with an integrated speaker in the driver headrest.

Intelligent gesture recognition control allows passengers to control various functions like music, calls, and even taking photos with simple hand gestures.

Thesystemalsooffersarangeofscenario modes designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and functionality. Worth a look, but after that don’t bother.

USB-A and -C ports are located in the lower console, along with a 12-volt socket.

There’s also a 40W ventilated wireless phone fast charger.

RATINGS

Looks: 7.5

Performance: 7

Safety: 8

Thirst: 7.5

Practicality: 7

Comfort: 7

Tech: 8

Value: 8

Overall: 7.5

Safety

S07 earns a five-star safety rating with a comprehensive range of passive, active, driverassist,andadvancedsafetyfeatures.

Seven airbags and a 360-degree camera are standard including a centre airbag which provides added protection to front seatoccupantsinsideimpactcrashes.

Autonomous emergency braking supports Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction & Crossing, Backover and Head-Onsituations.

The lane support system includes lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and an advanced speed assistance system (SAS)withaspeedsignrecognitionsystem.

There are also three tethers and two ISOFixanchorsintherearforchildseats.

Engines/transmissions

Asingleelectricmotordrivestherearwheels through a single-speed transmission, delivering 160kW of power and 320Nm of torque.

Driving

S07isnewandeye-catching,andperhapsa littleoverthetop.

But after you get past all the bells and whistles,somedeficienciesareevident.

At 4750mm long and 1930mm wide, with a 2900mm wheelbase, S07 offers a spacious cabinwithaflatfloor.

The quilted leather floor coverings are a hootandafirstforus,especiallyintheboot as well as the extra mats added to protect thefancyones.

A good-sized luggage area provides a capacity of 445 litres with the rear seats in use, or 1385 litres with them folded, with another 125 litres available under the bonnet.

Awkward pop-out door handles are complemented by equally unnecessary push-button door releases inside, with walk-awaylockingandunlocking. There’snostartbutton.Justgetin,putthe transmission into drive and you’re good to go, with a gear selector located on the right of the steering column (park button at the end).

A watchful camera monitor sits atop the steering wheel, but fails to fill the gap left by the absence of an instrument cluster.

Taking your seat, the touchscreen swivels slightly towards the driver. Although it provides several visual modes, it does not offer an instrument panel view – we wonderwhy?

Navigating the stifling Sydney heat, the air-conditioning unit is no matchforToyota,withnophysicalcontrols tomoderatethetemperature.

In fact, just about everything is operated through the screen, taking eyes unfortunatelyofftheroad.

The system is quick and responsive with plenty of info and options available, by eithertappingorswiping.

Buttryingtodoanythingonthemoveisa bitliketryingtopinthetailonthedonkey.

With claimed energy consumption 18.6kWh/100km, an 80kWh ternary lithium battery delivers up to 475km of drivingrange(WLTP).

DC charging provides a 30 to 80 per cent charge in about 35 minutes, or 10 to 80 per cent in 50 minutes with a maximum DC chargingrateof92kW.

AC charging from 0 to 100 per cent takes 11 hours with a 7kW charger or about eight hourswithan11kWcharger.

Regenerativebrakingtopsupthebattery duringdriving,withVehicle-to-Load(V2L) capability available should the need arise topoweranotherdevice.

Performance is okay but nothing special intermsofEVs.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 7.9 seconds,notthatquick–butokaybyus. Ride and handling however is typical EV – heavy, sometimes bouncy and threatening to run wide in corners if you push the envelope – but it’s not the worst we’vedriven.

Ride quality is okay around town but quicklydeterioratesoffthegoodstuff It feels heavy (and it is) and the springs become bouncy when it encounters undulationsandspeedhumps,andittakes acoupleofcyclestosettle.

We’re not fond of column gear selectors, particularly those located on the right side ofthewheelwheretheindicatorsshouldbe forourmarket.

