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Third Houdini hit By Jack O’shea-Ayres Residents in Diggers Rest have just about had enough after a monument honouring Australia’ first powered flight by American escapist and magician Harry Houdini was recently destroyed for the third time in almost a year. The historic plaque was first established in Diggers Rest with help from the local Lions Club in 1990, at the site where Houdini took to the skies 80 years prior in 1910. It was previously destroyed in March last year, and then again in November after being rebuilt by Melton council. Residents believe the damage is the cause of vandals, while evidence of tyre marks on the road lead others to believe the damage is the result of hooning in the area.

Diggers Rest resident David O’Connor and Melton Historical Society secretary Deb Slattery with the vandalised Houdini monument. (Pictures: Valerius R. Boenawan) 577635 03

Our responsibility isn’t simply to repair it, it’s to make sure we preserve that community legacy and give the site a future - David O’Connor Diggers Rest resident David O’Connor said he was fed up with continuing to find the monument damaged, in ruins, or otherwise destroyed. He’s now calling on council to commit to a practical long-term solution to better protect the historic monument from further damage. “For me, the issue is about much more than repairing the recent damage,” Mr O’Connor explained. “The monument has a long community history and represents the efforts of local people who wanted to ensure Diggers Rest’s connection with Houdini was recognised and preserved. “After three incidents, it would seem appropriate that its restoration be accompanied by a practical long-term solution to better protect it from further damage.” A Melton council spokesperson said council was made aware of the most recent damage and is already working to restore it.

The spokesperson said the previous installation of protective bollards had failed to prevent damage to the monument. “This is the third incident of significant damage to the monument in less than two years, despite the installation of protective bollards following previous incidents,” the spokesperson said. The spokesperson told Star Weekly council believed the most recent assault on the monument was caused by a vehicle and that it was reviewing the monument’s design in an aim to reduce the risk of further damage, while also preserving the monument’s historical significance. Mr O’Connor said the recent damage provided an opportunity to consider how

the important piece of Diggers Rest history could be better protected. “I believe the recent damage provides an opportunity not simply to restore what was there, but to consider how this important piece of Diggers Rest history can be better protected, interpreted and enjoyed by the community into the future,” Mr O’Connor said. He also said the local community held a particular sentiment to the monument. “This monument was created because the community believed the Houdini story was worth preserving,” Mr O’Connor said. “More than 35 years later, our responsibility isn’t simply to repair it, it’s to make sure we preserve that community legacy and give the site a future.”

The vandalised Houdini monument. 577635 07

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Parwan pair farewelled By Jack O’Shea-Ayres with AAP Hundreds are mourning the loss of sevenyear-old Sarah El Hawli and 11-year-old Ossama El Hawli, who were killed when a 4WD rolled over near Bacchus Marsh on Tuesday 8 September. The two family members died just hours apart following the crash at Parwarn, shortly before 4pm. The pair, along with five other children, were travelling west on Nerowie Road when the eight-seater car “inexplicably rolled”. A 34-year-old woman, who has since been released from hospital, had just picked up the children from Al Iman Col-

lege in Melton South when the tragedy struck. The surviving children, including a toddler, were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Al Iman College, where Sarah attended, shared a statement mourning the siblings’ deaths. “Sarah was a cherished member of Al Iman College, and this tragedy has deeply affected her classmates, friends, teachers and our wider school community,” the college said. The loss of Sarah and Ossama had “deeply affected” the community, the Australian Islamic Centre said on Wednesday.

“Our hearts are with their parents, family and loved ones as they face an unimaginable loss,” a statement said. “Our immediate focus is supporting the family through this incredibly difficult time.” Melton mayor Lara Carli also extended condolences to the family. “This is heart-breaking news, and on behalf of council I extend our deepest sympathies to the family, loved ones and all those impacted by this great loss,” Cr Carli said. “In the days, weeks and months ahead, our community will come together to support all those affected.” Both children were farewelled at Newport Mosque on Thursday 10 September,

Seniors festival returns to Moorabool Moorabool Shire’s biggest celebration of older residents returns this October, with more than 40 free and low-cost events and activities taking place across the municipality. Running from 1 to 31 October, the 2026 Moorabool Seniors Festival offers a full month of opportunities for older residents to connect with others, try something new and enjoy what the local community has to offer. Events will be held across the shire, from Bacchus Marsh and Ballan to smaller communities including Bullarook, Lal Lal, Blackwood, Gordon, Bolwarrah and Navigators, making it easier for residents to take part closer to home. A highlight of this year’s program will be the Moorabool Country Concert on Friday 9 October, featuring Amber Joy Poulton’s Honky Tonk Queens. The live show celebrates the golden era of country music, with classic hits from Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette. Attendees are also invited to stay for a light lunch following the performance. The popular Moorabool Seniors Expo will return to the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Friday 2 October. The Expo will bring local organisations, services and community groups together in one place, with free barista coffee and ice cream, live demonstrations and lucky door prizes available throughout the event. Mayor Steve Venditti-Taylor invited all members of the community, both young and old, to get involved. “We’re

The Stiletto Groove brought timeless tunes to last year’s Seniors Festival, with plenty more live music performances set to entertain this year. (Supplied)

so thrilled to host another seniors festival, off the back of very successful events in previous years,” he said.

Details: www.moorabool.vic.gov. au/seniors-festival-events.

where hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their respects. Detectives on Friday issued a fresh plea for dashcam footage between 4-4.30pm, regardless of whether or not they witnessed the crash. “This is a devastating incident, and our priority is to piece together what has happened in the lead up and caused this tragedy,” Detective Sergeant Tony Gentile said. “Irrespective of whether motorists witnessed the crash or travelled through the area before or after it occurred, we want to hear from anyone – any piece of information could be invaluable.”

Moira Deeming joins Family First Moira Deeming has joined Family First as its lead candidate for the Western Metropolitan region. Family First national director Lyle Shelton announced the party’s federal executive had endorsed Mrs Deeming on Thursday 10 September. Mr Shelton praised Mrs Deeming for what he described as her “courageous“ work in parliament. “Moira is one of the most courageous parliamentarians in Australia, and her resilience and tenacity makes her the best person to fight for the families of western Melbourne,” Mr Shelton said. “Moira doesn’t back down no matter what is thrown at her and she won’t back down when it comes to standing up for the families of western Melbourne.” Mrs Deeming currently sits as an independent MP since resigning from the Victorian Liberal Party in July. Her decision followed a Liberal party voted to disendorse Ms Deeming as a candidate for the November election. The MP had accused colleague and former party leader Matthew Guy of grabbing her “violently” in a headlock, but since claimed she misunderstood the meaning of headlock. In announcing her switch to Family First, Mrs Deeming said her priority would be to fight for the rights of parents in the west. Mrs Deeming has also been appointed Victorian Family First leader, while Jane Foreman continues as chair of the Victorian executive for party.

Crackdown on developer promises Developers who promise shopping centres, train stations and recreational facilities in new suburbs will be forced to deliver or pay compensation under a proposed new law targeting developer accountability. Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank introduced the proposed Developer Integrity Bill to state parliament on 9 September, arguing buyers should have more protection when infrastructure promised to those who buy blocks of land in new estates fails to eventuate. The accountability push follows the state government’s approval last month of a new suburb east of Melton, where nearly 12,000 homes are planned. The Melton East Precinct Structure Plan includes seven schools, four community hubs, and new shopping areas, with a delivery timeframe of 20 to 30 years. However, Mr Ettershank said residents in nearby estates such as Mount Atkinson have heard similar promises and are still waiting 12849128-EB11-26

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

for infrastructure. “They bought their homes believing there would be shopping centres, train stations, and places for their kids to play. Years later, they are still waiting,” he said. Mt Atkinson’s masterplan includes a town centre, including a proposed Westfield shopping centre, schools, recreation facilities, community spaces, and a train station. Primary schools have been delivered, however residents are still waiting on nearly all the promised town features, with Westfield publicly withdrawing from the shopping centre proposal in 2024. Melton council said it supports the creation of the new suburb, however agreed that housing growth must be matched by infrastructure. Mr Ettershank said buyers should not be left without meaningful recourse when the facilities fail to materialise. The state government was contacted for comment.

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Safety lessons for students Having managed security across 57 venues and overseen more than 200 bouncers over a 15-year career, Alan Latu knows how quickly an argument can turn violent. Working with the Pat Cronin Foundation, he recently held a seminar for more than 350 students at Brookside P-9 College at Caroline Springs, teaching them how to understand and manage their triggers for anger, defuse conflict and step away from potentially violent situations. Nineteen-year-old Pat Cronin was struck once in the head while trying to pull his friend away from a scuffle in 2016. Although he initially appeared un-

harmed, he later lost consciousness due to inoperable brain bleeding. Two days later, his family made the decision to turn off his life support. The foundation was formed in his name to educate young people on violence prevention. Since then, the foundation has delivered presentations to more than 300,000 students across more than 750 schools. Its initiatives centre around understanding violence, psychology and emotions, changing behaviours and examining culture in schools. Mr Latu delivered the foundation’s Vi-

olence is Never OK and Rethinking Anger presentations to years 7 and 8 students at Brookside. “In our sessions, we help young people understand what they’re feeling in the moment. We give them real strategies to cool down, read the room, and defuse a tense situation before it goes too far,” Mr Latu said. “These are vital life skills that serve young people in almost any situation and key to navigating challenges they’ll face as they enter adulthood.” School counsellor Dyson Russell said this was the fourth year Brookside had

booked the presentation, complementing its Respectful Relationships Program. “Presentations like this can be very impactful and generate conversations that can be otherwise difficult to initiate,” he said. The foundation has expanded into primary schools, with the launch of the Be Wise Primary Program last month, amid growing concerns about aggression in classrooms and playgrounds. The 120-hour program features 145 lessons and activities from prep to grade 6, aimed at helping children better manage their emotions.

