Star Weekly - Wyndham - 5th August 2026

Good deeds at St Peter Apostle

A group of 47 students at St Peter Apostle Primary School in Hoppers Crossing have been practising their Wakakirri performance hoping to scoop another state award.

The school received a Wakakirri state award in 2024. This year’s Wakakirri theme is ‘Guardians of us’ and the students, with the help of performing arts coordinator Ashley Joyce, have created a story titled ’One good deed leads to another’.

Ms Joyce said the performance focuses on showing kindness and compassion towards others.

“Our students have been extremely dedicated and have been rehearsing dance routines and acting roles twice a week,” Ms Joyce said.

As a not for profit association, Wakakirri supports student wellbeing, creativity and inclusion. Schools support students to develop a short performance that explores ideas, values or social themes, which is then shared on stage at a Wakakirri event.

The St Peter Apostle students will perform at the Clocktower Theatre, Moonee Ponds, on 5 August.

Crime concern dip

By Laura Michell

A six-month security patrol trial in Truganina helped to lower concerns about localcrime,asurveyhasfound.

Wyndham council ran the security patrol trial from November last year to April this year and engaged Metropolis Research to survey community perceptions of safety beforeandafterthetrial.

A report to the 28 July council meeting notedthatfollowingthetrial,concernabout crime in local neighbourhoods decreased by 37 per cent, while concern about violent crimedecreasedby10percent.

A total of 973 incident reports were logged during the trial. Of those, 372 related to incidents that were potentially safety or crime related, such as reports of suspicious vehicles or loitering. Ten such reports involved security personnel being the first responder to an active or potentially active incident,thereporttocouncilstated.

Neighbourhood alerts and reassurance activities, such as garage doors being left open,accountedfor373reports.

Local amenity, parking and minor safety

Concern about property crime decreased by five per cent, while concern about becoming a victim of crime elsewhere in Wyndham decreased by 41 per cent, the reportnoted.

observationsaccountedfor228reports.

The report to council noted that no direct correlation could be drawn between year-to-date crime data and the trial as the crime reporting period did not align with thetrialdates.

Benim Ward councillor Preet Singh, who pledged to initiate the patrol during his campaign for election to council in October 2024, said the trial had provided important learnings for council’s broader community safetywork.

“Oneofthemostencouragingoutcomesof the trial was the strong sense of community it revealed. A significant majority of respondents said they felt confident they

could turn to their neighbours for help if needed, highlighting the strong community connectionsthatexistacrossTruganina,”he said.

Cr Susan McIntyre criticised the trial and council’s decision to spend $372,000 on the project.

“This was an election commitment supported by a majority of councillors, but election commitments must withstand scrutiny and deliver value for all Wyndham residents,”shesaid.

Shesaidcouncilcouldhaveexaminedthe experiences of residents accessing existing security patrols in Sanctuary Lakes and ManorLakesinsteadoffundingitsowntrial.

Wiki tracks data boom

Residents concerned about the rapid spread of data centres across Melbourne’s west have launched a new online tracker, saying communities deserve better access to information about developments planned for their suburbs.

The community-led Data Centre Wiki bringstogetherdetailsofexisting,approved and proposed facilities making it easier for people to find out information on what is happening in their neighbourhoods.

The collaborative website has been modelled on Wikipedia and includes information on existing facilities across West Footscray, Brooklyn, Derrimut, Tullamarine, and those proposed or in the con-

struction phase for Laverton North, Spotswood, Plumpton, Truganina, Cobblebank, Mickleham, and Campbellfield.

Community members are also invited to contribute their own information, allowing the resource to be updated as new developments emerge.

Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank said Data Centre Wiki was a practical response to the lack of publicly accessible information about an industry expanding rapidly across the west.

“Communities shouldn’t have to build their own information resource just to understand what’s being proposed in their neighbourhood. But when people can’t

easily find the information they’re looking for, they’ll work together to fill the gap,” he said.

“The Wiki gives residents a place to share information and better understand the scale of data centre development in their communities.“

Mr Ettershank said residents had legitimate concerns about the pace of development and the lack of transparency surrounding the industry.

“Most of the proposed data centres in Victoria are planned for Melbourne’s west,” Mr Ettershank said.

“These are major industrial developments that can consume significant

Cameron Johnston. (Damjan Janevski). 567723_01

Life membership for VICSES stalwart

When Cameron Johnston reflects on his more than three decades volunteering with the Wyndham unit of the VICSES a few incidents stand out in his mind including the 1999 Sydney hail storm and the 2009 Black Saturday fires.

However, the one that is spoken about most often during training is the 2011 floods in north west Victoria.

“We were returning to our base in the flood rescue boat after dropping off a family on the outskirts of Charlton. I nearly lost my forward hand out of the boat when I took evasive action at the last second,” remembered Mr Johnston.

“We were about to turn onto the Calder Highway, and a give way sign just popped out of the water in between the surface waves. When he questioned why I did that, I showed him what I had seen at the last second. While it’s funny now, we were about 1.5km out of town, we were in an inflatable rescue boat, and the light was fading fast. I didn’t wish to swim back that distance, or be one that then needed to be rescued ourselves, up against the current of the Avoca River in water about two metres deep.”

In recognition of his outstanding commitment to both the unit and the wider community, Mr Johnston was recently

awarded a rare Life Membership.

He is only the fourth person to receive the honour joining Betty Greenwood, Gerald Greenwood and Lawrence Russell

Mr Johnston said he joined the SES to “learn new skills and help others in their time of need”

“It may not be much for us, but it could be the biggest thing to happen to them in their life. Being part of that can be rewarding in itself,” he said.

On the same evening three members received service awards - Darren Dimabuyu (5 years), Stephen Young (10 years) and Andrew Brown (20 years).

amounts of land, electricity and water, yet many local communities have had little opportunity to understand what is being planned or what the long-term impacts could be.”

Mr Ettershank said he had spent considerable time chasing transparency around the proposed facilities.

“For more than a year I’ve been asking the government how it intends to regulate this rapidly growing industry to protect communities and the environment,” he said.

Details: https://datacentremoratorium. net/index.php/Resources:Data_Centre_ Tracker.

Briefs

Shooting charges

Two men have been charged after shots were fired at an Altona North home. It’s alleged numerous shots were fired into the front of a Seventh Avenue home just after 3.30am on 31 July. The occupants of the home were asleep at the time and were not injured. A short time later a white Toyota Hilux, matching the description of a vehicle seen at the shooting, was spotted by police on Cleveland Drive in Craigieburn. While police were tracking the vehicle, a man allegedly fled from the car onto Elsternwick Way and was arrested. Another two men were then found at property in nearby Middlesborough Drive, and after negotiating with police, were arrested about 5am. A 41-year-old Preston man and 21-year-old Craigieburn man have been charged with numerous offences including discharging a firearm at a premises.

Drugs, firearms charges

A 19-year-old Fraser Rise man is facing drug and firearms charges after a major police operation targeting an alleged organised crime syndicate linked to violent attacks on Melbourne businesses. The investigation commenced in April when police received intelligence in relation to drug and firearms trafficking linked to an offshore syndicate leader. Police then executed a search warrant at a Fraser Rise address seizing mobile phones. Another three search warrants were executed on 31 July at a residential address in Fraser Rise, a business premises in Keilor Downs, and a residential address in Port Melbourne, where detectives seized what is believed to be methylamphetamine, cocaine, and ecstasy. A Porsche SUV, alleged counterfeit notes, steroids, a dagger, OC spray, two extendable batons, and a number of mobile phones were also seized during the searches.

Assault charges

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world and Lions Clubs in Victoria are doing something practical about reducing that level and its impact on families.

The incorporated charity, the Lions V Districts Cancer Foundation, has put a Skin Check and Awareness Unit on the road, following excellent financial support from Lions clubs and generous public and private supporters.

The Lions Club of Point Cook is proud to announce that the skin check van will be visiting Point Cook on 8 and 9 August at Featherbrook Community Centre.

The van will provide a free skin checking service to local people and will be operated by fully trained, certificated and professionally supervised volunteers. The unit will also be a valuable resource for local people to access not only the skin check, but valuable and timely information about skin care and self-checking techniques.

We know early detection of skin lesions potentially saves lives, so this visit will be a timely support and reminder to local people of the need to take care of their skin.

Following the skin check, visitors will be issued with a referral to their GP if there are any suspect spots or lesions. The unit is not

a medical clinic, so diagnosis or treatment requirements are not discussed – it simply provides the skin check and alerts the visitor to skin lesions that require further checking and attention: a great first step in ensuring urgent needs are addressed.

The airc onditioned van has three fully equipped checking rooms and an entry foyer, as well as a disabled lift and entry at the rear.

To book a free Skin Cancer Checking, local and surrounding residents should contact Rob Eyton on 0417 549 684 or by email at robeyton@bigpond.com

Five youths have been charged after a man sustained critical injuries following an assault in Sunshine on Saturday. Three boys aged 12, 13 and 15, from the Brimbank area, a 14-year-old girl from the Banyule area and a 14-year-old girl from the Brimbank area were all charged following the incident on Hampshire Road. According to police, the man, aged 60, was set-upon by youths after they allegedly attempted to steal items from a nearby store.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Daughter dips for her dad

By Glenn Fisher

Voluntarily plunging into an ice bath, reservoir and the ocean in the middle of winter just once sends a shiver down the spine of most of us – but how about 70 such dips in 70 days?

That’s the challenge Brigid Evans set herself as part of this year’s 40th anniversary of Daffodil Day on 20 August, a fundraising event to support life-saving cancer research and stand alongside those affected by cancer.

And Brigid, 36, has a very personal reason for immersing herself in cold water 70 times as she edges closer to her goal of raising $7000 for the cause.

On 18 August last year, her “incredibly fit and healthy” father, Les, suddenly died after battling through a bowel cancer diagnosis he received just before his 70th birthday.

Brigid was in hospital herself at the time, having just given birth to her and her husband’s first child, Melody, three days earlier.

“Dad was usually the person looking after everyone else,” Brigid told Star Weekly.

“He had been declared cancer-free, but the chemotherapy treatment proved too harsh on his body, and he had a sudden downturn, then a heart attack after more gastro-intestinal issues,” she said.

An avid sailor on Lake Eppalock near Bendigo who also kept fit on a rowing machine every day, Les had also donated his plasma hundreds of times and, at the time of his diagnosis, wasn’t even due for his routine colonoscopy to check for bowel problems.

In the end, Brigid said, it wasn’t the cancer that took her dad’s life and she believes the harsh concoction of chemicals as part of his treatment was a major factor.

“There just has to be a better way,” said Brigid, who has a doctorate in philosophy.

“My goals in all this are to help research for better treatments and support.”

