Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 21st April 2026

Hillside local John St. Peeters recently set a new world record for staging the world’s largest Italian musical production.

(Damjan Janevski) 546643_03

St. Peeters’ Italian record triumph

Breaking world records isn’t new for Hillside local John Lo Piccolo, or as he’s betterknown,JohnSt.Peeters.

The creative director and multiinstrumentalist entertainer was recognised in 2022 for producing the largestElvisPresleyshowglobally.

Last month he added another achievement to the Australian Book of Records after staging the largest Italian show in the world with 117 performers andsingers.

“It’sallsurrealforme,”Johnsaid. The concert, Un Cuore Italiano, held at Albert Park on March 29, celebrated Italy’smusicalhistory.

After the performance, when announcing whether Lo Piccolo had broken the record, the compere stated that there were not 115 performers onstageasJohnhadintended.

“That freaked me out and the whole crowd kind of murmured,” Lo Piccolo said.

“ThenIputmyheaddownandhesaid ‘youhave117,whichisaworldrecord’.

Continued: Page 11.

‘Burned it down’

By Tara Cosoleto, AAP

A man who was promised $6000 to burn down a Sunshine North factory said he hopedthetwomenkilledintheblazewere rapistssohecouldfeelbetterabouthimself.

Phoenix Darren John Tims’ covertly recorded comments were aired in the Victorian County Court on Thursday 17 April as he pleaded guilty to two counts of arsoncausingdeath.

Tims and co-offender Atem Akoi Thon, both aged 20, admitted driving out to the SunshineNorthfactoryinastolenuteinthe earlyhoursof23February,2024.

Timspouredpetrolattheentranceofthe property and set it on fire before the two

menfledthescene.

Hai Minh Nguyen, 41, and Phuc Tran, 48, were both sleeping in a neighbouring property when the blaze spread and killed them.

The partners of the two men provided statements to the court on Thursday, describing their grief and hardship in the yearsthathavefollowed.

“There are no words that can truly capturethedevastation,theemptinessand sheer agony I have endured,“ Mr Nguyen’s partnerThanhsaid.

“The image of him being trapped in that blazeisanightmare.”

Tims and Thon did not intend to set fire totheotherpropertyandtheydidnotknow

therewerepeopleinside,prosecutorJordan Johnstonaccepted.

Thetwomenhadbeenpromised$6000by an unknown person if they firebombed the factory but they never received the money, thecourtwastold.

The day after the blaze, Tims, Thon and co-offenderSemajCigobia,20,setthestolen ute on fire about 50km away in Coimadai, nearBacchusMarsh.

Police began covertly monitoring the offenders in July 2024 and recorded Tims saying he “burned the place down” and discussingthefacttwomenhaddied.

“Hopefully they raped kids or some shit like that so I can feel better about myself,” hesaidintherecordingsdetailedincourt.

Tims’ barrister Sam Norton told the court his client had been using cocaine at the time of the offending. He said the 20-year-old was remorseful and had taken steps to better himself, including gaining employment and spending time with his son.

Thonalsopleadedguiltytotwocountsof arsoncausingdeath.

BothThonandTimsacceptedtheywould be jailed, while Cigobia’s barrister Jennifer Clark submitted a community corrections orderwouldbeappropriateforherclient. She told the court Cigobia, who pleaded guilty to assisting an offender, became involvedbecauseofloyaltytohisfriends.

Allthreewillbesentencedon18May.

The secret life of a creek

Woodend Landcare members know plenty about the natural flora surrounding Five Mile Creek, but a new study will help them understand what else resides down by the creek. Georgia Tacey caught up with Woodend Landcare president Nicole Middleton to hear about the group’s big undertaking for 2026: a Fauna Discovery Survey of Five Mile Creek.

Hidden beneath the shrubs and trees surrounding Woodend’s Five Mile Creek remains a world yet to be discovered.

For over two decades, Woodend Landcare volunteers have spent countless hours planting and revegetating the bushland around the creek, seedlings are now maturing and most are fully grown.

The landcarers know everything about what grows there: from the native grasses up to the tallest trees and the endangered black gums that call Woodend home.

It’swhatthey’vespentdecadesstudying.

But now, the group is set to undertake its biggest discovery project yet to find out what animals live in and visit the Five Mile Creek riparian corridor, a vital buffer between aquatic and terrestrial environments, in an effort to guide future work and provide official records for the community.

Woodend Landcare president Nicole Middleton said while the group knows everything about the flora surrounding the creek, there were little to no official records of the fauna.

“There’s a threatened gum tree [Black Gum] that lives along our creek, and the only place in Victoria that it lives is within four kilometers of Woodend,” she said.

It’s not only going to show us what’s here, good and bad, but it’s also going to show us what’s missing

“Because our revegetation work has all been focused on saving the Black Gums, and because a lot of the plants that have been put in here, we planted them, so we know what plants live here.

“We don’t have any clue what animals livehere,sowe’rediscoveringwhat’shere.”

The group received funding for the project from the North Central Catchment Management Authority and Landcare Victoria.

Themoneyhasfundedafaunaecologist, who will survey the area over the year to discover and identify animals.

“Over the last few years, we’ve noticed a lot more animals,” Ms Middleton said.

“Somepeoplehaveseenplatypus–we’ve had three sightings now—and rakali, which are the native water rats, they’ve been seen along the creek as well.

“Since all the bush is back, we’ve also had wallabies, but we don’t really know what other animals live here. We don’t have any official sightings or anything of these animals that we’ve mentioned.”

Fauna ecologist John Harris will undertake the study using spotlighting, harp traps, nest box checking, eBird and environmental DNA (eDNA).

“Part of the project is he is going to be undertaking some bird surveys and he’s going to set up a couple of e-bird sites, which other people who are bird experts can come to,” Ms Middleton said.

“In the actual creek itself, we’re looking at doing some eDNA work.

“All the animals that live near there— everyone sheds skin, sheds fur—and the DNA in those fragments that come off those animals gets washed down into the creek and you might have a tiny bit of it in the water.”

Ms Middleton said samples of the creek waterwillbecollectedandsentfortesting,

which will produce a list of the DNA found in the water sample.

“They then compare that to the DNA of known species and then they can match it up and see what species we’ve actually got,” she said.

“Through this eDNA work of the water, we’llgetaprettygoodideaofwhatanimals live in the water, but also along the water.”

Thegroupthinksthiswillprovidedetails of vertebrates and invertebrates, including frogs, reptiles, possums, fish, yabbies and more.

Ms Middleton hopes it will inspire local animal lovers to join the group.

“Wedon’tactuallyhaveanyfaunapeople in our group because our focus has always been on plants,” Ms Middleton said.

“We’re hoping that through this project

we’ll be able to tap into a new cohort of members.”

Ms Middleton said the discovery study will run throughout 2026, covering all seasons. The findings will be presented to Woodend Landcare at its annual general meeting in November.

The information collected in the survey will also be logged on the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas and will be used to guide future work for the Woodend Landcaregroup,aswellasbecomeaguide for planning in the area.

Whether good or bad, the results will revealifthegroup’shardworkrevegetating thecreekandturningitintoathrivingand lush area has paid off

“This data that we collect, it’s not only going to show us what’s here, good and

bad, but it’s also going to show us what’s missing, what could potentially be here,”

Ms Middleton said.

“We can assume that these fauna would be here, but they’re actually not. And maybe that’s because we do need more nesting hollows, more old trees, then we can get some nesting boxes made.”

She said the Woodend Mens Shed and the Woodend Lions Club have volunteered to help build nesting boxes if needed. You can stay up to date with how the survey is tracking, as well as a number of events Woodend Landcare will host in conjunctionwiththesurveyonitswebsite. The group is also seeking community donations to help fund the eDNA portion of the study. Details: woodendlandcare. org

Alleged car thief busted

A man accused of committing almost 90 offences including the theft of 12 vehicles has been arrested and charged in Melbourne’s west.

It’s believed the 27-year-old man is responsible for the theft of 12 vehicles from Williamstown, Sydenham, West Footscray, St Albans, Albion, Cobblebank, Melbourne Southbank and Docklands, Seven of these have since been recovered and returned to their rightful owners.

After police spotted the man behind the wheel of an allegedly stolen vehicle on Thursday 9 April, detectives executed a search warrant at a home in Eynesbury

about 6.30pm the same day.

According to Victoria Police, in a botched attempt to flee, the man unknowingly landed in the hands of waiting police after jumping over a fence.

During a search of the property, police located three key mimicking devices and several sets of car keys and garage remotes.

Police also seized identification, bank and fuel cards in the names of other people, as well as carpark access swipes, a mobile phone, signal blockers and receivers, quantities of cannabis and magic mushrooms, and clothing relevant to the investigation.

Additional electronic devices were also

Real lives make a reel story

A Hillside filmmaker has turned her experience as an aged care worker into a groundbreaking short film exploring a poignant love story of a couple navigating the effects of dementia.

Deepthy Nirmala spent 17 years working in the aged care sector and decided to turn her real-world experience into a heartfelt story to promote conversation around the impacts of dementia.

“Having worked in aged care for nearly two decades, I’ve witnessed that dementia deeply impacts not just the individual but also their loved ones,” Nirmala said. “I felt there wasn’t enough conversation around this side of the journey. With A Long Goodbye, I wanted to highlight that dementia is not just a condition—it’s a lived experience.”

For Nirmala, her work was clearly laid out for her.

“My two greatest passions have always been people and stories,” she said.

“The transition felt organic. Aged care gave me the depth, and filmmaking gave me the medium. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing so many real, human stories, and those experiences naturally inspired the stories I create.”

The short film is currently beginning its rounds through film festivals, but a private screening brought together the cast and crew behind the powerful piece of cinema, as well as members from the local community, who praised the picture for its astonishing message.

seized from another Rockbank address.

