Star Weekly - Northern - 21st July 2026

Taken to hospital, he died on 6 July surrounded by family. There was an outpouring of emotion for Fitzgerald, including a public

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RAJ IYER ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICES

Bar owner fears reputational hit

By Laura Michell

TheownerofaTullamarinepoolhallandbar fears his business has taken a reputational hit after it was incorrectly named as the target of a suspected firebombing.

A fire broke out at a furniture warehouse next door to Pockets on Mickleham Road about 3.45am on Thursday 16 July.

Thefirehasbeendeemedsuspicious,with CCTV footage showing a vehicle ramming the front door of the furniture warehouse before a fire broke out.

Fire Rescue Victoria said firefighters arrived on the scene to find the factory and a car alight.

It said crews entered the building from the rear of the premises and conducted an aggressive internal attack on the fire, taking about 30 mins to control the blaze.

Pockets owner Arthur Titus said his business had wrongly been named as the intended target because of the spate of arson attacks on hospitality premises across Melbourne.

Hesaidthatinthehoursfollowingthefire, his business lost bookings for five functions over the next couple of weeks, which would have brought in about 450 guests.

“It hurts our business in so many ways. In our business, our reputation is everything,” MrTitussaid.“Youmustbeabletoprovidea safe space for people to be entertained.

“Unfortunately it puts a different outlook onwhoweareasabusinessandownersand itdefinitely deterspeoplefromcomingpast.

“Because of the bar wars, we got dragged into it. “We stick to ourselves, we are family people.”

Mr Titus said he was alerted to the fire by his security monitoring company, which called to inform him the bar’s smoke alarm wasgoingoff.Heinitiallyfearedhisproperty was on fire and immediately began to question why anyone would target Pockets.

“I thought, why is this happening? There has been no trouble, we haven’t stepped on anyone’s toes,” he said.

Mr Titus quickly jumped in his car and drovetothevenue,tellingStarWeeklyhefelt relief when he realised it was the warehouse next door that was on fire.

Despite the concerns for his business’ reputation, Mr Titus said he was grateful to the members of the local community who rallied around the bar, which was able to resume trading on Thursday night.

“I just asked out community to come out for us and it did,”he said.

Epping remembers Nathan

By Tara Murray with Duncan Murray, AAP

The Epping Football Netball Club and the wider Northern Football Netball League community came together on 11 July to rememberNathanFitzgerald.

While four points were on the line between Epping and Heidelberg West, the day was about much more than football results.

Fitzgerald suffered head injuries while playing in a reserves match against Lalor at Lalor Recreation Reserve on 4 July and diedinhospitaltwodayslater.

EFNC held a public memorial service on Saturday, ahead of its senior men’s match withHeidelbergWest.

The club’s reserves side made the decision not to play but were welcomed to the field during the service to stand alongsidetheseniorside.

Fitzgerald’s dad, Gary Fitzgerald spoke onbehalfofthefamily.

“Wehaven’tbeenblindtothefactthatso many people have been impacted by the event and the tragic death of Nathan last week,”hetoldthecrowd.

“In a football incident that ... from what I understand,hasn’thappenedbefore.

“Andyet,itteachesusalessonaboutlifehow precious life is, because you just don’t know.”

I think forever etched in our memories is that great Fitzy smile that’s going to help us move forward beyond this dark time

- Luke De Vincentis

GaryFitzgeraldexpresseddeepgratitude for the support he and his family had received, thanking EFNC, medical staff andthewiderpublic.

“Thegenerosityofthosethathavegivenit’s been a phenomenal response and quite overwhelmingbecauseofthenaturethatit hasbeensopublic,”hesaid.

“It’s in that context that I’m here today to just give back a little bit to acknowledge how, as much as this has affected us as a family,wearestronginfaith.”

Fitzgerald’s number 34 jumper was also retired and a minute of silence was held by bothclubs.

“Number 34 - forever Fitzy,” Epping presidentLukeDeVincentissaid.

De Vincentis remembered Fitzgerald for hiscourtesy,respectandenduringsmile.

“Thatsmilethatlightsupanentireroom, those chompers that you can see from a mileaway,”hesaid.

“Healwayshadthatsmileonhisfaceand I think forever etched in our memories is thatgreatFitzysmilethat’sgoingtohelpus moveforwardbeyondthisdarktime.”

Lalor Football Netball Club, whose seniors and reserves side had a bye on Saturday, also joined the two participating teamsonthegroundtopayitsrespects.

De Vincentis said one thing that really stood out was how quickly that team colours meant absolutely nothing and everyone came together to support in that incrediblydifficultmoment.

Heidelberg West went on to claim the winagainstEpping,15.12(102)-8.15(63).

Epping was able to stick with the Hawks for the first quarter, before the Hawks slowlybuiltaleadonthewaytothewin.

Daniel Rakhin kicked three goals for Epping, including the side’s first of the game.

Brent Macaffer and Leigh Judd were namedEpping’sbest.

FOREVER FITZY

Hume wicket safety blitz

By Laura Michell

Synthetic cricket wicket covers on four Hume ovals used by hundreds of junior players each weekend have been replaced with soil following hardness testing.

In a social media post on Friday 10 July, Sunbury councillor Jarrod Bell said the impacted ovals were Highgate Reserve oval 2 in Craigieburn, Merrifield Recreation Reserveoval1inMickleham,andBoardman Reserve oval 2 and John McMahon Reserve oval one, both in Sunbury.

The safety testing took place following the death of Epping footballer Nathan Fitzgerald who received three head knocks during a reserves match on 4 July, the third being when he hit his head on turf covering the wicket at Lalor Recreation Reserve.

In the days following the incident, Epping FootballandNetballClubpresidentLukeDe Vincentis said he hoped it would encourage a rethink.

“It’s probably been an accident waiting to happen,” he said.

On social media, Cr Bell said while there is still much to understand about the cause of Fitzgerald’s death, Hume council officers undertook hardness testing on covered cricket wickets across the city’s sports fields,withmultipletestscarriedoutateach wicket.

“Those tests found that synthetic-covered wickets located within Australian Rules Football playing surfaces required further action,” he said.

AccordingtoCrBell,atrialusingcrumbed rubber was undertaken to see whether it couldreducesurfacehardnesstowithinthe “recommended range”.

“When that did not achieve a sufficient

reduction,councilmovedquicklytoremove the synthetic covers at the four impacted football grounds and replace them with soil,” he said.

“This soil treatment is consistent with other covered wickets that tested within the recommended range and will remain in place for the balance of the winter season.”

According to Cr Bell, the clubs using the fouraffectedgroundswerecontactedbefore the works took place. He said he had been advised they responded positively.

“As we head into another weekend of community sport, I know players, parents, clubs and volunteers will want reassurance that this is being taken seriously. Council officers will continue to monitor these

grounds as part of regular sports field inspections, and councillors will continue to be kept updated,” he said.

Cr Bell said further conversations about medium-term actions and how shared-use facilities are managed may be required.

“Community sport is at the heart of places like ours. Our job is to make sure those facilities are as safe, practical and well-managed as possible for the people who use them every week,” he said.

Meanwhile, Whittlesea council has said it would support a review of the practice of covering cricket wickets on shared-use ovals with a multi-layered synthetic surface if the wicket was found to have played a role in Fitzgerald’s injuries.

A better Way to

Discover homes available in a welcoming community where connection, wellbeing and lifestyle come together.

WhittleseamayorLawrieCoxsaidcouncil covered its wickets in accordance with guidelines set out by the AFL and Cricket Australia.

If this practice is determined to have played a role in the injuries sustained by Fitzgerald, council would support a review of the guidelines in collaboration with the sporting associations to strengthen player safety, he said.

“Covered cricket wickets are a standard feature on most multipurpose sporting ovals across Australia, and any changes to existing guidelines would have wide-scale implications across the country. It is therefore important that any review be grounded in evidence,” he said.

State rejects road pledge

By Laura Michell

The state government has not committed to matching a $524 million Liberal party election pledge to duplicate Donnybrook Road and has instead said the Opposition’s costing does not stack up.

AsreportedbyStarWeekly,Opposition leader Jess Wilson on Sunday announced her party’s plan to duplicate eight kilometres of Donnybrook Road from Epping Road in Woodstock to Dwyer Street in Kalkallo, and remove the level crossing at Donnybrook station if elected.

The election promise was welcomed by Whittlesea and Hume councils.

Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox said Donnybrook Road was a vital east-west link that connects residents to employment, education, medical, commercial, sporting and social opportunities, while Hume mayor Carly Moore described the funding pledge as a huge win for the community.

Hume council called for the state government to match the announcement.

In response to questions from Star Weekly, a state government spokesperson said the opposition’s “$40 billion plan of cuts will create more congestion and traffic across Melbourne’s north”.

“Jess Wilson’s funding commitment

does not stack up,” the spokesperson said.

“TheLiberalshaveatrackrecordofnot being able to deliver major projects and they have just pulled these figures out of thin air, with zero explanation - only Labor will improve journeys for motorists.”

Star Weekly understands that planning conducted last year identified that Donnybrook Road should be upgraded in stages between Mickleham Road and Epping Road.

The state and federal governments have already funded an upgrade of Donnybrook Road between Dwyer Street and the Hume Freeway. In May, both govern-

Serving up slices of kindness and support

After helping provide more than 1500 meals to locals doing it tough in 2025, a Tullamarine business is again offering complimentary meals to locals doing it tough.

Melrose Pizza launched its Random Acts of Pizza campaign on Tuesday 7 July, with the support of Tullamarine Community House, Helping Hands and Deputy Premier Ben Carroll.

The campaign runs until 31 October and will offer digital meal vouchers, online redemption and confidential home delivery, in an effort to provide more accessible support for people experi-

encing hardship.

Meals will be provided through partnerships with local charities and community organisations, while members of the public can also buy Random Acts of Pizza vouchers for support services to dstribute. Melrose Pizza co-owner

Alex Harris said this year’s initiative had been designed to better support locals experiencing hardship, including those without transport or facing family violence, housing instability, financial stress or other difficult circumstances, helping them access a warm meal with dignity, privacy and ease.

“Last year our community proved just how powerful kindness can be. Together, we provided 1535 meals to locals doing it tough. This year, we’re hoping to reach even more people and remind them that they don’t have to face difficult times alone,” she said.

“We hope Random Acts of Pizza becomes our legacy – not just as a campaign, but as something the City of Hume becomes known for: a community where local businesses, charities, community leaders and residents come together to ensure no one has to face hardship alone.”

Motorists urged to add voice to Sunbury Road

Sunbury Road motorists are being urged to add their voices to a campaign advocating for the road’s duplication.

Hume council has issued a call for residents to join its advocacy campaign, noting Sunbury Road needs to be duplicated between Bulla-Diggers Rest Road and Melbourne Airport, to improve safety, reduce congestion and future-proof the key regional route.

“Sunbury Road is at breaking pointcongestion and safety issues keep piling up,” council said.

“Our community shouldn’t be stuck in bottlenecks every single day, especial-

ly between Melbourne Airport and Bulla-Diggers Rest Road.

“Duplicating Sunbury Road means smoother travel, safer conditions and a road that finally works the way it should.”

According to council, 27,000 vehicles use Sunbury Road daily but population growth in Sunbury and surrounding areas has pushed the corridor to its limits.

The council warned that the road’s outdated design contributes to severe delays that actively hurt local productivity, eat into family time, and compromise community resilience.

“Traffic incidents on Sunbury Road

campaign

frequently cause extended delays, with limited alternative routes available to absorb displaced traffic,” the council stated.

“Ongoing congestion reduces the reliability of travel for emergency services, freight operators, and essential workers who depend on predictable access.

“Without timely duplication, continued population and employment growth will place increasing pressure on the corridor, worsening safety risks and daily travel delays.”

Details: hume.vic.gov.au/advocacy

ments announced funding for a second bridge over the freeway, with the federal government providing $37.4 million and the state contributing $7.7 million.

The works will also include duplicating Donnybrook Road to Dwyer Street, building on stage one of the upgrade.

The state and federal governments announced $125 million last year for stage one, which is currently in pre-construction. Those works include transforming the roundabout at Donnybrook Road and Mitchell Street into a fully signalised intersection and building a new bridge over Kalkallo Creek.

New round of consultation for runway noise plan

A new round of public consultation on the draft noise sharing plan for Melbourne Airport’sthirdrunwaywillbeginnextmonth.

The airport will run the second round of consultation from Monday 10 August until Saturday 3 October.

According to the airport, when the third runway opens in 2031, it will increase flight capacity to support Melbourne’s growth, with changes to flight paths altering how aircraft noise is experienced across the city.

The noise sharing plan will guide management of aircraft operations to share aircraft noise across communities, with the aim of providing respite outside of peak periods, when safety and weather conditions allow.

The plan has been commissioned by Melbourne Airport and is being independently prepared by specialist aviation consultants as a condition of the federal government’s approval for the third runway.

Melbourne Airport major capital projects executive general manager Scott Cooper encouraged community members to review the draft plan and have their say.

“The third runway is essential to meeting Melbourne’s future aviation needs, and the noise sharing plan is an important part of planning for its operation,” he said.

“The new runway will allow Melbourne Airport to keep pace with Victoria’s growth by creating the capacity needed for future passenger and cargo demand, while also enabling opportunities for noise sharing that don’t currently exist.

“By 2045, we expect more than 76 million passengers a year, which is more than double the number travelling through the airport today.

“The third runway will help keep people and goods moving by giving airlines greater flexibility, reducing delays and supporting thousands of new jobs, while contributing almost $6 billion to the Victorian economy each year.”

The draft plan will be available at melbourneairportprojectshub.com.au/ noise-sharing-plan from Monday 10 August for review as part of this second round of public consultation.

Following consideration of community feedback, validation of the proposed flight paths will begin. A third round of public consultation is planned for midlate 2027.

Details: https://melbourneairportprojectshub.com.au/noise-sharing-plan

A new chapter in retirement living takes shape in Bundoora

Bolton Clarke’s Callisto Place combines lifestyle, community, and financial flexibility in one of Melbourne’s newest retirementlivingdestinations.

Across Australia, retirement living is evolving. For many older Australians, the focus is shifting away from simply finding a smaller home and towards creating a lifestyle that offers greater freedom, stronger social connections and increased confidenceaboutthefuture.

That trend is reflected at Bolton Clarke’s Callisto Place Retirement Living in Bundoora, a contemporary community designed to support active, independent living while helping residents remain connected to the people, activities and experiencesthatmattermost.

