Star Weekly - Northern - 28th April 2026

Youth hub alternative

By Courtney Black

A local youth hub could reopen in Whittlesea within months under a partnership that the director argued is faster and cheaper than the council’s two-year plan.

Innovation Youth Centre (IYC) director Paul Papadatos has been seeking $750,000 in council funding to reopen an IYC hub in Whittlesea after it closed in 2024 due to a lack of funding.

MrPapadatossaidhemetwithWhittlesea councilearlierthisyear,proposingtoopen the IYC hub in two months and sustain it with a $3.75 million funding commitment over five years.

While governments are trying to work out funding, kids are missing out ... It’s frustrating, it’s sad, and it’s not fair - Paul Papadatos

A council spokesperson said a council-run youth centre will be delivered next to the municipal offices in South Morang by 2028. The spokesperson said up to $6 million would be allocated across future budgets.

Mr Papadatos said the IYC model is not only more cost-effective and efficient, but also would be less intimidating than the council-run centre.

“When you’ve got young people that are really disengaged or school leavers, the last thing they want to go into is something that’s a structured program,” Mr Papadatos said.

“They want a place where you can get a goodfeed,playsomepool,playsomevideo games, talk with some people.

“We’reheretopartner[withcouncil]add value and complement each other to help young people on a bigger scale.”

Mr Papadatos said before closing in 2024, IYC supported more than 500 young people in Whittlesea through drop-in programs, one-on-one support and school partnerships. IYC operated for two years in Bundoora supported by a $1.5 million federal Safer Communities grant.

people without adequate support.

“While governments are trying to work outfunding,kidsaremissingout,”hesaid.

The council spokesperson said Whittlesea is calling for state government fundingtosupportthedeliveryofitsyouth centre. In 2023, the state provided council witha$500,000grantforafeasibilitystudy.

If the council-run centre opens in 2028, it will be four years since the IYC hub closed and five years since state funding for planning was secured.

MrPapadatossaidthedelayindelivering a permanent youth facility has left young

“We’ve shown what we can do, we want to help the council and make this thing happen and we’ve got the resources to do it,” he said.

“It’s frustrating, it’s sad, and it’s not fair for young people.”

Mr Papadatos said he had offered to partner with the council by transforming the existing Edge Youth Services space at Plenty Valley Westfield into a drop-in hub.

“I said [to council] we can work together [torevampthespace]andwecanhavethat spaceupwithintwotothreemonthsinthe heart of the municipality.”

The council spokesperson said Edge

Youth Services was considered as a possible site before the civic centre location was chosen.

“Through our research and consultation withyoungpeople,theciviccentrelocation was identified as the most appropriate,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said the centre will run on a hub-and-spoke model, offering youth programs and services across the municipality. The spokesperson did not say whether council would consider partnering with IYC to deliver youth services.

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Budget day strike planned

By Georgia Tacey

More than 1000 council workers will walk off the job on 5 May in what the Australian Services Union (ASU) is calling the largest strike of local government workers in Australia’s history.

Eightcouncils,includingHume,Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, have been facing a disruption of services in April as part of a wider ASU fight to win wage increases for council staff.

In Hume, no bins were collected on 7 April during a 24-hour stoppage, and partial bin collection disruptions have followed since.

Council workers resumed normal work from 23 April, however on 5 May they plan

to once again stop work for 24 hours, with all union members expected to walk off the job.

The union said workers will converge on Parliament on the state budget day, with the stoppage expected to cause significant disruption to garbage collection, street cleansing, mowing, library services and aged care as workers across the eight councils.

ASU Victoria and Tasmania secretary Tash Wark said while services have now returned to normal, this was not the end of their campaign.

“Undertaking a city-wide strike is a last resort. Our members take immense pride in serving their communities, but after 18 months of being ignored, they have been

left with no other choice,” she said.

“It is a total failure of leadership that councils continue to turn up to negotiations unprepared to offer wage increases during this cost-of-living crisis.”

The ASU is calling for an initial 10 per cent pay increase followed by annual increases for its workers.

The eight councils are currently under the multi-employer bargaining process, with around four meetings held so far.

