Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 28th April 2026

Road frustration

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Truganina and Mount Atkinson residents are calling for the duplication of Hopkins Road between Dohertys and Sheahan roads,labellingita‘”dangerousbottleneck” thatis notfit for purpose.

Girish Khara said the road is making commuting between the two areas difficult.

“Theroadisnolongerservingitspurpose as a connector; it is a bottleneck that is strangling the growth of two of Australia’s fastest-growing council areas of Melton andWyndham,”Mr Kharasaid.

“It is simply not fit for purpose. With only one lane in each direction, we see car-behind-car traffic stretching for the entirety of its 10 kilometres length.

“This creates a volatile environment where impatient drivers are tempted into risky overtakes.”

He said increases in traffic in recent years have resulted in Hopkins Road being shut to traffic with a single accident.

“In the last decade, traffic volume has tripled, leaving the road crawling at peak hours,”Mr Kharasaid.

“But the worst aspect is the lack of concrete upgrades: one single breakdown brings the entire road corridor to a standstill.

“With no local detour options, commuters are routinely adding at least 20 minutes to their travel time. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a disaster for working families.”

Mr Khara said the single carriageway is the tip of the iceberg.

“It lacks essential infrastructure: there is no street lighting, no adequate easements and inadequate safety signage,” he said.

“We have witnessed accidents directly linked to poor visibility, the lack of safe space for vehicles to pull over or even confusionaboutspeedlimit.

“We urgently need robust street lighting, clear signage enforcing speed limits, and

designated breakdown zones to break the cycleofnear-misses.”

Fellow resident Santosh Mohan said he feels “unsafe, and frankly, frustrated” aboutthesituation.

“For my family, this is the only route to localschoolsandshops–weareeffectively trapped,” he said. “We think twice before travelling to meet extended family or even to ourcultural centres.

“Add in the exponential rise in heavy vehicles servicing the many industrial parks mushrooming around this corridor and the road has become a congestion hub.

“I have personally witnessed vehicles traveling at 80km/h in a 60km/h zone,

performing reckless overtakes that result in constantnear-misses.

“It is harrowing to experience this while driving with your family.

“Often, oncoming motorists are forced totakesudden,evasiveaction–sometimes swerving off the road entirely – just to avoidacollision.

“Imagine when one of the many school buses which ply on this road have to make such an evasiveaction.

“The current single-lane configuration doesn’t just frustrate drivers; it actively penalisessaferoad-usersbytrappingthem in a dangerous environment created by others’impatience.”

ADepartmentofTransportandPlanning

spokesperson said the department will monitor Hopkins Road.

“We’ll continue to monitor Hopkins Road between Dohertys Road and SheahanRoad,andconsideranynecessary upgrades as part of future planning for Victoria’s road network.”

The spokesperson said works are underway to remove the level crossing at Hopkins Road, and preconstruction activities are continuing for the upgrade of the Derrimut, Hopkins and Boundary roads intersection in Tarneit and Truganina.

StarWeekly understands removing the HopkinsRoadlevelcrossingwilleasedaily vehiclecongestionby more than 25,000.

Firies provide vital support

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

A team of five CFA volunteers spent 188 consecutive days behind the scenes, quietly helping firefighting aircraft operate safely across western Victoria during the recent fire season.

Between 1 October and 7 April, the Flight Followers team in CFA’s District 15 Headquarters Brigade contributed more than 1500 hours supporting aircraft operations across Bacchus Marsh and surrounding areas.

The team worked to provide pilots, air attack supervisors and air observers with

real-time support in western Victoria airspace across various incidents and airbases.

One of the five firefighters was District 15 Headquarters Brigade Flight Follower Geoff Bartlett, who has served in the role for six of his 25 years of service with the CFA.

He said Flight Followers were a critical part of the state’s aviation response.

“Without a flight follower, aircraft can’t fly. It’s a requirement that they have one,” he said.

“Flight following is a dedicated person staying in touch with aircraft while they’re

in the air, either going to, returning from, or over an incident. We check in every 30 minutes they’re airborne, just to make sure everything’s Ok.”

The role can involve monitoring multiple aircraft simultaneously, sometimes across several different incidents.

“We can look after up to nine airbases, and on busy days most of them have operational aircraft ready to respond as soon as an incident is reported. It does get interesting when you’ve got aircraft from a number of bases up and need to stay in contact with all of them every half hour,” Mr Bartlett said.

On days of high alert, standard shifts in-

The assistance dog stealing a family’s hearts

Golden Labrador Xena has transformed the life of a Burnside Heights teenager, turning daily struggles with autism and anxiety into a journey of confidence, independence and connection.

Lucas, 16, was diagnosed with autism when he was just six and has struggled with anxiety, communication, and social situations.

Lucas’ mum, Joy Zhou, said at the time, the diagnosis felt like the end of the world.

“I had no idea what to do and had lots of sleepless nights. Lucas never felt safe or calm on his own. I didn’t have my own life because I had to be with him every moment of the day and night,” she said.

Desperate for help, Joy discovered Assistance Dogs Australia after spending weeks

searching for support avenues for her son.

Xena was chosen as a good match for Lucas, and in the space of seven years, the transformation in Lucas has been extraordinary, according to Joy.

“Having Xena has opened up Lucas’

whole world,” she said.

“Whenever she’s by his side, he feels safe and calm. She makes him feel comfortable to be on his own, get out into the community, meet new people and try new things. I’m so proud of how far Lucas has come with his new best friend.”

Joy said Xena had become an important part of the family and has provided support to every member of the family.

“Xena has brought so much warmth, joy and emotional support into all our lives. She’s fit right into the family and has stolen everyone’s hearts,” she said.

“I could not be more grateful to Xena for making Lucas feel calm, confident and safe – and bringing joy and freedom to my whole family”

Bin collection days to change in some parts of City of Melton

There’s changes coming to bin collection in some areas across the Melton municipality.

From Monday 4 May, some homes across Melton will experience changes to when their kerbside bins are collected.

As more people move into the city, some bin collection days are getting busier, so adjustments to collection schedules are being made to keep things running smoothly.

“As our community grows, some bin collection days have become busier than

others, which is why the waste collection schedule is changing in some areas,” mayor Lara Carli said.

About 25 per cent of homes will be affected by changes to the day, week, or day and week, of collection for red (landfill), yellow (recycling), and green (food organic, garden organic) bins.

Melton council has planned a changeover week between Monday 4 May to Friday 8 May to help with a smooth transition to

crease from eight to 10 hours and can extend to 12 or more depending on incident activity.

But Mr Bartlett said the role is nothing but rewarding and CFA’s efforts to fight fires wouldn’t be the same without those in the sky.

“The appreciation we get from pilots and air crews is great,” he said.

“Firefighting aircraft flyers fly in incredibly difficult circumstances. You add weather patterns to smoke, dust and wind and it creates a very taxing environment for them to work in.

“It’s good to be there to support them.”

Youth gang targeted

A youth gang with members from Melbourne’s north-west is at the target of police, after multiple Firearm Prohibition Orders (FPOs) were served this past fortnight.

Detectives from the Gang Crime Squad were supported by the VIPER and Echo taskforces and detectives from the North West Metro and Western regions, serving 19 FPOs on gang members in recent weeks.

Twelve FPOs were served on Wednesday 8 April on members aged between 20 and 25 living in Craigieburn, Hillside, Sunshine West, Melton, Sunbury, Tarneit, Footscray (two), Deer Park, Aintree, Armstrong Creek, Weir Views and Sebastopol.

Four gang members were also arrested for offending including theft of motor vehicle, drug possession, handling stolen goods and outstanding warrants.

A further seven FPOs have since been served on gang members aged between 19 and 26 currently in custody.

The gang, which police have not named, now has 40 members between the age of 17 and 26 subject to a FPO.

Police said the group is behind more than 4500 criminal offences.

Over the past two years, police said the group has been connected to numerous homicides involving knives and firearms, as well as home invasions, burglaries, carjackings, robberies, and assaults.

The FPO allows police to conduct unannounced searches to ensure they are not in possession of firearms.

Anti-gangs division Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly said police will continue to target and hold offenders to account who seek to commit serious and violent crime.

“Operations like this one give us a greater insight than ever before on those who associate themselves as part of a youth gang. Every single day, we are arresting and charging youth gang members for serious offending,” he said.

“If you choose to be involved in one of these gangs and endanger our community, you will be tracked down and held to account for your actions.

“If you join a gang, you will regret it. It ends badly and very likely results in you or others being seriously assaulted, your family being impacted and you being arrested and charged for serious criminal offences.”

the new schedules, where all three bins will be collected.

Affected households will have already received a letter detailing their new collection details and changeover week information.

The changes will be reflected on council’s Find my bin day page from Monday 4 May.

Residents wanting to check if their bin collection has been affected can visit melton.vic.gov.au/binchanges

Anyone with any information on youth gang activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an anonymous report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Green bin roll-out funded

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

A divided Moorabool council will spend $428,000 on the roll-out of mandatory green waste bins ahead of a statewide reform.

Councillors voted 5-4 at an unscheduled meeting on Wednesday 15 April in favour of taking $428,000 from the shire’s Landfill Rehabilitation Reserve fund to cover the costs of the bins necessary to comply with a state government mandated rollout of green waste collections by 2027-28.

The state government mandate requires all councils to provide households with a dedicated green waste bin and kitchen caddy as part of efforts to reduce organic

waste going to landfill and transition toward a circular economy.

Under the approved plan, council will purchase 240-litre green waste bins valued at a unit cost of $55 and kitchen caddies at $10 each, bringing the total upfront investment to an estimated $428,000.

Councillors were presented with two funding options for consideration.

Option A required Moorabool council to pay the full cost of procurement upfront through the 2026-27 budget, whereas the preferred and recommended option B amortised the funds over a three year period of service delivery, recovered through increased waste service charges applied to

residents.

Councillors voted in favour of option B, with officers recommending the approach on the basis it spends costs more equitably across service users, aligns payments with the delivery of the service, and reduces immediate pressure on the 2026-27 budget.

However Cr Tom Sullivan raised concerns over the funding options, stating a recommendation made by himself last year to return funds through the Landfill Rehabilitation Reserve fund was turned down.

“I think the Landfill Rehabilitation Reserve was money set aside for a particular purpose and now we actually find a situation where we are [using] it for something

Historic Anzac Tree renovation complete

A renovation of the historic Anzac Tree memorial at Bacchus Marsh Hospital was unveiled just in time for this year’s dawn service on Saturday 25 April.

The centrepiece of the enhanced memorial space is a magnificent Aleppo Pine, propagated from the seeds of the original Lone Pine which once stood on the Gallipoli Peninsula at the site of the Battle of Lone Pine in 1915. Pedestrian access to the site has been installed via a concrete pathway from Turner Street, with a new flower bed planted, railings around the

tree repainted, and the memorial’s brass plaque given a much needed spruce-up.

