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Melton council has called for a moratorium to be placed on new data centre developments around the municipality. (Damjan Janevski) 574340_02

Data centre pause By Jack O’shea-Ayres Melton council has called for a moratorium on new data centre approvals as concern mounts over their hunger for electricity, water, infrastructure and industrial land. At their 24 August meeting, councillors unanimously supported a data centre moratorium and called for a meeting with the state government. They want to pause new data centre developments while a coordinated planning framework is developed. Council’s formal position calls for the state government to pause all planning permit applications for data centres in Melton pending the development of the framework, while a separate motion brought forward by councillor Steve Abboushi sought a moratorium on new centres and expansions. The framework would require councils to have an early and more meaningful

role in assessing data centre proposals, including sufficient time to obtain technical advice and provide coordinated responses. The moratorium would also act as a “pause button” – a temporary freeze on any new approvals until strict planning rules, environmental safeguards, and community consultation, or in this case an official framework, are implemented. Council has also submitted a motion on data centres to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council meeting in October. Cr Abboushi said state planning pathways leave local councils and communities out of the process. “There are significant community concerns that some proposals are being considered through state planning pathways that reduce the role of local councils and communities in decision-making,” he said.

“There is a need to develop clear planning policy at a federal and state level to guide assessment of data centre development and provide greater certainty for local communities.” Melton has become an increasingly attractive location for data centre developments due to the availability of industrial land, major transport corridors, and proximity to electricity and water infrastructure. With this in mind, council also raised concerns about the potential cumulative impacts of multiple facilities on the community’s electricity networks, water security, roads, drainage, telecommunications, and emergency services. Mayor Lara Carli said the Melton community deserved to be involved the planning and approval process. “We hear our community loud and clear on their concerns about data centres in

the City of Melton,” she said. “Our community deserves to have a voice and to have confidence that any proposals are assessed through a clear, evidence-based process that considers infrastructure, environmental impacts and local neighbourhoods.” While council recognised data centres are important digital infrastructure capable of attracting investment and supporting the digital economy, it said their development presents significant local planning and infrastructure challenges. Large-scale facilities can require substantial electricity and water supplies, while ongoing jobs could be comparatively low once construction is complete. Council is also writing to the National Growth Areas Alliance (NGAA) seeking a coordinated advocacy position on planning, environmental, and infrastructure standards for data centres.

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Bravery recognised By Jack O’Shea-Ayres When a firework triggered a house fire in Tootgarook shortly before the countdown to the 2024, Hillside resident Jonathan Croft couldn’t just stand by and watch. It was just before the countdown to the new year when Mr Croft was out walking and heard fireworks being set off at the front of a house about 20 to 30 metres away. Filming the fireworks, Mr Croft noticed a flare shoot across the road, sparking a fire in the house opposite. He ran to the property, noticing the occupant, who was a wheelchair user, unconscious on the floor and unable to move inside the room that was set alight. Using a concrete garden edge and his unwavering selflessness, Mr Croft smashed the window, entered the burning building and carried the resident to safety. Mr Croft is this week being recognised

with an Australian Bravery Decoration as part of the 2026 national Wattle Day Decorations, for his selfless actions on that fateful night. Recalling the incident, the Hillside tradie said there was no time to think. “I knew someone was inside and I just wanted to get them out. I reacted on instinct and did what I felt needed to be done,” he said. “There wasn’t much time to think, the whole room was on fire.” Mr Croft said his family were nothing short of proud to hear he was being commended with an Australian bravery Decoration, but he’s just happy he could be there to help. “It’s something I’m very proud of, but I’m also just grateful I was there that night and could help.” He said life hadn’t changed much since the incident, but he had one message to share. “Just do what you feel is right.”

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Jonathan Croft. (Supplied)

Police resources: Street over station As part of an ongoing series on the causes and solutions to crime in the west, Jack O’Shea-Ayres spoke with Victoria Police about how police resources are allocated across the region and whether reduced station hours have contributed to a rise in crime. Almost 60 police officers have disappeared from the ranks across Melbourne’s west in just 12 months. Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Wyndham have lost about 49 police positions, with police numbers falling from 557.03 in June 2025 to 508.58 in June this year. Brimbank and Melton have also recorded a drop, with numbers falling by about eight officers over the same period, from 495.74 to 487.50. The figures come as Victoria Police reduces public access at five western suburbs stations and councils increasingly call for greater police visibility in their communities. Public access to Footscray, Caroline Springs and Keilor Downs police stations were reduced to three days a week, while Altona Police Station was closed overnight and on weekends. At Williamstown Police Station, front counter access was temporarily restricted, with periodic temporary shutdowns affecting the ability of people to walk-in and speak with an officer. Victoria Police says the changes are designed to get police out from behind desks and onto the streets, amid a statewide shortage of about 1500 police officers. “This is why we are prioritising street over station,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said. “We want to ensure our highly skilled officers are out in the community preventing crime and quickly arresting dangerous offenders, rather than sitting behind a desk at a police station.”

Victoria Police employee numbers for the west comparing June 2026 to June 2025.

The spokesperson said despite the reduction in desk hours, police officers in the western suburbs continue to respond to calls for assistance around the clock. “In the western suburbs, general duties police patrol the community and respond to calls for assistance at any time of the day and night.” In a statement to Star Weekly, Victoria Police confirmed it had introduced a number of dedicated resources at a local level to combat crime. These include the Crime Investigation Units, Divisional Response Units, Highway Patrols, Proactive Policing Units, Family Violence Investigation Units, and Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Teams. Police maintain resources are allocated according to demand and operational needs, but the falling numbers have added fuel to concerns about the level of police presence across the west. The spokesperson said Brimbank

4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

Council backs road safety review post crossing removals

had experienced a relatively stable crime rate, increasing by less than one per cent compared to the previous year. However, the force acknowledged that statistics did not necessarily reflect how safe residents feel. “While the statistics show the actual rate of crime in Brimbank is stable, they don’t matter when people don’t feel safe and that is a reality for many in the community right now. “Our focus is on ensuring a highly visible and dedicated police presence across the western suburbs.” Victoria Police said it had increased patrols in Footscray and Sunshine following recent events, including the death of Sunshine grocer Van Viet Truong. “Enhanced patrols are occurring in Sunshine and Footscray, particularly around Hampshire Road and Nicholson Street,” the spokesperson said. “Police are in these areas to support the community and provide reassurance.”

Melton council has unanimously backed a review of traffic congestion and road safety across the road network surrounding the Melton level crossing removal project. Council moved the motion at its 24 August meeting, which calls for council officers to assess traffic conditions at the Station Road, Exford Road, Abby Road, and Brooklyn Road roundabout following the project’s completion. As part of the Melton level crossing removal project, the state government removed crossings at Coburns Road, Exford Road and Ferris Road in Melton. The Level Crossing Removal Project is scheduled to be completed on 1 September, with council seeking to identify any changes to traffic movements, congestion, and network performance once the new road and rail arrangements are in place. Council will also investigate traffic-calming and road safety measures along Bridge Road between Diamond Drive and the Exford Road roundabout. The review will consider vehicle speeds, pedestrian safety, sightlines, turning movements, and other measures aimed at improving safety for motorists and pedestrians. Particular attention will be given to the western end of Bridge Road, including the area around the Route 454 bus stop, with council investigating options for safer pedestrian crossings and improved access to public transport. The motion also called for a broader assessment of the surrounding Bridge Road and Monash Road network, including connections involving Pintail Drive, Uplands Crescent, Blamey Drive, Hume Avenue and Stockwell Crescent. Sightlines, blind spots, vehicle movements, pedestrian safety and potential traffic-calming measures will all be considered. The motion was brought forward by councillor Brandi Morris, who said the removal of the level crossings represented a significant investment in improving connectivity, safety and transport efficiency, but the surrounding network needed to be assessed as traffic patterns changed. ”Anyone who visits the south regularly knows there’s multiple schools and heavy congestion,” Cr Morris said. “I just want to be as proactive as possible to monitor this traffic movement and increase road safety.” Council officers recommended the traffic review not begin until three months after the level crossings are removed, allowing surveys to capture traffic conditions under the new network configuration. Cr Steve Abboushi commended the motion. “The investigations requested will provide council with evidence we need to identify practical improvements, understand the costs involved and pursue appropriate funding opportunities,” he said. The findings, including recommended improvements, indicative costs, potential funding opportunities and delivery timeframes, will be presented at a future councillor briefing.

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West election priorities By Cade Lucas Councils representing Melbourne’s western suburbs are demanding more infrastructure investment, a dedicated precincts plan, and a housing strategy for the region as part of a list of priorities they’ve released ahead of November’s state election. The West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance (WoMEDA) is a body representing the Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Brimbank, Wyndham, and Melton local government areas that are currently home to almost one million residents. With the election less than 100 days away, WoMEDA last week released its list

of immediate priorities that it wants addressed, regardless of who forms government after the 28 November poll. Chief among them are infrastructure projects such as expediting construction of the Melbourne Airport Rail Link and the electrification of the Melton train line, as well as the reallocation of V/Line trains to boost services on the Wyndham Vale line and a redesigned bus network with significantly more services. While applauding major infrastructure investments in the west such as the recently opened Metro Tunnel and the Westgate Tunnel, WoMEDA chair, Professor Peter Dawkins, said more was still needed.

“However, further major investment in rail and bus connections must continue, especially in the outer west, where road congestion is reaching an unsustainable level,” Professor Dawkins said. WoMEDA executive director Giulia Baggio agreed, arguing that with the region’s population estimated to almost double to 1.8 million by mid-century, infrastructure investment had to keep up. “This booming population will become the foundation of Victoria’s future economic strength if we can lock in the next stage of critical infrastructure,” Ms Baggio said. “For major industries currently ex-

panding across the west, it would spur productivity and employment growth and connect our communities to local jobs and services.” To further this aim, the WoMEDA also wants a precincts plan for Melbourne’s west that would stimulate private and public investment in specific areas such as Footscray, Sunshine and East Werribee. The alliance also wants a housing strategy developed for the whole region to help meet the state’s housing targets, while demanding more tertiary education options for students in Wyndham as well. WoMEDA’s election priorities can be found at: https://www.womeda.com.au/

Sealing the deal: Middle Road

Mayor Steve Venditti-Taylor outside the Ballan Library, one year since its opening. (Damjan Janevski). 574509_02

Ballan library has a year of stories to tell The Ballan Library and Community Hub has celebrated its first anniversary. On Saturday 22 August, the Ballan Library and community Hub opened its doors to the Moorabool community as residents came together to celebrate and share their stories, experiences, and memories one year on from when the facility first welcomed visitors. Moorabool mayor Steve Venditti-Taylor said it was encouraging to see visitation and use of the library facilities grow over the past 12 months. “It’s hard to believe the Ballan library

has already turned one!” he said. “What a fantastic year it’s been with increased visitation, so many wonderful activities and the community generally embracing it.” The library first opened its doors through a joint project between the state government, Moorabool council, and the Ballan and District Community Hospital. The facility aimed to bring a modern library space with digital resources and study spaces to the Moorabool community, as well as dedicated children’s and youth areas to encourage literacy and en-

gagement, and maternal and child health consultation rooms. The facility has been widely celebrated as a vital community hub by the local community since its inception last year, welcoming a multitude of residents and visitors alike through its doors each day. Cr Venditti-Taylor said he looked forward to seeing the library continue to grow into the future.. “[I] look forward to the community continuing to enjoy this fabulous asset.”

