Star Weekly - Northern - 23rd June 2026

Wonderful winter workshops

Discover your creative side this winter with free art workshops running in Craigieburn every Monday in July and August.

The workshops, hosted by the Craigieburn Art Group, will allow budding and experienced artists to develop and refine their painting skills or try their hand at something new.

“It will be for eight weeks on Mondays in July and August, at the Highlander Community Centre [in] Craigieburn,” said Craigieburn Art Group president Vicki Catchpole. “We will have the lovely Alexandra Leti teaching landscape acrylic painting for four of the workshops and the amazing Salvatore Trigila [to] teach portrait drawing again.”

Trigila will open the series on 6 July with his workshop exploring the world of portraits, from 3.30pm to 6pm.

Other workshops include printmaking with Evelyn Lomas on 27 July and watercolour landscapes with Rufus Wilson on 17 August.

Ms Catchpole will close the winter workshops with a session about acrylic roses on 24 August.

These workshops are for adults only. Registration required. Details and bookings: www.craigieburnartgroup.org

Emergency delay

By Courtney Black

Almost a decade since the Craigieburn community was first promised two new emergency services facilities, the state governmentisyettoconfirmwhentheywill bedelivered.

In May 2017, the government pledged to build a new SES station in Craigieburn north, as part of a $12 million investment in newSESheadquartersforsixsuburbs.

Then, in April 2018, the government announced$13millionforanewintegrated fire station, which would house career and volunteerfirefighters. Neitherhavebeenbuilt.

On 3 June, a state government

spokesperson confirmed the projects are in progress, but did not provide any delivery timelines.

“Wearebackingourgrowingcommunities like Craigieburn … and Kalkallo with the emergency services infrastructure they need to help keep Victorians safe,” a governmentspokespersonsaid.

A further share of $3.6 million has been allocated towards a Craigieburn North-Kalkallo VICSES unit in the 2026-27 statebudget.

The government said that new fire station designs are progressing and a planning permithasbeenissued.

Hume council issued a planning permit to the FRV in July 2025 for the station on

LygonDrive.

In April, the state awarded a $500,000 contract to the FRV for the station’s design services.

The design contract proposes a new fire station with three appliance bays, 14 rest and recline spaces and 32 car parking spaces.

Craigieburn resident Jason Moore said locals had expected the projects to be delivered within a few years of the funding announcements.

“Many of the community loved those promises when they were made, as it meant thesewouldbedeliveredwithinthreetofive years,” Mr Moore said. “In many occasions these are now becoming empty promises

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as the community grows more sceptical of any delivery of any promises actually occurring.”

MrMooresaidwhenmajorcommitments remain undelivered for years in growing communities,residentslosehope.

“Much of the older generations know that [in] each election cycle the community are givenpromisesofhopeforarapidlygrowing community, in the hope it will catch up on the infrastructure community needs,” he said.“Theproofisinthepuddingwith[this] 2018-19emptypossibilityofhope.”

The state government said project timelinescanchangeduetolandsearching, designing and planning, design requests, andagencies’operationalneeds.

Pool decision pushed back

By Courtney Black

The future of the long-awaited Mernda pool will remain up in the air for at least two more months, with Whittlesea council deferring a key decision on the project until August.

At its 16 June meeting, council agreed to a decision on how the aquatic centre will be delivered, pushing the matter to its 18 August meeting allowing time for a more detailed assessment of the project’s scope, external funding options and the financial implications.

The 50-metre pool proposal was approved by council administrators in 2021 as part of the $180 million Mernda

Regional Sports Precinct, despite councillors stating in 2019 the municipality could not afford such a facility.

The pool proposal was not included in council’s 2026-27 budget, yet 56 submissions to the budget process called for the pool to be a priority.

Mernda ward councillor Jarrod Lappin said the pool proposal is a “mammoth project” that requires considerable funds.

“Funds that a rate-capped growth council like ours can’t deliver alone without huge demands on our budget,” Cr Lappin said.

While council has secured $21.5 mil-

lion in state and federal funding for the broader sports precinct, that funding has been allocated to the indoor stadiums currently under construction.

According to the officers report, the $10 million committed by the state towards the pool is insufficient, and has not yet been formally secured.

Cr Lappin said council’s initial proposals were developed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and did not account for rising construction and material costs.

“This council has inherited a project and responsibility to try to deliver it from a time with very different circumstances.”

Cr Deb Gunn said the council would

Book brings endangered lizard to life

Local artist Amaria Stark’s vivid depictions of the endangered Barrier Range Dragon brought the children’s book ‘Sunlight Dragon’ to life.

Stark’s paintings of this rare animal were on display at Creeds Farm Living and Learning Centre in Epping during the Sunlight Dragon book launch on 13 June.

Stark said she and author Anika Molesworth wanted the book to encourage children to care about the environment and endangered animals.

“The story is about an endangered species [the Barrier Range Dragon] which lives out in Mutawintji National Park in Broken Hill, New South Wales,” Stark said.

Stark said the book illustrates the impact of humans on the environment.

“You’ve got climate change, which is partially at least due to human interference with nature. We’ve got careless drivers not even noticing that the lizards are sitting in the middle of the road.

“It’s about being aware that a little crea-

ture like that, it might be relatively unimportant and it lives in the desert, but human impact has such a huge effect on it.”

Stark said the lizard is so endangered there were barely any photos to reference for her artwork.

“I had no idea what Barrier Range Dragon was or what it looked like.

“A guy on Instagram had a really good photo of one on his page, I asked if I could use the photo and he sent me a whole folder, so they’re the references.”

Free perinatal care heads to Hume for expectant, new parents

New and expectant parents in Hume are set to access free local mental health care following a federal funding commitment.

The federal government announced it will open a perinatal mental health centre in Hume and a second centre in the Casey.

Gidget Foundation Australia will operate the centres, which provide free psychological support for new and expectant parents, with a share of $39.2 million in federal funding.

Both centres are expected to provide

mental health support to approximately 800 parents each year, according to the federal government.

Calwell MP Basem Abdo said the Hume centre will help ensure expectant parents receive the timely support they need.

“Removing barriers to mental health care helps more families access support during this critical stage of life,” Mr Abdo said.

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Assistant Minister Emma McBride said

continue to advocate for other sources of funding before the August decision.

“This is not something that can be left alone to council to provide,” Cr Gunn said.

Cr David Lenberg said if additional funding was not found, council could consider scaling back the project or exploring commercial partnership.

“If a commercial venture needs to charge a certain amount for people to get in we would be better off giving people vouchers for the next 10 years,“ Cr Lenberg said.

“It is certainly not going to cost us the same amount of money that it’s going to deliver this project in its current format.”

Hume council pays tribute to Muna Yazdin

A long time Hume community worker is being remembered for her compassion and tireless commitment.

Hume mayor Carly Moore moved a condolence motion at the June 9 council meeting to acknowledge the life and service of Muna Yazdin, who died following a pedestrian accident in Westmeadows on 2 June.

“Muna served our community with dedication for more than 20 years as a bilingual community engagement officer in our libraries team,” Cr Moore said.

“On Tuesday the 2nd of June, she was involved in a serious pedestrian accident in Westmeadows. Tragically, Muna passed away on Friday (5 June).”

Cr Moore said Ms Yazdin was deeply respected across Hume and beyond.

“She was known for her compassion, her warmth, and her tireless commitment to strengthening connections with our diverse multicultural communities,” she said.

“Muna created opportunities for people to come together, feel included, and truly belong.”

She said Ms Yazdin was a friendly familiar face at both Craigieburn and Broadmeadows libraries and lead Assyrian and Arabic bilingual storytimes.

“Beyond libraries, there are many stories of Assyrian and Arabic-speaking community members wanting to only speak to Muna, who would then connect them with the council support that they needed.

“Her impact will be lasting and felt by many across our city.”

Councillor John Haddad said the wider Hume, Assyrian and Chaldean communities are mourning her loss.

“Her passion for preserving and sharing our language, culture, and heritage made her a beloved figure throughout the community,” Cr Haddad said.

“Muna was also a valued member of Beth-Nahrain Assyria Association [which] I also served with her.”

Cr Haddad acknowledged many of Ms Yazdin’s contributions to the Assyrian and Chaldean communities through local radio, theatre productions and creating songs for children.

“Alongside with this she managed.. [to get a] Victorian award for the storytelling.

the centres will deliver mental health services in the heart of communities.

“One in five women and one in 10 men experience anxiety or depression when they are expecting or have just become new parents and accessing support can be difficult,” Ms McBride said.

“This new Gidget Foundation Centre means local families in our community will have somewhere to turn, with free, professional support right on their doorstep.”

“Through her stories and songs, she reached thousands of homes and helped strengthen the connection between young people and their cultural heritage.

“Her passing leaves a profound void in our community.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to her family, relatives, friends, colleagues and all those whose lives were touched by her generosity, warmth and remarkable service to the community.”

Capital works top $116m

More than $116 million has been allocated for capital works projects in Whittlesea council’s 2026-27 budget.

Councillors endorsed the budget during council’s 16 June meeting.

Among the capital works projects to receive funding next financial year are the regional sports precinct in Mernda and West Wollert Community Centre.

Council also allocated funding for the construction of Derby Meadows Preschool and Children’s Centre in Epping and Yan Yean Pipe Track in Mill Park.