He has since been charged with 87 offences including two counts of attempted motor vehicle theft, 14 counts of unlicenced driving, four counts of theft, two counts of burglary, fraudulently using registration plate, 18 counts of committing indictable offence while on bail, and failing to stop on police direction, among other offences.

Police said further charges are anticipated.

Last year, Victoria Police seized 800 key cloning devices, with intelligence suggesting in excess of 10,000 vehicles are being stolen using this technology each year.

Toyota Landcruisers, Corollas, Hiluxs, and Rav 4s among the most targeted vehicles by tech savvy thieves, as well as Holden Commodores and Subaru Imprezas.

While Victoria Police said it continues to work with impacted manufacturers in relation to the issue, vehicle owners are urged to consider a range of preventative measures to help deter thieves, including an onboard diagnostic port lock which prevents an offender connecting a reprogramming device to the vehicle.

More tips can be found here: www.police.vic.gov.au/preventing-motor-vehicle-theft

Help shape our city’s future

We welcome your feedback on the Draft Annual Action Plan and Budget 2026/2027

Consultation open from 22 April to 20 May 2026

How to provide your feedback: Attend a pop-up session, visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au or call 9249 4000. Pop-up sessions

Friday

24 April 4-7pm

Saturday 2 May 11am-2pm

Wednesday 6 May 11am-2pm

Saturday 9 May 10am-1pm

Tuesday 12 May 2-5pm

Watergardens Shopping Centre 399 Melton Highway, Taylors Lakes (next to MECCA and Little Sparrow)

Keilor Village 676 Old Calder Highway, Keilor (outside Sweet Lulus)

Sunshine Marketplace Shopping Centre 80 Harvester Road, Sunshine (next to Donut King near Big W)

Brimbank Shopping Centre Station Road, Deer Park (outside “The Café Land”. Site 17, Woolworths and Aldi entry)

St Albans Library 71A Alfrieda Street, St Albans

Retail theft crackdown

Police patrolling some of Melbourne’s biggest shopping centres have made more than1000arrestssinceanoperationaimed at reducing crime in retail settings began late last year.

Operation Pulse commenced in December 2025 with police and Protective Service Officers (PSOs) conducting regular patrolsateightshoppingcentresacrossthe city, including Highpoint, Pacific Werribee and Watergardens.

According to police, more than 1000 arrests have been made in the operation’s first four months, resulting in more than 2000 charges, with retail theft accounting for almost half.

More than 350 drug and weapons seizures have also been made, while police claim that the increased presence of uniformedofficersandPSOshasresultedin a reduction in violent crime, with offences such as assault and affray accounting for just three per cent of all charges laid.

“As a result, retailers and shoppers are approaching us regularly to say they feel safer since the operation commenced,”

Superintendent Matt Baynes said of the operation’s success.

Among the most noteworthy arrests made by Operation Pulse members

include a 41-year-old man found with a loaded firearm down in his pants at Highpointlatelastmonthanda19-yearold male who was wanted for a carjacking at Laverton Railway Station and subsequent high-speed collision in Seabrook on 3 March where the stolen car was found split in half with no driver present.

Originally set to conclude in June, OperationPulsehasalreadybeenextended through until December this year, and Superintendent Baynes said it could yet involve other shopping centres too.

“We’ll continue to strategically move our resources based on the latest crime data, calls for assistance and intelligence – ensuring our members are where they need to be to prevent crime,” he said.

According to Luke Sikora from the Shopping Centre Council of Australia, Operation Pulse members would be welcome at any shopping centre.

“The feedback we receive from our retailers, the feedback we receive from our customers is overwhelmingly positive,” Mr Sikora said.

“Ninety four per cent of our retailers want to see Operation Pulse continue.”

West MPs take on new portfolios

also have

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch has been promoted to the state government cabinet while St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman takes on an additional portfolioinamajorfrontbenchreshuffle announced by Premier Jacinta Allan.

Ms Grigorovitch, the new youth, and carers and volunteers minister, is among four Labor MPs stepping into senior leadership roles just weeks before the statebudgeton5May.

Their portfolios were announced on the morning of Wednesday 15 April. On the same day Ms Suleyman was also namedthenewtourismminister,adding to her portfolios as veterans, and small and family business and employment minister.

Before winning the seat of Kororoit at the 2022 election, Ms Grigorovitch served as the state secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union, bringing a strong background in advocacy and worker representationtohernewrole. Her promotion follows three ministers announcing their resignation from cabinet days before the reshuffle, the resigning ministers confirmed they would retire from politics at the Novemberelection,promptingabroader refreshoftheAllanministry.

On social media, Ms Grigorovitch said she was “deeply honoured” to have been electedtojointheministry.MsSuleyman said she was excited to continue work on growingthetourismindustryinVictoria.

MP visits Deanside worksite

Gorton MP Alice Jordan-Baird visited a BMES worksite in Deanside this month to meet local apprentices participating in the federal government’s Key Apprenticeship Program(KAP).

ThefederalgovernmentsaidKAPispartof its commitment to help build the workforce Australia needs by backing apprentices to startandcompletetheirtradeinthehousing constructionorcleanenergysectors.

Apprentices who participate in the program can access up to $10,000 (for full-time apprentices) and up to $5000 (for part-time apprentices) in financial support overthecourseoftheirtraining.

The federal government said the program also provides employers with an incentive payment of up to $5000 in their first year of engaging an Australian apprentice who is workinginaKAPoccupation.

Ms Jordan-Baird said supporting more apprentices in construction and housing is

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“More tradies means more new homes,” she said. “This $10,000 incentive program is backing thousands of apprentices in their training, including Taylors Hill local Michaelwhoisbeingbackedonhisjourney tobecomeanelectrician.”

According to the federal government, there have been 17,729 commencements in the housing construction stream of the programsinceitbeganinJuly2025.

Carpentry is proving to be the most popular occupation under the program, with 6431 apprentice commencements nationwide, followed by plumbing apprentices with 3680 commencements and electrical apprentices with 3135 commencements.

Meanwhile, the new energy stream of the program has seen more than 20,000 new apprentices entering fields like solar, automotiveandsmarttechnology.

Briefs

Aggravated burglary

Police have charged two men after an aggravated burglary in Caroline Springs in the early hours of Wednesday 15 April. It is alleged three men smashed the front door of a property on Oak View Road and assaulted three female occupants about 1.30am. Two women were taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries and a third woman sustained minor injuries not requiring hospital treatment. Police located and arrested three men nearby. Officers seized a machete and an imitation firearm at the scene. One of the men sustained a dog bite during the arrest and was taken to hospital under police guard, where he remains. A 27-year-old man and a 25-year-old man, both from Kalkallo, have been charged with multiple offences.

Reduced library hours

Brimbank libraries has announced Deer Park library opening hours will be temporarily reduced between 29 April to 5 June due to building works. During this period, the Maker Space and the Toy Library will also operate on reduced hours. From April 29 to May 16, and again from May 25 to June 5, the Deer Park library will be on Mondays to Thursdays from 4-8pm, Fridays from 4-5pm and Saturdays from 10am-5pm. The library will be closed from May 18 to May 23. The return chute will also be out of order during building works.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Premium co working and private offices now available on the fifth floor of an A grade building close to Sunshine Station. Excellent views, natural light and flexible options for individuals and teams. Contact us now for more information and to book an inspection.

Puzzles you should pick up to keep your mind sharp

We all know that getting 30 minutes of exerciseperdayiscrucialtoourwellbeing, anddrinkingeightglassesofwaterhelpsus stay hydrated. But what about our mental health?

As we age, maintaining sharp mental faculties is of utmost importance, especially for seniors. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities not only helps preserve cognitive function but also contributes to overall well-being. Through puzzles, games, and other stimulating exercises, seniors can enhance their memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, allowing them to retain their independence, enjoy a higher quality of life,andreducetheriskofcognitivedecline anddisorders.

Engaging games for cognitive fitness Here are 3 engaging games that you can playbyyourselforwithfriendsandfamily tohelpkeepyourmindsharp.

Crossword puzzles:  Offering a multitude of benefits, crossword puzzles are a popularchoiceformentalexercise.Firstly, they expand vocabulary by exposing individuals to new words and their definitions. This enriches communication skillsandenhancesarticulation.Secondly, solvingcrosswordpuzzlesprovidesmental stimulation, actively engaging the brain in problem-solving and critical thinking. Thirdly, the puzzles boost memory as they require the recall of specific facts, names, orhistoricalevents.Thisconstantexercise strengthens memory retention and recall abilities.

Sudoku: Sudoku is a number puzzle that challenges logical thinking and

concentration. It’s available in various difficulty levels, allowing seniors to choose according to their preference. By strategically placing numbers to satisfy

the puzzle’s constraints, individuals must analyse and deduce the most appropriate solutions, fostering critical thinking abilities. Secondly, the puzzle demands

sustained attention to detail as each move affects subsequent steps, encouraging individuals to stay mentally engaged and improve their ability to concentrate for extendedperiods.

Memory games:  By actively engaging in exercises that challenge memory, such as matching pairs of cards or recalling sequences of items, individuals can strengthen their ability to remember and retain information in everyday life. These games require individuals to pay close attention to details, remember specific patterns or sequences, and stay mentally engaged throughout the activity, thereby enhancing their concentration skills. Memory games also promote cognitive agilityandmentalflexibility.Asindividuals exercise their memory, they also train their brain to process information more efficiently, adapt to new challenges, and improvetheiroverallcognitiveabilities.

Keep your mind active at Centennial Living

AtCentennialLiving,weofferawidearray ofactivitiesandprogramstailoredtokeep seniors active and engaged, mentally and physically. Whether it’s participating in group exercise classes, attending art programs, or getting involved in community gardening, there’s something enjoyableforeveryone.

If you desire a rewarding lifestyle, you’ll be pleased to know that Centennial Living offers a diverse range of fantastic activities. Want to learn more? Please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team by visiting www.centennialliving. com.au or call 1300 098 000 today!