Melton council has unanimously backed a push to investigate fully sealing and upgrading Middle Road in Truganina. Councillor Phillip Zada asked officers to prepare a report outlining the estimated cost and options to upgrade the unsealed road beyond the rural road standard currently being delivered. The report will examine Middle Road’s strategic importance as a connection between Truganina and Caroline Springs station, an alternative route to the Western Highway, and a potential detour route during future Western highway construction works. Cr Zada said his motion sought to look into expanding travel options for the ever growing western communities. “Middle Road is one of those useful connections linking Truganina towards Caroline Springs station and providing another option for our growing western communities,” Cr Zada said. “The motion asks a pretty simple question: What would it take to go further and fully seal and upgrade it?” He said understanding the additional costs, infrastructure requirements and potential funding sources would allow council to consider whether a full or staged upgrade could better improve local connectivity. Council officers will be asked to identify potential delivery and funding options, including staged works, council funding, developer contributions, and state and federal government funding. The report will be presented to a future council meeting.

Community grants information session Melton’s not-for-profit community members are being invited to join Melton council at the next community grants information session. Those involved in a not-for-profit community group are being encouraged to come along and take part in the information session on Wednesday 9 September for a chance to learn more about council’s community grant program, who is eligible, and how to prepare a strong application. The session will also cover an overview and purpose of council’s grant program, what makes a good grant application, the type of funding available as well as projects and events that can and can’t be funded, grant categories and grant assessment criteria, key dates and eligibility criteria, and where to go for help. Council’s community grants team will

also be on hand to answer questions and help guide participants through the application process, working to help ensure potential applicants make the most of funding opportunities available. The community grants information session is set to take place at the Melton library and Learning Hub, located at 31 McKenzie Street, Melton from 6 to 7.45pm. Council said the event will also provide the opportunity to form connections with other local community groups, share ideas, and learn from one another. To register, visit: https://tinyurl. com/5ymyvc8w. Details: https://www.melton.vic.gov. au/Out-n-About/Events/Community-Grants-Information-Session. 12849128-EB11-26

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 5

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A gem that keeps shining Alice Pung thought her memoir of life growing up as the daughter of Asian migrants in the inner-west would barely make it to the shelves of Footscray Library. Two decades, thousands of copies and a swag of awards later, the 20th anniversary edition of Unpolished Gem was recently launched there. She spoke to Cade Lucas about her book that just keeps on going.

hen contacted to see if she’d be available for a photo to go with this story on the 20th anniversary edition of her debut memoir ‘Unpolished Gem,’ Alice Pung kindly replied that the week from 22-28 August wasn’t a great time. In fact, it may well have been the 52nd most ideal week of the year to try and find space in the Footscray born author’s diary. “I’m so sorry - you’ve caught an author at the busiest week of the year next week (Book Week),” Pung replied via email, in what must be one of the nicer ways in which one person has told another that he or she is an idiot. As the author of 14 books, many of them children’s titles, of course Pung was going to be in great demand at libraries, bookshops, and schools during Book Week. And given her award-winning memoir about growing up in Melbourne’s inner-west in the 80’s and 90’s as the daughter of Chinese-Cambodian migrants has been re-released to mark two decades since it was first published, of course this year’s book week was going to be busier than usual. After all, Pung credits Unpolished Gem’s continued presence on school curricula as a big reason for it being remembered at all. “Every single year there is at least one school, either in Australia or overseas, studying it. It just keeps going and going,” Pung said of the enduring appeal her 2006 release has with English teachers and students. Given many debut authors barely sell 20 copies of their books, let alone have them remain in circulation for 20 years, it’s no surprise Pung wanted to spend book week with some of the readers who’ve helped make this possible. Which is a long-winded way of saying no photos could be taken with Pung for this story and that book week is probably not a great time to try and organise them with authors. Fortunately some excellent pics were taken with Pung and her family at the 2Oth anniversary edition launch in July. That took place at Footscray Library, the same place where Pung spent countless hours writing her memoir two decades earlier after attracting the interest of a publisher through a magazine article she’d written. Back then the library seemed about as far as the book might go. “I’m always surprised,” Pung said of Unpolished Gem’s success in an interview with Star Weekly done (thankfully) before book week. “I thought it’d be in print for six months and there’d be a few copies in the Footscray Library and my dad would buy up the rest.” Pung’s dad, Kuan, and mother, Kien, loom large in Unpolished Gem, as do their extended family who all fled to Australia from Cambodia in the early 1980s to escape the murderous regime of Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. Settling in Footscray and then Braybrook, Pung’s parents started running an electrical goods store on the corner of Barkley and Donald streets more than 40 years ago and can still be found behind the counter of the now Betta Electrical outlet today. Pung worked there as a teenager in the 90’s, not long after Victoria’s large psychiatric institutions were closed and many of the patients ended up on the streets of suburbs like Footscray. “We had a lot of these eccentric and really wonderful and interesting people suddenly in the community and a lot of them came

Alice Pung (centre) and family at the 20th anniversary edition launch of her memoir Unpolished Gem at Footscray Library. (Pictures: Supplied)

The books that were being published ... told a very specific narrative of immigrant success. - Alice Pung Hardship and success. My book is full of losers into my dad’s shop where I’d worked since I was 16, so I got really used to these eccentric people,” she recalled, noting that it was these types of stories that helped the book stand out, especially compared to other memoirs about growing up in Asian families. “I guess, at the time it was published, it was a little bit unusual. The books that were being published came from America or they came from Asia and had titles, such as Wild Swans, Falling Leaves, Ten Thousand Sorrows, and Chinese Cinderella, that told a very specific narrative of immigrant success. Hardship and success,” Pung said. “My book is full of losers.” Not that there wasn’t pressure to succeed at home for Pung too. Combined with cultural differences, prejudice and the emotional toll that being a teenager can have on anyone, it led to a moment that definitely marked Unpolished Gem as not your garden variety migrant memoir. “I had a nervous breakdown at 17 which no Asian Australian puts in a book, but I document it in all its details which was something kind of unexpected at the time,” Pung said in an upbeat tone completely at odds with the content, before adding: “it’s not a misery memoir, it’s pretty funny,” just to make sure. Having people misunderstand Unpolished Gem is something Pung has dealt with since the moment it came out. By way of example, she recalled the book’s original launch which took place after she’d graduated from university with a law degree and had begun working as a solicitor. “My dad invited all his friends,” Pung said of the crowd of fellow Footscray shop owners and factory workers from the local Chinese community who came along and bought copies for $25 each. “It was an hour’s salary back then.” However it was the reaction of their children who also came along that caught her eye.

6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

“Their children looked a bit disgruntled and I kept wondering why and then I realised on the back of the book cover it said ‘Alice Pung is a Melbourne born writer and lawyer.’ “These parents had focused on the word lawyer and thought oh this must be a manual on how to make it for their kids so they were buying it for their kids as a book of inspiration,” Pung said of the moment she realised that many of the young people in the audience probably hated her as a result. “I would have too,” she added, before noting that it didn’t take long for some of them to change their minds. “But then I got all these emails from young Asian Australians who’d read my book including of some of the disgruntled kids at my book launch and they said “oh gosh” I had no idea you had a nervous breakdown’ and “I said to my parents, see this is what happens if you push me too hard.” Pung now lives with her husband Nick and three children near Melbourne University where she is the writer in residence at Janet Clarke Hall, though she still returns to the inner west to visit family at least once a week. “I see wonderful things,” she said of her regular visits to Footscray, expressing excitement at the proposed Creative West development at the library.

“But I also see all the poverty there. I live and work near the university which is a very privileged area and then when I go back to Footscray you do see a direct contrast.” Pung said a book like Unpolished Gem could still be written in the Footscray of today, though it would come from a different migrant perspective. “It would be someone like Mayor Mohamed (Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra) or a young Burmese resident of Footscray, because that’s the new generation experiencing the same social and financial issues and also the prejudice,” she said, noting that many of the labels attached to young African Australians today are the same as those given to young Asian Australians of her generation. “We were the druggies, we were the gangs back then.” But as much as the skin colour and origin of those on the receiving end of racial prejudice may have changed, Pung said the person inspiring it was depressingly familiar. “The one constant in my life is Pauline Hanson. “When I was 16 she was around and now 30 years later, she’s still around. This story is still exactly the same because the counter force in our lives is still the same woman.” Unpolished Gem 20th Anniversary Edition is out now, published by Black Inc.

Betta Electrical, Footscray, where author Alice Pung worked as a teenager and which her parents still run. (Damjan Janevski)

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Rotary Club president Trudy Binks president and member Peter Lawford with the new money spinner. (Damjan Janevski). 572958_03

Rotary spinner returned The Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh is celebrating the return of its much-loved donation spinner at the Village Shopping Centre in Bacchus Marsh. The original spinner was allegedly stolen from the Main Street shopping centre back in March, leaving the club without an important source of fundraising income for its community projects. Although the club never managed to track down the original donation spinner, it now has a brand-new, better-than-ever spinner, thanks to the help of the Bacchus Marsh community. Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh president Trudy Binks said the club was thrilled with the replacement spinner. “It is great to have the spinner replaced back at the village shopping centre,” Mrs Binks said. “Since the spinner has been returned there has been so much support from the community.” The new spinner was manufactured by a Melbourne-based company which also made the original.

However replacement costs were significantly higher than the club’s initial outlay, yet Mrs Binks said the community had rallied behind the club following the theft. “Since the spinner has been returned there has been so much support from the community especially wishing us well in the support we give to the Bacchus Marsh community and hoping that the spinner is safe in the future,” she said. The spinner allows shoppers, particularly children, to donate coins while enjoying its novelty, while also knowing the proceeds go towards supporting a local community group’s cause. The club hopes the new spinner will once again provide a steady stream of donations while giving the community a fun way to support local causes. “Once again the young and young at heart can enjoy the fun of the spinner, knowing that their donations will be used to help community groups in our local area,” Mrs Binks said.

Police charged a Gisborne South man with dangerous driving after a pursuit in Fraser Rise in the early hours of 22 August. Officers detected a Volkswagen Golf allegedly driving at 193km/h in a 60km/h zone in Caroline Springs about 12.20am. Police attempted to intercept the vehicle, which had false registration plates, however the driver failed to pull over. Air wing units followed the vehicle, before the offender dumped the vehicle in Admirals Crescent in Keilor Downs and fled on foot. The 19-year-old Gisborne South driver was arrested a short time later and charged with multiple offences, including dangerous driving whilst being pursued by police.

Melton driver of stolen car dies A 46-year-old Melton man died after crashing a stolen vehicle during a police pursuit in East Melbourne on 22 August. Police said the man was driving a stolen white Subaru erratically in Richmond before colliding with two vehicles on Punt Road about 9pm. He then stole a Ford Mustang and continued driving erratically before crashing head-on into a Range Rover on Barassi Way and hitting a Toyota Camry. The man was ejected and died at the scene. The Range Rover driver suffered an arm injury and was taken to hospital. Police said the Subaru was stolen from Glen Iris on 20 August. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS

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New suburb for the west By Jack O’Shea-Ayres A new suburb of almost 12,000 homes, seven schools, and more than five MCGs worth of open space will be built in Melbourne’s north-western outskirts under a newly approved precinct plan. Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny approved the Melton East Precinct Structure Plan (PSP), as announced by the state government on Friday 21 August, paving the way for the new community to eventually house more than 36,000 residents and support about 1600 jobs. The 20-to-30-year development will reportedly include multiple shopping options, four community hubs, and in-

frastructure designed to support the growing population. Three new arterial roads, 14 intersections, and five bridges will also reportedly be delivered alongside cycling and pedestrian links. The precinct is planned for development in two stages, with the plan designed to ensure infrastructure is delivered alongside new housing. Ms Kilkenny said the new suburb aimed to provide more jobs and lifestyle opportunities to the west, whilst also unlocking space for new infrastructure. “We’re unlocking space to deliver thousands of more homes – as we deliver the infrastructure these communities

need,” she said. “The plans for Melton East…are about building connected places for more Victorians to live, work and thrive.” The plan forms part of the state government’s 10-year greenfields program, which aims to complete planning work needed to facilitate 180,000 new homes across Victoria over the next decade. Melton MP Steve McGhie said infrastructure was being delivered to support the region’s booming population growth. “We are delivering the infrastructure needed to the west so more families can call Melton home,” he said. Kororoit MP Lubra Grigorovitch said the planning would help provide the ser-

vices needed by future families. “We are planning for the future with new homes and the schools, roads and health services needed to raise a family,” she said. The state government also highlighted works underway across Melton, including the electrification of the Melton line, construction of Melton Hospital and road and school upgrades. The Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) is currently leading the preparation of a PSP and Infrastructure Contributions Plan (ICP) for Melton East, working in collaboration with Melton Council, State Government agencies, service authorities, and landowners.