All eight councils have issued a response, and said negotiations continue with the union in good faith to achieve an agreement that benefits employees, councils and communities.

The councils also said they aware of the next planned strike.

Thomastown librarians Carly McMartin and Erin McLaren are looking forward to authors speaking at library events next month. (Damjan Janevski) 546815_01

Meet authors at Whittlesea libraries

Some of Australia’s favourite authors are heading north for a series of free in-conversation events at Yarra Plenty Regional Library (YPRL) locations.

Bookworms and aspiring writers can meet renowned and local authors by booking their spots at Mill Park and Thomastown library events.

YPRL chief executive Nicole Rudden said she is proud to connect audiences with some of Australia’s most celebrated and entertaining authors.

“Our author talks bring readers and authors together to discuss the book beyond the page, revealing the fascinating process-

es, research and imaginative work that goes into writing a compelling story,” she said.

On 2 May, Thomastown library will host local author Kate Solly for an afternoon of wonderful light-hearted mystery and craft as she walks readers through her latest novel The Paradise Heights Miniature Railway Bust-Up.

On 21 May, Mill Park library will host author and screenwriter Christian White to discuss his new thriller The Long Night.

“Christian is a great example of the calibre of author our talks attract,” Ms Rudden said. “Each of his novels have been bestsellers and he has written screenplays for

feature films and Netflix.”

Locals can look forward to meeting bestselling author and true crime podcaster, Vikki Petraitis at Mill Park library in June.

“She will take readers deeper into her true crime book The Vanishing of Vivienne Cameron : Forty Years Searching for the Phillip Island Murderer.

“These are just a few of the free author events we have across our library network throughout the year.”

Limited spots are available for each author event.

To book: https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/ events/

“This withdrawal of industrial actions will be a welcome reprieve particularly for our communities most affected by the ASU’s industrial action, particularly in Darebin, Merri-bek and Hume,” the statement said.

“There have been many missed bin collections across these three council areas and now there will be opportunity to catch up on these collections.

“Councils respect the ASU’s right to take protected industrial action, and we’re working to minimise disruption to our community where possible.”

The councils said they will continue to keep communities informed on any updates and developments, including any potential disruptions to services on 5 May.

Whittlesea appoints an acting chief

Whittlesea council has appointed an acting chief executive as it finds a replacement for Craig Lloyd who is departing the role next month.

At its 21 April meeting, the council appointed infrastructure and environment director Debbie Wood to the acting chief executive role.

On 15 April council announced that Mr Lloyd would depart Whittlesea to accept a position as chief executive of a Western Australian council.

Mr Lloyd will depart on 20 May and Ms Wood will take on the role from 21 May.

Ms Wood has served as Whittlesea acting chief executive on several occasions. She has also held senior roles at Bendigo, Hobart and Casey councils.

In a confidential 24 February meeting council agreed to offer Mr Lloyd a new contract in October when his current deal ends. However, Mr Lloyd decided to depart and take on a new role at Joondalup council.

Cr Cox said Mr Lloyd has made substantial contributions to Whittlesea council and the community.

“Since joining the City of Whittlesea in 2020, Craig has provided strong and considered leadership throughmanychallengesandchanges, including a period of administration, the Covid-19 pandemic and the return of an elected council,” he said.

Rate rise sparks debate

By Courtney Black

A 2.75 per cent average rate increase was a point of contention as Whittlesea council endorsed its 2026-27 draft budget.

Councillors passed the draft budget at the 21 April council meeting despite councillors Aidan McLindon and Michael Labrador voting against the document due to the rate rise.

Under the proposed budget, average rates would increase by 2.75 per cent, in line with the state government rate cap. This will raise total council rates and charges to $258.43 million, an almost

seven per cent increase from the 2025-26 budget.

Cr McLindon said he opposed the budget because he committed to a twoyear rates freeze when he was elected.

“There’s a lot of good initiatives in here, however, I cannot ignore the fact that the cost of living crisis is real and everything is going up right across the board,” he said.

Cr Deb Gunn said a rates freeze would push Whittlesea into an ever-growing deficit.

