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Soundtracking four decades Werribee Concert Band will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a trip down memory lane at a special concert full of nostalgia. Band president Michelle Forsyth said the 4 October concert at the Wyndham Cultural Centre would be a celebration of the passionate musicians, past and present who“guarantee the future of Wyndham’s community arts scene”. “We are performing repertoire from past major performances, offering audiences a deeply nostalgic journey through our favourite eras and tunes, as well as bringing together founding members and brand new players on the exact same stage,” she said. Formed in 1986 as a band “by the community, for the community”, the Werribee Concert Band has provided the soundtrack to countless local events. “Forty years is a remarkable milestone for any community arts organisation. This concert isn’t just about the music; it’s a celebration of not only the community that has supported us every step of the way, but also the one we’ve built within the Werribee Concert Band and the incredible future we have ahead. Tickets for the 3pm show can be purchased at the Wyndham City Council box office or online www. werribeeconcertband.org.au
Werribee Concert Band members Ann Goodwin, Jacqui Ladd and Yuka Oura. (Damjan Janevski). 578586 01
Family shattered By Glenn Fisher A heartbroken Point Cook man has told of the unimaginable grief following a horrific two-car collision that claimed the lives of his wife and mother last week. Varun Gunna’s 33-year-old wife, Neha Bommali, and his 67-year-old mother, Rama Devi, both died at the scene of the 16 September crash after the Toyota Corolla in which they were travelling and a Porsche Macan collided at the Boardwalk Boulevard and Innessfail Drive intersection about 9.40pm. Mr Gunna has reached out the community to help cover the costs of
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transporting the women’s bodies back to India so the family can perform Hindu cremation rituals and traditional funeral rites, as well as cover overall memorial expenses and ongoing care for Varun and Neha’s two young children, aged 3 and 1. “My world was completely shattered in a single instant,” Mr Gunna wrote on GoFundMe. “In one devastating moment, I lost the love of my life and my mother. My 75-year-old father lost his lifelong companion. Most heartbreaking of all, my two innocent children lost their mother and grandmother,” he wrote. Mr Gunna described his wife as “the light
and energy of our home. Kind-hearted, vibrant, and passionate about dance, she filled our lives with so much joy”. Mr Gunna said his mother, accompanied by his father, had travelled from India to “shower her grandchildren with love.“ He described Rama as “the gentle anchor of our family“. “Now I am left to navigate unimaginable grief while facing the daunting reality of raising my two precious children as a single father, alongside my elderly father,” he wrote. Mr Gunna said he had been “deeply moved and overwhelmed by the incredible support, prayers and generosity“ show to
his family. Victoria Police’s Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are still investigating the fatal collision and have asked anyone who witnessed it, or has CCTV or dashcam footage, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at Crime Stoppers Victoria. The driver of the Porsche, a 53-year-old Point Cook man, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is assisting investigators with their enquiries. Star Weekly reached out to the family for further comment, but Mr Gunna asked for privacy at this time.
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RAAF base future delay By Glenn Fisher The future of RAAF Base Point Cook is no closer to being decided after another delay in a Senate committee inquiry’s final report into the Management of Defence Estate Assets. But the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee did table an interim report on 16 September and recommended an immediate halt to the federal government’s planned sell-off of 67 Defence estate property holdings, including the RAAF base at Point Cook. The committee was originally due to present its final report on 3 June this year, then 15 September, but the timing has been extended again to 25 February 2027. In a joint statement, Liberal senators Jess
Collins (committee chair), Leah Blyth and Andrew McLachlan (committee members) and Shadow Defence Minister James Paterson said the Senate committee had revealed significant issues with the way the divestment process had been undertaken. “The flawed process has been engineered to support a predetermined outcome, and the divestment program will result in a significant deterioration of Australia’s strategic capability,” the Liberal senators said. “Amid findings of inadequate public consultation, incomplete due diligence checks and limited regard for the ongoing strategic value of these sites, the committee recommends the Parliament consider new legislative powers for stronger oversight and scrutiny of Labor’s short-sighted defence estate divestments.
“We are currently in the most dangerous strategic times since World War II. Assets that appear surplus today may prove critical tomorrow,” Senator Paterson said. “The government’s priority should be to ensure Defence is adequately resourced to meet our strategic circumstances, so it does not have to resort to selling off our defence estate as a quick budget fix,” he said. Labor members on the Senate committee, deputy chair Senator Raff Ciccone and Senator Dorinda Cox, dissented, saying “the Coalition and Greens recommendation to halt the divestment is reckless and would leave the ADF without the modern facilities it needs to keep Australians safe”. “As the Coalition’s own track record shows, this is a necessary part of ensuring
Defence remains fit for purpose. To claim otherwise is dishonest and irresponsible, and not the behaviour a legitimate party of government should engage in,” Senators Ciccone and Cox said. “Labor senators welcome the Albanese Government’s commitment to consult with ADF personnel on a site-by-site basis and strongly support its decision to implement the recommendations of the Defence Estate Audit with the urgency that our strategic reality calls for.” Wyndham councillor Susan McIntyre said on social media “I personally believe its heritage, environment and aviation history must be protected. A community trust model should be considered to support public access, aviation, education, tourism and community use.
25 years of firefighting Point Cook Fire Brigade recently celebrated 25 years of community service with an anniversary dinner. Established in 2001 with 50 members, the brigade still counts two of those founding volunteers among its active members today – captain Peter Tester and volunteer firefighter Bill Garner – while brigade secretary Graeme Prentice is also a long-serving member, having joined in 2008. Mr Prentice told Star Weekly that soon after the brigade was formed, about half of its original members completed an intensive two-week course, which provided the skills needed for the brigade to become operational and for its volunteers to attend and turn out safely to emergencies. After operating from local schools and
a temporary station at Point Cook Coastal Park, the brigade moved into its permanent station at the intersection of Dunnings and Palmers roads in 2005. The brigade was initially operated entirely by CFA volunteers, with CFA career firefighters joining the volunteers at the station in 2008. As part of Victoria’s fire services reforms, those career firefighters were transferred from the CFA to the newly established Fire Rescue Victoria in 2020. CFA volunteers remained a huge part of the Point Cook Fire Brigade and continued to work alongside FRV career firefighters at the co-located station, Mr Prentice said. The next station open day will be held on Saturday, 3 October, from 1pm to 3pm.