The problem for us ’righties’ is that one can easily become confused when turning on the indicator, and if you happen to have your foot on the brake at this time – you couldwindupinreverse.Badmove.

Unlike others we didn’t find the driver assistmonitoringgenerallytoointrusivein thiscar.

A range of 475km is reasonable but we reckon 500km is now the sweet spot. The problem is, the bigger the battery the longerittakestocharge,soyoureallyneed to have access to a home charger where it canbepluggedinovernight.

Rated at 18.6kWh/100km, we clocked up 325kmatarateof15.8kWh/100km.

That’s better than the manufacturer’s claim and slightly less than the long-term averageof15.9kWh(thesamefigurewegot afterpuntingithardforabit).

Summing up

The Deepal S07 is new and different and takessomeacclimatisation.

We reckon it’s a good fit for a company that also sells Subaru and Peugeot cars (andCitroenuntilrecently).

The S07 could well be the Citroen of the electricvehicleworld?

Sporting finals fever ramps up

There was plenty of finals action across Melbourne’s north-west on Saturday. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC wasoutshootingtheaction.

Falcons ready to go again

By Tara Murray

City West Falcons’ championship side is back for the Victorian Netball League season, but fans should expect a glimpse of the future.

The Falcons, who are coming off their fourth straight championship, have re-signed all of the championship side from last season.

Midcourter Soli Ropati, who is coming off aseriouskneeinjury,isalsobackintheside.

Georgia Berry, who most recently played for the Western Warriors, and former AFLW player Olivia Barber round out the championship squad.

Falcons’coachMargLindsaiditwouldbe a little bit of an unknown heading into the season.

“Winning five championships will not be easy,” she said. “It’s a good opportunity to give some young ones some experience while the others are there.

“We’ll look to blood some young ones. We’repreparingforthefutureandit’salittle bit of a changing of the guard.”

Lind said they were keen to bring in some younger players so that they don’t have a real big drop off in the next couple of years.

Defender Achel Yout and goaler Lani Fauonuku, who have both been named in the 23-and-under squad but are set to move between the two grades.

Lind said Fauonuku, who is training partner for the Melbourne Mavericks reserves side, had shown a fair bit in only a few sessions, while she thought Yout could

really shine.

LindsaidMollyMoylan,whoispartofthe under-19 state side, was another that might get her opportunity in her first season with the Falcons.

Barber and Berry will add to the Falcons defensive end.

Barber is still raw coming from first, a basketball and then football background, but would add a lot of height.

Berry returns to her former club.

“She asked to train with us,” Lind said.

“She adds a bit of experience.

“ShehadtimeoutofthegameafteranACL before having a season with the Warriors a couple of years ago.”

Lindsaidtheyfelttheirlineupwouldbea week-by-week proposition.

The Falcons kick off their title defence

against Hawks on 11 March which will be a grand final rematch. The Hawks were the only team to beat the Falcons last season.

Whileunsurehowthechampionshipside wouldgo,Lindsaidtheywereexcitedforthe 23-and-under side.

She said they’d been able to add in some real good local talent to the squad.

Imogen Sexton, Ella Leith and Manon Muir are all in the squad this year after making their VNL debuts last season and showing plenty of potential.

They’ve also added Tully Bethune, who previously been part of the under-17 state team and Werribee Centrals defender Alual Garang.

Abhi Sanjeev joins from Geelong under-19s and is another player Lind is looking forward to seeing.

Jamieson takes his chance with the bat

By Tara Murray

Footscray’s Mitch Jamieson wasn’t expecting a call up to the Victorian second XI cricket team.

Despite having a breakout season and his coach calling for him to be given an opportunity, it wasn’t something he was expecting.

“It was a moment of shock,” he said. “I felt like I was going OK at premier level, but to get the call for Huss [David Hussey] it was pretty surreal to be honest.

“You think about it and you are wanting an opportunity, but I wasn’t quite sure where they would go with it all.

