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30 SEPTEMBER, 2026

Honours for top women Music therapist Dr Emma O’Brien OAM has been inducted to The Victorian Honour Roll of Women, recognised among 27 women honoured at Arts Centre Melbourne on 23 September. The Newport-based researcher founded the Royal Melbourne Hospital’s Music Therapy Department nearly 30 years ago, embedding music as a core clinical and emotional care component. She continues leading the department while working across acute adult care in cancer, palliation, mental health, dementia, and neonatal intensive care. Dr O’Brien also heads the RMH Scrub Choir, established during COVID-19 to unite frontline healthcare workers through song. The choir’s popularity caught the World Health Organization’s attention, leading to collaborative performance projects with healthcare workers globally. She credits Williamstown beach as her creative recharge space, where “music resonates across all aspects of life.“  To read more about Dr O’Brien and fellow inductee Mish Kumar- Jonson turn to page 7 Newport music therapist and media researcher Dr Emma O’Brien has been inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 579466

Data freeze calls For both the protestors rallying outside and the council mayors appearing inside, the message delivered to senators holding a public hearing in Yarraville on Wednesday, as part of their inquiry into data centres and AI, was the same: a data centre moratorium now. The Senate’s Environment and Communications References Committee held the public hearing at the Yarraville Community Centre on 23 September. Inside, Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra was one of a number of council leaders who told the inquiry that a moratorium was needed in order for

community concerns about data centres to be addressed and regulations put in place. Outside, dozens of protesters, including candidates for the upcoming state election, made the same demand while accusing the state government of prioritising data centre development over residents’ concerns. “We’re in a housing crisis, and they’ve decided to help big tech corporations instead of helping working class people like us,“ Victorian Socialists candidate for Footscray Jasmine Duff told the rally. The day before the Yarraville hearing, the state government announced that if re-elected, it would introduce new controls

on data centre developments, including banning them from residential areas. However, the new rules would not apply to existing data centres, or those currently seeking approval, such as Stockland Development’s proposal to build a $2 billion data centre campus in Brooklyn. Stockland is seeking approval for the project through the state government’s Development Facilitation Program (DFP). Even if approved, a group of Brooklyn residents want Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny to strip 112 back-up diesel generators from the data centre and rule out any future expansion. “Local families are furious that the state government is fast-tracking a heavily

polluting fossil-fuel hub in a residential buffer zone,” the residents group said in a statement. A state government spokesperson said it would be inappropriate to comment on the Stockland proposal given it was currently being assessed, but said residents’ concerns were being taken into account. “We’re working with local councils and communities on data centre projects to address concerns and ensure developments are sustainable,“ the spokesperson said. “The proposal has been supported by detailed technical assessments and will only proceed if it meets all applicable standards and regulations,” a spokesperson for Stockland added.

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Trail contract awarded By Cade Lucas Hobsons Bay council has awarded the construction contract for the completion of Kororoit Creek trail despite concerns over its multi-million dollar price tag. Last week council endorsed the awarding of a $13.5 million contract to Simpsons Construction Pty Ltd to build a two kilometre cycling and pedestrian path between Barnes Road in Altona North and Cherry Lake in Altona. Under the contract, the company will have 20 months to complete the path which makes up stages four and five of the Kororoit Creek trail project.

Simpsons was one of two contractors shortlisted to tender for the project, which has a total cost of almost $15 million. Introducing the motion to endorse the contract at the meeting on 22 September, councillor Rayane Hawli said it was an important step towards finally finishing the project. “Importantly it will actually complete the final missing section on the Kororiot Creek trail and create a much stronger connection to the Federation Trail and the wider cycling and pedestrian network,” Cr Hawli said. Cr Kristen Bishop said the contract represented a “very very significant”

financial contribution on council’s behalf, but that Simpsons’ track record with similar projects made her “comfortable” with the decision. However, the sheer size of the contract remained a concern for Cr Michael Disbury who questioned whether council was getting value for money. “To put this into some perspective, this is the same monetary amount as the Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club redevelopment,” Cr Disbury told the chamber, adding that both the amount and the length of the contract seemed excessive. “It’s simply a footpath,” he said. “I’m struggling to understand how it could

possibly cost $15 million dollars.” Speaking in response, Cr Hawli said the project was more than just a two kilometre footpath, pointing out that bridges, environmental protection measures and other civil infrastructure were part of the project which council had already spent significant time and money on. “Delaying infrastructure can expose council to further cost escalation while the need for this infrastructure doesn’t simply disappear,” she said. The motion to endorse the contract was carried, with only Cr Disbury voting against. Construction work is expected to begin in November.

Motorcyclists from the west set to rally for the fallen Motorcyclists from across the state will ride to Parliament House in Melbourne to raise concerns about road conditions and to remember those who have lost their lives on Victorian roads. The Broken Roads = Broken Promises rally will take place on Sunday 4 October, with riders travelling from meeting points across the state before gathering at Parliament House for a peaceful rally at 11am. Following the Parliament House rally, riders will take part in a police-escorted ride to Pirates Tavern in Williamstown for the official Ride for the Fallen event. Ride for the Fallen president Philip Gordon said the road condition rally was organised separately from his group, but both events shared concerns about motorcycle safety. “The ‘Broken Roads = Broken Promises’ rally was arranged after one of our fellow riders passed away after hitting a pothole on the Western Highway, Trawalla, on 13

September,” he said. “Current road conditions are hazardous for all vehicles, not just motorcycles.” Mr Gordon said the issue was not limited to a particular road or region, with riders reporting concerns across Victoria. “Every municipality has its own ‘worst’ road in the district,” he said. The Ride for the Fallen event was established to honour Marielle, a young learner rider who died while riding to work in 2024. Mr Gordon said greater input from motorcyclists, improved awareness of riders as road users and more comprehensive training and support for learner riders were needed.

Phillip Gordon, Bruce Wheeler, Robert Shaw and Sharlene Gordon. (Damjan Janevski). 580067 08

Woods Street Youth Art Prize winners announced The winners of the 2026 Woods Street Youth Art Prize have been announced, as the exhibition came to an end on Saturday 19 September. More than 450 people visited the exhibition at Laverton’s Woods Street Arts Space in celebration of young artists from Hobsons Bay and across Melbourne’s west. Among the 2026 award winners was Maya Yoon Kirk who took out the open category for her work Canopy, with Lily Attard the runner up for Trinity. Hobsons Bay artist award went to Oliver Cheung for The Awakening, the artist encouragement award for artists over

20 went to William Kendall for Life With Death and the same award for artists under 20 was won by Shikha Manoj Kumar for A Dance of Waves. The mayoral award was won by Caitlyn Phan for No?i Hoa Sen No?? – Where the Lotus Blooms and Isobel Heddles work Jaws was voted the winner of the people’s choice award. The exhibition’s closing event featured a thought-provoking panel with exhibiting artists Maya Yoon Kirk, Charli English and Justin Enrico Legaspi, facilitated by 2024 Woods Street Art Prize alum D’Arcy Rouillard.

Prize winners and Hobsons Bay councillors back from left: Lily Attard, Maya Yoon Kirk, deputy mayor Lisa Bentley, mayor Diana Grima, Shikha Manoj Kumar and Oliver Cheung. Front from left: Cr Paddy Keys-Macpherson and William Kendall. (Carlin Stephenson)

The exhibition featured a wide array of artworks from artists aged 14-25. (Carlin Stephenson)

Open category winner Maya Yoon Kirk who was awarded for her work Canopy. (Carlin Stephenson)

2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 September, 2026

The exhibition at Laverton’s Woods Street Arts Space ran from 4-19 September. (Carlin Stephenson)

Hobsons Bay councillors (from left) Lisa Bentley, Paddy Keys-Macpherson and mayor Diana Grima at the closing night event. (Carlin Stephenson)

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Crime still high but steady By Cade Lucas Crime in the inner west has stabilised but remains stubbornly high according to quarterly data released on 24 September. For the year to June 2026, recorded offences in Hobsons Bay fell by 1.8 per cent to 7785 compared to 7924 a year earlier, while in Maribyrnong it increased by 0.3 per cent to 12371, up from 12331. In Hobsons Bay, the most common offence was again stealing from a motor vehicle with 1206, though this was more than 200 less than the previous year. Altona North remained the most

common suburb for offending despite dropping from 1571 to 1522, while second-place Williamstown and third-place Altona Meadows also fell. Houses were where most offences occurred, but the total of 1706 was more than 250 less than in June 2025. Streets, lanes, and footpaths were second, rising slightly to 1495, while train stations jumped from 218 to 343 to come third. In Maribyrnong, stealing from a motor vehicle was also the most common offence, improving slightly from 2584 to 2560. However, other theft, stealing from re-

tail, and motor vehicle theft all increased, with retail stealing up by more than 250 to 973. As usual, Footscray was by far the suburb with the most crime, with its total of 4397 almost 2000 ahead of the next suburb despite a slight improvement. Maribyrnong was next, rising by nearly 400 to 2434. Despite falling by more than 100, streets, lanes, and footpaths were the most common location for offending with 2672, ahead of houses on 1389. However, third-place shopping complexes increased to 810. Combined with

Maribyrnong and stealing from retail also increasing, it suggests offending at Highpoint Shopping Centre remains an issue despite increased police patrols as part of Operation Pulse. Superintendent Boris Buick, North West Metro Division 2 said the results in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay reflected a period of stablisation, but were still too high. “This is reflective when we look at the numbers at state level as well,” Superintendent Buick said while reassuring residents that a visible police presence would remain across the inner west to further reduce crime and improve safety.