Street upgrades starting A new shared path in Maddingley is coming. Works on the new off-road shared path along Griffith Street in Maddingley are about to start. The staged project will initially begin with the construction of a continuous off-road shared-path network on both sides of Griffith Street, as well as upgrades to service lanes on the southern side of the road. The improvements are reportedly designed to enhance safety, improve traffic flow and make it easier for residents to move through the area whether walking, cycling or driving, according to Moorabool council. Mayor Steve Venditti-Taylor said the project would provide long-term benefits for the growing Maddingley community.

“These works will significantly improve safety and accessibility along Griffith Street, creating a better environment for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike,” Cr Venditti-Taylor said. To facilitate the works, approximately 30 sugar gum trees located on the southern side of Griffith Street will be removed. Council will undertake replacement planting as part of the project, ensuring new trees are established in the area. Construction is expected to be completed by mid-2027. Details: www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/ griffith-street-upgrades.

Mayor Steve Venditti-Taylor with residents, who have advocated for the upgrades. (Valerius R. Boenawan). 577112 05

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No laughing matter Packaging for a large nitrous oxide canister and a small nang canister, or bulb, found littered on the streets of the western suburbs. (Pictures: Jack O’Shea-Ayres)

What many see as a harmless party drug is sending more and more young people in Melbourne’s western suburbs to hospital, with users of nitrous oxide appear at emergency departments with signs of psychosis, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and neurological problems, according to research highlighting the potentially serious consequences of recreational use. The findings come as one western suburbs council moves to tighten controls on the sale of nitrous oxide. Jack O’Shea-Ayres reports.

itrous Oxide canisters or bulbs, known as “nangs” or “whippets”, are causing major harm as recreational use grows in popularity across the state. Also referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a dissociative anaesthetic used for sedation in medical settings. It is also an old-fashioned way to instantly whip cream inside a dispenser, however more and more young people are getting their hands on it for its ability to give a quick high. Melton council unanimously backed a motion at its 24 August meeting calling for tougher regulation of nitrous oxide sales, including restrictions on general consumer purchases and requirements for businesses to demonstrate legitimate reasons for buying the gas amid concerns the potentially dangerous substance is too easy to get a hold of. The push also follows concerns raised by councillor Julie Shannon that nangs were contributing to addiction and serious health problems among young people across the municipality. “Effects can range from hypoxia, frostbite, and permanent nerve damage,” she said. But while physical injuries associated with nitrous oxide have received increasing attention, research from Sunshine Hospital suggests the mental health consequences may be just as concerning. A study by Western Health researchers examining emergency department presentations at Sunshine Hospital between August 2020 and July 2024 identified 23 patients whose recreational nitrous oxide use was relevant to their psychiatric or neurological presentation. The study was conducted by Western health clinicians Katy Boyce, Harhsini Liyanage, Emma Tam, and Souitra Das, and provides a snapshot of the types of serious presentations clinicians are encountering across the west. Of the 23 patients studied, almost half - 11 people - presented with psychotic symptoms. Eight experienced suicidal ideation or self-harm, while five displayed neurological symptoms, including tingling or altered sensations, weakness, and problems with coordination. The research indicated a relatively low age bracket for those presenting with nitrous oxide use - the average age of patients was just 29, with the youngest being aged just 16-years-old. Researchers said the findings demonstrated the need for clinicians to recognise nitrous oxide use as a potential

It’s terrifying that it does feel like the exploitation of young and vulnerable - John Verdon people factor when assessing patients presenting with psychiatric or neurological symptoms. “These findings reflect clinical associations rather than causal relationships and highlight the need for early recognition, targeted assessment, and appropriate follow-up in high-risk patients,” they said. Part of the concern surrounding nangs is their reputation as a relatively “safe” recreational substance. The effects include an instant and intense high, which is rapid and short-lived, often encouraging repeated inhalation. The Sunshine Hospital researchers said the drug’s low cost, accessibility, and perceived harmlessness had contributed to its growing popularity, particularly among young people. “Social acceptance of the drug, ease of access, perceived harmlessness and low cost are likely explanations for the skew in use towards younger populations,” the researchers said. It’s that very perception, however, which is obscuring the potentially fatal risks. Repeated or heavy nitrous oxide exposure has been shown to interfere with the body’s use of vitamin B12, Western Health’s research suggests. B12 is an essential nutrient involved in the nervous system, and blood formation, with resulting functional B12 deficiency shown to lead to nerve damage and, in severe cases, contribute to weakness, difficulty walking, sensory disturbances, and potentially permanent neurological injury. The study also highlights another serious complication in that nitrous oxide rarely exists in isolation within the drug-taking environment. Nineteen of the study’s 23 patients, or 83 per cent, were documented as using alcohol or other drugs alongside their nitrous oxide use. Research shows stimulants, cannabis, and alcohol were among the substances commonly reported as being used alongside nangs. It also reflects the broader environment in which nangs can be used, including alongside other drugs and at parties, or in other social settings, where repeated consumption becomes difficult to monitor.

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

Researchers found that 15 of the examined patients used nitrous oxide more than once a week. Eight of the 23 patients were admitted to hospital, including seven to psychiatric inpatient units and one to a general medical ward. Another eight were discharged with community mental health follow-ups. The numbers are small, but they paint a very different picture from the image of nangs as a relatively inconsequential recreational drug. The study stressed the need for further research into the social, cultural, and environmental factors influencing nang use. For local councils, the challenge is balancing the legitimate uses of nitrous oxide with attempts to restrict recreational access. Melton council is seeking a system in which businesses buying nitrous oxide canisters would need to demonstrate that they are legitimate users, i.e. they’re baking a cake with whipped cream, rather than huffing a can of laughing gas for a quick high. It has also called for increased penalties for retailers and others who breach regulations. Cr John Verdon said prevention was particularly important given the increase in use among young people. “This is the importance of health prevention activities and advocating for those types of things is critical in our community,” he said. “It’s terrifying that it does feel like the exploitation of young and vulnerable people.”

The move reflects a wider debate across Australia over how the substance should be regulated, with varying restrictions being adopted across Australia. Regulation, however, may only address one part of the problem. Researchers behind the Sunshine Hospital study argue that greater awareness among health professionals, early screening and better access to mental health support are also needed. The researchers also point to the need for public health campaigns that challenge the perception of nitrous oxide use as harmless. That message may be particularly important for young people encountering the drug in social settings, where its legitimate uses and familiar packaging can make it appear less dangerous than other illicit substances. The Sunshine Hospital study cannot establish that nangs caused psychosis, suicidal behaviour or neurological injury in every patient it examined, nor does it suggest every person who inhales nitrous oxide will experience those outcomes. What it does show is that serious neuropsychiatric presentations are occurring among people who use the drug - and that some of those presentations are severe enough to result in psychiatric or medical admission. Behind the familiar nickname and fleeting high is a substance capable of being associated with some very serious consequences - consequences that may not become apparent until a user is already sitting in an emergency department.

Mayor Lara Carli and Councillor Julie Shannon in Hannah Watts Park, where youth have been seen using nitrous oxide. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 577636 03

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My Place Richard Carthew is a long-time western suburbs resident who lives in Sydenham. He is currently the St Albans community youth club chairperson. He spoke with Sebastian Conidi. What’s your connection to Melbourne’s north-west? My family moved into our new home in the half-completed Overton Lea estate in Sydenham the day after Boxing Day 1995. The first morning I woke up to the sounds of cows mooing and could see the city skyline from the bedroom window. There were no shops except for a general store next to the railway gates on Keilor-Melton Road and the closest set of traffic lights was outside Keilor Downs shopping centre in Taylors Road. What do you like about where you live? I like living in the area, I have met many people as well as being a member of the now defunct Rotary Club of Brimbank, the Brimbank Bicycle Education Centre, Sydenham and District Historical Society, the Friends of yaluk barring, Probus Club of Hillside. What is one of your fondest memories of the west? My fondest memories of the west are picnics and barbecues at Brimbank Park, kayaking on the Maribyrnong, afternoon teas at Williamstown, visits to the Werribee Free Range Zoo and taking a car load of kids to Melton Wave Pool. What, if anything, would you change about where you live? Over the years a number of us have advocated for a wider use of yaluk barring park, formerly Sydenham Park. The area has great tourist potential as well as being able to

Richard Carthew. (Damjan Janevski) 574794_06

meet the sporting needs of our youth. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? I do most of the shopping locally but don’t eat out much these days a for a bit of quite time I go to yaluk barring park for a walk.