The project was instigated by the Bacchus Marsh RSL, Legacy and Lions Club organisations, and enabled with materials and labour donated by ABC Grounds Maintenance and Mastro Concrete Solutions & Ballin Courts. Bacchus Marsh Lions Club president Jock Wright said the memorial is an important point of remembrance for the local community of those who have served their country.

“We were delighted to support the ren-

Free grant writing workshops for local groups

Community groups across Melton and Moorabool are being encouraged to register for free workshops in the local area to support with grant application writing, as part of the Western Renewables Link (WRL) Local Grants Fund.

The $4 million Local Grants Fund is set to support locally-led projects which strengthen communities and deliver lasting local benefits to communities positioned along the proposed 190-kilometre long transmission-line.

Independent grants and funding consultant Keith Whelan will host the workshops.

“This is a great opportunity to build your skills in writing a grant application that is clear, concise and compelling. You’ll learn how to position your ideas for local projects that give your application the best chance of success,” he said.

The free, independently facilitated work-

shops are designed to suit both first-time applicants and experienced grant writers looking for a refresher.

Sessions are built around helping community groups refine their project idea and approach while providing practical tips and tools for future projects and funding opportunities.

The two-hour long workshops will be followed by question and answer sessions with the WRL team.

Workshops will be held across Melton and Moorabool on Wednesday 22 April, between 1-3pm at Darley Park Community and Sports Centre in Bacchus Marsh, and between 5-7pm at Melton’s Football Netball Club rooms in Toolern Vale. Registration and details: https://www. westernrenewableslink.com.au/community/benefit-sharing-program/local-grantsfund/

ovation of this local feature,” Mr Wright said.

ABC Grounds Maintenance Aaron Jones led the installation work and said the project sat close to his heart.

“It’s an amazing story how this tree came to be here and donating our services for this great cause was an easy decision.”

The Anzac Tree memorial honours the service and sacrifice of the Anzac spirit and symbolises the enduring values of courage, mateship and remembrance.

The tree is at 29-35 Grant Street.

which it was never intended for,” Cr Sullivan said.

“That wasn’t the purpose of it.

“I understand it’s mandated by the state government, I accept that. My issue is how it’s going to be funded.”

Moorabool chief executive Derek Madden noted Cr Sullivan’s recommendation would be added to a future audit committee meeting.

The green waste service is expected to play a key role in diverting food and garden organics from landfill, with further details to be included in council’s draft budget, which will be subject to community consultation.

Feedback sought on cycling hub

Moorabool council is calling on residents to help shape Ballan’s future as a cycling tourism destination.

The community consultation follows council’s backing of a comprehensive plan set to guide how regional tourism and active transport will be boosted across the municipality at its 1 April meeting.

The project is being funded partly through the state government’s Tiny Towns initiative and will explore opportunities to establish Ballan as a destination hub for cycling, working to attract visitors through regional cycling links.

Council will examine levels of interest in cycling, along with the possible economic, social, and health benefits for the Moorabool area.

The study will also consider the community’s views and whether there may be opportunities to improve connections between Ballan and visitor destinations like Daylesford, Blackwood, Creswick and Geelong.

Further, the study will identify potential infrastructure needs, provide indicative cost considerations, and outline any challenges or constraints which may need to be taken into account.

The study will also involve information gathering, consultation with local stakeholders, and consideration of how the concept may align with existing regional plans, working to align with potential benefits for local businesses, health and wellbeing outcomes, community connections, and regional connectivity.

Feedback is available through council’s Have Your Say platform until Sunday 10 May.

Details: https://tinyurl.com/3bypvwer.

Bridging the dancing gap

The Western Ballet Project is bridging the gap between star-class ballet and theatre productions and its accessibility in the west. Founded by artists director Sophie O’Donnell, the Western Ballet Project is a youth ballet production company which instructs out of studios and theatres in Melbourne’s western suburbs and across regional Victoria, and it’s ensuring more people are getting into it with every Plié, Tendu, and Relevé, as Jack O’Shea-Ayres discovers.

On any given Sunday, it’s probably not unusual to spot families living west of Melbourne inching across the city in slow-moving traffic, dance bags in the boot and with hairpins scattered acrossthedashboard,enroutetoeliteballet training located far enough away to make thesometimesweeklytripuncomfortable.

For years, that commute has been the quiet cost of access. Be it time, fuel, missed weekends, opportunities for quality time with family, and a sense that the pathway to high-level performance sits somewhere “overthere“.

The Western Ballet Project is working to changethat.

Founded by artistic director Sophie O’Donnell, the youth ballet production company has emerged as a rare cultural bridge for dancers in Melbourne’s west and neighbouringregionalareas.

The youth ballet and theatre company works to bring intensive, high-quality ballet training and performance opportunities directly to the doorstep of local communities, and the impact has run deeperthanthegeography.

“I thought there must be a better way,” O’Donnell said, reflecting on years of watching her students travel east for opportunities, which often demanded entire Sundays over the course of a school term.

It’s a feeling many avid dancers and theatreenthusiastsknowwell.

“With two children, committing a whole Sunday for 10 weeks is a massive commitment, not just for the dancer but for thewholefamily,”shesaid.

O’Donnell’s solution goes against the traditional models, flipping drawn-out weekly rehearsals into a condensed single, immersive week taking place during school holidays.

Students audition months in advance, then rehearse intensively for five consecutive days before performing on the sixth, offering a fast-paced, demanding – and often for many – transformative approachtoballetandtheatreproduction.

Thatwasthecasefor CharlotteStevenson from Ballan, who was recently involved in the Western Ballet Project’s stage-show presentationofCleopatra.

“It helped improve my confidence and reaffirm for me that we can chase passions and still continue to grow and improve in our dance training even as adults,” Stevensonsaid.

“From auditions to the performance it was a well thought out schedule especially for the production being all adults who all havebusylives.”

The program is open to performers and dancersagedroughlyeightto19,offeringnot onlystagetimebutindividualisedfeedback, technical coaching, and workshops designed to deepen their understanding of classical ballet and physical awareness, while also offering a rare sense of artistic community in an area often overlooked by majorperformingartsinstitutions.

For families in the west, the proximity mattersthemost.

Access to elite arts training has long been unevenly distributed across the city, with inner and eastern suburbs traditionally hosting the lion’s share of established schools, companies, and performance pathways. For aspiring dancers in growth corridorsinthewest,thebarriersaren’tjust financial,butlogistical.

Long travel times can limit participation, particularlyforyoungerstudentsorfamilies

balancing work and multiple children. O’Donnell saw first-hand how that strain coulddilutetheexperience.

“When I saw the ballets, as good as they were, I didn’t see enough stage time for the students considering the amount of time sacrificed,“shesaid.

Stage time is central at the Western Ballet Project, with dancers cast in original productions, spanning epics like Excalibur and The Suffragettes, to culturally inspired works such as Chang’e, Goddess of the Moon.

Upcoming productions continue that trend, with a winter-themed ballet set to closeafestivalseasoninBallarat.

The creative approach is deliberate, building on the roots of The Western Ballet Project’s dedication to world-class ballet and theatre training delivered right on the doorstep of Melbourne’s dramaticallygrowingwesterncorridor.

Rather than relying on traditional and at times outdated ballet narratives, O’Donnell draws inspiration from history and strong, overlookedfigures,particularlywomen.

“Whilst the traditional ballets are beautiful and timeless classics, I find no inspiration from someone waiting for a princetosaveher,”shesaid.

“My inspiration comes from learning about different cultures and history-changingpeople.”

The storytelling process inspirationally shapes not only the performances but the trainingitself.

Dancers are encouraged to experiment, connectemotionally,andtakecreativerisks inasafe,supportive,andopenenvironment.

“Iliketocreateapositiveandhard-working environment with a feeling of camaraderie and storytelling,” O’Donnell explained. “To

create a story that the audience can easily interpret, dancers have to work together andfeelsafetomakemistakes.”

The compressed rehearsal period intensifies that very dynamic. With just five days to build a production, dancers must quickly form bonds, trust one another, and take responsibility for every aspect of their performance, from props and costume changes to entrances and exits, a model which mirrors the realities of professional dance more closely than traditional youth programs.

“Dancers have to take responsibility for their own roles, just like a professional show,”O’Donnellsaid.

And the emphasis on independence extends beyond the stage, with students encouraged to manage their own preparation, from sewing pointe shoes to organisinguniforms,allskillswhichworkto foster discipline and self-reliance alongside artisticgrowth.

For O’Donnell, those lessons are rooted in her own training in the UK, where she begandancingatsevenandlaterperformed professionally on cruise ships around the world at just 18. Her early teachers, she said, instilled a sense of structure and accountability which continues to shape herapproach.

“I often find myself saying some of their little phrases without even realising,” she laughs.

Since launching, the Western Ballet Project has began carving out tangible pathwaysforitsdancers.

Somehavegoneontoprestigioustraining institutions, including the Australian Ballet School and other elite programs, while others return year after year, building confidenceandrefiningtheircraft.

Equally significant is the program’s sense of continuity, with former youth participantsbeginningtoreturnasadults, taking part in expanded offering that include productions for dancers aged 19 to 99, a development O’Donnell describes as one of her proudest achievements.

“Creatingsomethinginoneplacecreates a community that is priceless,” she says. The community extends beyond the dancers themselves. Performers are designed to engage a broader audience, not just ballet enthusiasts.

In itself, it extends ballet to an even wider audience, going above and beyond its ability to reach the goal the Western Ballet Project set out to achieve in the first place. It bridges that gap in more ways than one.

“Icreatetheballetsforanon-ballet-loving audience,” O’Donnell says.

“If the dads can be entertained for 45 minutes and leave wanting to watch more, then it’s a good show.”

In Melbourne’s rapidly expanding west, where cultural infrastructure is still catching up with population growth, initiatives like the Western Ballet Project are doing quiet but significant work, training dancers close to home while also building a local ecosystem for creativity, expression, and opportunity.

And while O’Donnell insists she has no grand long-term plan - “As to what the future holds, you’ll just have to wait and see,” she said, the project’s trajectory suggests a model that could reshape how regionalandouter-suburbancommunities engage with the arts.

For many young dancers, the dream hasn’t changed, but it’s been made a lot easier to reach.

Most a-peeling event returns

Fresh from being crowned gold in Australia’s TopTinyTourismTownAwards,Trenthamis preparing to welcome visitors back for The Great Trentham Spudfest, returning for two full days of potato-powered celebrations on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 May.

The community-led festival celebrates Trentham’s proud potato-growing heritage, bringing together local growers, artisans, musicians and food producers for a weekend which attracts more than 10,000 visitors each year.

