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WEDNESDAY, 9 SEPTEMBER, 2026

Photobook captures tense times

Footscray photographer Alister McKeich with his photobook CODE3011 which he is launching on 11 September. (Damjan Janevski) 573365_03

On April 17, 2025, Somali man Abdifatah Ahmed was shot dead during an altercation with police in Footscray’s central precinct. In the weeks after, local resident and journalist Alister ‘Ali MC’ McKeich wandered the tense, grimacing streets with film camera in hand. Protests, people, police and urban landscapes blur into a grainy black and white chronicle of a suburb under siege in CODE3011, McKeich’s photobook documenting this period which is being launched on 11 September. “My photography aims to capture more moods than literal documentation, so the book is just a representation of that really short time period after that police shooting,” McKeich said of the images, which were captured over a six week period beginning the night after Mr Ahmed was killed. Work and travel commitments meant it wasn’t until this year that McKeich finally got the book together. CODE3011 will be launched at Toni the Barber, 164 Barkly Street, Footscray at 7.30pm Friday 11 September.

Save McIvor trees By Cade Lucas

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Scarves will be wrapped around trees in Yarraville park this weekend to protest their potential removal to make way for a new basketball stadium. The Wrap the Bark, Save the Park event will be held this Sunday, 13 September in McIvor Reserve, the proposed location of Maribyrnong council’s $60 million new indoor sports facility. Organised by Friends of McIvor Reserve (FOMR), the event will involve scarves knitted by locals being wrapped around 132 trees that will have to be cut down in order for the stadium to be built.

FOMR spokesperson Miles Parnall-Gilbert said the idea behind wrapping scarves around the trees was to demonstrate how much the local community valued open green space and the environment. “Protecting our trees and parkland is a positive way for the community to show how much we love what little parkland we still have,” Mr Parnall-Gilbert said, adding that FOMR wasn’t against the stadium, just the location, arguing that a brownfield site would be better. Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra said no brownfield sites were deemed suitable for the stadium and building on

one would be too expensive. “The cost to our community to transform a brownfield site into a suitable place for an indoor sports facility, before building the stadium, is overwhelming,” Cr Semra said. The Westgate Basketball Association has been campaigning for a new stadium for years, claiming its existing home at RecWest Braybrook is outdated and doesn’t have enough courts to meet increasing demand. General manager Sarah Simpson said Maribyrnong council’s revised master plan for the proposed facility, released in June, showed that a good outcome for open space and a new stadium weren’t mutually

exclusive. “It retains around 20 more trees than the original master plan concept, and council has committed to planting two replacement trees for every one removed,” Ms Simpson said. “There’s room here for both green space and the facility, and the facility itself will benefit thousands of people across basketball, netball and volleyball, not just our basketball association.” The stadium proposal remains unfunded. Details: https://c.org/WnB6CLDD2F

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Green space no go for works By Cade Lucas Hobsons Bay council has told the level crossing removal project authority (LXRP) to forget about using nearby sporting facilities while removing the Spotswood level crossing at Hudsons Road. In its planning submission to the Spotswood level crossing removal project, endorsed at its meeting on 25 August, council expressed support for the project overall, but highlighted concerns with aspects of its design, traffic impacts and lack of public toilets, adequate lighting and CCTV. However, the inclusion of local sporting facilities and green space within the project boundaries was rejected outright.

“Council is opposed to the use of Donald McLean Reserve and the West Gate Golf Course by the project and should not be progressed or considered as suitable sites,” the submission read. “These locations have experienced significant and prolonged impacts associated with the West Gate Tunnel Project, including land loss, construction disruption, restricted access, reduced amenity, and operational impacts over an extended period. Further temporary or permanent use of these sites would exacerbate existing impacts and create a further burden on the local community and sporting clubs onsite.” Donald McLean Reserve is home to

both the Spotswood football and cricket clubs, while the West Gate Golf Course is located next door. While not home to any sports clubs, council also expressed its opposition to Fred Goldsmith Reserve on Craig Street being used for “project purposes”, arguing it would result in the loss of trees and green space and spark a community backlash. “This risk is heightened given the recent community opposition associated with current LXRP works, where tree removals adjacent to construction sites and residential properties generated significant concern and negative press.” The nearby Yarraville and Newport LX-

RPs have resulted in significant community opposition. However, speaking in favour of the submission, Cr Michael Disbury said his experience as local ward councillor for Newport during the campaign against the LXRP there, was that the authority didn’t compromise. “They’ve just ridden roughshod over everyone,”Cr Disbury said. An LXRP spokesperson said the concerns of local residents were being taken into account. “Community feedback is helping to shape the final design, which will be released ahead of major construction starting next year,” the spokesperson said.

Roadmap to address racism

Mini Folks Market co-owners Shannen Mills and Morgane Laforet are holding their first baby and kids market in the inner west in Altona North on 13 September. (Damjan Janevski) 575069_02

Mini market to make west debut A travelling kids clothing market is coming to the inner west for the first time. The Mini Folks Market will be held at the Westgate Indoor Sports Centre in Altona North on 13 September, the first time the mobile baby and kids clothing market will be set up on the other side of the West Gate Bridge. “Basically we are extending our market into different suburbs of Melbourne and also regional Victoria,” Mini Folks Market co-owner Morgane Laforet said of the move. “We’ve had lots of people asking for

us to bring the market to the western suburbs and the inner-west, so that’s why we chose Altona.” Running from 9am-1pm, the market will feature a range of stalls. “Everything will be kids-related,” Ms Laforet said. Handmade, small brands, we also have pre-loved kids stuff.” And while parents are shopping for their young ones, there’ll be plenty of entertainment options to keep their kids occupied. “We will have face painting, hair braiding, messy play, soft play. It’s

a good day out for the parents actually,” Laforet said, adding that the day will also be good for them financially. “It’s mainly based on sustainability and supporting small business and anything second hand,” she said of the clothing on offer. “There will be some nicer brands I guess, but it’s mostly pretty affordable.” A small entry fee will apply, but kids will get in free. Details: https://www.minifolksmarket.com.au/

Rayane Hawli honoured for courageous contributions to council Hobsons Bay councillor Rayane Hawli has been honoured at the Victorian Local Governance Association’s (VLGA) Mary Rogers Awards for women in local government. The Altona North ward representative and former deputy mayor took out the Emerging Woman Leader category at the 2026 awards announced at a ceremony on Thursday 3 September. Named after Mary Rogers – the first woman to be elected to a Victorian Municipal Council (City of Richmond 19201925) – the awards were first launched by the VLGA last year to celebrate and

acknowledge contributions and achievements of women councillors. The judges said Cr Hawli had proven herself to be an inspiring role model since being elected in 2024 as the first Lebanese woman on Hobsons Bay council. Cr Hawli was also credited for her courage in championing women’s leadership and advocating for human rights, social housing, refugees, transport, sport and inclusion. “I’m incredibly grateful to have received this award and to have been nominated alongside so many remarkable women in local government,” Cr Hawli said of the

2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 9 September, 2026

honour. “Mary Rogers refused to accept that there wasn’t a place for women in public life, and I hope to honour her legacy by helping create more space for women from diverse backgrounds to contribute, lead and make a difference in our communities.” Stonnington councillor Melina Sehr was named the 2026 winner of the Mary Rogers Award, the top honour for women in local government in Victoria, while Brimbank (metro) and Mildura Rural (rural-regional) councils were both recognised as Gender Equality Council Champions.

More than 80 per cent of those surveyed for a major anti-racism report in Maribyrnong said they’d experienced racism in the municipality, with more than two thirds experiencing it in the past year. Undertaken as part of the Maribyrnong Anti-Racism Project, a collaboration between Maribyrnong council and Victoria University, the survey of 102 people who live, work, study or spend significant time in Maribyrnong, and identify with communities affected by racism, found 81 per cent reported experiencing it across employment, education and public spaces. Ranging from verbal abuse and discrimination to threats and even physical abuse, the incidents of racism occurred most commonly in the workplace (57 per cent), followed by public transport (49 per cent), shopping centres (44 per cent), streets (42 per cent), social media (35 per cent), and education (3 per cent in schools, 27 per cent in tertiary institutions). However, just 15 per cent of those who reported experiencing racism had ever formally reported it, with respondents nominating a lack of awareness about how and where to do so, and fears of negative consequences and being seen as a troublemaker, as some of the reasons why. The project’s findings were included in The Intercultural Maribyrnong: Inclusion, Belonging and Social Cohesion Report endorsed by Maribyrnong council at its August meeting. Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra said the findings reinforced the need for action. “We cannot accept racism as simply part of everyday life,” Cr Semra said. “We need to keep building a community where people feel safe to speak up, know where to get support and have confidence that their experiences will be taken seriously.“ The report features an anti-racism roadmap for Maribyrnong that aims to address the problem by identifying six areas for action: celebrating cultural diversity and recognition of First Nations peoples; public anti-racism messaging; anti-racism education and training; local reporting and support; cross-sector partnerships and community engagement; and stronger accountability for racism. “This roadmap gives us a practical foundation to work alongside our communities and partners to prevent racism, strengthen support and improve accountability,” Cr Semra continued. The findings of the Maribyrnong Anti-Racism Project can be found at :https:// rb.gy/ky36zk To report racism and get help: https:// short.do/k3i6nN

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Housing tower tops out By Cade Lucas A seven-storey social and affordable housing development in Maribyrnong has been topped out, less than a year after first breaking ground. A topping out ceremony was held at the VincentCare Community Housing project on Thomas Holmes Street on Wednesday 3 September, marking the highest point of the building being reached and the end of the construction work on the structure itself. Fraser MP and Assistant Treasurer Dr Daniel Mulino and Special Envoy for Social Housing Josh Burns were both present at the

ceremony held on the roof of the $68.8 million building, which the federal government has funded through Housing Australia. Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra was also in attendance, as were representatives from the St Vincent De Paul Society Victoria, which will manage the 83-apartment building through its VincentCare Community Housing (VCCH) subsidiary. With work on the building itself now complete, workers will turn their attention to fitting out the interior before the first residents move in in February next year. St Vincent de Paul Victoria acting chief executive Irfan Ali said that for those who

have been homeless or are fleeing domestic violence, the building will provide something most people take for granted. “Security. Security, safety and dignity. A place to call home,” Mr Ali said. Mr Burns said the apartments would also provide affordable housing for essential workers, in a great part of Melbourne. “People like single parents and other working parents who need affordable homes are gonna be able to live in this incredible place,” he said. The topping out of the apartment building comes less than 12 months after the first sod was turned on 24 September last year.

