Star Weekly - Wyndham - 24th June 2026

Exhibition explores ecology, technology and memory

Afreeexhibitionexaminingthecomplexintersection betweenecology,technologyandhumanexperience isondisplayatWyndhamArtGallery.

Landscapes-Technologies-Bodiesfeatures immersiveprojections,installationsandmovingimage worksbyadiverseline-upofcontemporaryartists.

AmongtheartistsfeaturedintheexhibitionisWerribee’s Justin Enrico Legaspi. His work is featured alongside creations fromYandellWalton,RebeccaNajdowski,K-Ella.VerellandBSOD, andMelaniaJackwithPattyPreece.

The exhibition focuses on systems under pressure, including fragilewetlandsaffectedbyindustrialextraction,identitiesshaped by digital surveillance, and memories formed through migration and intergenerational exchange. Across the works, landscapes, bodies and technologies are portrayed as interconnected and constantlyevolving.

Visitorstotheartgallerycanexploretheexhibitionfrom10amto 4pmonweekdaysand10amto3pmonweekendsuntilWednesday 1July.

Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/whats-on/landscapestechnologies-bodies

Open library fear

By Laura Michell

A proposal to open Wyndham libraries after-hours without staff has drawn criticism from the municipality’s librarians.

Wyndham council is exploring an ‘open library’ model, which it said would complement existing staffed library services.

According to a council spokesperson, openlibrarymodelswouldgivecommunity members the opportunity to access library facilitiesbeyondstaffedhours.

“The Wyndham community have expressed they would like increased library hours and greater access to library facilities,”thespokespersonsaid.

But librarians are not convinced, launching an online petition against the plan.

The petition, which has gained close to 3000 signatures since launching last week, claims more than 90 per cent of Wyndham librarystaffopposethemove.

AustralianServicesUnion(ASU)Victoria and Tasmania branch secretary Tash Wark said members feared the spaces would becomeunsafeifleftunstaffedafter-hours.

“Council wants to take our community libraries from safe, thriving spaces of learningandcommunitybuilding,andturn themintoriskyplacesthatareunprotected and underserved. This isn’t innovation, it’s a cost-cutting exercise dressed up in the language of modernisation, and our

members aren’t fooled by it for a second,” shesaid.

“Strip out the staff and you strip out everything that makes a library more than a building full of books. You’re left with an unsupervised public space with no one accountableforwhathappensinsideit.”

Ms Wark said that trained professionals are vital for managing daily incidents, including medical emergencies and aggressivebehaviour.

“You cannot replace that with a laminated induction sheet and a swipe card,”shesaid.

“Our union will not accept a model wherecouncil’ssafetystrategyistoremove thepeoplewhosejobitistokeepthepublic safe.”

The council spokesperson said community members would need to complete a safety induction before being granted access to a library after-hours.

“These models are designed to extend openingtimeswhilekeepingastrongfocus on safety for everyone,” the spokesperson said.

According to council, 26 libraries across thestatehaveimplementedanopenaccess model.

According to the council, those sites have successfully provided an extra 1784 hours of weekly access without impacting day-to-day staffing levels, receivingapositiveresponsefromthelocal communities.

Government defends laws

By Glenn Fisher

The state government has defended current laws which prevent caregivers and families from accessing a loved one’s mental health treatment plans as a western suburbs family pushes for legislative reform.

As reported by Star Weekly, Keilor Downs’ Despina Havelas and her daughter Aristea have expressed serious concerns over the lack of information shared by public and private mental health facilities about medication and treatment plans being administered to Despina’s younger sister Dr Anastasia Kalantzis, who died after being discharged from a facility on April 19. Ana’s family is pushing for reform to the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 so that loved ones get a say about a patient’s current and future treatment.

In response to questions from Star Weekly, a state government spokesperson defended the current laws but extended “sincere condolences to Despina and her family at this difficult time”

“We recognise that families and carers play a critical role in supporting people experiencing mental ill-health,” the spokesperson said.

“Victoria’s mental health reforms are built around a more collaborative, person-centred approach – where services are expected to recognise and involve carers wherever appropriate, while respecting the right of the individual receiving care.”

The spokesperson also said Victoria’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 recognises the important role of families and carers, and the government is continuing to implement reforms from the

Royal Commission.

Under the act, mental health and wellbeing services have a responsibility to recognise the role of families, carers and supporters in decisions about assessment treatment and recovery, the spokesperson said.

The act includes mechanisms for a person to appoint a nominated support person to support them to express their views and preferences. It also sets out the circumstances when a person’s health or personal information may be disclosed to family members. The act does not apply to private hospitals, the spokesperson said.

Give us ‘what’s best for the west’ demands rally

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

Residents from across Melbourne’s western suburbs gathered on the steps of Parliament on Thursday 18 June, calling on the state government to accelerate long-promised public transport projects and address what they describe as growing inequality in transport access.

The community-led rally was supported by local community groups Sustainable Cities, Better Buses and the Mt Atkinson Advocacy Forum.

It marked five years since the release of Victoria’s Bus Plan and highlighted ongoing concerns about delayed rail and bus infrastructure in one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions.

Residents voiced their concerns on the long-awaited Melton electrification project, first promised in 2018 but still in the design phase.

Speakers said the delay had left rapidly growing communities dependent on congested roads and limited public transport options.

“We want buses, we want trains,” attendees chanted.

“We want what’s best for the west.” Campaigners also raised concerns about the proposed Mt Atkinson train station, noting more than 5000 residents signed a petition supporting the project in 2024, but that little information had been

provided since.

“We’ve been neglected for way too long,” said Liberal candidate for the seat of Melton Jarrod Bingham.

“People bring up crime and cost of living, but the third highest priority people talk about is transport.”

Residents from Mt Atkinson, Thornhill Park and Deanside told the rally they continued to rely on driving to stations at Caroline Springs, Deer Park, or Rockbank due to the lack of a local rail connection and limited bus services.

Organisers said poor inter-suburban bus links remained a major issue across the west, with travel between centres such as Melton, Sunshine, Truganina, Point Cook, and Werribee often requiring indirect routes, multiple transfers, and lengthy journey times despite relatively short distances.

“We have been completely neglected in the west in terms of investment and public transport,” Better Buses spokesperson Grace Eyre said.

“The bus reform that we’re asking for costs basically pennies on the dollar compared to the Suburban Rail Loop, the Metro Tunnel, or other major projects.”

Speakers also argued transport infrastructure failed to keep pace with population growth, leaving families increasingly reliant on private vehicles and contributing to congestion on major routes includ-

ing the Western Freeway.

The rally also highlighted the impact on shift workers, students, older residents, and people with disabilities, who organisers said were disproportionately affected by infrequent services and limited operating hours outside standard business hours.

Concerns were also raised about the burden placed on women and primary carers, with speakers describing transport access as an equity issue affecting access to employment, education, healthcare, and community participation.

“What I have found is people who are most affected by this sort of thing tend to be new migrants who don’t have driver’s licences or are anxious about driving,” Ms Eyre said.

“Elderly people, people who can’t drive for whatever reason - they expect public transport and are quite surprised when they arrive in the west and don’t have reliable public transport.

“Other people who are affected by it are students and young people, as well as their parents.”

Organisers said the purpose of the gathering was to give residents an opportunity to speak directly with elected representatives about the everyday impact of transport decisions and to seek commitments on improved bus networks, the delivery of the Melton electrification project, and progress towards a Mt Atkinson train station.

‘MAGA’ party seeks registration

Point Cook could soon become home to one of Victoria’s newest political parties.

The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) has received an application from The Republican Make Australia Great Again for registration as a political party.

The proposed registered address of the party is Scenic Drive, Point Cook, with Raj Kumar Saini the party’s proposed registered officer, according to the VEC.

The party’s name would be abbreviated to The Republican, according to a statement released by the commission.

If the registration application is approved, the party would become a registered political party in Victoria and be eligible to contest state elections.

The VEC stated that any objections to the party’s registration must be submitted in writing by Saturday 18 July.

Valid reasons for objection include the party is not an eligible political party as defined under the Electoral Act 2002, the application is not in accordance with the requirements of section 45 of the act or the proposed name should be refused under section 47 of the act, according to the VEC.

Objections can be made to rppregistration@vec.vic.gov.au or posted to the VEC, Level 11, 530 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000.

Objections must be signed and include the objector’s address.

Details of any objections will be de-identified and made available to the applicant.

Small drop in crime rate

By Laura Michell

Wyndham recorded its first reduction in criminal offences for 10 years in the year to March – albeit a fractional one.

Latest Crime Statistics Agency data reveals the number of overall offences recorded in Wyndham fell 0.1 per cent, from 24,244 offences in the year to March 2025, to 24,231 offences in the year to March 2026.

This represented the first drop in the city’s offence rate since 2017 and mirrored a drop in offences across the state.

Victoria Police said this was the first time Victoria has recorded a decrease in crime in almost four years.

In Wyndham, theft from motor vehicles was the most common offence in the 12 months to March, with 3380 offences recorded. This was down from 3879 offences in the previous 12 months.

Breaches of family violence orders also fell, with 1767 offences recorded locally compared to 2081 in the year to March 2025.

Thefts from retail stores increased from 1374 to 1943, and motor vehicle theft in-

Celebrating refugees’ stories

Wyndham marked Refugee Week with a special event celebrating the strength, resilience and contributions of refugee and humanitarian communities, alongside the 20th anniversary of the Wyndham Humanitarian Network (WHN).

This year’s Refugee Week theme, ‘A Million Stories’ , reflects on the journeys of more than one million people who have been granted permanent humanitarian visas in Australia since the end of World War II.