After launching her Daffodil Day quest with her first dip on 31 May, Brigid is due to notch up dip number 50 as Star Weekly went to press – dips that have included

many 6C ice baths at Thrve in Sunbury, in the ocean down the coast, in Macedon Reservoir and during swimming lessons for herself and Melody at Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

“I’ve found the ice baths good for my mental health and learning to swim has been a positive out of a dark period,” she said.

“Melody is such a livewire now, and she adds another layer into all this … dad only got to meet his first grandchild over a video phone call just before he passed, but I’m sure he would be proud of me.”

As the 2026 Daffodil Day date gets closer, Brigid said she had some special dips planned for the last week, when she will take annual leave from her Disabilities Victoria policy and research role.

A group of her close friends will join her on the weekend of 15 and 16 August for a dip in Macedon Reservoir, while mum Leonie – who recently moved to Sunbury from Bendigo – will be by Brigid’s side on 22 August for dip number 70 at Les’s favourite sailing spot, Lake Eppalock.

While there will no doubt be tears mixed in with the cold winter water of Eppalock when the final dip is done, Brigid says she will not be done – she not only plans to continue cold water dipping after Daffodil Day because of the health benefits, but has promised to also shave her hair if she reaches her $7000 fundraising goal.

Donations to Brigid Evans’ 70 dips in 70 days winter challenge can be made at https://www.daffodilday.com.au/fundraisers/brigidevans/daffodil-day-dip-2026 and you can also follow Brigid’s 70-dip journey at www.instagram.com/brigid_louise

Mysterious Yarraville fire

Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she explores the mystery behind a fatal Yarraville fire.

Shortly after 2am, Sunday 31 January, 1875,afirebeganinoneoftheworkers’ cottages inhabited by employees of the Yarraville Sugar Works.

The glow of the inferno was seen from thetowerofthemetropolitanfirestationin Little Collins Street, and a detachment was despatched by the MFB.

The Hotham and Carlton breweries also hurried to help with their own fire trucks, buttonoavail.Fourhumble,three-roomed cottages were totally destroyed.

When the ruined homes had cooled enough to be examined, they were cautiously explored. A woman’s charred body was found and removed from the house rented by John and Fannie Irvine. Soon afterwards, assessors from the London and Lancashire Company arrived. Each cottage was covered for 400 pounds.

It was initially thought that 22-year-old Fannie had died by accident whilst drunk, but Senior Constable Daniel Kelly of Footscray Police was one of those irritating policemen who always suspected spouses whenever a young married died.

Acting “on information received”, he sprinted around the sugar works until he found his quarry, who happened to be wandering around dressed only in his trousers.

John piteously stated that he had been robbed of his clothing, but the policeman never believed anyone’s story on principle.

John was arrested and marched off for interrogation. All he knew was that he had been too plastered from his Saturday night binge to remember anything, apart from colliding head first with someone’s fence. Whose fence and where it was, he had no idea.

Others were to tell conflicting stories.

At the Footscray Court before the Bench of Messrs Mollison and Reid, JPs, John was charged with murder and remanded to the inquest held on 9 February.

Evidence was given that the Irvines were peaceful when sober, but quarrelsome when drunk, which, alas, happened frequently, possibly stemming from their grieving the loss of three children.

Sarah Campbell, a neighbour, testified that on Saturday night she and Fannie had enjoyed a booze-up at the Crown Hotel until midnight. Fannie was affected by drink and slightly wobbly, so Sarah steered her homeward and then inside to her bedroom.

Three sheets to the wind, in staggered John, whose happy demeanour immediatelybecameascowl whenFannie dared to ask her husband where he’d been. HeorderedSarahtoleaveandasshedid, she heard the sound of a blow, Fannie’s scream, and John bellowing, “I’ll give you something that’ll do you some good!”

In the kitchen, Sarah noticed a candle jammed in its own wax, and remembered Fannie once telling her that it was normal practice in the Irvine household to light it before going to bed. Sarah then went searching in the gloom for her own husband and heard nothing further from the Irvine house.

At 2 am, Sarah’s 17-year-old son Edward was awoken by their dog’s ferocious barking. Going outside, he noticed that the Irvines’ bedroom was on fire. He kicked at the door, screaming “fire”. Aman’svoice,strangelyseemingtocome

from inside the blazing bedroom, called out an equally odd question: “What’s wrong?”

Edward frantically shouted to the invisible man that he was in imminent peril of being incinerated, then rushed around grabbing furniture which he carried outside before hurrying around the neighbourhood alerting people to their danger. It was then that he realised something. He hadn’t seen Mrs Irvine. Where was she? Edward hoped that she had escaped.

On 3 February, John was charged with murder and Edward gave evidence at the inquest. He had not seen the defendant at the fire; only after the house had burned down did he see him wandering around, apparently under the influence. So who hadnonchalantlyquestionedhimfromthe burning room? Edward didn’t know, but he was positive that it was a man’s voice.

The police alleged that John had tied up Fannie to prevent her escaping, then set fire to the cottage. John admitted to being tipsy on the night, but had no memory of the evening.

According to him, when he regained sobriety, he found himself half-naked, presumably after being robbed when drunk. All he recalled was stumbling into a fence, then coming upon the fire and all the drama it entailed.

Or - maybe he had gone to bed naked, and only had time to haul on his trousers before escaping the blaze. He really didn’t know.

The inquest, conducted by coroner Curtis Candler, resumed on 9 February at Yarraville’s Crown Hotel where Fannie had so recently enjoyed a few ales.

The post-mortem, conducted by doctors

James Morton and James Neild, revealed no sign of violence or injuries. Death was due to suffocation; the body had been burned after death.

Yes, a blow to the head could induce unconsciousness without fracturing the skull, but it was known that the deceased had been subject to fits, which could also cause loss of consciousness.

Edward stated that several times he had seen Fannie fall unconscious from epilepsy.

John trousers, bearing several marks of scorching,wereshownasproofthathehad been present at the fire, having, according toanotherversionofhisstory,beenburned when attempting to drag Fannie through the flames to safety. This seemed odd, comingfromamanwhoclaimedtohaveno memory of anything that night apart from banging into fences at unknown locations.

According to the police, the trousers were burned whilst he was tying up his wife with every intention of leaving her to perish helplessly in the inferno.

This was contradicted by a labourer, who swore that John’s trousers had been burned at the Sugar Works a week before the tragedy.

William Thatcher, another Sugar Works employee, left work shortly after 2am, saw the fire and raced to the Irvine house. He managed to break down the back door and search the rear room, then the kitchen. Unable to see the bedroom door through the smoke, he hammered on the wall. There was no reply.

Another employee, Frank Lewis, heard a woman screaming and strove to shove the front door open, but something seemed to be obstructing it. Beaten back by the fierce heat, he was forced to abandon his rescue.

He later learned that the body of Fannie hadbeenfoundjusttwofeetfromthedoor. John had a sudden flash of memory. He had dragged Fannie to the front door and for some reason, left her there. Why? He couldn’t remember.

Manytimesthecouplehadarguedabout leaving a lighted candle in the bedroom. According to him, Fannie would place it on a chair between the dressing table and their bed. Neighbours said that this was nonsense. The lighted candle was always kept on the mantelpiece.

The inquest jury heard a mass of contradictory evidence but had no trouble arriving at a verdict of wilful murder.

The trial promised to be a nightmare, for who could be relied upon to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth?

Were the trousers burned at work or at a murder scene? Was John claiming forgetfulnessastheexcusefrequentlyused bycriminals,orwashegenuinelyunableto recall the night’s events?

Was the lighted candle in the kitchen or the bedroom? Was John in a jealous rage, as some had hinted? He denied ever being jealous.

With the onus of proving guilt beyond all reasonable doubt, the prosecution wisely realised its insurmountable difficulties and requested a nolle prosequi. This Latin phrase means a stay of legal proceedings, an acknowledgement that the case hasn’t enough evidence to secure a conviction. It was granted, and John walked from court a free man, but with no family or home to return to.

The mystery remains: If the man’s nonchalant voice from the burning bedroom was not that of John , whose was it?

K Road completed improving access to attractions

TheKRoadreconstructionisnowcomplete!

The $10.1 million connecting Wyndham priority project has rebuilt a 2.8-kilometre section of K Road between Duncans Road and K Road Cliffs with sealed shoulders and delivered an improved intersection at Main Drive to boost access to and from major attractions such as the Werribee Open Range Zoo, Werribee Park Mansion andtheVictoriaStateRoseGarden.

Otherprojecthighlightsincludeashared user path for pedestrians and cyclists, and enhanced connections to upgraded bus stops.

Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw said this vital upgrade has delivered enhanced safety and improved access to key tourism

Police boost

Altona is one of dozens of police stations where reservist officers are being deployed as part of efforts to combatstaffshortagesacrosstheforce.

Thefirst50formerpoliceofficersare beginning duties at 26 stations this week and next, with funding provided for up to 200 full-time reservist positionsacrossthestate.

The retired officers will perform a range of administrative duties, including answering phones, helping with paperwork, signing statutory declarations, receiving exhibits into police custody and taking crime reports, in order to free up serving policetopreventanddetectcrime.

According to Victoria Police the first 50 reservists alone will put 1360 policing hours – the equivalent of 170 shifts - back in the community each week.

Of the first 50, 39 have been employed part-time with the remaining11returningfull-time,with all to be rostered for eight-hour shifts between7amand7pmonweekdays.

The reservists being deployed have an average of 21 years of prior policing experience, with 17 serving for between 30 and 45 years and eight recordingmorethan40yearsaspolice.

They include a retired sergeant who served for 42 years, a former senior sergeant in charge of the same station for 25 years and a retired superintendent who served for 35 years and is carrying on the legacy of herlatepolicinghusband.

A married couple with a combined 72 years working with Victoria Police will return to the station where they metfourdecadesagotoperformshifts together.

“Our reservists bring a wealth of experience, with many spending decades in the job,” Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said in announcing the first round of deployments.

“The fact they’ve come out of retirement to step up for their communities and colleagues says so much about their drive to make Victoriasafer.

“Ourpolicedoanincrediblejoband reservists will put them where they’re needed most, not trapped behind a desk.“

Along with Altona, reservists have beendeployedatmetropolitanstations such as Moonee Ponds, Caulfield, Frankston and Richmond, and regional stations including Ballarat, BendigoandMildura.

Rolling deployments are scheduled untilthemiddleofDecember.

Details: https://www.police.vic.gov. au/reservist.

destinationsinWerribeeSouth.

“Reducing traffic congestion and improving road safety remains a key focus

forcouncil,andtheKRoadreconstruction makes it easier and safer for Wyndham residentsandtouriststotraveltoandfrom

WerribeeSouth,”shesaid.

