Star Weekly - Wyndham - 27th May 2026

A cool way to help out Call for bin delay

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Wyndham council has scaled up its efforts to delay the state’s mandated rollout of a fourth kerbside glass recycling bin.

Alongside 33 other Victorian councils, Wyndham will request the state governmenttoreviseitscurrentlegislation thatwouldenforcetherolloutbymid-2027.

For the second year in a row, Truganina’s Venkat ram Upparlapalle will brave the elements to raise money for those in need.

After participating in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout last year, Mr Upparlapalle said he wanted to continue raising awareness for vulnerable people experiencing homelessness.

“Last year taught me that even one night in the cold can open your eyes to the daily struggles many people face,” he said. “It also showed me how powerful community support can be when people come together for a meaningful cause.

“I wanted to continue raising awareness and funds to support those who are doing it tough, especially women, children, and vulnerable families.

“It was emotional, humbling, and honestly quite confronting.

“The cold and discomfort were temporary for us, but it made me reflect deeply on those who experience homelessness every day without choice.”

The CEO Sleepout will take place on Thursday 18 June, with funds raised helping provide accommodation, meals and emergency assistance for those sleeping rough. To donate: https:// www.ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/ venkatramupparlapalle/victoria

Council’skerbsidebinauditsundertaken since the introduction of the CDS in 2023 have shown a significant reduction in the amount of glass in household yellow bins.

According to figures from council, if a glass bin were to be implemented, it would take 34 weeks to half fill a 120 litre bin.

The audit results also show a significant proportion of the remaining glass could be diverted to the CDS, further reducing the need for a glass recycling bin.

Councilalsoclaimsthecurrentrecycling of glass in yellow bins would produce the sameenvironmentaloutcomeasswitching

The state government’s mandate aims to increase glass recycling rates and reduce contamination in the yellow recycling bin. The campaign calls on the government to consider more locally tailored solutions including the expansion of the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) to include wine and spirit bottles, in line with other states in Australia.

the purple lids.

Councillor Mia Shaw backed the campaign, citing a decrease in kerbside recycling of glass since the CDS launched in 2023..

“It does raise legitimate questions about cost versus benefit in a fast growing municipality like Wyndham,” Cr Shaw said.

“This isn’t about resisting environmental reform, it is about ensuring its implementation is financially responsible, practicalforhouseholdsandproportionate totheenvironmentaloutcomesachieved.“

Cr Shaw also said that despite a successfuluptakeoftheCDSbyWyndham

locals, it has also provided the unintended consequence of people sifting through bins, and that kerbside bins may increase this problem.

Priortojoiningthecampaign,Wyndham council wrote to then environment minister Steve Dimopoulos to extend the deadline for the state’s mandatory glass bin rollout.

The decision on 24 February followed another council report that estimated the ratepayer would be slugged approximately $7.7 million in the first year of the rollout.

As it stands, all Victorian councils must implement the glass bin by 1 July, 2027.

The state government was contacted.

Plea for laws to oust mayor

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Pressure is mounting on the state government to give Wyndham councillors the power to remove Preet Singh as mayor following his continued refusal to stand down.

Community advocate Dwayne Kelly said amending the Local Government Act (LGA) to allow the removal of a mayor was a matter of urgency.

Cr Singh has defied calls for his resignation since 30 March, when it was revealed he wrote a character reference for a paedophile in 2024, prior to being elected to council.

“There have been four protests, council

has exhausted its options, now it’s up to the state to address this legal loophole,” Mr Kelly said.

“The status quo is farcical and doesn’t make sense. We need the state government to be proactive, not reactive on this matter.”

Cr Singh’s councillor colleagues unanimously passed a motion of no confidence in his leadership on 27 April.

The controversy also led to the resignation of Jennie Barrera from council, with Dr Barrera telling council chief executive Stephen Wall on 1 May that “the current situation at Wyndham City makes it untenable to continue in my role as councillor”

The same day, Local Government Min-

ister Paul Hamer appointed Jim Gifford and Jo-Anne Mazzeo as the city’s monitors from 11 May, 2026 to 31 January, 2027.

As reported by Star Weekly, the pair will cost ratepayers $1375 for each day they work.

“The ratepayer is footing the hefty bill for monitors, but there is no certainty that work is being done to address the core issue,” Mr Kelly said.

“If the state has the wheels in motion, the least they could do is reassure the community by keeping us posted.”

A fifth rally calling on the embattled mayor to quit and the minister to change the law will take place on Saturday 13 June.

Cosy up with a good book this winter

The nights may have drawn in and the temperatures dropped, but it is a better time than ever to pick up a good book.

Wyndham City Libraries are calling on the community to participate in the Warm Winter Read, an adult winter reading challenge. Between 1 June and 31 August everyone, from book worms to those who might have been a bit too busy to read, are encouraged to attempt reading one book a week.

If you have already hit the hurdle of not knowing what to read, fear not. The

library is there to help you find a story to snuggle up. There are also plenty of book recommendations at the ready, courtesy of this year’s author-ambassadors of the program.

You can also track your reading online or complete a Reading Challenge Booklet from June to August and go in the running to win a prize.

This year’s author-ambassadors span a wide range of genres, from fantasy writer Keshe Chow and romance author Melanie Saward to comedian Shaun Micallef, sci-fi

Wyndham City Libraries are also delighted to host Warm Winter Read ambassador and cosy crime writer Kate Solly for a special event on Saturday 13 June from 10.30am to 11.30am at Hoppers Crossing Library. Bring along your crochet, stitching or simply yourself and settle in as Ms Solly discusses her latest novel, The Paradise Heights Miniature Railway Bust-Up. Bookings are required for this one.

Free barber service a cut above for young people in Wyndham

Young people in Wyndham are encouraged to take advantage of free haircuts through council’s free social barber program.

Every Wednesday during the school term, from 4-6pm, the program is open to people aged 13-22 at the Arndell Park Community Centre in Truganina.

Designed to support young people who may be facing barriers to employment and education, financial hardship or social isolation, the initiative creates a welcoming, inclusive space for participants helping boost

confidence and social connection.

An intended outcome of the program is to help disengaged or isolated young people build a stronger sense of community and feel good enough to apply for jobs and participate in civic life.

Among the things to do are watch sports on the big screen, play games, have a chat with the youth workers and make friends along the way.

Bookings aren’t necessary and haircuts are on a first come, first served basis. If time

Protesters plan to march down Watton Street, starting at Werribee MP John Lister’s office.

Star Weekly understands the state government will introduce legislation to make it easier for councils to remove a mayor who is significantly failing to perform their role.

The state government did not reveal when legislation would be introduced to parliament.

Last week, Star Weekly reported that the Department of Justice and Community Safety is investigating whether Cr Singh should be dismissed as a Justice of the Peace.

Cr Singh declined to comment.

Bus route blues, more to be done

Residents in Melbourne’s west are not entirely happy with the rollout of a new bus route, claiming that the job is not finished.

Gaurav Sharma welcomed the 140 route starting services on 28 June from Rockbank to Mount Atkinson, but believes the entire route should have been connected in one go.

Later this year, the route will also extend through Tarneit station once local roadworks are complete.

Services are scheduled to run every 20 minutes for most of the day on weekdays, and every 40 minutes for most of the day on weekends.

“We welcome the announcement and are pleased to see our community finally getting a place on Victoria’s public transport map,” Mr Sharma said.

“But there is still a significant concern –the lack of direct connectivity to Wyndham, which remains a major gap in the network.“

He said a connection to Tarneit Station is critical because it would provide residents another rail line and employment opportunities.

“Tarneit is also a major activity hub with shops, services, and employment opportunities, helping working families manage daily essentials more efficiently.

“Just as many Mount Atkinson and Rockbank residents travel towards Wyndham and Truganina for work, many Wyndham residents also commute to the employment precincts near Mount Atkinson.”

Mr Sharma said the corridor is poorly linked by public transport and forces car dependency.

“Right now, without direct public transport between Melton and Wyndham, residents are forced to take an indirect trip via Deer Park or Sunshine and then connect back through the rail network.

“That adds around 30 to 45 minutes each way, turning what should be a short cross-regional trip into a lengthy commute.

“For many families, the lack of direct public transport means needing a second car or relying on ride-share services — both of which add significantly to cost-of-living pressures.”

He added that Melbourne’s west is experiencing rapid population growth and a booming employment base.

runs out, appointments will be carried over to the following Wednesday.

The Youth Services team provides pizza and refreshments and also provides transport for the young people via a Wyndham council bus to local trains stations.

Beyond the haircut itself, the service is structured in a way that provides the opportunity for young people to be connected with other services they may require.

Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ whats-on/social-barber

“Delaying the full activation of route 140 is not just delaying a bus service —–it is holding back economic opportunity, increasing traffic on already crumbling roads, and reducing the liveability of communities in Melbourne’s west.”

ADepartmentofTransportspokesperson said “Wherever possible, we’re accelerating new bus services for growing communities, with the new Route 140A to commence from 28 June - ahead of schedule” .

Winter drive needs you

Wyndham residents are warmly invited to donate food, apparel and their time for an upcomingwinterappeal.

The Winter in July drive, an initiative spearheaded by Yeukai Ota Tshwanelo’s organisation Humanitarians Without Borders, will provide vital supplies to help individualsandfamiliesfacinghardship.