Point Cook Fire Brigade members Peter Tester, Graeme Prentice, and Bill Garner. (Valerius R. Boenawan). 577472 07
Thumbs up for new station in Tarneit One week after opening, the new West Tarneit train station seems to be a hit with commuters. The $200 million station with 400 car spaces, a four-bay bus interchange and underpass to connect two V/Line platforms opened on 13 September and Star Weekly reporter Glenn Fisher and photographer Valerius R. Boenawan visited the station on Friday to ask passengers disembarking from afternoon Geelong line services what they thought. The only downsides observed by Star Weekly were the southwest location of the underpass meant commuters faced about a 500-metre walk to get from one side of the station to the other, and there were no public toilets. The state government said because the station would be unstaffed, it was built without a staffed ticket counter, kiosk or toilets, but that the station’s design did not prevent toilets or other amenities from being added later if required.
Navneep from Tarneit and West Tarneit resident Mukhtar both said the time savings alleviated that early morning rush to catch a train, with Navneep saying her trip to and from the station to home is now only a short bus ride.
Alizay of West Tarneit said she used to have to drive to Tarneit station every morning to catch a train for work in the city. “So many times I missed my train because of the busy peak traffic just getting to Tarneit, but now I can park here and not have to leave home until 20 minutes later,” Alizay said.
Manor Lakes P-12 College students Muhammad and Aleya said they were impressed with the new station, which they used for the first time after school on Friday. Living in West Tarneit meant they didn’t have to get their father to drop them off or pick them up at Tarneit station anymore, saving the whole family time and costs.
2 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
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Breaking the 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 approach-
Professor Kelly Allott. (Supplied).
es, 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 victimisation 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.”
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Grants open to create safer places In a move to address public safety concerns, local councils have been calling for increased support from the government. The state government has now announced the opening of the $10 million Creating Safer Places grants program, which will provide councils with the opportunity to apply for up to $250,000 to fund practical upgrades such as CCTV and improved lighting. According to Minister for Crime Prevention Paul Edbrooke, “Councils have been asking for more support to make their communities safer, and Labor is listening.“ “These are simple, practical measures that will deter crime and make people feel safer in the places they live, work and spend time.“ The grants program aims to help councils protect local businesses, workers, and customers by enhancing the safety of shopping strips and community spaces. Councils will be able to identify the areas where upgrades can make the biggest difference, as they have the best understanding of their local communities. The government’s initiative comes as a part of a broader plan to provide Victoria Police with the necessary resources to combat crime. The government has already taken steps to expand the police force, including the recruitment of 200 more PSOs and 400 reservists. The Liberal Party has also pledged 3,000 additional police officers if elected, with half of the new recruits to come from overseas. The party says this would restore Victoria Police to full strength and fill roster vacancies.
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Expanded ‘airport for food’ Global cold-chain logistics company NewCold officially opened its $200 million freezer expansion in Truganina on September 16, adding 80,000 pallet positions to Australia’s largest automated cold-storage operation. The expansion brings the facility to 180,000 pallet positions, with NewCold’s two Truganina facilities now combining for 405,000 pallet positions across frozen, chilled and ambient storage. Standing 40 metres high and operating at minus 23 degrees Celsius, the new 10,453 square metre freezer is one of the world’s largest automated high-bay cold-storage facilities, serving major manufacturers including McCain, Peters and Patties.
The expansion reflects surging demand for convenient food. CSIRO forecasts Australian consumption of prepared and frozen packaged meals will reach $3.7 billion by 2030, while the AFL Grand Final alone required storage for 24,000 serves of hot chips and 12,000 pies. NewCold’s innovative warehouse system operates like “a highly automated airport for food.“ Every pallet is digitally checked in on arrival, scanned, assigned a destination and moved through the high-bay by automated stacker cranes, shuttles and conveyors. Overnight, the system uses order data and predictive analytics to reshuffle pallets, positioning stock needed first for retrieval at 21 loading docks.
Each pallet passes automated checks before entering the warehouse. If it’s too heavy, too tall or overhanging, the system rejects it, reducing damage risk and supply chain disruption. Founder and CEO Bram Hage said “Automation is about protecting the product. Once a pallet enters the high-bay, the system does almost everything itself with very little human intervention. The less it’s handled, the safer the food.“ Mr Hage said the vertical storage design is remarkably energy-efficient, using approximately 50 per cent less energy than conventional cold stores by storing products vertically within a smaller refrigerated footprint.
McCain’s expansion partnership began when NewCold entered the Australian market in 2017 and has since become NewCold’s largest customer worldwide. The additional capacity ensures McCain can meet growing frozen food demand without compromising reliability, efficiency or product control. NewCold’s Melbourne base is also the national distribution point for Peters, which helped establish the company in Australia. “For a business supplying frozen products across Australia, maintaining temperature and having product where it needs to be, when it needs to be there, is critical. The additional capacity gives us greater ability to support growing demand,” said Emma-Jane Collins, CEO Peters Ice Cream.
Dr Mukesh Haikerwal spoke at the campaign launch. (Supplied)
Call for better cancer care
Wellbeing and inclusion staff member Trent Archer and teacher Pawkusay with students Henry, Williamsun, Alex, Paw Paw, Teryor and Emma. (Valerius R. Boenawan). 578022 01
Werribee Primary School tops AFL award As multiple metropolitan and country Australian Rules seasons end and the AFLW heads towards finals, Werribee Primary School is celebrating a victory by being announced the AFL National School of the Year. School wellbeing and inclusion staff member Trent Archer said the school built up strong partnerships with AFL Victoria and the School Connect Program, and embraced many initiatives that increased participation and inclusion. “Members of the school community have gone above and beyond to promote the game
in 2026,” Mr Archer said. The school achieved its highest participation rate ever in this year’s School Connect Program, with 50.7 percent of students engaged in AFL opportunities, a significant increase from 5.2 percent of students the previous year. It not only actively promoted AFL through its school curriculum, but in after-school Auskick and Superkick programs, all-girls participation opportunities, community events and AFL player visits. The school’s first term Auskick program attracted the maximum 80 students, term two Auskick and Superkick a combined 75 stu-
dents (made up of half boys and half girls), its term three all-girls program had 28 participants and the term four Superkick program maxed out at 42 students. The school also held a Community Connect event that attracted more than 100 participants and resulted in more than 70 new Roo Squad members. “We put in a lot of work across the whole school to make sure that we’re implementing something that’s quite consistent across the board – the excitement of footy – and using that as a vehicle to teach kids about core learning,” Mr Archer said.