Now entering its 19th year, the festival honours a farming tradition dating back to the 1860s, when the region’s deep red volcanic soils first provided ideal conditions for growing exceptional potatoes.

Festival coordinator Brooke Limmer said Spudfest has always been about celebrating what makes Trentham special.

“Spudfest is about our growers, our landscape, and the people who call this place home,” she said.

“In 2026, we’re building on everything locals and visitors love about the festival, while introducing some new experiences that invite people to dig a little deeper into the region.”

Saturday will transform the heart of Trentham into a vibrant street fair featuring spud-inspired food, fresh regional produce, a local makers market, live music and the Spud Olympics.

High Street will close to traffic for the entire day, transforming Trentham’s iconic main street into a pedestrian-friendly zone and giving visitors the freedom to wander and explore.

Saturday is also the perfect day to meet local growers and purchase freshly har-

vested Trentham potatoes direct from the source.

Visitors are also invited to join the Trentham Historical Society’s guided bus tour of the heritage-protected spud huts, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s agricultural past.

New for 2026, the family-friendly offering expands with a bigger kids’ zone featuring free potato puppet shows and hands-on spud art activities.

A new Spud Olympics event also invites competitors to test their skills while an ad-

Step back in time in Bacchus Marsh

Take a step back in time and uncover Moorabol’s rich local history through Bacchus Marsh.

History buffs are being invited to wander through the heart of town on the Bacchus Marsh Heritage Trail, uncovering rich local history through heritage streetscapes and hidden stories.

Situated in the valley of the Werribee and Lerderderg rivers, Bacchus Marsh is renowned for its fertility and geological significance and lends itself as the perfect getaway for heritage lovers and avid history buffs alike.

First settled in 1836 during the Ballarat gold rush, the township boasts a rich history of farming, transport, rail technology and geological significance, with many historic buildings remaining in place, preserved in time.

A standout is the Bacchus Marsh Chicory Kiln. Built in 1885 to grind, dry and roast local chicory, it’s one of Victoria’s last remaining chicory kilns and offers a glimpse into the region’s early agricultural industry and those who worked to shape it.

Avid historians can start their heritage tour of Moorabool’s historic landmarks just a short stroll from Bacchus Marsh Train Station at the Chicory Kiln, located at 30 Taverner Street, before following Main Street through the town centre.

More highlights include the Avenue of Honour, commemorating those who served during World War one, the Bacchus Marsh Courthouse established in 1858, and a Railway Turntable from the mid-1950s among many more.

Details: https://tinyurl.com/56v7ryhe.

ditional live music stage showcases local musicians and emerging talent.

As the sun sets, Trentham will turn up the tempo, with Spudfest Up Late on Saturday night introducing an all-new burlesque cabaret, adding a cheeky after-dark twist to the program.

Local chef Harry Gibbs will champion Trentham’s favourite potatoes with a fourcourse tasting menu at Ensemble, and returning for its third iteration, the Spudfest Cèilidh, a family-friendly celebration of Celtic music, lively dancing and fun, will

mean the whole family is entertained all through the night.

Sunday is Discovery Day and shifts the focus from celebration to exploration, inviting visitors to slow down and discover Trentham and neighbouring towns.

Trentham’s town square will once again become the spud hub, the central point for freshly harvested potatoes, festival merchandise, scavenger hunts and tour information.

With horse and cart rides, live entertainment and friendly volunteers on hand, it’s the perfect place for visitors to begin their Discovery Day journey.

Details: https://www.trenthamspudfest. org.au/.

Notification of Changes to Bin Collection Days in Some Areas

Due to high growth within the City of Melton, some households will experience changes to their bin collections from Monday 4 May 2026.

Affected households will have received a letter in the mail detailing their new collection days and changeover week information.

If you want to check if your household is affected by the changes, visit melton.vic.gov.au/binchanges or scan the QR code.

Mysterious Yarraville fire

This week she explores the mystery

Shortly after 2am, Sunday 31 January, 1875,afirebeganinoneoftheworkers’ cottages inhabited by employees of the Yarraville Sugar Works.

The glow of the inferno was seen from thetowerofthemetropolitanfirestationin LittleCollinsStreet,andadetachmentwas despatched by the MFB.

The Hotham and Carlton breweries also hurried to help with their own fire trucks, buttonoavail.Fourhumble,three-roomed cottages were totally destroyed.

When the ruined homes had cooled enough to be examined, they were cautiously explored. A woman’s charred body was found and removed from the house rented by John and Fannie Irvine. Soon afterwards, assessors from the London and Lancashire Company arrived. Each cottage was covered for 400 pounds.

It was initially thought that 22-year-old Fannie had died by accident whilst drunk, but Senior Constable Daniel Kelly of FootscrayPolicewasoneofthoseirritating policemen who always suspected spouses whenever a young married died.

Acting “on information received”, he sprinted around the sugar works until he found his quarry, who happened to be wandering around dressed only in his trousers.

John piteously stated that he had been robbed of his clothing, but the policeman never believed anyone’s story on principle.

John was arrested and marched off for interrogation. All he knew was that he had been too plastered from his Saturday night binge to remember anything, apart from colliding head first with someone’s fence. Whose fence and where it was, he had no idea.

Others were to tell conflicting stories.

At the Footscray Court before the Bench of Messrs Mollison and Reid, JPs, John was charged with murder and remanded to the inquest held on 9 February.

Evidence was given that the Irvines were peaceful when sober, but quarrelsome when drunk, which, alas, happened frequently, possibly stemming from their grieving the loss of three children.

Sarah Campbell, a neighbour, testified that on Saturday night she and Fannie had enjoyed a booze-up at the Crown Hotel until midnight. Fannie was affected by drinkandslightlywobbly,soSarahsteered her homeward and then inside to her bedroom.

Three sheets to the wind, in staggered John, whose happy demeanour immediatelybecameascowl whenFannie dared to ask her husband where he’d been. HeorderedSarahtoleaveandasshedid, she heard the sound of a blow, Fannie’s scream, and John bellowing, “I’ll give you something that’ll do you some good!”

In the kitchen, Sarah noticed a candle jammed in its own wax, and remembered Fannie once telling her that it was normal practice in the Irvine household to light it before going to bed. Sarah then went searching in the gloom for her own husband and heard nothing further from the Irvine house.

At 2 am, Sarah’s 17-year-old son Edward was awoken by their dog’s ferocious barking. Going outside, he noticed that the Irvines’ bedroom was on fire. He kicked at the door, screaming “fire”. Aman’svoice,strangelyseemingtocome

from inside the blazing bedroom, called out an equally odd question: “What’s wrong?”

Edward frantically shouted to the invisible man that he was in imminent peril of being incinerated, then rushed around grabbing furniture which he carried outside before hurrying around the neighbourhood alerting people to their danger. It was then that he realised something. He hadn’t seen Mrs Irvine. Where was she? Edward hoped that she had escaped.

On 3 February, John was charged with murder and Edward gave evidence at the inquest. He had not seen the defendant at the fire; only after the house had burned down did he see him wandering around, apparently under the influence. So who hadnonchalantlyquestionedhimfromthe burningroom?Edwarddidn’tknow,buthe was positive that it was a man’s voice.

The police alleged that John had tied up Fannie to prevent her escaping, then set fire to the cottage. John admitted to being tipsy on the night, but had no memory of the evening.

According to him, when he regained sobriety, he found himself half-naked, presumably after being robbed when drunk. All he recalled was stumbling into a fence, then coming upon the fire and all the drama it entailed.

Or - maybe he had gone to bed naked, and only had time to haul on his trousers before escaping the blaze. He really didn’t know.

The inquest, conducted by coroner Curtis Candler, resumed on 9 February at Yarraville’sCrownHotelwhereFanniehad so recently enjoyed a few ales.

The post-mortem, conducted by doctors

James Morton and James Neild, revealed no sign of violence or injuries. Death was due to suffocation; the body had been burned after death.

Yes, a blow to the head could induce unconsciousness without fracturing the skull, but it was known that the deceased had been subject to fits, which could also cause loss of consciousness.

Edward stated that several times he had seen Fannie fall unconscious from epilepsy.

John trousers, bearing several marks of scorching,wereshownasproofthathehad been present at the fire, having, according toanotherversionofhisstory,beenburned when attempting to drag Fannie through the flames to safety. This seemed odd, comingfromamanwhoclaimedtohaveno memory of anything that night apart from banging into fences at unknown locations.

According to the police, the trousers were burned whilst he was tying up his wife with every intention of leaving her to perish helplessly in the inferno.

This was contradicted by a labourer, who swore that John’s trousers had been burned at the Sugar Works a week before the tragedy.

William Thatcher, another Sugar Works employee, left work shortly after 2am, saw the fire and raced to the Irvine house. He managed to break down the back door and search the rear room, then the kitchen. Unable to see the bedroom door through the smoke, he hammered on the wall. There was no reply.

Another employee, Frank Lewis, heard a woman screaming and strove to shove the front door open, but something seemed to be obstructing it. Beaten back by the fierce heat, he was forced to abandon his rescue.

He later learned that the body of Fannie hadbeenfoundjusttwofeetfromthedoor. John had a sudden flash of memory. He had dragged Fannie to the front door and for some reason, left her there. Why? He couldn’t remember.

Manytimesthecouplehadarguedabout leaving a lighted candle in the bedroom. According to him, Fannie would place it on a chair between the dressing table and their bed. Neighbours said that this was nonsense. The lighted candle was always kept on the mantelpiece.

The inquest jury heard a mass of contradictory evidence but had no trouble arriving at a verdict of wilful murder. The trial promised to be a nightmare, for who could be relied upon to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth?

Were the trousers burned at work or at a murder scene? Was John claiming forgetfulnessastheexcusefrequentlyused bycriminals,orwashegenuinelyunableto recall the night’s events?

Was the lighted candle in the kitchen or the bedroom? Was John in a jealous rage, as some had hinted? He denied ever being jealous.

Withtheonusofprovingguiltbeyondall reasonable doubt, the prosecution wisely realised its insurmountable difficulties and requested a nolle prosequi. This Latin phrase means a stay of legal proceedings, an acknowledgement that the case hasn’t enough evidence to secure a conviction. It was granted, and John walked from court a free man, but with no family or home to return to.

The mystery remains: If the man’s nonchalant voice from the burning bedroom was not that of John , whose was it?

Learning EXCELS HERE

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Students are supported to consistently achieve high VCE and ATAR results.

High achiever programs

Programs that give students opportunities to thrive across academics, the arts, and sports, including thousands of STEM places at tech schools.

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Supported by ongoing professional development and proven teaching techniques.

MY PLACE

Meet Eynesbury local Derek Bendall, who is captain of Melton’s 37th Boys’ Brigade and a committee member with Melton Performing Arts. He chatted with Jack O’Shea-Ayres about local connection and the importance of teaching and guiding the next generation of men.

