Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 2nd June 2026

Jail for arsonists

By William Ton, AAP

Twoyoungmenwhosetfiretoafactorythat spread to an adjoining building and killed twomensleepinghavebeenjailed.

Phoenix Darren John Tims and Atem AkoiThonbothpleadedguiltytotwocounts of arson causing death, car theft and arson of the car, and were both jailed on 25 May for seven years and six months with a non-paroleperiodoffouryears.

Co-offender Semaj Cigobia, 20, who pleaded guilty to assisting the pair evade police and car arson, was convicted and handed a two-year community corrections order.

Tims and Thon, both aged 20, admitted driving to a Sunshine North factory in a stolen ute in the early hours of 23 February, 2024. Tims poured petrol at the entrance of thepropertyandsetitonfirebeforethetwo menfled.

Hai Minh Nguyen, 41, and Phuc Tran, 48, were sleeping in a neighbouring property whentheblazespreadandkilledthem.

The prosecutor accepted Tims and Thon didnotintendtosetfiretothepropertynext door and did not know there were people inside.

In handing down her sentence, Victorian County Court Chief Judge Amanda Chamberssaidtheoffendingwasextremely serious and required a sentence that would sendaclearmessagetoothers.

“This case tragically highlights the very

real dangers inherent in arson attacks and the terrible consequences that can result whenfiresareintentionallylit,”shesaid.

Thetwomenhadbeenpromised$6000by an unknown person if they firebombed the factory but they never received the money, thecourtwastold.

The day after the blaze, Tims, Thon and Cigobiasetthestolenuteonfireabout50km awayinCoimadai,nearBacchusMarsh.

Police began covertly monitoring the offenders in July 2024 and recorded Tims admitting he “burned the place down“ and discussingthefacttwomenhaddied.

Judge Chambers said the pair engaged in the arson attack at the behest of others who have not been identified and they had no personal knowledge of or grievance against the owners of the factory. Judge Chambers took into account the pair’s “extremely difficult” childhoods that involved traumaticevents,instabilityandviolence.

She accepted Tims’ good prospects of rehabilitation, provided he engage in support programs to prevent him from relapsingintodrugandalcoholabuse.

She said Thon’s lack of prior criminal history boded well for his future but was guardedbyhisriskofreoffendingduetohis ongoingcannabisandalcoholuse.

The chief judge said Cigobia had reasonably good rehabilitation prospects if he can abstain from cannabis and alcohol,andseparatehimselffromnegative influences.

Leckie headed to World Cup

Mathew Leckie is set to be the toast of Brimbank again after being named in the final 26-player Socceroos squad for the FIFA World Cup.

Having been on the outer of the Australian set up the past couple of years and having not played since 2024 Leckie earned a recall to the squad ahead of the World Cup.

Leckie started his career with the Brimbank Stallions, but had spent a year playing football with St Albans first.

Leckie played in a friendly against Mexico the day before the squad was named, playing 67 minutes after getting the start.

He was the only A-League player in the starting line up.

Leckie managed just six appearances in the A-League season for Melbourne City after battling injury throughout the season. Tony Popovic’s squad for the FIFA World Cup features a mix of new faces and experienced campaigners, with 17 players inline for their World Cup debuts.

oossquado of the couple ed since 2024 ns in his ended ege. ut had all ing son he mix ced yers nal

Mat Ryan and Leckie are poised to equal the national record held by Tim Cahill and Mark Milligan by being selected for a fourth FIFA World Cup. eo er st aye o t an s f tte olle er w bu tba dly e ue e r ttli as r th a en ay p e on ll e g in oos for

Leckie grew up in St Albans in his younger years, before his family moved further west where he attended Kurunjang Secondary College.

Snow tunnel for Braybrook

By Cade Lucas

It’s set to snow in Braybrook.

A month after it was announced that a giant indoor skiing facility was coming to a warehouse somewhere in Melbourne’s west, the team behind Snow Tunnel has confirmedthatBraybrookwillhostitspilot site, with construction already underway.

During an investor webinar and Q and A on Wednesday 27 May, Snow Tunnel cofounder Daniel Portelli joined the meeting from inside a warehouse where a fourstorey high, 16-metre long rotating tunnel is currently being assembled, with the aim of it being filled with snow and open to

skiers by early next year.

While Mr Portelli declined to reveal the exact address, the warehouse is believed to be the former home of the Rampfest Indoor Skatepark on Hillary Street, near Central West Shopping Centre.

The skatepark closed at the end of April and its ramps have since been removed.

The interior of the warehouse behind Mr Portelli matched that of the former Rampfest site.

Confirmation that Snow Tunnel is coming to Braybrook ends the month-long mystery of exactly where the Australianbased start-up’s first ever pilot site would be located.

Amid much fanfare, Snow Tunnel announced on 1 May that its world first facility would be built in Melbourne’s west, approximately 11km from the Melbourne CBD.

While the distance and direction made Braybrook or West Footscray the most likely locations, Maribyrnong council said ithadn’treceivedanyplanningapplication or had even been made aware of the proposal.

With Snow Tunnel modelled on the UrbanSurf wave pool near Melbourne Airport and with its former chief executive, Damon Tudor an investor of the Snow Tunnel, Tullamarine was speculated as a

Bowlers celebrate dome’s ‘long journey’

Nearly five years since a storm destroyed DeerParkClub’sstateoftheartbowlsdome, the club has a brand new facility to bowl on.

The new facility which opened last month,issettohostsomeworldclassevents along with being an option for bowlers of all skills and ages.

Deer Park head of bowls operations

Mark Casey said they had already seen a significant increase in participant since it has opened.

“It’s certainly been a long journey but to see the redevelopment finished it’s definitely well worth it. It’s incredible,” he said. “One thing that the club decided after the incident with the original dome was that

we wanted to ensure our new facility was bigger and better than before.

“The difference is quite remarkable. We haveaddedanextragreengivingus12rinks, first class electronic scoring system, new

Road safety operation leaves police

Police issued more than 50 infringement notices and impounded six vehicles in a one-day operation targeting impaired and dangerous driving in Caroline Springs.

As part of Operation Max Power, which took place on Friday 22 May, general duties police, as well as officers from Road Policing Command’s Drug and Alcohol Section, Highway Patrol and Solo Unit, saturated Caroline Springs Boulevard and the surrounding shopping precinct.

During the operation, officers were “completely dumbfounded” when they

possible location. A planning application for an indoor recreation facility had been lodged with Hume council, who refused to rule it out when asked by Star Weekly.

But with Braybrook now confirmed and construction underway, it’s still unclear as to what, if any, planning process Snow Tunnel has been subject to.

Maribyrnongcouncilwerecontactedfor comment.

The pilot site is expected to soft launch by the end of the year, before opening to the public in early 2027, with flagship sites in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth set to follow.

Police briefs

Teen stabbed

A 16-year-old boy from Dallas is in hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after being stabbed at Highpoint. Police responded to reports of a group of people fighting outside a cinema in the complex on Rosamond Road just after 7pm on 27 May. Police said the group left the shopping centre before police arrived however a knife was found at the scene. Two other teenagers sustained minor injuries.

Braybrook car fire

Two cars were destroyed in a suspected arson attack in Braybrook. Emergency services were called to reports of a car fire on Royal Road about 3.10am on 24 May. It is believed three masked offenders set fire to two vehicles, with one of the fires spreading to a nearby property. Both vehicles were completely destroyed while the property sustained minor damage. Two people were inside the residence at the time of the fire but were not injured. Police are treating the fire as suspicious and have established a crime scene.

Arrests after van chase

lighting and audio plus a large 3 metre by 3 metre screen.

“We believe we now have one of the best bowls facilities in the world. “

Casey said the dome would make a big difference for what the club could do.

“The new facilities allows the club to attract new members, but importantly the club now can host events ranging from local tournaments to some of the biggest international events in the world,” he said.

“We also look forward welcome in many local businesses to enjoy some barefoot bowls sessions under the roof. This facility will open up so many wonderful opportunities for the local community.”

‘completely dumbfounded’

detected a BMW 125i allegedly travelling at 130km/h in a 60km/h zone.

The probationary driver had his vehicle impounded and is expected to be charged on summons, police said.

Police conducted more than 950 breath tests, impounding a vehicle after the driver allegedly returned an evidentiary reading of .113.

Twoallegedlyunlicenseddriversalsohad their vehicles impounded after returning positive oral fluid tests.

Officers issued 52 infringement

notices for offences including driving an unregisteredcar,speedingandfailingtoturn on headlights at night, as well as arresting two people for outstanding warrants.

The Sheriff’s Office Victoria attended during the day, where 20 debtors were identified for 260 warrants, owing a total amount of $122,350.

Twelvedebtorsalsopaidatotalof$35,769 for 216 warrants.

A further five vehicles remain wheel clamped following 92 warrants, with an outstanding total of $42,447.

