Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 2nd September 2025

Wildflower planting day

Brimbank residents looking to contribute positively to their local environment can attend a planting day of community action and celebration at Iramoo Wildflower reserve in Cairnlea on Sunday, September 7.

Victoria University research associate Dr Megan O’Shea said 1500 wildflowers will be planted on the day at the reserve. The planting day will help shift the balance away from serrated tussock back to a native kangaroo grass, and help to create a healthier habitat for the endangered striped legless lizard.

“We’re just adding to the complexity of the system which means that there’s greater resources that support the plants and animals that should be out there,” Dr O’Shea said.

Dr O’Shea said there will be planting demonstrations on the day to ensure wildflowers thrive long after they’re put into the ground.

There will also be tours of the reserve on the day as well as activities for kids.

Courageous kids

Three siblings have received Australian Bravery Decorations for their courage during a domestic incident that took place in Albanvale in 2022.

On an evening in March 2022, Aaliah and Tyra Johnson were at home with their mother, step-father, step-sister Chantelle Sim, and two other young siblings when theirstepfatherpouredpetrolinthelounge room, kitchen, and on their mother.

He then set fire to the house and the siblings’ mother.

Aaliahassistedhermotherintheshower, putting the fire out and pouring cold water on her before helping her to the front lawn.

Tyra, in the kitchen at the time, was caught in the flames and suffered severe burns to her legs and lower torso. She fled the house through the rear door and used water to extinguish the flames on her.

Shethenranaroundthesideofthehouse to the outside of her bedroom, forced open a window, re-entered the burning house andretrievedhertwo-year-oldstepbrother.

She handed her stepbrother over a fence to another sibling before climbing over the fence herself.

Chantelle was adjacent to the kitchen when the fire broke out.

She went to run outside through the

lounge room when she observed her baby half-brother on the couch.

She stopped, picked him up and carried him outside.

Emergency services arrived shortly afterwards.

Tragically, their mother died.

Aaliah, Tyra and Chantelle were among 37 people recognised on September 1 for their courage.

Governor-General Sam Mostyn thanked the recipients for their humanity, compassion and bravery.

“Inthe50yearsoftheAustralianhonours system, this is the first Bravery List to be

released on Wattle Day. The golden wattle is Australia’s national floral emblem, and together with the crown, it is part of the Governor-General’s insignia,” Ms Mostyn said. “The exceptional people we honour todayansweredacalltodefendandprotect with unforeseen courage. Through their actions they tell us we all matter and that all our lives are precious.

“We deeply thank and pay respect to these remarkable, brave Australians who will always have our enduring gratitude and admiration.”

For confidential help and advice contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

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Water billing issues persist

By Sam Porter

Brimbank locals continue to experience GreaterWesternWater(GWW)billingissues after the water utility company launched a new billing system last year to combine two ageing systems it said were no longer fit-for-purpose.

Hillside resident Christine Bordon said her bills tripled after GWW installed a new meter at her home.

“I’m very frustrated. I’m also scared becauseI’m67yearsold,abouttoretireand can’t afford these bills,” Ms Bordon said.

Ms Bordon said she was the only one in

her street who had her meter replaced.

“I’ve checked with the neighbours, they’ve still got the old meters … I don’t know why I’ve got a new meter, there was nothing wrong with my old one,” she said.

“The first two bills after that meter got installed were estimated. The next three bills I’ve gotten are more than triple the price.

“I’ve made an enquiry … rang three times. I continue to get higher bills, but they’re not doing anything about them. I was actually thinking about going to the ombudsman.”

Ms Bordon lives at home with her

husband and said they also use water from their large water tank.

Her husband, who is a plumber, has checked the house’s piping for leaks but hasn’t found any issues.

“We haven’t really changed our habits in the last few years,” she said.

According to the GWW website, bills may be higher due to delays caused by the company’s billing system.

In a statement to Star Weekly, GWW general manager for customer experience

TerenceAlvaresthankedGWW’scustomers for their patience and acknowledged it has been a frustrating and challenging

Call out for spring clothing donations

West Welcome Wagon (WWW) has put a call out for transseasonal clothing donations as spring approaches.

Warm clothing such as coats, jumpers, pants and scarves can be donated as well as lighter clothing items such as long-sleeved shirts, cardigans and leggings.

WWW chief executive Colette McInerney said the variety of clothing items will help clients adjust to the unpredictable weather patterns in Melbourne.

experience that has not met customer expectations.

“GWW is continuing to resolve billing delays affecting some customers, following technical issues with our billing system. We’re making steady progress with almost four in five customer accounts back on trackandcontinueworkingtofinalisemore complex delayed bills,” Mr Alvares said.

GWW said it may also replace water meters on an ad hoc basis for various reasons, including malfunction or at the customer’s request, and that a property may require a new meter at a different time to neighbouring properties.

Council updates its advocacy priorities

Brimbank council has updated its advocacy priorities for 2025 to 2027, which council said includes topics that provide benefits spanning across Brimbank and beyond.

The updated advocacy priorities were adopted in an August council meeting and determined using a community survey and workshop.

The priorities have been ranked into gold, silver and bronze tiers.

Council said this ranking ensures its focus remains on the most important priorities, as well as those identified as being at a tipping point.

Goldprioritytopicsincludeproviding more safe and affordable housing for homeless people, increasing access to mental health services, and leveraging major infrastructure projects – such as the $4 billion Sunshine station redevelopment–todelivergenerational community benefits.

Examples of initiatives in the gold tier include calls for increased funding for youth mental health and wellbeing programs, and a push for the Keilor East train station to be built, which the state government committed to ahead of the 2022 election.

The organisation is also looking to receive clothing donations for boys and girls aged six to 16 as well as men’s clothing in sizes ranging from small to large.

“We’re really short on boys’ clothing and men’s clothing…but we’re still looking for women’s clothing and the layering items that we need with the weather that we live in in Melbourne.”

The clothing donations will go to asylum seekers and refugees living

“We live in the ‘Melbourne four seasons in one day,’ particularly coming up to spring, so we’re still looking for warm clothing, but also layering items,” Ms McInerney said.

across six municipalities in the western suburbs.

“It makes a huge impact because a lot of newly arrived families have come from pretty traumatic journeys to get here, from refugee camps, and have little to nothing when they arrive,” Ms McInerney said.

“It makes them feel comfortable and warm.”

Drop donations to the warehouse at unit 3/42-46 Vella Drive, Sunshine West. It is open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 4pm, and on Saturdays from 10am to 12pm.

Airport announces mobility hubs to help with movement

Melbourne Airport has announced it will launch a network of mobility hubs across the airport in September to help passengers move around the airport.

The Melbourne Airport Assist service will be provided by Travellers Aid and will use a network of buggies and powered wheelchairs to help passengers transit the growing terminal precinct.

The new service is designed to complement existing airline support processes, so that a human is available to help at every part of the passenger

journey, according to the airport.

Melbourne Airport chief executive LorieArgussaidthemobilityhubprogram reflects the airport’s commitment to accessibility.

“Improving accessibility is a key focus for us, and we’re proud to deliver a service that makes it easier for travellers with mobility issues to get around the airport.”

Ms Argus said.

“This service will help connect our car parkswiththeterminalsandtheterminals with each other, providing travellers with

help wherever they need it in their airport journeys.

“This is a long-term investment in accessibilityatMelbourneAirportandhas been designed to extend to and from our new pick-up and drop-off areas when they open later next year.”

The service will operate seven days a weekbetweenthehoursof6amand10pm.

Travellers Aid, a not-for-profit organisation, partnered with Melbourne Airport to deliver a successful trial of the service in 2024.

Silver priorities include delivering an efficient road and public transport network to meet the growing demand of the west, building long-term, sustainable solutions with legislative backing and investment from all levels of government in response to the climate emergency, and developing approaches to address growing community concerns about crime, youth disengagement and family violence.

Examples of initiatives in the silver tier include improving bus connections and the frequency of bus services in the municipality, increasing Brimbank’s canopy cover, and seeking out more funding for safe housing options.

Bronze priorities include commitments to community infrastructure development, calls for stronger reforms and investment to reduce gambling harm, and addressing government constraints on council by stopping the continued cost-shifting that council said is eroding its capacity to deliver services.

Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said the advocacy priorities have been adjusted to reflect what’s most important to the community and projects that are most likely to have long term benefits for Brimbank.

“We’re seeing a once in a generation investment in major infrastructure projects in the west and we want to make sure that these have the maximum impact for our community,” mayor Dang said.

Health funding call

When western suburbs resident Rachel Huntlysuspectedherten-yearolddaughter Trinity had autism, she felt overwhelmed at the thought of having to navigate the health system to get a diagnosis.

Ms Huntly was already familiar with the challenges of accessing support when her eldest son received his autism diagnosis yearsearlier.“Ittookawaysomuchfromus just being a family. We’d spend hours every week just on the phone trying to organise everything, travelling to appointments, and waiting. It took time away from work, from my other kids, and from just being a family.Itwasstressfulandoverwhelming,” Ms Huntly said.

In seeking a diagnosis for Trinity, Ms Huntly was connected with Brimbank Melton Children’s Health and Wellbeing Local, at IPC Health in Sunshine, which houses a multi-disciplinary team under one roof.

Within a week of her first call, Trinity had an intake appointment and received anautismdiagnosis,occupationaltherapy, mental health support, and occupational therapy referrals shortly after, all in the same location.

“Having everything under one roof has been a game-changer. We’re not running around to 50 different places anymore. It’s way less stressful and so much easier for our family,” Ms Huntly said.

“IPC Health is out there obviously helping the children, but then they reached out to me and were like, ‘Rachel, do you need support?’ Yes, as a mum, as a dad, sometimes we do. We all have our moments where we’re struggling, and so I really admired that they reached out to give me support too.”

The family has joined Infrastructure Victoria’s recent call on the state governmenttoinvestafurther$150million to $300 million into community health infrastructure over the next five years. Husband Adam Huntly said the funding is a necessity.

“It’smadesuchalifechangingdifference

and without that funding, we’d still be back at square one, struggling to get help, struggling to have a diagnosis,” Mr Huntly said.“We’vegotagenerationofkidsthatwe can do a lot for with the correct funding… That funding has definitely changed the lives in one household, and it can do it for many.”

Museum plaza name proposed

Brimbank council has approved the submission of Wominjeka Plaza as theproposednameforthenewpublic space adjacent to the Vietnamese MuseumAustralia,whichiscurrently under construction in Sunshine.

The submission comes after a community consultation process in which 64 per cent of respondents supported the proposed name.

Council said the plaza has been designed to be a bright and inviting public area that will pay tribute to the Traditional Owners while celebrating the diverse refugee and multicultural communities within Brimbank.