What’s your connection to the Melton area?

I’vespentmuchofmylifeinMeltonandIam deeply connected to the local community. I serve as captain of the Melton 37th Boys’ Brigade, where I’m passionate about mentoring young people and building strong character through service and teamwork. I’m also a committee member with Melton Performing Arts, where I directed The 25th Annual Putnam County SpellingBee-bringingtogethermylovefor theatre and community. Professionally, I leadtheonlinecampusatMeltonChristian College. We were among the first Christian schools in Victoria to offer a fully online learningpathway,andI’mpassionateabout creating flexible, high-quality education for students in a digital environment. At home,IliveinEynesburywithmywife,our two children, and our Cavoodle, Buddywho keeps life fun and energetic.

What do you like about Melton?

What I love about Melton is its diversity. It’s a true melting pot where cultures come together, are shared, and genuinely enrich the community. There’s a real sense of openness - people are proud of where they come from, and at the same time, eager to learn from one another. That exchange of culture, food, traditions and perspectives createsacommunitythatfeelsbothvibrant and connected. Melton is also a place where people can pursue their passions. Whether your interest is in sport, theatre, music, or community groups, there are opportunities to get involved and belong. It’s a growing community, but it hasn’t lost that sense of connection - people support one another, and there’s a strong feeling that everyone has a place here.

What, if anything, would you change about Melton?

While our theatre community continues

Faces

togrow,Iwouldlovetoseemorededicated performance spaces developed. Many other communities benefit from public

performing arts centres, and it would be fantastic to have a space like that here in Melton.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

There are many places our family loves to spend time. We consider ourselves foodies, so you’ll often find us enjoying great food at places like Eynesbury Homestead, Urban 35, or Stones.

Tell us about your work with the Melton Boys Brigade. How does it feel to teach, guide and empower the next generation of men?

Inatimewheretheroleofmenischanging and often pulled between extremes, from toxic expressions of masculinity to a reluctance to grow into adulthood - the role of Boys’ Brigade has never been more important.

Our young boys need guidance. They need strong, positive examples of what it means to be a man of character and faith. They need to see what it looks like to lead with humility, to serve others and to take responsibility for their actions and their future. Boys’ Brigade provides a place where boys are shaped into young Christian men - men who understand that their role in society matters, that their actions have purpose, and that they can beaforceforgood.Itequipsthemwiththe confidence and values to face challenges, andthecouragetoturndifficultsituations into opportunities for growth and positive change. More than ever, our boys need direction, belonging, and purpose - and the Boys’ Brigade is a place where those foundations are built.

MP visits Deanside worksite

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

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

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

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

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

acriticalprioritytogetright.

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

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

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

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

Briefs

Open day

The Melton community is invited to join in the fun as council opens the doors to the newly constructed Weir Views Children’s and Community Centre on Saturday 2 May between 10am and noon. A range of free and engaging activities will be on offer on the day to entertain all ages and interests, including a butterfly tent, complimentary coffee, TimCredible the Magician and other performers, free children’s activities including face-painting and glitter tattoos, and the opportunity to explore the centre and chat with Melton council and kindergarten staff. Details: https:// tinyurl.com/9wbuxtyu

Kindergarten registrations open

If you have a child turning three or four years of age by 30 April next year, they are eligible to attend a funded kindergarten in 2027. Kindergarten supports children’s learning and development and helps to prepare them for school. As part of the Best Start, Best Life reform, kindergarten in 2027 is free and there is no cost for families to register their children for kindergarten. Register online: www. melton.vic.gov.au/Kindergarten

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

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Mayor’s message Cr Lara Carli

As our City grows, Council remains focused on investing in facilities that support children, families and strong local communities. This week, we will officially open the new Weir Views Children’s and Community Centre.

This modern facility will offer 3- and 4-year-old kindergarten, maternal and child health services, and a range of community and health services for local families. The project was proudly delivered by Council, with funding support from the Victorian Government though its Building Blocks and Growing Suburbs Fund programs.

Residents are invited to join us for a special open day on Saturday 2May from 10am to 12pm to explore the centre and enjoy free, family-friendly activities. For more information, visit melton.vic.gov. au/weirviewsopenday

Council will soon commence its annual Community Satisfaction Survey. From mid-May, randomly selected residents will be invited to share their views on local planning, Council programs and other issues that matter to them. This feedback helps guide Council decisionmaking and improve services. For more information, visit melton. vic.gov.au/satisfactionsurvey

Finally, with Mother’s Day approaching, I’d like to acknowledge mothers, grandmothers, and all those who take on the role of caregivers in our community and wish them a very special day. Whether you are spending the day with family, remembering a loved one, or taking a quiet moment for yourself, know that your everyday acts of care, strength and dedication do not go unnoticed. Feel free to contact me about Sugar Gum Ward or our City more generally on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au

City of Melton Night Market this Friday!

Melton Town Centre

Amphitheatre, 5pm-9pm

Join us this Friday for a festive night out. Wander through a winter wonderland of market stalls, savour the tastes of global street foods, and enjoy live music and family entertainment including the Scottish Highland Pipe Band, a Turkish dance performance, yodellers and more!

Find out more at melton.vic.gov.au/night-markets

Road works and traffic disruptions

There are currently a number of important road works projects happening in the City of Melton. Some of these projects are being completed by Council, and some are VicRoads or developer-led projects. These works are important to help support our growing community and make our roads safer, and we thank residents for their patience and understanding while works are being completed.

For information on current works and potential traffic disruptions in your area, visit melton.vic.gov.au/ roadworks

Have your say on park upgrades

Many parks and reserves in the City of Melton are being upgraded with modern facilities, new tree plantings and landscaping as part of Council’s Parks and Reserves Upgrade Program.

These upgrades are shaped by community feedback, with residents invited to review concept plans and have their say on what they’d like to see in their neighbourhood parks and reserves.

Council is currently seeking community feedback on the following park upgrades:

•Taylors Hill Sports Park, Taylors Hill

•Auburn Drive Reserve, Fraser Rise

•Springlake Village Park, Caroline Springs

Consultation closes 17 May 2026. To view these projects and to submit feedback, visit conversations. melton.vic.gov.au

Jackwood Ward with Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

Over the past few weeks, there’s been plenty happening across our City, with community events bringing people together and progress continuing on key local projects.

It was fantastic to see such strong community spirit at the first City of Melton Night Market in Aintree earlier this month. Events like these remind us of what makes our community so special. Another successful market followed in Weir Views, with more planned for Melton Town Centre, Strathlulloh and Diggers Rest in May and June. These events offer market stalls, street food, live music and family entertainment. Follow us on Facebook @cityofmelton for details. Works on the intersection of Taylors and Plumpton Roads are continuing, with the unexpected underground service issues identified earlier this year now resolved. Works have restarted on electrical connection and testing for public lighting and traffic signals. The intersection is on track to open in mid-2026.

Due to continued growth in our City, some households will experience changes to their bin collection services from week commencing Monday 4 May 2026. Letters with updated schedules and changeover information have been sent to affected properties. To check if your household will be impacted, visit melton.vic.gov.au/binchanges

Finally, it was an honour to reflect with our community at last week’s Anzac Day services. It was a meaningful opportunity to remember the courage, sacrifice and enduring spirit of those who have served, and continue to serve, our nation. Their legacy reminds us of the importance of respect, service and looking out for one another. Lest We Forget. Feel free to contact me regarding Jackwood Ward or our City more generally on 0499 801 183 or ashleigh.vandenberg@melton.vic. gov.au

Hard waste drop-offs flagged

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Moorabool council will soon seek feedback from the community on a suite of proposed subsidised waste services.

Council voted 5-4 at an unscheduled meeting on Wednesday 15 April to include the measures in its 2026-27 draft budget.

Under the proposal, households will be eligible for up to two free hard waste dropoffs per year at council transfer stations, each capped at one cubic metre.

A one-month annual window of free

green waste drop-off would also be introduced, alongside a half-price mattress disposal period.

A targeted kerbside hard waste collection service is also planned, aimed at elderly or unable residents, which would provide a two cubic metre collection, capped at 500 properties annually.

Cr Sheila Freeman said the new measures spoke to a growing community demand for more accessible waste services, while also addressing safety and environmental risks like illegal dumping.

“At its core, this proposal responds to a very real issue in our community, access to affordable and safe waste disposal options,” she said.

Cr Tom Sullivan raised concerns over funding, questioning the fairness of residents paying for services they may not use.

“We’ve got to ask ourselves one question, who’s going to pay for this?” he said.

He also pointed to illegal dumping as an issue coming from visitors to the shire, rather than those living within the municipality.

Lion cub duo makes their playful debut

The savannah’s newest superstar sibling duo have made their public debut at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

On Tuesday 21 April, the two nine-week old lion cubs welcomed their first visitors –who watched them rest, wrestle and wander among their pride.

Soon to be named by keepers, the brother and sister are spending their days lounging in the sun, hanging out with their parents and grandmother and honing their play fighting skills.

The pair were born on 14 February to eight-year-old mum Asali and nine-yearold pride male Sheru, making them the first cubs born in more than two years.

They had been out and about for about five days before visitors first caught a glimpse of them and are starting to eat meat.

Zookeeper Tatjana Fraser said the little cubs are developing big personalities.

“The female is probably a little more bold

than her brother that we have seen so far but definitely that can change as time goes,” Ms Fraser said.

“Typically females can be a little more confident than the males as adults.”

While it is too early to tell, some signs indicate that the little male might be a chip off the old block.

“We are definitely seeing some behaviours that would lead us to believe that he is a lot like his dad Sheru,” Ms Fraser said.

“Definitely a beautiful– strong but calm male– so we are hopeful he is going to grow up to be like his dad.

“Their personalities are still emerging at the moment.”

“Illegal dumping has been assessed before, and we’ve found that most of the illegal dumping in the shire comes from outside the shire,” he said.

Theestimatedannualcostoftheprogram sits just below $400,000, to be incorporated into the waste service charge and reviewed annually based on community uptake.

Residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed services and associated costs during the draft budget consultation process, before council makes a final decision later in the year.

Calling all young water heroes

Students from across Melbourne’s north-west are being encouraged to unleash their creativity with the return a National Water Week poster competition.

Greater Western Water (GWW) said the competition is open to students from from early learning centres and kindergartens through to primary schools and year 7–8 across GWW’s service region.

GWW operates across Melbourne’s central business district and inner suburbs to Little River in the south, Myrniong in the west and Lancefield in the north

GWW said the competition challenges young people to explore this year’s theme, Water Heroes: Make Every Drop Count. Applicants are encouraged to paint, draw or use other creative materials to show how they can be water heroes and help save water for everyone.

GWW strategy and partnerships general manager Kessia Thomson said the competition is a fun and engaging way to help young people understand the importance of water and think of ways to make every drop count.

