Star Weekly - Northern - 14th April 2026

New estate grows

Whittlesea council is set to transform unused land across the Whittlesea Public Gardens into 25 residential lots over the nexttwoyears.

The Garden View Estate Lalor project willdeliveranewlocalroad,andahousing development including three affordable homes.

Councilissettocommencethedesignof theroad,drainage,utilitiesandlandscaping components of the development. Council willthenbegininfrastructureconstruction in2027,subjecttofunding.

Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox said the

residential development is in an ideal location close to the gardens and existing infrastructureinLalor.

“Garden View Estate Lalor will be a fantastic example of how surplus council landcanbeturnedintovaluablehomesfor thebenefitofourcommunity,”CrCoxsaid.

Council said the three lots allocated for affordable housing will provide much-needed support to people experiencinghousingstress.

“[This] could include young families, older people, women, key workers and peoplewithdisabilities,”councilsaid.

Theother22lotswillbesoldontheopen market,wherebuyerswillselecttheirhome fromarangeofhousesdesignedbycouncil in response to community feedback from 2024. Council said the revenue from these future land sales will be reinvested into othercommunitypriorities.

In May 2025 council approved a permit to subdivide the land on the eastern edge of the gardens into 25 lots. The residential development is a key action of the Whittlesea Public Gardens Master Plan thatcounciladoptedin2018.

Council is funding the civil design of the

development through its 2025-26 Capital Program. The construction timeline is subject to funding approval in the upcoming2026-27councilbudget.

The construction works include building a new local road that extends northbound from Barry Road, with a connection through to Benaroon Drive, this construction is expected to start in 2027andbecompletedin2028.

Once this infrastructure is in place and landowners have secured the relevant permits, construction of the new homes willcommence.

Hume backs funding fight

By Courtney Black

Hume council has backed it’s nine local neighbourhood houses in calling for increased state funding to keep their doors open.

Councillor Jarrod Bell’s motion to support the statewide ‘Keep Our Doors Open’ campaign and lobby the state government to increase neighbourhood house funding was passed at the 23 March council meeting. The council also noted that options are being considered to support neighbourhood houses in the upcoming council budget process.

“They support people who are isolated, families doing it tough, new arrivals seeking connection, people looking for affordable programs, and residents who simply need a welcoming place in their community,” Cr Bell said.

“Yet at the very moment that they are needed most when things are really tough formanyinourcommunitytheyarebeing asked to do more and more often with less and less.”

Cr Bell’s motion referenced a report prepared by local neighbourhood houses which found that Hume’s six-year average

Cr Bell thanked neighbourhood house representatives for attending the meeting and said neighbourhood houses are not an optional extra, but part of Hume’s social backbone.

annual funding per neighbourhood house of$34,308waslowerthanothernorth-west municipalities including Merri-bek at $71,748 and Wyndham at $106,761.

He said funding has not kept pace as costs and demand for neighbourhood houses rise.

“It means neighbourhood houses being forced to pull back. Not because the need is not there, but because the resources are not,” Cr Bell said.

Cr Bell said he wants the motion to be understood as a genuine opportunity for council to step up and consider meaningful support for neighbourhood houses

“From both this council and the state

Anti-racism artworks empower and heal

A local anti-racism program has been helping people hurt by discrimination find theirvoicethroughartandstorytelling.

On April 22, the Australian Multicultural CommunityCentre(AMCC)ishostingafree communityeventtocelebratesixmonthsof theprogramandshowcasetheartwork.

AMCC manager Katey Ahmed said the ‘Unity in Diversity’ initiative empowers participants.

“The storytelling is a safe space in the multicultural community to share maybe stories or experiences [of racism] that have occurred to them or someone they know,“ MsAhmedsaid.

“Sometimeswedon’twantthemto[leave] with that feeling after the workshop so the art is a therapeutic way where people can release all those negative emotions and stories.”

She said expressing these negative emotions and trauma through artwork is a positiveexperienceforparticipants.

“For all of them it’s a really positive way of [expressing] what home means for them and also what freedom and respect and inclusion meant for them. It was really nice toseethisinthepaintings,“shesaid.

Shesaidtheprogramaddressesracismby educating participants on their rights and reportingprocedures.

Each session opens with a discussion abouthumanrights.

“Itsalsoabouttheimportanceofcohesion and respecting other cultures and looking atcelebratingthedifferences.

“Our difference is our unity and it’s somethingtobeproudof.”

The anti-racism program is supported by a state government grant and delivered in partnership with Northern Community LegalCentreandHumecouncil.

Join the free community event at the Broadmeadows Town Hall from 10am-12pm.

government they deserve more than warm words.”

A state government spokesperson said the state provides funding to more than 400 neighbourhood houses to the tune of $43 million per year and a further $9 million for neighbourhood house food relief programs.

The spokesperson said future funding proposals will be subject to the 2026-27 state budget process.

Council will write to Carers and Volunteers Minister Ros Spence and local state MPs advocating for increased and ongoing funding to neighbourhood houses across Victoria and investment for new neighbourhood houses in Hume.

Hume council has installed its first set of road safety treatments to Toyon Road in Kalkallo and is invitingresidentstoshareanyfurther concerns.

Through an interactive map, residents can mark areas of concern along Toyon Road and give feedback on how the council can improve safety.

Council said it has heard concerns about speeding and pedestrian safety andrespondedtosafetyissuesaround KalloTownCentreincludingcrossing visibility and damaged nature strips causedbyillegalparking.

Initsfirstroundofsafetytreatments council made improvements to line marking along Toyon Road and at the Litoria Way, Sequoia Drive, Icarus Drive and Dwyer Street intersections. No-stopping signs have also been introduced along Icarus Drive with the intention to improve visibility and enhance safety for drivers and pedestrians.

At the back of Kallo Town Centre, council has installed bollards on the Toyon Road nature strips to prevent drivers from mounting or cutting through them and protect landscaping. Rubber cushion speed bumps have also been added around the Kallo Town Centre pedestrian crossingtoslowtraffic.

You can learn more about these treatments and give your feedback through the council website. There is also an opportunity to share any further issues you experience along the road. Community consultation willcloseonSunday26April.

Details: https://participate.hume. vic.gov.au/toyon-road-safety-review

Ready to honour the Anzacs across the northern suburbs on 25 April

Communitiesacrossthenorthernsuburbs will come together to commemorate Anzac Day on Saturday 25 April . Asthesunrises,localswilljoinveterans attheDoreen,WhittleseaandCraigieburn dawn services.

Doreen Returned Services League (RSL) president and veteran Wes Wridgway said the Doreen Cenotaph dawn service will commence at 5.52am on the corner of Painted Hills and Armidale Roads.

A community ‘gun fire breakfast’ and gamesoftwo-upwillbeheldfollowingthe service at the Laurimar Sporting Club. “Wehadanestimated3500-4000people

attend our dawn service last year and it just gets bigger every year,” Mr Wridgway said.

Mr Wridgway served in the army for more than 25 years, including operational service in East Timor as a Military Police Investigator.

“I didn’t lose any mates during conflict but I have lost many who have taken their own lives as a result of what they have seen or done during their service.

“Anzac Day to me is a huge mix of emotions-rememberingthosewhoareno longer with us, appreciating the mateship of those that still are.”

The Whittlesea RSL will be commemorating Anzac day with similar activities, starting with a dawn service at 5am. At 2.30pm crowds will gather at Whittlesea Bowls Club for a march that will end at the memorial arch where a service will begin.

Former 42-year member of the Australian army reserve and former LieutenantColonelinsaidreserve,Harold Hawson, outlined the importance of this day for the community.

“[It’s] one of the most important events that the RSL and community can possibly have.”

Several local school groups and clubs annually attend Whittlesea’s commemorations to remember and honour the Anzacs.

“Alotofstudentsturnupwithfamilies… to me it’s a pretty good event for a little community like Whittlesea,” Mr Hawson said.

The dawn service at the Craigieburn War Memorial in Anzac Park will be held at 6am followed by a morning service at 10am. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small floral tribute in memory of a loved one for placement at the memorial.

Hume’s push for university

By Courtney Black

Hume council will approach multiple universitiesinabidtobringacampustothe municipality.

Councillor Naim Kurt’s motion to lobby La Trobe University, Melbourne Polytechnic and Melbourne university to build campuses in Hume was passed at the 23Marchcouncilmeeting.

Cr Kurt said Hume is falling behind in enabling opportunities for higher education.

“Just 20 per cent of Hume’s residents

have an undergraduate degree, which is compared to 33 per cent of greater Melbourne,“CrKurtsaid.

“We know that higher education plays a significant role in breaking cycles of disadvantage by enabling our community to broaden their horizons, broaden their opportunitiesandallowthemtogetahead.”

He said efforts in the past 10-12 years to progress a university campus have not madeitintocouncilplans.

“Unfortunately, at this point in time, we don’t have anything in our council plan pushingfortheestablishmentofauniversity

campushereinHume.”

Cr Kurt said there is a rare opportunity to engage Melbourne university after it stalled plans to build a $2 billion campus at Fisherman’sBend.

“We have an opportunity now to get on the front foot to say to Melbourne Uni, are theyinterestedincomingheretoHume?“he said. “A university coming here won’t come on its own, it requires local government to driveit.”

Cr Sam Misho endorsed the motion and said he has been a long-term advocate for bringingauniversitytoHume.

Craigieburn school first to offer VCE Punjabi

Mount Ridley P-12 College in Craigieburn isthefirstVictorianschooltoofferPunjabi language classes at a year 11 and 12 (VCE) level.

The school is one of three beacon schools that received funding as part of a $3.5 million state investment in VCE Hindi and Punjabi language.

Mount Ridley deputy principal Gurjit Singh said he is excited that students will not have to take Punjabi language classes as an extra-curricular outside of school.

“The kids are also saying that they’re

loving the idea of not having to go to schoolonaSaturdaytodotheVCEsubject andthefactthatthey’vegotaccesstotheir teachers throughout the week,” he said.

The high school began teaching Punjabi classes at year 7 and 10 last year, and has extended it to year 8 and year 11 this year. It will offer year 12 classes in 2027.

MrSinghsaidparentshavetoldhimthey senttheirchildrentotheschoolbecauseit offers Punjabi and language immersion in humanities and maths classes.