We need critical infrastructure warns Melton council By Jack O’Shea-Ayres Melton council has called on the state government to deliver critical transport, education and community infrastructure following the announcement of the approval of the new 12,000-home Melton East precinct. Once completed, the new suburb is expected to be home to more than 36,000 residents and support about 1600 jobs. Council said while it supports efforts to meet Victoria’s housing targets through the creation of about 5500 homes across the municipality each year, new housing must be matched by investment in transport, roads, schools, services and employment precincts. Melton mayor Lara Carli said investment in infrastructure by the state government was vital to keep up with the west’s booming population growth. “Melton is being expected to do the heavy lifting on housing growth in Victoria,” she said. “New residential and industrial precincts cannot continue to be fast-tracked without first investing in the infrastructure that makes growth sustainable.” However Melton MP Steve McGhie said the new suburb would be self-sustaining. “I do believe that the Melton East PSP will have the infrastructure commitments. This PSP will have its own infrastructure,” he said. Melton council called for a fully-funded commitment to duplicate and electrify the Melton rail line by 2030 and delivery of two new train stations at Mt Atkinson and Thornhill Park in support of the already existing communities. Council is also calling for a coordinated Outer Western Roads Package, including

An aerial view of the new Melton East Precinct. (Supplied)

further investment in the Western Highway and key arterial roads such as Hopkins Road, Melton Highway, Taylors Road and the Palmers Road corridor.

But Mr McGhie said council’s priorities were already underway. “The Melton infrastructure priorities are the Western Freeway upgrade which we are

already doing pre-construction work on and the electrification of the Melton line, which again, already work is being done on,” he said.

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FEATURING ... FATHER’S DAY

Advertising feature

Father’s Day done right thanks to your local butchers This Father’s Day treat dad to something a little special while supporting local businesses and local producers. At Ballan Local Butcher and Bacchus Marsh Local Butcher, we’re proud to support the people and businesses in our community. This Father’s Day we’re bringing together premium Parwan prime rib eye steak and locally produced wine from Cameron Estate— because there’s nothing better than locals supporting locals. Our Parwan prime rib eye steak is rich, beautifully marbled and perfect for firing up on the barbecue or cooking just the way dad likes it. Pair it with the Cameron Estate 2024 Darley shiraz, available for half price at just $14 a bottle when purchased with a

Parwan prime rib eye steak. Better still, purchase both the Parwan prime rib eye steak and the half-price Darley shiraz and you’ll automatically go into the draw to win one of two Cameron Estate mixed wine packs. Join us at our Bacchus Marsh store on Saturday 5 September, from 10am–2pm, for an in-store Cameron Estate wine tasting, where you can meet the people behind the wine and discover more about another fantastic local business. This Father’s Day, celebrate dad with a great steak, a great local wine and a great reason to support small business. Local supporting local. Small businesses supporting small businesses. And a Father’s Day feast dad will love.

Store manager Jay Derby with a range of fresh dinner options available at Bacchus Marsh Local Butchers.

missing ad: 12896841

BACCHUS MARSH LOCAL BUTCHER PADDOCK TO PLATE – LOCAL, FRESH, TRUSTED

FATHER’S DAY PROMOTION PARWAN PRIME RIB EYE STEAK Prime Rib-Eye, Cameron’s Estate Shiraz & BLB Streaky Bacon - $50 Wine Tasting Saturday, 5 September | 10:00am–2:00pm

We’re proud to support the Bacchus Marsh and Melton communities with 7-day service, including Sundays from 10am–2pm.

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Cameron Estate wine tasting will be available in-store at our Bacchus Marsh store 2024 Darley Shiraz will be available at half price. 18+ only

SUPPORT LOCAL. EAT BETTER. SEE YOUR BUTCHER TODAY. FREE DELIVERY TO MELTON: TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SATURDAY 208 MAIN STREET BACCHUS MARSH

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Moving Ahead

1 September 2026

Mayor’s message Cr Lara Carli

Stay Informed At last week’s Council Meeting, Council made a decision to call for a moratorium on data centres until the Victorian Government develops a coordinated framework to guide the assessment and delivery of data centre developments across Victoria. While data centres support the broader digital economy, developments of this scale also raise important planning, infrastructure, environmental concerns and considerations that need to be carefully assessed. Council wants to ensure that decisions regarding data centres are informed by thorough sound evidence, planning legislation robust guidelines on location, local impacts and community input. We have heard our community loud and clear on their concerns about data centres in the City of Melton, and we will continue to advocate for transparent, evidence-based planning processes that provide meaningful opportunities for community engagement for our residents.

Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Naming Fraser Rise’s new Aquatic and Leisure Centre Earlier this year, residents were invited to help name the new aquatic and leisure centre being built in Fraser Rise. The most popular naming theme was linking the name to place, which received more than 72 per cent of the vote.

As the State Election approaches, advocacy remains a key focus for Council. It was fantastic to see such a strong turnout at our recent Melton Transport Forum, which gave residents the opportunity to share their transport challenges and priorities directly with local candidates.

The shortlisted name is Tides Fraser Rise. It reflects both the community’s preference for a place-based name and the centre’s role as a destination for aquatic activities, leisure, health, wellbeing, connection and more.

The forum focused on key issues including Melton rail line electrification, road upgrades, active transport, bus services and improved public transport connections across our city.

Council is now inviting feedback on the proposed name before making a final decision.

As one of Australia’s fastest-growing areas, we need infrastructure investment to keep pace with growth. Council will continue to advocate strongly on behalf of our community to help secure the transport improvements our residents need and deserve.

To have your say, visit our City of Melton Conversations page conversations.melton.vic.gov.au Consultation closes on Thursday 24 September 2026.

Tips for bin collections

Vacation Care is back!

Remember to have your bins out by 6am on collection day. While your bin might usually be emptied around the same time each week, times can change, so trucks may arrive anytime between 6am and 6pm. Make sure there’s clear access around your bins so the collection truck can reach them easily.

Council’s popular Vacation Care Program is back for the September school holidays. Open to primary school-aged children, the program runs from Monday 21 September – Friday 2 October, 7am–6pm (excluding public holidays) at Bridge Road Children’s and Community Centre.

To find out more about waste and recycling visit melton.vic.gov.au/ waste

For information or to register, visit melton.vic.gov.au

Hilltop Ward with Cr John Verdon As our suburbs continue to grow, it’s important that families have access to the facilities and services they need close to home. That’s why the recent announcement of $9 million in funding from the Victorian Government to construct the Diggers Rest Children’s and Community Centre is such fantastic news for our community. The centre will support the delivery of kindergarten, Maternal and Child Health services and other important programs in one welcoming location. Projects like this show what can be achieved when different levels of government work together and focus on what residents need now, and into the future. In the lead up to the November State election, Council continues to advocate for major transport and road upgrades across our City.

Feel free to contact me about Sugar Gum Ward or our City more generally on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au

In July, we launched our Let’s Get the

City of Melton Moving campaign, calling on all major parties to commit to electrifying and duplicating the Melton rail line by 2030, along with urgent upgrades to key roads and interchanges. Congestion, overcrowded trains and lengthy commutes already affect our community, and we need investment to keep pace with our growth. Find out more by visiting melton.vic.gov.au/ lets-get-moving I’ve also been hearing resident concerns about proposed data centres across our City. While Council understands no formal proposal has been received by the State Government for a proposed data centre in Plumpton, I want to acknowledge the community’s concerns and reassure that I’ll continue listening and advocating so your voices are heard as part of the conversation. Feel free to contact me regarding Hilltop Ward, or our City more generally, on 0418 444 883 or by emailing John.Verdon@melton.vic.gov.au

Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details

Deputy Mayor Cr Dr Phillip Zada

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Kathy Majdlik

A welcoming and liveable City accessible to all 10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

Cr Brandi Morris

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Civic Centre 232 High Street Melton VIC 3337

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

9747 7200 melton.vic.gov.au cityofmelton

Cr John Verdon

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Mayor Cr Lara Carli

FEATURING ... SENIORS

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Finding peace of mind in community living For those looking ahead to their next chapter, peace of mind is becoming just as important as the home itself. At Lifestyle Communities, we often hear from homeowners that one of the biggest benefits of making the move isn’t just the low-maintenance home or resort-style facilities, it’s the sense of comfort that comes from living in a connected and welcoming neighbourhood. There’s something reassuring about knowing your neighbours by name. Whether it’s a friendly chat while out for a morning walk, joining a social club, enjoying coffee in the Clubhouse or simply seeing familiar

Homes from $310k*

faces around the community, these everyday interactions help create an environment where people feel supported and at ease. Our communities are thoughtfully designed to offer both independence and connection. Homeowners can enjoy the privacy of their own home while having access to shared facilities, social activities and opportunities to build meaningful friendships. It’s a balance many say enriches their lifestyle far beyond what they expected. The result is a genuine sense of belonging. Rather than living alongside strangers, homeowners become part of a community of like-minded people who share similar in-

terests, values and life stages. That connection naturally contributes to a greater feeling of security and wellbeing. For many, moving to Lifestyle Communities is about simplifying life and creating more time for the things they enjoy most. Less time spent maintaining a large property means more time for travel, hobbies, social activities and making the most of every day. As more Australians rethink what they want from retirement and beyond, many are discovering that the true value of community living extends well beyond the front door. It’s found in the friendships formed, the

active lifestyle enjoyed and the confidence that comes from being part of a welcoming community where people genuinely care for one another. Curious about what life at Lifestyle Communities could look like? Join us at an upcoming Tea and Tour at Brookfield on Thursday 3 September from 10am to 11:30am. Enjoy a relaxed cuppa, explore the community and discover firsthand why so many are people are choosing Lifestyle Communities for their next chapter.111-139 Coburns Road, Brookfield.

Brookfield

Tea & Tour Thursday 3 September 10am – 11:30am Lifestyle Communities® Brookfield 111-139 Coburns Road, Brookfield

Discover our homes at Lifestyle Communities Brookfield during our Tea & Tour and experience the vibrant lifestyle for yourself. Explore low-maintenance homes, tour our resortstyle amenities and chat with our team about finding your perfect home. RSVP to 1300 50 55 60 or walk in on the day!

Scan the QR code to find out more.

*Price correct as at August 2026. Subject to change without notice.