The 17 June event at the Wyndham Community & Education Centre also honoured a milestone for the WHN, which in 2026 celebrates 20 years of service and advocacy for refugee and humanitarian communities across Wyndham.

The network is chaired by Dr Jennie Barrers and comprises more than 50 partner organisations. It has played a key role in fos-

tering inclusion, strengthening community connections, and ensuring people from refugee backgrounds are welcomed, supported and empowered to thrive.

The anniversary was recognised as an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of all who have contributed to the network’s success and its lasting impact on countless lives across the broader Wyndham community.

In keeping with this year’s theme, a poetry competition titled, ‘A Million Stories’ , invited budding poets to pay tribute to the refugee experience through creative expression.

The winner of the adult category was Fulisio Asalemo Tofete, while the youth category was awarded to Nouriat Kanane, a year 9 student from Manor Lakes P–12 College.

Spotlight shines on youth mental health

Young athletes and mental health advocates will join forces over the next month for a series of sport and community events to support conversations about youth mental health.

Organised by Werribee Rotary, the events are aimed at breaking down stigma and encouraging open dialogue between young people.

The program kicks off with a boys under-18 football match, between Werribee and Hoppers Crossing who will compete for the Beyond Blue Cup at Chirnside Park on Saturday 27 June.

Three girls under-17 netball matches will then be held at Eagle Stadium on Tuesday 7 July, where three games will showcase emerging talent from across Wyndham.

The series will conclude with a Youth Mental Wellbeing Dinner and Forum at the Italian Sports Club on Tuesday 14 July.

The evening will feature guest speakers including North Melbourne AFL figures Nick Larkey and Ester Hassett, who will share insights into resilience, pressure, and mental wellbeing in elite sport.

Rotary said the forum aims to support young athletes who may be navigating mental health challenges, reinforcing a simple but vital message: help is always available, and speaking up is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Werribee Rotary said it has long championed youth mental health initiatives, including previous Beyond Blue Cup events and forums that have brought together AFL players, counsellors, and organisations such as Beyond Blue and headspace.

These programs have consistently highlighted the importance of early intervention, open conversation, and community connection in supporting young people, Rotary said.

creased from 1580 offences to 1699, while ’other thefts rose’ to 3144 offences (up from 2884).

The data also shows that most offences were recorded in Werribee (5349), followed by Tarneit (4621), Hoppers Crossing (3791), Point Cook (3009) and Truganina (2137).

Victoria Police said analysis suggested it would take some time before crime reduces further, with the cost of living, recidivism, organised crime and drugs remaining the main drivers, enabled through the increased use of technology.

Regional Operations Deputy Commis-

sioner Bob Hill said while it was 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.

“This is why we are absolutely committed to ensuring our highly trained officers are where they are needed most – in the community, patrolling the streets, deterring criminal behaviour and preventing crime,“ he said.

“This approach is pivotal to achieving Victoria Police’s goal of reducing serious and violent crime by 5 per cent each year.“

New bill targets mayors

By Laura Michell

Councillors will be given the power to dump a mayor or deputy mayor who has lost the confidence of the chamber under new legislation introduced to state parliament.

The Local Government Legislation Amendment (Stronger Communities) Bill 2026 was presented to parliament by Local Government Minister Paul Hamer earlier this week.

It introduces a number of reforms recommended in the findings of last year’s Commission of Inquiry into Whittlesea council, which took place following the suspension on then-Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon.

Under the proposed legislation, the Local Government Act would be amended to enable councillors to pass a vote of no confidence to remove a mayor or deputy mayor from office. Currently, councillors lack the statutory power to do so.

As reported by Star Weekly, Wyndham councillors passed a vote of no confidence in mayor Preet Singh on 27 April, but Cr Singh has refused to step down from the role.

Controversy has raged at Wyndham council since 30 March when it was revealed Cr Singh wrote a character reference for a paedophile in 2024, before he was elected to council.

Under the proposed legislation, the rea-

sons for a vote of no confidence must be provided, and the mayor or deputy mayor must be given an opportunity to respond before any vote is taken.

Mr Hamer said the changes would make it easier to remove a mayor “who does the wrong thing and fails to meet community standards.“

The legislation was welcomed by Werribee MP John Lister.

Speaking in parliament on 18 June, Mr Lister described the situation at Wyndham as a “mess“.

“The amendment will empower councils to hold mayors to account who do not perform appropriately in that role,“ he said.

“I reiterate residents’ concerns: Preet

Pole promotes peace at Iramoo Primary

Students and staff at Iramoo Primary School are giving peace a chance thanks to a collaboration with the Rotary Club of Wyndham.

To mark the centenary of Rotary in Australia in 2021, the Rotary Club of Canberra Burley Griffin, in the ACT, set a goal of 100 Peace Poles donated to 100 schools to recognise 100 years of Rotary service.

Wyndham Rotary has joined the initiative unveiling a Peace Pole at Iramoo Primary School in Wyndham Vale with a special ceremony on Friday 12 June.

District chair of the Rotary Founda-

tion Julie Mason said children are the next generation of peacemakers and the Peace Pole has “good synergy” with school programs such as Respectful Relationships.

She said the message of each pole is “may peace prevail on earth”, a sentiment shared in different languages on the four sides of the pole.

“There are so many layers to this. It promotes the notion that it is within us all to create the peace we want,” Ms Mason explained.

She said Rotary has a long history of promoting peace on the internation-

al stage and the Peace Pole initiative brings that work down to a grassroots level.

Three other schools have committed to installing Peace Poles, St James Apostle Primary School, Cambridge Primary School and Bellbridge Primary School.

“I think it’s so important in the climate we live in now for little kids to know that peace is achievable.”

Ms Mason hopes the Peace Pole will play a central role at Iramoo Primary on special days like World Peace Day and Harmony Day.

Green books go digital as a ‘practical option for families’

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 inconvenient.

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

“People have to lug it around with them everywhere.”

The new digital version, available

through the Service Victoria app and website, aims to provide a more practical solution.

“No more worrying about losing the book or remembering to bring it to appointments, the spokesperson said.

The information will be stored securely on parents’ phones, allowing them to access it easily.

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 intended to be used alongside it..

Additional features are expected to be added to the online portal over time.

To access the Parent Portal, go to service. vic.gov.au or the Service Victoria app.

Singh should resign. The law is changing to further hold mayors like him to account.“

The proposed amendments would also require councillors to take a leave of absence if they nominate for a state election. Mayors and deputy mayors would be required to stand aside from their leadership roles during the official candidacy period.

“It is essential that councils continue to operate effectively during a state election and that the community knows who is representing the interests of the council and who is campaigning as a parliamentary candidate,“ Mr Hamer told parliament.

The legislation will be considered by parliament when it returns from its winter break.

Have your say on gas terminal plan

Wyndham residents are being encouraged to have their say on plans for a floating liquefied natural gas import terminal in Port Phillip Bay, approximately 20 kilometres offshore and east from Avalon.

The terminal would process LNG and feed it into the existing onshore gas supply system using an underwater pipeline.

According to the proponent, Vopak Victoria Energy Terminal, the aim of the project is to provide Victorians access to a reliable supply of natural gas from the global market that can scale up and down to meet Victorian’s energy needs.

Key components of the project include offshore facilities such as a marine berth for the floating storage regasification unit vessel, and marine platforms; a subsea high pressure gas pipeline (approximately 20 kilometres in length); two 20-kilometre-high voltage cables that connect the offshore facilities to the onshore pipeline and high voltage cables.

Onshore facilities are proposed to include a gas receiving station (GRS) and associated infrastructure such as a nitrogen generation plant, a seven-kilometre onshore gas pipeline and tie-in station to the Victorian gas transmission system, and high voltage cables between the trenchless construction site to the GRS.

A new substation will be located either next to the GRS or on Beach Road within the Western Treatment Plant.

Vopak has previously said that the project offers a low-impact solution to the predicted shortfalls in the supply of natural gas to the state as it transitions towards a renewable energy future.

Vopak has prepared an environmental effects statement for the project, which the state government is asking for feedback on before an independent group of experts are tasked with assessing the project.

A draft planning scheme amendment, a pipelines licence application and an Environment Protection Authority (EPA) development licence are also on exhibition for public feedback.

Submissions can be made until Friday 26 June.

Details: www.planning.vic.gov.au/environmental-assessments/browse-projects/referrals/Vopak-Victoria-Energy-Terminal

P-9 schools under review

By Laura Michell

The future of Wyndham’s P-9 schools is under review.

The state government has launched the review in acknowledgement of community concerns about the prep to year nine model used at many local schools.

Local P-9 schools include Alamanda, Baden Powell, Carranballac, Dohertys Creek, Featherbrook, Point Cook, Tarneit, Truganina, Saltwater, and Yurran colleges.

As part of the review, Wyndham residents are being asked to complete a sur-

vey to provide feedback on P-9 schools.

According to the survey, which will be shared with the Department of Education, the P-9 model was established for a smooth transition into the early years of secondary schooling without changing schools.

This is different to the model used mostly across the state, being P-6, 7-12 or P-12.

“We understand many in our community (teachers, parents, students and members of the community) have raised questions and concerns around this model, including that they/their child are hav-

Night market will light up

Tarneit’s Penrose Place will be full of colour and fun as Wyndham’s Firefly Night Market returns to Saturday night.

The market promises a magical winter evening for everyone with an evening of cultural celebrations with market stalls, live music, roving performers, kids’ activities including interactive circus activities and family friendly workshops.