“We are trying to do an awful lot with not a lot of money as it is,” she said.

The draft budget proposes a $353 mil-

lion operating expenditure with $115.49 million allocated towards the 2026-27 capital works program. This is a $4.8 million increase in capital works investment from last year.

Key projects funded by the capital works allocation include the Regional Sports Precinct in Mernda and the Yan Yean Pipe Track in Mill Park.

“I know the numbers sound humongous but when you see the number of things that we do for the communities that money spreads very thin very quickly,” Cr Gunn said.

Services funding highlights include

Marngrook Kids share First Nations culture

Essendon Football Club has launched a new program called Marngrook Kids connecting kids from across Melbourne’s north-west with First Nations culture through education and exercise.

The program is delivered in partnership with The Long Walk and was named after the traditional Aboriginal game of Marngrook, considered to be the forerunner to modern Australian football. On 20 April, the program engaged the Pacific Islands Playgroup at the Broadmeadows Community Centre

teaching local Pasifika kids about indigenous culture.

Marngrook Kids facilitator and The Long Walk representative Jack Peris shared stories from his mobs, the Gidja, Yaroo and Gagajoo peoples from the East and West Kimberleys in West Arnhem Land. Mr Peris said it is awesome to teach kids about Marngrook and connect culture through sport.

“I think a lot of pre-schools and kindergartens want to do a lot in this space and this is a really good opportunity to

engage culture through sport.”

Essendon FC community education lead Brendan Hitchens said the program engages kids through music, dance, storytelling and play.

Mr Hitchens said he is excited to bring the program to kids and families across the north-west.

“The north-west community is very multicultural and very keen to learn about other cultures as well, but it’s also important to learn about the indigenous culture that we exist in,” he said.

Candidates announced for the Thomastown Ward by-election

Nine candidates have thrown their hat in the ring to represent the residents and ratepayers of Thomastown in next month’s by-election.

The Whittlesea council Thomastown Ward by-election is being held to fill a vacancy on council created by the resignation of Nic Brooks in January.

The candidates who nominated for the by-election are Chaman Tiwari, Edward Sukkar, Joseph Paola, Sarah Garnham, Stevan Kozmevski, Belinda Stojcevski, Aryan Singh, Andrew Filippopoulos and Paul Seidl.

Labor candidate Mr Kozmevski was

a Whittlesea councillor from 1997 until 2020, and returned to represent the Lalor Ward following the 2024 local government elections.

He lost his seat on council in May 2024 when the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) voided the result of the Lalor Ward vote.

Mr Kozmevski then contested the Lalor by-election, as did Ms Stojcevski.

Ms Tiwari and Ms Garnham stood for Thomastown Ward in the 2024 election, while Mr Sukkar stood for Epping Ward and Mr Filippopoulos stood for South Morang Ward in the same elections.

Mr Seidl is a member of RENW Community Association

All nine candidates submitted a statement and photo with their nomination to tell voters about their background, qualifications and what they stand for.

According to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) ballot papers will arrive in voter’s mailboxes from Monday 11 May. Residents will have until 6pm on Friday 29 May to cast their votes.

This is the second by-election for Whittlesea council since the October 2024 local government elections.

$25.34 million for transport network improvements, $40.8 million for resource recovery, waste management and climate change and $28 million for family, youth and aged services.

Waste charges are set to increase by $7 per household with the council ceasing subsidising the landfill levy component of waste services, with the full cost now incorporated into the waste charge.

The budget is now out for community consultation. Details: https://engage. whittlesea.vic.gov.au/cp2026

Council votes no to Australia Day citizenship ceremony

Whittlesea council has rejected a return to Australia Day citizenship ceremonies next year, maintaining its position to hold them in the days surrounding 26 January .

Speaking at the 21 April council meeting, councillor Blair Colwell said it was a practical, considerate position.

“For many in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, the 26th is a date that represents dispossession, loss, and the ongoing impacts of colonisation,” he said.

He said reversing the decision would not be seen as a neutral administrative change.

“It would be experienced by many in our community as a step backwards, undermining the trust that has been built between council and the Aboriginal community.”

