Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 24th March 2026

Striking a charitable chord

Students at Caroline Springs’ Creekside College are ready to play music with a purpose this month, raising funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal as part of its annual busking event.

The tradition has struck a chord with the school community for nearly two decades now.

Acting assistant principal (years seven to nine) Katia Gerovasilis said it’s a big day for everyone involved.

“It’s run by our student leadership team. [Students] love it. They really look forward to it and they’re really involved,” Ms Gerovasilis said.

“We have a lot of talented kids at our school who are really keen.”

As part of the event, students from all classes organise and run stalls, games, performances and activities to help create a festival-like atmosphere.

The day features separate events for primary and secondary students.

This year the school has set its sights on a $10,000 target.

Locals are encouraged to donate to the cause online to help the school hit a high note for charity.

Details: fundraise.goodfridayappeal. com.au/fundraisers/creeksidek9college

A Trickey problem

By Sam Porter

Residentsarefedupwithrubbishregularly dumped on nature strips from Overton Lea Boulevard through Trickey Avenue in Sydenham.

Local resident Angus Hodge, who has lived near the avenue for decades, said the problemhasescalatedinthelastfewyears.

“The piles are huge. It’s not one pile. It’s multiple piles all the way down to Trickey Avenue near the child centre,” Mr Hodge said. “Every time I drive home, I think ‘this is getting worse’.”

Mr Hodge said the piles, consisting of hard rubbish and general waste, are

a tripping hazard especially for school children, and seniors who live at the aged care residence on the street.

He said the rubbish is also unsanitary and an eyesore.

According to Mr Hodge, waste piles are worse outside the front of unit complexes.

He said while Brimbank council is quick to remove rubbish, piles return within two or three days.

“It just starts again. It’s like whack-a-mole,” Mr Hodge said.

On social media, another resident expressed frustration.

“We visit the nursing home there for the past 12 months and it is disgusting.

Council clean it and the next day the pile starts again,” the resident wrote.

Mr Hodge said he’d like council to implement long-term solutions to prevent the rubbish from piling up such as installing CCTV, communicating the issue to owners corporations in the area, and educating residents via door-knocking.

Brimbank council confirmed it is aware of the issue.

“Brimbank’s litter enforcement team has reached out to residents and owners corporations in the local area to improve education about how to responsibly dispose of hard-to-recycle household rubbish,” a council spokesperson said.

“Through its comprehensive illegal dumping action plan, Brimbank City Council is implementing a range of measures to reduce illegal dumping across Brimbank. This includes additional enforcement officers to investigate reports and issue fines, additional CCTV cameras at known dumping hotspots, increased education, as well as daily cleansing crews to remove dumped rubbish from hotspot areas.

“BrimbankCityCouncilalsoencourages residents to help address the issue by reporting illegal dumping through the ‘report it’ function on Brimbank’s website [brimbank.vic.gov.au/report-it].”

Car thieves go high-tech

St Albans was among the hotspots for technology-driven car thefts in 2025, new data from Victoria Police reveals.

Victoria Police seized 800 key cloning devices from car thieves last year, with police saying new intelligence estimates more than 10,000 vehicles are stolen using this technology each year.

Police said motor vehicle theft has escalated markedly in Victoria in recent years, with the latest Crime Statistics Agency data showing 33,212 vehicles were stolen in the year to end of September2025,upfrom25,763inthe12months to September 2024.

In Brimbank, 1223 motor vehicle thefts were recorded during the same period,

up from 840 in 2024.

Police said has directly coincided with a surge in car thieves using key mimicking or cloning technology to override car security systems.

Victoria Police intelligence shows well over a quarter of all cars are now likely to be stolen in this manner.

Police said the hardest hit suburbs for technology driven car thefts last year were Melbourne, Dandenong, Tarneit, Narre Warren, St Albans, Craigieburn, Southbank, Reservoir, Truganina and Epping.

Most commonly in these thefts, the ownerreportedtopolicetheyretainedthe keys, and their car had simply vanished, police said.

Police said that last year, 846 Toyota Landcruisers were stolen in circumstances suggesting technological theft was likely. In 2024, 241 Landcruisers disappeared in this fashion, while three years ago there were only 89 in this way.

Toyota Corollas, Hiluxs, and Rav 4s are also among the most targeted vehicles by tech savvy thieves, as well as Holden Commodores and Subaru Imprezas, according to police.

Police said they are working impacted manufacturers in relation to this issue.

Owners of vehicles are being urged to consider preventative measures to help deterthieves,includinganon-boarddiagnosticportlockwhichpreventsanoffend-

A fun day for all thanks to Keilor Central

Locals will be treated to a full day of free family fun this month as part of Keilor Central’s community family fun day.

There will be a range of activities across the centre and the northern carpark, including an emergency services zone and a community services village.

Emergency services workers from Victoria Police, St Johns Ambulance, Fire Rescue Victoria, RSPCA and the Australian Border Force will be in attendance on the day, greeting and educating residents.

er connecting a reprogramming device to your vehicle. Other security tips include parking your vehicle off the street and alwaysensuringyourvehicleislocked,even when at home.

Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Bob Hill said as many as 30 cars are being stolen using key cloning technology in Victoria every day.

“Key cloning devices are showing up more and more frequently at search warrants and during intercepts of suspicious vehicles,” he said.

“There is no doubt this methodology is rife in the criminal world and as a community, we need to work together to reduce car theft.”

Family violence support comes to Caroline Springs

A new initiative aimed at strengthening the response to family violence will soon be introduced at Caroline Springs Police Station, bringing specialist support workers directly into the station.

The Alexis Family Violence Response Model (Alexis-FVRM), run by the Salvation Army, embeds specialist family violence practitioners within Victoria Police family violence units, allowing them to work alongside police officers in the immediate aftermath of serious family violence incidents.

The program will be operating at Caroline Springs by mid-2026.

Under the program, two specialist practitioners will be based at Caroline Springs Police Station, directly engaging with victim-survivors, including children and young people, as well as perpetrators of family violence.

The initiative aims to provide coordinated risk management at the earliest possible stage following an incident.

Salvation Army Alexis Family Violence Response Program practice leader Lani Kahn said expanding the model to Caroline Springs would allow workers to reach people at critical times.

“We are excited about the expansion of this initiative at Caroline Springs,” she said.

PrincessesElsa,BelleandSnowWhite will also make the journey to Keilor to meet the locals and to take photos with the children.

Families can get into the Easter spirit with a free Easter arts and crafts workshop — a guided 20-minute Easter egg painting session perfect for kids aged three and above. There will be free face painting near La Fleurette, with designs ranging from superheroes and animals

Folks will have the opportunity to sit inside emergency vehicles, explore equipment and ask the local heroes questions too.

to special Easter themes.

Inside the centre, a community services village will allow residents to connect with local support networks, including representatives from Brimbank council and the office of St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman.

The community family fun day will take place on Saturday 28 March, from 10am to 2pm at Keilor Central, 80 Taylors Road, Keilor Downs. While the day is free to attend, bookings are essential for the Easter arts and crafts workshops.

Details: shorturl.at/meGao

Braybrook Gift cancelled after major sponsor pulls the pin

The Braybrook Gift, originally scheduled forSaturday28March,hasbeencancelled due a major sponsor pullout, Braybrook Sporting Club announced last month.

Club treasurer Ebony Dunlop the club has felt the impact of the loss.

“Securing sponsorships each year is becoming increasingly difficult, and as a sporting club ourselves, we’re already struggling to find enough support to keep our own programs running,” Ms Dunlop said.

“The biggest part is the sponsorship. I know a lot of other meets are struggling togetsponsorsaswellandIknowthey’ve done things like get a bunch of different sponsors [instead of one major sponsor]”.

The athletic carnivals, known as gifts, are conducted statewide by the Victorian Athletic League.

The events encourage athletes of all abilities to compete for cash prizes, ranging from $300 to $60,000, in races handicapped by participants’ ability.

“The gifts across the west are really meaningful community events, and that’s exactly why this decision was so difficult for us,” Ms Dunlop said.

“Over the past few years, we’ve put a lot of effort into growing the Braybrook gift into more than just a race meet, we’ve built it into a family fun day with kids’ activities, food trucks, market stalls, and a really positive community atmosphere.

“If circumstances change, we absolutely hope to bring it back in the future.”

“We need to view people through a holistic lens - they have complex lives and histories,andunderstandingvictim-survivors’ lived experience is essential.”

Unlike some existing services which rely on phone referrals, the model allows practitioners to engage directly with people alongside police officers, while also targeting individuals who may not typically connect with mainstream support services, including those experiencing mental health issues, alcohol, and drug challenges, or housing instability.

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch said the new program would strengthen frontline support for the community.

“Ourcommunitywillnottoleratefamily violence – we’re making sure victim-survivors in Kororoit get immediate, coordinated support when they need it most,” she said.

Prevention of Family Violence Minister Ingrid Stitt said the introduction of the model further strengthened responses to family violence.

The announcement comes after the Melton local government area recorded 3644 family incidents for the year ending September 2025, according to the Crime Statistics Agency Victoria.

For support, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. In an emergency, call triple-0.

Harmony Week celebrations

Mackellar Primary School in Delahey kicked off Harmony Week on Monday 16 March with a vibrant display of energy and culture.

Many students arrived in traditional dress to celebrate and share their diverse heritages. A special assembly was opened by student Aurora who wore a traditional Aboriginal possum-skin cloak and deliveredanAcknowledgementofCountry.

Students then showcased a range of cultural performances representing the Philippines, Nepal, New Zealand, Nauru, Macedonia, Italy, Vietnam and Greece.

The school concluded the assembly in a passionate rendition of the song ‘I Am Australian’.