The budget also includes money to

complete a streetscape upgrade along The Boulevard in Thomastown and begin an upgrade at the intersection of Findon Road and The Great Eastern Way in South Morang.

Council also plans to begin construction of Edgars Creek Recreation Reserve sporting facility in Wollert and Ashley Park Recreation Reserve sporting facility in Doreen.

Rates will rise by an average of 2.75 per cent.

Council said the cost of delivering waste services continues to increase due

to a range of factors, including the state government’s Landfill Levy and the transition to a four-bin collection system under the Recycling Victoria strategy.

As a result, waste charges in 2026-27 will increase by $6.95 per household to a total charge of $416.90, with the landfill levy comprising $106.70 for the average residential household.

Mayor Lawrie Cox said council had heard what projects and services were important to the community and ensured they were allocated for.

“While council continues to navigate

Nesting boxes to help bring back birds

A series of bird boxes hand-crafted and donated by a local men’s shed are set to help Mernda wildlife sanctuary Melbourne Arboretum (MA) attract and record native birds.

The Mernda Men’s Shed group crafted 21 bird boxes at Mernda Neighbourhood House (MNH) following a special design from BirdLife Australia.

MNH coordinator Paras Christou said it was “enormously gratifying” to know the men’s shed group would make a difference to generations of birds.

MA founder Maggie McDonell said the bird boxes will play a big role helping with research and conservation.

“Having bird boxes gives us a leg up the tree… to encourage these birds to come back because they have lost so much of their habitat,” she said.

“Also the pattern will suit parrots and those same-size indigenous birds, but dissuade the likes of the indian and noisy miners… that are really pushing indigenous birds out.”

She said no one knows how long it will

Plan to improve Railway Crescent

Hume council is seeking feedback on a draft design to improve its land outside the Railway Crescent shopping strip in Broadmeadows.

Council said the plan aims to make the area safer, easier to get around, and more welcoming.

“Railway Crescent is a small but important local shopping area,” council said.

“It is used by local residents, people who work nearby, and commuters, and it helps welcome people into the Broadmeadows Activity Centre.”

The plan proposes improvements include redistributing car parking and converting two car parks to understory planting with trees.

The disability car park would be retained but upgraded to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act, this would include a pram ramp.

It also proposes clearing the pathway in front of the shops and upgrading the footpath to exposed aggregate concrete.

The plan also sets out ideas for outdoor dining seats, park benches and new plants.

In March and April this year, council consulted with local traders, business owners, and landowners to help shape the draft plan.

The project will form part of Hume’s Places Program, which supports improvements to local shopping strips across Hume.

You can let council know what you like about the concept design and what you’d change by Sunday 21 June.

Following community consultation, council will assess feedback and finalise the plan.

Details: https://participate.hume.vic. gov.au/railway-crescent-streetscape-upgrade

the financial challenges of increasing costs in a rate-capped environment, careful planning, and a strong focus on delivering services more efficiently ensures that we can continue to invest and deliver high-quality services and infrastructure, while remaining financially sustainable,” he said.

“Council is also focused on supporting our most vulnerable, ensuring critical services remain accessible and providing support through grants, and where needed, financial hardship support for those experiencing financial difficulties.”

Have your say on road upgrade

Residents can have their say on stage two of the Mickleham Road upgrade and provide feedback on plans to widen part of the road, add paths and traffic lights.

Stage two of the project is jointly funded by the state and federal governments and is set to upgrade Mickleham Road from Craigieburn Road in Yuroke to Dellamore Boulevard in Greenvale.

Under stage two, Mickleham Road will be widened to three lanes in both directions from Craigieburn Road to Dellamore Boulevard.

Traffic lights will be installed at the Dunhelen Lane and Cookes Road intersections.

New walking and cycling paths alongside Mickleham Road are also proposed between Destination Drive and Craigieburn Road.

take for birds to flock back to the habitat.

“Just how quick is the bird telegraph? None of us know that, but that in itself will be very telling.

“We’re really, really excited about getting that much further ahead with our bird monitoring.

“When the birds come back, we’d like to at least live stream one or two of the bird boxes, I think it’d be a fabulous way for the public to see what is actually happening.”

Residents can also give feedback on the proposed project boundary which defines where permanent and temporary works (including potential site compounds) may take place. The proposed project boundary covers Mickleham Road from Craigieburn Road to Dellamore Boulevard, the Craigieburn Road intersection, and the full length of Dunhelen Lane.

According to the state government, a planning application will be submitted to the planning minister following community consultation.

No construction start date has been set.

You can have your say until 11.59pm on Sunday 28 June.

Fresh face for Whittlesea

By Courtney Black

Whittlesea’s newest councillor Chaman Tiwari says she will be a “strong voice“ for the people of Thomastown ward.

Ms Tiwari won the Thomastown by-election, attracting 5189 votes (52.61 per cent) after the distribution of preferences. She received 20.41 per cent of first preferences.

The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Nic Brooks in January.

Ms Tiwari told Star Weekly she was excited to make a difference for residents.

“As someone who has lived in Thomastown for more than 15 years, raised a family here and operated local businesses, I understand the issues that matter to residents,” Ms Tiwari said.

“I am looking forward to being a strong voice for our community and ensuring local concerns are heard and acted upon.”

She said Whittlesea faces infrastructure and service delivery challenges.

“I would like to see continued investment in roads, footpaths, community facilities, public spaces and local amenities,“ she said.

“As our population grows, it is important that services and infrastructure keep pace with community needs.”

She said she is committed to being an accessible, hardworking and accountable councillor.

“My door is always open, and I encourage residents to reach out with their ideas, concerns and suggestions. Together, we can build a stronger, safer and more connected community.”

Ms Tiwari said she values the diverse, welcoming and vibrant communities in Whittlesea.

“I enjoy the strong sense of community spirit, the local parks and sporting clubs, and the opportunity to work with residents

Free care, guidance for new parents

Families who are grappling with the challenging early stages of parenting can access a free program in South Morang to receive personalised care and guidance.

Each week, 10 families are cared for by staff and a group of volunteers dubbed the “caring crew” at the Woi-wurrung-yagila-wulumperi Whittlesea Early Parenting Centre (WEPC) run by Mercy Health.

WEPC manager Anna Seaborn said families can access the four-night stay or four-day program tailored to their individual needs.

“We help families understand their

child’s cues, build confidence with things like sleep, feeding and settling, and support them to find approaches that work for their own family because parents know their children best,” Ms Seaborn said.

“Our staff act more like coaches and cheerleaders, offering practical guidance, emotional support and reassurance during what can be a really vulnerable stage of parenting.”

She said volunteers are an integral part of the team.

Local grandmother Del Turner volunteers with WEPC each week and has en-

joyed giving back to the community.

“After finishing work, I knew I wanted to spend my time doing something meaningful, and being able to support young families has been incredibly rewarding and grounding for me,” Ms Turner said.

“Sometimes it’s the small things like helping at dinner time, having a chat or simply being a calm presence, but you can see how much those little moments of support mean to families.”

Ms Seaborn said parents can refer themselves to the program, or be referred by a health professional.

Help restore Hume’s grasslands at community planting event

A Hume community planting event will be held this month to help restore habitat for the critically endangered Golden Sun Moth.

Hume council is hosting the event on Spirited Circuit in Craigieburn on 27 June and is inviting locals and nature enthusiasts to help plant 2,000 seedlings.

Hume mayor Carly Moore said events like this are a great way to bring people together outdoors.

“Our native grasslands are special, and they are under threat, so every new plant-

ing makes a difference for our wildlife now and for future generations,” Cr Moore said.

“Getting involved in restoring habitats like that of the Golden Sun Moth is a simple way people can help care for Hume.”

Pizzas will be provided or lunch, along with all the tools and materials, and a coffee van will also provide free hot drinks for the first 100 people to arrive.

Council said an important environmental outcome is to establish more of

who genuinely care about the future of our city.”

She said Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre (TRAC) is her favourite local place to spend time.

“It is a fantastic community hub that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds.”

She said people may be surprised to know that she was awarded scholarships in university and graduated with a gold medal.

“Looking back, it was a rewarding achievement, but it also taught me that success comes from consistent effort and determination.”

Ms Tiwari will be sworn in as a councillor on Friday 3 July.

Aidan McLindon suspension ‘invalid’

An order to suspend Aidan McLindon from Whittlesea council for six months has been found to be invalid.

Former local government minister Nick Staikos recommended the Governor in Council suspend Cr McLindon from council for six months last April, acting on a report from Whittlesea’s municipal monitors Jude Munro and Peita Duncan.

The report concluded that Cr McLindon was creating a serious risk to the health and safety of councillors or members of council staff.

Cr McLindon was the city’s mayor at the time.

Cr McLindon launched Supreme Court action against Mr Staikos, arguing that his suspension was unlawful.

In a judgement handed down in the Supreme Court on 9 June, the court found that the order made by the Governor in Council to suspend Cr McLindon from council was invalid as the municipal monitors did not provide him with a valid report outlining the details of his alleged misconduct.