The name Wominjeka, meaning ‘welcome’ in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people, was the name suggested by Wurundjeri Elders during the plaza design discussions.

Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said it’sencouragingtoseethecommunity support the naming of the new public plaza as Wominjeka Plaza.

“The plaza is intended to be a welcoming space for everyone, and I’mconfidentitwillbecomeabeloved communitygatheringspot,helpingto bring life to the area and providing a boost to local businesses nearby.

“Council will now submit the name to Geographic Names Victoria, and we look forward to its approval.”

Constructionoftheplazaisplanned to take place in late 2025 and 2026.

Little eland has a big future

Werribee Open Range Zoo has welcomed a little antelope who has a big future.

Tshepo, the one-year-old eland calf –the largest antelope species – is a new arrival from Monarto Safari Park in South Australia.

Joining a herd of 19, he is poised to one day become the herd’s breeding bull. However, savannah keeper Sharlina Burns said Tshepo will need to grow into his clicky knees before building his future legacy.

“As eland get older, there is a tendon in their knees that starts to click, so you can heartheelandclickingasthey’rewalking,” Ms Burns said.

“It acts as a form of communication so they can tell one another who is older, bigger and more dominant in the herd.

“Tshepo was the first new eland to join

the herd in more than six years, so we weren’tsurewhattoexpect,butitwasreally nice to see him walk out and be totally fine amongst the herd.”

Tshepo, a name of Southern African origin meaning ‘hope’ or ‘faith’ in Sotho, was chosen by the zoo’s keepers who have every hope he’ll grow into his role as leader of the herd.

Eland are native to the grasslands and savannahs of southern and eastern Africa with up to 110,000 in the wild.

Their population is currently stable, however habitat destruction for agricultural expansion and illegal hunting have resulted in considerable reductions of their range and populations.

VisitorstothezoocanseeTshepoandthe herd on a safari bus tour of the savannah, which runs throughout the day and is included with entry.

Young championship drive

Burnside karter Milan Sami has made an instant impact on the track winning an Australian title at just seven.

Sami claimed the Australian Karting Championship green plate with the trophy andplatetobeawardedinearlySeptember.

“I could only dream of winning the green plate which is the ultimate-coloured plate any driver can have,” he said.

“I know how much training and effort has gone into getting here today.

“I couldn’t have done it without my family and best mechanic trainer Damian Brasher. Everyone has put in a lot of time and effort to make this happen for me, so I am really grateful and humbled.”

Milan claimed the title after the fourth round of the event, which he didn’t know was a chance.

“It was only after the race finished when I pulled into the pits that I heard everyone celebrating that I realised I had won it,” he said. “At that point I was extremely excited and over the moon.

“The year before I could only wish to win. After I had won the first round in Port Melbourne I gained momentum and confidence leading into the proceeding rounds.

“I then won the second round in Adelaide andthatmademefeelprettylucky,followed by winning the third round in Newcastle and now the fourth round in Ipswich.”

Milan said he loves the fast past of the karts and that every race meet is different.

Milan, whose racing idol is Lewis Hamilton, one day dreams of aspiring to be like him. His family are working on organising some overseas races later this year.

“My ultimate dream would be to make it to Formula 1, but I would equally love to be in Nascars or Supercars.”

Briefs

Derrimut crane collapse

A crane collapse that occurred in Derrimut on Wednesday, August 27, crushed a car and temporarily trapped the crane driver. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to the incident on Swann Drive at 10.29am and escalated the response on arrival after finding the crane had collapsed in the wind, bringing powerlines down over cars. Specialist FRV firefighters from the High Angle Rescue Team worked to free the crane driver who was then assessed by paramedics for mild shock. No one was inside the vehicle under the crane when it collapsed, according to FRV. The incident was deemed under control at 11.18am.

Hillside woman dies

A 26-year-old Hillside woman has died after being struck by a truck in Thomastown last month. Emergency services were called to the intersection of Latitude Boulevard and Heyington Avenue about 7.45pm on August 13. The woman was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and died on August 25. The truck driver was initially unaware of the collision but was flagged down by passers-by and stopped to assist. Greensborough highway patrol officers are continuing to investigate the collision.

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Call for homelessness funds

By Sam Porter

Brimbank council is urging the state and federal governments to provide more funding to address homelessness in the municipality.

At the August council meeting, council endorsed a homelessness statement of commitment which outlines three main current gaps in local service.

Council is calling on the state and federal governments to address these gaps by providing funding for a dedicated homelessness service for Brimbank, more specialist AOD (alcohol and other drug) outreach services, and a local coordination model to bring together housing, health, mental health and AOD responses.

Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said council recognises the urgent need for action to tackle the growing crisis.

“Local councils play an essential role in linking people to the support services they require, drawn from both community organisations and government agencies. However, it’s important to note that local government does not have a formal role in the homelessness service system; this responsibility lies with the state and federal governments,” Cr Dang said.

“We will persist in our call for immediate action on homelessness and strive to improve community health. The state and federal governments, which provide funding for homelessness, housing, and health services, must work to bridge the critical

service gaps that are essential for connecting vulnerable individuals with the housing, healthcare, and support they need.”

A state government spokesperson said the government is working closely with specialist agencies to support people who areexperiencingoratriskofhomelessness.

“Of the $300 million we invest each year into homelessness support services, more than $21.6 million is invested in the Brimbank Melton area. This funding supports essential services such as homelessness entry points in Sunshine and Melton, dedicated youth services, individual case support and assistance to help people sustain their tenancies.”

“We know that homelessness is a housing problem, which is why we are invest-

Grant to help tell Vietnamese stories

Australian Vietnamese Arts and Culture (AVAC) has received a $7500 grant in the most recent round of the federal government’s stronger communities program.

AVAC president Mai Nguyen said the community organisation was excited and thrilled to receive the grant.

“We are incredibly thankful for the government’s generosity and our local MP’s support towards our program,” Ms Nguyen said.

Ms Nguyen said AVAC will use the grant to purchase audio and video equipment to create and screen a doc-

umentary about the journeys of Vietnamese families in Brimbank.

The youth-led documentary project, titled ‘Half a Century Home,’ will highlight the strength and hope of local Vietnamese families and bring to light initial struggles faced by Vietnamese communities such as navigating language and cultural barriers.

The documentary will also celebrate Vietnamese locals’ adaptability and resilience.

“This grant is so important for community organisations like AVAC because this year marks the 50th an-

niversary of the settlement of the Vietnamese Community in Australia,” Ms Nguyen said.

“As an art and culture organisation, we would like to make the documentary to commemorate the 50 years since the first Vietnamese refugees began arriving in Australia in 1975, to celebrate the significant contributions of the Vietnamese community and commemorate our resilience and journey.

“With the grant we can purchase the equipment to make the documentary with our volunteers.”

Brimbank council announces new measure to target rubbish

Brimbank council has announced it will now be cordoning off all illegally dumped rubbish which has been reported across the city, to make it clear it has been identified and is under investigation.

The new measure is part of council’s ‘illegally dumped rubbish action plan’ endorsed in April this year, according to council.

Council said the plan includes tighter controls, stronger deterrents, tougher enforcement, more targeted and highly accessible community-wide education and

communication programs.

According to council, the action plan also includes the expansion of the Resource Recovery Centre in Keilor Park to accept additional items such as soft plastics and Styrofoam, programs that engage the entire community in the monitoring and reporting of dumped rubbish, and education campaigns aimed at residents, landlords, estate agents, households and businesses, among other initiatives.

Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said council recognises the community wants

ing more than $6.3 billion through the Big Housing Build and Regional Housing Fund to deliver more than 13,300 social and affordable homes across Victoria.”

The federal government said it is investing significantly in housing and homelessness prevention across Australia, including in the Victoria and the Brimbank local government area in partnership with the Victorian government and local homelessness services.

It referred to national initiatives such as the National Agreement on Social Housing and Homelessness, the Reconnect Program, the Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program and the National Housing Infrastructure Facility in addressing homelessness.

Ghost buses disappear

Commuters in the western suburbs are being fooled by so-called ‘ghost buses’ that appear on the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) app, but never arrive.

The bizarre practice was uncovered in responses to a survey on bus services Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank conducted with his constituents earlier this year.

Almost 240 residents responded to the Legalise Cannabis MP’s survey, with many claiming they’d been left waiting for buses that the PTV app said were coming, but which didn’t actually exist.

“Ghost buses!” said one respondent who coined the phrase describing the practice.

“Countlesstimesbusesjustdon’tshow up, but the apps to track them don’t reflect the bus service has been cancelled,” the respondent said.

“This happens almost weekly... Real time tracking of buses is a reasonable thing to expect and when services are cancelled for operational or whatever reason, just update the app!”

Another respondent said the reverse happened too.

“I’ve seen the app showing no bus available, but then an empty bus rocked up taking two passengers to the train station.”

Mr Ettershank said it was a bad joke on the western suburbs.

“Who are you not going to call? Ghost buses, but the people relying on public transport are not laughing and Public Transport Victoria needs to take responsibility and invest in installing trackers on buses so the PTV app can accurately track their journey.”

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said traffic disruptions were to blame.

“We always try to inform bus passengers with the most up to date information and the PTV app incorporates live data from each vehicle - however these times can be impacted by unexpected delays on our road network,“ the spokesperson said.

toseemoredonetokeepBrimbankclean.

“Rubbish dumping is a growing problem in our city and putting a stop to this is an urgent priority for council,” Cr Dang said.

“It’s illegal, it’s ugly and it’s hurting our environment - and it costs council and ratepayers to clean it up.”

Council said it is also expanding the existing collection service to assist with the high volume of dumped rubbish services by undertaking additional proactive weekend collections.

Public Transport Users Association spokesperson Daniel Bowen said public transport apps and websites had be better at highlighting disruptions, particularly in areas like Melbourne’s west that lack services.

“If you know exactly where you’re going and your service is frequent and on time every time, then it’s easy.

“But for unfamiliar trips, or services that are less frequent and not reliableincluding in many parts of the western suburbs - high quality real-time information is a must.”

Students ready to shine

Victoria’s State School Spectacular is just around the corner and students from across Victoria are deep into rehearsals for the grand performance, which will take place next month.

The spectacular showcases the talents of Victorian state school students over two performances that include song, dance and circus.

Victoria University year 12 student Chloe willbeplayingthebasstromboneaspartof the 75-piece ensemble in the spectacular. She said she’s excited for the opportunity to play in the show for the first time.

“I’ve never done any out of school activities so this was new, but it ended up being more fun than I imagined,” Chloe said.

She said she’s made many new friends during rehearsals for the show.

“It’s like I can make so many new connections in so many news areas of Melbourne and share in our common interests in music,” she said.

