23 SEPTEMBER, 2026
Girlfriends get together to mark 10 years
Western Girlfriends members Diane Goodwin, Rhonda Peterson and Trudy Johnson get ready to celebrate 10 years of fundraising for cancer research and women’s health at Footscray’s Plough Hotel on 3 October. (Damjan Janevski) 575605 02
A group of women from across the west will gather in Footscray early next month to celebrate 10 years of fundraising together, while remembering their friend whose death from cancer started it all. On 9 September, 2016, Kerrie McDonald died from cancer, two weeks before her beloved Western Bulldogs won the AFL Grand Final. A few weeks later, on 3 October, 2016, 90 of Ms McDonald’s girlfriends met to mourn her loss and raise funds for cancer research and women’s health. That one-off fundraiser soon became an annual event, and the group of 90 women became Western Girlfriends. This 3 October, they’ll mark a decade together with a cowgirl-themed celebration at the Plough Hotel. There’ll be plenty of boot-scootin’, double-denim, and cowgirl hats at the fundraiser, which begins at noon. The girlfriend sporting the best pair of boots will even win a prize! For more information, visit the Western Girlfriends Facebook page or call Trudy Johnson on 0407 601 113 or Rhonda Peterson on 0418 322 550.
Festival plan row Maribyrnong council has criticised the lack of time it was given to consider plans to more than double the amount of music festivals hosted at the historic Wool Store in West Footscray. Earlier this year, festival promoter Untitled Group applied to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to hold up to 12 events per year at the site with a maximum capacity of 8500 people and operating hours from noon-11pm. The proposal represented a significant expansion on Untitled Group’s previous
permit for the Wool Store, which allowed for up to five festivals per year, with a maximum capacity of 5000 and operating hours from 2pm-10pm. After being informed of the application on 26 June, Maribyrnong council made a submission opposing it on 24 August. “As with previous submissions made in response to applications that council has been given notice of by DTP, council again considers that it has been given insufficient time to properly consider the application. This is particularly in context of what is such a significant land use proposal...”, the submission read, before
going on to highlight other concerns such as the lack of a waste management plan, no independent review of the applicant’s noise management plan, and insufficient detail on how patrons leaving the site to catch public transport wouldn’t disrupt neighbours. “As it lacks in the requisite level of information and does not seek approval under all necessary permissions, the application is incomplete and-or piecemeal,” the submission concluded. However, by the time it was tabled at the council meeting on 15 September, DTP had already approved the application on 10
September. “I suppose we’ll deal with it as we normally do,” Cr Susan Yengi said while speaking in support of the submission. DTP and Untitled Group were contacted for comment. The Wool Store will host music festivals over the Grand Final long weekend, with Berlin duo DJ Heartstring playing on Friday on 25 September, and superstar Melbourne DJ Dom Dolla and Chicago’s Green Velvet on Sunday 27 September. Both festivals are sold out.
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By Cade Lucas
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Intervention request rejected By Cade Lucas Williamstown MP Melissa Horne has publicly slapped down the boss of data centre company NextDC for sending an AI-generated letter asking her to intervene on the company’s behalf over the proposed expansion of its West Footscray facility, even though she’s not the relevant minister. In an email to Craig Scroggie sent on 14 September and shared on social media by her colleagues, Ms Horne told the NextDC chief executive that he’d made a number of embarrassing errors in his letter requesting
her support for the company’s application to expand its Indwe Street data centre. “In setting out the ‘facts,’ your correspondence suggests that the application is before me,” Ms Horne, the minister for jobs, ports and freight, industry and advanced manufacturing, wrote. “I can confirm that this is a decision for the minister for planning, and I suggest that you review content produced by artificial intelligence more closely in the future.” Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny was copied into the email, as was Footscray MP Katie Hall, whose electorate covers Next
DC’s West Footscray site and who Ms Horne accused Mr Scroggie of lying about. “I also note that your correspondence asserts that you have sought, through Invest Victoria, to meet with Katie Hall MP. This does not accord with the advice that I have received.” Ms Hall shared a screenshot of the letter on her Facebook page and confirmed Ms Horne’s account that no meeting with Mr Scroggie had been arranged. “Melissa and I are both opposed to any expansion,” Ms Hall wrote next to the screenshot, suggesting there wouldn’t be
Politicians pressured to protect Maribyrnong
Footscray landmark celebrates 150 years If you’ve ever driven along Napier Street in Footscray and wondered what’s inside the grand old building on the corner opposite the police station and diagonally across from the town hall, you’re in luck. On Sunday 11 October, the building in question - Ercildoune - turns 150 and a special celebratory event will take place to mark the occasion. Held across the street at the Maribyrnong Civic and Community Hub behind the Footscray Town Hall from 2pm, the celebrations will involve performances by local musicians and delicious refreshments as well as guest speakers and displays illustrating the history of one of Footscray’s most recognisable buildings. Built in 1876 as the Footscray branch of the National Bank of Australasia, Ercildoune remained a bank for the next 42 years until a merger with Colonial Bank resulted in the branch moving to Barkly Street in 1918. Ercildoune spent much of the mid-20th century as a private residence and was later divided into flats, before its current owner, the Footscray Historical Society, purchased it in 1970. The building was extensively restored in 1975 and has since gained significance as an example of classical bank architecture and also Footscray’s early commercial development which was centred around Napier Street and the wharf on the Maribyrnong River. As well as learning about the history of Ercildoune, those attending its 150th birthday celebrations will also get the chance to go inside, with Footscray Historical Society mem-
Footscray Historical Society committee members and volunteers outside the Ercildoune building which turns 150 this year. A celebration to mark the anniversary will be held on Sunday 11 October. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 577673 03
bers running guided tours from 4pm. For more information and to book,
go to: https://www.trybooking.com/au/ event/1634782
Maribyrnong Mental Health and Wellbeing Local launched The Maribyrnong Mental Health and Wellbeing Local service in West Footscray is now open, providing free support and treatment for adults experiencing mental illness or psychological distress. Footscray MP Katie Hall officially launched the Maribyrnong service, delivered by cohealth in partnership with Western Health, on Tuesday 15 September. One of 22 mental health locals operating across 24 locations statewide, the Maribyrnong service has been offering support via telehealth since November last year, but will now expand to face-to-face care provided by a multidisciplinary team of experienced mental health professionals, wellbeing staff
much point to the meeting anyway. In concluding her email to NextDC, Ms Horne delivered a similar message. “I do not believe it would be appropriate to lend my support to the application and nor do I wish to.” Ms Horne declined to comment any further, while Ms Hall, Ms Kilkenny, Mr Scroggie, Next DC, and industry body Data Centres Australia did not respond to Star Weekly’s inquiries. NextDC’s planning permit application to expand its West Footscray data centre is currently being assessed.
Social worker Caroline Chimanga and psychologist David Conti at the new Maribyrnong Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in West Footscray. (cohealth)
and peer support workers. “People in Maribyrnong can now walk through the door and get the support they
2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
need, close to home and completely free,” Ms Hall said in opening the Barkly Street premises. “When someone needs mental health support, cost, paperwork and distance should never stand in their way,” Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt added. Designed to act as a ‘front door’ to mental healthcare, the locals were a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and have already helped nearly 50,000 people across the state. Details: https://www.cohealth.org.au/ service/mental-health-and-wellbeing-local/
Advocates for the Maribyrnong River are putting pressure on the state government to take action to protect it ahead of November’s election. The Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association (MRWA) is running two campaigns concurrently to both highlight threats to the river and advocate for protection measures. To highlight the declining number of mic-invertebrates in the Maribyrbong tiny freshwater creatures measuring less than 2mm that are a vital sign of river health - the MRWA has started stitching a giant quilt depicting the entire Maribyrnong catchment area. “The ‘Unseen Creatures’ quilt began as a project to raise awareness about the need for urgent action on the Maribyrnong River,” MRWA co-executive officer Angela Clarke said. “We started out with the idea of one quilt to showcase the tiniest creatures in our rivers. The idea took hold, and community groups from all over the catchment have responded, all the way from Lancefield and the Macedon Ranges in the upper catchment to Maribyrnong in the lower catchment,” Ms Clarke said. The Unseen Creatures quilt is now 5.4 metres wide and 2 metres long and features 138 embroidered patches of micro-invertebrates. It was officially launched earlier this month and will be on display at events in Federation Square and Lancefield next month. At the same time, the MRWA is inviting people to take selfies as part of a campaign to get Water Minister Michaela Settle to grant the Maribyrnong catchment area environmental entitlement prior to the state election. As part of the Picture a Fair Share for the Maribyrnong campaign, a selfie wall will be sent to Ms Settle and Premier Ben Carroll to demonstrate community support for the Maribyrnong’s environmental entitlement, which would involve water being reserved to protect the river’s health. “Dedicating water to the Maribyrnong River will support community health and wellbeing in the west. Acting now for the river is fair, smart and responsible,” Ms Clarke said. Ms Settle’s office was contacted for comment. To take part in the Picture a Fair Share selfie campaign: https://accelerateactionformaribyrnong.good.do/picture-afair-share/selfie-wall/ For more information about the quilt and other MRWA activities: https:// maribyrnongriver.org.au/
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Oval proposal unfunded By Cade Lucas A master plan for the redevelopment of Yarraville Oval has been adopted by Maribyrnong council, with attention now turning to how the multimillion-dollar project will be funded. At a council meeting on Tuesday 15 September, councillors unanimously endorsed the master plan for the redevelopment of the 136-year-old oval, which serves as one of the inner west’s main cricket and football venues while hosting a skatepark, tennis courts, and the Yarraville Mouth Organ Band. Following council’s adoption of a draft
master plan in May, the proposed redevelopment was subject to community consultation that attracted more than 180 responses, with most in favour. Restoring the historic grandstand, reconstructing the playing surface to improve drainage, and extending the pavilion were the most popular aspects of the masterplan, while even less popular changes, such as lowering spectator mounds and removing turf practice wickets, still received majority support. All these changes were included in the final master plan, as was the relocation of the scorer’s box to the north-west corner, the resurfacing of the tennis courts, and
the construction of a synthetic cricket pitch practice facility at the southern end of the reserve next to the skate park. “Community feedback has helped us improve the plan and make sure Yarraville Oval is a place everyone can enjoy for years to come,” Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra said in thanking those who contributed their views. “This master plan is really about ensuring this reserve continues to serve existing users and future generations,” Cr Semra said. But while the state government provided $200,000 to fund design work for the master plan, the rest of the money
needed to complete the redevelopment, believed to be between $10–$20 million, has yet to be secured – a point Cr Semra was keen to emphasise at last week’s meeting. “Adopting this master plan tonight does not mean the project is automatically funded,” the mayor told the chamber. His deputy, Cr Samantha Meredith, added that the Yarraville Oval redevelopment was far from the only infrastructure project in the municipality that was seeking funding. “We know there’s a lot of competing items; it’s a long list,” Cr Meredith said.