Parents and family members were in attendance along with Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins.

GradefourstudentLaylasaidthecultural performances were a highlight.

“Everyone’s footwork was spot on!” Layla said. “Harmony Day means a lot to

me because it doesn’t matter if people are different, we can still treat everyone the same.”

School mental health and wellbeing leader Stamatia Andreou said Harmony Week provides an opportunity for the school community to celebrate its rich cultural diversity.

“Celebrating Harmony Day helps our students develop empathy, cultural awareness and a deeper understanding of one another, which are essential for building a safe and inclusive school environment,” Ms Andreou said.

“It reinforces the values of respect, inclusion and belonging, reminding students that everyone’s background, traditions and experiences are valued.

“We want [students] to understand that diversity is something to be embraced and celebrated every day, not just on Harmony Day.”

The school also hosted a cultural lunch day on Wednesday 18 March.

Briefs

Taylors Lakes arrests

Police have arrested a Campbellfield man and Broadmeadows woman following an alleged theft at a shopping centre in Taylors Lakes on Sunday 15 March. Officers were called to reports of a theft at a retail premises inside the centre on Melton Highway about 2.30pm. Police spotted the pair and gave chase, arresting them at a neighbouring licensed premises.

A search of the 43-year-old male’s bag allegedly uncovered a handgun, a homemade slam gun firearm, knuckledusters, nunchucks and ammunition, as well as a quantity of methamphetamine. The Campbellfield man has been charged with several weapons and drug offences.

A search of the 46-year-old female’s bag allegedly uncovered a stolen tote bag worth $300 and a stolen necklace. She is expected to be charged on summons.

Ardeer listening tour

Ardeer residents are being invited to share their feedback on how the state government can best deliver for the local community as part of Laverton MP Sarah Connolly’s listening tour. The event will run from 6pm on Wednesday 25 March at Westgate Sindjelic Football Club, 8-14 Helene Street, Ardeer. The event is only open to Ardeer residents.

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Call to fix Taylors Road

Brimbank council has invited locals to join its community campaign on Saturday 28 March to fight for the duplication of Taylors Road ahead of the state election in November.

The ‘Fix Taylors Road’ campaign urges locals to join councillors in voicing frustrations over heavy congestion and safety to convince major political parties to declare Taylors Road a state-managed arterial road.

As part of the campaign, locals are also invited to submit a video, photo, or written letter describing how commuting via Taylors Road makes their lives more difficult.

Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos said the road is no longer fit for purpose.

“Taylors Road is one of the west’s most consistently congested and important roads,” Cr Tachos said.

“Fully duplicating Taylors Road has long been one of council’s top advocacy priorities, driven by community feedback and the needs of our growing west.”

Council said the section of Taylors Road between Kings Road in Delahey and Gilson College is in most need of duplication despite upgrades to parts of the road.

According to council, Taylors Road was initially designed as a collector road to

carry 700 to 1200 vehicles per hour in peak periods, now it carries 1850 to 2100 vehicles per hour.

There were 25 vehicle accidents from 2019 to 2024 along the 1.6-kilometre unduplicated section of the road, three times the amount of crashes recorded on the duplicated Hume Drive nearby, council said.

Council also stated full duplication of the road would cut commute times, especially during morning and afternoon peak hour traffic.

“With the state election fast approaching, we want all major political parties to commit to fixing Taylors Road once and for

Gabriela is ready to debate democracy

By Taylah Xuereb

Gabriela, a Catholic Regional College student, will be participating in the 31st National Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC) across 24-26 March in Canberra.

Held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, the NSCC will host 113 year 11 and 12 high school students, where they will discuss the ins and outs of government supply bills and the Australian constitution.

Students will attend the prime ministers’ welcome reception at Parliament

House. Gabriela is most excited for the tour of the High Court of Australia, and the opportunity to attend Question Time.

The 2026 topic that students will debate is ‘Should Section 53 of the Constitution be amended to prevent the Senate from blocking supply (rejecting money bills)?’

Outcomes from the convention will be presented to the president of the Senate for tabling in parliament.

Twenty-two Victorian students will go to this year’s convention.

Gabriela said she strongly believes knowing about the constitution is crucial

as it teaches people how the law impacts their daily lives.

“Young people pioneer spreading the word,” she said.

Her legal teacher, Laura Marsden, shared the opportunity with her students as she values the skills this experience will teach those involved.

“I think the government running these [programs] shows that they are aware that the next generation is coming up and they have views and they have ideas and it’s important to acknowledge those ideas because they’re the ones that will eventually be in charge,” Ms Marsden said.

Battery drop-off points announced by Sustainability Victoria

Sustainability Victoria will deliver four new collection points in Brimbank for residents to dispose of their loose and embedded batteries.

The state government will fund this project, creating new collection points at Brimbank Civic and Community Centre, Sunshine Leisure Centre, Kororoit Creek Neighbourhood House and St Albans Arts and Community Centre.

Existing collection points at local libraries and council hubs will also be upgraded.

This project is in an effort to encourage residents to safely dispose of their batter-

ies and electronics to reduce the risks of placing batteries in household rubbish bins, according to Sustainability Victoria.

Lithium-ion batteries can ignite when crushed in garbage trucks or recycling facilities if disposed of incorrectly.

Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) said it attends approximately one fire caused by rechargeable batteries per day.

Not only are these fires explicitly hazardous, they also lead to waste and recycling being left in public spaces for council workers to clean up, FRV said.

The state government and local council

all” , Cr Tachos said.

The community rally will begin at 10.15am on Saturday 28 March at 350 Taylors Road, Delahey, near Dulce Bakehouse.

Community stories will be shared directly with major political parties as part of the push for a long-term solution, council said.

“I encourage everyone who uses this road to attend the community event and add their voice to the campaign at fixtaylorsroad.com.au” , Cr Tachos said.

“Our growing community deserves a safer, more reliable road network.”

Council adopts community safety statement

Brimbank council has adopted a a ‘statement of commitment for a safe and inclusive Brimbank’ which council said is built on inclusion, harm prevention, collaboration and a focus on the local community.

According to council, the statement of commitment outlines how community safety is a shared responsibility across all levels of government, police, service providers, business and the community.

Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos welcomed the adoption of the statement at the council meeting on 17 February, saying it is both timely and necessary.

“Community safety is a top priority in Brimbank, especially right now,” Cr Tachos said.

“This adopted statement of commitment sends a clear message: community safety is everyone’s responsibility, and council is stepping up.

“We are actively investing in prevention, with a focus on safer streets and public spaces, to preventing gender-based violence and promoting gender equity.

“Safe cities are realised through strong partnerships, inclusive communities and early intervention.”

According to council, the statement includes a vision, key principles, and council’s role and commitments with three strategic priorities highlighted — stronger communities, safer streets and public spaces, and preventing gender-based violence.

Council said the priorities include a commitment to building a community where people feel safe, welcome and included, a commitmenttothedesignandmaintenance of council owned and managed public places to promote safety and support social connection, and a commitment to preventing family violence, improving health outcomes and ensuring gender equity in council’s facilities and programs.

In the statement, council said it would track progress with key stakeholders including Victoria Police, community organisations and service providers using data from program delivery, surveys and feedback.

Regular progress and annual reports will be presented to council, according to the statement.

are encouraging locals to correctly dispose of e-waste, including everyday items from vapes to vacuum cleaners.

“It’s a small act that has a big impact on the safety of our environment and community” , Sustainability Victoria chief executive Matt Genever said.

An interactive map to find safe disposal locations can be accessed via the Sustainability Victoria’s website: https://www. sustainability.vic.gov.au/recycling-andreducing-waste-at-home/small-acts-bigimpact/small-act-take-batteries-to-recycling-point

The statement was informed by community engagement which took place over four weeks in December last year.

“Thank you to all those who took the time to review the draft and provide feedback –your input is very much appreciated,” Cr Tachos said.

“We want this statement to reflect our shared commitment to the safety and wellbeing of everyone in Brimbank.”

Locals can read the adopted statement at shorturl.at/umqnB

Kids create connections in playgroup

Brimbank youngsters enjoyed a morning of relaxed play and social interaction at West Sunshine Community Centre this month.

The playgroup sessions, run by Brimbank council, provide opportunities for connection among little ones aged between up to four years old.

Local parents and carers also come along to share parenting journeys and to join in on the activities.

Sessions run on Tuesdays from 10am-noon during the school terms and are $3 per session,perfamilyor$24perterm,perfamily. Sam Porter stopped by a session in March to capture the fun.

Details:trybooking.com/DHTVBorwscc@ brimbank.vic.gov.au

Faces of the west

Measles vaccine rolls out

Western Public Health Unit (WPHU) is warningpeopleacrossthewesttomakesure they’re vaccinated against measles, as local transmission of cases is confirmed.

The unit has launched its campaign ’Measles doesn’t wait. Neither should you’ to encourage uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Four cases of measles were detected at Melbourne Airport last month. One person was confirmed to have caught measles while at the airport and another on an international flight into Melbourne.

According to WPHU most cases of mea-

sles in the west in the last year have arisen in people who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated against measles.

Measles is a highly contagious virus, and many adults remain under-protected, particularly people aged 20–59 and those born overseas. This is often because they have only had one dose of the measles (MMR) vaccine as a child.

To make it easier for people to get protected against measles, WPHU has partnered with local pharmacies, making two free doses of measles (MMR) vaccine available at over 50 participating pharmacies

Annual picnic at the park

The Lions Club of Taylors Lakes will host its annual ‘community music and picnic in the park’ event this month, bringing locals together for a day of relaxation and fun.

The event will be headlined by Beatles tribute band, The Beatlez, and feature music acts Julie Haigh and Sidetrak.