Housing Australia chief executive Scott Langford said the progress since then reflected the strength of partnership between the organisation, the federal government, and St Vincent De Paul Victoria. “Together, we’re supporting the delivery of high-quality homes that will provide greater housing security and opportunity for Victorians,” Mr Langford said. “This milestone is an important step towards providing safe, secure housing for Victorians, and demonstrates what can be achieved when the government and the community housing sector work together towards a shared goal.”

Greg Ferrington of West Footscray has received two kidney transplants and is encouraging people register as organ donors to help even more transplants take place. (supplied)

Greg urges others to give organ gift

Chief executive of Inherited Cancers Australia, Sarah Powell, features in the documentary Conquering Breast Cancer which will be screened in Yarraville on 16 September. (supplied)

Cancer conquerors share survival stories Given that nine Australians still die from it every day, imagining a world without breast cancer isn’t easy, but a new documentary to be screened at the Sun Theatre in Yarraville invites viewers to do just that. Conquering Breast Cancer is the third instalment of the Conquering Cancer documentary series and features powerful survivor stories from the likes of Olympian Raelene Boyle, while also detailing progress made in improving survival rates for Australia’s second most common cancer. Among those who feature in the docu-

mentary is Yarraville local and chief executive of Inherited Cancers Australia, Sarah Powell, who said looking back on how far breast cancer treatment had come made prevention and even elimination seem possible. “A world with absolutely no cancer may be an ambitious goal, but a world where far fewer people develop or die from cancer is something worth working towards,” said Ms Powell, herself a breast cancer survivor. As the leader of Inherited Cancers Australia, Ms Powell said the documentary

showing how people can use genetic information to get ahead of cancer was particularly important. “You see some of the raw and very real decisions people make around screening, preventative surgery and their families, and I don’t think we see that side of cancer talked about nearly enough.” Ms Powell will join oncologist Professor Mark Shackleton for a panel discussion following the screening at the Sun Theatre on 16 September at 6.30pm. Bookings: https://tinyurl.com/k9a2v25t

Hobsons Bay council apologises for rates levy mistake Hobsons Bay council has apologised for an error in rates notices issued last month that resulted in property owners being undercharged for the state government’s new fire services levy. Correct rates notices were issued by council on Tuesday 2 September after the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund (ESVF) levy shown on rates notices sent in August was found to be incorrectly calculated. “We sincerely apologise for this error and any confusion or inconvenience

it may have caused,” a statement from Hobsons Bay council read. “Residential ratepayers could expect to receive an additional average charge of $82,” a council spokesperson added. Hobsons Bay council confirmed that it was only the ESVF levy that was incorrectly calculated and that no ratepayers were overcharged as a result. The ESVF levy is collected by councils on behalf of the state government, and consists of a fixed charge plus a variable rate based on a property’s capital im-

proved value (CIV). For the 2026-27 financial year the fixed ESVF charge for residential properties is $139 with a variable rate of 17.3 cents per $1000 of CIV, while for most non-residential properties it’s $282 and 133.0 cents. The state government introduced the ESVF levy in July last year to replace the Fire Services Property levy. Hobsons Bay was one of a number of councils that opposed its introduction.

West Footscray resident Greg Ferrington knows more about the importance of organ donation than most. The 62-year-old retired social worker is the recipient of not one, but two kidney transplants which have saved his life after suffering end-stage renal failure. “The first one was in 1991 and that lasted 17 years and then the second one was in 2013 after five years of dialysis,” Mr Ferrington said of his transplants which have both been brought about by Alport syndrome, a rare condition that attacks the blood vessels in the kidneys. Given it’s genetic, kidney transplants have become something of a Ferrington family tradition. “My father and two brothers also had transplants,” Mr Ferrington said. But none of these transplants would be possible without kidney donors and Mr Ferrington is urging his neighbours in the inner-west to register to become organ and tissue donors so that others can benefit from transplants like he has. I’ve always seen both transplants as a gift. I was lucky to receive them,” he said. Currently, there are about 2000 Australians waiting for their own slice of luck through an organ donation, while an additional 14,000 people are on dialysis for kidney failure, something Ferrington also has an intimate knowledge of. “I’d do dialysis three times a week and you’re limited to one litre of fluid per day which is pretty limiting.” Remarkably, Ferrington managed to keep working during his last period on the waitlist while also travelling overseas and getting dialysis in whichever country he managed to be in. While he got by, Mr Ferrington is glad those dialysis days are over. Or at least he hopes they are. Register as an organ donor through Medicare or at donatelife.gov.au

Wednesday, 9 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 3

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Pause crossing works: Locals By Cade Lucas Opponents of the Yarraville level crossing removal project will take their campaign to the streets on Sunday 20 September, with a rally near the train station on Anderson Street. The ‘Save Yarraville Village Rally’ is being organised by community group LXRAY Anderson Street Champions as part of its campaign calling on the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) to stop and review the project. A petition launched by the group has attracted more than 2200 signatures. Unlike most other level crossing re-

movals which have involved rail lines being either lower or elevated in order to separate them from traffic, the Yarraville project will keep the Werribee line tracks where they are and close the western part of Anderson Street to traffic to create a pedestrian plaza. Two tunnels, one next to the station and the other 170 metres to the north near Murray Street, will be dug to provide pedestrian and cycling access, with excavation of the northern underpass requiring the demolition of a nearby home. Rally organiser and LXRAY Anderson Street Champions spokesperson Robert Price said that while the location of the

underpasses and the forced demolition of homes were initially the main issues, the closure of Anderson Street to traffic also had local traders worried. Mr Price said the level of community concern was such that the LXRP had to pause the project and conduct a thorough review. “Stop it going ahead, review what it is and do a proper community consultation,” he said. Maribyrnong council has also called for the project to be paused and mayor Mohamed Semra will be among those to speak at the rally, as will various candidates for the upcoming state election.

Footscray MP Katie Hall isn’t scheduled to speak, but has previously demanded the LXRP release more detail and commit to further consultation. Ms Hall directed requests for comment to the LXRP. “The Anderson Street level crossing is one of Melbourne’s most dangerous, which is why it’s being closed,” an LXRP spokesperson said. To attend community engagement sessions this month, visit: https://tinyurl. com/4au4sp2e For more information on the rally: https://www.lxray.com.au/rally/

Leak causes pool closure

Celebrated crime author Troy Hunter is holding crime writing workshop at Williamstown Library as part of the 2026 Emerging Writers Festival. (Damjan Janevski) 574197_01

Troy to tutor emerging crime writers Want to write your own whodunnit? Crime fiction has never been more popular as a genre, so it’s a great time to learn some crime writing basics at a special workshop to be held in Williamstown during the 2026 Emerging Writers Festival, from 10-18 September. ‘Crime Writing with Troy Hunter’ is an interactive workshop to be held at Williamstown Library on Tuesday 15 September, where participants will be taken through the eight key elements of most crime stories. “You will start to build these elements for your own story idea, and ultimately walk

away with the outline of your own crime story,” instructor and Melbourne crime writer Troy Hunter said of what participants can expect. Hunter said the workshop would be relaxed and suitable for writers of all skill levels aged 15 and over. “While this workshop is interactive, there is no pressure to show or share your work,” he said. “All you need is a pen.” Hunter certainly knows what he’s talking about. His debut young adult crime novel Gus

and the Missing Boy was published in March 2024 and shortlisted for both the Ned Kelly and the Danger Award for Best Debut Crime Fiction. The sequel Gus and the Burning Stones was published in August 2025 and won an Indie Gold Crime Fiction Award. A third and final Gus novel, Gus and the Climate Killer, is due out in March 2027, while Hunter is currently working on an adult crime novel. To book tickets and for more information on the 2026 Emerging Writers Festival, visit: https://emergingwritersfestival.org.au/ event/writing-crime/

A pool at the Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre (MAC) will close for at least six weeks after it was found to have a significant leak. From Sunday 20 September, the leisure pool located near the entrance to the centre will be closed while it is drained and its leak repaired. Draining the pool will take six weeks, and it’s only then that the extent of the leak and the amount of time needed to repair it will be known. The leisure pool is often used for learn to swim programs, and Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra said while its closure will cause inconvenience, it was unavoidable. “We know these changes will impact our regular swimmers and community, and we’re doing everything we can to repair this leak as fast as possible,” Cr Semra said. “The team have been doing a significant amount of work in the background trying to make repairs without draining the pool – but unfortunately, we need more information that we can only get by closing the pool.” During the leisure pool closure, lesson timetables will be adjusted to ensure regular programs can continue to run, though some changes are expected. MAC is the largest aquatic centre in Maribyrnong, and celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this year.