According to Angus Kukura, Retirement Living Specialist at Amicum, today’s retireesareseekingmorethanachangeof address.

“The retirement living sector has traditionally spent too much time talking about buildings and not enough time talkingaboutwhatretirementenables,”Mr Kukurasaid.

“People aren’t simply looking to downsize. They’re looking to create more freedom in their lives – more time, more experiences, more social connection and greaterconfidenceaboutthefuture.”

Located within the established Polaris precinct at 35 Galileo Gateway, Callisto Place places residents close to cafés, shopping, public transport, walking trails and parklands. Approximately 14 kilometres north of Melbourne’s CBD, it offers the convenience of city accessibility alongsidethebenefitsofgreenopenspaces andarelaxedlocalenvironment.

The community has been designed to

support both wellbeing and connection. Residents have access to a range of shared facilitiesincludingacinema,library,rooftop terrace, resident lounges and wellness amenities, providing opportunities to stay active, meet neighbours and enjoy an engagedlifestyle.

Architecturally designed apartments featurespaciouslayoutsandcontemporary

finishes, while accessibility considerations and low-maintenance living support independencenowandintothefuture.

Mr Kukura said many retirees are increasingly attracted to communities that reduce the demands of maintaining a larger home while preserving personal independence.

“The family home remains important,

but it can also come with ongoing costs, maintenance and responsibilities that manypeoplenolongerwant,”hesaid.

“Retirement living communities such as Bolton Clarke’s Callisto Place are respondingtothatshiftbyprovidingquality homes within connected communities whereresidentscanenjoyaneasierlifestyle whilemaintainingtheirindependence.”

CallistoPlacehasalsoattractedindustry recognition, being named a finalist in the Retirement, Aged Care and Seniors Living category of the 2025 Urban Developer Awards for Industry Excellence. The recognition highlights the project’s focus on accessibility, resident wellbeing and contemporaryretirementlivingdesign.

Financial flexibility is another consideration influencing retirement decisions. For many people, moving from a larger family home can create opportunities to redirect resources towards travel, leisure, family support and futureplanning.

“People often make a retirement living decision in order to release equity,” Mr Kukurasaid.

“What they value is what that financial freedom allows them to do. It may be travelling more often, helping family members, pursuing hobbies or simply feeling secure knowing they have options availabletotheminthefuture.”

To support new residents, Bolton Clarke is currently offering a limited-time Levy Relief Offer at Callisto Place. Eligible purchasers of selected new apartments may have their monthly maintenance leviescoveredforuptothreeyears,subject to terms and conditions. The initiative is designed to reduce ongoing living costs duringtheearlyyearsofresidency.

As Australia’s population continues to age, communities such as Bolton Clarke’s Callisto Place Retirement Living demonstrate how retirement living is evolving to meet the expectations of a generationseekinglifestyle,independence, connectionandpeaceofmind.

“Retirement should never feel like a smallerlife,”MrKukurasaid.

“The most successful retirement communities are those that help people enjoy more of what matters most to them. That’swheretherealvaluelies.”

Upsize your lifestyle at Callisto Place

AcrossthesuburbssurroundingCallisto Place, median house prices generally range from about $1 million to $1.25 million,withsomenearbyareassuchas LowerPlentyexceeding$1.5million.

When compared with retirement apartments at Callisto Place, which start from $629,000, many homeowners havetheopportunitytounlockbetween $300,000 and $700,000 in capital while also moving into a brand-new, low-maintenance home designed specificallyfortheirnextstageoflife.

Amicum retirement living specialist Angus Kukura says many of the people hespeakswithhavelivedintheirfamily homesfor30,40oreven50years.

Byunlockingthatequity,retireesgain greater financial freedom to fund their future care needs, access additional

support services as they age, create a financial safety net, or simply enjoy a morecomfortableretirement.

Many also take great satisfaction in being able to assist their children and grandchildren financially, whether through education expenses, housing deposits or other family opportunities, hesays.

“While the financial benefits are significant, many retirees tell us the lifestyle benefits are equally important. After living in the same home for decades, it is common for people to become increasingly isolated as neighbours move away, friends become less mobile and social circles naturally diminishovertime,”MrKukurasays.

“At the same time, many find themselves becoming servants to their

homes,spendingweekendsmaintaining gardens, cleaning gutters, organising repairsandmanagingtheongoingcosts and responsibilities associated with an ageingproperty.”

MrKukura–aformerchairmanofthe RetirementLivingCouncil–saysmoving to a retirement community allows residents to exchange these burdens for a secure, low-maintenance lifestyle surrounded by like-minded people who share similar life experiences and values.

“New friendships, social activities, and a strong sense of community often become some of the most rewarding aspectsofvillagelife,”hesays.

For many people, the decision is not aboutdownsizingtheirhome;itisabout upsizingtheirlifestyle.”

MY PLACE

Emma Fasciani is the mayor of Whittlesea’s youth council. She spoke to Courtney Black about what impact she hopes to make on Whittlesea during her two-year term.

What excites you most about your role on the youth council?

What excites me most about my role is being on the front line of change, not only to speak about it, but make it happen. This roleallowsmetorepresenttheperspectives and experiences of young people, and I am looking forward to turning ideas into real outcomes. I am also excited to work with the rest of the youth council, as we are like-minded individuals who are ready to represent young people within our community.

What impact do you hope to have on Whittlesea during your time in the role?

I hope to ensure young people feel connected to their community, knowing their voices are valued and heard, and are therefore encouraged to take part in decision-making processes. I aim to increase participation and awareness surrounding youth-led spaces and support services.

What do you like about living, working, or studying in Whittlesea?

OneofthethingsIvaluemostisthediverse nature of the municipality. Through the range of cultures, perspectives, ideas, and values, a dynamic and inclusive environment is created where people can learn from one another. Everyone is invitedtobethemselves,andtoappreciate different ways of living, and you can feel thatsenseofbelonging.

Is there anything you would like to see improved or changed in Whittlesea?

I would like to see a stronger focus on creating meaningful and accessible opportunities for young people, both in the present and for their future pathways. This includes greater access to programs, support services, and initiatives and empower young people and allow them to thrive.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

My favourite local place is the Quarry Hills Parkland. The walking trails are a beautifulspacetoconnectwithnatureand see local wildlife. It is an area where I can disconnect from the stress of everyday life, and the openness allows me to relax and recharge. I would highly recommend it, whether you are looking for solitary quiet time, or a space to spend quality time with others.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you... People are often surprised to learn how creative I am. I have a strong passion for painting, drawing, writing, and many moreartisticendeavours.Itisanimportant part of how I express myself and my ideas, and allows me to approach problems in a more creative way. Art has shaped the way I think more broadly, allowing me to see a wide range of perspectives and connect withothersinuniqueways.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

10 years ago 26 July, 2016

The number of homes in Whittlesea is set to soar over the next 15 years as the municipality gains an estimated 110,000moreresidents.

8 years ago 24 July, 2018

Hume council has been asked to cover thecostofcreatinga7500-square-metre park on the former Broadmeadows Primary School site as part of a state government plan to use the Nicholas Streetlandforhousing.

5 years ago 27 July, 2021

Victoria was holding its breath on Monday as the state waited for news of lockdown restrictions easing on Tuesday.

1 year ago 22 July, 2025

Theintegrityofthreecandidatesforthe by-election in Whittlesea’s Lalor Ward has been called into question following thereleaseofhow-to-votematerials.

Helping young families grow

The Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) has launched a new free, integrated early years program, supporting families in Whittleseatogivetheirchildthebeststart.

The BSL Grow program provides parent coaching for families with children aged 2–3years,helpingparentsbuildconfidence andsupporttheirchild’sdevelopment.

The program also assists families with children aged 0–5 years through service navigationandreferrals,ensuringtheycan accesstheservicesandsupporttheyneed.

The program is for families who are new to the local area or new to Australia; want support with parenting, routines or early learning; feel isolated or unsure how to access services; or would like extra guidanceorconnection.

Families are paired with a BSL family coach, who supports them with their

Brand New Clubhouse Now Open

Discover life at Ingenia Lifestyle Springside, a vibrant community designed for over 55s.

With our brand-new clubhouse now open and movein ready homes available, there’s never been a better time to explore the lifestyle on offer.

individual goals and connects them with availableprogramsandsupports.

BSL senior manager early years Leah Robertson said “We’re here to support children and families by responding to whatthelocalcommunityneeds.“

“Children thrive in communities where they feel safe, connected and valued; and their early years are fundamentally important. Early interactions such as talking, sharing stories and books, singing and playing form the foundation for language, concentration, social skills, and confidence. These early years are so important because 90 percent of a child’s brain development happens before they turnfive.”

Interested families can fill out a referral form by clicking Sign Up Now at www.bsl. org.au/grow/

Briefs

Doreen RSL

StarWeeklyregrets publishing a comment in an online story on 6 May which caused distress and great offence to veterans and members of the Doreen RSL. The print version of the story, headed ‘RSL lease concern’, did not include the offending comment. StarWeeklyholds the RSL in the highest regard and values its contribution to the Australian community. The intention of the story was not to insult anyone associated with the RSL.

Shots fired at house

Police are investigating a firearms incident in Gladstone Park on 14 July. It is understood multiple shots were fired from a vehicle towards a residence on Payne Street just before 11.15pm. No one was injured.

See it? Send it

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Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Daycare operator suspended

By Laura Michell

The operator of 45 family daycare residences across Whittlesea, Hume and Wyndham has had its approval suspended amid safety concerns.

Gabow Family Day Care must close its residences across 15 outer Melbourne suburbs — including Epping, Lalor, Craigieburn, Werribee and Hoppers Crossing — for 90 days while it addresses issues flagged by the Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA).

VECRA announced the suspension on 10 July, citing “a litany of compliance issues which created immediate risk to the safety of children” .

The regulator stated that national law sets strict safety and quality standards for family day care. These include qualification and training requirements for educators, premises safety, and ensuring all residents in the home have undergone suitability checks to be around children.

VECRA found Gabow Family Day Care had fallen short of these standards across multiple premises under its responsibility.

This is the first time VECRA has used its powers to immediately suspend a family daycare provider since it was established on 1 January, 2026.

In May, joint inspections by VECRA and the federal department of education resulted in an emergency action notice

being issued to Gabow after authorities discovered four educators lacked the required qualifications. Those educators were ordered to stop caring for children until they were appropriately qualified.

VECRAconfirmedafurther23breaches were subsequently identified.

“Gabow held ultimate responsibility for ensuring compliance with these obligations, such as ensuring the safety of residences, fencing and furniture, storage of hazardous materials, training of staff and authorisation of transport activities,” VECRA said.

“As a result of the number and wide range of failings, VECRA determined it would not be in the best interests of chil-

Roxy turning blue for mental health

Roxburgh Park is putting the focus on men’s mental health in the Essendon District Football League.

The club has created a mental health jumper which will be worn across two rounds. The club’s thirds team wore the jumper on Friday night, while the under-18s, reserves and seniors will wear it on 25 July in its home matches.

Vice-president Kaine Hocking said it was something the whole club was getting behind.

“Our thirds have been the leader in this,” he said.

“Brad Mullens has been pushing the lever with the initiative to create a jumper.

“We wanted to do more than decorating the change room.”

Originally only the thirds were going to wear the jumper, but when enough sponsors came on board it was decided all four men’s teams would be involved.

Hocking said with young people suffering more with mental health issues, it was good to have their under-18s involved. “We’re running this across two rounds to give it the recognition it deserves,” he said.

“For us as a club, if the guernsey encourages one person to speak up, one mate to check in or one bloke to see

they’re not alone, the initiative is a success.”

The jumper is blue, the colour that symbolises men’s mental health and about trying to break the stigma. The jumper also has two special messages.

“Inside the jumper it says it’s not weak to speak,” Hocking said.

“On the back above the numbers there’s two arms reaching out to connect. Every teammate, every family member stands beside someone when someone needs them most.”

Roxburgh Park is encouraging people to attend both game days and donate on the day.

CDS Vic and council unite for bin basket trial across Hume

Hume residents can now recycle on the go, with Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) trialling bin baskets across the municipality.

The bin basket trial has been rolled out in partnership with CDS Vic, with specially designed baskets attached to a number of public litter bins across the Hume.

Eligible drink containers can be left in the bins and then collected by anyone who would like to return them for a 10-cent refund at Container Deposit Scheme sites.

The baskets will be placed in areas with high foot-traffic, clearly labelled and positioned alongside existing bins.

Council said the baskets are designed to reduce litter in public places, reduce contamination in public recycling bins, lower collection and maintenance costs and reduce bin rummaging and damage to bins.

Bin baskets have been successfully rolled out as a trial in Yarra Ranges, City of Port Phillip and Mornington Peninsula Shire, council said.

dren being educated and cared for by the service for it to continue to operate.”

Victorian early childhood regulator Wendy Steendam said that when VECRA finds a provider is not meeting requirements, it will take swift action to ensure children are kept safe.

“Immediately suspending a provider is a decision which impacts the childcare arrangements of parents and caregivers, but we make this decision because we know they wouldn’t want us to compromise on safety,” she said.

“It was clear to VECRA that Gabow has failed the children and families who rely on its services, as well as the educators who worked for it.”

Wildwood property investigated over

‘unlawful’ waste

Hume council and the Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) have joined forces to address unlawful waste activity at a Wildwood property.

Authorised officers from council and EPA attended the Wildwood Road site on 26 May. They said they observed significant quantities of smouldering industrial waste and multiple truck movements delivering soil.

A prior joint inspection on 14 April identified large stockpiles of industrial waste at the site, including materials suspected to contain asbestos.

As a result of these findings, EPA has issued an environmental action notice requiring the site occupant to immediately cease burning waste.

The notice also requires the removal of all industrial waste to a lawful facility by 28 July, and independent verification by a qualified hygienist that any asbestos has been safely removed by 3 August.

“This site is not licensed to accept industrial waste, particularly hazardous materials such as asbestos,” EPA north metropolitan regional manager Steve Riley said.

“Burning this material presents significant risks to both the environment and the surrounding community.”

Mayor Carly Moore said council is working alongside EPA Victoria to respond to this matter and ensure the safety of the community.

“Illegal waste activity poses serious risks to public health and the environment, and we are taking a coordinated approach to address it,” she said.

“Our residents expect clean, safe neighbourhoods and we will continue to advocate strongly and work with our partners to prevent this type of activity in Hume.”