A month out from the drive, there are plenty of ways you can get involved such as volunteering to sort and deliver the donations, spreading awareness on social media and offering practical support for transport,logistics,orstorage.

New blankets, doonas, warm clothing for children and adults, non-perishable food items, toiletries, baby essentials and basic household essentials are top of the priorities.

MsTshwanelosaidpracticalsupportcan

Only a Few Homes Remaining!

restore hope and dignity in ways people mayneverforget.

“Living and serving within the Wyndham community has allowed me to witness firsthand the silent struggles many families experience behind closed doors.

“Many families facing domestic violence or displacement are trying to rebuild their lives while carrying emotional, financial, andpersonalburdens.

“Sometimes a warm blanket, a meal, or simply knowing someone cares can change the course of a person’s week — or eventheirlife.

“Strong communities are built when people come together not only during celebrations, but also during moments of crisisandvulnerability.”

Details:yeukaicota@gmail.com

Briefs

Council meeting registration

Wyndham council is making residents register their details and show photo identification to attend council meetings. Council recently announced that an interim registration process for in-person attendance of meetings will be introduced to ensure the safety of councillors, staff and attendees. Registrations must be submitted by 5pm on the Monday prior to each council meeting, with attendees encouraged to arrive at 5.30pm on the day to avoid entry delays. Among the conditions of entry is not bringing placards, signs, banners, props or other display material into the chamber. Where there are safety threats or concerns, council has indicated it may introduce additional arrangements for a meeting. This may include changes to attendance format, capacity limits and security arrangements.

Kids fencing

Parents in Wyndham are encouraged to take advantage of a free fencing session for children aged six to 10 years. The introductory sessions are designed specifically for kids to experience the excitement of fencing in a safe and supportive environment. Sessions run 1-2pm on Saturdays at the Western Fencing Club in Hoppers Crossing.

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Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Engineering the future

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Laverton North business ebm-papst is proofthatbusinessexcellencedoesnotend with delivering goods and services, but is about actively building a better future in anygivenendeavour.

The business specialises in fan manufacturing and provides engineering solutionstoalmostanyonewhoneedsit.

Managing director Simon Bradwell has beenwiththecompanyfor25years.

“We are fan manufacturers, so we deal with everything to do with air fluid dynamics. We are very specialist engineers,”DrBradwellsaid.

Houses, commercial buildings, biomedical facilities and, in more recent times, data centres are among the various structuresebm-papstdevisesolutionsfor.

Front and centre of their mission is tacklingcarbonemissions.

“We do everything to reduce people’s carbon footprint, because 55-60 per cent of all power used within buildings is from fans,”DrBradwellsaid.

“We will save people 25-60 per cent of their carbon footprint, so we have taken the equivalent of 250,000-300,000 off the road,that’sallthecarsinGeelong.

“That’stheimpactengineerscanhaveon theenvironment–itishuge.”

At the 2015 Wyndham Business Awards, ebm-papst was crowned Business of the Year.

DrBradwellencouragedbusinessesofall stripestoentertheawards.

“Itismassive,anditisthecommunitywe come from which is really important and wehavealotoflocalsuppliers.

“These awards are recognised across the country, so people pay attention to the Wyndhamawards.”

A lot has changed in a decade, including becoming carbon neutral and implementing a stronger focus on recycling.

However, one thing ebm-papst has not changed is its mandate of corporate social responsibility.

“There is nobody like us in the engineering market and we do everything toincreaseinclusivityanddiversity.

“Sixtypercentofourteamarefemale,80

“Wehavenowsetuplinkswithrecycling companies in the western suburbs, to recycle our products, as opposed to 10 yearsago,”DrBradwellsaid.

MY PLACE

percentofmyengineersarefemaleand40 per cent of the executive team are female; wealsohave14differentculturalheritages.

“Whyshouldn’tourworkforcereflectthe communitywecomefrom?”

Entries for this year’s awards are open and close on Sunday 5 July. Information sessions will be held on Thursday 18 June andonlineonThursday11June.

Whether you’re a small start-up, an established enterprise, or a local leader in your industry, the Wyndham Business Awards offer an incredible opportunity to gain recognition and celebrate the impact yourbusinesshasmade.

For more information or to enter, visit: to www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ business-awards

Jacques Gentil is an acclaimed songwriter and songwriting mentor whose song Should Words Fail has been selected to represent Australia in the international Commonwealth Song Contest 2026. He discussed his growing connection to Wyndham Vale with JAIDYN KENNEDY.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

I’m an award-winning songwriter, songwriting mentor and ASCAP affiliated music publisher living in Wyndham Vale. Music has been part of my life since childhood, growing up in a musical family in Mauritius before eventually settling in Australia. Over the years I’ve written songs across different styles, taught songwritinginternationallythroughZoom workshops, and worked with aspiring songwriters through Magesongs School of Songwriting which I founded in 2002. Many of my songwriting students have become successful songwriters and have won songwriting awards. Currently, I have one of my original songs titled, Should Words Fail, selected to represent Australia in the grand final of the Commonwealth Song Contest, which has been an exciting honour. Alongside music, I also enjoy encouraging creativity in others and helping people understand the craft and emotionalpowerofsongwriting.

Whatis your connectiontoWyndham?

area, especially places with open scenery and peaceful surroundings that help inspire creativity and songwriting ideas. I also enjoy local cafes where I can drafts on some music projects or simply relax. The Wyndham area has a nice balance between suburban life and spaces where youcanslowdownandthinkcreatively. What is something people might be surprised to know about you?

People are often surprised to learn that my father composed the National Anthem of Mauritius where I was born, when the country became independent in 1968. Music was always deeply present in our family life growing up. Another surprise is that despite working extensively in songwriting and music, I am also trained and worked in the architectural drafting field before pursuing creative work more fully.

Is there anything you would change about Wyndham?

After many years living in Melbourne’s south-east, I recently moved to Wyndham Valeandhavereallyenjoyedbecomingpart of this growing community. I appreciate the mix of modern development, open spaces and cultural diversity. It has been a refreshing new chapter for me personally andcreatively,andapeacefulenvironment for songwriting and running my online workshops. What is your favourite thing about the community?

One thing I really appreciate about the Wyndham community is its diversity and friendliness. People from many different backgrounds live here, yet there’s a strong

senseofconnectionandcommunityspirit. I also enjoy seeing how quickly the area is growinginarts,cultureandlocalactivities. There’s a real sense of opportunity and energyinthecommunity.

Where are your favourite places to spend time locally?

IenjoyspendingtimearoundtheWerribee

Like many growing areas, improved traffic flow and transport infrastructure would greatly benefit residents as the population continues to expand. More support and visibility for local arts, music and creative events would also help showcase the many talented people living within the Wyndham community. And I would be veryhappytohelpwhereIcan.

To vote by 31 May, go to https://www. commonwealthsongcontest.com/

Nylon Phoenix is on the rise

A chance meeting and a shared dream was the spark that Sunbury locals Jet Bastos and Floyd Bassett needed to come together. Georgia Tacey caught up with duo Nylon Phoenix to hear more about the band and its origins in the lead up to their debut single Magenta releasing this August.

Every great band has that iconic story of how they came to be.

U2 formed through an ad on a bulletin board. For Green Day, Billie Joe Armstrong met Mike Dirnt at a bus stop on their way to school.

But for Nylon Phoenix, it all started in a restaurantandtheconstanttaptaptapping of Floyd Bassett’s imaginary drum.

His future bandmate Jet Bastos, though he didn’t know it yet, was working at that very restaurant he came upon looking for his feed.

“Whenever I have to wait for anything in my life, whether I’m at the supermarket or the gym or anything, I just start tapping, going through drum beats,” Bassett said.

“I could see Jet watching me as I’m tapping along, waiting for my food, and he walks up to me as he’s like ‘are you all right man? You’ve just ordered, it’s gonna take a couple of minutes’.

“I’m like ‘oh sorry, I’m just practising some beats that I’m working on’, and he said ‘Wait a minute, you’re a drummer? I’m looking for a drummer in this band I’m starting’.”

It was perfect timing.

Bassett, a skilled drummer, was looking for a fresh project after his previous band disbanded.

Bastos, already a solo artist, was looking for someone to join him and create a band and accompany his vocals and ukulele.

“We jammed and realised we had a good mix of influences and Nylon Phoenix was born,” Bassett said.

Fusing ukulele punk and alternative, the duo has been playing a number of gigs and open mics around Melbourne as they navigate their way through the Melbourne music scene.

Their name – taken from Bastos’s middle name Phoenix and the material used to make strings on the ukulele that defines their sound – was the perfect descriptor and title that was all thanks to Bastos.

“The name is a bit of a contradiction in of itself, being a combination of the artificial, contrasted by the natural; it’s a critique of the insincerity of the modern popular music scene,” Bassett said.

“It however also describes our music perfectly,aswecombineliveperformances of acoustic and electric instruments with synthesized tracks, attempting to blend and balance the two different worlds together.”

Overthepasttwoyearssincetheirfateful meeting, Bassett and Bastos have been busy honing their sound and recording music, with their debut single set to release this August.

Magenta, their first single, will dive deep into Bastos’ trials and tribulations navigating the modern dating world.

“It’s pretty much a critique on myself in the modern dating scene, which I find quite funny,” Bastos said.