Meet the Professionals

YOURS TRULY SUPPORT SERVICES

At Yours Truly Support Services, care is more than a service, it’s a commitment to empowering individuals to live stronger, more independent, and more connected lives.

Led by Director Arian Mehmeti, a highly experienced disability and youth support, Yours Truly Support Services is a registered NDIS provider delivering tailored, person-centred supports across Melbourne. With a strong foundation in psychosocial recovery, behavioural support, and complex care, the organisation is known for achieving real, measurable outcomes.

Every participant is supported with a clear goal in mind, not just assistance, but progress.

The team works closely with individuals to build:

• Independence in daily living

• Confidence in social and community setting

• Physical strength and mobility

• Long-term lifestyle improvements

Whether it’s in-home support, community access, or skill-building, every plan is designed around what matters most to the participant.

What truly sets Yours Truly Support Services apart is its focus on transformation — helping participants achieve goals they once thought were out of reach.

One participant who had significantly reduced mobility and confidence was supported through consistent, structured engagement — including physical activity, routine building, and gradual exposure to the community.

Over time, they progressed from limited movement to walking independently and confidently engaging in daily activities. Through personalised supports including home gym training and structured fitness routines, participants have improved their physical health, motivation, and independence.

This also extends into community-based fitness programs, including participation at:

• CamaKO Boxing and Fitness

Participants engage in boxing and fitness programs led by world title holder and world ranked boxer Joel Camilleri

providing a powerful and motivating environment.

These programs have helped participants:

• Build strength and coordination

• Improve discipline and confidence

• Engage socially in a structured, supportive setting

Participants who were previously socially withdrawn or isolated have been supported to step into the community — including involvement in martial arts training, boxing programs, and outdoor activities.

Many are now actively participating in sport, building friendships, and thriving in social environments.

Through activities like working on farms, feeding animals, and hands-on practical tasks, participants have re-engaged with meaningful routines.

This has significantly improved mental wellbeing, routine, and sense of purpose.

Participants and families consistently describe the team as:

• Reliable and consistent

• Genuinely caring and supportive

• Professional with a personal touch

The focus is always on building real relationships, not just delivering a service.

Yours Truly Support Services combines clinical knowledge with real-world experience to create outcomes that matter.

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Ready to take the next step in your journey or support someone you care about?

Yours Truly Support Services is here to help you build independence, confidence, and real-life outcomes that matter. 1300 009 010 | info@ytsservices.com.au | www.ytsservices.com.au

Fil Strati founded Tech Seek in 2006 with a simple goal — make IT support easier, clearer, and more reliable for business owners.

Based in Melbourne, Tech Seek supports small to medium-sized businesses that rely heavily on technology but don’t have the time or in-house expertise to manage it.

From Microsoft 365 and cyber security to day-to-day support, the focus is simple: keep businesses running smoothly without disruption.

What makes Tech Seek different? Melbourne-based team (no offshore staff) Fast, responsive service Onsite support when needed No lock-in contracts

Ready to save lives

Graduate ambulance paramedic Jacob Curry,whoisbasedatAmbulanceVictoria’s (AV) Sunshine branch, feels that his role is more than just a job, it’s his calling.

Before stepping into the AV uniform, Jacob worked as a Triple Zero Victoria call taker, spending his days guiding people through urgent situations with calm, composure and expertise.

“It helped me develop some great skills that supported my transition to working as a paramedic”, he explained.

“It was incredibly beneficial to understand what happens behind the scenes — what a patient experiences from the moment they call triple-0 to the alternate care pathways provided or an ambulance arriving”.

That foundation, combined with a long-standing interest in emergency services, set Jacob up well for his next chapter.

Jacob said paramedicine offered the perfect blend of intellectual challenge and hands-on action.

“I love using my knowledge of pathophysiology and pharmacology while being out in the field in a fast-paced environment. Every day I get to put my skills into action and make a difference to someone’s day”.

While nothing has truly surprised Jacob about the role, the job has reinforced one important truth — expect the unexpected.

“Working as a paramedic is like a lucky dip. Until that radio sounds, you never know what you’re going to see or do next”.

At the Sunshine branch, Jacob has already encountered a wide range of cases, from road trauma to deeply human moments.Lessthanayearintotheroleand he’s already helped a newborn baby in the first few hours of their life.

“It’sacaseI’llalwaysremember”,hesaid.

For now, Jacob is focused on developing his career as an advance life support paramedic, building confidence and experience with every shift. He’s not rushing to map out the next steps in his career, though he admits there’s one area that sparks curiosity.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

40 years ago 23 April, 1986

An attempt was made at last week’s Sunshine Council meeting to get Cr Don McKay to reveal the names of a small group of councillors he alleged were involved in secret negotiations.

30 years ago

24 April, 1996

Capsicumspray—blamedfor29deaths in the United States — will be trialled by Sunshine police.

“I’d love to be a fly on the wall watching HEMSinactionforaday,”hesaid,reflecting on Air Ambulance Victoria’s Helicopter Emergency Medical Services.

For now, Jacob is committed to serving the Sunshine community and brings adaptability, compassion and learning to work every day.

St. Peeters’ Italian record triumph

From page 1.

“I kind of lost a little bit of my control on stage and that was it. My dream and my wish had come true.”

The show was extra personal for Lo Piccolo who dedicated it to his late father, Pasqualino Lo Piccolo, as well as to the Italian community for its continued support.

“It was a thank you to dad for giving me the most incredible life in showbiz,” he said.

He said the Italian community has made many positive contributions to Australia,andhasalwaysbeenstrong supporters of his work too.

“I’m just humbled, so humbled.”

For Lo Piccolo, the concert was a labour of love with preparations beginning four years ago.

“It’s sleepless nights and a lot of work behind the scenes,” he said.

“When I create these shows I have to make it as easy as possible for [performers]tocometogetherandfor them to be as one.”

For Un Cuore Italiano, Lo Piccolo appointedmaestroRobertSeverinito conduct the mega ensemble.

“It was a lot more emotional for me being dad’s show and I just couldn’t do it. [Severini] did a fabulous job.”

Lo Piccolo was awarded a medal of the Order of Australia in 2020 for his services to performing arts.

“You gotta believe in what you do and what you do, you do from the heart.”

20 years ago

25 April, 2006

The aftermath of the battles and campaigns defining WWI signalled the birth of a nation, Sunshine RSL treasurer Ray Carlton says.

10 years ago

26 April, 2016

Keilor is one of the big winners in Brimbank council’s draft annual budget,with$3millionallocatedtotwo projects in the village area.

One final castle mystery

By Sam Porter

As the Stott family packs up their possessions after owning Overnewton Castle in Keilor for 51 years, a new mystery hascometolight.

Four wedding portraits were found by former managing director of the estate, Emma Stott, and she’s hoping to return them to the original owners, whoever they maybe.

One of the photographs depicts a happy couple near one of the castle’s ivy-clad walls, credited to ‘Barry Searle Photography’.

MsStottputthecallouttothecommunity inMelbourne’swest,postingthephotoson socialmedia.

“I don’t think we’ve had any bites on themyet,”shesaid.

The photographs would most likely have been left by the photographers for promotionalpurposes,MsStottexplained.

The Scottish Baronial-style estate has served as a wedding venue for decades, withcouplesfromallovertyingtheknotat Keilor’shistoricallandmark.

ForMsStott,packingupherfamilylifeat thecastlehasbeendifficult.

“It’s sad and it is kind of heartbreaking,” shesaid.

“I’m so grateful to have grown up here. I’mgoingforgratitudeovergrief.”

Her parents purchased Overnewton Castle in 1975, a month before she was born.

“My dad was lucky enough to have a house with 36 rooms and he had them filled,”MsStottsaid.

“It was his home and his castle. It’s time for it to be someone else’s place of residence,orwhateverelsetheydo.”

Over the last 15 years, Ms Stott has run the business and pushed it in new directionsbeyondjustweddings.

“We started doing high teas, opened ourselves up to the visitor economy, which is something I’m very passionate about, sharing the history of the area and the home,”shesaid.

“Having all those community events and seeing people come here and getting all that joy. That’s going to be very much missed.”

Once the keys to the castle are handed over, Ms Stott plans to spend more time with her father, Leslie Norton, who has beendiagnosedwithLewyBodyDementia.

“I’m looking forward to having as much timewithmydadaspossible.”

Thankinglocalsforalltheirsupportover the decades, Ms Stott said she will remain involvedinthecommunity.

”I’m going to continue going on supporting the people in the area as much asthey’vesupportedmeovertheyears.”

It’s sad and it is kind of heartbreaking. I’m so grateful to have grown up here. I’m going for gratitude over grief - Emma Stott

Keilor will pay its respects

Hundreds of locals are expected to attend the Anzac day service in Keilor this month to pay their respects to Australians and New Zealanders who fought and lost their lives in war.

The ceremony, hosted by the Keilor Historical Society (KHS), will prioritise student involvement with students and teachers from four local schools set to attend.

This year the bugle will also be played by a student from Overnewton Anglican Community College.

KHScommitteememberFredAckerman saidthehistoricalsocietyintendstoengage more young people in services each year.

“We are keen to preserve and advance the traditions of Anzac through the next generation through student participation,”

Mr Ackerman said. “Otherwise the traditions are lost unless we are proactive in terms of engaging young people.”

Players and supporters from Keilor Football Club will also attend.

After the ceremony, the club will host a home game against Pascoe Vale Football Club at the Joe Brown Reserve with a community barbecue to follow.

A free coffee cart will also be present on the day.

Mr Ackerman said attendance at the Keilor service had grown significantly over the years, increasing from approximately 30 attendees around 10 years ago to more than 400 last year.

He said the service provides an opportunity for community connection.

“There is a real village feel about Keilor and that plays very strongly on the day.“

The Anzac ceremony, sponsored by Melbourne Airport, will commence at 11am on Saturday 25 April at the Keilor Cenotaph, Keilor Community Hub, 504b Old Calder Highway, Keilor.