Police seize more than $57m worth of drugs

Western Health Foundation’s legacies and relationships coordinator, Lee McGregor, is encouraging patients to both create wills, and consider leaving charitable gifts in them. (Damjan Janevski) 578363 02

Leaving a legacy, get your will in order While hospitals save countless lives, they are also places where many lives end. With this in mind, it makes sense for organisations like Western Health to encourage people to get their affairs in order by creating or updating a will. “Creating or updating a will is something many people put off, but having a valid will is one of the most important steps you can take to make things easier for your loved ones,“ Western Health Foundation’s legacies and relationships coordinator, Lee McGregor said. “We encourage anyone over the age of

18 to seek professional legal advice and ensure their wishes are clearly documented.” Western Health Foundation recently recorded a free online webinar with a solicitor, covering the key things people should consider when making or updating a will. Mr McGregor said some people also choose to leave a charitable gift as part of their will, including to hospitals. “For Western Health Foundation, these gifts help fund medical research, innovation, equipment and programs that support patients and families across Melbourne’s west,“ he said.

A particularly generous example was the $23,000 bequeathed to Sunshine Hospital by the late Sean Duc-Son Tang who died on 4 April 2025 at the age of 67. “The hospital has seen us through some harsh times,“ Mr Tang’s son Jason said. “But ultimately the hospital came through for us every time.“ For advice on creating a Will: https:// westernhealth.org.au/whfoundation/ about-us/gifts-wills To inquire about leaving a gift to the Western Health Foundation email: foundation@wh.org.au

Maribyrnong council purchases historic Yarraville Masonic Hall The former Yarraville Masonic Hall will be repurposed for community use after being purchased by Maribyrnong council. On Tuesday 22 September council announced it had bought the 775 square meter property on the corner Willis and Canterbury streets near Yarraville Village for $2.25 million. Built in 1908, the Yarraville Masonic Hall was listed for sale by Gross Waddell ICR in April and sold to council on 28 July. “Opportunities to secure well-located community spaces in established neighbourhood activity centres don’t come

along very often,” Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra said in announcing the acquisition. “That’s why purchasing the former Masonic Hall is so important. “As Yarraville grows, we need to plan for the community spaces and services people will need close to where they live, work and visit. “This purchase means the building can be retained for community use and considered as part of future planning for Yarraville.” The hall will now be included in the Yarraville Community Facilities Feasibil-

ity study which will examine what community spaces and services may be needed in the suburb in the future. The study will also give local residents the chance to have their say on what the hall and other community assets in Yarraville should be used for, with any future designs, upgrades or works subject to council’s annual budget process. The Yarraville Masonic Hall purchase comes just two months after Maribyrnong council bought three adjoining properties near the Central West Shopping Centre in West Footscray with the aim of turning them into public open space.

More than $57 million worth of drugs were seized by police, while police arrested 137 people, issued 247 charges and executed 59 search warrants during a national week of action targeting illicit drug and organised crime activity. The operation, conducted from 14-18 September, was coordinated by the Australia and New Zealand Illicit Drug Working Group (ANZIDWG). The week of action involved every Australian state and territory police agency, New Zealand police and customs, AFP, ABF, ACIC, AUSTRAC and Home Affairs. It focused on disrupting organised crime networks involved in the importation, trafficking, production and distribution of illicit drugs to impact the availability of drugs in our communities and reduce the harms associated with drug supply and use. More than 95 kilograms of various drugs including heroin, methylamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, ketamine, cannabis and synthetic opioids were seized in Victoria, along with 565 kilograms of various pre-cursor chemicals, 180 cannabis plants and just over 23 litres of 1,4-butanediol. A total of $67,000 in cash was seized as well as two firearms. Two significant investigations of interest in Victoria include a clandestine laboratory in Balnarring and the arrests of three people allegedly responsible for trafficking a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine in Melbourne’s western suburbs. Earlier in September, police executed search warrants at properties in Maribyrnong, Balnarring, Rye, and Preston. A commercial-sized clandestine laboratory was located at the Balnarring address. This included approximately 90 kilograms of high purity methylamphetamine, approximately 350 litres of precursor to meth, approximately 50 kilograms of a precursor to MDMA, approximately 50 litres of MDMA, over 100kg of methylamine, over 50 kilograms of sodium borohydride, almost 1500 litres of methanol, acetone, methylene chloride, ethanol and phosphoric acid and over 400 kilograms of tartaric acid, sodium hydroxide and sodium bicarbonate. Two men, a 31-year-old from Rye and 30-year-old from Maribyrnong were charged with trafficking a large commercial quantity of methamphetamine and MDMA, trafficking commercial quantities of Ketamine, and possessing substances, material and equipment to manufacture drug of dependence. On 19 September, police located three people allegedly in possession of approximately 250 grams of methylamphetamine, a quantity of GHB and $25,000 cash. A 39-year-old woman from Truganina and two men, a 31-year-old from Mill Park and 30-year-old from Reservoir were charged with trafficking a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine, possessing 1,4 Butanediol and dealing property suspected proceeds of crime.

Wednesday, 30 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 3

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The Royal Yacht Club of Victoria (RYCV) has appointed the first female Commodore in the Williamstown-based club’s more than 170-year history. Cath Beaufort OAM was appointed Commodore at the club’s annual general meeting on Saturday 19 September, becoming the first woman to hold the RYCV’s highest elected position since its establishment in 1853. “It is an incredible honour to be appointed Commodore of the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria,” Commodore Beaufort said following her appointment. “RYCV has a long history, and I am proud to be part of its next chapter. The club has always evolved with the times, and I look forward to working with our members, volunteers and staff to continue that into the future.” An operations manager at Alfred Health Radio Oncology, Commodore Beaufort has been an RYCV member for more than 30 years, and most recently served as the club’s Vice Commodore. RYCV general manager Richard Black said the appointment represented an important moment in the club’s history. “RYCV has a proud heritage, but heritage is also about continuing to evolve,” Mr Black said. “This appointment reflects the strength and diversity of our membership and the club’s commitment to looking forward while respecting the traditions that have shaped us.” The new Commodore has officially taken office as RYCV prepares for its 174th sailing season, which begins with opening day on Saturday 3 October. For more information, visit: www.rycv. com.au

Police arrested a man following a stabbing in Maidstone on Sunday night that left another man in hospital. Emergency services responded after a man was stabbed at a property on Lyons Street just after 8.30pm on 27 September. The victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries, while the alleged offender, a 23-year-old man, was arrested nearby on Ballarat Road a short time later. He was taken to hospital under police guard to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries. It is understood the two men are known to each other.