“This transformative upgrade is the second major project we’ve delivered as part of our landmark Connecting Wyndham program, with two more critical upgrades underway and planning progressing on even more key transport linksacrossourcity.”

The milestone also marks the overall completion of the K Road Cliffs and Road Reconstruction project, which also delivered a new cliff-top walking path, viewing platforms, a staircase leading downtotheriver,interpretivesignage,and drainageworksattheiconicKRoadCliffs. Work will soon commence on landscapingworksalongKRoad.

Every answer matters

If you know where you’ll be on Census night, Tuesday 11 August, you can complete the form for your household as soon as you get your instructions. Complete online, on paper or with help from us.

census.abs.gov.au

Fighting cancer together

When 79-year-old Montse (Montseratt) Becker first had her lungs examined by doctors, they diagnosed her with asthma. By the time doctors realised her asthma was in fact lung cancer, the disease had progressed to stage four and was terminal. In the six years since receiving this devastating news, Montse has found unexpected strength thanks to a local cancer wellness program, as Courtney Black discovers.

As Montse Becker navigates her cancer journey, she has found the motivation to keep fighting and improve her physical and mental strength through a wellness program run by Northern Health.

Known as WellAhead, the program aims to bring holistic, accessible care to people living with and beyond cancer.

It has been co-designed with consumers and strives to promote physical, mental, andsocialwellbeingthroughactivitieslike yoga, qigong, and creative arts that reduce stress and boost mood.

For Ms Becker, the program offers something that is hard to find during cancer treatment – motivation.

“It gets me out of the house, so it’s motivation really,” Ms Becker said.

“There is motivation to exercise with others, as a group, because at home, I just don’t have the discipline to do it.

“I know this because during the Christmas break I did not exercise at all.”

Battling stage four lung cancer, Ms Becker credits the program with helping keep her symptoms under control.

Participants are able to meet with like-minded people who are on the same cancer journey ... that’s a huge benefit to them to know that they’re not alone and that they can draw strength from each other

- Mike Masilamani

She said gentle exercises like chair yoga, help her stay active during treatment at almost 80 years old.

“The best thing about all the exercises is the breathing,” she said.

“It helps especially with lung cancer, whenyoubreatheinyougetoxygenin,and cancer hates oxygen”.

WellAhead facilitator Mike Masilamani said Ms Becker is an inspiring WellAhead participant who continues to fight against all odds.

“It seems so unfair sometimes, but in the light of all of that to show courage is really something else,” Mr Masilamani said.

“I’ve seen how she inspires others in the room, she’s a fighter, she communicates that with the others and people take strength from that.”

Mr Masilamani said while Ms Becker’s cancer is largely controlled by medication, the gentle exercise helps with symptoms like swelling in her legs.

“She’s firmly of the view that the exercise program is what has kept her symptoms at bay,” he said.

“The ones that are on the program, believe it makes a very big difference in how they cope with their journey.”

Ms Becker said while she is at the weekly WellAhead sessions, her mindset shifts.

“Whileyou’rehere,youdon’tthinkabout the cancer, I haven’t thought about that today,” she said.

Mr Masilamani said as cancer patients live longer thanks to treatment advancements, there is a greater need for tailored wellbeing programs.

“Their needs are very specific and in

fact, the kind of activities we have like the Qigong and the yoga were specifically designed with them in mind.”

He said the wellbeing program was created after he heard that a cancer survivor was feeling isolated and sleeping for 20 hours a day.

“His complaint was, ‘You guys held my hands,bothmyhandswhenIwasapatient but when I was in remission, you let go of both. Couldn’t you have held at least one of my hands?’”

ve held at least one of

Mr Masilamani said this feeling of anxiety and isolation is a huge issue for cancer patients.

“You’re always dreading the next review and it doesn’t allowyoutoreintegrate with the community and with society,” he said.

“More often than not, it leads to a very sedentary lifestyle where you essentially become a couch potato.”

Ms Becker said it is not just the exercise program which motivates her, but also the educational side of WellAhead.

She was most recently inspired by the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’ forum.

She said the talk reinforced the importance of wellbeing activities that she already focuses on.

“Connection probably was the best thing I took from the talk, I learnt a few little things I will probably try to do,” she said.

Mr Masilamani said he has seen how wellbeing programs facilitate community connection for cancer patients and survivors.

He said he is grateful for the generous support of Whittlesea council which

funded free WellAhead open days.

“Besides the physical benefits, participants are able to meet with like-minded people who are on the same cancer journey as they are,” he said,

“That’s a huge benefit to them to know that they’re not alone and that they can draw strength from each other.”

Ms Becker said she wishes she expressed her gratitude for the WellAhead teachers.

“The teachers are doing it voluntarily ... I think that’s admirable because they work for a living and they come all the way from Caulfield just here to give their classes,” she said.

“It’s been on my mind, I thought well if I win the lottery I will give them some money, the money they haven’t earned.

“I should manifest that.”

MsBeckersaidwinningthelotterywould also help her celebrate a special milestone in her home country.

“I think I want to go to Barcelona this yearformyeightieth,again,Iwentlastyear and the year before.”

Mr Masilamani said that he is blessed to be a part of cancer patients’ and survivors’ journeys.

“Seeing the courage that they bring has been so inspiring,” he said,

“If this program benefits just one person andthatpersoninquestionisMontse,then it is just worth doing.”

The WellAhead program facilitated by Northern Health and Whittlesea U3A is open to anyone on their cancer journey. Details: https://www.nh.org.au/ wellahead/

Lifeguards put to the test

Two teams of Wyndham lifeguards put their skills to the test against dozens of teams from across the state recently.

Lifeguards from AquaPulse and Werribee Outdoor Pool competed in the Lifesaving Victoria, Pool Lifeguard Challenge at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC) on Thursday 16 July.

WesternLeisureServiceschiefexecutive Cam Vale said the team from AquaPulse came second out of the 24 teams competing, while the Werribee Outdoor Pool placed eighth.

“An amazing achievement for both Western Leisure Services sites as this

is a testament to their training and ongoing commitment to safety in our communities,” he said.

According to Life Saving Victoria (LSV), the annual challenge brings together pool lifeguards from all over Victoria together for a day of simulated emergency response, teamwork, and skill-building under pressure.

LSV said it is more than a competition; it’sachanceforlifeguardstoimprovetheir rescue skills, boost their confidence, and learn from others in the industry.

The event involved skills tests for deep water spinals, difficult patrons, asthma and the lifeguards’ elite swimming skills.

Briefs

Rego rebate

The state government has extended the application period for the 20 per cent vehicle registration rebate. More than 3.6 million Victorians have already benefited from this rebate, and now the government is ensuring even more families and workers can access cost-of-living assistance. The rebate, which can provide up to $186 for a single-car household and up to $372 for a two-car family, will now be available for application until 31 August. Victorians can apply for the registration rebate through the Service Victoria app or by visiting service.vic. gov.au/rego-rebate.

Census

As Census night, Tuesday 11 August, approaches the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is reminding everyone to check their mailboxes for instructions on how to participate. Most households will receive instructions to complete the Census online, with paper forms available on request for those who prefer them. Some households will receive a Census paper form in the mail or have one delivered by a Census field officer. These households will still be able to complete their Census online if they prefer. In this year’s Census, the ABS expects around 85 per cent of forms to be completed online.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Short Stays

Long Stays

Council takes data control

Decisions relating to significant data centre developments that involve Wyndham council will be put to councillors rather than being dealt with under delegated authority, until the city develops a formal policy on the issue, councillors have declared.

Councillors unanimously supported the formation of a data centre policy for the municipality during the 28 July council meeting, with officers to spend the next six months creating the document.

Until then, future planning approvals, permits, agreements, land transactions, or other decisions relating to significant data centre developments involving

council – that is those where the state government is not the planning authority – will be put to the council chamber for decision.

Cr Josh Gilligan told the chamber that “not a single“ permit for data centres had come to the council chamber despite a “proliferation“ of approvals.

“I am under no illusion about the land that is already approved, particularly in Truganina and Tarneit, for these things,“ he said.

“The ship has sailed and we are seeing cranes in the air in Laverton, and we are simply too late.“

Cr Preet Singh, whose notice of motion on the impact of data centres on Wyndham floated the idea of a formal policy, said the municipality was increasingly becoming a destination for large-scale data centre developments.

He said a formal policy was needed to guide the council in its response to data centre applications.

“Residents deserve transparency. They deserve to know what is being proposed, what impacts may be and how decisions are being made,“ Cr Singh said.

“We owe it to our residents to get this right.

Young Rayhaan kicks fundraising goals

For Truganina 11-year-old Rayhaan Rahman, a recent Sunday morning soccer game had a lot more riding on it than the result or whether he played well.

On 28 June, Rayhaan hosted Kick Goals Against Cancer, a fundraiser for the Cancer Council.

Held at his club Laverton FC’s home ground at Andrew Park in Altona Meadows, Rayhaan’s fundraiser involved him encouraging people to donate by scanning a QR code whenever they went to the canteen.

When he wasn’t out there playing himself that is.

“During the first hour, my sister was

playing her match, so I walked around the grounds telling people about the fundraiser and asking for their support,” Rayhaan said of the fundraiser that went from 10amnoon.

“During the second hour, it was my turn to play, so my sister took over and continued speaking with people while I was on the field.”

And once his game finished at noon, Rayhaan resumed fundraising for another half an hour.

“By the end of the day, I had raised $514,” he said, adding that his parents were a big part of the reason why.

“My parents, who are both physiotherapists, have always taught me the importance of looking after my health,” Rayhaan said.

His mother Ranjana Nair said she and her husband were incredibly proud of Rayhaan’s efforts.

“It was wonderful to see him giving up his own time between matches to speak with people and encourage donations,” Ms Nair said.

“The support from our local soccer community was amazing, and we’re grateful to everyone who contributed to such an important cause.”

“Let us be proactive. Let us gather the facts and develop a clear policy position.“

Cr Robert Szatkowski said a policy would provide developers with clear expectations and deliver transparency for residents.

“Council should understand all the impacts before development reaches a scale that becomes difficult to manage,“ he said.

Council will also advocate to the state government for greater transparency and community consultation regarding major data centre developments and their cumulative impacts on local communities.

Learn something new for free

CommunitymembersacrossWyndham are preparing for an inspiring week of creativity, connection, and community as the Wyndham Learning Festival officially returns from 1–7 September 2026. Delivering more than 100 free learning events across the municipality, the festival celebrates learning in all its diverse forms.

The celebration kicks off early with the official launch event, WYNtalk: Future Ready with Gihan Perera, on Friday 14 August at 5:15 pm

During this free session, futurist Gihan Perera will explore what artificial intelligence means for work, learning, and daily life. Light refreshments will be provided, and while attendance is free, bookings are essential.