EPA investigations are ongoing.

Community members are encouraged to report any suspected illegal waste activity to help authorities respond quickly and effectively.

Mayor Carly Moore said this program positively builds on the already successful container return program in Hume.

“The Container Deposit Scheme is already very successful popular in Hume City,” she said.

“These baskets will help more people benefit from the program, delivering extra refunds for residents while ensuring more containers are diverted from landfill.”

Details: hume.vic.gov.au/Residents/ Waste/CDS

Reports can be made to EPA on 1300 372 842 or via epa.vic.gov.au, and through council on 9205 2200 or via the Snap Send Solve app.

Car park going underground

By Glenn Fisher

Craigieburn train station and its congested car parks have to cope with tens of thousands of commuters arriving and departing every week.

But adding to the parking woes are two areas of the eastern car park that are sinking into the ground.

The car park – which has a capacity of about 745 cars – has lost up to 20 car spaces, with the two sections recently cordoned off with makeshift construction site fencing.

Initial reports suggested a Yarra Valley Water sewer pipeline that ran under the car park to a water treatment plant near the station was the cause of the asphalt surface to sink.

However, as of late last week, authorities were still none the wiser as to what was causing the problem.

A spokesman for Kalkallo MP and Roads and Road Safety Minister Ros Spence told Star Weekly that Yarra Valley Water needed to repair the leaking sewerage pipe under the car park before a Metro Trains crew could fix the car park

surface.

Yarra Valley Water told Star Weekly a crew of its own had inspected the sewer asset at Craigieburn station car park, including CCTV inspections, which have confirmed that the sewer is not leaking and is in good working order.

“The cause of the subsidence has not yet been determined. Investigations are ongoing with the relevant parties, and the affected area remains fenced off. We will provide further information as it becomes available,” a YVW spokesperson said.

Ms Spence’s spokesman said they had

Anti-racism rally planned for Broadmeadows

Anti-racism protesters will gather at the Town Hall Broadmeadows on Saturday 25 July for a community rally.

Merri-bek Socialist Alliance councillor Sue Bolton, who is hosting the rally in conjunction with Hume for Humanity, said the protest was in response to the rise in the polls of One Nation.

Ms Bolton said One Nation leader PaulineHansonhasmaderepeatedstatements that are designed to “whip up racism“, citing Ms Hanson’s comments that she wants Australia to be a monoculture and her

statement that there is no ’good’ Muslim.

Ms Hanson later issued a partial apology for that comment made originally on Sky News.

“These, and many other racist comments are encouraging some people to go out of their way to make migrants feel uncomfortable and unwelcome,“ Ms Bolton said.

She hopes the Unite Against RacismMigrants are Welcome Rally will bring different communities together “to show that a large section of the community rejects

racist scapegoating of First Nations people, migrants and Muslims“.

“We need to come together in solidarity with others in the community who are experiencing racism.

“Racism distracts us from uniting to fight for real solutions to the cost of living crisis.

“Our strength is in our numbers. When we stand as one community, our voices cannot be ignored. It’s time to show up for each other.“

The rally will be held between 2pm and 4pm at the Town Hall Broadmeadows.

also inspected the affected area in the eastern car park.

“We identified approximately 18–20 car parking spaces showing signs of ground subsidence,” the spokesman said.

This information, along with photographic evidence from the site inspection, has been provided to the minister for public and active transport and the minister for water for their consideration, he said.

“We will continue to monitor the area and work with the relevant parties regarding any necessary remediation and safety measures.”

Light upgrade brightens up Mill Park reserve

Visibility has been improved at Mill Park Lakes Recreation Reserve following a lighting upgrade.

The project replaced the ageing metal halide system with modern 100-lux LED lighting designed to meet community sport and training standards.

Whittlesea council said the new lighting improves visibility for players, umpires, coaches and spectators and will provide local clubs greater flexibility for training, night fixtures, pre-season activities and community events.

The upgraded lighting will also reduce energy consumption, lower maintenance costs and cut carbon emissions, according to council.

The state government provided $157,000 from the 2024-25 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund for the works, while council contributed a $96,000 and South Morang Football Netball Club provided $9000.

Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox said the upgrade upgrade would make the reserve safer and more accessible, supporting local clubs and encouraging participation, particularly among women and girls.

“By investing in modern, high-quality facilities, we’re creating spaces where our community can be active, connected and included” he said.

Pounding out rock music

Without further ado, please welcome to the stage: Seven PoundHalo.

Keeping the beat on drums, Thomas Kunz; laying down the groove on bass, Avatar Rostein; on lead guitar Benjamin McLaughlin.Lastbutnotleast,ourrhythm guitarist,singerandsubject:MaxPaul.

Thefour-piecealternativerockbandfrom Wyndham are cutting tracks, trekking the worldandhelpinggrowthelocalscene.

But before there was a band, there was 16-year-old Paul, his guitar and a growing infatuationwithmelodies.

“I picked up the guitar during Covid whenIwasinyear11and12,”hesaid.

“Maybeitwasbecausetherewasnothing else to do while being locked down. Either way, it coordinated the path that led me to whereIamtoday.

“I started watching heaps of videos on Nirvana and The Dandy Warhols. Those twobandsreallyexpandedmymindatthat age.Therewerejusttoomanypossibilities.”

The others joined shortly after in 2022 andtherewasnolookingback.

Self-described as Aussie garage rock, SevenPoundHalodrawsfrom90sGrunge, UK Indie and alternative psychedelic rock sounds.

“The name comes from the film Seven Pounds, which itself has themes that go back to older Shakespearean ideas around sacrificeandpayingyourdues,”Paulsaid.

You go through the thick and thin together, and the road really streamlines what it’s all about. It strips everything back to the music, the people you’re with, and the experiences you share

- Max Paul

“It’sastrangestorywhen you really look into it. For us, paying our dues comes through music giving back totheworldourmusic.”

With plenty of tracks already laid and doing the roundsontheairwaves,the band has already insisted on taking the world by storm.

“We had been smashing through a bunch of gigs and went over to the UK in December 2025 after one of songsgotplayedontheBBC,”Paulsaid.

“ItstartedintheMidlands,spreadacross the UK and then a bunch of bands heard us and invited us to play. So we absolutely sentit.”

Starting at London, one of the world’s musical Meccas, the lads headed north, passing through cities like Nottingham and making their way up to Newcastleupon-Tyne.

“In London, we played a lot of gigs in Camden–alotofinternationalactsplayed theirfirstgigsthere,”Paulsaid

The Clash, The Sex Pistols, Oasis, Primal Scream and Kasabian are just a few to buildsomeoftheirfoundationsinCamden Town.

The road proved to be the greatest of teachers.

“If you want it, you’ve got to go after it,” Paul said. “No one’s going to book you at first, and no one’s going to take your music andmagicallyplanatourforyou.

“It’s quite easy to miss things and fall behind if you’re not organised. On the

bright side though, you have a lot of fun with the lads. You learn a lot from each other.

“You go through the thick and thin together, and the road really streamlines whatit’sallabout.Itstripseverythingback to the music, the people you’re with, and theexperiencesyoushare.”

It takes all kinds to make a band. Holding the rhythm section down, Avatar the bassist is the grounded deep thinker–theepitomeofstayingcalmandmeasured nomatterwhatisgoingon.

Drummer Kunz is the backbone: Described as funny, but also oldest and thewisest. Ben,characteristicallyofalead guitarist, is on the adventurous side and hasawayofmakingstufffun.

“The boys would probably say I’m up in the clouds. But I’d also say I’m very driven tomakethings,”Paulsaid.

It is worth noting that this is just the frontman’stake.

Paul explained how a song can be an extensionofthesongwriter’ssoul.

“If I’m in a good mood, I’ll write something cool melodically and find the right words and syllables to fit over the top of it. Sometimes really cool things happennaturally,”hesaid.

“Whenyou’reinthedumpsthough,I’d say my most intuitive songs come out. There’s not much thought involved, just completesurrender.

“Those songs tend to arrive on their own. They’re usually a bit more emotional, but often they’re the most honestandmelodic.”

AsSevenPoundHalorises,itistheband’s mission to help elevate talent coming after it.

Recently,thebandhasbeenparticipating in Wyndham council’s Paradox FReeZA program– a volunteer-led initiative supported by the state government that putsoneventsforyoungpeople.

Paulsaidpassingonthemusic,especially inalivespace,issomethingtoovaluableto lose.

“Across six consecutive days we performed at five schools throughout Wyndham before finishing with a youth centreshowthatbroughtstudentstogether fromacrossthewest.

“I think it’s quite important because we’re living through a hyper-media space whereeverythingisfacingitselfonline.”

He said he sees two things the next generationcantakefrommusic.

“The first is that you can build a skill and express yourself to the fullest, while helping others feel understood through

what you create,” he said. “The second is that music gives people a way to ground themselves through all the noise, especially as AI and technology and social media become more reliant in our everydaylives.

“I genuinely believe musical skills could become a lost art form one day but we hope young people see that learning an instrument or developing a creative skill isn’tjustaboutbecomingamusician.

“It’s about finding an outlet, building confidence and discovering who you are. As technology and AI become more prominent, human creativity becomes evenmorevaluableinmyopinion.

“At the end of the day, I think we just want to give back and create something peoplecanrelateto.

“That’s truly my goal to let people know they’re not alone and that everyone goes throughtransformationsinlife.”

Forbandscuttingtheirteeth,Paulsaidit startswithpractiseandrefiningsongs.

“Listen to The Beatles and, believe it or not, orchestral music. Listen to it a thousand times if you have to. Your brain starts mapping out where music wants to gostructurally,”hesaid.

“Most importantly, have fun with it. If youdecidetotakeitseriously,you’vegotto believeinyourselffirst.”

Naturally, the band is heading back to the studio this month to practise what it preachesandrecordnewsongs.

For more of the band and their sound: https://sevenpoundhalo.com/

Smart home devices that enhance safety for seniors

As more technology is developed and brought to the shelves, more homes are seeing these gadgets brought into their homes. These smart home devices don’t just simplify life but can enhance safety, convenience, and peace of mind— particularly for seniors. As the population ages, the need for innovative solutions to supportindependentlivingandensurethe well-being of elderly individuals becomes increasingly important. Smart home devices offer a range of features designed to address the unique safety concerns of seniors, from fall detection to remote monitoringandemergencyassistance.

Let’s explore some popular tech being brought into homes for the elderly, exploring how these innovations revolutionise senior care and reassure residentsandtheirfamilies.

Smart Security Systems

Traditional security systems have evolved into smart home security solutions that offer comprehensive protection for seniors. Smart cameras, motion sensors, and doorbell cameras provide real-time surveillance, allowing family members to monitor their loved ones remotely. With features like two-way audio and smartphonealerts,seniorscanfeelsecure knowingthathelpisjustatapawayincase ofanysuspiciousactivityoremergencies.

Voice Assistants for Safety

Voice-controlled assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant have become indispensable safety tools for seniors.Thesedevicescanperformvarious functions, including setting reminders, making calls, and controlling smart home devices through simple voice commands.

In terms of safety, voice assistants can be programmed to send alerts during emergencies or remind seniors to take medication, enhancing their overall well-being.

Smart Health Monitoring Systems

Monitoring seniors’ health is essential for early intervention and preventive care. Smart health monitoring systems targeted for seniors use wearable devices, smartscales,andbloodpressuremonitors to track vital signs and health metrics in real time. Caregivers and healthcare

professionals can remotely access this data through smartphone apps or online portals, allowing for timely interventions andpersonalisedcareplans.

Astechnologyadvances,thepossibilities forenhancingseniorsafetyandwell-being through technology are limitless. Smart home devices offer a transformative solution to address the unique challenges faced by elderly individuals, empowering themtoliveindependentlywhileproviding peace of mind to their families. By embracingtheseinnovativesmartgadgets,

the elderly can enjoy a safer and more secure living environment, enabling them toageinplacewithdignityandconfidence. At Centennial Living, every home includes an emergency call system to provide an additional layer of safety and securityforseniorslivingindependently.

If you would like to learn more about our Centennial Living Retirement Villages, please call 1300 098 000 to speak to a friendly team member or visit www.centennialliving.com.au today.

Create a finger knit snake

Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspireandsparkcreativity.

Stephanie starred in the fi of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting.

JoinStephanieassheexplorestheendless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materialsintosomethingextraordinary.

This month, Stephanie is creating a fingerknitsnake.

Thousands flock to new library

Since it opened in February, the Murnong Library has welcomed close to 33,000 visitors, signed up 1064 new members and lentout7491items.

Murnong means ’yam daisy’ in the Woi WurrunglanguageoftheWurundjeripeople andisreflectiveoftheindigenousflorafound in the landscape of Donnybrook and its surroundingsuburbs.

Yarra Plenty Regional Library chief executiveNicoleRuddensaidthenewlibrary hadbeenembracedbythecommunity.

“The new Murnong Library is already becoming a focal point for the fast-growing Donnybrook community. From young children to retirees, the library has a broad rangeofcollectionsandprogramstointerest andsupporteveryone,“MsRuddensaid.

The library hosts a range of programs from storytime for the little ones, craft sessions for children and English language conversation for adults. Kids STEAM and games workshops as well as adult crafting sessionsarecomingsoon.

Details: www.yprl.vic.gov.au/ events/?locations=MNG

Leave a short tail of yarn. Place the yarn over your middle finger, behind your index finger,

fingers. Gently pull the yarn tight.

Step 3: Repeat until your finger knitting is long enough to look like a snake.

Step 4: Cut the yarn and tie a knot at the end, leaving a small piece hanging out. Trim the other tail short.

Step 5: Cut a small tongue from red felt and glue it onto the small piece of yarn.

Step 6: Glue on the googly eyes to finish your snake.

Green light for village plan

A new residential neighbourhood in South Morang will be guided by strong planning protections and design requirements under a development plan adopted by Whittlesea council.

The Hawkstowe Village West Development Plan covering 8.8 hectares of land at 1175 and 1215 Plenty Road was recently endorsed by councillors.

The endorsed plan sets out how the former farmland can be developed for housing, while protecting important environmental, cultural and heritage features and ensuring the neighbourhood is connected to surrounding infrastructure and services.

Located within the Mernda Strategy Plan area, the site has long been identified for residential development. The endorsed plan provides clear requirements for a connected street network, retention of existing trees and a residential layout that responds to the site’s contours.