“I know the first game back a lot of Vic boys were back.

“I thought maybe if I could sneak in the New South Wales game or potentially make runs the opportunity against the AC, that would have ticked a few boxes.

“It’s been really cool.”

In what would be one of his biggest weeks ever, Jamieson was named in the team and showed what he could do.

The Keilor product made 154 in the first innings and backed it up with 38 in the second innings.

Jamieson said he wasn’t expecting to

put out a performance like that.

Hesaiditmakeshimfeelthathebelongs at that level.

“That was unexpected to be honest,” he said of the 100. “I didn’t expect to do something like that, it did make it pretty surreal

“I didn’t go in with any expectations, just happy to be there.

“To get a little bit more than I would have hoped for initially it makes you feel like you belong. “You go in with a lot of confidence heading back to the premier season.”

Having opened all season for the Bulldogs, Jamieson returned to number three where he’d spent most of his career for Victoria.

He said opening has been a really good opportunity.

While Jamieson experienced the highs of cricket, he was soon brought back to earth.

Returning to Footscray for its match with Prahran, Jamieson was out for a duck late on day one with the Bulldogs needing more than 400 to win.

“Ninety overs in the field and then go out there and bat for four overs and knick one fifth ball,” he said.

“Cricket always wins.

“It was obviously pretty disappointing, but upon reflection no matter how well you are going, or how well you think you’re going, it’s a new game and you have to start fresh every game.”

Jamieson said it was disappointing to finish the regular season with the bat like that, but had been pleased after building on a decent year the season before.

“All things considered, a really good year,” he said. “I learnt a lot, new role.

“Can’t complain at all

“The year before last missed pretty much the whole year with an ankle injury, bit of disappointment to miss my top age year of 19s World Cup and nationals, bit of shame, but have put together some solid seasons now.

“Fills with a lot of confidence heading into the back of the season.

Jamieson said he would continue to control what was in his hands and try to make some more runs as the Victorian Premier Cricket season hit finals.

“Doing everything I can to make as many runs as possible,”he said.

“We’re on our way to look to go quite deep at Footscray and that is pretty much the key focus.”

Teys returns to Parkers’ lineup

Deer Park has wasted little time in adding reinforcements for the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division competition.

The Parkers missed the grand final having played in the past four with a preliminary final loss to YarravilleFootscray.

To help strengthen the side, the clubhassignedoneofAustralia’sbest players for the next two seasons.

“The Deer Park Club are delighted to announce that Aaron Teys has signed on for the next two seasons,” the Parkers said on social media.

“Teys needs little introduction, having firmly cemented his status as one of Australia’s elite bowlers over the past decade.”

Parkers head of bowls operations Mark Casey said Teys is a world class bowler.

“Welovethewayheplaysandwe’re thrilled that he wanted to return to Deer Park,” Casey said.

“To have someone of Aaron’s calibre at our club gives us a significant on-green boost, but just as importantly, his presence will be invaluable for our younger players to watch, learn, and develop alongside one of the greats.”

Teyssaidhewasexcitedtoreturnto Deer Park. Teys won a championship with Deer Park last time he played with the club.

“I loved my time at Deer Park a few years ago, and when the opportunity cameuptocomeback,Ijumpedatit,” he said.

“I’m really looking forward to playing alongside some good mates and helping guide and support the club’s young players.”

Saints are ready to launch

By Tara Murray

Consistency and doing the small things rightarethekeysforStAlbansSaintsinthe

National Premier League this season.

The Saints showed positive signs in a round one draw before being beaten by a better Preston Lions in round two, to be without a win after the first two rounds.

Coach Cameron Watson said while it wasn’t the ideal start, said things were going OK.

“I think the first game we should have put it to bed in the first half,” he said.

“We didn’t take our chances. The longer games go in early in the season, the tighter it gets. We dropped two points at home.

“Preston then outplayed us and we were a little bit flat.”

