Star Weekly - Wyndham - 22nd July 2026

Homestead’s whodunit

Homestead Senior Secondary College is in full rehearsal for its first school productionClue: High School Edition.

Based on the iconic board game and cult-classic film, this fast-paced comedy follows six suspicious guests, a mysterious butler and one deadly dinner party where everyone is a suspect. Packed with outrageous characters, quick-fire comedy, unexpected twists and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, audiences will be kept guessing until the very end.

The production showcases the creativity, dedication and professionalism of Homestead’s young artists. Co-directors Cal Taylor and Elise Garro have worked closely with students to create an energetic and entertaining production that celebrates collaboration, confidence and creativity.

“As Homestead Senior Secondary College’s inaugural school production, Clue: High School Edition is the beginning of an exciting new tradition in the performing arts. With mystery, mayhem and memorable characters, this hilarious whodunnit promises a fantastic night of entertainment for the whole community,” Mr Taylor said.

The show will be performed on Friday 31 July at 7pm and Saturday 1 August at 3pm and 7pm in the college gym. Tickets on sale now.

Mayor exits office

By Laura Michell

Preet Singh has resigned as Wyndham mayor.

Councillor Singh made the announcement in a video posted to social mediaonTuesdaymorning.

He has endured widespread criticism since 30 March when it was revealed he wroteacharacterreferenceforapaedophile in2024,priortobeingelectedtocouncil.

Signing the letter as a JP, Cr Singh provided the character reference for Kashyap Patel, who faced the County Court in August 2024 on child sex offence charges.

Patelpleadedguiltytomultipleoffences and was sentenced to nine months’ jail September2024.

In the months that followed, the embattledcouncillorrefusedtorelinquish themayoralroledespiteweeksofpressure fromresidentsandhiscouncilcolleagues, with the remaining councillors writing to the local government minister to request his intervention to remove Cr Singh as mayor.

Residents held several protests during which they demanded Cr Singh’s resignation as mayor, while the state government appointed municipal monitors to the council to help “restore

theWyndhamcommunity’sconfidencein theircouncillors”.

On Tuesday, Cr Singh said he had made the decision to “hand over the mayoral chain”becausehebelieveditwastheright time.

“It is my decision made on my own terms,”hesaid.

“Not because the work is finished but because I believe it is the right time for another councillor to carry that work forwardwithoutdistraction.”

Cr Singh, who has been mayor since March, said he would continue to serve as acouncillor.

Continued page 2

Pensioner scammer jailed

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A 22-year-old man has been jailed for his role in a bank card scam that fleeced nearly $380,000 from mainly elderly pensioners.

Jashan Ahuja, of Wyndham Vale, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to 13 charges involving deception and proceeds of crime.

Sentencing judge Duncan Allen said it was “shocking” offending that had a “devastating” impact on his victims.

The deceit inflicted not just financial loss –totalling$377,467-butemotionalandpsychological harm.

In some cases, the victims lost their entire life savings at an advanced stage of their lives, Judge Allen said on 10 July.

Ahuja and co-accused Sarabjit Kalsi duped nine victims of their bank cards in May-June 2024, including an 88-year-old Springvale woman who lost more than $53,000.

A Queensland retiree was stripped of more than $117,000, an 89-year-old Dromana man with Alzheimer’s lost nearly $20,000 and a 59-year-old woman lost more than $110,000.

Victims would receive a phone call or email,claimingthattheirbankorPayPalaccounts had been hacked.

In some cases, Ahuja posed as a courier who drove to the victim’s address and collected their “compromised” bank card.

In other cases, victims were instructed to mail their cards to an address.

Under instructions of an Indian organised crime syndicate, Ahuja and Kalsi used the stolen bank cards to buy iPhones and prepaid Visa cards from stores across Melbourne.

In sentencing on Friday 10 July, Judge Allen accepted Ahuja was socially isolated and under financial pressure at the timeincluding being unable to afford expensive eczema medication.

Blankets wrap around the community

A motorcycle group has revved through Wyndhamtodonatehundredsofblankets to people doing it tough during the colder months.

The God Squad Motorcycle Group picked up more than 200 blankets from Christian radio station 96threeFM’s Grovedale studio before making the trip to Wyndham Park Community Centre on 17 July.

The station’s administration manager Jo Collins said she was glad to expand the initiative to Wyndham.

“This year we’ve been able to in-

clude Werribee in our blanket drive, which is amazing because the need is everywhere,“ she said.

“The community centre had loads of blanket donations, so there’s definitely a need and people are definitely responding to the call out.“

Ms Collins said she thanked the God Squad for their support with the initiative and that the blankets would help provide warmth, comfort and hope to people sleeping on the streets or in their cars.

“Donating a blanket may seem like

a small thing, but it’s a big gesture for someone who doesn’t have a blanket or doesn’t have somewhere warm to sleep at night,“ she said.

“David Micallef, who is part of the God Squad, is a pastor at one of the Werribee churches and agreed to come on board, which is one of the wonderful ways that this initiative brings people together. Members from the God Squad group aren’t just from Werribee; they’re from everywhere, so they’re taking time out of their day to do this for people in need.“

Wyndham mayor Preet Singh announces his resignation

From page 1

In announcing his resignation as mayor, CrSinghacknowledgedthathisdecisionto providethecharacterreferencewas“poor”.

“When I provided a character reference that has since become the subject of public scrutiny, I was not aware of the full circumstances of the case and was led to believe the person had not behaved as the charges suggested,” he said.

“It was a decision I got wrong.

“I deeply regret it and have apologised without reservation.

“For those who have been genuinely impacted by the ongoing public discussion of this matter due to their lived experience,

I am especially sorry.”

Cr Singh was critical of those who had subjected him and his family to “relentless abuse, intimidation, threats and harassment” over the past three months, and questioned why there had been calls for his resignation while other politicians have been revealed to have provided controversial character references – such as Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch – and have not faced the same pressure to resign.

“No protests were organised, no campaigns were launched, no sustained public calls for resignations dominated the news cycle,” he said.

“Yet in my case, a campaign emerged

that extended far beyond criticism of the decision itself and at times became deeply personal.

“I raise this not to justify my action … rather because the response in my case appeared fundamentally different.”

Cr Singh’s resignation means Wyndham councillors will be asked to elect the city’s third mayor since February. As reported by Star Weekly, Cr Singh was elected to the role in March after former mayor Josh Gilligan was suspended for misconduct.

Council said it would hold a special meeting on Thursday at 5pm to elect a new mayor for the remainder of the mayoral term.

Ahuja was paid $300-$400 a day for the offending, with no evidence that he gained any further profit.

The phones were bought for and remitted to “higher-ups” in the syndicate.

Ahuja was a youthful, deferential, firsttime offender, made significant admissions to police, was isolated in protective custody and suffering major depression and PTSD, the judge noted.

The older co-accused Kalsi, who was less cooperative with authorities, had been earlier jailed for 25 months.

Ahuja was sentenced to 20 months’ jail. He is facing likely deportation when released.

Grant scores goal

Hoppers Crossing Netball Club young stars have received a boost with the club being named a recipient of the 2026 Woolworths netball grants program.

The club has received $2000 and will use the grant to deliver a junior and youth development clinic in the September school holidays, combining netball skills with nutrition, mental health, resilience and leadership sessions.

Hoppers Crossing treasurer Glenn Outten said receiving the grant is a huge boost for the club, which currently has 16 junior teams.

“It gives us the opportunity to deliver experiences that may not otherwise be possible while keeping costs affordable for local families,” he said.

“Community grants like this allow clubs like ours to invest in our players, volunteers and the future of netball in Hoppers Crossing.

“This clinic will give our players access to experienced coaches and elite athletes in a fun, engaging and supportive environment.

“It’s about much more than improving netball skills - it’s about building confidence, creating friendships, developing leadership skills and inspiring young people to stay involved in sport for years to come.”