Theoverallfestivalprogramincludes over 120 free events that attendees can browse by name, date, category, or age group. Highlights across the schedule include hands-on STEM adventures, AI workshops, business masterclasses, and cultural showcases.

For those seeking active or creative pursuits, the lineup also features Bollywood dance, roller skating, basketball, and cupcake decorating.

All ages can participate with activities ranging from Sing & Sign Rhyme Time at the Williams Landing Library to adult ballet classes at The Saltwater Community Centre in Point Cook and an all ages chess event at the Manor Lakes library.

The full program is now open for bookings. Some events are already filling up fast so explore the full program today at wynlearnfestival.org.au

A ‘show of excellence’ and another Toy Story film

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

Andrew Stanton’s Toy Story 5 is a story of replacement and the struggles of growing up in today’s world, told throughataleoftoysvs.technology.

When the band of toys now owned by eight-year-old Bonnie are suddenly beginningtobeforgottenandcastaway in place of an iPad, the sentient toys spring into action to reignite Bonnie’s imagination and help her make friends withotherlike-mindedkids.

Whether you are a fan of the original or you have been alive recently, I’m sure you have heard of the starring toy, Woody,voicedbyTomHanks.

This cowboy doll, over the past 31 years, has experienced levels of unmatched character development thatisnothingshortofperfection.

Knowing that anything more that could be done to Woody would only

servetoruintheconclusivearc,theidea ofafifthinstalmenthadmenervous.

The writers and directors had the same idea, choosing to push to centre stage, cowgirl toy, Jessie. This genius move allowed for emotional shifts and further development without a forced nature.

Unfortunately,thesideplotstakenon by other non lead characters are weak and uninteresting, lacking the comedy wehavecometorecogniseinToyStory films.

Toy Story 5’s message about how technology is forcing kids to grow up too fast is a brutal one, strong emotion is still abundant five films later. Scenes of online bullying are gut-wrenching in that signature Pixar style. A decent film, but please, leave this franchise alonenow.

All the President’s Men (M)

Alan J. Pakula’s 1976 mystery thriller

All the President’s Men is a show of excellenceineveryaspectoffilm.

From a realistic yet funny script that continues to build upon itself throughout, to acting that is natural and engaging, and, of course, award-winning production design, All the President’s Men holds a standard thatisprovengruelingtomaintain.

This film is set fresh off events of the Watergate scandal, an incident in which one political party is caught attempting to illegally spy on and recordtheopposingparty.

ThishaddevastatingeffectsontheUS andiscitedasruiningthepublic’strust for their elected officials. We follow a pair of newspaper journalists who are set on finding the truth and exposing it tothepublic.

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Dustin Hoffman and Robbert

haveachemistryimpossibletoreplicate. They bounce off one another with a casual grace, you can’t help but be kept in the flow of the story. Hoffman especially is very funny, which helps to cut through the complicated nature of the constantly unravelling political mystery.

The uses of different camera techniques made sure the entire frame was in action. Never was the background blurred completely. There was a deliberate focus, literally and figuratively, on the background and foreground, ensuring each frame was lively, filled with people and activity that almost surrounded my viewing at the beautiful Astor Theater into a 360-degree experience, inviting you into the adventure and creating an environment rather than simply a scene.

Housing emerges as Australia’s biggest economic challenge

Australia’s economic growth is expected to slow as lower house price growth weighs on consumer spending and broader economic activity, with CommBank economists saying housing is now expected to be a bigger drag on the economy than higher oil prices.

Speaking on the latest episode of the CommBank View: Economics & Markets podcast, CommBank Head of Australian Economics Belinda Allen said the shape of Australia’s slowdown had changed over recent months.

“We’ve certainly seen a shift in what’s going to cause the Australian economy to slow,” Allen said.

“We still think that’s going to happen, but it’s really the housing market that’s going to create that slowdown in the Australian economy, rather than higher oil prices.”

The slowdown in home price growth that emerged in late 2025 has now spread across Australia’s housing market, with weaker conditions for sellers evident in most major capitals.

Allen said higher interest rates and policy changes had weighed on sentiment and prices.

“That combination of factors has seen the housing market pull back, and we’ve seen in past cycles that does impact the consumer through what economists call the wealth effect,” she said.

Falling home values typically make households feel less financially secure, encouraging them to save more and spend less. Allen said

that dynamic was now expected to be a key drag on economic growth throughout 2026.

Consumer spending is also showing signs of moderation.

Allen said CBA’s internal data suggested endof-financial-year sales activity had softened compared with the same period last year.

“There are signs that consumers are pulling back,” she said.

While household savings remain relatively healthy overall, Allen said weak sentiment and softer home prices were likely to keep consumers cautious through the remainder of the year.

Commonwealth Bank forecasts Australia’s economic growth will slow from 2.5 per cent in late 2025 to 1.5 per cent by late 2026, before improving to about 2 per cent by late 2027.

Despite the housing-led slowdown, Allen

said data centre development to fuel AI compute investment was creating important longer-term opportunities for the Australian economy. She cautioned that growth would be constrained by energy availability, water use and the time required to build new facilities, and that while it would help Australia’s economy, it was not going to fully make up for the slowdown in the consumer sector.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

6 August, 1986

Werribee’sannualhoe-down,theLions Club Country Music Festival, will not bemoved–atleastnotthisyear.

30 years ago 7 August, 1996

Werribee man Anthony Lobos has described as a “fitting punishment” a 19-year jail sentence for the man who gunned down his wife in their front yardlastyear.

20 years ago 2 August, 2006

The Werribee Mercy Hospital has confirmed it will establish an on-site clinicalschoolforthirdandfourth-year medicalstudents.

Faces of the west

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

10 years ago 3 August, 2016

Teen gangs are terrorising shopkeepers and hurting trade at a Point Cook shoppingcentre,accordingtotraders.

MY PLACE

Anirban Datta is an Aintree local who collaborated with his wife to direct their own cineplay, based on Shakespeare’s Macbeth tragedy. Jack O’Shea-Ayres spoke with Mr Datta about home life, what drew him to Aintree, and the challenges that come with directing your very own production.

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

My wife and I bought our first home in Australia in Aintree after scouting several areasonthissideofVictoria.Welovedthe quiet and the peacefulness of Aintree, but westillfeelverywellconnectedtothecity. We simply fell in love with the area and knewwewantedtomovehere.

What do you like about where you live?

Aintree is a very peaceful suburb, yet we are still very well connected to the city, thewestandthenorth.Itoffersusthebest of both worlds, combining the peace and quiet of a growing family-friendly suburb with great connectivity to Melbourne’s CBD, the western suburbs and key destinations up north. It’s convenient, and allows us to enjoy a relaxed suburban lifestyle without feeling disconnected from the city or the wider metropolitan area.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

If there was one thing I could change about where I live, it would be improving thetransportinfrastructuretobetterkeep pace with the rapid growth of the area. Aintree has become a popular place to live, with more families moving into the suburb and surrounding communities each day, but the road network and major transport connections need to continue evolving alongside that growth. The

Melton highway needs more lanes and capacity to help manage the increasing traffic travelling through each day, and the Leakes road exit needs traffic signals forcarstobeabletousetheoff-ramp.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

Woodlea Town Centre is one of my favourite places to spend time locally because it has become such a convenient and welcoming hub for the community. Whether I’m grabbinga coffee,pickingup something to eat, doing a bit of shopping or simply catching up with friends and family, there’s always something going on.Ilikethatitbringspeopletogetherand gives residents a place to meet without havingtotraveltoofarfromhome.

Tell us about your recent cineplay, Kashmir? What was your role and what was most challenging about it?

I am the director of Kashmir. The most challenging part was to fit a classic like Macbeth in the political scenario of Kashmir. The real incidents that have happened in Kashmir is part of this play andalotofresearchhadtobedonetobring lifetotheproduction.Thechallengingpart was to make the soothsayer’s prophecy impossible to be achieved, yet a way was found for the predictions to happen throughthecourseoftheplay.

Generations bat together

A community-led initiative bringing grandparents and grandchildren together through cricket has secured a funding boost under the Heart Foundation’s Active AustraliaInnovationChallenge.

The United Seniors Club, based in Tarneit, was awarded a $10,000 grant to deliver the Heart Healthy Generations Cricket Cup, one of only nine projects selectednationally.

Designed for Indian-origin seniors and their grandchildren, the Heart Healthy Generations Cricket Cup adapts one of the community’s most-loved sports into a low-impact, inclusive format that is safe for older participants. The program aims to overcome common barriers to physical activity, including language differences, fearofinjuryandsocialisolation.

The comprehensive 10-month program was designed by club secretary Mahendra Patel to boost physical, mental and social health across generations. The project will officially launch in the first week of September.

Each monthly session features gentle yogaexercisestoprepareallagegroupsfor active play followed by intergenerational cricket,amodified,safeversionofwalking cricketplayedusingsoftcricketequipment.

Mr Patel said each session ends with guided meditation focusing on visualising happy memories from the game to foster mentalpeaceandpositivity.

Participants will also enjoy a nutritious, heart-healthy Indian vegetarian meal, featuring the world-famous, comforting Khichdialongwithotherdeliciousrecipes.

“This program is about nourishing the mind,body,andsoul,”saidMrPatel.

“With the support of the federal government and the Heart Foundation, we are combining sport, gentle yoga, meditation, and healthy traditional food to keep our seniors vibrant and connected withtheyoungergeneration.”

The United Seniors Club invites leaders from other multicultural groups to attend, observe, and replicate this active-living model.

Are you a photographer based in the western or northern suburbs who loves shooting sports and news?

Star Weekly is looking for new team members to join its pool of casual photographers. A driver’s licence, reliable car and photography equipment are essential. Experience shooting video is highly desirable. The role may involve Saturday work and after hours assignments.

Send your resume and examples of your work to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

Lifestyle Communities Presents: How to Downsize with Rachel Lane

For many Australians, the family home has been the centre of family life for decades. It’s where memories have been made, milestones celebrated and communities built. But as life evolves, many homeowners begin to consider whether their current home still suits the lifestyle they want for the years ahead.

Downsizing is becoming an increasingly popular choice for people looking to simplify their lives, reduce the demands of home maintenance and enjoy greater freedom to focus on what matters most. Yet knowing where to start can often feel overwhelming.

To help locals better understand their options, Lifestyle Communities is proud to present How to Downsize with Rachel Lane, an informative event designed to providepracticaladviceandexpertinsights for those considering their next move.

One of Australia’s leading downsizing and retirement living experts, Rachel Lane has helped thousands of Australians navigate the complexities of selling the family home and planning for the future. At this special event, she will share valuable information on the financial, lifestyle and emotional considerations involved in downsizing, helping attendees make informed decisions with confidence.

