Star Weekly - Northern - 29th September 2026

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29 SEPTEMBER, 2026

Spring into garden show The Broadmeadows and District Garden Club Spring Show is set to bloom once again celebrating beautiful and vibrant florals. The garden club puts on the annual floral extravaganza at the Hadfield Community Hall, with live music, a sausage sizzle, freshly made Devonshire teas and home-grown plants for sale. Long before keen gardener Cheryl Adams joined the club in 2020, attending the show and admiring the beautiful floral displays had “always been a treat“ she looked forward to near her birthday. “It falls on the weekend near my birthday and for years before I joined the club, I marked it on my calendar and indulged in my love of plants,” she said. Club president Maggie Palmer has been involved for 24 years and loves when the spring show comes around with the club working hard “to keep the standard high”. Public submissions are welcomed until Wednesday 14 October with the show starting on Saturday 17 October and running through to Sunday 18 October, 11am until 2pm each day. Entry is $5 cash only for adults. Children enter free. Broadmeadows & District Garden Club member Cheryl Adams in her garden. (Damjan Janevski)

Parking fine fiasco Whittlesea’s new chief executive has revoked more than 40 $627 fines issued to motorists – just 17 days into the job. In a statement issued on 18 September, Dan Hogan – who became Whittlesea council chief executive on 1 September – said it had recently been brought to his attention that 42 fines for $627 were issued at the city’s sports grounds during August. The statement said the fines were issued at football matches. Mr Hogan said the fine amount was disproportionately high for a parking

Dimmeys, Northcote Plaza Shopping Centre 25 Separation Street Northcote Vic 3070

offence. “This infringement class is more suited for offences where driving or parking is causing damage rather than parking illegally. Having reviewed what occurred, council has determined these parking offences do not warrant such a large fine,“ he said. The parking fines issued by council carry the same dollar amount as fines issued by Victoria Police for using a mobile phone while driving (although that offence also attracts four demerit points). Mr Hogan said council would cancel any $627 fines issued at sporting grounds

during the month of August and would reimburse anyone who had already paid them. “I appreciate the shock receiving a large fine can cause and I want to apologise for any distress this has caused,’ he said. “Council will contact affected individuals directly with information about the cancellation and reimbursement process.” Mr Hogan said council would also review all infringements issued under this offence since the Community Local Law came into place on 1 July, 2024. “We will look at the circumstances

and whether any damage was caused to warrant the larger fine. If not, we will look to cancel or issue an official warning,“ he said. Council said that in the future, it would ensure this infringement was only issued in circumstances that warranted a larger fine, such as if someone caused damage to a reserve. Anyone parking illegally will still receive a standard parking fine. Council said that anyone who received a $627 fine for parking on a reserve (offence code 2339) to date should disregard the due date and await further communication from council.

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Getting back from a workplace injury isn’t easy. But it’s a key part to getting back to life. Return to work.

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Upgrades for intersections By Nykita Van Den Berg Two intersections are set be upgraded as part of the second stage of the Mickleham Road upgrade. Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority (VIDA) has proposed accessing funding from the Craigieburn West Infrastructure Contributions Plan to deliver upgrades to the Mickleham and Cookes roads intersection and Mickleham Road and Dunhelen Lane intersection. These works would occur as part of the broader stage two upgrade between Dellamore Boulevard and Craigieburn Road. Hume councillors voted at their Septem-

ber 14 meeting to endorse the request and enter into an agreement for the works. Councillor Steve Gagen, who said he avoids the road due to congestion, said it was a “practical and sensible proposal” to work with VIDA. The plan aims to deliver infrastructure that is critical to the wider community sooner and more efficiently at a lower risk for ratepayers and council while having fewer disruptions for residents, business and commuters. “By partnering with VIDA and incorporating these intersections into the wider stage two Mickleham Road upgrade we can ensure that this infrastructure is delivered as

part of one coordinated project rather than through fragmented future works,” Mr Gagen said. Councillor Naim Kurt said he supported this proposal and it’s an idea worth exploring as other growth councils have done the same body of works and they have been successful. “I’m happy to see it go through and see how it plays out,” he said. “I think this is a sound proposal in that we’re trying to get projects done quicker and faster and at less of a cost to rate-payers.” Stage one of the Mickleham Road upgrade occurred between Somerton Road and Dellamore while the Craigieburn Road

Hume calls for staff industrial action to end

Stepping up for a cause Epping local Anamika Sudhi is participating for the first time in Steptember to help fund life-changing research and early intervention therapy for babies with cerebral palsy. “This is actually my first ever fundraiser,” she said. “I was looking for something to do to give back. Cerebral palsy or helping with cerebral palsy is something that is very close to my heart.” Steptember asks Australians to move the equivalent of 10000 steps a day throughout the month. Schools, workplaces and communities across Australia have been inspired and have raised more than $89 million. Steptember doesn’t just track walking but any exercise done can be calculated into steps. “I’ve been weight training at the gym and [classical Indian] dancing,” Ms Sudhi, who is also a masters of occupational therapy student, said. “As OTs there’s only so much we can do in terms of helping someone with their participation. There’s a lot more systemic barriers so it’s good to raise money for research and things like that, that can be put to good use.” According to the Cerebal Palsy Alliance, one in 700 Australian babies are diagnosed with cerebral palsy and it is the most common physical disability in childhood, affecting a baby born every 20 hours. Funds raised through Steptember help identify babies at risk earlier and provide access to critical early intervention therapies during the first 1000 days of life when treatment can have the most significant impact on lifelong outcomes. Alliance chief executive Rob White said funds raised not only help provide therapy and identify babies earlier but give greater opportunity to improve lifelong outcomes for children and their families.

Anamika Sudhi is participating in Steptember for the first time. (Supplied)

“We know early intervention changes lives. By simply getting active this September, Australians can help give more chil-

dren the opportunity to move, communicate and find independence in everyday life,” Mr White said.

Upfield line upgrade promised if Labor is returned in November The Upfield train line will be upgraded if the Labor party wins the state election later this year. The Labor government announced on Monday that it would aim to duplicate the line and remove the level crossings at the same time. Currently, there is a four-kilometre section of single lane track between Gowrie and Upfield stations that creates a bottleneck and delays for passengers. “Duplicating this section of track will unlock 50 per cent more capacity – and turn up

upgrade occurred between the Hume Highway and Mickleham Road in late 2024. The federal and state governments committed a combined $250 million in April 2025 to stage two. The stage two upgrades include widening Mickleham Road to be three lanes in each direction with an adjacent shared path, new bus stops, revegetation and landscaping and the two new intersections. “As councillors we continually hear from residents about traffic congestion, traffic delays and the pressure that rapid growth is placing on our road networks, particularly in our northern growth areas,” Mr Gagen said.

and go services – along the line,” the state government said. The Labor party said it would invest $80 million over the next two years to kickstart the duplication of the Upfield line. The funding will support necessary development work to undertake site investigations, finalise the project design, acquire relevant planning and environmental approvals required to deliver the project. Further development work for the Upfield line duplication will inform how works should proceed with the planned removal of

level crossings along the corridor, with the removals to be delayed. Premier Ben Carroll said that “50 per cent more capacity on the line, for turn up and go services – that’s a huge change for the northern suburbs.” “Doing it in one go reduces costs and minimises disruption for passengers. It’s common sense,” he said. Broadmeadows MP Kathleen Matthews-Ward said it would deliver better services for suburbs including Campbellfield and Dallas.

Hume council has called for industrial action mounted by some staff to end, saying residents are bearing the brunt of the prolonged pay dispute. Partial work bans disrupted red-bin waste collection across Hume in September, amid ongoing industrial action by some council workers represented by the Australian Services Union (ASU). Council workers have been engaging in protected industrial action throughout 2026 as the union works to secure a pay rise for its members. Mayor Carly Moore acknowledged that residents are frustrated by uncollected bins and repeated service interruptions and called for the bans to end. “Residents should not be caught in the middle of ongoing industrial action,” she said. “Essential community services must not be used as bargaining tools.” Hume employees voted to participate in multi-employer bargaining with the ASU in 2025. Since March, council has been negotiating alongside seven other councils and four unions to reach a new enterprise agreement. Council said it has negotiated in good faith throughout this process and had provided a 2.5 per cent pay increase in November 2025 while bargaining discussions continued. The ASU has previously said members want a 10 per cent pay increase. “Hume residents are carrying a disproportionate share of the impact. Of the eight councils involved in these negotiations, Hume is one of only three that continues to directly employ its red-bin collection workforce,” Cr Moore said. “As a result, industrial action affecting waste collection services has had a particularly significant impact on Hume households, despite this being a dispute involving multiple councils. “It is unacceptable that Hume residents continue to carry a disproportionate share of the burden from a dispute that extends well beyond our municipality. “Residents should not be experiencing prolonged service disruptions while bargaining continues, particularly when council has demonstrated its commitment to reaching an agreement through ongoing negotiations and support for employees during the process.” Council said all councillors support retaining the state government’s rate cap – which the ASU has previously called to be reformed – to help protect residents from further cost pressures and ensure council services remain financially sustainable. The ASU was contacted for comment.

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Call to fund Sunbury Road By Georgia Tacey A Hume councillor is demanding both major parties commit to finishing the duplication of Sunbury Road. At the 14 September council meeting, Cr Jarod Bell successfully moved a notice of motion calling for both the state government and the opposition to commit to funding the full duplication of Sunbury Road between Bulla-Diggers Rest Road and Melbourne Airport. The road was duplicated between Powlett Street and Bulla-Diggers Rest Road in 2024, improving safety, capacity and journey reliability through Sunbury. But past Bulla-Diggers Rest Road,

Sunbury Road remains a predominantly single-lane arterial road, creating a bottleneck and limiting the benefits of the recently completed upgrade. Cr Bell is calling on both major parties to commit to funding the remaining duplication and meet with residents and councillors at the intersection of Sunbury and Oaklands roads to see the problem firsthand. “What is the plan to finish the job? Because anyone who drives south of Sunbury knows what happens when that duplication ends,” he said. “Thousands of motorists are funnelled into a predominantly single lane arterial road through Bulla past Oaklands Junc-

tion and towards Melbourne Airport. “And for our community, that isn’t an abstract infrastructure debate. It’s the trip to work. It’s getting to the airport on time. It’s the freight and business traffic. It’s families sitting in congestion or people who simply want to get home. “And it’s about whether the infrastructure serving one of Melbourne’s fastest growing regions is going to keep pace with that growth.” Cr Bell said participation in council’s Sunbury Road advocacy campaign had grown by more than 500 per cent. “Whoever seeks to form the next Victorian government should be prepared to tell our community what their plan is to

finish the job,” he said. Liberal Sunbury candidate Simmone Cottom said she had been listening to the community on the need for better road infrastructure investment. “I’m looking forward to announcing more about our local plan to deliver a fresh start for Sunbury,” she said. The Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said the government was continuing to explore opportunities for funding to deliver this transport infrastructure in the future. Sunbury MP Josh Bull was contacted for comment but did not respond by deadline.

Crime up in Hume, down in Whittlesea

MP Andrew Giles and representatives meeting to turn the first sod for stage 2 (supplied)

Sod turns on community hub for Wollert Construction has begun for a new Wollert community hub at Wollert Community Farm. Skills and Training Minister and Scullin MP Andrew Giles joined representatives from Yarra Valley Water, Whittlesea Community Connections, and construction partner TVN On-Country to turn the first sod on stage two of the project. With funding of $1 million from the federal government’s Thriving Suburbs Program Grant and from Yarra Valley Water and Whittlesea Community Connections, the hub will create more opportunities to learn, volunteer and connect with nature.