New citizens grateful and proud to be Australians
James Brown conducts a smoking ceremony to mark the completion of stage one of the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre project on 11 September. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 577864 04
Wetlands centre milestone celebrated The Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre development has reached a major milestone, with the conservation area surrounding the proposed centre being officially opened last week. Hobsons Bay mayor Diana Grima was joined by Point Cook MP Mathew Hilakari, Hobsons Bay councillors and committee members, including chair Pamela Sutton-Legaud at the opening of the conservation area on Friday 11 September. Comprising sculpted landscape mounds and outdoor public spaces, an irrigation system, animal-proof fencing, new seating areas
and connected trails and elevated boardwalks linking to the wetlands, the opening of the conservation area marks the completion of stage one of the wetlands centre development. Attention will now turn to stage two of the project which involves the construction of the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre itself, but which is still not fully funded. Hobsons Bay council has committed $5 million to the next stage, but is seeking a further $5 million in order for it to be delivered. Speaking at the opening, Cr Grima said that the completion of stage one works pro-
vided a glimpse of the potential of the site if state two is delivered. “Once completed, the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre will create a regional hub for environmental restoration, education and community connection in the west,” she said. “It will transform the site into a working wetlands precinct supporting biodiversity, improving water quality and delivering nature-based solutions to climate challenges. “The works completed so far are a testament to the hard work and dedication of both council staff, and the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre committee.”
Police investigate West Footscray motorcycle attacks Police are investigating a series of aggravated carjackings in West Footscray AT the weekend. It is understood a group of four offenders approached a man on a motorcycle on Napier Street at about 12.20am on Saturday 19 September. Officers have been told the rider, who was pulled over to the side of the road, was boxed in by the offenders, who then assaulted the 40-year-old man, before fleeing with his motorcycle. The victim was not seriously injured and
reported the incident at a nearby police station. Roughly 10 minutes later, at about 12.30am, it’s believed the same group of offenders approached a 32-year-old man who was travelling west on Sunshine Road. The man attempted to ride away, before stopping a short distance later. It is understood the group, on four motorcycles, boxed the man in while trying to pull him from his bike. Officers have been told the man was struck with a wrench while demands were
made for his keys. The group fled the scene with the man’s motorcycle, while he was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Officers believe the same group approached another rider on Sunshine Road later that night, about 11pm. The group, this time armed with a taser and batons, assaulted and tased the woman before fleeing with her motorcycle. The victim, a 27-year-old from Wantirna South, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Thursday 17 September was National Citizenship Day and for two former Afghan refugees – now based in Footscray– it carried more significance than ever before. Khojista Hosaini and Yaser Joyan both recently became Australian citizens, after fleeing their homeland following the return of the Taliban to power in 2021. Both Ms Honsaini and Mr Joyan now support other newly arrived refugees as case managers with migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia. Speaking about her new status, Ms Honsaini said it made her feel recognised, respected and valued. “Becoming an Australian citizen is an incredibly emotional and proud moment for me. After years of living here as a permanent resident and building my life in Australia, citizenship finally gives me a deeper sense of belonging,” she said. “It means being recognised, respected and valued as an equal member of society, having a voice, being able to participate in the future of this country, and having the freedom to live with dignity and be true to who I am. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities Australia has given me, and incredibly proud and honoured to finally call myself Australian.” Mr Joyan fled to Australia following the fall of Kabul in 2021, but arrived in the midst of the COVID19 lockdowns. After spending two weeks in quarantine in Darwin, he and his family moved to Melbourne and became clients of AMES, where he now works as a case manager in Footscray. “It feels like the end of a five-year journey and I feel like I have come full circle,” Mr Joyan said of his citizenship. “Becoming an Australian citizen is a significant milestone in my life, but for me, it represents much more than citizenship. It represents a journey of resilience, opportunity, belonging and giving back,” he said, adding that being granted citizenship while working for AMES, an organisation that once helped him, made this feeling even more profound. “Being able to move from receiving support to providing support is deeply meaningful to me,” Mr Joyan said.
Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 3
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By Cr Daria Kellander When families in Hobsons Bay need help, their postcode shouldn’t decide whether they get it. Right now, it does. I’ve sat on long wait lists trying to get public health support for my own child. Without private health insurance, crucial services can take years. The alternative paying thousands out-of-pocket - is simply not an option for many families. It’s not just specialists. Basic assessments, allied health, paediatric appointments, and early intervention programs are increasingly hard to access. Families wait months for appointments that should be available within weeks. When the basics are stretched, everything downstream suffers. Across Melbourne’s west, disability assistance, family violence services, mental health support, and alcohol and drug treatment are stretched thin or located outside our city. Frontline workers tell the same story: families do everything right, yet the system makes them wait. Those delays matter. Early intervention can change a life, keep a family safe, or prevent a crisis becoming catastrophic. When support comes too late, problems grow bigger, costs rise higher, and pressure lands on schools, hospitals, and already overloaded services. This is why we’re pushing hard for change. Families shouldn’t have to fight this hard for basic support. Council has made fair access to health and community services one of our top priorities. We’re advocating for stronger investment in Melbourne’s west, properly funded services, and a system that doesn’t punish people for living outside the inner suburbs.
Police have released an image of a man they want to speak to in relation to a fire at a unit in Yarraville earlier this year. Emergency services were called the unit on Williamstown Road at about 3.50am on Wednesday 29 April following reports it was on fire. No one was injured as a result of the fire which was deemed suspicious. Anyone who recognises the man in the image or has any further information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au
Prowler warning
Cr Daria Kellander. (supplied)
Hobsons Bay council is seeking targeted investment in health and community services to ensure all residents can access the support they need, close to home. Advocacy means naming the gaps clearly, demanding better, and refusing to accept a status quo that leaves families behind. We’re working with service providers and community organisations to ensure the voices of western suburbs families are heard. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it won’t happen at all unless we keep the pressure on - consistently, publicly, and unapologetically. Everyone deserves a fair chance to be healthy, supported, and connected. That starts with fixing the gaps that hold families back, and continuing to advocate until the system delivers what our community needs.
Hobsons Bay Neighbourhood Watch is warning residents to make sure their vehicles are locked at night following reports of opportunistic prowlers trying car doors in the Altona North, Williamstown North, Williamstown and Newport areas. With motor vehicle theft and theft from a motor vehicle among the most prevalent crimes across the community, residents are reminded to make a habit of checking their car doors and windows are locked at night. Valuables, or things that look like they may contain valuables, should not be left in cars either. For more information on how to prevent vehicle theft and theft from a motor vehicle, visit: https://www. police.vic.gov.au/preventing-motor-vehicle
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4 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
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Bus stop safety concerns By Cade Lucas A bus stop on one of Footscray’s busiest streets is an accident waiting to happen and needs to be moved before someone is killed. That’s the argument of residents from the Joseph Road apartment precinct who want the outbound bus stop on Hopkins Street, used for routes 216 and 402, moved back beyond the Moreland Street intersection to near the Footscray War Memorial where the footpath is much wider. Local resident and member of the Joseph Road Precinct Action Group (JRPAG), Adriana Mendieta, regularly catches the bus to and from the city and said getting off at the existing Hopkins Street stop, between Whitehall and Moreland streets, was
a frightening experience due to its narrow kerb. “When you’re descending from the bus, you feel like the bus is on top of you,” Ms Mendieta said of what it’s like stepping onto the tight kerb between the bus and the fence of St Monica’s Primary School. She said the narrowness of the kerb at the existing stop wasn’t just a problem for commuters. “When people are waiting for the bus, they occupy all of the pathway because it is so narrow, and people have to step out onto the road to get past.” Planning and design works are currently underway for safety upgrades along Hopkins Street, which has long been a concern for Joseph Road precinct residents.
Members of the Joseph Road Precinct Action Group on the narrow footpath at the Hopkins Street bus stop which they say is an accident waiting to happen. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 577632 07
Ms Mendieta said no major upgrades were needed in this case, just the bus stop moved down the street to where the foot-
path was wider and there was also a pedestrian crossing. A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said the department was working with Maribyrnong council and local residents to find an appropriate location for the bus stop. “Any changes to existing bus stops and routes need to be thoroughly assessed to ensure services can continue to run safe and accessible,” the spokesperson said. “Designs are being prepared that seek to improve the bus stop facilities, while also enhancing walking and bike riding infrastructure and increasing opportunities for greening and planting throughout the corridor,” Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra added.
Health program a game changer for multicultural men
Hobsons Bay Chess Club president Casey Goh at the club’s Altona headquarters where the 2026 Victorian Women’s Chess Championships were held recently. (Damjan Janevski) 570279_02
Chess championed by Hobsons Bay club Hobsons Bay Chess Club has continued its efforts to grow the sport by hosting the 2026 Victorian Women’s Championships in Altona on 12 and 19 September. A record 42 players took part in the tournament, a 40 per cent increase on 2025, with Deethya Sai Katakam and Narelle Szuveges finishing equal first, followed by Yiting Gui, Luna Scenna and Sophie Davis. Advancements in technology allowed the results to be broadcast further than ever before, with games streamed online and piece movements automatically detected and relayed live. Hobsons Bay Chess Club president Ca-
sey Goh said the championship demonstrated the potential for women’s chess in Melbourne’s west. “The strong participation from junior girls and emerging players was particularly encouraging,” Mr Goh said. “We hope this championship provides a platform for more women and girls to participate, officiate, organise and take on leadership roles within Victorian chess.” Hobsons Bay Chess Club now turns its attention to the 2026 Victorian Junior Rapid and Blitz Championships in Bacchus Marsh on 3-4 October, while in October next year it will host the 2027 Oceania
Youth Chess Championship. It was at this tournament in 2025 that Point Cook chess prodigy and club member, Rheyansh Annapureddy, announced himself, earning the prestigious FIDE Master (FM) title. “Hobsons Bay Chess Club has grown significantly alongside Rheyansh’s chess journey,” Mr Goh said of the now 12 yearold who’s next target is the International Master (IM) title. “His achievements have helped inspire a new generation of junior players and demonstrated to young local players that international chess titles are achievable.”