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12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

PUZZLES

easy

8 9 2 5

7 1 9 3 9 4 7 5 8 1 6 7 4 9 4 5 8 8 1 9 4 7 3 6 8 3 medium

3 8 4

9 8 5

3 8 6 6 9

23 26 27 28 29

6 1 7 6 2

3 1

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E Y M R J 10

1 7 8 9 3 6 4 2 5 3 2 9 4 8 5 6 1 7 4 5 6 7 1 2 9 8 3 9 1 2 8 4 3 7 5 6 5 8 3 1 6 7 2 4 9 7 6 4 2 5 9 1 3 8 8 3 1 6 9 4 5 7 2 2 9 5 3 7 1 8 6 4 6 4 7 5 2 8 3 9 1

4 5 6 1 3 8 2 7 9 9 2 7 5 6 4 8 3 1 3 1 8 7 9 2 4 5 6 5 4 9 8 2 6 3 1 7 7 3 2 9 4 1 5 6 8 8 6 1 3 5 7 9 4 2 6 8 3 2 1 5 7 9 4 2 9 4 6 7 3 1 8 5 1 7 5 4 8 9 6 2 3

W Q

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: 18 words: Good 27 words: Very good 36 words: Excellent

E E S

G I

24 25 27

WORDFIT 3 LETTERS ADO APE ARK ASH ATE AWE BOA COT CUP ERA FEN GIG GOD MOW MRS NUN ORE OVA OWE WAG WIN YAK

No. 305

T E N E T S

BREWS CARAT CARGO COLDS CREPE DIGIT DOONA ENTRY ERASE ERRED ERROR FLIRT GATES GENRE GONER LARGE METRO RARER REMIT RESET RINSE RISER

4 LETTERS ACTS BINS DAIS FRAY MOSS SMOG SNOB STEM STEW WAGS 5 LETTERS ABORT ACORN ARENA ATONE AVAIL AWARE BRAID

SASSY SCOFF SCRAM SEATS SECTS SEEDY

6 LETTERS CACKLE CRINGE MEMORY SLEETS TAGGED TENETS

SENSE SLOGS SPADE STRAP SWARM TANGO TENOR

7 LETTERS AMASSES EMOTION NEURONS NUMERIC OVERRAN RANCHER

8 LETTERS CAREERED IGNORANT INSPIRES RETRACED 10 LETTERS PERFORMERS SUPERSEDES

TONNE TOTES TRITE TUNES TWINE WAVER

04-09-26

No. 412 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

L A K E S A T O N E S T A T E T I L E D S C A R S

genii, gins, grin, grins, grip, gripe, gripes, grips, hinge, hinges, hiring, neigh, neighs, nigh, pegs, PERISHING, ping, pings, prig, prising, reign, reigns, resign, rigs, ring, rings, rising, sigh, sign, signer, sing, singe, singer, siring, sprig, spring

8 6 3 9 2 4 1 5 7 7 4 1 8 5 6 3 2 9 2 9 5 3 7 1 4 6 8 6 1 4 5 8 9 7 3 2 3 5 7 6 1 2 8 9 4 9 2 8 4 3 7 5 1 6 4 3 2 1 6 8 9 7 5 1 8 6 7 9 5 2 4 3 5 7 9 2 4 3 6 8 1

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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9-LETTER WORD

hard

medium

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O Z K S C T V I

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2 6

hard

2 9

Intimate (4) Heavenly figure (9) Grave mental condition (9) Get to know (5) North American bison (7) Combination (5) On show (9) Former Indigenous people of Peru (4) Saint Petersburg, formerly (9) State of bliss (5,4) Idée fixe (9) South-East Asian country (7) Sight-related (5) Thinking organ (5) Lay bricks (4) Reticulation (4)

1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9

DECODER 9

DOWN

Greeting (Ital) (4) Entranced (10) Unnaturally strange (7) Business (7) Long footrace (8) Cancel (5) Book’s leaf (4) Science of the mind (10) 'Idiot box' (9) Second-hand (4) Gas layer in the stratosphere (5) Hungarian city (8) Domed building (7) Bill (7) Recorded (10) A unit of length in imperial measure (4)

1 3 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21

7 6 4 8

ACROSS

No. 305

QUICK QUIZ

Who is the Roman equivalent of the Greek goddess Hera?

In which year was the first iPhone released?

How many main rings does Saturn have?

Who discovered the double helix structure of DNA?

Julia Stiles (pictured) stars in which film franchise as Nicky Parsons?

And in which year?

Clownfish are most commonly what colours?

What sport do the Los Angeles Kings play?

What colour are the 11 and 3 balls in a standard pool set?

10 Which popular song by KISS is also a girl’s name?

ANSWERS: 1. Juno 2. Seven 3. James Watson and Francis Crick 4. 1953 5. Orange with white and black markings 6. Ice hockey 7. Red 8. 2007 9. Bourne 10. Beth

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

S T R A P B R E W S T O T E S R E M I T A W A R E C R E P E R I S E R A T O N E G E N R E A T E F L I R T W A G G O D D A I S M E M O R Y M E T R O A R K C O T A D O S W A R M T E N E T S W A G S C A R E E R E D M O S S B O A O V E R R A N N E U R O N S S N O B I N S P I R E S F E N F R A Y C R I N G E E N T R Y A S H N U N M R S C A C K L E S M O G S E A T S E R A E R A S E C U P O V A L A R G E C A R A T D O O N A T W I N E E R R E D D I G I T S E C T S S E N S E S L O G S

No. 305

C I A O S P E L L B O U N D H R I S E U N I A F F A I R S U N C A N N Y H C C R F O P M M A R A T H O N A N N U L N O L A P S Y C H O L O G Y P A G E E E I L B E U S E D T E L E V I S I O N R I U E O Z O N E B U D A P E S T G P T R N A S M I N V O I C E R O T U N D A A I A I N E O S I N C H D O C U M E N T E D

SUDOKU

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COMMUNITY

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication. Gardens for Habitat Workhop On National Threatened Species Day learn how to create habitat in your own backyard! Through planting indigenous grasses, shrubs and trees in your garden, you provide understory and coverage for our native insects, bees, birds, lizards, and frogs. This workshop, facilitated by Jono Ingram from We Love Aintree, will provide you with the skills and knowledge required to get your gardens thriving, full of colour and birdsong. Workshop attendees will receive free plants to get their gardens going. Monday 7 September 10am at Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services, Melton. Book online via Melton Learning. Melton Sew Creative Group The Melton Sew Creative Group meets at the Arnolds Creek Community Centre every second Wednesday from 10am to 2pm. People can come along to socialise with like minded people for a chat whilst doing their own craft work over a cuppa. You can bring along your own machines and equipment to make something creative. Participants can learn from each other whilst making new friends in a relaxed setting at Arnolds Creek. ■ meltonsewcreative@gmail.com for more information. Melton South Community Centre Melton South Community Centre is offering a Family History course on 2 September and Self Defence for Women on 5 September. Enrolments essential. ■ msccentr@bigpond.net.au, 9747 8576, meltonsouth.org.au Zonta Club of Melton Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support women & girls in the Melton area. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. Meetings include guest speakers, projects on the go and other social events. ■ Jane, 0447 291 049 or info@zontaclubofmelton.org.au Melton South Community Centre Melton South Community Centre offers a range of Social Groups. Free Men’s Fella-ship Group on Wednesdays 1.303pm, Neighbourhood Group for ladies on Wednesdays 1-3pm $2 per week, Free Knit & Natter on Mondays 10am-12pm, Free Community Garden group on the last Thursday of month 1:30-3pm, Free Community Singers group on 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 12:15-2pm, Free Al-Anon Family Groups on Fridays 7-8.30pm, and Free MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group on the first Thursday of the month between 12.30-2.30pm. 41 Exford Road, Melton South ■ 9747 8576, msccentr@bigpond.net.au. Bacchus Marsh Philosophy Club Bacchus Marsh Philosophy Club is a welcoming discussion group exploring life’s big questions in a thoughtful, relaxed, and respectful way. No background in philosophy is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to listen, reflect, and share ideas. These facilitated sessions encourage people to think more deeply about topics that matter, hear a range of perspectives, and enjoy meaningful conversation in good company. They take place

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Donna Jackson who is doing her comedy show Art Accidents & Underpants at The Yarraville Club. (Damjan Janevski) 573578_01

every second Saturday at the Lerderderg Library, 215 Main Street, 10am - 1pm. ■ Andy, 0498 549 177, andy@p4e.au Hillside Probus Club Hillside Probus Club is currently open to new members. Membership is open to retired and semi-retired professional and businesspersons and others with a similar background. The group meets from 10.30am-12.30pm every first Thursday of the month at the Watergardens Hotel, 431 Kings Road Taylors Lakes. There are no upper or lower age limits and the club is for men and women, couples and singles. ■ hillsideprobus@gmail.com Melton South Community Centre lawyer appointments Melton South Community Centre is offering free lawyer appointments for immigration, family law, or Justice of the Peace matters every Tuesday at 2.30 or 3.10pm. ■ 9747 8576, msccentr@bigpond.net.au North Western District Pipe Band The North Western District Pipe Band meets every week at the Diggers rest Bowling Club and are looking for any pipers or drummers out there retired or beginners for social play outs. ■ Hank, 0412 169 576 Volunteer opportunity with L2P Driving program Help a disadvantaged young person gain essential driving hours by becoming an L2P Volunteer Driving Mentor. A few hours a week can make a life changing

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 September, 2026

difference. Full training and support provided, with the car and all expenses covered. ■ 03 8746 1000, L2P@djerriwarrh.org. Melton South Community Centre Computer Classes Computer classes are available at the Melton South Community Centre. From absolute beginners, to being safe online, Canva and more. ■ 9747 8576 Sewing in Melton If you love sewing, head on down to the Melton South Community Centre. Bring along your machine and materials and make new friends as you swap tips and work on your own projects. 9.30am–3pm every Tuesday. Each session costs $5. ■ 9747 8576 Melton South Community Singers Singers of all levels are welcome at the Melton South Community Singers. This free and friendly group meets at the Melton South Community Centre and rehearses to perform at local venues and events. The group meets from 12.15-2pm on the first and third Tuesday of every month. ■ Sue, 0400 082 413 Community band The Greater Western Community Band meets every Thursday from 7.30-9.30pm. Located at the Bridge Road Community Centre, Strathtulloh (Melton South). The band is available for events. Brass, woodwind and percussion players are always welcome.

■ Sally Hamond, 0401474582 Lights of Wisdom The Bahá’ís of Moorabool invite you to Lights of Wisdom, a tranquil space to share the insights from the great spiritual traditions of mankind. Sessions are held at the Lerderderg Library, Bacchus Marsh, every first Friday of the month, 7.30pm. Next session on 4 September 2026 on the theme of Peace. Entry is free. God, movie and chat A free community event is held every second Friday with a film with spiritual themes screening followed by a discussion. All thoughts are welcome. Tea, coffee, and popcorn are provided. The event is hosted at Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19a Gisborne Road, Bacchus March. ■ bacchusmarshanglican.org.au Probus Club of Melton Ladies The Probus Club of Melton Ladies meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10am at the Melton Country Club. It is a social club where all ladies are welcome. ■ Glenda, 0418504616 Women Working Together A program connecting women aged 50 above in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Melton. ■ 9655 2131, or EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

ENTERTAINMENT

Spend your Fridays in Footscray enjoying creativity A new series of free Friday night events is set to transform the Footscray Library courtyard. Running from 28 August to 18 September, Creative West Nights will feature live music, spoken word, Afro beats and comedy from some of Melbourne’s most exciting performers. The four week series begins on Friday 28 August with Footscray Unplugged in an intimate evening of live music featuring Ella Thompson, Grace Robinson and Ruby Gill. On Friday 4 September, spoken word,

poetry storytelling take centre stage with Words by Candlelight, where Wani Toaishara, John Englezos, Fleassy Malay, Konker Malual and Zaynab Farah will share their powerful voices and local stories. The following Friday 11 September is Afro Beats, a high-energy night of live music led by Sam Manzanza with support from Jarabi Band. Comedy Roast will close out the series on Friday 18 September with comedians Geraldine Quinn, William Wang and Oliver Clark bringing the laughs and Lauren Bok acting as MC.