Mr Outten said they want every participant to leave with practical knowledge that helps them perform better, stay healthy and build confidence both on and off the court.

Woolworths NetSetGo ambassador and former Australian Diamonds player Cath Cox said these grants provided was part of the changing recognition given to grass root clubs.

“When I was a young player, local netball clubs were built almost entirely on the dedication of volunteers and plenty of community fundraising,” she said.

“That passion is still very much there today, but as many families and communities are feeling the impact of rising costs, support like this can make a real difference.

“Clubs are doing everything they can to keep costs down for families while also providing great experiences for kids, so support like the Woolworths netball grants is incredibly valuable.

Woolworths head of community and partnership Sarah De La Mare said local sports can play a massive role in helping kids stay active.

“The Woolworths netball grants are all about giving local clubs a boost to fix up their facilities, buy new gear and get more kids out on the court.”

Greenlight for development

By Laura Michell

A multi-building development in Truganina comprising offices, food and drink premises and a gym has been given the go-ahead by Wyndham council.

Councillors approved a planning permit for the development at 180 Palmers Road during a planning committee meeting on Tuesday 14 July.

Theextensiveprojectwillbeconstructed over three stages at the south-eastern corner of the Leakes and Palmers roads intersection.

It will comprise five buildings, head-

lined by a four-storey office building equipped with ground-floor food and drink premises, including a cafe and two restaurants.

The development will also feature a double-storey gym, a single-storey trade supplies building, and two separate standalone convenience restaurants. Both the gym and the convenience restaurants are slated to operate 24 hours a day.

The development will be built at the south-eastern corner of the Leakes and Palmers roads intersection.

Cr Jasmine Hill described the develop-

ment as a “key gateway site” into the Truganina employment precinct. She said it would create a “strong“ visual entrance to that part of Wyndham.

She said it would add about $20 million of private investment to the municipality.

“This is another significant investment in our municipality north of Williams Landing and our continued economic growth,“ she said.

Cr Susan McIntyre said the development would create recreation and employment opportunities for nearby residents.

“It is a benefit to the local community

Cancer care centre launches in the west

Cancer care provider GenesisCare and St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee have officially opened a new $14 million radiation therapy centre in Wyndham.

The launch on Thursday 16 July marks the first radiation therapy facility serving the nearly 70-kilometre corridor between Geelong and Footscray.

GenesisCare radiation oncologist Dr Mario Guerrieri highlighted the centre’s state-of-the-art technology and personalised approach to cancer care.

“This centre offers GenesisCare’s model of personalised cancer care using advanced radiation therapy techniques,” he said.

“Having these services available locally helps patients to maintain their routines and keep support networks close, which can play an important role in their overall treatment experience and outcomes.”

The new facility is equipped with a Varian Truebeam linear accelerator capable of delivering highly precise radiation therapy, including stereotactic treatments. It also offers tattoo-free surface-guided radiation therapy and onsite CT imaging to support a wide range of cancer treatments.

Jennie Dao, GenesisCare unit leader and radiation therapist said “I know

this new centre will make a difference to local patients – it will cut the commute time and build a bridge for patients.”

“Melbourne is growing, and it’s great to be a part of the team expanding and delivering GenesisCare’s cancer services in new communities.”

St Vincent’s Private Hospital Victorian chief executive Geraldine Lannon noted that the new radiation therapy centre will significantly strengthen cancer care at the hospital, complementing existing services and giving local patients access to one of the most comprehensive oncology facilities in Melbourne’s west.

Werribee South Beach works a step closer with contract awarded

Works to enhance Werribee South Beach are a step closer to starting after Wyndham council awarded an almost $3 million contract for the project.

Councillors voted to award a contract for stage one of works at Werribee South Beach to Ace Landscape Services during a council meeting on Tuesday 14 July.

The contract is valued at $2.99 million.

Councillor Mia Shaw said the works are part of council’s Werribee South Beach masterplan, which was adopted in 2024.

The stage one works will include an upgraded shared user path, upgraded solar path lighting, and a new timber viewing platform overlooking Grahams Wetland Reserve and the Werribee River estuary.

“I am very excited about this contract and the work that is going to start for Werribee South Beach stage one,” she said.

Cr Jasmine Hill said it was an exciting project.

“Werribee South is one of Wyndham’s most unique and treasured assets,” she said.

both in relation to employment and services they will be able to access,” she said.

According to the report, the applicant has proposed the creation of 135 car parking spaces – a reduction of 29 spaces on the number normally required for development of this scale.

Cr Peter Maynard said that while he was supportive of the development, he did not like the proposed reduction in parking spaces.

“I am still concerned when I see a reduction in car parking,” he said.

“Hopefully one day we might address that.”

Project to foster suburban pride

La Trobe University has announced the launch of a three-year project called ’Out In Suburbia’ to address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ communities living in outer suburban areas.

Recruitment for the study launched this month.

Researchers will conduct confidential interviews with LGBTQ adults living in the outer suburbs of Melbourne, Sydney and Hobart to better understand their experiences of wellbeing, belonging, and community connection.

The project comes at a critical time for these communities, which have faced increasing instances of targeting by anti-LGBTQ movements, higher levels of opposition to marriage equality, and greater psychological distress coupled with lower community connectedness.

“This research will explore the unique strengths and challenges of LGBTQ communities in outer suburbia and what local councils can do to support their communities,“ said ARCSHS senior research fellow and chief investigator Dr Ruby Grant.

“This project is founded on a vision for a future where all LGBTQ people can feel welcome, included, and connected, regardless of where they live.“

The project’s advisory committee includes specialised LGBTQ organisations like ACON, Thorne Harbour Health, and EqualityTasmania,aswellasmainstream local government peak bodies such as the Municipal Association of Victoria.

According to La Trobe, their diverse expertise will help shape the research and drive meaningful change in outer suburban communities.

“This project is all about supporting local councils to deliver programs and policies that support LGBTQ residents and improve wellbeing and community connection,“ said Jan Farrell, a member of the project advisory committee and co-lead of the Rainbow Local Government campaign. “LGBTQ communities across the outer suburbs should always feel equal and included.“

“These upgrades will make the area more accessible and safer for residents ... to experience this beautiful part of our municipality.

“People can connect with nature, spend time at the beach with family and friends and develop an even greater appreciation for our coastline and wetlands.”

A report to the council meeting noted the contract would start in September, with works expected to be completed by June next year.

LGBTQ adults living in the outer suburbs of the participating cities are encouraged to express interest in participating in the confidential interview process by visiting redcap.link/outinsuburbia.

Funded by the Australian Research Council, the project will be delivered in partnership with Western Sydney University’s Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (ARCSHS).

More than just an aircraft

For chief engineer Tim O’Connor saying goodbyetoAirForce’sCT4Atraineraircraft was never going to be easy.

After six years spent overseeing the maintenance and restoration of the aircraft alongside the dedicated team of 100 Squadron, the final military flight of the CT4A marked the end of an era.

The CT4A took to the skies above RAAF BasePointCookforthelasttimeon18June, closing a chapter in Australian military aviation history.

“It’s certainly a little sad to see it go,” Mr O’Connor said.

“But that is a testament to the people behindtheaircraft.Thecareandhardwork that has been invested in maintaining it over the years have made it far more than just a platform to us.”

For him, the greatest achievement is

what the 100 Squadron team, made up of both Air Force and civilian personnel, continues to accomplish as one.

“It’s about bringing everyone in and enjoying what we do along the way,” Mr O’Connor said.

Commanding Officer 100 Squadron

Wing Commander Richard Brougham said the CT4A farewell was as much about honouring the squadron’s people as it was the aircraft itself.

“It is a tribute to the incredible efforts of our people that the CT4A continued its serviceandachievementsinthiscapacity,”

Wing Commander Brougham said.