Newport couple struggle to comprehend $3 million lotto win A Newport couple are still struggling to believe their life-changing $3.3 million TattsLotto win, even after receiving the call from lottery officials and confirming the news at their local news agency. The inner-west couple held one of the four division one winning entries nationally in TattsLotto draw 4711, drawn Saturday 12 September . Each entry scored $3,333,333.34. “Oh my goodness! Is this really happening?” the winning husband exclaimed when an official from The Lott
confirmed the life-changing windfall. “This is mind-boggling! Just amazing! “I had to wait until I finished work yesterday to check my ticket. Even after you first called to tell me to check my ticket, I didn’t believe it. “I went down to the news agency that I bought the ticket from, and the gentleman said they’d been notified that they’d sold a winning entry at the store on the weekend. “I then looked online and saw how many people had won in the country and
I saw there was one in Western Australia and two in the eastern side of Australia. Then it all just started making sense! “We still don’t believe it!” Now, $3.3 million richer, the Newport residents shared their plans to complete more travel and renovations. “We’d love to travel more and see what the world has to offer! Maybe a trip to Italy!” the winning husband said. “We also need to do some bits and pieces to the house.”
Men from multicultural communities are improving their health and building social connections thanks to a culturally-specific version of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s (WBCF) Sons of the West (SOTW) wellbeing program. Developed with Victoria University (VU), the culturally-specific version of the men’s health program caters for African, Indian, Iraqi Syriac and Vietnamese cohorts in a bid to boost engagement in groups at higher risk of social isolation and health issues. And evidence suggests the move is paying off. A new evaluation by VU has found that participants in the culturally-specific version of the SOTW program are exercising more, forging new friendships, and discussing sensitive topics such as mental health, addiction, elder abuse and respectful relationships. Among the key outcomes of the 10 week program was an eight per cent increase in men’s physical activity levels, with 79 per cent of participants saying they were active for between five to seven days each week at the end of the program. At least 73 per cent of participants said the program helped break down traditional masculine stereotypes by creating a safe space to talk about mental health, relationships and seeking help, while most participants reported making new friends as well. VU Professor of Sports Systems Development, Camilla Brockett, said the results were very encouraging. “This program showed that when health initiatives are culturally tailored and community-led, men are far more likely to engage, return and open up about important issues affecting their wellbeing,” Professor Brockett said. “We saw men gain confidence not only in looking after their physical health, but in talking about topics that often carry stigma, including mental health and gender roles. Once one person spoke up, the floodgates opened. One of the most powerful outcomes was the trust and sense of belonging that developed.” Khoa Tr n, 75, from Sunshine North, joined the program in both 2024 and 2025, and reported multiple benefits. “These included meeting many new friends, expanding my social connections, and gaining useful information for everyday life, such as knowledge about nutrition, maintaining and improving health, staying safe online, and understanding the rules of football,” Mr Tran said.
Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5
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Macedon Ranges council manager econmic development and visitor economy Lydia Sorensen and strategic planning and environment heritage planner Dannielle Orr at the Malmsbury Viaduct. 577657 06
Digging into our golden past After decades of planning and advocating, the bid for World Heritage status is inching closer for the Victorian Goldfields. With 15 Victorian councils advocating for the project, there’s golden stories found all over the state, including right in the Macedon Ranges’ backyard. Georgia Tacey caught up with Macedon Ranges council’s manager economic development and visitor economy Lydia Sorenson and strategic planning and environment heritage planner Dr Dannielle Orr to discover the region’s ties to the goldfields and what World Heritage status will mean for the Macedon Ranges community.
T
en years ago, a golden opportunity was presented to Macedon Ranges council. A chance for some lesser known stories to be told, and the opportunity to see the region’s rich history on the world stage. Macedon Ranges alongside Greater Bendigo, Ballarat, Moorabool, Hepburn, Mount Alexander, Ararat, Baw Baw, Golden Plains, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Indigo, Loddon, Northern Grampians and Pyrenees councils joined forces in the fight to recognise the stories, communities and regions that come from the Victorian Goldfields. The 15 councils, alongside regional organisations, academia and the private sector are all part of the wider push that hopes to see the Victorian Goldfields receive World Heritage status. Council became involved with the project in 2016, with the collaborative bid between the councils officially commencing in 2019. In 2025, the green light was given to the project by the federal government to seek World Heritage Listing, with its successful inclusion on Australia’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. “Each of the 15 local governments that are involved – Macedon being one – all have a story to tell,” Macedon Ranges council’s strategic planning and environment heritage planner, Dr Dannielle Orr, said. Dr Orr has been part of the goldfields bid long before Macedon Ranges has. She previously worked at Greater Bendigo council, which along with Ballarat, have spearheaded the project, with both areas holding deep ties to the goldrush era. But Dr Orr said there is plenty of goldrush history steeped deep into the Macedon Ranges. “[The bid] will have implications and benefits for the whole shire, and there are different aspects of the story represented at
different places,” she said. “There will be stories all over Macedon that will actually contribute to the wider bid.” One of the greatest stories of goldfields in the Macedon Ranges is the story of the water for the gold, which can still be seen today at the Malmsbury Reservoir. “The Coliban Water Supply System was an engineering structure that was built in the late 1800s, and it was built to take water from Malmsbury to Bendigo,” Dr Orr said. First conceived in 1862 by Joseph Brady, the water supply system built from 1866 is still largely in operation today. The technological accomplishment that helped establish civil engineering as a profession and industry and delivered water through a dry landscape over 100km long. “You can still see it at Malmsbury … you can still go and see the whole heritage in the landscape today,” Dr Orr said. “It’s brilliant, brilliant engineering, 100 and more years on.” While Malmsbury’s historic significance to the goldfields isn’t one of the six spots currently listed on the tentative list, it is noted in the World Heritage Listing. But Malmsbury isn’t the only part of the shire with goldrush roots. “The whole of the shire did contribute to the goldfields in different ways,” Dr Orr said. “You know, you look at things like the Calder Freeway that’s built on the old pathways that the goldfields travellers would have taken, that’s a major route through our shire that has history and a heritage that goes back to those days. “Kyneton developed as the service centre to help travellers along the way.” Alongside Kyneton, Lancefield and Romsey became gateways for services to travellers to the goldfields.
6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
Lydia Sorensen and Dannielle Orr at the Malmsbury Reservoir, where you can still see the history of the goldrush today. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 578880 02
Lancefield, Lauriston, Malmsbury and Romsey also served as the grazing and farming areas that grew and manufactured food for the goldfields, while the Ranges’ Caroline Chisholm shelters became a place for women and children who came to join their diggers. There are the stories from the Traditional Owners of this Country from the goldrush. The Ranges even had its own gold mining rush in Black Forest, Bullengarook, Lauriston, Macedon and Malmsbury. “Woodend had a lot of bush ranges, for instance, because the gold that was collected from the goldfields, would travel back down to Melbourne to get sold in the Melbourne market, and going through the Black Forest was a bit of a hairy experience,” Dr Orr said. “The beauty of the listing is that it’s an opportunity for these communities to actually tell their stories, because there are so many different aspects to this heritage, and it’s really how we came to be here today, and how we developed as a state really, and then as a nation today. “The goldfields’ wealth really built Australia as a nation.”
Now, it’s almost time to see if the advocacy of the councils’ and the bid team has paid off. “Next year is the confirmation of the short listing,” council economic development and visitor economy manager Lydia Sorenson said. “We’ll know next year whether we are actually going for this World Heritage Bid … whether the 15 councils along with the bid team will be going forward.” The councils, she said, will need to work simultaneously together to give this opportunity the best possible shot at success, targeting the community. “We already know that our visitor economy is quite strong, but it’s strong in a different way, it’s not strong in the historical sense,” Ms Sorenson said. “We’re known as a shire that’s beautiful, it’s about the environment, it’s about coming here for an experience. “And I think that’s what we’re leveraging is that we can actually add to that visitor [experience].” As research and consultation continues, it’s still only just the beginning for this long-standing project, but Dr Orr remains hopeful that we will see it eventuate. “We’ve got a really, really good chance,” Dr Orr said. “It’s really strong, heritage wise, tourism and economic development wise, everybody has worked really hard together collaboratively to get the bid up this time. “This case has been built very solidly from day one, and everyone has joined together to work together and I think that means we will be successful.” Council and the bid team will host an information session at the Malmsbury Town Hall on Tuesday 20 October from 5pm for the community to hear more about the project. Details: https://tinyurl.com/3hknhm4s
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Operation Scoreboard targets road safety over the long weekend RoadSafe Westgate is proud to support Operation Scoreboard 2026, the statewide road policing campaign led by Victoria Police ahead of the AFL Grand Final long weekend. With increased traffic expected across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria, police will launch a highly visible enforcement and education blitz aimed at preventing road trauma and saving lives. When is Operation Scoreboard 2026? Operation Scoreboard will run from Thursday 24 September to Sunday 27 September 2026, covering the entire long weekend, a traditionally high-risk period for serious and fatal crashes on Victorian roads. Why This AFL Grand Final Long Weekend Holiday Matters Holiday periods mean more vehicles on the road, longer trips, unfamiliar routes and tighter travel schedules. Historically, the highest risk periods occur when drivers are: ■ Leaving for holiday destinations ■ Returning home ■ Driving while fatigued ■ Travelling at speed on freeways and regional highways Police intelligence shows that single acts of non-compliance and basic driving errors contributed to more than half of fatalities in 2025 - including low-range speeding, distraction, drink driving and failure to obey road rules. What Police Will Be Targeting During Operation Scoreboard 2026, Victoria Police will focus on the driving behaviours most closely linked to deaths and serious injuries: ■ Speeding - including low-range speeding ■ Distracted driving - particularly illegal mobile phone use ■ Seatbelt and child restraint offences
Senior Sergeant Stephen O’Connell says police will be out in force over the long weekend. (Damjan Janevski). 576403_01
■ Fatigue and drowsy driving ■ Alcohol and drug-impaired driving Police will be highly visible across major freeways, arterial roads and regional routes. Senior Sergeant Stephen O’Connell, Road Policing Advisor from Westgate Highway Patrol, said: “We will be out in force, both educating and enforcing. Our aim is simple: prevent lives lost and serious injuries on Victorian roads. The operation will be conducted throughout all operational Police Regions and Police Service Areas during the four days” He added that drivers should expect to be tested anywhere, anytime throughout the holiday period.