Whittlesea Community Connections chief executive Alex Haynes said completion of stage two would strengthen the farm’s ability to support community inclusion and participation. “This new space will help us grow our programs, welcome more people to the site and create new opportunities for learning, employment pathways and environmental action,” Ms Haynes said. Wollert Community Farm opened in 2025 and was established on land surrounding Yarra Valley Water’s Aurora Recycled Water Treatment Plant through a partnership between Yarra Valley Water and Whittlesea

Community Connections. Mr Giles said the milestone was an exciting step forward for the project. “What we’re seeing from this community-led project is threefold – stronger social connections locally, better access to learning and growing skills, and more opportunities for residents to act local in protecting and enhancing the environment,” he said. The farm project has received international recognition, including Gold at the 2024 International Water Association Project Innovation Awards and Yarra Valley Water’s Public Water Agency of Year Distinction Award at the 2025 Global Water Awards.

Select-entry schools promised for north-west if Coalition wins Two select-entry high schools would be opened in Melbourne’s north-west if the Coalition wins November’s state election. Opposition leader Jess Wilson said the schools would be built in areas of high and “currently unmet” demand with a targeted opening date before 2030. She said the schools would be located in Craigieburn or Roxburgh Park and Melton, Caroline Springs or Sydenham. A third select-entry school would also be built in Langwarrin or Cranbourne South.

Ms Wilson said six existing government schools would also be transitioned to select or partial select-entry. Melbourne currently has four fully selective government secondary schools –Suzanne Cory in Werribee, MacRobertson Girls’ High School in Melbourne, Melbourne High School in South Yarra and Nossal High School in Berwick. Ms Wilson said in contrast, New South Wales has 21 fully selective and 26 partially selective high schools. “Every Victorian student deserves the

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opportunity to reach for their full potential, no matter where they live,” she said. “Thousands of students sit the select-entry school exam every year and too many of them are missing out because there are not enough places.” Opposition education spokesman Brad Rowswell said select-entry schools must be accessible and not based on postcode. “The entry system for these schools will be a level playing field, offering the opportunity to more students than ever before,” he said.

While crime has dropped across the state, criminal offences increased in Hume according to new data. The Criminal Statistics Agency released its data for the 12 months to June, with an overall drop in offences by 2.1 per cent or 13,360 offences. In Hume, criminal offences increased by 2.3 per cent or an increase of 538 offences in the recording period. The 23,691 offences is the highest in the Hume area in the statistics provided which go back to 2017. Only Melbourne, Casey and Wyndham in the metropolitan area recorded more offences in the 12 months to June. Craigieburn (4479), Broadmeadows (3897), and Sunbury (2860) were the top locations for criminal offences, with all recording increases on the previous 12 months. Campbellfield, which was fourth, was the only suburb of the top five to record a drop in offences. The house was the most popular spot for criminal offences in Hume with 7186 offences occurring despite the figure dropping. On the street was the second most popular location, followed by occurring in a carpark, service station and shopping complex. Stealing from a motor vehicle is the number one offence in Hume despite a drop in offences to 3120. Other top offences included other theft, breach of family violence order, motor vehicle theft, and criminal damage. Family violence incidents in Hume decreased by two percent, down 77 incidents on the previous 12 months. In Whittlesea, criminal offences dropped by 3.2 per cent from 18,286 to 17,709. Epping was the most popular area for offences to occur, with 4334 offences in the 12 months to June, down 33 on the previous 12 months. Thomastown (2361), Mill Park (1969), Lalor (1661) and Mernda (1480) were the other top locations. House is the most popular location for offences (5803), more than double that of the street-lane-footpath (2428). Stealing from a motor vehicle is the number one criminal offence, ahead of breach of family violence order and other theft. Family violence incidents in Whittlesea were down 9.1 per cent which equated to 300 incidents.

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Torchlight march for 100 years Whittlesea Fire Brigade has marked a historic milestone, celebrating 100 years of service with a torchlight march through town. Brigade members were joined by volunteers from 14 other CFA brigades to celebrate their centenary year, with local pipe bands and historic fire trucks making it a celebration for the whole community. Captain Richard Gardner said a highlight was having a restored Austin Series 3 front-mounted pumper attend, which had previously served as Whittlesea’s Pumper for approximately nine years. “CFA is a community organisation, and our brigades don’t exist without community input and support, whether that’s people joining as members, donating to our brigade or supporting their loved ones to volunteer,” Mr Gardner said. “We wanted this to be a shared celebration with the whole community, to thank them for helping us be successful for 100 years.” The Whittlesea and District Bush Fire Brigade was first formed in December 1926, as a direct result of the 1926 Black Sunday fires. Eventually expanding to both the Whittlesea Rural Fire Brigade and Whittlesea Urban Fire Brigade, the two amalgamated in 1994 to create the brigade we know today. While there have been many changes in the past 100 years, Mr Gardner said the brigade has adapted well. “We have seen huge change in the wider development of the area and how the land is used, from timber production and full-time farming to more urban areas and smaller hobby farms,” he said. “Like all brigades, we’ve also seen a significant change in the equipment we use,

Whittlesea Fire Brigade held a torchlight parade to mark its centenary. (Supplied)

from the early days of buckets and beaters to the full array of equipment we have now.“ The brigade has been involved in many major bushfires across Victoria over the years, with the February 2009 Black Saturday fires one of the most significant. “I look back proudly at how we tackled the challenges of such a major disaster. Not just in the response phase, but how we looked after each other and the community in the aftermath,” Mr Gardner said.

“We had a great captain at the time, Ken Williamson, who did a phenomenal job leading the brigade through arguably one of the toughest periods in its entire history.” One of the biggest changes the brigade has seen was joining the previous Emergency Medical Response (EMR) program in 2008, and more recently the Fire Medical Response (FMR) program, responding to cardiac arrests and life-threatening calls alongside Ambulance Victoria. Looking to the future, Mr Gardner said

the brigade will continue to adapt to the changing community they support. “Whittlesea and our surrounds have seen significant growth, and I’m looking forward to how the brigade continues to evolve to meet the needs of the community and bring on new technologies and new skills,” Richard said. “We’re also now seeing the next generation of people come through, and I’m really excited to see them step up and be the next leaders of the fire brigade.”

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Police put brakes on hoons A man performing burnouts in a Bundoora parkland and attendees of Mill Park hoon events are among more than 1300 people arrested in a single year for hooning offences. New Crime Statistics Agency figures shows this resulted in 3517 charges in the year to March 2026. Recently, police impounded a white four-wheel-drive for hoon driving offences after the driver allegedly performed numerous burnouts in parkland at Bundoora, causing significant damage. The vehicle then allegedly struck a traffic sign and collided with a parked car, according to police. A 21-year-old Watsonia North man is expected to be charged on summons. The

man was also served with a notice to surrender his vehicle. The vehicle was surrendered to police earlier this month and has been impounded for 30 days. Last month, police were called to dismantle a hoon event outside a shopping centre in Mill Park – resulting in a 20-yearold man from Bundoora being interviewed. Police also interviewed four men for hoon-related offending after dismantling a hoon event in Mill Park in June. The four men, two of them aged 27 from Bundoora and South Morang, as well as a 22-year-old from Epping and a 26-year-old from the Northern Territory, are all expected to be charged. Police are continuing to investigate a

hoon event in Mickleham during which a number of vehicles and more than 100 spectators congregated at the intersection of Aitken Boulevard and Eclipse Drive on 11 July. A male pedestrian was struck by a white Ford falcon sedan conducting a burnout at the event, causing the pedestrian to be flung a considerable distance and sustaining injuries, police said. The horrific incident was recorded by bystanders and subsequently uploaded on to several social media platforms – with investigators seeking assistance from the public to identify the driver of the white Ford Falcon. North-West Metro Road Policing Acting

Inspector Matthew Wheeler said hoons show a complete disregard for not only their own safety, but the safety of all road users. “Some of the hoon behaviour we have seen recently is incredibly irresponsible and can result in death and serious injury,” he said. “At hoon meets the margin for error is so small spectators are often just centimetres from disaster. “Drivers found guilty of hoon-related offences face hefty fines, up to two years imprisonment or both and mandatory loss of their drivers licence.” Acting Inspector Wheeler said police have the intelligence and tactics to identify hoons and take action.

Gathering Place inspires students

Carmone Homestead. (Supplied)

Historic homestead set to reopen its doors After more than a year closed to the public Carome Homestead in Mernda is preparing to reopen in early October, following a significant program of works to the property and its grounds. The homestead is one of the oldest buildings in the Whittlesea municipality, having been built in 1861. The homestead is of historical significance to Victoria as the site of one of the state’s earliest water-powered flour mills, known as the Carome Mill. Some rem-

nants of the mill still remain overlooking the Plenty River. Carome Homestead is also home to the Mernda Community Garden and the former Wollert Church. Construction on the Plenty River trail which runs through the site is due to begin soon. It will be a hive of activity throughout spring and summer months. Griha by Lumanti steps in as the site’s new hospitality operator, marking an exciting new era for this much-loved home-

stead. Following repeated requests from the community for a dedicated event space, Kriti Maharjan and her team at Lumanti are now stepping into that role at Carome Homestead with their new hospitality venture. “Griha means home, and the name felt like a natural way to honour the building’s history while reflecting the atmosphere we want the space to create for our guests,” said Ms Maharjan.

Police reservists deployed to Hume in a bid to free up officers Police reservists will be deployed to Hume in a effort to free up serving police officers for front-line duties. Victoria Police said 75 reservists would be deployed to seven stations: Broadmeadows, Keilor Downs, Sunshine, Fawkner, Preston, Morwell and Swan Hill. Police said 48 stations across the state now have reservists. A total of 175 former police members have returned to take up the newly created frontline support officer role. Victoria Police has received funding

for 400 reservist positions, double the original allocation of 200. Reservists work at police station public counters and perform back-of-house duties, allowing serving officers to be released into the community. The state government says a key focus of the roll-out is having reservists support police investigations. This includes reviewing incoming crime reports and identifying potential lines of inquiry for detectives. Reservists receive a full-time salary

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of $86,188 a year and nine weeks of paid leave. They can work full-time or parttime and do not work nights or weekends. The latest wave of 75 reservists will be deployed between September 21 and October 11. “We urge any former members out there to consider a return as the roll-out of this initiative continues,” Superintendent John Kearney said. “We’re especially keen to hear from former police interested in supporting crime investigations.”

Monash University engineering students recently visited the Whittlesea’s Aboriginal Gathering Place to gain insight into how culture, community and engineering come together to create spaces that foster connection and belonging. The visit provided students with a first-hand look at how cultural values and community aspirations helped shape the design of the Aboriginal Gathering Place and the surrounding landscape. As part of their coursework, fourthyear civil and environmental engineering students are using the Aboriginal Gathering Place as a real-world case study, learning directly from Whittlesea council staff, project professionals and First Peoples community members. During the visit to the Aboriginal Gathering Place, located within bunjil nganga Parkland, Quarry Hills in South Morang, students heard from project partners and explored how engineering, design and culture were woven together throughout the development. They also met with a member of the Whittlesea Aboriginal Gathering Place Advisory Group who provided valuable insights into the importance of community engagement and cultural understanding when delivering major projects. Student Tiwanthya Konara said the experience reinforced the importance of listening to communities and understanding their needs. “I realised how important an engineer’s role is in the community, where it seems that the goal is to make things better for the community,“ she said. Ms Konara said learning about First Peoples’ perspectives had broadened her understanding of the responsibilities engineers have when designing places for future generations. “One of the most profound things I found out was how important spirituality is for the First Peoples, and how connected they are to nature,” she said. “It prompts us as engineers to always take the environment into consideration and to not harm the environment as much as possible.” Opened in early 2026, the Aboriginal Gathering Place is a welcoming community space that brings people together to connect, learn and share knowledge. It supports the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal communities, while creating opportunities for cultural engagement, reconciliation, healing, inclusion and greater equity across the broader community.