“National Water Week is a great opportunity to inspire the next generation to thinkabouthowtheireverydayactionscan make a real difference,” Ms Thomson said.

“Our statewide storages are down by 17 per cent compared to last year and at the same time our communities continue to grow. It has become increasingly important that communities understand how we can all do our part to protect our water resources.”

Submissions close at 5pm, 11 September. Winners will be announced during National Water Week, from 19 to 25 October.

Details: gww.com.au/nww

Enjoy autumn, avoid the flu

By Christopher Carter, Chief executive of North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network

It’s that time of year again. Summer is in the rearview mirror, and autumn is slowly startingtofadeintowinter.

It’s a time of bright and chilly days, trees turning orange … and respiratory viruses spreadingthroughourcommunities.

Yes, it’s the start of influenza season, which means it’s a very, very good idea to get your annual flu vaccination as soon as youcan.

Sometimes you hear people describing influenza as “a bad cold”. When you hear that, it’s a sure sign that you’re talking to someonewhohasneverhadabadcaseofit.

As people who have really experienced it will agree, flu is a very unpleasant combination of phlegm, coughs, muscle pains, tiredness and headaches which can confine even very healthy people to bed for acoupleofweeks.

And for people who are less than healthy – or very young, or quite old – influenza can result in hospital stays and even, sometimes,death.

It is not something to take lightly – so it’s very good that getting an annual vaccination is easy, painless, and for many peoplefree.

Experts recommend a flu vaccination for all people aged over six months. Under the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program, some groups can have one at no cost. These include children under five, First Nations people, all people over 65, people with certain chronic illnesses,andpregnantwomen.

And for all people who don’t fit into these categories, you can still get your vaccinationatnoorlowcostifyourregular

general practice is one of the increasing numberwhichbulk-billsappointments.

Thisyearthereareafewdifferenttypesof vaccineavailable.There’sone,forinstance, especially formulated for older people, and another which is a nasal spray – just right for children who are nervous about needles.

There are also formulations safe for peoplewithallergies.

Your doctor or other immunisation

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

30 years ago 24 April, 1996

Plans for a world-class garden centre in Station Road have been approved by Melton Shire commissioners.

20 years ago 25 April, 2006

Melton’s long association with harness racing has been strengthened, with the shire to become the new Victorian homeforthesportoverthenextdecade.

provider will ask you some questions to make sure you receive a vaccine which is effectiveandsafeforyou.

Of course, doctors aren’t the only people whocanadministeravaccineandkeepyou safe from the flu. A lot of nurses in general practice can do so – and so can lots of pharmacists.

If you’re not sure where to go, a website called Healthdirect has a service finder which can identify all the vaccination

providersnearyourhome.

And finally, if you’re going to get your flu vaccination done, think about some others you can have at the same time. Talk to your GP or other provider about perhaps also getting protected against COVID-19, or RSV, or measles or shingles. All of these are perfectly safe to get at the same appointment.

This is a lovely time of year. Let’s all do ourbesttomakeitasafeone,too.

15 years ago 26 April, 2011

A steep decline, a sharp corner and an old bridge - it’s not the safest combination for a road with heavy traffic, say rural residents.

10 years ago 26 April, 2016

A hot rod charity event in support of Bacchus Marsh Hospital has been cancelled over fears that hoons would gatecrash it.

Youth have their say

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Melton’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) has recently made an exciting venture to Parliament.

Young people from council’s YAC were recently invited to Parliament House by former minister for youth Natalie Suleyman to share their perspectives on the issues shaping their future.

Members for the YAC, along with mayor Lara Carli and YAC chair Cr Steve Abboushi met with the minister, Melton MP Steve McGhie, and Kororoit MP and now youth, carers and volunteers minister Luba Grig-

orovitch for an informal roundtable discussion about the key challenges and opportunities facing young people across Melton.

During the meeting, members shared their perspectives on the state government’s Our Promise, Your Future: Victoria’s Youth Strategy 2022-2027, and outlined three key priority areas for young people in Melton.

Key priorities included creating safer communities by investing in youth-focused social spaces such as community centres, parks and youth hubs, alongside strengthening youth mental health support - particularly for culturally and linguistically di-

verse (CALD) communities..

“YAC has given us so many opportunities to have our voices heard and to be involved in discussions that directly affect young people,” 16-year-old Joanna from Deanside said.

Cr Carli said the committee provided an important opportunity for Melton’s young people to feel heard.

“These young leaders articulated not only the issues that matter most to them, but also the kind of future they want to help shape.”

Applicationsforthenextintakewillopen in late 2026.

Share your thoughts, Melton

Randomly selected residents of Melton will be invited to share their views as part of council’s annual community satisfaction survey next month.

Each year, the council checks in with residents to better understand how they feel about council services, facilities, and overall life across the municipality.

The survey covers a broad range of topics, including local planning, council programs, sense of community and the issues which matter most to residents.

The door-to-door survey will be conducted independently by Metropolis Research and will involve about 800 randomly selected households across Melton.

“It’s important we hear from our community to understand if we are meeting their needs and expectations in terms of our service delivery,” mayor Lara Carli said.

“The feedback provided plays a vital role in shaping council priorities, guiding service improvements and informing long-term planning and advocacy on behalf of the community.”

Residents selected to take part can expect a visit from a professional field researcher between Saturday 9 May and Sunday 7 June.

Details: melton.vic.gov.au/satisfactionsurvey.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Melton South Community Centre

Melton South Community Centre is offering free lawyer appointments for immigration, family law, or JP every Tuesday, 2.30pm or 3.10pm. 9747 8576 or msccentr@bigpond.net.au

Pipe Band

The North Western District Pipe Band meets every week in the Diggers Rest Bowling Club and is looking for any pipers or drummers out there retired or beginners for social play outs. Hank, 0412 169 576

Destiny Rescue

Destiny Rescue is an organisation that rescues children from sexual exploitation and trafficking. All are welcome to come and hear of the work that is being done by Destiny Rescue at Grace Community Church (Melton Uniting Church) on Wednesday 6 May at 11am. 15-17 Yuille Street, Melton. Elaine, 0402 262 498, or Lyn, 0411 410 526.

Community band

The Greater Western Community Band meets Thursdays from 7.30-9.30pm. The rehearsal venue is the Bridge Road Community Centre, Strathtulloh. The band is available for events. Brass, woodwind and percussion players are always welcome.

Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

Lights of Wisdom

The Bahá’ís of Moorabool warmly invite you to ’Lights of Wisdom’ – a monthly event providing an opportunity to relax in a tranquil environment and reflect on inspiring themes. The event is held on the first Friday of each month from 7.30–8.30pm at the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh. The next event is on Friday 1 May, Celebrating Two Years of Lights of Wisdom. This is a free community event open to all.

God, movie and chat

A free community event is held every second Friday of each month with a film with spiritual themes screened followed by discussion. All thoughts are welcome. Bring your own sandwich. Tea, coffee, and popcorn are provided. The event is hosted at Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19a Gisborne Road, Bacchus March. bacchusmarshanglican.org.au

Probus Club of Melton Ladies

The Probus Club of Melton Ladies meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10am at the Melton Country Club. It is a social club where all ladies are welcome. Glenda, 0418 504 616

Women Working Together

A program connecting women aged 50 above in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Melton. 9655 2131, or EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au

Zonta club

Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. Meetings include guest speakers. Janet, 0421 080 923 or info@zontaclubofmelton.org.au

Melton Over 50s Social Group

Join a friendly group of people aged 50 and older who enjoy each other’s company while attending events such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in

the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you.

Marlene, 0498 329 290

Chatty Cafe Melton

Are you feeling lonely, isolated or just wanting to make some new friends? If so, Chatty Cafe is for you. The group meets on Friday mornings at 10am for delicious free coffee from Latin foods and wines at 10 Wallace Square, Melton. https://www.facebook.com/ groups/352071857283331

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club

Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am-noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com

Melton Valley Ladies Probus

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Friday each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome. Ann, 0425 705 150

Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens

The Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens look forward to meeting up with new members at the Andy Arnold Centre, 10 Bennett Street, Bacchus Marsh. hopem@optusnet.com.au

Melton Concert Band

Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7.30-9.30pm at the Bridge Road Community Centre, Bridge Road, Melton South. Musicians of any age who are able to read music are welcome to come along with their instrument (oboe, bassoon, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion). Please contact if you are intending to visit.

0401 474 582

Cancer Support Group

MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group is for prostate cancer patients and their carers and meets on the first Thursday of the month, from 12.30-2pm, at Melton South Community Centre. Attendees are encouraged as members share their journeys through what could be a very traumatic time of their lives. Explanations of medical terminology used in the treatment of this cancer are given in this group.

Grenville, 0412 741 865

Friendship Group

For all aged 60 and older – are you looking for some new friends? Then this group is for you. The Melton and Surrounding areas Friendship Group meets fortnightly for a coffee and chat night and organises affordable outings such as dinners, movie nights and many social events – plus occasional weekends away, and local or

overseas holidays. Shirley, 0419 006 525 or Vera, 0406 493 734

Rose carers of Maddingley Park

The group meets every Wednesday from 10am-noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join . Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538

Women’s Support Group

Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House, 239 Station Road, Melton. The group can discuss most subjects that may be of help https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

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

Tui returns to Royal Hotel

There’s something electric brewing on the dancefloor at the Royal Hotel in Bacchus Marsh and it’s coming straight from one of the town’s own.

OnFriday1May,localfavouriteDJRenee Tui is bringing the beats back to the Royal Hotel for another night of music, nostalgia and community spirit.

Byday,she’sabusymumoffourrunning her own hair salon, but when the sun goes down, she swaps the scissors for the decks. While she’s quick to downplay her skills, her growing following says otherwise.

“I’m nosuperstarDJ,” shesaid.

“I just love playing all types of music and watchingeverybodyhavingagreattimeon

my dancefloor.”

And it’s that exact passion which has struck a chord with the local community, with Renee hosting her themed DJ nights monthly at the Royal.

From 80s and 90s throwbacks, to disco and club classic, each event brings a different vibe, with next month’s R’n’B theme already generating plenty of buzz and excitement.

With more than 30 years experience in hairdressing and a side hustle as a DJ and karaoke host, Tui all about creating spaces where people can let loose and enjoy themselves.

Soifyou’relookingforyournextnightout

withalocaltwist,followthemusicdownto the Royal Hotel, and meet DJ Renee Tui on the dancefloor. The event is free and open to all 18 years and over.

Details: https://welcometomoorabool. com/events-bacchusmarsh-ballangordon-blackwood-greendale/dj-reneetui-at-the-royal-hotel-bacchus-marsh.

Capturing maternal love and memory

A personal photography exhibition exploringfamilialrelationships,maternal love, separation, migration and memory is on display in Brimbank.