A nation pauses to remember those who fought and died for freedom

Each year on April 25, Australians pause to remember the courage, sacrifice and enduring legacy of those who have served the nation in times of war. The day marks the anniversary of the 1915 landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (Anzac) at Gallipoli during World War I — a campaign that, despite its military failure, became a defining moment in shaping Australia’snationalidentity.

Across the country, dawn services, marches and commemorative events are

held to honour not only those who fought at Gallipoli, but all Australian servicemen and women who have served in conflicts, peacekeeping missions and humanitarian operations since. The so-called “Anzac spirit“—qualities such as courage, mateship, endurance and sacrifice—has become deeply embedded in Australia’s culturalidentity.

More than 8,000 Australian soldiers were killed during the Gallipoli campaign, with thousands more wounded. The scale

Community invited to gather

Thousands of residents are expected to gather together in Caroline Springs in remembrance as the Caroline Springs RSL Sub-Branch hosts its annual Anzac Day commemorations on Saturday 25 April, continuing a long-standing tradition of remembranceandcommunityservice.

Proceedings will begin with the Dawn Service at 5.45am at the Caroline Springs War Memorial on Lake Street, where locals will pause to honour those who served and sacrificed.

Following the service, attendees are invited to a traditional gunfire breakfast at 6.30am, held at WestWaters on Lake Street, before the morning concludes with a game of two-up at 11am at the Caroline Springs RSLSub-BranchinTaylorsHill.

RSLSub-BranchpresidentPeterBurquest said the day remains a significant occasion forbothveteransandthewidercommunity.

“It’s an important thing for us to do. It’s a goodopportunityforthecommunitytojoin usanddoallthosethingsthatweshouldbe doingforourfallen,”hesaid.

Mr Burquest said the event regularly attractsabout3000attendees,withnumbers swelling between 5000 and 6000 during the Anzaccentenaryyear.

“Our gunfire breakfast is always busy andthetwo-upissomethingthat’sreceived pretty well throughout our community,” he said.

He also acknowledged the extensive volunteer effort behind the scenes, as well asthesupportoflocalsponsorswhohelped bringthedaytogether.

Mr Burquest encouraged families to attend,reflect,andpaytribute.

“Come along, get the kids up early, remember your loved ones and enjoy a meaningfuldaytogether,”hesaid.

of the tragedy resonated deeply at home, where communities mourned the loss of a generation of young men. After World War II, Anzac Day’s focus expanded to include all conflicts involving Australian forces, ensuring the service and sacrifice of later generationswerealsorecognised.

Today, Anzac Day holds a unique place in Australia’s calendar. The day carries a solemn tone, with many Australians attendingearlymorningdawnservicesthat replicate the time of the original Gallipoli

landing. Marches held across the nation see veterans, current service personnel and their families walk together, often wearing medals that tell stories of service across generations.

WhilethewayAustraliansobserveAnzac Day has evolved, its core purpose remains unchanged: to honour those who served and to reflect on the cost of war. Anzac Day serves as a reminder not only of past sacrifices, but of the responsibility to strive forpeace.

Hopper’s High Court win

By Jaidyn Kennedy

West Party founder and Wyndham businessman Paul Hopper has won his High Court battle against the Victorian government’s election donation laws.

ThecasewasbroughtbyMrHopperand 2022independentcandidateforHawthorn Melissa Lowe on the grounds that the current laws favour the major parties by capping donations to minor parties and independents.

On Wednesday 15 April, The High Court determined that Victoria’s 2018 election campaign donation laws were unconstitutional because the

approximate $5000 cap did not apply to the Labor, Liberal and National parties.

The High Court ruled that Victoria’s funding laws were unfair because they created a loophole that let the major parties bypass the donation limits.

This was found to interfere with the impliedfreedomofcommunicationabout government or political matters in the Australian constitution.

Mr Hopper said he was pleased with the outcome.

“We are just relieved and grateful to The HighCourtforcorrectingwhatwaspoorly drafted and unfair legislation,“ he said.

He said the case was not about boosting minor parties and independents, but

correcting an unfair advantage.

“These principles are now entrenched–now there should never be any more attempts from major parties to rig the system in their favour,“ he said.

“Which makes me enormously proud to achieve this as a little guy from the western suburbs.”

Hours following the ruling, Premier Jacinta Allan’s office released a statement:

“The High Court’s decision to strike down Victoria’s long-standing electoral integrity laws leaves our state exposed to dark money in politics,“ the statement said.

“Right now, money could be flowing from foreign billionaires into political

party bank accounts – with no limits, no disclosure, and no oversight.

“The government will immediately move to restore Victoria’s electoral integrity regime within the limits of the High Court’s ruling.

“We can’t allow anyone to exploit this current period to solicit huge donations and move money around secretly.

“Our legislation will make sure that every party and every candidate will be accountable for every dollar they receive from this day onwards.”

Mr Hopper said that the West Party supports transparency and is strongly opposed to donations from overseas sources.

Youth council elected with fresh ideas and new perspectives

Brimbank has announced its new youth councilfor2026.

Fifteen young people, aged between 14 and25yearsold,willleadaprojectfocused on an issue they identify as important to youngpeopleinthecommunity.

The successful candidates were Maria Ansari, Atong Deng, Zoe Goldenberg, Edward Lager, Kavya Kataria, Louis Lam, Lola Li, Alicia McKerral, Rahima Muradi, Richie Nguyen, Leah Nguyen, Ezekiel Ong, Kim Reynolds, Minh Trinh and Tarteal Ahmed.

The group will work collaboratively to explore their chosen issue and develop strategies on how to create a positive difference.

Theirworkwillincluderesearch,planning and working with stakeholders to bring ideastolife.

BrimbankmayorVirginiaTachossaidthe Brimbank Youth Council empowers young peopletotaketheleadonissuesthatmatter most to them, giving them a genuine voice inshapingthecommunity.

“Through collaboration, research and direct engagement with councillors, participants not only deliver impactful projects but also help inform council decisions, ensuring our services and strategies reflect the needs and aspirations ofBrimbank’syoungpeople,”shesaid.

During their six-month term, the youth councillors will meet regularly with Brimbankcouncillorstoshareperspectives andinsights.

They will also have opportunities to ask questions to councillors and bring youth-relatedmatterstocouncil’sattention.

In 2025, the Brimbank Youth Council projectfocussedonyouthhomelessness.

According to Brimbank Youth Services, the council group presented at the Western RegionYouthForum,deliveredcommunity and school engagements, produced a services info-sheet, and created care packs for youth engaged with homelessness services.

Faces of the west

Each week Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing events and people across the western suburbs.

Holiday highlights

Kids in Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs enjoyed free activities during the final week of school holidays.

At Watergardens, youngsters participated in an open drumming session hosted by Odai Affotey, and organised by Brimbank council.

In Caroline Springs, children had the opportunity to build their own miniwoodenhousesaspartofMelton council’s school holiday activities.

Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski stopped by both workshops to capture the fun!

Duo face ‘underworld’ trial

By Emily Woods, AAP

Two hired gunmen changed cars three times before a driver took them across the border after a “planned underworld hit“ on a gangland figure at a cafe, prosecutors allege.

Underworld figure Gavin Preston, 50, was gunned down by two men dressed in black while eating breakfast at a cafe in Melbourne’s northwest on September 9, 2023.

Jaeden Tito, 25, and Rabii Zahabe, 26, faced the Supreme Court in Melbourne on Tuesday 14 May for their first day on trial accused of Mr Preston’s murder.

They are also each charged with the attempted murder of Abbas Maghnie, who was with Preston at the time.

Tito and Zahabe have pleaded not guilty and deny they were the shooters.

Mr Preston and Mr Maghnie were sitting outside Sweet Lulus cafe in Keilor, which was busy and full of customers on a sunny Saturday morning, prosecutor

Christie Churchill said.

Chilling footage played to a jury of 14 showed shocked patrons sitting outside the cafe and then fleeing as shots were fired by two gunmen.

Ms Churchill alleged Tito and Zahabe were hired gunmen, who had others help them planning the hit, but said it was unknown who had hired the pair.

“We say this was a contract killing, planned, prepared targeted, with other unknown people involved in the organisation of it,“ Ms Churchill told the jury.

“This was a planned underworld hit.“

The prosecutor claimed Tito and Zahabe sat inside an Audi Q5 at the Keilor Hotel car park, opposite the cafe, for about three hours before the alleged murder.

The Audi left the car park at 10.17am and stopped adjacent to the cafe, where two men carrying firearms got out and ran towards Mr Preston, she said.

The shooters, whom Ms Churchill alleged were Tito and Zahabe, were wearing all black with face coverings and gloves.

A voice for young people

Brimbank resident Risith Jayasekara has been nominated for the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards (YAA) for his advocacy work and volunteering efforts.

Risith has served two terms on the Victoria Student Representative Council (SRC), advocating for educational reform and testifying at two parliamentary inquiries.

This led to a collaboration with Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety (ANROWS), where Risith helped amplify young people’s voices regarding domestic and family violence.

“I’m an advocate for women’s safety and children’s rights,” he said.

“As someone with personally lived experience, I’ve essentially become an advocate from my own experience.”

He later represented ANROWS and young people at the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission in Sydney in 2025.

The 17-year old also heads Melbourne High School’s Heritage Society, connecting individuals, alumni and their families with their history at the school.

“One of my proudest moments was when I connected the daughter of a late alumni who came to us with her father’s story at the school,“ he said. “The immense gratitude she expressed is what pushes me to continue in my role and be

of such a service to my school community.“

He also volunteers at the Sunshine library as a reading buddy for local kids as well as at the Sunshine Hospital.

An aspiring medical student, Risith said he wants to become more familiar with the hospital environment.

“It’s really heartwarming to be with and chat to a patient who would otherwise be on their own at the hospital, and make their experience in our healthcare system better,” he said.