AccordingtoRachel,downsizingisabout far more than moving into a smaller home. It can be an opportunity to create a lifestyle that better aligns with your current needs and future aspirations. For many people, it means less time spent maintaining a large property and more time enjoying travel, social connections, hobbies and family.

It’s also an opportunity to unlock equity from the family home, providing greater financial flexibility and peace of mind for the

years ahead. However, the right move will look different for everyone, which is why access to trusted information and expert guidance is so important.

As a leading developer of land lease

communities in Victoria, Lifestyle Communities has spent more than two decades helping over-50s embrace a lifestyle focused on connection, wellbeing and freedom from many of the traditional responsibilities of home ownership. Through events like these, Lifestyle Communities aims to help people understand all their options and feel empowered to make choices that are right for them.

Whether you’re actively considering a move,supportingafamilymemberthrough the downsizing process or simply planning for the future, this event offers a valuable opportunity to hear from an industry expert and gain practical advice in a welcoming environment.

Upcoming Events -How to Downsize

with Rachel Lane

GeelongSeminar:NyaalBanyulGeelong Convention and Event Centre, 80 Western Beach Road, Geelong. Saturday 22 August, 10am-12.30pm. Caroline Springs Seminar: Punthill Apartments, 1/7 Caroline Springs Blvd, Caroline Springs. Saturday 29 August, 10am-12.30pm.

With interest in downsizing continuing to grow, these sessions present a valuable opportunity to hear from one of Australia’s leading experts and gain the confidence needed to explore your next chapter. Attendance is free, however registrations are essential and places are extremely limited. To secure your spot, visit lifestylecommunities.com.au or call 1300 50 55 60

Village life made for more living at Avington in Point Cook

For many people, downsizing is not about stepping back. It is about creating more spaceinlifeforthethingsthatmattermost–time, freedom, connection and the comfort ofknowinghomeiseasytoenjoy.

ThatisthefeelingattheheartofAvington Living in Point Cook, an over 50s lifestyle community offering resort-style facilities and designed for people who want independence,low-maintenancelivingand agenuinesenseofbelonging.

Set within a secure, gated community at 50 Saltwater Promenade, Avington offers beautifullydesigned oneandtwo-bedroom homes surrounded by professionally landscaped gardens and incredible facilities.

It is a place where the practical benefits of downsizing are matched by the everyday pleasuresofvillagelife:afriendlywavefrom a neighbour, a morning swim, a quiet walk, a game on the bowling green, or a relaxed catch-upovercoffee.

At the centre of the community is Avington’s impressive clubhouse and shared facilities, designed to support an active,socialandenjoyablelifestyle.

Residents can make the most of the indoorheatedswimmingpool,sauna,gym, cinema, library, billiards room, bowling green,tenniscourt,puttinggreen,barbecue areas, private dining room, community garden, workshops and more. Whether you liketostaybusy,keepfit,enjoyyourhobbies or simply unwind, there is space to live life yourway.

The homes themselves are thoughtfully created for comfort and ease. Light-filled interiors, practical open-plan layouts and quality finishes help make everyday living simple. Features such as stone benchtops,

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

modern appliances, built-in robes, heating and cooling, secure intercom access and low-maintenance design give residents a home that feels modern, manageable and readytoenjoy.

Avington’s location adds another layer

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

of convenience. In the heart of Point Cook, residents are close to shopping, cafes, medical services, parks, walking paths, beaches and public transport. Point Cook Town Centre, Williams Landing Train Station, Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club and local health services are all within easy reach, while access to the Princes Freeway keeps Melbourne and the surrounding regionwellconnected.

For those considering their next move, Avington’s land lease model also offers a more affordable way to enjoy a new home andlifestyle.Withnostampduty,nocouncil rates and no exit fees, it is a simpler and more transparent approach to downsizing. Residentsowntheirhomeandleasetheland

beneathit,helpingtokeepcostsdownwhile stillenjoyingthebenefitsofaprofessionally managedcommunity.

Most importantly, Avington offers something that cannot always be captured on a page – the feeling of belonging. Residents can enjoy their privacy and independence, while also knowing friendship and connection are close by whentheywantthem.

With brand-new homes now selling from $440k, Avington Living is an opportunity to downsize your home, upsize your lifestyle and discover village life made for your next chapter.

Book a relaxed, no-pressure tour today andexperienceAvingtonLivingforyourself.

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

Werribee Rotary grants

The 2026 Rotary grants are now open. Ten grants will be awarded to a maximum value of $3,000 each. Applicants must be registered as an approved community organisation within Wyndham. The project should directly benefit a large number of people or community groups with the municipality. Applications close on 30 September. Successful applicants will be announced in November. Submit applications at: werribeerotary.org.au

Café Philosophique

Café Philosophique explores the hidden forces shaping our lives through creative arts, writing, and conversation. The group meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Bridge Hotel in Werribee at 6.30pm. On Wednesday 19 August the group will explore bodies beginning with a drawing class followed by a feature poet who will set the scene for writing time, using prompts to help put pen to paper. After the open mic, the evening ends with desserts and “philosophy café” - small group, facilitated conversations. info@jessfairfax.com, 0450 348 969

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 until 26 August. Facilitated by Ange

from Wyndham Line Dancing. $5 donation appreciated. Wednesday at 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

Social Pickleball

A fun blend of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is a fun, active and

Rotary Bingo

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

Community connectors

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

Thee Coffee Table in Manor Lakes

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

Wyndham Council has launched a community connections and care service to support residents who may need help navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re looking for mental health support, food relief, or guidance accessing government services, this free and confidential service is here to help. Meets 8am-noon on Wednesdays at The Element’s Activity Park and Cafe.

Crafties at Iramoo

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

8742 3688

Community Kitchen

Wyndham-based not for profit group Pulse with Purpose sells delicious meals each Tuesday 10am-5pm at the Dianella Community Centre in Tarneit. Each purchase helps provide free meals to families in need. Meals are by pre-order, the menu is typically updated every Sunday. bpulsewithpurpose@gmail.com

Dreams come Mac

Fleetwood Mac fans will have the chance to relive the magic of one of rock’s most enduring bands when Gypsy - The Australian Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show returnstoStoney’sClubinMaddingey.

Following a sold-out previous performance, the acclaimed tribute act is set to bring its faithful recreation of Fleetwood Mac’s timeless soundtrack to thevenueforonenightonlyonSaturday29 August.

Known for authentic musicianship and soaring harmonies, Gypsy will perform a collection of the band’s biggest and best-loved songs, spanning generations of musicfans.

FeaturingthetimelesssongsofFleetwood Mac, Gypsy delivers a polished live experience built around powerful vocals, rich harmonies, detailed musicianship andastrongvisualpresentation.

“Wehadsuchawonderfulresponsefrom thelocalaudiencelasttime,”thebandsaid.

have discovered the band more recently, the show promises an evening packed with familiar favourites and nostalgic moments.

The night also offers the chance to make an evening of it, with Stoney’s Club bistro openingfrom6pmaheadofthe9pmshow.

With the previous performance selling out, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early for what is expected to be anotherpopularnight.

Gypsy’s return to Stoney’s promises another memorable evening celebrating the music, memories and enduring magic ofFleetwoodMac.

Go star gazing during National Science Week

Curious minds wanted! National Science Week returns to Museums Victoria in 2026 with a jam-packed programofevents.

Between Saturday 15 and Sunday 23 August, science-lovers are invited behind-the-scenes at Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks and IMAX Melbourneforexperttalks,hands-on workshopsandeye-openingtours.

“The room was full, the energy was incredible, and everyone made us feel completely at home. We’re genuinely excitedtoreturn.”

Whether Fleetwood Mac has been part of your musical journey for years or you

Gypsy – The Australian Fleetwood Mac Show will take place at Stoney’s Club, 59 Grant Street Maddingley, on Saturday 29 August.

Bookings recommended: https:// www.eventbrite.com.au/e/stoneys-clubpresents-gypsy-the-australian-fleetwoodmac-show-tickets-1993624971958.

Prog-rock opera After-Light will glow

A powerful new Australian rock opera will make its full theatrical debut in Macedon inAugust,withtheMountPlayersbringing After-Light to the stage for the first time in itscompleteform.

The production follows a successful preview at the 2024 Melbourne Fringe Festival, where members of the Mount Players committee first saw a condensed version of the work. After discussions with composer Zac Vanstone and creator and musical director Tom Foster, Mountview Theatre was chosen to premiere the full-scaleproduction.

Blending contemporary theatre with

progressive rock, After-Light features a seven-piece live band performing on stage alongside the cast, creating an immersive theatricalexperience.

The original production follows Boy, whomustconfrontthemistakesofhispast while trapped in a life-threatening coma.

As he battles addiction, paranoia and depression, he is forced to face his inner demonsandfindforgivenessifhehopesto awaken.

Vanstone said the work, which was written during the COVID-19 pandemic, explores themes of loss, healing and redemption.

“This is a show about learning how to let go,”hesaid.

“Following the break-up between Boy and Girl, Boy falls into a life-threatening coma. In order for Boy to wake, he must forgive the past, reconcile with the future andlearntoletgoofGirl.

“If Boy fails, his intrusive thoughts of addiction, paranoia and depression will consumehissoul.”

After-Light will be performed at Mountview Theatre, Smith Street, Macedon, from 14 to 30 August. Tickets are available through the Mount Players websiteorbycalling0419329052.

Barry’s brilliant apocalypse is coming to Footscray

After more than 20 years in development, Melbourne playwright Adrian DÁprano will finally bring his show, ’My Brilliant Apocalypse’, to the stage in Footscray next week and it sounds like he couldn’t have timeditmuchbetter.

Withbellicosebillionairesthrowingtheir weight and wallets around with increasing abandon, DÁprano said audiences would instantly recognise the play’s central character,theboof-headAussiebillionaire, BarryBrilliant.

“He’s a bit like the Aussie Trump,” D’Aprano said, adding that there was a touch of Clive Palmer and the late Kerry

Packerinthecharactertoo.

Whileinvokingthesenames-particularly that of the current occupant of the White House - might be an instant turn-off for some,D’Apranosaidthosewereexactlythe typeofpeoplewhoshouldcome.

“My Brilliant Apocalypse series gives Barry hell,” he said. “In part one he goes fromrichestoragsandendsuphomelesson thestreetswithoutanidentity.“

“Our 13 person ensemble brings to life howapersonlikeBarrydealsordoesn’tdeal withlosingeverything.”

Describing his creation as “a five part series with a Dickensian Christmas satire

spin-off,” D’ApranosaidBarrywasvariously hero,pawn,sageandspiritashejourneyed through life searching for meaning and purpose.

Heurgedaudiencestocomealongforthe ride.