Presented by Maribyrnong council,Creative West Nights is designed to cement Footscray’s status as the cultural heart of Melbourne’s west following a period where the suburb has been in the news for the wrong reasons. The series is also aimed at supporting Footscray’s night time economy, with patrons encouraged to visit nearby bars and restaurants both before and after each performance. Each Friday night event runs from 6-9pm at Footscray Library. For more information and the full program,: bit.ly/4fuoVsv

Jungle City is led by professional dancer and educator Cat Sweeney. Award-winning Australian songstress Amber Joy Poulton will bring Honky Tonk Queens to the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Saturday 9 October. (Supplied)

(Supplied)

Country vibes with Honky Tonk Queens

Street dance skills As a hub for street and cultural dance, Jungle City is set to liven the Bowery Theatre, as part of the wonderful 2026-27 residency artist program. Jungle City has sustained a thriving street dance community through regular street style classes, major events, youth mentoring, camps and tours and festivals. The street dance hub has built partnerships with dance crews, major art institutions and festivals such as Moomba and Fringe to help street dance grow. Their residency will help build skills through the creative development and

presentation of Let’s Get Married, an invitation to street dancers and the broader community to understand the importance of ritual and ceremony. The Bowery black box will be transformed into a glamorous wedding reception to wed a cast of street dancers inspired by the rich cultural tapestry that makes up the Brimbank community. The Bowery Theatre Residency program enables artists and arts organisations to make and present work with and for the Brimbank community. The 2025-2026 community-engaged projects span theatre,

music, expanded cinema, and site-specific public performance. As part of the residency program, the selected artists will take risks and shape new works to be presented at The Bowery Theatre. The program offers financial and in-kind support, to enable creativity, connections, and artist development. This residency is supported by Creative Victoria and is part of the Assemble project. Local theater-goers can look forward to a spectacular night of dance, culture, and celebration.

All aboard the Gisborne miniature train After the winter break, the Gisborne Vintage Machinery Society is getting ready to welcome you back to the Gisborne Steam Park for its monthly fun run day. Society member Ian Northcote said the group had been running for over 40 years, and invited the community to come on down with the whole family and enjoy the miniature train rides. This month, the society will also host a Town and District Garage Sale, alongside the train rides. “You never know what you will find at a car boot sale,” Mr Northcote said. “Sometimes people spend five bucks on something and its worth $500. “You can just open your boot, empty out your stuff and put a price on everything. “This is the first time we’re doing something like this.” Mr Northcote said alongside the miniature train rides, there will also be an indoor model railway display and a sausage sizzle to enjoy. The open day and garage sale will be held on Sunday 6 September from 10am to 2pm at the Gisborne Steam Park, Webb Crescent, New Gisborne. The event is free to attend, with $10 for sellers on the day. Details: gisbornevmrs.com

Country music fans are being invited to take a trip down memory lane when Honky Tonk Queens plays at the Bacchus Marsh public Hall on Saturday 9 October at 11am. Fronted by multi-award-winning Australian songstress Amber Joy Poulton, the live show celebrates some of country music’s biggest female voices, including Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, Emmylou Harris, and Linda Ronstadt. Presented as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival, the daytime performance promises a lively outing for audiences who enjoy classic country songs, storytelling, and world-class live entertainment. Poulton is renowned for her powerful voice, heartfelt songwriting, and uncanny ability to channel the spirit of country music legends. Her career spans original music and acclaimed theatrical productions, including Coal Miner’s Daughter, a tribute to Loretta Lynn, and Man, I Feel Like a Woman, celebrating powerhouse women across country and pop. Since 2017, Coal Miner’s Daughter has toured Australia, telling the inspiring story of Loretta Lynn from humble beginnings to becoming the first ever female Entertainer of the Year, while featuring songs from the likes of Patsy Cline, Tammy Wynette and Parton. Poulton has also continued to release her own music, including her latest album, Pretty Pennies, which explores life, love and the strength of women. With a love for country music’s old-school sound, Poulton continues to draw inspiration from her idols while bringing their timeless songs to new audiences. Honky Tonk Queens promises an afternoon of classic country favourites and a celebration of the women who helped shape the genre. Details: https:// welcometomoorabool.com/ e vent s-bac c hu s m a r s h-ba l l a ngordon-black wood-g reenda le/ honk y-tonk-queens-at-bacchusmarsh-public-hall.

Gisborne Vintage Machinery Society members Chris Dixon, Len Redway, Ian Northcott and John Beaty, and dog Theo. (Damjan Janevski) 573848_04

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

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landfill Landfill operations at Sunshine walk away from the site and leave after the are set to permanently cease (EPA) taxpayers to foot the bill Environment Protection Authority licence. Victoria revoked Barro’s operation - Joss Crawford on The EPA announced its decision Monday 27 July . However, Barro Group said the decision and was to cease operations was voluntary that it driven by the community’s message at the doesn’t want operations to continue landfill. said it In a statement, Barro Group it had notified the EPA on 3 April that accepting cease voluntarily to decided landfill waste on a permanent basis at the its and wished to voluntarily surrender operating licence for the landfill. been Underground landfill fires have , burning since 2019, with residents calling Brimbank council and local MPs of years. for the site’s closure for a number strong In December, the EPA took the duty regulatory action and notified the holder of its intention to suspend Group licence because it believed Barro risks was unable to effectively manage landfill to the community arising from operations at the site. The EPA said through this process, the Barro Group failed to demonstrate to risks the manage it could effectively landfill the community from ongoing to the operations and did not respond would be permanently closed. were delighted to hear that the landfill notice of intention to suspend. Siovhon Brister and Nicole Power its right Diane Capelli, Noelene Wattie, “Instead, Barro Group conceded and (Damjan Janevski) 568522_03 to work to continue the landfill operations Barro has stated it will continue where we have been the EPA has revoked its operating licence,” with EPA and Brimbank council to foot the bill. We Sunshine community than 50 years,” he said. closely a direct site and leave taxpayers and ultimate remediate the operating for more EPA said. “[Monday’s] outcome is our in regards to remediation EPA have directed them to fully “Having a strong relationship with operation. result of the strong regulatory action community, the closure of the landfill intends to continue and as a landfill site,” she said. been neighbours, the broader commenced in December 2025 Barro Group said it “We know local communities have and the EPA is and toll the Brimbank City Council result, the landfill will never reopen.” operating its concrete batching plant frustrated and understand the to us. and Rock The EPA said Barro Group must continue landfill has taken on community members. extremely important large resume operation of its Concrete “Last year we conducted a in (CRF) at its Sunshine site left us in no Recycling Facility The community can now take comfort being again community survey which subject to necessary permissions the and knowing that Barro Group will never doubt our surrounding neighbours EPA. did not want obtained from the operate a landfill at the Kealba site. EPA’s hotspot local community in general Residents have welcomed the “We look forward to the day the the landfill to continue operations. while Brimbank council is out, and the landfill is remediated.” decision for us and decision, important an for the is win” “This “significant Barro Group managing director we hope the community see it for what described it as a took its in rebuilding community. Raymond Barro said the company in it is – a show of good faith the responsibilities to all the communities our relationship with our neighbours, 4. Page seriously. coverage: More extremely which it operates of the community and stakeholders.” “Barro Group is a proud member

Hobson Bay City Band has been going strong for 30 years and will mark the milestone its annual concert on Sunday 23 August with at the Altona City Theatre. Billed as ‘Light and Colour’, the concert promises a big afternoon of exciting live band music ranging from popular artists such as Adele, Beach Boys and The Doors to classic and evocative band music.

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Hobsons Bay City Band members (L-R) Queenie Lim, Wayne Bowden, Murray Smith and Robin Zakharov are preparing for their annual concert on 23 August. (Damjan Janevski) 568810_06 4 AUGUST, 2026

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The owners of a Footscray record store have defended the suburb after the previous occupant of their shop released a T-shirt emblazoned with ‘Footscray is a Shithole’ and claimed he had to close due to the area becoming an “absolute dumpster fire”. Kynan O’Meara and Jason Richmond opened their record store and cafe Coco Bananas in Chambers Street, between the Nicholson Street Mall and Maddern Square, in October 2023 after the closure of Counterweight Vinyl and Espresso. On Saturday 25 July, a picture of a white T-shirt splashed with dark blue, baseball-style font denigrating Footscray

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Nearby venue Pride of Our Footscray Bar has since launched T-shirts with a Porter, Elizabeth locals positive Bacchus Marshmore spin on the suburb such as Barby, and Elizabeth Renee Pedretti,“Footscray is Character will Building,” and better known as Team Wonderland, on take off on this year’s Variety Bash Tuesday 18 August, raising vital funds for children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage, or are living with disability. The 10-day, 5200-kilometre journey will take them from Halls Gap in Victoria to Exmouth in Western Australia, featuring a colourful convoy of classic visit vehicles and inviting participants to schools and community organisations along the way. “Every dollar raised helps create it brighter futures for children who need most,” Ms Porter said. “Participants experience the incredible landscapes of Australia while seeing has firsthand the impact our fundraising on families and communities.” Since its inception in 1985, the Variety for Bash has raised millions of dollars children’s programs across Australia. This year marks Team Wonderland’s eighth event in its ‘85 Mercedes Benz 280SE sedan, with hopes of raising

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Voluntarily plunging into an Nick Danoucaras and Sam Robertson ice bath, reservoir and the ocean in the middle Kathy Danoucaras, 192 Main Road East, St Albans 9364 3677 of KND Denture Clinic, 8361 9722 winter just once sends a shiver down the Also at: Suite 8, 242 Caroline Springs Boulevard, Caroline Springs. spine of most of us – but how about 70 such dips in 70 days? That’s the challenge Sunbury woman 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.

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There just has to be a better way. My goals in all this are to help research for better treatments and support - Brigid Evans 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 . Brigid Evans is dipping in cold pools “He had been declared cancer-free, and ice baths 70 times to raise money for Daffodil Day, in memory of her but dad, Les. (Damjan Janevski) 566309_01 the chemotherapy treatment proved too Brigid, who has a doctorate harsh on his body, and he had in philosophy. “Melody is such a livewire now, and a sudden “My goals in all this are to help research she sailing spot, Lake Eppalock. downturn, then a heart attack after adds another layer into all this … more for better treatments and dad only While there will no doubt be tears support.” gastro-intestinal issues,” she said. got to meet his first grandchild over mixed After launching her Daffodil Day a video in with the cold winter An avid sailor on Lake Eppalock quest phone call just before he water of Eppalock near with her first dip on 31 May, passed, but I’m when the final Bendigo who also kept fit on Brigid is due sure he would be proud dip is done, Brigid says she a rowing to notch up dip number of me.” will not be done – she not only 50 as Star Weekly machine every day, Les had also As the 2026 Daffodil Day date gets plans to donated went to press – dips closer, continue cold water dipping that have included Brigid said his plasma hundreds of times and, after Daffodil she had some special dips Day at the many 6C ice baths at Thrve because of the health benefits, time of his diagnosis, wasn’t even in Sunbury, planned for the last but due for in the ocean down the week, when she will has promised coast, in Macedon take annual his routine colonoscopy to check to also shave her hair if she leave from her Disabilities reaches for bowel Reservoir and during swimming lessons Victoria policy her $7000 fundraising goal. problems. and research role. for herself and Melody at Sunbury Donations to Brigid Evans’ 70 In the end, Brigid said, it wasn’t Aquatic A group dips in of her close friends will join her the and Leisure Centre. 70 days winter challenge can cancer that took her dad’s life on the weekend of 15 and 16 August be made and she “I’ve found the ice baths good for a at https://www.daffodilday.com.au/ believes the harsh concoction of chemicals for my dip in Macedon Reservoir, mental health and learning to swim while mum fundraisers/brigidevans/da as part of his treatment was a major has Leonie – who recently moved ffodil-dayfactor. been a positive out of a to Sunbury dip-2026 dark period,” she from Bendigo “There just has to be a better way,” – will be by Brigid’s side on 22 70-dip and you can also follow Brigid’s said journey at www.instagram.com/

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for an urgent council’s has Hawke MP Sam Rae has called secretary Tash Wark condemned A council spokesperson said, “Council and the ASU. with affected meeting with council decision. any away maintained communication “While I have not received “Melton council has decided to walk work groups and union representatives communication from Melton Council on Established care in our in community, 1981 as theand it’s and does not from aged processSunbury the serving proudly first,” she throughout and Macedon matter, I was concerned to hear these thisRanges breached workers who are paying the price accept the allegation that it has said. 4 AUGUST, 2026 said. the Enterprise reports,” Mr Rae with days its obligations under “I have sought an urgent meeting “Around 95 people who spend their ASU to discuss on their Agreement”. was both Melton Council and the caring for older residents, checking Mayor Lara Carli said the decision detail.” at home receiving these matters in more wellbeing and keeping them safe made in the best interest of those Council reassured residents currently are now facing an uncertain future.” personal leaving care. receiving CHSP services, including Ms Wark slammed the council for “This change will ensure our community care, respite care, meals, social support flexible out of the decision-making process. before can continue to access appropriate, under and domestic assistance, will continue to “Council didn’t consult the union available care 2027. comprehensive June, 30 and a clear receive services as usual until making this decision, and that’s she said. the to under the new aged care system,” Ms Wark said the ASU would fight lightly breach of what they’ve committed “This decision has not been taken review decision. the enterprise agreement,” she said. by our council, and follows a detailed reversed. We’ve be to the on needs were jobs decision their “This out “Workers found in an increasingly this.” did, after of our ability to operate raised a dispute with the council over line the same way everyone else complex and changing aged care system.” the fact.”