The duo has spent the better part of the past year – alongside other gigs and projects – chipping away at the song, with Bastos taking the lead on production.

“Jet comes up with the initial song idea and shows me and we start to workshop some ideas to flesh it out,” Bassett said.

“Jet usually has pretty solid ideas of the feel and mood of the songs as well as the chord progressions, lyrics and structure. I add some drum ideas and then Jet gets into recording mode.”

Bastos then layers the tracks, adding drums, bass ukulele and synth before laying down the vocals, which are all produced by him in his own home studio. Even the music video which they’ve been

shootingforthesonghasallbeenproduced by them with little outside help.

“The music video is based on different caricatures and different people you’d see on online dating apps and I’m playing them in different costumes,” Bastos said.

“[The music video had] two shoots, one in a studio with professional videographer and photographer George Johnson, and another on site in Bendigo with our friend Sara Hancock, using various locations and a wider wardrobe to capture the lyrical motifs in the verses of the song,” Bassett said.

Now in the final stages, Nylon Phoenix are constantly working, creating music and gearing up for a busy few months as their single goes out to the world.

“We’re working on music all the time,” Bassett said.

“Every week is different as we sometimes have gigs on consecutive days or just a couple of days apart, but we are pretty strict about rehearsing at least once per fortnight.”

Most recently, the duo took to a local stage, helping to put on a showcase of Sunbury’s finest performers in the scene at The Industrial.

“Most of our shows are around the Fitzroy, Brunswick area … which was one of the reasons we wanted to put on the Sunbury show because it’s a fair distance for people to travel for those who are local to Sunbury,” Bassett said.

“We wanted to give them a chance to hear us play with some of the other local bands around Sunbury.”

For Bastos, this was his favourite performance.

“It was such an amazingly unexpected turnout,” he said.

“It was a fantastic show, a good crowd,

great energy, a great performance … I want to play more shows like that.”

Bassett agreed, as well as the first show they ever performed together.

Performing live and making music was what they were meant to do, and Bassett said he was proud to work with Bastos on their music.

“The development of the music that Jet’s putting together, it’s a really unique style,”

he said.

“Not only having the ukulele as the front instrument … but also the way he’s crafting songs, taking elements since recorded music began and over the last 60 years of popular music, it’s just something that’s totally unique.

“If you come to our shows, you’ll see something that you’ve never seen before.”

Details: facebook.com/nylonphoenix

The name is a bit of a contradiction in of itself ... It however also describes our music perfectly - Floyd Bassett

Innovators recognised

The winners of one of the western suburbs’ biggest business innovations competitions have been unveiled.

The Pitch Competition grand finale, was held at Werribee Racecourse as part of the WYNnovation Business Expo on 7 May.

Attracting a record 30 entries, from which five finalists were chosen, participants pitched ideas centred on the theme The Future is Local.

First-placed ClinicTech received $5000 for its AI healthcare engine that gives every consultation a connected memory, preparing patients before the visit, helping clinicians stay present during it, and keeping

follow-ups clear afterwards.

The runner up, Canopy Accelerator Co-Operative received $3000 for operating a local community-owned tree nursery in Point Cook growing seedlings and advanced trees for planting in Wyndham to address our low percentage of tree canopy cover.

The Peer Choice, went to Places, receiving $2000 for their community-powered platform designed to help apartment buildings become more connected, collaborative, and easier to manage.

Aside from their accolades, the winners walked away with three months of personalised one-on-one mentoring from Press

Phil is devoted to helping netball grow

If you want to see what a good volunteer looks like, you need only look at Wyndham local Phil Morley for inspiration.

The Wyndham Netball Association president– or in his own words: scorer, team manager and whatever needs to be done–has been involved in the sport for 21 years.

“I was an Auskick coach for my son and one day my daughter said she wanted to play netball,” Mr Morley said.

“She starts playing and then the team needs a scorer, then a team manager, then a coach.

“Then the association finds out that you have a business background and the ball

keeps rolling on from there.”

He was asked what he enjoys most about volunteering and what he keeps coming back.

“Netball is a great sport for bringing a community together, including people of all ages and cultures, teaching the youth values that they can take far beyond the sport, all in a friendly, competitive environment.

“Through and after Covid the conversations around community sport have changed from being just about the sport, to conversations about sport and recreation being a vehicle for positive mental health,

Beyond the competition, the expo brought together 500 businesses, leaders and innovators to provide talks, expert-led sessions, business-to-business connections.

More than 55 local suppliers from diverse sectors of Wyndham’s seven business associations were involved in the day.

According to council figures, Wyndham is a municipality of more than 38,000 GST registered businesses– meaning there is more than one business for every 10 people.

It is hoped that the influx of talent and ideas will help generate local solutions to issues that affect one of Australia’s largest and fastest growing local government areas.

Metal recycler fined after blaze

A Laverton North metal recycling business will have to pay $45,000 in fines and costs following a major fire at the premises in January 2024.

Pacific Metals Group pleaded guilty to the charge of breaching its general environmental duty and was found guilty in the Wyndham Magistrates’ Court on 20 March.

The fire broke out in an excavator parked within a large waste pile that measuredmorethan30metreswide,50metres long and 5 metres high. The blaze burned for two days.

Before the fire, the company had used the site for receiving, sorting and recovering waste metals for recycling.

Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) investigators found the remains of waste including shredded metal, tyres, wood, wiring, timber, batteries, gas canisters and other materials with combustible contaminants.

social connection and positive physical health.”

Mr Morely said taking stress off others is another rewarding factor.

“Every bit you can give will lighten the load of another volunteer and build a stronger, more sustainable community around the sport that you or your child wants to enjoy.

“Everybody can give some time – a little or a lot, it all helps.”

Mr Morley was honoured as part of National Volunteer Week, which runs from 1824 May , and celebrates millions of people in Australia who give their time to help others.

The day after the fire was extinguished, the EPA issued a prohibition notice banning the company from accepting waste until they had reconfigured stockpiles to minimisetheriskofharmtohumanhealth and the environment.

An environmental action notice was also issued requiring the company to deal with the burnt waste and prevent further wastewater discharging.

The company complied with both noticesthenhandedthesitebacktothelandlord.

The company was placed into voluntary administration on 15 January, 2024, andwentintoliquidationon29April,2024.

The magistrate imposed a conviction, a $45,000 fine and $15,574.05 in court costs to be paid to EPA.

Gold thief comes unstuck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He spent five months on the run before

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

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

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

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

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

Elite sporting pathways at Hoppers Crossing Secondary

By Rod Kendall, Principal

Hoppers Crossing Secondary College is proud to announce the launch of its new AFL and Cricket Academies commencing in2027.

Developed in partnership with AFL Victoria, Cricket Victoria and Academy Movement, these exciting programs will provide students with high-quality sporting and educational opportunities withinapublicschoolsetting.

Importantly, Hoppers Crossing Secondary College will become only the second school in Victoria to offer an AFL Academy of this kind, highlighting the strength of the college’s sporting vision andcommitmenttocreatingelitepathway opportunities for students in Melbourne’s westernsuburbs.

The academies will initially cater for Year 9, 10 and 11 students, with plans to expandintoYear12in2028.Studentswill have access to specialist coaching, sport science learning, fitness development and leadership opportunities, while continuing to pursue strong academic outcomes and clear VCE pathways.

Applications for 2027 entry into these programs are now open, and close on 26 June.

At Hoppers Crossing Secondary College, we believe education and sport togethercaninspireconfidence,resilience and aspiration in young people. These academiesaredesignednotonlytosupport talented athletes, but also to prepare students for future careers in coaching, officiating, sports science, fitness and the widersportingindustry.

As a long-standing public school serving Melbourne’s western suburbs

since 1984, Hoppers Crossing Secondary College continues to value innovation, inclusion and opportunity for every student. The introduction of the AFL and Cricket Academies reflects our

ongoing commitment to providing engaging pathways that connect learning with student passions and future aspirations. We are excited to welcome the next

generation of student leaders, athletes and learners into these programs and look forward to the positive impact they will have on our college and wider community.

Abul Kashem is starting a podcast highlights migrant journeys. (Damjan Janevski) 553015_05

Faces of the west

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

Roberts, Robyn Kennedy, Donna

Withers are campaigning for a safer

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

28 May, 1986

Werribee tri-athlete, Drew Carruthers has been dealt a crippling blow in his battle against cancer. While out training on his bike two weeks ago we was hit by a car.

30 years ago

29 May, 1996

If a toxic waste dump is so safe then put it somewhere else- that was the message more than 500 people sent to CSR Limited and the State Government during a rally at Werribee Racecourse last Thursday night.

20 years ago

24 May, 2006

Speculation that the State Government wouldexcludeamajornewroadlinkfor commutersinMelbourne’swestproved accurate last week, when the State GovernmentunveileditsTransportand Liveability statement.

10 years ago

25 May, 2016

A$5.7millionsportsreserveatWilliams Landing has been given the green light. Work will start in months on the Williams Landing Boulevard Reserve – bounded by Williams Landing Boulevard,PalmersandFreyaroadsand Chessington Drive – and will include twofull-sizeovals,sixtenniscourts,two of which will also be suitable for netball; andaplayground.

Be fire vigilant this winter

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Winter is no reason to lose your vigilance towards fire risks, according to a local firefighter.