There will also be a kids entertainment precinct with kids’ discos and performances as well as face painting, a jumping castle, community stalls, food vans and a Lions Club barbecue.

Spiderman is also set to make an appearance, taking time out from his busy schedule to mingle with Brimbank youngsters.

Event coordinator and club secretary Phil Clinkaberry said he hopes to see many locals there.

“Say G’day to us at the barbecue and enjoy the music with a snag!” Mr Clinkaberry said.

“We love to serve our community and one way is to bring our community together for a day of fun, music and food.”

The Lions Club will also conduct a giant raffle on the day to raise funds for charity and local projects.

The free event, will run from 10am3pm on Sunday 29 March at Taylors Lakes Linear Park, 95 Chichester Drive, Taylors Lakes.

Locals are invited to bring a picnic blanket and their own picnic.

Chairs, tables and large umbrellas will also be available for use on the day.

across Melbourne’s western suburbs for adults aged 20-59.

WPHU director Dr Finn Romanes said theinitiativewasdesignedtomakeaccessto measlesvaccinationquickandeasythrough local pharmacies.

“If you are aged 20-59, you may not be protected against measles,” Dr Romanes said.

“If you haven’t had two doses of measles (MMR) vaccine or you don’t know, visit the Western Public Health Unit website. You can then book a free MMR vaccine at a nearby participating pharmacy at a time

that suits you.

“This additional access point is especially important for people who may be unsure of their vaccination history and want a simple way to stay protected.

“MMR vaccination will also continue to be available through general practice for children and all adults up to 59 years.

“Ifyouaretravellingoverseaswithachild aged 6 to 11 months, your child can also receiveanMMRvaccineearlytoprotectthem. In 2025, a child under one year almost died from measles after travelling overseas and was not vaccinated against measles.”

Quiet idol stealing hearts

Before the spotlight found her, Jacinta Guirguis was already fighting to be heard, not just as a singer, but as herself. Now, on one of the country’s biggest stages, she talks to Jack O’Shea-Ayres about turning vulnerability into her greatest strength, and being backed by the unwavering support of the people who know her best.

On a stage built for big voices and even bigger personalities, 25-year-old Jacinta Guirguis is quietly stealing the hearts of the nation, letting people in to see the parts of herself she once tried to hide.

The Bacchus Marsh forklift driver has emerged as one of the most compelling contestants of Australian Idol’s 2026 season,notjustforthewayshesings,butfor the way she completely opens herself up, despite describing herself as unconfident. Behinditallisconstantanddeepflowing supportfromherfamily,andespeciallyher twin sister Chantel.

“My other half, my best friend,” Chantel said of Jacinta.

Long before the lights, the cameras and thenationalaudience,thereweretwolittle girls singing around the house.

“A lot of people don’t realise that Jacinta and I are actually twins,” Chantel said.

“From the very beginning we’ve shared an unbreakable bond - we’re inseparable andhavealwaysbeeneachother’sperson.”

Chantel’s connection has undoubtedly anchored Jacinta through everything, from childhood performances to the emotional highs and lows of the music industry, Chantel remembers recognising something special in her sister early on.

I feel like it’s starting a movement for those people who feel a little bit quirky, like a little bit of an outsider -

“From when she was little, she was constantly singing…there was always so much emotion and heart behind it,” she said.

“It was never just a hobby, it was always part of her.”

That very emotional depth would later becomeJacinta’ssignature,somethingthat caused her to stand out from the rest, but also, at times, her greatest challenge.

Jacinta first began singing at just eight years old, after a friend brought her along to a lesson. What followed was nearly two decades of dedication, gigs across Melbourne’sinner-north,originalmusicin local venues, and countless auditions.

“I was getting a lot of rejections,” Jacinta said.

“There’s a lot of singers who sound the same …and when they hear me, they go back and think she doesn’t really fit the mould.”

Again and again, she watched others move forward while she was left behind, a feeling which slowly chipped away at her confidence.

“I didn’t know where I fit,” she admitted. For a time, she stepped back entirely. She didn’t even apply for Australian Idol in 2026, but she was accepted for an audition anyway.

“They looked back over my previous applications and accepted it for this year. It’s like the universe didn’t want me to stop,” Jacinta said.

Even as her talent has quickly grown, Jacinta has been fighting a quieter, constant battle.

Diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disordernearlysixyearsago,shedescribes it as something that never truly leaves.

“Idon’tthinkIwilleverovercomeit,it’sa 24-7 illness,” she said.

The pressure of national television has only intensified those feelings for Jacinta, with every performance and critique, every result carries weight.

“The anxiety is definitely heightened on the show,” she explains.

But instead of hiding it, Jacinta has proudly embraced her vulnerability as a strength.

“I’mtryingtoshowpeople…justbecause you have this illness doesn’t mean you are any less of a human being.”

Jacinta’s Australian Idol journey has unfolded like a slow-burning revelation, withastrippedbackrenditionofSomebody

That I Used to Know by Gotye and Kimbra earningheraGoldenTicketandimmediate recognitionofthetruetalentshepossesses. Jacinta’sperformancewasraw,emotional and deeply personal, and perfectly fitting for her style as a musical artist.

“Ihadalotofpeoplewalkoutofmylife… that song resonated with me,” she said.

Fromthereshebuiltmomentumthrough the Top 30 performances that showcased both versatility and vulnerability, from Sting’s Fields of Gold to a reimagined take of Ariana Grande’s Problem, sung with two other contestants, but again, Jacinta’s talent shined through.

Then it was Jacinta’s performance of No Doubt’s Don’t Speak which further captured the public’s attention.

The performance was picked up and circulated online and gained massive attention from fans.

Posts began circulating online showing Jacinta’s picture plastered all around town back home in Bacchus Marsh, proving no doubt was ever on the minds of anyone showingsupportfortheirlocallegendback home.

By the time Jacinta had reached the top 21 performers and performed Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac, audiences could see the shift in her, and beyond that, Jacinta is making the songs she performs her own, with Dreams by the Cranberries sounding like it was written just for her as the shakiness begins to leave her voice.

While Jacinta navigates the whirlwind of the competition from Sydney, her family remains her emotional centre, even from a distance.

“I’m a real homebody. I miss my family so much,” she said.

“But I know they’re just a call away.”

ForChantel,watchinghersisterstepinto the spotlight is both surreal and deeply moving.

“There truly aren’t enough words to express how proud I am,” Chantel explained.

“Her journey hasn’t always been easy… but she’s never let that stop her.”

The separation has been difficult for a family so close-knit, but their support has never wavered: through visits, phone calls, and constant encouragement, Jacinta hasn’tquestionedthesupportofherfamily and local community for a second.

“I feel like the whole community is on

this journey with her,” Chantel said. The community connection has run deep, with Jacinta’s success feeling like a shared victory. Flyers posted outside the newsagentsinBacchusMarsh,Jacinta’sold workplace , show just how far reaching her talent is.

“I feel like I’m carving a path,” Jacinta said.

“I feel like it’s starting a movement for thosepeoplewhofeelalittlebitquirky,like a little bit of an outsider.”

For her sister Chantel, that journey is as inspiring as it is emotional.

“Herdetermination…hasshownmethat with time, patience and belief in yourself anything is possible,” she said.

Regardless of how the competition unfolds from here, Jacinta is certain of one thing, it’s only the beginning.

“I’ve always wanted to be a successful, well-known artist,” she said.

“I want to write songs, tour…all of it.”

For now, Jacinta is focused on the moment, taking each performance as it comes and holding tightly to the people who got her there.

And somewhere just offstage is the presence which has always steadied herher biggest supporter, her best friend, her other half.

While Jacinta stands tall, alone with the silent confidence of someone with enough talent to go far beyond winning 2026’s Australian Idol, her family and local community are standing with her.

The benefits of mindfulness and meditation for seniors

Asweage,ourmentalandemotionalwellbeing becomes increasingly precious.

Stress, worries, and the physical changes of ageing can sometimes cloud our golden years. However, mindfulness and meditation practices offer a pathway to a calmer, more fulfilling retirement. These simple yet powerful tools have gained recognition for their ability to enhance mental health and overall wellbeing, empowering seniors to live each day to the fullest.

Mindfulness and Meditation: A DeeperLook

Mindfulness is the art of being fully present in the here and now. It involves non-judgmentallyobservingourthoughts, emotions, and sensations, fostering a deeper connection with our inner selves and the world around us.

Meditation involves training the mind to focus and redirect thoughts. This can be achieved through various techniques, from basic breathing exercises to guided meditations, creating a sanctuary of inner stillness and clarity.

The Transformative Power of MindfulnessandMeditation

• Stress Reduction:  Mindfulness equips seniors with the tools to manage stress effectively, promoting relaxation and inner calm. Regular practice has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and alleviate anxiety.

• Improved Mental Health: Numerous studies have demonstrated that meditation for mental health in seniors can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

• Enhanced Cognitive Function:

Meditation techniques for the elderly are not only beneficial for emotional wellbeing but also for cognitive health. They canenhancememory,attentionspan,and other cognitive functions, helping seniors maintain mental sharpness and clarity.

• Body Scan Meditation: Settle into a comfortableposition,eitherlyingdownor sitting.Slowlydirectyourattentiontoeach part of your body, starting from your toes and gradually moving upwards towards

your head. Notice any sensations present, whether it’s tingling, warmth, coolness, or simply a sense of neutrality.

• GuidedMeditation: Exploretheworldof guided meditations through recordings or apps.Theseguidedpracticescanhelpyou navigate various mindfulness exercises, offering gentle instruction and support as you cultivate a calm and focused mind.