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3. Which basketball team did Knox Raiders defeat to win the 2026 NBL1 Women’s National Championship? 4. Which basketball team did the Gold Coast Rollers defeat to win the 2026 NBL1 Men’s National Championship? 5. Australia’s two-Test cricket series versus Bangladesh was played in which two cities?

Carlos Alcaraz

11. Carlton coach Josh Fraser played for which two AFL teams in his career? 12. Game two of the 2027 men’s State of Origin series will notably be played in which city? 13. In soccer, a blue card is used in some leagues to signify what? 14. The Shrachi Bengal Tigers and the Ranchi Royals play for which Indian sports league?

6. Which American band is set to perform during halftime at the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers MCG game?

15. Was the Heroes character played by late actress Hayden Panetierre a sprinter, cheerleader or swimmer?

7. AFL coach Mark McVeigh played 232 games for which club?

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8. Australia’s women’s national rugby union team’s 100th Test match resulted in a 66-19 loss to which country?

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9. Which 2014 film starred Kevin Costner as Sonny Weaver Jr., the fictional general manager of the Cleveland Browns?

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19. The East Compton High Clovers and Rancho Carne High Toros are cheerleading teams from which movie?

20. Nick Kyrgios is facing a four-year ban after testing positive for what? 21. At the 2026 Cincinnati open, which two Americans made the women’s final? 22. The Aussie Steelers are the national team in which sport? 23. What does the acronym DNF stand for in relation to Formula One? 24. Which US rock group with a hockey-related band name has released the albums Copacetic and Shapeshifter, among others?

26. And what do the initials stand for? 27. What is the name of the WAFL’s best-on-ground medal? 28. In which year did Italy last win a men’s FIFA World Cup? 29. How many volleyball players from the same team are on the court at one time? 30. NRL team CronullaSutherland shares its nickname with which NHL team?

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0409

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1. Essendon 2. Serena Williams 3. Bankstown Bruins 4. Forestville Eagles 5. Darwin and Mackay 6. The Jonas Brothers 7. Essendon 8. New Zealand 9. Draft Day 10. Toronto Tempo 11. Collingwood and Gold Coast Suns 12. Auckland 13. Player has committed a minor offence and must leave the field for a short period 14. Hockey India League 15. Cheerleader 16. 2029 17. Became a father 18. Soccer 19. Bring It On 20. Cocaine 21. Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula 22. Men’s softball 23. Did Not Finish 24. Knuckle Puck 25. Modern pentathlon 26. Union Internationale de Pentathlon Moderne 27. Sandover Medal 28. 2006 29. Six 30. San Jose (Sharks)

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Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

Wrangler loves to rough it By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Jeep Wrangler needs no introduction. If you’re into off-roading, it’s up there with the best of them. In fact, out of the box, Wrangler probably delivers more 4x4 capability than just about anything, with plenty of room for further customisation. But this ability comes at a cost, because it’s not the most comfortable car to drive and these days it is available only with a petrol engine which is a major drawback.

Styling In the UK the 4x4 scene is about mud and bog holes. In the United States, it’s more about water crossings and rocky hill climbs. In this great land of ours, it’s likely to be a mix of both, with the Outback regarded as the pinnacle of off-road adventure. It’s a market dominated by Toyota in its many shapes and forms as we discovered on a trip to the Top End not so long ago, behind the wheel of a Prado wagon. Jeeps and Land Rovers are a comparatively rare sight on the corrugations of the Gibb River Road which stretches more than 600km between Broome and Kununurra in Western Australia. Conspicuously absent is the darling of the western suburbs, the Ford Ranger. Where does the Jeep Wrangler fit into this scenario? It’s very much a lifestyle choice, with the focus on play rather than work. It’s about going bush for the weekend, with the fam or your mates and maybe dirt bikes. When we started driving Jeeps, they had two doors and a cramped, emergency rear seat. Then the four-door Unlimited came along, opening up a whole new world. Since then, the market for 4x4 dual cab utes has exploded and they account for three of the top 10 selling vehicles in Australia. Jeep saw this coming and in June 2020 added the Gladiator (great name) to the mix, based on the four-door model, with a proper ladder chassis. Fast forward and we suspect Jeep is doing it tough, not off road but in the showrooms with sales well and truly down. You want a Wrangler, the lineup has been rationalised to just the one top-spec Rubicon grade, available in two- or four-door form with the occasional special edition thrown in to spice things up. There’s Wrangler Rubicon two-door ($81,990) and Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon four-door ($84,990), along with a four-door 85th Anniversary edition ($88,490). At the moment, there’s also a strictly limited edition four-door Rewind ($73,990) which at this price represents a good deal. On-road costs must be added to all of these prices. Premium paint adds $1490 to the cost and the Sky-One-Touch Power Top is a hefty $6450. With removable roof panels, the Wrangler is billed as a driving experience unlike anything else. It’s just getting these panels off and figuring out how to put them back on (and the time it takes) that is likely to deter the majority of people. Jeep’s website Visualiser encourages you to build your Jeep, with an accessory list that disappears over the horizon – but it could also be a big deterrent. It’s confusing, cumbersome and time consuming. Rubicon features 17-inch alloys with BF Goodrich off-road rubber, dual zone climate air with rear vents and heated leather seats along with a heated steering wheel. There’s also LED lighting front and back,

Jeep Wrangler is a car designed for roughing it, not an urban environment. (Pictures: Supplied)

LED daytime running lights, auto lights and wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror, plus front and rear parking sensors. Wrangler comes with a five-year/100,000km warranty, lifetime roadside assistance if you service the vehicle through Jeep and needs to be serviced every 12 months/12,000km.

Infotainment Infotainment consists of a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 7.0-inch driver info panel and nine-Speaker Alpine audio, with built-in navigation, Bluetooth phone and audio, AM/ FM/DAB+ radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The lower dash offers USB-C, USB-A and AUX ports, along with a 12-volt outlet. There’s another USB-A in the console box, plus two USB-A and USB-C ports in the back, together with a 240-volt outlet.

Safety Standard safety extends to four airbags (two front and two side), with Autonomous emergency braking (City and Interurban) and a blind spot monitor. There’s also Forward Collision Warning Plus, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Path Detection. Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK) systems are not available. Be aware, however, Wrangler is currently unrated for safety. The previous three-star rating expired in December last year.

Engines/transmissions The 2.0-litre turbo in question generates 200kW of power at 5250 rpm and 400Nm of torque from 3000-4500 rpm. Transmission is via a ZF eight-speed conventional auto with part-time high and low range four-wheel drive, plus auto engine-stop-start (to save fuel).

Driving What’s hurting Jeep more than anything is the demise of the diesel and in the case of Wrangler, its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol replacement. It gets along all right but, like the old Pentastar V6, is something of a sinkhole for gas – and it likes the good stuff – 95 premium unleaded. With an 81-litre tank Jeep quotes combined average fuel consumption at 10.2L/100km. Over the course of a week, we clocked up 940km in our test vehicle at a rate of 10.9L/100km.

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Of note it was the first time in a long time that we had to dip into the kitty to top up a vehicle which says something. To give this some perspective, in previous tests, a two-door Wrangler with the V6 returned 10.4L/100km and a Gladiator with the same engine 14.0L/100km. It’s simply not good enough. At 4882mm in length, Wrangler Unlimited is fairly compact, about 71cm shorter than Gladiator, with an 11.8-metre turning circle. Weighing in at 2154kg, aluminium is used to reduce weight and boost fuel consumption, including the doors, door hinges, hood, fender flares, windshield frame and tailgate. Hollow track and stabiliser bars, aluminium engine mounts and steering gear also help to reduce weight. It has a braked tow rating of 2495kg. Inside it’s a mix of new and old, with a traditional flat dash that contains a long 12.3-inch touchscreen in this iteration that’s better suited to the demands of CarPlay and Android Auto. The dash consists of old-style analogue instrument gauges that flank a 7.0-inch information panel, where speed can be displayed digitally. Getting in and out of the Wrangler takes some athleticism, due to its ride height and the small doors. The driver sits close to the wheel and the swap from left to right hand drive hasn’t been seamless, with a smaller driver’s side footwell that leaves little room for a proper footrest, making it uncomfortable to drive over long distances. With some negotiation you can slot your left foot to the side of the brake pedal and fold your right leg sideways under it, but after a while even that becomes cramped. There’s not much easily accessible cabin storage either. Sure, there’s the netted door pockets, but with so little room for expansion between the doors and seat sides, their capacity is severely limited. Placing our phone and wallet in the pocket, sitting one on top of each other, resulted in the power seat adjustment controls being suddenly activated as they were squeezed against them. LOL. Rear legroom is good and the boot is deep and reasonably sized, with a hidey-hole under the floor, a big Alpine subwoofer built into the side and a 12-volt socket for things like car fridges. Although the tailgate and window glass

open separately, the tailgate must be opened and closed first which kind of negates any practicality. Fitting a child seat is difficult because the headrests are not removable. Rubicon features a long list of 4x4 accessories, with a high/low range Rock-Trac Active On-Demand 4x4 system with a traditional, short stubby transfer lever. Highlights include heavy duty Dana axles, Tru-Lok front and rear electronic diff locks, electronic front sway-bar disconnect, 77.2:1 crawl ratio and Fox aluminium-bodied two-inch diameter shocks front and back. With an approach angle of 43.9 degrees, break over angle of 22.6 degrees, departure angle of 37.0 degrees and a ground clearance of 255mm, it has a wading depth of 760mm. An Off-Road+ Button automatically adjusts throttle, Selec-Speed Control, Traction Control, Transmission Shift Mode. It has two modes: 4HI for higher speed sand performance and 4LO for very low speed rock hopping manoeuvres Wrangler gets the ‘Trail Rated’ stamp of approval testifying to its 4x4 capabilities, but as we have shown previously – its meaning is somewhat dubious. It’s a feisty thing, fun to drive with a decent turn of speed, but we would have preferred a diesel. The steering is rubbery and it has a tendency to wander if left unchecked, but the ride is surprisingly compliant and unlikely to generate complaints. The chunky off-road rubber is just what you want for the rough stuff but sets up a helluva din at 110km/h on the motorway. Convex exterior mirrors make judging distance to objects difficult. You see one thing in the mirrors and another in the rear-view camera which is a trifle confusing.