Seniors festival Both Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong councils are hosting events for the Victorian Seniors Festival from 1-31 October. In Hobsons Bay the festival will kick off with an expo for people 65 and older on Friday 2 October at the Lorraine Bedella Seniors Centre in Altona North. Running from 10-3pm, the expo will cover topics such as staying safe online, fire safety, elders rights and council services. To register, call 9932 1597. In Maribyrnong, a range of events are on offer including a silent disco, bus tour and an intergenerational bird walk. More Maribyrnong events can be found at: https://tinyurl.com/36rfyaft For more information on the festival: https://www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/ victorian-seniors-festival

Cath Beaufort OAM is the first female Commodore in the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria’s 170 year history. (Supplied)

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Council tees up golf for all Maribyrnong council’s efforts to make golf more accessible to women and culturally diverse communities has been recognised by the sport’s national governing body. At Golf Australia’s National Awards of Excellence announced last week, Maribyrong received the Local Government Recognition Award for bringing golf to public parks and community spaces rather than expecting people to come to a golf course. Through its Active Maribyrnong program, council partnered with Golf Australia, Westgate Golf Club and Medway Golf Club to deliver golf sessions using modified equipment and non-traditional formats in parks and open spaces across the municipality. The approach was designed to challenge traditional perceptions of golf as costly, male-dominated and requiring a high level of skill,

barriers that can often deter women and people from multicultural backgrounds from taking up the sport. The response was immediate, with places in the Maribyrnong Girls Can golf sessions and the Get Into Golf program both quickly exhausted. Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra said the success of the initiative had changed the way council viewed golf as a community asset. “This initiative has shown us that golf is more than a traditional club-based sport, it’s a valuable community asset that can support participation, connection, and wellbeing for people of all backgrounds,“ Cr Semra said, adding that council was working with local golf clubs to explore how the Get Into Golf program could delivered regularly in open spaces across the municipality.

While the program introduces participants to golf in the relaxed and informal surroundings of a public park, it also offers a pathway for those who want to continue playing and take up the sport properly, putting them in touch with local clubs and building their confidence. Maribyrnong council joined golf clubs, venues, organisations and individuals from across the country in being recognised at the second annual awards. Golf Australia chief executive James Sutherland said the breadth and quality of this year’s winners reflected the momentum behind the game. “What stands out this year is the diversity of these stories. They demonstrate that golf is a powerful vehicle for community connection, inclusion, health and environmental stewardship,” Mr Sutherland said.

Labor’s data centre clampdown knocked By Duncan Murray and Eleanor Wilson, AAP

Khatera Barez. (Damjan Janevski) 577048 02

Empowering Afghan women to thrive As a former university professor in Afghanistan, Khatera Barez was forced to leave her homeland following the humanitarian crisis in 2021. Settling in Melbourne, Ms Barez recognised the significant challenges facing newly arrived Afghan women including social isolation, language barriers, unfamiliarity with Australian services, and limited opportunities to participate in community life. Determined to support her community, she established the Afghan Women Empowerment Association (AWEA) to create a safe and welcoming environment where women could rebuild their confidence, de-

velop new skills, and form meaningful social connections. Operating in Melbourne’s western suburbs, the organisation has become a welcoming space where women can connect, learn new skills, improve their health and wellbeing, and build lasting friendships. Over the past year, AWEA has delivered a variety of community programs, including women-only swimming sessions, educational workshops, community excursions, cultural celebrations, and wellbeing activities. These initiatives are aimed at reducing isolation, promoting healthy lifestyles, increasing confidence, and encouraging active participation in Australian society

whilst respecting cultural values. Ms Barez said her vision was simple, “to ensure that every Afghan woman feels welcomed, valued, empowered, and able to achieve her full potential while contributing to a stronger, more inclusive Australian community“. Looking ahead, AWEA is expanding its work through new health and wellbeing initiatives, including yoga, Zumba, swimming, and community education programs The AWEA welcomes new members, volunteers, and community partners who share the vision of supporting women and creating positive change across Melbourne’s multicultural community.

Hobsons Bay decides to award civic honours every second year Hobsons Bay’s civic honours will be awarded every second year going forward following a review of a pilot community awards program held earlier this year. Hobsons Bay council last week endorsed the recommendations of a review into the community recognition awards which were trialled in May as a replacement for the previous citizen and young citizen of the year awards. The review recommended the new community recognition awards be held biennially, alternating with the Hobsons Bay Business Excellence Awards. During alternate years, the review

recommended council host an event, program or campaign during National Volunteer Week in May to ensure contributions by groups, volunteers and community leaders are recognised annually. The review found the pilot Hobsons Bay Community Recognition Awards were well received by the community following their announcement in February. Applications opened on 5 March and closed on 15 April, with 68 nominations received across six categories. The winners were announced at a celebratory event at the Williamstown Town Hall on 30 May attended by 300 people.

The winners included Rhonda Collins who received the change maker award, Jo Farguson who took out the helping others award and the Williamstown Women’s Lacrosse Club which received the sporting spirit award. While the awards will return in May 2028, there is no guarantee that the same six categories will. The review noted that adjustments to the awards will be made based on feedback and that many respondents said the award categories were too broad and needed to be more specific.

New data centres built in Victoria would need to source their own renewable energy under proposed laws modelled off national standards. Premier Ben Carroll announced on Tuesday 22 September if re-elected his government would introduce regulations for the controversial facilities, following an earlier agreement among state and territory leaders to impose national guardrails. Under Victoria’s proposed changes, data centres in Victoria would need to source their own clean energy, either through their own renewable programs or by investing in green-energy projects, as well as cover any additional infrastructure costs. They would also be prevented from using the state’s drinking water, as well as be banned from being built in residential areas and near schools or childcare centres. The rules, however, would not apply to existing data centres, or those already being assessed for approval, leading to opposition claims the proposed legislation was “irrelevant“. “Right now data centres are being built in residential areas, so it actually doesn’t matter what Ben Carroll says ... there are data centres being built in a way that residents are deeply concerned about,“ opposition spokesperson James Newbury said. It comes amid significant community concern over what an influx of power-hungry data centres would mean for the electricity grid and environment. In August, state and territory leaders agreed during a National Cabinet meeting that large data centres require consistent national standards regarding energy, water and land-use. Victoria already has more than 50 functioning data centres and the government has welcomed further development as generating jobs and investment, with a capital expenditure of $5.8 billion in the last year. As well as banning data centres from residential zones, for those living in industrial zones, a minimum 150-metre buffer zone would exist between new data centres constructions and homes. Data centres would also only be permitted to use recycled or non-drinking water for cooling, and offset any drinking water they do initially require and pay for infrastructure upgrades. But industry representatives claim limitations already exist under the state’s environmental and planning framework.

Wednesday, 30 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5

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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.

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

6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 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)

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Music pioneer honoured The Royal Melbourne Hospital Scrub Choir founder and music therapist Dr Emma O’Brien OAM is among this year’s inductees to The Victorian Honour Roll of Women. The Newport based music therapist and researcher was one of 27 women inducted at the Arts Centre Melbourne on Wednesday 23 September. An honorary researcher at The Royal Women’s Hospital, Dr O’Brien has worked across acute adult care in can-

cer, palliation, mental health, dementia, stroke rehabilitation and most recently in neonatal intensive care. However it’s her work in transforming the role of music in healthcare that Dr O’Brien is best known for. She founded the Royal Melbourne Hospital’s (RMH) Music Therapy Department, which embeds music as a core component of clinical and emotional care, and nearly 30 years later, still leads it today.

She also heads the RMH Scrub Choir, which formed during the COVID-19 pandemic and as a way of uniting frontline healthcare workers through song. The choir’s music videos proved so popular that the World Health Organization worked with her to create performance projects with healthcare workers around the world. Dr O’Brien said it was a privilege to be inducted alongside so many other women who make the world a better place.

“As a music therapist of 28 years in healthcare I truly believe in the power of music for physical and emotional health and wellbeing for individuals and community,” she said. During her rare down time, Dr O’Brien said she liked to relax at Williamstown beach. “The sea is my special place where I recharge my creativity as music resonates across all aspects of life.”

Champion of equitable care Footscay’s Mish Kumar-Jonson is a mental health social worker dedicated to making mental health care fairer and more accessible. In 2023, Kumar-Jonson founded The Iceberg Foundation, a community-led mental health charity providing care pathways for queer, neurodivergent, multicultural and forcibly displaced communities. The following year they launched the Manaya Pride Program which provides free psychological support for forcibly displaced queer people. It’s for these and other efforts championing community-led solutions to complex health problems that they were inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women at a gala ceremony at Arts Centre Melbourne on Wednesday 23 September. Kumar-Jonson said it was a privi-

lege to be the first non-binary person of colour in the honour roll’s 25 year history. “I’m grateful to be a part of the longest running celebration of women and gender diverse people in Australia that creates intentional recognition of the leadership and excellence of women and gender diverse folks across the Kulin nations,” they said. “As a neurodivergent, queer and disabled social worker, and at a time when women are incredibly unsafe in our society, I’m proud of be a part of a movement that reminds women and gender diverse folks of the importance of us shaping our truths, our strengths, our achievements and courage to imagine a more affirming world for all through the role models who authentically embody these values.”