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Hume’s Christmas wish By Georgia Tacey Christmas has come early to Hume council, with councillors wrapping up plans for the city’s festive decorations while calling for a little more community magic. Councillors voted at their September 14 meeting to award a three-year contract for the supply, installation and storage of Hume’s Christmas decorations. But Cr Ally Watson wants to deck the halls a little differently from 2027, calling for greater community involvement in the city’s Christmas celebrations. Her additional recommendation will see council officers investigate ways to supplement the existing Christmas in Hume program with community-led initiatives, including locally designed decorations, installations by local artists,

school and community group projects and festive activations tailored to individual neighbourhoods. Cr Watson said she supported the new three-year contract but believed there was an opportunity to broaden the festive spirit beyond council’s traditional approach. “Some of the most memorable Christmas decorations are not necessarily the most expensive,” Cr Watson said. “Often they are the ones that bring communities together and create a genuine sense of ownership and pride. “Whether it is schools creating decorations, local artists contributing installations, community groups participating in festive projects, or traders associations helping activate our local centres.” Cr Jarrod Bell backed the idea, suggesting Hume take a leaf out of its north-

ern neighbour Macedon Ranges council’s Christmas carol book. “I don’t believe Macedon Ranges [council] spends a single dollar on their Christmas program or if they do, it’s not a program like what we do,” he said. “It’s more closely aligned to the initiative that Cr Watson is speaking to, where you know you drive through Riddells Creek and it’s along the sides of the main road of the main road … these beautiful Christmas trees decorated by the local primary school, the men’s shed, the Montessori school. “That is that community driven and community directed festivity that I think is sometimes missing here in Hume.” He said Hume’s Christmas decorations budget had “doubled, doubled again, and then doubled again” during his time on

council. While supporting the existing program, Cr Bell said he would like to see some of that festive responsibility handed back to the community. “With a little bit of support possibly from council, we could absolutely have an amazing display of community-led, community-supported, community-encouraged and community-driven festivities across our city and that’s something I would like to see, a little bit of that Macedon Ranges magic coming south of the border into the city of Hume.” The festive plans received unanimous support, with councillors voting to award the three-year decorations contract and investigate ways to supplement the program with community-led initiatives from 2027.

Bogged to busted

Giuseppe Angelo, Salvatore Angelo and Bianca Angelo at St Monica’s College (supplied)

Three generations of Angelo spirit St Monica’s College in Epping recently welcomed the Angelo family to celebrate and reflect a connection that has spanned across three generations, as year 12 student Bianca Angelo finishes her last year at the school. Giuseppe Angelo was an active member of the college’s Italian Parent’s Committee during the late 1980s while his sons attended St Monica’s. The committee would arrange raffles and fund raising events with the members volunteering their skills to complete paving, tiling and building

maintenance work around the campus. Principal, Sister Harriet Glesson ,approached Angelo in 1988 to make the original cross on the Davisson Street campus building more visible as he was a self-employed tiler. The tiles were donated and Angelo carefully fixed them to the cross that still remains today. “I feel very proud, especially because my granddaughter is here now,” he said. “I believe it is good to give to others in life. To return and see that the cross is still here after so many years means more to

me than I can explain.” Salvatore Angelo, Giuseppe’s son attended St Monica’s and was a part of the class of 1993 and chose to send his daughter Bianca as there “everyone cared for each other” during his time there. Bianca is proud of her grandfather and his work, saying it was “special to know” that her grandfather helped create something. “Seeing the cross throughout my own time at the college makes me feel closely connected to my family’s history,” she said.

Improving access to healthy food for residents across Whittlesea The City of Whittlesea is partnering with VicHealth to deliver Healthy Plates, Strong Cultures: Equity in Local Food Systems. Through VicHealth’s Partners in Place initiative, council will work with community members, local organisations and businesses to improve how healthy food is supplied and accessed locally. By bringing together community organisations, local growers and food businesses, health services, schools and neighbourhood houses to identify the barriers

they face in accessing healthy food and working together on practical solutions with the project focusing on local food partnership and will be co-led by council and community representatives. According to the VicHeath Partners in Place, the program supports locally led action that improves the everyday conditions that shape health. “From access to healthy food and opportunities to be active, to stronger connections and a greater voice for young

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people.” It aims to make healthy food easier to access and support long-term improvements in food security, health and wellbeing. Partners in Place is VicHealth’s longterm initiative supporting councils and communities to improve health and wellbeing locally, bringing together 23 councils and community coalitions across Victoria to improve the everyday factors that affect people’s health and wellbeing, including access to healthy food.

The owner of a truck that got bogged less than 50 metres from a mound of illegally dumped demolition waste on Oaklands Road has been fined following a social media spectacle. In scenes that went viral in August, a man was caught waiting helplessly beside the bogged truck, with photos shared across social media and by Hume councillor Naim Kurt. Hume council, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria arrived on the scene at Oaklands Road in Bulla, where EPA officers measured the waste pile and found it was the same size as the skip bin on the back of the bogged truck. They said further inspection showed scraps of material matched the pile that were still in the bin. But despite the evidence, the man denied he or the vehicle had any connection to the dumping. “He insisted he hadn’t even been driving,” EPA north metropolitan regional manager Steve Riley said. “He told us his boss just happened to pull the truck over at that spot because he was having leg cramps, before mysteriously leaving in an Uber. “While it was a creative explanation, it was not a convincing one. “We have fined the registered owner of the truck and ordered them to clean up the waste. If they don’t comply, they will face further fines and enforcement actions.” Mr Riley said under Victorian law, all waste must be taken to a place licensed to safely handle it. “The Illegal Waste Dumping Taskforce has zero tolerance for this behaviour and is working hard with councils and partner agencies to put a stop to it,” he said. The truck’s owner has been fined $2091 for unlawful deposit of waste under Section 115 of the Environment Protection Act. They were given a Waste Abatement Notice requiring them to take the waste to a facility licensed to receive it. Mr Riley thanked the members of the public who reported the bogged truck, as well the Hume and NHVR representatives who worked alongside EPA authorised officers. “Illegal dumping is too big a problem for any one regulator or agency to solve on its own, but working together we can make a huge difference,” he said.

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Major works are underway on stage two of the Yan Yean Road upgrade. Work has started on delivering an extra lane in each direction between Kurrak and Bridge Inn roads, upgraded intersections, and a new walking and cycling path. The upgrades on parts of the road between Doreen and Yarrambat, is expected to improve traffic flow and make travel more reliable around one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing regions. The first two intersection upgrades are on track to be completed in early 2027.

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Norris Bank Primary School acting principal Daniel Taylor, Scullin MP Andrew Giles with school captains. (Neo Williams)

New playgrounds, double fun

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

Students have access to two new playgrounds at Norris Bank Primary School. Scullin MP Andrew Giles was on hand to open the upgraded junior and senior playgrounds at Norris Bank Primary School in Bundoora. The project involved the installation of two new junior and senior playgrounds that students could use to play, socialise and stay active daily. The federal government allocated $977,238 to the project through its Schools Upgrade Fund, with additional funding

raised by the school. “These new facilities will be a welcome asset to Norris Bank Primary School, to be utilised by students right now and into the future,” Mr Giles said. “The teachers, staff and students at Norris Bank Primary School have built a strong and positive school community and these new facilities will further enhance the experience for students,“ Mr Giles said. Other upgrade projects from the same fund include the refurbishment of four student toilet blocks at Findon Primary School.

Police are investigating a firearms incident in Greenvale on 22 September. It is understood multiple shots were fired at a man from a vehicle outside a residence on Galileo Place about 5.50pm. The 28-year-old man was not physically injured, while the offender fled the scene. Officers have been told the victim was exiting his vehicle at the time of the incident, which is being treated as targeted. Investigators are keen to speak with anyone with vision of the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.

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Offering refugees a voice A new four-part podcast series exploring Australia’s offshore detention regime has just been released, including firsthand accounts from people still detained on Naoero, and interviews with former detainees now living on short term visas in Australia. Cade Lucas reports.

F

or a quarter of a century Footscray’s Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) has been supporting and advocating for the rights of refugees, and people seeking asylum, providing everything from legal advice and representation, to help accessing housing, education and medical care, to emergency food supplies through its foodbank. But earlier this month, the ASRC embarked on a new way of advocating for the rights of refugees: by simply telling their stories. “Out of Sight Out of Mind is podcast that is really critical for our times,” ASRC chief executive and founder Kon Karapandgiotidis said of the new four-part podcast series telling the stories of those who’ve been detained in Australia’s off-shore detention system, primarily on the island Naoero (formerly Nauru). “Out of Sight and Out of Mind is important because for the first time in Australia, it’s a podcast that gives a voice to refugees themselves.” Once a hot-button issue, especially when the Coalition led by Tony Abbott returned to power promising to ‘stop the boats’ and re-established Australia’s off-shore detention centre network, the plight of asylum seekers languishing in places like Naoero has receded from view as the boats stopped, the detention centers closed, Covid-19 happened and the Coalition was turfed out of office. But far from going away, Mr Karapanagiotidis said the issue had instead morphed from concern about asylum seekers arriving by boat, to a much larger and uglier debate about immigration itself. “At a time where we’re seeing a rise of racism, far-right parties and the dehumanising of refugees, migrants and pretty much all of multicultural Australia, more than ever we need to hear the stories of the people behind the dehumanisation and bigotry,” he said, adding that while the the debate had grown into something bigger and places like Naoro and Manus Island were now rarely in the news, Australia was still holding asylum seekers in off-shore detention, hence the title of the podcast. “It’s called Out of Sight Out of Mind because that’s the whole intention of keeping people detained off-shore; if they’re out of sight, they’re out of mind.” The series attempts to address this from the beginning, with episode one ‘Naoero Now’ featuring the first person account of Ravi, a young Bangladeshi man currently being held on the tiny Micronesian island nation while seeking asylum in Australia. “They treat us like animals, we are animals. We don’t have any hope, any dreams,” Ravi said of life in Naoero, where he’s been for the last two years; the first six months in detention and the rest in the community. “Like if we’ve got any problem in Naoero, no one responds to that. If we have any problems, like health problems, like legal problems here, we are helpless.” The situation is better for former Naoero detainees now living in Australia, though not by a lot. Among those interviewed for episode two ‘Women and Children Last’, is Ethiopian born Betelhem Tebebu, who arrived in Australia by boat in 2013 after fleeing her homeland in search of safety. Transferred to Naoero, Betelhem spent years in detention before eventually being transferred to Australia in 2017 on a short-term bridging visa.