New kindergarten set to open in Werribee South in 2027 A new Victorian government kindergarten is set to open its doors at Yurran P–9 College in Werribee South, offering local families a convenient early learning option for three and four-year-old children. The service, temporarily named Yurran P–9 College Kindergarten, will be operated by not-for-profit provider BPA Early Learning and located at 1 Dunnart Parade. Enrolments for 2027 are now open, with applications processed through Wyndham City Council’s kindergarten enrolment system. For the first time, Werribee South families will have access to a purpose-built sessional
kindergarten in their community, eliminating the need to travel to neighbouring areas. The Free Kinder initiative will provide fully subsidised programs for eligible families. The kindergarten features four learning rooms and purpose-built indoor and outdoor spaces, including landscaped play areas and shaded environments designed to support children’s exploration and development. Located on the school site, children will become familiar with the school environment before transitioning to prep, easing the adjustment process. BPA Early Learning chief executive offi-
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cer Tim Watts emphasised the significance of the expansion. “For the first time, families of three and four-year-olds in Werribee South will have access to a purpose-built sessional kindergarten in their own community,” he said. “As a not-for-profit founded in 1998, we’re driven by ensuring every child can access quality early learning regardless of their circumstances or postcode.” Yurran P–9 College principal Sadia Toqeer said the co-located model strengthens community connections from the beginning of each child’s educational journey.
An alliance of doctors, patients and community leaders have launched a campaign calling on the state government and opposition to commit to a new public radiation therapy service in Werribee. The Better Cancer Care campaign, led by the Western Public Radiation Therapy Network, aims to highlight a critical gap in cancer services in Melbourne’s outer west. Data from the state government’s Victoria in Future population projections estimated about 1400 new cancers are expected to be diagnosed in Wyndham each year Public patients in the outer western suburbs must currently travel to Sunshine, Parkville or Geelong for treatment. Campaign spokesperson, Western Public Radiation Therapy Network secretary and Hoppers Crossing GP Dr Navdeep Kaur said distance was a recognised barrier to treatment. “Cancer care should not depend on your postcode. Evidence shows the further people live from radiation therapy, the less likely they are to receive it, and patients in Melbourne’s outer west are travelling significant distances for treatment. Werribee Mercy Public Hospital is the central location servicing public patients in the outer western suburbs, and currently radiation therapy is the missing part of that local public pathway at Mercy,” Dr Kaur said. Hoppers Crossing resident and former cancer patient Geoffrey Beams said travelling for treatment in Geelong over a fourweek period in 2022 placed a heavy burden on him and his family. “A cancer diagnosis is hard enough. For me, undergoing treatment was relatively easy. Getting to and from the treatment centre from home was the hard part. The travel wears you down, and it created a significant burden, reducing the time for rest and recovery, and precious time with family. If there was public radiation therapy close to home in Werribee, that time would go back to resting and being with family. That’s why I’m supporting this campaign,” he said.
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Isabella Guzzardi is the winner of the One Wyndham award for September. (Damjan Janevski). 577055 01
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Proud Kamilaroi woman Isabella Guzzardi is the One Wyndham recipient for September. Isabella positively contributes to the Wyndham community through her engagement and commitment to supporting young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people through education, cultural engagement and mentoring. She plays a key role through her work as a learning support officer in facilitating cultural activities that help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students strengthen their cultural identity, connect with community and develop a sense of belonging within their school environment. Through her role supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, Isabella has developed strong relationships, building confidence, cultural pride and educational engagement. She actively facilitates cultural activities and initiatives that create opportunities for students to strengthen their identity, connect with culture and develop a sense of belonging within their school community.
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Her contribution has seen increased participation, pride and attendance at cultural events among the students she supports. Isabella inspires young people and is a role model for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, showing that young Indigenous people can pursue higher education, build successful professional careers and maintain a strong connection to their culture and community. She leads through action, consistently demonstrating integrity, maturity, empathy and respect. She encourages students to be proud of who they are and creates opportunities for them to experience that pride firsthand including organising excursions to the Wathaurong Co-Operative and designing an Indigenous football jumper. Each month, council selects a Wyndham resident to be awarded the ‘Young Person of the Month’. One Wyndham recipients are residents aged between 12 to 25 who positively contribute to the Wyndham community and are role models to other young people.
Home invasion Police are investigating a home invasion in Hoppers Crossing earlier this year when several offenders forced their way into an address on Mailrun Court about 10.30pm on Wednesday 29 July. The offenders, who were armed with machetes, entered a bedroom where two victims were asleep. One of the offenders assaulted a 30-year-old victim. The group stole two mobile phones and damaged a car parked in the property’s driveaway before fleeing in a dark-coloured sedan. Police believed the same offenders attended the same address on 28 July about 12.55pm. They knocked on the door but did not attempt to enter. Detective Sergeant Kane Trealor said “We’ve released CCTV of a car that, due to its distinctive rims and nature of driving, we’re confident someone will have information on.” FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
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BEHIND THE NEWS
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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 WYNDHAM 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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HISTORY
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Tragedy in Nelson Place Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the tale of a robbery gone wrong in Williamstown.