“To respectfully retire this aircraft in the presence of those who restored, maintained and flew it is both a privilege and a fitting way to celebrate an important part of our history.”

Briefs

CFA appointments

Werribee CFA members Neil Davie and Lino Zulian have been appointed state president and state vice-president of the the CFA Rescue Association. Established in 1985, the association works to strengthen the response to rescue incidents right across Victoria through collaboration, training and advocacy. The association collaborates closely with other agencies like the State Emergency Service (SES), Ambulance Victoria, and Fire Rescue Victoria to deliver critical services.

See it? Send it

Spotted something newsworthy in your neighbourhood, or is there a local story you believe is worth telling? Send your news tips, photos and videos to Star Weekly via westeditorial@starweekly. com.au or find us on Instagram: @ star_weekly

Health program

Women aged 18 in the west are being encouraged to take up a free 10-week health program. Wyndham council is partnering with the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and Western Leisure Services to deliver an informative, fun and hands-on workshop at Eagle Stadium. The 10 week program begins on 12 August. Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ whats-on/daughters-west-2026

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Glass-only bins rejected

A majority of Victorians, including Wyndham residents, have rejected a state government push for councils to roll out glass-only bins by July 2027, according to a new survey.

The survey was conducted by a coalition of 35 councils who have voiced their opposition to the state’s four-bin system, including Wyndham.

The government has mandated that councils provided a glass-only bin by next July in a bid to increase recycling rates and reduce contamination in recycling bins.

According to the councils, 83 per cent of survey respondents were against the bin’s introduction.

The survey also found that 91 per cent support the expansion of the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) to include the collection of glass wine and spirit bottles.

More than 1000 Wyndham residents contributed to the survey, with 92.7 per cent opposed to adding a glass-only bin to kerbside services and 90.1 per cent calling

for the CDS to start taking glass wine and spirit bottles.

As reported by Star Weekly in May, Wyndham council also wants the CDS expanded.

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

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

Council said it would cost about $5.8 million to supply and deliver glass-only bins to the municipality, and an additional $1.9 million to provide the service in the first year.

The 35 councils have joined forces to call for a more practical, cost-effective solution and are urging the state government to reconsider the July 2027 deadline.

They are also calling for the state government to release a business case on kerbside glass recycling which it is using to support its mandate.

Grange’s American dream

Grange P-12 College’s under-15 NFL flag team is the first Victorian team to head to the 2026 NFL Flag Championships in America.

After falling short in the national championships last year in the dying seconds, the Grange claimed the national title to go with its state title.

Winning the national title came with an all expenses trip to America to compete against some of the best NFL flag teams in the world.

Teams from 12 counties will compete, along with championship teams from regional tournaments in America.

Ahead of leaving on Tuesday, Bay-Lee Maaka and Karter Toailoa said it was an exciting opportunity.

“It’s very exciting and I’ve never been to America,” Karter said. “It’s a crazy experience.”

Bay-Lee added,” I’m proud to be representing our school and Australia.

“We’veputinalotofhardworkandit’s amazing.”

Karter said they had done a lot of training including over the school holidaystogetreadyforthecompetition.

“Hopefully we can have a good run and have a really good experience.”

The pair said just missing out last year had really driven the group and were

excited by the opportunity.

For Bay-Lee, she recently got back from America having represented Australia’s under-15 rugby 7s team.

Karter is part of the Melbourne Storm under-16 development squad.

Both said playing multiple sports had helped them.

The competition will be streamed including on ESPN.

It’s all happening at Jamieson way Community Centre

A simple idea is helping bring people together at Jamieson Way Community Centre in Point Cook.

A new program, Half Done and Happening, is inspiring locals to dust off unfinished projects and get creative together. Every Monday from 9.30am, communitymembersgatherwithwhatever their current project is - crocheting, painting, weaving and other creative hobbies - to share stories, skills and plenty of laughter along the way. The relaxed

drop-in sessions have quickly become a place where people can take a break from busy lives, connect with others and enjoy creating with their community as Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski discovered.

Keep across what’s on by following Jam Way Community Centre on Facebook and Instagram, visiting www.jamwaycc. org.au, or signing up to the mailing list to receive the latest program updates and community news.

Pounding out rock music

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

Keeping the beat on drums, Thomas Kunz; laying down the groove on bass, Avatar Rostein; on lead guitar Benjamin McLaughlin.Lastbutnotleast,ourrhythm guitarist, singer and subject: Max Paul.

Thefour-piecealternativerockbandfrom Wyndham are cutting tracks, trekking the world and helping grow the local scene.

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

“I picked up the guitar during Covid when I was in year 11 and 12,” he said.

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

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

The others joined shortly after in 2022 and there was no looking back.

Self-described as Aussie garage rock, Seven Pound Halo draws from 90s Grunge, 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 sacrifice and paying your dues,” Paul said.

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 to the world our music.”

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 songs got played on the BBC,” Paul said.

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

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 – a lot of international acts played their first gigs there,” Paul said 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 and magically plan a tour for you.

“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 the experiences you share.”

It takes all kinds to make a band. Holding the rhythm section down, Avatar the bassist is the grounded deep thinker–the epitome of staying calm and measured no matter what is going on.

Drummer Kunz is the backbone: Described as funny, but also oldest and thewisest. Ben,characteristicallyofalead guitarist, is on the adventurous side and has a way of making stuff fun.

“The boys would probably say I’m up in the clouds. But I’d also say I’m very driven to make things,” Paul said.

It is worth noting that this is just the frontman’s take.

Paul explained how a song can be an extension of the songwriter’s soul.

“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 happen naturally,” he said.

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

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

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 puts on events for young people.

Paulsaidpassingonthemusic,especially inalivespace,issomethingtoovaluableto lose.

“Across six consecutive days we performed at five schools throughout Wyndham before finishing with a youth centreshowthatbroughtstudentstogether from across the west.

“I think it’s quite important because we’re living through a hyper-media space where everything is facing itself online.”

He said he sees two things the next generation can take from music.

“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 everyday lives.

“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’t just about becoming a musician.

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

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

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

For bands cutting their teeth, Paul said it starts with practise and refining songs.

“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 go structurally,” he said.

“Most importantly, have fun with it. If you decide to take it seriously, you’ve got to believe in yourself first.”

Naturally, the band is heading back to the studio this month to practise what it preaches and record new songs.

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

Help stop the itch

By Jena Carr

A Tarneit family is counting down the days until the federal government decides whether to fund a life-changing medicine for children with severe eczema.

Five-year-old Aarav has lived with the condition since he was a baby, which became severe at the age of one when he started frequently waking up at night scratching to the point of bleeding.

Father Gaurav Chawla said Aarav’s skin would be red and inflamed from head to toe during a flare-up and that creams and ointments offered minimal relief.

“Friendships and our family life get affected because he’s like a monkey scratching all over and all day,“ he said.

“2024 was the worst time we had with him, as it got to the point where his face, under eyes, arms, behind the legs, and stomach area were all bleeding.

“Mostly, he can’t sleep well, and when a person can’t sleep well overnight, things get worse emotionally and mentally, and he’s not sleeping well 20 to 30 per cent of the time.“

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) held a meeting early thismonthtodecidewhetherthemedicine dupilumab (brand name Dupixent) should be funded through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme for children aged six months to 11 years.

Dupilumab is currently only available to Australians aged 12 and older through the scheme, with Eczema Support Australia’s SOS (Save Our Skin) for Kids with Eczema campaign calling on the government to ensure all kids have affordable access to the medicine they need.

Mr Chawla said he believed Dupilumab wouldmakeabigdifferenceinhisson’slife and “prove wonders“.

“Ifthereissomethingwhichcanbegiven maybe once a month where we don’t have to worry so much about his flare-ups, and he has a better life, I think that would be

West chef prepares Modi Indian menu

For an Indian-Australian chef, it’s about as big as it gets.