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Sunshine trader ‘on edge’ As part of an ongoing series on the causes and solutions to crime in the west, Glenn Fisher asked a local business owner whether they felt safe in their area. Sunshine business owner Julie Tran told Star Weekly the “street has changed” and that she was “on edge” most of the time. “Eighteen years ago when my husband and I started this business, I felt safe. But the street has changed,” said Ms Tran, who runs the Thuan An Vietnamese Restaurant in the Civic Green area of Hampshire Road. “Now there are people hanging about drinking alcohol in public from concealed containers, others who are on drugs, and general anti-social behaviour, and those people attract similar people to the area,” she said. “And the kids and teenagers who gather in groups obviously have no parents or guidance from anyone.” Ms Tran said after sunset, the area felt especially ominous. “There used to be a lot of parallel parking available out the front of the shops, but that is gone now,” she said, and business operators and staff now had to walk to their cars at the back of the shops, many times through small laneways in the dark. “I’m always on edge now,” Ms Tran said. “Even if nobody is around, there’s something in the back of my mind when I walk to my car and I’m always looking over my shoulder. “My female staff always get accompanied to their cars or get picked up right out the front of the restaurant.” Premier Ben Carroll recently announced the recruitment of 150 extra Protective Services Officers (PSOs) to patrol shopping centres around Melbourne, that announcement coming just days after the tragic death of Sunshine grocer Van Viet Truong, who died after he was attacked on 1 August while trying to stop a robbery across the road from Ms Tran’s restaurant.

Sunshine trader Julie Tran. (Damjan Janevski) 575884_05

Ms Tran said since then, there seemed to be extra police and city compliance officers in the Sunshine business district on most days, but “we know it won’t last”. Ms Tran said members of the Sunshine Business Association had held multiple discussions with police, Brimbank council and Laverton MP Sarah Connolly following the tragedy to try to get more police presence on the streets, while Mr Carroll had also visited the business precinct in the days after Mr Viet Truong’s death.

Mayors from Brimbank, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Wyndham and Melton came together recently to urge the state government for more visible, local police across Melbourne’s west, with recorded crimes having increased a combined 12.7 percent across Melbourne’s west so far this year. A state government spokesperson said Labor had built Australia’s biggest police force to put more police where they were needed most and that 200 more PSOs and 400 more reservists would be recruited.

PSOs will be able to patrol in more places where there was crime and anti-social behaviour, such as local shopping strips, the spokesperson said. “We’re also establishing a $10 million Local Community Safety Infrastructure Fund for councils to strengthen their security including in Melbourne’s west,” the spokesperson said. “The fund will back councils to purchase practical upgrades such as CCTV and improved lighting to make community spaces safer.”

surprised to know about you… One thing people might be surprised to know about me is my volunteering work among the community. I love being able to do the volunteering work I do, especially with Vinnies soup van - through that we have made a connection with Woodlea Islamic Network as they are doing similar work in the area. By

giving out meals to those that are in need or just lonely sometimes, it’s great learning from the various groups. I would love to see more young people getting involved in volunteering in the area. During 2025 I was inducted into the Women’s Leadership Board as a local Champion, which was a very special honour.

MY PLACE Maureen Mohr has a long affiliation with Melbourne’s west. She spoke with Jack O’Shea-Ayres. What’s your connection to Melbourne’s north-west? I grew up in Footscray so I have lived all my life in the west. What do you like about where you live? I like the quiet. We have great neighbours, and the diversity of people all around is terrific. There is a lot to do for all ages, if only people would go out of their way to find out what’s on and where. What, if anything, would you change about where you live? I am pretty happy with the progress in Melton at the moment. It’s been a long time coming but it’s happening now with the railway crossings about to be gone. The new railway station and the hospital are both greatly needed - and perhaps a little work on the highway and surrounding roads would be great to see, but I am sure it will happen. Where is your favourite local place to spend

Maureen Mohr. (Damjan Janevski) 561756_02

time? I like walking around our Botanical gardens and chatting to those I meet along the way, and a coffee at the library is always good, as well as checking out what exhibitions may be on there at the time. Tell us something people would be

Wednesday, 9 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5

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The art of history

Joesph Ribarow in front of the Visions of St Albans mural. (Damjan Janevski) 572871_01

History and art is more than packed museums and prestigious universities. The Tin Shed in St Albans knows this is the case, and has spent the last few decades putting together a thorough archive of the brilliant culture that was forged in the western suburbs. Sebastian Conidi spoke to local historian Joseph Ribarow about his process and how he built a rich tapestry of records and oral history over time.

hen we think of history our minds may immediately go to ancient Roman Emperors, Greek philosophers or medieval knights rolling around in the mud. Often, however, our own history faces a danger of becoming easily obscured. For many residents of Melbourne’s western suburbs, family history is not a simple linear line. It is not uncommon to have only one or two generations that grew up in a completely different country with a different language and way of life. Documents get lost, people forget to write things down and the general pace of life leaves little time to keep clear records. We may know who Alexander the Great or Julius Caesar were without ever knowing the name of a great-great grandparent. There is a comprehensive record of history being completed in Melbourne’s west and it’s not a university library. The St Albans Community Tin Shed is home to an archive of invaluable community history, centred around the lives of local artists who brought craft and imagination to the area. In the hall lies the mural Visions of St Albans, a dazzling artwork originally conceived by Thea Dukic that celebrates the art and artists embedded in St Albans past. This art however does not stand alone. It is brought alive by rich documentation that has been collected over time. Joseph Ribarow has been recording St Albans history for decades. He edited the Oral History From the Tin Shed Archives which features an incredibly thorough account of the suburb, spanning all the way back to the 1860s. Ribarow was born in Germany in 1948 and settled in St Albans in 1951. He was

first involved with the youth centre in his teens in the 1960s, eventually becoming more involved in the history in the late 1990s. “If we don’t record who the people are, we lose them,” he said. Ribarow’s turn to volunteer history work was influenced by the passing of his sister who died of cancer at 52. “She was a long-term volunteer here. In families we think we’ll write about family history later.” Ribarow was determined to record his own family’s history in her memory. “Because she spent so much time here as a volunteer, I came looking for information. That’s when I came across the oral history studies that had been done previously and were gathering dust in the archives.” Ribarow was aided by long-time Tin Shed member and former coordinator Elfie Haggblom as they began to restore materials that had been stowed away. As Ribarow was recording history, he came across the works of Pino Calati. “I was rummaging around for stories, and suddenly found these paintings [by Calati].” Calati was an artist and sculptor born in 1916 in Pulsano, Italy. He and his family emigrated to Melbourne’s west in 1949. Calati made a name for himself in the St Albans community through his art classes which he ran from the 1970s to the 1990s. Calati’s own work covered a wide range of local structures including the St Albans bungalow, St Albans native plant reserve, Sacred Heart Presbytery, Errington Reserve and St Albans presbyterian church. “It’s art of a particular locality, a particular neighbourhood, a particular era,” Ribarow said.

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If we don’t record who the people are, we lose - Joseph Ribarow them Haggblom said Calati had a likeable personality. “He would always offer people some of his lunch. He was very warm. He really encouraged his art students,” she said. Working as a carpenter by trade, Calati devoted himself to teaching and creating in his spare time. He contributed to a number of exhibitions across the west. St Albans Community Youth Club chairperson Richard Carthew noted how Calati’s diverse origins influenced his art. “He grew up in the southern part of Italy where the history was influenced by the Greeks and Romans, and later on the French and Spanish. It’s never monocultural, there’s a lot of influence,” he said. Calati’s work has now found a new home with Brimbank council, which was gifted the works by the Tin Shed last month.

It is clear the Tin Shed’s care for local artistry and history has influenced a fruitful artisan culture in St Albans. As I was conducting the interview in the office, an art group was painting in a workshop. “That is purely coincidental,” Carthew remarked. “We did not manipulate that at all.” The archival work done by the St Albans community youth club is a testament to the importance of recording both local and family history. The Tin Shed continues to run an arts and craft workshop on Monday mornings from 10am-noon, showing dedication to the cause. In his dystopic magnum opus 1984, George Orwell remarked that “who controls the past controls the future: who controls the present controls the past”. History is much more than kingdoms and empires or leaders and battles. It is a chance to understand who we are and where we come from. The greatest stories are not necessarily always of great conquerors or epic battles, rather they are found in the humanity of everyday lives before us. There may be many great stories that are lost to time, either because someone has forgotten to write something down, or a box of documents has been left to collect dust in a garage. The work of the Tin Shed is a testament to the importance of local history. In keeping a comprehensive archive, the area pays tribute to the brilliant work that has come before whilst continuing to keep arts and culture in the west alive. It is a reminder that we should strive to remember those that came before us so that – ultimately – we can understand ourselves.