Cr Jarrod Lappin said there is an increased cost to hold ceremonies on a public holiday.

According to a report to the council meeting, two citizenship ceremonies with 150 conferees each on Australia Day would cost $11,684.

The cost for two ceremonies held on a weekday would more than halve the cost ($5,494).

“Here at Whittlesea we have 26 [citizenship] ceremonies throughout the year and one needn’t be elevated above the others as they’re all equally important days,” Cr Lappin said.

Cr Christine Stow said Australia Day decisions should involve community consultation.

“I’m not wedded to a celebration or a ceremony, but I think that we need to hear from our community on what the community wants,” she said.

Cr Aidan McLindon argued that Australia Day ceremonies should fall in line with the federally allocated date.

Mayor Lawrie Cox said council’s position aligns with federal legislation which allows Australia Day ceremonies to be held within the three days prior or after 26 January .

“The status quo is probably the most effective outcome,” Cr Cox said.

“I’d love the diversity of our community to come together just totally away from any date that affects or impacts any part of our community,” he said.

Hume says no to incinerators

By Georgia Tacey

Hume council has said no to both proposed Sunbury and Wollert waste-to-energy (WtE) incinerators.

At its 13 April meeting, the council revealed its position on the two proposed facilities in its submission to the state government’s Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee’s inquiry into the development and expansion of WtE infrastructure in Victoria.

Endorsed during the meeting, CrJarrod Bell amended the motion to change coun-

cil’s stance to not only reject the proposed Sunbury facility but also the facility in Wollert, which is proposed to be a short distance from Hume’s border.

His motion also amended recommendations in the submission.

Members from both No Sunbury Waste Incinerator and the No Northern Incinerator Wollert groups were present in the council chamber to hear council’s submission and let councillors know they will not accept the proposed facilities in their communities.

Cr Bell said this makes council’s stance

Program a recipe for success

Do you have a passion for food and a dream of turning it into a business? Mernda Neighbourhood House’s ‘Food We Love’ program may be your recipe for success.

Applications are now open for the free program which will support disadvantaged women from Whittlesea to build food start ups.

Six local women will have the chance to make their food business dreams a reality.

In partnership with The Business of Food, participants will undertake a food passions program.

Over six weeks, they will learn from industry experts and gain practical knowledge to build or develop a successful food business or product.

Food We Love is federally funded through the Australian Neighbourhood

Houses and Centres Association (ANHCA) community grants program.

McEwen MP Rob Mitchell said the Food We Love project is more than just a program for women.

“It is about investing in stronger, more resilient communities where skills, culture and enterprise come together to create lasting impact,” he said.

To be eligible you must be a woman living in Whittlesea, limited places are available and applications close on 8 May .

The program will begin on 3 June , and run every Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm at 2 Heals Road, Mernda and online.

Details: https://www.merndanh.org. au/food-we-love

clear, that they will say no to both proposals.

“This matters deeply to the people of Sunbury and Bulla, as we have heard tonight in the gallery, because this is not an abstract policy debate for our community; its in our own backyard,” he said.

“This is near our homes, near growing neighbourhoods, new families, and in an area where people already feel the pressure of growth and the infrastructure lag.”

No Northern Incinerator Wollert representative Catherine Rousse said the proposed facility in Wollert was just one kilometre away from Hume’s border.

“So much of Craigieburn is within five kilometres,” she said. “To have childcare centres and playgrounds within such a short distance is very harmful.

HiQwasgrantedacaplicensefortheproposed Sunbury WtE facility in August, with the facility proposed to be at HiQ’s Sunbury EcoHub site on Sunbury Road.

A cap licence allows a waste to energy facility operator to process permitted waste up to a specified maximum amount at their facility.

Cleanaway was also granted a cap license in August for the proposed Wollert site.

Bridging the dancing gap

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

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

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

The Western Ballet Project is working to changethat.

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

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

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

It’s a feeling many avid dancers and theatreenthusiastsknowwell.

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

O’Donnell’s solution goes against the traditional models, flipping drawn-out weekly rehearsals into a condensed single, immersiveweektakingplaceduringschool holidays.