Two people have been charged after an allegedly stolen vehicle was driven through St Albans, Cairnlea and Deer Park. Officers patrolling St Albans caught sight of an allegedly stolen white Mercedes van on Gladstone Street about 10.30pm on 27 May. An attempt was made to intercept the van before the driver allegedly refused to pullover. Police kept their distance as the van travelled on the Ring Road, Greensborough-bound, eventually driving into the Cairnlea area. It is alleged a passenger got out of the van in the vicinity of Minvi Terrace. Officers arrested a 40-year-old St Albans woman at the scene. The van was then driven through Deer Park and Albanvale. Police deployed a tyre deflation device on the van in the vicinity of Kardinia Drive. The van continued to drive for some time on punctured tyres, before coming to a stop in a shopping centre carpark on Station Road in Deer Park. Officers arrested a 50-year-old Albanvale man, alleged to be the driver. The woman was charged with drug possession while the man was charged with theft and numerous driving offences. Investigators allege the van was stolen while unlocked during a delivery in Melbourne’s CBD on 20 May.

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Tech school takes shape

The Brimbank Tech School is taking shape, with the external structure almost complete and the internal fit-out underway.

Funded by the state government, Brimbank Tech School will be a STEM hub for secondary school students at 15 partner schools within Brimbank. It is under construction at Victoria University’s (VU) Sunshine campus and is expected to open in term three.

Students will get hands-on with leading technology, using their skills in problem-based scenarios co-designed with industry, including health, transport and logistics, aviation, and building and construction.

Alongside the construction, working relationships between education, industry and community have also been building.

The team, led by director Stephen Manitta, has been working with teachers and leaders from partner schools, as well local industry to develop a packed schedule of program for terms three and four.

More than 1600 students, from seven local schools have booked sessions.

“We’re working with Melbourne Airport, Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association and Tech Futures Australia to see how the next generation of STEM students can use technology to support them to grow, solve challenges and respond to community needs,” Mr Manitta said.

“For example, the Maribyrnong river AI drone mapping program, where students will use machine learning and GIS to identify invasive species of plants, geotag and replace them with native species. “

between school, TAFE and university.

The team has also brought a humanoid robot into the mix.

“We’re exploring new ways to spark curiosity, conversation and learning and Jetson, our G1 Humanoid Robot, is already doing exactly that,” Mr Manitta said.

VU’s chief transformation officer Gail Bray said having Tech Schools on university campus built a tangible connection

“Teenagers can see first-hand what is happening and the opportunities around them. It’s a proven model that helps schools, supports teachers, and inspires local students,” she said.

“At Wyndham Tech School at VU Werribee Campus, we are seeing 51per cent female participation, and have developed programs like Deadly Tech Day, which

connects students with First Nations mentors and leaders in technology.”

Deputy Premier and Education Minister Ben Carroll, said the school would give students in the west access to industry-standard technologies for STEM learning.

“We’re opening up STEM pathways and careers for thousands of students,” he said.

Tower of opposition builds

A controversial push to fast-track one of the state’s biggest energy transmission projects has intensified after confirmation energy giant AusNet applied for compulsory land acquisition powers for the Western Renewables Link project, causing the controversial project to enter a new and increasingly bitter phase. Jack O’Shea-Ayres spoke to farmers to find out what the project means for the west’s landowners.

AusNet’s Western Renewables Link (WRL) project culminates in a proposed high-voltage electricity transmission line stretching about 190 kilometresfromBulganainwesternregional Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west.

The project is designed to transport renewable energy generated in Western Victoria into the state’s electricity grid, forming a key part of the state’s broader energy transition as coal-fired power stations progressively work to retirement overthecomingdecades.

Planners argue new transmission infrastructure is essential as renewable energyprojectsareoftenlocatedinregional areas far from major population centres, and without new transmission lines, the electricity generated by those projects cannotbedeliveredefficientlytohomesand businesses.

For many farmers along the proposed route, the project has become one of the mostdivisiveinfrastructurebattlesVictoria has seen in recent years. Plumpton resident BarbaraFord,whosepropertysitsalongthe proposed route, is more than familiar with theprocess.

“After five and a half years, AusNet still hasn’tmanagedtoconvincethecommunity that this is a project we should be happy to host,” Mrs Ford said. “We were assured it wouldhavetogothrougharigorousprocess andmightnotevenbeapproved.”

However the latest flashpoint centres on AusNet’sapplicationtothestategovernment forcompulsoryacquisitionpowers.

InMarch,thetheWRLwrotetolandowners advising them of recent legislative changes to the Electricity Industry Act 2000. Then, on 6 May, landholders were informed AusNet had formally applied for powers to compulsorily acquire easements on propertiesaffectedbytheproject.

AusNet does not currently hold those powersandit’suptothestategovernmentto ultimatelydecidewhethertheyaregranted.

A WRL spokesperson said transmission companies have long had the ability to seek compulsory acquisition powers for power line easements, but insisted the company stillpreferrednegotiatedoutcomes.

“Despite the legislative changes, we hope to reach voluntary agreements with all landowners and our absolute priority is to continue to negotiate and enter into voluntary agreements that reflect their needs and circumstances,” the spokespersonsaid.

AusNet said informing landowners was now intended to provide “certainty and clarity” about possible pathways and timelines.

AusNet also stressed the project’s independentenvironmenteffectsstatement (EES)process,alegallyrequiredassessment of the potential environmental impacts of a proposed development, remains ongoing andunchanged.

“Construction of the project will not begin until the Victorian minister for planninghasissuedherassessmentandthe project has actioned any recommendations and received all required planning and environmental approvals,” the spokespersonsaid.

Mrs Ford confirmed she had received a letterfromAusNet.

“They sent us a letter, which was more or less an intimidating type of warning that if we don’t voluntarily sign up, they’re doing this even before the outcome of the EES process,”shesaid.

You cannot seriously claim a process is voluntary when one party is applying for the legal power to take the land away. That completely undermines consent and is a slap in the face to every landholder

- Peter Star

The application for compulsory acquisition powers represents a major turningpointforopponentsoftheproject.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has reacted furiously, accusing AusNet and the state government of escalating pressure on landholders before the project has even completed environmental and planning assessments.

VFF acting president Peter Star slammed the move as a “disgrace” and a betrayal of farmingcommunities.

“This is a deeply concerning step and the government should reject it outright,” he said.

TheVFFarguestheapplicationeffectively creates a “coercion-first, approval-later” approachtoitsinfrastructuredelivery.

According to the organisation, communities are still participating in the EES process in good faith while simultaneously being warned their land could ultimately be acquired regardless of objections.

“That would be a huge mistake and to be honest,anabsolutedisgrace,”MrStarsaid.

Overall the move has left a bad taste in farmers’ mouths, with the federation also accusing the project of using aggressive tactics toward landholders throughout the consultationprocess.

It’s a fight Moorabool council has been involvedinforyearsnow,andaprojectchief executiveDerekMaddenhascondemned.

“The proposed Western Renewables Link has many unacceptable impacts, including economic, bushfire, social, agricultural, landscape and visual, which was a focus of council’ssubmissions,”MrMaddensaid.

He said Moorabool’s community would continuetocomefirst.

“Council is focused on continuing to support our community as they navigate complex systems and life-changing challengesresultingfromthisproject.”

Compensation arrangements are required under state law, however critics argue the very existence of compulsory acquisition powers changes the nature of negotiations.

“You cannot seriously claim a process is voluntarywhenonepartyisapplyingforthe legal power to take the land away,” Mr Star said. “That completely undermines consent andisaslapinthefacetoeverylandholder.”

For many landowners like Mrs Ford, it meansasadoutcome.

“We’re seriously looking at leaving the area,”sheexplained.

“There’s no certainty for anyone to actually know what’s happening. It all feels abit‘Sosad,buttoobad’.”

Concerns raised by landholders have extended beyond compensation as many farmers worry about long-term impacts on agricultural productivity, aerial spraying, biosecurity, future property sales, and intergenerationalsuccessionplanning.

Others say the conflict reflects a deeper breakdown in trust between regional communities, government agencies, and infrastructuredevelopers.

The VFF warned the government’s decision on AusNet’s application could set a precedent for future projects across the state.

“This must be stopped before it becomes the new standard for how communities are treatedacrossVictoria,”MrStarsaid.

“Anything other will totally enrage rural communities that to be honest have lost total faith that they matter in the face of thesemega-projects.”

For now, the state government has not indicated whether it will approve AusNet’s application.

But as the renewable energy transition accelerates, the WRL is rapidly becoming far more than a debate about transmission towers as it evolves into a defining political and social battle over who carries the burden of the state’s future of renewable energy.

Healthy smiles all round

A Keilor Downs childcare centre has been recognised for its work to educate children andtheirfamiliesaboutoralhealth.

Story House Early Learning – Keilor Downs recently received a first Smiles 4 Miles award, having joined the program in 2025.

Smiles 4 Miles is an initiative of Oral Health Victoria (OHV) and is implemented locallybyIPCHealth.Theaimoftheprogram istoimprovetheoralhealthofchildrenand families in high-risk communities across Victoria.

In Brimbank, 48 per cent of children in theagegroup3-5yearsand70percentinthe age group six years attending public dental services, have at least one decayed, missing or filled tooth, according to IPC Health.