Once delivered, the neighbourhood will be home to an estimated 600 to 750 residents living in about 230 detached houses and townhouses on lots ranging from about 400 to 700 square metres in size.

Future residents will benefit from the proximity to the Hawkstowe Train Station and existing services in the area, including

schools and open space.

Transport within the development plan area will be managed with a roundabout at the intersection between McArthurs Road and Poppy Drive and a pedestrian path network to encourage walking to the nearby Hawkstowe Train Station.

The heritage-listed ‘Moorilla’ homestead, which is located on the site, will be protected and the plan contains guidelines for its eventual restoration, subject to future planning approval.

Duetopartsofthesitehavingbeenused for farming, approval conditions require a Statement of Environmental Audit to be issuedbeforethesecondstageofworksstart.

Nepalese connection in Kalkallo

This Nepalese society aims to build confidence, friendships, and meaningful connections for locals in the growing Kalkallo community.

The Nepalese Society of Kalkallo (NESK) secretary Sanjay Gautam said the group has created a sense of belonging since it was formed in 2022.

“Being part of the Nepalese Society of Kalkallo is deeply personal for me, it’s where I feel genuinely connected to my community,” Mr Gautam said.

He said many Nepalese families have been settling in outer suburbs like

Become a

Kalkallo, often without support systems.

“As a first-generation migrant, that sense of belonging doesn’t come automatically, you have to build it and this group has been a big part of that journey,” he said.

NESK supports locals with free programs including the Pathsala Nepali community language school, Khelkud kids sports program and Manjari kids dance program. “From my experience, even simpleactivitieslikesport,languageclasses, or community events create meaningful connections,” Mr Gautam said.

He said the group has been important for his whole family’s connection to culture and community. “Watching my children grow up in Australia, I want themtofeelconfidentinwhotheyareand connected to both their heritage and the broader community. Being part of this group helps create that environment not just for my family, but for many others.”

NESK also hosts a range of annual events to celebrate Nepalese culture including Teej (the Nepali women’s festival), Nepali New Year and Easter celebrations and Deepawali (Diwali).

nature steward and meet like-minded people

Calling all nature enthusiasts, registrations for the Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) Whittlesea nature stewards course are now open.

The program invites residents to feed their curiosity and passion for nature over 10 weeks in Wollert this spring.

Whittlesea council said the nature stewards course turns curiosity into real, impactful change.

“This hands-on program is a great way to gain knowledge and practical skills, while meeting like-minded people in your local community,” council said.

Duringthecourseresidentswillexplore animal and plant life, geology, soils and

river systems in the region.

Local resident Suneeti (Suni) Sharma completed the course in 2023 and now runs the Whittlesea Climate Action Network.

Ms Sharma said the course helped feed her passion for nature, and she enjoyed learning alongside long time residents.

“I was already drawn to nature, capturing trees, birds and flowers on my phone and spending mindful time outdoors but nature stewards gave that connection a deeper meaning,” Ms Sharma said.

“I had recently moved to Australia and started working in the climate space, and I wanted to better understand the local bio-

diversity so I could genuinely contribute to the community.”

The Whittlesea spring 2026 program will run on Saturdays from 12 September to 28 November in Wollert.

“One of the most valuable lessons I received was that you don’t need to know everything to work with nature … that mindset gave me confidence,” Ms Sharma said.

“I would encourage others to take the time to do this course, step outdoors, learn mindfully, and leave the rest to nature.”

Applications close on 30 August and places are limited.

Details: https://vnpa.org.au/nature-stewards-whittlesea-s26/

The draft Development Plan was exhibitedforfourweeksin2025toallowrelevant authorities and residents in the surrounding area to provide feedback.

Mayor Lawrie Cox said the plan would ensure the land is developed responsibly and in a way that meets the highest design and planning standards.

“This residential neighbourhood will deliver more than 200 new homes to support our rapidly growing community,” he said.

“Located close to public transport and just a short drive to schools, shopping and sports facilities, the development will suit the needs of people at all stages of life.”

Egg farm admits to misleading free-range label

A Whittlesea egg farm business has paid close to $40,000 in penalties for falsely claiming its eggs were free-range.

Doreen Egg Aust Pty Ltd was issued two infringement notices by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) over the claims.

The ACCC said Doreen Egg had admitted it sold eggs labelled as ‘free range’ despite hens not having access to an outdoor range, as required under Free Range Egg Labelling Information Standard.

Egg producers cannot label eggs as ‘free-range’ unless the eggs were laid by hens that had meaningful and regular access to an outdoor range during the daylight hours of the laying cycle and were able to roam and forage on the outdoor range.

Eggs from hens not kept at a stocking density of 10,000 hens or less per hectare also cannot be labelled as free range.

Doreen Egg operates a four-shed farm and produces caged, cage-free and free-range eggs.

More than 8600 cartons of the mislabelled eggs were sold in May and June 2025 through two wholesalers, 30 small retailers and direct farm-gate sales, the ACCC said.

“Consumers often seek out and pay a premium for free-range eggs, so they need to be confident the eggs meet the legal definition of being ‘free range’,” ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh said.

“Egg producers must ensure their farming practices match what their labels tell consumers.”

Doreen Egg also admitted that the company sold eggs in cartons displaying the Australian Eggs Ltd logo, suggesting the business had sponsorship or approval from the organisation when it did not.

To prevent future mislabelling, Doreen Egg has committed to inform consumers about its misrepresentations, independently review its compliance processes, update packaging and traceability systems and conduct further staff training.

“The ACCC will continue to monitor the market to ensure free-range claims are truthful and accurate, and will take action where necessary,” Mr Keogh said.

Locals in Comm Games action

Commonwealth Games action will get underway this week, with several locals in action across the two weeks.

Tara Murray has a quick look at some of the athletes to look out for.

ATHLETICS –

Chris Mitrevski, Linden Hall and Peter Bol

Three western suburbs athletes will be part of the Australian athletics team at the Commonwealth Games.

Keilor Downs’ Chris Mitrevski is headed to a third Commonwealth Games.

Mitrevskiwillcompeteinthelongjump, having competed in that event at Gold Coast in 2018 and Birmingham in 2022. He played sixth in 2018 but struggled with consistency and technical issues which plagued him for a few years.

Mitrevski then finished ninth in 2022. He also represented Australia at the 2024 Olympics and sits in the top five for Australian male long jumpers all-time.

Mitrevski has also won five Australian titles, finishing second this year, with a best jump of 8.12 metres.

SpeakingaheadofhisOlympicsdebutin 2024, Mitrevski said he started athletics as he loved to race everyone.

Football was his other love. He played with both Taylors Lakes and Keilor.

“I played every sport at school, I loved sports and if there was a chance of playing school sports with anything, I was doing it,” he said.

“Played footy and athletics pretty much the whole time, loved them both just as much.

“Iprobablywasn’ttoogoodatfooty.Iwas good for one effort and that’s it, probably why I’m good at athletics.

“I figured out I was quick and could jump, put those to together and made for a good long jumper.”

Former Riddells Creek resident Linden Hall will represent Australia at a third Commonwealth Games.

Having competed at the Gold Coast in 2018 and Birmingham in 2022, Hall has been named to compete in the 5000 metres.

She competed in the 1500 metres in

BOWLS –

Aaron Teys and Corey Wedlock

New Deer Park Bowls Club signings and best mates Aaron Teys and Corey Wedlock are headed to the Commonwealth Games.

The pair were named in the Australian Jackaroos squad for the games.

A 12-player squad has been named with six Para-Commonwealth Games athletes in the team.

Teys and Wedlock make up the men’s squad along with Aaron Wilson. Wilson, who will compete in the singles, is going for a third straight gold medal in that event.

Wedlock, who competed at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, and Teys, who has been selected for his first games, will compete in the men’s pairs event.

Teyssaiditwasanunrealfeelingtohave made his first games.

“It’s something that I always dreamed of as a kid and being in the squad for a while nowandhadacoupleofsetbacksandwhat not,” he said.

“It’s a huge relief and I can’t wait.”

The pair said they can’t wait to team up together.

“We’re good mates on and off the green, we know each other’s game inside out, we know what makes us happy and what ticks us off,” Teys said.

“I think it was selected but I think if we both had the opportunity we would have

the past two Commonwealth Games, finishing fourth on both occasions.

The 35-year-old has also competed in three Olympic Games.

Hall went to school at Riddells Creek Primary School, before going to Braemar College for secondary school.

Speaking before the 2024 Olympics, Hall told Star Weekly she still had a lot of connections in the Macedon Ranges.

“I still have plenty of friends out there,” she said. “They are pretty good at supporting me on social media as well.

“I spent an afternoon at Riddells Creek Primary School after the Commonwealth Gamesandranalapwiththewholeschool.

“It was nice to be able to do that.”

PeterBol,wholivesinthe3032postcode which includes Maribyrnong, will be looking to go one better than in 2022 when he won silver in the 800 metres.

HecurrentlyownstheAustralianrecord in the 800 metres and has had an strong season on the track this year.

Bol recently broke the Australian 1000 metres record.

played with each other anyway.”

Wedlock added,” I’m really looking forward to teaming up with Aaron Teys, who is one of my best mates, and we’ve got a great record together, looking forward to get there out on the big stage together.”

The format of the bowls competition this year at the Commonwealth Games is different to the past.

The format is more like the Bowls Premier League competition.

Wedlock and Teys have won that competitiontogetherfourtimes,withTeys named player of the tournament three times.

“Igetboredprettyeasilysothisformatis going to be pretty good for me,” Teys said Wedlock said they have a good record

and know each other’s games well.

“We know what works for each other and what doesn’t work for us, having that friendship as well off the green puts us in good stead heading into the games.”

It comes after the pair signed with Deer Park for the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division competition.

Teys returns to the club and has signed on for two years, while Wedlock will join the Parkers for the first time and has signed for four years.

Bowls Australia’s performance director andnationalcoachGaryWillissaidhaving four Commonwealth Games debutants alongside athletes with multiple games campaigns creates a really strong balance within the squad.

Keilor Thunder’s Lara McSpadden is headed to the Commonwealth Games.

McSpadden was named in the Australian Basketball 3x3 women’s side.

The women’s Gangurrus will be led by Marena Whittle, who brings Commonwealth Games experience after claiming bronze at Birmingham 2022, alongside Amy Atwell, Emma Clarke and McSpadden.

McSpadden made her 3x3 debut for Australia last year and has been named in a number of squads since then.

She made the move to the Keilor Thunder in the National Basketball League 1 South competition this season and has been a key reason why the Thunder sit in the top eight.

Chef de Mission Petria Thomas said the selected teams reflect the depth and strength of Australian basketball across both programs.

“These squads reflect the incredible talent and depth we continue to see across Australian basketball,” she said.

“It’s particularly exciting to welcome our debutants into the green and gold, while also recognising the outstanding experience of our returning athletes.

“I know each of them will embrace the opportunity to represent Australia with pride on the Commonwealth Games stageandcontinueourstrongtraditionof performance in the 3x3 format.”

Basketball Australia chief executive Matt Scriven said the selection of the squadsreflectsthecontinuedgrowthand strength of the sport in Australia at the elite level.

“Today’s [Thursday] announcement is another strong demonstration of the depth and talent we have across Australian basketball,” he said.

“Both our Basketball 3x3 and Wheelchair Basketball 3x3 programs continuetoproduceathleteswhoperform on the international stage and embrace the demands of the Commonwealth Games environment.

“We’re proud of every athlete selected and look forward to watching them represent Australia with distinction in Glasgow.”

JUDO –

Aoife Coughlan, Maeve Coughlan, Tinka Easton and Danny Vojnikovich

It’llbeafamilyaffairattheCommonwealth Games for the Coughlan family, as four Resilience Training Centre stars are set to shine on the big stage.

Reigning women’s judo 70 kilogram Commonwealth Games gold medalist Aoife Coughlan has been named in the Aussie squad for 2026 as she aims to defend her title.

Her younger sister Maeve Coughlan will make her Commonwealth Games debut afterbeingpickedtorepresentAustraliain the 63 kilogram women’s event.

Aoife said Birmingham remains a defining memory, but her focus has already shifted to what lies ahead.

“Winning gold in Birmingham was a memorable moment in my career and I look forward to the opportunity to defend my title” she said.

“To be able to share this experience with Maeve makes it even more special.”

For Maeve, selection marks the culmination of years of dedication and a chance to step into the international spotlight alongside someone who has

NETBALL –

Liz Watson, Kate Moloney and Uneeq Palavi

Two former City West Falcons stars will lead the Australian Diamonds at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, while a current Falcon is also headed to the Games.

TheDiamondsteamwasnamed,withno surprises.

Captain Liz Watson will once again lead the side, bringing her trademark composure, creativity and elite midcourt leadership to a team built for high performance tournament play.

Kate Moloney is the side’s vice-captain. The pair came through the City West Falcons pathway before making their way in Suncorp Super Netball and for the Diamonds.

Watson is one of three players who will compete at their third Games.

Watson, Jo Weston and Courtney Bruce won silver in 2018 before winning gold in 2022.

Moloney, Kiera Austin, Sarah Klau and Cara Koenen were part of the 2022 team.

Jamie Lee-Price, Sophie Dwyer, Georgie Horjus,SophieGarbinandMatildaGarrett will all make their Games debut.

“This is an incredibly exciting group with a great mix of youth and experience,” Watson said. “We know what it takes to perform on the world stage, and we’re committed to doing the work required to give ourselves every chance in Glasgow.

“There’s a lot of excitement around this group, but also a real determination

SWIMMING –

Tara Kinder

Bundoora’s Tara Kinder is hoping to fire at the right time having made her first Commonwealth Games team.

Kinder will swim in the 200 metre breastroke.

Speaking on Swimming Victoria’s social media, Kinder said she was looking forward to being part of her first multiple sport event.

“It was a huge relief coming off the back of World Championships last year,” she said of making the team.

“There was that added pressure of trying to make selection at the trials.

“Havingthattextmessagecomethrough on the last day was really a huge relief and

helped shape her journey.

“I was in the crowd in 2022 when Aoife won, now I’ll get to compete alongside her in Glasgow. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of and I really look forward to,” she said.

The pair’s older brother Eoin previously competed for Australia as well, including at the 2016 Olympics.

Speaking before the 2024 Olympics, Aoife said her sister was one of her main training partners.