Chief executive of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) Kon Karapanagiotidis at its Footscray’s headquarters. The ASRC has launched a new podcast series. (Damjan Janevski) 579773 03

More than ever we need to hear the stories of the people behind the dehumanisation and bigotry - Kon Karapandgiotidis Now a mother of a young daughter and working for a major public transport company in Melbourne, Betelhem said the impact of her time on Naoero lingered. “Still I am like a cracked mirror trying to collect all the pieces and put myself back together. Offshore detention hurt us so badly that it takes many years to recover,” she said, adding that uncertainty over visa status was itself a form of detention. “I am now a half free woman on Naarm (Melbourne), but my sadness still remains because of this temporary bridging visa.” Betelhem’s story is detailed alongside that of Reza and Yasmin, a father and daughter who along with the rest of their family, have spent 14 years on bridging visas, firstly on Naoero and since 2018, in Australia. “Fourteen years is a lifetime to live without certainty,” Reza said. “We spent years in detention, we endured what no family should have to endure, and we came to Australia hoping to rebuild our lives. We did rebuild them. Australia became our home.” Yasmin, who was just 10 when the family was sent to Naoro and is now in her 20s, said while the bridging visas were temporary, their lives weren’t meant to be. “We are ready to stop waiting and finally start living.” In episode three ‘Blowing the Whistle’, Nicole, a humanitarian worker who spent

10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 29 September, 2026

two years supporting families detained on Naoero, and former Guardian journalist Paul Farrell reveal how whistleblowers, leaked documents and investigative reporting exposed the human rights abuses at the detention centre. Concluding the series, episode four ‘Taking Action’, contains interviews with refugee advocates and campaigners who helped release children from immigration detention on Naoero. The first three episodes Out of Sight Out of Mind are available now, while the fourth episode will be released on 1 October. An audio only podcast at a time when the industry is morphing into a type of cheap television, Karapangiotidis said the sensitivity of the issue and the fact many of those interviewed are still having their asylum claims heard meant a video version wasn’t really an option. With the exception of Betelhem, every other asylum seeker interviewed for the series has had their names changed and images withheld to protect privacy. Despite this, Karapanagiotis said the response to the first two episodes had been positive and that he was hopeful of partnering with a major podcast provider to help the series stand out in the crowded podcast space. “We’ve been in talks trying to see if one of the big podcast providers would be willing to profile it and push it out further, because you’re up against Joe Rogan and all these types,” he said. “We’ve just done it off our own bat.” Listen to Out of Sight Out of Mind at: https://action.asrc.org.au/out_of_sight_ out_of_mind A petition running alongside the podcast series demanding former off-shore detainees on bridging visas be allowed stay in Australia, can be found at: https:// action.asrc.org.au/let_them_stay_for_ good_petition

Former Naoero detainee Betelhem Tebebu is interviewed for episode two of the Out of Sight Out of Mind podcast. (Supplied)

Asylum seekers on Naoero. (Supplied)

FEATURING ... EDUCATION

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St Monica’s College partners with Crusader Caravans St Monica’s College, Epping, is proud to announce a new partnership with Crusader Caravans Melbourne that will expand opportunities for students through sport, community participation, service and cultural learning. As Premier Partner of the college’s AFL Academy, Crusader Caravans Melbourne will support the continued development of the program and several important football initiatives, including the AFL Anzac Day match against MacKillop College, the AFL Northern Premiership and the Junior Girls Skill Development Program. Crusader Caravans Melbourne will also support the SMC Trivia Night and the Philippines Immersion program. Together, these initiatives will provide students with valuable opportunities to develop leadership, confidence, teamwork, cultural awareness and a deeper commitment to social justice. College principal, Brian Hanley OAM, welcomed the partnership and acknowledged the positive contribution it will make to the lives of students. “At St Monica’s College, we are committed to providing outstanding opportunities that enable our students to discover and develop their gifts and talents, both within and beyond the classroom,” Mr Hanley said. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to investing in young people and supporting experiences that promote excellence, service, participation and personal growth. We sincerely thank Crusader Caravans Melbourne for its generous support of our students and College community.” General manager, operations & planning at Crusader Caravans Melbourne

Michael and Paris Valentino of Crusader Caravans.

Paris Valentino said the organisation was proud to partner with the college. “Crusader Caravans Melbourne is delighted to partner with St Monica’s College and support programs that provide young people with meaningful opportunities to learn, grow and thrive,” Ms Valentino said. “We look forward to developing a strong and lasting relationship with the college and contributing to initiatives

St Monicas College principal Brian Hanley OAM.

that will benefit students, families and the wider community.” St Monica’s College looks forward to working closely with Crusader Caravans

Melbourne throughout 2027 as this partnership creates new opportunities for students and strengthens connections across the college and wider community.

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FEATURING ... SENIORS

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Planning a holiday: Follow these senior-friendly travel tips Travel, regardless of age, is an enlightening endeavour. It allows the mind to expand, challenges preconceptions, and offers a refreshing change from routine. As seniors, travel provides an added dimension: it affirms life’s vitality, proving that curiosity doesn’t wane with age. For seniors, travel planning requires meticulous preparation and an appreciation for comfort and accessibility. Whether planning a weekend escape, a family reunion, or the adventure of a lifetime across seas, this blog aims to empower you to travel safely, comfortably, and confidently. Retirement Travel Ideas Retirement is a golden opportunity to explore destinations at a relaxed pace without the constraints of limited holiday leave. Here are some destinations perfect for retirees seeking varied experiences: ■ Tuscany, Italy: Renowned for its rolling hills, vineyards, and historical towns like Florence and Siena, Tuscany offers a blend of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and serene countryside. Life moves at a slower pace in Italy. ■ Kyoto, Japan: Offering a deep dive into traditional Japanese culture with its temples, tea ceremonies, and gardens, Kyoto is a serene contrast to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. ■ Provence, France: Lavender fields, historical towns, and local markets make this region a delightful blend of sensory experiences. Senior Travel Safety Tips Preparation is key: ■ Secure your accommodations, transportation, and activities well ahead of time. ■ Familiarise yourself with local customs,

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Stay connected ■ Keep a mobile phone and ensure it works internationally. When you land, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming package. ■ Share your itinerary. Let a family member or friend know your plans and check in regularly. As one of Melbourne’s reputable retire-

ment village providers, Centennial Living encapsulates the essence of a community-centric living environment for seniors. Our retirement villages in Melbourne have been designed with accessibility and enjoyment in mind, offering ground-floor accommodations complemented by a thoughtfully curated activity calendar, ensuring all residents find something to resonate with. If you would like to learn more, please call 1300 098 000 to speak to a team member or visit www.centennialliving.com.au today!

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NEWS

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FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

10 years ago

7 years ago

5 years ago

1 year ago

4 October, 2016

24 September, 2019

5 October, 2021

30 September, 2025

Burglaries are on the rise in Whittlesea, with an average of 35 properties broken into each week in the past financial year.

Police officers could become the latest victims of Broadmeadows’ parking shortage, with parking spaces currently used by police set to be returned to Hume council next month.

Hume councillor Naim Kurt says he is “beyond disgusted” after a scam letter – purporting to be from him – was sent out to ratepayers, directing them to pay money to Hume council or risk being jailed.

Hume residents owe more than $45 million in overdue council rates, with councillors urging households to reach out early for support rather than letting debts spiral.

Khay Mina and Gerrina Power lead Zumba at Brimbank’s commUnity+ cultural festival.

Cheryl Adams is a member of the Broadmeadows & District Garden Club in her the garden.

(Damjan Janevski) 578847 08

(Damjan Janevski) 578420 04

Hesket-Kerrie Fire Brigade captain Daniel Bird and members celebrate the brigade’s 60th anniversary. (Damjan Jnaevski) 578507 04

Faces of the west

Macedeon Ranges council manager economic development & visitor economy Lydia Sorensen and heritage planner Dannielle Orr at the Malmsbury Viaduct. (Damjan Janevski) 577657_01

Each week Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing events and people across the north west. Artist and costume maker Sarah Seahorse with Victoria (10) at the St Albans Community Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 578479 03

16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 29 September, 2026

Springside West Secondary College students Kayla, Amy, Helina and Nurin with principal John Goodman. (Damjan Janevski) 578869 02

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NEWS

Inner galaxies on display Art lovers will be given a small look into the inner galaxies of a group of Latrobe Lifeskills participants. Latrobe Lifeskills is running an Inner Galaxies Art Exhibition coming this October at Galleria Crocodillo, which will feature work by Lifeskills Bundoora participants using a range of mediums to showcase their inner galaxies. Each artist has explored the things that are important to them: their interests, experiences, ideas and the things they enjoy. Using different materials and creative approaches, participants have been able to express themselves in their own way. The artists describe each artwork as a window into their own inner galaxy. This exhibition celebrates the creativity and individuality of each participant, and the joy that comes from having the opportunity to create, share and be heard through art. Artist Katrina Shepherd’s work is inspired by artist Yayoi Kusama. She said the show would be good and it would be wonderful. “I like her colour schemes,” she said. “I drew a painting of hers last year and I wanted to make a monster out of this and that’s why the face is a bit more different. I haven’t really done sewing in my life and I thought, well I’ll try doing sewing. So I thought I’ll make a monster.” Shepherd said she had some help from one of their placement students along with her teacher. “It’s taken me a while but I got to actually learn how to sew and I never knew how to sew. And I have only attempted to

Ethan Kha. (Supplied)

sew in my life maybe three or four times and I’m 42 years old.” Another artist Ethan Kha made his piece of art completely from yarn. “Over a sunny seaside, a beach, there are vibrant colours that are used to create a rainbow shape,” he said of his piece. “What inspired me is that I saw this picture when I was watching TV shows when I was little, or playing entertainment and educational games on my iPad since I was a child. And I also did some

research on Google.” Kha said he really liked the colours in his artwork, especially the rainbow part. He said he was excited about everything about the exhibition. Kha described the exhibition as artistic, majestic, magnificent, vibrant, colourful, natural and knowledgeable. Inner Galaxies runs from 1-11 October at Galleria Crocodillo, Reservoir. Katrina Shepherd. (Supplied)

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CALENDAR

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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. Mill Park Community House Neuro Group: A social group catering for people with MS and neurological disabilities. Group runs Mondays and Fridays. Members enjoy bingo, card games and group outings, as well as much more. There is a $10 yearly fee and a $4 weekly for tea, coffee and snacks. Carers friendship group: Supports families and friends who care for someone experiencing mental illness. Monthly meet ups on the forth Wednesday of every month. $2 per month. Coffee & Chat: A relaxed and friendly space where everyone is welcome. Connect with community, share stories and enjoy tea and coffee in good company. Every Thursday 1-3pm. $2 per week Recycled teenagers senior group: a great social group to socialise, play bingo and card games and a monthly lunch. $10 yearly fee and $2 a week. Held every Tuesday. ■ Natasha, 0408 561 597 HUME U3A Health and Wellbeing as you age is Hume U3A’S focus. Join the community and engage in activities that enrich your body, mind and spirit. Hume U3A meets at Gladstone Park Community Centre, 13 South Circular Road, Gladstone Park. ■ 9330 3239, secretary@humeu3a.org.au, or https://humeu3a.org.au/ Craigieburn Residents’ Association Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening re-roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? Head to Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn on the last Wednesday of the month for the Craigieburn Residents’ Association meeting. The group liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. Meetings start at 7.30pm. ■ craigieburnresidents@gmail.com, 0430 354 463 Menergise men’s walk and talk Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House. A nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze. ■ 0475 454 133 Senior citizens meet The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the corner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park. ■ Liz, 0433 249 995 Craigieburn Probus Club Craigieburn Probus Club offers retired people an opportunity to socialise, go on monthly bus trips, enjoy dine outs and morning melodies among other activities like general business, morning tea and an interesting speaker. Every second Monday of the month at the Craigieburn Bowling Club, 233 Craigieburn Road, Craigieburn. ■ Bill, 0411 517 217 or Marion, 0407 052 774 Inclusive tennis A free weekly tennis program for people with disabilities and/or special needs, or if you’re just struggling to access mainstream sport programs. Held at Epping Tennis Club, 861 High Street, Epping, on Thursdays from 5-6pm. ■ play.tennis.com.au/eppingtennisclub. com.au