The Work Studio

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• Located next to Sunshine Public Transport Super-Hub

Children with tooth decay and poor oral health can have trouble eating, sleeping, andpayingattentionatkindergartenorday care,IPCHealthsaid.

IPC Health chief executive Jayne Nelson said, “The Smiles 4 Miles program aligns closelywithoneofthekeyfocusareasofIPC Health’s Well for Life strategy: education, preventionandearlyintervention.

“By embedding this approach, Story House Early Learning- Keilor Downs is equipping children and families with the knowledge and habits needed for lifelong oralhealthandoverallwellbeing.”

Story House Early Learning –Keilor Downs centre manager Laura Di Lizio said thecentrewasproudtoberecognisedforits worktoimprovetheoralhealthofchildren.

Briefs

Have your say

Brimbank residents have until 9 June to have their say on council’s new Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2027–2029. Under the Disability Act 2006 (Vic), councils are required to prepare plans that improve access and inclusion for people with disability. Brimbank’s new plan will set priorities and actions to remove barriers, increase participation, and promote equal opportunity across our community. It will also align with Victoria’s broader outcomes framework of the state disability plan. A new state plan is expected in 2027. Details: yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ disability-access-and-inclusion-plan

Winter fire safety risk

As temperatures drop, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and CFA are reminding Victorians to keep flammable items away from heaters and fireplaces. Fire services are also reminding residents that items placed too close to heaters can quickly ignite or create dangerous smoke inside the home. FRV said winter was a peak time for house fires.

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Premium co working and private offices now available on the fifth floor of an A grade building close to Sunshine Station. Excellent views, natural light and flexible options for individuals and teams. Contact us now for more information and to book an inspection.

5, 12 Clarke Street, Sunshine

More than a game: Celebrating community and connection

There’s nothing like a little healthy rivalry tobringpeopletogetherandthatspiritwas on full display at this year’s inter-village games between Rivervue Retirement VillageandsistervillageApplewood.

The annual sporting event has become a much-loved tradition, with more than 100 residents coming together for a day filled with laughter, teamwork, friendly competitionandcommunityspirit.

Residentsputtheirskillstothetestacross a range of sports including indoor bowls, lawnbowls,snookerandtabletennis.They proudly representing their villages while enjoying the camaraderie the event has become known for. Many residents have formed lasting friendships through the annual games, making the day about far morethanjustwinning.

There were cheers from the sidelines, playful banter between competitors and plenty of smiles as matches unfolded throughouttheday.Whilethecompetition was fierce at times, it was all in good fun, with residents embracing every win, near missandunexpectedupset.

This year, Applewood claimed bragging rights in the snooker competition, defeating Rivervue’s reigning champions in a closely fought contest and sparking plenty of good-natured ribbing between thetwovillages.

Beyond the sporting action, the day also gave residents the chance to relax and connect socially over a delicious buffet lunchandcelebratorydrinkshostedbythe village.

Events like the inter-village games are a wonderful reminder that retirement living is about so much more than accommodation. It’s about staying active, building friendships, trying new things

I WISH

andfeelingpartofavibrantandsupportive community. Come along to see why residents say they wish they’d made the move sooner. Rivervue will host an Open Day on Wednesday 17 June from 11am, giving

I'D MADE THE MOVE SOONER

Rivervue Resident

Designed for a new era of value at Fairhaven Homes

With affordability pressures and certainty concernscontinuingtogrow,expectations around what a home should provide, and how it should perform, are changing. Buyers are placing more scrutiny on long-termlivability,andlookingforhomes thatbetterreflecttheneedsofreallife.

It’s easy to focus on inclusions, size, and the number of amenities. But too often, buyers are left with oversized layouts, disconnected spaces, and day-to-day livingthatfeelsspreadtoofarapart.

Fairhaven Homes is seeing size become lessofaprimaryfactorindecision-making, with functionality becoming far more important. Buyers are considering how easily they can move through a home, how spaces connect, and how the layout can adapt as life changes. This has created a stronger shift towards efficient use of space,betterzoning,connectedliving,and futureflexibility.

A well-designed home prioritises right-sized spaces, convenient clustering,andnaturalflow.Itbrings key living areas together, increases functional space, and considers how people cook, move, gather, and live everyday.

The evolution of Fairhaven Homes’ designsreflectsthisshift,withbrand new Collections and refined house designs that improve everyday usability while maintaining long-termvalue.

Thisapproachprioritiseslong-term livability as a key design pillar. As families grow and change, spaces need to adapt, supporting different life stages and reducing the need for future moves. Smart layoutsprovideconfidencethatyourhome hasbeendesignedforthelongterm.

zoned, secondary bedrooms are positioned away from central living areas, and core living spaces are centralised to make everyday living moreefficient.

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

4 June, 1986

Sunshine firefighters will be able to use some of the most sophisticated equipment and facilities in the world nextyearinabidtominimisechemical blazes and spills in the West.

30 years ago 5 June, 1996

Two pet dingoes could be declared ’dangerous dogs’ after they snatched a pomeranian-chihuahua cross from a backyard in Albionlast week.

20 years ago 6 June, 2006

A24-year-oldBurnsidemanwhofatally stabbedhisgirlfriend’smotherbelieved shewasinterferingintheirrelationship and keeping him from their children, the Melbourne Supreme Court heard last week.

Faces of the west

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

10 years ago 7 June, 2016

Western suburbs resident Caryn Hearsch has reached a new milestone … but not one she wants to celebrate. Last week, Ms Hearsch received her 478th rejection letter from a potential employer.

or

the team and learn more about Stage 11, now selling.

The healing power of the pur-fect pet in your golden years

Formanyseniorcitizens,laterlifecanbring significant emotional challenges. The loss of a lifelong partner, close friends or family members can create feelings of loneliness, griefandisolation.

Retirement can also reduce social interaction and daily structure, leaving some older people struggling with depression or anxiety. In these difficult moments, pets can provide comfort, companionship and a renewed sense of purpose that greatly benefits mental health and emotional wellbeing. Whether it is a loyaldogwaitingatthedoor,acatcurledup onthecouchorevenasmallbirdsingingin the morning, animals offer unconditional companionship.

Unlike people, pets do not judge, criticise orplaceexpectationsontheirowners.Their simple presence can help seniors feel less alone and more connected to the world aroundthem.

Oneofthegreatestmentalhealthbenefits pets provide is companionship. After the deathofaspouseorclosefriend,manyolder adults experience long periods of silence and emptiness at home. A pet can help fill that emotional gap by providing affection and daily interaction. Having a dog or cat nearby can reduce feelings of loneliness and create a sense of comfort, especially during evenings or quiet periods that may otherwisefeeloverwhelming.

Pets also encourage routine and structure, which is extremely important for emotional wellbeing. Feeding, grooming andcaringforananimalgivesseniorsdaily responsibilities and a reason to get out of bed each morning. Maintaining a routine canhelppeoplecopewithgriefandprovide a sense of stability during uncertain or emotional times. Even small tasks such as

Unlike people, pets do not judge, criticise or place expectations on their owners. Their simple presence can help seniors feel less alone and more connected

fillingawaterbowlortakingadogforawalk cancreatepurposeandmotivation. Dogsinparticularcanencouragephysical activity, which is closely linked to better

mental health. Regular walks help seniors stay active, improve mobility and spend time outdoors. Exercise naturally boosts mood by releasing endorphins, which can reducesymptomsofdepressionandanxiety. Walkingadogcanalsocreateopportunities for social interaction, whether it is chatting with neighbours, meeting other pet owners at the park or participating in community activities. Social connection is another majorbenefitpetscanprovide.

Many seniors become isolated after losing loved ones or experiencing reduced mobility. Pets often act as “social bridges”, helping people start conversations and build new friendships. A senior walking a dog is far more likely to interact with others than someone walking alone. These simple interactions may seem small, but they can make a significant difference to emotional wellbeing and confidence. Research has shown that spending time with animals can also reduce stress and promote relaxation. Stroking a cat or sitting quietlywithadogcanlowerbloodpressure and decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

At the same time, interacting with pets can increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, chemicals in the brain

associated with happiness and calmness. For seniors coping with grief, anxiety or sadness, these emotional benefits can be incredibly valuable. Pets can also help reduce feelings of fear and vulnerability. Manyolderpeoplelivingalonefeelanxious, particularly at night. A pet can provide reassurance and a sense of security simply through their presence. Dogs, in particular, can help owners feel safer and less isolated in their homes. Importantly, pets provide unconditionallove.

For seniors who may feel forgotten or disconnected after losing friends and family, the affection of a pet can restore confidence and emotional warmth. Animals live in the moment and offer consistent companionship every day. This dependable bond can help seniors feel needed and valued again. For people living in aged care or retirement communities, therapyanimalsarebecomingincreasingly common because of their positive emotional impact. Visits from dogs, cats or other therapy animals can spark conversation,encouragesocialengagement and bring joy to residents who may otherwise withdraw from social situations. Many older people become more animated and communicative when interacting with animals. However, choosing the right pet is important.