When undertaking his advocacy work, Risith said he was most surprised by the high value politicians placed on the experiences and opinions of young people.

“It’s a very real impact that I certainly did not know about before I stepped into a formal advocacy role,” he said.

Risith encouraged his peers to get involved in youth leadership roles such as the Students’ Representative Council and youth councils.

“I feel there is a lack of diverse opinions when it comes to young people advocating for themselves and their peers,” he said.

“It’s a very good opportunity to get your voice heard”.

The 7NEWS YAA winners will be announced on 1 May.

She claimed Tito raised his gun and fired “immediately“ at Mr Preston, while Zahabe took aim at Mr Maghnie.

“Mr Maghnie turns head in their direction, starts running from table as gunshots start ... the deceased did not appear to see what was about to happen.“

She said Mr Preston slumped forward as he was hit with seven bullets and fell headfirst to the ground, before he was declared dead at the scene.

Mr Maghnie was struck with one bullet, but survived after being hospitalised.

Ms Churchill said the two gunmen got back in the Audi and drove through residential streets at high speed before setting it on fire.

She said a resident heard an explosion and large flames were seen coming from the Audi and alleged Tito suffered burns to his left arm as he tried to put out the fire by “patting it“.

Ms Churchill alleged the men set fire to a second car and dumped a third, before jumping into a chauffeur-driven vehicle

and leaving Victoria.

The chauffeur had allegedly been pre-arranged via an encrypted app, with the two men driven to NSW by the man who overheard one of them say “we are brothers now“.

Ms Churchill alleged Zahabe had googled “no extradition countries“ after getting home, while Tito had injuries to his left arm in photos posted to social media by his girlfriend in the days after the shooting.

The prosecution will show the jury DNA evidence that allegedly links the two accused killers to the cars and items found inside them, she said.

Zahabe’s barrister Paul Smallwood said hisclientdeniedhewasoneoftheshooters and asked jurors to consider the attempted murder charge as separate to murder.

Daniel Sala, Tito’s barrister, said he denied firing at Mr Preston and urged jurors to keep a “blank slate“ in their minds as they hear the evidence.

The trial continues.

PUZZLES

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.

ACROSS

1 Indian state (3)

3 Child who has reached 24 months (3-4-3)

10 Lunacy (7)

11 Offence (7)

12 Painful (9)

13 Iridescent, multicoloured gem (4)

15 Expert in religious theory (10)

17 Labyrinth (4)

19 Condensed carbon rock (4)

20 Whitegoods (10)

23 Highlander (4)

25 Evening entertainment (9)

27 Witticism (7)

28 Touching (7)

29 Fabric embellishment (10)

30 Sailor (coll) (3)

1 Olympic sporting category (10)

2 Closest galaxy (9)

4 Doing the dishes (7,2)

5 Offspring (5)

6 Archaic name for Britain (6)

7 Japanese seaport (5)

8 Horned ruminant (4)

9 Antenna (6)

14 Informal bulletin (10)

16 Dangerous aquatic reptile (9)

18 Designer (9)

21 Temporary (6)

22 Sound system (6)

24 Ascend (5)

25 Wanderer (5)

26 Gala (4)

Today’s Aim:

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”. I U A I B L E N D

3

1 In which century did the Sagrada Família church commence construction?

2 A kitchen tool used for crushing and grinding spices is a mortar and what?

3 The national headquarters for the Australian Federal Police is in which city?

4 Which of Africa's mainland countries has the longest coastline?

5 Regensburg, Germany is home to a museum honouring which breed of dog?

6 Who is the protagonist of Lee Child’s books?

7 Larry Bird was drafted by which team in the 1978 NBA draft?

8 'You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll hurl' is the tagline of which iconic 1990s comedy film?

9 In Friends, which two actresses play the sisters of Jennifer Aniston's (pictured) Rachel?

10 Beginning with A, what cognitive phenomenon is characterised by the inability to create mental images?

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

Inclusive Family Event

Local Vietnamese people with disabilities, their families and carers are all invited to a community event, presented by Vietnamese Families with Special Needs (VFSN), to promote inclusion, connection, and belonging. The event will offer a range of social activities that are accessible and adaptable to different needs, including an art group, a DJ disco and an Easter egg hunt as well as other inclusive games. The free event, supported by Brimbank council, will run from 10am-1.30pm on Saturday 25 April at Isabella Williams Memorial Reserve, 56 Opie Road, Deer Park. shorturl.at/TT2VC

St Albans Bowls Club

Everyone is welcome at St Albans Bowls - no matter age, gender or ability. Whether you’re an experienced bowler or just curious to give it a try, the club would love to see more locals on the green. The club hosts social bowls every Thursday and Saturday at noon at Kings Park Reserve, off Magnolia Avenue, Kings Park. Come along for a friendly game, meet new people and spend time in great company. stalbans.bowls.com.au, stalbansbowlsclub@bigpond.com or 9366 0290

Historical Pop-Up Open Day

Come and see the black powder mill, part of Victoria’s Munitions Industry history, where gunpowder was made. Hosted by the Sunshine and District Historical Society, and supported by Brimbank Council and the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), the open day will run from 1-3pm on Saturday 16 May at the corner of Parklea Avenue and Grassy Point Road, Cairnlea. Text: 0402 460 560

Women’s only conversation English Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine. 9311 9973 or dukest@dsch.org.au

Zumba Class in Deer Park Locals can vibe and move during sessions of Zumba Gold Toning classes at commUnity+ Neighbourhood House, featuring light dumbbells for strength building. Sessions run from 6-7pm on Thursdays at 822 Ballarat Road, Deer Park. No bookings required.

Budding Artists

Whether it’s your first time dabbling in art or you’re fully-fledged, Budding Artists is an art program for all abilities. This term’s theme is Celebrating Women in Art. Sessions are hosted by commUnity+ Neighbourhood House and run from 11am-12.30pm on Thursdays at 822 Ballarat Road, Deer Park. No bookings required.

Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning

Join Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning, a free, evidence-based early education program that combines music, play, and connection for families with children aged 0-5 years. Running for eight weeks, on Tuesdays, 10.30am-12.30pm, this program is designed to incorporate singing, stories, and fun activities to support your child’s development. Running from February 11 onwards at the Sunshine Heights Playgroup Centre, 105 Glengala Road. 9663 6733 or events@ds.org.au

Crafternoons

Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Ania Reynolds, a composer and multi-instrumentalist who regularly performs across the west. (Damjan Janevski) 546453_01

new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine. 9311 9973 or dukest@dsch.org.au

Deer Park Probus Club

The Deer Park Probus Club meets at the Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, Deer Park on the second Wednesday of the month from February to December. Meet at 10am followed by lunch available from noon. The club offers bus trips, lunches, morning melodies etc. New members welcome.

0427 495 584

Keilor Park Tennis Club social night

Join the club on Monday nights for a free social hit and get to know other club members. All levels are welcome. Female players are also required for Thursday competition from 10am-2pm and also for the B-grade mixed team on Wednesday, 7-9pm. keilorparktennis@gmail.com

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Delahay Community Centre, 70 Copperfield Drive every Wednesday, from 1-2.30pm. New members

welcome. No appointment necessary. Helpline, 1300 252 666

Musicians Wanted Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Do you play Woodwind, Brass or Percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music? Rehearsals are held Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am-noon, at Braybrook College. westgateconcertband@gmail.com

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day. Roma, 0435 991 064

Sunshine Repair Cafe

Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au or 0413 434 082

Deer Park Lions Club

Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the

first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.

Michael, 0417 307 572

Avondale Heights Probus Club

The club meets at Doyle Street Community Centre, Avondale Heights on the third Wednesday of the month at 9.30am. For retired or semi-retired people. The club offers lunches, bus trips, card and games days, walking groups. New members welcome.

Vee, 0400 886 758

Caroline Springs Rotary

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall, from 7pm. rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Card games

Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from 7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine. Leisa, 0425 768 808

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies. Robyn, 0425 387 880

Killer cars cruise into Mernda for a full-throttle Anzac Day

Start your engines, the Killer Cars Show and Shine event is coming to Mernda on Anzac Day, Saturday 25 April.

A full-throttle line up of cars from around the world will be on show from vintage and classics to hot rods and supercars. Attendees will enjoy checking out car club displays, drag car start-ups as well as the unveiling of exclusive new builds.

There will be giveaways, raffle prizes and family entertainment with market stalls, trade vendors and food and coffee options. You can even take a pit stop at the club bar, with space to sit, relax and watch the footy.

‘RATPACK’ will also be playing live music all afternoon from 12pm with

trophy presentations and formalities to follow around 2.30pm.

KillerCarsisraisingmoneyfortheCamp

Quality charity which helps Australian children with cancer aged 0-15. You can add a $20 donation to your online ticket booking.

Tickets are available from $10 each and specialearlyandexpressentryoptionsare on offer. The event will kick off from 10am at the Waterview Recreation Reserve on Waterview Drive, Mernda.

Details: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1392809

Strengthening bonds

Brimbank will play host to a cultural community event celebrating National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayrami), a major holiday celebrated in Turkey and North Cyprus.

The family-friendly celebrations, hosted by North Cyprus Turkish Community of Victoria (NCTCV), will feature free physical and culturally-informed activities for children, including arts and crafts.

Attendees can also enjoy delicious Turkish food available for purchase, along with a free lokma giveaway.

NCTCV president Dr Lutfiye Ali said

National Sovereignty Day commemorates 23 Nisan (23 April) in 1920, the day the Grand National Assembly of Turkey was established in Ankara during the Turkish War of Independence.

“Mustafa Kemal Atatürk dedicated this day to children around the world, recognising them as the keepers and creators of the future,” Ali said.

She said the event provides an opportunity to reconnect with cultural roots, rekindle a shared sense of identity, and strengthen community bonds.

“It is a meaningful opportunity for community organisations (including Albion Rovers Soccer Club, Sunshine

Mosque and Minik Hearts Playgroup) to come together, working side by side to createawarmandinclusiveenvironment,” Ali said.