Melbourne University students have probably heard of the Isaac Samuel Crawcour Bursary, established as a gift from Rachel Alston, nee Crawcour, in 1951. Its purpose is to assist medical students in financial need and to keep alive the memory of a brave and gifted young man who died in defence of his father. Home invasions are nothing new. Towards the end of 1893, two unsavoury youths, John Jent and Ernest Knox, decided to shout themselves a late Christmas present and bought revolvers and ammunition at the Eastern Market. After a week’s target practice at Heidelberg, they fancied themselves as firearms experts and debated whom to rob. Elderly, wealthy people who couldn’t put up a fight and didn’t own savage dogs were their preferred choice. With the perfect victim in mind, they caught the last train to Williamstown and went quietly to the premises of Michael Crawcour, pawnbroker of Nelson Place. Michael Crawcour, aged in his early fifties, didn’t keep savage dogs on the premises, but as a believer in keeping up with modern inventions, he had taken the precaution of installing electric alarms in his shop. He also owned a revolver and had a young, athletic son living with him. Jent and Knox were completely unaware that their quarry was in a position to defend himself . At 2 am on 12 January, 1894, Michael’s shrewd investment paid off. He was woken by the shrill ringing of the alarm bells as Jent and Knox crawled through the dining room window and swiped a handful of jewelled rings, intending them to be disposed of by an obliging “fence.” Michael hurtled downstairs, and in the gloom, saw two intruders who fired shots at him, hitting his ear lobe. To the robbers’ horror, their victim then pointed a revolver at them. Michael took aim and they wisely decided to run. Jent dived through the window through which they had broken in. Knox tried wrenching open the front door but it was stuck. Again Michael aimed, but the revolver jammed. Then 20-year-old Isaac came running downstairs and wrestled with Knox, who had 28 rings in his pocket. Jent had escaped with half a dozen more but, not wishing evidence to be found on him, scattered them around the Crawcour’s yard before bolting off to Melbourne. A shot was fired at Isaac, but though mortally wounded, he still managed to pin Knox to the floor and hand the revolver to his father. Then he realised something. He was bleeding heavily from a major wounds to the torso, blood pouring from the pleural cavity, diaphragm, liver and stomach. Screaming for help, he crawled outside. Fortunately, two policemen and a local man were passing by and rendered assistance, though the young man pleaded with them to tend to his father first. Knox was placed under arrest. Detective Sergeants Whitney, Bannon and Fryer arrested Jent in Carlton where he boarded with Knox’s mother. The Werribee-born Detective Sergeant Henry Cawsey took a dying declaration from Isaac Crawcour in the presence of the handcuffed Jent, who had been taken to
Barb McNeill. (Damjan Janevski) 432421_03
Williamstown for this grim purpose. Jent agreed that the dying man was telling the truth. A word about dying declarations. It is assumed that a person on the brink of death will tell the truth, and for the document to be admissible in court, they must die. Isaac Crawcour died of his wounds at noon on the following day, Saturday 13 January . The case created such an uproar that the Crawcour family received cards and letters of condolences from many Williamstowners and others from all over the colony, and there was even a telegram from Premier Sir James Patterson. The cortege left Williamstown for the Bourke Street Synagogue on Monday 15 January, the same day as the inquest commenced. The loss of Isaac was well expressed by Rabbi Dr Joseph Abrahams, whose sermon dealt with the importance of actions over words, and the commandment to honour one’s parents. Isaac, unarmed, had unhesitatingly leapt to his father’s defence and even though terribly wounded, had insisted that his
8 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
father be the first to receive care. The rabbi then referred to the Anglican Bishop of Melbourne, the enchantingly named Reverend Field Flowers Goe, who was held in enormous esteem not for his sparkling sermons, but for his courage in stopping runaway horses dragging an overturned carriage full of terrified passengers. This, the venerable Abrahams said, is what the Lord requires of his creation. Meanwhile, as was noted with strong disapproval, the two accused didn’t take the matter very seriously at all. Whilst their victim was being laid in the earth, they were treating the proceedings with barely disguised contempt, guffawing and sniggering as the witnesses gave their evidence. The trial was held at the Central Criminal Court in Melbourne and Michael Crawcour was the first to give evidence of that dreadful early morning when his beloved son was taken from him. Not even a father’s grief could alter the accused’s demeanour. They continued to treat the court as a bizarre form of entertainment.
Presiding was Mr Justice Henry Hodges; who soon wiped the smirks off their faces by sentencing John Charles Jent to three years gaol for being an accessory after the fact. Ernest Knox was then coldly informed that the gallows awaited him for the crime of wilful murder. This seemed to shock some long-dormant decency in him. He rediscovered religion and spent a lot of time praying. He then wrote a piteous letter to the Crawcour family, beseeching their forgiveness and claiming that the shooting was an unfortunate accident. The reaction of the Crawcours is not known, but if Knox expected anyone to believe him and petition for a reprieve, he was sadly mistaken. At 10 am on Thursday 19 March, 1894, Ernest Knox, just 21 years old, calmly walked to the gallows of Melbourne Gaol. Asked by the chaplain if he wished to say anything, he replied firmly, “Yes. The wages of sin is death.” He then recited some verses from ‘Abide with Me’. The bolt was drawn, and his “wages” were instantly paid.
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Wynbay’s Reclink rapture By Glenn Fisher Reclink Australia’s 2026 Footy Grand Final series wrapped up at Werribee on Wednesday 16 September, with about 350 enthusiastic supporters cheering on the four teams that played on the day. The Werribee event was the final leg of Reclink’s grand final series, which this year was taken beyond its traditional central locations and closer to the communities and regional teams that made up the competition. Teams and support staff from Melton, Maryborough and Bendigo joined local Wyndham participants at Werribee Football Club, bringing together players ranging in age from 16 to 65. In the opening game, Maryborough Ravens came out firing against Melton Lions and established an early lead before Melton worked its way back into the contest and eventually closed out a narrow victory. The second match featured hometown heroes Wynbay Tigers against Bendigo Gold, with the Tigers jumping out of the blocks early and maintaining their advantage to run out eventual winners in front of their enthusiastic local fans. Reclink Australia CEO Dave Wells said there was also plenty happening beyond the actual football, with the Victoria Police Band, folk singer Vin Healy and acclaimed opera singer Julia Allsop performing. The commentary box also had plenty of personality, with Essendon VFL great Simon Madden and Des Dowling joining the coverage and medal presentations, while young commentator Archie Burley took on the job of calling all the action. Student volunteers from Xavier College and McKillop Secondary College added to the event’s strong community involvement, while Reclink founder and Werribee local Peter Cullen AM was on hand once again to assist with presentations – and any other task.
YOUR SAY RAAF noise ‘chestnut’ In reference to page 1 ‘RAAF flight furor’ Wyndham Star Weekly 16 September. Were the residents of Point Cook now complaining about aircraft noise, which has been extant since circa 1912, comatose when they purchased or signed lease agreements for their properties? Either that or are they are blind and deaf? What is today RAAF Point Cook was
Left: The victorious Wynbay Tigers team. (Pictures: Valerius R. Boenawan) 578938 28 Right: Wynbay’s Milan Domazet (No.21) contests a ruck duel. 578938 36
Supporters were in full voice at the Reclink grand finals.
Wynbay’s Mason Ahumada drives the ball forward on his left. 578938 49
Wynbay Tigers’ Jess Elias prepares to handball. 578938 39
Werribee’s first-class VFL ground was a fitting venue to finish the 2026 grand final series, bringing people together from across western and regional Victoria who might otherwise not have the opportunity to attend. Mr Wells said the day was about much more than the final scores – it was a chance to recognise the players, volunteers, agencies, supporters and communities that made the competition possible, while giving participants from across Victoria
their moment on the big stage. “The grand final series demonstrates the important role accessible sport and recreation can play in strengthening individual and community wellbeing,” he said. “Sport is much more than what happens on the field. For people experiencing disadvantage or barriers to participation, having somewhere accessible and welcoming to be active can provide an important pathway to better physical and
mental health, social connection and a stronger relationship with their local community.” Since Mr Cullen founded the organisation in 1990, Reclink Australia has used sport and recreation to bring people together and create a sense of belonging, engaging thousands of Australians who experience barriers to participation, including social isolation, economic disadvantage, disability, mental ill-health and other personal challenges.
establish well before any current resident populated the area. The airfield did not pop up overnight one evening in recent times. Exactly what did residents expect when living adjacent to, or anywhere near, an aerodrome? Would the same residents be complaining if they lived near a main road, railway line, quarry, or an industrial estate that emanates noise? This chestnut has reared its head on and off since the 1970s and 80s when population growth in Wyndham and Hobsons Bay began to accelerate.