Micah, 8, with artist Jennifer Tran during a Patch by Patch workshop at St Albans Community Centre.(Damjan Janevski) 580445

Mernda Repair cafe Located at Mernda Neighbourhood House, the Mernda Repair Cafe will be open monthly for residents to come and have their faulty or broken items fixed. Staffed by skilled volunteers from the community. A range of repairers will be available at each session with skills in repairing items including bikes, small electrical items, clothing and jewellery. ■ Mernda Repair Cafe Facebook page for bookings each month. Regular Storytime for Kids Yarra Plenty Regional Library offers a range of children’s services and programs across their network of libraries. They are run every day with sessions for young babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and families. Come along to help your child develop those crucial language skills and social connections. ■ yprl.vic.gov.au All Seasons All Seasons provides young adults living with disabilities and their friends, family and carers, with the opportunity to garden, craft, recycle, be creative and connect nature in a supportive setting. Tuesdays 10am-noon. Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown. ■ 0488 224 439 or manager@tnh.org.au Bridgewater Retirement Village Dance Bridgewater Retirement Village is holding a free afternoon dance. There will be a bit of line dancing and some new vogue. The dance will occur on the third Sunday of every month, 1pm start. Everyone is welcome. Address 9 Wedgewood Road Roxburgh

18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 29 September, 2026

Park. ■ Liz Munro, 0409 712 613 Craigieburn CWA The Craigieburn Branch of CWA welcomes women of all ages to their meetings and craft sessions which are held on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Meetings begin at 10.30am followed by lunch and a craft or socialising session. Meeting venue is St Thomas’s Uniting Church corner of Rayfield and Dianne Avenues in Craigieburn. ■ craigieburncwa@gmail.com or Karen, 0499 821 754 Gladstone Park Probus Club Have fun with like minded people if you live in Gladstone Park and surrounding suburbs. Monthly speakers, lunches, outings and bus tours. The probus club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 9.45am at the Good Shepherd Parish Hall, 88 South Circular Road, Gladstone Park. Visitors and new members welcome. ■ Chris, 0422 017 907 Bundoora Probus Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peter’s Anglican Church hall, Alma Road, Bundoora. Enjoy guest speakers, excursions, coffee mornings, lunches, walks and craft sessions. ■ bundooraprobus@outlook.com Community singing group Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing. ■ Sonja, 0429 587 285

Chatty Cafe Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.307.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park. ■ https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/ TAC L2P Program The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed. ■ Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371 Adult education Banksia Gardens Community Services offers adult education courses including an introduction to computers. ■ 9309 8531 Homestead Walking Group Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk. ■ https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x The Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker. Enjoy a dance between 7-11pm on the third saturday of every month. ■ Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, lizmunro7@ gmail.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

Women tell stories Emerging theatre maker, performer, creative producer and director Izabella Day is bringing women’s voices to centre stage through pictureher, a new multidisciplinary performance being developed with the support of The Bowery Theatre’s 2026–27 Residency Program. Day is co-founder of Vixen Theatre Company, an Australian independent theatre collective established with Iris Warren, Roisin Wallace Nash and Natasha Pearson. Working under the ethos “by women, for women”, the collective creates bold feminist theatre exploring womanhood, identity and social issues. pictureher draws directly from interviews with women from across the west of Naarm, including retirement home residents, cultural and community leaders and young women. Their stories

Vixen Theatre Company. (Charli Bowers)

and perspectives will be brought together through theatre, dance, music and visual art. The work will feature women’s voices spoken aloud by an actor, interpreted by dancers and transformed onto canvas,

creating a layered exploration of how women see themselves — and how society sees them. For Day and the Vixen team, the residency provides an opportunity to take creative risks while developing a work rooted in the experiences of the local community. The Bowery Theatre Residency Program supports artists and arts organisations to create and present new work with and for the Brimbank community. The 2026–27 program features projects spanning theatre, music, expanded cinema and site-specific public performance. pictureher will culminate in a presentation at the Bowery Theatre, offering audiences a chance to experience local women’s stories through an energetic mix of performance, movement, music and art.

Marsh Rodders Swap Meet and Show & Shine Marsh Rodders Swap Meet and Show & Shine will return to Maddingley Park on Sunday 18 October. (Damjan Janevski) 353426_05

Bacchus Marsh and surrounds motoring enthusiasts won’t want to miss the upcoming 29th Marsh Rodders Show and Shine and Swap Meet, returning to Maddingley park for another huge day celebrating classic cars, hot rods, motorcycles and everything in between this October. With more than 600 vehicles attending last year’s showstopper event, visitors can expect an incredible display of cars, bikes, trucks, buses, and other unique vehicles from across the region. On Sunday 18 October, Maddingley Park

will host the local spectacle, as guests are invited to wander through the packed swap meet, browse trade stalls, enjoy a bite from food vendors, and see who takes home the coveted Show and Shine trophies. Whether you’re searching for rare parts, admiring beautifully restored classics or simply enjoying a great family day out, there’s something for every motoring fan. Hosted by the Marsh Rodders Hot Rod Club, this popular community event also raises funds for local charities and organisations supporting the Bacchus

Marsh community. Public admission is $5, with free entry for children under 16 when accompanied by a paying adult. Vehicle entry is $20 and motorcycles are $10. Trade stands and swap meet sites are also available. Swap Meet stall holders can enter from 6.30am, while public entry opens at 7am and award presentations start from 12.30pm. Maddingley Park is located at 1 Taverner street, Maddingley. For details: https://tinyurl.com/ mvpd4r4t.

Katy Steele brings stripped back show to Yarraville Following the release of latest solo album, Undressed, earlier this year, Little Birdy frontwoman Katy Steele is taking her intimate live experience to the inner west early next month with a performance at Kindred Bandroom in Yarraville. Known for the soaring anthems of Little Birdy and the richly layered production of her solo work, Undressed represents a departure for Steele, with songs stripped back to their purest form; voice, piano, guitar and nothing to hide behind. The album features interpretations of songs from her extensive back-catalogue, as well as covers of timeless classics including Patti Smith’s ’Because The Night’, Lou Reed’s ‘Perfect Day’, and Michael Jackson’s ‘Ben’.

Like the album, Steele’s show at Kindred Brandroom on Sunday 4 October will represent a departure from the big stages she’s performed on in the past. Part of a she’s tour of small venues across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia, Steele’s Yarraville show will be a matinee beginning at 3pm on a Sunday afternoon instead of the usual Friday or Saturday night gig. And Steele will perform in an intimate duo setting rather than with the backing of a full band. It promises to be a raw and personal performance where the stories and lyrics take centre stage. For more information and tickets, go to: https://tinyurl.com/4x5sn8t7

Working bee group and building frame, c.1915 - Paul William Merlo.

Explore the past during October History Month is popping up in Lancefield and Kilmore to explore the history of both towns. This October, communities across Victoria will mark History Month in a state-wide celebration inviting locals to explore the histories of their own towns, suburbs and neighbourhoods. Around 100 local historical societies, museums, libraries and community groups from across the state are taking part, with the program including talks, walking tours, exhibitions, open days and community gatherings. Many participants are drawing on this year’s theme, “The places that made us,” exploring the buildings, streets and landmarks that shape local identity. Others are showcasing different aspects of their community’s history, with every organisation free to shape its event around whatever local history matters most to them. A two-day event will be held as part of the celebration across Lancefield and Kilmore. Hosted by the Historical Society Support Committee alongside Romsey and Lancefield Districts Historical Society and Kilmore Historical Society, this two-day event will explore the foundations of rural Victorian townships, with a focus on Kilmore and Lancefield. With the townships both dating back to the mid-1800s, the event will feature walking tours and talks on the development of Kilmore and Lancefield’s foundational institutions, including churches, schools, hospitals, banks, post offices and sporting clubs. Participants will also discover how the nineteenth century patterns of development remain visible in both these towns. On the first day, participants will start with a walking tour of Kilmore, before travelling into Lancefield for dinner and overnight accommodation and to hear from guest speakers Denis Graham and Chris Dynon from the Lancefield Football Club. On the second day, participants will take a walking tour of Lancefield, before spending the day hearing from guest speakers including Brain Clancy on the catholic church in Kilmore and Rosalie Triolo on the state schools and the school paper. You’ll also hear from Liz Dillon-Hensby and Fay Woodhouse about building hospitals in Kilmore and Lancefield, Craige Proctor who will tell the stories of pioneer women, and Paul Fearon on building the railways to country Victoria. The two-day event will take place on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October with the event starting at $45 with additional costs. Details: historymonth.org.au/ event/exploring-the-foundations-ofrural-victorian-townships/

Katy Steele will perform songs from her new album, Undressed, in Yarraville on 4 October. (Supplied)

Tuesday, 29 September, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

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Specialise in: Kitchens, vanities, laundries, wardrobes, storages. Showroom: 4 Henderson St, North Sunshine (03) 9191 6548 0423 595 388 sales@lnkitchens.com.au

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Melbourne United guard Cole Anthony was drafted by which team at the 2020 NBA draft? 2. Kalyn Ponga captains which NRL team?

3. The Dick Howser Trophy is awarded to the national US player of the year in which college sport?

10. Who won the 2026 Wooden Award, playing college basketball for the Duke Blue Devils?

4. Which Australian was voted to the AllTournament Second Team at the 2026 Women’s Basketball World Cup?

11. In what sport can you find the épée, foil and sabre?

5. John Doyle and Greig Pickhaver are better known as what comedy duo? 6. Who won the 2025 Heisman Trophy, playing college football for the Indiana Hoosiers? 7. What sport features in the 2000 film Air Bud: World Pup (also known as Air Bud 3)? 8. The 'Bo Knows' advertising campaign for Nike cross-training shoes featured which dual-sport athlete?

Cole Anthony

9. Which Brisbane Bronco has signed an ambassadorial deal with the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks?

HYROX race

12. Which country won the 2026 FIFA World Cup? 13. What sport is featured in the TV show Heated Rivalry? 14. What is the most common horse breed found in horse racing? 15. The 2026 Men’s Rugby League World Cup will feature how many teams? 16. Gary Ablett Jr. and Patrick Dangerfield jointly hold the record for the most career Brownlow Medal votes with how many: 159, 207 or 262? 17. Perth Wildcats guard Brandon Knight was drafted by which team at the 2011 NBA draft? 18. How many goals did the Brisbane Lions kick in the final 30 seconds of their preliminary final against Hawthorn?

19. And which two Hawthorn players were fined for abusing an umpire in the same match? 20. What is the name of the Hobart-based NBL team? 21. How many workout stations feature in a HYROX race? 22. What is the premier international team event in men’s tennis?

25. And what sport did this movie feature? 26. How many bases are there on a baseball field? 27. AFL player Ben King has announced his intention to play for what team in 2027? 28. How many teams has Latrell Mitchell played for during his NRL career?