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

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

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

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

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

For families in the west, the proximity mattersthemost.

Accesstoeliteartstraininghaslongbeen unevenly distributed across the city, with inner and eastern suburbs traditionally hosting the lion’s share of established schools, companies, and performance pathways. For aspiring dancers in growth corridorsinthewest,thebarriersaren’tjust financial,butlogistical.

Long travel times can limit participation, particularlyforyoungerstudentsorfamilies

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

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

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

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

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

Rather than relying on traditional and at timesoutdatedballetnarratives,O’Donnell draws inspiration from history and strong, overlookedfigures,particularlywomen.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Somehavegoneontoprestigioustraining institutions,includingtheAustralianBallet School and other elite programs, while others return year after year, building confidenceandrefiningtheircraft.

Equally significant is the program’s sense of continuity, with former youth participantsbeginningtoreturnasadults, taking part in expanded offering that includeproductionsfordancersaged19to 99, a development O’Donnell describes as oneofherproudestachievements.

“Creatingsomethinginoneplacecreates acommunitythatispriceless,”shesays. The community extends beyond the dancers themselves. Performers are designed to engage a broader audience, notjustballetenthusiasts.

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

“Icreatetheballetsforanon-ballet-loving audience,”O’Donnellsays.

“If the dads can be entertained for 45 minutes and leave wanting to watch more, then it’sa goodshow.”

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

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

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

To

We’re

Leap into seniors program

Take the leap with Whittlesea council’s positiveageingprogram.

The positive ageing program is a Let Everyone Actively Participate (LEAP) initiative by Whittlesea council supporting residents aged 50 and over to stay active, healthyandsociallyconnected.

With a LEAP membership you can access a diverse range of fun, affordable activities, designed to sustain physical wellbeing, social connection and lifelong learning.

A LEAP membership is free and includes eligibility for discounted memberships at council’sleisurecentres.

Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox said the positive ageing program is designed to maintain the independence and social engagementofolderresidents.

“I encourage anyone in our community aged 50 or over to get involved and enjoy theselow-costactivitiesofferedbycouncil,” CrCoxsaid.“Whetheryouareinyour50sor your80sandover,thisisagreatwaytobuild friendships, enjoy new experiences, and

maintainoverallwellbeing.”

As part of the program, senior residents enjoy monthly ‘Morning Melodies’ live performances, ‘Lunch in a Bunch’ gatherings at various restaurants and bus tours as well as music, craft, and gardening activities. There are also gentle exercise programs including social 10-pin bowling, walking football, the seniors exercise park andasocialgolfprogram.

“Council is committed to creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where older residents feel connected, supported and valued,”CrCoxsaid.

With welcoming and inclusive opportunities to suit all interests, backgrounds, genders, and abilities, residents aged 50 and over are encouraged totakepart.

TobecomeaLEAPmemberandtoaccess these programs, contact council’s ageing wellteamatageingwell@whittlesea.vic.gov. auorcall92172170andselectoption4. Details:whittlesea.vic.gov.au/LEAP.

Briefs

Whittlesea auction crackdown

Property auctions across the Whittlesea municipality will be under scrutiny with Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) launching a major enforcement sweep this autumn. CAV announced on 15 April that underquoting taskforce inspectors are monitoring 100 auction campaigns across Whittlesea. CAV said the sweep includes the established suburbs of Thomastown, Lalor and Mill Park as well as Donnybrook and Wollert which are rapidly expanding and increasingly popular with first home buyers.

Have your say

Share your thoughts on how to improve the Highlands Lake Reserve in Craigieburn and help Hume council develop an upgrade concept plan. The council said the existing play equipment has reached the end of its useful life and will be renewed. Residents can have their say on how they currently use the reserve, what they love and enjoy doing in the space and what could be improved. You can give your feedback before Sunday May 10. Details: https://participate.hume. vic.gov.au/highlands-lake-reserve

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Hume honours the fallen

By Courtney Black

The Hume community gathered at 10am on Anzac Day for a morning service at the Craigieburn War Memorial.