How has your role as St Albans Community Youth Club chairperson shaped your relationship with the west? Being elected the Chairperson at St Albans Community Youth back in November has been an honour, it has made me more aware of the problems for families and indi-

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NEWS

Cup visits Bacchus Marsh

Briefs

The Bacchus Marsh community opened its doors to a special guest on Wednesday 2 September. The Bacchus Marsh Returned Servicemen’s League (BMRSL) invited members of the local community to take part in holding the 2026 Melbourne Cup as it made its rounds across the state as part of this year’s Lexus Cup Tour. But it wasn’t just a random phenomenon that the cup found itself in the hands of the Bacchus Marsh community - the BMRSL was approached by the Victorian Racing Club to host the official 2026 cup due to the rich racing history associated with the Bacchus Marsh area. Famously, it was the historic 166-hectare racehorse stud farm, the Underbank Stud, where Australian horse racing icon Phar Lap was housed and trained during breaks in his racing career. But despite its rich racing history, this year marked the first time Bacchus Marsh was chosen to host the famous Melbourne Cup. BMRSL president Stephen Fernandez called the landmark event an absolute honour. “The BMRSL was extremely honoured to host the event,” Mr Fernandez said. “Damien Oliver was the Melbourne Cup Ambassador and his recollections of his Melbourne Cup rides were very enlightening for those in attendance.” But he said perhaps the biggest honour was the local RSL being presented with a cup replica, and a barrier draw to go along with it. “The biggest surprise other than lifting the 2026 Melbourne Cup with a gloved hand, was being presented with a small replica of the Cup, which entitles us to be in the Barrier Draw,” he said.

A Melton South second-hand dealer sought the assistance of the bomb squad after finding a working rocket launcher among a collection of items he’d recently purchased. About 1pm on 5 September, police were called after the man purchased five shipping containers from what he thought was a deceased estate. He soon found boxes containing military-related items and clothing, including the rocket launcher. Police liaised with the Bomb Response Unit and, following advice from the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the weapon was declared in working order. It was deemed safe to handle and taken by police until it can be collected by the ADF. It’s believed to date from the Vietnam War.

Rocket haul shock

Community input sought

Bacchus Marsh RSL president Stephen Fernandez with the 2026 Melbourne Cup. (Supplied)

A barrier will be selected on behalf of the BMRSL, entitling the club to cash in on part of the prize money of any winning horse out of that barrier. “If the horse wins there is part of a prize to be used by the RSL for their use,” Mr Fernandez explained. “This would be most appreciated as with most clubs, there are things that need to be achieved and any extra help is a godsend.” Mr Fernandez extended open arms in welcoming any serving and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force to the club’s rooms, open Monday and Friday mornings, and Friday nights.

Eight reserves across Melton are set for upgrades, with works scheduled to begin in the 2026-27 financial year. Melton council is seeking feedback on draft concept designs. Residents can view designs for reserves including Addicott Way Reserve in Taylors Hill, Fairhaven Reserve in Melton West, Maud Jan See Chin Reserve in Melton, Springside Recreation Reserve, Stefan Drive Reserve, Windsor Gardens and Fay Street Reserve. Feedback is open until 20 September. Details: https:// tinyurl.com/55auy6a7 FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Moving Ahead

15 September 2026

Mayor’s message Cr Lara Carli

Stay Informed

We welcome the recent announcements and state election commitments to invest in much needed public transport and roads in the City of Melton. The Victorian Government has committed a further $550 million towards upgrading the Western Highway between Melton and Caroline Springs. Combined with the $1 billion in Australian Government funding previously committed, this investment will deliver critical capacity and safety improvements, helping residents access jobs, education and essential services. We look forward to seeing works start. Council also welcomed the recent commitment by the Victorian Liberal and National parties to invest $1.7 billion in 25 new hybrid electric trains, including for the Melton rail line, as an interim measure to increase rail capacity. Whilst the announcement is welcome our position remains that the Melton rail line must be duplicated and fully electrified by 2030, with new stations at Mt Atkinson and Thornhill Park. We will continue advocating to all major parties to commit to the roads and public transport essential to the liveability of our growing community. I would also like to say, what a privilege it was to welcome Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, to the City of Melton recently. The visit provided an opportunity for the Governor to spend time in one of Australia’s fastest-growing communities, to see and hear about the City of Melton, its growth, its people and the opportunities and challenges in a growth area. On behalf of Council, thank you to the Governor for taking the time to visit and learn more about the City of Melton and our community. Feel free to contact me about Sugar Gum Ward or our City more generally on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au

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

Spring school holiday fun! Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained these spring school holidays? Council has you covered with

bike rides, first aid workshops for kids, craft activities and more, there’s something to be something for everyone.

a jam-packed program of exciting activities for children and young people. From youth spin bike and boxing classes to musical theatre workshops, indoor rock climbing, scavenger hunt

Check out what’s on offer at melton.vic.gov.au/schoolholidays

AFL Grand Final Public Holiday

2026 Melton Seniors Festival The Victorian Seniors Festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate ageing well and connect with the community. This year, Council is hosting two live music events for local seniors: Playing Second Fiddle Saturday 10 October, 1pm to 3pm Melton Community Hall, 238 High Street, Melton Enjoy a celebration of iconic women of musical theatre, featuring songs from Les Misérables, Oliver, Guys and Dolls and more. Cost: $5

Our offices will be closed on Friday 25 September for the AFL Grand Final Public Holiday. This includes City of Melton Libraries and the Animal Pound. There is no change to kerbside bin collections. The Melton Recycling Facility is open 8am - 4.30pm. For information, to report an issue and pay online via our website: melton.vic.gov.au

Groove Dimension Saturday 24 October, 6pm to 8pm Melton Community Hall, 238 High Street, Melton Dance and sing along to classic funk, R&B, soul and disco hits from the 1970s. Cost: $5

Tickets are available from Melton and Caroline Springs libraries. For more information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/seniorsfestival

Jackwood Ward with Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg It’s great to be back connecting with Jackwood Ward residents and continuing to support and advocate for our community. There are plenty of Council projects underway for residents to look forward to over the next 12-months, including the completion of the Deanside Children’s and Community Centre, which will provide much-needed kindergarten, Maternal and Child Health and community spaces. Construction is also continuing on our new Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Fraser Rise, which will provide exciting opportunities for swimming, fitness and leisure.

Council has endorsed a proposed name for the facility, Tides Fraser Rise, and we’d like to hear what the community thinks before we make a final decision. The proposed name reflects the multipurpose nature of the facility, which is not only an aquatic centre, but also a destination for health, wellbeing and connection. You can have your say by visiting conversations.melton.vic.gov.au There are also plans to improve local connections, including upgrades to the Taylors Road corridor, and a new shareduse path between Bonnie Brook and Fraser Rise, providing safer, easier access

to Deanside Primary School, childcare and other local services. Finally, I’d like to send my heartfelt thoughts to the family whose home was severely damaged by fire in Bonnie Brook recently. Thankfully, no one was injured, but losing your home is devastating. I wish the family strength and support as they navigate this difficult time. Feel free to contact me regarding Jackwood Ward or our City more generally on 0499 801 183 or ashleigh.vandenberg@melton.vic.gov.au

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

Deputy Mayor Cr Dr Phillip Zada

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Kathy Majdlik

A welcoming and liveable City accessible to all 10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 September, 2026

Cr Brandi Morris

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Civic Centre 232 High Street Melton VIC 3337

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

9747 7200 melton.vic.gov.au cityofmelton

Cr John Verdon

12842651-KF38-26

Mayor Cr Lara Carli

FEATURING ... EDUCATION

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A village where learners grow and progress together At Global Village Learning, a four-year-old and a twenty-year-old are at very different stages of life. They need different challenges, different levels of independence and different kinds of support. But they can still belong to the same community. That idea sits at the heart of GVL. Across their time at GVL, learners move through four Developmental Learning Hubs. The age ranges deliberately overlap because development does not happen neatly according to a calendar. Learners grow and progress at their own pace, with increasing opportunities for independence, leadership and contribution along the way. But Developmental Learning Hubs are not walls. Throughout a learner’s journey from four to 20, there are opportunities to connect, collaborate and build relationships with young people of different ages. Mixed-age learning is an important part of our Montessori-inspired approach. Younger learners can see what is possible by spending time with older learners. Older learners have opportunities to mentor, lead and contribute. And sometimes the learning flows in the opposite direction. A six-year-old can have an idea a sixteen-year-old has never considered. That is the point. We are building a village, not a collection of separate classrooms. Learning happens within Learning Hubs, but community happens across GVL. It happens through EDventurous Projects, shared spaces, community activities and the countless informal moments that make up a day. It happens

when learners create together, solve problems together and help one another. We play together too. And we eat together. Our Healthy Food Program is more than providing a meal. Sitting around a table, sharing food and conversation with people of differ-

ent ages is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to build relationships and community. At GVL, we believe young people thrive when they experience agency, mastery and community connection. From four to 20, a learner will grow

and change enormously. Their interests will change. Their capabilities will develop. Their independence will grow. But throughout that journey, one thing remains constant. They are part of the Village.