Chloe said year 12 students should still give the spectacular a go even if they’re worried about taking on the extra workload.

“It’s completely fine… you never know if you get this chance again so you might as well do it,” she said.

Copperfield College students and siblings Aydin and Chloe have been selected as principal dancers for the show.

Aydin said he felt honoured to be named as a principal dancer.

“This is the third time that I have participated in the Victorian State School spectacular. I feel that being in this show hashelpedmegrownotonlyasaperformer but as a person as well,” Aydin said.

“It feels special being able to share the stage with my sister at John Cain arena. It is a chance to showcase that we can do this together and that we have got each other’s backs.

“I enjoy how diverse this year’s show is and each routine can give you a different emotion in just the first movements or lyrics. I also enjoy the amazing choreography this year.”

This year will be Chloe’s first show. She said she’s been loving every moment of it so far.

“Being in the show with Aydin feels extremely special as it makes me feel more comfortable with having someone I

know so well with me through the whole experience,” Chloe said.

“What I enjoy the most about the show is being able to try new styles, getting to work with a whole bunch of people within the arts being able to see the whole show come together.”

Aydin and Chloe said they would both love to have careers in dance, performing arts and choreography in the future.

The State School Spectacular will be showing at the John Cain arena on Saturday,September13withperformances at 1pm and 6.30pm.

Details: https://www.ticketek.com.au/ spectacular/

Switching to the front line

After working in business for more than 10 years, 33-year-old Eric Karanikolau made the switch to working as a paramedic. The new recruit is one of 59 graduates who started their career with Ambulance Victoria in July. He spoke with Georgia Tacey about his new role.

There’s a new paramedic in town, and he’s ready to keep Gisborne residents safe.

Eric Karanikolau is Gisborne’s newest recruit with Ambulance Victoria, and already he is settling into his new role.

FromEssendon,MrKaranikolaurecently decided to make the big switch from his morethan10-yearcareerinbusinessintoa life on the frontline, and is already reaping the rewards of this fast-passed career.

“It’salotthefirstmonth,butIfeellikeI’m really settling in,” he said.

“Especially after the third week, a lot of that administrative stuff you get under your belt, and you focus on just treating patients and giving the best care you can.”

Mr Karanikolau is one of 59 graduate ambulance paramedics who started their careers in July, ready to meet the winter demand, and one of three stationed in the Macedon Ranges.

Mr Karanikolau said he always knew he wanted to answer the call.

“There’ve been a couple of situations where something happened to someone andIwasnearbyandintrinsically,Iwanted to help but I didn’t know,” he said.

It sort of sparked that fire to want to know more and learn more ... I wanted to help people in a more holistic way - Eric Karanikolau

“It sort of sparked that fire to want to know more and learn more, and be able to help and it led me down this path.”

This journey has been seven years in the making, studying and training, and so far, he’slovinggettingintothecommunityand helping others.

“I wanted to help people in a more holistic way and I was looking for a new challenge as well,” Mr Karanikolau said.

“I think the ever-changing environment of paramedicine and the ambiguity of not knowing what you’re going to get from a day-to-day, there’s some excitement in that and you’re always kept on your toes.

“Ilovethrivinginthatsortofenvironment where there’s a bit of pressure.”

The constant learning as well keeps him motivated, with no two days the same.

“You never know who you’re going to meet,” Mr Karanikolau said.

“Likeyougetapatient,andyouchatwith theminthebackoftheambulanceandyou learn a lot about their life and they sort of feel comfortable enough to share things about their life with you.

“I really enjoy engaging with the community and I enjoy engaging with the patients.”

Outside of the job, the 33-year-old spends his free time getting out and about, fishing, hunting and training dogs, all while preparing to welcome a baby with his wife soon.

He recently finished his studies at Victoria University, and was thrilled to join his friends among the new recruits.

Graduates like Mr Karanikolau have been deployed to ambulance branches across Victoria to begin their 12-month placement, with three quarters of these taking up positions in regional Victoria, including Macedon Ranges towns like Gisborne, Woodend and Romsey.

“These new graduates will make a real difference – we’re proud to back them with

the resources and training they need to succeed and deliver care to Victorians,”

Macedon Mp Mary-Anne Thomas said.

“We’re backing our paramedics with more recruits and better training so they can do what they do best – save lives.”

During there 12-month placements, the new paramedics will work under the supervision of clinical instructors and alongside paramedics responding to real emergencies and developing their clinical skills.

The new recruits were welcomed by AmbulanceVictoriachiefexecutiveJordan Emery.

“Working as a paramedic is an extraordinarily unique experience. Very few jobs will have such a profound and deep impact on peoples’ lives,” Mr Emery said.

“Our paramedics, first responders, volunteers and support staff are our greatest strength. It is through them that we lead the way in patient care, including the nation’s best cardiac arrest survival rates.

“We now have more than 5500 on-road

paramedics delivering the very best life-saving care, everywhere, and it’s great to see more joining our ranks.”

After completing their university degrees, the recruits start at Ambulance Victoria with a four-week induction and training program before they hit the road alongside experienced paramedics.

Duringthisinduction,recruitslearnvital skills such as safely moving and loading patients to prevent injuries, aggression and assault prevention, and safely driving ambulance vehicles.

Mr Emery said the best and brightest were selected for the job.

“Ambulance Victoria has some of the mosthighlytrainedandskilledparamedics in the world,” he said.

“These graduates will continue training and development throughout their entire careers to ensure patients receive the very best,andmostup-to-datelife-savingcare–and stay safe while they are doing so.

“Itrulywishthemallthebestforlongand rewarding careers at Ambulance Victoria.”

Mr Karanikolau said he loves working within the Gisborne community.

“The branch has been great and we have a really great team in Gisborne, they have a high calibre of knowledge and expertise in the emergency setting,” he said.

“The highlight for me has been speaking to everybody and gaining the insights and the detailed knowledge of the area and picking their brains from a clinical point of view because they have years and years cumulatively worth of experience.”

For anyone looking to go into paramedicine and become a paramedic, Mr Karanikolau stressed consistency is key.

“Itcanbealongjourneyandeverybody’s different, but have the right reason why and have that goal in your mind and strive towards it,” he said.

“Yes, there will be roadblocks and hiccups along the way, but ultimately persistence beats resistance … It’s a great job.

“Everyone’sinitfortherightreasonsand there’s a lot of really good mentors in the rolethatemergetohelpyouonthejourney.

“And as far as career progression-wise, it’s never too late to try anything.”

Police target carpark crimes

Two St Albans men and a man from Melbournehavebeenarrestedinanoperation targeting vehicle crime at train station carparks in Melbourne’s north-west.

More than 30 police and protective services officers (PSOs) flooded carparks along the Sunbury and Craigieburn lines on August 21.

Railway stations at Sunbury, Watergardens, Keilor Plains, St Albans, Ginifer, Essendon, Coolaroo, Roxburgh Park and Craigieburn were a focus.

A 30-year-old St Albans man was arrested after being found in an allegedly stolen vehicle at the St Albans railway station carpark about 2.20pm.

It’s alleged the stolen car, which didn’t have any numberplates, rammed a police vehicle in an attempt to flee.

The man was charged with multiple offences including theft of a motor vehicle, criminal damage, recklessly exposing a police officer to risk by driving, damaging an emergency service vehicle by driving and failing to answer bail.

He was remanded in custody and will face court at a later date.

The two further arrests comprised a 22-year-old St Albans man, arrested for motor vehicle theft, and a 19-year-old Melbourne man wanted for criminal damage.

As part of the operation, a 53-year-old Craigieburn woman was found in possession of a prohibited weapon — a knuckle duster with taser — and was released pending summons.

A 24-year-old Dallas man was also found driving while disqualified and had his vehicle impounded at a cost of $966.

There were 12 penalty notices issued for traffic-related offences, with officers also speaking to three people allegedly caught driving when unlicensed, suspended or disqualified.

Local police worked with officers from Victoria Police’s Transit Safety Division and Public Order Response Team as part

School cafe event to mark book week

Albanvale primary school marked book week with its unique LitFest reading cafe event on Friday, August 22.

More than 250 parents attended the event to celebrate literacy with students and teachers.

Albanvale primary school literacy learning specialist Daniel Taylor said the event was a great way to celebrate the students’ hard work.

“We really want to bring the parent community in to see the work the kids are doing ... Parents come in and get

free coffee and just sit and spend time with their kids, reading and nurturing that love of reading and literacy and that’s what the week is about,” Mr Taylor said.

“It’s just a feel-good moment for our school and the community.”

The LitFest featured a writers’ gallery which displayed the students’ best work, and there was also a spelling bee competition to wrap up the event.

“[The competition] was the highlight for me because everyone was so sup-

portive,” Mr Taylor said.

The event was also attended by Koroiroit MP Luba Grigorovitch and Gorton MP Alice Jordan-Baird.

“Having them here really meant a lot to the kids,” Mr Taylor said.

The school also hosted a range of activities throughout the week including a book week parade, a raffle and reading sessions with teachers.

“To see the amazing work the kids are doing has been really profound over the years,” Mr Taylor said.

of the effort.

Police spoke with more than 80 people and conducted more than 1400 vehicle registration checks.

Police said the highly visible operation builds on the ongoing, dedicated work of Victoria Police in boosting safety at railway station precincts.

Victoria Police Inspector Fiona Curnow said such operations send a strong signal that would-be car thieves should think again.

“Police and PSOs will continue doing all they can to deter offenders and detect those who choose to break the law,” Inspector Curnow said.

New strategy to attract visitors

Brimbank council has adopted its visitor economy strategy for 2025 to 2029, which council said aims to increase visitor numbers to the municipality, support businesses and tourism, attract new businesses, boost the local economy, and celebrate the community.

According to council, six key ideas were outlined in the strategy including increasing the profile of existing attractions, elevating popular festivals and events in the area, and attracting new tourism operators and visitor attractions. Other ideas include preparing the area for transit development opportunities, celebrating and promoting diversity within the community, and developing a destination brand that markets Brimbank as a great place to visit.

Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said the strategy shines a light on what makes Brimbank a great place to visit.

“By attracting more visitors to Brimbank, we can support local businesses, create jobs, and share our vibrant attractions with more people,” Cr Dang said.

“We’re excited to start developing the great ideas that are part of the strategy, and we are grateful to the businesses, community groups, and residents who have shared their thoughts, ideas, and feedback. All of this has helped to create this exciting roadmap for attracting more people to our wonderful municipality.”

Council said it engaged with residents, tourists operators, retailers and other businesses to get their insights about how to attract more visitors to Brimbank.

STAY INFORMED

Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Vacation Care is back for spring!

Council’s popular Vacation Care Program is back for the September school holidays.