23. And what is the women’s equivalent?

29. An Australian Indigenous team playing which sport toured England in 1868?

24. Which 2004 sports film directed by Clint Eastwood won the Academy Award for Best Picture?

30. Which retired NRL great recently announced a return to boxing with a November bout against Nelson Asofa-Solomona?

0210

12536910-CG08-22

1. Orlando Magic 2. Newcastle Knights 3. Baseball 4. Stephanie Talbot 5. Roy and HG 6. Fernando Mendoza 7. Soccer 8. Bo Jackson 9. Reece Walsh 10. Cameron Boozer 11. Fencing 12. Spain 13. Ice hockey 14. Thoroughbred 15. 10 16. 262 17. Detroit Pistons 18. Two 19. James Sicliy and Tom Barrass 20. Tasmania JackJumpers 21. Eight 22. The Davis Cup 23. The Billie Jean King Cup 24. Million Dollar Baby 25. Boxing 26. Four 27. Hawthorn Hawks 28. Two (Sydney Roosters and South Sydney Rabbithohs) 29. Cricket 30. Paul Gallen

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Tuesday, 29 September, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 21

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Today’s Aim: 10 words: Good 15 words: Very good 21 words: Excellent

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Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

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22 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 29 September, 2026

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4 LETTERS DYED EDGE FART ICES PUTT SAGA SECT SHED STEP STOW TAGS TOSS WAGE WAIF 5 LETTERS ADAPT ALIAS

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IMAGE IRATE LYMPH LYRIC NOSES OPIUM PEONY RESET REVEL ROUSE SAGES SALLY SCOFF SENSE SHRED SNEER SOAPS SPEAR STEWS TENDS TESTS THESE

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URANIUM USURPED VERSION

6 LETTERS CLASSY FIDGET GARGLE REPELS

8 LETTERS DEMUREST DETECTED HERRINGS RELEASES

7 LETTERS GULCHES ROOSTER SEAWEED

02-10-26

1

Mozart’s famous Eine kleine Nachtmusik translates to what in English?

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Which famous Australian bush poet appears on the country’s $10 note?

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In which US state is Yosemite National Park located?

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For which film did the late Diane Keaton (pictured) win the Academy Award for best actress?

Which Swedish car manufacturer filed for bankruptcy in 2011?

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Famous music producer Brian Eno was a member of which 1970s glam art rock band?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

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Digital protection (8) Alfresco meal (6) Paris cathedral, – Dame (5) City north of Sydney (9) Downhill ski race (6) Not one nor the other (7) Dilemma (8) Towards the back of the boat (6) Approach (6) Extremely small piece (8) Echo (7) Annual (6) Biological chemical made by phosphorus (9) Parasite (5) Wide-spreading dominion (6) Word-for-word (8)

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No. 309

4

Which F. Scott Fitzgerald novel was first published in 1925?

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How many edges does a cube have?

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Which transparent material is made from melted sand, soda ash and limestone?

10 The Importance of Being Earnest and An Ideal Husband are works by which Irish playwright? ANSWERS: 1. A Little Night Music 2. California 3. Annie Hall 4. The Great Gatsby 5. 12 6. Glass 7. Banjo Paterson 8. Saab 9. Roxy Music 10. Oscar Wilde

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

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

No. 309

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

SUDOKU

New Prado built for the bush By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Toyota says the new Prado delivers comprehensive improvements in driveability, off-road capability, safety, technology and functionality – all wrapped in a bold, stylish redesign that will appeal to urban families and off-road adventurers alike. We’ve spent a lot of time in the previous Prado, clocking up thousands of kilometres in Outback Western Australia. With four adults and their luggage, it was a bit of a squeeze at times and I would have loved to remove the two intrusive, fold-down third row seats to free up space. The focus for designers this time around, according to Mr Toyoda himself, was ‘practicality, durability and dependability’. Correct us if we are wrong, but that has always been the focus. What’s changed?

Styling Ten years ago, prices for the Prado started from $56,090; the Kakadu from $85,900. Fast forward and Prado now comes in five grades, kicking off with the bare bones GX from $73,200. GXL is priced from $79,690 (five-seat) or $80,690 (seven-seat), VX from $88,100 (seven-seat), Altitude $90,340 (five-seat) and top of the range Kakadu from $100,690 (seven-seat), excluding on-road costs. The three-figure sum for the Kakadu is quite frankly outrageous, putting it well beyond the reach of most families. The rest don’t aspire to own a Toyota. They want a Land Rover or one of the German brands, which leaves us wondering who will buy the new Prado. All grades of the Prado are powered by the same diesel-electric hybrid and all come with an automatic. There are eight exterior colours. Premium paint adds $675 while a two-tone paint job is $1675. Entry-level GX comes with five seats, fabric upholstery, dual-zone climate control, manually adjustment for seats, smart entry and start, LED headlights, all-speed adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, panoramic view monitor and 10-speaker audio. GXL adds a third row of seats and synthetic leather, heated and cooled front seats with power-adjust driver seat, leather-accented steering wheel and shift lever, rear aircon controls, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated and power-fold side mirrors and a powered tailgate. VX steps up to 20-inch alloys, a black vertical grille with the Toyota bullhorn logo, body-coloured bumpers and wheel arches. There’s also LED headlights with auto high beam, leather-accented upholstery, driver lumbar and seat memory, four-way power adjustable front passenger seat, power-adjustable steering wheel, refrigerated centre console box, a larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, multi-terrain monitor and 14-speaker JBL premium audio. Kakadu adds 20-inch wheels, heated and ventilated rear seats, manually-adjustable driver seat cushion length, illuminated side steps, and a limited slip diff. It also scores head-up display, a digital rear view mirror, heated steering wheel and tilt and slide panoramic sunroof. Our test vehicle this time was top of the range, seven-seat Kakadu.

Infotainment Multimedia across the lineup comes in the form of a 12.3-inch multimedia system

All variants of the Prado are powered by the same hybrid 2.8-litre turbo-diesel drivetrain, together with full-time 4WD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. (Supplied)

with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in satellite navigation with cloud function, AM/FM/DAB+ radio, Toyota Connected Services and a 10- or 14-speaker audio system. There are six USB-C charging ports, one 12V accessory port and a 220V charging port, plus a wireless charging pad.

Safety With nine airbags Prado has been awarded a full five stars for crash safety. Driver-assist features are designed to work on- and off-road, with an improved camera and radar system that is able to scan the road with greater accuracy and over greater distances. Systems include the autonomous emergency braking pre-collision safety (PCS) system, rear parking support brake, lane trace assist and lane departure warning, road sign assist, blind spot monitor with safe exit assist, emergency driving stop system and a driver monitor camera. A full-size spare is sequestered under the rear.

Engines/transmissions All variants are powered by the same hybrid 2.8-litre turbo-diesel drivetrain, together with full-time four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s the same diesel as used in Hilux and develops 150kW of power from 3000-3400 rpm and 500Nm of torque from 1600-2800 rpm (same outputs as before). But the new Prado is heavier than the old Prado and the power to weight ratio is worse, which means it won’t be as quick.

Driving Prado sits on the same GA-F platform as its larger sibling the Land Cruiser 300 Series. It’s 30 per cent stronger than before and it also means the ‘all-new’ Prado is larger, inside and out. The figures show it’s 16.5cm longer and 9.5cm wider, with a 6.0cm longer wheelbase plus wider front and rear tracks (distance between wheels). Access to the third-row seats is via the single, passenger side second row seat that folds and tumbles to make way. When not required the third-row seats fold flat, but not into the floor because there’s not enough room down there with the hybrid battery and spare sitting under the rear. With all seats upright there’s 182 litres of luggage capacity, with the third row stowed 906 litres and with both second and third row seats not in use 1829 litres. The previous model offered 120, 620 and 1833 litres respectively. We’re surprised by the second figure. Maybe the way they measure it has changed,

because despite the figures it feels like there’s less space with the third row folded – much less usable space anyway. Only the seat backs fold leaving an awkward space between the end of the seat base and the tailgate that Toyota has filled with a cheap felt-topped detachable storage box. If we were handing over $100,000, we’d expect something better, something that reinforces the Kakadu’s status as a luxury model – not this piece of crap. There’s also the problem of what to do with the privacy screen with the third row in use – there’s nowhere to put it. We previously tested the five-seat version of the vehicle which also has an elevated luggage floor. However, the problematic third row in the seven-seater is a deal breaker, as far as we’re concerned. Moving on to the rest of the cabin, the dash has been flattened, with an upright, squared off design, and clearly defined separation between driver and infotainment screens. The flat Beetle-esque design has presumably been adopted to create more cabin space. Aircon gets its own space tucked under the centre screen. Physical air-con and media volume controls are available, with buttons for transfer, drive modes and off-road settings grouped around the transmission lever. Electric power steering promises easier handling off-road, with improved manoeuvrability at low speed – plus it permits lane trace assistance to be introduced. Maximum approach and departure angles are 32 degrees and 17 degrees respectively, with a break-over angle of 25 degrees. Ground clearance is 221mm (210mm for the GX and GXL), compared with the 220mm of the previous model and it has a wading depth of 700mm. The 48-volt V-Active mild hybrid system that made its debut last year in Hilux, with a lithium-ion battery and electric motor to capture energy normally lost through braking. It contributes a mere 8.4kW and 65Nm to the equation and is unlikely to be responsible for saving much fuel. With auto engine stop-start and an eight-speed replacing the six-speed transmission, however, the wider spread of gear ratios will extract better performance from the drivetrain and contribute to better fuel economy. A higher final drive ratio delivers a more relaxed driving experience at cruising speeds. The end result is that claimed fuel consumption is down from 7.9 to 7.6L/100km.

Be that as it may, we were getting 9.2L/100km after more than 750km of mixed driving. A significant difference. Of note, that’s exactly the same result as the 9.2L we got from the non-hybrid Kakadu we drove back in 2022. Also down is maximum fuel capacity, which was 150 litres before if you elected to put the spare wheel on the tailgate. The new one sees the spare located underneath and a capacity of 110 litres across the board. This translates to about 520km less in range and is a big negative when it comes to getting off the beaten track. You’ll need to top it up occasionally with AdBlue too, with the addition of a 17-litre tank to reduce harmful engine emissions. On this point, our test vehicle started to continually flash warnings that it needed to be topped up – get this – in 2500km. Nothing like getting in early. WTF? The move to the larger 300 Series platform sees Prado’s tow rating increase from 3000kg to a more respectable industry-standard 3500kg. Kakadu has a full-time 4WD system, with low-range gearing and a rear Torsen limited slip diff (not all grades get this). During normal straight line driving power is split 40:60 front-to-back. Only VX and Kakadu are equipped with the variable suspension system. There are five drive modes, together with multi-terrain select and a multi-terrain monitor which provides a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s underfloor and surrounds when off-road. Other driver assistance systems for on and off-road environments include vehicle stability control with active traction control, downhill assist control and crawl control. Trailer sway control and a pre-installed wiring harness help facilitate the increased 3500kg braked tow capacity. Sure the ‘all-new’ Prado looks and drives better than the old one, and it would want to, given the price. With a lower centre of gravity and slightly lower ride height, the ride is noticeably less jiggly and there is less body roll in corners. But in typical diesel fashion you still need to wind the thing up. The cabin does not have the premium feel of the previous generation Kakadu nor do the front seats feel as spacious as before. In fact, describing the experience to a punter we realised it feels very like the Hilux from behind the wheel. On a final note, once again you can’t see the head-up display with polarised sunglasses and for those with multi-focal glasses, the digital rear vision mirror is a waste of space. To bring the image into focus you need to look towards the roof to access the lower section of the lenses.

Summing up The designers really need to go back and rethink the third row, because as it is the seats take up an enormous amount of room when folded. Toyota has filled the gap between the base and the tailgate with a silly, tacky plastic box which does not offer much utility, all in the name of a flat floor – or should we say elevated flat floor. That is to say for a large four-wheel drive the Prado does not offer much luggage space – how can that be seen as practical Mr Toyoda. The driver’s seat feels tight too, more like the Hilux than a luxury off-roader. If you’re not interested in going off-road the Kluger makes more sense. It’s much more comfortable and suited to city driving.