A Community Responsibility Chair of RoadSafe Westgate, Jim Giddings, reinforced the importance of shared responsibility. “Speed is a factor in most serious crashes. Driving safely isn’t just about obeying the law. It’s about respect — for yourself, your passengers, your family and the broader community,” Mr Giddings said. Road trauma does not only affect those directly involved. It impacts families, friends, emergency services and communities — often for a lifetime. If you witness dangerous driving, report it to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. If you plan to have a drink then plan to not drive, taking a big risk like drinking and
driving is just not worth endangering your live or that of other road users. Fatigue remains one of the leading contributors to serious crashes. If you are tired, stop and rest. Enforcement Will Be High. The Stakes Are Higher. Speedsters and drivers who flout the road rules have been put on notice. This AFL Grand Final long weekend break, enforcement will be visible and sustained - but the ultimate goal is not fines. It is preventing tragedy. Road safety is not someone else’s responsibility. It is yours. Enjoy your holiday break with family and friends and travel so you arrive safely.
DRIVING IS NOT A GAME! SPEED KILLS! Don’t make a Grave Mistake Speed is the largest single factor in fatal road crashes on our roads. RoadSafe Westgate and your local council support reporting speeding drivers to Crime Stoppers.
REPORT SPEEDING DRIVERS
1800 333 000 RoadSafe Westgate Community Road Safety Council is a road safety advocacy group that implements road safety programs and is supported by the municipalities of Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham. 1092275-HM38-13 1204680-HM44-15
Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 7
NEWS
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FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors
40 years ago
30 years ago
20 years ago
10 years ago
24 September, 1986 Williamstown is the undisputed king of football in the west after breaking a VFA First Division premiership drought of 27 years at the Junction Oval last Sunday.
25 September, 1996 Two Hobsons Bay councillors last week claimed workers’ lives would be put at risk and city streetscapes ruined by new state government rules for cutting tree branches away from power lines.
20 September, 2006 A soccer boom has prompted Hobsons Bay council to revisit its plans for a $14 million national league standard soccer stadium.
21 September, 2016 The buzz building around the “Sons of the West” is reaching fever pitch as the Western Bulldogs roar to within one match of the AFL grand final.
Faces of the west Each week, Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing the people and events
Ava, 9, Faith, 9, and Milena, 9, with their creations. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 576610 10
in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.
Volunteers Trudy Shepherd and Fran Spain, are running the school holiday program at Woodend Neighbourhood House. (Damjan Janevski) 577355 05
Point Cook resident Anthony Pacheco who is fed up with constant plane noise from increased flights departing the RAAF base. (Damjan Janevski) 577470 01
Newham Primary School principal Tim Furphy with students Billy, Rhu, Hudson, Jack and Scarlett. (Damjan Janevski) 577085 04
Raquel Handley from Kalkallo Community Centre with Hume council’s waste mascot, Binjamin. (Damjan Janevski) 576117 03
8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
Members of the Joseph Road Precinct Action Group and local residents at the Hopkins Street bus stop, raising concerns about pedestrian safety and the narrow pathway. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 577632 01
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NEWS
Breaking the crime cycle As part of an ongoing series examining the causes and solutions to crime in the west, Sebastian Conidi spoke to Professor Kelly Allott about the influence of mental health on youth crime. “There is a really high association between mental health and crime. Particularly in young people,” Professorial Research Fellow and clinical neuropsychologist, Professor Kelly Allott said when asked about the impact of mental health on crime. Professor Allott leads the cognition research team at non-profit organisation, Orygen. She said while mental health was a complex issue there is a strong connection between the mental wellbeing of young offenders and crime. “There are extremely high rates of mental ill-health and neuro-developmental
difficulties in the youth justice system. These are things that can affect cognitive and emotional development. Together, they increase the risk for a young person and can put them in a situation where they may commit crime,” she said. When discussing potential approaches, Professor Allott said it was vital to build positive communities where young people could develop strong social connections. “Addressing the underlying risk factors is key. Young people need social connection programs that support positive social relationships,“ she explained. Professor Allott also highlighted the importance of community organisations, whether they are centred around sport, religion, the arts or other activities. “The main priority is supporting young
people, families and communities when dealing with these situations.” On the topic of increased police presence, Professor Allott acknowledged that while it can help the broader community feel safer, it does not address the underlying causes of youth crime. Instead, she said up-skilling police to better understand and respond to mental illness was vital to ensuring young people and the wider community are better protected. “Police presence helps the general community feel safer, but I don’t think it solves the issue of young people committing crime. That’s a deeper, more complex issue.” Professor Allott said breaking the cycle of offending was crucial. “A lot of young people who commit crime have experienced some form of vic-
timisation or trauma themselves. It’s a vicious cycle, so it’s important to break that cycle,“ she explained. The impacts of the pandemic were also a central theme when discussing mental health and youth wellbeing. “The current generation of youth had a long period of disconnection. Social connection is so critical: positive social relationships, social inclusion, feeling part of a group.” Professor Allott called for greater support services in Melbourne’s west, saying the region often falls behind other parts of Victoria. “In the west the service system is not always as strong as other parts of Melbourne. Greater emphasis on youth services, opportunities for connection and positive role models is really important.”
My Place area? I’m not sure what I’d change but I do look forward to being able to assume the trains are running. I also look forward to, if I live long enough, walking in the shade of many of the young trees planted by the council. Recently I was upset to see a couple of very large mature gum trees in a street nearby had been cut down. I was told it was necessary, and I suppose I have to accept that verdict, but they looked very healthy to me.
As the daughter of Melbourne landscaper painter Jean Langley and music critic John Sinclair, it’s unsurprising that Altona’s Jane Sinclair has followed in their footsteps as an artist and author. She spoke to Cade Lucas. What’s your connection to the northwest of Melbourne? My father (born in 1911) grew up in Williamstown where his father ran a butcher’s shop. Dad lived the last years of his life in Newport, in a house I inherited after his death. Until then, visiting my dad was my only connection to the area. After his death I moved to Newport where I lived for about seven years before moving to Altona in 2003. In 1997 at the age of 43, after several years of trying, I finally got pregnant. The Newport house didn’t have enough space for two adults, a growing child, and for me to have a large studio in which to paint. What do you like about living and working here? Being close to public transport, shops, and the beach. When my daughter was young, I’d walk her to Altona Primary then along the beach to Pier Street to buy whatever groceries I needed. Whatever the weather, it was a very enjoyable start to the day. I could then spend school hours painting in my big studio in the double garage. The only
Altona artist and author Jane Sinclair. (Damjan Janevski) 569578_05
downside about my morning beach walks was in summer, when my delight at walking beside a silky blue sea g listening in early morning sunshine was disturbed by seeing all the rubbish left by the previous evening’s beachgoers.
Mumbling in annoyance, I’d pick up what I could in case a north wind blew it seaward before the beach cleaner machine came. What would you change about the
Where is your favourite local place to spend time? Flemings Pool early on a summer’s morning during the week, when I occasionally have the beach to myself or share it with just a couple of other regular morning swimmers. Thankfully most people prefer Altona’s main beach. Having Altona wetlands and Cherry Lake so close is a luxury not to be taken for granted. But I also really enjoy my own home. Sitting on my back porch in the evening having a pre-dinner wine is my quiet, meditative time as I watch the sky change colour and hear the beautiful melody of the blackbird’s evening song. Sometimes I stay late enough to watch the ringtail possums destroying my almond tree by eating any new leaves. It annoys me and I politely ask them to stop but they just freeze momentarily and stare at me before resuming their munching.