If residents don’t like living near such infrastructure, why did they move there in the first place? Those complaining wish to see the oldest, continuously operational military airfield in the world closed or operations contracted all because they failed to perform due diligence before purchasing or renting in the area and now wish to make it everyone else’s problem. I have zero sympathy.
HAVE YOUR SAY
578938 13
Bruce R Kendall, Mount Clear
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Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 9
FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING
Advertising feature
Hobson Healthcare marks 20 years of endoscopy care Two decades after opening its doors in Werribee, Hobson Healthcare is celebrating 20 years of providing high-quality endoscopy and specialist medical services to patients across Melbourne’s western suburbs, Geelong and the Surf Coast. Established in 2006, Hobson Healthcare is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built and fully registered day endoscopy centre. Fully accredited and contracted with all major health funds, the centre provides gastroscopy and colonoscopy, capsule endoscopy, and consulting services in gastroenterology and general surgery. The origins of Hobson Healthcare date back to 1998, when Associate Professor Peter Nottle founded Hobson Bay Endoscopy, initially operating from the old Altona hospital. In 2004, Associate Professor Ashley Miller and Jason Winnett became co-owners, and a block of land was purchased in Georgia Crescent, Werribee. Hobson Bay Endoscopy Centre in Werribee officially opened on 11 September 2006. The centre has since grown substantially, now recording more than 6,100 patient admissions and approximately 8,000 procedures each year. Eighteen specialist gastroenterologists and surgeons utilise the facility, supported by 42 staff and specialist anaesthetist. A key feature is the centre’s open-access service, with 23 per cent of admissions referred directly by general practitioners following careful pre-procedure screening by experienced nursing staff. The service caters for both insured and
uninsured patients, helping make specialist endoscopy readily accessible to the wider community. Following the opening of a second day hospital in Sydenham in 2011, Hobson Bay Endoscopy was rebranded Hobson Healthcare in 2015, retaining the Hobson name synonymous with quality medical care. Hobson Healthcare has also maintained a strong commitment to education, supporting nursing students as they develop their clinical skills. The organisation has flourished under the long-term leadership of CEO Vicki Canning and the management of current owners Healthe Care Australia. Founder Associate Professor Ashley Miller has served as chairman of the Hobson Healthcare Medical Advisory Committee for 20 years and was recently awarded Fellowship of the Gastroenterological Society of Australia, one of its highest honours, recognising sustained excellence and exceptional contribution to gastroenterology and hepatology in Australia. As Hobson Healthcare marks this significant 20-year milestone, its achievements reflect a longstanding commitment to clinical excellence, accessibility, education and, above all, patient care.
Associate Professor Ashley Miller with staff members Sharon Dhillon and Susan Hamilton.
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566 Melton Hwy, Sydenham 3037 Phone: 1800 446 276 Fax: 03 8361 6700 Email: sdh.admin@healthecare.com.au
a member of the Healthe Care group
10 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
12901192-LD39-26
Free car parking | Highly trained endoscopists
FEATURING ... ROAD SAFETY
Advertising feature
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
Senior Sergeant Stephen O’Connell says police will be out in force over the long weekend. (Damjan Janevski). 576403_01
■ Seatbelt and child restraint offences ■ 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 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 11
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
17 September, 1986
18 September, 1996
13 September, 2006
14 September, 2016
The Board of Works last week confirmed that the Western Region, including Werribee, produced more than half of all Victorian “special waste” which will be treated at its $34 million toxic waste planet.
A public meeting to discuss a Wyndham council decision to put kindergartens into private hands next year will be held tonight at 7pm at the Werribee Civic Centre.
Imagine searching the house for your child, only to find in the most unthinkable situation – crushed beneath the garage door.
GPS tracking devices are being installed in all Wyndham council vehicles in a $300,000 push to better manage the council’s fleet.
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
12 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
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
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
My Place 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 downside about my morning beach walks was in summer, when my delight at walking beside a silky blue sea glistening 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 area?
Altona artist and author Jane Sinclair. (Damjan Janevski) 569578_05
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. 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. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. My wardrobe is full of clothes, which will surprise anyone who knows me because I dress as if my choices are limited to jeans, shirts and jumpers. My sister has expensive taste. She regularly gets bored with her clothes and has handed down many items to me. My wardrobe is full of clothes that have been given to me, and-or are decades old or bought in an op-shop. One day I might surprise myself and choose something different from my wardrobe.