The state government also invested $150,000 in scholarships for 18

teachers statewide to take Hindu and Punjabi language courses at Monash University. Mr Singh said the course was “game-changing” for two Mount Ridley teachers, and hopes the school is the first of many to offer Punjabi.

“We’re hoping that we’ve built a robust program with really strong resources that we can benefit our students first and foremost, but then be able to share with other schools and help spread the language and make it a part of the mainstream curriculum that’s taught across the state.”

“I would love to actually see that [local campus] so people and kids don’t go through what I had to go through. I used to traveltwoandahalfhourseachwaytogoto university,”CrMishosaid.

“Kangan-Batman TAFE has been there since1985,andit’stheonlyphysical[higher] education place that we actually have since thattime.

“Wedeservebetter.”

Council will write to La Trobe University, Melbourne Polytechnic and Melbourne university to request a briefing on their plansforcampusesinthenorth.

Mayor Cox appointed to state panel

Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox has been appointed to the state’s local government mayoral advisory panel alongside 11 other mayors. Local Government minister Nick Staikos chairs the advisory panel which met for the first time last week on 26 March . The local government advisory panel is expected to meet at least three times a year.

Cr Cox said he is honoured to have been selected and proud to represent Whittlesea at state-level discussions.

“This is a great opportunity for the City of Whittlesea to bring key issues to the table and I am looking forward to working with my fellow mayors to plan for the future of local government,“ Cr Cox said.

Joining Cr Cox are mayors from theneighbouringMurrindindiand Mitchell councils in the north and Darebin council in the south. The panel will advise the minister on legislative, regulatory, strategic and policy decisions that impact the local government sector. It will also present ideas and opportunities for improving the local government sector.

Other mayors who were appointed to the panel are from the Macedon Ranges, Baw Baw, Casey, Melbourne, Hepburn, Stonnington, and Frankston councils.

Family’s reel contribution

Operating from the 1920s through the 1970s, the Sunshine Picture Theatre served as a vibrant entertainment hub for locals in Melbourne’s west. For many years, the Kirby family operated the theatre, with son Roc Kirby later going on to found Village Roadshow. Sam Porter got in touch with the Sunshine Historical Society to explore the Kirby family’s legacy, the early film industry, and residents’ cherished memories of the theatre.

Brimbank resident Shaun Crosbie said he still holds fond, if hazy, memories of attending Sunshine Picture Theatre as a boy.

His strongest recollections are of watching cartoon serials at the theatre –episodesoffilmsshowninweeklysegments – from the late 1940s to the mid-1950s.

“Each week the serial invariably ended with the hero, generally in the white hat, in mortal danger of being run over by a train, hanging by his fingers dangling over a cliff or frantically pursuing a runaway coach heading for a cliff”, he said.

“You had to come back next week to see what eventuated.”

It was during the ‘golden years’ of film and cinemas were rapidly expanding to suburban districts around Melbourne post-World War II.

The western film genre was also surging in popularity.

“The stars I can remember are Hopalong Cassidy, Tim Holt, Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, and the Lone Ranger although I think their horses were more important”, Shaun said.

“The best part of the Saturday afternoon outing would be if you had a few pence [left] over to buy, on the way home, some liquoriceblocksor,evenbetter,somepotato cakes wrapped in the daily newspaper”.

It was thanks to a man named George Kirby that Shaun holds such cherished childhood memories of the theatre.

A Sunshine Advocate article published in 1938 described how George Kirby and hisfamilycametotheworkingclassregion in Melbourne’s west seven years earlier, taking over the management of Sunshine Picture Theatre.

“... Which at the time was about to close altogether so bad were the conditions in Sunshine”, the article read.

“However, by dint of hard work and sacrifice, the family weathered the depression and the last few years has witnessed a steady improvement in the popularity of the theatre”.

The article detailed a grand reopening of the theatre attended by a large crowd of locals after George oversaw major renovations of the building.

“The renovations reflect great credit on Mr G. Kirby, who has shown by his enterprise and energy the confidence he has in Sunshine”, the article stated. George was also heavily involved with the community.

According to the article, he served as president of the Druids Cricket Club and as senior vice-president of the cricket association, while also being active in cross-country and the local football club.

“His theatre has always given cheerfully in the cause of charity”, the Advocate article read.

FollowingthesuccessofSunshinePicture Theatre, George would later open cinemas in Altona, Bacchus Marsh, Sorrento and the Roxy Theatre in Maidstone.

Among the locals who attended the theatre in Sunshine were the late Kevin and Florence Wanders.

Their daughters Prue Wanders and Kym Parker (neé Wanders) recall their parents reminiscing about the theatre while courting as a young couple in the early 1950s.

“We always heard stories from mum and dad”, Prue said. “Mum and dad always said that Mrs Kirby would stand there and check their mouths before they went in, for chewing gum, so no one would put chewing gum under the seat”.

Kym said the whole of Hampshire Road was a social hub at the time.

“It was quite a busy part of Sunshine acrosstherebecausetherewastheMasonic Hallonthecornerwheretheyusedtogofor dancing”, she said.

“When [the theatre] was up and running theyusedtoallowcommunitygroupstogo in there at no charge.

“Afewdoorsdownwasthechurch.That’s where mum and dad got married in 1955. They were together 67 years”.

Prue described a community that “used to have a ball” dancing at the Masonic Hall before heading to the theatre.

“I think everyone back then was hardworking and it wasn’t a rich community. That was their fun, going out together and having a good time. That was their life”, she said.

In his book, ‘On With the Show’, author John Cain interviewed Roc Kirby, the son of George.

Roc said he saw the Sunshine Picture Theatre as ‘establishing’ his father, mostly because it was a lot more successful than the first theatre he opened in Parkdale.

In the book, Cain mentioned how the whole family helped out at the Sunshine business.

Roc, who attended Sunshine Technical School at the time, got his start in the industry by selling candy bar items in the theatre aisles, and later learnt how to operate the projector.

Following the success of his other theatres,GeorgeformedtheKirbyTheatres company, appointing Roc as director, the book explained.

The young director would go on to open a franchise network of ‘Village Drive-In’ theatres throughout Melbourne, including in Sunshine and Brooklyn, and eventually

establish the Village Roadshow company.

Long-time Sunshine resident and real estate agent Richard Popczyk was another regular at the Sunshine Picture Theatre.

While his memories are fuzzy he does remember getting up to a bit of mischief with his friends.

“It was interesting because the picture theatre was elevated so it sloped down. We used to take [jaffa balls] out of the bag and watch them roll down to the front. It was just a fun thing”, he said.

“To me, in that age, the only thing you could go to was the pictures. There was no TV to my knowledge then. It was always exciting to go to the movies”.

The Sunshine Picture Theatre continued operating until the 1970s.

Richard crossed paths with the building againinthemid-1990sasarealestateagent auctioning off the site.

The building was later purchased by property investor Kevin Wanders who renovated the building into offices with his daughter Prue.

“Dad sold the theatre in 2005 to Centre Com and they’ve had it ever since”, Kym said.

The sisters reflected on their parents’ fond memories of Sunshine and the former theatre, a building which Heritage Council Victoria described as “a relatively well-preserved pre-WWII cinema” of “historical, architectural and social significance to the City of Brimbank“.

“We would spend many weekends just around the table, having a cup of tea and talking about the good old times”, Kym said.

Prue added: “I would’ve loved to have seen the clothes and the dancing and the cars. It would’ve been an awesome era to be in”.

Sport for young mothers

By Courtney Black

A free six-week sporting program for young mumsisstartinginMerndathismonth.

Whittlesea Community Connections (WCC) is facilitating the program in collaboration with the Mernda NeighbourhoodHousefrom24April.

Facilitator Nadia Teran said the sports programisbeingdeliveredusingtheWCC’s $500,000‘PlayOurWay’federalgovernment grant.

“We’ve decided to do a stream for young mothers, predominantly aged between 20

to 25 years old. It is targeted towards them becauseweunderstandthatyoungmothers canbealittlebitisolated,”MsTeransaid.

“It’s an introduction back into becoming physically active again, so it’s getting them outofthehouseandprovidingalittlebitofa routineforthem.”

The program will run for an hour once a week for six weeks, including low-impact physical activities like Pilates, yoga and soccer as well as information sessions on nutritionandmentalhealth.

“We are also providing on-site child care for the young women because we

understand that that’s a major barrier for themtoparticipateinanything.”

Ms Teran said the program was focused on providing young mums with a safe space to connect. “It’s quite important to have a little network for them to connect with someone that’s experiencing the same thingsasthem.”

She said if the program goes well, she hopes to continue it for the rest of the year and encourage participants to start their ownprograms.

“Whetherthat’sawalkinggroupormaybe they’ll have a little soccer match against

each other that they’ll organise and we can organisechildcareagain.”

MsTeransaidyoungmumscandropinto anyofthesixsessions.

“It’stotallyunderstandable[tobehesitant] if you haven’t exercised or you’ve just had a baby and… your mobility and your physical limitsarealittlebitdifferent.

“Give it a go, it’s a small group, there’s no judgment, everyone’s pretty much going to befeelingthesamewayasyou.”

Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ young-women-get-active-multisportconnection-program

Sri Lankan New Year festival set to light up Craigieburn

Anzac Park in Craigieburn will come alive once again this month with the huge Sri Lankan New Year festival called Soorya Udanaya.

Thousands of Sri Lankans will come together for a colourful celebration of culture and community on 26 April from 8am-9pm.

The free all-day festival is being hosted by the Victorian Sri Lankan Welfare and Cultural Association (VISWA) for the 12th time.

VISWAsecretaryUpulChandanasaidthe food festival is an exciting addition to the 2026event.

“Traditional Sri Lankan foods like hoppers, kottu roti, biriyani, string hoppers andothersweetswillbeavailabletobuy.

“We got another addition this year which isamodifiedcarshowwiththeantiquecars for the car enthusiastic people to come and

havealookandfeelitandtakepictures.”

Thefestivalisjam-packedwithtraditional games including tug of war, sack races, and evenpillowfighting.

In the afternoon VISWA will host a

pageant show, where one queen will be crowned.