“It’s a funny, fast-paced exploration of whatitistoexist:withinyourself,withinthe knownuniverse,orperhapsevenwithinan alternative universe that lives in someone else’shead!”

My Brilliant Apocalypse is on at the Bluestone Church Arts Space from 7-9 August. Tickets: https://www. mybrilliantapocalypse.com/tickets

As part of this annual celebration ofscienceandtechnology,Museums Victoria will showcase the work of its vital Research Institute, where scientists are actively decoding the natural world, from biodiversity and space science to deep-sea exploration.

With one of the nation’s largest museum-based scientific teams, the Museums Victoria Research Institute plays a crucial role in advancing discovery and shaping our understanding of life on Earth andbeyond.

This year’s National Science Week education theme is Seeds of Science: NurturingKnowledgeforAll,inviting students and the wider community toexplorethepowerofcuriosityand scientificinquiry.

Melbourne Museum is sowing seedsandnurturingknowledgewith two on-theme events: The Secret Life of Soil, an engaging panel talk about the microscopic organisms that shape healthy soil, featuring Gardening Australia’s Hannah Maloney; and Creative Lab: Seed Stories, a 45-minute workshop in which participants will investigate soil as a living system, select native seeds, and plant something meaningful to take home and continuecaringfor.

Science on Show is the place for visitorstoaskanyburningquestions, as they meet the scientists behind the Museum. Through pop-up talks, displays, and rarely seen specimens, visitors will gain insight into how MuseumsVictoriaResearchInstitute experts reveal hidden stories –from ancient fossils and deep-sea creatures to shimmering minerals andendangeredspecies.

While every week is science week at Scienceworks, the focus turns to the stars with a special Galileo Planetarium experience in collaboration with the Italian AustralianFoundation.

Guests will step into the Planetarium for an?engaging one-hour session that introduces Galileo’s life and historical context, then explores his key discoveries— such as the moons of Jupiter, the phases of Venus, sunspots, and the ruggedsurfaceoftheMoon.??

Through immersive visuals and storytelling, discover how Galileo’s groundbreakingdiscoverieschanged our understanding of the universe. Stick around for gelato, pop-up activities and telescope viewing on ourArena(weather?permitting).?

No visit to Scienceworks is complete without Colour: See the World in a New Light, an interactive science exhibition from Questacon, featuring 21 playful exhibits that explore how colour is created, changed and understood. Visitors of all ages can experiment with colour, optics and light in this immersive exhibitionforthewholefamily.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. With the nickname ‘Pogi’, which Slovenian cyclist won the 2026 Tour de France?

2. The governor of which US state proclaimed July 24, 2026 as ‘LeBron James

3. Teams including the Blaze, Talons and Volts play what sport in the US's AUSL?

4. The Commonwealth Games (then known as the British Empire Games) were first held in which

Mayo defeated which Gaelic football team in the 2026 All-Ireland Senior Football Championship final?

Australian all-rounder Ash Gardner last captained which Women’s Big Bash League team?

The 2026 WNBA All-Star Game was held in which US city?

Finnie, the official mascot of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, is what type of legendary creature?

9. Which two Australian states will host AFL State of Origin matches over the next three years?

10. Which game involving dropping sticks into running water under a bridge was first mentioned in a book by A. A. Milne?

11. Which four teams competed in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals?

12. In what year will the next FIFA Women’s World Cup take place?

13. And where will it be hosted?

14. How many stages are there in the men’s Tour de France?

15. And how many days are the stages held over?

16. Which country in the 2026 Commonwealth Games has the highest population?

17. Which three basketballers feature on the covers of NBA 2K27?

18. Cathy Engelbert is the commissioner of which US sporting league?

19. What was significant about the John Isner vs. Nicolas Mahut match at Wimbledon 2010?

20. Rollin’(AirRaidVehicle) by Limp Bizkit was the entrance theme for which professional wrestler from 2000 to 2002?

21. In which sport might someone achieve a ‘turkey’?

22. Which teenager did CIES value at €358M post the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making him football's most expensive player?

23. Blernsball is a fictional sport from which TV show?

24. And which sport is it based on?

25. Madison Square Garden is home to which two professional sports teams?

Change of Name

I,formerlyknownas Neeru,ofTruganina, VIC3029, havechangedmyname toNeeruRajranaby virtueofaChangeof NameCertificateissued byBirths,Deathsand MarriagesVictoria. Henceforth,Ishallbe knownas NeeruRajranafor allpurposes.

26. Which footballer was responsible for the infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal in 1986?

27. In lawn bowls, what is the name of the smaller ball that players try to roll their bowl closest to?

28. In which sport will referees call a ‘delayed penalty’?

29. AFL team Greater Western Sydney shares its nickname with which MLB team?

30. True or false: swimming is featured in the modern pentathlon event at the Olympics?

PUZZLES

1 Reason for doing or not doing something (6) 4 In very high spirits (8)

9 Recipe (7) 11 Former US First Lady, – 'Lady Bird' Johnson (7) 12 Flash of lightning (11) 13 Cover (3) 14 Gathers dimensions (8) 16 Governs (5) 19 Expel (5)

20 A form of pasta (8)

22 Hot beverage (3) 24 Great playwright (11) 26 Persecute (7) 27 Understanding of surroundings, – awareness (7) 29 Expenditure (8) 30 Abandon (6)

1 Santa's helper, say (3)

Distribute (9)

Small military unit (5)

Restaurant in Italy (9)

Relating to ocean movements (5) 8 Secret (11) 10 Were of the same opinion (6)

Stormy (11)

15 Fully informed; performing at the right rate (2,2,5)

17 Doppelganger (4-5)

18 Strata (6)

21 Holmes’ companion, Dr – (6)

23 Fruit (5)

25 Carpentry tool (5)

28 Tenanted (3)

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

Today’s Aim:

12 words: Good 18 words: Very good 24 words: Excellent

3 LETTERS AGO

1 What type of animal is the South African Boerboel?

2 Which Williams sister is older, Venus or Serena?

What fish is used in the making of

sauce?

What is the first name of Wonder Woman’s alter ego?

In what decade was Frank Sinatra born? 6 In which South American city is the 16th-century Plaza de

Hyundai’s first build in China

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Koreans don’t get to drive the Hyundai Elexio.

They get the Kia equivalent instead – the EV5.

Built in China, it’s the first Hyundai to be manufactured outside of South Korea, no doubt in an endeavour to reduce costs and makethecarmorecompetitive.

Elexio sits between the Kona Electric and Ioniq5intermsofsize,butisquitedifferent indesign,withatallboxybody.

It’s a made-up name, created especially for the five-seat EV and means nothing in particular – in fact it has been renamed Eo fortheChinesemarket.

Styling

The styling brings to mind the third generation Kia Soul, particularly those Z-shapedrearpillarsandtailgate.

The eye-catching headlights incorporate eight crystal cubes, supposedly a nod to the luckynumber8inChineseculture.

There’s just the one grade so far, the front-wheel drive Elite priced from $59,990 driveaway.

A range-opening, entry grade is expected to be added before the end of the second quarter–that’scar-speakforacheaperone.

Elexio, we’re told, is a family-focused, perfectlysizedEVthatispackedwithsmart features,showcasingafuturisticstyleinside andoutwithasleek,minimalistlayout.

Generous interior space combines with intuitive convenience and driver assistance technology to provide a practical and desirableall-electricSUV.

“As the first vehicle exported from our Beijing Hyundai joint venture, it demonstrates how we are leveraging our globalmanufacturingcapabilitiestodeliver exceptional value to customers,” Hyundai chiefexecutiveJoséMuñozsaid.

That may be so, but the size and placement of the large infotainment screen isconfronting.

The long, skinny 27-inch screen stretches from the centre of the dash away from the driver,terminatinginfrontofthepassenger.

How this can be described as ‘practical’ is eminently debatable. It does, however, facilitate the operation of several arcade-style games that can consume the entirescreenwhenopened.

That said they can be played only when the car is stationary and presumably in Park.

After a few minutes the kids quickly lost interest.

Infotainment

Elexio introduces Connect-C based on the fullAndroidAutomotiveOperatingSystem.

Infotainment consists of the aforementioned 27-inch 4K screen, together with Bluetooth, voice recognition, navigation,AM/FMandDAB+digitalradio, wired and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.

Surprisingly, however, audio is supplied byanunbrandedsix-speakersoundsystem.

There are also two wireless charging pads and five USB-C ports (three in front), Bluelink connected car services with five-year complimentary access, plus over-the-airupdates.

A Smart Scene system underpins convenience and comfort with rapid heating/cooling, camping, carwash and babyrestmodes.

A 240 volt three-pin power outlet is located in the luggage area for powering externalequipment.

Safety

Elexio has been awarded a full five stars for crashsafetybytheANCAP organisation, based on testing of the closely-relatedKiaEV5.

There’s a total of nine airbags, with rear side thorax airbags and a centre airbag that gives added protection to front seat occupantsinsideimpactcrashes.

A comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) includes second-generation Collision-avoidance Assist2,HighwayDrivingAssist2andLane FollowingAssist2technologies.

There’s also Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction and Crossing, and Backover)

as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist, lane departure warning and emergency lane keeping, blind-spot collisionavoidance-assist,andanadvanced speed assistance system with a speed sign recognition.

Powertrain

Elexio is powered by a single electric motor with 160kW of power and 310Nm of torque, with drive to the front wheels via a single-speed reduction gear transmission (theelectricalequivalentofaCVT).

Driving

Built on Hyundai’s dedicated 400-volt E-GMP platform, the five-seat, front-wheel driveEVtipsthescalesatahefty2105kg.

It measures 4615mm long, 1875mm wide and stands 1673mm high, with a 2750mm wheelbase.

Luggage capacity is 506 litres, expanding to1540litreswiththerearseatsfolded.

Atyrerepairkitisprovidedintheeventof apuncture.

Buildqualityisfirstrate,buttheambience feelsoverlyfunctionalandutilitarian.

Running your hands over the cabin surfaces reveals some hard plastics, but thanks to clever design – nothing is directly inlineofsight.

Although the lower console area provides plenty of storage for loose items, two cupholders and two phone chargers dominate the upper area, leaving little spaceformuchatall.

This is Hyundai’s first BEV to use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) rather than Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC) technology, with a largish 88.1 kWh battery pack.

With energy consumption cited at 18.2

kWh per 100km, range for the Elite grade with20-inchwheelsisaclaimed546km. A heat pump reduces the amount of energy required by the air conditioning, helpingtoextendtherange.

Charging at a rate of up to 150kW using a DC fast charger takes 38 minutes from 10 to 80percent(that’s70percentor382km).

AC charging at a rate of up to 11kW with three-phase wall charger takes 10 hours from zero to 100 percent (15 hours with standardsinglephase).