Ujjwal Sarin, or Chef Sarin as he is more commonly known, was preparing for another night’s dinner service at his Altona restaurant, Oye Bombay, on Wednesday 8 July, when his friend, the executive chef at Sofitel Melbourne, John Savage, gave him a call.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was due in Melbourne the following day and would be holding a diplomatic meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese over lunch at the Sofitel that afternoon.

Savage had barely made the offer to come and cook for the two PMs when Chef Sarin palmed that night’s dinner service off to his team and rushed over to the hotel on Collins Street to begin preparing the biggest meal of his life.

A famously strict vegetarian, Prime

Minister Modi is known to insist on specially prepared menus that match his dietary preferences, even when travelling internationally.

Along with dictating the ingredients, Chef Sarin said the Indian leader and his team expected particular tastes too.

“They wanted us to provide very authentic Indian flavours,” he said, pointing out that this meant having to quickly blend his own spices to ensure freshness.

“These people were coming from India so I wanted to provide that special flavour for them.”

By Thursday morning everything was prepared and ready to go and soon both PMs and about 60 diplomats from both countries entered the hotel, as did scores of security.

Importantly his food got a thumbs up.

“I heard the paneer butter masala was a big hit,” Chef Sarin said.

Tap and go on buses activated

Tap and go technology is being rolled out on over 2,500 buses across the state.

The rollout will happen in stages, with routes in Sunbury, Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat, Bendigo, Seymour, Geelong, Traralgon, Warragul, Berwick, Cranbourne and the Yarra Valley switching on from Sunday 19 July. By26July,theentirebusnetwork acrossMelbournewillhavethetapand go capability.

“From Sunday, tap and go will progressively roll out on buses across Victoria – making getting around even easier,“ said Acting Minister for Public and Active Transport Nick Staikos.

“More than two million tap and go trips have been taken, demonstrating Victorians love the convenience of using their bank card or phone to travel,“ Staikos added.

Thismeanspassengersateverymykienabled train station, tram, and now bus, will be able to simply tap on and off using a bank card, smartphone, or smartwatch, without the need for a physical myki card.

“Whether it’s a train, a tram or now a bus, we’re making it simpler for Victorians to get where they need to go,“ Mr Staikos said.

great,“ he said.

“I’m also worried for future parents who could have these kinds of issues, as I don’t want them to have to wait for years and years to get treatment for their kids.“

The outcome from the PBAC meeting will be published on the Department of Health’s website on 21 August.

You’re Invited

Open Day!

Station staff will be on hand to assist passengers as the rollout continues across the state. Concession passengers, seniors, and those under 18 should continue using their myki cards, while those who prefer can still use their myki for travel.

Aspire Early Education Lollipop Hill, Manor Lakes Saturday 1st August, 10am - 1pm 201 Maracana Ave, Manor Lakes VIC 3024

Explore our brand-new centre, meet our educators, and enjoy free activities and food sampling. Fun for the whole family!

MY PLACE

Helen Reid is president of the Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club. She has lived in both Sushine and, more recently, Sunbury.

What is your connection to Melbourne’s north-west?

I was a long time resident of Sunshine. I lived in three different parts of the city from 1960 to 2010, and I still feel attached to it. I go to Sunshine every Sunday to attend church, shops and events. I moved away from Sunshine in 2010 and I find my new area, Sunbury, is quite different in climate, and in opportunity. I still enjoy coming back to Sunshine although no longer a resident there. I haven’t yet severed the link. Both places have their attractions.

What do you like about where you live? I liked the chance to live in a place that has a historical link. Sunshine made a big part of what established Victoria. We can look back as this generation’s part which enabled the population growth for Victoria that gave workers a chance to achieve a fair lifestyle.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

I like to be in the H V McKay Memorial GardensandintheSunshinePresbyterian Church. I found a place in the church congregation and remain involved. I’m the kind of person that loves gardens, the layout, the planting pattern and the flowers. The H V McKay Memorial Gardens is a living area that is a jewel in the crown of the western suburbs.

What would people be suprised to know about you?

People might be surprised to find that when I first came to Sunshine to live I worked at the Albion Explosives Factory

as

locals then knew the factory as Area No 3. It’s now Cairnlea.

As president of the Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club what is it that you love about gardening? It’s a great thrill for me to plant a seed,

Create a finger knit snake

Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity.

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 materials into something extraordinary.

This month, Stephanie is creating a finger knit snake.

bulb, cutting, or seedling and see the earliest sign that it is growing.

As president of the Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club I can encourage others to spend their spare time outside in the garden’s fresh air. I can advise (although I am not a trained horticulturalist), I can enjoy most of all, seeing iris in flower in the spring, seeing daffodils mark the fact that winter is beginning to pass away

to give spring’s new life a joyful place of colour for us to enjoy. The way that expert gardeners can produce huge pumpkins and marrows and fruits in the autumn harvest, these things amaze me.

The Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club meets on the second Wednesday of the month and welcomes news members. Contact Helen on 9746 3933 or reidhm@ hotmail.com

Bullant protection push

By Cade Lucas

There are calls for a rare bullant living in native grasslands in Melbourne’s north-west to be listed as a threatened species and given greater protection from poachers.

The first detailed study of the Myrmecia nobilis, a red and yellow bullant roughly 10-14mm in length that lives in grasslands in Hobsons Bay, Hume, Brimbank, Wyndham , Melton, and Moorabool, was recently undertaken by the Victorian National Parks Association (VPNA).

Among the findings contained in the report, Melbourne’s Grassland Bullants, released this week, are that they’re now

found in just eight sites, including in Altona and Werribee, and that fire, encroachment from trees and shrubs and introduced grass species are among their many threats.

However, according to the report the biggest immediate threat is from poaching, a practice more commonly associated with giant beasts in the jungle than tiny insects in the grass.

“Ant collecting is surprisingly common, with poaching of wild ant colonies feeding a market for collectors,” the report said.

“We don’t think anyone has worked out how to breed them in captivity so poaching wild colonies is the only way of getting

this ant.

“With poaching damaging wild populations, it’s really important to find out more about these ants and how we can help them.“

While urging anyone who witnesses poaching to contact authorities, the report concludes that formal protection is needed for the bullant to survive and that a submission has been made to Victoria’s Scientific Advisory Committee requesting they list Myrmecia nobilis as threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act.

While the report paints a worrying outlook for the future of bullants, the VPNA’s

From a wheelchair to running Melbourne

Ten years ago, running, jogging or even walking without falling over was almost impossible for Jessica Cassar.

Fast-forward a decade and the Taylors Lakes resident, who lives with a rare autoimmune condition, took part in her first Run Melbourne on Sunday 19 July.

When she was a teenager, Jessica, who grew up in Hoppers Crossing, had her life thrown into disarray when it was discovered she had Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS), a condition that disrupts nerve signals to muscles, resulting in profound fatigue and loss of balance. Jessica’s health got so bad she ended up in a wheelchair.

“I didn’t think I was going to be able to walk, let alone live a ’normal life’,“ said Jessica, who is now 27.

“I got very sick when I was 16. I was having lots of falls and muscle weakness. I couldn’t brush my hair or lift my arms above my head. Getting dressed was hard, feeding myself hard, walking was hard. To go to school I had to use a wheelchair. I had anxiety that I would go to school and have a fall and not be able to get up.“

It took 18 months of testing for a specialist team at St Vincent’s Hospital to finally diagnose LEMS, which has no cure.

A decade on and Jessica is working fulltime and recently got married.

Jessica ran 5km as a thank you to her family, friends and husband who have been her support crew over the past decade and to let others know that “life doesn’t stop after you go through something rough, there is light at the end of the tunnel“.

Grassy Plains Network Facilitator Adrian Marshall said the study was a big step towards protecting them.