There will also be live shows throughout the day on two stages, including a special performance from a music group travelling

fromSriLanka.

Thefestivalwillopenwithafreebreakfast from 8am, where early birds can enjoy traditionalSriLankandelicacies,theofficial openingceremonywillfollowat11am.

Helping hand for hospital

YarrambatandPlentyCFAvolunteersraised more than $11,000 for sick kids this Easter.

On Good Friday (April 3), 28 volunteers collected donations from motorists raising $11,089 for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

The volunteers worked at the intersection of Yan Yean Road and Ironbark Road in Yarrambat. The brigades have raised more than $95,000 during 12 consecutive years of fundraising for the appeal.

Yarrambat CFA captain Andrew Napoleone said volunteers were delighted that so many motorists thanked them for collecting for the hospital.

“In spite of rain earlier in the day a lot of peoplewerestartingoutonaweekendtripor

a day out and we gave them an opportunity to help the Royal Children’s Hospital too,” he said.

“Just like the volunteers from Yarrambat and Plenty CFA, they were pleased to do something for the community.”

This year, the brigades collected more than $2000 in donations through electronic options.

Yarrambat CFA Brigade provides fire and emergency response to the local community every day and night of the year. Volunteerfirefighterswillbebackcollecting donations for the appeal on Good Friday next year.

The Good Friday Appeal is in its 95th year and the CFA’s involvement spans 75 years.

Briefs

Shared paths works

Work has started to improve walking and cycling connections along Ferres Boulevard and Findon Road in South Morang. Whittlesea council is funding and delivering the The Ferres Boulevard Active Travel Infrastructure Upgrades project which is supported by an $800,000 investment from the state government. Council said the works would improve safety and connectivity for people walking and cycling in South Morang. Traffic management will be in place and reduced speed limits will apply in the work area. Construction is planned between 7am and 3.30pm.

Power saving expo

A free exhibition all about helping locals to save on power bills is heading to South Morang this month. Smart Energy Council will host the Victorian Lower Power Bills Expo at the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC) on 16 April from 4.30pm to 7pm. The expo will feature over 20 speakers and stall holders that will share tips for cheaper and smarter ways to introduce energy efficient systems in homes and businesses. Details and registration: https:// www.eventbrite.com.au/e/lowerpower-bills-expo-city-of-whittleseatickets-1983416200247/

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Whispering women’s history

By Courtney Black

Lifelong friends have published a book recordingthestoriesofwomenwhohelped build Whittlesea.

The authors Gwen Hawke, 87, and Maureen Doyle, 85, have dedicated their lives to protecting and honouring local history.

Gwen’s daughter, Alicia Hawke, said historical sites like the Whittlesea Court House would have been lost if not for the women’s campaigning.

Progression needs to happen, we understand that, but progression does get in the way of preserving history - Alicia Hawke

Alicia has helped her mum and Maureen compile women’s stories and historical research into a new book titled ‘Whispers Of History: Pioneering women of Whittlesea prior to 1945.’

She said the book has been more than 20 years in the making.

“This is the first comprehensive, community-sourced history of the Whittlesea district to be published in decades, and importantly, it tells the story of our region from the perspective of the women who built it,” Alicia said.

“There’ve been so many different people, unfortunately, that have contributed to the book but have actually passed away. So their voices are forever in the book.”

Gwen said she and Maureen first came up with the idea for the book while giving historical talks at local schools.

“Some of the stories we were given from the women—I thought ‘these women

bushfires,andthefollowingchapterscover wartime on the home front. One of Gwen’s favourite stories is about the girls in the Women’s Land Army who helped out on local farms during World War II.

“I used to help milk cows and it’s a bit scary because you’ve got to rope the leg, andoftenwhenyoudidthat,thecowwould kick out at you,” she said.

She remembers a woman touring VictoriatrainingtheLandArmygirlsusing a papier-mache cow with a rubber-glove udder.

“Imagine what people must have been thinking,’whatisshedoingdrivingaround with a cow strapped to her car?’”

The book also includes stories about the first English-speaking female veterinarian who lived in Bundoora as well as the author’s own memories.

“When we were interviewing women, we found that some of them were doing the same as what we did when we were young, so we’ve introduced some of our stories into the book,“ Gwen explained.

The authors list recommended readings at the end of each chapter for those interested in further research.

Alicia hopes to continue her mum’s work recording and preserving local history.

are magnificent’,” Gwen said. “They had to survive and looked after their family through fires and floods.”

The book opens with stories of how women protected their families during

“Progression needs to happen, we understand that, but progression does get in the way of preserving history,” Alicia said. “I know that a group of like-minded, real committed individuals can make a difference. I saw it first-hand, and that’s what I want to do now.”

You can join the Whispers of History Facebook group to get involved in future projects. To order a copy of the book email info@woh.nesperion.net

Cute cubs unveiled at zoo

The pitter patter of little paws and squeaks thatwillsoonberoarsarecausingplentyof excitement in Werribee.

Werribee Open Range Zoo (WORZ) has revealed that two African Lion cubs were born on 14 February.

The pride’s new pair were born to eight-year-old mum Asali and nine-year-old pride male Sheru, following a three-and-a-half-month pregnancy.

WORZ life sciences co-ordinator Ben Gulli said the cubs are bonding closely with their mother and showing signs of strong development.

“There is nothing cuter than a lion cub, and the whole team is so excited to see them become more curious every day, play fight with each other and curl up together when they nap,” Mr Gulli said.

“Asali is being such a wonderful mum and is always grooming the cubs and

keeping them tucked close by her side.” Asali underwent a caesarean section following a prolonged labour, with veterinarians stepping in to ensure the safety of both mum and cubs.

She initially gave birth to an unusually large litter of six cubs, but four did not make it. It won’t be long until the cubs meet the rest of the crew.

“Soon the cubs will be introduced to the rest of the pride, which includes their father Sheru, grandmother Nilo and three half-siblings,” Mr Gulli said.

The sex and names of the cubs will be announced in the coming weeks.

Zoo members and visitors are encouraged to visit zoo.org.au and follow @zoosvictoria on social media for updates on when the cubs will make their public debut.

Out

and about

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

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

10 years ago 19 April, 2016

Councils are calling for a greater injection of much-needed infrastructure funds from next week’s statebudget.

7 years ago 9 April, 2019

Thecompanyatthecentreofamassive chemical fire in Campbellfield last Fridayhaditslicencesuspendedbythe Environment Protection Authority 15 daysbeforetheblaze.

5 years ago 6 April, 2021

One hundred and fifty social housing properties and a 126-bed private hospital will form the first stage of the $2billion‘NewEpping’development.

1 year ago 15 April, 2025

Afteryearsofhorn-honkingfrustration and near-daily gridlock, commuters mightbefinallygettingthegreenlight.

Hume council workers strike

By Georgia Tacey and Courtney Black

Across Hume kerbside waste bins were not collected, public litter bins were left full and parks were not mowed as council workers walked off the job on Tuesday 7 April.

About 70 workers, members of the Australian Services Union (ASU), undertook protected industrial action for 24 hours, halting waste collection across Hume and nearby Merri-bek and Darebin councils.

Strike action was also taken in Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Yarra, Melbourne and Greater Dandenong councils.

The ASU warned of further industrial action if members’ demands for a pay rise are not met.

The union is seeking a 10 per cent pay rise. Negotiations have stalled between the ASU and the eight councils.

ASU branch secretary for Victoria and Tasmania Tash Wark warned that while workers would return to work on Wednesday 8 April, the union would not ruleoutfurtherfullorpartialstrikesforthe rest of the week or beyond.

“Today is a 24 hour stoppage, but our members have resolved to continue taking decisive action for the foreseeable future until a meaningful, real wage increase is secured,” she said.

“Council workers have watched their wages go backwards for over five years. Taking this action is a last resort, but they cannot continue to subsidise council budgets while their own families struggle

to keep up with soaring inflation.”

Ms Wark said industrial action could escalate to include bans on mowing and street cleansing, and workers would enact ongoing work bans that will affect service delivery for the foreseeable future.

“This campaign will continue until a meaningfulpayriseissecured,andfurther strikes,bothpartialandfull,remainonthe table for the rest of this week and beyond,” she said.

All eight councils issued a joint statement on the situation, saying, “While we acknowledge the legal right of the ASU to take protected industrial action, these actions affect our communities, which is regrettable.“

“We are keeping our communities informedonhowanyindustrialactionmay

affect them.

“We ask our communities for their patience and we will continue to negotiate in good faith with all unions representing our staff.”

Ms Wark disputed that the councils were negotiating in good faith.

“Negotiations with these councils have been substantially delayed since the Fair Work Commission granted authorisation inDecember,”shesaid. “Itishardtoaccept a ’good faith’ argument when workers have endured real wage cuts for the better part of a decade and are yet to receive an offer that simply allows them to keep up with the cost of living.”

The first bargaining meeting between the eight councils and the union was held on 24 March.

Striking council workers sorry bins were not emptied

By Courtney Black

A Hume council worker who has cleaned up dumped rubbish for five years said he andhiscolleagueshadnochoicebuttotake industrial action this month amid stalled wagenegotiations.

Brendan Luker was one of 70 Hume council workers who walked off the job on Tuesday 7 April as part of the wider Australian Services Union (ASU) campaign for wage increases for workers at eight councils.

Aspartoftheindustrialaction,household binswerenotcollected.

Mr Luker said the 100 striking workers from Hume, Merri-Bek and Darebin councils were apologetic towards residents whosebinswereleftunemptied.

“We don’t mean to affect your services and we didn’t want it to come to this point,“ MrLukersaid.

“We don’t want [residents] to feel like our actionsarepunishingthembecausethey’re theonesweserveeveryday.”

Mr Luker said the union members decided to strike because Hume council “snowballed“ pay negotiations for 18 months.

“It wasn’t until two weeks ago that they actually sat at the table and negotiated with us.”

The first bargaining meeting between the councils and the union was held on 24 March after being approved by Fair Work in lateDecember.

MrLukersaidcouncilworkersarefighting for a 10 per cent wage increase, not to get richbuttomatchinflation.

“We’re about 12 to 14 per cent behind inflation,“ he said. “The cost of living is just

getting crazy. I know it’s affecting everyone, butit’sgettingoutofcontrol.