Like other Hyundais, the ride and handling have been tuned for Australian roadconditions.

This one rides on 20-inch wheels, with 255/45 profile Kumho Ecsta rubber, sacrificing16kmofrange.

The ride is on the firm side, but infinitely preferable to some of the soggy fortune cookieswegettodrive.

Eco, Normal, Snow and Sport drive modes are provided, along with paddles to modulate the effects of regenerative braking.

While the Elexio goes well, it lacks the excitement that we have come to associate withEVs,especiallyacceleratingawayfrom the lights. t the same time, it is targeted at families,sothisisunderstandable.

The screen features a rearranged version of the panels found in other Hyundai models.

Insteadofclimatecontrol,asmall5.0-inch sectionisdevotedtodriverinformationand islocatedwithineasysightattheendclosest tothedriver.

A 12.3-inch middle section is occupied by Android Auto when it is active while another 12.3-inch section furthest from the driver handles the entertainment – at least that’sthewayitlooks.

Just about everything is controlled from the screen, which can be challenging when you’reinahurryorsimplyonthemove.

The sound system, though unbranded as notedpreviously,deliversquitegoodsound.

Summing up

NotsurewhatitisabouttheHyundaiElexio, butwedidn’twarmtothismodel.

The ice cube headlights are pretty cool and the car is certainly practical enough, evenforanEV.

Performance is middle of the road but that’s okay for a family-focused wagon, it just lacks some character – some Soul perhaps.

TIPPING 2026

Tigers win nine on the trot

By Tara Murray

Werribee’s winning run continued on SaturdayasitovercameFootscrayBulldogs to make it nine on the trot in the Victorian Football League.

After a bye the previous week, Werribee was at home on Saturday against the Bulldogs with the two sides playing for the HealthWest Cup.

Since 2015, the cup has helped raise awareness of the vital healthcare services available across Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Once the match got underway, the Bulldogs, who entered the game in good form, looked to get on top in the second quarter, before the Tigers responded.

With the Tigers making the most of their opportunities in front of goal they were able to come away with a 16.6 (102)-11.16 (82) win.

Tigers’ coach Dan Lowther said it was good to get another win in the book.

“The Doggies are in good form and had won three of their last four and trending upwards and pushing for finals,” he said.

“We started well and they challenged us in the second quarter and owned it from the back half going forward.

“We were able to take control late in the second quarter and the third quarter we were super.”

Aftertrailingby16pointsathalftime,six goals to none in the third quarter saw the Tigers turn that into an 18 point lead.

Lowther said they were able to take possession in the front half and Brady Wright and Will Elliott were able to compete in the air.

Defensively the trio of Ryan Eyers, Louis PinnuckandJesseClarkwereagainstrong, while Zane Keighran had a good second half

TheTigersbackedupthethirdquarterby winning the final quarter.

“We played some good team defensive and offensive for the most part,” he said. Lowther said they had some good looks inside 50 in the second half and were able to make the most of them in the second half.

Wright kicked 7.1 to continue his strong form.He’snowupto42goalsfortheseason.

“He is so hard to compete against,” Lowther said. “He’s so mobile and good with the first touch and his accuracy is a good thing.

“The one he missed was the easiest one.”

Harry Maguire came back into the side and kicked three goals.

Lowther said the pair along with Elliott help bring the smalls into the game. He said one of the pleasing things was seeing so many of the younger players step up.

“Micah Robb was in his second game and competed well,” he said.

“Nash King is another while Daly Andrews is doing well after a short run up.

“AJ Koul Mun did his thing while Cooper Whytehashadanupanddownseason,but

is really important when he’s on.”

ThewinfortheTigerscamewithoutDom Brew, who was a late out.

Brewhadplayed92gamesstraightbefore missing Saturday.

Lowther said he had nicked his calf.

“These things happen and we spoke about it during the week. How can you replicate?” he said.

“Where do we get 15 tackles from and the way he brings the contest and two way running.”

Lowther said they were unsure whether Brew would be back this week but they weren’t going to take any risks with him with a bit of certainty about their finals spot.

While one club legend in Brew wasn’t out there on Saturday, another in Michael Sodomaco was.

The former captain was a club’s runner on Saturday.

Lowther said it was good to have him involvedandhehelpedprovidesomeextra leadership on the ground for the young players.

The win against Bulldogs has locked in second spot and two home finals for the Tigers.

The Tigers will head to Tasmania this weekend to face the Tasmania Devils on Saturday.

Lowther said it would be a finals like atmosphere which would be good practice for finals.

Meanwhile, North Melbourne Werribee suffered its first loss on Saturday in the second of the games at Melbourne Avalon Airport Oval.

It was a thriller with the Kangaroos losing, 5.4 (34)-5.3 (33).

Weekend’s result

FINAL SCORE:

■Werribee: 4.1 7.2 13.3 16.6 (102)

■Footscray: 5.2 9.6 9.9 11.16 (82)

GOALS:

■Werribee: Wright (7), Maguire (3), Elliott (2), Whyte, Simpson, Dongean, Dahlhaus

DISPOSALS:

■Werribee: Riding (36), Pinnuck (26), Lazzaro (25), Keighran (25)

■Footscray: Craig-Peters (28), Gallagher (26), Maple (23), Kennedy (23)

■Footscray: Smith (2), Sexton (2), Ramshaw, McNeil, Gallagher, Edwards,Craig-Peters,Billings,Baker

Double joy for Falcons

By Tara Murray

The City West Falcons have nothing to lose as both their sides won through to Victorian Netball League preliminary finals.

The Falcons have already succeeded their expectations for this season, with both sides now only one win away from a grand final.

The Falcons are the only club with both sides through to the final three in the championship and 23 and under competition.

“It’s an excellent result I would not have thought at the start of the year,” Falcons’ head coach Marg Lind.

“To have two teams in the top three at least … Bring it on, we have nothing to lose.

“We finished in a position that we didn’t think we would finish, we thought we would just be pushing to make finals with all the changes that we had and losing Maddie Ro-

mios through the year as well.

“We’ll give it a crack next week and see what happens.”

The Falcons championship side kept their hopes of a fifth straight championship alive with a 64-58 win against the Bendigo Strikers in a knockout semi final.

Things didn’t start well for the Falcons who trailed by five goals at quarter time.

“I think they were too excited from barracking for the 23s,” Lind said.

“They were a bit asleep. We just weren’t competitive and making really not intelligent decisions, probably not the word that I used during the game.

“They were just not thinking.”

Lind said once they started to chip the ball around and isolated Jane Cook one-onone with Charlotte Sexton more they were able to turn things around.

The Falcons led by two goals at the next

two breaks before running away with it in the last quarter.

Lind said injecting Lauren Hucker into the game in defence was a really big move for them.

“We turned the game back around quick-

Wigmore has a big All-Australian impact

By Tara Murray

Western Jets’ Billy Wigmore was just focused on his own game and trying to help Vic Metro win the under-18 national championships, he wasn’t thinking about higher honours. So when he found out that he had been named in the All-Australian team, it came as a shock.

“It was massive and such an amazing honour,” Wigmore said.

“I was grateful for the experience and it was cool to finish it off being named in the All-Australian team.

“It hadn’t crossed my mind. I just wanted to win games and play good footy. I didn’t think about it until it came out, which was a good thing.”

Vic Metro went through the championships undefeated and were crowned the champions.

Wigmore said it was a pretty special moment.

“You only play a couple of games together and it’s so cool and it was an amazing time.”

Wigmore came away from the champi-

onships happy with his own performances personally.

He was a key member of Vic Metro’s backline.

“I had a few games where I played well and there were a few games where I didn’t get to do a lot as it didn’t come down back,” he said.

“I was able to show my strengths and we had the ability to win games and it was a good team performance.

“My goal was to show my strengths.”

Wigmore said while he wanted to be part of the Metro team this year, his first focus was playing well with the Western Jets.

“It was a goal that was in the back of my mind,” he said. “Playing with the Western Jets I had a really good start to the season.

“The closer the champs came and I was in the squad, it was pretty cool.”

Wigmore has played a key role in the Jets success so far this season.

Having played 11 matches the Jets have an 8-3 record, including winning their last seven games.

“It’s so cool and it’s an amazing group,” he said. “I’ve never felt this before with a

er than I thought,” she said.

“Lauren came on with intention, you want to win finals and you have to have intent and she did and she stayed on.

“We split the rink in the second half as well, and that worked.”

Lind said captain Maggie Lind really stepped up in the second half and took a lot of balls, while Liv Cameron was also good after the main break which made a difference.

Jane Cook shot 55 goals for the Falcons.

The Falcons 23 and under side also had a slow start against the Melbourne University Lightning, trailing by eight goals at quarter time.

After some positional changes the Falcons got back into the game and were able to hold their nerve late to win, 57-55.

Lind said they were thrilled with that performance.

Sports shorts

Talent League

The Western Jets boys side had a big win against the Geelong Falcons on Saturday. Travelling down to Geelong, the Jets won, 14.9 (93)-4.9 (33). Khaled El souki kicked five goals for the Jets and was named among the best with Mac Dullard and Lachlan Hicks. In the girls, the Jets lost to the Falcons, 6.2 (38)-3.7 (25). Addison West, Kiara Boyd and Aluk Kuol were named the Jets best.

Western FL

The Western Football League women’s top four is set with one round remaining. The Suns needed to win on Saturday against West Footscray to keep alive its hopes of a top four spot. The Roosters though were too strong as they won, 6.6 (42)-4.3 (27). The Suns slip to seventh behind Yarraville Footscray and Laverton, which both had big wins on the weekend. In other matches, Wyndhamvale beat Point Cook Centrals, 14.19 (103)-0.0 (0). The results mean that the Falcons will finish in second spot and Werribee Centrals in third with the Roosters in fourth spot. Parkside had locked up top spot weeks ago.

GDFL

rep team.

“We’re a super tight bunch and mates who play together which is so much fun.

“It’s cool to be able to do it.

“We’ve not had much success in the past and we want to put the Jets on the map.”

Now with Vic Metro commitments done, Wigmore is keen to help the Jets continue on their winning ways.

For Wigmore, it’s another highlight in his junior career having played with Yarraville Seddon.

“I’ve absolutely loved it,” he said. “I played with a bunch of mates coming through and it’s something I’m grateful for.

“I’ve played in two flags in under-16s and it’s not often you win flags with your mates.”

Wigmore says he watches his favourite player Tom Stewart, who is the type of player he wants to be.

He’s hoping that maybe later this year he might be on an AFL list like Stewart.

“That’s not my focus at the moment,” he said. “I want to get back to the Jets and win games.

“Closer to the end of the year if I end up on a list that would be a dream come true.”