“Understanding these ants better is essential if we’re going to save both them and thegrasslandstheycallhome,”MrMarshall said, adding that he was amazed when he first heard about Myrmecia nobilis.

“I had never imagined there would be a rare grassland specialist bullant, let alone one found only in Melbourne.”

The grasslands bullants study was supported by the Altona and Laverton Community Bank.

The report can be found at: https:// vnpa.org.au/grassland-bullant/

Wyndham setting the standard

Wyndham Basketball Association is the first Basketball Victoria Association to deliver new training as part of a statewide initiative aimed at preventing and reducing racism in community sport through culturally safe and inclusive environments.

Basketball Victoria has partnered with VicHealth to deliver the Set The Standard campaign which focuses on empowering coaches and community leaders to take meaningful action, from setting expectations and responding to incidents, through to building inclusive everyday habits that shape club culture over time.

Wyndham’s executive committee, staff and supervisors all undertook the anti-racism training on Thursday 9 July.

The session was led by Jamal Elsheikh from Reflect Forward.

“Wyndham Basketball is made up of people from various backgrounds, cultures and ages,“ Wyndham Basketball Association president Nicole Casaccio said.

We recognise and acknowledge the importance our executive committee members, staff and Supervisors play in leading in this space to continue to provide a safe, welcoming and healthy environment when delivering our competitions, programs and events.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago 23 July, 1986

The heralded $6 million Forsyth Rd Overpass is in financial jeopardy, and another four major road projects in Werribee could grind to an abrupt halt.

30 years ago 24 July, 1996

Car thefts, bicycle thefts and criminal damage are up by more than 15 per centinthepoliceJdistrict,accordingto crime figures released this week.

Faces of the west

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

20 years ago 19 July. 2006

What started out as a holiday to attend a wedding has become a nightmare for the relatives of a Werribee family as they find themselves stranded in the war zone of Lebanon.

Right: VU staff recently held a retro sports challenge. (Damjan Janevski) 563206_02

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

10 years ago 20 July, 2016

Protesters marching along the Princes HighwayinWerribeeonSaturdayhada clear message for the state government: We need more frontline police in Wyndham.

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

Point Cook Homestead

A community information afternoon will be held at Saltwater Community Centre on Saturday 25 July, 2-3.30pm. It will be an opportunity to meet the group trying to save the historic house and gardens, ask questions, learn more about the homestead and hear about the opportunities ahead. The Saltwater Community Centre is at 153 Saltwater Promenade, Point Cook.

Jamieson Way Community Centre

Half Done & Happening: Got a project that’s half done but still happening? Join fellow creatives for a free session of making, creating, chatting, and connecting. Just bring your project, your materials, and yourself. Every Monday 9.30-11.30am. Beginners Line Dancing: A six-week fun, beginners friendly line dancing program running from 22 July to 26 August. Facilitated by Ange from Wyndham Line Dancing. $5 donation appreciated. Wednesday 11-noon. Bookings Required. BingoMoves Community: A free program that combines your favourite tunes with gentle exercise based around a game of bingo to get moving in a safe and comfortable way. Every Tuesday 9.45am arrival, 10am start. Jamieson Way Community Centre, 59 Jamieson Way, Point Cook. 9744 2341, enquiries@jamwaycc.org.au

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

John Sloan, 0436 480 728, sloanrisk@gmail.com

Lions Club

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

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

Adult drumming classes

If you ever wanted to try out your rhythmic skills, the first class is discounted and concessions apply for other classes. All hand drums supplied or BYO. No experience required, just bring an open heart and mind and enjoy making some great rhythms together. The class is friendly and welcoming to everyone.

Thursdays, 7.30-8.30pm, during school terms, at Saltwater Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Parade, Point Cook. 0411 028 077, bfmusic15@gmail.com

Wyndham Ladies Probus

Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am. Pat, 0411 316 795

Watton Group

A support group providing a social space

Thhi k’ k h h ’ h i i t i ik’h t

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Werribee’s Skeleton Creek Aqueduct, a heritage-listed 1890s brick structure that originally carried the outfall sewer over the Werribee River as part of Melbourne’s early metropolitan sewerage system. (Gary Sissons) 564221

for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at 49 Watton Street, Werribee at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month. Patricia, 0434 487 360, wattongroup131@gmail.com.

All Abilities Netball

All-abilities netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2. Phil, 0437 078 739

Walking Netball

Walking netball is a low impact, no running, no jumping version for those that love the fun, friendship and activity of a weekly game of netball. Sessions are run every Thursday during school terms, from 8pm, at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2. Phil, 0437 078 739

With One Voice Wyndham Choir

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

Adult community garden group

The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow. 8742 3688

Seniors House of Fun

The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. Vanessa, 8742 8000, enquires@grangecommunity.org.au

Seniors club

The Werribee Senior Citizens Club meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea.

0403 041 499

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

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

Yvette, 0411 952 706

Western Budgerigar Club

The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars. Don, 0414 975 862

Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus

Do you like to sing? The Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus wants you! Be

part of a rewarding fraternity of fellow amateur musicians serving the community, sharing comradery and having fun. Rehearsals at 7pm Tuesday evenings at St James Church, Hoppers Crossing. Chris, 0400 414 215

U3A Werribee

The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes-activities specifically designed for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres. Rick, 0402 299 220

Beekeeping group

Werribeeks is a group for beekeepers in and around Werribee and surrounding suburbs that meet every third Monday of the month at the Wyndham Park Community Centre to share information, tips and ideas on beekeeping. https://www.facebook.com/ WerriBeeksClub

Werribee River Association

New volunteers to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace. admin@werribeeriver.org.au, www.werribeeriver.org.au

Wyndham Park Community Shed

A place to connect, share skills, get hands on, and have fun. New members and volunteers are welcome. Men’s shed open Tuesdays and Thursdays, women’s shed open Monday and shed for all abilities open Sunday. The tool library is open on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. 0437 270 791, shed@wyndhamparkcc.com.au

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 helped shape her journey.

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

“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.

BOXING –

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

An eight-athlete boxing team has been namedfortheGames.

All eight boxers will be making their gamesdebut.

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

“I’mveryhappy,”hesaid.“I’mexcited.

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

Cassar found out he had made the time withaphonecallbeforetheannouncement wasmadepublic.

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 selectorshands,”hesaid.

“Youalwayshaveafeelingbutyounever know.Iwaswaitingfortheresult.”

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

Having always set himself high expectations, going into the games is no differentforCassar.

He embraces being one of the youngest competitorsinthering.

“I’m excited for the experience,” Cassar said.“Goldisthegoal.

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

“It’sexcitingwhenyougetthosewins. “Iloveitandeverythingthatcomeswith it.Winsareabonus.”

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 notlookedback.

Cassar has competed in 65 fights, winning57ofthem.

He said both his parents had been big supportersthroughouthiscareer.

Cassar said the World Boxing Cup in Brazil was another good opportunity aheadoftheCommonwealthGames.

“I’m so grateful to Boxing Australia for theopportunitytogooverthere,”hesaid.

“It was a beautiful location and tournament.

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

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,”Glykidissaid.

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

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

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’ in recognition of Plastic Free July.

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

Guests are then invited to enjoy a light, plastic-free afternoon tea.

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 ocean waste.

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 every stage.

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. For real life.

Sincepremieringin2020,Bluey’sBigPlay the Stage Show has toured the globe and been seen by millions of fans worldwide.

Featuring brilliantly created, larger-than-life puppets and the instantly recognisablevoicesofMelanieZanettiand DaveMcCormackasMum(Chilli)andDad (Bandit), Bluey’s Big Play follows Bluey and Bingo’s plans to get Dad off his phone and out of the bean bag.

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 idea who or what Bluey was.

“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… That was seven years ago.”