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Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 13
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 Car show Classic, retro and special interest vehicles will roll into Williams Landing on 15 November for the Outwest Concrete Wyndham Retro Motor Show 2026, bringing the local community together for a morning of motoring, entertainment and family fun. The Outwest Concrete Wyndham Retro Motor Show 2026 is hosted by Wyndham Health Foundation and will be held from 9am to 1pm at 70 Overton Road, Williams Landing. Alongside the cars, visitors can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, family activities and more throughout the day. Vehicle + driver: $20, general admission: $5, children under 12: free. ■ wyndhamretromotorshow.com.au Werribee Rotary grants The 2026 Rotary grants are now open. Ten grants will be awarded to a maximum value of $3000 each. Applicants must be registered as an approved community organisation within Wyndham. The project should directly benefit a large number of people or community groups with the municipality. Applications close on 30 September. Successful applicants will be announced in November. Submit applications at werribeerotary.org.au Practise English with Let’s Talk A weekly meet to help members of the community improve their practical English conversation skills to help with daily tasks such as shopping and booking appointments. Meets 10am each Saturday at Werribee Church of Christ, 200 Tarneit Road, Werribee ■ Bronwyn, 9741 6051 Laverton Community Choir Open to new members and everyone is welcome. If you enjoy singing, and are curious about joining a choir, come along and try out your vocal cords with our fun and inclusive group. No audience or musical knowledge required. Meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton from 7-9pm, with supper provided. ■ Sue, 0418 386 147 or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com Wyndham Rotary If you have an hour or two to volunteer in a local project Wyndham Rotary would love to hear from you. If you have an idea and you want some help taking the idea to action, contact Rotary. Meeting locally each week, you will be made welcome. ■ Julie, 0406 196 630. Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour Assist with service projects in the local community and overseas. The club meets at 7pm on the first Tuesday of the month at the ‘By the Bay Cafe’ in Wyndham Harbour. ■ Mamode, 0469 888 126 Wyndham Probus Club A social club for retired or semi-retired people. There is a broad range of social activities to suit all interests such as lunches and brunches each month, day trips, theatre outings and longer trips away. Hear interesting speakers and make new friendships. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Iramoo Community Centre,
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of the West Gate Bridge – captured on a bright spring day. (Damjan Janevski) 579216
Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm. ■ Kaye Angel, 0407 551 694, or wcpc1306@ gmail.com Point Cook Combined Probus Club Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook. ■ John Sloan, 0436 480 728 or sloanrisk@ gmail.com Lions Club The Lions Club of Point Cook meets at the Featherbrook Community Centre on the third Monday of the month at 7.30 pm. The club is seeking to grow the Lions free vision screening in schools team. Volunteers needed to work with the region’s schools in combating undiagnosed children’s vision issues. You do not have to be a Lions member but must obtain a working with children check. ■ Robert Eyton, 0417 549 684, or robeyton@bigpond.com Adult drumming classes If you ever wanted to try out your rhythmic skills, the first class is discounted and concessions apply for other classes. All hand drums supplied or BYO. No experience required, just bring an open heart and mind and enjoy making some great rhythms together. The class is friendly and welcoming to everyone. Thursdays, 7.308.30pm, during school terms, at Saltwater Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Parade, Point Cook. ■ 0411 028 077 or bfmusic15@gmail.com Wyndham Ladies Probus Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am.
14 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
■ Sue, 0448 381 027 Watton Group A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at 49 Watton Street, Werribee at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month. ■ Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com All Abilities Netball All-abilities netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2. ■Phil, 0437 078 739 Walking Netball Walking netball is a low impact, no running, no jumping version for those that love the fun, friendship and activity of a weekly game of netball. Sessions are run every Thursday during school terms, from 8pm, at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2. ■Phil, 0437 078 739 With One Voice Wyndham Choir With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee. ■ wyndham@withonevoice.org.au Adult community garden group The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale.
Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow. ■ 8742 3688 Seniors House of Fun The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. ■ Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@ grangecommunity.org.au Seniors club The Werribee Senior Citizens Club meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea. ■ 0403 041 499 Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips. ■ Yvette, 0411 952 706 Western Budgerigar Club The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars. ■ Don, 0414 975 862 Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus Do you like to sing? The Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus wants you! Be part of a rewarding fraternity of fellow amateur musicians serving the community, sharing comradery and having fun. Rehearsals at 7pm Tuesday evenings at St. James Church, Hoppers Crossing. ■ Chris, 0400 414 215 Beekeeping group Werribeeks meet every third Monday of the month at the Wyndham Park Community Centre to share tips and information about beekeeping ■www.facebook.com/WerriBeeksClub
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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 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 15
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16 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
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?
11. Zac Bailey officially re-signed with the Brisbane Lions, ending speculation he would move to which other club? 12. The site of the Gabba was first used for a cricket match in which year: 1896, 1906 or 1916?
5. Where are the 2027 Pacific Games set to be held?
13. What is the title of controversial Olympian Raygun’s recent documentary?
6. Which Hollywood actor was criticised for appearing in a controversial sports betting commercial?
14. Tennis player Mirra Andreeva is from which country?
7. In which movie of the Air Bud series does a dog named Buddy play American football?
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?
9. The Detroit Gems became the Minneapolis Lakers, who in turn became which NBA franchise?
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?
10. What position does Melbourne's Isaac Woodhouse play for California’s Bakersfield College football team?
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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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?
8. Which Spanish professional racing cyclist won the 2026 Vuelta a España?
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Wednesday, 23 September, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 17
PUZZLES
easy
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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
U
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9 8 5 4 1 2 6 3 7 2 7 1 3 8 6 9 4 5 3 6 4 5 7 9 2 8 1 8 1 6 9 2 7 4 5 3 5 3 7 6 4 8 1 2 9 4 9 2 1 5 3 7 6 8 6 2 8 7 3 1 5 9 4 1 5 3 2 9 4 8 7 6 7 4 9 8 6 5 3 1 2
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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
18 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
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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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
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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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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)
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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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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 G R E E K B A N A L S T R A Y H A L T S S O R R Y S P E L L
No. 308
S I D E B O A R D A U D I W I U S A F N S O V A T E S T I M O N I A L O M L O S R S A P R E S E N C E R E J O I N I T R I M N D 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 T M B D H N E E N A M E L V E N O M O U S R R L F L T R E C O R R E L A T I V E A I R E O D L O L M V T OW N L A N D S C A P E
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 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 19
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North Melbourne Werribee. 579508 10
Alana Barba is tackled by Jazmin TweddleO’Donnell. 579508 16
North Melbourne Werribee celebrates. 579508 26
Werribee chief executive Mark Penaluna helps present the cup. 579508 41
Maddison Torpey. 579508 01
Winning day for the Roos North Melbourne Werribee won a third straight Victorian Football League women’s premiership on Sunday at IKON
Park. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting the action.
North Melbourne Werribee runs through the banner. 579508 45
North Melbourne Werribee. 579508 54
North Melbourne Werribee’s Shauna McElligott, leads a foot race. 579508 62
Tahlia Meier. 579508 82
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Stella Reid. 579508 66
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Caroline Springs celebrate. 579506 01
Caroline Springs fans. (Rana Sajid Hussain)579506 04
Sharing the moment. 579506 10
Werribee Districts made hard work of it. 579506 14
Harrison White gets ready to lay a tackle.579506 15
Lakers’ premiership joy Caroline Springs claimed its first Western Football League division 1 premiership on Saturday, beating Werribee Districts.
Benjamin Davey celebrates. 579506 22
Star Weekly photographer Rana Sajid Hussain was out shooting some of the action.