This year’s event features an exciting lineup of performers and experiences for all ages, including the powerful rhythms of WALAKADO Taiko Drumming, largerthan-life characters from Born in a Taxi, and patrons can witness the fiery spectacle of FACE’s Fire Flame Spirit.

Families can join in hands-on fun with NotMy Circus, explorecreativeplay spaces with Playable Streets, and enjoy the quirky entertainment of Burnt Sausages Sau-

cetacular.

There will be more than 70 market stalls featuring local makers, artisans and unique gifts and enjoy a delicious array of cuisine from around the world including savoury and sweet offerings.

Mayor Preet Singh said the market brings together local artisans, makers and performers.

“Local favourite Little Growling Cafe returns with its cosy chai tent, offering the perfect place to warm up with a fragrant chai while soaking in the atmosphere,” he said. “Attendees will also enjoy thrilling fire performances that light up the winter night. It’ll be great to catch up with friends and family, grab a bite and settle in for someamazingperformances,connectwith the community and support local traders.”

Themarketison27Junefrom4pm-9pm.

ing multiple transitions related to zoning for P-6, P-9, and 7-12 schools,“ the survey stated.

Local Labor MPs John Lister, Mathew Hilakari, Sarah Connolly, and Dylan Wight issued a joint statement urging locals to voice whether the model should be kept, modified, or scrapped entirely.

“Should the community support the view that more traditional school settings are preferred, including fully separate primary and secondary schools and P-12 composite schools, then members will support the Department of Education

working with local schools in Wyndham on what a plan to transition schools to these traditional settings might look like,“ the MPs said.

“In contrast, should the community make it clear that they support the current P-9 model, then work will be done with the Department of Education to increase engagement and communication with the community about the P-9 model and its benefits and advantages for students.“

Residents can also provide feedback directly to their local MP.

Details: https://tinyurl.com/2zveet7u

Saturday 27 June 10:00am

Starts at Lifestyle Communities® Woodlea 17 Tranquil Road, Aintree

Hop on our community bus for a guided tour of Woodlea and Deanside — two of Melbourne’s West’s newest resort-style communities.

Explore the clubhouses, tour the display homes, and meet the people who already call it home. Morning tea and lunch are on us. Scan the QR code or call 1300 505 560 to secure your spot. Woodlea & Deanside

Building better, safer lives

A Syrian refugee who arrived in Australia a decade ago with little English and no local experience has carved out a career as a senior engineer working on renewable energy projects that are critical to Australia’s economic future. Another refugee given protection by Australia put his life in danger working to secure the release of the trafficked victims of scammer gangs operating along the Thai-Burma border. To mark Refugee Week ( 14 - 20 June) these remarkable individuals tell their stories of resilience and resettlement.

Jamila Alarkan says she made the most difficult decision of her life after arriving in Australia by deciding to continue with her passion for engineering.

After arriving in Australia from war-torn Syria, Jamila set about improving her English and began the process of having her qualifications recognised.

Since then, she has forged a career in engineeringthatdeliberatelyencompassed a broad range of engineering projects in male-dominated environments. Drawing on her experiences and the resilience she gained as a refugee, Jamila has become a leader in her field. She is now a contract manager for a major engineering company in the renewable energy sector, and has also become an Australian citizen.

“Coming to Australia gave me the opportunity to rebuild my life and my career,” said Jamila, who lives in Roxburgh Park. “I have been able to achieve more than I thought possible.”

Jamila graduated in engineering amid some of the fiercest fighting of the Syrian conflict and the destruction of the ancient city of Aleppo, with friends and classmates being killed. Her undergraduate years were spent studying by candlelight in the bowels of an ancient convent as a bloody civil war raged around her. As the bombs fell, Jamila stuck doggedly to her dream of becoming an engineer, enduring the effects of war, sickness and physical injury to pursue an education and the chance of a bright future.

“Engineering has been my passion for

as long as I can remember. My hero is my sisterDahliawhoistenyearsolderthanme and an engineer,” she said.

“I’ve always loved mathematics and science and when Dalia studied engineering, I loved the drawings she used in her course. I’ve always enjoyed building things and making things work and I really loveproblemsolvingandfindingsolutions, so I knew I wanted to be an engineer when I grew up.”

After graduating, with Syria in ruins and little chance of work, Jamila took the gambleofherlifeandleftherfamilybehind in search of a future.

“If I were to offer advice to someone settling in Australia today, I would say: be patient with yourself. Find what you’re passionate about and hold onto it. Build community wherever you can. The journey takes time, and it isn’t always easy, but it is possible.”

Jamila says the achievements she values most aren’t just professional milestones, but “the quieter ones — becoming independent,findingmyvoice,standingon my own feet, building a legacy, repetition andbeingabletoplanforthefutureinstead of simply surviving day to day.”

“After ten years, I feel a deep sense of gratitude — for safety, for opportunity, and for the life I’ve been able to build here. It hasn’tbeensimple,butithasshownmethat with support, purpose, and determination, starting again can lead to something truly meaningful. I hope that one day my childrenwillbeproudtosharethisstory— not just as a personal journey, but as part of a legacy that carries across generations of Australians, showing what can be built through resilience, opportunity, and giving back.”

Jamila says she is “proud to be Australian-Syrian” and is “equally proud of the Syrian community here. So many peoplehaverebuilttheirlivesfromscratch, working hard, contributing, and doing their best to give back to society. I deeply respect them and feel honoured to be part of this community. Being able to call ourselves Syrian-Australian is something I will always carry with pride.”

Refugee driven by a sense of justice

For almost 10 years, Johny* was one of a loose band of people and agencies fighting to expose a little-known but growing human rights crisis created by criminal gangs.

The researcher and advocate has been working to support and secure the release of the trafficked victims of scammer gangs operating along the Thai-Burma border.

So far, Johny has helped to free almost a thousand unwitting victims tricked into effective slavery by criminal gangs, which operate multi-million dollar online and phone scams with the acquiescence of the brutal military junta which currently rules Burma.

His work put him in danger and Johny was threatened by the gangs and forced to flee with his family.

Now resettled as a refugee in Tarneit, in Melbourne’s west, with his wife, father and two children, Johny is continuing his humanitarian work and also studying, supported by AMES Australia.

His journey as an activist began when set up a small not-for-profit organisation tosupportdisplacedrefugeesinhisregion, mainly persecuted minorities such as the Karen and Chin.

The charity provides food and runs classes for refugee children.

“Westartedoutdeliveringfoodandother aidtosomeofthe11,000refugeesalongthe border. But then we also started trying to help people who had been trafficked and kidnaped by the scammer gangs,” he said. On one trip to deliver aid, he was shot at by the Myanmar military. On another trip, a colleague was shot dead.

Johny said that in recent times, more of his group’s work has been about helping trafficked people. His group and other NGOs have helped in the release of more than a thousand people in recent years, he said.

In one instance, 26 Ugandans were rescued from a compound after being tricked into working for a gang of scammers.

Hehasalsobeenpartofresearchprojects intothescammersfortheAsiaFoundation, the US Institute of Peace and Amnesty International, International Justice for Migrants; as well as research into labour issues and exploitation of migrant workers for the UK NGO Fair Square.

Johny said the research indicates there may be as many as 77,00 victims inside the scam centres. They come from a range of developing countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, the Philippines, Ethiopia, Uganda, Morocco and other African nations.

Johny is a member of the Gurkha minority in Myanmar. There are about 250,000 Gurkhas living mostly in the rural Chin region. They are one of the ethnic minorities who have long been persecuted by the Myanmar military.

He said he plans to continue his work now he and his family are safe in Australia.

“I want to study human rights law and continue my work helping trafficked people as well as research into this area,” he said. “Our work has been about how we can get these gangsters arrested and get justiceandcompensationfortheirvictims. And that work continues.”

Johny said education has also been a passion for him.

“In the worst times in Burma, education became my hope. That is why I continue studying here in Australia - because I want tobuildmoreskillsandknowledgesoIcan continue helping communities both here and abroad.”

*Johny’s full name has been redacted to protect family members still in Myanmar

Ten facts about refugees

1.Global displacement is at an all-time high: More than one in every 70 people around the world have been forced to flee their homes due to persecution, violence, conflict or human rights violations. The figure of more than 117 million people forcibly displaced is nearly triple the 40 million recorded just two decades ago.

2. Almost half of the world’s displaced people are children: Of the 117 million displaced in 2024, an estimated 49 million - about 40 per cent - are under 18 years of age, almost triple the number recorded in 2010.

3. Refugees contribute more to Australia’s economy than they receive in services: Refugees and humanitarian migrants make vital, long-term economic contributions to Australia through high rates of entrepreneurship, regional labour force participation, and essential skills acquisition, according to a UNSW study.

4. Less than one per cent of refugees will ever be resettled: Millions of people are in need of resettlement, but the process is limited, complex and lengthy. Refugee vetting typically takes 18-24 months.

5. Most displaced people stay in their own or neighbouring countries: More than 60 per cent of displaced people remain within their own countries’ borders as internally displaced persons.

6. Climate change is accelerating displacement: Climate related disasters have caused 220 million internal displacements in the past decade, averaging 60,000 people displaced every day.

7. Australia remains a leading host country for refugees: Australia accepts 20,000 refugee each year; one of the highest intakes in the world on a per capita basis.

8. Refugees have shaped science, culture and innovation: Refugees bring essential skills, knowledge and experience to their new communities. Scientist Sir Gus Nossal, artist Judy Cassab, comedian Anh Do, sports identity Les Murray all arrived in Australia as refugees.