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The hardest step is deciding to find out about hearing loss Most people do not put off a hearing check because they are not ready for better hearing. They put it off because of what the decision represents. Admitting you might have a hearing loss can feel like admitting you are getting older, and that is a hard thing to sit with. So we wait. We turn the television up a little more. We nod along in noisy cafes. We tell ourselves it is not bad enough yet. “The people I see are rarely surprised by their results,” says Amanda Nguyen, a qualified audiologist at Active Audiology. “Deep down, they already knew. What they did not expect was how much it helped to finally understand what was happening, and to realise just how much their hearing has affected their confidence, relationships and ability to take part in everyday life.” This is where it matters who you see. An appointment with Amanda is a full, comprehensive assessment, not the quick screening handed out free at a shopping centre by the big chains. She tests thoroughly, talks you through exactly what your results mean and takes time to understand how your hearing is affecting your daily life and what you want to do about it. There is no pressure to buy anything. For many, that first appointment is the moment everything shifts. “Once people understand what they have been missing, the fear falls away,” Amanda says. “It becomes less about hearing loss and more about taking back control: reconnecting with friends and family, joining conversations, enjoying social occasions and feeling confident in the world around them again.” It is what so many of our patients say af-

Amanda Nguyen, independent audiolgist at Active Audiology with a patient.

terwards, in the same few words: I wish I had done this sooner. You do not have to wait five years to feel that way. If conversations have started to take more effort than they should, the kind-

est thing you can do for yourself and the people who love you is simply to find out. Book a comprehensive hearing assessment with Amanda and the team at Active Audiology, independent and trusted by

Melbourne families for more than 15 years. Active Audiology is at 17 Harrington Square, Altona. Pension cardholders welcome. Call 1300 364 007 or visit www.activeaudiology.com.au

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Wednesday, 9 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS

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Coming together via sport

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Briefs Irving Street

By Cr Rayane Hawli

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Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

There is something special about sport. It has a way of bringing people together, breaking down barriers and creating connections between people who might not otherwise have an opportunity to meet. I recently had the privilege of taking part in the In It Together Cup, a football match held as part of Homelessness Week, in partnership with community organisation Latitude. The game brought together Hobsons Bay staff and people with lived experience of homelessness, with two mixed teams taking to the field. For me, being involved was about much more than playing a game of footy. It was an opportunity to meet people, share a laugh, work together as teammates and get to know each other in a relaxed and informal environment. Importantly, opportunities like this can help challenge some of the stereotypes and assumptions that can surround homelessness. When we take the time to listen to people with lived experience and understand their stories, we are better placed to respond to the challenges they face. There is no single reason why someone may find themselves without a safe and secure place to call home. It is something that requires a coordinated response from governments, community organisations, services and the broader community. That is why partnerships with organisations such as Latitude are so important. Their work supporting people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage provides a vital connection between people who need support and the services available to them.

Resurfacing works on Irving Street in Footscray will commence from Sunday 13 September. The repairs will take place between Nicholson Street and Hopkins Street in front of Footscray Station and are expected to take a week to complete. Due to the significant amount of traffic and business in the area, the works will take place on weeknights between 8:30pm and 5am, while there will be intermittent access for vehicles and changes to pedestrian access and buses on Sunday nights. There will be normal access for public transport, drivers, pedestrians, and riders during the day.

Second teen charged

Cr Rayane Hawli. (Supplied)

The In It Together Cup was also a wonderful example of what can happen when council staff, councillors, community members and service providers come together. Building these relationships helps us better understand one another and strengthens the partnerships that are so important when responding to complex community challenges. I am grateful to everyone who took part and helped make the day possible. The connections and conversations it created are something that can continue well beyond the final siren.

A second 17 year-old boy from Hume has been charged in relation to an alleged arson attack on a Maidstone gym last month. The boy was arrested on 4 September and charged with a range of arson offences. On 2 September another 17-year-old boy from Hume was arrested and charged with arson, reckless conduct endangering life, possessing anything with intent to destroy or damage property, handling stolen goods and theft. The arrests follow a fire at a Hampstead Road gym early on 6 August which destroyed an adjoining martial arts centre. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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For west resident Tony McManus, asking someone “R U OK?“ is about much more than a single day on the calendar. After losing his brother Mick to suicide, Mr McManus turned his grief into a commitment to helping others speak openly about mental health. Now a sought-after speaker for Beyond Blue and R U OK? across south-east Australia, Mr McManus is urging people to make checking in with friends, family, colleagues and teammates part of everyday life. This year’s R U OK? Day will be held on Thursday 10 September with the theme ’Ask R U OK? Any Day’ encouraging Australians to keep meaningful conversations going throughout the year. Mr McManus said his own experience had reinforced the importance of breaking down the stigma surrounding

mental health. “After the loss of my brother and getting through a rough period with my own mental health I have become passionate about increasing awareness and reducing the stigma about mental health in our community,” he said. “My strongest message is that it’s okay to open up and talk about anything that is troubling you. Whatever the issue is, a solution is available to either fix it or to manage it.” Mr McManus said simply asking the question could give someone the opportunity to talk about what was weighing on them. “Asking the R U OK? is so important. It can provide an opportunity for your friend, family member or work colleague to share and get what may be top of their mind at the moment and deal with it in a supportive conversation,” he said.

PUZZLES

19 13

18 19

18 14

3 11

20 18

3 11

8 23

22 9

23 10

24 11

U J

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: 16 words: Good 24 words: Very good 32 words: Excellent

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

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

Y E Y

V S

3 LETTERS ACT ALE CUP DAD EBB ERA FIN IRE LAG MIX NIL ODD OIL ORE PAR RUE SEA SPA TAG TAR TEA TOE

No. 306

M O O D

ALTAR AMBLE ASSET ATLAS ATONE BRICK COBRA DEEDS DRUNK EAGLE EERIE ELDER ENTER ENTRY ERASE EXERT GLOVE HASTE HATED HIRED LOOSE

4 LETTERS APES GAVE GULP KEEP MOOD PATS SAKE SEEM THUS WEED 5 LETTERS ADEPT AFOOT AGENT AGLOW ALERT ALIBI

METER OLIVE OVERT PAINT PRESS PSALM RAVEN REVUE RINSE ROARS SEEDY SENSE SIDLE SNEER SNIDE STABS STYLE SUEDE TIARA VENUE VILER

6 LETTERS CASKET CHORAL GRADER STEERS TEASES WETTER 7 LETTERS AMIABLE AWESOME LEISURE SCUTTLE

SEASIDE URGENCY 8 LETTERS GUNSHOTS REALISTS WEAKENED WRESTLER 10 LETTERS DISAPPEARS DISPERSING

11-09-26

No. 413 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

W A R P S I D E A L N O B L Y C R U E L E N T R Y

aver, avers, averse, avert, averts, ever, rave, raver, raves, reave, reaves, revert, reverts, revest, revs, save, saver, serve, server, sever, starve, stave, traverse, TRAVERSER, vase, vast, vaster, veer, veers, verse, vest, vets

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

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

Charlotte Aitchison is the real name of which British pop singer?

Which of the world's railway stations is the largest by number of platforms?

What is the motto of both the Australian Girl Guides and Boy Scouts?

In Olympic volleyball, how many points are required to win a set?

Who directed the 2025 film One Battle After Another?

What is the only part of the human body with no direct blood supply?

Which political activist coined the term ‘satyagraha’ to describe a practice of nonviolent civil resistance?

The television series Slow Horses, starring Gary Oldman (pictured), is based on the Slough House series of novels by which author?

For how many days does the Glastonbury Festival run?

10 True or false: the Great Sphinx has a moustache? ANSWERS: 1. Charli XCX 2. Grand Central Terminal, NYC (44 platforms) 3. Be prepared 4. 25 points 5. Paul Thomas Anderson 6. The cornea 7. Mahatma Gandhi 8. Mick Herron 9. Five 10. False

E O

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

hard

medium

3 4

9-LETTER WORD

easy

5x5

5 5

P C Y F A R N Q S L W U J

No. 338 15

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

8 7

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

hard

16 17

DECODER

9 6

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

6 7

20 24 25

4 5

medium

12 14 15 19

22 23

Rough hut (6) Alarm (6) Series of meetings (8) Anecdote (4) Security for repayment (10) Surrender (6) Contradictory or incongruous phrase (8) Scalpel wielders (8) Very generous (10) Lively (8) Punitive bans on relations with certain bodies and their goods, etc. (8)

1 2 3

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

10 11

1 2

5 9

A type of shot in cue sports (8) Bottle for the table (6) Lunatic (6) Glutinous or sticky in consistency (6) A desert in Central Asia (4)

DOWN

easy

Meet requirements (7) Traditions (7) Inherited from one’s family (9) Purchaser (5) Unimportant details (6) A male voice (8) Brew; steep (6) Midday (4) Illuminated sign (4) Slanted font (6) Engineer (8) Chemical base that reacts with acid (6) Popular aquarium fish (5) One with obsessive self-love (9)

No. 306

Disagree (7) Persuaded (7)