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Tuesday, 15 September, 2026 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

NEWS

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Solutions to crime are slow As part of an ongoing series on the causes and solutions to crime in the west, Cade Lucas spoke to Swinburne university criminology lecturer and western suburbs resident Dr Joel McGregor about the drivers of youth crime. “Serious youth offending doesn’t just emerge from nowhere,” Dr Joel McGregor said when asked why youth offending was such a big problem in Melbourne’s west. A senior lecturer in criminology at Swinburne University of Technology who specialises in the causes of youth crime, Dr McGregor also lives in Melbourne’s west and is well aware of how big a problem youth offending has become in the region. His explanation for why has a familiar

ring to it. “Melbourne’s west contains some of the fastest growing communities in the area and one of the challenges there is that the social infrastructure and support services have not necessarily grown at the same pace,” Dr McGregor said with an answer that could equally apply to roads, public transport, health services and schools across the west too. However, the results of this under-investment are arguably even worse and more difficult to fix. “Somewhere like the west, where you’ve got really fast-growing communities, people are very quickly displaced, and there’s a lack of opportunities for young people

to create a positive sense of belonging,” he said. Unable to find positive places to belong, Dr McGregor said, young people in the west have resorted to negative ones instead. “A lot of youth crime comes from a sense of belonging, particularly gang involvement,” he said. “Gangs provide somewhere for young people to belong, somewhere where they feel seen by others, where they have peer association – unfortunately, this is negative peer association.” But while the causes of youth crime are easy to understand, the solutions are not. Dr McGregor said addressing the root

cause of the problem involved changing the attitudes of young offenders, a slow process at a time when the community is demanding urgent action. “What people want are really quick interventions where they can feel safe straight away, and I understand that, but we’re trying to change behaviours, which takes quite a long time,” he said, pointing to Victoria’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), an early intervention program which has been operating in the western suburbs since last December, as an example of an approach to youth crime which is low profile but highly effective. “We’re never gonna police ourselves out of crime.”

West councils want a local police training academy. But why now? bank councillors welcomed the response however urged for more to be done. A report tabled at the meeting found that traders still felt unsafe and claimed police were late to attend or didn’t attend at all when local business called to report theft and damage. Victoria Police responded stating that the issue had not been raised with them in recent months. Council said it would continue to consult community traders and would engage in further advocacy for stronger police protection.

By Sebastian Conidi Crime has long been an issue in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs. But recent incidents have garnered more attention than most and led a group of western suburbs mayor to call on Victoria Police and the state government to do more to improve safety in the region. Now the mayors and chief executives of Brimbank, Melton, Wyndham, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong and Hume have come together to call on the state government to establish a new police academy in the region. Why is there now a greater focus on crime in the north-west? In early August, Sunshine trader Van Viet Truong died after being assaulted outside his store on Hampshire Road in broad daylight. This crime sparked mass outrage and discussion, with the community calling for stronger police protection. A day later, a violent fight broke out between two men in Footscray CBD, reinforcing calls for safety across the west. On 5 August, the mayors from Brimbank, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Wyndham and Melton issued a joint statement calling for more police on the beat in the west. “Crime rates are rising across Melbourne’s west with a combined 12.7 per cent increase in recorded crimes across the region so far in 2026,” the mayors said in the joint statement. Those councils – joined now by Hume council – on 8 September called on the state government to provide a police

Two women comfort each other after placing flowers outside the Hong Hung Asian Grocer in Sunshine. (AAP Image/Jay Kogler)

training academy in the north-west, saying it will strengthen the collective push for greater investment in crime prevention, outreach and specialist support services. What has the state government done? On 13 August, the state government announced it would recruit an additional 150 PSOs to patrol local shopping strips. The government also announced the im-

plementation of 200 more police reservists across the state, creating 400 reservists in total in an effort to ensure police stations can remain open for longer and police can focus on front-line work. It is also expanding its Community Connectors program to St Albans, Sunshine and Broadmeadows stations. What was the response? At a council meeting in August, Brim-

Will increased police help? Star Weekly’s We Deserve Better campaign has focused on examining why youth crime is an issue in the west and what needs to be done about it. Westjustice policy director Owen Virtue said that whilst police presence was important for making residents feel safe, a holistic approach was needed to address the increase in youth crime. Mr Virtue cited financial insecurity, housing insecurity, family violence, mental health challenges and lockdown trauma as key drivers in an increase in youth crime. Les Twentyman chief executive Paul Bourke shared a similar sentiment, stating that early intervention services were crucial to tackling the root of the issue. Will the state government create a new police academy? On Sunday, the state government announced that it would open a police training academy in Wyndham if re-elected in November.

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

PUZZLES ACROSS

9 13

23 3

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11 10

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26 13

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

P E

9-LETTER WORD 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: 7 words: Good 11 words: Very good 15 words: Excellent

E T

24 25 27

No. 307

L O S E R

5 LETTERS ABACK AFTER ALIBI ALIGN AVERT BARDS BARNS CARGO COMMA DRESS DRIVE EAVES EDGES ENSUE ERRED EVADE EVENT HABIT HEATH HOIST HORSE

4 LETTERS ANTS AVOS BALD CEDE CITY FART HILT HISS OPTS STAY TOSS VASE WINS WOOS

ante, attune, eaten, exeat, extant, extent, EXTENUATE, neat, next, tauten, teat, tenet, tent, text, tune

HOSTS IGLOO IRATE LEVEE LOINS LOSER MATTE OLIVE OMEGA OPENS OPERA OTHER PIANO PROBE RAVEN RINGS ROSES SLUSH START STRUM SWEET TAUNT

TEARS TEASE TENET TENTS THESE TONES TOTEM

7 LETTERS ESTATES HANDLER LEOTARD ONGOING RESTORE VENEERS

6 LETTERS ESKIES POODLE ROTORS STEREO

8 LETTERS DREAMERS ENTRUSTS SALESMAN SHINGLED

18-09-26

No. 414 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

QUICK QUIZ

In which state or territory is the town of Kerang?

What is the official language of Senegal?

Mason, carpenter and digger are all types of which animal?

What popular Australian spread is made from a by-product of beer manufacturing?

Which author wrote The Runaway Jury and The Street Lawyer?

What is the largest desert in Australia?

Romance languages are those descending from what language of Ancient Rome?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

D R A M A R E G A L A L I K E P A L E R E X E R T

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

3 LETTERS ADO APE AVO BET DOT EGO ERA GEE GNU GOO IDS INN IRE LAW NAG OPT RED REV RID SEC SET SHE TIE VET

WORDFIT

7 25

26 4

23 14

I E

A A

11 9

A E

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

hard

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3 9 2 4 6 3 6 5 7 2 8

X J L T O C R I A V N M Y

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No. 339

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9 8 5

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5 1

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Bare skin (coll) (4) Big classical music ensemble (9) Partner; colleague (9) Public auctions (5) French resort town (7) Musician,– Urban (5) Gracefully (9) Young horse (4) Planned (9) Natural disaster (9) Elusively (9) A Jewish language (7) Become liable to (5) Pushes (5) Unusual (4) Surrender (4)

1 2

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

2 9

easy

DOWN

Floating marker (4) Rundown (10) Components (7) Crossed strips structure (7) Mirrors (8) State of Brazil (5) Location (4) Vexation (10) Hard rock music (5,5) Umpteen (4) Removed moisture (5) Intrepid (8) Bolting (7) Retinue (7) County town of Dorset (10) Wood heap for burning (4)

1 3 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 23 26 27 28 29

No. 307

FINA was the former name of the international governing body for which sport?

Lisa McCune (pictured) won four consecutive Gold Logies from 1997 to 2000 for her role in what show?