9. Refugees fill critical labour shortages: Refugees play vital roles in the care industry, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, transport, tourism and education.

10. Refugees are neighbours, friends and community members: Refugees are more than numbers - they are people with hopes and dreams whose lives have been disrupted by conflict, climate change and threats to their safety.

*Source:AMES

Holly helps amplify inclusion

A passion for planning live events for Wyndham youth has earned Holly Kiefer theOneWyndhamawardforJune.

Holly volunteers with Wyndham City’s Youth Services, within Amplify’s Paradox Committee and also helps out at a local animal shelter, caring and looking after abandonedanimals.

She has been volunteering over the past eight years with the Paradox Committee, delivering live music events that bring youngpeopletogetherandfosterinclusion.

Holly is passionate about empowering young people and is committed to making adifferencethroughherworkwithAmplify and youth-led initiatives that give voice to young people and ensure that young people’sperspectivesareheardandvalued.

As part of her volunteer role within the ParadoxCommittee,Hollyisresponsiblefor planning live music events and displayed strong leadership, organisational and planning skills in event management and alsogainedvaluableinsightintothemusic industry. She carefully curated a line-up for the End of Year event that reflected the energy and diversity of the local music scene.

Holly led the live music events, coordinating a team of volunteers, providing direction, fostering a positive, inclusive environment and provided young people with hands-on learning opportunities, confidence-building experiences, and insight into career pathways within the creative and events industries.

“Hollyisaninspirationalrolemodelwho isself-drivenandworkshardtoachieveher goals,”deputymayorJasmineHillsaid “Wyndham City thanks Holly for volunteering with Wyndham City’s Youth Amplify program for the past eight years.

Her immense contribution has been appreciated.”

One Wyndham recipients are residents aged between 12 to 25 who positively contribute to the Wyndham community andarerolemodelstootheryoungpeople. Eachmonth,councilselectsaWyndham resident to be awarded the ‘Young Person oftheMonth’.

Briefs

Wyndham Business Awards

Businesses have until 5 July to register for this year’s Wyndham Business Awards. This year’s event marks the 30th anniversary of the awards. The winners will be announced at a gala evening on 16 October. Details: ww.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ businessawards

Register your CCTV

Werribee Police is encouraging locals to consider registering their CCTV with them. Police said that anyone with CCTV covering driveways, front yards, streets or rear laneways, or security doorbells that activate when pressed could register to be added to a secure, local database. To register, contact Werribee Police Station via email: NHP-WYNDHAM-MGR@police.vic.gov. au

Bike theft

Police are investigating the theft of a bike in Tarneit on Tuesday 14 April. It’s believed the unknown male entered the parkiteer at Tarneit Railway Station before leaving with a Black Nitro Mountain Bike. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

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Web: starweekly.com.au

Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Rhino flies into new home

Boarding pass? Check. Passport? Check. Two-tonnerhino?Check.

A five-year-old southern white rhino has just completed the journey of a lifetime, flying from New Zealand to Australia to begin an exciting new chapter at Werribee OpenRangeZoo.

After months of careful planning, Nyah [pronounced Nai-ah] arrived from Auckland Zoo aboard a Singapore Airlines flight as part of the Australasian breeding program, which aims to secure a healthy and genetically diverse insurance population for the vulnerable rhino species.

Werribee Open Range Zoo Savannah keeper Resistance Manyepera said that Nyah was calm and comfortable during her journey and wasted no time exploring hernewsurroundingsonceshearrived.

“Nyah is an incredibly playful rhino so as soon as she stepped onto her new home on the savannah, she was zooming around everywhere,“ Mr Manyepera said.

“She was playfully chasing the keeper utes, buses and even the ostriches. Her tail was up in the air as she trotted around smelling all the different dung from the other rhinos, giraffes and zebras. It was incredible to see her thriving after such a longjourney.“

Nyah also shared playful horn touches with female rhinos Sisi and Letaba – an important social behaviour in rhino communicationthathelpsreinforcebonds andprovidereassurance.

“She was incredibly curious about everythingandclearlylovedhavingsucha big open space full of zebra, giraffe, oryx, eland, waterbuck and ostrich to explore,“

MrManyeperasaid.

Preparing Nyah for the international move took months of specialised training. Auckland Zoo keepers ‘crate-trained’ her so she would feel comfortable voluntarily entering and resting inside the shipping container.

On moving day, the crate was carefully craned onto a truck, transported to the airport and loaded into the belly of the aircraft for the four-hour flight to Australia beforemakingthefinaljourneytoWerribee OpenRangeZoo.

Over the coming days, Nyah will be gradually introduced to male rhino

Umgana,withkeepershopefulthepairwill formasuccessfulbreedingmatch.

“Hopefully this will one day result in another rhino calf joining the crash and give our three-year-old calf, Jabulani, a newplaymate,“MrManyeperasaid.

NativetosouthernAfrica,southernwhite rhinos are classified as Near Threatened, with an estimated 15,000 individuals remaining in the wild. They continue to face significant threats from poaching for the illegal rhino horn trade as well as habitatlossandfragmentation.

The Australasian Southern White Rhino breeding program plays an important

role in supporting the long-term future of the species by maintaining genetically diverse populations in protected zoo environments, inspiring people to care aboutwildlifeconservationandsupporting efforts to protect rhinos in their native range. These populations also provide an important safeguard should wild numbers continuetodecline.

Visitors can now see Nyah exploring the savannah at Werribee Open Range Zoo everydayfrom10am.Kidsunder16receive freeentrytoallZoosVictoriapropertieson weekends, Victorian school holidays and publicholidays.

Navel association is anchored by its passionate members

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

The North West Metro Sub-Section of the Naval Association of Australia has undergone one of the most significant transformations in its history, evolving fromasmallinner-westMelbournesailors’ club into a revitalised regional hub for veteransacrosswesternVictoria.

Its origins trace back to 1946, when the Footscray Sub-Section was formed in the immediate post-war period under the then Ex-Navalmen’s Association of Australia.

Early meetings were modest affairs, held in an upstairs room above shops in central Footscray. As membership grew through the late 1940s and 1950s, the group shifted between venues before establishing permanent purpose-built clubrooms in 1961 on Graham Street in West Footscary, onlandprovidedbyMaribyrnongcouncil.

The Graham Street site became a cornerstone of naval camaraderie in Melbourne’s west for more than five decades.

Built through public donations and supported under the state government Patriotic Welfare Fund, the club operated fromabout1961until2017.

During its peak, it played an important social and welfare role, regularly hosting visiting sailors and providing a temporary home base for naval personnel attached to theWilliamstownNavalDockyard.

“It was a very successful Naval club,” North West Metro Sub-Section president DaleBorthwicksaid.

From there, it continued to provide support for naval personnel who were accommodated at the Maribyrnong Immigration Centre whilst working at the dockyard.

However, privatisation saw the crews moveout.

“Unfortunately, that activity stopped after the dockyard was privatised and the crews no longer stayed with the ships in refit but were posted to other ships,” Mr Borthwicksaid.

Combined with an ageing membership base, the sub-section faced a steady decline. Structural issues with the Graham Street building, exacerbated by land movement and prolonged drought conditionsintheearly2000s,ultimatelyled toitscondemnationbycouncilinspectors.

In 2018, a move of the sub-section to the Footscary Park Bowls Club was facilitated by Maribyrnong council, breathing new lifeintotheclub.

However, scheduling constraints eventually created further instability for theclub.

“The committee and members at the

Footsray Park Bowls Club welcomed us with open arms and made us very welcome,”MrBorthwicksaid.

“But unfortunately, over time, the bowls club were holding more functions on a Sunday afternoon, which meant our meetings were cancelled more often than not.”

Over the ensuing years, the club grew even smaller, with members lost through age-related illnesses and most of the remaining members living west of Deer Park.

The sub-section faced times of uncertainty, with the risk of a club closure justoverthehorizon.

However new hope was found as several of the remaining members were also members of the Melton RSL Sub-branch as well as the Melton Vietnam Veterans

AssociationofAustralia(VVAA).

“They suggested that the sub-section explore moving to Melton and meeting at theVVAAclubrooms,”MrBorthwicksaid.

“Negotiations then commenced with the RSL and the VVAA and a successful outcomewasachieved.”

The inaugural meeting at the VVAA clubrooms in Melton was held on 26 May, 2024.

Members voted to rename the group the North West Metro Sub-Section, reflecting both its new base and broader geographic reach, helping the club to achieve camaraderieandinclusivity.

Now firmly re-established, the sub-section is preparing to mark its 80th anniversary with a commemorative lunch at the Melton Country Club on 20 September.

A fresh start in affordable, resort-style living for over 50s

AvingtonLivinginPointCookisredefining over-50s living with a vibrant, resort-style community designed for those looking to downsize without compromise. Offering modern, low-maintenance homes and world-class amenities, it’s a place where residents enjoy the best of both worlds— independenceandconnection.

One of Avington’s standout benefits is the financial freedom it provides. Unlike other retirement living options, there are no exit fees, no stamp duty, no council rates, and no hidden costs. This transparent model makes Avington a smart and secure choice, allowing

residents to embrace their future with completepeaceofmind.

Beyond the financial advantages, Avingtonisacommunitywhereeveryday feels like a holiday. The state-of-the-art clubhouse features an indoor heated pool, gym, cinema, library, and sauna, along with outdoor facilities including a tennis court, bowling green, putting green, and beautifully landscaped spaces for relaxation and social gatherings. A calendar of activities keeps life engaging, whetherit’sadanceclass,craftgroup,ora quietcoffeewithfriends.