29 30

ACROSS 1

X M T D V G K H Z B I

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

No. 306

SUDOKU

Wednesday, 9 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 9

COMMUNITY

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. Golf day The Rotary Club of Williamstown presents the Tony Boyd Memorial Golf Day on Wednesday 30 September at Kooringal Golf Club, Altona. The annual event is in support of RoCan Ltd’s Cancer Wellness and Accommodation Centre project. Player registrations are open now. ■ rotarywilliamstown.org.au Learn bridge The Williamstown Bridge Club has bridge sessions each week on Wednesday night at 7.15pm and Friday afternoon at 1.25pm for experienced players and a supervised session Friday 10am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Road, Seaholme. All levels welcome and partners can be provided. Bridge lessons for beginners start on Friday 9 October, 10am. ■ Peter, 0427 302 236, Alan, 0430 309 255, lessons Jan, wtownbridge@gmail.com or www.bridgewebs.com/williamstown Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand The club meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6pm for a 6.30pm start at Pelicans Landing, Syme Street, Williamstown. Everyone is welcome to attend just contact the club beforehand. ■ Pam Barnes, 0418 347 691, rotarypointgellibrand.com Altona North grandparent playgroup. A friendly weekly opportunity for grandparents and their grandchildren to play, have a cuppa, cake and chat. Held from 10am-12pm on Mondays during school terms at Eastona Park Community Facility, 13 Collins Avenue Altona North (old kindergarten venue). Entry $5. ■ Marnie, 0478 011 981 Free walking basketball Love basketball, but not the running? Join the Westgate Basketball Association’s walking basketball program. Walking basketball is ideal for those returning from injury, looking to get back into fitness and perfect for seniors and active adults. A great way to connect with others. Register your interest now. ■Penny, 0409 014 121, westgatebasketball. com.au/walking-basketball-1 Heritage walks Enjoy a leisurely one-two hour walk around Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.30am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. ■ John Becroft, 0418 377 336 Laverton Bowls Club Experience the fun and skill of lawn bowls, a game which is suitable for all ages. Laverton Bowls Club is recruiting new members and offers a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to bowl both socially or at pennant level. Practices are held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows. ■ 0419 536 148, lavertonbowls@gmail.com Hobsons Bay City Band Come and play with the friendly musos at Hobsons Bay City Band under the baton of Wayne Bowden OAM. The band welcomes new players of all ages and experience – woodwind, brass and percussion. Rehearsals are on Monday nights at 7.30pm

This week’s photographer’s choice pic is of the Werribee Orchid Club’s first show in seven years at Werribee Racecourse. (Damjan Janevski) 575090_01

at Spotswood Kingsville RSL in South Kingsville. ■ 0414 930 568, hbcityband@gmail.com Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support to anyone who wants to stop drinking. The Western Unity AA Group holds weekly in-person meetings in Williamstown. Those thinking they may have a drinking problem are welcome to attend and can bring along friends, family and loved ones to offer support. ■ 1300 222 222, https://williamstown. aagroup.org.au/, aawilliamstown@gmail. com Chit Chat Tuesdays A ladies chit chat group held from 1.303pm every Tuesday at Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre in Altona. ■ Dione, 9398 2511, LJAC.com.au Williamstown Seniors The group meets every Tuesday from 1-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5

10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 9 September, 2026

for the afternoon. ■ Marlene, 0402 769 204 National seniors meeting On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more. ■ 0425 713 004, lesley1.collins@outlook. com Footscray CWA Meets on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9pm at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street. ■ cwaofvicfootscray@gmail.com, https:// www.facebook.com/CWAofVicFootscray/ Computer classes Daily computer classes covering scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email and plenty more besides. Both morning and afternoon classes held in Williamstown and Altona North. ■ Lynne, 9397 6168

Mystery music sessions Held at Altona Senior Citizens, 2 Sargood Street, every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30pm. The sessions feature performances by local musicians, including solo artists, duos and groups. Entry is free to both members and non-members. ■ 9932 1311 Hip hop dance program L2R Dance is Australia’s only youth hip hop and street dance not-for-profit and social enterprise proudly based in Melbourne’s west. L2R makes dance accessible to children and young people who can’t access commercial dance opportunities and draws from the history of hip-hop culture with its aims to empower and critique social issues that affect young people in Melbourne’s West and beyond. L2R’s free Next-Gen dance program is held at Phoenix Youth Hub, 72 Buckley Street, Footscray (in the auditorium). Classes will be held from 4.30-6.30pm each Tuesday during term. ■ 0490 811 605, https://www.l2r.org.au/ dance-programs

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ENTERTAINMENT

Deeply human monologue Written by Emma Dennis-Edwards and directed by Candy Bowers, Funeral Flowers is a raw, lyrical, and deeply human monologue about growing up, fighting back, and finding hope where it seems impossible. The story follows 17-year-old Angelique, who dreams of being a florist. For Angelique, flowers serve as an escape from bullies, the care system, and the reality of her mum serving time. Inspired by the true story of Tottenham community leader Gina Moffatt, the production explores social inequality, self-discovery, and the human ability to create beauty in the midst of struggle. Winner of the Scotsman Fringe First Award at Edinburgh Festival, the play now makes its Australian premiere.

Presented in partnership with Red Stitch Actors Theatre, the production will be staged at the St Albans Bowery Theatre. A special evening performance is scheduled for Wednesday 9 September. The Wednesday night show includes supper at 6:00 pm, the performance at 7pm, and an interactive question and answer session at 8pm. Additionally, two dedicated school-only shows will run on Wednesday 9 September, from 1.30pm to 2.45 pm, and Thursday 10 September, from 10.30 am to 11.45 am. School bookings can be arranged by emailing bowery@brimbank.vic.gov.au. The play is not suitable for children under 14 due to strong language and mature themes. For support, patrons can contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).

The production will feature Lucy Ansell in the solo role. (Supplied)

The King is back at The Plough

Salesian College Sunbury students will have their work featured in an exhibition. (Damjan Janevski) 575473_04

Salesian students shine in new exhibition Sunbury’s young talent will be on display for the inaugural Savio Visual Arts Exhibition at Salesian College. Salesian students from years 7-10 will feature in a curated collection of works, from visual arts, visual communication design and photography, providing students with an opportunity to showcase their work. The event, a first of its kind for the school, will also provide students with an authentic opportunity to exhibit their work in a professional, public-facing setting while sharing their creativity with family, friends and the wider community.

Visitors will be invited to explore the exhibition trail throughout the halls of the Rupertswood Mansion, encountering works that demonstrate creativity, technical skill, innovation and personal expression, while enjoying canapes and beverages. Families, friends, alumni, prospective families and members of the wider community are welcome to attend and help support the next generation of Sunbury artists. Visual arts teacher Kara Richards invited the community to see the students’ hard work. “The Savio Visual Arts Exhibition is

a chance to see the Salesian value of Excellence brought to life through the creativity, skill and dedication of our young artists,” she said. “We want our community to come along, see what these students are capable of, and help us celebrate the incredible work being created across the College.” The Savio Visual Arts Exhibition will be held on Wednesday 16 September from 6-8pm at Salesian College Sunbury. Tickets will be $7 per person, and are available to purchase online. Tickets: events.humanitix.com/saviovisual-arts-exhibition

The King is returning to Myrniong this October. Elvis Presley fans can relive the music and magic of the King when award-winning tribute artist Damian Mullin brings Elvis Forever to The Plough Bistro in Myrniong on Saturday 3 October. Following a successful previous performance at The Plough, Mullin is set to return in full swing to the stage for a royal evening celebrating one of the world’s most iconic entertainers. The four-hour dinner and show will feature some of Elvis’ greatest hits, with Mullin bringing the King’s unmistakable sound, charisma and energetic stage presence back to life. Guests can settle in for an evening of classic songs and timeless favourites while enjoying a three-course dinner, making the event a night out for both local music lovers and foodies. Whether you’ve been a royal attendant of the King for decades, or you’re simply looking to enjoy a memorable evening set to the tune of Elvis’ greatest hits, this night’s for you. The performance will run from 6-10pm, giving audiences plenty of time to enjoy the dinner, entertainment and the nostalgia of Elvis’ legendary catalogue. Tickets are $95 per person and include the three-course dinner and show. With Elvis’ greatest hits on the menu alongside a three-course feast, Elvis Forever offers a chance to spend a Saturday night dining, singing along and stepping back into the golden age of rock ’n’ roll. Tickets: https://tinyurl. com/3f6ar5fd.

Tune into animal audio for a unique encounter with wildlife A constellation of radios will spark an uncanny encounter with the animal world in Newport at the end of this month when the world premiere of The Enormous Radio takes place at The Substation. The latest work from innovative documentary theatremaker Roslyn Oades and internationally acclaimed sound artist Bob Scott, The Enormous Radio features a ring of old radios, replete with glowing dials, crackling speakers and twitchy

antennas that somehow transmit messages from wildlife. “I have interviewed humans from all walks of life from professional boxers to nursing homes to schoolies on the Gold Coast,” Oades explained. “I wanted to turn my attention to Australia’s wildlife.” A member of Australian Wildlife Sound Recording Group, Oades has an extensive catalogue of documentary field recordings

which provide key source material and inspiration for The Enormous Radio. With assistance from editor Sarah Walker, Oades feeds these animal recordings into voice enhancement software, instructing it to translate as if they were spoken English. The result is an uncanny aural and textual language that taps into our human desire to communicate with the animal world. Old radios are central to the work,

reflecting the vital role they still play for Australian communities in emergencies and natural disasters. Oades and Scott are long-time collaborators, with their previous theatrical installation, The Nightline, appearing at the Malthouse Theatre just last month. The Enormous Radio is on at The Substation from 30 September-10 October. Tickets: https://thesubstation.org.au/ program/the-enormous-radio

Wednesday, 9 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 11

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SPORTS QUIZ 3. The late Tony Mundine boxed professionally in which four weight divisions?

1. What is the 100m world record time set by Usain Bolt, in Berlin in 2009? 2. Is Australian athlete Ellie Beer a sprinter or a longdistance runner?

4. After 442 Collingwood games, which player is set to continue his career with the Gold Coast Suns? 5. Which European country won the right to host the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup? 6. Which Melbourne player was announced as captain of the AFL's 2026 All-Australian team? 7. After retiring in 2024, defensive tackle Aaron Donald has returned to play for which NFL team? 8. Which ice hockey team did Newcastle Northstars defeat 2–1 to win the 2026 AIHL championship? 9. Vern Cotter is head coach of which Super Rugby team? 10. Which US golf professional won the 2026 Tour Championship?