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

“IthinkwhatBlueydoesreallywellisfind the joy and the quirkiness in the ordinary experience of family life,” he said.

“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 the kids, but from all the adults.

“I’maparent,andtoseeyourchildseeing one of their icons live, the impact of that… there’s such joy in that experience.”

Bluey’s Big Play is at Geelong Arts Centre from 22 to 23 July. Visit geelongartscentre. org.au for more information.

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 prestigious recording facility.

His practice incorporates electronic, avant-gardeandambientmusic,soundart, new media, video and performance.

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 conversations about sustainability.

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.

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 in constant conversation.

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 kuduro to hiphop, popping and house.

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 from 12-15 August from 7.30pm. Book via The Substation: https:// thesubstation.org.au/program/ echo-mapping

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)

Stone fruit (7)

Too quiet to be heard (9)

Tranquil (4)

Think again (10)

Norway’s capital (4)

Casserole (4)

Benevolent (10)

Scrutinise (4)

Seasonal movement of animals (9)

Island in the North Atlantic (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'.

Today’s Aim:

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

D

U E C I T T N R

tunic, uric

3

ARENA AROSE BAYOU CHEEP

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?

In accordance with the Domestic Animals Act 1994, from 23 July 2026 in all public places within the City of Wyndham

all dogs must be restrained by means of chain, cord or leash sufficient to control and restrain the dog except in the following areas in the City of Wyndham which are designated as Off Lead Areas where dogs may be off lead provided that the conditions of use in this order are complied with.

2. Definitions The term ‘Off Leash’ and ‘Off Lead’ are used interchangeably.

‘Designated Off Lead Areas’ means the whole or part of a reserve designated by signage and as mapped on the Wyndham City Council website as being available for the unleashing of dogs at the time(s) signposted. The following open spaces have been designated Dog Off Lead Areas:

Site/ Open SpaceDesignated AreaTime

Hoppers Crossing

Cambridge Reserve

Enclosed Dog Off Leash ParkAll hours

Mackenzie Crescent Walkway to Heaths Road All hours except 8–9.30am and 2.30–4pm Monday to Friday on School days

D1 Drainage ReserveDerrimut Road to Willmott Drive All hours except 8–9.30am and 2.30–4pm Monday to Friday on School days

Hoppers Crossing Drain

Mossfiel Drive to Callander CrescentAll hours South-eastern corner of Callander Reserve to Pannam Drive. All hours

Pannam Drive to Morris Road All hours except from 8–9.30am and 2.30pm–4.00pm Monday to Friday on School Days

Ballan Road to Black Forest RoadAll hours

Princes Highway Road Reserve Northern road reserve, from Westleigh Drive (north) to Westleigh Drive (south) All hours

Werribee River, Diversion Weir Open Space south of Diversion Weir and north of Redgum Close Walkway. All hours

Wyndham Civic Centre Rear of the Civic Centre, between rail line corridor fence and start of Civic Centre carpark. All hours

South Ring Road Easement

Werribee South

Campbell’s Cove Beach

50 Kiely Avenue between South Ring Road and the south-eastern fenceline. Excludes land within 10 metres of unfenced sections of the Federation Trail. All hours

Campbell’s Cove Beach foreshore from the eastern edge of the car park at the end of the boat sheds to the boundary fence of the Point Cook RAAF base. All hours

East Beach Semi-circle shaped space bound by beginning of rock escarpment to the east and west, and the high tide mark. Bound by fencing to the north. All hours

Williams Landing Williams Landing ReserveEnclosed Dog Off Leash ParkAll hours Wyndham Vale

Presidents Park From the dog obedience building east to the riverbank and north to the park’s boundary All hours Pannam Drive to Morris Road All hours except from 8–9.30am and 2.30pm–4.00pm Monday to Friday on School Days Morris Road to Bellbridge DriveAll hours

Skeleton Creek Reserve Park Place/ Sayers Drain Outlet to Stephen Court Walkway All hours Stephen Court Walkway to Hawthorn Drive to the west, and Bromage Close to the south. Designated area excludes land within 10 metres of Rosslare Court Reserve park boundary. All hours

Laverton North

Lawrie Emmins Reserve Bound by the Archery Range to the east, the southern tree line, the western tree line and the property boundary to the north. All hours

ParkEnclosed Dog Off Leash ParkAll hours

ReserveEnclosed Dog Off Leash

Transitional Period:

For a period of three (3) months commencing from 23 July 2026, existing ‘Off Lead’ Areas in the City of Wyndham may continue to be used as ‘Off Lead’ Areas, provided that the conditions of use in the Order are complied with. At the end of the period 23 October 2026 only the ‘Off Lead’ Areas identified in the Order and signed as ‘Off Lead’ Areas may continue to be used as ‘Off Lead’ Areas for dogs.

3. Conditions of Use

For the purposes of these conditions of use and the enforcement of them, the person who is with the dog at an ‘Off Lead Area’ is referred as ‘the handler’.

The handler of a dog using an ‘Off Lead Area’ must comply with the following conditions of use at all times:

(1) The dog must be and remain ‘on lead’: (a) until both the handler and the dog have physically entered the ‘Off Lead Area’; and (b) prior to the handler and the dog exiting the ‘Off Lead Area’.

(2) The handler must have a dog lead in their possession at all times when in the ‘Off Lead Areas’. The lead must be a chain, cord or leash and capable of restraining the dog.

(3) The dog’s current registration tag must be on the dog’s collar whether the collar is on the dog or attached to the lead in the handler’s possession.

(4) When the dog is allowed ‘Off Lead’, it must remain in both visual and audible range of the handler at all times so that the dog can be effectively recalled to the handler when required.

(5) When another person or another dog is approaching, the handler must recall their dog and effectively restrain it until the other person or other dog have moved on to a safe distance. When in a purpose-built dog off lead enclosure,

PETS & SERVICES

the handler must recall their dog when another person is entering or exiting that enclosure to avoid any unwanted confrontation or the escape of dogs currently using the area.

(6) At no time must the handler allow a dog to enter or jump into any wetland, lake, pond, creek or other watercourse.

(7) The handler must ensure that the dog does not attack, chase or interfere with any wildlife in the ‘Off Lead Area’.

(8) The handler must not allow any dog under their control to be ‘Off Lead’ if it is known to be: – dog aggressive; – person aggressive; – un-socialised with other dogs or animals; – attracted to objects in motion such as bicycle tyres; – in Seasotn; or –has been declared to be Menacing / Dangerous / Restricted Breed.

(9) Clause 51 of Community Amenity Local Law (2023) requires that a person (the handler) must not allow excrement of an animal under his or her care or control to remain on a road or Council land. The handler who is in charge or control of an animal on a road or Council land must have in his or her possession a bag or other receptacle for the purpose of removing from the road or Council land any excrement from that animal deposited on the road or Council land. The penalties for non-compliance under Community Amenity Local Law (2023) apply if this condition is breached.

(10) All other areas declared to be ‘Off Lead Areas’ and signed as such may be used at any time.

NOTIFICATION

The resolution for the making of this Order was agreed to by Wyndham City Council on 23 June 2026.

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.

Falcons lock in second

By Tara Murray

The City West Falcons locked in second and the double chance in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday night.

Having found form late in the season, the Falcons were keen to put themselves in the best position come finals.

They put out a strong final round performance against the Peninsula Waves, winning 79-67.

“It was pretty good and we got everyone on,” coach Marg Lind said. “We rested players that needed to be rested.

“We got court time into some others and tried a few different combinations.”

Lind said they felt it was a good team effort against the Waves, who needed to win to have any chance of playing finals.

She said the margin got to within six but they were able to blow it out.

“They certainly took it to us and I thought they were good,” Lind said.

“It was a bit tricky for us with then hav-

ing a shorter shooting circle and were quite quick and hard to get around.

“We ended up doing quite well, we were pleased.”