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Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 9
COMMUNITY
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to: Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com. au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication. Golf day The Rotary Club of Williamstown presents the Tony Boyd Memorial Golf Day on Wednesday 30 September at Kooringal Golf Club, Altona. The annual event is in support of RoCan Ltd’s Cancer Wellness and Accommodation Centre project. Player registrations are open now. ■ rotarywilliamstown.org.au Williamstown Bridge Club Bridge sessions for experienced players are held every Wednesday night at 7.15pm and Friday afternoon at 1.25pm at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Rd, Seaholme, 3018. All levels welcome and partners can be provided. Bridge lessons for beginners start on Friday 9 October at 10am. ■ Peter, 0427 302 236, Alan 0430 309 255, and for lessons, Jan, 0409 944 413 or www. bridgewebs.com/williamstown Yin Yoga Yin Yoga Classes are running at Brooklyn Community Hall and the Healing Garden Williamstown. Classes are held every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Classes are costed for the community: $8-$25 per class. Star Weekly readers can get a complimentary first session to try it out. Yin Yoga is a gentle, passive practice that invites stillness and subtlety - offering up powerful physical benefits by targeting the body’s connective tissues, joints, and fascia. For all bodies - stiff, sore, injured or just in need of deep release! ■ Hong, 0412 112 422, yogawithhong.com Mouth Organ Band Yarraville Mouth Organ Band is looking for new members. Band practice is held on Friday evenings at 8pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. For great music in a friendly atmosphere feel free to call in one Friday evening. ■ Heather ,9399 2190, ymob1933@yahoo. com.au Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon-2.30pm. Woodcarving workshop Held weekly at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, but women are welcome too. Aimed at all levels of ability in the ancient, international crafts of carving, whittling and chipping. Starter gouges and timber are available, but participants are advised to bring their own tools and projects if possible. Held on Tuesdays, 9.30am-noon, 280 Queens Street, Altona. ■John, jah2802rot@gmail.com
This week’s photographer’s choice pictures is of the West Gate Bridge – captured on a bright spring day. (Damjan Janevski) 579216
College. ■ westgateconcertband@gmail.com Walking football (soccer) For anyone aged 50 and older and any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay Council and Football Victoria, this is a free activity each Wednesday, from 10-11am, indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive, Altona. ■ Mike, 0423 291 708 Hobsons Bay City Band Come and play with the friendly musos at Hobsons Bay City Band under the baton of Wayne Bowden. The band welcomes new players of all ages and experience – woodwind, brass and percussion. Rehearsals are on Monday nights at 7.30pm at Spotswood Kingsville RSL in South Kingsville. ■ 0414 930 568, hbcityband@gmail.com
Women Working Together A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs ■ 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, https://cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/
Mighty West Heart Foundation Community Walking Group The walks begin at 10am on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings. Discover the many health benefits of walking, talking, and enjoying post walk coffee and chat together. Walks can take up to 60 minutes and explore Hobsons Bay, its history, coastline, and inland scenic walks. Walks can be done at your own pace. ■ 0411 566 862
Musicians Wanted Westgate Concert Band, established in 1979 is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am-noon at Braybrook
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support to anyone who wants to stop drinking. The Western Unity AA Group holds weekly in-person meetings in
10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
Williamstown. Those thinking they may have a drinking problem are welcome to attend and can bring along friends, family and loved ones to offer support. ■ 1300 222 222, https://williamstown. aagroup.org.au/, aawilliamstown@gmail. com Altona North Combined Probus The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. ■ Lesley, 0414 481 442 Williamstown Seniors The group meets every Tuesday from 1-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon. ■ Marlene, 0402 769 204 Social square dancing Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on ThursdayS from 7.30-10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning. ■ Janine, 0421 371 883, contact@essendonsquares.com Hobsons Bay Altona Garden Club. Come along to the garden club and enjoy an afternoon of discussions and talks about gardening. Guest speakers will discuss what is happening in the garden - keeping and looking after bees and the environment. Meetings are held at the
Youth Hall on the corner of Civic Parade and Sugar Gum Drive, Altona on the third Monday of the month at 1pm. ■Kay, 0411 793 534 Heritage walks Enjoy a leisurely one/two hour walk around Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.30am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. ■ John Becroft, 0418 377 336. Sing with WIllin Wimmin choir Discover the joy of group singing with the friendly women at WiIlin Wimmin choir in Williamstown. New members are always welcome, no audition. The choir sings contemporary, folk, choral and world repertoire in acapella style. Rehearsals are on WednesdayS during school terms, 7.30-9.30pm, at the Dennis Reserve Centre, 109 Ferguson Street, Williamstown. ■ willinwimmin.org.au, willin.wimmin@ gmail.com Altona North grandparent playgroup A friendly weekly opportunity for grandparents and their grandchildren to play, have a cuppa, cake and chat. Held from 10am-noon on Mondays during school terms at Eastona Park Community Facility, 13 Collins Avenue Altona North. Entry $5. ■ Marnie, 0478 011 981 Free walking basketball Love basketball, but not the running? Join the Westgate Basketball Association’s walking basketball program. ■Penny, 0409 014 121, westgatebasketball.com.au/walking-basketball-1
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ENTERTAINMENT
Grab a drink and settle in for a villainous musical caberet Sit down and settle in for a night of the most villainous, gleefully evil songs from the greatest musical theatre shows, as Melton Performing Arts takes you on a trip through some of the most villainous musical theatre soundtracks over three nights in October. The cabaret-style production will take audiences on a villainous musical journey, featuring some of the most memorable songs from shows like Sweeney Todd, Les Miserables, The Lion King, Hamilton,
Matilda, and much more. With a talented cast and a dastardly MC at the helm, audiences can expect to be treated to plenty of theatrical fun with audience interaction and participation on the cards for a truly nefarious night. The show offers a relaxed cabaret experience, with audiences seated at tables of up to 10 people and able to choose their own table for a truly immersive experience. Guests are also encouraged to make a
night of it, with Bring Your Own (BYO) food permitted, or the option to pre-purchase one of the production’s Goody-Boxes for a hassle-free dinner experience. While beverages cannot be brought from home, the bar will offer a selection of wine, beer, soft drinks and non-alcoholic options, as well as snacks for those who work up an appetite. Programs can also be pre-purchased at a discounted price or bought on the night at full price.
Ruby Mae brings powerful sound to Be Bold Festival
Fun is on the menu Emma Memma is bringing her Jungle Picnic Tour to Moonee Ponds. (Supplied)
By Laura Michell What do pineapple pizza, cucumbers, elephants and pet rocks all have in common? No, this isn’t some obscure riddle; they are all the stars of some of the catchiest songs on Emma Memma’s Jungle Picnic album – the inspiration for her latest tour. Emma Watkins and her ‘Memma Mates’ will bring their Jungle Picnic fun to Moonee Ponds on Wednesday 23 September as part of the Victorian leg of a tour that began back in April. According to Watkins, it is the best – and most fun – tour yet. “I feel like we’ve developed Emma Memma over a period of about four-and-a-half years and I feel like it’s the best of everything that we’ve learned so far,” she said. “We had a beautiful tour last year of ‘Dance Island Party’ ... and then we basically kind of tried to get as much feedback as we could from children and parents about what they really loved
about the show and then we essentially refined it.” Through her shows, Watkins strives to bring together spoken language and Auslan to make the experience inclusive for the whole audience. Shows feature a dedicated Auslan interpreter while Watkins and fellow performer Elvin Lam – perhaps better known as Elvin Melvin – signing as part of the choreography. Emma Memma and Elvin Melvin also take the time during the show to go out into the audience and connect with the children – something Watkins said she receives a lot of feedback about. Among the other highlights fans can expect at the Clocktower are acrobatic skills, lots of crocodile snaps complete with “tiny little screams” and plenty of dancing – from the grandparents and parents too! “We have a song called ‘Picnic Basket Picnic Rug’ and it’s a dance for everybody in the audience. It’s quite early on in the show. It’s just a chance for everyone to dance and we kind of pick people out and it’s hilarious
Organisers have warned this production contains coarse language and adult themes, and that a wicked MC will keep spectators on their toes throughout the evening. A Villains Cabaret will take place on Thursday October 1 at 7pm, Friday 2 October at 7pm, and Saturday 3 October at 2 and 7pm at the Melton Community Hall, 238 High Street, Melton. Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/ DOPIM.
seeing people’s interpretation,” she said. “Mostly, I try and pick grandparents out because I think it’s a fun moment.” Having spent most of her 20s completing “the world’s best apprenticeship on how to be an entertainer” as part of the Wiggles, Watkins said beginning the Emma Memma journey was “kind of like jumping off a cliff”. “You know, Ollie [husband and producer/songwriter Oliver Brian] and I kind of said to each other, ‘If it doesn’t work in 12 months, we have to become teachers’ … so, you know, we let ourselves try it and then people just wouldn’t stop writing,“ she said. “People are invested in Emma Memma now, and now it’s just really finding a way to bring more sign language and basically just the best party ever to more children.” Emma Memma’s Jungle Picnic Tour is at the Clocktower Centre, Moonee Ponds, on 23 September for three shows: 10am (limited tickets), 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Details: https://clocktowercentre.com. au/emma-memma-jungle-picnic-tour/
Proud Wiradjuri singer-songwriter Ruby Mae will bring her distinctive sound and energetic live performance to this year’s Be Bold Festival in St Albans. Described as a “vital voice in the Australian music landscape”, Ruby has been steadily building a name for herself through a combination of honest songwriting, powerful performances and an independent approach to music. Her debut album, Baby, produced by ARIA Award winner Stephen Mowat, marked an important milestone in her career. Her singles have received airplay on Triple J and Triple M, while her music has also begun attracting attention in the United States. Ruby is particularly at home on stage, where she brings an openness and confidence to her performances. Her sound moves from the intimate songwriting of Missy Higgins to the full-bodied rock energy of Powderfinger. Since her debut, Ruby has performed at Queenscliff Music Festival, including both solo and band shows, appeared on the main stage at St Kilda Festival and supported a sold-out Emma Donovan performance. She has also sold out venues across Melbourne, helping her establish a growing and dedicated audience. Festival-goers will have the chance to see Ruby perform live when she takes to the Be Bold Main Stage at 4.15pm on Saturday 3 October. Be Bold Festival runs from 3pm to 7pm at the Bowery Theatre, St Albans Community Centre and surrounding areas.
Fringe Festival scheduled to stop at Footscray Station Artist David Jennings will be performing at Footscray Station during the upcoming Melbourne Fringe Festival, and then will be continuing on with weekly performances afterwards too. In fact, those who can’t make it to any of Wells’ three performances during the festival 1, 8 and 17 October needn’t worry at all, as they’ll surely have the chance to catch at least one of his Weekly Ticket Footscray performances between now and 2031. Yes, that’s right. Wells will be performing at Footscray
Station once a week for the next five years, just has he’s done for the last 10 years. That’s because Wells’ show Weekly Ticket Footscray is a 15-year durational performance that began in 2016 and has since made him an institution at the western suburbs’ busiest train station. Each week Wells heads into Footscray with his iconic chair and becomes ’The Artist at the Station’, improvising, dancing, talking and collaborating with commuters and other artists. For his three fringe festival performances,
Wells has arranged new collaborations with musician Moses Carr (Plastiq) and dancers Hillary Goldsmith and Arabella Frahn-Starkie (Polito). The free 90 minute shows will transform Footscray Station into performance environment as artists committed to a lifetime of improvisation and collaboration interact with audience members and commuters alike. For more information and to book, visit: https://w w w.melbournefringe.com.au/ whats-on/events/weekly-ticket-footscray
Ruby Mae. (Supplied)
Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 11
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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Although she is Russianborn, what country does Elena Rybakina represent in tennis?
3. Which country did the US defeat to win the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup?
2. And who did Elena Rybakina defeat in the 2026 US Open women’s singles final?
4. Which Italian Formula One driver won the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix? 5. Where are the 2027 Pacific Games set to be held? 6. Which Hollywood actor was criticised for appearing in a controversial sports betting commercial? 7. In which movie of the Air Bud series does a dog named Buddy play American football? 8. Which Spanish professional racing cyclist won the 2026 Vuelta a España? 9. The Detroit Gems became the Minneapolis Lakers, who in turn became which NBA franchise?
Elena Rybakina
Jess Hull
12. The site of the Gabba was first used for a cricket match in which year: 1896, 1906 or 1916? 13. What is the title of controversial Olympian Raygun’s recent documentary? 14. Tennis player Mirra Andreeva is from which country?
21. Which NBA team was recently fined $30 million for a salary cap scandal?
15. Which two NFL teams played the kickoff game of the 2026 season?
22. Australian runner Jess Hull won what medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics?
16. And which two teams played the first ever NFL game held in Australia?
23. What sport is considered Canada’s national summer sport?
17. Who won the men’s singles title at the 2026 US Open?
24. How old was Tiger Woods when he won his first major golf championship?
18. And who did that player defeat? 19. Zak Butters recently announced his intention to sign with which AFL team in 2027?