The court found that Cr McLindon was not afforded procedural fairness by the monitors in the preparation of their report because they failed to provide him with details of statements council employees, who are members of the First Nations team and the Pride network, considered racist, homophobic, and/or transphobic; and comments he made to a councillor, who is a First Nations person, which were deemed “most hurtful and distressing to the councillor”

The court also found that the monitors’ interpretation of Cr McLindon’s request for the names of employees who had made complaints against him as demonstrating his “capacity to target individuals through seeking names of those who have formally reported health and safety concerns” also meant that he was not afforded procedural fairness.

“There was no valid report before the minister, as required by [the Local Government Act], and therefore no basis upon which the minister could recommend Mr McLindon’s suspension to the Governor in Council,” the court found.

the critically endangered Matted Flax Lily (Dianella amoena) plant.

Attendees should wear weather-appropriate clothing and safe fully-enclosed walking shoes and bring a rain/windproof jacket and a reusable drink bottle.

The event runs from 9.30am to 1pm and the grassland is located opposite houses 16 to 28 Spirited Circuit, Craigieburn.

Details: https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Native-Grassland-Community-Planting-1988293784232#

Lawyers for Mr Staikos argued that he had provided Cr McLindon with the monitors’ report and a chance to respond to its findings, providing an additional “round” of procedural fairness, but that argument was rejected.

In a statement, Cr McLindon said the judgement raised serious questions about local government oversight, and whether councillors were being given procedural fairness.

Crime stabilises in north

Crime has remained relatively steady in Hume and Whittlesea according to the latest statistics released by the Crime Statistics Agency.

The showed that for the year to March 2026, crime in Hume increased slightly by 0.7 per cent, with 23,108 offences recorded, while in Whittlesea offences rose by 1.6 per cent to 17,975.

However, this is significantly lower than the 12 months to March 2025 when Hume recorded an 18.6 per cent increase (22,754) in total recorded offences and Whittlesea recorded a 29.3 per cent increase (17,845).

In Hume, Craigieburn was the suburb with the most number of offences recording 4281, followed by Broadmeadows (3869), Sunbury (2768), Campbellfield (1559) and Mickleham (1309).

Stealing from a motor vehicle was the top offence recorded (3109) across the municipality followed by other theft (2317) and breach of a family violence order (2212).

In Whittlesea Epping had the most recorded offences with 4406, followed by Thomastown (2654), Mill Park (1926), Lalor (1599) and Mernda (1530).

Across the city, the most common of-

Kids’ creativity on display

Greenvale kindergarten students are the visionaries behind a vibrant mural which showcases their creativity and stories.

Barrymore Road Preschool early childhood teacher Hardeep Kaur said the mural is more than just art; it is a celebration of the students’ voices.

“We absolutely loved being part of this collaborative mural project. The workshops with Sasha [Heath] (artist) were a truly wonderful experience for our children,” Ms Kaur said.

“From the moment Sasha arrived at our kindergarten, her genuine curiosity and interest in our community shone through. She took the time to learn about our children, our environment, and what makes our kindergarten so special.”

Ms Kaur said watching the children’s

creativity come to life had been rewarding.

Mural artist Sasha Heath said working with the kindergarten and Hume council on the mural project had been a joy.

“Inspired by local flora and fauna, the mural’s vibrant colour palette was chosen by the kids themselves, and their wonderfully creative colouring-in scribbles have even found their way into the final design as well,” Heath said.

Artist Elise Marcianti also helped create the mural.

The mural is located at 31 Barrymore Road opposite the Greenvale Recreation Centre.

fences were stealing from a motor vehicle (2383) and breaching a family violence order (1919).

Reported family violence incidents in both municipalities declined, with each recording around 3000 total incidences.

Whittlesea’s recorded family incidents dropped by 10.3 per cent while Hume’s decreased by 5.5 per cent in the 12 months to March.

Statewide crime has dropped by 0.2 per cent in the same period with 625,426 criminal offences recorded.

Victoria Police said this was the first time the state had recorded a decline in

offences in almost four years but said that crime remains too high.

Regional Operations Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill said the force would continue its efforts to drive down crime.

“While pleasing to see overall crime slightly decrease, the reality is that overall crime in Victoria still remains far higher than both police and the community would like,” he said.

Mr Hill said Victoria Police’s goal was to reduce serious and violent crime by five per cent each year.

Joyous cultural celebration

The Whittlesea Chinese Association (WCA) is celebrating two decades of dedication, cultureandcommunitythismonth.

WCA was inaugurated on 14 June, 2006, and president Albert Yew said the 20th anniversary is a testament to the association’sresilience.

“It represents 20 years of dedicated volunteers providing a support network, helping seniors navigate services, and preserving cultural heritage for younger generations,”MrYewsaid.

Hesaidheismostproudofhowvolunteers have helped bridge language gaps particularly by translating critical health informationduringthecovidpandemic.

“When official health information was rapidly changing, volunteers translated complex updates into Mandarin, ensuring vulnerable seniors are not left behind,“ he said.

HealsohighlightedhowWCAhasworked

tocombatisolation.

“I am very proud that WCA [is] moving beyondsocialeventstobecomeanessential community lifeline, [and has] delivered care packages, and provided a culturally safesupportnetwork.

“That adaptability and dedication to member welfare, especially during crisis, is aprofoundachievement.”

He said the association members feel a senseofbelonginginthegroup.

“For many local members, it’s likely a proud moment recognising how the group hashelpedreduceisolationandbuildareal senseofhomeinWhittlesea.”

Mr Yew said his goal for the future is to engage more young people and for the grouptohaveitsownlocalbuilding.

The WCA is open to new members who can attend weekly activities and health and wellbeingsessionsinThomastown.

Contact:Albert@yewnited.com.au

Briefs

Police forum

Hume residents are invited to a Victoria Police Hume Neighbourhood Policing Forum on Wednesday 15 July, 6.309.30pm at Town Hall Broadmeadows, in Dimboola Road. The forum will explore topics including crime trends, crime prevention, family violence and road policing. To attend, please register by sending your details to HUME-LAC-OIC@police.vic.gov.au

Copper theft help

Police are appealing for public assistance following a burglary and attempted copper theft in Campbellfield last month. It is understood an unknown male driving a gold Ford sedan bearing stolen registration plates ‘2DM2DD’ entered the warehouse of a business on Sydney Road, Campbellfield, at 5pm on Friday 22 May. Police have released images and CCTV footage of a male who they believe can assist with the investigation. He was seen wearing a baseball cap, a black “Stussy” hooded jumper jumper, black tracksuit pants, and yellow runners. Police understand the male looked around the warehouse for a time, before putting a length of copper inside the vehicle. A business employee exited a nearby building and approached the male who then allegedly returned the copper before leaving the scene prior to police arrival.

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Reset your health with exciting End of Financial Year

As locals look for ways to reset their health and wellbeing ahead of the new financial year, Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre (TRAC) and Mill Park Leisure (MPL) are inviting the community to take the first step with a limited-time End of Financial Yearoffer.

Running from 16–29 June, the campaign gives new and returning members the chancetoenjoy28daysfreewith$0joining fee on selected memberships, making it easier than ever to prioritise fitness without theupfrontcostbarrier.

BothTRACandMPLhavebecomevibrant community hubs where people of all ages and abilities can feel supported in their healthjourney.Fromstate-of-the-artfitness facilities to a wide variety of group exercise classes-includingtheincreasinglypopular Reformer Pilates - there’s something for everyone,whetheryou’rejuststartingoutor lookingtoelevateyourroutine.

TRAC’s venue manager Jarrad Carrey said the EOFY campaign is the perfect opportunity to build positive habits in a welcomingenvironment.

“At TRAC, we’re proud to offer a space where the community can come together to focus on their health and wellbeing. Whether it’s trying a new fitness class or simply getting back into a routine, we’re here to support every step of the journey in asafeandinclusiveenvironment,“hesaid.

Similarly, MPL continues to provide a supportiveandengagingspaceformembers tostayactiveandconnected.

“Mill Park Leisure is a fitness venue that takes wellbeing to the next level. It’s a place where people can meet, connect and feel motivated,” said venue manager Ryan Mifsud.

“Our range of programs and classes

are designed to suit all levels, helping our community stay active while enjoying a strongsenseofbelonging.”

With expert staff, diverse programs and a strong focus on community, both venues

provide the ideal environment to try something new, stay motivated and meet like-mindedpeople.

Takeadvantageofthislimited-timeEOFY offerandinvestinyourhealthtoday.Signup

viathewebsite: • Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre:https://www.trac.com.au/ • Mill Park Leisure: https://www. millparkleisure.com.au/

Homes designed for a new era of value and functionality

With affordability pressures and certainty concernscontinuingtogrow,expectations around what a home should provide, and how it should perform are changing. We’reseeingthisshift,withmorescrutiny placedonlong-termlivability,withbuyers needing the confidence that their homes betterreflecttheneedsofreallife.

It’s easy to get caught up on inclusions, size and the number of amenities. Far too often buyers have been left with oversized layouts, disconnected spaces andday-to-daylivingthatisspreadtoofar apart.

We’re seeing size become less of a primary factor in the decision-making, and day-to-day functionality becoming farmorepresent,includinghoweasilyyou move through spaces and adaptability of the home as life changes. This has created a strong shift towards efficient use of space, stronger zoning, connected living andfutureflexibility.