Usain Bolt

11. What medieval sport involves charging with lances on horseback?

The Sydney Marathon

12. How many sports were played in the very first Olympics in the summer of 1896? 13. In which US city was basketball invented? 14. Which country’s men’s rugby team is known as the All Blacks? 15. How many holes are there in a standard round of golf? 16. Which Collingwood player missed a gamewinning set-shot after the siren against the Western Bulldogs in a recent wildcard final?

25. How many teams currently make up the Super Netball league?

20. Which two nations are currently competing in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Test series?

26. The Australian MotoGP race will be held in which city in 2027?

21. Which free-to-air network will broadcast NBL Basketball games in Australia in 2026/27?

27. Who is the most recent recipient of the Norm Smith Medal?

17. Prior to this year, have the NZ Warriors ever won an NRL minor premiership?

22. Prior to 2026, in what year did Melbourne Storm last fail to qualify for the Finals series?

18. What is the most recent team without an animal in their nickname to win an AFL premiership?

23. Which Australian cricketer recently hit No.1 in the Test bowling rankings for the first time?

19. Which tennis player recently lost their Grand Slam first round winning streak of 78 matches?

24. In what year did Fitzroy play its last game in the AFL before merging with Brisbane?

28. Jett Cleary recently debuted for which NRL team? 29. In what year was the Sydney Marathon first held? 30. The Kennedy Community Centre is the new home ground of which AFL Women’s team?

1109

1. 9.58 seconds 2. Sprinter 3. Heavyweight, cruiserweight, light heavyweight and middleweight 4. Scott Pendlebury 5. Germany 6. Max Gawn 7. Los Angeles Rams 8. Canberra Brave 9. Queensland Reds 10. Scottie Scheffler 11. Jousting 12. Nine 13. Springfield, Massachusetts 14. New Zealand 15. 18 16. Tim Membrey 17. Yes (2002) 18. Melbourne Demons (2021) 19. Novak Djokovic 20. South Africa and New Zealand 21. Nine Network 22. 2010 23. Mitchell Starc 24. 1996 25. Eight 26. Adelaide 27. Will Ashcroft 28. New Zealand Warriors 29. 2000 30. Hawthorn

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Kluger keeps on keeping on By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring Toyota Kluger is a semi-luxury seven-seat family SUV that has been on sale in Australia since 2003. Like most other model updates Kluger has grown in size progressively through its life and the latest (fourth) generation, launched here in mid-2021, and is no exception coming in at just under five metres in length. Note that the Kluger name is only used in Japan and Australia. It’s the Highlander in all other markets but that name had already been taken by Hyundai for some of its top-spec variants. Kluger was given an upgrade in early 2023 that saw the previous, thirsty, V6 petrol engine replaced by a more fuel efficient 2.4-litre turbocharged four but quickly changed to a hybrid only powertrain. The upgrade also added remote access through Toyota Connected Services and an enhanced multimedia system. The MY2025 Kluger comes with three trim levels: GX, GXL and Grande, all with all-wheel drive. At the same there have been a couple of price increases with the GX now selling for $62,140, GXL for $71,930 and Grande for $85,135. All before on-road costs. Standard equipment across the range includes smart entry and start, manual front and rear dual-zone air conditioning, rain sensing wipers and automatic lights, and seven USB ports. GXL and Grande models gain power heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, power tailgate and satellite navigation with the latest generation multimedia system. The Grande Hybrid that we tested adds a panoramic moonroof, hands-free operating power tailgate, front seat ventilation, head-up display, a 360-degree all-round view monitor, leather-accented seats and an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system.

Styling Aimed clearly at family buyers, styling is neat and attractive without anything that’s likely to turn heads. The large stacked trapezoidal grille has the Toyota badge at the top centre with a blue trim to identify the hybrid’s electric component. The grille is complemented by slimline LED light clusters with integrated daytime running lights and LED fog lights. In profile, there’s a tapered roofline with integrated rear spoiler, rising beltline and windows with blacked-out B-pillars. Side mirrors have been moved lower on the door panel to improve forward visibility and reduce blind spots. The rear follows through with a wide stance, slim LED taillights and large lower skid plate. The GX and GXL ride on 18-inch alloys, the Grande gets 20-inch Chromtec wheels. There’s a choice of five body colours: Eclipse Black, Frosted White, Liquid Mercury (grey), Atomic Rush (red) and Saturn Blue.

With nearly a quarter of a century behind it Kluger has established itself as one of the best seven-seat family SUV on the Australian market. (Pictures: Supplied)

RATINGS Looks: 8/10 Performance: 7/10 Safety: 8/10 Thirst: 8/10 Practicality: 7/10 Comfort: 9/10 Tech: 8/10 Value: 6/10

The lower centre console incorporates the transmission lever, drive and AWD mode select switchgear if needed, electronic park brake and two large cupholders. Storage throughout the cabin includes a 15-litre centre console box, overhead glasses holder, front door bins with 700ml bottle holders, rear door bins with two 700ml bottle holders and eight cupholders. Two large shelves, one in front of the passenger the other in the centre of the dashboard, are perfect for storing phones, wallets, keys etc. Access into the second and third row two-seat bench is made easy with the fold down levers for both rows located on the outer shoulder of the seats, which, for the third-row seats, also automatically folds the head rests in one action. There’s excellent head and leg room in the second-row seats which can slide forward to increase third-row legroom. Middle row passengers also get ceiling-mounted air vents, air-conditioning, controls and two USB-C ports. Boot space with all seats in place is a reasonable 241 litres. With the third-row seats folded flat, this increases to 552 litres, while folding the second row 60/40-split seat back as well reaches 1150 litres. The rear hatch is powered for GXL and with a ‘kick sensor’ for the Grande. A removable luggage cover, standard on all models, can be stored under the luggage space deck when not in use.

Interior The interior of Kluger features quality materials and soft touch surfaces. The dashboard houses the instrument cluster, central touchscreen display and separate air-conditioning and audio controls. GX comes with fabric seats, GXL gets synthetic leather and Grande premium leather.

Infotainment Kluger GX comes with an 8-inch colour touchscreen. GXL and Grande step up to a 12.3-inch screen. Inbuilt navigation is standard in the GXL and Grande. GX and GXL have a basic six-speaker sound system, Grande gets an 11-speaker JBL premium system.

All variants come with wireless Apple CarPlay but wired Android Auto, seven USB ports (five in the front, two in the rear).

Engines/transmissions Kluger Hybrid combines a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with three electric motors that generate a combined output of 184kW including 142kW from the engine. Peak torque is 242 Nm with fuel usage listed at 5.6 litres per 100km. Electronic (e-CVT) continuously variable transmission sends power to all four wheels. There are three drive modes: Sport, Normal and Eco, selectable via a lever on the centre console.

Safety Kluger was last tested by ANCAP back in June 2021 and received the maximum five-star rating. Standard features include seven airbags including a driver knee bag but not one in the front between occupants. There is autonomous emergency braking that can detect oncoming vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, a reversing camera that includes a camera cleaning system activated via the rear screen washer switch. In GXL versions, the camera display offers normal and wide-angle images and incorporates active guidelines. There is a 360-degree panoramic view camera but only in the Grande. Other safety features across the range include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and Isofix child anchors in the outer rear seats.

Driving Built on the same Toyota New Global Architecture platform as the RAV4 and Camry, Kluger delivers a balance of ride

and handling, resulting in a premium feel on the road. Although it does come with all-wheel drive, the Kluger isn’t a serious off-road vehicle – the similarly-sized Prado fills that gap in the Toyota range. Rather it’s aimed at those looking for a medium to large station wagon to carry the family. Compared with the previous generation Kluger, the current model offers a substantial improvement in driving stability, roadholding and comfort on all surfaces thanks to newly developed front and rear suspension set-ups that provide responsive, smooth handling. Ride comfort is also enhanced by a new Body Control system that controls drive torque to minimise vehicle pitching due to road surface irregularities. Steering is responsive with nice feedback. Combined fuel consumption is listed as 5.6 litres per 100km. We averaged 6.8 during our week of testing. Kluger is covered by the Toyota Warranty Advantage, which provides five-year unlimited kilometre coverage, extending to seven-years on engine and driveline provided that logbook servicing has been maintained on time at any authorised mechanic.

Summary With nearly a quarter of a century behind it Kluger has established itself as one of the best seven-seat family SUVs on the Australian market. It’s spacious without being cumbersome with quality materials and fittings. Any lack of performance in the powertrain is made up for in smooth running and hybrid-based fuel efficiency. Any lack of performance in the powertrain is made up for in smooth running and fuel economy. Comfort and low road noise makes Kluger a perfect long-distance cruiser.

Wednesday, 9 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 15

SPORT

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Wyndhamvale. 576220_03

Wyndhamvale’s Rachael Sherriff. 576220_13

Parkside Spurs’ Nadine Lampard. 576220_18

Parkside Spurs. 576220_01

Parkside Spurs’ Giselle Lambley. 576220_27

Spurs, Suns are premiers The Western Football League crowned its women’s football premiers on Saturday, with Parkside Spurs and the Suns taking out the

grand finals. Star Weekly’s Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting the action.