28. Which name is commonly used by football clubs to show they originally did not have a fixed home ground? 29. And which A-league club has this in their name?
25. Where will the Wallabies play South Africa for a one-off Test on September 27?
20. The New Zealand Warriors hosted their first final at what venue during the 2026 NRL Finals series?
27. What sport is being played at Gotham City Stadium when it is blown up in the 2012 film The Dark Knight Rises?
30. Athletes of the Mongolian sport Bökh often move overseas and switch to what similar sport?
26. English twins Jamie and Craig Overton are set to play for which Big Bash League cricket team?
1. Kazakhstan 2. Aryna Sabalenka 3. France 4. Kimi Antonelli 5. Tahiti 6. Sydney Sweeney 7. Air Bud: Golden Receiver (also known as Air Bud 2) 8. Enric Mas 9. Los Angeles Lakers 10. Quarterback 11. Adelaide Crows 12. 1896 13. Untold Raygun: Breaking Badly 14. Russia 15. New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks 16. Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers 17. Alexander Zverev 18. Ben Shelton 19. Western Bulldogs 20. Eden Park 21. Los Angeles Clippers 22. Silver 23. Lacrosse 24. 21 25. Perth (Optus Stadium) 26. Melbourne Stars 27. American Football 28. Wanderers 29. Western Sydney Wanderers 30. Sumo wrestling
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RUBBISH REMOVAL PUBLIC NOTICES AND EVENT
General section of Network Classifieds.
28 July 2026
Settlement Date:
27 August 2026
Purchase Price:
$2.25 million
Purpose:
The property has been purchased as a long-term investment in community infrastructure for Yarraville. As the only Councilowned building within the Yarraville neighbourhood activity centre, the former Masonic Hall will be retained for community use. Future use and improvement works will be informed by the Yarraville Community Facilities Feasibility study, which will include an opportunity for community engagement.
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10. What position does Melbourne's Isaac Woodhouse play for California’s Bakersfield College football team?
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Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 13
PUZZLES
easy
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T E
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'.
D
Today’s Aim: 15 words: Good 22 words: Very good 30 words: Excellent
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No. 415 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible
C O M B S A P A R T R E C U R A R E N A T A S T Y
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14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
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No. 308
A L I B I
5 LETTERS ACHED ADULT ALIBI ALIKE AMUSE ANNUL AORTA ARCED ARISE AZURE BANAL BLARE BUTTE CAMEO CORAL EASED ETHIC FETES GREEK HALTS IDEAS INANE
4 LETTERS ATOM BOGS BURP DOES EBBS EDDY HILT LAUD LOGO SEEK SICS SNOB SOIL TEST
QUICK QUIZ
16
17
digit, ding, dining, dint, dirt, during, gird, girt, grid, grin, grind, grit, INTRUDING, inuring, riding, rigid, rind, ring, ruin, ruing, ruining, tiding, tiring, trig, tuning, turgid, turning, unit, uniting, untiring
7 6 8 9 3 5 4 1 2 9 4 1 6 2 8 3 5 7 2 3 5 1 4 7 6 9 8 4 8 9 5 7 1 2 3 6 1 2 6 3 8 9 5 7 4 5 7 3 2 6 4 1 8 9 6 9 2 7 5 3 8 4 1 8 5 7 4 1 2 9 6 3 3 1 4 8 9 6 7 2 5
C S
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3 LETTERS ALE ANY ASH ASK ATE DUO ERR LAB LAP LET NOW OAF OFF ORE PRO REV ROW SAT SEA TEA TEE TNT WEB YET
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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
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No. 340
9-LETTER WORD medium
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Attacking, as a magpie (8) Width of a circle (8) Head servant of a household (6) Partner (9) Speaker’s platform (4) Harmony (6) Land mass surrounded by water (6) Supervisors (7) Flower (9) Pigeonholed (7) Wide view (8) Keep (8) A poetic unit of three lines (6) Mature zucchini (6) Accommodations (6) Plummet (4)
1 2 3
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Credenza (9) German automobile manufacturer (4) Eggs (3) Formal statement about another’s character (11) Bearing (8) Reply (6) Desideratum (4) Preserved with sugar syrup (7) Gala (7) Just (4) Glossy type of glass applied to surfaces for protection (6) Poisonous (8) Reciprocal (11) Tune (3) Borough (4) Visible features of an area (9)
1 6
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ACROSS
No. 308
KORAN LUNGE NOTES OPTIC OZONE PACED PASTA PICKY PRAYS PREEN RANTS ROBOT SCARE SEEPS SHEAR SORRY SPATE SPAWN SPELL SPEWS STRAY SWELL TEETH
TITLE TOTED TOWER TRASH TWIRL
EMINENT GREATER INNARDS SERPENT
6 LETTERS ALLEYS PETTED REARED TATTLE
8 LETTERS LEVERAGE LONELIER PALATIAL PARENTAL
7 LETTERS ACCRUED EASTERN
25-09-26
1
Mission Beach is a coastal town in which Australian state?
2
The hongi is a traditional greeting in which country?
3
How many hectares are in one square kilometre?
4
True or false: The Rolling Stones were formed before The Beatles?
5
Which Netflix show set in Europe stars Lily Collins (pictured)?
6
Who released the classic rock-and-roll song Johnny B. Goode in 1958?
7
Which of these toy lines is not made by Hasbro: G.I. Joe, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or Transformers?
8
The liqueur triple sec is flavoured by the peel of what type of fruit?
9
What second language did Queen Elizabeth II speak fluently?
10 Where in the human body is the sternum located? ANSWERS: 1. Queensland 2. New Zealand 3. 100 4. False 5. Emily in Paris 6. Chuck Berry 7. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 8. Orange 9. French 10. Chest
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
R A N T S S P E W S P A S T A O Z O N E C A M E O E T H I C A L I B I T E E T H B U T T E O R E K O R A N L E T A L E T E S T F E T E S R E A R E D O A F I N N A R D S S P A W N A T O M H I L T P A R E N T A L B U R P D U O A C C R U E D S E R P E N T L A U D L E V E R A G E T E E E D D Y L O G O E A S E D E A S T E R N A N Y T A T T L E S E E P S S I C S R OW L A B A L I K E N OW A R I S E O P T I C B L A R E S T R A Y G R E E K B A N A L S O R R Y S P E L L H A L T S
No. 308
S I D E B O A R D A U D I I U S A F N S W O V A T E S T I M O N I A L M L O S R S A O P R E S E N C E R E J O I N T R I M N D I C A N D I E D N E E D G R L T A N P P P A G E A N T F A I R M B D H N E T E N A M E L V E N O M O U S R L F L T R E R A I R C O R R E L A T I V E E O D L O L M V L A N D S C A P E T OW N
SUDOKU
Hilux is no longer low rent By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring The latest and ninth generation Toyota Hilux arrived late last year. Just like Toyota’s other models it is available with a hybrid powertrain, but not just any old hybrid – this one’s a diesel hybrid. That’s a step in the right direction as is the fully electric version which is now available, soon to be joined by a hydrogen-powered fuel cell model – we kid you not. The world is changing and the Hilux is changing along with it. It has to or die. Our test vehicle, the 4x4 SR double cab 48-volt mild hybrid, sits at the heart of the range, one up from the entry level Workmate – but still surprisingly swish. The SR is aimed primarily at tradies, fleet buyers and families who want a no-nonsense dual cab that still scrubs up reasonably well after hours. It’s the spec that has to do it all: carry tools during the week, tow on the weekend and occasionally play family wagon.
Styling Hilux is available in five grades and 16 variations, not as many as the old days, but more than enough. They include cab-chassis or pick-up configurations, 4x2 or 4x4 drivelines, and single, extra and double-cab body styles. Prices kick off from $33,990 for the 4x2 Workmate single cab-chassis with a manual transmission, but more than double by the time you reach the top. The 4x2 double cab Workmate with an auto is priced from $47,990 and the 4x2 SR double cab pick-up from $52,990. It’s followed by the 4x4 grades, including Workmate, SR, SR5, Rogue and Rugged X – the latter priced at $71,990. A further step up is the fully-electric Hilux BEV, priced from $76,490. The hybrid kicks in with SR cab-chassis from $57,990, followed closely by our test vehicle, the SR double cab pick-up 48V at $59,490 with an auto. Premium paint adds $675; the premium interior pack adds $2500. Bear in mind on-road costs must be added to these figures. Equipment is pitched to suit its working brief without feeling too vinyl. SR is differentiated on the outside by 17-inch alloy wheels, silver painted lower front bumper, black painted door handles, side mirrors and hood moulding, LED front fog lights, side steps, locking rear tailgate and a choice of six exterior colours. Owners of double cab automatic versions can also choose to change their 17-inch alloy wheels to steel wheels if they prefer. Inside, there’s manual aircon, while the SR adds greater front-seat bolstering and high-grade fabric upholstery, leather-accented shift knob and steering wheel, a 300W inverter, and smart entry and start. A simple 7.0-inch digital instrument panel delivers clear, easy to read info – but obviously lacks the bells and whistles of higher grades. Hilux is covered by Toyota’s standard five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, with the possibility of extended coverage on the drivetrain if you stick to dealer servicing. Service is due every six months, not 12 months, and although services are capped at $395 per visit – that’s two visits or $790 per year. The cap comes off after five years.