A well-designed home prioritises right-sized spaces, convenient clustering and natural flow, brings key living areas together, and increases functional space. Itconsidershowpeoplecook,move,gather and live, so the home flows naturally betweenspaces.

The evolution of our designs reflects this shift. With brand new Collections, and refined house designs that improve day-to-day usability while maintaining long-termvalue.

This approach prioritises long-term livability as a key design pillar. We know that as families grow and change, spaces need to adapt, supporting different life stages and helping reduce the need for future moves. Smart layouts provide confidence that your home has been designed for the long term, protecting liveability,whilstprovidingpeaceofmind thatitwillcontinuetogrowwithyou.

Our Hyland design brings this thinking

to life, prioritising flow, comfort and flexibility. Rather than increasing size, it refines room proportions to eliminate wasted space, maintaining openness. The main bedroom is privately zoned, secondary bedrooms positioned away from central living areas, and centralised core living spaces, making everyday living more efficient, without feeling disconnected.

For buyers needing a larger home, the challenge shifts to balancing space with functionality. Homes for growing families or multiple adult occupants require even stronger zoning and guest flexibility, whilstmaintainingconnection.

Our Portland design responds to this withclearseparationbetweenlivingzones, practical transitions and an architectural approach maintaining design and flow. Features such as cathedral ceilings and a central courtyard enhance light and openness. The true hero is the central

void, which opens every corner of the home to the other. Zoning maintains essential privacy, while the void ensures you’renevertoofarawayfromyourfamily, regardlessofwhereyouare. Byensuringhousedesignsaccommodate the needs of today’s buyers, we provide solutions for everyday living, all while helpingpeoplemoveintotheirhomeswith confidence. While our design pillars drive the functional and livability of our house designs,weplaceequalimportanceonthe journey. We know that certainty in your buildprocessismoreimportantthanever. OurBuildTimeGuarantees*reinforcethis commitment, offering clear and reliable site start and build-time assurances for all of our customers, so there’s no waiting in the dark, with a locked-in move-in month and consistent communication throughout the process. You’ll be able to plan the move, count the sleeps and start thinkingaboutyourhousewarming.

Exploring the health benefits of socialising as we age

People in retirement typically think about eatingright,exercisingandgettingenough rest. But there’s something more powerful –stayingsocial.

Whether it’s catching up over a cuppa, joining a walking group or chatting to neighbours – staying socially active can benefityourhealth.

At Centennial Living, we see the benefits of social interaction every day in our retirement villages. From improving mood to memory, social skills only get betterwithage.

Here are some benefits of socialising as weage.

Keeps Your Brain Sharp: Spending time with others—whether through a chat, a game, or a shared hobby—gives your brain a workout. It helps with memory, focus and even problem-solving. Regular social interaction has been linked to a lower risk of dementia, making it one of thebestbrainboostersaround.That’swhy our village life programs are full of social activities designed to keep your mind activeandengaged.

Encourages Physical Activity: Socialising often gets you moving, whether you’re heading out for a group walk, dancing at an event or gardening with neighbours. It’s one of the easiest ways to keep active without even thinking about it. Our villages offer regular activities, such as gentle exercise classes and social outings, tohelpyoustayactiveandengaged.

Helps You Manage Stress: Having someone to talk to can help ease worries and take the edge off stressful situations. Add in some simple relaxation habits like

breathingexercises,andyou’vegotagreat formulaforfeelingcalmandincontrol.

Supports Healthy Habits: Surrounding yourself with people who care about their health often encourages you to do the same. Whether it’s eating better, drinkingmorewater,orgettingoutsidefor fresh air, your social circle can be a big motivator. In retirement villages, many residents say they feel more motivated to stay healthy thanks to their community’s support.

Encourages Lifelong Learning: Joining a group or club is a great way to keep learning. Whether it’s trying a new hobby or taking a class, learning together makes it more enjoyable—and easier to stick with. At Centennial Living, our village life calendar is full of opportunities to try something new, meet others, and keep growing.

At Centennial Living, we believe life is better when shared. That’s why our retirement villages are designed

to make connecting with others easy and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the social health benefits of group fitness, community gardening, trivia nights or art classes, you’ll find a warm welcome at our retirement village communities.

If you’d like to learn more about living in a retirement village, visit www.centennialliving.com.au or call 1300 098 000 to speak to one of our lovely team members!

Experience the Penola difference for yourself, book a tour

At Penola Catholic College, we know that choosing the right secondary school is oneofthemostimportantdecisionsyou’ll make for your child. You want them to be confident, capable, and well-prepared for thefuture,andsodowe.

From the very beginning students are nurtured to grow as independent, well-rounded young people in a place where they feel safe. Our dedicated Junior Campus is designed specifically for Year 7 and 8 students, providing a

supportive and welcoming transition into secondary school. This tailored environment helps students build confidence, develop independence, and establish a strong sense of belonging as theytaketheirfirststepsintheirsecondary educationjourney.

Once they reach our Senior Campus at Year9,aworldofopportunityawaitsthem.

We offer a wide subject range, vocational opportunities and dedicated learning spaces for each year level that grow and

changethewiththestudents.Thisapproach allows each student to find their strength and passion, all while maintaining our unwaveringcommitmenttoensuringthey feelsafe,valued,andaconnectedmember ofthePenolacommunity

At Penola, students are empowered to become confident, capable young people who are ready to embrace life’s opportunities, achieve success, and approach the future with curiosity and a commitmenttogrowth.

For principal Tracey Kift, the Penola experience is defined by the support and opportunitiesprovidedtoeverystudent.

“The Penola difference is felt in the way everystudentistrulyknownandcaredfor, every pathway is valued, and every young personissupportedtogrowintotheirvery bestself.”

We invite you to experience the Penola difference for yourself. Visit penola.vic. edu.au to book a tour and discover why PenolaisExcellence.

ImportantDates 2026

Friday 14 August 2026 Applications

Friday 16 October 2026 Letters

Friday 6 November 2026 Final

Learning through action at Global Village Learning

At Global Village Learning, learning is something you do, not something you sit through.

Our learners don’t wait to apply knowledge later. They build, design, create,test,andrefinenow.

Whether it’s developing a prototype, workingwithmaterials,orshapinganidea into something real, learning happens throughaction.

This is driven by a simple belief: young people are capable of far more than we often allow . When they are trusted with meaningfulwork,theystepup.

At GVL, Personal Interest Projects and EDventurous Projects sit at the centre of theexperience.

Learners pursue what genuinely interests them while developing the skills needed to bring those ideas to life. It’s

practical,purposeful,andengaging.

There is structure, but it’s personalised.

Learners move through Learning Hubs based on readiness, building confidence andmasteryovertime.

What ties it all together is our vision: empowering learners to build communities that positively impact the world.

This is supported by a focus on agency,

mastery, and community connection. When learners have ownership, feel capable, and are part of something bigger than themselves, motivation takes care of itself.

The result is a learning environment withenergy.Focused.Creative.Real. Not preparation for life, but a place where young people are already shaping it.

Green books now digital

In a move that promises to alleviate the hassle of the traditional ‘green book’, the state government has introduced a digital alternative for parents and caregivers.

The green book, a record of a child’s health and development, has long been criticised as cumbersome and inconvenient.

“The other thing commonly known about the green book is that it’s cumbersome, heavy and messy,” a state government spokesperson acknowledged inapressstatement.

“Peoplehavetolugitaroundwiththem everywhere.”

The new digital version, available through the Service Victoria app and website, aims to provide a more practical solution.

“We’reprovidingamorepracticaloption

forfamilies,”thespokespersonsaid.

“No more worrying about losing the book or remembering to bring it to appointments.”

The information will be stored securely on parents’ phones, allowing them to accessiteasily.

“The information will be stored

safely and securely on your phone,” the spokespersonexplained.

The digital portal will be accessible to parents and caregivers of up to 80,000 new babies in Victoria each year. They can create a profile for their child, including information such as a growth tracker, digital birth certificate, and birth registration.

While the physical green book will still be available, the digital version is intendedtobeusedalongsideit.

“The physical green book will still be availableifyouwantit,andusedalongside the digital version,” the spokesperson said.

Additional features are expected to be addedtotheonlineportalovertime. ToaccesstheParentPortal,gotoservice. vic.gov.auortheServiceVictoriaapp.

By Timothy Cottrell, principal

Our small class sizes and highly experienced teachers are focused on every student being their best and having a successful journey through Lalor North SecondaryCollegeandbeyond.

In my fourth year as principal of our wonderful college, I find myself increasingly proudofourcommunity’sachievements.We are no ordinary learning environment, we are innovative, focused on the individual’s

ability to flourish in learning, wellbeing and community.

Our school is passionate about academic rigour, positive student outcomes and developing young aspirational leaders. With growingenrolmentsatallyearlevels,ourvery beautifulgrounds,andthegreatendeavourof our students in both in their studies and in extra-curricularareas– wecan’thelpbutfeel excited for the years ahead.

Our dedicated staff continue to work hard every day to bring every possible opportunity

to our students to enjoy success. We thank them, and we celebrate the continuous learning of our students.