10 Which NRL team won their first premiership in 1992? ANSWERS: 1. Victoria 2. Bee 3. Vegemite 4. Swimming 5. Blue Heelers 6. French 7. John Grisham 8. Great Victoria Desert 9. Latin 10. Brisbane Broncos

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

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

No. 307

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

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 15 September, 2026 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

COMMUNITY

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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. Taste of France Taste of France takes place at Melton South Community Centre on 20 September between 10am-2pm. ■ 97478576, msccentr@bigpond.net.au, meltonsouth.org.au Bacchus Marsh Makers Market The Bacchus Marsh Inclusive Makers Market is on the lookout for stallholders. Local makers looking to sell their own handmade products are encouraged to rent a table on Sunday 29 November at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall for $15 for one table or $25 for two. The Bacchus Marsh Inclusive Makers Market is a not for profit market aimed at raising awareness and support for those with special needs. ■ Kassandra Gillespie, 0425 115 441, kgillespie@outlook.com. Women Working Together A program connecting women aged 50 above in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Melton. ■ 9655 2131, or EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au Melton Over 50s Social Group Join a friendly group of people aged 50 and older who enjoy each other’s company while attending events such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you. ■ Marlene, 0498 329 290 Rose carers of Maddingley Park The group meets every Wednesday from 10am-noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join. ■ Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538 Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club Meet on the first Thursday of every month from 10am-noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh. ■ Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@gmail.com Melton Valley Ladies Probus Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meet every second Friday each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members are welcome. ■ Ann, 0425705150 Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens The Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens are inviting new members to meet at the Andy Arnold Centre, 10 Bennett Street, Bacchus Marsh. ■ hopem@optusnet.com.au Melton Concert Band Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7.309.30pm at the Bridge Road Community Centre, Bridge Road, Melton South. Musicians of any age who are able to read music are welcome to come along with their instrument, including oboe, bassoon, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trum-

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Candice Baxter from Wyndham Learning Festival’s adult ballet class for beginners, hosted by CDB Dance. (Damjan Janevski) 576633_01

pet, trombone, tuba, percussion. ■ 0401 474 582 Cancer Support Group MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group is for prostate cancer patients and their carers and meets on the first Thursday of the month, from 12.30-2pm, at Melton South Community Centre. Attendees are encouraged as members share their journeys through what could be a very traumatic time of their lives. Explanations of medical terminology used in the treatment of this cancer are given in this group. ■ Grenville, 0412 741 865 Friendship Group For all aged 60 and older – are you looking for some new friends? Then this group is for you. The Melton and Surrounding areas Friendship Group meets fortnightly for a coffee and chat night and organises affordable outings such as dinners, movie nights and many social events – plus occasional weekends away, and local or overseas holidays. ■ Shirley, 0419 006 525 or Vera, 0406 493 734 Women’s Support Group Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at the Melton Library. ■ Val, 0418 667 150

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

Caroline Springs Rotary The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm. ■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com Melton Men’s Group Melton Men’s Group meets every Wednesday from 5-8 pm at Melton Senior Citizens and Community Centre at 1 McKenzie Street, Melton. Focusing on senior men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join them for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool, table tennis and cards and chess. ■ Trevor, 0404 494 649, https://meltonmensgroup.home.blog/ Parkinson’s support group The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month, 10.30am-12.30pm, at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers are welcome. ■ Helen, 0409 186 576 Melton Bridge Club The Melton Bridge Club has weekly social bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting.

If you like playing cards this is for you. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817 Melton South Knit & Natter All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576 U3A Melton U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and older who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active. ■ 0419 563 016 Melton Combined Probus Club The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. ■ 9746 0271 Melton Singers If you love to sing, come join the Melton Singers. The group rehearses regularly and also performs at aged care facilities. The group is very relaxed and sings songs mainly from the 1960s and 70s. It meets Tuesdays at 10am. ■ Val, 0418 667 150

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

ENTERTAINMENT

Fun run between the pubs The Pub to Pub fun run is returning to Lancefield and Romsey for the third year. The race will see runners of all ages taking to Federation Trail, with courses either starting or ending at the Lancefield or 1860 Romsey hotels, in a fun run designed to shake off those winter blues and get your blood pumping. Organiser Mitch Docker said the idea came about while he and his co-organiser Alex Gorman were at the pub as a way to bring the two neighbouring towns together. “We thought there’s all this rivalry between Lancefield and Romsey … why don’t we create an event that bonds the two towns together,” he said.

Pub to Pub is back for 2026. (Supplied)

Both new to the area, he said the Pub to Pub has taken off over the past few years, doubling their participation year after year. “The football season’s finished, but the

cricket season hasn’t started, so we have a really nice window where people can just get out there and run, walk, race, whatever they want to do, it’s really casual,” Mr Docker said. Multiple events will take place on the day, with the biggest being the 15 kilometre Pub to Pub to Pub. Starting outside the Lancefield Hotel, runners will make their way to Romsey via the Federation Trail, loop around Lions Park, pass the 1860 Romsey Hotel and head back towards Lancefield to end back at the hotel. A shorter 7.5 kilometre race will start in Romsey and make its way back into

EPJP. (Supplied)

Young talent in the spotlight The next generation of Brimbank musicians will take centre stage at Resonate Acoustic, a curated showcase celebrating the area’s emerging young artists and singer-songwriters. Presented by Brimbank Youth Arts, the free and accessible event will feature musicians aged 12–25 who live, work or play in Brimbank. Selected by the Brimbank Youth Arts Committee, the artists will perform intimate, chilled-out sets at the Bowery Theatre as part of Be Bold Festival on Saturday 3 October from 5pm. The line-p spans indie rock, pop, R’n’B, soul and jazz fusion, showcasing the breadth of musical

talent developing across Melbourne’s west. Oscar, 18, brings an indie, alternative and rock sensibility to the showcase. While influenced by heavier Australian acts including Silverchair and Tumbleweed, Oscar will showcase a softer side of his sound at Resonate Acoustic. Elena, 23, is a Melbourne singer-songwriter whose emotionally rich indie-pop combines heartfelt storytelling with intimate piano and guitar arrangements. Her work explores love, vulnerability, longing and personal growth, while her community performances and

mentoring reflect her passion for connecting through music. Demie Bagnato, 24, blends pop, R’n’B and soul, pairing raw lyricism with contemporary production. Her music explores connection, nostalgia, growth and self-discovery. Cameron Dies Twice, the solo project of 23-year-old Cameron J Tan, combines singer-songwriter guitar and vocals with textured synths, drawing on personal experiences and questions of identity and home. Rounding out the program is EJPJ, a four-piece jazz fusion group eager to build their gigging experience and pursue their musical ambitions.

Lancefield, while a Junior Bolt will offer a short 1.5 kilometre race for kids aged three to 12 to get a taste of the event. Instead of medals, Mr Docker said, the Pub to Pub has a unique trophy to fit with the theme for runners. “We give everyone a finishing trophy which is a glass, a pot glass, and for the kids it’s a pony sized glass,” he said. “Every year we change the style of the pot glass, so you can collect the different styles of pot glasses.” The Pub to Pub run will take place on Sunday 20 September, with entries open now. Details: lifeinthepeloton.com/ the-pub-to-pub

Comedy on the couch with Mills Those looking for a different kind of comedy show or even a bit of magic behind the microphone are in luck, with On the Couch with Marnie Mills taking place in Footscray on Friday 18 September. Held at Pride of Our Footscray Bar on Hopkins Street, On the Couch is comedy in a slightly different format. A line-up of three comedians will perform their sets as usual, but once they’re finished, instead of retreating back to the green room, each will sit down on the Chesterfield to be interviewed by Mills. Eventually all three will be sitting on the couch being interrogated by the Yarraville comedian, whilst also fielding questions from the audience. “It’s basically comedy meets talk show, it’s a fun and heartwarming show as it’s much more personal than a comedian just doing their rehearsed set and leaving the stage,” Pride of Our Footscray Bar owner Mat O’Keefe said. “Often the funniest moments are in the green room later. It’s comedy, it’s conversation, it’s cocktails, it’s a (fake) Chesterfield and it’s a great night out.” Mills’ guests on 18 September include Tegan Higginbotham of ABC fame, plus Jeremy Dooley and Hans Arbuthnott. For those who can’t make it, On the Couch is scheduled to return for three more shows before the end of the year on Friday 16 October, Friday 20 November and Tuesday 15 December. Information: https://www. t r y b o ok i n g .c om /e v ent s/ landing/1611675

Catch Matty Chaps at Ballan Bakehouse and Bar If you can name a song, there’s a pretty good chance Matty Chaps can play it and there’s an even better chance he’ll be playing it when he comes to Ballan this October. The Ballarat-based live entertainer is bringing his huge repertoire and powerful vocals to Ballan Bakehouse and Bar for an unforgettable evening of live music, good food, and social drinks on Friday 2 October. With more than 1600 songs under his belt, Chaps has built a reputation as one of Ballarat’s most versatile performers, covering everything from Australian rock classics and acoustic favourites to pop hits and modern anthems.

But rather than sticking rigidly to a set list, Chaps prefers to let the crowd decide what comes next. Audiences can call out requests throughout the night, meaning no two performances are necessarily the same. His repertoire includes some of Australia’s biggest voices, with Chaps able to tackle the power of John Farnham, Ian Moss, and Diesel before stripping things back for a more intimate acoustic performance. Despite his big voice, Chaps’ performances are anything but intimidating. His relaxed and friendly approach puts the audience at the centre of the show, whether they are throwing out

requests, singing along or simply enjoying the music. From a quiet acoustic favourite to a packed dance floor belting out an Aussie classic, Chaps’ philosophy is straightforward: read the room, play the right song at the right moment and make sure everyone has a good time. Matty Chaps will perform at Ballan Bakehouse & Bar, 110 Inglis Street, from 6pm to 9pm. Details: https://welcometomoorabool. c o m /e v e n t s -b a c c hu s m a r s h-b a l l a ngordon-blackwood-greendale/live-musicwith-matty-chaps-at-ballan-bakehouseand-bar-october-2026.

Matty Chaps will bring his class performance to Ballan Bakehouse and Bar on Friday 2 October. (Supplied)

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12. In golf, what is the term for scoring one over par on a hole? 13. Which country won the first-ever Rugby World Cup in 1987?