At Centennial Living Retirement Villages we recognise that well-being

encompasses more than just physical health. Our activity and event programs are designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit.

To learn more about our retirement living options and discover how we prioritise the well-being of our residents, please contact us on 1300 098 000 or fill in the Contact Us form at www.centennialliving.com.au

MY PLACE

Dominic Uccellini is a local pharmacist and a long-time Brimbank resident who opened the Devonshire Pharmacy in Sunshine with his wife 40 years ago. The father of four spoke to Sam Porter about his work and his community.

What’s your connection to Brimbank? I was raised in Brimbank. I went to SunshineNorthPrimarySchool,Sunshine High School and after that I went to uni and found my way back and opened a business in Sunshine, serving my community; people I knew well and have known most of my life. I’ve always enjoyed the work I do. It’s helping people to solve their problems. It’s a good community to work with.

What changes have you seen in the area throughout your life?

Sunshinewasarealindustrialhub.Myown parents worked in factories in Sunshine. There was generally a very much European community, a lot of Maltese, Italian, Greek migrants. Over the years the demographic has changed considerably and the needs of the population have changed as well.

What do you like about the area?

Sunshine, it’s got a diverse range of nationalities. That’s the richness of the fabric of Sunshine, that we experience different cultures just walking down the main street. We get a lot of customers bringing in various foods and things that they’d like us to try which is very nice of them.

What, if anything, would you change about the area?

In every community you’re going to get the crime aspects and that sort of thing. I think it’s important that all members of the community work towards making it a safe place to work and live. It’s a shared responsibility. But all areas, all municipalities are facing the same issues. We’ve had a few problems in Sunshine but they’re all being addressed and the whole community has a role to play in keeping it safe.

spend time? I spend a lot of time at the pharmacy to be quite honest, and serving the community. When we first opened the pharmacy we had to have a point of difference and we were the first pharmacy to offer 9am-9pm every day of the year service.

What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?

FROM THE ARCHIVES

farm out Kyneton way. I grow chestnuts. I enjoy that outdoor experience. The chestnuts come to ripen right about Easter time (April, May) and we’ve got to harvest them.We’vegottobeattheparrotstothem. In the early days, we used to take a lot of the chestnuts to the market but with time constraints now I don’t have a lot of time to do the harvesting. But we do harvest enough for family and friends.

I’ve enjoyed my time serving my community as a pharmacist. I enjoy people coming in and I’ve seen generations of people. Parents, in the early days, would bring their children and the children have now grown to adults and have their own children. Some people come from a fair distance because they like the service we offer them I suppose, and because we’ve become good friends over the years.

A former Brimbank mayor and member of the sacked council of 2009 will run in October’s municipal elections.

Immerse in Greek culture

By Lee McCarthy

ONE of the added joys of travelling on a Viking cruise in Europe are the mini vacations offered in buzzing cities before and after sailing.

Thesetripsgivegueststheopportunityto soakupthecultureandvibeoftheportcity while preparing for departure.

As part of their packaging, Viking offer three-day extensions on their cruise options where everything is taken care of inthesameperfectfashionthatpassengers become accustomed to onboard.

They have just launched a new three-night pre or post cruise extension on their ‘Greek Traditions’ cruises available on select Mediterranean ocean voyages from 2026 onwards.

The extensions are available on the following itineraries: the Ancient Mediterranean Treasures cruise, Italy, the Adriatic, and Greece cruise; Journey to Antiquities cruise; Mediterranean Antiquities Venice cruise and the Adriatic and Greece cruise.

Based in Nafplio in the Peloponnese, the extension immerses guests in Greek culture and cuisine, with olive oil, honey andwinetastings,avisittoancientNemea, guided walking tours, and time to explore one of Greece’s most charming historic towns.

Greek Traditions extensions include hotelnightsinNafpliowithsevenmeals, three guided tours: Nemea and Nafplio; Honey and Wine Tasting; Olive Oil Factory and Tasting.

With extension prices starting from $2,699 and fully escorted by a Viking Tour Director, with all transfers included these extra days on land offer a divine opportunity to absorb the essence of Europe and the mediterranean.

For those considering the ‘Venice, the AdriaticandGreece’option,thiseight-day, four country cruise with six guided tours is now very affordable with pricing starting from only $6695.

The cruise leaves from Venice and takes in the spectacular Adriatic Sea with stops in Split, Croatia, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon and Athens. An exceptional holiday taking in all the yearned for destinations in one cruise.

Those booking now can save up to $2500 with a ‘companion flies free’ option available on selected 2026-2028 voyages (check with Viking for full terms and conditions).

This cruise with allow travelers to

discover Venice exploring St Marks Square, or the Doge’s Palace, the famed Rialto Bridge or learn about Venetian mask crafting. Another city to discover is Split, one of Croatia’s oldest cities, it has a promenade which commands majestic views over a bay and the Adriatic Sea. There is time to explore the city centre and Diocletian’sPalace,journeytoTrogirorthe Krka Waterfalls.

In Split, take the opportunity to join the Executive Chef for a unique, market to table experience where guests take an interactive culinary adventure. Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine at the local market and handpick ingredients under the guidance of the chef.

Later that evening, dine on regional dishes prepared by the culinary team, using produce from the market.

Next stop is Dubrovnik where visitors

can walk the marbled Stradun in Dubrovnik, pass Sponze Palace and see the 15t Century Onogrio’s Fountain or sample some of the best of Croatia’s wines during a winery tour and tasting in the beautiful Konavle Valley. Sail through scenic fjords to the remarkably preserved Kotor, Montenegro’s historic gem. Explore its Medieval Streets, visit the Cathedral of St. Tryphon or immerse yourself in the Maritime Museum.

In magnificent Corfu in Greece stroll the streets of Old Town, see Mouse Island and the Vacherna Monastery. For those chasing more physically challenging activities explore Corfu’s spectacular natural landscapes and inviting villages by bicycle on an invigorating tour.

Katakolon is huddled around a pretty little harbour dotted with colourful fishing

boats. Nearby, the fertile valleys of the western Peloponnese are a bounty of olive groves, vineyards and orchards, and lead to the legendary city of Olympia. In Olympia visit the Olympic park, see the Temple of Zeus, and browse the Olympic Archaeological Museum.

This truly stunning eight-day cruise sadly ends at magnificent Athens. This is one of the best ways to visit these much-loved cities especially for those over fifty who want a little bit of luxury without having to decide where the best place is to stay, eat, drink, exercise, or shop.

Guests can extend their holiday in Athens by joining another extension tour to absorb more of ancient Greece for a few days before leaving for home.

Find out about this and many more cruises available from Viking at

MUST END 31 MARCH 2026

This is your last chance to fly free, upgrade to business class or save up to $5,000 per couple on 2026-2028 river,

Purpose-built for the Brahmaputra River, Viking Ganges joins Viking Brahmaputra, bringing Viking’s signature Scandinavian design to India. Explore the Taj Mahal in Agra, wander Old Delhi’s historic streets and discover Jaipur’s Palace of Winds as you journey through India’s Golden Triangle.

THESE SAILINGS WILL SELL FAST. BOOK NOW.

From $16,295pp in Veranda Stateroom

The great AI content heist

By Paul Thomas*

In a recent Australian Financial Review opinion piece, “There is nothing creative about AI not paying for news content”, Rod Sims made a point Australia cannot afford to ignore.

Sims is now chair of The Superpower Institute and an Enterprise Professor at the Melbourne Institute at the University of Melbourne. He is also the former chair of the ACCC, and when he warns about market power and unfair extraction, people should listen.

His point is blunt, and correct. There is nothing creative about AI companies taking professionally created content, building commercial products on top of it, and then refusing to properly pay the people who made that content in the first place. That applies most urgently to journalism, but it also reaches writers, photographers, artists and other creators whose work is being vacuumed up to make these systems more useful and more profitable.

That is not innovation. It is extraction.

And for regional Australia, the damage will be greater than it is in the cities.

In a capital city, people may still have a range of big media outlets, institutions and voices competing to keep public life under scrutiny. In regional Australia and local areas, the local paper is often the trusted source. It is the paper that covers the council meeting, the court matter, the hospital issue, the fire warning, the local business, the sporting club and the decisions that shape daily life.

If that journalism weakens, country communities feel it first.

That is why the Canadian research on this issue is so important. The study is called AI News Audit. It was published in March 2026 by Taylor Owen and Aengus Bridgman of McGill University’s Centre

COMMUNITY

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

for Media, Technology and Democracy and the Media Ecosystem Observatory. It is some of the clearest evidence yet of whatAIcompaniesareactuallydoingwith professionally produced news content.

The researchers found AI models had absorbed Canadian journalism at scale and usually did not say so. In the technical brief, the researchers found that among knowledgeable responses, 92 per cent providednosourceattributionatall.Inthe policy brief, they found AI systems gave no source attribution 82 per cent of the time, and when asked about specific recent articles, produced substitute answers in 54 to 81 per cent of cases while naming the original outlet in the response text only one to 16 per cent of the time.

That is the heart of the problem.

Thejournalismisbeingused.Thevalueis beingcaptured.Thesourceisbeingerased. AI companies do not send reporters to council meetings. They do not sit through court hearings. They do not verify facts during floods, fires or elections. They do not employ the local journalist, the editor,

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

the photographer or the creator who actually did the original work. But they increasingly want to scrape that work, absorbitintotheirsystems,andprofitfrom it as if it were their own.

For regional and suburban Australia, that is not some distant policy debate. It goes to whether local journalism survives.

The Canadian research also found that the outlets getting the most AI visibility were the biggest, free, nationally prominent organisations, while paywalled and regional and local publishers fell well below proportional representation. That should ring alarm bells here. It means smaller publishers can be mined for value while losing the audience and revenue they need to keep reporting.