Infotainment A new free-standing 12.3-inch touchscreen is standard across the range, offering
We were getting 9.3L/100km after about 330km of mixed driving. On the road, the SR remains very much a ute, more truck than car. WorkMate and SR grades retain a heavy-duty suspension tune designed for carrying loads or towing Unladen, the leaf-spring rear suspension is firm, and on choppy backroads the ride can border on harsh, particularly over sharp bumps and corrugations. With a few hundred kilos in the tray it settles down noticeably, riding with more composure and reminding you that it has been tuned to work best when working. The front end uses a more RATINGS sophisticated setup that keeps steering feel and body control respectable for a Looks: 7.5 ladder-frame vehicle. Performance: 7 Steering weight is well judged: light enough for easy parking and city work, Safety: 7.5 yet with enough heft on the highway Thirst: 7 to feel stable. Practicality: 8 It’s not brimming with feedback, but Comfort: 7 Toyota Hilux SR dual cab utility doubles down on what has made the nameplate a it’s predictable and consistent. fixture in Australia. (Supplied) Body roll is controlled, and although Tech: 7 the Hilux will never be mistaken for a sporty SUV, it can be hustled a better interface, greater resolution, look rather than a ‘show truck’ Value: 7.5 Overall: 7.3 along a country road without feeling enhanced voice recognition, AM/FM and vibe. The front end is broad and DAB+ digital radio and compatibility with wayward. wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, upright, with a simple grille treatment and Brakes are strong and confidencewith wireless charging and eight-speaker practical headlights. inspiring, though as with any heavy vehicle Our test vehicle was fitted with an you still need to allow for stopping distances audio system. There’s cloud-based navigation across optional bullbar that incorporates a light when towing or fully loaded. the range, with four USB-C ports and two bar and serves to enhance the tough visage. It’s off-road, where the Hilux SR really There’s less chrome than the SR5 and earns its stripes. 12 volt sockets in this model. But read the fine print because access to more hard-wearing plastic where you’d Ground clearance, approach and some features expires unless you take out a expect it to get knocked around. departure angles and underbody protection In dual cab form it’s a sizeable vehicle, are all tuned for serious work. subscription. stretching more than five metres in length, Low-range gearing, hill-descent control, but with no larger footprint than the main a proper rear diff lock and sensible Safety traction-control calibration give it the tools Hilux carries a five-star safety rating. Extra competition. Getting in and out is easy enough for most to climb, descend and crawl through the safety equipment on SR includes tyre pressure monitoring and a panoramic view adults, helped by side steps, though shorter kind of tracks that would stop a soft-roader monitor, while 4x4 automatic grades bring passengers will still notice the height. dead. Once aboard, you’re greeted by a cabin additional off-road capability with a locking The suspension offers good wheel travel rear differential, Multi Terrain Select and that is more site office than lounge room, and keeps tyres in contact with the ground with seats trimmed in a hard-wearing more often than not, which is exactly what downhill assist control. SR customers are also able to remotely fabric. you want when things get gnarly. Hard plastics dominate, but they lock and unlock their vehicle through the Noise levels are acceptable rather than feel robust rather than cheap, and the plush. myToyota Connect app. switchgear is logically arranged. The diesel clatter is obvious on cold start Everything is where you’d expect it and and under hard throttle, but it fades into the Engines/transmissions Under the bonnet sits Toyota’s 2.8-litre can be operated with gloved hands, which background at cruising speeds. is exactly what many buyers want. four-cylinder turbo-diesel. Wind and tyre noise are well contained Front seats in the SR have evolved beyond for a vehicle of this type, though you’re In its current tune it produces around 150kW, with torque output depending on the flat perches of old, with more bolstering always aware you’re in a commercial-based the transmission – manuals get a little less, and better thigh support – but they’re still a ute rather than a luxury SUV. snug fit with little elbow room. autos a bit more, up to about 500Nm. The driving position is upright and Summing up In the mild-hybrid, a 48-volt system adds a small motor-generator and compact commanding, with good forward vision The Hilux SR dual cab utility is not trying to and large mirrors that help when towing or be the most glamorous or hi-tech ute in the battery. This doesn’t turn the Hilux into a full reversing into tight spots. car park. The rear bench is adequate for shorter hybrid, but it can assist the engine briefly at Instead, it doubles down on what has low revs, smooth restarts and capture a bit trips and a better fit for kids, though the made the nameplate a fixture in Australia: backrest is fairly upright and the base a durability, capability and a sense that it will of energy under braking. Drive is sent either to the rear wheels (in little short, reminding you this is still a cop punishment without complaint. 4x2s) or through a part-time 4WD system commercial vehicle at heart. In that sense it’s better than the sum of its Missing are rear air vents. with high and low ranges. parts, because the combination of engine, Out the back, the tub accepts standard chassis, safety electronics and dealer A rear differential lock is available on 4x4 pallets and typical worksite loads, but backing delivers low-drama ownership that SRs and key for serious off-road use. The gearbox is a six-speed manual or there’s no liner or cover. many buyers prize above all else. However, tie-down points, a damped six-speed automatic, both well proven. Toyota has clearly chosen to prioritise tailgate and easy step-up access make toughness, towing and off-road ability over loading reasonably straightforward. luxury-grade comfort and cutting-edge Driving SR has a braked tow capacity of 3500kg interiors. The big news with the SR is V-Active technology and that starts with this version, and accepts a payload of 1125kg (that figure And, for a large slice of the market even though it doesn’t wear a hybrid badge. is surprisingly difficult to find). that trade-off still makes perfect sense, Performance is modest rather than including tradies, farmers, fleets and It’s a 48-volt mild hybrid system that consists of an 8.5kW/65Nm electric motor exciting: you’re looking at roughly anyone who regularly loads up or ventures generator, lithium-ion battery and DC/DC mid-teens 0-100km/h times when loaded off-road. up, a bit quicker when unladen. converter. While rivals such as the Ford Ranger, But this engine is more about pulling Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50 and Mitsubishi It is designed to provide smoother stop-start functionality while also power than sprint times. Triton have lifted their game, the Hilux SR With a largish 80-litre tank, fuel remains a default choice for buyers who providing improved driving feel when consumption with this version is a claimed value proven hardware and a huge dealer accelerating from standstill. The latest Hilux SR has a tough, functional 7.2L/100km. network over the very latest platform. Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 15
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Megan Williamson. 579508 20
Williamstown players console each other. 579508 28
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Seagulls fall short in VFLW Williamstown’s hopes of premiership joy in the Victorian Football League women’s grand final weren’t to be, with North
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Williamstown. 579508 49
Lauren Jatczak. 579508 64
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The premiership cup. 579508 59
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Imperials’ senior move By Tara Murray Westgate Imperials are taking the next step in their Victorian Basketball League journey, moving into the senior men’s competition next year. After starting with youth league men, which they’ve had for three years, and then adding youth league women in the competition formerly known as the Big V, the Imperials will now move into the senior space. With Basketball Victoria ticking off the entry and a coach locked in, it’s full speed ahead for the Imperials. Matt Hancock has been named the club’s first men’s coach. He brings an elite basketball back-
ground, including five seasons in the NBL with Melbourne United and the Illawarra Hawks, NCAA Division I and II basketball in the US, and experience across NBL1. More recently, he has coached on the Playmaker USA Tour. The Imperials said Hancock’s focus is on building a connected and competitive senior program, with strong standards and a pathway that Westgate juniors can genuinely aspire to be part of. “I’m pretty pumped for it and it’s a huge honour,” he said. “I’m super excited. Hancock said speaking with someone he already knew at the club, he thought that the Imperials might be a good place for him. Unsure whether he was going to play
or coach, the role at the Imperials was too good to turn down. “I spoke with [general manager] Sarah [Simpson] and two other management staff and everything aligned with what the club values,” he said. “They are an underdog and often overlooked, which was what it was like throughout my whole playing career. “I never made a state team but played division 1 college and five years professionally.” Hancock said he was keen to help the program build from scratch. He said he and youth league coach Brady Taylor were on the same page with how they wanted to take the program forward. Taylor steps up from being an assistant
coach in 2026. “We want to develop the crew that we have,” he said. “We want to build the program, build up the team and knowledge into the youth league players and younger players. “We want to assist them play not just at Westgate, but wherever they end up. “We’ll bring in some veteran players for that leadership and knowledge of the game.” Hancock said whether he played or not was still to be decided, but his main focus going forward was on coaching. The club already has expressions of interest for players out and Hancock said they would look to start getting them on the court in the near future.
Duffy re-signs
West Footscray wants to be in division 1. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 574818_06
Roosters make a bid to join the top flight By Tara Murray West Footscray has put in an application to join the Western Football Netball League division 1 competition next season. The Roosters took to social media on Thursday afternoon stating it had put an application in to join the top flight despite not winning the premiership. “The West Footscray Football Club is proud to advise its members, players, supporters and sponsors that the club has formally submitted an application to the Western Football Netball League seeking entry of our men’s senior and reserves teams into division 1 for the 2027 season,” the club said. “This application reflects the continued growth of our football program, the strength of our playing pathways, and our commitment to providing the highest level of opportunity for our players, members and community. “We look forward to working with the WFNL throughout the assessment process and will provide further updates when available.” Roosters’ vice-president Shaun Hudson told Star Weekly this had been in the works for a long time.
“It’s really been a decade of work and we’ve really focused on building our junior program to the point next year that the club will have 14 junior teams alone with seniors and under-18s,” he said. “For us, our kids want to be challenged in the best environments, but they want to be the most competitive divisions and obviously we have challenges with players learning and wanting to pursue division 1 football. “There’s always challenges recruiting players to division 2 football, probably the most important factor for us is retaining our 17s, 18 year olds and keeping them at our club gives them the best opportunity and that is where we really think the club’s future lies.” Hudson said the club was in a good place and they believed that they could be a competitive, consistent performer in division 1. He said the playing group was excited by the challenge of playing division 1 football. While the Roosters are hopeful of playing in division 1, currently there are no vacant positions in the top grade. Normally only the division 2 premier is promoted, in this case North Footscray. Devils’ premiership coach Robbie Hudson told Star Weekly after the grand final
that they were preparing to play in division 1 and would start looking at recruiting. The league earlier this year released two competition structure plans, pending whether a team left the competition. If a team left the competition, the top grade would return to 10 teams. The bottom two teams would be relegated, while the division 2 premiers would be promoted. With Parkside leaving the competition, Point Cook Centrals and Altona are the two sides facing relegation with the Devils to be promoted. Star Weekly understands this is the confirmed structure for next year. Wyndhamvale, which won the division 2 premiership last year and wasn’t promoted, has previously said this year it was keen to get into the top flight having missed out the past two seasons. Hudson said regardless of how division 1 is structured the club would like to think its application will be considered favourably “That’s out of our hands, we believe our application to be genuine and full of merit and worthy of due consideration. “Regardless of the outcome we are focused and committed to being a division 1 club.”