Summing up The iconic styling is a big drawcard as is the Wrangler’s prodigious off-road ability. This is a car designed for roughing it. For getting scratched and dirty and going back for more the next week. What it’s not, is a car designed for the urban environment. It might look cool but the novelty will soon wear off and you’ll find yourself wanting something with a bit more comfort. Land Rover has shown you can do this with the new Defender and perhaps it’s time Jeep bit the bullet and introduced something safer and more comfortable?

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Laverton’s Sina Mason and Yarraville Seddon’s Akec Makur Chuot file for the mark. 574814_02

Werribee Centrals’ Anna Be is tackled. 574813_22

Yarraville Seddon’s Susan Prashanth. 574814_06

Finals action in full flight The sun was out as finals football ramped up another level on Saturday. Star Weekly

photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action.

Wyndhamvale’s Jessica Spall. 574813_02

Yarraville Seddon’s Zachary O’Halloran. _574819_03

Caroline Springs’ Tyler Gysberts. 574819_08

Just out of reach for West Footscray’s Archie Lorimer. 574818_17

North Footscray’s Samuel Gunesekera. 574818_20

Westmeadows’ Francis Keenan. 574816_11

Westmeadows celebrate a goal. 574816_24

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Lakers into the grand final By Tara Murray After some near misses, Caroline Springs will play off in its first Western Netball League division 1 grand final. After finishing as minor premiers last season, the Lakers were knocked out in straight sets. With a few key additions, the Lakers again claimed the minor premiership again this year. There would be no repeat of 12 months earlier, with the Lakers defeating Albanvale Cobras Blue in a qualifying final, 62-41. Lakers’ netball coordinator Nadine Oborne said it was a really good feeling for the group. “How exciting?” she said. “It’s the first grand final for the division 1 girls. They’ve played finals before but this is the first division 1 grand final which is huge.

“The girls are pumped.” Oborne said the group had worked really hard after last year to come back and be even better. Some key recruits in the attacking end also paid dividends. The Lakers finished the regular season with nine wins from the nine games they played to finish on top of the ladder, percentage ahead of the Cobras. It meant a bye in the first week of the finals before the two sides faced off in the qualifying final. Oborne said it was a really good performance from the group. “It was a convincing win,” she said. “We started off poorly in the first quarter. Charlize Bellette then turned it on and was unstoppable. “She is up and coming in netball and she’s in the Netball Victoria pathway top 25.

It’s been a strong season for Caroline Springs division 1 and 2 sides. (Supplied)

“She’s hitting her peak at the right time of the year.” Oborne said Bellette had benefited from the leadership of former Super Netball player Rahni Samson this season, helping her really grow as a player. Samson was the biggest signing for the competition heading into this year.

The Lakers had the week off and will face the winner of Albanvale Cobras Blue and Hawks Sapphire. Oborne said it was about making sure they stuck to the routine and the basics in the week off and go from there. The Lakers division 2 and 3 sides played in preliminary finals on Friday night. The division 2 side won through to the grand final. Oborne said it would be the first time they’ve had more than one team in a grand final in the same year if those teams were to get through. “It will be huge,” she said of having more than one team in the grand final. “Our division 2 and 3 sides have a lot of young girls. In division 3, the majority are 16 to 21, it’s a really young team. “They are really making their mark and it’s promising for the future of the club.”

Sports shorts VTCA Caroline Springs has turned to a familiar face to guide its women’s side for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association women’s season. The Falcons announced that Winston Lawrence would take on the role. “’Winnie’ requires no introduction to Town Centre Reserve having made his mark on our club as a player, we are eager to see how he can shape the next generation of young female cricketers at the Falcons,” the club said on social media. “A proven winner, terrific communicator and all round leader, we are supremely confident Winnie will instil his wisdom and cricket knowledge on our young playing group, who are raring to go for another summer.”

BNL

Callum Moore. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 546093_06

Burras’ stunning win secures granny berth By Tara Murray Diggers Rest went storming into the Riddell District Football League grand final, as star forward Callum Moore kicked his 100th goal for the season. The major semi final between the Burras and Riddell proved to be one way traffic for most of the game, with the Burras stamping their authority early. The margin was 42 points at quarter time and it continued to grow throughout the rest of the game. With the win locked up at half time, the Burras later in the game turned their attention to helping Moore kick his 100th goal. He finished with 11 goals for the game, with the final goal seeing the crowd spill onto the ground to celebrate the big milestone. Burras’ coach Shaun Campbell said they were just happy to make sure they locked in a grand final spot. “It’s super pleasing after last year and

how we finished,” he said. “It’s good to finally be in one, they are hard to get into and they are even harder to win.” Campbell said they were confident heading into the game but never thought the result would be as one-sided as it was. “We’re finding some good form at the right time of the year,” he said. “We’re gelling together and doing the small things right and it makes doing my role as a coach easy.” Campbell said there was no conversation as a team about trying to get Moore his 100th goal once the game was in hand. He said speaking with Moore himself, he knew he would like to get it done and not have that hanging over his head in the grand final. “When we did get that far in front we did try and help him out,” Campbell said. “There was a bit of relief. He should have got it done a few weeks ago, as he’s kicked a lot of points throughout the year and left a lot of points out there.”

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Campbell said it was big for the league to have someone kick 100 goals and it was a different feeling having the supporters jump the fence to celebrate. “I’ve only seen that at AFL level and it was a bit of fun for everyone,” he said. Marcus Calvaresi kicked four goals for the Burras, while Josh Wallace kicked three. Jaidyn Caruana, Moore and Brad Sluggett were named their best. For the Bombers, Callum Williamson and Jacob Chahine were named their best. Campbell said they were able to pull a few guys off late in preparation for the grand final and everyone got through unscathed which was a big thing. The Burras now have the week off before the grand final. Campbell said the week off would help them. “We’re banged up and got some sore bodies,” he said. “You will also take the week off when you can get it. “We’ll freshen up and go again.”

Bacchus Marsh has reappointed Nichole Gleeson as its coach in the Ballarat Netball League. “Following a challenging season impacted by injuries, the club saw great potential within our playing group across all grades,” the club said. “We are confident that Nichole is the right person to continue building on that potential and help move our netball program forward. With a strong focus on player development, growth and creating a positive team culture, Nichole’s vision continues to align with the direction of our club.”

GDCA Diggers Rest Bulla has signed Nathan Achison for the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield season. Achison joins the Burras from Coronet City after an outstanding season with the bat, scoring 488 runs at an average of 40.67, including an unbeaten 106. “A powerful left-hander, Nathan will add plenty of firepower to our batting line-up and will be a dangerous addition at the crease,” the Burras said. “He also showed his versatility with the ball, claiming 15 wickets at 16.33, while his strong fielding and safe pair of hands make him a valuable all-round addition.”

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Georgies miss the finals By Tara Murray There was no final miracle this year for Caroline Springs George Cross as it narrowly missed out on the National Premier League finals. The Georgies needed to beat South Melbourne in the final round on Saturday and hoped results went their way to sneak into the top six. While they finished with a 1-0 win, the other results didn’t fall their way. It meant the Georgies finished the season in seventh spot, one point outside the top six. For coach Eric Vassiliadis it was a bittersweet ending to the season. He said they had been playing to the

soccer gods, but it didn’t fall their way. “We’ve got a real history of doing well in the big games and in the end,” he said. “Extremely disappointed that we didn’t get there in the end, as our aspiration was to play finals, but you have to be proud of the players, and the staff. “They have been immense and never stopped believing and I think it’s given us a taste of what it takes and it’s important that the club goes to another level.” Vassiliadis said the playing group had given the absolute maximum that they could have gotten out of them in terms of mentality, energy and commitment. He said they also showed they belonged back in the top level. “As a coaching staff we showed a tacti-

cal maturity and a way of playing, a style of play that led to us losing only six games all year,” he said. “I don’t think we lost a game to anybody out of the top six and we beat three teams in the top six. “With 11 draws, I think the boys can be extremely proud of their outcomes, maybe a little bit more luck with some big decisions that went against us. “It’s fine lines, extremely proud.” Vassiliadis said they were happy with how they finished the season against South Melbourne, which will play finals. He said they had set a solid platform for next year. Vassiliadis said the supporters who had been there all year, had been a big

part in what they’ve achieved in recent seasons. “When we started this project seven years ago, as a club we had a vision that a strong George Cross would be good for the NPL. “We believe that vision was achieved. We think the club brings something special, from a football perspective we want more and we are disappointed. In other results, Green Gully finished with a 2-1 win against Melbourne City. The win moves the Cavaliers off the bottom of the table, but they will still be relegated. St Albans finished with a 6-0 win against the Dandenong Thunder. The Saints finished in ninth.

Rising badminton star loves the fast pace By Peter Howe As Australia was coming out of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Luo family in Point Cook took to a nearby hall for exercise. This month’s Don Deeble nominee, Wanjiao Luo, who was barely eight years old, became very curious about badminton as it was played in the hall. “It was super fun and I met so many new people who I still play with today,” reflects Luo. “I tried a few other sports, including swimming, ballet and I even tried soccer for a year, but none were as enticing as badminton. “On court you must work out your opponent, it’s fast paced and I am extremely competitive. I love to compete.” Having fallen in love with the sport, Luo won her first tournament in a team event when she was 10. It was a national tournament making it more special. “I was so proud,” she recalls. “My friends joke with me that I should have a bed in the badminton centre. I love it so much. “It really is my second home.” Luo’s weekly training routine includes three, three-hour training sessions, a yoga session and running sessions. She trains six days a week before spending Sundays with her family. Luo runs about five kilometres, often with her father, at least once a week to improve her stamina for those long-fought games on court. When asked about her strengths, Luo said, “I like to change things up a lot to catch my opponents off-guard. “My consistency is improving as I mature and become more stable as a player. “I try to take the emotion out of my oncourt play, I don’t even hear the spectators around the court when I play, I am so zoned in.” Luo competes in singles, doubles and mixed doubles. She has a few Victorian titles in each format. However, it was her first national title in 2024 in the under-13 titles as an 11-yearold that brought her to prominence. Then as a 13-year-old Luo won both the singles and doubles under-15 national titles and won bronze in the mixed doubles. Earlier this year, Luo was awarded the Julie McDonald Trophy by Badminton Victoria as the most improved junior female player of the year. As under-15 national champion, Luo has met the criteria for the Badminton Australia’s Junior Falcon program, but at 13 is too young. She must wait until she turns 14 next year to join the Junior Falcons.

Montana Holmes. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 546151_07

Devils sneak home

Wanjiao Luo. (@adamcyf_production)

Luo’s sporting hero is Taiwan’s Tai Tzuying and she wants to emulate many of her strengths. Luo has just returned from a training camp in China with her coach Nelson Oon. “The opportunity to train and play like a professional player was exciting,” she said. “We trained and played alongside champion badminton players from all over China. “These experiences will hopefully improve my badminton quickly.” While Luo has recently returned from overseas, she believes Australian badminton players lack overseas experience. “Badminton is not a major sport in this country, we need exposure to overseas players and competition,” she said. “The two things I have loved about

travelling is testing myself against the best and equally making new friends.” Currently in year 7 at Alamanda P-9 College, Luo has her sights firmly set on the Olympic stage, perhaps even Brisbane in 2032. “Right now however, it’s about improving day-by-day, trying to find the balance between family, sport and education and of course to keep winning tournament titles, after all I am very competitive.” The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers. If you would like to nominate a monthly winner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail. com or 0408 556 631.