At Lalor North Secondary College, education is a journey that flows seamlessly from primary years providing excitement, growth and joy into adolescence and beyond. Currently, many prospective new families are contacting us about year 7 in 2027, and it is a great pleasure to share with them the range of innovations in learning planned for the college. Should anyone in

our community know of families seeking a fine education for their children, please encourage them to contact the college to find out more or to enjoy a tour. It is pleasing also to note the many families of grade six children who continue to express interest in our new range of scholarships across the curriculum for 2027. Booking your personal tour with me will be the first step in achieving your child’s best opportunity to discover and achieve their goals.

Aspire to be Dux at Hume Anglican Grammar, Donnybrook

Hume Anglican Grammar is growing, and so are the opportunities on offer for our students.

LocatedinMelbourne’snortherngrowth corridor, Hume Anglican Grammar is a flourishing co-educational P-12 school growing alongside its community. With affordable fees, values-based primary and secondary education and a strong commitment to fostering a love of learning, the school provides a supportive environment where students are encouragedtoembracenewopportunities, pursuetheirinterests,andbecomelifelong learners.

With three thriving campuses and a fourth on the way, we are proud to celebratetheachievementsthatreflectour continueddevelopment.Aswelookahead, we are excited to recognise a significant milestone for our Donnybrook Campus, which will welcome its first VCE cohort in 2027,andtheirveryfirstgraduatingYear12 cohortin2028.

In honour of this significant moment in our history, we are formally announcing our Aspiring Dux Scholarship, which will be available to Donnybrook Campus students entering Year 11 in 2027. Internal and external applications are welcome, with the value of the scholarship ranging from80-100percentfeeremission.

As one of our younger campuses, Donnybrook offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to encourage both learning and wellbeing. Whether their interest is in the arts, leadership, sport or engineering, Hume Anglican Grammar empowers its students to challenge themselves, discover their strengths and realisetheirpotential.

A signature building of the campus is theSTEMCentre,whichprovidesstudents with access to purpose-built spaces and specialised equipment for technology and hands-onlearning.

Designed to inspire creativity, collaboration and critical thinking, the STEM Centre reflects the school’s

commitment to preparing students for the future; every building, classroom and openspacehasbeendesignedwithstudent learningandwellbeingatitscore.

In 2025, the Hume Anglican Grammar Dux achieved the highest ATAR possible and we believe our first Donnybrook

CampusDuxcouldsimilarlysetthebar.If youthinkthiscouldbeyou,applytoday!

For more information, head to our Aspiring Dux Scholarship page at https:// www.humegrammar.vic.edu.au/aspiringdux-scholarship. Phone 03 8339 6900 or emailinfo@humegrammar.vic.edu.au

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Menergise men’s walk and talk

Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House. A nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze. 0475 454 133

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

Senior citizens meet

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the corner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park. Liz, 0433 249 995

Craigieburn Probus Club

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

Inclusive tennis

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

Mernda Repair cafe

Located at Mernda Neighbourhood House, the Mernda Repair Café will be open monthly for residents to come and have their faulty or broken items fixed. Staffed by skilled volunteers from the community. A range of repairers will be available at each session with skills in repairing items including bikes, small electrical items, clothing and jewellery.

Mernda Repair Cafe Facebook page for bookings each month.

Regular Storytime for Kids

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

Little Diggers

Each week, Little Diggers provides creative craft activities and movement based games for children (eg: hide and seek, duck- duckgoose, grandmothers footsteps, charades etc.).Thursdays 3.30-5pm. Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown. Please note, children must be accompanied by a carer (16+).

0488 224 439 or manager@tnh.org.au

All Seasons

All Seasons provides young adults living with disabilities and their friends, family and carers, with the opportunity to garden, craft, recycle, be creative and connect nature in a supportive setting. Tuesdays 10am-noon. Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown.

0488 224 439 or manager@tnh.org.au

Recycled Teenagers Group for seniors

Come and join the Recycled Teenagers every Tuesday between noon-3pm. Play Bingo, hold games days and enjoy monthly lunches. A $10 yearly fee, includes tea, coffee and afternoon tea every week. Natasha, 0408 561 597

HUME U3A

Health and Wellbeing as you age is our FOCUS. Join our community and engage in activities that enrich your body, mind and spirit. Our doors are open, please come in at the Gladstone Park Community Centre 13 South Circular Road Gladstone Park. 9330 3239, secretary@humeu3a.org.au, or https://humeu3a.org.au/

Bridgewater Retirement Village Dance

Bridgewater Retirement Village is holding a free afternoon dance. There will be a bit of line dancing and some new vogue. The dance will occur on the third Sunday of every month, 1pm start. Everyone is welcome. Address 9 Wedgewood Road Roxburgh Park. Liz Munro 0409 712 613

Craigieburn Country Women’s Association

The Craigieburn Branch of CWA welcomes women of all ages to their meetings and craft sessions which are held on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Meetings begin at 10.30am followed by lunch and a craft or socialising session. Meeting venue is St Thomas’s Uniting Church corner of Rayfield and Dianne Avenues in Craigieburn. craigieburncwa@gmail.com or Karen, 0499 821 754

Gladstone Park Probus Club

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

Hall, 88 South Circular Road, Gladstone Park. Visitors and new members welcome. Chris, 0422 017 907

Bundoora Probus

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

Leanne 0419 004 997

Young parents group

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

Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819

Community singing group

Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing. Sonja, 0429 587 285

Chatty Cafe

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

https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/

TAC L2P Program

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

supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.

Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

Adult education

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills. 9309 8531

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk. https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

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

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

Craft and Conversation

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

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Strange garden will grow

Create your very own curvy cardboard creation for the Strange Garden in a new interactiveschoolholidayworkshop.

Artist Eliza-Jane Gilchrist will host a number of workshops over the winter schoolholidaysstartingfromWednesday1 July for children to add their own piece to the Strange Garden.

With hands-on guidance, kids (and grown-ups) will build their own floral creations and add them to a growing cardboard garden.

The garden begins with big, flowing cardboard flowers and slowly spreads through the room as each new creation is added.

Gilchrist, a sculptor, said she created the immersive exhibit and workshop around exploring her own garden.

“The installation that I do with the children is they come in, and I have these sculptural forms that are large and they resemble plants or trees or flowers,” she said. “They have all kinds of holes and receptacles so that the children can make a smaller, strange plant and plant it in the garden.”

By the end of the workshop, kids and their parent helpers will have their own piece to add to the growing exhibition,

becoming part oftheartwork.

“Because it’s a strange garden, it means they can’t go wrong,” Gilchrist said.

“It’s very abstract, just about following your curiosity, and finding shapes that you find interesting so it kind of makes a really beautiful installation.”

The workshops run for one hour, and are designed for children aged six and over.

The workshops will be held over various times from Wednesday 1 July until Friday 3 July.

Bookings are essential, with each ticket a cost of $5. Details: https://tinyurl. com/2wrdbw2s

Rousay to bring soundscapes to Substation

Acclaimed Canadian-American sound artist Claire Rousay returns to Australia next month and will be stopping by The Substation in Newport as part of her nationaltour.

Now based in Los Angeles, Rousay is primarily known for composing highly emotive, whisper-quiet musical works that feature sound design elements like haptic soundandfieldrecordingsaugmentedwith strings, piano, electronic melodies and textures.

Her albums in this vein – on celebrated labels like Thrill Jockey and Shelter Press

– gained her notoriety in the international ambientandexperimentalcommunity.

However, throughout her career Rousay has remained stylistically mercurial, with hermorerecentworkincorporatinggeneric elements from rock, electronic, hyperpop, noise,folk,freejazz,andmore.

Rousay has performed at esteemed festivals and venues internationally including Unsound in Poland, Big Ears in the USA and both Rewire and Le Guess Who in the Netherlands. She’s installed or exhibited her work at ICA in London and the Art Gallery of NSW in Sydney, while

also giving artist talks and workshops at renownedinstitutionsworldwide.

Joining Rousay at The Substation and on therestofhernationaltourwillbeAustralian artist and musician Lisa Lerkenfeldt who mixes classical instrumentation with endless piano and tape loop variations and multi-layeredarrangements.

Claire Rousay and Lisa Lerkenfeldt perform at The Substation in Newport from 7.30-10pmonSaturday18July.

Ticketsareonsalenow.Bookings:https:// thesubstation.org.au/program/clairerousay-and-lisa-lerkenfeldt-room40

Magic and laughter electrify South Morang

Kick off the winter school holidays with ABRACADABRA, a fantastic family magic show set to light up South Morang.

This exciting show will take over the Yan Yean Theatre at the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre on Monday 29 June.

Prepare to be dazzled by unreal illusions, non-stop fun and audience interactions as the star of the show Luke Blaze embarks on a magical adventure.

Witness jaw-dropping tricks and hilariousmomentsthatgetthewhole crowd involved.

Expect surprises around every corner as magic leaps off the stage andimaginations runwild.

ABRACADABRA is a perfect family outing set to keep kids on the edge of their seats and adults amazed from start to finish.

The show starts at 11am and runs for 60 minutes with no interval.

Tickets are available to purchase online: https://www.pracc.com.au/ Whats-On/All-Events/Abracadabra

Lights, laughter, action as Moonlite Theatre stages interactive show

Find yourself a part of the performance at Moonlite Theatre’s interactive theatre show.

The community theatre initiative is inviting residents to step into the spotlight with a morning of improvisation, radio play readings, and interactive theatre fun coming to Bacchus Marsh next month.