Through a series of photographs, Brimbank resident Minh An Pham captured moments with his mother and family, recreating memories from the past.

Pham said he has always been close with his mother whom he visits regularly in Vietnam.

Moving to Australia at 15 years old, Pham didn’t realise how much time he would eventually spend away from his family.

He said his photography project was a way of documenting his mum’s life whenever he went back to visit her.

“I came to understand my mum more not only through the photographs but through the time we spent together,” Pham said. “I also reflect on my family’s past and history and the sacrifice of my mum as a single mother who worked really hard to raise me and my brother.

“Photography is the greatest way for me to seize those moments again.”

Phamrecentlywonthestudentcategory at the 2026 Australian and New Zealand Photobook Awards for his work.

He hopes the exhibition encourages viewers to slow down and reflect on their own lives and families.

“I hope that people care more about their family because I think time flies so fast,especiallywhenyouturn20,”hesaid.

“We also forget that our families are always there.”

Someday I Will Lose You will exhibit until Saturday 6 June at Bowery Gallery, 33 Princess Street, St Albans.

The exhibition is free to attend.

Details: creativebrimbank.com.au

A photograph in Minh An Pham’s exhibition with him and his mother, Thi Tuyet Nga Nguyen.

Show a tribute to iconic Diamond

Jason Taylor and the 14-piece Hot August Night Show Band will be rocking the Wyndham Cultural Centre on Sunday 31 May with TheNeil DiamondStory.

From 2pm, you will be treated to 150 minutes of baritone brilliance, brass excellence and powerfully captivating musicianship.

Taylor will be far from the only voice that emanates, as The Diamond Sisters –Caroline Hawke, Tracy Tuhakaraina and Donna McConville – will be backing him with style.

Of course there will be crowd pleasers like Sweet Caroline, Cherry, Cherry and Solitary Man, but they have got the way to move you with more of Diamond’s catalogue.

The Neil Diamond Story is billed as Australia’spremiertributetothelegendary American singer-songwriter who has been onourradios formore than 60 years.

Theactguaranteestocapturetheessence of Diamond’s iconic hits with remarkable accuracy,passionandheart.

Withallthebuzzsurroundingtherecent biopic Song Sung Blue starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson and Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, there isn’tabettertimetobeltoutSweetCaroline.

Well, anytime is a good time to do that.

Tickets: https://tickets.wyndham.vic. gov.au/Events/The-Neil-Diamond-StorySong-Sung-Blue-Tour

While he’s probably more famous forhisTVandradioworkthesedays, iconic Australian comedian Dave Hughes cut his teeth doing stand-up atcomedyclubsandpubsacrossthe country and it’s these roots he’ll be heading back to when he performs in Altona next month.

Fresh off another triumphant run at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Hughes will perform at the Altona Sports Club on Wednesday 13 May in a show presented by Comedy HouseAu. Famous for his nasal drawl and deadpan delivery, Hughes’ tales of everyday foibles combined with his laconic persona have made him one of Australian comedy’s biggest namesthis century.

His success on stage has been matched by that on TV, including his current role as a judge on the Network10’s TheMaskedSingerand regular appearances on Celebrity Gogglebox, Would I Lie To You? Australiaand TheHundred Hughes also had a highly successful stint on commercial radio,mostlynotablyalongsideKate LangbroekontheNova network. Supporting Hughes in Altona will be local comedians Joe White, Katie Wainhouse and Bart Freebairn and with all four coming off recent festival runs, the routines will be well honed andthelaughs constant.

The event is strictly 18-plus, with photo ID required for entry.

Pre-show early dinner available at the Altona Sports Club Bistro, with bookings required.

Tickets: https://www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1568245?

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which Manchester United player was red-carded for hair-pulling during an Old Trafford match against Leeds?

3. Who was the first pick of the 2026 WNBA draft?

4. After his latest Masters victory, how many major titles has Rory McIlroy

13. Which NHL team failed to make the playoffs for the 2025-26 season after winning back-to-back Stanley Cups?

14. Mintonette was the original name for which sport?

15. The Dripping Pan is a football stadium in which country?

16. Which increasingly popular sport has a seven-foot non-volley zone in front of the net called ‘the kitchen’?

17. Which tennis tournament is banning cameras in off-court player areas following criticism from players about preserving their privacy?

18. St Kilda AFL player Lance Collard has been banned for how many weeks by the AFL tribunal for a homophobic slur?

19. Which golf league faces an uncertain future following a lawsuit filed by its predecessor?

20. Which TV show host was involved in a crash at the Bathurst 6-Hour race, which left a competitor with a broken spine?

21. What colour do the Melbourne Demons add to their uniform for their annual Jim Stynes Game?

22. What sport does Australian Hannah Green play?

23. The Nine Network recently made a broadcast deal with which local sporting league, starting in 2027?

24. Which Australian cricketer holds the record as the highest-paid overseas player in Indian Premier League history?

25. What is the only nation to have won multiple gold medals in Rugby Sevens at the Summer Olympics?

26. Which retired AFL legend played a recent game for WA regional team Dowerin?

27. How many NBA teams qualify for the playoffs every year?

28. Shane Flanagan was recently fired as coach of which NRL team?

29. Which team won the A-League Men's 2025-26 Premiership?

30. Which Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place this weekend?

YOUR NEW CAREER

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

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Musically short, clipped and separate (8)

5 New York City neighbourhood (6)

10 Clear (5)

11 Cattle (9)

12 Minister (6)

13 Town in France with a shrine to St Bernadette (7)

14 Military unit (8)

15 Ill-gotten (6)

18 Constabulary (6)

20 Fauna (8)

21 Central Italian region (7)

24 Steering device (6)

27 First meal (9)

28 Established truth (5)

29 Widespread dominion (6)

30 Quaint houses (8)

1 Senior barrister (coll) (4)

2 Divine being of high rank (9)

3 Military student (5)

4 Open-minded (8)

6 Attack (7)

7 Father of Beau and Jeff Bridges (5)

8 Be logical or comprehensible (4,5)

9 Wickedness (4)

14 Respectable (9)

16 Hanging around (9)

17 The text of an opera (8)

19 Savoury biscuit (7)

22 Woolly mammal (5)

23 Chinese currency (4)

25 Preliminary drawing (5)

26 Flightless birds (4)

3

Today’s Aim:

16 words: Good 24 words: Very good 33 words: Excellent

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”. A G P Y C I E R N

4

5 LETTERS

AURAL AVAIL

preying, pricey, prying, pyre, racy, rainy, raying, repay, repaying, yarn,

nary, PANEGYRIC, payer, paying, piny, piracy, pray, praying, prey,

1 Which singer released a 1963 album titled

, in which every song related to crying?

2 Which colour has the longest light wavelength?

3 Colloquially, a ‘bachelor’s handbag’ is what?

4 What was Monday named after?

5 Evan Peters (pictured) plays which Marvel hero in the liveaction X-Men universe?

6 In which 2025 film are four misfits sucked through a portal to the Overworld, where they meet a man named Steve?

7 In which decade was the first 3D printer invented?

8 Eventually replaced by Mickey Mouse, who was Walt Disney’s first major animated character?

9 In 1858, which two Melbourne schools competed in what is often recognised as the first organised Australian rules football match?

10 Chestnut, jack o’lantern and chicken of the woods are all kinds of what?

New Solterra improved

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

The Solterra is the first fully-electric vehicle fromSubaru.

It’samid-sizedSUVthatwentonsalehere inearly-2024.

If it looks familiar that’s because it’s a model-share arrangement with the Toyota bZ4X.

It’s the second such Subaru/Toyota partnershipfollowingonfromthetwo-door sports Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86. We understand that more will follow with Toyota hybrid powertrains fitted to existing Subarumodels.

While Solterra and bZ4X share the same dedicated EV platform (e-TNGA), they are tuned and marketed independently to reflect their respectivebrands’ identities.

Solterra comes in two variants – entry leveljustnamedSolterraispricedat$63,990 andSolterraTouringat$69,990pluson-road costs.

Bad news for early adopters is that these are down by $6000 and $7000 respectively on their original launch prices. Clearly to bring them closer tothose of the Bx4X.

These MY26 price cuts also came with extra power and torque, greater driving range and techupdates.

Unlike many of its competitors, including the entry-level bZ4X, which come with a single motor, Solterra maintains Subaru’s AWD commitment by having a motor on eachaxleinbothmodels.

Both models come standard with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with a five-year service plan and roadside assist. The battery is covered for eight years and160,000km.

Key service intervals are 12 months or 15,000km.

Our testvehicle was the SolterraTouring.

Styling

The 2026 Solterra update comes with a noticeable change at the front with a less aggressive look than its predecessor. Although it’s still not immediately recognisable as an EV like most others of its ilk there is a narrow ‘grille’ with a large Subaru badge in the centre. It’s flanked by triple headlights with built-in daytime runninglights.

The profile adopts the SUV/fastback crossover lines that are in fashion at the moment.

The bumpers are painted piano black to almostsuggest that there iscladding.

Style overrides substance at the rear with theabsenceofwipers.

The Touring model gets a full-length poweredpanoramicsunroof.

There’s a choice of six exterior colours in all variants with the Touring adding the option of a black micra two-tone roof in two ofthecolours.

The base Solterra runs on 18-inch alloy wheelswithTouringsteppingupto20-inch.

Bothget aerodynamic caps.

Interior

With its ground clearance OF 212 mm entry and exit to the Solterra is easy. There’s also a Safe Exit Assist feature that alerts occupantsfromopeningdoorsintothepath ofoncomingtrafficorcyclists.

Synthetic leather upholstery is standard in both Solterra variants, with black in the base model and blue in the Touring. All seatsarecomfortableandsupportive.

There’s eight-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat, a heated leather steering wheel,heatedfrontandoutboardrearseats, ambientLEDlighting,carpetmatsandboth 12V/120W and USB-A and USB-C ports. Unusually, there is no glovebox although

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 8.5/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 7/10

we found the owner’s handbook in the storage area beneath the floating centre console.

Front and outboard rear seats are all heated.

Below the large central touchscreen there are rotary dials and knobs for audio volume and separate buttons for the dual-zone climate-control system’s temperature, fan and air-flow settings. There are also short-cut buttons on the driver’s side of the screen.

There is smart key entry, push-button start, all-auto power windows, 12V/120W outlet and both USB-A and USB-C ports (twoeachfrontandrear).

The rear window is wide but thin. To improve visibility there is a choice between a conventional mirror and a digital alternative. The image in the latter’s wide, sharp and easy to focus on, unlike some on themarketthatdistortamagnifiedimage.

Boot space is 421 litres in the base model and 410 litres in the Touring, expanding to around 1050 litres with the rear seatbacks folded.

Both variants get a powered tailgate. Under the flat boot floor there’s a storage area for the charging equipment – but no spare wheel, which is a surprise for a brand that prides itself on moderate off-road qualities.