Footscray mental health social worker Mish Kumar-Jonson has been inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women. (supplied)

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

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

1 October 1986 The Liquor Control Commission judge reviewing the Spitfire Hotel’s licence has stepped down from the case.

2 October 1996 Hobsons Bay council has struck the first blow in its fight against 24-hour shopping in the city.

27 September 2006 A 21st birthday party on a boat ended in mayhem at Williamstown with police using capsicum spray to control revellers.

28 September 2016 The drought is over – after 55 years in the grand final wilderness, the Western Bulldogs have stormed into an AFL premiership decider.

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

8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 September, 2026

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

FEATURING ... SENIORS

Advertising feature

Celebrating Seniors Month with movement and music at Rivervue Ever wondered what a day living at Rivervue is like? For some residents, it might begin with a walk through the Riverland gardens, following the nature trails beside the Maribyrnong River. For others, it could be a game of indoor bowls, a lively table tennis match against the neighbours, an afternoon of dancing or simply sitting down with friends for a chat. There is no single answer, and perhaps that is what makes life at Rivervue so interesting and full of possibilities. This Seniors Month, Rivervue is inviting the wider community to come along, meet the residents and experience a little of what everyday life is like within the village. On Wednesday 7 October,the Rivervue community is opening its gates with a ‘Come & Try Day’ allowing visitors to join in the fun of the regular activities residents enjoy. Visitors are welcome to join a guided walk through the magnificent village gardens and stroll along the two-hectares of private Riverland area. Then come inside and have a roll with a game of carpet bowls, or have a hit of table tennis, but be warned there are plenty of laughs, and it can get a little competitive! Or try something a little different with hula and line dancing. After all the fun, there’s happy hour an opportunity to put the activities aside, sit down and simply enjoy a conversation with the people who live here. While the gardens, facilities and activities are an important part of Rivervue, it is the people who give the village its character. Spend a little time here and you quickly discover that retirement living is not about slowing down unless you want to.

It is about having the freedom to choose how you spend your time, who you spend it with and what you want to try next. To celebrate Seniors Month, Rivervue has invited a much-loved Australian performer to the village. Denis Walter will perform in the community centre, bringing all his much-loved favourites, live on

Friday 30 October from 11.30am, and we would love you to join us. Denis has spent decades entertaining audiences with his distinctive voice, warmth and unmistakable stage presence. This live performancewill bring together great songs, stories, humour and the kind of connection that comes from an entertainer who genuinely enjoys being in front of an audience. It promises to be a fitting finale to a

month celebrating everything that makes later life rich- friendship, movement, music, laughter, curiosity and community. Perhaps the best way to understand Rivervue is not to take our word for it. Come and meet the people who live here. Walk the gardens. Join a game. Share a laugh. Stay for happy hour. And see where the day takes you.Spaces are limited. Call 1300 298 439 or book at www.rivervue.com.au

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Salvias a spring favourite If, like me, you’ve been sustained by the winter plant colours of acacias and port wine magnolia flowers, you are probably hankering after some spring colour in the gardens. In that case, what do we have to look forward to in the months ahead? Early delights include cherry blossoms, daffodils, jonquils and ranunculus. And don’t forget the long-lasting winter glow of camelias and hellebores. Come October, a flowering plant that can last from early spring until the cooler autumn weather is the Salvia plant. There are over 900 different Salvias. Salvias provide long-lasting flowers with plentiful bursts of colour and minty scented foliage. Salvias are resilient plants that grow in a wide range of conditions but prefer free draining soil, some organic matter, full sun and are drought-tolerant once established. The Salvia plant genus belongs to the mint family, scientifically known as Lamiaceae. A common Salvia most people are familiar with is sage, best enjoyed in a sage butter with pasta. Some specialised varieties, like Salvia dorisiana or specific shrubby types push their hot pink flowers from July through to October. Other Salvias that I would recommend growing in Melbourne include: Spurflower (Plectranthus sp.), Germander (Teucriumsp.), Coleus (Plectranthus sp.

Sage is a popular ingredient in many dishes.

syn. Coleus sp.), Basil (Ocimum basilicum cv.) and Sage (Salvia officinalis). I love the purple varieties which include Salvia Rockin’ Deep Purple and and Salvia Mirage Deep Purple. Other features of Salvia plants are that they flower prolifically, attracting birds and bees. The flower colours range from pink, red, white, orange, yellow, blue, green and black. Of real benefit is that fact that they can often tolerate frost. A fun fact about this species is that it contains oils unappealing to rabbits – bonus! These plants can vary in height from 15cm to 3m. Salvias will benefit from pruning. When it come to pruning, it is important

to understand that are three main types of Salvia, and understanding which is which will mean greater success. These are (eg S.elegans and S.patens), also called shrubby (eg S. leucantha, S.greggii and S.chamaedryoides, S.coccinea and S.microphylla), and (eg S.nemarosa, and S. x superb). There are also small herbaceous types such as S.koyamae ‘Yamagata’ that die back completely. If you are interested in propagating your own Salvia plants, this works best by using vegetative cuttings rather than seed. Remove all but the top two leaves and place a stem of Salvia into a container directly into perlite with soil around the outside.

Continue to water and care for these cuttings until leaves start to populate the stems. Transplant into the garden when the plant has become more established. Some Salvias can be used in the home, in the kitchen or elsewhere. For example, White Sage (Salvia apiana) is traditionally used for smudge-sticks to cleanse a living space and Fruit Salad Sage (Salvia dorisiana) has edible, sweet and fragrant foliage that can be added to cakes and desserts. For further information about Salvias from passionate experts and home gardeners at the Victorian Saliva Study Group try: https://salvias.org.au

George Last: The musical chameleon who keeps on playing Off-Grid

Arts with Sebastian Conidi

In a new monthly series, Star Weekly reporter Sebastian Conidi profiles the many interesting and innovative artists working off-grid in the north-west. George Last’s musical story has been decades in the making. The 64-year-old – who now lives in Sunshine – initially began his rock ‘n’ roll crusade as a recorder player in primary school. “When I was about 10 years old, the school gave us a choice between violin and recorder, so I picked the recorder,” Last said. Last performed baroque music at various concerts with the school faculty before his descent into the world of guitars and noise. He formed his first band – The Citizens – which became a staple at friends’ 17th and 18th backyard birthdays. In the early ‘80s, after Last had finished school, he joined a pub band called Swinging Voters, before performing with various bands over the next 15 years, playing mainly bass. Last spent a period away from music before deciding to explore it again. “I didn’t play again until this century.”

George Last. (Damjan Janevski) 571303_03

Though a veteran of rock, Last’s return to the stage saw him adopt the role of guitarist and singer for bluegrass country band Barn Laid which he describes as “a fun band with violins and things”. Now Last has finally ventured into a solo career, recording and releasing his debut EP Last Looks Back. He now performs solo shows and open mics around the west, citing venues such as Mama Chens, Sloth Bar and Kindred

10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 September, 2026

Studios as great places for nurturing creativity. “They’re really important to nurture musicians both young and old.” Last also joined blues trio The Cry Babies who are currently producing their first EP. He said embracing all genres of music is vital for fostering creativity. “All genres of music have got something to offer. You get into different genres in different periods of your life.”

Last has even flirted with hip-hop, playing bass in a community rap band based in the Flemington high-rise flats during the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. This love for different types of music is captured in the varied entertainment he seeks out across Melbourne. “I like seeing jazz musicians, classical musicians. It’s wonderful the diversity we have here. Melbourne is a world-famous city for music.” When reflecting on influences, Last said he always goes back to the music he enjoyed as a teenager. “Your teenage years are really formative. David Bowie, Lou Reed, the Stones – they’ve all influenced me in terms of songwriting.” Last spoke about the different ways young people access music, highlighting how technology has changed discovery methods. “My son who is 16 picks up music from video games. It’s so diverse. It’s really an amazing phenomenon.” Last reminisced on the influence of television shows such as Countdown in his youth. “Because they were only around once or twice a week, we used to hang around to see them and get all the visuals. It was the way to be introduced to new things. It’s different nowadays because you can watch anything anytime.” After a long and varied music career, Last said his priority is making the music he wants to make. “I just want to make the music I hear in my head. That’s enough for me.” Last is excited by the opportunities modern technology creates for music making. “It’s like living in the space age for me. I’m happy as Larry with where I’m at.”

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seniors Early intervention key Training to stay powerful As part of an ongoing series examining the causes and solutions to crime in the west, Jack O’Shea-Ayres spoke with IPC Health chief executive Jayne Nelson about the role of disadvantage, trauma, and early intervention in preventing offending.