“We’re not trying to get more wealthy, we’re just trying to stay on top of things and keepeven.”

He said ongoing cost-of-living pressures has pushed council labourers to move into theprivateindustry.

“We’re skilled workers and we’re just worriedthatit’sgoingtogettoapointwhere we’re going to have to go where the money is.”

Despite the dispute, he said he enjoys his jobandtakesprideinthework.

“It sounds like a dirty job, but actually it’s so rewarding when you’ve cleaned up a street, picked up all that rubbish and done goodforthecommunity.“

He said it is up to the council to take negotiations seriously and ensure services continueasnormal.

While workers have returned following the strike, Mr Luker said partial industrial actionwillcontinue.

“There’s some bans on certain roads where we’re not going to be picking up organics,likegreenwaste,“hesaid.

In a joint statement with Merri-bek, Darebin, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Yarra, Melbourne and Greater Dandenong councils, Hume council said the disruption toresidentsisregrettable.

“We ask our communities for their patience and we will continue to negotiate in good faith with all unions representing ourstaff,”thestatementsaid.

MY PLACE

Dudley Crowe is an army veteran from Craigieburn and a recipient of the governer general’s Group Bravery Citation award. He spoke with Courtney Black about his service and Anzac Day.

Tell us about your army service.

I joined the army in June 1978 and was discharged in July 1998 so served for about 20 years. I served during non-war time (peacetime). I was first with the air dispatch, looking after the parachutes that they used. Then I came to Broadmeadowsandworkedinthemedical and dental stores. Then I got put into the Victoria Barracks pharmacy for a couple of years. That was easier because I only worked from 10am-2pm. Then afterwards at home, I’d have to do the vouchering for all the medication that they needed. I had a big break in between but I’d stay up until 10pm at night handwriting them out.

What was your Group Bravery Citation awarded for?

It was for the Nella Dan ship rescue on December 3 1987. We had landed on Macquarie Island at the sub-Antarctic base. We were starting to do ship-to-shore LOTS (logistics over the shore) operations but a storm hit at about 8am so we stopped. Then at 7.30pm she (Nella Dan) dragged her anchor so we had to rescue all the people on board. She’d hit rocks and the water was pouring in through the tanks and spewing out diesel oil all over us. We offloaded all the passengers and crew except for the captain and the engineer. In the end all of us got a Group Bravery Citation.

What does Anzac Day mean to you?

Dudley Crowe. (Damjan Janevski) 544155_02

I go to the Craigieburn service mostly every year. It’s sometimes sad. We remember some of the guys we lost. Going through it you lose people when you’re doingtraininganddifferent stuff likethat. Then you find out later that some actually committed suicide because they just couldn’t handle it outside the service. But it sort of gives you joy that the community comes together just for simple things like this. But I suppose it’s not simple, is it? They gave their freedom.

What is your connection to Craigieburn? I live in Craigieburn with my wife of 17 years Judy. I made enquires to the Craigieburn War Memorial and Remembrance Committee and they invited me to a Monday morning catch up that they always have at Craigieburn Central. I have been involved for about 12 months. We have a smoko and we do a quiz, ladies versus gents. I didn’t know any of them beforehand, so it’s making me more comfortable. We often share stories about our time in the army.

Retirement coaching: Navigating life’s next chapter

What Does a Retirement Coach Actually Do?

A retirement coach isn’t just there to talk numbers. They guide you in figuring out how to spend your time, maintain connections, and keep a sense of purpose. It’s about crafting a retirement that aligns with what you value most. Whether it’s exploring new hobbies, finding volunteer opportunities, or staying socially active, a retirement coach helps you navigate the emotionalandpracticalaspectsofretiring. This support is particularly valuable during the early stages of retirement when the shift can feel like a loss of identity or purpose. A retirement coach offers guidance,helpingtocreateabalancedand satisfyingplanforthisnewchapterinlife.

Why Work with a Certified Retirement Coach?

There are plenty of reasons to consider workingwithacertifiedretirementcoach:

•Tailored Planning: Retirement isn’t one-size-fits-all. A coach helps you set goals that make sense for your unique situation, whether that’s travelling more, learning something new, or spending moretimewithfamily.

•EmotionalSupport: Retirementcanbring amixofemotions.Acoachprovidesasafe space to explore these feelings and helps you navigate the ups and downs of this transition.

•Staying on Track: Just like a personal trainer helps with fitness goals, a retirement coach keeps you focused on your retirement goals, offering support andaccountabilityalongtheway.

Finding the Right Retirement Coach When you’re ready to work with a

retirement coach, you might wonder, “Where can I find a retirement coach near me?” Many coaches offer both in-person andonlinesessions,makingiteasiertofind one that fits your needs. Look for someone with a retirement coach certification and experience in helping people in situations like yours. You can start your search by asking friends or financial advisors for recommendations or by searching online. Therightcoachcanhelpyoumakethemost ofyourretirement,turningwhatmightfeel likeanendingintoanewbeginning.

Is Retirement Coaching Worth It?

Retirement is a significant life change that deservesthoughtfulplanning.Aretirement coach can help you approach this new phase with confidence, making sure your retirement isn’t just the end of work but the start of something meaningful. If you’re planning your retirement or thinkingabouthowtohelpothersnavigate theirs, consider pursuing a retirement coaching certification program. And if you’re already retired or getting close, finding the right coach could be the key to

a happy, purposeful life in your golden years. AtCentennialLiving,we’recommittedto supportingourresidentsinlivingtheirbest lives. Whether through the guidance of a retirement coach or the lively community life in our villages, we’re here to help you makethemostofyourretirement.

Want to learn more? Please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team by visiting www.centennialliving.com.au or calling 1300 098 000 today!

Keeping the mind sharp linked to happiness in older age

A major long-term study has found that olderadultswithstrongercognitiveabilities report higher levels of life satisfaction, positive mood, and health-related quality oflifeovertime.

PublishedinAging&MentalHealthand led by UNSW Sydney’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), the research followedmorethan1,000olderadults,who did not have dementia at entry into the study,forover12years,makingitoneofthe most comprehensive studies to examine how thinking abilities relate to wellbeing inlaterlife.

Looking beyond disease

Wellbeing in older age is often discussed in terms of physical illness or disability. However,researcherssaythisoverlooksan important part of the picture: how people feelabouttheirownlives.

“Subjectivewellbeing”referstoaperson’s own assessment of their happiness, including life satisfaction and positive emotions. “Health-related quality of life” focuses more specifically on how people feel about their health and its impact on dailyliving.

Lead author on the research, Dr Michael Connors, says that both measures give older adults a voice in defining what successful ageing means to them - not just the absence of disease, but the presence of fulfilmentandpositiveexperiences.

CHeBA’s Sydney Memory and Ageing Study assessed 1037 community-dwelling older adults every two years. Participants were required to complete detailed cognitive (thinking and memory) tests, medical and health assessments, surveys measuring life satisfaction and positive emotions,questionnairesonhealth-related

qualityoflife,andmeasuresofdepression, anxiety,andpersonality.

“Weusedadvancedstatisticalmodelling to examine how cognition and other factorswerelinkedtowellbeingovertime,” saidDrConnors.

“Results showed that older adults with higher cognitive scores reported greater life satisfaction, more positive emotions, andbetterhealth-relatedqualityoflife.”

According to the research, these links remained consistent over the full 12-year period.

The relationship held even after accounting for age, sex, physical health, daily functioning, relationship status, depression,anxiety,personalitytraits,and alcohol use. It also held after excluding peoplewhodevelopeddementia.

“We found that wellbeing in older age isn’t determined by cognition alone,” said DrConnors.

“Several other factors independently played an important role. Older adults who had better physical health and were able to function more independently in

their daily lives tended to report higher levels of life satisfaction and quality of life. Lower levels of anxiety were also strongly linked to better wellbeing.

Personality made a difference toopeople who were less prone to worry and emotional distress (lower neuroticism), and those who tended to be organised, responsible and self-disciplined (higher conscientiousness), consistently reported betterwellbeing.

“Together, these findings show that successful ageing is shaped by a combinationofmentalsharpness,physical health, emotional health, and enduring personalitytraits.”

Interestingly, female sex, older age, and living in residential care were associated with poorer health-related quality of life, but not necessarily lower life satisfaction orpositivemood.

The findings suggest that maintaining cognitive health may play an important role in supporting happiness and quality oflifeinolderage-beyonditswell-known roleinreducingdementiarisk.

Importantly, the study highlights that wellbeinginlaterlifeisshapedbymultiple factors. Physical health, mental health, personality and everyday functioning all contribute to how older adults experience theirlives.

Senior author on the paper Professor Henry Brodaty AO, who is Co-Director of CHeBA and Senior Australian of the Year, says the results support growing interest in public health initiatives aimed at promoting both cognitive health and overall wellbeing in ageing populations. He adds that more research is needed to understand what interventions can be offeredtoimprovewellbeing.

Quality affordable home in secure friendly community

Step into effortless retirement living with this brand-new, beautifully appointed villa in the highly sought after Melba Vale Country Club. Secure your place in one of the most vibrant over-55s communities before it’s gone.

Perfectly positioned in Coolaroo on Pascoe Vale Road, you’ll enjoy the convenience of being just minutes from BroadmeadowsShoppingCentreandclose to public transport. Everything you need right at your doorstep.

Villa 61 – Exceptional Value at $485,000 (No Stamp Duty!)

This is your chance to own a premium, low-maintenance home at an unbeatable price point.

Designed for comfort, style, and flexibility, this stunning villa features:

• Sleek stone benchtops and quality kitchen appliances

• Lightfilledopen-planlivingplusasecond lounge, study, or optional third bedroom

• Spacious bedrooms with built-in robes

• Modern two-way ensuite plus an additional toilet

• Gas ducted heating and split system air conditioning for year-round comfort

• Ducted vacuum system

• Secure internal access from a single car garage

• A private rear garden. Perfect for relaxing or entertaining

A Lifestyle You’ll Love

Melba Vale isn’t just a place to live. it’s a community where you can truly thrive. Residents enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a lifestyle tailored to their needs.