Powertrain

Solterra is powered by twin permanent magnet synchronous motors. Using a 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack the front motor generates 167 kW and 268 Nm with the rear one adding 88 kW and 169 Nm for combined outputof252kW and438Nm.

Battery charging comes via AC or DC. With a 150kW DC charger 10 to 80 percent willtakeapproximately30minutes.Asingle phase 11kW AC charger will get from zero to 100 percent in about seven-and-a-half hours.

Infotainment

Both Solterra models come with a 14.0-inch central infotainment touchscreen (up from the previous 12.3-inch) with split-screen capacity,satellitenavigationwithintelligent EV route planning, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and Bluetoothvoicecontrol.

There are two 15W wireless chargers on thecentreconsole.

The entry-level Solterra comes with a

six-speaker audio unit while the Touring steps up to a premium 10-speaker Harman Kardon system with a subwoofer and amplifier.

A very sensible feature is the 7-inch digital cluster that’s located on top of the dash directly in front of the driver and at a level that almost makes it as visible as a windscreenhead-updisplay.

We loved the large, square-shaped and padded steering wheel although it does seem to divide opinion. It contains a number of push-button controls and brake-regenerationpaddlesontheside.

Safety

Solterra was tested by ANCAP in late-2025 andscoredthemaximumfive-starrating.

There are eight airbags including for the driver’s knee and in the front centre. Other features are packaged within the Subaru Safety Sense system including pre-collision system, emergency steering and braking assist, lane departure warning and lane tracing assist, radar cruise control, road signassistandspeedlimiter.

The Vision Assist with adaptive high beam, blind spot monitor, front and rear parking sensors and parking brake support, rear cross traffic alert, safe exit assist, 360-degree view monitor. Touring adds

advanced parking assistance via displays andalerts.

There are ISOFIX child seat anchor points ontheoutsiderearseats.

Driving Visibility is excellent to the front and sides although limited to the rear because of the sloping roofline. However, that is addressed withtheinclusionofarear-mountedcamera that provides an uncluttered view that can be toggled and adjusted through a button onthebottomofthemirror.

Gear selection is a bit fiddly, needing the dial on the centre console to be pushed downthenturned.

Inevitablyintoday’snewvehicles,thereis a range of driver assistance features most of which are set and can be adjusted through the touchscreen. They are nowhere near as distracting in Solterra as in other cars, especiallythosefromChina.

A tight turning circle and responsive steering make for comfortable city driving. It’sanEVsosharpaccelerationisagivenbut thetwin-motorsraisethattoanewlevel.

Indeed, it has been timed at around 4.7 seconds for the zero to 100km/h sprint, makingitthefastestproductionSubaruever tested.That’sfasterthanitsiconicWRX.

The ride is generally quiet and smooth although the 20-inch wheels and lower profile tyres in the Touring does add some rigidity.

The brake-regeneration system has four levels including the option of one-pedal driving.

There are three drive modes: Normal, Power and Eco with a range of power bands and energy efficiency. As is likely to be the case with most owners we spent the majorityofourtestinEcomode.

Summary

It’s almost unheard of for a new vehicle to get such a range of enhancement so soon after its original release. But that’s what happened with the Solterra between March 2024andOctober2025.

Startingwiththesignificantpricecutsthe MY26 Solterra gets new styling, increased power, extra driving range, faster charging and a techupgrade.

Whilethesameupgradeshavebeenmade to the NY26 Toyota bZ4X the comparative pricing between the two rivals is now closer than before. So, well worth potential buyers doingacomparisontest.

Anzac Day sporting moments

While Anzac Day is normally about the big MCG clash between Essendon and Collingwood, Saturday was a chance for clubs from across Melbourne’s north-west to get involved. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting the action.

Frew returns to Darley

By Tara Murray

Matthew Frew will return to Darley, this time as coach of the Ballarat Cricket Association club.

Frew was recently announced as the Lions new coach, replacing Nathan Yates, who stepped down from the role.

For Frew, it’s a return to the club where he played between 2011-2013.

“I had two years under Matthew Cape,” he said. “I moved to Bacchus Marsh at the time and the club was only around the corner.

“Darley contacted me a couple of weeks ago and I said I would be happy to take on the role.”

Frew spent the rest of his cricket career, either side of his time at Darley, with Grand United, which has in recent seasons played in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association.

He coached the side for three seasons after returning from Darley and the side won two premierships in that time.

Frew finished his playing career last season with a second XI premiership after 11 A-grade premierships over his career.

“It was getting hard to play with the body,” Frew said.

“Darley contacted me a few weeks ago and they were keen to get me.

“It gives me a challenge and I’m a pretty competitive person. It’s as close to be-

ing involved without playing.”

Frew said he was still mates with people involved in the club and knows many of the players still there.

He said he was keen to get up there and see how everything is shaping up.

“They finished third last year and are doing alright,” Frew said.

“Hopefully I can have an influence there and we can go one step further.”

Frew said he had been told there would be a number of former players that were looking to return to the club, which would add depth to the program.

The second XI struggled last season having won a premiership the season before.

Warriors show fight in come from behind win

By Tara Murray

The Western Warriors produced one of their best wins of their short history in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday night.

The odds were stacked against the Warriors as they took on the Peninsula Waves in what was a must win for both sides.

The Warriors were without Mia Lavis, Jasmine Fraser and Kiara Boyd, before losing Sarah Croft on the morning of the game with a knee complaint.

Ruby Shannon was on limited minutes and was meant to be restricted to a half.

The Warriors were also coming off a short break, having lost to Melbourne University Lightning on Monday night.

Despite being down by as many as eight goals in the second quarter on Wednesday night, the Warriors continued to fight. They had composure when they needed it late to run over the top of the Waves and win, 63-59.

Warriors’ coach Kim Bailey said they were thrilled with the result.

“We had five players out tonight

[Wednesday] and we were always going to be up against it,” she said.

“The games that we have lost have been under five goals and it’s about learning to win and that is what we have been concentrating on.

“We were quite down on Monday even though we lost by five goals, that match was disappointing.

“We had the fire in the belly and we knew that we could beat any team on any given night.

“I’m really proud of them.”

Bailey said it was really pleasing to have come from behind.

She said there was a little bit of fatigue from the short turn around, but the players were able to stand up strong.

Shannon, who played more minutes than she was meant to, was a key in the win.

Bailey said Georgia Hellyer, who came into the side, was really strong when she got on the court.

Defender Eliza Gollant was a standout for the Warriors with Bailey saying it was her best game of the season.

She had 10 tips or intercepts for the

Frew said they were focused on continuing to build from within.

“A good club has depth in the twos and hopefully that is the case,” he said.

“We want to inject a bit of youth into the top side and have a combination of both youth and experience.

“The next two-three years plan will be to get them in and blood them.”

Frew said it was a massive bonus for the club that Yates would remain at the club and be the first XI captain.

The Lions said they felt that Frew and Yates would be combination that would be a force to be reckoned with and that under the pair the club would take the next step.

Melton swimmers hit nationals

Six Melton swimmers were kept busy at the recent Australian Open National Championships and Australian Age National Championships.

Held early this month, the best swimmers from across Australia competed for national titles.

Three Melton swimmers, Manor and Layla Mahfouz, and Benjamin Willis, competed at the open national championships.

Manar competed in the 50 and 100 metres butterfly, 50,100 and 200 metres freestyle and the 200 metres individual medley.

The medley was her best event as she finished in 14th spot. In the other events she finished between 50th and 69th.

Layla competed in the 50 and 200 metres butterfly, finishing 56th and 15th respectively.

Willis competed in the multi-class events.

He competed in the 50 metre freestyle (47th), 100 metre freestyle (34th), 200 metres freestyle (25th), 400 metres freestyle (19th), 50 metres butterfly (30th), 50 metres breaststroke (16th), 200 metres individual medley (25th).

Melton had three swimmers also compete at the Australian Age National Championships between 11-18 April.

Chloe Burke had a standout competition in the girls 17-year-old events.

She competed in four finals and swam five personal bests.

match.

Poppy Douglass had a good game in goal attack, while Megan Allen and Kali Dolphin both had good games as well.

Bailey said with players out the next few weeks they will have to rely on their depth to get them through.

The win takes the Warriors to a 2-1-3 record for the season and sits in seventh spot.

The challenge now is for the Warriors to get two wins in a row, something they haven’t done this season so far.

“It’s really disheartening when you’re just losing games as you know you have the ability to win,” Bailey said.

“I’ve got to remind myself they are still a relatively new team. We can’t expect them to gel straight away.

“It takes time, they are a really united group.”

It was a double for the Warriors with their 23 and under side also beating the Waves, 53-48.

The Warriors had been up by 16 goals at one stage.

The Warriors face Boroondara Express this week.

Burke also added two more qualifying times for the Commonwealth Games trials, qualifying for both the 100 metres and 200 metres butterfly.

Burke finished fourth in the 400 metres individual medley and ninth in the 200 metres individual medley.

She was 37th in the 50 metres butterfly, 12th in the 100 metres butterfly, sixth in the 200 metres butterfly, 38th in the 200 metres freestyle and 22nd in the 100 metres breaststroke.

Mitchell Davies also got the opportunity to swim in the finals, making the finals in two of his three events.

He finished 10th in the 200 metres breaststroke and 14th in both the 100 metres and 50 metres breaststroke.

Peter Berens swam in the boys 17-year-old events.

He swam a personal best in the 100 metres butterfly as he finished 32nd and finished 19th in the 200 metres butterfly.

Coach Robert Neilson was on deck for both championships and put in a lot of work to help the group, as age nationals team manager Jayne Burke.

Sharks up for the challenge

By Tara Murray

Hillside believes that it is still around the mark despite the gap closing in the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division season.

All but one team has a win after three rounds and all but one team has had a loss in the first three rounds.

It’s seen some big upsets as well early on.

None were much bigger than Maribyrnong Park, which finished bottom last season without a win, beating the reigning premiers in Hillside.

The Sharks’ Chris Daley said they felt it would take five or six weeks to get a good read on the competition.

“It’s been hard to gauge most of the teams,” he said. “We hope to be amongst the top three or four.

“The first week we were really impressive against Aberfeldie. Maribyrnong Park recruited really well and played a different style against us.

“They taught us a couple of lessons and it’s good to learn some things.”

Daley said the game against Maribyrnong Park was a really good one to watch and was more high scoring than what they used.

He said it was a sign that the game and competition was further progressed.

“It’s great to have footage of every game so you can do your homework,” he said.

“It gives you a good idea of who is do-

ing well.

“If you’re a little bit off, you will get found out.”

Daley said they had more depth within their squad this season which was a positive thing.

They played a couple of under-19s in the first few weeks, having reformed the side this year.

He said they had four or five players who would come back into the side in their next game.