Seniors should consider their mobility, financialsituationandlivingarrangements before adopting an animal. While large, energetic dogs may not suit everyone, smaller dogs, cats, birds or fish can still provide meaningful companionship with less physical demand. Some seniors may also benefit from shared pet ownership arrangements with family members or neighbours. There are also support organisations that help match older people withsuitablepets.

Animal shelters often have older animals that are calmer and easier to care for, making them ideal companions for senior citizens. In some cases, fostering pets can also provide companionship without the long-term commitment of ownership. Whilepetsarenotareplacementforhuman relationships, they can play an incredibly important role in supporting emotional healthandreducinglonelinessamongolder adults.Inastageoflifewheregrief,isolation andchangecanfeeloverwhelming,animals offer comfort, affection and a renewed senseofconnection.Formanyseniors,apet is far more than an animal. They become a companion, a source of routine, a reason to smile and a reminder that love and connectioncanstillexistafterloss.

The bond between people and pets is powerful, and for older Australians navigating the challenges of ageing and grief, that bond can make a profound difference to mental health and quality of life.

Murals redefine skyline

The first two of five monumental artworks have officially commenced at Spotswood Yards, in what is believed to be Melbourne’s largest street art installation.

Spanning five residential towers, the project will deliver artworks across an extraordinary 32 floors and more than 1257 square metres of façade space and will be delivered by Melbourne developer Blue Earth in collaboration with Juddy Roller, founders of Australia’s internationally recognised Silo Art Trail

As a subtle sign of the evolution of mural culture in Australia, there is almost

Nominate a top Sunshine business

Sunshine shoppers are being encouraged to nominate their favourite small business for the Sunshine Business Awards.

The awards will run from 1-30 June and aim to reward outstanding small businesses within the Sunshine CBD and their owners, plus gives recognition of the business’ strength, stamina and success.

The awards are run by the Sunshine Business Association (SBA) and cover 15 categories: STAR Cafe, STAR Restaurant, STAR Sweets & Drinks, STAR Take-Away & Fast Food, STAR Fresh Food & Groceries, STAR Fashion & Jeweller, STAR Barber, STAR Hair, Beauty & Nails, STAR Lifestyle & Retail, STAR Health & Fitness, STAR Medical, STAR Real Estate, STAR Financial Services, STAR Business Services and STAR Community & Youth Services.

SBA said customers and supporters can vote for their favourite small business online while businesses have the opportunity to vote for business peers and neighbours.

Winners will be announced at a gala business networking event in Sunshine on Tuesday 14 July

The business with the greatest number of votes in each category will win $1000 plus a marketing and business development voucher.

Every vote placed has a chance to win one of four $500 gift vouchers to spend in Sunshine at their favourite business.

To vote, visit: www.sunshinebusiness. com.au

All entries must also like and follow @LoveSunshineBiz.Vic on social media.

not a single spray can in sight. Instead, artists are working primarily with brushes and Dulux Weathershield paint systems, materials more commonly associated with painting suburban homes than creating monumental contemporary artworks across the urban skyline.

The first two artworks, by internationally renowned Spanish artists Aryz and Belgian artist Nean, are nearing completion.

Rather than leaning into familiar “street art” aesthetics, the project deliberately pushes toward something more

aligned with contemporary art, ambitious, conceptual, and architecturally integrated works more akin to what may be encountered within the walls of the NGV than the visual shorthand traditionally associated with Hosier Lane.

One of the major artworks, painted by Nean, repositions Melbourne’s iconic West Gate Bridge as a symbol of transition and renewal, transforming its image from one of industrial necessity into a gateway to a “new west”, where culture, creativity, and mixed-use urban development are reshaping long-held percep-

tions of Melbourne’s western suburbs. Aryz’s mural portrays a monumental artist figure painting a sweeping view of Melbourne’s west, a perspective drawn directly from the elevated vantage point occupied by the artists themselves while suspended seven stories above the city on swing stages during production.

The murals will continue to emerge across the skyline over coming weeks, with the remaining three artworks scheduled for completion in April 2027 following the delivery of the final towers,

Donate to help furry friends stay

warm

With winter now upon us, Lort Smith AnimalHospitalisaskinglocalstocome together in support of their furry friends that need to stay warm this winter.

Australia’s largest not-for-profit animal hospital has launched Operation Snugglebug, the hospital’s annual winter blanket, towel and treats drive.

Lort Smith spokesperson Suzana Talevski said more than 20,000 animals depend on the kindness of strangers every year across its North Melbourne and Campbellfield sites.

‘’As a hospital without any ongoing government funding we are always so humbled by the way the community comes together to help take care of those in need. Victorian’s love their pets so much so the thought of other dogs and cats being in need is something that really does resonate with so many people in our communities. So this year we are asking everyone to think of us when putting together their winter shopping list,” she said.

All donations will be used at the North Melbourne hospital and Campbellfield adoption centre.

Donations can be dropped off or couriered to Lort Smith Animal Hospital, 24 Villiers Street, North Melbourne, or Campbellfield Clinic and Adoption Centre, 25-35 Berwick Road, Campbellfield.

PUZZLES

To

Sudoku

ACROSS

1 Plant of the genus that includes cabbage (8)

5 Prizes (6)

10 Riverside embankment (5)

11 Central American country (9)

12 Tallies (6)

13 I don’t know (coll) (5,2)

14 Inverted (8)

15 Alliance (6)

18 Round, red root; salad vegetable (6)

20 Masters (8)

21 16th US president (7)

24 Common fruits (6)

27 Garrulous (9)

28 Popular aquarium fish (5)

29 Peril (6)

30 Resent someone’s pleasure or good fortune (8)

DOWN

1 Light globe (4)

2 Publicly supported (9)

3 Slur (5)

4 Box (8)

6 Hub for military planes (7)

7 Recommends (5)

8 Brazen (9)

9 Crust formed over a cut (4)

14 Not connected by kinship (9)

16 Clothed (9)

17 From Osaka, e.g. (8)

19 Repository (7)

22 A tough synthetic polymer (5)

23 Fastener (4)

25 Father (Lat) (5)

26 Counterfeit (4)

3

4 LETTERS

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:

12 words: Good 18 words: Very good 25 words: Excellent

1 New Zealand singer Ella Yelich-O'Connor is better known by what name?

2 In Roman mythology, who is the goddess of peace?

3 True or false: the US states Kansas and Arkansas share a border?

4 What kind of animal is the satyr tragopan?

5 Is euchre a type of oil paint, card game or woodworking tool?

6 How many points does a pentagram have?

7 What do we call the exercise also known as a ‘jumping jack’?

8 In which year did ABBA win the Eurovision Song Contest: 1969, 1974 or 1980?

9 Ending its run in 2011, The OprahWinfrey (pictured) Show started in what year?

10 What is the capital city of Kenya?

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

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.

Beverley, 0403 685 632

Activities for older adults

Keilor Activities for Older Adults meets every Tuesday at 10am for walks and social connection. Whether you can walk for 30, 60 or 90 minutes, you are welcome to come along and join in. The group also has lunches and other social get-togethers throughout the year.

Lynda, 0431 345 161

Maltese Folklore Association

All seniors are warmly invited to join Klabb Ghannejja Maltin (Maltese Folklore Association) and enjoy the friendly atmosphere the club provides. The club is open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with traditional Maltese folk music held every Friday night and social nights hosted once a month on Saturday nights. Come to 4/6 Gooding Street, St Albans, meet new friends, and enjoy the wonderful Maltese culture and entertainment.

9356 4638

Free Bingo Locals, especially seniors, can enjoy bingo but with a twist. binGO move encourages participants to get active, make friends and improve physical and mental wellbeing all while enjoying a classic game. Sessions run fortnightly on Thursdays from 1.30-2.30pm at St Albans Tin Shed, 309a Main Road East, St Albans. 9366 4302

St Albans Bowls Club

Everyone is welcome at St Albans Bowlsno matter age, gender or ability. Whether you’re an experienced bowler or just curious to give it a try, the club would love to see more locals on the green. The club hosts social bowls every Thursday and Saturday at noon at Kings Park Reserve, off Magnolia Avenue, Kings Park. Come along for a friendly game, meet new people and spend time in great company. stalbans.bowls.com.au, stalbansbowlsclub@bigpond.com, or 9366 0290

Living and Learning in Sunshine Duke Street Community House invites community members interested in getting to know the local area whilst practicing their language skills to join this fun and social English class. Held Thursdays 12.30-3pm (term time only) at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine. www.dsch.org.au/

Queers Out West

Queers Out West is social programming for LGBTQIA+ adults to build community, hosted by commUnity+ Neighbourhood House. The program features creative arts sessions and relaxed fireside-style conversations with queer icons across diverse fields. Sessions run from 4.30-5.30pm on Tuesdays at 822 Ballarat Road, Deer Park.

Budding Artists

Whether it’s your first time dabbling in art or you’re fully-fledged, Budding Artists is an art program for all abilities. This term’s theme is Celebrating Women in Art. Sessions are hosted by commUnity+ Neighbourhood House and run from 11am-12.30pm on Thursdays at 822 Ballarat Road, Deer Park. No bookings required.