BaccChat Interactive Theatre is set to be held at the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh on Saturday 4 July between 10am and noon, offering a welcoming space for peopletoexploreperformanceinarelaxed social setting.

Theeventencouragesaudiencemembers to become part of the action through

a range of interactive improvisation activities and opportunities to read and perform radio plays.

Organisers say the program is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience. No theatre experience required is a key focusoftheevent,withparticipantsinvited to simply come along, have a laugh, and takeadvantageofthecreativeatmosphere.

The morning aims to bring people together through storytelling, performance, and collaboration, while alsoprovidinganopportunitytomeetnew peopleandbuildcommunityconnections. Alongside the theatre activities,

attendees will be able to enjoy a complimentary morning tea.

The event works to promote the idea that everyone has a story to tell, encouraging residents and avid thespians to discover the joy of interactive theatre in a friendly, fun, and supportive environment.

Whether you are an aspiring performer, a fan of radio dramas, or simply looking forauniquecommunityactivity,BaccChat Interactive Theatre promises an engaging and entertaining experience.

People of all ages and backgrounds are invited to come along and join in on the fun and experience the excitement of live, interactivestorytelling.

ACROSS

1 Dessert made with milk and eggs (7)

5 Large printed pictures (7)

9 Short pistol (9)

10 System of principles (5) 11 Perquisites (6)

12 Confirming (8)

14 Playing cards (6)

15 Brand of car, Mercedes – (4)

19 US state (4) 20 Governing body (6)

24 Compelling charm (8)

25 Hindu deity (6)

27 Establish by law (5)

28 From São Paulo, say (9)

29 Completely (7) 30 Screw in (7)

Inveigle (6)

Kitchen gadget (8) 8 Daydream (8) 13 Seemingly (10) 16 Most rapid (8) 17 Clouded eye lens (8) 18 Featuring as a principal performer (8)

21 Female organ of a flower (6)

22 Economy (6)

23 Large piece of artillery (6)

26 Truth (4)

3

5

the nine letters in the

Today’s Aim:

17 words: Good 25 words: Very good 34 words: Excellent

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”. E M D C A D E L I

1 Which Russian novelist wrote Crime and Punishment?

2 Which country is Borat, played by Sacha Baron Cohen (pictured), from?

3 Which basketball team holds the most NBA championship titles?

4 What type of machine would require a bobbin?

5 Where in Northern Ireland can you find the majority of the

7 How many petals does a pansy have?

8 In the nursery rhyme Jack Be Nimble, what must Jack jump over?

9 What is the standard measurement of gravity on Earth’s surface?

10 Which band released Don’t Dream It’s Over in 1986?

RATINGS

Looks: 7.5

Performance: 7.5

Safety: 5

Thirst: 7.5

Practicality: 7

Comfort: 7

Tech: 7.5

Value: 7

Overall: 7

Alfa Romeo’s face of fun

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Alfa Romeo Junior is a replacement for the previous Mito and Giulietta hatches.

And while the small crossover adds an interesting dimension to Alfa’s growing SUV lineup, they can keep the name.

Initially called Milano, parent company Stellantis opted to change the name after the Italian government objected. It argued that it was illegal to sell ’Italian-sounding’ products that were not produced in Italy and sure enough Junior is built in Tychy, Poland.

Don’t know how they came up with Junior, but it just sounds so American and at the moment that’s probably not a good thing in the current political climate.

A replacement for Mito and Giulietta, the crossoverisavailableinhybrid(Ibrida)and fully electric (Electtrica) form and shares a platformwiththeFiat600andJeepAvenger, as well as the Peugeot 2008.

Styling

Junior comes in two flavours: hybrid Ibrida and fully-electric Electtrica, priced from $45,900 and $57,900 respectively – plus on-road costs.

All colours except white add $1990, with the only option a sunroof at $1990.

From the stitching on the seats to the placement of controls, every detail reflects Alfa’s dedication to creating a vehicle that is not only beautiful, but also a joy to drive.

Standard features include 18-inch alloys, two-tone paint, gloss black body kit, ‘Spiga’ seats trimmed in a combination of cloth and artificial leather with red finishes, single-zone climate air (no rear vents), heatedfrontseats,withmassageandpower adjustment for the driver, leather steering wheel, aluminium pedals and door sills plus eight-colour ambient interior lighting.

Other features include LED matrix headlights, LED tail lights, active park assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic signrecognition,autohighbeam,autolights and wipers, frame-less auto-dimming rear view mirror, front, side and rear parking sensors, plus a hands-free power tailgate.

The Alfa Romeo Junior is backed by a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, with five-year roadside assistance.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of a 10.25-inch inset touchscreen, with another 10.25-inch screen for the stylised ‘cannocchiale’ instrument cluster.

There’s also Bluetooth, voice control, AM/FM and DAB + digital radio, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto and six-speaker sound.

Though not branded, the latter is actually quite good.

A wireless charge pad carries the ‘Biscione’ logo, with front USB-A and -C portsandanotherrearUSB-CportplusAlfa Connected Services.

Safety

Junior has not been rated for crash safety yetbytheANCAPorganisation.However,it offersanarrayofdrivingassistancefeatures, includingsixairbags,automaticemergency braking and Level 2 autonomous driving.

Autonomous Emergency Brake Control with Vulnerable Road User Detection (pedestrian and cyclist detection).

There’s also blind-spot monitoring, intelligent speed control with traffic sign recognition, drowsy driver alert, lane keepingassist,trafficjamassist,360-degree parking sensors with active park assist and 180-degree rear camera.

We’ll update our safety rating after the car has been tested.

Engines/transmissions

The self-charging mild hybrid features a 1.2-litre three-cylinder Miller cycle engine with variable-geometry turbo and distributionchainformaximumreliability, together with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery and 21kW electric motor.

Producing 107kW of power and 230Nm of torque, drive is to the front wheels through a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

Driving

At a compact 4.17m in length, it includes several links to Alfa Romeo heritage.

An updated version of the triangular grille is accentuated by a black grille with Alfa Romeo signature in acrylic, paying homagetotheAlfaRomeosportscarsofthe 1920s and 1930s.

The protruding front number plate mount attracts plenty of comment and is obviously an add-on for countries like ours that require a front plate to be displayed.

Insidethedriver-centricdesigndeliversa unique and sporty driving experience.

However, there’s plenty of cheap plastic to be found in the cabin if you go looking and the cupholders in the doors will not accommodatesportsbottles,butthecentre console with sliding lid hides a surprising amount of storage.

There are no door pockets at all in the

back, rear legroom is severely limited depending on placement of the front seats and the cheap plastic hinge used for the parcel shelf over the luggage pulled free, suggesting a limited service life.

We also cut the back of our hand on the driver seat mount while trying to remove the front mat from the foot well.

The 10.25-inch instrument cluster and its historical cannocchiale (telescope) design adds to the drama of the drive experience.

But we found it difficult to find a happy balance between front legroom and distance to the steering wheel – it’s one of the other.

Insetinthedashboardandtiltedtowards the driver, a slick 10.25-inch infotainment display can be customised via quick and easydraganddrop,butwasdifficulttoback out of some menus.

The team that worked on the ride and handling was the same as the one that developed the Giulia GTA.

Thetargetwasbest-in-classroadholding, with direct steering calibrated to be extremelyprecise,toenhanceroadholding.

How’d they do?

Evaluating the performance of a car without first checking out the specs is an interesting proposition, a bit like tasting wines blindfolded.

Without knowing what’s lurking under the bonnet, you tend to avoid bias and expectations of any kind.

For instance, if you know it’s a V8, you tend to expect big things.

On the other hand, a small three-pot is liabletobegreetedwithderisionbyadriver, resigned to the fact the drive experience isn’t going to be much fun.

As it turned out the Ibrida happens to be plenty fun, despite its diminutive 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine – or 1200cc in motorcycle speak.

Helpingtoturnthingsaroundisavariable turbochargerplusfurtherassistancefroma battery and small electric motor.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes some 8.9 seconds and it has a top speed of 206km/h – around the same figures as our first generation Swift GTI (it too was fun).

It’s also one-tenth quicker than the Electtrica version.

With a 44-litre tank, fuel consumption is a claimed 4.1L/100km (WLTP) and it takes 95 premium unleaded.

Under hard acceleration the raspy note from the petrol engine quickly confirms its three-cylinder status.

While powering into our first corner

under brakes was also enlightening. They’ve taken the time to set it up right because the Junior is clearly no run of the mill shopping trolley.

At the same time compact dimensions and basic torsion beam rear suspension see the car become unsettled on secondary roads, with some skipping evident in corners.

In stark contrast Ibrida offers a smooth driving experience around town, with the option of pure electric mode if required.

This is possible not only during parking manoeuvres or at low speeds in urban areas, but also out of town with a limited load at highway speeds.

The electric motor provides additional power when needed and regenerates energy during braking phases.

As with most twin-clutch transmissions, it occasionally becomes confused, especially in stop-and-go city traffic.

DNA drive mode provides Dynamic, Natural and Advanced Efficiency options with specific steering and accelerator calibrationfordifferentscenarios–inother words Sport, Normal and Eco.

Advanced Efficiency is calibrated for maximum energy efficiency by reducing consumption without affecting driving pleasure, but unfortunately the system defaults to Natural.