And the consequences go well beyond business.

We are already living through an era of misinformation, half-truths and outright falsehoods spreading across social media at extraordinary speed. Much of it is unchecked. Much of it is designed to inflame, divide and mislead. If AI systems

now scrape reliable journalism, strip out thesource,andserveupconfidentanswers that people cannot easily verify, the danger only grows. The Canadian policy brief warns that when AI delivers answers drawn from journalism but stripped of source and context, the public’s ability to judge reliability is diminished. That is a direct threat to democracy.

Democracy depends on trusted, checkable and accountable information. People need to know where a fact came from. They need to be able to judge the source, test its credibility and read further for themselves. If AI becomes a black box that swallows journalism and other original creative work, then spits out unattributed answers, the public loses one of its most important safeguards.

Australia should be clear about this. If AI companies want to use local journalism and other professionally created content, they should pay for it. If they use original reporting and creative work to build commercial products, they should compensate the people and businesses that created that value. And if they rely on trusted journalism to make their systems useful, they should be required to clearly identify the source so readers can verify what they are being told.

That is not anti-technology. It is pro-fairness, pro-creativity and pro-democracy.

Rod Sims is right. There is nothing creativeaboutnotpayingfornewscontent. And in regional Australia, there is nothing abstract about the consequences. When local journalism is stripped for value and not sustained, it is our towns, our readers and our democracy that pay the price.

* Paul Thomas is co-owner and managing director of Star News Group, Today News Group and SA Today. He is a past president and life member of Country Press Australia.

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

Brimbank Disability, Seniors, and Carers Expo

Come along to the expo to learn about services and support available across Brimbank and Melbourne’s west that can help you or someone you support. Organised by Brimbank council, this free community event brings together people with a disability, older residents, carers, and families to connect directly with service providers and access practical, up-to-date information. The event will run from 10am-2pm on Wednesday 25 March at Keilor Basketball Netball Stadium, 135 Stadium Drive, Keilor Park. For transport or access requirements, contact: CommunitySupport@brimbank.vic.gov.au or 9249 4000

Easter Blue Light Disco Party

Hop to the beat of the music, bust out a move on the dancefloor with the Easter bunny, and join glow-in-the-dark fun at the Easter blue light disco. Prizes for best Easter costume and more, food and lollies to be purchased on the night. Entry is $10 per child (grades three to six only). The event will run from 6-8pm on Friday 27 March . shorturl.at/wnj6q

Eid in the Park

Mark the end of Ramadan with an Eid celebration organised by Maribrynong

council. There will be a coffee ceremony followed by a halal sausage sizzle and a sweet treat. Enjoy an evening with the community, meet some furry friends at the animal petting zoo, decorate your hands with a lovely henna design or kids can their face painted. All are welcome. Bring your rug and a picnic basket filled with your favourite Eid goodies and have a fabulous evening! The event will run from 5-7pm on Friday 27 March at the Aeroplane Park next to Braybrook Community Hub, 107-139 Churchill Avenue, Braybrook.

Community Fun Day

Come down to Keilor Central to meet local emergency services heroes. There will be plenty of things to do including meeting police officers and other emergency services workers as well as opportunities to take photos in their vehicles. Heaps of other activities will be happening to keep the kids entertained. The event will run from 10am-2pm on Saturday 28 March at Keilor Central, 80 Taylors Road, Keilor Downs.

Deer Park school holiday activities

Come to commUnity+ Neighbourhood House for gardening, cooking, and kids’ first aid programs. Everything is free, and all ages and abilities are welcome. The Neighbourhood House will also run its ‘sprout and grow’ gardening program on

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Maribyrnong-based artist Cohan whose new theatre work ’The Irreducible’ is premiering at the Explosives Factory in April. (Damjan Janevski) 540758_01

Wednesdays and Thursdays during the April break. Holiday activities will take place at 822 Ballarat Roadd, Deer Park. Find out more and register. tinyurl.com/42d7tedb

Over 50’s club

The Keilor Over 50’s Recreation Club meets at Kealba Hall, 24 McShane Drive, Kealba, on Tuesdays, from 10am-3pm, and Wednesdays, from 7-10pm. Have a coffee and a chat, play social table tennis, pool and card games, go on organised outings

and enjoy barbecues. First two visits are free then annual membership fees apply. Graeme, 0404 809 640, keilorover50@ gmail.com, www.keilorover50.com.au

Sunshine Community Brass Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm. Andrew, 0419 444 620

Chips will fly in Blackwood

How much wood could a woodchop chop if a woodchop chopped all through Blackwood?

Well, you may find the answer with beloved former winner of Moorabool’s Community Event of the Year, the BlackwoodWoodchopandEasterCarnival, as it’s set to return with an action-packed, fun-filled day out for the whole family on Saturday4April.

In its milestone 125th year, the event features one of the oldest woodchopping competitionsinVictoria.

Thisyear’scarnivalissettokickoff with a street parade, followed by everyone’s favourite woodchop, plus loads of other

fun activities, including gold panning, gumboot throwing, a pet show, treasure hunt,andloadsofnoveltygamesandraces

forthelittleones.

Among the already jam-packed fun is also face-painting, tug-o-war, market stalls,delicioustreatsandlicencedbars.

The parade starts off on Main Street, weaving down to the reserve for a final victorylap,witheveryoneinvitedtofollow along or watch the parade at any point alongtheway.

All are being invited to join in on the parade. With no set theme, keen participants are encouraged to let their imagination run wild and enter with friends, family, and even pets for a chance to win prizes for best dressed, most colourful,andmostcreative.

Festival’s new beginnings in Brimbank

A 3000-year-old tradition of renewal and hope is coming to Sunshine this month withlocalsinvitedtojoinincelebratingthe solaryear1405.

The Nowruz Festival in Sunshine, presented by Afghans Hope Hut, will be the first public event of its kind hosted in Brimbank.

AfghansHopeHutVictoriapresidentand founderKhalidaDawransaidshe’sexcited andproudtobepartofit.

“It is a special moment for our community because it is the first time we are celebrating Nowruz publicly in this way. In the past we have celebrated it on a smaller scale, mainly indoors and often onlyamongwomen,”MsDawransaid.

“This festival represents a new step forward for our community. There has been a great deal of preparation, but the enthusiasm and support from volunteers and community members make it incredibly rewarding. I’m really looking forwardtoseeingfamiliesandpeoplefrom different backgrounds come together to celebrate.”

Nowruz Festival marks the first day of thesolaryearandthearrivalofspring.

Thefestivalhasbeencelebratedformore than 3000 years across many cultures and countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kurdistan, amongothers.

“The festival symbolises renewal, hope andnewbeginnings,”MsDawransaid.

“For many families who now call Australia home, celebrating Nowruz is a meaningful way to preserve our traditions while also sharing our culture with the widerVictoriancommunity.

“ThefestivalinBrimbankwillfeaturelive cultural music, traditional performances andadisplayoftheHaft-Seentable,which isacentralsymbolofNowruz.

“Visitors will also experience traditions such as Haft Mewa, Nowruz cookies, traditional egg-tapping games for young people,andhennaartforgirlsandwomen.”

There will be tea and sweets, family-friendly activities, and opportunitiesforpeopletolearnaboutthe

meaningandhistoryofNowruztoo.

“Our hope is to create a joyful and welcoming atmosphere where locals can experience different traditions and celebratetogether,”MsDawransaid.

The Nowruz Festival, supported by Brimbank council and the state government, will run from 11am-4pm on Saturday28MarchatSunvaleCommunity Park,20NeilStreet,Sunshine.

But it wouldn’t be the Blackwood Woodchop and Easter Carnival without plenty of great music acts lined up to provide the perfect soundtrack, with the Gordon Gypsies, Craig Woodward and Friends, Fingerbone, Gumbo Express and Rock&Co.bookedtorockyoursocksoff

The family favourite event is all set to place with a picturesque backdrop at the beautifulBlackwoodReserve.

Ticket price includes all activities, includingwoodchopandlivemusic. For tickets and information: https:// blackwood3458.com.au/2550-2/. For registration in the parade, email blackwoodprogress@gmail.com.

Luke Kidgell. (Supplied)

Good

Australian stand-up comedian Luke Kidgell’s World Tour is about to land inWerribee.

Following tours across the US, Canada, New Zealand and Europe, Kidgell is back on home soil to prove that he truly means well in his brand-newshow‘GoodIntentions’.

Despite not having much control over his impulsive thoughts, Kidgell insistsdeepdownhemeanswell,and heis onamissionwith hisnewshow toproveit.

With six national tours already under his belt, and four million fans online, the stand-up comedian promises to bring plenty of entertainmentandlaughstothearea.

Known for his viral crowd interactions that often lead to some daily unusual yet hilarious encounters, Kidgell’s show in Werribeeisoneyoucan’tmiss.

Tickets are selling out fast for Kidgell’s performance, offering a chance for locals in the western suburbs to see his performance close tohome.

Good Intentions will be staged for one night only at the Wyndham CulturalCentreonWattonStreetfrom 7.30pmonWednesday1April.

All tickets are $55. The show is recommended for ages 16 and over due to coarse language and adult themes. Tickets: https://tickets. wyndham.vic.gov.au/

Double trouble promises twice the fun at break dancing competition

The third installment of the breaking dancing competition and hip-hop celebration Double Trouble will come to thestreetsofcentralFootscrayonSaturday 28March.

Funded through Maribyrnong Council’s Love Your West Grants Program and supported by local not-for-profit street dance organisation Cypher Culture, DoubleTroubleis describedasa‘Breakin’ eventforthepeoplebythepeople.