Werribee Centrals made it two in a row in the Geelong and District Football League on Saturday. At home to the Belmont Lions, the Centurions won, 17.17 (119)-12.6 (78). A 52-6 first quarter set up the win for the Centurions. Brandon Houlihan kicked four goals for the Centurions and was named among the best with Aaron Stone and Connor Linehan-Cunningham. The Centurions remain on top, percentage ahead of Winchelsea.

VAFA

Westbourne Grammarians fell just short of their second win of the Victorian Amateur Football Association women’s premier division season. Facing Fitzroy, the Grammarians led at half time before the Lions got their first goal of the third quarter to take the lead. While the Grammarians kicked their second goal of the game in the final quarter, it wasn’t enough with the Lions winning, 2.9 (21)-2.5 (17).

FOR MORE SPORT VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Successful Games wrap up

By Tara Murray

It was a successful Commonwealth Games for Australia, with the sporting action wrapping up on Monday, Australian time.

The Australians topped the medal tally with 171 medals.

There were 70 gold medals, 45 silver and 56 bronze medals won by Australian athletes.

For the locals, there were some mixed results.

Keilor Thunder’s Lara McSpadden won gold in the women’s 3x3 basketball.

The Australian team went through undefeated despite being a player down in the finals, with Emma Clarke injured.

Taylors Lakes’ Jacob Cassar and Resilience Training Centre’s Aoife Coughlan

both won silver medals.

Cassar made the final of the 65 kilograms men’s boxing event, but couldn’t get over the line in the gold medal match.

The 19-year-old said it was an amazing feeling.

“As an athlete, I’m always going to want gold, but I’m very proud to be 19-year-old and coming home with a silver medal for my country, my team, family, friends and supporters.”

Coughlan was looking to defend her title in the 70 kilograms women’s judo event

She fell short in the gold medal fight and was awarded silver.

Her Resilience Training Centre teammates Tinka Easton and Danny Vojnikovich both lost bronze medal matches, while Maeve Coughlan was knocked out in the repechage.

It was bittersweet for the Australian Diamonds who won bronze.

After losing the semi final to Jamaica, 4645, the Diamonds, including former City West Falcons Liz Watson and Kate Moloney, bounced back in the bronze medal match to beat England, 68-50.

Uneeq Palavi led the Tongan side to ninth spot despite dislocating her finger in the first game.

On the track, Linden Hall, who grew up in Riddells Creek, finished fifth in the women’s 5000 metres.

Peter Bol, who lives in the 3032 postcode, faded in the men’s 800 metres final to finish seventh.

Brimbank’s Chris Mitrevski finished fourth in the men’s long jump, six centimetres outside the medals.

Bundoora’s Tara Kinder made three finals in the pool in a massive program that included five events.

Her best finish was fifth.

On the bowling green, Deer Park Club’s Aaron Teys and Corey Wedlock missed out on finals in the men’s pairs.

Cameron Gatt. (Dynamic

Gatt brings home silver from world champs

By Tara Murray

It wasn’t the way he wanted to win a medal, but Truganina’s Cameron Gatt came away with silver from the UCI BMX World Championships men’s junior competition.

The elite event was meant to run over two days with the opening rounds on day one, before the remaining races and the main final were set to be raced on day two.

Gale force winds saw several postponements on day two before the event was cancelled due to safety concerns for the riders.

It meant medals were given out based on results of the quarter finals.

While many riders weren’t happy about the outcome, Gatt, who won silver, walked away proud after again representing his country.

Gatt said it was a bittersweet feeling with all the stigma attached.

“I don’t feel like I completely earned it,” he said.

“None of the riders got the opportunity to push ourselves as far as we could have. We were all saving it for the main final

which never came.

“Unfortunately I didn’t get the opportunity to cross the finish line in the main final.

“The final medals were awarded based on our times in our quarter final. I didn’t know at the time that I crossed the finish line in my quarter that that would be my last race of the competition.

“IrememberfeelingreliefwhenIcrossed the finish line in first place.

“I knew that I had a great time which would put me in a favourable position for my semi final, but I did not go as hard as I could have.

“What I didn’t know though was that that time was going to secure me the silver medal.”

Having had success coming through the ranks, Gatt said it was a different dynamic coming into the elite category.

He said it becomes a lot about statistics and analysis rather than just being on your bike.

“I was seven years old when I started racing,” he said.

“My coach’s philosophy has always been to focus on enjoying the sport rather than

chasing results. I adopted that philosophy early on in my career and it is helping me stay passionate and not burn out.”

Gatt said he felt the strongest he had both physically and mentally entering the event.

Being in Australia, he felt like he knew the track inside out and felt confident he could make the podium.

“I am not disappointed with silver,” he said. “It was just disappointing that the event ended the way that it did and I didn’t get the opportunity to race the coveted main final.”

Gatt, who is in year 12 at Thomas Carr College, said he was handling juggling his sport and studies well.

This year is Gatt’s last year as a junior rider. He’ll shift focus to under-23s and the upcoming World Cup events in October, with the Olympics still his long term goal.

“It is a huge step up from Junior to Under 23, but I’m feeling confident and excited about the progression.

“I will still be too young for the next Olympics, but I will do everything I can to wear the green and gold in Brisbane 2032.”

Wyndham out

Wyndham’s run in the Big V youth league 2 women’s finals run has come to an end.

After a first up finals win, Wyndham was in action on Saturday night against the Collingwood All Stars with a grand final spot on the line. The All Stars, who were the minor premiers, were too strong as they won 83-54. They were able to build the lead across the four quarters, winning each quarter.

Wyndham coach Renee Dayao said although it wasn’t the way they wanted the season to end, she couldn’t be prouder.

“Some nights the shots just don’t fall, but this result doesn’t define the heart, resilience, and hard work these girls showed all season to earn their place in finals,” she said.

“For many, this was their first taste of finals basketball, and I have no doubt this experience will only fuel their hunger to come back stronger. The future is incredibly bright for this group.”

Admira Ali top scored with 13 points for Wyndham, while Alana Poulton scored 10 points.

Meanwhile, Wyndham’s division 1 women’s season ended with two wins. Also facing the All Stars, Wyndham won 99-69 on Saturday night.

The margin was only three points at quarter time before Wyndham got on top and was able to run away with the result. Ahriahna Grizzle continued her good late season form as she top scored with 40 points.

On Sunday, Wyndham beat the Camberwell Dragons, 83-76 on the back of a 22-9 final quarter. Grizzle scored 33 points. Wyndham finished the season in seventh spot, missing out on finals narrowly. It had the same amount of wins as the two teams above it.

By Tara Murray

Point Cook sprung life into its Western Football League division 1 season, with an upset win against Sunshine on Saturday. With the possibility of two teams being relegated at the end of the season, the win keeps the Bulldogs hopes of staying up alive.

Coach Saade Ghazi said for the group, it was just about getting the result.

“It was a good reward for the players and for the club, with a lot of hard work being put in,” he said.

“We’re a very young group and we’ve taken our time to run out games. We were stifftolosetoSunshinebyacoupleofgoals early in the year.

“To kick two goals against the wind in the last quarter was really good.”

Ghazi said Sunshine at Sunshine is always hard to beat and they had a good challenge on their hands.

The Bulldogs jumped out of the blocksandledby22pointsatquartertime.

Scores were level at half time before the Bulldogs used the wind to get the margin back out to 20 points heading into the last break.

Point Cook kicked the first two goals of the final quarter to increase the margin out to 32 points nine minutes into the final quarter.

TheKangarooskickedthenextfourgoals to bring that back within one goal.

TheBulldogswereabletoholdonasthey won, 10.8 (68)-8.16 (64).

“It was a long four minutes,” Ghazi said of the end of the match.

“We always knew that it would come and it was about maturing as a team.

“We wanted to see that result yesterday [Saturday] and it shows the belief they are doing the right things.

“The buy-inhas been reallygoodand the attitude has been fine. It’s good reward for them.”

OliverHennekenkickedfivegoalsforthe Bulldogs in the win.

Billy Kolyniuk, Henneken and Caelan Espenschied were named the Bulldogs best.

Ghazi said they had eight players in their side on Saturday that still could have been playing in under-18s.

He said the return of co-captain Shaun Wyatt in recent weeks had made a big difference from them.

The win was the Bulldogs third of the season and they sit above Point Cook Centrals.. They are now a game behind Altona which sits in 10th spot.

Ghazi said they hadn’t spoken about the possibility of relegation, but they know

Bulldogs pull off upset win

they want to remain a division 1 club.

“We’ve been focusing on trying to win as many games as we can,” he said.

“We don’t focus on it too much.

“We play Caroline Springs at home this weekandwehavenothingtolose.Wewant to have a crack at the last three games and

try and win every game.

“We are improving which is the most important thing.”

Inothermatches,WerribeeDistrictsbeat Albion, Hoppers Crossing lost to Caroline Springs and Point Cook Centrals lost to Newport.

Another win for Werribee Gatt’s silver lining

Parkside on the move

Parkside will play in the Essendon District Football League next season.

The Essendon District and Western football leagues announced on MondaythatParkside’sapplicationto jointheEDFLfromtheWFLhadbeen successful.

As revealed by Star Weekly last month, Parkside had notified the AFL Victoria community manager of its intention to enter the EDFL from the WFL for season 2027.

As part of the initial plans, the club also informed the EDFL that it has in principle, agreed to amalgamate-merge with the Ascot Vale Panthers Junior Football Club prior to the 2027 EDFL season.

In the joint statement on Monday, league presidents Sebastian Buccheri and Sandra Wilson, acknowledged AFL Victoria’s approval of Parkside’s transfer to the EDFL.

“ThedecisionfollowsAFLVictoria’s Community Affiliate Regulations process and concludes a period of consultation involving all relevant stakeholders,” the statement said.

“The transfer of Parkside Football Club reflects the club’s individual circumstances and strategic direction.

“Both leagues recognise the importance of clubs having clear pathways to support their long-term sustainability and growth.

“Throughout the process, the WFNL and EDFL have worked collaboratively and respectfully to ensure the application was considered in accordance with AFL Victoria’s established framework.

“Both leagues remain committed to supporting the best interests of community football and providing strong, sustainable competitions for clubs, participants, volunteers, and supporters.”

The Western league thanked Parkside for its contribution to the league.

Parksidewasafoundingmemberof theformerFootscrayDistrictFootball League (FDFL), now known as the WFL,andhasbeenanintegralpartof football in Melbourne’s west for more than 90 years.

The statement said the WFL remains well-positioned for the future, underpinned by continued participation growth, increased investment in club development and governance programs, and a strong commitment to supporting member clubs, volunteers, and participants across Melbourne’s western region.

The statement said the EDFL looks forward to welcoming Parkside into its competition from 2027 and supporting the club’s continued development.