Residents consistently praise the warm

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and friendly atmosphere. Sally, a resident since 2019 says, “Avington is such a welcoming community. The people are great. The management is great. I can’t faultit.”

Newly completed homes are ready to move into now, featuring contemporary designs, high-quality finishes, and 7-star energy efficiency ratings. Thoughtfully designed for comfort and ease, these homes offer a stress-free, lock-and-leave lifestyle, perfect for those who love to travel or simply enjoy life without the hassleofhomemaintenance.

For Gary and Trish, who moved to

Avingtonlastyear,downsizinghasbeena positiveexperience.

“We didn’t know how we’d adapt to a smallerhome,butweabsolutelyloveit.“

Withaprimelocationclosetoshopping, healthcare,andleisurefacilities,Avington Living makes it easy to enjoy everything PointCookhastooffer.

Display homes are open for inspection Monday to Friday from 11 am to 3 pm or Saturdaysbyappointment.

For more information, visit www.avingtonliving.com.au o call 03 8400 0408.

A less than jolly royal visit

Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she recounts a drama-filled visit to Australia by Prince Alfred, the son of Queen Victoria.

The morning of 4 January, 1868 heralded a public holiday for the people of Williamstown, for who was to grace the town but Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, second son of Queen Victoria!

ThefirstroyalvisitortoAustraliawastolay thefoundationstonefortheAlfredGraving Dock, a monumental feat of engineering that had taken tons of locally quarried basalt to build, and Williamstowners were in party mode. It had also taken years of civic wrangling, exhausting manual labour, thousands of pounds, and was still unfinished, but none of that seemed to matter. Williamstown was determined to putonagoodshowandenjoyitself.

Prince Alfred was feeling a little less jollythatday.Thecolonieshadtreatedhim somewhat roughly since he first arrived on the Galatea on 31 October, 1867 at Glenelg, SouthAustralia,wherethetemperaturewas doing its best to bake the inhabitants alive. Unaware that he was to face a marathon endurance trial throughout his entire tour, he listened politely to the obsequious word salads uttered by the welcoming committee, made the right responses, and waslaunchedintoadizzyingwhirlofballs, receptions, corroborees and banquets. The grand finale came when 20 huge bonfires blazedtheirfarewells,addingconsiderably tothedangerofbushfires.

Exhausted, he sailed to Melbourne, where 200,000 eager royalists deafened him with cheers, fanfares and yet more interminable speeches. Members of parliament, various mayors, dozens of councillors, more bonfires, and scores of white-clad girls strewing flowers in his path formed the welcome. Brass bands that had been frenziedly rehearsing for weeks blasted their tunes, and 11,000 schoolchildren sang the national anthem. Cricket matches and agricultural shows soon followed, as did military reviews, sporting fixtures, tree-planting, and more corroborees.

A huge free public banquet for the poor was scheduled to be opened by His Highness, with seating for 20,000 low-income citizens. Word sped around Melbourne–afreefeastwasontheagenda! In no time, the venue was surrounded by 50,000 extra persons all claiming extreme poverty, hence eligibility to don the nosebags and tuck in. They waited for Prince Alfred. And waited and waited. He never arrived. Police Captain Frederick Standish –former sly grogger and future Chief Commissioner of Police –became extremely jittery about the ugly mood of the mob, intercepted Prince Alfred en route to his latest test of endurance, and suggested he cross the banquet off his list of things to do. Alfred complied, and the crowds, famished and angry, rushed the tables and brawled savagely for fish, pies, roast bullocks, and five hundred gallons of freewine.

At a military review in Flemington, a cannon salute fired prematurely, blowing off a gunner’s hand. Festivities in Bendigo also had their share of tragedy, A model of theGalateawasparadedthroughthestreet, mannedbyacrewofsmallboysdressedin sailor suits. A shower of fireworks hit the little ship, burning it to cinders and killing threechildren.

Later in the week, a ball was to be held in the newly built Alfred Hall. The interior walls were tastefully draped with calico sheets on which were printed colourful designs. A gas bracket flared, igniting the sheets, and within minutes the hall was a raginginferno.

Having kept an eye on Victoria’s antics, New South Wales saw no reason why Prince Alfred should escape the full treatment. Arriving at Port Jackson, the noble visitor was promptly soaked in a torrential downpour which effectively extinguished both the welcoming bonfires andthetourorganisers’droningspeeches. Ah, well. Behind every cloud is a silver lining … Storms notwithstanding, Alfred manfully did his duty by getting drenched to the bone whilst laying innumerable foundation stones and being deafened by massed bands playing uncomfortably closetohisears.

Impatient to shower the prince with northern hospitality, Queensland bleated indignantly for the royal guest to show himself. Alfred was greeted by a tropical monsoon in Brisbane, where a hot and crankycrowd,tiredofwaitingforaglimpse of him, commenced picking fights with one another and brawled ferociously until beaten back by the mounted police using

equallyviciousdetermination.

Then the people of Ipswich started raising a racket. Ipswich had a substantial number of German settlers, all eager to welcomeapersonagewhomthey regarded asthoroughlyGermanviahisancestry.The unfortunate fact that Germany was not his landofbirthwastactfullyoverlooked.With a fine crash of brass bands, they called for Prince Alfred to show himself to his loyal Germans. Unhappily for them, Premier Sir Robert McKenzie loathed the townspeople with a violent hatred. Ipswich barely saw a few fleeting minutes of the royal visitor before the premier bundled him off to Jondaryn. There he spent a terrible night in Jondaryn’s sole accommodation of a derelictcowshed,fightingoffsquadronsof ravenousmosquitoes.

Enraged at this treatment of a German prince, Ipswich lost no time in constructing,withTeutonicthoroughness, an effigy of Premier McKenzie, which, accompanied by stirring brass bands, was paraded through the town before being burnedtoacrisp.

Small wonder that Prince Alfred, on returning to Victoria, was mentally and physically spent and dreading what Williamstown had in store for him. It was somethingofananti-climaxwhenallwent

off without a hitch, and the foundation stone was laid. Yes, there were miles of flags and bunting, noisy crowds, and the inevitable speeches, but the day was spent in a festive atmosphere, and nobody in Williamstown shoved him into cow sheds or even burned buildings to the ground. To farewell the visitor, the residents illuminated the windows of their shops and homes at night, delighted that Alfred was gliding off to Sydney with happy memoriesofourport.

His pleasure in the last leg of his journey was soon dimmed when on 12 March at a fundraising picnic in Clontarf, Henry James O’Farrell, a rumoured Fenian, fire a shot at Alfred. The bullet was deflected by his braces, and a maddened crowd descended on the would-be assassin and tried to tear him apart. He was rescued by the police for a state execution, and Alfred recovered. He was scheduled to go to New Zealand, but his medical adviser considered that the strain would be too greattobear.

With secret relief, the prince returned to England. Alfred’s ordeal has not deterred other royals from visiting Australia, which, having shown just what it’s capable of doingtobluebloods,istrulyremarkable.

Matildas coaches inspire

By Courtney Black

Young football fanatics’ dreams came true on Tuesday when Matildas head coach Joe Montemurro and assistant coach Joe Palatsides paid a visit to students in the west.

Year 7 and 10 football development students at Wyndham Central College (WCC) heard from the elite coaches on 16 June all about what makes a great footballer - and that it is more than just skill.

In his address to the students Montemurro said real football starts with connection and resilience.

“This is where it’s all at, the love of the game, enjoying every moment with your friends,” he said.

“Any little bit of advice or wisdom we can give to get you through certain things is really important for us.”

WCC football development student Celestian, 15, said it was inspiring to hear from the coaches.

“It taught us more about what we should be looking for in football towards our goals,” Celestian said.

Zephaniah, also 15, said he learnt that having a good character is just as important as being skilled.

“So you can be the most talented player on the pitch but if your attitude is not there, you are not going to get recognised,” Zephaniah said.

WCC head football coach Bily Bosevski said the school’s football development program is behaviour-based first, then performance-based, allowing them to select the most suitable players.

“We want to make them good people both in and out of the classroom,” Mr

Bosevski said.

He said the program had grown to around 150 students with an even split of boys and girls.

“We have had a lot of successes with winning trophies and titles, but is not really our main focus, our main focus is to develop these kids technically, physically, psychologically, and socially so that they are confident enough to play football in the community.”

He said four years ago only 13 per cent

More food for bank at Altona warehouse

With more and more Victorians seeking emergency food relief, the state’s largest food charity has chosen a good time to move into a much bigger warehouse.

Foodbank Victoria’s new 10,000 square metre warehouse in Altona is four times the size of it’s predecessor in Yarraville, with capacity for 250,000kg of food and groceriestobedeliveredthereeveryweek.

The Kororoit Creek Road facility was officially opened on Wednesday 11 June by Governor of Victoria and Foodbank patron, Professor Margaret Gardner.

“That Foodbank has quadrupled in size, is a testament to almost the century of work that’s been involved, and it has depended on community service and volunteerism throughout the state,“ Professor Gardner said in opening the warehouse which has already been operating for a number of months.

“What you do ensures that caring hands reach out to those in need all across

Victoria. Today, 76,000 Victorians will sit down for a meal they might otherwise have missed,” she said referring to the record number of people Foodbank Victoria now feeds everyday.

That figure represents a five per cent increase in just the last month alone.

Foodbank Victoria chief executive Dave McNamara said while having more storage space would help the food relief charity meet rising demand, the new warehouse would allow them to work smarter too.

“The centre provides the technology, the efficiencies and the scale to meet the demands of communities across Victoria,“ he said, before cautioning that coming events will put that to the test.