Ali said the holiday is also a joyful occasion where attendees can reconnect with old friends, while children socialise, play, and celebrate their culture in a fun and engaging way.

As part of the event, children will also be invited to share their ideas about what they would like to see more of at NCTCV.

TheNationalSovereigntyandChildren’s Day event will run from 11.30am-4pm on Saturday 25 April at 547 Ballarat Road, Albion.

Free Eid festival offers a colourful day out in Melton

Melton is set to come alive with colour, cultureandcommunityspiritasthevibrant Eid festival comes to town, promising a packed calendar of family-friendly fun.

Taking over Melton Police Paddock on Saturday2MayandSunday3May,thefree festival will transform the heart of the city into a buzzing hub of food, entertainment and family fun from 11am-8pm each day. Expecttheirresistiblearomaofasizzling barbecue, sweet treats, and global flavours drifting through the air as food stalls dish up crowd favourites. Forthelittleones,andtheyoungatheart,

there’ll be jumping castles, carnival rides, and an animal farm, with everything from pony rides to the unforgettable chance to hop on a camel.

The festival also brings a strong cultural flair, with live performances, fashion, henna art and jewellery stalls adding colour and creativity throughout the weekend.

This year’s Eid festival brings the perfect chance to experience the richness of multicultural traditions in one lively, welcoming space.

As the sun sets, all eyes turn skyward

for one of the festival’s biggest highlights in the spectacular fireworks display, set to dazzle crowds and cap off the celebrations in style.

Best of all, entry is completely free, making it an easy outing for families, friends and anyone keen to soak up the festive atmosphere.

So mark the calendar and gather your crew for Melton’s Eid Festival 2026, which is shaping up to be bigger, brighter and more vibrant than ever.

Details: https://www.facebook.com/ share/1Dy77eni9y/.

to life

If you ever find yourself bored and without anything to do, head down toWerribeeParkforanightyouwon’t forget.

On Saturday 25 April, Friday 1 May and Saturday 2 May, What Was That! will be showing at Werribee Park Mansion.

The show, which has been run by Essence Theatre Productions since 2003, tells the tale of the Chirnside family.

ThefictionalcharactersMaggiethe maidandDuncanthebutlerwilltake audiences on an enlightening tour of the building.

Chairperson Alaine Beek– or shall wesay,Maggie–explainedtheshow’s charm.

“You follow the actors through the house and the story unfolds as you move from room to room– you find out about the Chirnside through us,” Ms Beek said.

“Thecommonresponseisitismore than what people expected. It is not just a night tour, it is a scripted play.”

The comedic edge is also another thing that helps keep people buying tickets.

But what would a great story be without its backdrop?

“It [Werribee Park Mansion] is one of the most beautifully preserved historichousesinVictoriaandthatis an attraction in itself.

“I think it is just the quality of the show itself that keeps people coming back.”

If you aren’t already sold, then maybe the complimentary glass of sparkling wine or soft drink will seal the deal.

ToseeEssenceTheatreProductions full fixture for the next six weeks and for tickets, go to: https://www. essencetheatre.productions/

The Framework sets out a coordinated, place-based approach to supporting Sunshine through a period of significant growth, investment and change. It aims to strengthen economic development, improve safety and amenity, build partnerships, and support ongoing activation and investment in the Sunshine CBD.

Replacing the 2019–2024 Action Plan, the draft Framework provides a fiveyear roadmap to ensure Sunshine remains vibrant, welcoming and resilient as major projects reshape the precinct The renewed Framework is structured around five key strategic directions:

1.Program Management, Governance & Partnerships

2. Marketing, Promotions & Activation

3. Community Safety, Access & Amenity 4.Business Development & Investment Attraction

5. Community Development & Wellbeing

The Framework supports Sunshine’s role as a Metropolitan Activity Centre, Priority Precinct and future Transport Superhub, ensuring place management responds to both dayto-day performance and long-term transformation.

Over the next five years, the Framework will support the coordination of significant public and private investment across the CBD, alongside continued delivery of place management programs including business engagement, marketing and activation, cleaning and maintenance, and community partnerships.

Community feedback on the draft Framework will be invited until 15th May 2026 via Council’s Have Your Say portal. The draft Framework is available in Vietnamese and will be promoted through Council’s communication channels and direct stakeholder engagement.

For more information contact the Sunshine Place Manager on 9249 4368 or email sunshinerising@brimbank.vic.gov.au

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Who won the 2026 Masters golf tournament at Augusta?

2. In which Olympic sport is Australia most successful, winning over 70 gold medals?

3. Which former Australian cricketer was caught drink-driving in Sydney

4. Which Russian men’s tennis star lost 6-0, 6-0 to Italian Matteo Berrettini at the Monte Carlo Masters, smashing several racquets?

5. Women’s cricketer Laura Cardoso took an astonishing 9 for 4 in a T20 match representing which country?

Quinceanera is the foal of which retired champion thoroughbred racehorse?

The AFL’s Gather Round is held each year in which Australian state?

Sha’Carri Richardson won which annual athletics event held in Victoria over the Easter long weekend?

Italian soccer clubs AC Milan, Inter Milan, Juventus and Palermo will play matches in which Australian city in August?

The KFC Yum! Center is an arena located in which US state?

Which MLB team did Shohei Ohtani play for before joining the Los Angeles Dodgers?

12. Which country recently passed legislation to ban greyhound racing by August this year?

13. What sport is featured in the 2022 Adam Sandler film Hustle?

14. Former Parramatta Eel Zac Lomax defected from the NRL to join which Super Rugby team?

15. Ten Super Rugby teams will converge in which city for the 2026 Super Round this ANZAC weekend?

16. What is the national second-tier competition of the NBL called?

17. What does the term ‘battery’ mean in baseball?

18. WCF is the governing body of which sport?

19. How many players are on the pitch for each side in Gaelic football?

20. Titan Sports, Inc. is a former name of what organisation?

21. Aussie basketballer Jade Melbourne recently signed with which WNBA team?

22. An AFL Women’s international rules match was recently announced for 2026 between Australia and which country?

23. The Tasmania Jewels are a new team set to debut this year in what competition?

24. Which AFL team was the only one to have not won a match after the first five games of the 2026 season?

25. Sprinter Gout Gout broke his own national record over what distance at the 2026 Australian Athletics Championships?

26. Which city is the NRL’s annual Magic Round held in?

27. The Matildas took part in the 2026 FIFA Series in which African nation?

28. Larry Kestelman is the majority owner of which Australian sporting league?

29. Which English Premier League team is commonly referred to as the Wolves?

30. In baseball, what name is given to the player who bats for a team in place of the pitcher?

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Cute, compact, capable

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

As the name suggests, the Toyota Yaris Cross is a crossover version of the popular Yaris small hatchback bulked up to provide accesstotheboomingcompactSUVmarket segment.

Launched here in late-2020 Yaris Cross is available in four grades: GX, GXL, Urban and GR Sport.

Thefirstthreemodelseachcomewiththe choiceoftwo-orfour-wheeldrive.GRSport is 2WD only.

Originally available with the choice of petrolorhybridpowertrains,effectivefrom the 2024 upgrade, all Yaris Cross variants are now exclusively hybrid.

Prices range from $31,790 for the 2WD GX through to $39,920 for our test car, the Urban AWD.

Hybrid competitors include the MG ZS, KiaKona,HondaHR-V,Tiggo4andthenew SuzukiFronxStandardintheGXare16-inch alloy wheels and 8-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It does come with halogen headlights GXL adds LED headlights, blind-spot monitor and a panoramic view monitor.

The top-spec Urban comes with 18-inch alloys, head-up display, heated front seats and a powered tailgate.

ThetrendyGRSportgetsaunique18-inch wheel design as well as sports suspension and GR-branded interior. The Sport tag is a bitmisleadingbecausethere’snodifference in performance from the other models.

Styling

Yaris Cross shares similar styling as the Yaris hatch. While they have the same 2560 wheelbase the Cross is around 20mm longer, 70mm wider and 95mm taller. than the hatchback. It also has 35mm greater ground clearance.

The face of the Yaris Cross features a split grille with a lower diffuser, flanked by deep-set LED daytime running lights and slimline headlight clusters.

The rear has a squared-off design with broad horizontal lines connecting integrated taillights.

Yaris Cross comes with the choice of seven single colours including Frosted White, Stunning Silver, Ink, Atomic Rush, Latte, Mineral Blue and Massive Grey 7.

The top-spec Urban models also get the option of four two-tones that combine Frosted White, Atomic Rush, Latte or Massive Grey with a black roof.

Interior

WhiletheplatformoftheYarisCrossisonly slightly longer and wider than that of the Yaris hatch, it features a longer, wider and taller body to increase interior space.

Although larger than the Yaris hatch it’s still a small vehicle. Front space is fine but the three rear seats are quite cramped and certainly not recommended for three adult passengers.

The air-conditioning controls sit below the screen and make it quite difficult to adjust the outlet directions.

The Urban and GR Sport variants come with nanoe X air ionisation technology which helps to inhibit unwanted pollutants and viruses from the cabin.

The large gear selector in the centre console leaves little space for storage and pushes the two drink holders backwards and makes them awkward to reach.

The centre arm rest effectively replaces a storage tub.

Boot space in the 2WD Yaris Cross is 390 litres but drops to 314 litres in the AWD due to the addition of the rear electric motor.

Powertrain

The hybrid system for front-wheel drive versions of the Yaris Cross Sport combines a 67 kW/120 Nm, 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and two motor generators on the front axle putting out a combined 85 kW.

The AWD models versions add a third electric motor to drive the rear wheels and provide extra traction.

All variants get a continuously variable transmission with a mechanical first gear for strong take-off. A 10-speed sequential shift function that can be operated by the shiftlever,orpaddleshiftersonthesteering wheel.