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Yarraville actor Scott Middleton, who is playing Groucho Marx in Between The Lines – The James Joyce/ Groucho Marx Letters. (Damjan Janevski) 555176_01

The Gathering Table

Join other locals for cooking and gardening workshops during May where participants make the most of the garden beds at commUnity+ Neighbourhood House. Sessions run from noon-1pm on Wednesdays at 822 Ballarat Road, Deer Park. Food and plants provided.

Deer Park Lions Club

Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park. Michael, 0417 307 572

Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning

Join Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning, a free, evidence-based early education program that combines music, play, and connection for families with children aged 0-5 years. Running for eight weeks, on Tuesdays, 10.30am-12.30pm, this program is designed to incorporate singing, stories, and fun activities to support your child’s development. Running from February 11 onwards at the Sunshine Heights Playgroup Centre, 105 Glengala Road. 9663 6733, or events@ds.org.au

Crafternoons

Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street

Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine. 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au

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

Over 50’s club

The Keilor Over 50’s Recreation Club meets at Kealba Hall, 24 McShane Drive, Kealba, on Tuesdays, from 10am-3pm, and Wednesdays, from 7-10pm. Have a coffee and a chat, play social table tennis, pool and card games, go on organised outings and enjoy barbecues. First two visits are free then annual membership fees apply.

Graeme, 0404 809 640, keilorover50@gmail.com, or www.keilorover50.com.au

Sunshine Community Brass

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

Deer Park Probus Club

The Deer Park Probus Club meets at the

Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, Deer Park on the second Wednesday of the month from February to December. Meet at 10am followed by lunch available from 12pm. The club offers bus trips, lunches, morning melodies etc. New members welcome.

0427 495 584

Keilor Park Tennis Club social night

Join the club on Monday nights for a free social hit and get to know other club members. All levels are welcome. Female players are also required for Thursday competition from 10am-2pm and also for the B-grade mixed team on Wednesday, 7-9pm.

keilorparktennis@gmail.com

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

Avondale Heights Probus Club

The club meets at Doyle Street Community Centre, Avondale Heights on the third Wednesday of the month at 9.30am. For retired or semi-retired people. The club offers lunches, bus trips, card and games days, walking groups. New members welcome.

Vee, 0400 886 758

Embrace the arts in winter

Woodend will come alive as the annual WinterArtsfestivalmakesitsreturn.

Over four days, Australia’s longest running winter arts festival will return to the region with a jam packed program of music, performance, words and ideas, which artistic director of the festival Dr JacquelineOgeilsaidissellingoutfast.

“We’ve got some really big names coming,”shesaid.

“In the words and ideas program, we’ve got David Marr coming from Sydney who runs Late Night Live, we’ve got the amazing socialpsychologistHughMackay,andwe’ve got Anna Goldsworthy who’s publishing

an article with Quarterly Essay on AI and creativity.”

Other highlights across the long weekend include Alan Finkel who will be hosting a talk on AI, Rosalie Ham who will talk about her latest book, Look After Your Feet and piano masterclass with Tamara-Anna CislowskaandElenaKats-Chernin.

Students from the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School will perform, with the student ensemble taking over St AmbroseHallforashow.

Dr Ogeil will also perform at the festival, and said there’s something for everyone overthefourdays.

“Things are selling out really quickly, our ticketsarethebestinourhistorysofar,”she said.

“We hope that continues because David Marr has sold out, Hugh MacKay is about to selloutandsoisAlanFinkel.

“People shouldn’t leave it to the weekend to make a decision, they really need to get in now because they are intimate performancesandshows.”

Woodend Winter Arts will take place at venues across Woodend on the King’s Birthday long weekend, 5-8 June, with tickets for plenty of shows still available. Details:woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au

Winter solstice by the sea

You can do magic!

Celebrate the longest night shortest day of the year at Seaworks when the Winter Solstice Festival is held at the historic maritime precinct in Williamstown on Friday 23 May.

Little River is bracing for fun when Dazzling Dan The Magic Man comes totown.

The magician and all of his exciting moves will dazzle the Little River MechanicsHallonMonday29June.

Dan Bingham has been plying his trade for more than 35 years and assures everyone that his show is not justabouttrickingfolk.

“WhenIwassixyearsoldIwasabit of a class clown and prankster so my mum thought magic would be a little less annoying,” he said. “Then I met a magician in high school who said I shoulddoitforpocketmoney.”

Youcanexpectthingstoappearand disappear, but you’ll be more than a spectatorifyoufeelthemagic.

“I love getting people up on stage and performing, as it keeps it really engaging rather than just having themsitthereandwatch.

The early darkness and frigid temperatures won’t prevent an exciting and entertaining evening though, with giant puppets, circus acts, face painting, ghost tours, theatre, dance and live music all on offer.

The line-up includes the Willin Wimmin Singing Choir from 6.30-6.50pm and again from 8.30-8.50pm, The Highland Dance Group from 7-7.10pm and 7.50-8pm and

Marking the start of the winter season, the winter solstice has its roots in ancient traditions and has been celebrated by different cultures around the world for thousands of years. It is often associated with the rebirth of the sun and the return of light after the darkness of winter. However, the rebirth of the sun and return of the light will feel a long way away by the end of June when the festival takes place, with the longest night of the year likely to have already begun by the 5pm start time.

theSwayPolePerformersfrom7.10-7.20pm and 8pm-8.10pm.

Jamaican Reggae from DJ Stick Marboo and Zare Demus will then close out the festival from 9-10pm.

Art exhibitions, market stalls and the Seaworks Maritime Museum will be open throughout the night, as will a variety of food and wine vendors.

Entry is free and the event is open to all ages.

The Winter Solstice Festival is supported by Hobsons Bay council and the state government.

“People love magic for different reasons, getting them involved is a way to bridge them from observer to fan.”

“For me magic is combining science, maths and the intellectual thingswithcreativity.”

Consideringitwillbeschoolholiday time, this is particularly dazzling eventforfamiliestoenjoy.

“Itisanicewaytoswitchgearsfrom the school routine to family holiday,” MrBinghamsaid.

Tickets: https://www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1562424

Hit the dance floor for a boogie at the Blackwood Disco Inferno

Blackwood is gearing up to turn the heat on this winter, with the return of the much-lovedBlackwoodDiscoInfernonext month.

Thesecondannualeventwilllightupthe BlackwoodTownHallonSaturday13June, promising a night packed with glitter, dancing, and community spirit.

Created by five friends with a shared passion for music, dancing, and “excessive sparkle”, the disco quickly became a standout event on the local calendar after its debut last year drew a colourful and diverse crowd from across the municipality.

Organiser Anna Perry said last year’s

event proved disco fever knows no age limit.

“Our favourite thing about last year’s disco was the diverse crowd that it drew: kids, teens, adults, recent arrivals to the town, residents of 30 plus years, people from nearby towns, and friends from further afield,” she said.

“Everyone was there for a good time!”

And this year’s celebration is set to be even bigger, with attendees encouraged to dust off their sequins, bring their dancing shoes,andpreparetoboogieintothenight.

The event will once again showcase local talent and businesses, with DJs from the area providing the soundtrack for the

evening and Trentham food truck Jinky’s serving up dance-floor fuel.

Guests can also look forward to disco tarotreadings,dancedemonstrationsfrom the Lauriston Body Bop crew and drinks from Spring Hill’s Merth Winery.

To top it all off, the dance moves don’t go without a good cause, with funds raised going back into the community through helping to support a playground project at the Blackwood Cricket Oval.

So,grabyourcrew,bookyourticketsand dust off those disco outfits as Blackwood’s annual Disco Inferno returns.

Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ blackwood-disco-inferno-ezyucunv

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Azzi Fudd, the first overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, plays for which team?

2. The Big Freeze fundraiser is associated with which sporting league?

3. And which teams face off in the annual Big Freeze match?

4. The late US racing driver Kyle Busch competed in what form of car racing?

5. Which team did Auckland FC defeat to win the 2026 A-League Men Grand

11. The first Enhanced Games multi-sport event took place in which US state?

12. Which two teams competed in the 2026 NBA Western Conference finals?

Which two teams competed in the 2026 NBA Eastern Conference

Tom Huber recently became the first Australian signed to play what Division 1 college football position?

8. Which country is set to host the opening match of the 2026–27 Big Bash League?

After 12 NBA seasons, which Australian former NBL player has signed with Melbourne United?