Werribee Fire Brigade Lieutenant Rohan Rizzoli said many people associate fire risk with hot weather, bushfires and grassfires, but house fires are a risk all year round.

“In winter, the risk shifts indoors. People are using heaters, fireplaces, dryers, candles, electric blankets and more electrical appliances,” Mr Rizzoli said.

“Many of these fires happen at night, when people are asleep and less likely to notice smoke or flames.

“Winter is also the time when people start using equipment that may have been sitting unused for months, such as electric blankets, heaters and fireplaces.

“That is when faults, dust build-up or poor maintenance can become dangerous.”

Mr Rizzoli said the biggest message for households is to have working smoke alarms, a home fire escape plan, and safe habits around heating and electrical ap-

pliances.

“Households should make sure smoke alarms are installed, working and tested regularly.

“CFA recommends smoke alarms between sleeping areas and the rest of the home, and on each level of a multi-storey home.

“Families should also have a practised escape plan. Everyone in the home should know the quickest ways out, where to meet outside, and that once you get out, you stay out and call triple-0.”

He also emphasised that fire safety

Saltwater students get moving at school

Saltwater P-9 College is making moves this year, with the school embracing the active travel program.

The initiative, a partnership with Wyndham council, involves five student leaders from across years four and five being selected to encourage their peers to swap car rides for walking, riding and scooting.

Student leaders will now take the lead in engaging other students to actively travel to and from school on a regular basis and receive support from their teachers and Council’s sustainable transport officer.

The junior active travel leaders receive an upcycled bike or a service on their existing bike, bike helmet, bike lock and a bag of items to help them begin their journey in promoting active travel to school.

The program aims to make it easier and safer for students to travel actively to and from school, helping them build lifelong healthy habits and also improves concentration in the classroom.

It also helps reduce traffic congestion around the school gates making school zones safer for everyone and a more con-

nected school community.

Practical support such as education, bike and scooter safety sessions, and encouragement events like walk to school days are part of the program.

Students are also learning about road safety and the environmental benefits of choosing active transport over driving.

Parents and carers are being encouraged to support the active travel initiative by walking part of the journey with younger children or organising walking school buses with neighbours.

should extend well beyond households.

Mr Rizzoli said fire and smoke can move very quickly, which makes having several fire exits essential.

“In an emergency, the normal way in and out of a building may not be safe.

“That is why having more than one exit, keeping those exits clear, and making sure people know their options is so important.

“Regular education and drills reduce panic. When people have practised what to do, they are more likely to act quickly and calmly.”

Tennis court upgrade begins

A major upgrade on the Wootten Road Reserve tennis courts in Tarneit has begun.

Construction has commenced on a $2.6 million redevelopment of courts four to nine, with the existing courts to be demolished and fully rebuilt with fresh, modern acrylic surfaces.

The new courts will feature durable, low-maintenance surfaces designed for both club use and public access, which is designed to require less maintenance.

Wyndham councillor Robert Szatkowski said this upgrade would make it easier for tennis lovers to fit in a match, practice or recreational volley.

“Wootten Road Reserve is already an important local sporting facility, and this upgrade will make a real difference for tennis players, families and the wider community,” he said.

“These courts are in strong use, so rebuilding them properly with modern, durable surfaces is the right thing to do.”

Cr Szatkowski also said the upgrades were important to boosting the number of things locals can do in the area.

“Good local facilities matter,” he said.

“They give people more chances to stay active, join a club, spend time with family and friends, and feel connected to their community.

“This is exactly the kind of investment we need in a growing area like Tarneit. It is about making sure our community has safe, accessible, and long-lasting facilities close to home.”

Construction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2027.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Reconnect with employment

Reconnect is aimed at individuals who are wanting to return to study and have been disengaged from education or work for at least six months. The program will support individuals with a successful return to education or employment. Participants must be aged 17-64 and live in Hobsons Bay or Wyndham. projects@wyndhamcec.org.au

EidFest in the West

Two days of community fun and unity will be on display at Penrose Place with EidFest in the West. From 11am-7pm on 6-7 June, you will be able to enjoy everything from camel rides to diverse cuisines. Registrations are essential. Info.almadinafoundation@gmail.com

Social Pickleball

A fun blend of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is a fun, active and inclusive sport that has a low impact on the body and is easy for beginners of all ages to learn. Sessions run 10am-12pm Tuesdays and Thursdays at Eagle Stadium. Coached sessions are also available. stadiumbookings@westernleisureservices. com

Thee Coffee Table in Manor Lakes

Thee Coffee table aspires to be a safe space for the local community to share, to connect with others to create positive change in their home and communities. Runs Wednesday 9am-2pm at the Manor Lakes Community Learning Centre. theecoffeetable2022@gmail.com

Inclusive employment support

SYC’s Inclusive Employment Australia Program supports people living with disability to find and maintain meaningful employment. Through the free program, you will get the chance to create a personalised job plan to help achieve your work goals. Runs 9am-5pm on Fridays at the Tarneit Community Learning Centre. 9036 5350

Community Breakfast Program

Life Community Kitchen and Dianella Community Centre are coming to together provide breakfast on Wednesdays and Fridays. The program is free and runs 89.30am. dianellacc@wyndham.vic.gov.au

Rotary Bingo

Werribee Rotary hosts its weekly community bingo event on Monday evenings at the Italian Sports Club of Werribee. There are cash prizes and proceeds go to worthy causes that Rotary supports. 6.30pm arrival time. secretary@werribeerotary.org.au

Crafties at Iramoo

The Crafties meet at Iramoo Community Centre every Wednesday between 12-2pm and put their knitting and crocheting skills to use. The crew make items for themselves and participate in charitable causes. 8742 3688

Community Kitchen

Wyndham-based not for profit group

Pulse with Purpose sells delicious meals each Tuesday 10am-5pm at the Dianella Community Centre in Tarneit. Each purchase helps provide free meals to families in need. Meals are by pre-order, the menu is typically updated every Sunday. bpulsewithpurpose@gmail.com

Victoria State Rose Garden

The Victoria State and Rose Garden

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

Beginners’ Code Club

Code Club is for 8-14 year-olds and will cover the very basics of coding. Attendees can book into the whole term’s sessions. Each lesson builds on previously learnt skills and is designed to support beginner coding learners. Runs on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 3.30- 4.30pm. CodeClub@wyndham.vic.gov.au or 8734 8999

Altona VIEW Club

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

Soulful Spreads Community Cafe

Soulful Spreads is a purpose-driven social enterprise based in Tarneit that looks to create meaningful work and training opportunities for women and young people with disabilities. Come meet for a meal and support inclusion, empowerment and connection. Meets 8.30am-12pm every Monday and Thursday at the Tarneit Community Learning Centre. info@soulfulspreads.com

National seniors meeting

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more. 0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@ outlook.com

Lizzy Bizzy Food Swaps

Come along to the Manor Lakes Community Centre to exchange excess homegrown food. From vegetables, fruits, eggs to seeds and oils, members of the community are encouraged to participate and help reduce food waste. Runs between 10am-12pm last Saturday of every month.

Liz, 0448 781 111

Practise English with Let’s Talk

A weekly meet to help members of the community improve their practical English conversation skills to help with daily tasks such as shopping and booking appointments. Meets 10am each Saturday at Werribee Church of Christ, 200 Tarneit Road, Werribee Bronwyn, 9741 6051

Wyndham Probus Club

A social club for retired or semi-retired people. There is a broad range of social activities to suit all interests such as lunches and brunches each month, day trips, theatre outings and longer trips away. Hear interesting speakers and make new friendships. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Iramoo Community Centre, Honour Ave, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm.

Kaye Angel, 0407 551 694, or wcpc1306@gmail.com

Point Cook Combined Probus Club Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook. John Sloan, 0436 480 728 or sloanrisk@ gmail.com

Lions Club

The Lions Club of Point Cook meets at the Featherbrook Community Centre on the third Monday of the month at 7.30 pm. The club is seeking to grow the Lions free vision screening in schools team. Volunteers needed to work with the region’s schools in combating undiagnosed children’s vision issues. You do not have to be a Lions member but must obtain a working with children check.

Robert Eyton, 0417 549 684, or robeyton@bigpond.com

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

Pat 0411 316 795

Bingo for all

The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm. 9741 5525

Fleetwood’s magic captured

If you never did believe in miracles, you’ll be beginning to wonder why after seeing StarshineinWerribeenextmonth.

The Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks Tribute band will be rocking Studio 185 on Friday12June,promisingtobringnostalgia, mystiqueandpowertotheirperformance.

Thegigwillbedrivenbyastandoutlineup of musicians who embrace their Fleetwood Mac counterparts, featuring former Las Vegas performer Nikki Canale as Stevie Nicks.

Krissy Keys channels the soulful feel of

Christine McVie, Mitchell Jon goes his own way like Lindsay Buckingham, Regotron brings the groove of John McVie, while Brennan Smith glues it all together as Mick Fleetwooddidbehindthedrumset.

“Starshine is about capturing the magic people felt when they first heard these songs,”Canalesaid.

“It’snotjustanostalgiatrip—it’sashared experience between the band and the audience, where every lyric, harmony and momentmatters.”