Darley held off North Ballarat in a thrilling Ballarat Netball League qualifying final win on Saturday. Playing to keep the double chance and have the best possibility to make the grand final, the two top sides didn’t disappoint. It was goal-for-goal in the first quarter, with North Ballarat leading by one goal at quarter-time. North Ballarat managed to get the lead out to four goals early in the second quarter, which would be a game high margin. Darley came back and took the lead before the two sides traded it again, with North Ballarat leading by one goal at half-time Darley got out to a three-goal lead late in the third quarter before this time it was North Ballarat that settled and got the margin back. The Devils led by one goal at the last break. The Devils got back out to a threegoal lead midway through the last quarter and looked like they might finally break North Ballarat. There was still another twist with North Ballarat getting the margin back to one goal on a number of occasions, but could never level the scores. It was able to create a turnover late as the Devils tried to take time off the clock in the last minute of the game. The ball hit the edge of North Ballarat’s shooting circle as the final whistle went, with the Devils able to hold on 43-42. Olivia Cawthray shot 41 goals for the Devils in the win. The Devils will face Lake Wendouree in the major semi-final, with a grand final spot on the line. The Lakers beat Ballarat in an elimination final, 53-49.

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Darley on the field. (Darley FNC)

Darley celebrates four in a row. (Darley FNC)

Ruby Thomas and Trinity Skenderis. (Darley FNC)

Four-peat for lucky Devils By Tara Murray Darley stamped itself into history as it won a fourth straight Ballarat Football League women’s grand final. Having beaten Redan in the past three deciders, it was cross-town rivals Bacchus Marsh that stood in the way of another premiership. The Cobras had beaten the Devils twice during the season and had been the first team through to the grand final. While the Devils were playing in a fifth straight grand final, it was grand final number one for the Cobras. Cobras’ Danyel Waters, who joined the club this year, said it was a magnificent day for the club. “It’s unheard of,” she said. “We’re part of a very small inclusive club to have a four-peat. “From my research, only two women’s sides have done it in the past, Darebin Falcons in the 1990s-early 2000s and Castlemaine. “It’s a big testament to the club.” Waters said the conversation following the match was about the program and the culture that the club has built its success on. Half the team were playing in their first grand final. “It’s not based on individual players, but rather the whole team and the program,”

Waters said. “It’s an exceptional program and I’m fortunate to be heading up this program. Once the match started, the Devils kicked the only goal of the first quarter before they kicked three goals to one in the second quarter to lead by 16 points at half time. Waters said they had wanted to get off to a fast start, knowing that the Cobras had a lot of fire power and it was their first grand final. Having been in front in their past two finals, the Devils knew what they needed to do to ensure victory. A further two goals in the third quarter opened up a match-winning lead of 31 points at three quarter time. Waters said speaking with the playing group heading into the final quarter, they gave them two options on how they wanted to play out the game. “We didn’t want to take the foot off the pedal in the third quarter,” she said. “We said we would reassess in the last quarter. We gave them two options: to keep playing that fast run-and-carry game, or we could slow it down and controlled. “It was a resounding message, they were so pumped up and they wanted to keep doing what they had been and run it out. “It was lethal.” It was party time late in the game for the Devils as they enjoyed the moment.

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A three goal to two final quarter saw the Devils win, 9.10 (64)-3.7 (25). Ruby Thomas kicked three goals for the Devils, while Kim Bessell and Leivi Lane kicked two goals apiece. Thomas was awarded best on ground by the umpires. League best and fairest winner Trinity Skenderis was awarded the AFL Victoria best on ground medal. The Devils named Lane, Sharni Battye and Mikayla Tito as their best. Waters said the performance of co-captain Charlotte Hill was a pretty special one as well. She fractured her ribs in the preliminary final and was in doubt to play in the grand final. “She missed out last year with a fracture in the foot,” Waters said, “The intention was to play her on the wing and be the free player. She was able to do that at half capacity.” Emmerson Hitch, Kim Bessell and Natalie Wilks have played in all four premierships. All three have been part of all five grand finals. Bessell has been the spearhead up forward for a number of years, while Hitch took on a new role trying to shut down the opposition’s best player. Madalyn Clarke, Sarah Tabone and Tahlia Tschujasehenko have now won three pre-

mierships. For Waters, it caps off what has been a massive year. She coached the interleague side, was named coach of the year and is now a premiership coach. “I don’t know how I’ve pulled it off,” she said. “It couldn’t have been a better season and it’s a career highlight.” For the Cobras, Remy Day, Melanie Freeman and Jamie-Lee Speakman hit the scoreboard. Freeman, Speakman and Matilda Rawlings were named the Cobras best in the loss. It was a tough day all round for the Cobras with their under-19 girls side also falling short. Facing North Ballarat, the Cobras lost 8.7 (55)-2.3 (15). North Ballarat dominated throughout having kicked three goals to none in the first quarter to set the match up. In the under-14 junior girls, Darley lost to North Ballarat, 3.2 (20)-0.0 (0). Waters said they were proud of the under-14 girls who closed the gap from the last time the two teams met. While the celebrations are still underway at Darley Park, there’s already one eye on trying to go for premiership number five. “Some of the players are already saying they can’t wait for pre-season,” Waters said.

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Devils, Bloods knocked out By Tara Murray It’s season over for Darley and Melton in the Ballarat Football League, with both suffering losses in the opening round of finals. For the Devils, their premiership defence came to an end at the hands of the Sunbury Lions, who they beat in last year’s decider. The Devils had held the wood over the Lions the past couple of years, but they were able to turn the table on Sunday in the elimination final at Darley Park. The Lions led by nine points at quarter time before extending the margin to 16 points at the main break. The Lions’ straight kicking was the difference at the main break, with Lions coach

Matt White said the Devils had played some really good football, but hadn’t made the most of their chances. A five-goal-to-none third quarter allowed the Lions to open up a 45-point lead into the final quarter. While the margin was a handy one, the Devils had come from behind before to beat the Lions. The Lions kicked the first three goals of the final quarter to snuff out any hopes of a Darley comeback, despite the Devils throwing a number of different things at the Lions. The Lions ran away with a 17.12 (114)6.10 (46) win. Will Johnson kicked three goals for the

Devils. Zane Le Huray, Lachlan George and Nick Hind were named the Devils best. Melton’s finals campaign came to an end a day earlier as it lost to Ballarat in the other elimination final. It was hard going early with only one goal kicked in the first quarter. The Swans kicked four goals to one in the second quarter to then lead by 26 points at the main break. The game opened up a bit more in the third quarter as the Swans increased the lead to 40 points heading into the final quarter. The Bloods were able to win the final quarter but it was too late, with the Swans

winning 14.10 (94)-8.13 (61). Braedan Kight kicked two goals for the Bloods and was their only multiple goalkicker. Jaycob Hickey, Billy Crofts and Caleb Burquest were named the Bloods best. The Swans will now face Sebastopol for a spot in the grand final, while the Sunbury Lions will face North Ballarat in the knockout semi final. Sebastopol won a thriller in the qualifying final, 14.11 (95)-13.13 (91). In the reserves, Bacchus Marsh lost to qualifying final to Ballarat by a point. It will now play Ballarat in a knockout semi final. The Cobras under-18.5s were knocked out.

Triple Eight wins popular battle By John Dunne

Zen Christofi. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 574819_06

Lakers need to lift to keep flag dream alive By Luke D’Anello Caroline Springs face a must-win clash this weekend to keep their Western Football League division 1 premiership dream alive after falling short in Saturday’s qualifying final. The Lakers conceded 10 goals to five after quarter-time in an 18-point loss to Yarraville-Seddon, 11.11 (77)-8.11 (59), and will face Albion in a sudden-death semi-final on Sunday. Brian Lake’s side trailed by just three points at the final change at Hogans Road Reserve before the Eagles booted three unanswered goals in the last term to set up an appointment with minor premiers Werribee Districts. “We were really good in the first quarter. Our pressure was really good. We linked with hands and it was a good battle in the first quarter and all game really,” Caroline Springs football director Shaun Rainer said. “But we dropped intensity in the second quarter and allowed a couple of their guys to get off the chain a little.

“We came back into it in the third and were still in it right up until the end. I don’t know whether we deserved to be or not. I haven’t seen the Premier Data stats yet, but I reckon our kicking efficiency and all of that will be lower than what we expect and where we set our standards at. I think we turned the footy over a lot and allowed them to rebound from it.” The Lakers entered the clash on a fivegame winning run and claimed victory in both games against Yarraville-Seddon during the home-and-away campaign. But that mattered little on Saturday, with Rainer pointing to several close contests between the teams in recent years in what is a burgeoning rivalry. Caroline Springs co-captain Max Tessari led from the front and was his team’s best in the defeat. Alexander Paech, Bailey Raak, Reece Blackman, Zen Christofi and Tyler Gysberts also worked hard, while co-captain Cooper Pepi and Malik Elfakahani contributed two goals apiece. “We had a few guys who just had moments in the game, but probably not long

enough moments,” Rainer said. Albion, who finished fifth, advanced after knocking off Parkside by 20 points in Sunday’s elimination final at Braybrook’s Skinner Reserve. The Cats took the points against the Lakers when they clashed in round 11, prevailing by 15 points in a high-scoring contest. “They’ve got a real quality midfield and quality across all lines, but their midfield’s really strong, so we need to be prepared,” Rainer said. However, while Caroline Springs will need to take the long way to achieve back-to-back grand final appearances, Rainer agreed the evenness of the top flight gave them hope of going one step further than 2025. “It’s a really even comp this year and if you don’t bring it for four quarters, which is what happened (on Saturday) … you get found out,” he said. “If we don’t bring four quarters of football next week, that’ll be the same, and if we’re lucky enough to go on further than that, we just have to bring it every week.”

The clash between two of the state’s most popular horses, Bulletproof Boy and Triple Eight, provided one of the highlights of Saturday night at Melton. Heading into Saturday night’s Free For All, the two 11-year-olds had a combined 426 race starts for 85 wins. Sent out the $1.80 favourite, Bulletproof Boy settled towards the rear of the field before James Herbertson sooled the ‘people’s champion’ to the lead with 1600 metres to travel. Triple Eight was eased out three wide by Jordan Leedham with 500 metres to travel, and the son of American Ideal loomed up ominously around the home turn as Bulletproof Boy tried to steal a winning break. Bulletproof Boy was unable to withstand the trademark finishing burst of Triple Eight ($26), who surged away over the concluding stages to score by four metres in a mile rate of 1:53.9. Leedham admitted he was happy when Bulletproof Boy ran to the lead, ensuring a genuine tempo. “When Herbie took off and injected a bit of speed into it, I was sort of giggling to myself knowing that would bring us into it a lot more,” Leedham said. “He was absolutely jogging at the 600 (metres) and I tried to wait as long as I could, but he was travelling that well and as soon as I let him rip, he never felt like getting beaten,” he said. The Jess Tubbs-trained Triple Eight is nearing the $1m mark in prizemoney, having amassed more than $972,000 after Saturday night’s win. The John Tormey-trained fouryear-old Karbine made amends for his narrow defeat at Melton a fortnight ago when he outstayed his rivals in the Vicbred Voucher Trot. Jack Laugher wasn’t happy with the leisurely tempo and sent Karbine forward from last to sit parked outside the leader Distant Sun shortly after the start. Karbine ($8) forged to the lead around the home turn before scoring by three metres from Centurion Dream and Distant Sun. Laugher said he needed to make a forward move early in the race. “There wasn’t as much speed out of the gate as I thought there was going to be, so I had to put him in the race. We had no hope from back there,” Laugher said.

Tuesday, 1 September, 2026 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

Saturday 5th September 2026, 11am to 3pm

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