13. What nationality is tennis star Talia Gibson?

14. Which Formula 1 driver has reportedly been banned by Mercedes from competing at the Nürburgring in the near future?

15. In baseball, what term is used to describe a straight hit with little to no arc, usually not far above the ground?

16. Which NBA Hall of Famer is known by the nickname ‘The Big Ticket’?

17. Which AFL team recently broke the record for the highest-scoring third-quarter in VFL/AFL history?

20. Which two expansion teams are set to join the NRL in 2027 and 2028?

21. In which year was the first Dreamtime at the ‘G AFL game held?

22. And how many times has it been played somewhere other than the MCG?

23. Which brand provides the official game balls for the NBA?

26. The Australian women’s basketball and netball teams are referred to as which gems, respectively?

27. Which other league is the concept of the NRL’s ‘Magic Round’ derived from?

28. What is the nickname of San Jose’s MLS team?

29. How many points is the blue snooker ball worth?

Adelaide-born Curtis Mead plays for which Major League Baseball

18. And how many thirdquarter goals did they score?

19. The Tempo are a WNBA team based in which city?

24. What is the name of the racing championship in the movie Cars?

25. In cricket, what is the position of short leg also known as?

30. In which year was women’s ice hockey first featured at the Winter Olympics?

Top of the range, and pricey

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

You can understand why Japanese and Korean car makers continue to rollout petrol-onlymodels.

Notallbuyerswant,orcanafford,thecost of an electric vehicle, although that is the waythemarketisultimatelyheading.

With a barrage of competition from cheaper Chinese rivals, anything they can do to pick up a few extra sales is fast becomingessential.

And so, we have the top of the range Outlander Exceed Tourer, powered by a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, withallthebellsandwhistlestomatch.

In fairness, Mitsubishi also offers hybrids or more specifically plug-in hybrids, for the Outlander and Eclipse Cross, but naturally theycostmore–quiteabitmoreinfact.

Styling

Before proceeding, it should be pointed out that Outlander shares its underpinnings with the Nissan X-Trail, so you might want toshopbothvehicles.

Prices for Outlander start from $39,990 for the five-seat, front-wheel drive petrol Outlander ES. It’s followed by LS, Aspire, Exceed and Exceed Tourer, the last topping out at $57,990 plus on-road costs, with two or all-wheel drive and five or seven seats an optionwithsomegrades.

If you’re feeling a little guilty about pumping unnecessary hydrocarbons into the atmosphere, the Exceed Tourer in plug-inhybridformtakesthepricetoalofty $74,490plusonroads.

At a savings of $17,000, our test vehicle wasthepetrol-powered,five-seat,all-wheel driveExceedTourer.

Launched in May 2025, the latest Outlander features local steering and suspension tuning, reportedly adopted for markets around the world because it’s so good.

Minorstylingchangeshavebeenmadeto freshen up the car, with updated bumpers and lower garnish, designed to create a modernlookwithimprovedaerodynamics.

The lights have also been upgraded with the rear combination units featuring a ‘smoked’ clear outer lens and a ‘black tone’ inner.

Rear turn indicators and reversing lights arenowLED.

The profile benefits from updated wheel designs, with 18s for the ES and LS, and a more complex 20-inch design for Aspire, ExceedandExceedTourer.

Exceed adds such goodies as cooled and heated front seats, aluminium pedals, frame-less rear-view mirror (with digital monitor), memory and auto tilt in reverse for exterior mirrors, along with front door puddlelightsandarearcargofloorboxwith lid.

The icing on the cake for Tourer includes two-tone exterior paintwork, full-size alloy spare, quilted brown semi-aniline leather trim, massage front seats, heated second-row seats and the Dynamic Sound Yamaha Ultimate audio system with 12 speakers.

Outlander is covered by a five-year/100,000km warranty or 10 years/200,000km provided you get it serviced by Mitsubishi – plus 10-year cappedpriceservicing,plusuptofouryears ofcomplimentaryroadsideassistance.

Infotainment

The new 12.3-inch infotainment system featureshigherresolutionandanenhanced response rate, with another 12.3-inch screen for the instrument cluster, plus two selectablethemes.

There’s Bluetooth with voice control,

AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, built-in navigation, wireless CarPlay and Android AutoandinthecaseoftheTourer–Yamaha premiumaudio.

Thisincludes12speakersandisdesigned to deliver a rich, cinematic experience, with a subwoofer, dual amps and Yamaha’s Digital Signal Processor (DSP) with Finite Impulse Response, delivering 1650 watts of powerforanimmersivesoundexperience.

There’s also wireless charging and five USB-C ports (two front, two back and one consolebox),with12-voltoutletsinthefront andluggagearea.

Outlander is the first model to get MitsubishiConnect.

AvailableinLSgradeandabove,itfeatures SOS calls, automatic collision notification, breakdown assistance, anti-theft notification, curfew alert, geo-fence alert, speedalertandtow-awaynotification.

Safety

Five-star safety includes refinements to the haptic brake warning, blind spot interventionandlanedepartureprevention systems.

Autonomous emergency braking (Car to Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction and Backover) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping(ELK)arestandard.

There’s also driver monitoring, camera-linked rear automatic braking, 360-degreemonitor,trafficsignrecognition with active cruise control and speed limit link.

Acentreairbagprovidesaddedprotection to front seat occupants in side impact crashes,butthethirdrowmissesoutonside airbagprotection.

Engines/transmissions

Apart from the PHEV, all grades get the same proven 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinderpetrolengine.

Paired with a CVT style transmission, it generates 135kW of power at 6000 rpm and 244Nmfrom3600rpm.

Driving

The new model is 4720mm long, 1862mm

wide and 1745mm high, with a 2706mm wheelbase and 11.2 metre turningcircle.

The interior has been redesigned, with higher quality materials throughout, and stitched and quiltedpart-leathertrim.

An updated centre console sees the cup holders relocated, while centrestoragehasgrown45percent.

With a 55-litre tank it takes standard 91 unleaded with fuel consumption a claimed 8.1L/100kmforthismodel.

Getting into the Outlander for the first time we were impressed by the fit and finish, generous space and comfortable seats, along with the way the chunky steeringwheelsatsnuglyinourhands.

The cabin is a nice, relaxing place to wile awaythehours.

The non-turbo, non-hybrid 2.5-litre engine feels more than adequate around town, with gear change paddles and eight stepsorsimulatedgearstoplaywith.

At the same time, it could do with some more grunt, especially when it comes to mergingorovertakingoutontheopenroad.

This is where the gear change paddles come into play, allowing you to quickly dropbackasteportwo.

But,withafullcomplementofpassengers and their gear for a trip away, it could struggle.

GivenMitsubishi’sboastaboutAustralian input into the ride and handling, we were expectingbigthings.

The experience on our favourite rural drive route, which features plenty of rise and fall and sneaky potholes to dodge, wasn’t bad – but it’s not what we’d call life-changing.

RATINGS

Looks: 8

Performance: 7

Safety: 7.5

Thirst: 7

Practicality: 7.5

Comfort: 7.5

Tech: 7.5

Value: 7.5

Overall: 7.4

In the second row, new padding improves support and the seat back itself hasbeenlengthenedforadditionalcomfort.

For the first time cooled front seats are offered up front for Exceed and Exceed Tourer. They’re also heated – not just the front seats but the outer, second-row positionsinTourer.

Allinteriorlightingisnowtouch-sensitive LED.

Australian and overseas research and development staff worked closely to refine the updated Outlander’s ride and handling balance.

Working on roads throughout Australia and Japan, the group developed new suspension components and a steering maptoensureOutlanderdrivesbetterthan before.

Updates include re-calibrated front and rear shock absorbers with changes to both bump and rebound tuning, and a smaller-diameterfrontanti-rollbar.

The electric power steering has been re-mapped to provide improved on-centre feel and a more linear response when turning.

Finally,thewholepackagewascalibrated to work in conjunction with a new Bridgestonesummertyre.

The updated model also benefits from several chassis and body updates designed toreducenoise,vibrationandharshness.

For example, a new isolator was added to the transmission tunnel, while the use of steel for the bonnet further reduces sound intrusion.

Inall,18structuralpointswereidentified and addressed to enhance the passenger experience.

High-end Exceed and Exceed Tourer feature Super All-Wheel Control all-wheel drive.

Furthermore, 20-inch wheels with low profile 255/45 series rubber reduce roll in corners but they are just not that absorbent when it comes to bumps.

The wagon crashes through potholesandevenbecomesatad bouncyatspeed,butfortunately doesn’tgetoutofshape.

Acentrerotaryterraincontrol offers a variety of scenarios to selectfrom.

Dynamic we assume is Mitsu-speak for Sport and locks inall-wheeldrive.

Foranyoneseriouslyconsideringheading off road in the Outlander, it’s an SUV not a 4WD, and ground clearance is a moderate 210mm.

But it will happily take you down a rough dirtroadwithouttoomanydramas. Keep away from sand – it’s hard on transmissions.

If the Japanese helped with ride and handling, the Chinese seem to have infiltrated the driver assistance systems, with a constant and unexpected barrage of irritatingwarnings.

Braked towing capacity by the way is 1600kg and it comes with a full-size alloy spare(tick).

Rated at 8.1L/100km. we were getting 8.6L after close to 400km of driving. The long-term average, for more than 5000km, was9.0L/100km.

These figures are not outrageous, but by the same token are not really up to expectationsinthisdayandage.

Summing up

Outlander Exceed Tourer is a classy, accomplishedmotorcar.

It will appeal to a wide cross-section of buyers, but the main problem is cheaper, arguablybetter,competitors.