Watson said they weren’t worried about things being early in the season and had shown that when they play well they think they will be up there.

“It’s about being consistent,” he said.

“Not worrying about anyone else.

“We are a better outfit than what we

showed on Friday. Every week we have to do what we did the week before.

“We have to be confident in our own abilityandperform.It’sthesmallpartsand details that cost you.”

Watson said they were hoping to see a response from the playing group in round three, against Oakleigh Cannons.

The sides were due to meet on Friday night, after deadline. The Cannons entered the game with a win and loss.

“We have another chance at home againstOakleighonFridaynight,”hesaid.

“They are a good team and everyone is looking forward to it.

“They have to give us a reaction to last week, the club a reaction to last week.

“We have to do the things in our game plan.”

Watson said they were really happy with the squad they had put together this season, adding some key experienced players to the group that they already had.

Lions celebrate T20 win after a thriller

By Tara Murray

There was no repeat of last year as Deer Park claimed the Victorian Turf Cricket Association group A T20 premiership.

TheLionsweremadetoworkforthetitle, with the match against the Williamstown Imperials going down to the wire.

Both sides had their periods of dominance, with the Imperials on top for much of the run chase.

But boundaries became harder to find and with the light diminishing, it came down to the final over.

The Imperials needed 14 runs off the final over for victory.

UpulBandaratookonthedutyofbowling the final over for the Lions.

He bowled the over perfectly as just one run and a wicket came from it.

The Imperials finished 7-137 in reply to 8-149.

Lions coach Mick Andriadis said last year’s game when they lost on the final ball did cross his mind at times on Thursday night.

He said the Imperials had done a good

job with the night and it was a real party atmosphere.

“It was a good atmosphere and there was a big advantage batting first with the daylight and not having to bat under lights,” he said.

“Ithinkwehadthesamenumberofruns to defend on the final over as last year.

“We just got a better result.”

Earlier in the night, the Lions looked in troubleintheirrunchaseastheywere6-74.

The Imperials, who play in a competition two divisions lower, had bowled tightly.

The Lions were able to find some late runs to push the total to 149.

Daniel Sartori top scored with 35 for the Lions.

Kendrick Hatton was the pick of the bowlers for the Imperials, taking 3-19 off his four overs.

Andriadis said the Imperials had bowled really well and they had struggled through their innings.

He said they would have liked to have had 170 on the board, knowing that the Imperials had some good batting in their line up.

Ajak Deu crossed late from Oakleigh, signing two days before the window closed.

Lloyd Isgrove reunites with Watson after switching from Hume City and will provide a good target.

Aaron Anderson, goalkeeper Christian Rossi, Anthony Leban and Japan’s Atsushi Inoue are other new signings for the Saints.

Watson said they felt they were in a better position than 12 months ago, his first full season in charge.

They missed finals last year.

Watson said they felt it would take six to seven rounds for the season to sort itself out and get a good indication of where everyone sits.

In other matches that were set to be played on the weekend, Green Gully was away to Avondale, and Caroline Springs George Cross was at home to Dandenong Thunder.

Thunder signs Irish player

Keilor Thunder has announced more signings for its men’s and women’s sidesaheadoftheNationalBasketball League 1 South season.

Having announced a number of localsigningspreviously,theThunder announced the first men’s import.

Zach Hinton will join the men’s side from UCD Marian in the Irish Men’s Super League.

“He is a 6’7” small forward, averaging 18.6 points per game, 8.8 rebounds per game and 2 assists per game last season, with a 52 per cent field goal percentage,” the Thunder said on social media.

“He has previously played all over the world, including in Germany’s Pro B league for Coburg, where he averaged 16 points per game and 8.2 rebounds per game in the 2024-25 season.

“He brings a wealth of experience, andwearethrilledtowelcomehimto the Thunder.”

Joining the Thunder’s women’s side is Tess Barnes.

Barnes returns to Australia after college.

She started her basketball in the Macedon Ranges before playing with Sunbury and Bendigo.