“But with the fuel excise coming back on very shortly, if it were to replicate the impact that it had last time, we are nervous about another 10 per cent in demand.”

of the students played for football clubs, and now almost 50 per cent do.

“Engagement wise, it’s getting the kids to love school, be at school but also explore football.

“Having elite coaches say the same things that we say has made the kids understand that football doesn’t change a lot.

“It’s more of the hard work and the discipline and the systems they build around it for success.”

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago 25 June, 1986

A Werribee councillor has been caught in the middle of an embarrassing row over the illegal dumping of council documents.

30 years ago 26 June, 1996

The State Labor MP for the Melbourne West Province, Jean McLean has called for a full inquiry into the effect of all chemicals CSR could dump at its proposed toxic waste facility in Werribee.

20 years ago 21 June, 2006

TheWerribeeMercyHospitalwasforced to close its emergency department for fivehourslastThursday.

Faces of the west

10 years ago 22 June, 2016

Crime in Wyndham has shot up by almost20percentinthepastyear.

Each week, Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing people and events from across Melbourne’s western suburbs.

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?

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

With One Voice Wyndham Choir

With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee. wyndham@withonevoice.org.au

Adult community garden group

The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow.

8742 3688

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips. Yvette, 0411 952 706

CWA Werribee South

The Country Women’s Association’s Werribee South Branch is inviting ladies seeking friendship, personal development and advocacy in support of social issues to come and join them. The group does everything from cooking, crafts and raising money for charity. Meets third Wednesday of the month at the Diggers Road Hall, Werribee South at 7pm. Julia, 0409 045 306

Social Pickleball

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

Thee Coffee Table in Manor Lakes

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

Inclusive employment support

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

Wyndham Ladies Probus Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am. Sue, 0448 381 027

Wyndham Probus Club

A social club for retired or semi-retired

people. There is a broad range of social activities to suit all interests such as lunches and brunches each month, day trips, theatre outings and longer trips away. Hear interesting speakers and make new friendships. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Iramoo Community Centre, Honour Ave, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm. Kaye Angel, 0407 551 694, or wcpc1306@gmail.com

Point Cook Combined Probus Club

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

Community Breakfast Program

Life Community Kitchen and Dianella Community Centre are coming to together provide breakfast on Wednesdays and Fridays. The program is free and runs 8-9.30am. dianellacc@wyndham.vic.gov.au

Community Kitchen

Wyndham-based not for profit group

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

Rotary Bingo

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

Lions Club

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

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

Crafties at Iramoo

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

8742 3688

Altona VIEW Club

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

Wyndham Makers and Farmers Market

This market serves as a hub for talented artisans and small businesses to display their unique creations, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and take their ventures to new heights. Food trucks, live music and children’s activities are regular staples. Runs on the third Sunday of every month at Werribee Racecourse. Gold coin entry.

Soulful Spreads Community Cafe

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

National seniors meeting

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

Lizzy Bizzy Food Swaps

Come along to the Manor Lakes Community Centre to exchange excess homegrown food. From vegetables, fruits, eggs to seeds and oils, members of the community are encouraged to participate and help reduce food waste. Runs between 10am-noon last Saturday of every month. Liz, 0448 781 111

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 theStrangeGarden.

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

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

isadded.

Gilchrist, a sculptor, said she created the immersive exhibit and workshop around exploringherowngarden.

“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,

becomingpartoftheartwork.

“Because it’s a strange garden, it means theycan’tgowrong,”Gilchristsaid.

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

The workshops run for one hour, and are designedforchildrenagedsixandover.

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

Bookings are essential, with each ticket acostof$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

A dark look into Santa’s world

The beloved Australian institution ChristmasinJulyisthefittingtimeto talk about some rumours regarding Santa Clause, Mrs Clause, the elves, what happened to Rudolph and with otherreindeerofthepack.

Wyndham Art Works’ strictly adult-only performance of The Eight: Reindeer Monologues will take you onabehindthescenestourofSanta’s workshop to get to the bottom of thoserumours.

Jeff Goode’s play premiered in 1994andhasbeenstagedworldwide. Wyndham Art Works will bring it to audiences in Melbourne at The MC Showroom, Prahran, from Wednesday8JulytoSaturday11July. Wyndham Art Works said the play is not your commonly nice and cosy Christmas story but a dark look into Santa’sworld.

“We aren’t really telling stories of an imaginary Santa, but of real people who sit in a place of power andusethatpowernotonlytosatisfy business purposes,” producer and directorWolfHeideckersaid.

“Santa Clause, representing the commercialised world of the ‘Christmas-Industry’,isontrial.

“The reindeer who spill the beans here are ... representing a segment of society, e.g. business functionaries, LGBTQI activists, feminists, or just self-protecting employees commenting from their individual point of view, perception, and judgment.”

Fanny Hanusin (Dasher), Darren Thao (Cupid), Kay Morton (Blitzen), Sharon Karina (Comet), Joanne Armstrong (Dancer), David Lih (Donner), Isabelle Wang (Vixen) and JoshinderKaurChaggar(Hollywood) willstaras‘TheEight’reindeers.

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 comingtoBacchusMarshnextmonth.

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 socialsetting.

Theeventencouragesaudiencemembers to become part of the action through

a range of interactive improvisation activities and opportunities to read and performradioplays.

Organisers say the program is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of theirexperience.

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 complimentarymorningtea.

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,andsupportiveenvironment.

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

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

Planning and Environment Act 1987

WYNDHAM PLANNING SCHEME

Notice of the preparation of an amendment Amendment C269wynd

The amendment implements the findings of the Wyndham Planning Scheme Review 2024. The amendment proposes to update various objectives, strategies and policy documents in the Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS), Planning Policy Framework (PPF), Clause 72.08 (Background documents) and Clause 74.02 (Further strategic work). The Amendment also seeks to make several mapping changes to rectify anomalies, remove redundant controls, fix errors, update the name of some Government Departments referenced and align controls to be consistent with other provisions of the Wyndham Planning Scheme. The proposed changes will implement relevant new Council strategies and policies that have been adopted since the last planning scheme review in 2013 and 2018.

For further details, refer to the explanatory report about the amendment. Details of the amendment

The Wyndham City Council has prepared Amendment C269 to the Wyndham Planning Scheme.

The amendment applies to all land within the City of Wyndham municipal boundary as it is proposing to change policies that apply across the whole municipality.

You may inspect the amendment, any documents that support the amendment and the explanatory report about the amendment, free of charge, at:

• the Department of Transport and Planning website www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.

• The Wyndham City Council website at https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/buildingplanning/planning-scheme-amendments/current-planning-scheme-amendments; and/or

• on request, during office hours, at the office of the planning authority, Wyndham City Council Civic Centre, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, by contacting 1300 023 411 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.

Any person who may be affected by the amendment may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.

Name and contact details of submitters are required for the planning authority to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend planning authority meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions.

The closing date for submissions is 27 July 2026. A submission must be sent to the Wyndham City Council Civic Centre, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, or via email urbantransformation@wyndham.vic.gov.au with reference to Amendment C269.

OFFICIAL

The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/or on its website for any person to inspect free of charge for two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses.

Yours sincerely

AARON CHILES Manager

Strategic Planning & Property

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which New York Knicks player won the 2026 NBA Finals Most Valuable Player award?

2. And which team did he beat to achieve that award?

3. Which Australian player scored in the 27th minute against Türkiye at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

4. And which Australian player scored in the 75th minute against Türkiye at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Who replaced Socceroos captain Matthew Ryan as goalkeeper in their opening game against Türkiye?

What is the first name of London-born New York Knick ‘OG’ Anunoby?

Which 2026 ABC television series features the fictional Great Southern Football Club?

The NBA Championship trophy is named after which former commissioner of the NBA?

What are the respective names of the 2026 FIFA World Cup moose, jaguar and bald eagle mascots?

10. Who is the head coach of the Australian men’s cricket team?

11. What is the oldest sport on the Olympic Winter Games programme?

12. What is the white target ball called in the game of bowls?

13. The Tour Down Under is held annually in which state?

14. What is the highest individual award in Australia netball?

15. True or false: lacrosse will be contested at the 2028 Olympics?

16. Which country won the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930?

17. When was the last time a host nation went on to win the FIFA World Cup?

18. True or false: no country has won multiple FIFA World Cups this century?

19. Which two teams made the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final?

20. Which team was forced to alter their jerseys before their 2026 FIFA World Cup match versus Scotland?

21. The first Formula One Grand Prix held in Australia was in what year?

22. Sophie and Abbie McKay were drafted to which AFLW club under the father-daughter rule?

23. Who is the current female world surfing champion?

24. The NBA Finals Most Valuable Player award is named after which former Boston Celtic?

25. Tom Mitchell won the Brownlow in which year?

26. Which sport features in the film The Benchwarmers?

27. In 2024, which Indiana Pacers NBA player featured on an episode of WWE Smackdown?

28. Which sport is governed by the ISU?

29. In which year did the Carolina Hurricanes last win a Stanley Cup?

30. And which team did they beat?

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 previousMitoandGiuliettahatches.

And while the small crossover adds an interesting dimension to Alfa’s growing SUVlineup,theycankeepthename.

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 thinginthecurrentpoliticalclimate.

AreplacementforMitoandGiulietta,the crossoverisavailableinhybrid(Ibrida)and fully electric (Electtrica) form and shares a platformwiththeFiat600andJeepAvenger, aswellasthePeugeot2008.

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

All colours except white add $1990, with theonlyoptionasunroofat$1990.