Safety

All Yaris Cross models come with the latest version of Toyota Safety Sense technology that includes a pre-collision safety system with day/ night pedestrian and day cyclist detection, emergency steering assist, lane trace assist and lane departure alert with steering assist, intersection turn assist, automatic high beam, road sign recognition and adaptive cruise control. Standard equipment also includes eight airbags including two between the front seat, reversing camera, parking sensors, seatbelt warning and Isofix child seat anchors.

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10 Performance: 7/10 Safety: 8/10

Thirst : 9/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 7/10

Value: 8/10

Urban also gets a blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert.

Infotainment

The 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen is pretty basic and so uses a number of physical buttons and knobs on the edges to access the most used functions.

That will be a positive for many potential buyers.

There’s a neat Multi Information Display in front of the driver with two raised round displays on the sides of the 8.0-inch screen.

The system has AM/FM/DAB+ radio, full Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with enhanced voice activation.

Audioisthroughaprettybasicsixspeaker system. There’s a single USB-A in the centre console of the GX and GXL with a USB-C added in the Urban and GR Sport models.

Satellite navigation with the SUNA traffic channel is standard on variants above GX.

Driving

Although its under 4.2 metres in length, clever packaging makes it feel like a larger vehicle. While Yaris Cross is relatively easy to access for front occupants, small rear doors will challenge adult passengers.

It’s an ideal city car that’s easy to drive, manoeuvrable and easy to park.

When stretched the three-cylinder

engine gives out an annoying harsh tone Urban is the only variant to get a head-up display.

There have been adjustments to the tuning of the suspension which provide extra firmness that was quite noticeable when we encountered bumps during the rural component of our drive route.

Claimedfuelconsumptionfromthe2WD Yaris Cross Hybrid is listed at 3.8 litres per 100km. We averaged a still impressive 4.6 L/100km during our week in the Urban AWD.

Summing up

Toyota Yaris and predecessors such as the Starlet and Echo have long been popular choices for first-time buyers – and their parents looking for an affordable and safe car.Althoughitismoreexpensive,theYaris Cross meets the same criteria while adding the SUV styling that’s so much in vogue. It’s neat, compact and attractive with excellent safety features and seven variants from which to choose. The standard hybrid powertrain provides outstanding fuel economy.

Standard warranty is five years with unlimited distance with the powertrain increased to seven years if it is serviced on time. Service intervals are 12 months or 15,000km.

Kicking plenty of goals

McSpadden reaches a special milestone

By Tara Murray

Keilor Thunder’s Lara McSpadden didn’t even realise she was approaching a special milestone in the National Basketball League 1 south competition.

While McSpadden is only in year one at Keilor, she brought up her 100th NBL1 game on Sunday against the Nunawading Spectres.

“I was OMG when I was told,” she said before the milestone. “I was like literally no way, you are kidding me.

“I was at one club for four years and two differentVictorianclubsthepasttwoyears, it’s crept up on me.”

McSpadden said reaching the milestone at this level was special, with players involved more in the community and with the fans.

She said there were a couple of standout memories from her NBL1 journey so far.

“Two years ago in 2024 I won the NBL1

north with North Rockhampton,” she said.

“I got to captain that team for three of the four years.

“Someoftheclosestfriendshavedefinitely come out of the NBL1 competition, so they are definitely highlights.”

McSpadden said the move to the NBL1 south competition had been really good for her career.

She said it was a whole other level, especially for bigs.

McSpadden said she was loving her time with the Thunder.

“I’ve been working out a lot with Kristi [Harrower] which has been good,” she said.

“The start to the season we’ve had a few players in and out of the side, myself included.”

With Issie Bourne still overseas and captain Maddy Rocci now headed to Canada having signed a WNBA training camp contract, McSpadden will have to shoulder even more of the leadership.

“Coming into seasons, I assume that I will be taking on a leadership role and that is what I have pretty much done so far,“ she said.

“With Rocci being our main voice and point guard, I’ll have to fill in for her while she is away.”

While McSpadden is focused on the task at hand for the Thunder, it has already been a big year for her.

She was recently part of the Australian Gangurrus which claimed the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup.

With a brand new side, McSpadden said a lot of people didn’t expect the Aussies to perform as they did.

“That was not on my bingo card that I would be picked,” she said.”The team gelled so well and we had 100 per cent faith in each other.

“I love 3x3 and I’m looking forward to more. It was one of the best experiences of my life.”

Rocci shoots for WNBA

By Tara Murray

Keilor Thunder’s Maddy Rocci is hoping to put a tough few years behind as she gets a shot at making a WNBA list.

Rocci, who grew up in Werribee, has earned a training camp contract with new WNBA side Toronto Tempo and will head to Canada later this week.

“It is very exciting,” she said.

“There had been talks with my agent, but I didn’t really believe it until I saw the contract in my inbox.

“I didn’t believe it and when I saw it, [I was like] it was actually happening.”

Rocci said this year was the first time she’d ever had a chance to make a WNBA squad.

She said they had spoken about the WNBA in other years, but this is the first year it has come about.

Rocci was on court with the Keilor Thunder in the Women’s National Basketball League, when the news came through that she had been offered a contract.

“I had a few missed calls from my agent and an email sitting there saying please call me when you can,” she said.

“I gave them a call when I got back in the car after the game, and they told me that Toronto had offered a training camp.”

For Rocci, the training camp contract is an added boost to her confidence.

While she is one of the top point guards in Australia, Rocci has gone through some tough times in the past few years as the comes into the back part of her career.

“You have a lot of doubt in your mind and how long you have left in your career, and where your basketball journey probably takes you when you get older,” she said.

“I think this is coming off the back of the WNBL season that I had. I wasn’t going to walk away from the game, but you have those doubts when you miss out on the Opals and the unknown of where and how long you have left in the game.

“I think getting this contract is super exciting and nerve wracking at the same time.

“I feel like I’ve had so many lows the last few years in missing out on Opals selection and I think that this has given me an indication that I can compete with the best players in the world.“

Rocci recently played her 200th WNBL game and has been part of several Australian Opals squads in recent years.

Having missed out on several Opals finals teams, has been tough for Rocci.

“Missing out on the Olympics and then not being able to go to the Asia Cup as I was

injured and then missing out on the world cup qualifying team,“ she said.

“Three in a row really got to me. Inside yourself [you[re thinking] it’s not going to happen, it’s never going to happen.

“I’ve been in the program for a little while and haven’t really got the success that I wanted, representing the Opals at a major tournament.

“There’s doubt in your mind always playing there. I’m lucky to have a close circle of people around me who really help steer me in the right direction and really help set me up in the last two years.”

Rocci said the move to Keilor Thunder a couple of years ago had been one of the big things in her basketball career.

She said it not only made her a better person and player, it had helped her see there’s so much more to the game of basketball.

Rocci said playing under coach and Australia’s greatest ever point guard, Kristi Harrower, had been the right more for her.

“I had been a point guard, but I feel like over the last two years my game has developed into something I probably needed to have as a player,“ she said.

“If you want to be the point guard, you have to have the smarts and know the ins and outs of the game.

“Being coached by Kristi [Harrower] and having Anth [Anthea Stathakis] as well, and having that support and people who are probably steering you in the right direction to help you be successful in what you want to do.”

Rocci said heading to America was a little bit of bittersweet as it means having to step away from Keilor for at least a couple of weeks.

The side started the season with two wins and a loss.

“Keilor is one of my favourite teams to play for,” she said. “There’s an emotional side of it to leave and try out in the WNBA.

“Wehavestartedwellandstillgotplayers to come in.

“That is the unknown, but the girls are in the right position. We have the players and we have the coaching staff all there to help the girls who are in such great hands.”

Rocci is expecting to fly out on Thursday or Friday with the training camp to run for two weeks.

Among those from the club that have been in touch is coach Sandy Brondello, who is also the Australian Opals coach.

“She messaged me this morning [Monday] and said welcome to the Tempo,” she said.

“I know her system and I think having a familiar face will help a little bit.

“Obviously going over to the WNBA is scary and a bit nerve-wracking, to be able to compete with the best players in the world, experience what they do day in, day out is super exciting.

“All I have to do is go over there for two weeks and do my best and you never know what will happen.”

Solid start for Spring Hills

By Tara Murray

Spring Hills is focused on ensuring it stays in the mix in the first half of the National Premier League women’s season.

The side sits in eighth spot after eight rounds with just five points separating the top eight teams.

Coach Tom Markovski said it had been a solid start to the season.

“We’re sitting in the middle and were sitting as high as third at one stage,” he said.

“We’ve had a couple of injuries which have knocked us a bit.

“We want to play finals and we’re going alright with that aim. It can always be better.”

Markovski said they were still getting their side to gel having bought in a few new players in the off season.

He said they would look to add a few more players during the transfer window and expected to see most teams make some moves.

Markovski said they had been speaking to some A-League women’s players about possibly joining the side with that season now coming to an end.

“We are looking at it but nothing is guaranteed,” he said. “We are hoping to bring in three or four players in the window to cover some players who are injured.

“If we could get one or two A-League players that would be huge, we’ve had a

few players reach out to say that they are interested.

“It depends on a few things but we want them to be part of the culture we are trying to build.”

Spring Hills was set to face Boroondara Eagles on Friday night, after deadline.

Markovski said their focus doesn’t change between now and when the window opens.

“We want to push to win as many games as we can,” he said.

“We want to be in at least a mid-table spot and push for finals.”

Meanwhile, Spring Hills men’s side is aiming to kick start its FV state league 6 north-west season.

After the first three rounds, the Stal-

lions are sitting 1-2.

Markovski said the Easter bye had wrecked their momentum they had started to find.

“One of our star players got injured the week before the season started and is out for a year,” he said.

“We’ve had to regroup and reshape and see how we go.

“I believe it’s one of the best sides that we’ve had in a long time. They are tracking the right way and can play some good football.

“They just need to score as they play attractive football.”

Spring Hills men’s side was set to face Barwon on Saturday in round four, after deadline, at home.