Barnes had been part of the Victorian pathway programs as a junior as well.

The Imperials had a good partnership early on with Callum Herron and Josh van Zyl putting the side in a good place.

OnceHerronwasoutfor40itseemedlike vanZylwouldbethemanfortheImperials.

Hewasrunoutfor33ashelookedtoturn over the strike.

Andriadis said they had two of their strike bowlers left to bowl four of the last five overs.

They needed to find one over from elsewhere,withBandarathemangiventhe responsibility.

“It was a good call from the captain to bring Upul back,” Andriadis said.

“He bowled full and yorkers and it was a good final over.”

The quest for success doesn’t end here for the Lions, who are aiming for a third straight senior division premiership.

The Lions were due to face Keilor on Saturday in the final round of the season, with top spot on the line.

“It’s the perfect set up heading into finals,” Andriadis said.

“It’saneasyequation,winandfinishtop, lose and finish second.”

“Tess is a 6’2” swingman, joining us from the Naisten Korisliiga League in Finland, where she has been playing for Tapiolan Honka for the 2025-26 season, currently averaging 9.6 points per game,” the Thunder said.

“She previously played college basketball at the University of Wyoming, where she led the team in three-pointers in each of her final two seasons.

“She averaged 9.3 points per game and 3.7 rebounds per game in her senior season, shooting 36 per cent from beyond-the-arc.

“We are thrilled to welcome her to the Thunder.”

The Thunder will kick on its season on 28 March against Knox Raiders. Meanwhile, Thunder recruits Lara McSpadden and Matt Johns have been named in camps for Australian 3 x 3 squads.

Eagles go into grand final

By Tara Murray

SunshineEaglesBlueproducedoneoftheir performancesoftheseasontowinthrough to the Baseball Victoria summer league women’snorth-westgrandfinal.

After a tough back end of the season which saw the side slip to fourth spot, the Eagles upset minor premiers Fitzroy MaroononSaturdayinthesemifinals.

The win was one thing, but the manner the Eagles completed it was another, as theywon20-3.

Eagles’ Peter Beer said the playing group wasexcitedbywhattheyhadachieved.

“It’s very good and I’m ecstatic to be honest,”hesaid.

“It was one of our best games of the

season. They were nervous but they put asidethenerves.

“They limped into finals and to come out withavictorywasfantastic.”

Beer said they were confident they could get the win, but he said the way that they were able to do it was completely unexpected.

The Eagles started with seven runs in the first innings to take control of the game and there was no looking back from there.

“When you get seven runs in the first innings,itputsyourightontop,”Beersaid.

The Eagles then scored two runs in the secondandfourinthethirdtolead13-2.

They then finished off with seven more runs in the fourth innings to seal

thebigwin.

Beer said Susan Thomas pitched really well.

He said overall it was a really good team performance with everyone standing up whentheyneededto.

The grand final caps off what has been a strong year for the Eagles women’s program.

The club had two women’s sides in the same division, in a massive development fortheclub.

“It’s been really good to be part of the women’s program,” Beer said. “The second team is a development team and they have comealongleapsandbounds.

The Eagles will now face Preston-Doncaster in the grand final

Keilor’s winning move secures the flag

By Tara Murray

Keilor held its nerves to come out on top and claim the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2, section 1 premiership onSaturday.

After being so close in recent seasons, the Bulls were able to sneak home against Werribee,76(6)-71(2).

LiketheBulls,theBeeshadbeensoclose in recent seasons without that ultimate success.

Bulls’ president Joe Watkins said they hadbeenworkingtowardsthismomentfor sevenyears.

“We’re ecstatic,” he said. “It was a real battle.

“We were four shots up coming down to the final end. The leader put the third ball on the jack and made it difficult for them towin.”

Watkins said the match went back and forthallday,withbothsideshavingperiods ofdominance.

MarkJacobsenwonhisrinkfortheBulls,

22-12,whileTonyDavis’rinklost25-11.