“My sister Maeve is one of my main training partners and she keeps me accountable and we push each other to be better every day,” she told Star Weekly at

to defend the gold medal we won in Birmingham. We know the challenge ahead and we’re ready to embrace it together.”

Horjussaidearningselectionforherfirst Commonwealth Games was a moment of immense pride.

“It’s one of the biggest stages in sport, and the chance to represent Australia in Glasgow is really special. I’m excited for everything that comes with the Games

I now get to focus more on preparation leading into it.”

Kindersaidshehadsomeupsanddowns at the trails and had to wait until the final night to know if she had done enough to qualify for the Games and the Pan Pacs.

She said she didn’t get the results she wouldhaveliked,missingoutofqualifying times in the two medley events.

“I was lucky to get my foot through the door, so I can focus on being better overseas when it matters.”

Kinder represented Australia the World Championships last year in the 200 metre individual medley and 200 metre breaststroke.

Shefinished12thinthemedleyand25th in the breaststroke.

the time. “I hope I’m as good a role model for her as our brother is.

“I’m hoping we can qualify together for LA 2028.”

Joining the two Coughlans in the Commonwealth Games team are fellow Resilience Training Centre athletes, Tinka Easton and Danny Vojnikovich.

The Resilience Training Centre is based in Footscray.

Easton,whowillcompeteinthewomen’s 52 kilograms event, is also defending her title.

Vojnikovich is making his Commonwealth Games debut and will compete in the men’s 90 kilograms event.

Judo Australia performance and pathways general manager Maria Pekli saidtheselectionhighlightsthedepthand continued growth of the program.

“This team is the result of years of consistent investment in our pathway and high-performance system,” she said.

“To see athletes like Aoife return as champions, alongside new faces like Maeve, Vas and Saya stepping onto the Commonwealth Games stage together, shows the strength and sustainability of Australian Judo.

“We are incredibly proud of this group and excited for what they can achieve in Glasgow.”

experience and ready to make the most of the opportunity.”

Melbourne Mavericks player Uneeq Palavi has been named in the Tonga team for the Games.

Palavi, who has played two games for the Falcons this season, has been a key player for the Tongan team for a number of years.

It will be the first time Tonga is playing netball at the Commonwealth Games.

Taylors Lakes’ Jacob Cassar is part of the next generation of Australian boxing that willgettheirchanceattheCommonwealth Games.

An eight-athlete boxing team has been named for the Games.

All eight boxers will be making their games debut.

At just 19, Cassar is the youngest in the team.

“I’m very happy,” he said. “I’m excited.

“It’s what I’ve dreamed of and I can’t wait.”

Cassar found out he had made the time withaphonecallbeforetheannouncement was made public.

He was hoping that he had done enough to be selected in the men’s 65 kilogram event.

“I did everything that I could at the selection event to try and take it out of the selectors hands,” he said.

“Youalwayshaveafeelingbutyounever know. I was waiting for the result.”

Cassar was too young for the 2024 Olympics and set his sights on the Commonwealth Games.

Having always set himself high expectations, going into the games is no different for Cassar.

He embraces being one of the youngest competitors in the ring.

“I’m excited for the experience,” Cassar said. “Gold is the goal.

“I’lltrainhardwithmydadandmycoach and I’m always trying to win tournaments and win fights.

“It’s exciting when you get those wins.

“Iloveitandeverythingthatcomeswith it. Wins are a bonus.”

Cassar played football as a junior with the Hillside but fell in love with boxing when one of his footy coaches got the players to put the pads on to improve their fitness.

Fromthere,hetookupthesportandhas not looked back.

Cassar has competed in 65 fights, winning 57 of them.

He said both his parents had been big supporters throughout his career.

Cassar said the World Boxing Cup in Brazil was another good opportunity ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

“I’m so grateful to Boxing Australia for the opportunity to go over there,” he said.

“It was a beautiful location and tournament.

“I had two fights and had one win and one loss.”

Cassar competed in China before the Commonwealth Games and participated in some team camps before traveling to Glasgow.

“As dad would say, take the bull by the horns,” he said. “Take every opportunity.”

Boxing Australia chief executive Dinah Glykidis said the team announcement is an exciting moment for Boxing Australia to be able to confirm this team, with eight athletes selected to represent Australia in Glasgow,” Glykidis said.

“Thisisatalentedanddeterminedgroup who’ve earned their opportunity and are ready to test themselves against the best boxers across the Commonwealth.

“We know they’ll continue to develop over the coming months, and we’re really looking forward to seeing them represent the green and gold in Glasgow.”

A lacklustre action movie and a fun watch

Romsey movie buff Evan Turok is Star Weekly’s film reviewer. Each month he shares his take on recent releases, cult classics, modern favourites and everything in between.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu (M)

Too many times, my brother and I turned to each other in silent disbelief, and shared a knowing smirk of hopelessness, directed at the soulless, senseless trainwreck of a film that was Jon Favreau’s ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu,’

A good fantasy or sci-fi movie should leave you with a sense of wonder and inspire you to let your imagination run wild with the possibilities of the world youhavepaidyour$18toenter.

So, with that said, I give full credit to ‘TheMandalorianandGrogu’formaking mewishIhadthepowersoftheForce,if onlyfortheabilitytoforcemyeyesopen duringthetedioustwohours-plusofthis mind-numbingfilm.

From the story to the dialogue, the writers served up a course each of dull predictability and cringe-inducing conversation.

The character of the ‘Mandalorian’ wears a helmet for almost the entire film, so it made complete sense to learn that during the filming of these scenes,

so-called ‘lead actor’ Pedro Pascal was not the one inside the armour. Instead, heonlyprovidedvoice-oversforthefilm. That alone should be enough to show you the level of passion put in by Pascal, whichfurtherreflectsinhisconsistently monotone and blasé performance. A poorly paced film that sadly slammed to a grinding halt with any scene featuring the little green Grogu and his occasionally cute, but always dull shenanigans.

Ludwig Göransson has quickly becomethemostsought-aftercomposer in Hollywood. He provided The MandalorianandGroguwithafantastic, futuristicspace-westernsoundtrackthat waswellandtrulyabovethestandardof thefilmasawhole.

Topairwiththemusicwasahandfulof exciting, explosion-filled action scenes thatarewellshotandgenuinelyexciting whether you are a Star Wars fan or not. Therewasalsoafunnyandrandomvoice cameo from the great director Martin Scorsese, which was unexpectedly fittingforthismonth’sreviews.

If you are headed to the theatres for this film, try to treat it as a lacklustre action movie rather than an extremely lacklustreStarWarsmovie.

Faces of the north

Each week, Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing the people and events across Melbourne’s north-west.

VU

The Color of Money (M)

Cinema is exciting when the touch of a director’s inimitable style can be seen crafting the shots and using the camera in creative ways, creating memorable scenes that, if nothing else, were certainly ‘cool’. The Color of Money (1986) follows Eddie Felson (Paul Newman) as an experienced pool hustler trying to wrangle in the proud, young, unbeatable player Vincent Lauria (Tom Cruise) and teach him that the way to make money isn’t always to wineverygame.

There is also a modern tendency to make a movie colourless. The soulless corporations releasing endless still-camerated grey sludge onto your Netflix accounts is almost enough to make you want to read a book. Don’t give up hope just yet, because the works of Martin Scorsese are not yet lost to time. Scorsese puts on a master class in shotstylingandcolouringascene.

To make a movie colourful, you can’t just saturate each frame with every shadeandtoneunderthesun.

Giving life to a scene comes from

Below: Wild Action’s Chris Humfrey. (Damjan Janevski) 561958_11

a contrast of colours and sticking to a conscious palette that can act as a canvas to stand behind the rest of the film, accentuating the conflicting colours.

The green felt coating a pool table leaks out into the frame but doesn’t become plain or repetitive. The dingy, smoke-filled pool halls are hazy but not grey; ironically, The Color of Money earnsitsname.

Moving from gangster heists to the limitedscaleofsmall-timepoolhustling, outstretchesabranchofrelatabilitythat drags us deeper into the world of the film, but runs the risk of stripping away that classic Scorsese edge that always keeps me engaged. Unfortunately, the grounded scale offered no crutch to support the film’s final scenes, and just like following in the white ball after the black,theendingfellflat.

The Color of Money isn’t the most revolutionaryfilmofalltime,butinstead a simple story with memorable scenes and characters with genuine depth and coherently written motivations, all directed by one of the greatest of all time.Afunwatchrightfromthebreak.

Macka on a China mission

By Glenn Fisher

Doreen’s Macka Mackenzie will represent her country in Beijing late next month at the 2026 China Para Badminton International –but only if she can afford it.

Mackenzie, who is currently ranked 21st in the world for para-badminton singles, still faces significant challenges to get to tournaments around the world, including a lack of financial backing from Australian sports organisations.

However, a group of her friends and family are now trying to raise awareness, garner support and ease the financial burden for Mackenzie so she can continue to pursue her dreams.

Twelve years ago, Mackenzie went from being a 40-year-old workaholic with the energy of a Jack Russell puppy to someone who was constantly exhausted and bedridden with pain.

“I started to experience problems in my everyday life, such as memory loss, random nerve pain, fogginess, confusion and suddenly being clumsy and constantly dropping things,” she said.

“After a while I couldn’t work or safely live on my own. I had to move back in with my parents.

“I felt that I had lost all autonomy and, lo and behold, depression and anxiety also moved in.”

After five years of medical appointments and tests, Mackenzie was finally diagnosed with a neurological condition called Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), of which the main symptoms are ataxia, dystonia and spasticity, with a severe movement disorder thrown in.

“Needless to say, since then there have been some incredibly dark times ... but I was fortunate enough to be introduced to a badminton group for people with disabilities,” she said.

“Through this introduction, I have found a way to get out of bed every day and use my body and mind to fight against the quick deterioration that is associated with FND.”

Through badminton, Mackenzie said she became a ‘somebody’ , winning a gold medal in the women’s singles at the 2023 Para Badminton Oceana Tournament in Perth and a bronze medal in mixed doubles at the 2024 Para Badminton International Tournament in Indonesia.

She was also successful in winning singles gold at the national titles in Altona in May, as well as silver medals in the women’s doubles and mixed doubles events in the wheelchair 1 categories.

Mackenzie’s full-time carer, Rachel Mooney, said there had been many challenges along the way, but a highlight had been joining the Northern Ladies Badminton Association based in Diamond Creek four years ago.

“The club has been so supportive of us, from welcoming us with open arms through to holding fundraisers for Macka,” Mooney said.

Mooney said the fundraising aspect was so important for Macka, not only in working towards getting in the top 10 players in the world, but for being able to attend tournaments and giving Macka the exercise and consistency in movement that is so important with FND.

The duo are also working on a documentary to not only tell Macka’s story but other people’s FND stories, with a focus on education about inclusivity, pain factors and reminding people they’re not on their own. Any funds raised will be put towards making the documentary and attending tournaments along the way.

Details: https://asf.org.au/campaigns/ macka-mackenzie_teammisunderstood/ mackamackenzie_tournamentbound

The world is their stage

BoilOver Ensemble fills an important niche in the performing arts scene. The inclusive performance group has been creating opportunities for local artists for over 16 years, becoming a household name and performing on some of Melbourne’s biggest stages. Georgia Tacey caught up with the performers, artist support and creative director of the Sunbury-based performance troop, as they gear up for their next big performance, Glimmer.

For BoilOver Ensemble’s five current performers—Savannah,Jaymie-Lee, Brendan, Andrew, and Conor— there is no greater joy than being centre stage. Their infectious energy and natural stage presence have made the ensemble a local favourite, with performances ranging from SunFest in Sunbury and The Bowery Theatre in St Albans all the way to the Melbourne Fringe.

Creative producer Carmen Maddison said the idea for BoilOver was sparked in 2009 after Sunbury local Bernadette Hetherington noticed a lack of creative opportunities for adults with disability in the community. The group is now supported by Omnia Health (Sunbury Cobaw Community Health).

“Bernie recognised that there were no creative opportunities for adults with disabilityinthecommunity,”MsMaddison said.

“Bernie will always laugh and say she doesn’t have a creative bone in her body, butshedidinitiateBoilOverforthatreason, because she recognised there wasn’t that opportunity.”

A play on words from Sunbury’s other performing group, Boilerhouse Theatre Company,BoilOvercreatedamuch-needed spaceforadultswithdisabilitytocreatively express themselves.

Performances are adapted to their abilities with help from artist supporters KarenCleurandJacquelynHughes,making it an inclusive, welcoming environment for adults with a disability to explore their creative sides, Ms Maddison said.

“Often not everyone can read, not everyonecanwrite,soweareheavilybased in movement, and physical storytelling is what we kind of call it,” she said.

“It’s a cross between dance and performance and a bit of text but not like set scenes.”

Ms Madison said this helps fill a gap in the performance industry.

“It’s all stories that have come from the artists themselves, and that’s always been a tradition of the Boilover practice of devised works, finding creative expression because we’re also adapting and working withindifferentabilitiesanddifferentways people communicate,” she said.

“Some people who have performed here have been non-verbal … we have really diverse artists and we need to meet the needs of everybody and that work is adapted and evolves from their stories and their abilities.”

Ms Cleur said she found it inspiring to see the ownership the artists take over each project.

“That was the beauty of seeing the works when I first came and volunteered, thinking to myself that this is really their work,” she said. “When it becomes their work,there’sacertainprideandownership aboutit…andIjustlovewatchingthatsort of development.”

Each performance is an original piece created for and by the performers, Ms Hughes said, keeping the performers included in every step of the process.

“We always make our own works and that’s the thing I love, is that it comes from the artist, and then it’s just built upon. What they come up with is just magic,” she said.

Last year’s performance, Meet Me at the Disco,wasalovelettertomusicanddance.

Andrew played the lead role in the show. Afterfindinganoldrecordplayerunderhis grandparents’ bed, his world transforms

We always make our own works and that’s the thing I love ... What they come up with is just magic - Karen Cleur

into a classic ‘70s and ‘80s disco fever dream.

“We did that at the Fringe Festival,” Andrew explained. “It was full of energy, the crowd was pumping me up.”

Jaymie-Lee said she played a Dancing Queen, and loved singing in her red dress.

Savannah said the troop took the performance to Sunbury’s SunFest earlier thisyear,andthatshelovedperformingfor her local community.

“Ithasreallygoodsongsanditwasreally good to perform at SunFest in our own community. We truly loved it,” she said.

“The audience got out of their seats and joined us.”

Ms Maddison said the idea for Meet Me at the Disco came from the performers’ own experiences and conversations.