For the price of this car, you can get into a full-blown, plug-in hybrid Chinese SUV, thatinatleastonecasehasalsobeentuned forlocalroads.

They offer stronger performance, better fuel economy and an equally impressive equipment list and buyers are starting to takenotice.

The Yamaha sound system is a keeper though and adds a welcome point of difference.

Football season heats up

Therewereplentyofbigcontestsandupsets across the Melbourne’s north-west on Saturday. StarWeeklyphotographerLjubica

some of the action.

Warriors falls short, again

By Tara Murray

The close games continued for the Western Warriors as they fell short against the Casey Demons in the Victorian Netball League.

After winning a one goal thriller on Sunday against the Geelong Cougars, the Warriors were back in action against the Demons on Wednesday night.

The Warriors had their chances to make it two in a row, but the Demons had another level late to come away with a 6457 win.

Warriors’ coach Kim Bailey said it was a winnable match.

“It’s the story isn’t it,” she said. “We were up by four in the third.

“No excuses but Ruby [Shannon] was

a little bit tired today and Kim [Borger] hasn’t been flash either.

“We didn’t have Mia [Lavis]. We just can’t seem to get a full team on the court, which is a little bit frustrating.”

Bailey said while disappointed to have the loss, she was really happy with the side’s endeavour, but it was a matter of finishing off games.

Nine of the Warriors 11 games have been decided by six or less goals.

“We have to make sure that when we’re in front, that we continue to do the basics and do them really well and get turnover ball,” she said.

“Our heads dropped a little bit when they got a bit of a run on, but we came back but it was a bit too late.”

Bailey said while they tried hard they couldn’t stop Emma Ryde in the shooting circle for the Demons.

Ellie Bird shot 54 goals for the Warriors in her second game for the side.

Bailey said for most of the players it was only the second time they had met Bird and those connections were going to just get better and better.

“She was outstanding,” Bailey said.

“That connection is just going to get better, it’s whether it’s too late or not.”

Bailey said she thought Kali Dolphin played her best game for the club in the loss.

“She fed really well and used a lot of change of direction and change of pass and freed her up a little bit,” Bailey said.

Mercieca has his eye on Olympic dream

By Tara Murray

Brimbank’s Jonah Mercieca continues to dive for gold with his journey taking him to Queensland.

Mercieca has been a rising star in the diving world for many years including earning a Victorian Institute of Sport scholarship at just 12.

Now 18, Mercieca has been part of the Australian senior squad for the last couple of years.

Having set big goals when he was younger, Mercieca is on track to reach many of his dreams.

“I am pretty pleased about it and everything keeps moving ahead week by week,” he said.

“I still feel like the time has flown.”

Mercieca had three options to consider for this year.

He seriously looked at going to college in America, while he could have remained in Melbourne.

In the end, he made the move to Queensland.

“Diving Australia restructured the 20283032 strategy and wanted everyone in the same event in the same hub training,” he said.

“The 10 metre syrno was in Queensland.”

Having been the only male training 10 metre platform in Melbourne, moving to

Queensland has given Mercieca the chance to train with others.

Mercieca is focusing on both the individual and synchro 10 metre platform events.

“At the moment I’m doing both,” he said.

“When I get closer to retiring I might pick one to focus on. The competitions the next few years I’ll look to do both.

“I joke about doing 3-metre springboard from time to time and my coach laughs at me and says, yeah, nah.

“I’ve done springboard and done fairly well but the 10 metre synchro outweighs training for springboard at the moment.”

His progression in the 10 metres platform saw Mercieca make his senior Australian

The Warriors’ challenges continue in the next round, as they face the City West Falcons.

Bailey said having already played them this season, they knew what to expect.

“It’s so close, you can still sneak into finals,” she said. “Our aim is just to win as many games as we can.

“We want to beat some teams that we’ve been close to beating them and haven’t.

“That is our aim to just try and finish off the second half of the season with some really good wins, not close wins, some comfortable wins.”

The Warriors 23 and under side bounced back with a 57-52 win.

The win has the Warriors in sixth on the ladder.

Georgies go out

Caroline Springs George Cross’ Dockerty Cup and Australia Cup came to a disappointing end on Wednesday night.

The Georgies faced the Preston Lions for a spot in the final four of the Dockerty Cup and one of 32 spots in the national stage of the Australia Cup.

Playing at Preston, the Georgies were up against it all night.

Jonas Markovski, who came on in the 12th minute, put the Lions in front just four minutes later.

diving debut in 2024.

He said it was a different experience.

“I’m one of the younger ones on the team and the older ones have helped guide me through the events.

“It was a bit daunting as first but it has been really good. It’s been a mixed bag.

“At the Canada Cup last year, I ended up with three medals and beat two Olympic medalists which is a proud pat on the back moment.”

Mercieca is competing at the national titles this week, hoping to qualify for the Commonwealth Cup.

With diving not at the Commonwealth Games, the competition has been set up to give them a chance to compete at that high level.

The future goals also include the Olympics in 2028.

“I definitely have one eye set on that.”

While diving is Mercieca’s focus, he also has another special interest, volunteering with 707 Operations.

“We run steam train tours no the weekend and look at Silo arts and the Mallee Region,” he said.

“I always liked trains as a kid ad during Covid became my best friend and I looked at a lot of history of train lines.

“I became part of a community from there... I started volunteering and loved it ever since.”

The Georgies would enter half time 2-0 down as the Lions scored a second goal in injury time. Making the task even harder for the Georgies was when the Lions scored a third goal just after the brea

A second goal to Markovski nin the 54th minute put the game beyond doubt with both teams starting to go to the bench.

Lleyton Brooks, who replaced Markovski after he scored his second goals, scored two of his own to give the Lions a 6-0 win.

In other results, Brunswick Juventus beat Oakleigh Cannons 2-1 on Wednesday night in extra time and the Bulleen Lions beat the Goulburn Valley Suns, 2-1.

The Brunswick and the Lions will face off for a spot in the final four of the Dockerty Cup and a spot in the national stage of the Australia Cup.

Heidelberg United has secured its spot in the Dockerty Cup semi finals and the Australia Cup final 32 with a 2-0 win against the Bentleigh Greens.

North Sunshine Eagles will face Avondale on Tuesday night in their round seven clash for a spot in the Dockerty Cup semi finals and the Australia Cup final 32 for the first time.

Reds have turned a corner

By Tara Murray

Sydenham Park has got its season back on track in the FV state league 1 north-west competition.

The Reds had a tough start to the season but have won four of its past five matches to sit in the middle of the table.

The Reds got another win on Saturday as they beat Pascoe Vale, 2-1.

Speaking before Saturday’s match, Reds’ coach Mate Dugandzic said things had turned a corner for the side.

“The start to the season was difficult with results that didn’t go our way,” he said. “We didn’t play well.

“The last month or so, we’ve come back strongly and we’ve got a handful of boys back from injury.”

Dugandzic said the first seven rounds

they didn’t have the same starting 11 two weeks in a row, with the amount of injuries they’ve had.

He said that had made things hard for them in gelling early on.

He said round eight and nine were the first time the same line up had started in consecutive weeks.

“It makes it difficult to get that continuity and the guys playing together and getting to know each other,” Dugandzic said.

“You get more and more cohesion and we haven’t been able to have that. It has made a big difference.”

Dugandzic said getting players back and learning to play together had reflected in their recent results.

He said they were starting to play better and better.

On Saturday, the Reds trailed at half time

against Pascoe Vale, 1-0.

Raul Edvanio Brito Rodrigues Correia converted a penalty to draw level in the 73rd minute before he gave his side the lead six minutes later.

Speaking about the Pascoe Vale match, Dugandzic said that their opposition has had some good results after changing coaches.

Dugandzic said the bye, which coincides

with the King’s Birthday weekend, comes at the perfect time.

“Hopefully we will manage to get a couple more players back after the bye,” he said. Dugandzic said the competition was one where anyone could beat anyone, so they had to be switched on for every game.

Geelong is the runaway early leader, but there’s only six points separating Lalor United in second and Sydenham Park in sixth.

The Reds won their previous match against Upfield which was sitting second at the time, showing its recent form stacks up.

The Reds made the most of having an extra man in the second half as they won 3-1 after a slow start.

Elsewhere, Westvale Olympic lost to Clifton Hill, 1-0, while Western Suburbs draw with Yarraville Glory, 1-1, and Westgate drew with Upfield, 1-1.

Hard work is paying off for Western Jets

By Tara Murray

The work the Western Jets have been putting in on the track is starting to come to fruition in the Talent League girls competition.

The Jets got their third of the season on Saturday, as they were able to account for the Geelong Falcons at DSV Stadium.

After leading early the Jets were able to build on the lead throughout the game.

The Falcons were kept goalless after quarter time as the Jets ran away with a 10.13 (73)-1.5 (11) win.

“It was good to get the win on the board,” Jets’ coach Kathryn Chatelier said.

“We’ve worked hard on a few things, individually and as a team.

“We had the bye last weekend and we focused in on those things and the result was good and we’re setting some progress on the things we’ve been working on the last few weeks.”