The Sharks have been boosted by the arrival of some key players as well.

Krissy Trang has added to the midfield, while Jemmika Douglas and Nikita Wright have been outstanding in defence.

“Jemmika was at a VFL [Victorian Foot-

ball League] training camp in round two and we didn’t have her,” he said.

“Nikita is coming back from a couple of serious knee injuries. She’s playing as the deepest back which helps her get her confidence.”

“She’s like a new recruit which is fantastic.”

The Sharks had the bye on the weekend, with Daley saying that it couldn’t have come at a better time.

The challenges then continue in round four as the Sharks face Oak Park in the grand final rematch.

In division 1, Burnside Heights made it two wins in a row.

The Bears were too strong for Coburg Districts, winning 8.6 (54)-5.6 (36).

Reigning premiers are finding their form

By Tara Murray

Reigning premiers Darley are sitting undefeated after three rounds, but in bad news for opposition sides is the Devils are yet to hit their straps in the Ballarat Football League.

The Devils have had a tough run to the start of the season, with matches against three of the top five teams from last season.

The remaining side from the top four is Melton, which the Devils will face this Saturday.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan said it was about banking the wins early in the season.

“We knew the first month would be tough and we were just keen to get wins on the board,” he said.

“We weren’t as worried about how we were playing and we would take learnings out of each game.

“We’re 3-0 and the season is still young and we’ll keep improving.”

Jordan said they had seen glimpses of what they could do in the first two matches against the Sunbury Lions and East Point.

They were able to show more of that on

Saturday in the local derby clash with Bacchus Marsh.

“I thought the second half was pleasing to get back to the footy we know that we can play,” Jordan said.

“We’re a work in progress. I think playing four quarters is the big one.

“We’ve shown glimpses of our best footy and we were able to do it for a bit longer on Saturday which is good as a coach in terms of progress.”

For the first half, Saturday’s match was a real tussle.

The Devils held a 17 point lead at the main break after the Cobras put on some scoreboard pressure late in the second quarter.

After the break, the Devils kicked 16 goals to just two goals, to come away with a 25.9 (159)-9.3 (57) win.

Jordan said the Cobras were hit hard with injuries and didn’t have a bench in the second half.

“We were ruthless and were locked in,” he said.

“They were pretty diligent bar the last five minutes of the second quarter. We

were able to stick to the plan.”

Billy Myers kicked eight goals in a best on ground performance for the Devils.

Jordan said they moved him forward as he was a bit sore.

“He’s had a great start to the year,” he said. “He’s a quality player and can play a number of positions.

“He had a good impact in a different role. It’s good to have a different look ahead of the ball.”

Brett Bewley and Duncan Cadman were other standouts for the Devils.

Jake Owen kicked three goals for the Cobras.

Angus Morgan and Ashton Craig were other standouts for the Cobras.

Darley will face Melton this Saturday in what Jordan said would be another good challenge from them.

The Bloods are coming off a massive 19.11 (125)-6.6 (42) win against the Sunbury Lions.

The Bloods were able to build the lead each quarter.

Caleb Burquest, Jordyn Cotter and Brody Sullivan were named the Bloods best.

Sports shorts

Western FL

Caroline Springs sent a message with a big win against Yarraville Seddon in the Western Football League division 1 competition on Saturday. The teams that finished second and third last season, it was the Lakers that came away with the points in a 15.9 (99)-7.13 (54) win on Anzac Day. Steven Kyriazis kicked four goals for the Lakers, while Jesse Cavanagh kicked three goals. Alexander Paech was named the Lakers best. The Lakers move to 2-1. In division 2, the Western Rams suffered a big loss to Albanvale, 26.8 (164)-6.10 (46). Jordan Chircop and William Markovski were named the Rams best.

EDFL

Hillside remains without a win in the Essendon District Football League premier division. The Sharks faced Greenvale on Saturday with both teams searching for their first win of the season. The Jets led at each of the breaks and were able to extend the lead in each quarter to win, 12.11 (83)-7.11 (53). Lucas Failli, Jackson Heidrich and Adeola Akintola were named the Sharks best. Meanwhile in division 2, Burnside Heights lost to Coburg Districts’ 22.10 (142)-13.11 (89).

Ballarat FL

Darley made it three from three as it accounted for Redan in the Ballarat Football League women’s grand final rematch on Friday night. The Devils were on the road against Redan on Friday night and were able to come home with an 11.6 (72)-8.2 (50) win. Kim Bessell kicked four goals for the Devils, while Ruby Thomas kicked three in a best on ground performance. The Devils face Bacchus Marsh this Sunday in round four.

Dockerty Cup

Caroline Springs George Cross ended Albion Rovers run in the Dockerty Cup-Australia Cup on Tuesday night. The Georgies opened the scoring in the 10th minute through Nicholas Dib, with Aguer Manyiel doubling the score in the 22nd minute. The Georgies scored not long after half time through Josh Whiteley before the Rovers were able to get one back. Whiteley scored his second just a minute later before Otman Benhaddou scored one in injury time to cement a 5-1 win.

FOR MORE SPORT VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklysport @star_weekly

Group 1 glory at long last

By John Dunne

Jilliby Ballerini broke through for a deserved Group 1 success when she outclassed her rivals in the Aldebaran Park Sumthingaboutmaori Trot on Saturday night at Melton.

Sent out the $1.45 favorite, Jilliby Ballerini was taken to the lead by Glen Craven shortly after the start and had her rivals off the bit as she bounded away in the home straight.

Craven allowed himself a flourish of the whip as Jilliby Ballerini crossed the line with seven metres to spare from stablemate Jilliby Dreamlover in a mile rate of 1:57.6.

The daughter of Majestic Son had previously been placed in five Group 1 races in her 36-start career.

“She’s probably the best unluckiest horse ever to strike (Keayang) Zahara so many times. She just butters up every week and it’s a credit to Marg, Paddy and everyone at home,” Craven said.

“She races in every fight, she went to New Zealand and has come back and still shows up. It’s a great credit to them.”

In February, she took out the $75,000 Kilmore Trotters Cup.

“The Kilmore Cup was Group 1 money but didn’t have Group 1 status – it’s such a relief as she deserves a Group 1,” he said.

“She settled okay, but when Tracy (The Jet) came around, she wanted to get racing. But she likes to bowl along and she is used to chasing Zahara, so she can run a good, solid mile.”

The winner is likely to again lock horns with Keayang Zahara in next week’s Group 1 Macarthur Mile at Menangle.

“She’ll go up to Sydney next week to race back over a mile and hopefully she can get a decent draw and do the same thing,” he said.

Earlier in the night, Heza Gun ($8) spoiled the party when he defeated the Jess Tubbs-trained Howdy Mate in the Greg Sugars Always In Our Hearts Trot.

Dilges makes his mark at championships

By Tara Murray

Bacchus Marsh’s Riley Dilges continues to make his mark on the national stage.

The teenager recently represented Victoria Country at the Basketball Australia under-18 championships.

The team would win a bronze medal, one of two medals for Victoria in the under-18 men’s with Victoria Metro claiming gold.

For Dilges, it was the second time he had been part of the national championships.

“It was pretty exciting and a lot of fun,” he said.

“The group we played with was pretty much the same.

“We were a lot more developed and we knew each other more and we were better on the court, which made our performance better.”

Dilges said he was pretty happy with how the side went, but also his performances personally.

In the bronze medal game, Dilges scored 15 points as he came off the bench.

He averaged 21 minutes on the court across the tournament, averaging 12.1 points and 5.5 rebounds a game.

“I was more confident,” he said.

“Just knowing that I had already been playing with all these guys and playing against the guys that we had played against.

“It made me more confident in myself.”

The bronze medal caps off a big few weeks for Dilges.

He made his National Basketball League 1 south debut with the Ballarat Miners in round one of that season.

Dilges said the next step for him was to play more games in that competition.

“It’s a lot of fun playing with older guys people that have been playing basketball for much longer than I have,” he said.

“It’s pretty exciting and something I’ve been looking forward to and working towards.

“I’ve been going to watch the Ballarat Miners play when I was only like 12 … I’ve been wanting to play.

“You learn a lot from being in that environment with the older people. There are a lot of people in Ballarat that help you develop through that system.”

Dilges returned to training with Ballarat having returned from the nationals which were in Queensland.

The trip to Ballarat is one that he makes often from Bacchus Marsh.

“I’m travelling to Ballarat and into the city most days of the week,” he said. “It is a lot after school, but I just get it done.”

Dilges started his basketball journey in Bacchus Marsh.

He said he hopes that youngsters can look up to him and what he’s doing. He still spends plenty of time practicing in his home town.

“I started in under-12s and developed

Riley Dilges. (NBL1)

when I first started playing through domestic,” he said.

“I then started playing squad before moving to Ballarat.”

The winner was driven by Chris Lang, who has enjoyed a long association with the Sugars family.

“My relationship with the Sugars family in general goes back to the last century when Greg was almost still in nappies,” Lang said.

“When we used to take horses to Adelaide, we’d stay with Ross (Sugars) and we would send horses over for Ross to train.”

Lang acknowledged he denied the race a fairytale finale.

“It would have been nice to see Jess’ horse win, but that’s racing,” he said.

“Greg drove a lot for me and we had huge respect for him like everyone in the industry did. It was a very sad day when we lost him.”

Lucy Taylor. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 546151_08

Devils on top

Darley continues to show it’s the team to beat in the Ballarat Netball League.

The reigning premiers have been empathic in the opening rounds of the season and sit undefeated after three rounds.

On Saturday, the Devils took on an improved Bacchus Marsh side.

The Devils came out strong and led by 23-6 to have the game in their control. Darley increased the margin out to 25 goals at half time, with the game all but over.

The margin continued to grow in the third quarter before the Devils finished strongly to seal the 64-27 win.

Star shooter Olivia Cawthray, in her first game of the season, shot 45 goals for the Devils. She combined well with Akira McCormack, who shot 19 goals at goal attack.

Devils defender Anna Lawley was awarded the Anzac Day medal as the best player on the court.

Jasmine Paama shot 16 goals for the Cobras in the loss.

After three rounds, the Devils are one of three undefeated teams.

The Devils have won all their games by at least 25 goals.

Sebastopol has won its three matches, while Lake Wendouree has two wins and a draw.

The Cobras, who have played an extra match, have a 2-2 record.

Elsewhere, Melton lost to the Sunbury Lions.

It was a tough night for the Bloods, who lost 100-27.

Tiarnah Lloyd-Roeby shot seven goals for the Bloods.

In a positive sign for the Bloods, Alisha Boothey made her A-grade debut.

The Bloods are without a win after three rounds, but the Bloods will get better as the side gels.

Dilges said he wants to get as high as he can with his basketball but is unsure what his plans look like in the near future besides trying to play more NBL1.

Darley will face Melton this Saturday.