Jane Cook finished with 76 goals for the Falcons.

Skipper Maggie Lind didn’t play many minutes, but her mum said there were no concerns.

Marg said they were just cautious knowing Maggie’s injuries the last couple of years they didn’t want to take any risks.

Finishing second is a long way from the start of the season when the Falcons started 1-3.

Lind had said pre-season it would be a challenge to continue the momentum of last season, having had a number of changes in the off season.

The side is now gunning for a fifth straight championship.

“A big surprise actually, we certainly would not have said that at the start of the year,” she said.

“It came from nowhere in the last few weeks [finishing second].

“Things just went our way and we ob-

viously found a bit of form at the moment.

“We didn’t expect to finish second.”

The Falcons will kick off their final campaign against the Hawks in the qualifying final.

The Hawks lost two games in the regular season, one of those losses coming against the Falcons.

“They’re having a good year,” Lind said.

“They want to beat us too [after last year’s grand final loss]. We have nothing to lose now, we’ve come from sitting on the bottom the first four weeks, to getting second.

“I think that double chance is going to be really important.

“They’re pretty determined and there’s a good vibe.”

The Falcons 23 and under side finished the regular season with a 70-58 win against the Waves.

They will face the Bendigo Strikers in an elimination final.

Point Cook Centrals Cricket Club has signed Piran Kent for the upcoming Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield season. The Sharks said he would bring versatility and balance to the senior squad. “A talented batting all-rounder who complements his strong batting with crafty off-spin, Piran is the type of player who can influence a game in multiple ways,” the Sharks said on social media. “Whether building an innings, accelerating the scoring when required, or breaking crucial partnerships with the ball.”

VAFA

Joshua Foster. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 499384_24

Suns face mighty challenge as finals loom

By Tara Murray

TheSunshavestartedtofindabitofmomentum, but have a challenge ahead of them if they’re to play Western Football League division 2 finals.

The Suns have now won their past four matches to get back into finals contention heading into the last month of the season.

While outside the top five, coach Roger Hand knows that things are slowly starting to come together.

“Results went our way with Sunshine Heights holding off Albanvale, which is in fifth spot,” he said.

“We have a pretty tough month ahead of us against four teams above us. If we want to make it, we have to win those games.

“Early in the year we lost two more games than we did this time last year. With a new group and a fair few injuries to our top end players really hurt us.”

Hand said their round 10 loss to Wyndhamvale was the turning point of their season.

He said while they didn’t get the points,

they were able to push one of the best sides in the competition and it gave them plenty of confidence.

“Since then we’ve been able to win every game and we’ve been trying to build in the second half of the season,” he said.

The Suns faced an improved Tarneit side on Saturday and were able to win, 17.17 (119)-10.4 (64).

Hand said the Titans had a lot of good young talent and would be a really good side in the years to come.

He said the Titans’ pace pushed them early on Saturday.

“The first half was really competitive,” he said. “We were able to weather the storm a little bit with our wiser heads.

“Nick Gregson has been the difference in a couple of games that we have won.

“Between him and Adam Scarpino kicked 10 goals between them.”

Gregson finished with six goals, while Scarpino and Hamish Holmes kicked four goals each.

Gregson was named best on ground, while Daniel O’Leary and Joshua Foster

were other standouts.

For the Titans, Michael Naawi and Luke Hobson were named their best.

The Suns sit in sixth spot, two points outside the top five.

Hand said they had yet to set the world on fire this season which sees them outside to the top five.

They play ladder leaders North Footscray this Saturday.

Hand said it would be a massive day for the club as it hosts a NAIDOC round, with three matches between the teams.

“They are definitely the team to beat this year,” he said. “We pushed them to a goal or two late last time.”

In other matches, Wyndhamvale lost a second straight match, losing to West Footscray, 12.7 (79)-11.8 (74).

In division 1, Werribee Districts came from behind to beat Hoppers Crossing, 13.16 (94)-12.15 (87).

The Warriors had led by seven points at three quarter time.

Point Cook beat Point Cook Centrals in the local derby, 24.13 (157)-3.5 (23).

Westbourne Grammarians again fell agonisingly short of victory in the Victorian Amatuer Football Association women’s premier competition. The Grammarians were at home to Old Brighton on Saturday and after three quarters led by five points. Old Brighton kicked three goals to one in the final quarter to run over the top of the Grammarians, winning 6.5 (41)-5.6 (36). Sarah Dickie, Mia Graf and Hannah McMahon were named the Grammarians best.

VPL

It was a tough day for Werribee City in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition on Saturday. The Bees were at home against Keilor Park and were on the back foot early after conceding two goals in the first 22 minutes. The Bees managed to get one back just after half time before the Eagles scored the sealer in the 85th minute, winning 3-1. The Bees sit 11th on the ladder.

FV

Point Cook suffered another loss in the FV state league 4 north-west competition on Friday night. At home to Laverton, the Jets scored through Jackson Curcija in the 28th minute to take an early lead. Both sides went a man down in the 43rd minute as a plyer from either side was given a red card. Laverton scored two second half goals to secure the 2-1 win.

FOR MORE SPORT VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklysport @star_weekly

Centurions ready to fire

By Tara Murray

Werribee Centrals are hoping to continue to build after securing its spot in the Western Football League women’s competition.

The Centurions currently sit in third, but are still a chance of finishing in the top two and locking in a double chance.

Centurions’ coach Jade De La Rue said it was nice to be in the situation they’re in considering the challenges that they’ve had.

“It’s pretty good,” he said. “We’re happy with how we’re building at the moment.

“We’ve had a rough run for a lot of seasons. We’ve had an unlucky run with injuries and we’re starting to get those players back.

“We’re looking to finish off the season strongly.”

De La Rue said it had been a long season with their challenges, including forfeiting a couple of matches due to lack of numbers.

Now with that behind them, the focus was on making sure they were ready come finals.

“We want to make sure we’re OK for the back end of the season,” De La Rue said.

“We’re in the position that they can come back in and can focus on maintaining their fitness and bodies.”

While the injuries have hurt the Centurions it has seen them give more games to some of their under-16 players.

De La Rue said many of them were

training with them anyway and were coming in and being among their best players despite being nervous about stepping up.

On Saturday, the Centurions got the win against West Footscray, 3.3 (21)-1.3 (9).

De La Rue said that the Roosters always gave them a good contest.

“I think they don’t get a lot of credit for what they’ve done,” he said.

“They are hard tackling and a fast team. It was a hard game and they took it to us for a fair while but we got over the line.”

De La Rue said the group they have feels it’s never out of a game and it helps them get the job done late in games.

Madi Cronin kicked two goals for the Centurions.

Wyndham’s tough weekend on the court

By Tara Murray

It was a tale of two halves for Wyndham in the Big V senior competitions on Saturday night.

Wyndham’s men’s championship side got off to a slow start against Melbourne University, trailing by 12 points at quarter time.

The margin remained 12 points at the main break before Wyndham started to fire in the second half.

Wyndham reduced the margin to nine points at three quarter time to give itself a chance.

While Wyndham won the last quarter, it wasn’t enough as Melbourne University won, 118-113.

Assistant coach Peter Muscat said Melbourne Uni set the tone early.

“Our response to fight our way back into the game was really pleasing,” he said.

“We shot the ball exceptionally well, but our turnovers proved costly.

“If we look after the ball better, we give ourselves a much better chance of coming away with the win.

“The team did well to get back into the game but just couldn’t get the job done.”

Supreme Cook had 28 points, eight rebounds and one assist in the loss, while Samuel Faraday-bensley had 31 points, four rebounds and an assist.

Wyndham remains bottom, two games behind Gippsland United.

In the women’s division 1 competition, Wyndham lost to ladder leaders Melbourne University.

The Black Angels have been the team to beat this season, undefeated as finals quickly approach.