Open to primary school aged children, the program will run from Monday 22 September - Friday 3 October, 7am - 6pm (excluding public holidays) at Bridge Road Children’s and Community Centre, Strathtulloh.

A variety of activities will keep young minds entertained, including a sensory fun day, teddy bears picnic, little chef day, Harry Potter science incursion, a trip to the movies and more!

Bookings close 5pm Friday 12 September (unless spaces fill prior).

For information or to book visit the melton.vic.gov.au/vacation-care

2025 Melton Seniors Festival

The Victorian Seniors Festival is a statewide celebration of seniors and a great time to celebrate ageing well across the City of Melton.

We have a bumper mix of events planned to celebrate the 2025 Melton Seniors Festival from 1 - 31 October, with workshops, movies, garden tours and more!

To view the full schedule of events and book your spot, visit melton.vic.gov.au/seniorsfestival

Sugar Gum Ward with Cr Lara Carli

I’m really pleased to be able to share some exciting updates on the fantastic parks and recreation reserve improvements Council is undertaking across Sugar Gum Ward. At Taylors Hill Recreation Reserve, a $5.9 million upgrade is taking shape. Once complete, the reserve will feature three match-ready soccer pitches, two synthetic cricket wickets, new competition-grade lighting, and perimeter fencing. We’re expecting the reserve to reopen mid-May 2026, ready for local clubs and the community to enjoy.

We’re also planning a fresh new look for Parkwood Green Reserve, creating a more inclusive and familyfriendly space. With final designs due in October, the upgrades will include new play areas, a multipurpose court, picnic shelter, drinking fountain, and more trees and garden beds to add natural shade and beauty.

I’m also pleased to share that Sugar Gum Reserve has been included in Council’s Minor Parks Program for 2025/26, with planning underway to guide future improvements.

It’s wonderful to be able to support so much investment in our local parks

– Visit

Sports for all abilities

Thursday 25 September, 10am-11:30am at Caroline Springs Leisure Centre

Come and try a range of inclusive sports and activities for all ages and abilities.

Have fun experiencing a range of sports that are accessible for people living with a disability. Whether you are new to sport or keen to try something different, this is a great opportunity to experience a variety of accessible sports in a supportive environment.

All participants must be accompanied by a carer. To book your free spot, visit melton.vic.gov.au/ schoolholidays or call 9747 7200.

and open spaces which helps make our community healthier, and more connected.

And finally, pedestrian safety and accessibility are being improved along Sugar Gum Drive and Boronia Drive, with construction of a new 1.5-metrewide, kerb-separated pedestrian path underway. This $2.3 million project is designed to fit in with the area’s rural feel and is on track to be finished by October 2025.

Feel free to contact me about Sugar Gum Ward or Council related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au

I was excited to visit the site of the new community services building in Cobblebank recently to see the progress of this transformational project. Council identified a need for more accommodation to enable more community services locally, and we have been very committed to investing in this facility, so that our residents can access these vital services on their doorstep. We have invested $53 million in the project and have received $15 million through the Australian Government’s Thriving Suburbs Program and $4.6 million from the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburb Fund. I look forward to sharing the progress of this exciting project over the coming months.

I also recently attended the openings of Navan Park in Harkness and Blackwood Drive Recreation Reserve in Melton South following the completion of fantastic upgrades. Both parks have new play equipment, new plantings, and shade structures.

I’d like to thank the Victorian Government for their contribution to both park upgrades, and to the Australian Government for funding the lighting at Navan Park to help extend the use of the park beyond daylight hours.

Local parks are so important to help get kids out of the house for some fresh air, exercise and connection, and I’m so proud that we were able to revitalise these well-loved community spaces to be able to do just that. I encourage you all to embrace your adventurous side and get out there and explore these wonderful parks.

You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Steve.Abboushi@melton.vic. gov.au or on 0437 231 680.

MY PLACE

Julian Reynolds is a Keilor Downs local who received the 2025 mayoral appreciation award for his ongoing volunteer work cleaning areas in Brimbank polluted with rubbish. He spoke to Sam Porter about the community and his volunteer work.

What’s your connection to Brimbank? A somewhat short one really. I moved to Keilor Downs from Diamond Creek in Melbourne’seastinMay2018withmywife. WemovedtoKeilorasitisanicegreenarea only 15 kilometres to the city with great transportconnections.

What do you like about where you live?

Wewantedtomovetoagreenareathathad goodconnectionstotransportandfreeways and a relaxed vibe. We found a beautiful slice of suburbia and we love where we live. Living in a mixed multicultural hub is a real delight. Friendly people, good facilities with Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre and a community that comes together to celebrate our unique qualities.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

I love where I live but it disappoints me when I see how much rubbish is around the area. There is a lot of dumping and general litter. Keilor is a windy area and it doesn’t make it easy when we have strong winds blowing things about. Also we have a high concentration of fast food outlets in our area and the litter coming from these businessesdoesn’tdousanyfavours.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

Brimbank Park is my favourite local hang out. Lumbar Café is a real delight with great food, people and amazing staff in a beautifulspot.

What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?

I work in equipment finance and enjoy helping people achieve their dreams and grow their businesses through financing equipment. I also enjoy collecting a lot of different things: wine bottles, corks, vinyl records,magnets,stamps-thelistgoeson.

What prompted you to start community clean-ups?

I wanted to see the community come together a bit more to clean Brimbank. We have a vibrant hub and I think the missing link is the conduit in bringing it all together. I live by the mantra that “the standard you walk past is the standard you accept” and I can’t walk or drive past a dirty spot without wanting to clean it up. It pains me to see Brimbank look untidy

and unkept and hence I do my bit to lead by example and demonstrate civic pride by donating my time to keep it clean. Lots of people in the community volunteer and offer their time in other ways and this is my way of giving back.

How did you feel to receive the mayoral appreciation award this year? To receive the Brimbank mayoral award was an absolute honour. It certainly

Make a fabric tissue pouch

Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft projectdesignedtoinspireandsparkcreativity.

Stephanie starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10,whereshediscoveredandignitedherpassionforcrafting. Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary.Thismonth,Stephanieiscreatingatissuepouch.

Tissue pouch

Materials

4 pieces of fabric, each measuring 10cm x 15cm 2 pieces of fabric, each measuring 10cm x 10cm

Equipment

Fabric Scissors

Sewing machine

Matching thread

Iron and Ironing board

Pins of fabric clips

Instructions

Step 1: Cut all six fabric pieces to size:

Four pieces at 10cm x 15cm

Two pieces at 10cm x 10cm

Step 2: Take two 10cm x 10cm pieces and two of 10cm x 15cm pieces. Fold each one in half lengthwise wrong sides together, and press with an iron to create a crisp crease.

Step 3: Take the two unfolded 10cm x 15cm pieces. Lay one flat with the

was not expected and it made me feel honoured and humbled to receive the recognition from council and the community. The Brimbank community have been fantastic in getting behind me and now I would like to take this swell of ground support to the next level and get some meaningful initiatives going in the area with the support of Clean Up Australia and local schools and organisations.

right side facing down, and place the second one on top, with the right side facing up.

Step 4: Now start layering the folded pieces on top, all with the folded edges facing inwards. Place one folded 10cm x 10cm piece at the top. Place one folded 10cm x 15cm piece on the left side. Place the second folded 10cm x 10cm piece at the bottom. Place the second folded 10cm x 15cm piece along the right side. Tuck just one end of the last piece so it overlaps.

Step 5: Use pins or clips to secure all the layers. Sew all the way around the outer edge with 1cm seam allowance.

Step 6: Snip the corners and trim any bulky fabric. Turn the pouch right side out and press flat with an iron.

Game 50 up for Gavalas

By Tara Murray

Western Bulldogs’ Ellie Gavalas never imagined playing one AFLW game let alone 50.

The midfielder-forward, who started her career at North Melbourne was set to round outforgame50onSaturday,afterdeadline.

Speaking before the milestone game, she saiditwasaprettyexcitingoccasion.

“I’m super pumped and super excited,” she said. “It’s Indigenous Round as well and it’sahomegame.

“My family is up from Tassie and my nephew, who is one years old, will have a jumperwithmynumberontheback.

“It’llbethefirsttimeseeingmeinperson.”

Gavalas came from a soccer background, includingplayingfortheunder-17sMatildas beforemakingtheswitchtofootball.

She played for the Bulldogs Victorian Football League women’s team in 2019 beforebeingdraftedtoNorthMelbourne.

Gavalas returned to the Bulldogs last season,thistimewiththeirAFLWprogram.

“I had five seasons with the Roos,” she said. “There was nothing but love and respectfortheRoos.

“TherewastheopportunityattheBulldogs where I played my one VFLW season and it drewmebacktotheDogs.”

Gavalas said it’s the friendships and people she has met along the way that have beenthehighlightsofhercareer.

For the Bulldogs, this season is year two

oftherebuild.

Gavalas said you can see the differences from12monthsago.

“In my first year there were a lot of new players,” she said. “I was one of 11 new playersandtherewasanewcoach.

“With continuity we have been able to consolidate what we had been working on. Thisyearhasbeengoodsofar.

“Last year the intent was there and you couldn’t fault the effort. There were some teethingissues.

“But with continuity with the relatively same group as last year, we’re clear on what wewanttoachieve.”

The Bulldogs have started the season 1-1, withawinagainstRichmond.

Gavalas said there had been some good signs in round one against Melbourne beforeputtingittogetheragainstRichmond.

“The belief in us being able to come out and execute what we want to achieve was reallygood,”shesaid.

“It was fun to get the win and hopefully we’llgetafewmorefortheyear.”

Gavalas said the Bulldogs were aiming to play finals like every team but the main focus was about how they go about it and executingthegameplan.

The Bulldogs were set to face Hawthorn onSaturdaynight.

The Hawks had won both their games headingintothematch.

Gavalas said they had to back themselves inandplaythewaytheywantedto.

Trips to the country

SPRINGintoQueenslandCountryforaseason ofcolour,flavour,andcelebration.Rollinghills, blooming gardens, and vibrant landscapes set the stage for festivals, farmers’ markets, and outdoor adventures. Families and friends gather to enjoy fresh local produce, live music, artisan crafts, and unique cultural events across the region. Wildlife awakens, rivers sparkle, and country roads invite exploration. Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride over scenic valleys, a lively street parade, or a laidback picnic in a blossoming park, spring in Queensland Country is pure joy.

Rotary Gourmet in Gundy, Goondiwindi Region

5 – 7 September

Set on the lawns of the Goondiwindi Cultural Centre beside the Macintyre River, Rotary Gourmet in Gundy is a springtime favourite. Enjoy local produce, fine wines, boutique beers, and live music inarelaxedcountrysetting.Celebritychef

Clarissa Feildel will host cooking classes onSaturdayandjoinSunday’smainevent, while Mondello the Magician keeps the little ones entertained. With great food, music, and warm hospitality, it’s a day not tobemissed.