With sold-out performances, standing

ovations and enthusiastic word-of-mouth following the show wherever it travels, Starshine’s growing reputation is certainly notarumour.

The show appeals to lifelong Fleetwood Mac fans, music lovers, and new audiences discovering the timeless power of these songsforthefirsttime.

Tickets can be purchased at the door, but allareencouragedtosecurethemonline.

Tickets: https://megatix.com.au/events/ starshine-a-tribute-to-stevie-nicksfleetwood-mac-werribee

Miss Friby’s new show is a different beast

Multi-award winning cabaret artist, Miss Friby, will take over Footscray early next month with her bold new immersive performance, Beasts of Burden and Other PartyGuests.

Developed through a Maribyrnong Arts and Culture creative residency, the show blends cabaret, dance, satire, and physical theatreintoanexperiencethatispart-party, part-ritual, part-beautifully controlled chaos.

Beasts of Burden and Other Party Guests explores the invisible weight we carry in contemporarylife.

Set inside a party that slowly slips into its own logic, Miss Friby said the show invites audiences not to escape that weight, but to recogniseittogether.

“Everyone arrives carrying something,” she said. “This show doesn’t ask you to defineit.Itjustasksyoutobringitwithyou.”

Miss Friby will perform the show for a three-week season at Footscray’s Bluestone ChurchArtspace,thesameplacewhereshe staged her previous production, Galah, in 2023.

It should bring back good memories for the inner west performer, as Galah won her

the ‘Most Outstanding Cabaret Artiste’ and ‘Best Production Design’ at the following year’s Green Room Awards, Melbourne’s peer-presented, performing arts industry honours.

Withthehistoricvenuetobeturnedintoa bespoke pop-up theatre for Beast of Burden -completewithextravagantlightingdesign, live soundscapes and rhinestones - Miss Friby is every chance to win even more awardsthistimearound.

To judge for yourself, get tickets and details at: https://www.missfriby.com.au/ beastsofburden

Slapstick chaos awaits at Melton Community Hall

Melton Performing Arts (MPA) presents Terry Pratchett’s Guards! Guards! at the Melton Community Hall across three entertainingdays.

In the sprawling chaotic city of Ankh-Morpork, the once-proud City Watch has fallen into disrepair – its remaining members, Captain Vimes, Sergeant Colon, and Corporal Nobby Nobbs are more accustomedtoavoidingcrimethanfighting it.

But when a secretive brotherhood summons a dragon to seize control of the city, the watch is reluctantly forced into action.

With the help of the idealistic new recruit Carrot Ironfoundersson, a six-foot-tall human raised by dwarves, the watch must uncover the conspiracy, face down an ancient beast, and perhaps even rediscover whatitmeanstobeheroes.

Packed with sharp wit, slapstick chaos, and Pratchett’s trademark satire, Guards! Guards! brings the Discworld to life on stage in an epic tale of unlikely bravery, bureaucraticabsurdity,andthetriumphofa fewveryoddmen(andoneverydetermined dragon).

Dreamlike photos anchor artist’s first solo show

Sunbury artist Paul Melnyczuk is hosting his first solo exhibition in Kyneton.

The photographer is exhibiting his collection of works, taken across his travels, featuring landscape photography.

Titled Impressions, Melnyczuk said his works have a dreamlike quality to them.

“The way I like to think of it is if you have a memory sort of being on a beach, perhaps a number of years ago, a lovely day, beautiful hot sun, closing your eyes and just trying to remember that image you get.”

Melnyczuk said he aims to capture the emotion and image that he saw in that moment through the lens of his camera, sometimes a more impressionist approach, utilising software and intentional camera movement to capture a radically differentbutequallyvalidmemoryof the moment an image was captured.

Melnyczuk has been photographing his world since he firstpickedupapropercamerawhile spending three years in Africa from 1981.

After retiring from writing and photography for magazines, Melnyczuk said he began experimenting with different technology and techniques as a way of manipulating images to create his signature impressionist style he has on display now.

He said this collection of works started in Scotland during the covid lockdowns when he began taking landscape photographs.

MPA Secretary Josh Tooth said the community-based performing arts group had developed quite the reputation in the lead-uptotheirnextperformance.

“We have 16 actors, most of whom are playingmultiplecharacters,”hesaid.

“Melton Performing Arts has begun to develop a fantastic reputation as a group in general, and there are lots of sneaky little Terry Pratchett fans lurking out there in the wilderness.”

You can catch MPA’s production of Guards! Guards! from 7pm on Thursday 28 MayattheMeltonCommunityHall.

Guards! Guards! will then be presented at the same time on Friday 29 May, and twice on Saturday 30 May for a special day-time show at 1pm, followed by a final performanceat7pm.

Details and tickets: https://www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1543437.

When he moved from Scotland to Australia in 2024, he continued to capture his new surroundings as he explored Australia from Byron Bay, Mission Beach and Ocean Grove to Mount Macedon and more.

Covering the last six years of his photographicjourney,thisexhibition is one not to miss.

Impressions is on display until 1 June at The Old Auction House Creative Hub and Gallery, Kyneton.

- The Council website https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/advertising

or make

submissions to the Responsible Authority by post or in person or;

- Online: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/planningobjection

- Email: statplanning@wyndham.vic.gov.au

An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected. If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its decision.

TRADES & SERVICES

to computer repairs, lawn mowing and

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which AFL coach recently resigned from his position after leading for almost five seasons?

2. And which team did he coach for that duration?

3. Di Sheppard is the long-time coach of which teenage running sensation?

4. Schwingen is widely considered the traditional national sport of which What rowing term describes an oar entering the water awkwardly, halting momentum?

Who is the most recent New Zealand-born NRL player to be awarded the Dally M Medal?

7. Former NBA star Dennis Rodman developed a controversial friendship with which political figure?

8. What position exists in rugby union, but not rugby league?

Lou Gehrig, whose name is associated with a form of motor neurone disease, played which sport professionally?

Who recently became the second tennis player to win all nine ATP Masters 1000 events?

11. Soccer star Sam Kerr recently left which Women’s Super League club?

12. Former Australian Test cricket player Marcus North is the new national selector for which country’s men’s team?

13. Former Australian rugby union head coach Eddie Jones is the national men’s coach for which country?

14. Which female UFC Hall of Famer recently returned to the ring after a decade out of competition?

15. Which state won this year’s NRL Women’s State of Origin series?

16. True or false: a driver named Scott Speed once competed on the Formula One racing circuit?

17. Former England Test star Andrew Flintoff is the new coach of which BBL cricket franchise?

18. The Coupe des Mousquetaires (Musketeers' Trophy) is awarded at which annual tennis event?

19. Brad Scott has coached which two AFL teams?

20. Which two AFL clubs did Carlton interim coach Josh Fraser play for?

21. An AFL Women’s international match will be held in August between Australia and which country?

22. The 2026 NRL State of Origin series will feature games in Sydney, Brisbane and which other city?

23. Which current Formula One driver debuted at the Nürburgring 24 Hours motor race this year?

24. Which two teams took part in this year’s A-League Men’s Grand Final?

25. The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup will be played in which country?

26. The Buffalo Sabres are a New York-based team that compete in which sporting league?

27. Which AFL team is known by the name Waalitj Marawar during the Sir Doug Nicholls Round?

28. Golfer Aaron Rai is from which country?

29. The Santos Tour Down Under race takes place in which state?

30. In what year did the AFL’s Swans first play home games in Sydney?

Suzuki’s EV debut imminent

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

It’s been a long time coming, but Suzuki has finally produced its first fully-electric vehicle.

Called e Vitara, it’s a compact crossover SUV that won’t be in dealerships until late-June or early-July but with preorders being taken.

The e Vitara shares the same platform and many features but styling differences with the Toyota Urban Cruiser. Both are built in India at Suzuki’s Gujarat factory on its Heartect-e lightweight dedicated electric chassis.

At this stage it’s unlikely that Toyota will be importing the Urban Cruiser.

Suzuki is unique in Australia in that a separateindependentcompanydistributes its vehicles in Queensland and part of Northern NSW with the factory-backed Suzuki Australia looking after all other areas. Generally, there are only minor differences including model grades, specifications or styling trims.

InbothmarketseVitarawillbeavailable in either two- or four-wheel drive with two specificationlevels:2WDMotionandAWD Ultra. In Queensland a 2WD Ultra is also offered.

The long-running Suzuki Vitara remains on sale in either petrol or hybrid powertrains but differs significantly from its EV sibling which is marginally longer but with a significantly longer wheelbase that provides additional interior space as wellasabolder,morepremiumstylingand new tech features.

Styling

The design of the e Vitara is a major departure from the fairly bland looks of previous Vitara models. It’s much bolder and more adventurous with a smooth but sculpted exterior sitting above, and surrounded by prominent black plastic claddingtoinfersomeoff-roadcredentials.

At the front the tall erect bonnet sits over LED headlights and large LED daytime running lights. The usual narrow ‘grille’ thatidentifiesmostEVs,withalargeSuzuki badge in the centre.

The rear doors have the annoying ‘hidden’ handles mounted high on the C pillars and designed to suggest a coupe appearance.

The rear mirrors have a similar design to thoseatthefrontwithafull-widthlightbar linking them.

Both variants come with 18-inch alloy wheels.

Ultragetsapanoramicnonopeningglass roof with a retractable sunshade.