“That show came about during Covid, becausealotofourartistsused to goto the social discos here, and they were all closed down,” she said. “So Meet Me at the Disco was kind of born out of that, being isolated and finding yourself on the dance floor.”

Anothericonicshowthetroopperformed across Melbourne was The Birds, an hour-long interactive performance that blended dance, physical performance, circus arts and AI technology to create a compelling audio-visual experience.

Later this year, BoilOver will perform on Sunbury’sneweststageatthenewJacksons Hill art precinct, Artrise.

Glimmer will help activate Artrise with threeperformancesslatedforInternational Day of People with a Disability, in a performanceaidedbya$15,000grantfrom

Hume council.

Andrew’s artwork will be featured throughout, and interactive sounds by collaborators The Sonic Rats will be featured as well.

“We’ve been making the show for a little while, so there’s these little snippets of scenes that we can just marry up and story and how lovely it is for them now I think particularly is these artists have been here much longer they’ve developed a real interestinstorylinemaking,setdesignand lighting and all the back stage aspects as well as performing,” Ms Cleur said. Ms Maddison said while the full performance was still taking shape, it will be one not to be missed.

BoilOver is on the hunt for more performers to join the troop. It is open to anyone over 18 with an NDIS plan and an interest in performing or working behind the scenes.

Details: facebook.com/BoilOver InclusivePerformanceEnsemble/

What do you love about performing with BoilOver?

Jaymie-Lee: I like to move and dance.

Conor: It’s like a family here. I wake up and I want to come back here, it’s my dream job.

Savannah: It gives me freedom and helps me get out of my comfort zone. I want to open my heart to the audience. I want the audience to feel the art we have created.

Andrew: I’ve been with BoilOver for a long time because I love performing. I love doing things like stage managing.

Brendan: It’s good, I like to do singing.

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

1 Soup ingredient with ham (3)

Resolute (7)

Too quiet to be heard (9)

Think again (10)

Norway’s capital (4)

Scrutinise (4)

Seasonal movement of animals (9)

Island in the North Atlantic (7)

Work (7)

Economic system (10)

Consume (3)

Group of people with authority to rule (10)

Appalling (9)

Transmute (9)

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

Today’s Aim:

20 words: Good 30 words: Very good 41 words: Excellent

3

ARENA AROSE BAYOU CHEEP COALS

U E C I T T N R

tunic, uric

5 LETTERS ACING AGILE ALGAE AMASS ANGST APING APRIL

1 MySharona was an international success for which US rock band?

2 What English river’s name comes from the ProtoBrittonic word for 'river'?

3 In the fairytale, for how many years was Sleeping Beauty asleep?

4 What is the capital of Barbados?

5 Which two members of The Bee Gees were twins?

6 In what year was the United Nations established?

7 On which island was Nelson Mandela imprisoned for 18 years?

8 Nephology is the study of what?

9 The griffin is a mythological creature with the head of an eagle and the body of what?

10 Shailene Woodley (pictured) stars as Jane Chapman in which TV series?

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Craigieburn Residents’ Association

Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening re-roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? Head to Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn on the last Wednesday of the month for the Craigieburn Residents’ Association meeting. The group liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. Meetings start at 7.30pm. CRA will host a sausage sizzle at Bunnings Craigieburn on Saturday 18 July. craigieburnresidents@gmail.com, 0430 354 463

Menergise men’s walk and talk

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

Senior citizens meet

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

Liz, 0433 249 995

Craigieburn Probus Club

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

Inclusive tennis

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

Mernda Repair cafe

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

Mernda Repair Cafe Facebook page for bookings each month.

Regular Storytime for Kids

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

yprl.vic.gov.au

All Seasons

All Seasons provides young adults living with disabilities and their friends, family and carers, with the opportunity to garden, craft, recycle, be creative and connect nature in a supportive setting. Tuesdays 10am-noon. Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown. 0488 224 439 or manager@tnh.org.au

HUME U3A

Health and Wellbeing as you age is our FOCUS. Join our community and engage in

activities that enrich your body, mind and spirit. Our doors are open, please come in at the Gladstone Park Community Centre 13 South Circular Road Gladstone Park, VIC 3043, Ph: (03) 9330 3239.E: secretary@ humeu3a.org.au, website: https:// humeu3a.org.au/

Bridgewater Retirement Village Dance

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

Craigieburn Country Women’s Association

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

Gladstone Park Probus Club

Have fun with like minded people if you live in Gladstone Park and surrounding suburbs. Monthly speakers, lunches, outings and bus tours. The probus club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 9.45am at the Good Shepherd Parish Hall, 88 South Circular Road, Gladstone Park. Visitors and new members welcome.

Chris, 0422 017 907

Bundoora probus

Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peter’s Anglican Church hall, Alma Road, Bundoora. Enjoy guest speakers, excursions, coffee mornings, lunches, walks and craft sessions.

bundooraprobus@outlook.com

Community singing group

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

Chatty Cafe

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

TAC L2P Program

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.

Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

Adult education

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

9309 8531

Homestead Walking Group

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

The Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

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

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

Craft and Conversation

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

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

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

The problem with plastic

Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group in partnershipwithMacedonRangesCouncil is hosting a screening of the multi-award winning documentary film ‘The Story of Plastic’inrecognitionofPlasticFreeJuly.

Following the screening, a panel of industry and community representatives will discuss local actions and solutions to plasticpollution.

Guests are then invited to enjoy a light, plastic-freeafternoontea.

The Story of Plastic is a powerful

documentary that takes viewers behind the scenes of the global plastic pollution crisis, revealing that the problem extends far beyond litter on beaches and floating oceanwaste.

Directed by Deia Schlosberg, the award-winning film follows the entire lifecycle of plastic, from fossil fuel extraction and manufacturing to consumption and disposal, exposing the environmental and human impacts at everystage.

Featuring footage filmed across Asia, Africa, Europe and the United States, the documentaryhighlightshowcommunities are bearing the burden of plastic production and waste, while questioning whether recycling alone can solve the growing crisis. It also examines the role of the petrochemical industry in expanding plastic production despite increasing concerns about pollution and climate change.

Alongside sobering statistics and expert

Bluey on the big stage, grab a front row seat

The internationally-acclaimed stage adaptation of Australia’s best-loved children’s show comes to Geelong this month.Forreallife.

Sincepremieringin2020,Bluey’sBigPlay the Stage Show has toured the globe and beenseenbymillionsoffansworldwide.

Featuring brilliantly created, larger-than-life puppets and the instantly recognisablevoicesofMelanieZanettiand DaveMcCormackasMum(Chilli)andDad (Bandit),Bluey’sBigPlayfollowsBlueyand Bingo’s plans to get Dad off his phone and outofthebeanbag.

When master puppeteer Jacob Williams returned from the US to Australia in 2019 after a stint as head puppeteer for King Kong the Musical on Broadway, he had no ideawhoorwhatBlueywas.

“I got a phone call out of the blue from the producers asking if I’d be interested in coming on as puppet director,” Williams said. “I thought at that stage it might be a nice summer job for a couple of weeks… Thatwassevenyearsago.”

Williams said a big part of Bluey’s magic was its representation of the universal experienceofbeingpartofafamily.

“IthinkwhatBlueydoesreallywellisfind the joy and the quirkiness in the ordinary experienceoffamilylife,”hesaid.

“One of the things that keeps me so engaged with the show, what always delights me, is the audience itself. It’s such a collective experience of joy, not just from thekids,butfromalltheadults.

“I’maparent,andtoseeyourchildseeing one of their icons live, the impact of that… there’ssuchjoyinthatexperience.”

Bluey’sBigPlayisatGeelongArtsCentre from 22 to 23 July. Visit geelongartscentre. org.auformoreinformation.

Newport Substation to host sound and dance duet

Following performances of Katma at Sydney’s Carriageworks and Toronto’s Luminato Festival, Jack Prest and Azzam Mohamed next bring their thrilling, joyful sound-movement duet, Echo Mapping, to Melbourne’s inner west next month with performances at The Substation in Newport.

Prest is composer, mix-master, interdisciplinary artist and the senior engineer at Studios 301, Australia’s most prestigiousrecordingfacility.

His practice incorporates electronic, avant-gardeandambientmusic,soundart, newmedia,videoandperformance.

analysis, The Story of Plastic shines a light on grassroots activists, scientists and community groups working to reduce plasticwasteandpushforsystemicchange. Theirstoriesprovidehopeanddemonstrate how local action can influence global conversationsaboutsustainability.

The screening will take place on Sunday 26 July at 2pm at the Bluestone Theatre, 28 Hutton Street, Kyneton. Bookings essential via the Macedon Ranges Council website.

Crescendo:

Enjoy classical music at PRACC

Audiences are invited to experience the magic of the screen through live classical music when Crescendo: Screen Classics comes to the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC)thisAugust.

TakingplaceonSaturday22August 2026 at 7pm, this one-night-only concert in the Yan Yean Theatre at PRACC will showcase some of Whittlesea’s most talented classical musicians, performing a curated program of works made famous throughfilmandtelevision.

The program will feature a dynamic mix of soloists, duos and chamber ensembles, highlighting a diverse range of instruments and performance styles. Each piece is performed in its full beauty, allowing audiences to experience the emotion andstorytellingofthemusicupclose.

Audiences can expect a program spanning Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata to Piazzolla’s fiery Libertango, alongside Satie’s hauntingly familiar Gymnopédie No. 1 - a piece long beloved by film and television composers.

Ticketsare$15foradultsand$10for concessions.

Details: https://www.pracc.com. au/Whats-On/PRACC-Program/ Crescendo-Screen-Classics

Their latest collaboration, Echo Mapping,isdescribedasdancemusicinits strippedback,purestform,withnosets,no spectacle, just body, voice, and live music inconstantconversation.

Prest’s live score moves from subtle textures to thundering beats to ethereal trumpet, while Mohamed performs with both voice and body, his movements shift from commanding stillness to fluid yet intense choreography, while singing Sudanese melodies recorded, looped and

Mohamed is a dancer, performer, and educator with 15 years performing experience and training in an array of differentdancestyles,fromafro-houseand kudurotohiphop,poppingandhouse.

manipulated into a mesmerising sonic atmosphere.

Performed in the round, Echo Mapping places the audience at the centre of the experience where every breath, every beat, every movement is magnified and everyone is drawn into a shared, visceral journey that is both deeply personal and powerfully collective. Expect to leave transformed, exhilarated, and completely immersed.

Echo Mapping is on at The Substation from12-15Augustfrom7.30pm.

Book via The Substation: https:// thesubstation.org.au/program/ echo-mapping

Dr. Tony Stubbs Eye Surgeon

Dr. Tony Stubbs, Eye Surgeon, says that just about anyone can have their vision restored and be rid of their glasses for most of the time. And this is without the use of laser surgery. Dr Stubbs formerly at the Royal Victorian Eye Hospital who has worked with the Fred Hollows eye department at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, says he began his career through the inspiration of his father, Dr Maxwell Stubbs.

“My father was a pioneer in cataract implant surgery from 1963! He has now passed away but some of his patients still come in for a check-up. Not only is this inspirational, it also demonstrates that good surgery outlasts the surgeon,” Dr Stubbs says.

A specialist who helps people who have been advised they are unsuitable for laser surgery, Dr Stubbs is also committed to demonstrating that age, corneal distortion or astigmatism are no barriers to eliminating the need for glasses.

One of my best moments was treating a 12-year-old girl who was struggling at school because of poor vision due to congenital cataracts even with the use of thick glasses. Now 10 years later, she still has 20/20 vision without glasses. That inspires me.

“Seeing my patients’ bright smiles after surgery, as they stop squinting and can read without glasses, is definitely the best part of my job.”

No referral is needed and no out-of-pocket expenses are incurred for an assessment to enable all options available to be considered.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which three countries are set to host the 2026 Rugby League World Cup?

2. Who won the 2026 Wimbledon women's singles title?

3. FIFA will discuss expanding the World Cup from 48 teams to how many?

4. The 2026 Major League Baseball All-Star Game was held in which US Who won the 2026 Wimbledon men's

10. Which US college famously wears maize and blue?

11. How many substitutions per match are allowed in a FIFA World Cup game that does not go into extra time?

12. And how long is each half of a FIFA World Cup match?

Which basketball league plans to add teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia by 2030?

Who plays the fictional golf professional Lonnie Hawkins in the Netflix series The Hawk?

The tagging and tackling team sport of kabaddi is the national sport of which South Asian nation?

Which New Zealand cricketer most recently coached England's Test team?

13. Breaking the record of 52, how many days did it take Kelsey Pfendler to row solo from California to Hawaii?

14. Who is currently ranked the world No.1 men’s tennis player?

15. How many apparatuses are there in men’s gymnastics?

16. Both Wimbledon 2026 Women’s finalists were from which country?

17. Fans of which Australian professional sports team have started copying Norway’s ‘viking row’ celebration?

18. Rugby player Will Jordan achieved what feat in July 2026?

19. New South Wales won which State of Origin 2026 games?

20. And who was awarded the Wally Lewis Medal for being the standout player of the series?

21. Sam Kerr recently signed with which NWSL team?

22. And what year was the National Women’s Soccer League founded?

23. In regards to sports governing bodies, what does IIHF stand for?

24. Who was the inaugural captain of the Gold Coast Suns men’s team?

25. How many points must you score to win a game of squash?

26. Which sport is featured in the NATO alphabet?

27. Which name did the NBL go by before it was renamed in 1980?

28. In which year did France last win a men’s FIFA World Cup?

29. The real-life sport of Quidditch was renamed to what in 2022?

30. In which two ball sports is a ‘solo’ a specific skill?

Jimny: it’s just not cricket

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

It’s been more than five years since we last drove the ‘new’ Suzuki Jimny. The scary thing is that not much has changed in this time – it’s still fundamentally the same. It’s the same engine, the same transmissionandthesamefour-wheeldrive system.

There’s a new touchscreen and operating system, while auto cruise control and parking sensors have been added front and back.

And along the way, a cheaper, more accessibleversionofthelittle4x4wasadded tothe mix – known simplyasthe Jimny Lite.

Styling

Five years ago, a three-door Jimny was pricedfrom$23,990.Togetintothecarnow, it’s $31,990 and that is for the Lite version. The full-blown version is $33,990 for the manual or $36,490 for the automatic.

Five-door Jimny XL meanwhile is priced from $34,990, while the better equipped Heritageeditionis$40,990–allpricesbefore on-road costs.