Laidley Spring Festival, Lockyer Valley

12 – 14 September

Each year, the Lockyer Valley bursts into bloom for the Laidley Spring Festival - a three-day celebration of colour, creativity, and community spirit. Enjoy the much-loved Street Parade, Twilight Feastand Fest,SpringGardenFair,Orchid Show,QuiltandCraftExpo,andBeeHappy Day. With more than 60 years of history, this vibrant festival captures the charm of springinthecountry!

Miles Back to the Bush Festival, Western Downs 11 – 14 September

This festival is Miles from ordinary! Step back in time and celebrate country life with a vintage twist at the Miles Historical Village. This much-loved September festival is packed with bush fun. From the street parade, tractor pull, and markets, to quirky challenges like billy boiling and obstacle races. You will find live entertainment, hearty hospitality, and the charm of the Historical Village as its backdrop. It’s a weekend that captures the truespiritofthebush!

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba Region 12 September – 6 October

For 76 years, each spring, Toowoomba bursts into bloom with four spectacular weekends of flowers, flavours and entertainment.Fromaward-winningparks andprivategardentourstotheiconicfloral street parade, live music, and delicious foodie experiences, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is the perfect way to celebrate the season in Queensland’s gardencity.

Blackbutt Avocado Festival, South Burnett 13 September

Celebrate the cream of the crop at the Blackbutt Avocado Festival, a family-friendly event bursting with quirky fun, delicious food, and country charm. Enjoy avocado-themed games and activities,andsamplelocaltreats.Withlive music, homemade goodies, and a chance to explore historic Blackbutt, it’s a festive way to support local farmers and savour

thebestofcountrylife.

Murphy’s Creek Chilli and Craft Carnival, Toowoomba Region 21 September SpiceupyourspringwiththeMurphys CreekChilli,Craft&CakeCarnival. Sampleover350chillisauces,localjerky, cakes,crafts,andinternationalstreetfood, allwhileenjoyinglivemusicandfamilyfriendlyfun.Withquirkycompetitions, chillichallenges,andafestivecountry atmosphere,it’saflavoursomedayout supportinglocal producersandcharitiesinthescenic LockyerValley.

CelticFest, Southern Downs and Granite Belt 3 – 5 October

Celebrate Scottish and Irish heritage in the heart of the Southern Downs at CelticFest in Warwick. Held over the King’s Birthday weekend in October, at

the Warwick Showgrounds. The festival features Highland Games, pipe bands, Celtic markets, traditional food and drink, and even Highland cows. With live music, medieval encampments, and community-runCelticFringeeventsacross Warwick, it’s a weekend of culture, fun, andheritagenottobemissed.

Warwick Rodeo, Southern Downs and Granite Belt 20 – 26 October

Experience the thrill of Warwick’s iconic rodeo and campdraft, celebrating the skill and determination of riders since 1928. Watch bulls and horses fly out of the gate, admire the bond between rider and steed, and enjoy a week-long festival of country food, trades, live music, and local stories. With opportunities to meet rodeo stars, shop for authentic gear, and soak up true Aussie country spirit, it’s a high-energy eventyouwontwanttomiss!

Full-Board River Cruise

3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing

Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat

Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Hotel Stays

3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner

Fully Escorted Barossa Valley Tours

Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including:

Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement

Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours

2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

Spring is a season of renewal and the perfect time to plan your next unforgettable journey. With exclusive airfare offers, you can experience the world The Viking Way—in comfort and with more included.

Book a river voyage and fly free, or book an ocean or expedition voyage and your companion flies free. Be quick, offers end 1 December 2025*.

*T&Cs apply

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

Village Night Market

The market will bring local small businesses to the community, with indoor and outdoor vendors selling original products.The market will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 6-9pm at the Keilor Bowls Club at 2 Mercedes Street, Keilor. Entry is a gold coin donation with proceeds going to a different charity each month.

The Lakes Grassland Planting

Join Friends of Taylors Creek supported by Brimbank City Council for a morning of planting native grasses and wildflowers at the beautiful Lakes Grassland in Taylors Lakes. Meet at 10am on Saturday, September 6.

 friendsoftaylorscreek@gmail.com

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 to 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

Western Athletics

Western Athletics is celebrating 30 years since the amalgamation of Werribee, Footscray and Sunshine athletic clubs. A function will be held on 18 October at the Yarraville Club. To express your interest or send updated contact details please contact us.

 info@westernathletics.com.au.

National seniors meeting

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at The Club in Caroline Springs, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.

 0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@outlook.com

Learn to Relax Group

IPC Health’s Living Well team is running a free Learn to Relax Group at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road, every Tuesday at 11am. This group is for people over 18 years who are interested in learning how to relax and finding ways to effectively manage their stress. Registration is required to attend this group.

 livingwell@ipchealth.com.au, or 1300 472 432

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

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 to noon, at Braybrook College.

 westgateconcertband@gmail.com

Women Working Together

A program connecting women aged 50

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Phil Davis and his vintage 1947 Ford Mercury. (Damjan Janevski) 498117_01

and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Brimbank.

 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/ Crafternoons

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

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

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

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

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

Sunshine Community Brass

Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than

90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm.

 Andrew, 0419 444 620

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

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

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 12pm. The club offers bus trips, lunches, morning melodies etc. New members welcome.

 Peter, 0412 604 713 or Pat, 0413 126 714

A MOSAIC of young voices

An original ensemble theatre show made up of young performers from Footscray, Wyndham and St Albans is coming to Brimbank for one night only.

MOSAIC: The Thrive Anthology edge ensembles show, presented by Western Edge, will take audiences through a kaleidoscope of stories ranging from funny and abstract to thoughtful and heartfelt. Western Edge co-artistic director John Marc Desengano said the show is completelydevisedandperformedbylocal theatre makers, ranging from ages 18 to 30. “It’saprettyspecialshow.Wehavescenes about capitalism, about being immigrants, about being a cat that wants a home…It’s this cacophony of wonderful voices and thewaytheyseetheworld,”MrDesengano said.

The show is inspired by the theme

‘thrive.’ MrDesenganosaidtheperformers intheshowbeganmakingscenesofartistic expression inspired by the theme over the course of 17 weeks.

“Each LGA (local government area) is led by a lead artist who is a professional theatre maker from Melbourne. They guide the process through a series of prompts, provocations, and improvisation activities. And through those provocations the young people make a piece that they are inspired by and that they devised… It’s completely original content,” Mr Desengano said.

The groups from separate LGAs come together for four major rehearsals in the lead up to the show.

“Someof[thetheatremakers]havenever been on stage before, have never been in a creative room and they are putting

themselves out there with vulnerability andexcitement.They’vecreatedsomething really really special,” Mr Desengano said.

“There’s no narrative through line…. it goes all over the place. You can expect comedy, drama, a little bit of absurdism, big characters, pathos. You can expect lots of character changes as well. It really is a complete variety show.”

MOSAIC: The Thrive Anthology will be showingattheBoweryTheatreonSaturday, September 6 at 7pm.

The show is supported by Brimbank Council’s community grants program, Maribyrnong City Council, Wyndham City Council and Hugh D.T. Williamson Foundation.

Entry costs are based on donation amounts. More info: creativebrimbank. com.au

Superpower fest returns to Scienceworks

Scienceworks’ Science is a Superpower Festival is back on September 13 and 14, packing two days with hands-on science, livedemosandmind-blowingexperiments designed to spark the STEM superhero in every visitor, from curious kids to lifelong learners.

Begin your journey with calmness, enjoying guided meditation in the Melbourne Planetarium under stunning wildlife imagery, before creating a unique artwork on the Scienceworks harmonograph. Channel your inner sports star in Sportsworks, race against Cathy Freeman, leap for height, or save goals like a champion.

Curiosity takes the lead in Think Ahead, where you can ask experts your most puzzlingquestionsandimaginethefuture. Kindness shines in the Energy Lab, where visitors can add their creations to the Wall of Kindness.

Feel the raw power of electricity in the Lightning Theatre, then put your energy to the test with engineering challenges from the Robogals Team. Ingenuity rolls in at the Arena, as the Monash Nova Rover Team’s Banksia robot roves the grounds.

Test your senses in Beyond Perception then head to Tinkertown with Engineers Australia to construct clever solutions

from everyday materials.

Finally, grow your resilience in the STEM Lab with the Plants for Space team, discovering how to grow greens in the most unlikely places - even outer space!

Originally created to encourage tween girls and non-binary children to engage with STEM, the Science is a Superpower Festival now welcomes all visitors for an inclusive weekend of learning, play and possibility.

Tickets and information: https:// museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/ whats-on/science-is-a-superpowerfestival/

Go places with the music of InSync Entertainment

InSync Entertainment is taking you on a journey through its next show.

‘Going Places’ is the group’s next performance, and it plans to be one that will get the whole audience dancing around and singing along.

Secretary Cynthia Marchment said its a show that can’t be missed.

“It’s a travel-themed music event,” she said. “We’ll be encouraging audience participation with our songs.”

The family-friendly event promises to bringplentyofhitsandclassics,withafun, entertaining afternoon planned.

The Sunbury-based choir also hopes this will be the first of its travel-themed shows.

“It will certainly be an enjoyable show

and entertaining for everyone to come and see us,” Ms Marchment said. “I think our show will showcase the

variety of talent we have in our group.”

Expect group performances and solos, costume changes and plenty of talent.

Ms Marchment encouraged the Sunbury community to come down and support a local group.

“It’s also really good to support community groups and support our local community and provide entertainment for them,” she said.

Going Places will be held at St Mary’s Church Hall in Sunbury on Saturday, September 13, from 2pm to 4pm.

Ticketswillcostbetween$10to$15,with ticketsavailableonlinenow.Refreshments will follow the show. Tickets: trybooking. com/events/landing/1441486

Calling all Swifties! Calling all Swifties! The ultimate Taylor Swift show is coming to Wyndham.

‘Reputation’ will land at the WyndhamCulturalCentreonFriday, October 3 – and you won’t find a better place to shake it off.

A five-piece band will play the biggest hits and most iconic tunes of the past decade’s most famous musical act.

On vocals, sibling duo Ella and Sienna McClean, who competed on The Voice 2022, will deliver their unique sibling harmonies.

Freddie Bailey, Dylan Paul and Michael Marino will fill the soundscape and bring every iconic era of Taylor’s story to life.

Thegroupiscomingoffamassively successful 2024 national tour, where they captivated audiences and sold-out shows around the country.