Wyndham tried to stick with the Black Angels in the first half, but still trailed by 19 points at half time.

It was all the Black Angels in the second half as they ran away with a 97-56 win.

Wyndham coach Matt Stephens said it was a tough game.

“The first half was competitive, but the second half they got away.”

Ahri Grizzle scored 24 points and had five rebounds, while Haruna Inamura and Georgia Denehey had 10 points each.

Meanwhile Wyndham’s youth league 2

Lauren and Meghann Basto were named the Centurions best in the win.

The Centurions face Wyndhamvale on Friday night.

The Falcons sit in second spot, percentage ahead of the Centurions.

The Falcons enter the match on the back of a 30.12 (192)-0.0 (0) win against North Footscray.

Mariah and Rachael Burton both kicked seven goals each and were named the Falcons best.

Elsewhere, the Suns lost to Parkside Spurs, 13.12 (90)-1.2 (8).

Alexis Madden and Bonnie Lea Brown were named the Suns best.

Point Cook Centrals lost to Laverton, 6.6 (42)-4.3 (27).

Vella enjoys first World Cup

Werribee Victorian Clay Target Club’s Charlton Vella was part of a strong Australian ISSF World Cup Shotgun team which competed in Italy.

Breaking attendance records for the 2026 ISSF season, the Lonato World Cup welcomed over 600 competitors from 80 different countries, as athletes looked to prove themselves on the biggest stage.

Charlton Vella competed in the men’s trap competition.

In a highly competitive field of world-class trap athletes, Vella withstood the pressure to deliver a personal best World Cup qualification score of 122 out of 125.

He narrowly missed out on making his first international finals appearance, falling just short in an eight-way shoot off to advance to the men’s trap finals.

Despite missing out on the finals, Vella was pleased with his performance.

“A personal best is something I’m very proud of, especially to have achieved it at my first open World Cup,” he said. “These fields are among the strongest in the sport, with Olympic champions and so many world-class shooters competing.”

women’s side finished the regular season with an 88-53 win against the Craigieburn Eagles.

Coach Renee Dayao said the girls answered every challenge.

“Our defence was relentless, and we hit some massive threes whenever momentum was up for grabs,” she said.

“Alana [Poulton] dominated again with another huge double-double, while Admira [Ali] was everywhere defensively, finishing with an incredible nine steals.

“The group is building momentum at the perfect time, and finals can’t come soon enough.”

Wyndham finished the regular season in fifth spot.

The youth league men’s 1 side finished its season with two losses.

On Saturday night it lost to Melbourne University, 104-86, before losing to the Bendigo Braves on Sunday, 106-86.

Coach Brian Rolph said there had been some great performances to end the year.

“While we didn’t accumulate the wins in a season that we wanted, we definitely improved over the course of the season and improved our team’s culture,” he said.

“There is noticeably more pressure at an event like this one, but making sure I stuck to my routine and focussed on one target at a time helped. Off the layouts, the team and how well we all got along also helped, as did the grounding I received from my wife back home.”

Vella said reaching a personal best at the Lonato World Cup was a team effort and he was thankful to everyone who has helped along the journey.

“My coaches have played a huge role in helping me prepare, both technically and mentally, making sure I was ready to perform at my best.

“I am also incredibly grateful to my family for their constant support. Knowing they believe in me and are behind me every step of the way gives me extra motivation.”

Werribee’s perfect eight

By Tara Murray

Werribee took its winning streak to eight as it headed into its final bye of the season before a big finals series in the Victorian Football League.

The Tigers did the work early on Sunday to set up the win against Port Melbourne, 16.13 (109)-10.11 (71).

The win was a reverse for the round six clash between the sides that Port Melbourne won. It was the last loss that the Tigers suffered.

Tigers’ coach Dan Lowther said they continued to show some really good signs.

“We’reonabitofarollatthemoment,” he said.

“It has been nine games we’ve been in frontoftheledger(alsoincludesadraw).

“We’ve been breaking down each part oftheseasonintoblocks.We’vegotabye this week.”

Lowther said they were tested during the recent four game block which included a win after the siren and a seven point win against Carlton.

Lowther said there was a real difference in how they played on Sunday compared to the first time the two teams met.

He said the team played a more connected game style and more how they wanted to play.

“The second quarter we kicked five unanswered goals,” he said.

“Weputthescoreontheboardandwe were able to control it after half time.

“We still tried to play our brand as they threw a few things at us.”

He said there was still some work to be done defensively in the zone and one-on-oneandhowtheyhavetoadapt.

It was the Tigers small that did a lot of the damage up forward.

Jay Dahlhaus kicked five goals, Anthony Depasquale kicked four goals and Lachlan Charleson kicked three goals.

Lowther said they were happy to get the return for those players.

He also highlighted the job of Will Elliott, who kicked two goals, and was hardlybeateninacontestupforwardall day.

and didn’t look overawed and laid four or five tackles.”

Lowther said it had been really pleasing that while they continued to get the wins on the board, they were able to blood new players.

Seventeen players have made their debut for the club this season.

“It’s really important and we’re happy with the depth,” Lowther said.

“Wewanttotryandgetgamesintothe younger ones to compliment the older ones.

Dom Brew had 23 disposals, while JesseClarkhad2andJaelenPavlidishad 21 disposals.

The match saw the return of Daly Andrews, while Micah Robb made his VFL debut.

“Daly is no stranger to this level and has played four or five games at local level,” Lowther said.

“He had a big impact in the third quarter in the midfield when we needed it.

He said they had been able to keep everything in check in that block with where they want to be.

Lowther said as Port Melbourne tried to move the ball quickly up the middle

“Charlie Lazzaro and Dom Brew have carried a lot of the load in the midfield and we’re trying to give them a bit of a chop out.”

Lowther said the bye came at a good time ahead of a big end to the season.

The side was set to review and have a pie night on Tuesday night and have a lighter load for the week.

Lowther said things weren’t looking too bad injury front.

He said Harry Maguire and Josh Kellettweretwothatwerepushingtheir cases.

“We were challenged against St Kilda and came from behind,” he said.

to move the ball up the middle of the ground to open up the space and theywereable to handlethatOK

“Ontheweekenditwasfi and we finished the block strongly.”

“Against Southport it was a bit of an arm wrestle and we won by 20 points.

eck in that block with to be. lenged against St Kilda ehind,” sai port it was a we won nditwasfiveo he block stron

we wanted to get them in n He did a which h is a thhing, he said.

“Micahisanotherone,likeNashKing, we wanted to get them in. He did a job

“We’ve got some selection headaches, which is a good thing,” he said.

FINAL SCORES:

“We nearly plaayed Ha H rry on the w weekkend We pllayyed thr h ee talls

nd.

earlierintheseasoonan a d dwentOK

Weekend’s result

GOALS

Werribee: 4.2 9.6 12.10 16 13. (109)

“WWe g got 12 goa o ls s from ou smalls, so it’ll be e abbout pickin our best lin i e up.”

Port Melbourne: 4.1 4.4 8.8 10.11 (71)

0.11

K. ur ng : 6 12.10 16 13. e: 4.1 4.4 8.8 1 haus Dep 3), Elliott (2)

DISPOSALS

Werribee: Dahlhaus (5), Depasquale (4), Charleson (3), Elliott (2), Riding, Lazzaro

Port Melbourne: Baldwin(4),Tonelli, Rudd, Polkinghorne, Penry, George, Bedendo

e: Baldwin(4) horne, w Cla zzaro e: (23) (19) st id. bit of an orsixgoals ngly.” they were able to handle that OK.

Werribee: Brew (23), Clark (22), Pavlidis (21), Lazzaro (19)

pasquale , ),Tonelli, ark (22), ), Rankin

Port Melbourne: Hobbs (23), Rankin (20), Sparkman (19)

TIPPING 2026