Indulge in exceptional on-site facilities, including:

• A stunning Community Club with bar, theatre,library,pooltable,andhairsalon

• Fully equipped gym

• Outdoor bowling rink

• Social outings/activities and shopping trips via the community bus Withdedicatedon-sitemanagementand a 24-hour emergency call system, you’ll have complete peace of mind.

Act Now – Inspections Available Village manager Gregory Nicholls invites you to experience everything Melba Vale has to offer. Inspections are available MondaytoFriday,10am–4pm,orbyprivate appointment.

0 l

Call Gregory today on FreeCall 1800 503 225 today to arrange your personal tour or visit melbavale.com.au

Puzzles you should pick up to keep your mind sharp

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

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

Engaging games for cognitive fitness

Here are 3 engaging games that you can playbyyourselforwithfriendsandfamily tohelpkeepyourmindsharp.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Mill Park Community House Groups

The Neuro Group is a social group catering for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and neurological disabilities. The group runs Mondays and Fridays and includes bingo, card games, group outings and much more. There is a $10 yearly fee and a gold coin donation for tea, coffee and snacks. The carers friendship group supports families and friends who care for someone experiencing mental illness and meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month. The Coffee & Chat runs every Thursday 1-3pm and is a relaxed and friendly space where everyone is welcomed in for a gold coin donation. The seniors Recycled Teenagers Group runs every Tuesday between 12pm and 3pm. $10 yearly fee, includes tea, coffee and afternoon tea every week. Natasha, 0408 561 597

Craigieburn Residents’ Association

Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening about roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? The Craigieburn Residents’ Association is the perfect platform to share your concerns. The association liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. It also gives donations to local charities each year. The group meets on the last Wednesday of the month at Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn, at 7.30pm. craigieburnresidents@gmail.com or 0430 354 463

Kalkallo English Classes

Learn to speak English with confidence. Open to all adults, come to learn English in a fun and supportive environment. Improve your English speaking, reading and writing in a supportive group. Practice speaking, listening, and understanding English for daily life. Gain confidence in conversations at work, in shops, and in the community. Meet new people and make friends while learning together. Enjoy a relaxed and friendly classroom where everyone is welcome. Mondays 11am to 1pm at Kalkallo Community Centre, 33 Toyon Road, Kalkallo.

Sussex Neighbourhood House, 9354 2210

Bridgewater Retirement Village Dance

Bridgewater Retirement Village is holding a free afternoon dance. There will be a bit of line dancing and some new vogue. The dance will occur on the third Sunday of every month, 1pm start. Everyone is welcome. 9 Wedgewood Road Roxburgh Park.

Liz Munro, 0409 712 613

Craigieburn Country Women’s Association

The Craigieburn Branch of CWA welcomes women of all ages to its meetings and craft sessions which are held on the third Wednesday of every month. Meetings begin at 10.30am followed by lunch and a craft or socialising session. Meeting venue is St Thomas’s Uniting Church corner of Rayfield and Dianne Avenues in Craigieburn. craigieburncwa@gmail.com or Karen, 0499 821 754

Bundoora Probus

Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Alma Road, Bundoora at 10am. Make new friends at excursions, lunches, coffee mornings, walks and craft sessions. Hear guest speakers at monthly meetings. Leanne, 0419 004 997

Gladstone Park Probus Club

Have fun with like minded people if you

live in Gladstone Park and surrounding suburbs. Monthly speakers, lunches, outings and bus tours. The probus club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 9.45am at the Good Shepherd Parish Hall, 88 South Circular Road, Gladstone Park. Visitors and new members welcome. Chris, 0422 017 907

Young parents group

DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young parents every Thursday, from 10.30am-noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 McDonalds Road, Mill Park. Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819

Community singing group

Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing. Sonja, 0429 587 285

Chatty Cafe

Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday,

from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park. https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/

TAC L2P Program

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.

Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker. Enjoy a dance between 7-11pm on the third saturday of every month. All are welcome.

Liz Munro, 0409 712 613 or lizmunro7@gmail.com

Inclusive tennis

A free weekly tennis program for people with disabilities and/or special needs, or if you’re just struggling to access mainstream sport programs. Held at Epping Tennis Club, 861 High Street, Epping, on Thursdays from 5-6pm. play.tennis.com.au/eppingtennisclub. com.au

Mernda Repair cafe

Located at Mernda Neighbourhood House, the Mernda Repair Café will be open monthly for residents to come and have their faulty or broken items fixed. Staffed by skilled volunteers from the community. A range of repairers will be available at each session with skills in repairing items including bikes, small electrical items, clothing and jewellery.

Mernda Repair Cafe Facebook page for bookings each month.

Regular Storytime for Kids

Yarra Plenty Regional Library offers a range of children’s services and programs across their network of libraries. They are run every day with sessions for young babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and families. Come along to help your child develop those crucial language skills and social connections. yprl.vic.gov.au

Craigieburn Probus Club

Craigieburn Probus Club offers retired people an opportunity to socialise, go on monthly bus trips, enjoy dine outs and morning melodies among other activities like general business, morning tea and an interesting speaker. Every second Monday of the month at the Craigieburn Bowling Club, 233 Craigieburn Road, Craigieburn. Bill, 0411 517 217 or Marion, 0407 052 774

Circus fun splashes down

Rub-a-dub-dub this school holidays with the silly splashing circus performance The Splash Test Dummies.

This comedic aquatic-themed circus is diving into South Morang on April 14 and The Dummies are set to drown their audienceintearsoflaughter.TheDummies will roll out their towels at Plenty Ranges ArtsandConventionCentre(PRACC)ready for an aquatic adventure from bathtubs to beaches.

This circus includes classic slapstick comedy as The Dummies stumble and

tumble across the stage. It is jam packed with 70 minutes of stunts that will shock you, dazzling acrobatics and thrilling juggling acts.

The Dummies have been making waves around the world and have toured for over a decade. They have performed in large festivalsandlocalvenuesacrosstheUnited Kingdom,Europe,Asia,UnitedStates,New Zealand and now Australia. The group has won awards at the world’s largest arts festivals including the Adelaide Fringe and Edinburgh Fringe.

HALO hits a high note

Bowery Theatre will be filled with powerful vocals, ethereal harmonies and palpable energy this month as the HALO vocal ensemble presents its HALO & Friends concertinBrimbank.

Ensemble founder and musical director Liona Tatafu said HALO was formed about seven years ago and consists of members whoareallclosefriends.

“It’s our first original show. We’re taking onanewdirection,”shesaid.

“Everyone’s going to be seeing the new HALOandhearingallouroriginalmusic.”

The show will comprise 12 performers, many of whom are from the western suburbs, with the evening being emceed by rapperStrictlyD.T.

“Healwayskeepsthingslightandfunny,” Tatafusaid.

Some of the ensemble’s musical inspirations include Tori Kelly, Maverick CityMusicandKirkFranklin.

“It’s very much gospel, soul…lyrical, funky,upbeatvibes,”Tatafusaid.

“Vocally,it’sveryharmonyheavy.”

Shesaidensemblemembersloveworking together to develop layered harmonies and musicalarrangements.

“[The audience] is going to feel it too with the words of love and community,” she said. “I’d definitely love to encourage the audience to get up and dance. Be prepared to sing and cry, all the emotions. It’s gonna besuperfun.”

The HALO & Friends concert will run from 6.30pm to 10pm on Saturday 18 April at Bowery Theatre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans.

“It’s community, it’s family, it’s love, it’s unity. It’s just bringing people together,” Tatafusaid.

The event is only for people aged 18 and over. Ticket prices and more info: creativebrimbank.com.au

Honour the Anzacs

Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity.

Stephanie starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting.

JoinStephanieassheexplorestheendless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary.

Grab your flippers and snorkels and get readytodiveintoTheSplashTestDummies circus at 11am on April 14.

This circus includes loud sounds, flashing lights and interactive elements, and it is suitable for ages 5 and up. Tickets are available to purchase online. Details: https://www.pracc.com. au/Whats-On/PRACC-Program/ Splash-Test-Dummies

The Splash Test Dummies will dive into South Morang these school holidays. (Supplied)

This month, Stephanie is creating an Anzac poppy brooch.

Anzac poppy brooch

Materials

Red glitter foam sheet

Green glitter foam sheet

Safety pin

Black button

Equipment

Template

Scissors

Hot glue gun

Step 1: Using the template, cut out all pieces from the glitter foam sheets.

Step 2: Place one red poppy on top of the other, turning it slightly so the petals sit between each other. Glue them together in the centre.

Step 3: Fold each petal into the centre and glue down. Glue the black button in the centre of the poppy. Glue the green leaf to the back of the poppy.

Step 4: Glue a safety pin to the back of the poppy.

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

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which winter sport consists of cross-country skate skiing and rifle shooting?

2. Is a riposte a defensive or offensive move in fencing?

3. Nestory Irankunda plays what position for the Socceroos?

4. Italy officially missed out on a 2026 World Cup slot after losing to which country?

5. Who is the current men’s world No.1 tennis player?

6. ‘Enforcer’ is a term used in which sport?

7. Ryan Corr stars in which 2015 romcom with an AFL term as the title?

Which team nickname is shared by an AFL team and Philadelphia’s NFL team?

NBL player Bryce Cotton recently became the fourth person to score how many points in a single season?

The Newcastle Northstars are a team in which league?

How many nations will compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament?

12. How many AFL teams are based in states other than Victoria?

13. Australian rugby union coach Mick Byrne has ended his two-year tenure in charge of which country’s national team?

14. Which Australian pop icon will perform at this year’s AFL grand final?

15. Which Italian F1 driver leads the drivers’ championship after the first three rounds?

16. Which cricketing state stunned Victoria in the Sheffield Shield final to claim its second consecutive title?

17. And which fast-bowling allrounder was player of the match, scoring a half-century and taking six wickets?

18. Which high-speed field sport often described as the ‘fastest game on grass’ originated in Ireland?

19. How many Australian Opens has tennis legend Novak Djokovic won?

20. British-born Williams F1 driver Alex Albon races under which country’s flag?

21. Which two teams featured in the NBL 2026 Grand Final Series?

22.NRL player Tui Kamikamica plays for which club?

23. English cricketers Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell were recently let off with a warning after a nightclub incident in which country?