Considering she has evolved from countrymusic’sfastestrisingstartoa global phenomenon, there should be something Tay-lored to every taste you could imagine.

Theshowis110minutesofpurefun with no intervals – so there are no blank spaces in this set list.

With Tay’s recent engagement, what better time to come along and write your own love story.

It could even be the perfect night to bury the hatchet with a former anti hero in your own story– even if you are never, ever, ever getting back together.

There’s a ticket portal for you to write your name.

The show runs from from 7.30-9.30pm.

Tickets: https://www.wyndham. vic.gov.au/whats-on/reputationultimate-taylor-swift-show

LOOKING for a refined lady companion. With a viewtomarriage.Ireside in a retirement village, I amamaleinmyearly90's with a good sense of humour and quite healthy. I'm also a JP. I believe in loyalty and honesty. If you are interested please contact me on mobile 0451 593 660 atanytimewithaviewto meeting. All the best, Michael.

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every

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.

1 Fume (6)

Finnish capital (8)

More exciting; more fragrant (7)

Jelly sweet (7)

Situation (11)

Sense of self importance (3)

Jumble (8)

Cheapskate (5)

Milk fat (5) 20 Practicable (8) 22 Website address (1,1,1) 24 Responsiveness (11) 26 Enclose (7)

Commentators (7)

Hamper (6)

Moxie (5)

Indecorum (11)

Concerned (11)

15 Dope (9)

17 Sponsor (9)

18 Astrological belt (6)

21 Overrun (6)

23 Centre (5)

25 Colloquialism (5)

28 Litigate (3)

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”.

1 In relation to music, does presto mean a) quickly, b) slowly or c) loudly?

2 What is a baby crocodile called?

3 Hailee Steinfeld (pictured) played Petra Arkanian in which 2013 movie?

4 Where in the human body is the patella bone?

5 Whose face is on a one-dollar bill in the US?

6 The Jog Falls plunge waterfall is in which country?

7 What does an entomologist study?

8 In what year was the Dunlop Volley shoe first produced: 1939, 1941 or 1972?

9 Torah Bright is an Olympic gold medallist in which sport?

10 What colours are on the flag of Mauritania?

Lexus luxury, big or small

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

The boss said, ‘give me the best car in the world’.

It was 1983 when Toyota president, Eiji Toyoda, challenged a crack team of 4000 highlytalentedstafftodohiscommand.

That’showLexus,abrandworth$US10.2 billiontoday,wasborn,withaluxurysedan, theLS400,generallyacceptedasasegment superstar, shading the best that Europe could make, including the best from Benz. It was a big day when the car came Down Underintheearly‘90s.Iwasthere.

Sincethen,Lexushasprettymuchkeptits foot on the pedal of its Kaizen (continuous improvement) philosophy across all its brands. Now it is bringing this to the small SUVsegmentwiththeLexusLBX.

“The first LBX breaks new ground,” says Lexus Australia Chief Executive John Pappas. “It is proof that luxury is not dictated by vehicle size and is in keeping with our electrified strategy, offering the latest in hybrid technology with an advancedfuel-efficientpowertrain.”

Available in Luxury 2WD, or Sports Luxury 2WD or AWD variants, prices start at$47,550,pluson-roadcosts,andtopoutat $56,990fortheflagship,aimedatappealing to youthful buyers with active lifestyles. Theentry-levelLuxury2WDwasontest.

All come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, and Lexus being what it is, a three-year complimentary subscription to the manufacturer’s Lexus Encore lifestyle program boasting benefits such as exclusive offers from luxury hotel partners, invitations to premium events and fuel discounts at participating Ampol servicestations.

Styling Urban, or should that be ‘urbane’; as the first Lexus in the compact B segment, designersweredeterminedtheLXBshould make its mark for future generations of city-slickSUVs.

Based on the rigid GA-B platform, the all-new compact creates a striking visual impact, the trademark Lexus spindle dominating the front, vertically compressedtositlowinthevehiclebodyto accentuatesportiness.

The bonnet crease seamlessly moulds into the slim high-set LED headlights, which include a high/low beam light and bi-functional daytime running light and turn signal with an inverted version of the L-shapedsignaturelighting.

With minimal overhangs and robust wheelarches,darksidesillsandwheelarch moldings complement the expressive SUV design.

In shaping the rear, designers were inspired by Kagami-mochi traditional Japanesericecakes(really?)andpositioned similarly to two mochi pieces, split by the rear lighting signature and giving the vehicle a sense of stability and low centre ofgravity.

Once again, Lexus SUV family features anchor the rear with combination lamps joined by an LED light bar spanning the widthofthetailgate,beforeframingthetail lampclusterwithadistinctiveLshape.

Dynamic 18-inch alloy wheels are standard across the range, with Luxury grade fitted with dark grey metallic wheels withabrightmachinedfinishhighlighting thetwinY-spokedesign.

Interior

The search for a serene, yet tech-weighted, cabinresultsintheTazunacockpitprinciple inspired by simple communication between a horse and rider through reins,

a user-friendly layout keeping all key vehicle functions within easy reach, while minimising line-of-sight movement. (Are youpayingattention,Chinesecarmakers?)

As for occupant comfort, Lexus says the split-folding rear seat and optimization of rear cargo space provide customers with active urban lifestyles the carrying flexibilitytheyneedforwork,familyandfun requirements. Not quite, the rear legroom is cramped, even with average-size front row occupants, and not too welcoming of anextendedjourney.

Infotainment

The dashboard is dominated by an integrated 9.8-inch multimedia display, set behind an anti-reflective glass coating (how thoughtful), with a single external knobforpoweron/offandvolumecontrol.

Powered by the latest Lexus multimedia system, the 9.8-inch display apes a smartphone layout and offers voice recognition and wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Luxury grade is paired with a six-speaker audiosystem.

Nativenavigationiscloud-based,storing map data, downloading it to the sat nav as needed using the data communication module built into the vehicle. This also facilitatesover-the-airsoftwareupdatesfor theheadunitandinstrumentcluster.

Up to three users can save personal settings for multimedia, vehicle settings and active safety parameters through a Bluetooth device or smart key. Customers can also pre-set audio and navigation settings,seatposition,interiorillumination, and parameters for the Pre-Collision Systemwarningtiming,blindspotmonitor sensitivityandothersettings.

Engines/Transmissions

All LBX grades share the same petrol/ electric powertrain, teaming a 1.5-litre ICE with an electric motor generator and nickel-metal hydride battery for fuel economywithrefinedperformance.

Peak power for the petrol motor is 67kW at5500rpmand120Nmoftorquefrom3800 to4800revs.Itismatedwithacontinuously variabletransmission.

The petrol engine is paired with a hybrid transaxle on the front axle including a permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 69kW/185Nm, powered by a compact nickel-metal hydride battery storedunderneaththerearseat.

Peak combined output for the three-cylinder hybrid powertrain is rated at 100kW, with low combined fuel consumption of 3.8 litres per 100km on the combined urban/highway cycle and average carbon dioxide emissions of 85 gramsperkilometre.

Safety

Theall-newLBXoffersexcellentprotection for occupants and other road users with a full suite of Lexus Safety System+ active safety features across a wide range of drivingscenarios.

Activesafetyusesacombinedmillimetre wave radar and monocular camera sensor, operating high-tech to provide peace of mind for road users. For example, the Pre-Collision System with Pre-collision Braking, which detects leading vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists in the daytime, as wellasoncomingvehiclesandmotorcycles inthedaytime.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control offers a broad range of associated features, allowing four levels of preset distances to vehicles in front and three levels of accelerationstrength.

TheDRCCsystemcanalsoofferstop-start and low-speed following, with smooth acceleration or deceleration as required.

Road Sign Assist uses the monocular camera to detect road sign speeds and display them on the multi-information. In a first for Lexus, owners can set a speed limiterlinkedwithRoadSignAssist(Speed Signs Only) to limit the vehicle’s speed in accordance with the associated speed limit.

The LBX comes equipped with eight airbags for excellent passive occupant protection.

Driving Lexus ‘lab coats’ (possibly with help from AI)didnotmissmeetingdesirableon-road credentials for LBX. Engineers improved the hybrid system’s responsiveness and acceleration thanks to the strong output of the motor and hybrid battery. Acceleration and deceleration characteristics are sensitive to up and downhill inclines and can adjust the drive forceaccordingly.

During acceleration, the hybrid system contribution is upped, which in turn decreases the workload of the petrol engine. With engine revs reduced by roughly 20 per cent compared to previous Lexus hybrids, there’s a cut in fuel consumption.

The LBX stretches the Lexus Driving Signature by intelligently checking the driver’sinputsandintentionswhendriving in Normal mode. For example, if driven in a sporty manner, additional deceleration may be provided when the accelerator pedal is stepped off, thereby reducing braking distance and enhancing the drivingexperience.

The new hybrid powertrain ensures the LBX provides spritely and refined performance while offering excellent fuel economy and low carbon dioxide emissions. After an average working week, the test LBX had managed to average 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres of fuel use.

Summary

The Chinese could take a leaf out of the Lexus LBX book in connecting with the driver – fewer intrusive warnings, alarms and physical interventions. By all means offerthemup,thenleavethedrivertoreact, hopefully,accordingly.TheLexusLBXticks all these boxes without ‘strangling’ the wallet.

Let the finals drama begin

What a ride 2025 has been - quality games, big crowds, and just enough upsets to keep us guessing. Now the finals are here, and while Adelaide, Geelong, Brisbane and Collingwood prepare for qualifying blockbusters, the rest of the top eight sharpen for sudden-death September. For all the drama and twists of the home-and-away season, the real theatre of football begins now. Because this is the time of year when legacies are written, heroes are made, and one team gets to experiencetheultimate-thatlastSaturday in September, the big dance, holding the premiership cup aloft on the MCG. That’s where it all starts and finishes in the end.

The season that shaped the finals Adelaide earned the minor premiership and, with their slick ball movement, look every bit the powerhouse. Geelong once again proved their system is relentless, whileBrisbaneproducedwhatcoachChris Fagan called their best home-and-away campaign ever, even without key stars for much of the year. Collingwood’s form dipped late but their finals pedigree means they remain dangerous. Fremantle surged into September with momentum after toppling the Bulldogs, GWS stuck to their pressure brand, Hawthorn’s rebuild accelerated faster than anyone predicted, and Gold Coast finally broke through for their first-ever finals berth under Damien Hardwick.

At the other end, the Bulldogs’ slip was a reminder that timing is everything. It was a season where every week seemed to matter,andasalways,itunderlinedatruth I’ve held since my playing days: footy is 90 per cent above the shoulders. The teams that absorbed pressure, set high standardsandrefusedtofoldunderfatigue or injury are the ones now preparing for finals.