PC Health is a not-for-profit community health provider of affordable and holistic health and wellbeing services to support people to be well for life across the western suburbs. Ms Nelson said drivers of crime were complex and needed to be addressed through a range of services, rather than focusing solely on the justice system. “The drivers of offending are multi-layered and need to be seen that way,” she said. “Disadvantage matters, but it isn’t destiny. Multiple disadvantage and vulnerability has a cumulative effect, often due to trauma experienced in childhood and adolescence.” Ms Nelson said early intervention was important in helping people experiencing disadvantage before they come into contact with the justice system. “That’s why holistic, multi-disciplinary early intervention and prevention services, like those we deliver at IPC Health, are so important,” she said. While youth offending in Victoria fell by six per cent in the year to March 2026, adult offending rose by about 10 per cent, driven in part by breaches of bail and orders, and by retail theft. IPC Health noted there is a need to understand the circumstances that could precede offending, rather than focusing solely on its impacts. Young people in Victoria’s most disadvantaged areas are about six times more likely to be under youth justice supervision as those living in the least disadvantaged areas, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), suburbs like St Albans, Sunshine, Deer Park, Ardeer, and Braybrook are consistently ranked as some of Victoria’s largest and most severe urban clusters of disadvantage. Rapidly expanding outer-western growth corridors like Melton and Wyndham drive infrastructure lag, lower employment access, and a lack of education and support resources, leading to socio-economic disadvantage for many of the suburbs residents. However, IPC Health sourced data suggests the majority of young people experiencing disadvantage do not enter the justice system. Accumulated adversity, including experiences of trauma and contact with

Social worker Andrea Mejia and senior manager Danielle Barth from IPC Health’s Child, Youth and Family Services team. (Supplied)

the child protection system, served as an important factor for many people who later became involved in offending. Many people who experienced adversity never come into contact with the justice system, yet it’s believed the right support provided early on can improve the odds. IPC Health’s Well for Life model provides early intervention and prevention services across a range of issues, including family violence, gambling harm, alcohol and other drug use, mental health, and homelessness. During the 2025-26 financial year, the organisation supported 52,177 clients across its services, an increase of 4.7 per cent from the previous year. This included more than 3700 clients accessing mental health and wellbeing services, almost 500 adults supported by its Gambler’s Help team and 587 children and parents through the Brimbank Melton

Children’s Health and Wellbeing Local. But Ms Nelson said demand for support services was outstripping available capacity. “We’re grateful for funding from both state and federal governments, and more can be done,” she said. “Demand for our services exceeds capacity, which means people in vulnerable populations miss out on support that could help them find a more positive path.” IPC Health’s modelling suggests crime in disadvantaged communities can’t simply be understood as a policing issue. Many people who become involved in offending are shown to have experienced multiple forms of disadvantage and trauma throughout their childhood addressing the underlying problems early may help prevent later involvement in the justice system.

Falls are the leading cause of injury death in older Australians, representing more than 40 per cent of all injury-related fatalities. One in three older adults falls at least once a year, rising to one in two for those over 80. Fortunately, Hobsons Bay health and wellbeing expert Dr Liz Cyarto is doing something about it. Dr Cyarto is again running the free Peer Power Program at the Spotswood Seniors Exercise Park on Wednesday 14 October and Friday 16 October. Coinciding with the Victorian Seniors Festival running throughout next, the 6-hour train-the-trainers program teaches older adults to lead and support each other through the park’s specialised outdoor exercise circuit, building the strength, balance, and confidence that reduces the risk of falls. “Movement is medicine and strength is independence,” Dr Cyarto said. “In Melbourne’s west, 16.1 per cent of adults are over 65, higher than the national average. They want to stay strong, and this program will help them help each other.” Dr Cyarto has been running training programs for seniors since 2023, but this time she’ll be teaching participants to teach others. “This is the first time we are teaching seniors to lead and support each other,” she said. “It builds their strength mentally and physically and is great for reducing isolation and promoting wellbeing.” Funded by Hobsons Bay council’s Make It Happen Grants program and run in cooperation with Outlets Co-operative Neighbourhood House, the Peer Power Program will be held at the seniors exercise park at Donald McLean Reserve. Registrations are open now, but spots are limited. To apply, email Dr Cyarto at: thehealthysenior@gmail.com

Dr Liz Cyarto (right) is running the free Peer Power Program for seniors in Spotswood next month. (Louise Karch)

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MY PLACE Sunbury local Rodney Sciortino recently released his first book, Why We Golf: The Game was Never the Point. He chats to Georgia Tacey about his life in Sunbury, and how he become an author. What’s your connection to Melbourne’s north-west? How long have you lived in the area for? We moved to Sunbury in 1997 to raise a family. At the time I was working at Melbourne Airport, so Sunbury made a lot of sense, close enough to work, but still with a strong community feel and a great place to bring up kids. We ended up putting down real roots in the area over the years making life long friends and schooling our children here. What do you like about where you live? I like the sense of community. Sunbury has grown a lot since we first moved there, but it still has its own identity and a strong local feel. There are plenty of people who have been part of the area for a long time, and I think that creates a real sense of belonging . Is there anything you’d change or like to see in Sunbury? Probably just continued investment in the things that allow Sunbury to grow without losing the community feel that makes it attractive in the first place. Growth is inevitable, but maintaining good local facilities, open spaces and places where people can connect is really important. Where’s your favourite local place to spend time? Goonawarra Golf Club would have to be high on the list. For me, golf has always been as much about the people and the conversations as the game itself, so the course and clubhouse have been the setting

for a lot of good friendships and memories over the years. What’s something people would be surprised to know about you? Probably that I never really set out to write a book. I started journaling after an accident three years ago, mainly as a way of capturing thoughts and reflections that would otherwise just swirl around in my head. Somehow those notes eventually turned into a book. Tell us a bit about your recently released book. The book is called Why We Golf: The Game Was Never The Point. It isn’t an instructional golf book and it isn’t really about improving your game. It’s about the friendships, characters, humour, frustration, resilience and life lessons that seem to come with golf. For most golfers, the shots are only part of the story. What tends to stay with us are the people we played with, the conversations between holes, the bad rounds we can laugh about years later, and the characters we meet along the way. That is really what the book explores, why so many of us keep coming back to the game long after we have forgotten the score. Why did you decide to become an author? I’m not sure I ever consciously decided to become one. After the accident, I started writing down thoughts and reflections, mostly for myself. Over time, I noticed that golf kept appearing in those reflections, not so much the golf itself, but the perspectives that seemed to sit around it. Over the past

Rodney Sciortino. (Damjan Janevski) 572481_05

few months I pulled those writings together, and, after a little prompting by a mate, I was convinced there may be a book in there. I’m

still getting used to calling myself an author though.

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14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 September, 2026

PUZZLES

easy

8 3 2

1 4 7 8 6

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

4 5 2 4 7 6 9 4 4 5 3 medium

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

1 9

3 1 3 1 5 9 7 4 9 3 7

ACROSS

18 20 21 24 27 28 29 30

6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 25 26

A 14

A 15

A 26

H 25

H 19

A 13

A 4

hard

19 8

16 3

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26 13

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

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

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.

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

M A

No. 416 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

17 18

25 26 28

No. 309

S A G A

ALIBI AORTA ARENA ARVOS AWING CLONE COOEE CRAFT DEARS DOONA EDITS ELUDE ERODE FACTS FARES FLUFF GRASS GREED GRITS GROWN GRUBS IGLOO

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

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

TOMES TONAL USHER WEAVE

URANIUM USURPED VERSION

6 LETTERS CLASSY FIDGET GARGLE REPELS

8 LETTERS DEMUREST DETECTED HERRINGS RELEASES

7 LETTERS GULCHES ROOSTER SEAWEED

02-10-26

QUICK QUIZ

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

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

In which US state is Yosemite National Park located?

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?