4. South Sydney’s Alex Johnston and Penrith's Thomas Jenkins led the 2026 NRL season with how many tries scored each?

14. Which athletic competition involves 10 track and field events?

5. Who is head coach of Australia's women’s national basketball team?

15. Which sport's court is bigger, squash or badminton?

6. In what year was the sports comedy-drama film Air Bud released?

16. Raul Flores is a Mexican athlete that recently set the world record for what?

7. Alastair Clarkson most recently coached which AFL team? 8. What is the Entertainment and Sports Programming Network better known as? 9. Darius Boyd is the coach of which rugby league State of Origin team? 10. Former England captain Ben Stokes is set to play for which Big Bash League team? 11. What is the name of the NHL's championship trophy?

Kimi Antonelli

26. Which country played host to the 2026 World Humanoid Robot Games?

22. A deep dish is a technique used in what sport?

27. The Australian men's cricket team will play against South Africa and what other country on their upcoming African tour?

23. Which NBA team’s penalties for salary cap circumvention included a US$30 million fine?

18. And how was the minor premiership title awarded due to the tie in points?

28. Which country hosted the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup?

19. And which team ultimately won the 2026 NRL minor premiership as a result?

24. Ezi Magbegor was recently named as captain of which Australian national sporting team?

20. A supporter of which AFL club made the news recently with a controversial mascot outfit?

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B8 good, but could be better By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Like Lexus is to Toyota, Denza is to the Chinese brand BYD, with an upmarket line of luxury vehicles and a price tag to match. The brand was established in 2010 as a joint venture with Mercedes-Benz, but Benz has since pulled the plug. The B8 Super Hybrid is a large six or seven-seat 4x4 wagon that is billed a bit optimistically as a competitor for the Land Cruiser 300 series. There’s also a B5, a smaller five-seater that has the Prado in its sights, along with a Z9GT sedan and D9 people mover on offer. Both 4x4s are closely related to the BYD Shark utility which is also a plug-in hybrid.

Styling Prices for the B8 start from $91,000 for the seven-seater or $97,990 for the six-seat version. Sounds like a lot of dosh for a ‘Chinese’ vehicle, but the figures start to look better when compared to the Land Cruiser which ranges in price from $99,000-$156,000, bearing in mind that this is a proper 4x4 proposition with everything that implies. Our test vehicle was the more expensive 6S or six-seater, with two separate, fully adjustable second row seats that permit walk-though access to the third row. B8 is a blend of rugged, muscular design, high levels of quality and the attention to detail expected in a luxury 4WD. And, get this, they say the look is inspired by futuristic starship aesthetics. At the front, the B8’s daytime running lights form the outline of the wings of an interplanetary starship. The tail lights provide an afterburner effect, creating the illusion of jet engine exhaust. The planetary ring spare wheel cover features two distinct lines top and bottom to symbolise Saturn’s rings. Don’t you just love this stuff? B8 has been designed from the ground up as a premium offering, with particular attention paid to the elimination of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). To achieve this, it is fitted with soft-close doors, sound-deadening glass, cabin-isolating rubber bushes and active engine mounts. Standard kit includes genuine leather trim, three-zone climate air, heated, cooled and massage front and second row seats, power fold third row seats and a heated steering wheel. There’s also LED lights front and back, NFC key support and a car fridge/hotbox that offers a temperature range of -6 to 50 degrees. It rides on black 20-inch alloys, with pricey 275/55 series Michelin rubber. Access to the B8 is via pop-out door handles, with buttons inside that release the doors and a powertrain that turns on automatically in greeting. Our six-seater adds a front diff lock, Nappa leather, front seat power adjustable leg rest, front seat bolster adjustment, digital rear view mirror, night vision system, smart driving surround view camera, head-up display and second row foot ambient lighting. B8 is covered by a six-year/150,000km warranty plus an eight-year/160,000km high-voltage battery warranty, with five years of roadside assistance and capped priced servicing. Service is due every 12 months or 20,000km.

Infotainment The huge 17.3-inch rotating touchscreen is the largest we’ve seen, larger even than

The quality is there for the Denza B8, it just needs a bit of fine tuning. (Pictures: Supplied)

the laptop this story was written on, with another sequestered 12.3-inch digital instrument panel for the driver. The system supports four-zone voice assist, Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, FM and DAB+ digital radio (but no AM), built-in satellite navigation, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates as well as an 800 watt, 18-speaker Devialet audio system. There’s also a mix of six USB ports (A+C), a 12-volt power socket and dual wireless phone charging.

Safety B8 scores a maximum five-star rating for safety. Safety begins with a rigid ladder-type CTC (Cell-to-Chassis) body with 78 per cent high-strength steel, encircling and protecting the integrated Blade battery. A total of 13 airbags protect driver and passengers, while a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as a 360-degree camera system, front and rear collision warning, front cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking and intelligent cruise control.

Engines/transmissions Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, together with two electric motors and a 37-kWh battery, that produces a prodigious 425kW of power and 760Nm of torque. Transmission is complicated, with a single-speed reduction gear for the front, and another two-speed transmission for the rear – to deliver high and low range. Each electric motor drives its respective axle, while the petrol engine is employed primarily to keep the battery charged (but does chime in with some extra oomph if required) – in other words it’s basically a series hybrid.

Driving Designed in-house by BYD, the B8 is almost 5.2 metres long with a 2920mm wheelbase and sits on a separate ladder chassis as favoured by the off-road community. With low and high range, front and rear diff locks, and approach, departure and ramp-over angles of 34, 35 and 26 degrees, along with an impressive 310mm of ground clearance and wading depth of 890mm – this is a vehicle built to tackle the rough stuff. Like the Shark, there’s no physical connection between the front and rear

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

RATINGS wheels, just the tricky electronics. Don’t bother with the digital There are also 16 different mirror, because reflections and Looks: 7 drive modes available: the usual the constant need to refocus Performance: 7.5 Comfort, Eco and Sport; plus, make it virtually unusable. Terrain Modes of Snow, Sand, The choice of light grey on Safety: 8 Mud, Mountain, Rock, Intelligent silver for the control labels is Thirst: 7.5 and others. almost illegible in almost any Practicality: 6 Leopard turn is also available, light. Comfort: 7.5 which allows the vehicle to We had to get out a torch to perform sharper, tank-like work out how to operate the stack Tech: 8 turns by spinning the wheels at of toggles for controlling the Value: 8 different speeds off road. seats from the luggage area. Overall: 7.4 Despite the fact B8 weighs in at Massage is a welcome option a whopping 3290kg, the dash from on a long country drive but the 0-100km/h takes a quick-fire 4.8 seconds. seat heating turns into a sausage sizzle That makes it 443kg heavier than Patrol after a couple of minutes, even on its lowest and 660kg more than a Land Cruiser. setting. Ditto the aircon which either blows With a 91-litre fuel tank, it takes standard too hot or too cold, but not much in between. 91 unleaded with fuel consumption a B8 gets up and boogies, that’s for sure, claimed 3.9L/100km (WLTP), provided with plenty underfoot for overtaking. But the battery retains a minimum 25 per cent there’s some hesitancy on take-off and the charge. Above that and one can expect to ride quality quickly deteriorates on country use 11.4L/100km. roads – fancy suspension or not. We were getting 9.0L/100km after more The brakes are grabby and the adaptive than 1200km. There was no opportunity cruise control, which adjusts in 5km/h to charge the battery, but it never dipped increments, provided a couple of phantom below 25 per cent. scares. Claimed energy consumption is 24.4 Alas we didn’t get a chance to take the kWh/100km. It can be recharged at a rate of Denza off-road, but it reportedly made it up up to 11kW with AC and up to 120kW with Beer O’Clock Hill which lends some cred. faster DC. However, the B8’s two main challenges Combined range is 905km, with an off-road are the terrain and its own weight. electric only range of 100km (WLTP). Not only does it have to find sufficient The suspension is electronically traction to claw its way up a rocky slope, it modulated and adapts automatically to has to overcome its own inertia at the same road conditions. time. It has a range of 140mm and means Just quietly we’d hate to get this sucker ground clearance can be boosted from bogged, because it would require a tow 220mm to 310mm at the push of a button, truck or similar to pull it out (perhaps two along with dropping the height for easier Land Cruisers). access. Replacement of the road tyres with There’s plenty of room front and back, chunkier rubber is a must. but getting in and out can be difficult, Tow capacity is a full 3500kg, but you need particularly on a slope because the heavy to pay close attention to the gross weight doors swing shut, threatening to inflict and tow ball limitations. bodily harm. A drawbar, hitch receiver and 12-point Grab handles are provided for each of the electric plug are fitted as standard. four doors, but the low-set front handles which are located at the end of the dash Summing up provide little leverage. We doubt whether the Denza B8 has got The heavy tailgate with the added weight what it takes to lure dyed-in-the-wool Land of the spare wheel is hinged on the wrong Cruiser owners out of their comfort zone. side for our right-hand drive roads. But if the success of BYD as a whole is any There’s just 147 litres of load space with measure, it’s certainly going to generate the third row in use, with a charge cable plenty of interest for those who don’t want and tool kit to contend with as shown in the to go the whole nine yards. photos. It could even put a dent in Defender sales B8 is a large, comfortable car in which to (they’ve gotta come from somewhere after wile away the hours, with a first-rate sound all). system. The quality is there, it just needs a bit of But there’s room for improvement. fine tuning.