Hardwick’s mantraresponsibility or bust No voice cut through louder this season thanDamienHardwick’s.HetoldhisSuns:

“If you need me as a coach to motivate you, then we’re already in trouble.”

That’s finals footy in one line. It’s about owning the moment, lifting after flat patches,andtakingresponsibilityfromthe

leadership group down. For Gold Coast, finally tasting September, Hardwick’s “two-game season” mantra has become a cultural turning point.

For every other club, it’s a reminder that standards matter more than slogans. Because once the first ball is bounced in September, the contest becomes as much about resilience and leadership as it is about skill.

Form pulses heading into September Collingwood, despite losing five of their last six before beating Melbourne, remain finals-hardened but must sharpen late-game execution. Adelaide’s ball movement is elite, but without Izak Rankine they’ll need scoreboard impact from their mids and small forwards.

Geelong v Brisbane promises to be a heavyweight qualifying final - the Cats’ system against the Lions’ stoppage power. Fremantle arrive with real tailwind after their late surge, and GWS’s pressure game looks built for finals intensity. Hawthorn, meanwhile, remain a live threat if their mark-and-control game clicks.

Trade season: theatre off the field

As finals heat up, trade whispers begin. We’ve already seen the sparks: Tom De Koning to St Kilda, Wanganeen-Milera rejecting $30 million offers to stay a Saint and become the AFL’s first $2m-a-year player, and Harley Reid recommitting to WestCoastdespiteVictorianclubscircling. But trade season isn’t just about who moves.It’saboutthejournalisticarmsrace to be first. Agents leak to boost value, list bossesfloatwhisperstounsettlerivals,and journos fight tooth and nail to be the news breaker.Forfans,it’spuretheatre-because the headlines of October can shape the ladder we see the following September.

The regional heartbeat Crowds averaged nearly 37,000 per game this year, with more than 7.6 million fans attending overall. A fair slice came from the regions - families piling into cars and busesfromBendigo,Ballarat,theMacedon Ranges or down the Princes Highway to Geelong.TheAFLmightbeanationalsport, but it’s still powered by grassroots and country passion. For Star Weekly readers,

thatconnectionispartofthemagic:seeing someonefromacountrytownriseontothe MCG stage on Grand Final day.

What wins September (2025 edition) Front-half footy: Control territory and lock it in.

Pressure that sticks: Create scores from turnover when stoppages dry up.

Leaders who absorb heat: When momentum swings, true captains earn their stripes.

Final word

The 2025 season reminded us of one truth: the scoreboard often tells less of the story than the mindset. Teams that stood tall when it mattered most are the ones who survived. Now it’s about September - the stage every player dreams of, the stage that decides careers and club history.

Because no matter how thrilling the season has been, everything in AFL starts andfinisheswiththatonedayinSeptember - the Grand Final, the roar of 100,000 at the MCG, and one team lifting the cup to etch their name in history.

And that’s why we love this game.

Finals storylines to watch

Players to Watch

Jordan Dawson (Adelaide): The skipper sets the standard — clean ball use and composure under pressure.

Jeremy Cameron (Geelong): Coleman Medal winner, the Cats’ barometer.

Hugh McCluggage (Brisbane): Midfield class and endurance will be vital.

Nick Daicos (Collingwood): Can flip a game with skill and run.

MattRowell(GoldCoast):Finallyplaying September — his contested work will define the Suns.

Key Storylines

Can Adelaide go all the way? Minor premiers but missing Izak Rankine until the Grand Final.

Geelong’s consistency: The old machine keeps on rolling — will experience count again?

Brisbane’s resilience: Injuries tested them, but they’re still top four.

Collingwood’swobble:Formquestioned, but don’t underestimate finals experience.

The Suns’ breakthrough: Damien Hardwick has them believing — can they shock the competition in their first finals campaign?

Brimbank’s Di Honey appointed Melbourne Vixens coach

By Tara Murray

Di Honey is the new coach of Melbourne Vixens.

The Brimbank-resident beat out a competitive and world-class shortlist of candidates from both Australia and overseas for one of the most coveted coaching roles in netball.

TheformerAustralianDiamondreplaces Simone McKinnis who stepped down at the end of the 2025 season after 13 years at the Vixens’ helm.

Honey has been an integral part of the Vixens’ coaching team across much of McKinnis’ tenure, serving as assistant coach since 2014 and playing a crucial role in three championships, won in 2014, 2020 and this year.

great people, which makes my job that much easier,“ she said. “As the reigning champions we will go into next year as the hunted, so we are going to have to be more committed and work harder than ever before – although I am a firm believer in having some fun along the way.

“I’m looking forward to putting my own stamp on how we go about maintaining the high standards this club has set for itself over many years, so the Vixens can continue to enjoy success now and for seasons to come.”

1987 World Titles where Australia won silver.

Netball Victoria chief executive Andrea Pearman said Honey had a proven track record over her time at the Vixens as an innovative coach and for building a strong rapport with the players.

“Di is a person of outstanding character who has already made a significant and positive contribution to the Vixens. What became increasingly apparent through a thorough recruitment process is that she is also the right person to lead the next phase of success at the Vixens, starting with their title defence in 2026,” Pearman said.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with such a brilliant group of athletes who also happen to be

Honey said she was thrilled to be taking on the senior coaching role at the Vixens and excited by the task ahead at the reigning premiers.

Honey’s extensive coaching experience includes stints as a specialist coach with the Australian Diamonds, as head coach of Super Netball development team Victorian Fury and as a development coach at the Victorian Institute of Sport.

She wore the Diamonds uniform in 17 matches from 1985-1988, including at the

Georgies promoted

By Tara Murray

Caroline Springs George Cross had one of the more remarkable victories to send the club back into the National Premier League for the first time in 15 years.

TheGeorgieshavebeenoneofthestories of the Victorian soccer scene in recent years as it’s risen up from state league 1 back in the Victorian Premier League 1.

There were absolute scenes on August 24, as an 8-0 win against Western United gave them automatic promotion back up into the top flight for next season.

Georgies’ coach Eric Vassiliadis said it was just an amazing feeling.

“There’s an incredible sense of pride,” he said.“Fortheclub,thecommunityandthe sponsors it’s been a long, long journey.

“What this group has achieved is nothingshortofamazing.Thewillingness, the desire and the sacrifice.

“The support staff, the board that funds it and the fans, we’ve all going to celebrate tonight [Sunday].”

Vassiliadis said there was a lot of ambition in the group and it was about executing the plan and staying calm in

the chaos.

The Georgies knew that they needed to get the win in the final round and hope that other results went their way to get automatic promotion.

The Georgies entered the round in third spot one point behind Bentleigh Greens and goal difference behind Melbourne City.

The top two teams earned automatic promotion, while the side that finished third would play off in finals for the last promotion spot.

Melbourne City suffered a final round loss but the Georgies victory put them ahead on goal difference as well.

Vassiliadis said when the dust settled they would look back at that final round result.

“We were so determined and people believed in us,” he said. “We had to make sure all those hard days meant something.

“We had to focus on ourselves and hope the results went our way. We delivered what we had to and won 8-0.

“Itwassoamazingandwassynonymous of the whole season. We went on the front foot and it was a reward for effort.”

The Georgies led 2-0 at half time before piling on the goals in the second half.

Joshua Whiteley and Michael Tzoutzidis scored two goals each.

Vassiliadissaidtheydefendedbrilliantly and could have easily put a few more goals in the back of the net.

With all the final round games being played at the same time, there were plenty of people on the edge of their seats.

Vassiliadis said how he found they were going up was pretty special.

“I didn’t want to know the other scores [while the game was going],” he said.

“There were supporters around the bench and they started celebrating nothing, which meant that Brunswick City [which was playing Melbourne City] had scored a second goal.

“The supporters told me and it was a special feeling.”

The promotion is the Georgies third in four years.

Vassiliadis, who has led all three promotions, said they would let this one settle and start thinking about next year.

“We want to enjoy this,” he said. “We don’t want to set any limits.”

NetballVictoriapresidentCarolCathcart said Honey’s commitment to the Victorian pathway was notable throughout the interview process.

Honey has been appointed for two years with an additional year’s option.

Sports shorts

VTCA

Sunshine has announced its first new signing for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Isaacs Howarth Shield season. Udara Ranasingha has joined the club and will be an assistant coach. “At Sunshine CC, we pride ourselves on our vibrant and inclusive environment, and we are excited to see Udara thrive among fellow members,“ the club said. Troy Stone has re-signed with the club which made the grand final last season.

Asian Cup

Three Western United players have been named in the Australian under-13 squad for the Asian Cup qualifiers. A 24-player squad has been confirmed to compete in group D alongside China PR, Northern Mariana Islands and Timor-Leste during the September 1-9 FIFA window. United trio Rhys Bozinovski, Matthew Grimaldi and Abel Walatee have been named in the squad.

EDFL

Taylors Lakes has welcomed back a former league best and fairest winner for next year’s Essendon District Football League division 1 season. James Vistarini, who won the league best and fairest in 2018 while at the Lions, returns to the club after stints at Woodend-Hesket and Tullamarine. He has played more than 200 games for Taylors Lakes. “His experience, football knowledge and leadership will be invaluable for our younger players as will his skill level and toughness,“ the Lions said. “We look forward to seeing you run around in the gold and blue once again.

Western FL

North Sunshine is searching for a women’s coach for next year’s Western Football League season. The club is beginning a rebuild of its women’s program for the 2026 season and is on the lookout for a passionate and committed women’s coach to lead the way. The club said it was more than just about coaching but shaping the future of women’s football at the club. Details: northsunshinefc1967@ gmail.com

Hillside claimed one of the greatest premiership wins in Essendon District Football League history on Saturday in the women’s premier division. The match with Oak Park went down to the final kick of the game, with the Sharks able to hold on to win their first women’s premiership. Star Weekly’s LJUBICA VRANKOVIC and Tara Murray were there to capture the action.

Sharks’ greatest moment

Sharks celebrate a dramatic win

By Tara Murray

Hillside has claimed its first Essendon District Football League women’s premier division premiership in the most remarkable circumstances.

After leading for most of the day, the Sharks premiership hopes came down to the final kick of the day.

Oak Park defender Rhianna Nunn won herselfafreekickabout20metresoutfrom goal with her side five points down.

The siren went meaning the shot at glory and a third straight premiership would come with the final kick of the day.

Nunn’s kick went straight into Ash Thorneycroft, who was standing the mark, giving the Sharks the ultimate prize, 3.4 (22)-2.5 (17).

Sharks coach Blaise Ferraro said he only had one thing going through his head as Nunn had the ball.

He said it wasn’t surprising to see Thorneycroft with that little bit of extra effort to make sure she got a hand on that kick.