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

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

R A S P S A L L O T K O A L A E N T E R D E E D S

amid, calm, claim, clam, coma, domical, holm, HOMICIDAL, idiom, loam, macho, maid, mail, mica, midi, milch, mild, milo, mocha, modal, moil

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

A E

N D

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

hard

9-LETTER WORD

medium

A H

easy

5x5

I E G Y V S U Q X J N A H

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

4 1

K Z O R C D L M P F T W B

6 5

3 LETTERS ADS AGO APT ATE BED BIG DOE DUG EGG END GET ICE NAG NAP NET OAF OFF OWL PEA PEP PIG ROE SHE WOO

A 16

A 24

WORDFIT

H 25

No. 341 A

Depression (coll) (4) Make reprisals (9) Roller (5) Any prominent feature in the terrain (8) Sloping type (7) Score (5) Major sale (9) Graceful bird (4) Multiply by four (9) Capital (9) Largest Jovian moon (8) One who seizes control or authority (7) Hawk (5) Grey (4) Improvise (2,3) Buddy (4)

1 2 3 4

DECODER 1

DOWN

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)

1 5 10 11 12 13 14 15

No. 309

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

How many edges does a cube have?

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

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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

Lions Club of Footscray The club will hold a fundraising dinner dance on Saturday 31 October from 6.30-11.30pm at Grand Star Reception, 499 Grieve Parade, Altona North. The evening will feature a four-course meal, entertainment and fundraising activities. All proceeds will support the Victorian Lions Foundation’s commitment to diabetes research, including into pancreatic regeneration and its potential to offer new hope for people living with diabetes. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by contacting the Lions Club of Footscray. Ruth 0403 703 714, Dora 0435 183 696 or footscray.vic@lions.org.au

Braybrook Community Centre The centre is hosting a range of sustainable workshops over the coming months.Turn old jeans into a denim bag at the upcycled bag sewing workshop held on Tuesdays from 10am-12pm between 6-27 October. Learn how to grow food in small spaces at the edible gardening in rentals workshop from 10am-12pm on Wednesday 28 October. Train trees to grow against framework at the espalier fruit trees workshop on Wednesday 12 November. All workshops run from 10am-12pm and are free. 9188 5800

Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand The club meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6pm for a 6.30pm start at Pelicans Landing, Syme Street, Williamstown. Everyone is welcome to attend just contact the club beforehand. Pam Barnes, 0418 347 691, rotarypointgellibrand.com

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Micah, 8, with artist Jennifer Tran during a Patch by Patch workshop at St Albans Community Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 580445

Whitten Oval AFLW Founding members call out Williamstown Toastmasters is turning 30 this year and planning a celebration on 31 October. The club is currently trying to contact founding members to invite them to attend the event. The people the club is trying to reach are: Kevin Holland, Joy Leslie, Edward Magan, Marilyn Martyn, Joye Carver, Bernadette Cooper-Ellis, Ludwina Dautovic, Barry Fordham, Stephen Goss, Patrick Moran, Dennis O’Bryan, David Payne, Clive Seiffert, Dianne Seiffert, Sandra Wilson, Heather Whittingham, Ross Whittingham and Marion Young. Tara: 0411 899 086 or vppr-9088@ toastmastersclubs.org

Free lectures The Footscray Mechanics Institute will be running a free lecture on the last Friday of each month until the end of October. The program includes: book launches, discussion of books and authors, and community guest speakers. The lectures will take place at the Footscray Mechanics Institute, 209 Nicholson Street, Footscray. 9687 1935, info@fmi.org.au

Mystery music sessions October is Victorian Seniors Month and to celebrate, one hand picked act will perform each Tuesday afternoon from 1.30-3pm at the Altona Senior Citizens, 2 Sargood Street. The month of shows will begin with Danny and The Rockets on 6 October, followed by the Glenrowan Bush Band on 13 October, Saltwater on 20 October and Steve Jahauri on 27 October. Entry is free. 9932 1311

The Western Bulldogs have two more home games left at Whitten Oval for the 2026 AFLW season. The Bulldogs host Essendon on Friday 9 October and Melbourne on Saturday 24 October. Both games start at 7.15pm. https://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/ news/2136288

Book sales Friends of Altona Libraries (FOAL) hold monthly book sales at the rear of Altona Library during the first week of each month. Books no longer required by the library are sold for as little as $2. All money is returned to the Library to support community programs. New members who are happy to volunteer to help organise and sell books for only a few hours per month are welcome. Ann Nicol, 0408 460 062

Learn digital devices Know someone who needs help with their mobile phone or tablet? Outlets Newport Community Education Centre offers small, weekly classes that teach all the basics, tips and tricks to meet your needs. Register now. Classes are Mondays 10am-12pm at 43 Mason Street, Newport. 9391 8504, outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

great way to connect with others. Register your interest now. Penny, 0409 014 121, westgatebasketball.com.au/walkingbasketball-1

Sing with WIllin Wimmin choir Discover the joy of group singing with the friendly women at WiIlin Wimmin choir in Williamstown. New members are always welcome, no audition. The choir sings contemporary, folk, choral and world repertoire in acapella style. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings during school terms, 7.30-9.30pm at the Dennis Reserve Centre, 109 Ferguson Street, Williamstown. willinwimmin.org.au, willin.wimmin@gmail. com

Altona VIEW Club VIEW stands for Voice Interest and Education for Women. Altona VIEW club welcomes ladies from the Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and other areas to join us on the third Wednesday of each month, at 11.00am, at the Altona RSL. The club is closely affiliated with The Smith Family and sponsors ten children through the “Learning for Life” programme. Great opportunity to make new friends. Julie 0421 315 846, altonaview@gmail. com

Cards and conversation Play cards and games at Altona North Library every Tuesday from 10am-12pm. Free of charge, morning tea provided and no bookings required. Altona North Library corner of Millers and McArthurs roads, Altona North. 1300 179 944

Computer classes

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Daily computer classes covering scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email and plenty more besides. Both morning and afternoon classes held in Williamstown and Altona North. Lynne, 9397 6168

Love basketball, but not the running? Join the Westgate Basketball Association’s walking basketball program. Walking basketball is ideal for those returning from injury, looking to get back into fitness and perfect for seniors and active adults. A

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 September, 2026

Williamstown Seniors The group meets every Tuesday from 1-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon. Marlene, 0402 769 204

Altona North Combined Probus The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings. Lesley, 0414 481 442

Footscray CWA Meets on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9pm at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street. cwaofvicfootscray@gmail.com, https:// www.facebook.com/CWAofVicFootscray/

Neighbourhood House Zumba classes are now held every Wednesday from 1-1.30pm and community connect and good times are held every Thursday from 1.30-2.30pm, with bingo games and afternoon tea afterwards. Both are held at the neighbourhood house, 113 Melon Street, Braybrook. 9317 5610, jodie@bmnh.org.au

Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support to anyone who wants to stop drinking. The Western Unity AA Group holds weekly in-person meetings in Williamstown. Those thinking they may have a drinking problem are welcome to attend and can bring along friends, family and loved ones to offer support. 1300 222 222, https://williamstown. aagroup.org.au/, aawilliamstown@gmail. com

Discover new skills Join Outlets Newport Community Education Centre for classes in English conversation, computers, devices, sewing, crafts and more at 43 Mason Street, Newport. All welcome. 9391 8504, outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Chit Chat Tuesdays A ladies chit chat group held from 1.30-3pm every Tuesday at Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre in Altona. Dione, 9398 2511, LJAC.com.au

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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)

Wednesday, 30 September, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

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

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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?

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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,

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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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Teams of the year named The Western Football Netball League has revealed its teams of the year after the league’s awards night this week.‘ Caroline Springs led Division 1 with four team of the year selections with Alipate Bryant, Ben Caluzzi, Steven Kyriazis, and Cooper Pepi all making the team. Albion and Yarraville Seddon had the next most players, with three each as every team was represented. Albion’s Caleb McPherson and Joshua Bench (both wings) and Judd Brewster (half forward) were voted into the team. Yarraville Seddon trio Darcy Grieves (half back) Akol Deng (ruck) and Michael Selsby (interchange) made the side. Werribee Districts’ Harrison White and Daniel Nielson, Newport’s Ahmed Saad, Hussein Kadour, Parkside’s Zach Morris and Bruno Laguda, Spotswood’s Max Mitchell Russell and Jackson Williams, Point Cook’s Billy Kolyniuk and Braxton Simms, Sunshine’s Xavier Kardachi and Point Cook