Chatelier said they had been really focusing on their brand of football and how they wanted to play.

She said they had been focused on playing an exciting brand of football and making sure they were playing as a team and not individuals.

“It was a positive step forward but there’s still work to do. It was good to see the progress that we’ve made so far.”

Alana Dambrosio kicked four goals in the win for the Jets, while Paige Hutchison and Tannah Pawlowski kicked two goals each.

Leilani Petaia, Jacinta Chalista Eteuati and Ruby Jones were named the Jets best in the win.

The Jets had a number of changes to their team with a number of players either playing their first or second games for the Jets.

Chatelier said it was exciting to see the talent that they had on the list and that they all came in and had an impact.

“There was the opportunity to play so many new players,” she said.

“That is part of the Talent League and there’s a whole range of talent coming through and there’s opportunities through-

out the season to show their best footy.

“Footy is strong in the west. It makes it easier [when players are pushing for selection]. We want to make sure they are bringing out the best in each other and if they’re at their best at training, they are making other players better.”

The Jets now sit eighth on the ladder. They head to Ballarat this weekend to face the GWV Rebels, who have won one game for the season.

Chatelier said it would be another good challenge for them.

After the Rebels game, the Jets have two weekends off with the national championships getting underway.

The Jets have five players in the squad and one train on player in another positive sign for the talent in Melbourne’s west.

The Jets boys also got the win against the Falcons on Saturday, winning 18.11 (119)7.3 (45).

Oliver Castro kicked four goals in the win for the Jets.

The Jets now sit with a 5-3 record.

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VTCA

Burnside Springs United has signed Julian Powell for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Clark Shield season. Powell joins Burnside after spending the past three seasons at Barkly St Uniting and comes off an impressive 2025-26 campaign, scoring 570 runs across all formats. “A proven performer, a respected teammate, and someone with outstanding leadership qualities, he is a hard-hitting top order batsman who brings genuine firepower as we step into the new season,” Burnside said on social media.

VTCA

Sydenham-Hillside has suffered a blow ahead of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season. West, who has played at the Storm the past two seasons, is returning to his former club Aberfeldie for the upcoming season.

Western FL

Albion and Sunshine returned to the winners list in the Western Football League division 1 competition on Saturday. The Cats were on the road against Altona and had no troubles at all on the way to a 17.9 (111)-4.6 (30) win. Judd Brewster kicked five goals for the Cats in a best on ground performance. Meanwhile, the Kangaroos beat Newport, 18.13 (121)-13.6 (84). Thomas Schwarzenberg kicked six goals in a best on ground performance. Elsewhere, Caroline Springs had a big win against Point Cook Centrals, 26.17 (173)-4.4 (28).

Western FL

Albanvale won a thriller against Braybrook in the Western Football League division 2 competition on Saturday. There wasn’t much between the two sides all day in a low scoring affair with the Cobras winning, 8.14 (62)-8.10 (58). Jye Kotoski was named the Cobras best. The win has the Cobras sitting in fifth spot with a four wins, a draw and three losses. Elsewhere, Sunshine Heights also won a thriller, beating the Suns, 9.9 (63)-8.11 (59). Matthew Dettman and Majok Bol were named the Dragons best. The Dragons sit fourth on the ladder.

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Fast finish for the Thunder

By Tara Murray

A half time spray was the catalyst for the Keilor Thunder’s thrilling win against the Melbourne Tigers in the National Basketball League 1 south competition on Saturday.

The Thunder trailed by as much as 18 points against the Tigers in the first half, but managed to come out on top as they won, 92-90.

Thunder coach Kristi Harrower said it was a relief to get the win after how they started the game.

“I ripped into them at half time,” she said. “They were playing soft and not physical enough.

“It was the same against Dandenong the week before and we reviewed that

during the week.

“I went off at half time and got a response.”

Harrower said they have no trouble putting the score on the board, it was about getting defensive stops.

She said when they manage to get those stops, they are hard to beat.

Harrower said Maddy Rocci carried the side as she top scored with 34 points while having five rebounds and two assists.

Issie Bourne had a good second half as she finished with 24 points.

Harrower was also full of praise for Macey Boyle for her offensive game in the first half and then her defensive game in the second half against Shuyu Yang.

“Macey has grown for us the last two

years,” Harrower said.

The win moves the Thunder to 8-5 for the season having been 4-4.

Harrower said they felt the start of the season would set them up for the rest of the year .

“I’ve always said the disruptions we’ve had would have an impact,” she said. “Every team goes through it.

“We hope we’ll have Lara McSpadden back this week and hopefully Izzy Wightman will be back in on the weekend as well.

“We’ll finally get some consistency with everyone there. The girls did a great job at the start of the season.

“It sets us up and we’ll see what we can do in the next six weeks.”

Harrower said they play a lot of sides in the top eight the next few weeks, meaning the challenges continue.

She said the league is getting better and better each year.

“Every game is a must win if we want to stay in touch with the top four,” she said.

“All the imports have come in so the teams can’t change too much. It’s a huge month for us and we can’t afford to lose any more games.”

In the men’s competition, the Thunder lost to the Tigers, 95-80.

Deng Dut top scored with 27 points for the Thunder.

The loss leaves the Thunder sitting 7-6 and just outside the top eight.

Spiros Amarantidis. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 485453_29

Lions feeling positive after important win

By Tara Murray

Deer Park finally had some luck go its way as it got its third win of the Essendon District Football League premier division season.

The Lions have struggled with consistency this season and find themselves down towards the bottom of the ladder in the early parts of the season.

On Saturday, the Lions faced Airport West, which is also under the pump after a less than ideal start to the season.

The Lions produced their best performance of the season to come away with a 23.12 (150)-12.9 (81).

Lions’ coach Jamie Madigan said it was nice to get a good win like that after a tough start to the year.

“We’ve had a pretty long injury list,” he said. “We’ve been in every game and had lapses here and there for 10 to 12 minutes and they have scored.

“Yesterday [Saturday] was a good team game.”

The Lions led at every break and were able to extend the margin as the game progressed.

Madigan said the return of Nick Ebinger and Jackson Barling from injury had a big impact, with the pair kicking five goals apiece.

“We got them back and in the same forward line,” he said.

“Both have been injured at different times and when both are back in the forward line we have a powerful attack with both strong marking players.

“We got it into them in one-on-one contests and if they got beaten they brought it to ground.

“Daniel Strnak kicked three goals from crumbing, Mark Galea kicked three from crumbling and Spiros [Amarantidis] got a couple of crumbing goals as well.”

Amarantidis was named the Lions best along with Anthony Anastasio and Kwame McHarg.

The loss was marred by a hamstring injury to Jack Noonan.

Madigan said they felt their 3-5 record didn’t reflect their season and pointed to the losses against Aberfeldie and Pascoe Vale as two games where they pushed strong sides.

“We haven’t had consistency,” he said. “We’ve had 5-6 changes each week.

“We will get four players back and then lose three or four players through injury.

“Going into the second half of the season hopefully we can maintain some consistency with the side and we can match it with everyone.”

Madigan said while the injuries had made it tough, it has given an opportunity for some of their younger players to step up.

They’ve played five or six under-18s, while Logan Purcell is still an under-16 player.

Madigan was full of praise of the role Flynn Adams has been doing in the ruck the past three weeks against a lot bigger and more experienced players.

The Lions have a bye this weekend with the King’s Birthday, with Madigan saying it comes at a good time for them.

Madigan said they were hopeful of having Lin Jong back after the bye along with Mitch Palma, and Bailey Morrish.

In other matches, Keilor beat Hillside, 20.20 (140)-3.11 (29).

International star joins Parkers

Deer Park has added English international Ben Harris to its team for the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division season.

Harris, a former Crown Green Bowls superstar, only made the transition to the more traditional lawn bowls format six years ago.

Since then, his rise has been remarkable, claiming multiple national and open single circuit titles, which recently earned him selection for England in an international series..

Having arrived in Melbourne just a week ago, Harris said he was excited to join the club.

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to come to Australia and play in as many major events as I can,” he said in the Parkers announcement.

“Once I saw the new Deer Park Dome, I was in awe – it’s such a great venue. I’ve met a lot of the guys at the club already and they’ve really welcomed me in. I can’t wait for the season to begin.”

Deer Park head of bowls operations Mark Casey said he was excited to see Harris in action.

“I really feel Ben is someone who will add so much value to our mix,” he said.

“He’s been at the club most days already and has quickly become a favourite amongst the group. Bowls-wise, he’s all class, so we know he will be a massive asse for us, but it’s his enthusiasm and lively personality that will really give us a boost.

“He’s an entertainer and we can’t wait to watch him in action.”

Harris joins Australian duo Corey Wedlock and Aaron Teys in signing for the Parkers.

The pair, who signed multiyear deals with the Parkers, were recently named in Australia’s Commonwealth Games team in the pairs.

Koby Cromie is also returning to Deer Park.

Cromie played much of his junior bowls at the Parkers before playing closer to home the past couple of seasons.

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