24. Which Matildas star recently signed a $10 million deal with Adidas?

25. Which sponsor is the premier partner of the AFL?

26. Which US state will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final?

28. James Warburton recently stepped down as the CEO of which Australian sporting competition?

29. Tiger Woods recently turned down the captaincy of the US team in which golfing tournament?

30.Who is the current captain of the Port Adelaide Power?

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.

1 Melodious (7)

5 Sketch (7)

9 Agile (9)

10 Spanish for 'coast' (5)

11 Greek god of music, poetry, etc. (6)

12 Person who deserts a party to join another one (8)

14 Electronic novels (1-5)

15 Teaching period (4)

19 Slender support (4)

20 Dog with a curly coat (6)

24 Stressed (8)

25 Japanese robe (6)

27 'Well done!' (5)

28 Childish (9) 29 Ritual (7)

30 Unity (7)

foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim:

9 words: Good 14 words: Very good 19 words: Excellent

1 Zany (6) 2 Church caretaker (6) 3 Scientific workrooms  (coll) (4,4) 4 Be ominously close (4)

Discourse (10) 6 Go up; climb (6)

7 Put back (8)

8 Interim period (8)

13 Intricateness (10)

16 A major city in Türkiye (8)

17 Trader (8)

18 League (8)

21 Situated within the building (6)

22 Beginner (6)

23 Roy or Ginger (6)

26 Curly hairdo (4)

3 LETTERS APT

1 Along with Edmund Hillary, who was the first person to climb Mount Everest?

2 Where is the world's largest desert located?

3 True or false: hippos are unable to swim?

4 Who wrote the screenplay for Rocky?

5 What is the bestselling girl group of all time?

6 Name the spacecraft that carried the first astronauts to the moon.

7 Which is smaller: a virus particle or a bacterial cell?

8 What character does John Travolta (pictured) play in the 1977 film SaturdayNight Fever?

9 In what year was Earth Day first celebrated?

10 What name is singer and actor Stefani Germanotta better known by?

Huge news in big SUV dept

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

It’s not so long ago that the first Hyundai toppedthe$70,000mark.

The 2015 Genesis was good, but would buyers be prepared to pay that much for a Koreancar,everyonewondered?

FastforwardandwenowhaveGWM’sfirst vehicle to pass this milestone – its flagship Tank500UltraPHEVseven-seatoff-roader.

And once again we find ourselves pondering whether buyers will stump up this sort of money to buy a Chinese vehicle thistime.

In its defence, the large SUV is a substantial offering with plenty to offer those in the market for a large, luxurious wagonwithsomerealoff-roadcapability.

Styling Tank 500 shares its body on frame underpinnings with GWM’s Cannon Alpha utility.

There are two powertrains and three grades from which to choose, all of them hybridsofonesortofanother.

The range kicks off with the Ultra HEV, a conventional petrol-electric hybrid priced from$73,990.It’sfollowedbytheVantaHEV from $75,990 and finally the plug-in Ultra PHEV,thesubjectofourreviewpricedfrom $77,990–allpricesaredriveaway.

HEV versions are self-charging hybrids and come with seven seats, while the PHEV is a five-seater that can be plugged in and charged, and operate in fully electric mode tofurtherreducefuelconsumption.

Both of the hybrid setups are based on a 2.0-litreturbochargedpetrolengine.

Also of note, the Tank 500 is a real 4WD, withtorqueondemandall-wheeldrive,dual range transmission and plenty of ground clearancefortacklingtheroughstuff

So, while it might sound expensive, it stacksupprettywellagainstthecompetition which includes the likes of Toyota’s Prado, theFordEverestandPajeroSportetc.

The styling is big, boofy and conservative with chunky tyres and lashings of chrome trim in evidence plus an aggressively styled radiator grille that would not look out of placeonthefrontofaRampickup.

TheTankisobviouslytargetedattheolder cashed-up age group who like their shiny toysandarepreparedtopayforthem.

Ditto the cabin fitout which has a plush, heavily-upholstered look with wood trim and an inset instrument panel, rather than themorecommonminimalistapproach.

Theoldfolkswillloveit.

They won’t love the heavy tailgate with its sparewheelhoweverwhichrequiresquitea bitofefforttooperateattimes.

Not sure what the tailgate icon on the key fob is either because that sucker ain’t going anywhere, especially if you’re parked on a hill.

ThePHEVisexceptionallywell-equipped, with three-zone climate air, Nappa leather-accented trim, power-adjust front seats that are heated, cooled and provide massage, plus a second row with its own climate controls and power folding function, a power-adjust heated steering wheel, plus three digital displays including head-updisplayandapanoramicsunroof.

Highlights include the GWM app which provides remote access, a classy dashboard timepiece that spins to the correct time when the car opens, kid-pleasing side steps that pop-out automatically on approach and touchscreen controls for the little ones to fiddle with that are incorporated in the rear,fold-downcentrearmrest.

It lets passengers control the radio, climate settings, ambient lighting, and seat comfortfeatures.

Watchoutparents.

Other features include LED lights, hands-free auto parking, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors and anauto-dimmingrear-viewmirror.

Tank 500 is covered by a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, seven years roadsideassistanceandsevenyearscapped price servicing, plus eight years on the high voltagebatterypack.

Infotainment Infotainment consists of a 14.6-inch centre touchscreen, with Bluetooth, built-in navigation,AM/FMandDAB+digitalradio, wired and unwired Apple CarPlay and AndroidAutoplus12-speakerInfinityaudio withactivenoisecancellation.

Head-up display is also fitted and comes intoviewoccasionallyifyouhappentowear polarised sunglasses. Why can’t they spend thetimetofixthisissue?

There’s USB A and C ports front and back, as well as 12-volt outlets front and back, but no 12-volt outlet in the rear for powering a carfridge.

Wireless phone charging is also provided and another USB port near the rear vision mirrortopoweradashcam.

Safety

Tank 500 scores a full five stars for safety in crashtests.

A sophisticated safety lineup includes seven airbags, with a centre airbag that provides added protection to front seat occupants in side impact crashes, plus a 360-degree camera with overhead transparentmode.

Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car,VulnerableRoadUser,Junction & Crossing, Backover and Head-On) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist(LKA),lanedeparturewarning(LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and an advancedspeedassistancesystem(SAS)are standard.

Engines/transmissions

Providing the motivation is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, together with a 120kW electric motor and 37kWh battery that delivers a combined 300kW of power and 750Nm of torque, the latter from a low 1750rpm.

The nine-speed transmission with paddle shifters is reported to be China’s first longitudinal nine-speed hydraulic automatictransmission.

Driving

Justshyof5.1metresinlengthandweighing closetothreetonnes(2820kg),theTank500 isnoshrinkingviolet.

But it gets moving surprisingly quickly for a big feller, especially the PHEV with a 0-100km/htimeof6.9seconds.

Overseas there’s also a version with two electric motors and a larger 59kWh battery that produces 635kW and a staggering 1195Nmoftorque.Bringitonbaby!

A 150kW electric motor is integrated into the9HATtransmissionandsitsbetweenthe engineandgearbox,whichisdescribedasa P2layout.A37.1kWhbatteryisplacedatthe rearofthechassis.

As well as the ability to operate in high and low range, driving modes include: Eco, Normal, Sports, Snow, Sand, Rock, Mud, Auto, Expert. Not sure what the last one is about.

There are also three levels of adjustment forthesteeringplusadjustableregenerative braking.

With a 70-litre tank, it takes standard unleaded and offers combined fuel consumption of 2.1L/100km if you keep the batterycharged(andthisoneisnotiddlerso somecommitmentisrequired).

The just-drive-it brigade can expect 8.4L/100km or more. Energy consumption meanwhile is a heavy 27.2kWh/100km, so it’s going to eat through the charge fairly quickly.

A fully charged battery will deliver a pure electricrangeofupto120km(NEDC).

The PHEV can be charged from 30-80 per cent charge with a 50kW DC fast charger in 24 minutes, while 15-100 per cent with an AC charger takes some six hours and 30 minutes.

Remember that’s not a full charge, but if youinstallaWallboxathomeyoucanexpect ittobereadytogoagaininthemorning.

The PHEV also offers Vehicle-to-Load capability which means it can be used to powerACaccessories.

Brakedtowingcapacityacrosstherangeis 3000kgandasyoucanseeitpacksafull-size spare on the swing tailgate (which will be a buggertogetoffintheeventofaflat).

Cargo capacity is 1400 litres with the rear seats folded or 640 litres with them in use, with an artificially high luggage floor to accommodatethebatteries.

OntheroadtheTankisquickoffthemark, but can be difficult to off the line cleanly, with even a dab touch of the accelerator deliveringajerkyresponse.

Ridequalityisnotbadbutcouldbebetter, and we are not aware whether this vehicle has been put through GWM’s Australian tuningprogram.

If it has, it’s nowhere as good as the H6 PHEVthatwedroverecently.

The weight of the vehicle helps offset jar andreboundandonwell-formedroads.

Push too hard however and this same weight will lead to oversteer in corners,

whichcausesthebacktostepout. In terms of off-road ability, the figures suggestitcouldbeacontender. There’s under-body protection, dual range four-wheel drive, ground clearance of 224mm and a wading depth of 800mm, which all bode well, along with locking front,centreandreardifferentials.

Retaining mechanical linkages allows power to be sent directly to a single wheel if needed, ensuring traction even in the roughestconditions.

Approach angle is 30 degrees, departure angle is 24 degrees and breakover 22 degrees.

Tank Turn Assist allows the vehicle to performatight,pivotingturnbylockingthe rear wheels while the front wheels steer in theoppositedirection.

This enables the vehicle to manoeuvre easily in narrow spaces, enhancing its off-roadcapabilities.

Buttheproofisinthepudding,solet’ssee Great Wall tackle Beer O’Clock Hill as it did withthesmallerTank300–thenitwillhave somethingtocrowabout.

You can select between EV, HEV and Intelligent hybrid modes. EV prioritises the battery,HEVseesitoperateasaconventional hybrid and Intelligent is described as the idealoptionforlong-distancecommutes. Experimentation showed it favoured the petrolengine.