Centrals’ Cooper Langan were also named in the team. Ashlin Brown, who was the only representative from Hoppers Crossing, was named captain of the team. Players from all but one team feature in the women’s team of the year with Parkside Spurs leading the way with four representatives. Spurs stars Jessica Byrnes (full back) Rita Ceravolo (centre), Taquila Angel (wing) and Aleisha Casley (forward pocket) were named in the team, with Angel named captain as well. Three players from Werribee Centrals, Wyndhamvale, the Suns and West Footscray made the team. From the Centurions, Meghann Basto , Kyleisha Kinces and Julia Nash (interchange) made the team. West Footscray’s Juri Graco-Ilves (forward pocket), Layla Dawkins (followers) and Laura Littlepage (interchange) were

recognised. Falcons trio Rachael Sherriff, Larissa Renaut and Harper Sell were rewarded after helping their side make the division 1 grand final for the first time. Division 2 grand final best on ground, Bonnie Lea Brown was named in the team of the year along with Suns teammates Keshena Kinkaid (half forward) and Aluk Kuol (ruck). Others in the team of the year are Point Cook Centrals’ Zoe Hurring and Chloe Elkington Caroline Springs’ Reggae Auld, Yarraville Seddon’s Akec Makur Chuot and Rachel Culvenor, and Laverton’s Shae-Lee Murphy-Burke and Sina Mason. Premiers North Footscray not surprisingly had the most players named in the division 2 team of the year. Five players from the victorious Devils made the team which was voted on by the coaches. Nick Papakalodoukas, Adam Petridis,

Mathew Serafin, Barnaby Sianos, and Abdikhane Fitaax were selected. Runners-up Wyndhamvale were the next best with four players. Tyler Tessari (full back), Cameron Morrison (wing), Lewis Stanton (full forward) and Riley Evans (followers) all made the team. Braybrook’s Nathan Spackman was named captain, with teammates Sam Clifford and Jayden Danaher also in the team. West Footscray’s Damian Furlong (back pocket), Henry Lovell (centre) and Matthew Turcinovich (forward pocket) made the team. Albanvale’s Brendan Cassar (half back), Corey Field (interchange) and Jackson Williams (interchange), Sunshine Heights’ Jackson Viola (half forward) and Matthew Dettman (interchange), Tarneit’s Samuel Roberts (half back), the Suns’ Nicholas Gregson (half forward) and Laverton’s Antony Pasqua (ruck) were the other players selected.

Laverton reveals its new coach

Mitch Jamieson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 540429_04

Bulldogs squad is ready for new challenges By Tara Murray Footscray is hoping another year under its belt will help it go further in the Victorian Premier League. The Bulldogs finished third last season before exiting the finals in straight sets, having missed out on finals the previous season. Having kept the core group together, the Bulldogs are keen to see the development that will come. Bulldogs’ coach Dale McDonald said they are ready for the season to get underway. “We’ve had a good pre-season and we’ve changed a few things up with pre-season this year,” he said. “I took a small group of players to Queensland in early October to play against the Sunshine Coast Scorchers. “We took about 13 players and it was really good and really early in our pre-season. It gave us a good chance to look at areas that we’ve been able to improve on since.” McDonald said it had been good to keep

the core group together for this year. He said Jack Prestwidge wouldn’t be back and he was unsure where he was playing. Max Birthisel is travelling around Australia and is yet to return and won’t be playing at this stage. Aaron Harding, who previously played for the Bulldogs, returns and will help fill that bowling void. Henry Pearson, who has been in the United Kingdom for the past three years, also joins the squad. He previously played in the Victoria under-17 and under-19 set ups. “We’ve strengthened our lower grades with a bit more experience,” McDonald said. “That is the hardest age to fill and more clubs are quite young for the past few years. “We wanted some older leaders amongst the young kids.” McDonald said they felt with another year under the belt of their younger players they would be better for it. He said some would likely have chances to step into the top two grades at times this

year. “We’ve got three in the Vic under-17s squads,” he said. “They’ll most likely start in the second XI to start and we will look to fast track them. “Dezi Carter is in the under-19 Vic Country squad and doing particularly well. Like most good young talents they get better when they gain some experience.” The Bulldogs will kick off their season this Saturday against Fitzroy Doncaster. McDonald said it would be a good test for them. While the premier season kicks off this weekend, three Bulldogs have already had selections at higher levels. Dylan Brasher played in the opening round of the Dean Jones Cup and is currently playing for Victoria’s second XI this week. Mitch Jamieson, who doesn’t have a Victorian contract, was 12th man for Victoria in the opening round of the Dean Jones Cup. Young quick Daniel Wilczynski, who has trained with Victoria in the off season, is also in the Victorian second XI side with Brasher.

Laverton has announced a new coach for next year’s Western Football League division 2 season. Chris Metcher joins the club as it aims to continue to rebuild with a young playing list the club has put in place the past few years. The Magpies said this was the start of a fresh beginning for the club’s men’s program. The club said that Metcher brings a wealth of knowledge, proven leadership and drives a strong culture. The club believes his experience at many successful clubs will also be vital to helping the young group take steps forward. “Chris brings an incredible amount of football experience to the nest — 640 career games, including more than 400 at senior level, along with years spent around successful football clubs and programs,” Laverton said on social media. “More importantly, Chris understands where Laverton is heading. “2027 is about building standards, developing our players, strengthening our culture and creating a football program people genuinely want to be part of. “Chris brings knowledge, leadership, experience and a genuine passion for helping players improve. “He’ll work closely with our entire football department as we build the next chapter of senior football at Laverton.” Metcher’s playing career included time at Burnside Heights and Coburg Districts, while he has played reserves with Essendon District Football League premier club Deer Park the past two and half seasons. The Magpies finished 2026 bottom of the ladder with one win for the season. “To our current players — get ready to work,” the Magpies said. “To former Magpies — the door is open. “And to anyone looking for a new football home in 2027 — come and be part of what we’re building.” The Magpies have already held a meet the coaches night for players to see the direction they are going.

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New year, same Crusaders By Tara Murray Western Crusaders got their title defence off to the perfect start in the Gridiron Victoria competition. The eight-time reigning premiers had a forfeit in round one, but showed they would again be the team to beat on Friday as second round action got underway. They faced the Geelong Buccaneers in a rematch of last season’s grand final, winning 50-14. The Crusaders also had a big win on grand final day as well. The Crusaders’ second team started its season on Friday with a 16-14 win against the Melton Wolves.

The Crusaders’ Tyson Garnham said it was pleasing to get out there and start with a win like that. “It was very good and it was a convincing win,” he said. “Our quarterback Astin Hewett had now further progressed in the system and was coming off representing the Australian team as a starting quarterback earlier this year. “It was a dominant performance from him and he’s above the rest of the league.” The Crusaders’ second side was facing a Melton side that came off a rare win in round one and were able to sneak home to get onto the board. Garnham said the program remained

strong this season, with the club again the only one with two senior sides. “We had a lot of new guys playing their first game,” he said. “We had a lot of under-18s step up and play men’s as well. There’s a few juniors who will play under-18s and seniors. “It’s good to see the new blood coming through.” Garnham said they had a big focus on the relationship between the senior and junior programs, with the under-18s doing a lot of training with the seniors. He said it helps the more experienced players pass on the knowledge to ensure the club continues to do well into the future.

“The club does that really well.” Despite having won the last eight premierships, there’s no letting up for the Crusaders as nothing changes for the Crusaders this season as they aim for number nine. They are also seeking more opportunities. “We’re looking to have another good year,” Garnham said. “We will have a game against the Raiders from New South Wales. They will come down for an exhibition game part way through the season. “They are similar to us and we’re trying to expand our realm of competition against teams from other states.”

Clarke Rossiter (right) is the new coach for Altona’s women’s side. (Supplied)

Seagulls name new coach Maddox Grima. (Archivist Media)

Grima continues on winning in the ring By Peter Howe Keeping things simple and focused works for this month’s Don Deeble Sports Star nominee, boxer Maddox Grima. Grima, who is the current Australian under-19 silver medallist in the 65 kilogram weight division, has just returned from the Oceania Championships in Samoa as the gold medallist. “It was an amazing moment and the highlight of my career so far,” he said. “It was the second time in two years Grima has represented Australia at the Oceania Games. While Grima now represents his country in boxing, the sport wasn’t his first sporting love. He played junior football for eight years with Werribee Districts. “I played junior footy for Werribee Districts for eight years. “While I loved playing footy, I wasn’t going anywhere in the sport,” he admits. “My dad wanted me to do boxing for self-defence at around the same time I started footy. “I could see my improvement in the gym and loved the challenge of getting better. “Eventually I had to choose between the sports and boxing won the day.” Grima’s first fight was as a 13-year-old in the 54 kilogram weight division for a