Taking place at Maddern Square in between Leeds Street and the Nicholson StreetMall,theeventwillbebasedaround

a break dancing competition with two categories:2VS2Breakin’and1VS1Under 14Breakin.’

Both competitions will see crews and individuals go head-to-head, backed by a line-up of live DJs and drummers, and overseen by respected judges from across Australia.

WithcustomDoubleTroublejacketsand prize money up for grabs, the competition will be fierce. Inner west break dancers who think they have what it takes to compete still have the chance to do so, withapplicationstotakepartstillopen.

Running from 12pm-6pm, Double Trouble is free to attend and promises to provide dynamic performances, positive vibes and plenty of crowd-pleasing moments as dancers showcase their skill, styleandteamwork.

Double Trouble volume three is predicted to be the biggest one yet. For moreinformationvisittheeventFacebook page: https://shorturl.at/vKO1W or Instagram page: https://www.instagram. com/dtjamofficial/. Those interested in competing should message event organisersthrougheitherpage.

PUZZLES

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.

ACROSS

1 Refrain; pass (7)

5 Social dance (coll) (5-2)

9 Young adulthood (11)

10 Reverential wonder (3)

11 Value (6)

12 Sound of wood burning (7)

14 Poke (4)

15 Normal or conventional (10)

17 Rival (10)

19 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

20 Fixed sum of money paid each year (7)

22 Brawny (6)

25 Bedridden (3)

26 Combined whole (11)

28 Leather factory (7)

29 Kings and queens (7) DOWN

1 Partly open (4)

2 Blizzard (9)

3 RollingintheDeep singer (5)

4 Unavoidably (11)

5 Knowledge (3)

6 Tastefully fine (7)

7 Predator (5)

8 Promotion (10)

12 Aficionado (11)

13 Doctor with superior knowledge in a specific field (10)

16 Vital, indispensable (9)

18 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)

21 Synthetic fibre (5)

23 Prepared (5)

24 Just (4)

27 Lively (3)

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”.

Today’s Aim:

13 words: Good 19 words: Very good 25 words: Excellent

3

5 LETTERS ACTED AGENT AGREE AORTA AROMA ARRAY ATONE BEADS BLAZE BONZA BROKE CHAOS

1 Swimmer Cate Campbell has won how many Olympic gold medals?

2 Angela Bassett (pictured) played which character in the Black Panther films?

3 Who released the album Small TownTemple in 2023?

4 The height of which US volcano was reduced by more than 400m after a massive eruption in 1980?

5 What breed of animal is a Brussels Griffon? 6 Which country introduced a Nuclear Free Bill in 1987?

7 Which song won the Best Original Song award at the 2026 Academy Awards?

8 The world’s longest-lasting light bulb was first switched on in what year: 1901, 1911 or 1921?

9 Which team won the 2025 Indian Premier League cricket final?

10 James Earl Ray is best known for assassinating which person?

EDITOR SUNRAYSIA DAILY

An

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

This is a hands-on leadership role overseeing the Sunraysia Daily’s three-times-a-week printed edition, the Broken Hill Times, daily online publishing, and support for content across the company’s social channels.

You will lead the reporting team in Mildura and work closely with the small team in Broken Hill, while being supported by the Group Editor and our production hub team.

This is a strong role for someone who understands the importance of local journalism, can drive quality and consistency across platforms, and is committed to building audience and community impact.

About the role

In this role, you will:

•edit and oversee the Sunraysia Daily print editions published three times a week

•oversee editorial output for Broken Hill Times

•manage daily digital publishing across both brands

•assist with editorial content for the company’s social media channels

•lead, mentor and manage the team of reporters in Mildura and the small team in Broken Hill

•help drive strong news judgment, story generation, planning and follow-through

•work with the Group Editor and production hub team to ensure deadlines are met and quality standards maintained

•help grow audience engagement across print, online and social platforms

•maintain high standards of accuracy, fairness, balance and community relevance

•connect with the community, attend events and meet with key members of the community

About you

To succeed in this role, you will ideally have:

•experience in editing, newsroom leadership or senior reporting

•strong news sense and a passion for regional and community journalism

•excellent writing, editing and headline skills

•the ability to manage competing deadlines across print and digital

•strong people leadership skills and a collaborative approach

•confidence working across websites, digital publishing systems and social platforms

•an understanding of how to build audience through digital content and social distribution

•a commitment to accuracy, ethics and high editorial standards

•a great sense of community

What we are looking for

We are looking for someone who can:

•lead from the front

•support and develop reporters

•produce strong, relevant and engaging local content

•balance the demands of print, digital and social

•work positively with editorial, production and management teams across the group

Why join us

This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in two important regional news mastheads and make a genuine difference in the communities they serve.

You will join a business that values trusted local journalism and supports its editors with experienced group leadership and central production resources, while still giving you the chance to have real editorial impact at the local level.

To apply

Please submit your application, including a cover letter and resume, outlining your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role to paul.thomas@starnewsgroup.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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

Just a question of price

By Chris Riley, Marque

After a string of hybrid and fully-electric vehicles, including a full-blown electric ute, it was kind of refreshing to get behind the wheel of a no-frills turbo-diesel 4x4 ute like they used to make (and obviously still do).

The five-seat Mitsubishi Triton GLX double cab ’Pick Up’ (somewhere along the line they became pickups), in either 4x2 or 4x4 configuration, is just such a beast, complete with good old fashioned steel wheels.

Mitsubishi describes the GLX as everything you want in a tough, reliable and durable ute – whether it’s the 4x2 for workorthe4x4forplay,theywillgetthejob done anytime, every time.

Styling

The entry model to the Triton range retails for $44,090 in two-wheel drive form and $51,440 for the 4x4.

Our test vehicle was the GLX 4x4 double cab, Easy Select low and high range 4WD and all terrain tyres.

Firmly focused on work capability, it’s offered with a voice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions.

Our vehicle was fitted with almost $10,000 worth of accessories, including premium silver paint ($790), soft tonneau ($918), tray liner ($308), bullbar ($3779), snorkel ($1175), under front guard ($422), high-edge rubber mats ($154), plus a tow bar ($1551) with REDARC electric brake controller and harness ($865).

The Terrain pack includes some of these items and saves you $991.

The bullbar completely changes the look of the vehicle.

Vinyl flooring and cloth trim is of course de rigueur, with automatic air conditioning, ceiling mounted rear air circulator and electric lumbar support for the driver.

Entry is keyless but you need to insert the key in the ignition to start the ute, something of a rarity these days.

GLX is however quite sophisticated for an entry level model, with adaptive cruise control, intelligent speed limiter, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, auto lights andwipers,frontandrearparkingsensors, and tyre pressure monitoring.

GLX is covered by a 10-year warranty, along with 10 years capped price servicing and 10 years roadside assistance.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of a small rather thin 9.0-inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth, including voice control and audio streaming, plus built-in satellite navigation, AM/FM radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto and generic four-speaker audio.

The instrument cluster is formed by two analogue dials separated by a small digital info panel.

There’s USB A and C ports in the front, along with a 12-volt outlet, with another 12-volt outlet in the rear but no USB.

Safety

Triton was the first dual-cab ute to be awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating against the current criteria.

ANCAP notes the Triton demonstrated high levels of protection for occupants in crash tests.

Triton scored 86 per cent for Adult Occupant Protection, 89 per cent for Child Occupant Protection, 73 per cent for Vulnerable Road User Protection and 70 per cent for Safety Assist.

It comes with a 360-degree camera and a total of eight airbags, including a centre airbag, Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and a speed sign recognition system are standard.

Autonomous emergency braking (Backover) is standard on utility variants, but is not available on cab-chassis variants introduced from March 2025.

Two ISOFix and two top tether child seat anchor points are provided in the rear, requiring the seat belt to be threaded through a cloth loop.

But it says installation of child restraints in the centre seating position of the second row in dual cab variants is not recommended as there is no top tether anchorage.

Installation of child restraints in single and club cab variants is not recommended as there are no top tether anchorages.

Child Occupant Protection scores therefore do not apply to the single and club cab variants.

Engines/transmissions

The 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel produces 150kW of power at 3500 rpm and 470Nm of torque from 1500-2750 rpm and in our test vehicle was paired with a six-speed automatic, together with part-time four-wheel drive.

Driving

GLXstandslongandtall,at5320x1795mm, with a 3130mm wheelbase and 12.4-metre turningcircle.

Ground clearance is 228mm but without side steps fitted, it can be a challenge to get inandout,especiallyforsmallchildren.

Atleastagrabhandleisprovidedforeach ofthefourdoorstoprovidesomeassistance.

Thehighrideheightalsomakesitdifficult to reach in and fit a child seat, off balance andwithoutanyleverage.

The 17-inch steel wheels are shod with chunkier 265/65 series Toyo all-terrain tyresdesignedforoff-roaduse.

At 30.4 degrees the approach angle is pretty good, but that long tail tends to drag, reducing the exit angle to 22.8 degrees whichcouldpresentproblems.

Drive under normal circumstances is to the rear wheels with the ability to change gears with the shifter and auto engine stop-starttosaveburningunnecessaryfuel.

However, the GLX cannot be driven in four-wheel drive on dry bitumen – it requires some slippage to stop the diff binding.

Witha75-litretank,fuelconsumptionisa claimed7.7L/100km.

There’salsoasecondaryAdBluetankthat needs filling from time to time, but easily accessed sitting side by side with the fuel filler.

In our week behind the wheel the trip computer showed 8.3L/100km after almost 400km of driving, not quite as good as the maker’sclaim–butnotbadallthesame.