There are four colour options. Arctic White is standard. Bluish Black Pearl and LandBreezeGreenarean$890optionwith two-tone also available with a Black Pearl roof on the Ultra for $1340.

Interior

The biggest design feature comes inside the e Vitara. The brown seats and trim will not be to everyone’s taste but at least it’s different and we loved it.

Thefloatingcentreconsoleispianoblack that’s hard to view in bright sunlight and too easy to smudge. A big plus, at least in our eyes, are physical climate control switches in the centre of the dash.

There are twin large cupholders in the centre console although grippers would have helped for smaller containers. The door bins are large and wide. There’s also a large space below the centre console for keeping items away from prying eyes.

Ultragetsasmartphonewirelesscharger at the base of the dashboard.

Some clever design allows rear seat and bootspacetobeadjustedwiththeseatsable to slide back and forwards. When the seats are all the way back for maximum legroom luggage space is just 238 litres. At the other extreme, legroom is quite cramped but luggagespaceisincreasedto310litres.With therearseatbacksfoldedthere’s562litres.

There is a useful storage compartment beneaththebootfloorbutnosparewheel.

Powertrain

TheeVitarapowertraincombinesalithium iron-phosphate (LFP) battery system, electric drive axles and an integrated heat pumpbatterymanagementsystem.

The 2WD Motion variant comes with a 49kWh battery that drives a 106kW/193Nm motor mounted on the front axle. Ultra increases the battery to 61kWh and adds a rear-mounted motor for total output of 135kWand307Nm.

Thechargingportisonthefrontpassenger side of the vehicle. Charging time for both variants are an impressive 11kW with AC and70kWwithDC.

WLTPdrivingrangeislistedat344kmand 395km respectively The Queensland-only 2WDUltrahasaclaimed426kmrange.

Vehicle to Load (VTL) is available in both variants.

Safety

Standard safety in all e Vitara models includes seven airbags, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist anddepartureprevention,forwardcollision warning, dual sensor brake support, multicollision braking, high beam assist,

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10 Performance: 7/10 Safety: 7/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 7/10

Value: 6/10

front and rear parking sensors and blind spotmonitoring.

Ultra AWD adds front LED foglamps, adaptive high beam, hill descent control andatrailmodeswitch.

The absence of a front centre airbag and a driver monitoring system contribute to the e Vitara only gaining a four-star ANCAP rating. While the extra airbag is disappointing, not being incessantly nagged by a camera pointing at the driver’s face may well be a positive selling point for manydrivers–includingus.

Infotainment

Standard in both variants are 10.1-inch central touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster in front of the driver. There’s a 360-degree view camera as well as frontandrearUSB-AandUSB-Cports.

Theinfotainmentscreenfallswellshortof the sharp high-res screens that we’re used tofromChinesevehicles.

Motion has four-speaker audio with Ultra stepping up to a premium 10-speaker HarmanInfinitysystem.

Driving

The compact size of the e Vitara and the EV agilitymakesitanexcellenturbanvehicle.

The Ultra AWD that we tested came with a 10-way adjustable driver’s seat which allowed it to settle into a comfortable drivingposition. Visibilityisgoodwithalargewindscreen, side and rear windows together with relativelythinA-pillars.

The gear selector is a rotary and push-downset-upwithaparkbuttonabove it. There are also physical buttons to adjust

brake regeneration, hill descent, parking brakeandautohold.

Zero to 100km/h acceleration is listed at 7.4 seconds from the AWD Ultra and 9.6 secondsintheFWDMotion.

Therideisrelativelysoft,aimedatcomfort ratherthansportiness.

Despite the cladding, a decent 180mm ground clearance and the eAxle. e Vitara is only suited for modest off-road conditions. Those looking for serious bush bashing will be aware that a Jimny EV is under development and will be hoping that it comeshere.

Summing up

The compact EV SUV range is growing rapidly with most models coming from China and with very competitive pricing. This is Suzuki’s biggest challenge because the e Vitara driveaway prices run from $48,990 for the 2WD Motion through to $58,990fortheAWDUltra.

These prices drop by $2000 with limited timecashbackoffers.

Even with these discounts e Vitara sits at thetopendofthecompactSUVEVcategory and it will struggle to compete against Chinese rivals such as the BYD Atto, Jaecoo J5 and GWM Ora which are more than $10,000cheaper.

The fact that Suzuki is a respected and trustedJapanesebrandwillnodoubtattract buyers, provided they aren’t deterred by it beingmanufacturedinIndia. It’s a capable and comfortable vehicle mostly aimed at urban conditions and with a fair balance between physical and touchscreen controls that will satisfy both tech-savvyandconventionaldrivers.

Melbourne’s western corridor does not standstill.

With Wyndham’s population forecast to approach 500,000 residents in the coming decades, and billions of dollars in infrastructure being invested across the region, Hoppers Crossing and its surrounding suburbs have become one of thecity’smostsignificantgrowthstories. More families. More ambition. More need for a dealership that understands whatthiscommunityisbuildingtoward. That is exactly why GAC Werribee is

proud to open its doors at 17-25 Heaths Road, Hoppers Crossing, as Melbourne’s newestauthorisedGACdealership.

GAC, or Guangzhou Automobile Group, was incorporated in 1997 and has grown into one of China’s largest vehicle manufacturers,producingover2.5million carsannually.

With long-standing joint ventures alongside Toyota and Honda, it carries a manufacturing foundation that few newer brandscanclaim.

When GAC launched in Australia in late

2025 as a fully factory-backed operation, it signalled something clear: this is a brand committedtothelongterm,notjusttesting thewaters.

For western Melbourne, that commitmentnowhasalocaladdress.

GAC Werribee brings the full model range to the community: the AION V electric SUV, the AION UT hatchback, the EMZOOM small SUV, and the M8 PHEV peoplemover.

Whether you are considering your first electric vehicle, looking for a capable

familycar,orsimplywanttoseewhatGAC is about, our team is here to guide you through it without pressure and without therunaround.

Competitive pricing, flexible finance, and a full-service and parts department are all available on-site. But more than that, we are here as a genuine part of this community, one that is growing fast and deservesadealershipthatkeepspacewith it. Welookforwardtowelcomingyou.

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.

Today’s Aim:

19 words: Good 28 words: Very good 38 words: Excellent

3

Passenger comfort for K4

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Aftermorethantwodecadesandmorethan 200,000 sales in Australia, the Cerato was fastrunningoutoflegs.

The self-styled much loved small passenger car could have kept up with design and technical developments in the segmentbutKiahadotherideas.

The new K4 kicked down the door in sedan format with four trimlines – S, Sport, Sport+, GT-Line – and two petrol engines before later being joined by hatchback for MY26 models, aligning them with Kia’s globalnamingconvention.

Both sedan and hatches score an updated 2-litre MPI Atkinson Cycle engine with CVT in the lower grades, while the flagship GT-Lines retain its 1.6T GDI motor matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Pricesopenat$32,090,pluson-roadcosts, forK4S2-litreCVTsedanandhatchback, rising to $34,190 with the addition of a Safety Pack. The Sport and Sport+ follow at $36,690 and $39,090, respectively, with the GT-Line 1.6L T-GDI, with eight-speed auto, toppingofftherangeat$43,790.Thelastwas ontest.

The entry-level S model can be upgraded with an optional Safety Pack, which includes an enhanced instrument display via a second 12.3-inch instrument layout and 5-inch HVAC interface, plus dual zone climate control, plus an expanded autonomous emergency braking suite offeringJunctionTurningandCrossingand Direct/OncomingLaneChangeDetection.

The K4 is covered by Kia’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, seven years cappedpriceservicinganduptoeightyears roadside assist by following scheduled Kia services.

Styling

The term hatchback could be something of a misnomer: with a wheelbase pushed out to 2720mm, the sleek K4 hatch exhibits the characteristics of a station wagon. Inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, vertical headlamps and daytime running lights have been pushed

to the outer edges highlighting the car’s widestance.

Not normally a fan, I can live with the flush rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar and 18-inch wheels, which lend a sporty on-road presence, capped off in the GT-Line by an air diffuser and raked rear window.

Interior

Sitting on a relatively long wheelbase (2720mm), it offers good headroom and legroom in the second row. Adults can fit comfortably, and they score rear air-con vents and two USB-C ports as standard.

Kia designers aimed to make the cabin approachable and easy to use via a bank of hard-wiredswitchgearonthedash.

Thefulsomeexteriortranslatestoroomier proportionsfrontandback,whilefront-seat occupants benefit from increased head and shoulderroom.

Rear-seat passengers do not miss out on convenience kit with twin USB-C ports at thebackofthecentreconsole,togetherwith rearairventsandaneatstoragecubby.With 438 litres of boot space, cargo area is larger than some hatchback rivals (Corolla and Mazda3springtomind),theK4rivalssmall SUVsforroom.

GT-Line emphasises its sporting image with embossed details on two-tone seats and textured console crash pad. A wide slidingsunroofisexclusivetotheflagship.

Sustainability is foremost with materials suchasBioplastics,leather,foam,paintand recycledyarnsandfelt.

Infotainment

A shoutout to Kia for not replacing traditional hard switches with touchscreen controls.

Outsize switches operate air-con temperature and fan speed while incorporating shortcuts for navigation and audio functions. There’s also a simple volumeroller.