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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.

SPORT

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)

Premiership joy overflows The Western Football Netball League held its netball grand final over the past two weeks. There were new winners, teams winning

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 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 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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

Tuesday, 15 September, 2026 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

SPORT

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Turning misfortune into magic By John Dunne The win of Enjoy Life in the Three-Year-Old Colts and Geldings Final set the scene for the remainder of the pacing finals on Group 1 APG Vicbred Super Series night at Melton on Saturday. Sent out the favourite, Enjoy Life was unable to hold out stablemate Cardigan Dan at the start, with driver Mark Pitt forced to await his chance along the sprint lane, which ultimately proved fruitful in the run to the line. “I thought that I would cop my medicine and be leader’s back and drive him for his speed because he doesn’t quite concen-

trate as he does when he is on a helmet,” Pitt said. “We had to be a little bit careful that he didn’t hit the front too early as he has a tendency to knock off and half wait for them, but he really hit the line and ran through it tonight.” Trainer Emma Stewart and Pitt combined to complete a clean sweep of the pacing finals, winning the remaining three Group 1s. Although initially, it wasn’t meant to be. Pitt was unceremoniously tipped out of Auston in a scrimmage shortly after the start in the first take of the final for two-year-old colts and geldings, which also resulted in

Kerryn Manning being injured while partnering the Stewart-trained Some High. While Manning stood herself down for the remainder of the night, Pitt dusted himself off and landed the last-minute drive on Some High after Auston was declared unfit to run. Some High was a clear last with 800 metres to travel; however, he produced a sustained run to join forces with co-favourite Lake Como around the home turn. The pair engaged in a two-horse war before Some High got the verdict by a neck. After the race, Pitt admitted the excitement of Group 1 night had aided his speedy recovery an hour later.

“I think the adrenaline is kicking in at this stage, but I’ll probably be a bit bruised and sore tomorrow. Only 15 minutes ago I was on the one horse and then all of a sudden I’m on the 10 horse,” he said. “I thought I was in a little bit of trouble as we were a long way off them at the bell and I knew I had to get up there before they really picked it up.” Later in the night, Pitt had little cause for concern when he steered the Kahula to an easy win in the final for two-year-old fillies. Kahula worked to the lead shortly after the start before cruising to victory by 12 metres from a luckless Ideal Frankie in a mile rate of 1:55.

Raafat Rachrache when he was with Taylors Lakes. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 422890_10

Rams lock in new coach

Michael Tzoutzidis. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 534346_02

Michael Tzoutzidis claims top honour By Tara Murray Caroline Springs George Cross defender Michael Tzoutzidis was keen to make the most of his chances if he got a second opportunity in the National Premier League. He got that chance this season as the Georgies returned to the top flight before narrowly missing out on finals. Tzoutzidis embraced every moment and was last week crowned the league’s top player after he claimed the Bill Fleming Medal. Tzoutzidis finished on 24 votes, one ahead of Hume City’s Birkan Kirdar. “It’s quite a special one,” he said. “I thought the last eight-nine games of the season that I did well enough to pick up a few votes, but to go out and win it … I thought a few other players might have the edge on me.” Tzoutzidis received a phone call from Football Victoria to tell him he had won the award and had to keep it quiet for a few days. Once announced there was plenty of support from his teammates. “They said it was really well deserved,

they were awesome as well,” he said. “I couldn’t have done it without them. “They were super and they allowed me to be myself and play in an environment that allowed me to excel.” Tzoutzidis joined the Georgies last season and helped them return to the NPL after earning promotion in the final round last year. While it was a return to the top flight for the Georgies, it was also one for Tzoutzidis. It was a chance he was waiting for. “I was a lot more prepared for this time round and I knew what to expect,” he said. “My last run with Moreland I had some really, really good moments but mentally I lacked a bit of discipline. “I probably wasn’t as strong mentally as I would have liked. “I did tell myself if I ever got another opportunity to play in the top flight again that I would put my head down and do it right. “I think I’ve put a lot of work in mentally and physically to perform at a better level and I’m quite proud of that.” Tzoutzidis said as a team they would have loved to have made finals, but they were so

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

proud of what they had accomplished. He said they felt they proved a lot of people wrong. “It’s a bitter one,” he said. “Internally we were hoping and believing that we could do it, unfortunately it wasn’t to be the case. “I’m still so proud of what we were able to do. I think at the start of the year there was a bit of a negative narrative around us. “A lot of people didn’t think we were quite good enough both as individual players and as a team collectively and even as a club. “Over the course of the season we started to turn a few heads and hopefully along the way we started to earn people’s respect both as players, as a team, and as a club.” Tzoutzidis said the disappointment of this season was already driving the playing group for next season. He said the small things would be the difference. “A club like George Cross they deserve to be competing for championships and making finals and I think that’s the goal. “We’re obviously super hungry and incredibly motivated and we’ll give it our best crack again.”

The Western Rams have announced Raafat Rachrache as their coach for next year’s Western Football League division 2 season. Rachrache brings plenty of experience to the role having played and coached across a number of different competitions. He has played 270-plus games and kicked more than 470 goals across his career. which includes four premierships and won three senior best and fairest awards across his career. Rachrache joins the Rams from Longwood in the Kyabram District Football League where he played eight games this season. He was previously involved in the Western league in 2025, when he was on thirds goal kicking award and won the league best and fairest. “Raaf brings with him almost three decades of football experience, with an extensive playing and coaching career across Melbourne,” the Rams said on social media. His senior playing career has seen him represent Thomastown, Pascoe Vale, Hadfield, South Morang, Hillside, Roxburgh Park, Taylors Lakes, Sunshine and Longwood. “Raaf’s coaching experience spans both junior and senior football, including a senior premiership as coach of Hadfield. “He was also a playing assistant coach in Taylors Lakes premiership-winning side in 2024, giving him valuable experience leading from both on and off the field.” “The Western Rams are delighted to add someone with Raaf’s football knowledge, leadership, experience and passion for developing players to our program.” Rachrache replaces Connor Grech, who coached the side the past two years. The Rams finished this year in eighth spot with three wins for the year, the same amount as wins as the previous season.

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Crofts and Scoble sign on By Tara Murray Melton has received a boost for next year’s Ballarat Football League season, with a Victorian Football League club best and fairest winner committing to the club full time. After being knocked out in the first week of finals, the Bloods have started putting the pieces together for next year as they look to return to the top of the table, A big piece of the puzzle is Billy Crofts returning to the club full time, having been in the VFL system for a number of years. “One of our home-grown talents, Billy came through our junior and senior pro-

grams before progressing to the VFL with Geelong and, more recently, the Footscray Bulldogs,” the Bloods said on social media. “His time at Footscray was highlighted by an outstanding 2025 season, where he became a premiership player, won the club’s best and fairest and was named as one of the club’s captains. “While our supporters got a small taste of Billy’s quality during 2026, we’re incredibly excited to now have him fully involved in our program moving forward. “Billy’s return strengthens our club both on and off the field, and we look forward to seeing one of our own continue his journey in Bloods’ colours.”

Crofts played four senior games for the Bloods this season, where he kicked four goals and was named in the best three times, including the side’s finals loss. Speaking to Star Weekly after winning Footscray’s best and fairest last season, Crofts said Melton Football Club was a special place for him with coach Troy Scoble having had a massive role in his career. He will reunite full time with Scoble, with the club also announcing he has resigned to lead the side next season. It will be his fourth season in charge with the club saying he is passionate about helping the young players grow, develop and achieve success both individually and

Lakers into decider, earn a shot a redemption

as a team. “We’re excited to announce that premiership coach Troy Scoble has re-signed as senior coach for the 2027 season,” the Bloods announced. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have a coach with Troy’s experience and proven success across all levels of football. “Troy has a strong track record of developing players, building successful teams and creating a winning culture, and he will continue to be a huge asset to the Bloods. “With the opportunity to coach in one of the best competitions in the state, Troy relishes the challenge ahead and has a strong belief in our playing group.”