We were getting 5.5L/100km after just over 670km of mixed driving at an average 62km/h, including a return trip down the coast – highway driving does not generally favour hybrids.

Interestingly, however, the long-term average at a much slower 39km/h was 6.7L/100km, even though it must have included more city driving.

Luggage space is a generous 415 litres with both seat backs raised.

A tyre repair kit is standard.

Summing up

Much better than Mito, the Junior is a little trier.

It goes hard, doesn’t use much fuel and is relatively cheap to buy. As such it is likely to hip, young up and coming professionals with money on their hands and an apartment in the city.

Old folks could well find the Junior an appealing runaround too and for all the same reasons – shame about the name.

You’d think ’Minore’ or ’Giovane’ which basically mean the same thing might have been a better option. Si?

Hume keeps on winning

By Tara Murray

Hume City’s momentum continues to roll on in the National Premier League competition.

After a week off, Hume was back in action on Saturday against bottom side Green Gully.

While it was second against bottom, the match was a lot closer than that.

The Cavaliers scored the only goal in the first half and extended the lead to 2-0 in the 52nd minute.

There was no panic from Hume as it scored three goals to come from behind and win 3-2.

Hume coach Nick Hegarty said it was a

bit of an interesting game.

“We showed some good character and got the job done,” he said.

“We had the week off and it gave them [the Cavaliers] time to work on things and it stopped a bit of our rhythm a little bit.

“They’re in a false position in my eyes. They have 6-7 really talented players and they’ve found a habit of losing.”

Hegarty said they made it hard for themselves early as they made some mistakes which the Cavaliers capitalised.

But as the group has all season, they’ve responded.

“We made a couple of mistakes, that happens in football,” he said.

“It’s an easy thing to feel sorry for yourself. We responded and it was about our principles and what we did next.”

Hume remains in second spot, one point behind ladder leaders Oakleigh Cannons.

Hegarty said they felt they had overachieved on what they were thinking at the start of the season.

“We’re in a position to do something,” he said. “We take each week as it comes and there’s nine rounds to go.

“We had some really good goals that we had in mind and we take it per game and hopefully continue the next few weeks.

“If we’re in a similar position we might tweak a few things. We take a step forward

Nic Staropoli. (AFL Media)

Staropoli’s a late bloomer, on draft radar

By Tara Murray

Being on the radar for the AFL mid-season draft has only further motivated Calder Cannons’ Nic Staropoli.

After not being on the Cannons list at the start of last season, Staropoli played six games late in the season.

Coming back to the Cannons as a 19-year-old this year, Staropoli has had a breakout season.

As well as being on the mid-season draft radar, he has been picked for Vic Metro and made his Victorian Football League debut with Essendon.

“Last year having a smaller year, only playing the back end of the season and playing six games, I wanted to get back and play as an overager,” he said.

“It is hard adjusting really quickly to different teammates, different coaches and a different game.

“But I was also keen to come back and show what I could do.”

Staropoli said every time that he had

played with the Cannons he had absolutely loved the opportunity.

He is averaging 15 disposals a game along with six marks as a tall defender.

His early season form saw his name thrown up as a mid-season draft prospect.

It included speaking to a number of AFL clubs.

“It’s a good feeling to know that there are people out there that believe in your ability, that was just a bonus to be honest,” he said. “It came so quickly.

“It’s a surreal feeling, you walk into an interview with scouts and list managers.

“Now you think about it, you get so close to potentially being on a list, you go back and think, I need to work harder and it motivates you a lot to play your best footy, get into good routines and work hard and hopefully get on an AFL list at the end of the year.”

While Staropoli wasn’t selected in the mid-season draft, he has now earned a spot in the Vic Metro squad for the under-18 national championships.

every day and try and get better.”

Hume faces Dandenong Thunder this weekend. Hegarty said they know that the Thunder has a bit of turmoil going on, so it’s a possible “banana peel” game.

He said with the transfer window also opening up, they don’t know who they will be facing.

As for Hume in the transfer window?

Hegarty said they were looking to add just one player.

“The players who have put us in this position, we want to give them the chance to see it through.

“It’s on our own terms and we’ll keep moving forward.”

Bulls add key signings to squad

Bundoora has added some more experience to its squad for the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Barclay Shield season.

Having just avoided relegation as part of the competition restructure, the Bulls are focused on moving up the ladder.

Thilina Herath crosses to the Bulls from Bundoora United.

“Thilina brings a wealth of experience, having played cricket in the Diamond Valley competition for the past seven years,” the Bulls said on social media.

“He is a quality left-handed top to middle-order batsman who understands the game situation and has the ability to adapt accordingly.

“Whether it’s building an innings and rotating the strike or increasing the scoring rate when required, Thilina has the versatility to play both roles effectively.

“With the ball, he is a right-arm off-spinner who prides himself on control and consistency. He can build pressure through tight bowling while also possessing the ability to attack and take wickets when the opportunity arises.”

The Bulls said that Herath will be an asset on and off the field.

Sai Maniveer Dhulipudi has also signed with the Bulls for the 2026-27 season.

Last season he played with the Darebin Chargers in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association Luscombe Shield.

He is one of four Cannons in the final squad.

Staropoli said it was a bit of a shock to be selected in the squad.

“It’s actually very interesting to hear that I was selected to be honest,” he said.

“I didn’t know how it worked, I didn’t think I was allowed as I’m over ager.”

Staropoli said the group were keen to have some success on the national stage.

“Everyone wants to win the whole thing,” he said.

“I want to go out and play my best footy and do all the basics right and hopefully showcase some of my strengths.”

The Strathmore product said the past 12 months have shown him that his dream of playing AFL could come true.

“From when you are six playing Auskick, you always love playing footy,” he said. “It’s a bit of a dream.

“Last year not on the Cannons list at the start of the season, it didn’t seem likely. Only late in the year that maybe it is possible picked up.”

“Mani is a quality all-rounder who brings plenty of value to the side in all facets of the game,” the Bulls said.

“With the bat, Mani is a right-handed batsman with a well-rounded game. He is capable of working the ball into gaps and building an innings, while also possessing the power and attacking intent to accelerate the scoring when required. His ability to adapt to different match situations makes him a dangerous player at the crease.

“With the ball, Mani is a right-arm fast-medium bowler who relies on his inswing and attacks the stumps consistently. He builds pressure through disciplined line and length while always looking to take wickets and make an impact for his team.

“Above all, Mani is a team-first player who competes hard and is willing to contribute wherever needed for the success of the side.”

Pacers ready for challenges

By Tara Murray

Things have gone to plan so far for the Whittlesea Pacers, but they aren’t content in the Big V women’s division 1 competition.

The Pacers sit third on the ladder after 11 rounds having put together a strong first part of the season.

Pacers’ coach Christian Arbanovski said it had been a really good season so far.

“There’s still a lot of growth,” he said. “We’re still building towards the tail end of the season.

“We’re keen to get more wins on the board to get what we want to achieve.”

Having had a new coach and new squad, Arbanovski said the biggest thing for the group had been building that team chemistry.

He said that had come together really

well.

“We’ve got 12 to 14 girls that we have brought in to do what we are doing,” he said.

“We’re seeing the results on the court and at training.

“I’m excited about what we can do with the group that we have. We’re still building and looking towards the end of the year.

“Our best is still to come.”

Arbanovski said the biggest strength of the side was the depth they had across the whole squad.

Like last season, the Pacers can turn to anyone on their bench.

“That’s a strength and it’s one of the reasons we’ve won a couple of games which we’ve been challenged,” he said.

“We’ve had different performers step up in different games. We are aware of that and we’ll continue to use it.”

Arbanovski said while they were focused on this season, there was also a focus on the long term future of the side.

He said they were building a really strong culture off the court and the program is thriving.

The Pacers are seeing every game as a must win in the run home as they try and stay in touch with the top two.

They are only a game behind the second

Jets celebrate record holder Samuel Zumbo

By Tara Murray

One of Greenvale’s greatest, Samuel Zumbo was recognised at the weekend having passed the Essendon District Football League premier division club’s all-time senior games record.

Having passed the milestone earlier in the season, the Jets honoured Zumbo on 20 June at its past players day, with many of Zumbo’s former teammates in attendance.

Zumbo said it was pretty special to sit at the top of senior games played for the club, having played 228 senior games for the club.

“I’ve been lucky enough with my body,” he said before the day.

“It is pretty special and it’s a good personal milestone. It’s always a team sport about winning another premiership.

“It will be good [the past players day]. I spoke to the club to do it on that day considering most of the guys upstairs, I have played the majority of my games with.”

Zumbo said he knew last season he was getting close to the games record before being told he needed just four heading into the side.

He got those four and has played another fivesincetofurtherincreasetheclubrecord.

Zumbo, who was part of the Jets premierships in 2012 and 2013, said those stand out as two of his best memories.

“I can’t go past the premierships early on,” he said. “They are the standouts look back.

“I was so lucky to have played them so early in my senior career.

“It’s been a long time between drinks.”

Zumbo said Matt Smith was one of the best players he had played with and taught him a lot when he was younger.

Zumbo said all his coaches had played big roles in his career, including Anthony Rock, who has returned to the club this season.

“As I tell him since he’s come back that we’re running it back again,” he said.

“Rocky has done so much to help me as a player and person.”