Still smiles for Yarraville Seddon. 576218_54

Yarraville Seddon. 576218_27

The Suns’ Alexis Madden. 576218_13

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 9 September, 2026

The Suns’ Jamie Te Pania. 576218_10

The Suns celebrate. 576218_46

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Division 1 men: Hawks beat Albanvale, 6856. Glen Orden: Zac Mabilia, Josh Byron, Harrison Hand, Cameron Powell, Junior Levi, Jake Schuster, Billy Mahoney, Brodie McCleish, Ronan Pring, Fili Fili, Finn Ibrahim, Kobe Parsons. Coach: Makeleta Simeki.

Division 2: Sunshine beat Caroline Springs, 6832. Sunshine: Maddison Thompson, Mercy Ioelu, Tanaya Redman, Casey Smart, Nikita Singh, Jayde Parsons, Bryanna Tamilo, Alannah Raniolo, Kaitlin Mcintosh, Alesina Toleafoa and Amelia Lai. Coach: Mon Poliko.

Division 1: Lakers beat Albanvale 54-34. Lakers team: Rahni Samason, Charlize Bellette, Olivia Craske, Jade Fisher, Emily Miles, Kristyl Ben, Vanessa McIntosh, Dasha Taylor, Madeline Rustem, Bronte West, Emma Vitalone and Jacqui Mitrevski. Coaches Low Ben. (All photos supplied by Western FNL)

Reserves men: Albanvale beat Sunshine, 41-37. Albanvale: Andrew Waligora, Tom Hardwick, Judd Smith, Kai Suzuki, Bailey Caruana, Tom Giliberto, Angus Bottomley, Daniel Fary, Aaron Bosse, Brendan Nick, Ayden McCleish and Joshua Clavarino.Coach: Rhiannon Reti.

Netball premiership joy The Western Football Netball League held its netball grand final over the past two weeks. There were new winners, teams win-

ning their first premierships and upsets. Here’s a quick look at all the winners.

Division 6: Hawks Onyx beat Parkside Spurs, 35-15. Hawks: Tippy Katipa maikuku, Elizabeth Henda, Tamika Bink, Kerri Katipa maikuku, Jade Schuijers, Sunaina Menon, Hayley Schuijers, Sarah McGuinness, Blaise Pirihi, Shreya Menon and Jacinta Love. Coach Tippy Katipa maikuku.

Division 7: Braybrook beat Sunshine, 21-20. Braybrook: Ebony Dunlop, Jessie Hazeldine-Onno, Ashlea Tennant, Cassandra Mulholland, Georgia Griminess, Torrence Ta’ala, Shelby Crawford, Sharna Quarrier, Rachel Wilson Jackie Brooks, Lisa Emmens Virginia Hobbs. Coach. Jake Kane.

Division 5, Hoppers Crossing defeated Yarraville Seddon, 39-35. Hoppers Crossing: Sammy Marsters, Twin Teariki, Annika Monte, Brooklyn Pouwhare, Emily Mcauliffe, Montana Morgan, Nikora Tuulau, Saraphina Teariki, Shannon Ormsby, Tarrantina Lavea, Yeeks Miao, Yvette Savoia. Coach: Ephraim Ormsby

Division 3: Glen Orden beat Sunshine, 43-38. Glen Orden: Askani Pirihi, Jessica Christie, Jamie Apulu, Atiana Niu, Ruby Marino, Dusty Holden, Jamie-Lee Nguyen, Gloria Kolio, Kali Joyce, Kyhia Young, Brandy Te are, Larissa Houseman. Coaches: Remy Pirihi and Manawa Aranui.

Division 4: Newport Power beat Hawks, 42-39. Newport: Siena Boulton, Emily Roberts, Shae Freath, Poppy Ten Hoopen, Cammie Neville, Enna Murray, Phoebe Gowans, Maya Vincent, Audrey Box, Lara Wynne, Charlotte McVeigh. Coach Bianca Smith.

Division 8, Sunshine beat Point Cook, 24-20. Sunshine: Sheridan Ness, Shaina Goundar, Claire Wilkinson, Zaidee Waldron, Sonam Kumar, Amy MorganSam Gaunder, Renata Ludwig, Shallan Hyett, Jade Williams, Connie Tarei, Leah Meredith. Coach Mel Kel.

Wednesday, 9 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

SPORT

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A stunning first season By Tara Murray Maidstone United made an instant impact in the FV women’s state league 8 north-west, claiming the championship, along with promotion. Despite the team only forming a month and a half out from the season starting, Maidstone has dominated throughout the year. Heading into the final round, the side had lost just one match for the year. Coach Anthony Le said it had been a massive season. “It’s been a great year and the girls have done really well,” he said. “It’s exciting to win something for the club in our first year.

“The girls set out to win and we were able to execute that.” Le said despite the side coming together late in the piece there was plenty of confidence among the group. He said he had coached many of the girls elsewhere before which made a big difference. “I’ve coached them the last couple of years at PEGS,” he said. “I’ve had 70 per cent of them the past couple of years. I wasn’t going to coach but the players came down to Maidstone where I was playing in the men’s team. “We were able to pull it together one and a half months out from the season.” Le was full of praise for the playing group and what they have achieved.

“It’s a testament to the effort and commitment and the culture that the girls have built,” he said. “They’ve built an environment and they’re enjoying each other’s presence. “They support each other and it shows through on game day.” Le said they were hoping to finish the season on a high. The side faced West Point on Sunday in the final round of the season and came away with a 10-0 win. Elena Psaila scored four goals. It will then play off for the overall state league 8 title against the champion of the east-south division. “It’s been a stop-start with a forfeit last week,” he said.

“We want to finish off the season strongly. It’s been a long year. “We’ll put our best foot forward and work together for the last two weeks.” The championship and promotion is one of the first in the club’s history. The senior men’s side has also earned promotion after finishing second in state league 6 north-west. Le said this year had been pretty special for the club. “The culture and environment that we’ve built at the club over the last year is special,” he said. “It’s a really exciting time for the club. “It’ll be tougher next year, but everyone is looking forward to the challenge.”

Promotion for Maidstone By Tara Murray

Damian Furlong. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 574818_08

Roosters have improved despite finals loss By Luke D’Anello West Footscray coach Troy Beamond is adamant his club progressed this season after falling at the Western Football League division 2 preliminary final hurdle for a second consecutive year. The Roosters were outgunned by Wyndhamvale at Yarraville Oval on Saturday, losing by 49 points, 14.16 (100)-7.9 (51). There was no repeat of the qualifying final between the pair, when West Footscray retrieved a 40-point deficit to claim a memorable finals victory. Minor premier North Footscray and the Falcons will meet on Sunday in a rematch of the 2025 grand final. The Roosters struggled against flag favourite North Footscray this season, but toppled Wyndhamvale twice. “I think it was definitely a step forward this year. You look at the basics and we’ve been knocked out in the prelim two years in a row, whereas last year I think there was an element of, we made a prelim, but we could never compete with North or Wyndhamvale,” Beamond said. “This year, while we finished on the same weekend, we’ve shown that now it’s not just a big two at the top. Now I think

it’s a big three. That’s the progress that we’ve made this year. “We’re disappointed that we didn’t go further. But I said to the boys (on Saturday), I was proud of them and of their character and what they showed. We had guys who, round one, were struggling to get a game in the reserves. “One guy in a senior prelim played his first senior game of the year, just because of our unavailabilities. For us to go out there with that sort of line-up and every one of them still had a crack. “It’s disappointing to lose, but once you sit back and reflect, you can’t fault the boys that were playing.” Beamond will continue as coach next season, with West Footscray re-signing most of its key senior players. Gun forward Matthew Turcinovich, who finished the campaign with 94 goals, skipper Matthew Grubb, Jack Vivian, Jonathan Stelluto, Damian Furlong and EJ Sharp are among those who have recommitted. “At this stage, it looks like we’ve got 90 per cent of our senior players already done,” Beamond said. “I think we may lose three to retirement. That’s about it. We had 13 out of, loosely, our best 28 not play on Saturday.

18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 9 September, 2026

You compare that with a Wyndhamvale or North Footscray, who are going in with maybe one out. “We’ll get a lot of those guys back next year, so there’s plenty to look forward to. If all these boys come back from overseas and everyone gets fit, and we have a decent run with injuries, we don’t have too many holes. “So we don’t need to go and recruit eight or 10 players. Now we can recruit for specific needs.” However, Beamond said his side needed to build strength over summer. He singled out North Footscray as an opponent that “almost bullied us a little bit”. “I told the players straight up that we’ve got a lot of work to do next year, so be prepared for a big pre-season,” Beamond said. The Roosters conceded 11 goals to five in the opening half of the preliminary final before Wyndhamvale held firm to earn a shot at back-to-back premierships. Jai Haines, Furlong and Henry Lovell led the way for the losing side. Beamond reserved praise for defender Furlong, who again limited the impact of Wyndhamvale spearhead Lewis Stanton. He said Furlong “should be a lock” for fullback in the team of the year.