From the stitching on the seats to the placement of controls, every detail reflects Alfa’s dedication to creating a vehicle that isnotonlybeautiful,butalsoajoytodrive.

Standard features include 18-inch alloys, two-tonepaint,glossblackbodykit,‘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 pluseight-colourambientinteriorlighting.

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,plusahands-freepowertailgate.

The Alfa Romeo Junior is backed by a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, withfive-yearroadsideassistance.

Infotainment

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

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

Thoughnotbranded,thelatterisactually quitegood.

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

Safety

Junior has not been rated for crash safety yetbytheANCAPorganisation.However,it offersanarrayofdrivingassistancefeatures, includingsixairbags,automaticemergency brakingandLevel2autonomousdriving.

Autonomous Emergency Brake Control with Vulnerable Road User Detection (pedestrianandcyclistdetection).

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-degreerearcamera.

We’ll update our safety rating after the carhasbeentested.

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 and21kWelectricmotor.

Producing107kWofpowerand230Nmof torque, drive is to the front wheels through asix-speeddual-clutchgearbox.

Driving

At a compact 4.17m in length, it includes severallinkstoAlfaRomeoheritage.

An updated version of the triangular grille is accentuated by a black grille with Alfa Romeo signature in acrylic, paying homagetotheAlfaRomeosportscarsofthe 1920sand1930s.

The protruding front number plate mount attracts plenty of comment and is obviously an add-on for countries like ours thatrequireafrontplatetobedisplayed. Insidethedriver-centricdesigndeliversa uniqueandsportydrivingexperience.

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 amountofstorage.

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, suggestingalimitedservicelife.

We also cut the back of our hand on the driver seat mount while trying to remove thefrontmatfromthefootwell.

The10.25-inchinstrumentclusterandits historical cannocchiale (telescope) design addstothedramaofthedriveexperience.

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

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

The team that worked on the ride and handling was the same as the one that developedtheGiuliaGTA.

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

How’dtheydo?

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

Without knowing what’s lurking under the bonnet, you tend to avoid bias and expectationsofanykind.

For instance, if you know it’s a V8, you tendtoexpectbigthings.

On the other hand, a small three-pot is liabletobegreetedwithderisionbyadriver, resigned to the fact the drive experience isn’tgoingtobemuchfun.

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

Helpingtoturnthingsaroundisavariable turbochargerplusfurtherassistancefroma batteryandsmallelectricmotor.

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 generationSwiftGTI(ittoowasfun).

It’s also one-tenth quicker than the Electtricaversion.

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

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

While powering into our first corner

underbrakeswasalsoenlightening. They’ve taken the time to set it up right because the Junior is clearly no run of the millshoppingtrolley.

At the same time compact dimensions and basic torsion beam rear suspension seethecarbecomeunsettledonsecondary 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 loadathighwayspeeds.

The electric motor provides additional power when needed and regenerates energyduringbrakingphases.

As with most twin-clutch transmissions, it occasionally becomes confused, especiallyinstop-and-gocitytraffic.

DNA drive mode provides Dynamic, Natural and Advanced Efficiency options with specific steering and accelerator calibrationfordifferentscenarios–inother wordsSport,NormalandEco.

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

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 favourhybrids.

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

Luggage space is a generous 415 litres withbothseatbacksraised.

Atyrerepairkitisstandard.

Summing up

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

Itgoeshard,doesn’tusemuchfuelandis relatively cheap to buy. As such it is likely to hip, young up and coming professionals with money on their hands and an apartmentinthecity.

Old folks could well find the Junior an appealing runaround too and for all the samereasons–shameaboutthename.

You’d think ’Minore’ or ’Giovane’ which basically mean the same thing might have beenabetteroption.Si?

Falcons have work to do

By Tara Murray

The City West Falcons added another win to the tally but still have plenty of work to do in the Victorian Netball League.

The Falcons were in action against the Geelong Cougars and jumped out to an early lead.

While the Falcons were able to stay in front throughout, but couldn’t blow the margin out like they would have liked.

After steadying in the final quarter, the Falcons’ won 68-62 to make it three wins in a row.

Falcons’ coach Marg Lind said they would take the win, but knows it wasn’t the game they wanted.

“It wasn’t a pretty win,” she said. “We got out to a 10 goal lead, I think we took the foot

off the pedal a little bit.

“I thought they made some good moves mixing up their midcourt and putting fresh legs through the midcourt.

“When we took our foot off we were playing catch up. We settled in the end in the last quarter and got it back out.

“It wasn’t our best game, that’s for sure.”

Lind said the move of Sussu Liai back into goalkeeper was the key for the Falcons to settle, with Achel Yout able to put some more pressure on out the front.

She said they didn’t change too much in the attack end. Lind said lani Fauonuku did really well when she came on in limited minutes, but they didn’t want to put her under too much pressure.

Lara Turner was again strong in wing defence, while Soli Ropati got some more min-

utes as she returns from injury.

Lind said Georgia Berry was also good when she came on.

Jane Cook finished with 59 goals for the Falcons to lead the attack end.

The Falcons are fourth on the ladder, a game off second spot.

Lind said they just needed to continue to keep winning.

Tonelli’s breakout year on the lacrosse field

By Peter Howe

You could be forgiven for thinking that June Don Deeble nominee Samuel Tonelli had no choice but to play lacrosse.

His father, Richard is the Australian games record holder, mother Christine is on the Footscray committee and sister Mia also plays at Footscray.

“I did give soccer a go for a couple of years, my grandfather played at a high level and he encouraged me to give it a go,” Tonelli said.

“However, when you are born into a club, the club becomes your extended family.

“The people, the culture and the environment become so familiar that you simply feel at home, so lacrosse it was.

“I fell in love with the game because it wasn’t a mainstream sport

“Growing up with a lacrosse stick in my hands became an extension of who I was. It just felt like a part of me.”

Tonelli suited up for his first game as a six-year-old in the under-11s and despite being the smallest player, he was anything but afraid.

He played in the under-11s for four years, winning several club best and fairests with the pinnacle being named the club’s best junior player when he was 10.

Tonelli made his first representative team when he was 13.

“I made the Western Cannons and was selected to captain the team,” he recalls. “Covid interrupted that process and the development programs were curtailed.”

His next representative selection was in the under-15 western metro team, where he was captain both years.

Tonelli continues to grow with focus on his five days a week training regime that includes two nights a week at Footscray Lacrosse Club with juniors and seniors.

“I love playing juniors with my mates then the seniors take on a whole new set of challenges,” he said.

“I am also lucky to be in the Catholic Regional College, Sydenham, Sports Academy.

“I have gym and skill sessions within my school program.

“Fridays I prepare for game day, I focus on my skills, particularly my stick work and then it’s time to watch games that my upcoming opponents play to learn their style of play to be better prepared.”

Tonelli announced himself on the national stage during the under-18 National Lacrosse Championships earlier this year, winning the most vulnerable player award for both the overall tournament and Victoria. His performance at nationals didn’t happen by chance.

From the time Tonelli was selected in

“Hopefully we can keep our high scoring rate up and have a bit more improvement defensively,” she said.

“We’re working hard. I’ve never done as many defensive drills this year as I have before.

“I feel like if we can turn ball over in other positions, that will give us an advantage going into finals and that is what we’re going to need.”

The 23 and under side lost to the Cougars in a high scoring game, 75-70.

Lind said their defence didn’t turn the ball over enough and only a couple of errors cost them.

The Falcons are sitting fourth on the ladder.

The Falcons are next in action on 28 June against the Bendigo Strikers in Bendigo.

Sports shorts

GDFL

Werribee Centrals made it a perfect 10 in the Geelong and District Football League on Saturday. It was a battle between top and bottom on Saturday, with the GW Giants travelling to face the Centurions in a twilight match. The Centurions controlled the match from the start, kicking 10 goals in the opening quarter. They continued on as they won, 26.16 (172)-4.7 (31). Carmelo Saliba kicked eight goals in the win, with Michael Culliver named the Centurions best. The Centurions remain three games clear at the top of the ladder.

VPL

the Victorian team for the national titles he committed himself to be the best prepared he could possibly be.

One of Tonelli’s greatest moments was playing alongside his father Richard.

The Tonellis’ have always been synonymous with the number 16.

It’s his father’s number, and young Sam had always worn it as a junior.

Richard allowed his son to wear it in their first senior game together, but he had to relinquish it after that game.

Tonelli’s strength is as a face-off specialist and is responsible for starting the game after goals and each quarter.

“You must have speed and balance when

facing off,” he said.

Tonelli is focused on his studies where he is looking to tackle a sports science degree.

In his sporting journey, he’s aiming for selection in his first under-20 Australian team and then look for Olympic selection representing Australia.

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

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

It was heartbreak for Werribee City in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition on Friday night. Facing Essendon Royals, the Bees took an early lead before the Royals scored either side of half time to lead 2-0. The Bees levelled the scores in the 70th minute through Dau Akol, before the Royals scored a goal late to claim a 3-2 win. The Bees sit 11th on the ladder with five wins.

FV

Hoppers Crossing had to settle splitting the points in its FV state league 3 north-west match with Diamond Valley United on Saturday. The Reds went a goal down once in each half but quickly levelled the scores soon after. Neither side could find a winner, with the match finishing 2-2. The Reds sit sixth on the ladder.

GDNL

Werribee Centrals had one of their performances of the Geelong and District Netball League season on Saturday. Facing the GW Giants, the Centurions had a 58-9 win. The Centurions started strongly with 15 goals in the first quarter to lead by 10 at quarter time. They continued to build the lead throughout, with the Giants scoring just one goal in the second half. Julia Nash, Jacinta Savory and Alual Garang were named the Centurions best. The Centurions sit ninth on the ladder with two wins.