Any colour except white adds to the price, with Premium paint $745 and two-tone paintwork with a black roof is $1345. Lite is available only in Superior White or Jungle Green.

The bright green or perhaps yellow that everyone wants is called Kinetic Yellow and is available only in combination with a black roof.

Interestingly, it’s a very close match for the colour of Ryobi power tools.

There are seven colours to choose from, three of them two-tone combinations: Superior White, Jungle Green, Medium Gray, Chiffon Ivory Metallic/Bluish Black Pearl, Kinetic Yellow/Bluish Black Pearl, Brisk Blue Metallic/Bluish Black Pearl.

Our test vehicle was the three-door Jimny in top spec, finished in the black and yellow combo.

Cloth trim is standard across all grades, with a leather-clad steering wheel and single zone climate control for this grade.

Adaptive cruise control is also now standard on both three-doors, but only the auto version of the five-door gets it. And you still start the car with a key.

There’s also LED headlights, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, front fog lights, daytime running Lights (DRLs), privacyglassand15-inchalloyswithskinny 195/80 tyres.

Jimny is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with roadside assistance for five years.

Infotainment

The big story, if you can call it that, is the upgrade to the infotainment system.

A 9.0-inch screen (7.0-inch for Lite) now heads up the system, with Bluetooth, voice control, AM/FM and now DAB+ digital radio, plus wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, with sound delivered via an ancient two-speaker audio system.

Built-in navigation, once standard, is missing in action. There’s a single USB-A port and a 12-volt outlet in the front, with another 12-volt outlet for the luggage area.

Safety

Safety comprises six airbags and autonomousemergencybrakingwhichuses a camera and a laser sensor to scan the road ahead for traffic and/or pedestrians. You also get lane departure warning, weaving assist to fight fatigue, plus automatic, traffic-sensing high beam. Despiteallthis,Jimnyscoresonlythreeof a possible five stars for safety.

Engines/transmissions

Atthebusinessend,a1.5-litre,fourcylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine delivers a stingy75kWofpowerand130Nmoftorque–the latter at 4000 revs.

The 1.5 is available with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, with lockout overdrive that prevents the auto from changing into top gear – sort of a sport mode.

Driving

It’s a cutie, that’s for sure – but looks aren’t everything.

A part-time four-wheel drive system, featuring high and low range gearing, is engaged via a second stubby transfer lever located at the rear of the main one.

This can be accomplished on the move for high range, which is permissible on wet roads, but the change to low range for the rough stuff requires a stop and shift to Park before it can be engaged.

The rest of the time the car remains rear-wheel drive.

As well as hill hold and hill descent control, the 4x4 system also boasts what’s known as Brake LSD Traction Control.

Basically, it means that if two diagonally opposed wheels lose their grip in slippery conditions, it will automatically brake the slipping wheels and redistribute torque to the other two.

With a tiny 40-litre tank, it takes standard 91unleaded,withfuelconsumptionratedat 6.4L/100km for the manual or 6.9L/100km for the auto.

It’sastubbything,at3.64metresinlength, with a 2250mm wheelbase.

But Jimny still accommodates four people, although the two rear seats are child-sized with little leg room and very little room remaining for luggage.

There are no air vents in the back either,

nor cupholders or storage bins – just the one seat pocket on the passenger side.

The body is bolted to a separate ladder chassis, as preferred by the 4x4 set, with a spare wheel that sits on the tailgate.

It opens from left to right in keeping with right hand drive needs, but it can be heavy to manoeuvre, particularly if parked on a slope.

With the rear seats laid flat, storage is a thousand times better, but the hard plastic surfaceisextremelyslipperyanditemsslide around.

Suspension is three-link rigid axles front and back with shocks and coil springs, and it rides on 15-inch wheels with 195/80 series Dunlop AT20 rubber.

With a creditable 210mm of ground clearance and short front and rear overhangs, it has an approach angle of 37 degrees, ramp over angle of 28 degrees and departure angle of 49 degrees.

But no figure is provided for its water crossingcapability,althoughweunderstand the figure to be 300mm.

Getting into the car requires a step up and in, with a door-lip the same as a Jeep to prevent the entry of water.

The driver’s seat adjusts backwards and forwards, but there’s no height adjustment and the steering wheel moves only up and down.

Jimnyisstartedwiththetwistofakey,just like cars all used to be in the old days. With a small four-cylinder engine, it needs some revs to get going, with maximum torque not available until 4000 rpm.

The electric steering is interesting, as it is possible to move the wheel from side to side without actually generating any kind of response.

The auto, with only four gears, could do with an update, but of course there’s only so much room to fit a larger transmission.

Despite this, it works reasonably well around town and is probably the pick because it doesn’t use much more fuel. No test of the Jimny would be complete without taking it off road.

Changing in and out of high range four-wheel drive is simple and the suspension and ground clearance are adequate.

Engaging low range requires a stop and the transmission moved to Park.

This is a vehicle that has little trouble scaling rocks and rock shelves, but seems to have an aversion to mud and water.

Embarrassingly, we got it bogged and it was time to dial a friend…

Jimny’s small size allows it to squeeze easilyinandoutoftightsituations,butdon’t expect too much from the car and you won’t wind up disappointed.

Gettoknowit,gettoknowwhatitcanand can’t do, and it won’t let you down.

However, for full-on four-wheel driving, we’d suggest chunkier rubber and a lift kit –the skinny tyres don’t do the car justice.

In terms of fuel consumption, we were getting 7.8L/100km after 330km, including some hard four-wheel driving.

That’s a bit disappointing considering the diminutive size of the vehicle and its small engine.

Summing up

Adventure seekers will be drawn to the Jimny because of its rugged looks and the promise of off-road ability.

Sadly, few if any buyers will actually take the vehicle off road and with a cramped cabin, it is likely to quickly lose its attraction.

For those who just want something to drive around town, a more conventional vehicle will be more practical and certainly more comfortable.

Craigieburn honours greats

By Tara Murray

The best of the best of Craigieburn Football Club were recognised on Saturday night.

The club marked its 60th season by holding its inaugural hall of fame dinner.

The event honoured 10 former players and administrators whose contributions had played a significant role in shaping the proud history of the club.

In addition, one former player was elevated to legend status, acknowledging an individual whose impact on the football club is considered truly exceptional.

Past players committee’s Gerard Laffan said the establishment of the hall of fame, along with the introduction of legend status, is an important step in preserving the club’s history and recognising the people who have demonstrated outstanding service, leadership and excellence across generations.

The event was attended by more than 200 people, with many life members and committee people complimenting the past and current players at the event.

The inaugural inductees were taken from the first 42 years of the club’s history.

John and Chris Sanderson, along with Peter Freeman were recognised for their achievements having debuted in the 1970s.

John Sanderson was also named the first club legend.

He debuted in the seniors in 1972, at just 16 and won the club’s best and fairest award that year.

John had an outstanding career for the footy club, playing in the centre, a brilliant overhead mark, and a fierce determination to win the football.

He is described as a true leader in every aspect.

“He is regarded as one of the best ever to have played for Craigieburn,” the dinner was told.

“A testimony to this is his four-time club best and fairest awards.”

Chris Sanderson began playing in 1973 in the under-16s, his talent was immediately recognised by coach Eric Lang who appointed him as captain.

Chris played on the wing and was blessed with pace.

In June 2000, a couple of months shy of his 43rd birthday Chris played his 400th game.

He finished on 408 games which is a Club record.

Freeman made his senior debut 1975 and is described as one of the most skilful footballers to have ever played for Craigieburn.

His highlight season was the premiership year of 1979, when he also won the league best and fairest.

“So dominant was his impact on a game, in the grand final, the opposition put a bounty on his head, for anyone who could take him out of the game,” the hall of fame dinner was told.

Greg Sandilands, Wayne Martin and Peter Sanderson made their names in the 1980s.

Sandilands played 135 games for the club before he transitioned to being on the committee.

He became secretary in 1981 and held the role for 18 years. He was also club trainer for many years.

“Since starting at the club in 1972, Greg has only missed a combined total of 15 games in 53 years,” the dinner was told.

“Without counting finals, this would equate to 936 games and of course he would most times arrive early to see the under-18s and reserves play as well.”

Martin made his debut in 1985.

From the moment he arrived at the footy club, he made an instant impact on everyone.

Martin was seen as a cult hero at the club.

“He was loved by his teammates and coaches, feared and respected by opposition clubs.”

Martin played 330 games, played in a senior premiership in 1993 and two reserves premierships, and won the Riddell District Football League reserves best and fairest, the Scarborough Medal. in 2000.

Peter Sanderson started playing juniors in 1975 and made his senior debut in 1983.

“Like his older brothers, Peter was blessed with talent,” the dinner was told.

“He read the play well, was a great kick and had a fantastic pair of hands.

“He would often be flying high in the packs, taking one grab marks.”

He played 325 Games and was part of the 1993 premiership.

Paul Albon and Brett Wright both made

their marks in the 1990s.

Albon debuted in 1991 and he played 235 consecutive games, a club record.

He was captain for a record eight consecutive seasons and captained the 1993 premiership team.

The club said he is regarded as one the best ever to have played for Craigieburn, winning three club best and fairest awards.

Wright made his debut in 1988.

“Brett has been actively involved with Craigieburn Football for over 35 years as a player, coach, committee member and a mentor,” the dinner was told.

“He is no doubt one of the most popular people to have represented the footy club.

“A club best and fairest in the premiership year of 1993 would no doubt be a highlight.”

He won premierships in under-18s, seniors and reserves.

Jason Pappinand Darren Poniewaz are the most recent inductees into the hall of fame.

Pappin debuted in juniors in 1998, with his senior debut in 2002.

He was described as a highly skilled midfielder, who was a ball magnet and a brilliant mark for his size.

He finished runners up in the senior best and fairest in 2002 and won it the following year.

Pappin would win three club best and fairests over his career.

He won a premiership in 2005 and won the league medal in the same year despite missing five games with injury.

Poniewaz debuted in 1992 in the under-18s and had an immediate impact as he finished runner up in the club best and fairest two years in a row.

He made his senior debut in 1994, playing the ruck position and occasionally playing key forward.

Poniewaz played 270 games across 15 seasons, playing in the 2005 premiership and winning three club best and fairest awards.

Craigieburn Football Club president Dom Micallef said the event marked the culmination of twelve months’ work by the hall of fame committee.

“It was truly humbling to hear of the efforts of the past players and administrators, and it was fitting to honour them for their achievements and support of our club,” he said.

“To have the current playing and coaching group hear of the people who have gone before them reinforces to everyone that a club is built on people and working together to achieving a collective goal”

The club intends to hold hall of fame dinners every two years.

Eagles reunite 20 years on

By Tara Murray

Craigieburn Eagles’ first Big V championship winning side reunited on Saturday night to mark 20 years since the achievement.

The Eagles hosted the 2006 division 2 championship team as its women’s side took on the Collingwood All Stars.

Warren Taylor, who coached the championship side, said it was pretty special to get the group back together.

“It ramped up the idea to try and get everyone back, and it will be good,” Taylor said leading up to the celebration.

“There’s been some who have still been around the club, while there’s others who haven’t been at the club for a number of years.

“It’ll be good to see everyone.”

The run to the championship started the

season before when the side made finals on the back of Tenille Cann.

While Cann wasn’t there in 2006, the Eagles had kept the core group together.

A young 16-year-old, Jacinta Scott, would have a breakout season, having made her debut at 14.

“She made all-star five and was rookie of the year,” Taylor said. “She had a standout year and I think her and Brooke Dav [Davenport] won our most valuable player award.

“She was huge in us winning the title.”

Club games record holder Kellie Bailey-Lynn was also in the side, while Tracey Curran and Tracy Tuesley were a couple of the other stars.

Kylie Davies, Natalie Stewart, Rhiannon Edwards were also part of the team that took to the court in the grand final.

Taylor recalls that along with the Haw-

thorn Magic and Mildura Heat they were the three teams to beat all season.

“At the end of the season we played Hawthorn, Mildura, then Mildura again, then Hawthorn, Mildura then Hawthorn twice in the last seven games,” he said.

After beating Mildura by 30 points in the first final, the Eagles lost to Hawthorn.

It meant Hawthorn had its second bye in three weeks, while the Eagles faced Mildura again, this time for a spot in the grand final.

“We won by two points,” Taylor recalls. “They had a shot on the buzzer. It was a tough game and we got out of jail.”

Despite the tough lead in, Taylor said they felt better prepared for the best-ofthree grand final series.

As well as having two byes during the finals, Hawthorn had a bye in the final round of the season.

Markise

Davis.

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Broncos are preparing for the ‘pointy end’

By Tara Murray

Hume City Broncos bounced back in the best possible way in the Big V men’s championship division on Saturday night.

After a shock loss to Wyndham the previous round, the Broncos were back at home against the RMIT Redbacks.

After scores were level at quarter time, the Broncos started to break away.

They led by seven points at half time and that had extended to 18 points at the final break.

The momentum continued in the final quarter as the Broncos came away with a 100-76 win.

Broncos’ coach Simon Gray it was a much better performance than the previous week.

“We played a lot more the way that we wanted to play,” he said.

“I think the week before we made some poor choices and it had a flow on effect.

“We reinforced during the week what good basketball looks like and I think they did that.”

Gray said sitting on top of the ladder club’s were going to come at them early in games and they just had to stay patient and then build from there on.

They were able to do that on Saturday night which saw the margin blow out.

Markise Davis top scored with 25 points, while Ricardo Time had 22 points.

Every Bronco took to the court in the win in a massive bonus for the side.

Gray said it was pleasing to get so many minutes into every one. He said they would continue to focus on that for the rest of the year to have everyone ready for finals.

“We always try to get everyone on and sometimes it pans out that way,” he said.

“We bat deep and the guys starting on the bench are good players in their own right.”

The Broncos remain clear at the top of the ladder, with 14 wins from their 17 matches.

They face Warrandyte Venom on Sunday in the next round.

Gray said they were just focused on continuing to get better before finals.

“We can’t rest on our laurels,” he said.

Game one of the grand final was played at Craigieburn.

“It was an advantage,” Taylor said.

“Back then we played on court three and we filled it with 200-300 people. It was a loud huge home crowd.

“We won by 10 points,” he said. “They then had to win two games in a weekend.

“We had then rattled after the first final.”

The Eagles won game two, 67-58, to seal the championship.