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Stefanile claims B and F By Tara Murray Being able to get out on the park more consistently reaped benefits for South Morang’s Nathan Stefanile, who was crowned the Northern Football League division 2’s best player. Stefanile led the best and fairest count for most of the night on Wednesday night and eventually won with 25 votes, eight clear of second. The ruck said he was shocked to claim the medal after what had been a competitive season across the competition. Stefanile played 19 games, including two finals, this year, having not played that

many since the 2019 season. “It’s quite surprising, but I’m super happy with my performance,” he said. “The past five years I reckon I haven’t even got over 15 games but this year I was able to stay on for 17 and was able to stay really fit for most of the year which was really good. “I’m just happy to be part of it with the boys. “Always happy with my season when I can say I’m fit for long enough. I thought I was pretty good this year, which was nice.” The medal win was a little bit bittersweet for Stefanile with the Lions exiting finals in straight sets after claiming the mi-

nor premiership. It was the side’s first season back in division 1 after being relegated. “With the competition so tightly competed there, it could have gone anyone’s way and hopefully the boys can grow from it and learn from it and we can hopefully come back bigger and better next year. “We had some massive setbacks and probably got written off early on, but credit to Matt [Penn] and the boys who stuck fat this year and are really growing … and playing some really good football.” Stefanile said he’ll go again next year and keep playing as long as his body allows him.

Old Paradians Connor McDonald won the most valuable player award voted by the coaches. The ruck was one of two best and fairest winners for South Morang. Goaler Elly Castles polled 21 votes to win the netball division 3 best and fairest award. Meanwhile, South Morang announced a number of re-signings last week as they look to continue to build on this year on the football field. Josh Lansfield is among the other recent signings for the Lions. James Hewson, Liam Failla, Lucas Yacub and Jake Kenovski will all go around again next season.

Gilmore and Colwell claim top honours By Tara Murray A star ruck has finally won the Northern Football Netball League’s top honour after having “the year from hell”, while the competition’s leading goalshooter claimed the top netball prize. The NFNL hosted its Rosbrook Gannon awards night on Wednesday, recognising the best talent in the competition. Heidelberg’s Sam Gilmore won the Rosbrook Medal, having previously won just about every other award previously. North Heidelberg’s Bec Colwell won the first Gannon Medal, which has been named after Diamond Creek legend Stacey Gannon. Montmorency’s Kira Lemire claimed the women’s football division 1 best and fairest. For Gilmore, it was a pretty emotional moment after a tough year. He polled three votes in each of his last three games to win with 21 votes. “Truthfully this year has been the year from hell,” he said. “In April we welcomed our little girl who four days later passed away. “So football for me has not been high on the priority list, it’s been a distraction this year. “It’s funny that the year that you kind of care least about football this happens. “To come back to the club after what has been really hard for me and my family, has been a welcomed distraction. “It’s bittersweet.” Gilmore said it was his wife that encouraged him to continue to play football this season after he didn’t want to return. He said the support from the club and the wider Heidelberg community had been massive for him and his family. Bec Colwell scooped the pool in the division 1 netball. Having won the premiership, on Wednesday night she took home the leading goalscorer award and then the Gannon Medal for the best and fairest with 23 votes. “To be honest, I’m really speechless,” she said. “It’s an absolute honour and I absolutely love playing netball and to win this award for Stacey is pretty awesome. “I’ve played in the league for quite a while, and I’ve never actually won one, so it’s really cool.” Lemire claimed the division 1 women’s football best and fairest award with 16 votes. She said there was a really big community at Montmorency and it had been a really good season. In other awards, South Morang’s Nathan Stefanile won the division 2 best and fairest and Ivanhoe’s Riley Loton won the division 3 best and fairest. Epping’s Nancy Cakau won the division 3 women’s best and fairest, while West

Nancy Cakau. (Tara Murray)

Cakau’s stunning first season By Tara Murray

Sam Gilmore. (Tara Murray)

Preston Lakeside’s Isabel Young won the women’s division 2 best and fairest. Meanwhile, the men’s division 1 team of the year has been revealed with two with Bundoora players named. Liam Mallia was named on a half back flank, while Jesse King was named at full forward. It was no surprise that Heidelberg again dominated the team of the year. The grand finalists had six players named in the team Luke Bunker (centre), Jordan Smith (half forward), Zane Barzen and Brayden Sier (half forward), Sam Gilmore (ruck) and Dylan Clarke (interchange) were

24 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 29 September, 2026

named in the team. Montmorency was next best with three players, Stefan Uzelac (half back), Nash Holmes (follower) and Matthew Clark (interchange). Banyule’s Jack Langford (half back) and Jean-Luc Velissaris (follower), Greensborough’s Jackson Davies (full back) and Brody Glenn (forward pocket), Hurstbridge’s Lachlan East (back pocket) and Blake Fitzgerald (interchange), Macleod’s Jason McCormick (wing) and David Evans (forward pocket), North Heidelberg’s Jamison Shea (wing) and Angus McLennan (interchange) and Diamond Creek’s Nathan Searl (back pocket) were also named in the team.

From Fiji to Epping is a long way, but for Nancy Cakau the move paid off. On Wednesday night, Cakau was crowned the Northern Football League’s best and fairest in the women’s division 3 competition. After a season that exceeded expectations for the Pingers, Cakau received the highest individual honours in the division. After winning the most valuable player award, which was voted by the coaches, she won the best and fairest on 21 votes, three votes clear of Diamond Creek 2’s Bentley Butler. She polled in six of her first seven games and became the club’s first female football best and fairest winner. “I was feeling nervous,” she said after the count. “I’m so happy, so grateful especially for getting both awards. “Especially [grateful] to my teammates; they’ve been there for me, supporting me and always playing hard.” Cakau said the side this year was extremely happy to play finals and she was full of praise for her teammates and what they had done. The group is only just getting started. “We’ll be coming strong and bigger next season.” This year was Cakau’s first season with Epping. She played 14 games, including a final, kicking 15 goals and being named in the best nine times. Cakau’s journey to Epping and the best and fairest isn’t the traditional one, having only moved to Australia before this season. “I started three years ago, with Fiji AFL, where my journey started,” she said. “It was just a different sport. “I really liked it and it was something interesting. I was playing for Fiji the past two years and I decided to carry that on.” Having captained Fiji’s national side, Cakau said she would love to go professional one day.

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Hegarty departs Hume By Tara Murray Hume City coach Nick Hegarty is departing the club after accepting an opportunity with A-League club Brisbane Roar. Hegarty will coach the Roar’s B team next season and will make the move to Queensland next month. The move follows Hegarty’s record-breaking season with Hume City steering the club to its highest ever finishing position of second place in the National Premier League Victoria season and a first ever home semi-final. While the team ultimately fell short of reaching the grand final, 2026 proved a resounding success under Hegarty’s stewardship as the team recorded 15 wins and four draws during the 26-game season. Hegarty first joined the club in 2012 as a

player and enjoyed six seasons for the team, where he won the prestigious Football Victoria Gold Medal on two occasions, held the role of club captain and became one of the club’s all-time highest goalscorers. He then began his first stint as coach in 2017 and helped the club to its first major piece of silverware in 2019, while also being named coach of the year that same year. Hegarty resigned from his first stint in charge in 2022 to return to the United Kingdom before coming back to the club midway through the 2025 season where he has remained since. President Ersan Gulum thanked Hegarty for all his efforts. “We are extremely happy for him and his family that he has been able to receive this opportunity to ply his trade at an A-League club – something I truly believe he will blos-

Nick Hegarty. (Shawn Smits)

som in from the moment he begins,” he said. “When he came back for his second stint, it was always a conversation that we hoped to give him a pathway to showcase himself and take the step up into a more professional environment like the A-League. “Nick has always been a highly talented manager and a great servant of this club, so

we are proud of everything he has achieved during his time, and are thrilled to know his second run with the club helped secure this move to a successful club like Brisbane. “Hume City has always been a place that supports its people and creates pathways to be able to move up in their careers, and Nick has shown what is possible when you put in the hard work.” Hegarty said it was an incredible year and he would always be watching on from afar. “I’m so proud of what they delivered and the contribution every single player made. “We hit and exceeded all our year objectives leaving us with some memories and fantastic foundations to build on. “Unfortunately it won’t be me moving forward witht he group but I’m extremely excited to be watching and supporting from afar.”

Fa’ale joins United

Moustafa Darwish. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 564783_16

Darwish making his mark with Cannons By Tara Murray Craigieburn’s Moustafa Darwish set himself the aim of playing every game with the Calder Cannons in the Talent League season. Not only did he achieve that, Darwish was named the Cannons best player after winning the Robert Hyde Medal on Wednesday night. The teenager beat George Holderhead and Charlie Robbins, who finished second and third respectively. “It’s pretty good and pretty humbling,” Darwish said. “It was nice to win it. I wanted to play every game at the start of the year and it was nice to get that reward. “I was pretty happy playing every game as a bottomager.” Darwish said he thought his consistency throughout the season was recognised by the coaches, which was a nice feeling. He said he was in a little bit of shock when he realised that he was up among the contenders. “There’s definitely a lot of ups and downs throughout the year,” he said. “Playing every game it was easy to reset and go again the next week.”

Winning the Hyde Medal was the start of a few big days for Darwish. He was part of the AFL Futures game on AFL grand final day. Initially he wasn’t in the squad, but was a late call up. “The guy who picks the team texted me at 7.30am in the morning, it was a good thing to wake up to. “I’ve never jumped out of bed so quickly, I made myself dizzy. “I’m very keen for the game and hopefully the weather holds up.” Darwish was one of three Cannons in the game, along with Koby Bewick and Tevita Rodan. The three have played a lot of junior representative football together before joining forces at the Cannons. Bewick is a father-son prospect with Essendon, while Rodan and Darwish are both Next Generation Academy players with the Bombers. Darwich said while in a way they are competing with each other, they don’t see it that way and are looking to enjoy the wave. Darwish’s mum was born in Lebanon before moving to Australia three months later, which sees Darwish eligible as an NGA.

He said that had been massive for him. “I’ve trained at times with the NGA, the VFL and AFL teams, it’s been a great opportunity. “There’s a lot of nice people and it’s a good environment to be a part of. “Marty Allison, the coach, has been a good help. He’s hard at times, but he loves to help us get better.” Hussien El Achkar, who was at the Cannons with Darwish last year and Jayden Nguyen, another former Cannon, have been big supporters. Both were former NGA players. Jaxon Artemis is the other that Darwish has really connected to. While the NGA and Cannons have had a big influence on Darwish, it’s his home club Craigieburn that is most special. “Everyone from top to bottom, the support there has been amazing. “My friend group is elite and every time I need to switch off, they are there. It helps with footy as well.” Darwish said playing AFL is the dream. “I’m very keen to see what happens next year,” he said. “I’d be the happiest man on the planet if I could get the job I love.”