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By Luke D’Anello Caroline Springs earned a shot at grand final redemption after ending Yarraville-Seddon’s season on Saturday. The Brian Lake-coached Lakers will face Werribee Districts in the Western Football League division 1 decider for a second consecutive year after defeating the Eagles by 19 points in the preliminary final, 14.8 (92)-9.19 (73). The Tigers will contest a fifth grand final in a row and toppled Caroline Springs by 12 points after extra time in last year’s epic season finale. The two clubs are reaping the rewards of their dedication to homegrown talent. Werribee Districts have established themselves as the competition’s leading club while fielding a team of one-point players, while the Lakers had 20 one-pointers in the preliminary final. “It’s a good position to be in,” Caroline Springs football director Shaun Rainer said. “I think both clubs hold their junior program in high regard and that’s what we want to promote, bringing our juniors through. You bring your juniors through and it allows you to top up where you might lack in some positions. “We’ve got a lot of respect for Werribee in that regard, that they do it in the same way we do look at bringing players through the junior programs.” The Tigers won both matches between the pair in the home-and-away campaign, prevailing by 30 points in round one and by nine points in round 12. Werribee Districts trailed at each break of the clash on July 4 before kicking three goals to one in the final term to secure the points. They will be fresh from a week’s rest, while the Lakers are riding the momentum of back-to-back wins over Albion and Yarraville-Seddon after losing to the Eagles in the opening week of finals. “They are the benchmark of the competition,” Rainer said of Werribee Districts. “But we feel we match up well. We’ve had really close games over the last three or four years against them with a few draws and everything like that. “We don’t go in fearing anything in the sense of their reputation. If we do everything that we put on the board before the game, then we’re every chance to win it.” Yarraville-Seddon had 11 scoring shots to five in the opening quarter of the preliminary final but only held an 11-point advantage at the first break. Caroline Springs responded with nine goals to two in the next two terms to take control and held firm to reverse the result of the qualifying final. Alexander Paech, Jack Heron, Thomas Christou (three goals), Alipate Bryant, Jamie Ristoski and Lachlan Mellon led the way for the winners.

Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 grand finalists Westmeadows and Burnside Heights headline the team of the year. Bears coach Michael Davis was named coach of the year for taking his side to a third straight grand final. Co-captain Jorgia Redmond (back line), Olivia Antonello (full forward) and Aarzu Mavi (interchange) made the team. Keilor Park’s Georgia O’Donovan (half forward) and Antonietta Parisi (interchange) and Taylors Lakes duo Rebecca Foggie and Courtney McCormack (both half back) were named in the team.

Western FL Former St Albans captain Jake Galea has signed with Caroline Springs for next year’s Western Football League division 1 season. The Lakers announced the signing on social media. “A former captain of St Albans FC [Football Club] and an interleague representative, Jake will bring a wealth of experience and leadership with him,” the Lakers said. “His presence in the midfield and ability to hit the scoreboard are set to compliment our existing group.”

VTCA Melton South Royals have avoided relegation in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association. After finishing bottom of the Roy Picone Shield, the Royals were set to drop back to the Clark Shield. With changes to clubs, the Royals will remain in the division 3 competition. Meanwhile, the Royals have announced the signing of Alex Pepper for the upcoming season. He is a batting all-rounder from England.

GDCA Diggers Rest Bulla welcomes Marcus Ciunik back to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association club after a few seasons off. “An ever-reliable bowler whose patience and accuracy with the ball forces batsmen into making errors,” the Burras said. “Add in safe hands in the field and a reliable contributor with the bat, and Marcus is the kind of player every team loves to have.” The Burras are coming off a grand final in the Johnstone Shield last season.

Alexander Paech. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 574819_07

The Lakers were also boosted by the returns of co-captain Cooper Pepi, who was best on ground in the 2025 grand final, and Beau O’Connell, who contributed two goals. “It was a pretty gutsy performance by the boys, so very proud of them,” Rainer said. “We had some good rotations going through our midfield so we started to get

some good ball out of our midfield, which was pleasing. “It was a great feeling in the rooms (on Saturday night). “We walk away respectful of Werribee, but thinking we can really challenge them and win it.” Saturday’s grand final will kick off at 2.30pm at Werribee’s Avalon Airport Oval.

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Disappointment for Wallan By Tara Murray Wallan is vowing to come back bigger and stronger after falling at the final hurdle in the Riddell District Football League on Saturday. It was a tough day on the football field for the Magpies on grand final day with both their seniors and reserves falling short against Burras. For the seniors, it was again a case of close but not close enough. Having made a few grand finals in recent years, the Magpies haven’t been able to get over the line. Against the Burras on Saturday, the Magpies were left to do the chasing all day. The Burras jumped out before the Magpies levelled the scores in the second quar-

ter. The margin again went back out as the Burras led by 23 points at half time. It was an arm wrestle in the second half with the Burras looking like they would take control before the Magpies got answering goals to stay in it. Despite winning the final quarter, the Magpies ran out of time as Diggers Rest won, 18.13 (121)-16.11 (107). Chris Stewart kicked six goals for the Magpies and was named their best. Nash King and Steven Boyall were other standouts. Co-coach Daniel Nolan, who coached his last game on Saturday, said the club and the community were pretty special. “To our team, super proud, myself and

Pat [Christofi], you guys never give up,” he said. “You showed that over the past few weeks. “To hold your head up high. Thanks Pat next to me, it’s been a pleasure to coach with him. “To the Wallan community and committee for supporting me and backing me in to be coach. “A lot of fond memories. We’ve fallen short a few times, I want to thank you for having my back and I won’t be far away watching.” Christofi, who has signed on to coach next season, said that the Burras were a much better team on the day. “Really proud how the game was played

out,” he said. “We’ll be back here next year and I’m sure we’ll get the opportunities to try and right our wrongs but congratulations to Diggers, well done. “To my boys, four weeks you gritted it out and gave it your all. Losing isn’t a bad thing, it’s part of developing and growing. “Proud of the Wallan boys. The one thing I can promise is that we aren’t going away, see you all next year.” For the Magpies reserves, it was heartbreak after entering the grand final on the back of 37 straight wins. The Burras were too strong in the second half, winning 8.7 (55)-6.2 (38). Meanwhile, Gisborne Giants won the under-19 grand final.

Burras’ double joy as seniors, reserves celebrate By Tara Murray It’s the year of the Burra in the Riddell District Football League. Diggers Rest saved its best for last on Saturday as it returned to the top of the table in both the seniors and reserves competitions. It started with the Burras upsetting Wallan in the reserves, before the seniors had all the answers for the Magpies in seniors. While there were celebrations galore on Saturday and set to be a few days, the drive to these premierships has been 12 months in the making. Senior coach Shaun Campbell always thought the group could get it done, but even Saturday was beyond his expectations. “After going out straight sets two years in a row, to finally get it done it’s a great feeling,” he said. “I couldn’t have imagined doing reserves and seniors in the one day as it happens rarely. “We’ve had a great year and it’s a great reward for effort.” Campbell said having the reserves claim the premiership in the earlier game gave the senior boys plenty of motivation. Wallan entered the grand final as favourites, having won 37 games straight. There was just one point in it at quarter time and two points the margin at half time. The Burras kicked three goals to none in the third quarter to lead by 23 points heading into the final quarter. It was hard going in the final quarter with the Magpies kicking the only goal. It wasn’t enough with the Burras winning, 8.7 (55)-6.2 (38). The Burras’ Logan Carroll was awarded the best on ground medal. “It motivated us a lot as they came into the rooms after and geed us up and we were a part of that,” Campbell said. “It got us fired up and I think it really helped us.” Once on the field, the Burras got off to a flier. They kicked six first quarter goals to lead by 12 points at quarter time. The Magpies levelled the scores in the second quarter before the Burras kicked back out to a 23 point lead at the main break. “Early on it looked like kicking away and then they got themselves back in the contest, which is a massive effort,” Campbell said “We managed to stay in it and get slightly in front and then hold on. We made hard work of it, but we got there.” The Burras looked like on multiple

Diggers Rest’s seniors and reserves celebrate. (Ties Urie) 577852 02

Mitchell Day. (Ties Urie) 577852 14

occasions they would kick away in the second half, but the Magpies also stuck around, Having seen the Magpies pull off a massive comeback earlier in the finals series,

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

Campbell said they were always wary of them. “They were always going to be good late,” he said. “They know how to win close ones and they’re a good outfit.”

Despite losing the final quarter, the Burras did enough to come away with the 18.13 (121)-16.11 (107) win. Callum Moore kicked six goals for the Burras to take his total to 106 for the season. Campbell said that he’s super strong and no one has the match up for him. Marcus Calveresi kicked four goals and was awarded the Doug McIntyre Medal as the best player on the ground. Calveresi finished the game on the bench after hurting his hamstring late in the contest. Campbell and captain Jaidyn Caruana were also named in the best. Campbell said there were any number of players that could have won the best on ground medal. “I reckon 10 of them could have won it, we were good across the board,” Campbell said. For many of the Burras players it was their first premiership, while several others have been involved in many. Campbell hopes they can continue to build next week. Not that he will be thinking about that for a few weeks. “It’ll be very big,” he said of the celebrations.

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Diggers Rest’s two teams sing the song. 577852_06

Diggers Rest’s Jaidyn Caruana and Shaun Campbell. 577852_11

Diggers Rest celebrates. 577852_03

Wallan’s Dion Hill. 577852_18

Burras’ double celebration Diggers Rest had a day to remember with its seniors and reserves winning premierships

on Saturday. Star Weekly photographer Ties Urie was out shooting some of the action.

Diggers Rest’s Oleg Markov. 577852_32

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Diggers Rest’s Shaun Campbell. 577852_29

Diggers Rest’s Joshua Wallace and Lucy. 577852_10

Callum Moore with the reserves behind him. 577852_37

Chris Stewart. 577852_57

Wallan pre-game. 577852_62

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