Many of those players were then part of the club’s 2008 championship.

For Taylor, he has returned to the Eagles in recent seasons and is the club’s youth league girls coach.

“They are a whole bunch of kids who don’t know what happened,” he said.

“The oldest is 21 one, so she was only a baby.”

Sports shorts

NPL

Hume City dropped a second straight game as it lost to the Oakleigh Cannons in the top of table National Premier League clash. The Cannons converted a penalty just before half time and that proved to be the difference in the 1-0 result. Hume remains in second spot, with a gap to third. In the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, Whittlesea United had a 1-1 draw with Essendon Royals. Whittlesea sits seventh on the ladder.

Northern FL Bundoora suffered a close loss in the Northern Football League division 1 competition, bringing it back to the pack in the race for finals. Poor kicking in front of goal hurt the Bulls as they lost to Hurstbridge, 8.6 (4)-6.10 (46). The Bulls sit on 28 points, as do the two teams below them, with Eltham a game further back.

EDFL

Roxburgh Park had a day out against the Northern Saints in the Essendon District Football League division 2 competition on Saturday. After nearly knocking off the top side the previous week, the Saints were no match for the Magpies as they won, 29.21 (195)-5.6 (36). Eyad Hegazy kicked eight goals for the Magpies, while Amos Potter kicked five goals. The Magpies remain a game outside the top four. Elsewhere, Westmeadows lost to Hadfield, 7.8 (50)-4.10 (34).

Big V

“We want to get better every week. There’s things we know we need to get better on for when the pointy end comes.”

In the women’s championship competition, the Broncos lost to Western Port on Saturday night.

The Steelers opened up a lead in the first half, with the margin 11 points the main break.

While the Broncos were able to shut them down defensively in the second half it wasn’t enough with the Steelers winning 79-68.

Eliza Ogilvie top scored with 16 points for the Broncos.

On Sunday, the Broncos were at home against the Pakenham Warriors, losing 8754.

The Warriors did the damage in the first half, including a 28-8 second quarter.

Ogilvie and Genevieve Mucha top scored with 19 points each for the Broncos.

The Broncos sit eighth on the ladder. They face the Warrandyte Venom on Sunday in the next round.

Craigieburn Eagles’ captain Alex McKellar celebrated her 250th Big V game on Saturday night. The Eagles were in action against the Collingwood All Stars in division 1 women’s and for three of the four quarters there was nothing between the two sides. The second quarter proved costly for the Eagles, as they lost it 14-8, and that would be the difference in the 60-54 loss. Briana Gray top scored with 16 points. The Eagles men’s side beat Coburg Giants, 86-62. Shawndale Jones Jr top scored with 28 points.

Ramsay to stand down

By Tara Murray

Whittlesea coach Garry Ramsay will stand down at the end of the Northern Football League season, with his replacement already locked in.

The Eagles announced on social media that Ramsay would conclude his tenure as senior coach at the end of the season.

“The impact Garry has had on our football club since walking through the doors has been immeasurable,” the statement said.

“When he arrived, he was faced with a significant challenge.

“At the time, we had no under-19s team and our senior playing numbers were considerably low.

“During Garry’s time at the club, we

have successfully re-established our under-19s program which is now competing in division 1.

“Our reserves celebrated the 2025 premiership, and under Garry’s leadership our senior team has reached two consecutive preliminary finals over the past two seasons.”

In the club’s statement it said more importantly that Ramsay has helped build a strong and sustainable football program while creating a culture of commitment, development and belief through the club.

It said his dedication, professionalism and passion have left the club in far stronger position than when he first arrived.

President Luke Fraumano said told Star Weekly there had been a succession plan in place, with assistant coach Andrew

Fairchild to step into the role in 2027.

Fairchild, who has coached Kinglake, returned to Whittlesea 2024 as in assistant coach role.

He was previously captain of the Eagles.

“The succession plan has been in place for 2027,” Fraumano said.

“It has come to plan and Andrew has learned a lot under Garry the last three years which has been fantastic.”

Fraumano was full of praise for the role that Ramsay did saying he straightened up the club when it needed and they were really happy with where the club is at.

He said Fairchild would continue to focus on the club’s youth policy next season.

“Seeing them come through has been fantastic,” he said. “Andrew will be anoth-

Tigers are sitting pretty as the finals loom

er voice, a different voice with high energy.”

While the coaching setup is locked in for next season, the club is focused on making a late finals tilt this year.

The Eagles currently sit in seventh spot, six points outside the top five in division 2.

Fraumano said it hadn’t been their year with injuries and it had impacted the win-loss ratio.

“We have to win the next couple of games to be back in the mix,” he said.

“It’s been disappointing the last six weeks with injuries to top end players. We’re getting players back and we’ll see what happens.

“We want to make sure we give Garry a good end. We want to win football games.”

Marshall re-signs

By Tara Murray Brent Marshall

Westmeadows is enjoying the late season challenges ahead of the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 finals.

The Tigers have been the team to beat and sit undefeated after 12 rounds.

One of their most recent win was against Keilor Park, which is among the other teams in the top four and set to play finals.

“It was very nice,” coach Gemma Wright said of the win against the Devils.

“They are what we are thinking is one of our biggest challenges. The way the girls responded made us really happy.

“We had this game in the calendar for the last five to six weeks.”

The Tigers faced bottom side Taylors Lakes on Saturday, winning 22.16 (148)-1.3 (9).

Four players kicked three goals each for the Tigers, with Wright named their best. They face Gisborne and Burnside Heights in the final two rounds.

With both sides sitting up towards the top of the ladder, Wright said they would bring some more good challenges.

“Games like these give us an understanding coming into finals where we are at,” she said.

“Getting a win like that against Keilor Park is looking positive for the weeks to come.

“We’re looking forward to playing against Gisborne and Burnside Heights, they are two tough teams.

“Having those games heading into finals should have us ready to go.”

Wright said they were happy with how they were playing and seeing the development throughout the group as the season progressed.

She said in previous seasons they had relied on the same players, where this season there had been more of a spread.

“Everyone is doing their things through one percenters across the whole ground and that’s set us up to where we are at,” she said.

“The girls have really improved.

“At the start of the year we said that not everyone was going to play every game towards finals and if they want to be playing finals we have to see that in games and at training.

“They want to be part of that,” Wright highlighted Courteney Munn and Taylor Jones as two who had really stepped it up for this season having been at the club for a few years.

“They had a big pre-season and been to nearly every training session and that is a challenge with work,” she said.

Ella Guest. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 560550_09

“Courteney’s an ex-AFLW player and the effort and lengths she is going to with extra running it’s awesome to see and why she’s sitting at the top of the goalkicking.”

Munn’s leadership along with Sarah Wright’s had been vital to the team as well.

Now having faced every team, Gemma Wright said they were hoping to make sure they locked in the double chance come finals.

While the Tigers are focused on success on the field, Wright said everything they do

comes back to the focus they’ve made off field.

“The biggest thing is the culture we are trying to build around the club,” she said. “We want our women’s program to be a destination program.

“This success brings players as they can see what we’re doing. There’s great players, coaches and people behind it.”

celebrated re-signing as Mernda’s coach for another two seasons with a big win against Epping in the Northern Football League division 3 competition on Saturday.

The Demons announced during the week that Marshall would remain coach until at least the end of the 2028 season.

“Since taking the reins, Nipper has driven outstanding growth and development throughout our football program. His passion, leadership, and commitment to building a strong club culture have been instrumental in the direction we’re heading, and we’re excited about what the future holds under his guidance,” the club said.

“The progress we’re seeing both on and off the field is only the beginning, and we can’t wait to see what else Nipper can achieve with our football club over the coming years.”

On Saturday, the Demons faced their old rival in Epping.

The Demons jumped out of the blocks and led by 45 points at quarter time.

It was game over at half time with the Demons leading by 73 points at the main break.

Mernda continued on its way in the second half, with nine goals to two, as it won, 25.15 (165)-5.9 (39).

James Sekulovski kicked seven goals for the Demons.

Billy Morrison, Zach Ciacia and Lachlan Potter were named the Demons best.

Corey Middleton, Daniel Rakhlin and Adam Rose were named the Pingers best.

After 14 rounds, the Demons sit third on the ladder.

They are three games behind the top two sides, but have played on less game.

The Pingers sit in ninth spot with four wins.

The Demons face Watsonia this Saturday and Epping is at home to Kinglake.

In other results, Laurimar beat Kinglake, 32.17 (209)-5.1 (31). Patrick Fitzgerald kicked 10 goals as he passed 1000 goals for his career.

Lalor lost to Old Eltham Collegians, 17.21 (123)-6.4 (40).

Craigieburn into plate final

By Tara Murray

Craigieburn City will play off in one of the club’s women’s side’s biggest games having made the Steph Catley Plate final.

The Plate is for the highest ranked state league clubs in the knockout Nike FC Cup.

Craigieburn won through to the final with a 3-1 victory against Beaumaris in the semi finals earlier this month.

Craigieburn City president Paul Dugo said it was pretty exciting for the group to be through to the final.

“It’s really exciting,” he said. “The club has made a real effort with women’s football.

“This is a chance to enjoy some suc-

cess with what we have done.”

Rugo said the group had plenty of belief entering the Nike Cup and then the semi finals of Steph Catley Plate.

He said in these competitions, being knockout, you never say never with what you can achieve.

They were also hoping to have a strong FV state league 1 north-west season.

“The girls had a good pre-season,” he said.

“The girls set some goals and if we could make them in the end that was our end objective. If we couldn’t make them, we will continue to work towards them.”

Craigieburn had to work hard to win through to the final.

Scores were locked at 1-1 at the end of

regular time against Beaumaris.

Craigieburn scored a goal in each half of extra time to claim the 3-1 win.

“We had a few girls out,” Rugo said. “We were proud of them for fighting it out.

“We had a few reserves players come in and play their part. It’s a credit to them and the club that we have reserves players able to step up when needed.

“It’s exciting for everyone.”

Craigieburn will face fellow FV state league1north-westsideCarolineSprings

George Cross in the final at the Home of the Matildas in Bundoora on 1 August.

The Georgies sit second on the state league 1 north-west ladder.

They won the plate last season on pen-

Epping City back on track for promotion

By Tara Murray

Epping City knows the next couple of weeks are important in its quest for promotion in the FV state league 3 north-west.

WhileBalmoralistherunawayleader,the fight for second and the second promotion spot is well and truly alive.

After 16 rounds, Epping City sits in third spot with just six points between second and sixth.

Several of those teams, including Epping City, have catch up games to come.

Coach Mark Tavolaro said the competition is super close.

“We’re not going too bad,” he said. “We are doing OK and are still in it.

“We dropped a few silly points early in the year.

“If we can win the next couple, we will still be up there and put pressure on the top teams.”

Tavolaro said with the closeness of the competition a side can go drop down the ladder in a short period of time.

Having won its past four games Epping has moved up to third.

“We’ve had a bit of consistency,” Tavolaro said. “We have played much better since we’ve got that consistency.

“We’ve had the same starting 11 the last couple of weeks. We’ve had some young kids doing really well.”

This season has built on last year when EppingCityfinishedinfourthspot,afterfinishing 10th in 2024.

Tavolaro said things were finally back on track for the club.

“AfterCovidalotofclubshadtoreset,”he said. “We were on a high back then and lost a lot of senior players.

“Welostplayersacrossthewholeclubincluding juniors.

“We’ve reset and got back on our feet. It’s takenafewyearsandwe’venowgotasteady team.”

Tavolaro said the goal was to try and get back into state league 2 north-west and longer term state league 1 north-west.

He knows it won’t be easy.

Focusing on the next few weeks, Epping City plays the two bottom teams before facing sides in the promotion conversation.

“If we win the next two we’re still in con-

alties. RugosaidtheyknowtheGeorgieswell.

“We will be ready and come out all guns blazing,” he said.

“It’s something we don’t want to be new at [playing in the big games].

“It’s something that we want to continue and keep on happening.”

In the state league 1 north-west season, Craigieburn returned to the winners list after four straight losses.

They are the side’s only four losses of the season.

Craigieburn beat Fawkner 4-0 on Sunday, after leading 3-0 in the first half.

Rugo said with a few players missing it had been a tough run.

“I’m sure we’ll bounce back.”

1000th goal watch

Tullamarine big man Josh Covelli needs two goals against Avondale Heights to kick his 1000th career goal in the Essendon District Football League this Saturday.

Covelli was back to this very best on Saturday against East Keilor in the division 1 competition.

Covelli had a day out kicking 11 goals for the game. Six of those goals came in the final quarter of the 17.20 (122)-8.8 (56) win.

The Demons were able to extend the lead throughout the match to come away with a big win.

Covelli was named the Demons best along with Zak Wunhym and Salvatore Melilli.

Covelli now has 998 goals in his career having played with Moonee Valley, Burnside Heights, Hillside and the Demons.

tention,” he said.

“We have to play [second placed] Dallas City away and if we beat them we will be right up there.

“We have Sunbury in a catch up game. Them and Dallas are looking dangerous.”

On Saturday, Epping City had a 6-0 win against Heidelberg Eagles.

Marcus Tavolaro opened the scoring in the third minute before Robert Rostiano made it 2-0 in the 36th minute.

Marcus Tavolaro scored his second before half time to give his side a 3-0 at the break.

Benjamin Quattrone, Emre Ozdemir and Luka De Felice joined the scoring party in the second half to help the side come away with the big win.

Elsewhere, Craigieburn City had a 2-2 draw with Hoppers Crossing, while Dallas City returned to the winners list with a 3-0 against the Plenty Valley Lions.

In state league 2 north-west, Mill Park lost to Altona North 2-0, Uni Hill Eagles beat Williamstown 2-0 and Whittlesea Ranges had the same scoreline in their win against Corio.

The win and Avondale Heights loss to Craigieburn has the Demons now two games clear in fifth spot.

A win this week would give the Demons a three game break with three rounds remaining.

Craigieburn remains in fourth after the 16.13 (109)-13.7 (85) win against Avondale Heights.

The Eagles held a narrow lead in the first half with the margin 17 points at half time.

The Eagles kicked seven goals to two goals in the third quarter to blow open the match.

Avondale Heights finished strongly with five goals in the final quarter but the damage had already been done.

Jamie Gorgievski and Brodie White kicked four goals each for the Eagles.

The pair were named their side’s best in the win, along with Jono Pestrucci.

The Eagles face Taylors Lakes this week.