Coach Brian Lake starts to celebrate with one of the trainers. 579506 16
Alexander Paech is awarded the best on ground medal. 579506 25
Werribee Districts watch on. 579506 27
Premiership captains and coaches. 579506 33
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Joy for Wyndham Masters By Tara Murray Wyndham Masters over-35 team claimed its first men’s premiership since 2011 in the most emphatic way. The Tigers went through the north-west 35s division 2 season undefeated before coming up against Hillside in the grand final on September 13. It was a three-goal margin at half-time before the Tigers stormed home in the second half to claim the premiership, 22.10 (142)-6.5 (41). Coach Steven Hart said it was such an incredible feeling to finally win that premiership. “Everyone involved with the club has worked so hard for this moment, and to finally achieve the ultimate success is both rewarding and emotional. It’s a proud day for the players, coaches, volunteers, members, and supporters who have all been part
of the journey,” he said. “While we always believed in our potential, it’s hard to imagine just how special the season turned out to be. “We knew we had a talented group and were capable of achieving great things, but the consistency, and success throughout the year was absolutely phenomenal and after the first game of the season with all the new players coming in and seeing how well they all gelled together I had a gut feeling the sky was the limit.” Hart said there was excitement and confidence heading into the grand final, but also a strong focus on the job ahead. “Being favourites doesn’t guarantee anything, so the emphasis was on preparing well, staying grounded, and making sure we performed to the best of our ability on the biggest stage of the year. “We had a very strong game plan that we stuck to all year and just had to follow it one
Wyndham’s Masters premiership side. (Supplied)
more time.” Hart said once the game came around they felt they gained control of the game as it went on. He said they had the feeling all the hard work was going to pay off. “Only being three goals up at half-time, we went in quite confident knowing that our third quarters this year had been our best, but then we played the best quarter of the year, kicking 10 goals and taking full control
of the game,” he said. “Even so, the players remained focused until the final siren. Once it became clear the premiership was ours, it was pure joy and excitement right across the club.” Hart said from a club perspective it had been an outstanding season from start to finish. He said not only did they achieve on-field success, but the entire club grew stronger. “The support from members, volunteers, sponsors, and the wider community was fantastic, and everyone played a role in making it such a memorable season,” he said. “The focus now is to celebrate this achievement and recognise everyone’s contribution, but also to keep building for the future. “The excitement of this premiership only motivates us to keep striving for even greater achievements.”
Sports shorts VTCA Point Cook Centrals have signed another former junior as it aims to improve on last season in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield. Josh Cowell will return to the club where he started his cricket career. “A former Point Cook Centrals junior, Josh returns home as an exciting, hard-hitting batsman who has developed into a genuine match-winner,” the Sharks said on social media. “With an attacking style of play and the ability to take the game away from the opposition in a matter of overs, Josh brings power, confidence, and excitement to our batting line-up. Having come through our junior ranks, Josh understands what it means to wear the blue.”
VAFA
The under-15 premiership team. (Supplied)
Truganina United celebrate double flags By Tara Murray Truganina United has had a winter season to remember with four junior premierships along with some senior success in the Melbourne Cricket Association winter competition. Truganina won two junior premierships on Sunday, to add to the two junior premierships it won in August. It also won a senior premiership in August, having lost in the semi finals last year. On Sunday, Truganina’s under-11 mixed Cheetahs side had a massive win against Mambourin in the grand final. The Cheetahs won the toss and elected to bowl first. They kept Mambourin to 121 from its 25 overs. Vismay Bhadrapura took 3-12 for the Cheetahs. The Cheetahs then took control with the bat as they finished 0-254 from their 25 overs. Every batter retired not out, Vihaan Sharma top scored with 28. Truganina’s under-15 mixed Tigers side
The under-11 premiership team.
also claimed premiership success on the weekend. Facing the Glen Orden Thunder on Sunday, the Tigers won the toss and batted first. They made 6-184 from their 30 overs. Moksh Mittal top scored with 50 before retiring not out. The Tigers then restricted the Thunder to 7-160. Mittal continued his good game to take 4-23. He was named player of the match. Communications secretary Sharaqh Ibad said it was a massive achievement from all their premiership teams this season. “The club was established with a strong focus on building a community around cricket, particularly providing opportunities
22 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2026
for local children and families,” he said. “These premierships are a wonderful reflection of the commitment of our players, coaches, parents and volunteers who continue to contribute so much to the club.” While the winter season has just finished, Truganina United has quickly turned its attention to the summer season. The club has invested in its junior program, with three high level coaches coming on board to lead the way. Ashan Ranaweera has been appointed the junior program head coach. He played 58 first class matches in Sri Lanka and is currently Burnside Springs United senior coach, having guided it to a Victorian Turf Cricket Association premiership last season. Former Sri Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne has been appointed a specialist academy coach and is leading the plans for a Truganina Cricket Academy. Karunaratne played 100 test matches for Sri Lanka. Niroshan Bandaratilleke, who has also played test cricket for Sri Lanka, has been appointed a spin specialist coach.
It was a tough day for the Westbourne Grammarians on Saturday in the Victorian Amatuer Football Association women’s premier competition. Old Geelong dominated from start to finish as it won, 6.9 (45)-1.2 (8). Sarah Dickie, Mia Graf and Olivia Cavka were named the Grammarians best. The Grammarians faced Fitzroy in the next round.
VPL Werribee City had to come from behind to share the points in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition on Saturday. It seemed dire for the Bees early in the clash with Moreland City as they trailed 4-0 at half time. The Bees fought their way back into the game and reduced the margin to one goal heading into injury time. In 93rd minute, the Bees scored through Stephen Appiah to level the scores at 4-4. The Bees sit 11th on the ladder, with five wins.
Talent League Western Jets’ Billy Wigmore and Jake Miller were both named in the under-18 boys all-Australian team following that national championships. Wigmore was named in the back pocket, while Miller was named at centre half forward. The pair played key roles as Vic Metro went through the carnival undefeated. The Western Jets had a bye on the weekend.
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New alignment for Bees Werribee City has signed an international affiliation with Italian club A.C.R Messina. The Bees said this new partnership represents an important step in Werribee City’s commitment to creating greater opportunities for its players, coaches and football community, while strengthening the club’s connections beyond Australia. A key focus of the affiliation will be the potential for Werribee City players to access overseas football opportunities in Italy, including the possibility of training, development experiences and exposure to the football environment in Messina. For Werribee players, the partnership provides the opportunity to experience football in a different country and culture, learn from the Italian football system and potentially develop connections
that could assist their football journey. Werribee City president Michael Siccita said the affiliation was an exciting opportunity for the club and its players. The club believes international relationships such as this can provide valuable experiences for players at different stages of their development and give young footballers the opportunity to see where their passion for the game can take them. “We are extremely proud to establish this international affiliation with ACR Messina Calcio,” Siccita said. “One of our key priorities is to provide our players with opportunities that extend beyond the football pitch, and this partnership gives us the ability to explore genuine overseas opportunities in Italy.”