When Frank Bellino’s rink won 23-19, scoreswerelevelwithonerinkremaining.

RichardKopcewicz’srinkwasabletowin 20-15 to come away with the rink win and overallvictory.

“They are a good side and a great bunch ofguys,”WatkinssaidoftheBees.

“Youknowthisiswhatisgoingtohappen and no one hands you a premiership medal.”

“It was really good and we were lucky to comeoutontop.”

Watkins said it was a real team performance and different bowlers stood upatdifferenttimestogetthejobdone.

Watkinssaidtherehadbeenalotofhard workdonebehindthescenestogettheclub tothepositionitisnow.

“Itwasthevisionwehadsevenyearsago thathasnowcometofruition,”hesaid.

“In Covid we beat Melton in a divisional play off but there was no promotion that year.”

Watkins said the crowd at the Keilor

onSaturday.

Beer said they would look to continue whattheyhadbeendoing.

“We’ll look to train like normal this week,”hesaid.

“We know we can beat this team. We’ll put up a big fight and hopefully get the win.”

Meanwhile, the men’s premier 1 first nine side has finished the regular season ontopoftheladder.

TheEaglesfinishedtheseasonwitha6-5 win against Cheltenham on Saturday after beingdown5-1.

The Eagles scored five runs in the sixth inningstogetthewin.

The men’s side will start finals this week. Thefixturewasnotreleasedbydeadline.

VTCA finals set

Finals spots are locked in for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association competitions.

In the senior division, Deer Park sealed top spot with victory against KeilorwhileYarravilleClublockedin thefinaltopfourspot.

The Lions were too good for Keilor inatopofthetableclashonSunday. After being in trouble, the Blues made8-204fromtheir40overs.

Matthew Gaskett top scored with 60notout.

The Lions made the runs with nearlyfiveoversremaining,finishing 6-205. Mohammed Alfar top scored with58.

Deer Park will face Yarraville Club in the semi finals, while Keilor will host Airport West St Christopher’s in theothersemifinal.

A final round win for Sydenham-Hillside ended up being invain,withtheClubberswin.

The Storm finished three points outsidethetopsix.

In the Isaacs Howarth Shield, the top four didn’t change after the final round.

SunshineUnitedhadpointsdocked during the week after its match with Footscray United, meaning it dropped out of the top four heading intothefinalround.

A final round loss means the Tigers wouldhavemissedfinalsanyway.

The Tigers finished seventh and Sunshineineighth.

A final round win for Grand United wasn’t enough in the Steve McNamaraShield.

greenmadeitagreatdaywithareallygood atmosphere.

He said personally sitting there and watching was the most nervous he had been in his time in sport both as a player andspectator.

“Wearejoyfulandoverthemoon.”

The win means that the Bulls will be promotedintodivision1nextseason.

Watkins said they now know they have a biggerchallengeaheadofthemselves.

“We will have to see if we can recruit a few more players,” he said. “It will be a bit tougher but we think we will be up for the challenge and can keep the Keilor name flying.”

Keilor was in action in the first of the divisionalfinalsonSundayafternoon.

Keilor beat Altona 76 shots to 70 and will playinthesemifinalfinalsnextweek.

The club has its third and fourth sides in grandfinalsthisSaturday.

Watkins said for a small club like Keilor it would be massive to win three premiershipsinoneseason.

The Gorillas made 226 before bowlingWestNewportoutfor111. ButwithSunburybeatingPEGSand West Coburg St Andrews upsetting WilliamstownImperials,theGorillas finished three points outside the top four.

In the Roy Picone Shield, a final round slip up for Caroline Springs against Keilor Park did nothing as it hadalreadysecuredtopspot.

In the Clark Shield, Werribee Centrals will play finals after beating Sunshine Heights, which is set to be relegated after finishing second bottom.

Sunshine YCW finished in sixth spot with a final round loss against