Bundoora-local Jai Fa’ale couldn’t turn down the opportunity to join Melbourne United as a development played for the NBL season. A Victorian guard standing 195 centimetres tall, Fa’ale is coming off an exciting 12 months of basketball, having represented Australia at the FIBA under-18 Asia Cup, where he claimed a gold medal and was named to the tournament’s all-star five. He also helped the Centre of Excellence to a 13-7 record in the National Basketball League 1 east, where he led the team in scoring at 21.2 points per game. Ahead of his return to Melbourne, Fa’ale said he was eager to take this next step in his basketball career. “When this option came up, it was clear that it was the best thing for my development as a basketball player,” he said. “I’m excited to get back home and compete against pros every day. I’m going to be a sponge, take in all the information and lessons I can, and help the team across the course of the season. “Learning from guys that have had success at the level I want to be at like Cole Anthony and Chris Goulding is going to be huge, and to be able to do that around my family will be pretty special. “On top of it all, I want to help this team win a championship. That’s the number one goal at United, and I’m excited to be a part of it.” Having just turned 18, Fa’ale will be one of the league’s youngest players. Despite his age, coach Jacob Chance believes the Bundoora-local has the potential to grow into a dangerous player, further opening the door for future opportunities both with United and abroad. “I think he’s a great young talent that can really score the ball in a bunch of different ways,” Chance said. “He just adds to our guard depth that we’re already really happy about with the recent editions of Will (Hynes) and Aussie (Shelley), along with fellow DP Christian D’Angelo. “So great to have a young Melbourne talent in the program.”

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White claims Hutchison By Tara Murray Brodie White’s return to Craigieburn this season has been capped off with the Hutchison Medal, after being named the Essendon District Football League division 1’s best player. White, who played his junior football with Craigieburn before moving to the Northern Football League, was a key in the Eagles’ strong season. On Thursday night, White led the best and fairest counting for much of the night. After being third after seven rounds, White led by three votes after 13 rounds. That margin extended to six votes after 15 rounds. When he extended the lead to seven votes with one round remaining, White couldn’t be caught. He finished on 23 votes, six votes clear of Moonee Valley’s Luke Denny with Eagles

teammate Hayden Polley in third. Taylors Lakes’ Lockie Rayner polled the second-most votes, and was three behind White, but was ineligible after being suspended. White said it had been a good year for him. “It’s pretty surreal,” White said on Thursday night. “Very happy, though a lot of work goes into it. “It’s probably not what we play football for, the individual awards, but to be here tonight [Thursday] and be recognised, I’m grateful.” White spent three years at North Heidelberg in the Northern Football League before returning to the Eagles. White said the decision to come back to the Eagles was to play with the young talented group that they had come through and wanted to bring some of the things he had learned back to the club.

Brodie White. (Tara Murray)

The midfielder, who also kicked 35 goals, set the tone for others to take their games to the next level.

Gemma Wright voted the best player again By Tara Murray Westmeadows’ Gemma Wright capped off the perfect Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 season, winning her fourth league best and fairest award. Wright moved into rare air in the EDFL competition, becoming the first female to win four league best and fairest awards. Wright led the count comfortably and after 12 rounds couldn’t be beaten. She polled in all but two games for the season as she finished on 29 votes. Gisborne young gun Amy O’Kelly and Wright’s Westmeadows co-coach captain Courtney Bligh finished in second, 11 votes behind. Wright said it feels pretty special to be the most decorated women’s player in EDFL history. “I’m incredibly proud, obviously credit to my teammates around me that helped me get to where I am today. “Over the time I have thought about what I could have done with my footy career, I’m obviously very excited, very humbled to be able to be part of the Westmeadows football club and create some EDFL history.” Wright said she thought she had an “alright” season, having set the standards high on the back of a good pre-season. She said she thought that Bligh could have topped her in the count. “I’m proud.” The best and fairest adds to the best on ground medal she won as the Tigers broke through for their first women’s premiership. The premiership success makes the best and fairest feel even better for Wright, who said she was nervous before the grand final that Burnside Heights might get them. “It’s not even about me, it’s about the whole football club, our senior men, our reserves men, our under-12s who won a premiership and our girls,” she said. “It’s pretty special for me to be up here, but definitely more special that the whole club can have that success.” Wright said being a playing-coach hasn’t always come easy to her, but with plenty of support from the coaching group and the leadership group they had been able to achieve their goal. She said it was special to again play with her sister Sarah Wright, who played the first half of the season with the Tigers. She said it was like they were back out on the court when they were younger. Wright was full of praise for Bligh and the rewards she had gotten having stuck with Westmeadows when she could have gone elsewhere.

Courteney Munn, Gemma Wright and Courtney Bligh. (Supplied)

It was a good night for the Tigers, with Courteney Munn claiming the goalkicking award. For O’Kelly, the equal second place comes after playing just 12 games. It was her first full season of senior football having played in the division 2 premiership 12 months earlier.

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Elsewhere, Burnside Heights’ Taylia Iglesias was named the rising star. Iglesias played both seniors and under-19s most weeks of the season and played a big role in the Bears grand final run. She also won a second straight under-19 best and fairest award.

“It means a lot,” White said of Craigieburn, adding that it was nice to be playing closer to home. “I played all my juniors there. To come back has been good. “I think coming back to the club, the biggest thing for me was playing with some of the younger boys.” White said he was quite happy with his season and overall pretty pleased despite the team falling short of what it wanted to achieve. White had been earlier in the month named in the division 1 team of the year in the middle of the ground. Hayden Polley and Harry Albon were named on the wings beside him. “I’m proud of them,” he said. “I speak to them about having to keep raising the bar.” White said the side’s elimination final loss to Tullamarine will be a driving factor for the group going forward.

Mercieca, Egglestone claim top honours Essendon Doutta Stars’ Liam Mercieca and Strathmore’s Eloise Egglestone claimed the top honours at the Essendon District Football League awards night. Mercieca was the surprise winner among the five main best and fairest awards, with the ruck leading throughout the count. He led by four votes after seven rounds and that had extended to five votes after round 13 with Deer Park’s Anthony Anastasio, Strathmore’s Liam Cavanagh and Keilor’s Josh Honey leading the chasing pack. Both Mercieca and Anastasio polled three votes in round 14, before Anastasio was the only one of the four to poll in round 15 to reduce the margin to two votes. The new Deer Park coach took the lead after round 15 with another three votes, before Mercieca polled three votes in round 17 to regain the lead. Mercieca polled one vote in the final round to guarantee he took out the Reynolds Medal; it was a case of whether he would share it with Anastasio. Anastasio failed to poll, with Mercieca finishing on 27 votes and Anastasio on 24 votes. Cavanagh, who finished in the top three for a third straight year, and Honey remained in third and fourth despite not polling in the last four games. In the premier women’s division, Egglestone set the pace early and held on to claim the win with one round remaining. Egglestone and Aberfeldie captain Olivia Madden were at the top of table at each of the updates. Madden didn’t play in round 14, where Egglestone polled three votes. When Madden didn’t poll in round 15, Egglestone could not be captured. Egglestone would finish on 26 votes, with Madden on 18 and Oak Park’s Maggie Styles finishing in third on 16 votes. It’s the second best and fairest award for Egglestone, who won in 2022. In division 1 women’s, Gemma Wright claimed her fourth league best and fairest award. In the men’s division 1 competition, suspension cost Taylors Lakes Lockie Rayner a chance of claiming the top honour. He finished with the second most votes, three votes behind Craigieburn’s Brodie White, despite missing three weeks. In division 2, Coburg Districts captain Riley Bentley pipped Burnside Heights’ Lachlan Evans.

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Barba stands tall again 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 on September 20. 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.

Alana Barba. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 579508 40

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). 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 that not many people know about. “To finish the job is nothing but incredible.” Barba credits her grand final perfor-

mances 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. “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.” Barba started her football journey at Roxburgh Park in the Essendon District Football League. She said she could have never imagined where she would end up now. “The stepping stones to get me here are incredible and all the people who supported me on the way here, I’m grateful for.”

Sports shorts Northern FL Laurimar has signed Tom Indian for next year’s Northern Football League division 3 season the Power said that Indian is a versatile ruck-defender who gained division 1 experience in 2022 as a 16-year-old. “Tom has spent the past few seasons playing in the Riddell District FNL [Football Netball League] with Macedon and Lancefield, where he was selected to represent the RDFNL in the under-19s in the SFNL,” the Power said on social media. “Tom’s no stranger to the Power, having played against a lot of our current young stars in our senior team.” The Power also announced the return of Cooper Herbert, who missed this season. The Power said Herbert was back to full fitness.

EDFL Rocket Ford. (AFL)

Medal for Ford who is flying like a Rocket By Tara Murray Twelve months ago, Rocket Ford lived in Townsville and had never heard of the Calder Cannons. Ford was playing football in the Northern Territory and while connected with the Gold Coast Suns, travel made it hard to train with them. When the Ford family moved to Victoria, Ford managed to become part of the Cannons, with the family having a house in Wallan On Wednesday, Ford was crowned the Meg McArthur Medal winner as the Cannons’ best and fairest. “It’s pretty exciting,” she said the following day. “I had no idea honestly. I thought some of the girls had big chances, I was really lucky.” Ford said she was trying to track the votes in her head as the count went on and realised with a few rounds to go that she might be a chance. “I was thinking that I might have this in the bag and I need to start preparing a speech,” she said. Ford said she couldn’t have been any happier with her first season at the Cannons. “The girls are so talented and I’m so

grateful to have had them beside me,“ she said. “I didn’t expect to get applause from those around me.” Ford said moving to the Cannons had really helped her with her football and her knowledge of the game. She said most of her football before the Cannons had been at local level. “I didn’t get to train a lot with the Suns,” she said. “I didn’t have much knowledge of the club [Calder] coming into it. “I really missed out on having all those connections with the Gold Coast Suns as I would fly in. “It was fun to go to all those training sessions and build bonds with such welcoming people.” The Ford family moved to Victoria when her dad, who is in the army, got posted down south. Ford had been living in Townsville for three years before that. That was where she found her love of football. As well as making the Cannons squad, Ford made the Vic Metro under-17 side. Ford played one game in that competition. “I was stoked and happy that I played a good game,” she said. “I got to meet new girls and what metro is about is seeing

talent coming through. “I got to showcase what I can do with my role.” While football is Ford’s dream, she has actually won an Australian title in another sport, Jiu Jitsu. It was all about making her footy game better “I didn’t start that long ago. I went to the Australian titles for my belt and I ended up winning,” she said. “Actually winning was cool. “I started jiu jitsu as I wanted to be better at tackling for footy.” Ford will head back to the Cannons next season, and she’s keen to embrace being a top age player and helping the next group of players coming through. Long term, it’s AFLW where she wants to be. “I’ve been preparing for that since I was 15,” she said. “I thought I didn’t have a chance. “I want to be the best footballer I can be and I hope that is good enough. I would be super happy to play the game I love as a job.” Lily Frangoulis finished second in the best and fairest and Chloe Bullen finished in third. Anabel Tully won the coaches award and Tilda Sinclair the most courageous award.

Greenvale’s Kieran Gallagher was named in the Essendon District Football League premier division team of the year. Players from every team were selected in the side with Gallagher named on the bench. Keilor coach Mick McGuane was named coach of the year and Strathmore defender Liam Cavanagh was named captain of the team, with players from every team named in the side.

Northern FL Whittlesea has signed Kye Short from next year’s Northern Football League division 2 season. Short joins the Eagles from Greenvale. “Kye brings premier division experience as a hard-working midfield-forward,” the Eagles said.

Northern FL Whittlesea has announced Brad Lang as its women’s coach for next year’s Northern Football League season. “Brad is no stranger to our women’s program having been the 2026 senior assistant coach,” the Eagles said. “Brad brings both outstanding football knowledge along with an infectious enthusiasm and attitude to the program.” FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tuesday, 29 September, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 27

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