Heavydutyrearsuspensionisfitted,with ventilateddiscbrakesatfrontanddrumsat therear.

As expected, the ride is very much old school given the stiff suspension and unladen mass – bumpy, jiggly and at times shuddery.

Put a bit of weight in the back and it is

likelytosettledown.

Likewise, we wouldn’t go chucking the ute into any fast corners, but it’s certainly no slouch in traffic, with light easy on the armssteering.

Payload capacity by the way is 1083kg in thisconfiguration,withatubthatmeasures 1555mmx1545mmx526mm,with1135mm betweenthewheelarches.

Alas, it bucketed down in Sydney during the week we had the Triton and we were unabletotakeitoffroad.

But we’ve taken this vehicle off road beforeandcanreportitisaquitecompetent, medium-dutyvehicle.

Other points of note include the touchscreen which is really too small to accommodate both overhead and rear camera views at the same time when reversing.

Our major criticism however concerns the horrible, nagging, annoying driver monitoring system which is right up there withanythingofferedbytheChinese. Maybethat’swhereMitsugotit?

Summing up

GLX is what it is, a purpose-built work vehicle without any of the fancy stuff found insportsutes.

It’s surprisingly well equipped and presents as a solid, value for money investmentatthisendofthemarket. But many of the features that buyers will be looking for remain accessories, so the stickerpriceissomewhatmisleading. The main problem is that the same figure buys you a larger chunk of a Chinese ute and this is probably the main reason the Triton carries a 10-year warranty, provided yougetthecarservicedwithMitsubishi.

Finals action continues

Warriors are on the board

By Tara Murray

The Western Warriors are on the board in theVictorianNetballLeaguebythebarest of margins.

AgoaltoKimBorgerafterthesirenwas the difference between the Warriors and Gippsland Stars on Wednesday night.

ItwasaslowstartfortheWarriorsbefore they fought back, with the two sides going goal-for-goal a lot of the second half.

The Warriors snuck home, 54-53.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey said it wasn’t the prettiest game but they got the job done.

“We dug deep and come away with one goal,” she said.

“KimBorgerhadtheshot,whataplayer to have the ball in her hand.

“We started off slow and we come back and started talking about doing the basics extremely well.

“To their credit [the Stars] they had a great game as well.”

The Warriors were down by five at quarter time, with the margin back to two at the main break.

It was the Warriors leading by three goals heading into the final quarter.

Baileysaidtheywereabletomovetheir side around to find which combinations worked best.

“Wehadtheluxurytonight[Wednesday] to change our midcourt a fair bit, we rotated Ruby [Shannon] into wing attack and left her there,” she said.

“We brought Kiara Boyd in for her first gamewithchampandshedidanamazing

job in tandem with Kali Dolphin.

“They are games last year that we probably would have lost and it’s good to get the win.”

It was Fionnuala Mckeagney-Stubbs that was given the Warriors best for coming on and limiting the impact of shooter Sam Silvester.

Bailey said it was amazing to see her put out a performance like that.

“Finn had a job to do and she went out there and did it,” she said. “I’m really happy for her.

“It’s a really good story and that is one of the reasons why we coach.

“Shehadnoconfidencecomingbackto netball and I had tried to get her back for the last two years.

“When she gets on that court she just

Krueger up and stroking towards success

By Peter Howe

There are many superlatives thrown at youngaspiringathletesfortheirdedication, resilience,focusandpassionfortheirsport.

This month’s Don Deeble Sports Star nominee,swimmerOwenKrueger,delivers these qualities everyday when his alarm clock goes off at 4.30am.

Only once in the last four years has his mum,Jacinta,hadtocomeknockingonhis door a second time to get him up.

“I was always organised but my daily routines, focus on my year 12 schoolwork, eating habits and structure has gone to another level,” he said.

“My ability to concentrate has even amazed me.”

Krueger enjoyed swimming and surfing with the family, but neither was a big focus in his life into his early teens.

During a school swim carnival Krueger was urged to give it a go by swim coach, Samantha Grant.

A win, a place at the regional finals and the rest is history.

Within 12 months Krueger was competing at a national level.

Krueger’s rise has much to do with his willingness to grind away at his craft as his natural ability.

Now his current coach, Jacob Sell says it’s about developing his technique.

“I am proud of my small Westbourne Swim Club, my coaches and how far it has come,” Krueger said.

“I do need to work on my turns, stroke rate and breathing technique.”

Krueger rates his starts, and the first 50 metres as his strength.

His training is split equally between the pool and in the gym.

Six mornings a week it is a 4.30am start in the pool typically swimming between four and six kilometres depending on the session.

Healsoswimstwonightsaweek,isinthe gym twice a week and it’s a combination of strength work and Pilates on a Thursday.

“I love competition,” he said. “It’s as much about beating yourself as it is about beating your opponents.

“I must be able to control my emotions when the starter’s pistol goes off.

“I will admit from time to time my race plan does go out the window, but I am getting better.”

Butterfly is Krueger’s favourite stroke and the one he finds easiest.

He won two silver and a bronze medal at last year’s Victorian Long Course Championships in the under-17-18 age group.

It came after he won bronze at the 16 years boys 50 metre butterfly at the AustralianNationalChampionshipsearlier

changes.”

Borger finished with 28 goals, while Mia Lavis scored 24.

Bailey said that combination was growing and Lavis stamped her authority on the game, to make it hard to take her off the court.

It was a really good night for the Warriors, with the 23 and under side, winning 66-38.

The side hasn’t had a margin like that before.

She was full of praise for Charlize Bellette, who shot 20 goals at 90 per cent.

The Warriors now face the Bendigo Strikers in round three on 29 March at Cobblebank Stadium.

It’s the Warriors first home game of the season.

Two divisions for EDFL women

The Essendon District Football Leaguehasrevertedtotwodivisions for its women’s competition this season.

The competition will go back to two divisions for the first time since 2019. As reported by Star Weekly, the premier division will have nine teams this season, following the withdrawal of Greenvale.

The remaining 13 teams will play in the division 1 competition. Last season, the division 1 and 2 competitions both had six teams. Thisyear’sdivision1competition will include Westmeadows, Burnside Heights, Keilor Park, Tullamarine and Coburg Districts who were in division 1 last season. Division2teamsinEastSunbury, SunburyKangaroos,SunburyLions, Roxburgh Park and Taylors Lakes will have sides in the expanded division.

last year.

Krueger will compete at the Australian National Championships in April in the under-18 50 metres and 100 metres freestyle, backstroke and butterfly races.

The teenager has a number of idols in and out of the pool.

“Kyle Chalmers is one of my heroes as thebestAustralianswimmerinmyevents,” he said.

“He is also a good bloke. I do love Sam Short’s celebrations.

“Out of the pool, surfer Owen Wright displays great resolve and resilience returning to competition after suffering a traumaticbraininjuryinasurfingaccident. I also like him because his name is Owen.”

Krueger has been invited to swim in the Australian Swimming trials for selection in the Pan Pacific and Commonwealth Games.

His focus is to make the Australian junior swim team and then progress to the senior team at Commonwealth and Olympic games.

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.

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

Gisborne will have a standalone side after having a combined Gisborne-Kyneton United team as it won the division 2 premiership. Craigieburn will enter a women’s side for the first time since 2019, while Airport West will have a women’s side after a one year hiatus.

The division 1 competition will kick off on 11 April.

In the opening round, Tullamarine will face Craigieburn, Burnside Heights is at home to Westmeadows, Keilor Park will play Coburg Districts, East Sunbury will host the Sunbury Lions, Gisborne will take on Taylors Lakes in a grand final rematch and the Sunbury Kangaroos take on Roxburgh Park in a twilight match. Airport West has the bye in round one.

The EDFL also released its fixture for its women’s reserves and under-19 competitions. It will be a six team women’s reserves competition with Hillside, Aberfeldie, Oak Park, Maribyrnong Park, Essendon Doutta Stars and Moonee Valley having two teams. In the under-19s, there has been some good growth with the competition to have two divisions.

Three Western Football League clubs, Caroline Springs, Altona and Point Cook will field sides in the EDFL competition.

Dragons build for success

By Tara Murray

Sunshine Heights is hoping for a bit more consistency as it aims to break into the Western Football League division 2 top six.

The Dragons made some inroads last season, but injuries meant they weren’t able to put their best team on the park consistently.

Coach Stephen O’Malley said they were keen to keep building on what they did last year.

“We’ve had an influx of new players again which is good,” he said. “We’ve added about five or six players.

“We want to make finals, 100 per cent. We just missed out last year and dropped a cou-

ple of games early.

“We had a few injuries and our depth suffered. We’ll keep pushing to make a finals spot.

O’Malley said it had been a bit easier this off season with the majority of the group having been together for 12 months.

It was his second season in charge and first with having a full pre-season.

“Most of the side knows the game plan and knows how we want to go,’ O’Malley said.

“It’s easier at training and getting the new guys involved.”

The Dragons have added speed and high to the side in the off season.

Bol Kolang joins the club from St Albans,

while Majok ‘Shaggy’ Bol comes across from Lara.

Johnny Atar has previously played at Parkside and Matthew Dettman comes from Anakie.

“We’ve added a couple of key talls and some running backs and mids,” O’Malley said.

“We’ve filled a few holes that we had.”

O’Malley said with the extra players, they hoped it would help with depth in the team.

“Last year we couldn’t get that consistency,” he said. “Our depth struggled when we had a lot of injuries.

“We want our reserves to have that consistency as well and have people fighting for spots.

“We don’t want to change the side too much but we want to have the depth to push other guys.”

The Dragons kick off their season on 11 April against West Footscray.

O’Malley said it would be a good first hit out for them against a side that played finals last season.