HEVprovedtobethepreferredmode. Sitting at 100km/h on flat motorway for more than 30km saw the vehicle use hardly anyfuelorbattery.

We clocked up 750km in our week behind the wheel of the Tank 500, with an average 8.8L/100km fuel consumption and 6.0kWh/100km of energy consumption, but nocompositefigure.

After 515km and with 15 per cent battery and a range of 155km remaining, we opted to recharge the battery using an AC charger whichtookfourhoursand40minutes.

The first time we plugged it in the vehicle failedtostartcharginganditwasnecessary to remove and reinsert the plug a couple of times before it got going, confirming it was indeedcharging.Goodthingwechecked. Once it had finished charging it was reluctant to go into Drive and it was necessary to turn the car off and one a coupleoftimes.

A tab on the scrollable info screen reveals the car had 845km of EV range and 2314km of fuel range, but these figures actually represent the distance travelled by the car in entirety. Moreover, you have to dive into the centre touchscreen to keep tabs on the remainingcombinedrange.

Other idiosyncrasies include the indicators which often fail to cancel, poor AM radio reception and it took us some time to work out how to activate blind spot warnings, which turns out to be associated withsomethingcalledSmartDodge. And we never did discover how to reduce the distance to the car in front with the adaptivecruisecontrolengaged.

Summing up

The Tank 500 PHEV is surprisingly likeable, offering a heady mix of luxury and off-road abilityinahi-techpackage.

It’s good buying now but we’d opt to watch and act, to wait and see where GWM takes this model which probably won’t take long given the rapid evolution of Chinese vehicles.

Onceuponatimeittookcarmakersyears to test and evaluate new models, but these days it seems to have contracted to mere months.

Buyersthemselvesappeartohavebecome partofthetestphase.Don’tyouthink?

Wet weather for football

Barkeley’s new challenge

By Tara Murray

Max Barkeley was considering having a year off basketball when the Craigieburn Eagles came calling.

The Canadian, who now calls Australia home, found the opportunity with the Big V division 1 club too hard to knock back.

“Didn’t know if I was going to play again, I was pretty happy at home with the kids and the family,” Barkeley said in the lead up to the season.

“Definitely a lot more left in the tank. Have some friends here that have come across to the club for this year.

“I’m excited and it’s been a lot of fun since the pre-season and everything is getting going.

“I’m looking forward to it.”

Barkeley has played with a number of clubs since coming to Australia including the Sunbury Jets and Keilor Thunder in recent times.

He said as he wasn’t looking to play, it was a combination of friends that he’s played with in the past and early conversations with coach Tim Annett made it hard to say no.

“It’s very community oriented and friendly vibes.”

Barkeley recently applied for his Australian citizenship and has been living out here full time for the last few years.

He said he was hoping to bring his experiences at higher levels to the Eagles this season as they look to be one of the

contenders.

“I think anytime you can come from anywhere, no matter what level it is, you bring different experiences,” Barkeley said.

“I think the best teams, that are successful in the end, find a way to bring cohesion from everyone’s different experiences.

“Hopefully, it’s not all for nothing all these years that I’ve been playing and I can make an impact with it.”

Barkeley said the group had put in a lot of work to get themselves ready for the season.

It had reflected on the court as they’ve started the season with two wins from as many games.

After the Easter break, the Eagles resumed their season on Saturday night

Hume City Broncos are finding their feet

By Tara Murray

Hume City Broncos are expecting to get an early season guide of how they are tracking this weekend in the Big V men’s championship division.

The Broncos started the season with a win before the weekend off due to Easter. They were back in action on the weekend in a double header against Gippsland United on Saturday and then face Warrandyte Venom on Sunday.

Speaking before the matches, Broncos coach Simon Gray said they were keen to really get into the season now.

It’s Gray’s first season in charge of the side.

“It’s been good and we’ve come together pretty well and we’ve been able to iron out a lot of stuff,” he said.

“There’s three new starters and that makes it interesting and a couple of new players on the bench.

“We are playing in a similar fashion, we play pretty hard at Hume.

“It’s been the same focus but there have been some differences.”

Gray said their round one win was “ugly” but they had taken a lot out of the game.

The Broncos were able to beat the Camberwell Dragons, 93-87 courtesy of a 23-15 final quarter.

“I think it was the same for both teams,” he said of how the game was played.

“It fell apart in the first game as we did something different to what we had been doing.

“We worked through the process and it didn’t work.

“It was good to grind out a win. It’s a lot of learning at this stage with a pretty new team.”

Robbie Heath scored 38 points for the Broncos and was a standout alongside Lachlan Wood.

Cedric Anderson and Ricardo Time did a really good job in the final quarter to get them over the line while captain Robert Coman was again the glue guy for the side.

Speaking about the weekend’s games, Gray said they are keen to see how they go.

“Two games this weekend, we’ll know a little more how we are going after this weekend,” he said.

“We’ll look to build into the season, very much so.”

Gray would have been happy with the weekend’s results as they claimed wins in both games.

Against Gippsland United, the Broncos had a 93-90 win.

It was an up and down game with Gippsland leading by six points at quarter time, before the Broncos won the next two quarters to lead by 12 points heading into the final quarter.

United came home strong but it wasn’t enough.

Heath top scored with 24 points.

Against Warrandyte, the Broncos had a 108-97 win. The win was again set up in the middle two quarters.

Wood top scored with 24 points, while

against the Chelsea Gulls.

It was a tough night for the Eagles.

After an even first quarter, the Gulls broke the game open in the second quarter, which they won, 30-14.

They maintained the lead in the third quarter before finishing off strongly to beat the Eagles, 118-87.

Shawndale Jones Jnr top scored for the Eagles with 24 points, while Barkeley shot 22 points.

The Eagles face the Bulleen Boomers on Sunday in round four.

The Eagles’ division 1 women’s side had a bye.

It will be searching for its first win of the season on Sunday against the Camberwell Dragons.

Sports shorts

Dockerty Cup

Just 40 clubs remain in the Dockerty Cup with fixtures for rounds five and six drawn on Wednesday night. Round five of the competition will be played on the evenings of 21-23 April and 28-30 April. Among the match ups are, Whittlesea United against North Sunshine Eagles, Hume City will take on Brunswick Juventus and Uni Hill Eagles will play Altona City.

VSDCA

Plenty Valley has named a familiar face as its coach for the next Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season. Adam Drinkwell, who is a former player and women’s coach at the club, will coach the men’s side next season. “Adam brings a wealth of experience from across the cricket landscape, with a strong background in player development, pathways and senior coaching,” the Bats said on social media. “Adam enjoyed a standout career in both Premier Cricket and VSDCA.”

NPL

Hume City suffered a rare loss in the National Premier League on Saturday afternoon. Hume was in action against the Oakleigh Cannons and trailed 1-0 at half time. Hume scored twice after the break to take the lead. The Cannons were able to get two late goals to seal a 3-2 win. The loss means Hume slips to third spot. Hume City faces St Albans Saints in round nine on Saturday afternoon.

FV

Upfield came away with an important win against Ballarat City in the FV state league 1 north-west competition on Saturday. After a week off, Upfield made the trip to Ballarat for the match up. Upfield opened the scoring in the 20 minute before Ballarat hit straight back. Upfield took back the lead with its second goal in the 30th minute. Ballarat levelled scores again in the second half, before a goal to Vani Shamoon in the 88th minute was enough for Upfield to win 3-2. Upfield now sits fifth on the ladder.

Time had 22 points.

In women’s championship, the Broncos had a 73-48 loss to the Sherbrooke Suns.

The Broncos were missing a couple of key talls which didn’t help their cause.

Kelly Heimburger top scored with 16 points.

Eagles keen to respond

By Tara Murray

Uni Hill Eagles are hoping to kick start their FV state league 2 north-west season.

The Eagles haven’t had the ideal start to the season, losing their two matches before the Easter break.

Eagles’ vice-president Assad Chaheen said there weren’t any panic stations yet. The side missed out on promotion last season on the final day of the season.

“It has been good and there’s been a few new signings,” he said.

“We haven’t started well but it’s still early days.

“Hopefully the boys will put in a late charge similar to last year when we missed out by a touch.”

Chaheen said they had lost two key players from last season, while they had added three or four players to replace them.

He said on paper they had a stronger side than last year.

Chaheen said the disappointment from last season was driving the group heading into this year.

“There is a hunger in the team to get promoted,” he said.

“We want to get that spot.”

While the Eagles have had a slow start to the state league season, they are still alive in the Dockerty Cup.

They will face Altona City in the fifth round after beating Barnstoneworth United, 5-0 on 4 April.

The Eagles were in action on Saturday against Western Eagles.

Chaheen said before the game it would be a tough challenge against a side that is undefeated.

The Eagles got the result they were after as they came away with a 3-1 win.

The Eagles scored the only goal of the first half through Daniel Chaabani.

Western Eagles levelled the scores in the 56th minute before Uni Hill scored twice more through Samuel Hershey and Juhfar Bardan to seal the win.

The win moves them up to 10th on the ladder.

While the men’s side has had a slow start, the Eagles women’s side will be kicking off action on the weekend of 25

Christopher Roussos. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 488180_01

Demons get their season off to winning start

By Tara Murray

A big off season on track showed through late as Mernda came home strongly to beat Epping in its Northern Football League division 3 season opener.

The two old rivals kicked off the season against each other and the game looked like it would go down to the wire with just one point the difference at the final break.

The Demons found another gear in the final quarter, with five goals to none, to claim a 12.15 (87)-8.9 (57) win.

Demons’ coach Brent Marshall said there were some really encouraging signs from the playing group.

“It went really well,” he said. “With a new system in place for us and a new game plan and some different voices across the board.

“We were down at three quarter time and kicking into the wind. I challenged them and they responded better than I expected.”

Marshall, who took over coaching the side late last season, said being able to have a pre-season in charge was one of the

things he had been looking forward to.

Having played at the higher level, the former Bundoora captain was keen to share those experiences.

“We wanted to set some higher standards,” he said. “We want to be a bit more professional with training standards.

“They worked hard.”

Marshall said their fitness was on show in the last quarter against Epping.

He said previously they might have rolled over in that situation, where this time they had another level to go.

“Their ability to follow instructions as well” he said. “They are trusting the process and sticking to the game plan and what we have created.