Victorian title. He won the event. “The adrenaline kicked in and having that immediate success gave me great hope for the future in boxing,” he said. Grima’s strict training regime includes a 6am wakeup call and a three to five kilometre run every Monday morning. The MacKillop College student’s days are filled with schoolwork until he hits the gym each night at 4.30pm. Training varies but normally includes skipping, sparring, bag and then pad work which all focuses on technique. While he doesn’t watch a lot of videos of fighters, Grima is quietly confident in his ability to work out his opponents while in the ring and on the move. Grima has had a stellar start to his career, winning three Victorian titles, while still striving for his first national win. He has represented Australia three times and is certainly on the pathway to success. He fought in his first national event when he was in the under-15 age bracket. Overall, his current record stands at 30 wins and five losses. Grima has had a very hectic 2026, with eighteen fights. “A normal year would see me have around five fights,” he said. “It has been exceptional. I made the

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Australian under-19 team that went to Thailand. In the lead up to that event, I had three fights at the AIS, winning all three to make the team.” Grima said the lessons he learned from the trip will be invaluable. “I had to learn how to live by myself, become independent and learn to take instruction from someone other than my normal coach,” he said. Grima said his power, speed and defence are the keys to his fighting. “However, I must continue to work on all aspects of my fighting if I am to continue to improve. “I am not perfect and I will not stop trying to improve.” Grima has a passion for working with young emerging boxers and will often be found at his gym on a Saturday morning volunteering to put the young aspiring boxers through their paces. His goal is to represent Australia in the Commonwealth and Olympic Games and in the end would like to turn professional. The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers. If you would like to nominate a monthly winner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail. com or 0408 556 631.

Altona has locked in its coach for next year’s Hockey Victoria women’s premier league season. Clarke Rossiter will step up into the coaching role having joined the club this year. “After joining AHC as WPL assistant coach in 2026, Clarke quickly became a highly respected member of the coaching team and a valued figure within the playing group,” the Seagulls said on social media. “We’re excited to see Clarke take the reins and continue to drive the growth and development of our WPL squad into next season.” Prior to joining Altona, Rossiter has had successful stints as head coach of Footscray men’s premier league reserves and PEGS men’s vic league 1. He is also involved with the junior high performance programs with Hockey Victoria, recently working with futures and under-18 squads, and also has international coaching experience in England and The Netherlands. The Seagulls thanked Stephanie Young who coached both the women’s premier league and reserves the past four years and Joshua Coote, who stepped into coaching the women’s premier league side this year. “The commitment and effort they have given to the group has been significant, and we are incredibly grateful for their contributions.” The Seagulls finished this year in The club said it was continuing to recruit for a new men’s coach after Greg Drake stood down from the role. Drake is again the women’s for Hockey Melbourne in the Hockey One competition. Details: enquiries@altonahc.org.au.

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Altona remains focused Altona has added some more depth as it again aims to be in the mix come the end of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west season. The A’s were knocked out in the second week of finals, one step further than the year before which was ruined by weather. With some new players on board and the core group returning, coach Liam Keating is confident in what they can produce this year and believes that they will be stronger. “It’s been a good pre-season and it’s been going really well and numbers have been good,” he said. “There’s a lot more depth and a lot more especially in the ones. We will probably look different.” Keating said they set the foundations last season in his first season in charge and they were keen to build on that. He said they felt that they could be really competitive again and match it with the top sides.

“We’ve added a couple of players there,” he said. “Kayden Whear didn’t play last year but has first XI experience and he is going to be pushing for a spot. “Noah Thomas from the twos is going to be pushing, Kenny [Gamanayake] played one game in the first XI last year and is going to be pushing.” Whear has also been named as the A’s strength and conditioning coach, having worked in that field at Victorian Football League club, Williamstown. The club over the weekend secured the signing of 18-year-old Danny De Souza. The Englishman has been playing in the Warwickshire Premier League. He is a top order batter, who is a regular at senior cricket despite his young age. Keating said they were unlucky last season with how their season finished, but it gives the group plenty of motivation going forward. “We lost the last game of the season

and it cost us top spot and a home final,” he said. “If we get it right at the pointy end of the season, we think we can be a good team. “Obviously Werribee has still got those good players and Spotty has had a couple of players leave but gained a couple. “Hoppers Crossing is always a good team.” Altona is set to start its season on Saturday in a two-dayer against Plenty Valley. Keating said he didn’t know much about the Bats, who have a new coach this season. Last year, they had a young playing group. He said they were unsure whether they would get on the pitch on day one, with day one usually called off with not enough grounds not ready. In other matches set down for round one, Williamstown will be on the road against St Bernard’s OC, Yarraville is at home against Coburg and Spotswood will play Strathmore.

Matthew Turcinovich. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 534371_04

Sports shorts EDFL Parkside has added some speed to its list for next year’s Essendon District Football League division 1 season. Noah Whitnall and Leon Bektash have both made the move across to the Magpies, while Max Naughton, who played in the Magpies 2023 premiership, is also returning next season.

VTCA Footscray United has signed Raman Athwal for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Isaacs Howarth Shield sason. The Bulldogs said that Athwal is a dedicated and competitive bowling all-rounder representing Pudsey Congs in the Bradford Premier League and Sedbergh School. “A reliable right-arm pace bowler, he contributes in key moments through disciplined spells and provides valuable middle-to-lowerorder runs,” the Bulldogs said. “He is recognised for competing hard, thriving under pressure and supporting his team in every aspect of the game.”

Western FL Logan Morris celebrates after putting the Brisbane Lions in front. (Joel Carrett/AAP)

Morris the hero as Lions claim premiership By Tara Murray, with AAP Former Werribee Districts and Spotswood player Logan Morris was the hero late as the Brisbane Lions claimed a third straight AFL premiership. The young forward had a quiet day in the decider against Fremantle, but stood up in the dying minutes. Fremantle seemed set for its first premiership when it led by 17 points with four minutes left on the clock. The Lions kicked two goals quickly to bring the margin back to five points with two minutes remaining. Enter Morris. Morris marked and kicked his second goal of the game to put the Lions in front in the dying minutes. He would then kick the sealer with only seconds remaining, as the Lions won, 14.12 (96)-12.17 (89). For Morris it’s a third premiership in just three seasons at the club. Speaking on the post game coverage, Morris said words couldn’t describe how he felt winning another premiership. “They got a lead and the ability to fight back and put pressure on and get

the goals that we wanted, so proud of the boys,” he said. “That was one of the more fun games to be apart of. “We said at the start of the game that we had to use it [Wharfie time] as energy and we did that and we were able to respond and get on top at the end.” The young forward admitted to nerves when he took the shot to put his side in front. “I was definitely s**ting it a bit (before the kick),” he told AAP. “I didn’t know how long was left, I knew there were about 90 seconds, so I knew that this kick was to put us up in a grand final. “I was nervous but I got back to what I do at training, what I do throughout the whole year, and I’m super stoked to be able to go back and kick it.” Morris revealed post game that he had been battling injury through the back part of the season. “I can probably say it now, but I’ve had a stress fracture in the left side of my back for probably the back half of the year,” the 21-year-old told AAP in the Lions rooms. “I’ve been trying to juggle my load and

it’s been a bit of a pain because you want to be fresh but you also want to be playing.” Despite his back issue, the only game Morris missed this season was in round one against Sydney due to a hand fracture. “It’s a credit to the medical staff in the way they’ve handled it and being able to get me up for games every week,” Morris said. “To be able to get the reward today in a grand final, it pays off when your back’s pretty sore throughout the year.” “I just don’t train at the start of the week. “You have to in the main training, but I don’t do much through the start of the week.” The forward, who also played for the Western Jets and played one game for Werribee, said he pinches himself having achieved the ultimate success three times in his short career. “It’s crazy to think that,” he said. “I put a lot of hard work when I got to the club, wanted to be a good player. So happy to obviously get another one, don’t know what to say at the moment.”

Ahmed Saad has been appointed the new coach for Newport for the Western Football League division 1 season. Saad joined the Panthers in a playing capacity this season and will now step into the coaching role. “A natural born leader of men and a competitive beast. With uncompromising standards and expectations, Saady is pumped to get to work with our senior group,” the Panthers said on social media.

AFLW A four-goal haul from Heidi Woodley helped the Western Bulldogs hold off Port Adelaide to claim a hard-fought victory in front of a convivial grand final eve crowd at Whitten Oval. It marked the first time Woodley has kicked four goals in a match, headlining a frantic 14-goal second half where the Power stayed in touch but the Bulldogs ultimately prevailed in a 10.2 (62)-8.1 (49) victory. Woodley, Isabelle Pritchard and Jess Fitzgerald were named the Bulldogs’ best. FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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