Maidstone United has made history in the FV state league 6 north-west competition. Having set the focus early on earning promotion, the goal has been achieved for the first time in the club’s history. Maidstone coach Nick Vouris said it was a pretty massive achievement from the group. “It’s done now,” he said. “It’s been a really good season and I’m really proud of the boys. “It’s the first promotion in the club’s history, I’m really proud of what we achieved.” Maidstone locked up promotion with a couple of rounds remaining, having only lost one game for the year. While the loss ended Maidstone’s chance to claim the championship, Vouris said the main thing was ensuring that they earned promotion. “It started in October,” he said. “I went to the club and had a meeting and we decided it would be good for the club to aim for the first promotion. “We went backwards from there and the recruitment process started. It’s the earliest we ever started the pre-season. “We set the standards and tone and we were able to achieve it which is awesome.” While the goal of promotion is complete, Maidstone is focused on finishing its season on a high. It faced Alphington in the final round of the season on Saturday and suffered a 3-1 loss “What I love about this group is that the standards have not dropped,” he said before the final round. “We want to finish strong and it’s an important thing.” While the dust is yet to settle on the season, Vouris said he and the group were already keen to continue the momentum into next season. He said this year was only the beginning. “We’ll be aiming for back-to-back,” he said. “We’ve already started preparing for 2027. “The sky is the limit.” It’s double joy for Maidstone United, with its women’s side also securing promotion having claimed the state league 8 north-west title. Vouris said this showed how strong the club was and that from a men’s side, it was important to also have a thriving women’s program.

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Eagles’ grand final heartbreak By Tara Murray Yarraville Seddon again fell short of the final hurdle in the Western Football League women’s competition. Having come from fourth to make the division 2 grand final, the Eagles didn’t have the answers for the Suns. It was a perfect start for the Eagles as they scored the opening goal of the game. It was a quick response by the Suns. That was the story of the first half. The Suns led by 13 points at half time, before kicking two goals in the third quarter either side of the Eagles’ one.

The Eagles got the first goal of the final quarter to give themselves some hope. There would be no second-half comeback from the Eagles this time round though. The Suns would kick the next two to put the game beyond doubt. A late consolation goal came for the Eagles, but it was the Suns that celebrated their first women’s premiership. Coach Andre Pocilujko said the Suns made it hard for them to get their game going. “Congratulations to Wyndham, it was a really tough game for us,” he said in his

post match speech. “You worked really hard for it. “Thanks to the club that put us forward and allow us to do what we do, we really appreciate it. “To the girls, well done. “It was one hell of a season and a lot of hard work and we put everything on the line today [Saturday], well done.” Suns’ coach Leanne Meyer said the Suns were always a hard team to play against and one they enjoy the challenge against. “We knew that Yarraville was a solid second half team, so we had to turn the heat up in the second half,” she said.

“To the girls’ credit they all stood up and they all took themselves off when they were gassed and played for the whole squad. “It was a little bit surreal [the margin]. You just want to put all 36 players on the field and you can’t. It was nice to also take a breath.” It had been an up and down season for the Eagles, who went from two teams to one this season as they looked to consolidate. They are already planning for next season with the club set to have an under-19s girls side for the first time. Geelong AFLW star Georgie Prespakis will coach that side.

Sports shorts VPL Altona City has announced that Chris Greecham will depart the club following the Victorian Premier League 2 season. It was a tough season for Altona City, which will be relegated back into the state league competition next season. “While results on the pitch didn’t reflect the tireless effort put in behind the scenes, his commitment to the development of our young players and his collaborative approach with the board, staff, and volunteers never wavered,” Altona City said. We part ways on amicable terms and with the utmost respect for Chris as both a coach and a person.

NRL Vic Altona Roosters are through to the NRL Victorian Storm premiership first grade men’s grand final. The Roosters faced the Truganina Rabbitohs on Saturday in the preliminary final and came away with a 22-18 to seal their grand final spot. While the Roosters men’s side won through, their women’s side, which was aiming for back-to-back titles, lost its preliminary final, 12-0 to the Truganina Rabbitohs.

Lacrosse

Yarraville-Seddon will aim to bounce back. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 574819_10

Eagles fall short, face a preliminary final

Williamstown is through to the Lacrosse Victoria men’s state league competition final. Williamstown faced Footscray on Saturday in the semi finals and came away with a 13-11 win having held a two goal margin at the final break. Williamstown will play Eltham in the grand final. In the women’s state league preliminary final, Newport beat Williamstown 13-9 to win through to Sunday’s grand final against Footscray.

FV By Luke D’Anello Yarraville-Seddon will meet Caroline Springs in a rematch of last year’s Western Football League division 1 preliminary final after falling short against the competition’s pre-eminent club on Saturday. The Eagles went down by 16 points to Werribee Districts in the major semi-final, 10.12 (72)-8.8 (56), with the minor premier advancing to a fifth consecutive grand final. Brad Julier’s men took the points in their qualifying final clash with the Lakers in the opening week of finals after losing both home-and-away matches. The weekend’s semi-final was evenly matched as expected, with the Tigers booting six goals to three in a decisive third term to gain the ascendancy. “It was 10 minutes where they got a bit of dominance and besides that I thought we were pretty good,” Julier said. “They kicked a couple of goals in a hurry in that third quarter and then the

weather came in in the last quarter and we didn’t get a chance to return serve. “There was 10 minutes where we dropped our guard a little bit and they took full advantage. “We can’t dwell on it too much. We get another chance, so all-in on this weekend and all eyes on Caroline Springs.” Kobe Cikala, Darcy Grieves, Brodie Catania (three goals) and Zach O’Halloran led the way for the losing side. Yarraville-Seddon could be boosted by the return of headline recruit and former AFL player Will Hoskin-Elliott, who has had an interrupted season due to injury, logging 31 goals from 10 outings. No.1 ruckman Akol Deng is unlikely to take the field this weekend, while the Eagles could also be without prime mover Michael Selsby. They will confront a Caroline Springs outfit riding high from a 56-point win over Albion in Sunday’s minor semi-final. The Lakers led by 15 points early in the last term before booting the final sev-

en goals of the contest to march into the penultimate weekend of the campaign. “They obviously finished full of running, so we’re going to have to be on our game again next week and hopefully we can bounce back,” Julier said. “We’ve got to play our game and we know it stacks up when we play it well and try to do our things right. Cut and paste from two weeks ago.” While disappointed to lose, Julier is acutely aware little separates the remaining three clubs. Werribee Districts won 15 games during the regular rounds, Yarraville-Seddon 14 and Caroline Springs 13. The Tigers are chasing a third premiership in five years to add to their triumphs in 2023 and 2025. “It’s all very close,” Julier said. “We had our chances (on Saturday). We started well and we don’t think we were too far away.”We’re confident we can get through and have a real crack at (Werribee Districts) in two weeks’ time.”

A final round draw wasn’t enough for Yarraville Glory to avoid relegation in the FV state league 1 north-west competition. The Glory needed to win the final round and hope Western Suburbs had a loss, to have any chance of avoiding relegation. The Glory had a draw with Sydenham Park, but it wouldn’t have mattered anyway with the Western Suburbs also picking up one point.

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Wednesday, 9 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 19

8, SEPTEMBER, 2026

Eagles to go again

Taquila Angel. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 576220_31

Eagles disappointment

Marlo Atkins. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 576220_12

Spurs end in style By Tara Murray Parkside Spurs put an exclamation mark on their Western Football League season, as they claimed the biggest grand final win in the history of the league’s women’s competition. Having had the perfect season heading into the grand final, the Spurs were the hottest of favourites heading into Saturday’s division 1 decider with Wyndhamvale at Skinner Reserve. The Spurs had beaten the Falcons three times convincingly throughout the season, the most recent time in the semi finals. The Falcons had never beaten the Spurs in the past three years. There would be no nerves for the Spurs, who would have the game won at quarter time. Thirteen scoring shots to none at quarter time, had the Spurs leading 43-0. It was much of the same for the rest of the game as the Spurs won their first and last premiership in the league, 15.14 (104)-1.5 (11). Co-coaches Darren Smith and Callan Tenabel were thrilled with the result. “It’s just reward for some really hard work during the year,” Smith said. Tenabel added, “It’s a relief and elation for the girls. “There was a bit of pressure, but I don’t think it bothered the girls and they played their best footy all finals series.” Smith said the group was surprisingly relaxed heading into the grand final despite all the pressure being on them. He said while some still held the scars of last year’s straight sets exit, it didn’t show. “The good start settled a lot of nerves and went on from there.” Smith said they couldn’t have asked for more from the first quarter before they backed it up against the breeze in the second quarter defensively. It meant the second half the Spurs could enjoy the grand final and what was to come.

Parkside Spurs’ celebrate. (Kel Rowe)

“We were really happy the conditions calmed down a little bit so it was a reasonable spectacle,” he said. “They defended well that second quarter and set it up in that first half very proud of them.” Aleisha Casley and Nadine Lampard kicked three goals each, while Taquila Angel and Rita Ceravolo kicked two goals apiece. Angel was awarded the best on ground medal by the umpires. Ceravolo and Natalie Pearce were other standouts for the Spurs. The coaches said that Angel had been good all year and they were good enough to put spot fires out around the ground in a

good team effort. The premiership is the Spurs first since 2019 when they won the Northern Football League division 1 and 2 flags. Aleisha Casley, Tara Morgan, Ashlea Block, Lampard and Angel were part of those premierships. While the celebrations were set to go into the coming days for the Spurs, with the coaches saying the players “would get off the leash”, thinking has already turned to next season. The Spurs will call the Essendon District Football League home from next season. The group is set to enter the premier division competition, which Caroline Springs did after winning the 2025

premiership. With a partnership with the Ascot Vale Panthers, who are already in the EDFL, there’s a strong foundation. “We’ve already started to speak to players,” Tenabel said. “Obviously the goal is to get more out of the current team, there’s still plenty of youth in there. “We will get started on next year in the coming weeks. “We have all way from under-8 girls, under-10s, 12s, 14s, 16s and under-19s. “It’s really important to bring all that youth in, in the coming years and build a great female-friendly football club where everyone is welcome and we get the best out of all the women and girls.”