Falcons’ season still alive after a tough win

By Tara Murray

The City West Falcons came away with the points in a must win match in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday.

Back on court after a week off, the Falcons were home at the Altona Sports Centre for the first time this season against the Casey Demons.

In front of a big Falcons crowd, the Falcons were able to come away with a 69-61 win.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said they needed to start winning with their season on the line after a slow start.

“It was always going to be high scoring with Emma Ryde and Jane Cook,” she said.

“It was going to be whichever defence turned it over and we are improving there.

“If we had lost last night it could have been season over.

“We’re looking that far ahead and think we need to win nine games to sneak into finals.”

Cook won the battle of the two goal shooters as well, shooting 53 goals to Ryde’s 52.

The Falcons received a massive boost with captain Maggie Lind playing her first game of the season.

Lind played three and a bit quarters in the win before they were cautious and rested her for the rest of the match. It had been more than they expected, by she had pulled up OK after a half in local netball on Saturday.

“She brings that leadership and drive,” Marg Lind said of her daughter. “She brings that drive and the group a bit more confidence and voice.”

Olivia Cameron was again in action for the Falcons with Lani Fauonuku missing, having been part of the under-19 national championships.

Lind said Fauonuku had a really solid at the championships.

The other player promoted into the Falcons line up this season, Achel Yout had a strong game against the Demons after coming on in the first quarter.

Lind said they hoped they could build on the performance going forward.

“It was a good win, an important win,” she said.

“We need to get as many games as possibletogether.Wearestillnewinthedefensive end and they are incrementally improving.

“We’ve now got a few more options in the mid court as well.”

In another boost for the Falcons, Soli Ropati is back training with the group.

Lind said they would be cautious with the midcourter, who is returning from an ACL injury.

The Falcons’ 23 and under side also got the win against the Demons, 53-51.

The Falcons had been trailing in the dying minutes.

Both sides were missing players due to the recently completed under-17 and under-19 national championships.

Holly Adams-Alcock had to play goal attack all night due to the absences with Lind saying she thought she was their best.

She shot 26 goals while Tully Bethune shot 27.

For both Falcons sides, the win was their second for the season.

The Falcons will face the Wilson Storage Southern Saints this Wednesday in round six.

Knights happy in the top threee

Melbourne Knights’ continue to tick the boxes in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition.

The Knights have had a strong start to the season, with six wins from their opening eight matches and sit in the top three.

Coach Michael Calandrella said things were going along OK.

“We’re slowly building week by week,” he said. “We’re really pleased with how the boys are tracking and we need to try and continue that week on week.

“It’s a tough league and so far the boys are doing extremely well.”

Calandrella said the side had found where they sit in this competition in the early stages, but don’t take anything for granted.

The side has been able to get back to its winning ways after a tough 2025 in the National Premier League.

“It’s a very close league and even the teams that haven’t started that well in the league,” Calandrella said.

“Anyone can beat anyone type of league, it’s a league where you really need to be on the ball 100 per cent of the time. If you’re not, you definitely lose in this league.”

The Knights’ wins have come despite battling injuries throughout the majority of the season so far.

Calandrella said they have backed their squad to get the job done and they are performing and doing everything they are asking for.

“We’re still struggling with that,” he said. “The squad is a little thin.

“We’ve lost Darcy [Anastovski] from an unfortunate accident in one of the games and lost him for the season.

“It was a big hit for us, he’s a really important part of the team.

“We’re dealing with that. The squid we’ve got regardless if we have injuries or not, is stepping up to the plate.

“They are most definitely doing their role when they are called upon so it’s been really pleasing.”

The Knights were due to face Manningham United Blues on Friday night, after deadline.

Calandrella said the main focus the next few weeks would be to continue to try and pick up results.

“We’re taking it week by week and definitely looking to continue winning as many games as we can and see where it takes us.”

Lions hold on for first win

By Tara Murray

It might have been the walking wounded for Deer Park on Saturday afternoon, but it was able to find enough resolve to sneak home against Hillside.

Both sides were searching for their first win of the Essendon District Football League premier division season at John McLeod Oval and it was the Lions that took the four points.

The scoreboard was close for much of the day with the Sharks coming home hard as they looked to cause an upset.

The Lions were able to hold on, winning 12.10 (82)-10.10 (70).

Lions’ coach Jamie Madigan said it was anything but easy in getting the four points, but was super proud of the group.

“Hillside was good,” he said.

“We had a lot of injuries and we were still able to find a way. We had no bench and two injured on the field.

“We limped over the line, but there’s no excuses. It was a character building win.”

Madigan said the odds were backed against them at three quarter time.

He said their form line in the first couple of games had been good, but the growing injury list was working against them.

Joining the list were Trent McKenzie (hamstring), Kier Bol, Jack Noonan (hamstring), and Nick Ebinger (corkie).

Lin Jong and Billy Cannolo did hamstrings in round one, while captain Spiros Amarantidis missed Saturday’s win with a soft tissue injury.

Madigan said while they were down on soldiers plenty of their leaders stood up.

“Anthony Anastasio was outstanding, particularly in the second half when he didn’t get a rest,” he said.

“Luke Scicchitano was fantastic and kicked two important goals right at the end. Mark Galea kicked three goals and stood up where required.

“Paul Tsapatolis had his first influential game for us. He stepped up.”

Jackson Barling, who captained the side on Saturday, continued his good form and kicked four goals after seven in round one.

With some stars out, the Lions had two under-18s step in and would likely see a few games in the next few weeks as they backed them in to step up.

Disappointment drives the Lakers in 2026

By Tara Murray

Caroline Springs is driven by the disappointment of last season in the Western Football League division 1 competition.

After falling short in the grand final in extra time, the Lakers want to get back to the final game of the year to atone for defeat.

Football director Shaun Rainer said there was no doubt that last season was driving them.

“It’s pretty motivating,” he said. “Five more seconds and we would have been able to score in normal time.

“It’s driving the group and still burning for the group.

“Part of the group has tasted defeat in a grand final and they want to take that extra step.”

While the core group has remained for the Lakers, they did lose some experienced players in the off season.

The departures of Keenan O’Shea, Mitch Bongiovanni and Ryan Allan are big ones for the club.

Rainer said they backed in the group they had at the club to step up.

“We have got a lot of really good kids that

are pushing through,” he said.

“They’ve played in games here and there and are coming along nicely.

“Max Tessari and Cooper Pepi have taken on the captaincy role and really embraced it and engaged the group.

“They put it on the group to take some ownership and leadership.

“It’s good to see that the group has stepped up. Ben Caluzzi, who has been here a couple of years, was captain at East Keilor.

“He has a lot of leadership attributes as well.”

On Saturday, the Lakers opened their account with a good win against Spotswood on Saturday.

It came after they lost the grand final rematch with Werribee Districts in round one.

The Lakers opened up with a 15 point lead at quarter time on Saturday and were able to extend that in every quarter to come away with a 17.14 (116)-6.6 (42) win.

“It was an even performance and that was what we wanted,” Rainer said of the win.

“Looking at Spotswood it has even contributions across the board and we needed to match that.

Flynn Adams played 10 games last season as a bottom age under-18 and he was joined by Tyler Latu on Saturday.

Madigan said they would take plenty out of the match.

“It was important to fight,” he said. “Sometimes when you have adversity it can be character building.”

With a 1-1 record after two rounds, Madigan said they were where they thought they would be.

The Lions face Strathmore in round three. Tom Mundy and Amarantidis are set to return to the Lions side.

“The 22 we put out there we have faith in” Madigan said. “We will give it everything we have and it will be a tough challenge.”

Sunshine United has signed James Wild as coach for the next Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1 competition. Wild played 11 years in at Victorian Premier Cricket level before 10 years in playing in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association. “His deep understanding of the game and commitment to player development will be a huge asset to our group,” the Tigers said on social media. “In his role, James will work closely with current captain Daniel Raniolo, who did a fantastic job leading the side last season. Together, they will focus on continuing to build a strong, competitive culture while supporting the growth and development of our playing group.”

EDFL

Keilor Park continued its good start to the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 season with a big win against the Sunbury Lions. The Devils made it two in a row as they accounted for the Lions, 13.9 (87)-0.0 (0). Georgia O’Donovan kicked four goals for the Devils, while Stephanie Aleksovski was named their best. Elsewhere, Taylors Lakes lost to Craigieburn while Burnside Heights opened its account with a win against Roxburgh Park.

“We were able to get a good run off half back and in the middle. Spotswood is good in clearances and we were able to negate that area.”

Rainer said Spotswood had its moments where it found some control, but they were able to respond each time.

Steve Kyriazis kicked six goals for the Lakers, while Malik Elfakahani finished with four goals.

Caluzzi, Kyriazis and Tessari were named the Lakers best.

Rainer said they were missing a couple of players through suspension on Saturday and it was nice to see that they were able to cover them

The tests will continue this week for the Lakers as they face Yarraville Seddon on Saturday.

The Eagles have had two good wins to start the year.

“It will be another good challenge,” Rainer said.

“It’s looking like it’s an even competition. We’ll have to do our homework.”

Meanwhile, the Lakers women won their first match in the Essendon District Football League.

St Albans got its first win of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season on Saturday. The Saints were at home to East Keilor and came away with a 22.11 (143)-9.8 (62) win. Jacob Townsend in his first game of the season kicked seven goals for the Saints, while Jake Galea was named the Saints best. Elsewhere, Taylors Lakes lost to Moonee Valley.

Western FL

Albanvale’s match with Wyndhamvale was called off due to a medical incident in the Western Football League division 2 competition on Saturday. The Falcons were leading 19-13 when an Albanvale player was concussed and needed medical treatment. With an ambulance taking 40 minutes to arrive the match was called off and the match declared a draw as it occurred in the first half. In other matches, Sunshine Heights had a big win against Laverton, while Braybrook lost to West Footscray. FOR MORE SPORT VISIT

TIPPING 2026