World Series champion and former Major League left-handed pitcher Danny Duffy has re-signed with the Melbourne Aces for his second season. The 37-year-old made two appearances during the 2025-26 International Baseball Showdown, tossing a scoreless inning in relief during the College Challenge before delivering a three-inning, one-hit start against the defending KBO [Korea Baseball Organisation] runners-up, the Hanwha Eagles, in the Aces and Hanwha Skybattle, as Melbourne claimed the series. Duffy’s journey to Melbourne ahead of the 2025-26 season began through former Kansas City Royals teammate and former Melbourne Ace Peter Moylan, who helped connect the veteran left-hander with the club. A native of Goleta, California, Duffy was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the third round of the 2007 MLB draft before making his Major League debut in 2011, beginning an 11-year big league career with the Royals. Most notably, Duffy played a key role in Kansas City’s 2015 World Series championship, the franchise’s first in 30 years. He appeared in three of the five World Series games as the Royals defeated the New York Mets four games to one. Duffy finished his Kansas City career ranked sixth on the franchise’s all-time strikeout leaderboard with 1048, eighth in games started with 204 and 11th in wins with 68, while compiling a 3.95 career ERA at the Major League level. In 2017, Duffy also competed on one of baseball’s biggest international stages, helping the United States capture its first World Baseball Classic title. Duffy now returns to a Melbourne roster building around a strong group of Aces staples, former Major Leaguers, professional prospects and national team stars, including Darryl George, Aaron Whitefield, Chris Burke, Jarrod Belbin and Ulrich Bojarski. After experiencing baseball in Australia first-hand last season, Duffy spoke highly of the game’s continued growth. “People are starting to become on fire for it. Baseball is coming up in this part of the world.”
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Heartbreak for Seagulls By Tara Murray Williamstown is hoping the pain of losing Sunday’s Victorian Football League women’s grand final will help continue to drive the group forward. The Seagulls, who claimed the minor premiership, were playing in their first grand final after a number of near misses in recent years. Standing in the way of a first premiership, was North Melbourne Werribee, which was aiming for its third straight premiership. Tough conditions greeted both sides at IKON Park. It was a warm day, but a strong wind which at times went across the ground was the biggest concern. The Kangaroos kicked the only two goals of the first half to lead by 10 points, but the Seagulls had some chances. When Lambert-Pearce Medalist Emily Eaves got the Seagulls’ first early in the third quarter, it was game on. The Kangaroos got a late one in the quarter which hurt the Seagulls’ hopes. It went end to end in the final quarter, before Kangaroos skipper Renee Tierney kicked the sealer. The Kangaroos won, 4.1 (25)-1.6 (12). Seagulls’ coach Paul Groves said they couldn’t quite put all the pieces together on the day. “Reflecting on it a little bit so far, but not too much I think the style of footy we played was pretty good to watch,” he said. “Today [Sunday] was a bit harder, they were very good. Their pressure and they were able to use the ball a little bit cleaner than we did and we found that piece the one piece. “The composure and being able to use it. Very proud of their effort, we were in it but just couldn’t hit the scoreboard in the end.” The Seagulls had a few big selection calls heading into the match. Skipper Eliza Straford missed the preliminary final and had been in a moon boot and was back in it post game. Groves said there was never a case of her not playing. “She jabbed it before the game,” he said. “It’s not great. “With her leadership, she gives them a whole lot of confidence and they walk a fair bit taller with her there. “Probably played about 50 per cent time. She was right to play.” Western Jets’ players Kiara Boyd and Addison West held their spots after coming in for the preliminary final, just their second games for the club. Groves said there were some disappointed players to miss out with them coming in, but the pair really brought in to what they were doing and have such a big ceiling. He said he hopes it helps with their draft hopes and they withstood the pressure of a grand final. Groves said the conditions made it hard to set a plan into and with the wind. He said they tried to move a few pieces around when they could, ultimately they had a few shots on goal late that didn’t go their way. Groves said they could tell that the Kangaroos had played in some big games. “We did say that at the end there’s players that have been here before where little moments really count. “Watching that you could certainly see. Tiens [Renee Tierney] has played in four, Barbs [Alana Barba] has played in four. “CVs we were hoping to put a bit of a blemish on, but couldn’t get there.” Eaves was the leading possession getter for the Seagulls, finishing with 20 after a big second half. Bella Smith had 19 disposals and was
Molly Eastman, and Lilu Hung fight for the ball. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 579508 12
Williamstown think what might have been. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 579508 33
Ellen Williams. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 579508 79
Williamstown. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 579508 56
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the only Seagulls player to feature in the best on ground votes. Groves said the loss would hurt the playing group, but felt there was still plenty to come from them. “I spoke to the players afterwards around that piece and what it looks like
now and have that fire in the belly to get even fitter and do a little bit more work. “They’ve got the bones of a very successful team for a long period of time, especially the support they get from the footy club.” Straford said on the stage post match
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that it was not the day or the outcome they were after. An emotional Straford said she was so proud to be a Williamstown Seagull. “North, you have been the benchmark for so long,” she said. “We’ll keep chasing that.”
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Tigers proud in defeat By Tara Murray Werribee Districts will take plenty out of the 2026 Western Football League division 1 season despite falling short at the final hurdle on Saturday. The Tigers played off in their fifth straight grand final against Caroline Springs at Avalon Airport Oval. It was a day that the Tigers never really got going and were made to pay for not taking their opportunities in front of goal. After being close for most of the day, the Lakers kicked away to seal their first division 1 premiership, 14.12 (96)-8.15 (63). Tigers’ coach Chris Gilham said they were beaten by a better team on the day and full credit to Caroline Springs who got on top early and didn’t allow them back in.
“We didn’t play very well and the opposition were too good on the day, that’s for sure,” he said. “They probably beat us for a bit of speed on the outside and were able to take more of their opportunities than we were. “It was one of those days where we had some periods of play where we were on top, but we couldn’t turn it into any dominance or field position, into scores.” The Lakers led by 10 points at quarter-time and then eight points at half-time. The Tigers had their chances, having had 13 scoring shots to 11 at the main break. “Generally if we have good control of the game for a good patch of it in quarters we would kick four or five in bursts and we have done that all year,” Gilham said.
“It’s been a strength of ours, we just weren’t able to turn any period of possession or field position or any of those strong indicators into the scoreboard reward. “We were always close enough, but weren’t able to convert changes and that was the story of the day. “We didn’t convert any half chances. Not a lot of those chances were sitters.” The Lakers were able to increase the margin to 13 points at three-quarter-time before kicking six goals to three in the final quarter to seal the win. Rani Pavlidis and Lachlan Rainbow kicked two goals each for the Tigers. Pavlidis and Jack Bonnett were named among the best for the Tigers. Gilham said he couldn’t have been prouder of the group and what they had
achieved this season. “We didn’t get the chocolates yesterday [Sunday], but I couldn’t be prouder of our boys to play in our fifth grand final,” he said. “We had a lot of challenges this year, lost a lot of good players along the way. Every guy just kept stepping up. “To finish where we did and make the grand final with all that, was a great effort. We would have loved to have capped it off with a premiership win but still very proud of our season. “Our reserves won a grand final again, which is great plenty to celebrate. It wasn’t a perfect end to the season, but still had a really good year on being up there and giving ourselves really good opportunities. “Other clubs would only love to be up there.”
Joy as Lakers claim their first division 1 premiership By Tara Murray Caroline Springs has gone from heartache to absolute joy in the space of 12 months, as it claimed its first Western Football League division 1 premiership. After losing to Werribee Districts in extra time in last year’s decider, the Lakers were able to turn to the table on Saturday. There would be no extra time this time round with the Lakers leading from start to finish on the way to a 14.12 (96)-8.15 (63) win. Lakers’ coach Brian Lake said this year felt different to 12 months ago. “I think, probably a bit more expectation last year with the side,” he said. “There were so many older guys close to the end of their careers, a bit like last hurrah. It was a little bit more tense last year than this year. “Coaching wise I didn’t change anything up. I didn’t do any motivational videos or photos up in the rooms before the game. “I treated it like another game and it was the same preparation on Tuesday and Thursday, the same preparation before the game today [Saturday]. “Most of these guys played last year, there were nine new names, but a lot played the reserves grand final last year. “I didn’t want to overawe them.” Lake said getting off to a good start put any nerves the group had away. The Lakers led by 10 points at quarter time, with the sides having the same amount of scoring shots. It was seven points at the main break, with the Tigers rueing poor kicking as they kicked 2.11 for the half. Lake said his group was able to hold on when they needed to. “They missed some shots and we felt that Werribee Districts shots, they were a bit wide, long shots as well,” he said. “We felt that they controlled the game for a period of time and we were holding on, defensively we were really solid. “It was about riding their waves, they have bursts done it against us before and they will kick four or five, six goals in a row and blow the game apart “We were very conscious of that and my main focus all year and since i’ve been coaching lets get defensive right first.” Lake, a premiership AFL defender, said defence wins finals and theirs stood up strong when they needed to. The margin increased to 13 points heading into the last break. Lake said they were able to make the most of their opportunities going forward after periods of play of dominance from the Tigers.
Caroline Springs. (Rana Sajid Hussain) 579506 08
Caroline Springs. (Rana Sajid Hussain)579506 18
He said they had a spread of contributors up forward which made them unpredictable. “We’ve been on the end of it before where you can dominate play for such a long period of time as Werribee did,” he said. “One inside 50 and we would kick a goal,
how deflating that is to the opposition for us how much morale and excitement we would get from that, was massive.” Caroline Springs kicked the first four goals of the last quarter to increase the margin to a match winning 37 points. The Lakers were then able to enjoy the last half of the final quarter. Jesse Cavanagh, Malik Elfakahani and Jamie Ristoski kicked three goals each for the Lakers. Ruck Alexander Paech was awarded the best on ground medal. “He’s been fantastic, he’s a country boy and he loves the footy club and loves getting around the boys,” Lake said. “He’s probably different than some other ruckman with the way the ruck rules have changed as they haven’t suited him too much at centre bounce, he’s had to evolve a little bit as well.” Lake said Tate Wood played his best game of the season after being moved into
the middle for the grand final. He was full of praise for their backline led by Ben Caluzzi and Lachlan Mellon for the job he did on Daniel Nielson. “We don’t rely on two or three guys, we don’t need someone to put the cape on and carry us, We needed 22 guys playing their role and contribution, honestly say they did.” With Cooper Pepi the oldest player at just 27, Lake said they were hoping that they could keep this group together for a long time and have some sustained success.” The premiership is the club’s first senior men’s premiership since 2016, when they won their first premiership, division 2. Lake was part of that premiership, kicking three goals. He said it was pretty special to be involved in both in different ways. Lake said he expected the celebrations to be just as big.
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