In round one, Thorneycroft broke her fingeronthatsamehandinthefirstcontest of the year against Oak Park.

“I first thought was making sure that it’s not 50,” he said. “I was making sure that Ash didn’t run over the line.

“I knew it was the full back and I knew it wasthefairytalestorytohaveathree-peat, I thought it was lined up for that.

“It’s a bit ironic that the hand that broke in the first contest of the season against Oak Park, was the hand that saved the day.

“It was a bit symbolic there, which was nice.”

The Sharks came into the grand final as underdogs against a Kangaroos outfit looking to make history.

Ferraro said he was fairly confident heading into the game that his side could find a way to get across the line.

“Wehaddoneeverythingthatweneeded todo,”hesaid.“Therewasabitofcalmness about that.”

The Sharks did most of the attacking in the first half and kicked the only three goals of the first half.

Ferraro said they knew that the Kangaroosweregoingtocome.Itprovedto

be a similar story to 12 months, but on that occasion the Kangaroos were in front and had to hold off Aberfeldie.

“We just had to make sure that we didn’t panic,” Ferraro said. “No matter what happens, you know that they are going to comeandyouhavetoabsorbthatpressure.

“Get a break and reset from there. They came in the third quarter and managed to hold them off just long enough to hold a three score lead heading into the last.”

Ferraro said they wanted to score in the second half but couldn’t get it out so they were resigned to holding on for dear life.

Hesaidtheyplayedlikethatlastyearand had played in some tight ones against the

Kangaroos in the past two years.

Ferraro said he always thought they had doneenoughheadingintothefinalquarter to get the win.

The premiership win is two seasons in the making after finishing on top last season and then going out in straight sets.

Ferraro said the hurt of last year really drove them this year.

“They were really devastated that they didn’t make it last year,” he said. “It was a lack of experience.

“Throughtheyeartheytookafewknocks andtheyhadtorebound,itreallyheldthem ingoodsteadtonottofreakoutandpanic.”

Madalyn Kelly kicked two goals for the Sharks, while Emily Paterno kicked the other.

AnnaliseWilkiewasawardedthebeston ground medal.

“She has been fantastic all year for us,” Ferraro said. “She wasn’t happy with her season last year, even though she came top five in the league best and fairest.

“She put in a mountain of work. Really put her head down and definitely the hardest worker on the track.”

It was a spread of contributors for the Sharkstogetthejobdone.Ferrarosaidthat was one of the differences from last year to this year.

The Sharks reserves side fell just short in the grand final in the second straight year

“Thebuzzaroundtheclubwasfantastic,” he said

Kangaroos make their mark on the western league

By Tara Murray

The Sunshine Kangaroos weren’t expectingmuchheadingintotheWestern Netball League season.

Last season they had four teams make finals but all went out in the first week of finals.

Their division 1 side missed out on finals with only four wins for the year.

With a focus on development and building the program, coach Ramon Poliko and his team have turned things around.

Four sides including its division 1 side have qualified for grand finals.

Poliko said it had been a really strong season for their top side.

“I didn’t have it on my bingo card,” he said. “We came into this division with no expectations.

“We said to the girls to take every game as it comes and use it as an experience.

“We’ve beaten teams in finals that we have not beaten before and have come

up clutch.

“We bought in some more experience a couple of girls who played VNL and international netball for Pacific

Island sides.

“Theyhavegotusoverthelineinclutch games.”

Poliko said they felt they had a real combination of experience and youth in theirdivision1sidewhichwassomething that they were keen on doing.

They wanted to make sure they weren’t just thinking about this year, but also the future.

“At the end of the day, the experienced stars will not go on forever,” he said.

“We’ve had some experience and some young ones to blend in the talent coming through.

“We’ve had one or two younger ones in each third. It’s been about finding that balance.

“The club wanted to build up the netball program with development and progression.”

Poliko said they had added additional coaches this year to have more support tailoring to each team and it had been behind the success this season.

He said the playing group had really bought into what they were doing.

“We’ve had four out of our six teams in finals and they have got around it this year,” he said.

“There’s been an investment from the girls.

“We had four teams make finals last year but were out in the first round. They’ve come back with a vengeance this season.”

Speaking before the division 1 grand final, Poliko said they knew they were in for a challenge against a strong Glen Orden side but were keen to give it a red hot crack.

The Hawks proved too strong as they won, 65-52.

All the damage was done in the first half, with one goal separating the teams in the second half.

The other three Kangaroos sides will playthisFridaynightintheirgrandfinals.

Keilor Park proud of season despite going out of finals

Keilor Park’s Essendon District Football League division 2 season ended a game short of a grand final, but the season as an overall was a success for the club.

Coming back into division 2 this season, the Devils went from struggling to have enough numbers to having three sides and winning a thirds premiership.

Thebuyinwasstrongfromthegroupand it showed on the field as they finished the regular season in third spot.

The Devils season was cut short on Sunday, as Westmeadows proved too strong in their elimination final, winning 14.15 (99)-11.4 (70).

Devils coach Colby Blyth was left to rue a slow start.

The margin was 33 points at half time and that would be the difference.

“It was put onto us that the start, the first 10-15 minutes, was the heat of the contest and we had to be wary of,” Blyth said.

“Unfortunately they got that jump on us. Experience comes into it and they are an experienced football team and played in last year’s grand final.

“We are a very young football club. We unfortunately couldn’t be ready and prepared and were chasing a bit for the

Lindon Bektash. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 488178_16

majority of the day.”

Blyth said he was proud of how the side showed some fight in the second half, including four goals in a row in the third quarter.

He said this group never gives up which

was one of their biggest strengths.

“Something I’m extremely proud about with these guys,” he said. “They’re an extremely resilient football club.

“It could have been very easy to walk away and let them run all over the top of us

Lakers stun Eagles

By Luke D’Anello

Caroline Springs will face minor premier Werribee Districts this weekend for a spot in the Western Football League division 1 decider after a blistering second-half display on Saturday.

The Lakers trailed Yarraville-Seddon by 12pointsathalf-timeofthequalifyingfinal at Werribee’s Avalon Airport Oval before a seven-goal-to-one third term turned the contest.

Brian Lake’s team then booted four goals to two in the final quarter to secure a 34-point triumph, 16.12 (108)-10.14 (74).

Caroline Springs, who finished third, failed to defeat the Eagles during the home-and-away rounds but lifted when it mattered as they chase a maiden top-flight premiership.

Football manager Shaun Rainer said it was one of the side’s best performances of 2025.

“They’ve been a side that we’ve struggled with this year, so it was a nice result,” Rainer said.

“They came at us and the game ebbed and flowed.

“They got on top in the midfield maybe in the second quarter and we probably negated that dominance and evened it up in the midfield (in the second half).

“From there, we went forward and at times looked pretty dangerous. We had different avenues to goal.”

The Lakers boasted 10 individual goalkickers, with Ryan Allan, Jamie Ristoski and Benjamin Davey contributing three goals apiece.

The trio were named in the club’s best players, along with Reece Blackman, Max Hudson and skipper Keenan O’Shea. Rainer said Lake made “a few” positional changes at the main break which helped Caroline Springs gain the ascendancy. He said “everybody had their moments” and there was not a deliberate effort to curtail Yarraville-Seddon’s prime movers.

“It was just a message at half-time of more accountability more so than shutting anybody down,” he said.

The Lakers knocked off 2023 premier Werribee Districts by nine points when the pair last met in round 15. The major semi-final will be staged this Saturday.

The two teams also clashed in the second week of finals last season, with the Tigers prevailing by seven points in an epic

encounter which stretched into overtime.

CarolineSpringsfinishedsecondlastyear before bowing out in a preliminary final.

“They’ve been the benchmark for the last couple of years, so there will be a fair bit of planning to see what we did well last time and what we need to improve on,” Rainer said of Werribee Districts.

“We’ve had a couple of good games with them over the last couple years.

“LastyearIthinkwehadafinalthatwent into overtime against them, so we know what to expect, it’s just a matter of bringing it on the day.”

Rainer said the premiership race was again wide open, pointing to the fact Hoppers Crossing won last year’s flag from fifth position.

“It is a very open competition. You’ve got to make the most of your moments when you get them,” he said.

Hoppers will face Yarraville-Seddon in a sudden-death semi-final this weekend after hammering Spotswood by 59 points inSunday’seliminationfinal,12.14(86)-3.9 (27).

with their momentum.

“But for the boys to hang in there and not let that be the case, it is an incredible achievement for them.”

Mark Jamar finished with three goals for the Devils. Tyler Killick and Lindon Bektash were named their best.

Blyth said they reflect on the season as a whole and they’ve had an incredible year from where they have come from. It was Blyth’s first season as head coach at the club.

“We are still extremely proud of the effort that we gave,” he said. “For us it was a bit of the unknown coming down from division 1 into division 2.

“We had a few players leave and it was hard for retention purposes and we had to recruit as well. For us to have the players stick by us and run a new plan and format, putting ourselves in this position has been an incredible amount of work.

“Our retention is now unbelievable, everysingleseniorplayerhassigned.We’re looking really good.”

Westmeadows will face Rupertswood in the grand final after the Sharks beat Glenroy in the other preliminary final.

Tara Murray

Disappointing end for Lions

A season of promise came to a crashing end for Deer Park in the Essendon District Football League premier division competition.

In their first premier division finals series, the Lions were hoping to go deep into September and challenge the best.

But that was halted on Sunday, as the Lions lost an elimination final to Airport West.

Facing the Eagles for a second straight week, the Lions were again on the wrong end of the result.

The Lions started well before play was halted after a Deer Park player collapsed with no one around them.

An ambulance was called and the playerwastakentohospital,resulting in a 30 minute delay.

After the deley, Airport West took control of the game and were never headed.

The Eagles led by two points at quarter time and then nine points at half time.

It blew out to 32 points in the third quarter and stayed about the five goal margin for the rest of the game with the Eagles winning, 12.21 (93)-9.9 (63).

Spiros Amarantidis and Hayden Gill kicked two goals each for the Lions.

Jack Noonan, Diesel Moloney and Jake McKenzie were named their best.

Airport West will face Aberfeldie in a knockout semi final this Sunday. Keilor, which had the week off, will face Strathmore for a spot in the grand final on Saturday.

Meanwhile in division 1, Hillside will have to make the grand final the hard way after losing to Oak Park.

The Kangaroos controlled the semi final from the outset, winning 13.13 (91)-6.13 (49) and booking the first spot in the grand final.

Sharks coach Mo Kaakour said his sidedidn’tplaytheirbestandallowed the Kangaroos forwards to get plenty of the ball.

The Sharks will now face Craigieburn in the preliminary final on Sunday, after the Eagles best West Coburg.