“For a young player from Werribee, the prospect of travelling to Sicily, training and experiencing football in Italy is something truly special. We hope this partnership can open doors, broaden our players’ experiences and inspire them to pursue their football ambitions.” The club will work with ACR Messina to develop future initiatives and explore opportunities for Werribee players and members to participate in football experiences in Italy. “From Werribee to Messina — a new pathway, a new experience, and an opportunity to take Werribee City FC onto the international stage.” Messina president Justin Davis welcomed the relationship between the two clubs.
“We are delighted to establish this relationship with Werribee City FC and build a strong football connection between Messina and Melbourne. “Football has an incredible ability to bring people and communities together, and this partnership provides an opportunity for our clubs to share experiences, knowledge and culture. Most importantly, we hope to create meaningful opportunities for Werribee players to experience football in Italy, develop as players and see where their football journey can take them.” The affiliation also creates opportunities for both clubs to share football knowledge, coaching experiences and cultural connections, strengthening the relationship between the two communities.
Talent League TOTYs named
Werribee Districts contemplate what might have been. (Rana Sajid Hussain) 579506 06
Tigers remain proud despite grand final 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 quar-
ter-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.” Gilham said giving plenty of other guys opportunities this year, they would only be better for it in the future. He said he doesn’t think they will drop off in the near future. “We definitely had some young kids come in and not play one or two games, but seven or eight,” he said. “We showed that if they can get an extended run at it they will be good players, looking forward to the future. “We haven’t got an old team, that’s for sure. There’s blokes coming through our season who are going to be good players.”
The Western Jets have the most players selected in the Talent League boys team of the year. The Jets had five players selected across the two teams that were announced with five Jets selected in the boys team and one Jet selected in the girls team. Selection in the teams takes into consideration a player’s entire season, including performance in the Talent League, AFL National Championships, Victorian Football League or VFLW matches and any other matches through the talent pathway. Jets’ Billy Wigmore and Jake Miller, who were already selected in the national championships team of the carnival, were named on half back flank and centre half forward respectively. Khaled El Souki, who won the Talent League goalkicking, was named in a forward pocket, while Angus Tippett and Lachlan Hicks were named on the bench. Sandringham Dragons’ defender Tyson Bradley crowned his outstanding season by being named captain of the team after also being crowned Victoria Metro’s most valuable player at the AFL National Championships. 2026 Morrish Medal winner Harvie Cooke was one of three Northern Knights players named in the team, alongside teammates Harry Van Hattum and Sam Gayfer. Cooke was the first Knights player to win the award since 2009. He finished two votes ahead of Dandenong Stingrays’ Clancy Stuart, with Cody Templeton (Gippsland Power) and Tippett equal-third on 17 votes. El Souki finished fifth on 14 votes. Addison West was the only Jets player named in the girls team, named on the bench. West made her VFLW debut this season as well. Calder Cannons’ Chloe Bullen, who shared the Talent League goalkicking award, was also named in the team. Knights’ Alli Allen and Maddy Meagher were both named in the team as well. Earlier in the week, GWV Rebels and Northern Territory Academy bottom-age star Peggy Rock won the girls best and fairest. Cannons’ Coco Balmain finished equal fifth, six votes behind.
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Districts fall short
Masters premiership joy
Roos’ three-peat By Tara Murray North Melbourne Werribee’s legacy continues to grow with the side winning a third straight Victorian Football League women’s premiership. After a season of ups and downs, the Kangaroos again found themselves on the biggest stage. This time it was Williamstown, which was playing in its first grand final, that stood in the way. In tough conditions, a strong wind made hitting targets, let alone kicking goals, hard. The Kangaroos kicked the only goal of the first quarter before a late goal in the second quarter saw them lead by 10 points at half time. The Seagulls finally got on the scoreboard early in the third quarter through Lambert-Pearce Medalist Emily Eaves. Maddison Torpey answered for the Kangaroos, to take the lead back out to 10 points at the final break. The Seagulls had chances late and couldn’t hit the scoreboard. It was somewhat fitting that Kangaroos’ captain Renee Tierney would kick the goal that would seal the premiership. The Kangaroos won, 4.1 (25)-1.6 (12). Tierney said it had been an incredibly hard year for the group. “It’s unreal I’ve been so lucky to be part of four unreal teams and it’s such an honour to play footy with these girls,” she said. “I’ve been very lucky. We’ve had so many different obstacles thrown at us this year, we overcame all of them as a group. “It’s more relief than anything. It’s a reward for hard work, at VFLW level we put in day in, day out, you don’t get much reward except for the wins.” Tierney said she didn’t think she had celebrated that much after a goal as she did when she kicked the sealer. The premiership is Tierney’s fourth in the VFLW, having played one with Essendon as well. Tierney said the North Melbourne women’s program, which has resulted in five premierships across the VFLW and AFLW in the past three years, is the epitome of women’s football. Tierney was one of four single goalkickers for the Kangaroos. Stella Reid, who was busy early, Torpey and Alana Barba were the other goalkickers. Barba stamped herself as one of the competition’s best ever players on Sunday. Like Tierney, it was her fourth premiership having played in the premiership with Essendon as well. Barba had 29 disposals, eight tackles and five clearances as she won her third Lisa Hardeman Medal, as best on ground in the grand final. In 2024, the only time Barba wasn’t named best on ground, she still polled votes. “It sounds too good to be true,” Barba said of her incredible record. “We’ve had a pretty amazing year and had a lot of struggles going on behind the scenes
North Melbourne. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 579508)
Alana Barba. (579508)
that not many people know about. “To finish the job is nothing but incredible.” Barba credits her grand final performances to her teammates, saying that they all really wanted this premiership. “We all knew this was in us and to go back-to-back-back, we knew we were made for this and we knew we could do it if we just believed.
Maddison Torpey and Poppy Schaap. (579508)
“We did it.” Barba said Alex McKenzie, who came in as coach late in the piece had done a fantastic job with the group and made some good changes. For Barba, who has spent time at two AFLW clubs, she’s keeping her football simple. “I am enjoying my footy. I love the North Melbourne Football Club.
“Living in the moment and being present and whatever happens, happens.” Ava Seton (21 disposals), Charlotte Ryan and Stella Reid (18 possessions) all had big days as well. Werribee Football Club chief executive Mark Penaluna presented the premiership cup along with Kangaroos AFLW captain Jasmine Garner, honouring the partnership between the two clubs.