FOR MORE SPORT VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Suns sneak home for win

By Tara Murray

Wyndhamvale got its biggest test of the Western Football League division 2 season, sneaking home against the Suns on Saturday.

For three quarters, the Falcons had the game in their control and looked headed for another win and keep the unbeaten run alive.

The margin was 34 points at the final break.

The Suns threw everything at the Falcons in the final quarter, kicking four goals to none, to bring the margin back within 10 points.

Time ran out for the Suns, with the Falcons holding on to win, 9.9 (63)-8.7 (55).

Lewis Stanton kicked five goals for the Falcons, their only multiple goalkicker.

JakeWoodandKaiCapovillawerenamed their best.

Joshua Foster and Adam Scrapino kicked three goals each for the Suns.

Foster was named in the best along with Michael Ryan and Joshua O’Shea.

The Falcons remain two points clear at the top of the table, while the Suns are in seventh spot, 14 points outside the top five.

In other matches, Tarneit lost to North Footscray, 32.17 (209)-3.3 (21).

The Devils had fairly even halves in terms of scoring, with the Titans kept goalless after half time.

Jason Seduikis kicked two goals for the Titans.

Micheal Naawi, Jordan Lincoln Crough and Jaiden Martin were named the Titans best.

Meanwhile in division 1, Werribee Districts returned to the winners list, while Hoppers Crossing got another win on the board.

Coming off a shock loss to Sunshine, the

Tigers were too strong for Altona, winning 20.21 (141)-11.6 (76).

The Tigers set up the win in the first half, as they led by 77 points at half time.

Rani Pavlidis shone with five goals for the Tigers, while Tyson Diczku and Harrison White kicking three goals.

White and Sean Gregory were named the Tigers best.

Werribee Districts sits in fourth spot, a game off top.

Falcons on the up as hard work pays off

By Tara Murray

ThehardworkispayingoffforWyndhamvale as it targets a double chance in the Western Football League women’s competition.

The Falcons have been the big improvers this season, sitting second on the ladder after 10 rounds.

Falcons’ coach Craig Prior said they were thrilled with how the season had gone so far.

“A lot of hard work has gone into this, it hasn’t happened overnight,” he said.

“If you had told me in January that we would be second on the ladder, we would have taken it every day of the week.

“The girls wanted to push harder and continue to improve.”

Prior said the catalyst for the season that they’ve had so far was a chat back in November about what they wanted to do this year.

He said the players were behind everything that they were doing.

“We had a chat about being as competitive as we could,” he said.

“They really bought into that and are driving it themselves and the standards are huge.

“They do it while having a heap of fun. They are one big group and no one is left behind.”

Prior was also full of praise for assistant coach Rachael Burton, saying she was doing a power of work behind the scenes.

He said Burton was getting towards the end of her recovery from a serious knee injury, and was set to return to playing next year.

Having had such a strong start to the year, Prior said they had lifted the bar on what they wanted to achieve.

“We played Parkside on the weekend and the margin was reduced from last time,” he said.

“We did a lot of things well and held them scoreless in the last quarter and I don’t think that happened for a long time.

“We know where we are going and what we want to do if we meet them again at the end of the year and we want to rise to the occasion.”

Hoppers Crossing was too strong for Point Cook, 15.21 (111)-8.14 (62).

The Warriors jumped out of the blocks and led by 40 points at quarter time to set up the win.

Playing coach Jared Polec kicked three goals for the Warriors, while Callum Buckingham and Ryan Kitchen kicked two goals each.

Bailey Young and Tevyn Wanigasekera were named the Warriors best.

Cameron Kizan and Billy Kolyniuk were named the Bulldogs best.

The win was the Warriors sixth on the season.

The side sits outside the top five on percentage.

Point Cook sits in 11th spot.

Elsewhere, Point Cook Centrals lost to Yarraville Seddon, 14.22 (106)-1.7 (13).

Luke Henderson, Josh Gerolemou and Lachie Abrams were named the Sharks best.

Win for Wyndham

Wyndham returned to the winners list in the Big V women’s division 1 competition on Saturday.

Wins have been rare for the side and Wyndham had to fight hard on Saturday night to get the job done against the Mildura Heat.

The Heat jumped out of the blocks and led by eight points at quarter time.

Wyndham controlled the next two quarters to lead by eight points heading into the final quarter.

The Heat came hard in the final quarter, but Wyndham did enough to hold on to win, 66-63.

Wyndham coach Matt Stephens said it was good to get the win.

“Solid battle with Mildura right to the very end,” he said.

“Led out in front by our captain Georgia [Denehey] with an outstanding performance and the winner of the Mel Logan Medal.

“After trailing most of the game to see their resilience come through and determination to battle it out slowly chipping away and eventual successors.”

Denehey scored 20 points for Wyndham, while also having seven assists.

Ahriahna Grizzle also had a good game with 18 points.

The win was Wyndham’s third of the season. The side sits in eighth spot.

Prior said they know they have a number of tough games coming up that will decide whether they finish in the top two and get the double chance.

“There’s still a long way to go.”

The Falcons on Saturday faced the Suns. They were able to get another win on the board, winning 6.5 (41)-2.1 (13).

The Falcons were able to extend the lead in each quarter after scores were level at quarter time.

Harper Sell, Chloe Prior and Mariah Burton were the Falcons best.

FortheSuns,MatildaBrown,AngelPokora and Aluk Kuol were named their best.

The Suns sit fifth on the ladder wit five wins for the season.

In other matches, Werribee Centrals got the points on Friday night after Caroline Springs forfeited.

PointCookCentralshadabigwinagainst North Footscray, winning 20.9 (129)-1.0 (6).

Zoe Hurring and Marlo Phipps kicked three goals each for the Sharks.

Hayley Bennett, Jennifer Hedjes and Karla Davis were named the Sharks best.

Meanwhile, the Wyndham men lost a thriller to the McKinnon Cougars in the championship division, 91-89.

The Cougars finished the match with a 25-18 final quarter to seal the win.

Assistant coach Peter Muscat said the team is tracking in the right direction but they just need to finish off games.

“I was pleased with our effort across all four quarters,” he said.

“While the result didn’t go our way, the team performed well and executed the style of basketball we’ve been working towards.

“We’ve made some strong improvements this week, and our focus now is on carrying that momentum into next week’s game.”

Supreme Cook had 24 points and 10 rebounds, while Malik Miller had 17 points.

The Tigers are flying high

By Tara Murray

There was a lot of unknown for Werribee headed into the Victorian Football League season.

With a new coaching group and 23 new players, the Tigers knew there would be a lot of work early on to get back into a position to play finals after missing out last year.

Now midway through the season, the Tigers sit third on the ladder with seven wins and a draw from their 11 matches.

“It’s definitely a surprise,” coach Dan Lowther said.

“There were a few unknowns with where wewouldbe.Thechangeswithanewcoach and a lot of new players.

“Could we connect and gel and get some consistency within the game plan?

“The first three games were OK and sometimes in sport it takes time. The last five weeks we’ve been showing signs of gelling and connecting with the game style and having a better understanding.

“We’re sitting third and there’s still a lot more to go and we need to sustain it for longer.”

The Tigers lost three matches early in the season.

One against Geelong, which sits atop the ladder, they were outplayed in the first quarter and never got back into it.

Against Port Melbourne, they didn’t adjust to what the game needed.

Lowther said they took a lot out of both those losses which has reflected in their wins since.

“The leadership and the connection has improved,” he said.

“We’ve played some open, free flowing football since which has been good.”

The wins have also been built on the strong depth that the Tigers have been able to build throughout the year.

Lowther said there’s others that will get their opportunities as the season progresses.

“We have a healthy blend with a number of newer players,” he said.

“Charlie Lazzaro has come in and that’s been well publicised. AJ Kuol Mun keeps getting better for us.

“Sam Donegan and Will Elliott are a couple of others.

“The players are connecting and they’re makingabigdifferenceandthere’sawhole range of other players who might get an opportunity in the next fortnight.”

Among some of those who are pushing for selection is a group of players aged between 18 to 21, who Lowther said are the future of the club.

Leading that pack is Eli Pearce and Nash King.

Also pushing for selection are the likes of Josh Kellett and Daly Andrews, who are both back playing locally after injuries.

The Tigers have been led by their defence which is rated among the best in the competition.

Lowther said their leaders in Jesse Clark, Louis Pinnuck and Ryan Eyers had been

strong and backed up by others coming through.

“Mace Cousins is someone who has gone undertheradarwithhowmuchheimpacts the game as a small defender. He makes good decisions

“Jaelen Pavlidis is another one and Zane Keighran has slotted right in. Sam Azzi has been rock solid.

The Tigers forward line was one area where there were some question marks after Hudson Garoni retired.

Lowther said they were starting to get the balance between defence and offence right.

“Brady Wright has been super,” he said. “The concern from one yer to the next was his consistency.

“Every week he’s been competitive and his defence has gotten better.

“Will Elliott is playing a dual role which can be difficult. Harry Maguire will kick three or four one week and not get a kick the next week and someone else steps up.

“He’ll miss a few weeks with a calf injury and we have a couple of players that can fill the role.”

After a bye on the weekend, the Tigers face Carlton on Saturday at IKON Park at 10am.

Lowther said they have a big month ahead of them with matches against the Blues, Southport, St Kilda and Port Melbourne before their next bye.

“It’s an important four weeks to finish a few in this block and hopefully set us up for the season,” Lowther said.