While Zumbo was part of the Jets successful era, it has been tougher going in recent seasons.

The Jets sit bottom with just one win for the season.

“Things are never as bad as it seems and never as good as it seems,” Zumbo said.

“The competition is very even and it doesn’t take much to move the needle.

“Anything can happen and on the day, anyone can beat anyone in the competition.”

Zumbo has taken on a leadership role in recent seasons with a lot of young players in the side.

He said while it makes him feel old, he’s enjoying passing on as much knowledge as he can.

“They can take us forward,”

Zumbo said he wasn’t looking past this season in terms of playing on.

He said he’d see how his body feels at the

placed Altona Gators.

Arbanovski said their game with Melbourne University, which is undefeated, in a couple of weeks would be a big one for them.

“We’ve put in a lot of work into that game,” he said. “We’re excited to go there on their home floor and show our Pacers brand of basketball.

“We’re really excited for the challenge and the team is building really well.”

Before that, the Pacers faced the Collingwood All Stars this Sunday at Mill Park Stadium.

The Pacers were able to lead at each of the breaks on the way to a 61-53 win.

Sharna Ayres top scored with 23 points, while Ivana Vasiljevic scored 13 points.

The Pacers division 1 men lost to the Coburg Giants, 89-85.

Sports shorts

Upfield got another important win in the FV state league 1 north-west competition. Upfield was at home against Geelong on Saturday, with the two teams trading early goals. Upfield was able to get the winner in the 76th minute through Vani Shamoon converting a penalty, winning 2-1. The win takes Upfield to the top of the table on 28 points. Elsewhere, Lalor United lost to Sydenham Park, 2-1.

EDFL

Westmeadows continued on its winning ways in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 competition. The Tigers travelled out to Sunbury to face the Sunbury Kangaroos and jumped out of the blocks and led 34-0 at quarter time. The Tigers were able to continue to build throughout on the way to a 14.11 (95)-1.0 (6) win. Five players kicked two goals each for the Tigers, with Shannon O’Toole named their best. Elsewhere, Craigieburn defeated Roxburgh Park and Keilor Park beat Tullamarine.

Big V

It was a successful road trip for the Hume City Broncos in the Big V men’s championship division on Saturday. The Broncos headed to Gippsland to face Gippsland United and were able to win every quarter on the way to a 111-70 win. Lachlan Wood scored 28 points for the Broncos, while Robbie Heath scored 24 points. The Broncos have one loss for the season.

FV

Uni Hill Eagles and Mill Park were on the winners list in the FV state league 2 north-west competition on the weekend. The Eagles were on the road against the Brimbank Stallions and were able to come away with a 2-1 win. The two sides traded goals in a space of a minute in the first half, before Samuel Hershey scored the winner in the 66th minute, Mill Park was able to account for Whittlesea Ranges, 1-0. Maksim Ilic scored the winner in the 16th minute.

1

end of the season. It was a winning celebration for Zumbo, as the Jets got their second win of the season. The Jets led from early on and were able to come away with a 12.10 (82)-6.4 (40) win.

FOR MORE SPORT

Jets secure a second win

By Tara Murray

Greenvale broke open the relegation battle in the Essendon District Football League premier division competition, not that the Jets are focused on that.

The Jets got their second win of the season, and second against Hillside, on Saturday in tough conditions at Greenvale Recreation Reserve.

It was a four quarter performance by the Jets on the way to a 12.10 (82)-6.4 (40) win.

Jets’ coach Anthony Rock said they were pleased with the outcome.

“We’ve been playing some pretty good football throughout the year but let ourselves down with free kicks the last couple of games,” he said.

“We’ve been in most games bar one, which was the Strathmore game. From the perspective of a competitive point of view, we’ve been thereabouts.

“We’ve had some suspensions and some injuries that hit. We’re starting to get some players back into the fold.

“It was a must win game on the weekend, pretty important to win for Samuel Zumbo as we celebrated his games record for the club.

“It was really about that to be perfectly honest.”

Rock said they were challenged by the Sharks in the second quarter but they still had a comfortable lead at the break.

He said they just had to knuckle down in the second half and keep the process going which they were able to do.

Josh Porter kicked five goals for the Jets, while Riley Leedham kicked two goals.

Porter and ruck Liam Podhajski were the standouts in the win.

Rock said they continue to have a number of younger players in the side which was pleasing for the future.

“We do have four under-18 kids in our team, which is exciting for the future,” he said.

“They’ve played predominantly for most of the year. [Brandon] Sartori is back from injury… his game on the weekend was really bright,

“[James] Manfre continues to blossom, [Lenny] Verga... they are getting used to senior football.

The Jets move above Airport West at the bottom of the table.

Justice times return perfectly for Cannons

By Tara Murray

Calder Cannons’ Blake Justice is keen to let his footy do the talking after a frustrating year so far.

Injuries meant that Justice has spent the majority of the year on the sidelines, only making his season debut against the Western Jets on 12 June.

Justice said it was just nice to get out and play football.

“It was so good,” he said. “It has been so frustrating.

“I was just happy to get through it all, really grateful to be out there again.

“It’s been a long road, just really happy that I’m back. Definitely not my best game, but hopefully it just goes up from there.”

Justice hurt his hamstring in the lead up to round one, and ended up missing 13 weeks having had a quad injury earlier in the year.

He said rehab took longer than he would have liked.

Now he is focused on putting his best foot forward.

“Just be back out there, show my strengths off and show what I’m really good at,” he said.

“Just continue to build that match fitness and show recruiters what I’ve got and just to keep playing and keep building.”

While Justice has been on the sidelines, AFL recruiters have still had him in the back of their minds.

He said knowing that he had put in a good 12-18 months previously had helped with the disappointment of not playing.

“Just like even making [Vic] Metro without even playing this year has really motivated me,” he said.

“Knowing that my name is still out there and people are watching me drives me to become better and just show them what I have and how I can improve from last year.

“I can’t wait to come into the back half of the season and show what I really do.”

Justice said he had a few nervous moments about whether he would still make the Vic Metro squad for the national championships knowing that he hadn’t played a game this year.

He spent a few minutes refreshing his email waiting for the teams to be announced.

Justice said he was unsure if he would playeverygameashehasonlyjustreturned, but was doing everything he could to play as many games as possible.

“We looked at the time frame and we always thought that I could still play it [the national championships],” he said.

“I was just so happy that I made it. It drove me so much further with my motivation and my hard work.

“Training with them is such a privilege

Blake Justice. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 471376_13

and hopefully I get a few games under my belt.”

The Greenvale player said he just wanted to seize the opportunity and show what he could do.

Football has always been the dream for Justice and he said it would mean everything to him and his family if he could be drafted.

Justice has already had a taste of AFL life, as next generation academy player linked with Essendon. His mum was born in Indonesia, which gives him NGA status.

He said Essendon player and former

Calder Cannon Hussien El Achkar, who was in the same situation 12 months ago, had been a big help.

“It has been so good already and really motivates me to be with an AFL club, having that exposure at the start of the year.

“The boys really got around me and I really loved my time there, Even now I’m still there every week, they really help me and supported me during my rehab too,

“I’m really grateful to have Essendon here for me.”

The national championships got underway on the weekend.

After 10 rounds, Hillside has three wins, while the Jets and Eagles have two each in the battle to avoid bottom spot and relegation.

Rock said they were looking at the bigger picture.

“We aren’t talking about relegation, I don’t even worry about to be honest, it is what it is,” he said.

“We’ve just got to focus on the process, and then you get the right deserved outcome.

“We’re looking to be really competitive again in the second half of the year, hopefully win more than we lose.”

The Jets face Strathmore this Saturday.

Meanwhile in division 1, Craigieburn beat Tullamarine, while in division 2, Westmeadows was on the winners list.

Low scoring win

South Morang got the job done in a low scoring affair against Whittlesea in the Northern Football League division 2 competition.

It was tough going for the two teams, with scoring hard to come by.

The Lions led by four points at quarter time, before increasing the margin to 18 points.

Four goals to one in the third quarter in the favour of the Eagles, reduced the margin to just five points heading into the final quarter.

The Lions found the only goal of the final quarter to seal the 6.7 (43)4.12 (36) win. The Eagles kicked five behinds in the last quarter, unable to make the most of their opportunities.

Kaden Isherwood kicked two goals for the Lion. Christian Mardini and Demetrios Constantinou were named the Lions best.

For the Eagles, Thomas Falls, Bailey Robinson and Clancy Bland were the standouts. The Lions sit second on the ladder with a 7-3 record, while Whittlesea sits in seventh spot.

Elsewhere, Old Paradians and Thomastown both suffered losses.

The Raiders were at home against Lower Plenty but struggled to stick with the Bears after half time. The margin was just 12 points at the main break, before the Bears kicked nine goals to three after half time, winning, 14.10 (94)-6.6 (42). Heath Phillips, Liam Mcveigh and Darcy Vallance were the Raiders best. The Raiders sit fifth on the ladder.

Meanwhile, Thomastown lost to Panton Hill, 15.10 (100)-11.6 (72). Thomastown had been in front at three quarter time by 10 points, but scored just one point in the final quarter. Youseph Dib, Lynden Dunn and Jeffrey Garlett kicked two goals each.

Thomastown is bottom, with just one win.