“It’s a good test with them finishing third last year,” he said. “We get a test straight off the bat to see where we are at.

“If we win, even better. If we don’t, we see what we need to work on.”

O’Malley said across the club things were looking good with the junior program going well.

Young Devils ready to take the next step

By Tara Murray

Keilor Park feels like it has the right mix as it heads into the Essendon District Football League division 2 season.

The Devils had a young line up in their first season back in division 2 and made a finals appearance, losing to Westmeadows.

Coach Colby Blyth said it was a good starting point for them heading into this year.

“We’re pretty excited,” he said. “It’s been a challenging off season as we’ve worked pretty hard in terms of increasing our fitness capabilities.

“We’ve embraced the game plan, stepping a few things up and look to get better at the fundamentals.

“We’re very optimistic going into the year.”

Blyth said he had been confident in the group 12 months ago despite many people weren’t sure on what they would do.

He said they had looked to add pieces to further strengthen what they had already at the club.

“We want to try and take the next step,” he said.

“It took us to finals last year … We want to win a final this year, that is the ambition so far.

“We’ve got some more depth in the squad and there’s a good mixture of older players, after being pretty young last year.”

Blyth said they needed to be stronger around the contest and a bit more methodical with the ball.

He said they felt their inclusions would help with that.

Aojak Mayen has crossed from Newport while Peter Barbopoulos has come across.

Leon Bektash makes the move from St Albans with Blyth saying that he had set some really strong standards in the pre-season.

Shylo Smith and Jamie Fisher come across from Gisborne Masters and provide plenty of experience, with Smith having shone on the biggest stage in the EDFL.

Jamie Torre will add to the younger brigade that the Devils have already got.

“It’s a good mixture for us,” Blyth said. “We’re not privileged to have under-18s and

don’t have a junior program.

“We have to continue to top up and retain players. This year we’re in the right age bracket with some more experienced players who have an understanding of how we go about it.”

In a positive sign for the Devils they will have an under-8s team as they re-establish a junior program.

Blyth said it was huge for the club as it wanted to develop kids to come through the ranks.

The Devils senior side will kick off action on Good Friday against Coburg Districts. It’s one of three matches on Good Friday, with two premier division matches also being played.

Blyth said they were pretty excited about hosting such a big game on what has become one of the biggest days on the EDFL calendar.

“A standalone game against a pretty quality Coburg Districts outfit,” he said.

“I’m sure they have done some work over the off season as well. It should be entertaining.”

“We could not ask to be in a better place.”

Lions embrace new challenge

Taylors Lakes is using the hurt of last season to drive it in the Essendon District Football League division 1 women’s competition.

The Lions finished runners-up last season in division 2 and will now have a new challenge with division 1 and 2 combined.

Coach Joe Antonetti said there was a lot of unknown heading into this year.

“We thought at times last year we were as good as a division 1 team,” he said.

“We’ll have to wait until half way through the season to see how it shapes up.

“I said to the group that you don’t want to go that far [make a grand final] and not come back the next year and try and win it.

“You don’t want to get to a grand final and lose. We want to give it our best crack through the year and see where it takes us.”

Antonetti said they had been able to keep their core group of players together for this season.

“We’ve kept the core but we’re still waiting on a couple who haven’t made a decision on footy regardless,” he said.

“The core is staying and we’ve added enough pieces to help provide them with some relief.”

Laycee Eustace, Alexcia Talia, Stella Hoye and Gabrielle Kassinidis are among those who have put in clearances to join the Lions.

Antonetti said they were still looking for a few extra players to ensure they had ahead players in case of injuries and unavailabilities.

The Lions were set to have their first practice match on the weekend, with Antonetti saying they couldn’t wait to get out there and play.

“We’ll get a better gauge and idea of the players that we have bought in.”

The Lions will start their season against Gisborne on 11 April.

Gisborne is a standalone side this season after playing as Gisborne-Kyneton United last season and claim the division 2 premiership over the Lions.

Western Suburbs’ challenges

By Tara Murray

Western Suburbs is hoping for a strong start to the FV state league 1 north-west season despite juggling things off-field.

With facility upgrades underway at Ralph Reserve, Western Suburbs will spend a lot of time on the road early in the season.

The club’s Sasha Pete said it would be short-term pain for long-term gain.

“We’ve got a lot of refurbishments happening at the club,” he said. “The men’s side has had to train at alternative venues and we’ve had to change our fixture.

“There’s a lot of challenges but we’re looking forward to getting into the season.”

Pete said trying to get wins on the board early in the season was a major thing for them, knowing they have plenty of home games in the second half of the season.

The side will this season be coached by Jim Gacovski with Doug Mladenovic as assistant coach..

“They are back at the club and they are familiar faces,” Pete said. “They’ll do really well.”

Pete said there had been some changes to the squad for this season as they again aimed to be competitive.

Western Suburbs finished last season in fifth spot with 10 wins and four draws.

“The core group has returned and we’ve

added some additional faces,” he said.

“There’s new exciting people coming in to play alongside some familiar faces.

“It’s about half and half.”

Pete said they just wanted to make sure they were competitive this season and see where the season takes them.

“We want to win games of football, but we are always respectful of the opposition,” he said.

“We’ll give it a red hot crack.”

Western Suburbs kicked off their season on Saturday against Altona East Phonenix.

The Phoenix, which is in its first season back in state league 1, won 3-0 after leading 1-0 at the break.

Matteo Ballan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 481978_07

Eagles find form, notch up their third win

By Tara Murray

Keilor Park has found its feet in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, with the wins starting to come together.

Keilor Park started the season slowly in their first season in the VPL2 but have now started to put together some strong performances.

It has won three of its past four games.

On Friday night, Keilor Park beat Springvale White Eagles 3-0 in the battle of the Eagles, to move its season record to three wins and three losses.

Keilor Park coach Sergio Sabbadini said things were starting to look really good.

“We started the pre-season a bit late, so we were a week or two behind everyone else,” he said.

“We did it on purpose as we know it will be a very long season.

“We are now at the level that we needed to be at in terms of fitness.

“We are now holding our own.”

Sabbadini said they put the early results

down to getting up to speed with where they need to be in the higher competition.

He said they felt they were playing a lot better the last two to three weeks and it was reflecting on the scoreboard.

Sabbadini said the win against Springvale was set up in the first half.

“We played really well on Friday,” he said.

“Springvale is a tough physical side

“We knew how they were going to play and we counteracted with the way we do things and it worked out well.

“We were 3-0 up at half time.”

Graham Kelly, Ryouta Yanagisano and Sam O’Halleron were the goal scorers for Keilor Park.

With the game in control at the break, Keilor Park rested Kelly for the second half after he was a bit sore in the groin.

Sabbadini said they didn’t want to take any risks with the game already in their hands and that Kelly would be fine for the next match.

“It disjointed us for about 10-15 minutes before we adapted in the midfield and we

Pete said outside of their senior program, their juniors were growing and they have set up a junior committee as part of that growth.

“We’re making constant improvements at the club.”

Western Suburbs faces Ballarat City in round two.

In other state league 1 north-west round one results, Sydenham Park suffered a 4-1 loss to Lalor United, Western Suburbs lost 4-2 to Ballarat City and Westgate and Yarraville Glory had a 2-2 draw.

In state league 2 north-west, Brimbank Stallions started with a win, while the Western Eagles and Albion Rovers both had opening round draws.

Sports shorts

NPL

It was a tough weekend for the Green Gully Cavaliers in the National Premier League. The Cavaliers faced the Bentleigh Greens on Friday night and suffered a 4-0 loss, with three of those goals coming in a nine minute period in the second half. After six rounds, the Cavaliers sit bottom of the table without a win. Meanwhile Caroline Springs George Cross suffered its first loss of the season on Friday night

NPLW

Spring Hills and Keilor Park both suffered losses on Saturday in the National Premier League women’s competition. Sprills lost 4-2 to Heidelberg United, while Keilor Park lost to Melbourne City, 1-0. After six round, Spring Hills has three wins, a draw and two losses, while Keilor Park has one win, two draws and three losses.

Talent League

The Western Jets kicked off their Talent League boys season with a big win against the Calder Cannons on Saturday. The Jets travelled to Highgate Recreation Reserve to face the Cannons and were able to lead by 10 points at quarter time. The margin was back to one point at the main break before the Jets kicked six goals to none in the third quarter to open up a match winning lead. The Jets did enough in the final quarter to come away with a 16.8 (104)-10.15 (75) win. Billy Wigmore kicked four goals for the Jets and was named their best alongside Jacob Marron.

VTCA

were fine,” he said.

“We could have scored one or two more goals but it didn’t quite happen.”

Keilor Park continues to have the challenges thrown at it, as it takes on top side Malvern City on Saturday evening.

“It will be a tough test,” Sabbadini said. “It’s one that the boys are looking forward to.”

After the Malvern match, there is a competition bye for the Easter break.

Keilor Park will still be in action that weekend in the Dockerty Cup on the Thursday night, with Sabbadini saying a break from the VPL competition would come at a good time.

Meanwhile in the VPL1 competition, the North Sunshine Eagles and Melbourne Knights both suffered losses on the weekend.

North Sunshine lost to Manningham United Blues, 1-0, while the Knights fell to the Bulleen Lions, 2-0.

The Knights sit in fifth and the Eagles in 12th after six rounds.

Yarraville Club claimed the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division premiership. Day three of the game didn’t go ahead due to the wicket being wet. Airport West St Christopher’s resumed at 5-79 on Sunday at in reply to the Clubbers’ 235. The Eagles couldn’t get any partnerships going and were bowled out for 116. Matt Doric and Mitch Johnstone took four wickets each for the Clubbers.

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