“We were able to fight back and go harder and showed up. We had a couple of sore boys and some cramp.”

Marshall said kicking five final quarter goals to none, was more than they could have asked for.

Lachlan Taylor kicked three goals for the Demons while three other players kicked two goals each.

April against Mill Park.

The side will play in state league 1 north-west for the first time.

“It has been really good and there’s more women around the club as we have to add a reserves team.

“It’s new territory for us and there’s a few young girls about, who are pushing the senior women.”

The club overall is continuing to grow with 240 juniors involved and more teams than ever.

Chaheen said they had been given access to a temporary second training ground which had been a massive help juggling everything.

Women’s season underway

It was a winning return for Craigieburn to the Essendon District Football League women’s competition, while Westmeadows also opened its account as Tullamarine and Roxburgh Park suffered losses. The division 1 competition got underway on Saturday, with plenty of exciting action.

Craigieburn faced Tullamarine in the early match and it was the young Eagles that got the win. The Eagles led at each of the breaks and had to hold on as the Demons came home strongly in the final quarter.

Despite not scoring in the final quarter, the Eagles won, 5.3 (33)-3.4 (22). Louise Portelli kicked two goals for the Eagles, with Zali Poorter and Sienna Gioupas named their best.

Marianna Shiba and Madeline Agius were named the Demons best.

Elsewhere, Westmeadows overcame an inaccurate start to have a big win against Burnside Heights.

Neither team kicked a goal in the first half, but the Tigers had seven points on the board as they missed some opportunities.

Marshall said they had a number of contributors in the win.

Billy Evans was busy in the middle of the ground and up forward, while Taylor was one of the standouts.

Sixteen-year-old Jett Phillips had a good game in his senior debut, while Marshall said their A-graders were good.

For the Pingers, Daniel Rakhlin kicked three goals.

Joshua Bawden and Brent Macaffer were named their best.

The Demons will face Laurimar in round two.

Marshall said that was the sort of challenge they were after early in the season.

“They played in a grand final last year and you want to play the best sides at full strength,” he said. “We will gain a few back this week which will be handy.”

Laurimar started its season with a big win against Watsonia.

There was only 11 points difference at half time before the Power kicked 11 goals to none in the second half to win, 15.12 (102)-3.6 (24).

It took until the final quarter for the Tigers to start to convert as they kicked four final quarter goals to win, 5.15 (45)-0.1 (1). It was all single goal kickers for the Tigers. Stefanie Maiorana and Courteney Munn were named their best.

Roxburgh Park started its season underlights against the Sunbury Kangaroos. The Kangaroos opened the match with the only goal of the first quarter before being able to extend the lead in the second quarter.

The Magpies were able to score a goal in each of the next two quarters, but the Kangaroos had the fresh legs as they won, 9.9 (63)-.5 (23). Emily Prouse and Kiesha Croxford were named the Magpies best in the loss.

In round two, Westmeadows will host East Sunbury, Roxburgh Park is at home to Burnside Heights, Craigieburn will play Taylors Lakes and Tullamarine faces Coburg Districts.

Eagles do enough to win

By Tara Murray

Craigieburn was just happy to come away with the points to open the Essendon District Football League division 1 season. It wasn’t great conditions as the Eagles headed to Tullamarine for the season opener on Saturday afternoon.

The Eagles did enough to win, 6.9 (45)5.8 (38).

Eagles’ co-coach Jack Carlyon said they wouldn’t take much out of the game except for the four points.

“It was a bit of an ugly game to watch,” he said. “We won’t take much out of the review.

“It was about getting the four points and we knew in round one whoever we played it

would be tough.

“Tullamarine has some new recruits so getting the four points was ideal.”

Just one point separated the two teams at each of the first two breaks, before the Eagles led by 11 points at three quarter time.

The Demons kicked the only goal of the final quarter but it wasn’t enough.

Carlyon said for their young group it was an opportunity to win in a game when not everything was going their way.

“Both teams had momentum throughout the day and we were able to find a way,” he said.

“Especially with a young group and a couple of recruits, we’re still learning to gel.

“To grind out a win and learn to win in a different way after some of the young

fellows found it hard, we’ll take into the future.”

Harry Albon and Riley Pappin kicked two goals each for the Eagles.

Brodie White and Jarred Seiter, who are two of their recruits, along with Albon and Pappin were their best.

For the Demons, Josh Covelli kicked three goals in his debut for the club.

Keegan Radecki and Zak Wunhym were named their best.

The Eagles come into this season with a lot of confidence after a stunning run last season.

After being in the relegation battle, the Eagles made a preliminary final after Carlyon and Cale Bettanin took over as co-coaches.

Eagles rely on young fresh legs for success

By Tara Murray

Youth and pace will be a highlight for Whittlesea in the Northern Football League division 2 season this year.

After a couple of tough finals series the past two seasons, the Eagles have had a number of changes to their squad.

What it has brought is more youngsters in the mix.

“We worked out there were 12 different players from the side that played in the preliminary final,” coach Garry Ramsay said.

“We are a new side. A tad younger and a different group that doesn’t carry the scars of the last two preliminary final losses.“

Ramsay said they didn’t intentionally focus on going younger but that was how it played out.

He said their big focus was on players who could train twice a week and many of them were locals, which was an added bonus.

The Eagles kicked off their season on Saturday against South Morang.

It was the Lions’ first game back in divi-

sion 2, with a new coach and a new looking side as well.

The Eagles held narrow leads at the first two breaks, before a six goals to two third quarter opened the game up.

While the Lions won the final quarter, the Eagles had done enough to come away with a 14.13 (97)-9.13 (67).

“It was a good result to get on the board,” he said. “It was a new game plan.

“We were able to kick two goals late in the second quarter to get on top and the third quarter was a really good quarter and there was good volume for the forwards.

“The midfield also got on top in the third quarter.”

Caden Allan kicked five goals for the Eagles including three goals in the first quarter to give the side a good start.

Allan is still an under-19 player which is good signs for the future.

Bailey Robinson in his return for Kinglake was strong and named among the best along with Taidhg Bland and Thomas Falls.

For the Lions, Josh Lansfield kicked four goals,whileBenPetersonkickedthreegoals.

Carlyon said it was a long pre-season.

“Presentation night we felt we were in a good spot to be in and excited to see what we could do,” he said.

“It’s another pre-season for the boys and we’re confident for another strong year.

“The younger fellowers are stronger and fitter. We’re looking forward to this season.”

The Eagles will face Rupertswood in round two.

Carlyon said Rupertswood showed some good signs in its round one loss to Oak Park and would be hard to beat.

In premier division, Greenvale lost by three points to Maribyrnong Park, while in division 2, Westmeadows started with a win and Roxburgh Park lost to the Sunbury Kangaroos.

Pingers, Eagles get first up wins

Epping and Whittlesea were among the winners in the opening round of the Northern Football League women’s division 3 season on the weekend.

Epping started its season against Darebin 2 on Sunday afternoon, winning 3.9 (27)-1.3 (9).

After trailing at quarter time, the Pingers kicked the only two goals of the second quarter to take an eight point lead into the break.

The Pingers missed some opportunities to ice the game in the third quarter before kicking the only goal of the second half in the last quarter to seal the result.

Nancy Cakau, Cindy Turnbull and Ricquie Binning were named the Pingers’ best.

It’s a good start for the Pingers, who won just two games last season.

Whittlesea started its season with a big win against Thomastown also on Sunday.

The Eagles, who played finals last season, led by 10 points at quarter time and were able to build on the margin in the remaining three quarters.

With plenty of opportunities, the Eagles had an 8.13 (61)-0.0 (0) win.

Tyrone Leonardis and Lansfield were named the Lions best.

Ramsay said they would look to build as the season goes along.

They will face Macleod this Saturday.

“We haven’t done that [build as the season has gone on] the last two years,” he said. “We’ve had a good home and away record and gone the other ways in finals.

“With a new group and a younger group we are still getting to know each other better.

“We have a bit more pace and doing thing differently from last year and see where it goes.“

In other results, Old Paradians and Thomastown both started the season with wins.

The Raiders had a 22 point win against Lower Plenty, winning 11.14 (80)-8.10 (58).

Connor Mcdonald, Joshua Iacobaccio and Sam Philp were best for the Raiders.

Thomastown was too strong for Panton Hill, winning 10.8 (68)-7.9 (51).

Lawrence Lo Piccolo, Anthony Capeci and Youseph Dib were standouts for the Bears.

Tahlia Brander kicked three goals for Eagles and was named one of their best alongside Audrey Steinke and Harper McPherson-Goulding, Shelby Nanscawen and Ruby Pantisano were named the Bears best in the loss.

Laurimar started the season on Friday night against Eltham 2 under lights.

With a new coaching group, the Power’s focus this season has been on being more competitive.

It was a tough start against the Panthers who were able to come away with a 10.10 (70)-2.0 (12) win. Sarah Campbell, Hayley Dyer and Brittany Zahra were named the Power’s best.

Montmorency 2 and St Mary’s were the other winners on the weekend with Macleod having a bye. Meanwhile, Mernda had to withdraw its women’s side just before the season got underway.

The Demons weren’t able to get enough numbers to re-establish a women’s side, so made the decision to withdraw the team.

CONNECTED LIVING AT CALLISTO PLACE

THE JOY OF LIVING WELL

Situated in Melbourne’s leafy northern corridor, Callisto

Place by Bolton Clarke offers a vibrant lifestyle for over-55s, blending the best of city life with a strong sense of community

and belonging, with easy access to shops, transport, and services. Just moments from lush parklands, vibrant cafés, and Melbourne’s cultural heartbeat, Callisto Place is where

every day feels effortlessly connected and full of possibility.

Relax and recharge in the modern clubhouse, connect with neighbours in the welcoming coffee lounge, or take in a movie

in the gold class style cinema

Book a private tour today

1300 001 537 | callistoplace.com.au

35 Galileo Gateway, Bundoora

NOW

SELLING FROM

$629K

With dedicated spaces for health, wellness, and socialising,

with the peace of mind that comes from a professional

management team and a secure, carefree environment

Discover the difference at Callisto Place, a community that celebrates independence, connection, and the joy of living well.