Theentry-levelStrimislimitedtoadigital driver instrument cluster with a 4-inch multi-function LCD display. Add the Safety Pack option or move up the gradings for an expansive trio of displays, comprising

a 12.3-inch digital cluster, 5-inch HVAC set-up and separate 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.

Kia Connect is a car service providing customer benefits in safety, security, convenience and real-time data including weather and traffic info. Also offered is Over-the Air software updates such as the latest maps without a visit to a service centre.

WirelessAppleCarPlayandAndroidAuto are standard throughout the range, while theGT-LineaddsaQiwirelesschargingpad andambientmoodlighting.

Engines/transmissions

TheK4GT-LinehastheexclusiveuseofKia’s 1.6-litre T-GDI turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine putting out 142kW of power and 264Nm of torque, driving the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Themakerclaimsfuelconsumptionof6.7 litres per 100km in the combined urban/ highway cycle. The test car recorded 9.1 litres/100kminthecityandsuburbsand5.4 litres/100kmonthemotorway.

Safety

The K4 Hatchback has a five-star ANCP safety rating but the base S grade (without the $2000 Safety Pack) drops back to four stars.Apartfromthatallgradesaresubject to an increased focus on driver safety. Standards are up with features such as Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with stop/go function, Lane Keep and Lane Follow Assist, Multi-Collision Braking, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver AttentionWarning,IntelligentSpeedLimit Assist, Rear View Monitor and High Beam Assist.

A full complement of airbags includes a front-centre side airbag.

Driving

The Aussie GT-Line, like all K4s, was put through a rugged suspension program to suit local driving conditions. The result is smooth handling of bumpy city streets and a commanding ride over challenging country roads.

In fact the flagship behaves in line with itssportylooks–withagruffenginenote,a pleasure to push to the limit.

Driverwarningsandintrusiveautomatic voice alerts are kept to a minimum. However, Kia’s latest Highway Driving Assist is on hand to chip in when travelling on freeways or motorways, incorporating adoptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability.

The system combines Lane Following Assist to keep the vehicle centred in the lane, even through curves, adding Lane Change Assist allowing the K4 autonomously to swap lanes when safe conditions are met.

Improved body rigidity, vibration and harshness are maintained throughout, the result of the use of high-strength steel and reinforced sound insulation.

Summary

With electric vehicle sales bubbling away, when it comes to the ICE (internal combustion engine) alternative, for style, tech and value for money there are few to beat the Kia K4 GT-Line Hatchback.

Warriors slowly building

By Tara Murray

Hoppers Crossing is slowly finding its brand in the Western Football League division 1 competition.

After a slow start to the season, the Warriors had one of their best performances of the season on Saturday, beating Albion.

The Warriors led at every break, winning 11.13 (79)-9.12 (66).

Warriors’ coach Jared Polec was happy with the win.

“It was a good battle and Albion is fighting for that fourth and fifth side along with us,” he said.

“It was good to get the win on our home deck.

“I think we are building and it’s been one of those years for us.

Hayden Iannacone. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 546145_15

“It’s like the previous two seasons we’ve had a slow start and been able to build something.”

Polec said he didn’t think they’d even played their brand of football for a half yet, showing how much room for improvement they had left.

“We want to play good footy at the right time of the year,” he said.

“We’re working towards that in the second half of the year.

“We want the boys to continue to build on the last few results even if all the games haven’t gone our way.

“We’ve played a good brand of football at times, Hoppers footy.”

On Saturday, the Warriors jumped out of the blocks in the first quarter to lead by 29 points at the first break.

The margin was back to 19 points at half time.

It was back to 12 points at the final break.

Polec said the message stayed the same heading into the final quarter.

“Finish off our way and stick to the task,” he said “To play our system and we were able to do that.”

Tarryn Thomas kicked three goals in his second game back from injury.

Ashlin Brown and Anarkiikonda Van

Veteran cricketer Dean Russ claims Holten Medal

By Tara Murray

Dean Russ joined Werribee in the off-season to play with some of his best mates, but never did he think he would win the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association’s top individual honour.

Having already helped the Tigers claim the east-west premiership, Russ and Glen Parker were crowned the winners of the Val Holten Medal on Thursday night.

The pair finished with 23 votes each, four votes ahead of Sahan Perera and Jacob Thorne.

Russ, who also had Werribee’s club presentation on Saturday night, said it had been a big few days

“I came back to play with some mates at the back end of my career at the ripe age of 40,” he said.

“Robbo [Brad Robertson] and Timmy [O’Brien], I’ve known since I was 12 or 13 when we went to Footscray and were teammates.

“I was able to go and get back to playing some good cricket and didn’t have any expectations.

“It was more about enjoying it and that makes it better.

“It was nice to have that individual recognition that mirrors the team’s success.”

Russ scored 708 runs at 50.57 for the season, including finals, as well as taking 38 wickets at an average of 15.16

Russ joins the rare club of winning both the Val Holten Medal and the Ryder Medal, which is Victorian Premier Cricket’s highest honour.

“There’s some impressive cricketers on that list and I’m now in the same company as some of those guys,” Russ said.

“I didn’t set out to achieve it and it’s just a byproduct.

“Down the track I’ll look back on it. It’s a nice addition to a long career.”

Russ joined Werribee after spending a couple of seasons with Deer Park following his retirement from Victorian Premier Cricket after a long career with Footscray.

Russ wanted to play with his mates, but the Tigers were also understanding of him returning to Footscray as a batting coach.

“It was pretty awesome to win the flag,” he said.

“When we started the season we weren’t favourites and we got on a roll and didn’t lose a game after Christmas.

“I got to know a few of the boys at the

Wills were named the Warriors best in the win.

As well as getting Thomas back from injury, Polec has been back the past two games as well.

Polec said they were starting to get a bit healthier.

“We’re starting to get games into pretty important players who haven’t played much footy the last couple of years,” he said.

“We will get another back this week and that continuity in the group will continue to grow off that momentum.”

The Warriors face Parkside this Saturday in another big game.

Polec said the match would help see where they sit coming into the midpoint of the season.

In other matches, Werribee Districts beat Spotswood and Point Cook Centrals lost to Altona.

Sports shorts

VAFA

Westbourne Grammarians got their first win of the Victorian Amatuer Football Association women’s premier competition, beating Old Geelong on Saturday. The Grammarians kicked two early goals to hold a lead at the first break. They maintained that lead heading into half time before kicking two goals to none in the third quarter to lead by 15 points. The Grammarians were able to hold on as Old Geelong came home strongly, winning 4.3 (27)-2.8 (20). Olivia Cavka and Sarah Dickie were named the Grammarians best.

GDFL

Werribee Centrals made it seven wins in a row in the Geelong and District Football League on Saturday. The Centurions and East Geelong went head-to-head for three quarters with the Centurions leading by eight points heading into the final quarter. The Centurions kicked five goals to three in the final quarter to seal a 14.9 (93)-11.8 (74) win. Kur Kur kicked six goals in a best on ground performance for the Centurions. The Centurions face Inverleigh in round eight.

GDNL

club and the volunteers and they are a great bunch of boys and they are fantastic.”

The premiership was Russ’ third in a row having won two Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division premierships with Deer Park before that.

They go with his premier cricket premiership with Footscray where he was captain, which he says is the greatest moment in his career.

Russ said he has no plans to retire just yet.

“I’m enjoying it and I have that flexibility to transition into coaching,” he said.

“I enjoy playing with my mates and my two young boys love it down at Werribee so I’ll keep going.

“I’m no good at golf either, so I’ll keep playing.”

As well as playing, Russ said he was keen to continue in the coaching space at Footscray.

“I enjoy working with the younger cricketers,” he said.

“A lot of people helped me align the line and I want to give back and provide my insights.

“You don’t appreciate how much you miss somewhere until you go back.”

Werribee Centrals weren’t able to keep the momentum going in the Geelong and District Netball League. Coming off their first win of the season, the Centurions faced East Geelong on Saturday, losing 36-26. East Geelong led by five goals at quarter time and was able to build on that lead throughout. Julia Nash, Natasha Dimkovski and Mia Bruce were named the Centurions best. The Centurions sit ninth on the ladder. The Centurions face Inverleigh in round eight.

VPL

Werribee City got an important win in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition on Friday night. The Bees were on the road against Kingston City and got on the board in the sixth minute through Ali Dulleh. Ellis Ashe, who came on in the second half, sealed a 2-0 win for the Bees. The Bees now sit ninth on the ladder with four wins for the season.

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Wyndham scores first win

By Tara Murray

Wyndham is on the board in the Big V men’s championship division.

After a tough start to the season, Wyndham was finally able to come away with the points as they beat the RMIT University Redbacks on Saturday.

On the road, Wyndham led by two points at quarter time before extending the lead to eight points at half time.

Wyndham was able to stay in front in the third quarter with the margin still at seven points.

While the Redbacks came home hard, Wyndham did enough to win, 88-84.

Wyndham assistant coach Peter Muscat said it was great to get their first win

of the season.

“The team delivered its most complete performance of the season this week, putting together a strong four-quarter effort to secure its first win of the year,” he said.

“Sticking to a clear game plan, the side executed effectively and produced a polished display at both ends of the court.”

Malik Miller was the standout for Wyndham as he scored 18 points, while having nine rebounds, three assists and three steals.

Harry Rowbottom also had a strong all roundgame,while FrancisWiNeera-mulvihill scored 19 points to lead the way.

Wyndham remains at the bottom of the ladder.

It will play the Warrandyte Venom on

Saturday night in round nine.

Meanwhile in women’s division 1, Wyndham was unable to make it two in a row as it lost to the Collingwood All Stars.

It was a low scoring affair with both teams struggling to convert their shots.

Having led at every break, the All-Stars finished with a 15-8 final quarter to seal a 55-40 win.

Haruna Inamura top scored for Wyndham with 13 points.

Nydier Riak also had a strong game for Wyndham with 11 points and 12 rebounds.

Coach Matt Stephens said it was a physical game that impacted their ability to finish and score.

Wyndham’s youth league women’s side

Mannering is reaching great heights

By Tara Murray

Sliding door moments have been responsible for unearthing many Australian stars including this month’s Don Deeble nominee Alanna Mannering.

Mannering once dreamt of representing Australia in gymnastics, but one athletics training session changed all that.

Maribyrnong Sports Academy athletics coach Darren Clark saw potential in Mannering when she trialled for a place in the year 7 program.

She excelled in the 100 metres, 200 metres and long jump at primary school and when she was accepted into MSA she joined the Williamstown Athletic Club.

In March last year, the teenager was at Aberfeldie Athletics Track was ready to start her pre-season campaign with a two kilometre run.

“It’s a daunting task and I hated running that distance,” she said.“One of our coaches asked if there was anyone who’d like to volunteer to try the pole vault.

“My hand went up without giving it too much thought, anything to get out of the two kilometre.”

The rest, as they say, is history.

While Mannering still does gymnastics twice a week, it’s the pole vault that has her full attention.

The decision has proven to be the right one with Mannering recently winning the under-16 national pole vault title with a personal best jump of 3.33 metres.

“I bypassed little athletics because I was doing gymnastics and I now run for KeilorSt. Bernards with my girlfriends in their relay teams,” she said.

“I picked up the basics of the pole vault quickly.

“I love the feeling of controlling my body in the air. The technique and co-ordination required is quite similar to gymnastics.

“I am lucky I have natural speed, but I am still learning to run with the pole. You also can’t be put off by a fear of heights either.”

Mannering’s training regime is fierce and she’s on the track four days a week.

The upper body strength required to vault into the air and maintain control of your movements is immense.

Her training imitates that and includes drills like climbing ropes only using her arms, and climbing ropes upside down again only using her upper body.

Add push ups, yoga ball exercises, core, upper body weights and leg lifts.

Then she moves outside to work on her run up to improve her technique.

Within 12 months, Mannering had set her sights on the qualifying standards to meet the entry requirements for Victorian, national and Oceania selection.

“I don’t get very nervous before competitions,” she said. “I am really focussed on

beating myself and delivering PB’s every time I compete.”

At the national titles, Mannering didn’t have the competition that she wanted.

She missed her first two jumps at the entry height for the competition.

“I gave myself, my family and coaches a real scare,” she said. “I was lucky and got over at my last jump and went on to win the title.

“I remained composed but I was a little nervous. You can never take anything for granted.”

Mannering also recently represented Australia in the 2026 Simplot Games held in America, finishing fifth in the 4x200 metres relay.

At Rare Air Meets back in Australia, she secured top 10 finishes in elite pole vault competitions, competing against athletes much older than her.

also suffered a loss to the Collingwood All Stars, 65-55.

Coach Renee Dayao said they struggled to contain Collingwood in the fourth quarter which saw a close game balloon out to a 10 point deficit.

“Wyndham were great in the third quarter and executed well but unfortunately went away from structure and discipline in the fourth.

“Our focus now shifts to Craigieburn next week and enjoying a full squad with Ayan and Anaam Ali returning from college.”

Wyndham’s youth league men’s side lost to the Bulleen Boomers, 96-92. Harry Rowbottom top scored with 24 points for Wyndham.

United’s future in the balance

Western United’s A-Leagues future remains in the balance after Football Australia announced it had failed to satisfy the mandatory criteria set out in the regulations for A-Leagues club licensing.

Football Australia released a statement on Tuesday saying that the First Instance Body (FIB) met on 14 May to determine all club licensing outcomes for the 2026-27 A-Leagues season under Football Australia’s National Club Licensing Regulations.

The embattled club sat out the 2025-2026 season. Amid concerns over unpaid wages and superannuation - and while under a FIFA registration ban - Western were stripped of their A-Leagues licence by Football Australia (FA) in August.

A wind-up order followed, and men’s and women’s players and staff were all left in limbo and unable to join new clubs until the Australian Professional Leagues put the club into hibernation on 6 September.

“The FIB confirmed all current A-League teams, with the exception of Western United FC, have satisfied the mandatory criteria set out in the regulations for A-Leagues club licensing purposes,” the Football Australia statement said. “The FIB’s decisions are based on documentation provided by the clubs. Western United FC has until 5pm on Friday 22 May, 2026 to appeal the FIB’s decision. Should Western United choose to appeal, they will be heard by the Appeals and Entry Control Body (A&ECB).”

So, what does the immediate future hold?

“My end goal is to represent Australia at the Olympic Games,“ she said.

“The Oceania games will be held in Darwin next year and while I cannot compete because of my age at the time, when the pole vault is conducted, I will be age ready.

“My coach Bill Georgantas has set a plan in place.

“I must be jumping 3.9 metre-plus.

“Moreover, to be at my best I must be having fun.”

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, contact swrsportsclub@gmail. com or 0408 556 631.

In a statement on its website, Western United said it acknowledges Football Australia’s determination regarding the club licensing process for the 2026-27 season.

“The club is currently reviewing the determination and the available pathways moving forward including its appeal rights and ongoing discussions with relevant football stakeholders,” the statement said. “We can assure the community that work continues behind the scenes to stabilise the club and secure a longterm sustainable future for football in Melbourne’s west. Importantly, the club’s academy and community football programs continue to operate, supporting hundreds of young players and families across the region.”

Tigers are starting to click

By Tara Murray

Things are starting to click for Werribee as it put together its most complete performance of the Victorian Football League season so far.

The Tigers, who were coming off the bye, faced a Collingwood side which regained several players with players returning to the AFL team.

For three and half quarters, the Tigers were on top before the game petted out.

The Tigers had done enough to win, 19.12 (126)-14.11 (95).

Tigers’ coach Dan Lowther said they were pretty happy with that performance.

“It was a good one for the boys,” he said. “It can be tricky knowing you’re playing an AFLW aligned side.

“They got some talent back and it’s something that we had to manage.

“We did well from start to finish. We slowed down towards the end which is something that we will hone in on.”

“The whole game from start to finish, we couldn’t be happier.”

Lowther said they set the game up in the middle of the ground as they controlled the clearances and the contested ball.

He said it was one of their strengths and they used it to their advantage.

They led by 24 points at quarter time and had the margin out for 47 points at the main break.

That margin stayed steady until about midwaythroughthefinal quarter when the Magpies kicked some consolation goals.

Lowther said one of the more pleasing aspects was the connection between all three lines.

“We had better connection in the front half,” he said. “We set up well behind the ball. We did a good job around the contest.

“We’re still honing in on that connection with the forward line and knowing who we are kicking to and where we’re kicking too and that formation ahead of the ball.”

Lowther said the trio of Harry Maguire, Brady Wright and Will Elliott were starting to connect.

RuckAjangKuolMunspenttimeforward against the Magpies adding another element, as he and Elliott shared the ruck.

Maguire kicked five goals for the Tigers, while Brady Wright kicked three goals as he continued his strong start to the season.

Lowther said the challenge for Wright, who has had a good season, was to produce for all four quarters which he did on the weekend.

Thepairwereamonganumberofwinners on the day for the Tigers in a strong team performance. Kuol Mun was again good in the ruck, while their small forwards in Jack Riding, Noah Tullio and Lachie Charleston were good.

Dom Brew and Charlie Lazzaro were good in the middle along with Jake Smith, while Sam Azzi and Jesse Clark played roles down back.

Zane Keighran came in for his first game

for the Tigers, becoming the club’s 1000 player.

Player number one Brian Holcombe announced that Keighran would make his debut in the lead up to the game.

“It’sgoodtoseewherehehascomefrom,”

Lowther said. “From an elite cricketer to getting to play on the weekend. He did a great job and did all that we asked from him.”

The Tigers move to ninth on the ladder.

“We’ve had enough time to go through the challenges of a new coach and a lot of new players,” Lowther said.

“We have a four week block where we play three AFL-aligned clubs and Coburg, which is playing good footy. This could set up our campaign for finals.”

The Tigers face Essendon on Sunday at Windy Hill.

Lowther said Windy Hill is a different shape ground that has its challenges.

Before that, the Tigers will have a few players hoping to be taken in Tuesday’s mid-season draft, which was after deadline.

Lowther said there had been some players who had been talking to AFL clubs and said he wouldn’t be surprised if one or two players get picked up.

Werribee has also paid tribute to former playerNealeDaniher,whodiedonMonday following a long battle with Motor Neurone Disease. Daniher played for Werribee in 1991 kicking 44 goals as the Tigers made their first ever grand final.

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