Sunlight beamed down on thousands of attendees at Anzac Park as the service opened with a prayer. Young Air Force Cadets from the Broadmeadows squadron formed a catafalque party standing in uniform around the cenotaph.

Following a collection of hymns, local Air Force veteran Carl Schiller gave a speech, commemorating the lives and service of seven local men who died during World War I and II.

“Private Frederick John Cocking was born in the small village of Alfred, Lincolnshire in the United Kingdom,” Mr Schiller said.

“He and his brother William decided that they would come to Australia to find a new life. Their parents had passed and they had recently lost their younger sister and brother.

“They settled in Mickleham where Frederick worked as a bricklayer and when he enlisted in the Australian Infantry Force. Because of his occupation he was assigned to Pioneer Battalion which was a field construction unit building revetments and bridges and the like.

“He survived the Battle of Fromelles which was conducted over the 19th and 20th of July 1916, just a 24-hour period that cost the lives of 5500 Australians and 1500 Englishmen.

“Four months later, he was killed digging a trench on the 26th of November 1916.”

Mr Schiller said Anzac Day is about more than just remembering history.

“We live it and we carry it as we commemorate our servicemen and women past and present, those who have given their health and especially those who

have paid the ultimate sacrifice.”

Following the speech, local schools, community members, councillors and politicians were invited to lay wreaths at the cenotaph.

The service concluded near 11am with

an ode to arms, the last post and a minute’s of silence.

Anzac Day services were also held in Westmeadows, Sunbury and at Tullamarine’s Leo Dineen Reserve ahead of Tullamarine’s Essendon District Football League match against Oak Park.

A canvas of connection

By Courtney Black

Asmall,diverseartclassrunningoutofLalor Neighbourhood House has been selected to showcase its work in the upcoming ‘Belong’ art exhibition.

Art teacher Ildiko Kormanyos said it is fitting that her five students’ work is compiled together.

“Thethemefortheexhibitionis‘belong’ and we belong together,” Ms Kormanyos.

“This collection is inspired by the Van Gogh style, we learn about the style of a famous artist and how to do it and make it your own.

“The artistic style depends on the person and how they express feelings, anything can be art.”

Student Mary Hopwood said she feels a real sense of achievement that her artwork will be exhibited.

“I hope the viewers see that that is a group of people that share a common love of art,” Ms Hopwood said.

“This class is very diverse in ethnic backgrounds. We are always learning from each other and developing empathy, it is a lot more than just art.

“That [empathy] is reflected in the art, we are very proud of ourselves.”

Student Socratis Zachariadis said has taken the art class for three years.

“I really enjoy it and enjoy coming and making friends,” Mr Zachariadis said.

Student Annett Spratt has taken her love of art beyond the classroom.

“I’m doing 12 artworks a day, and making special art for my friends and family,” Ms Spratt said.

Ms Kormanyos makes session plans for eachweeklyclass,witharangeofchalleng-

es for each artistic style.

“We always have a ‘travelling through time’sessionsowestartwithancienttimes then move to something new.

“For each style we have three challenges with different materials, this session is abstract next time acrylic then pencil and charcoal.

“Everyone has different abilities so ev-

eryone does their best, we give the topic and materials and they make it their own.”

Ms Kormanyos said she welcomes new students into the class which runs every Wednesday morning.

You can see the artworks exhibited from 2 May to 27 May at the Plenty Ranges Art and Convention Centre in the Bluegum Room.

New jobs for northern MPs

Northern suburbs MPs have been tasked with new responsibilities in Premier Jacinta Allan’s cabinet reshuffle announced on Wednesday 15 April.

Kalkallo MP Ros Spence will become roads and road safety minister, in addition to community sport minister and first peoples minister.

Bundoora MP Colin Brooks will serve as industry and advanced manufacturing minister, defence industry minister and skills and TAFE minister.

Northern Metropolitan MP Enver Erdogan, whose upper house seat takes in Craigieburn and Epping, will add environment minister and outdoor recreation minister to his work as casino, gaming and liquor regulation minister.

Thomastown MP Bronwyn Halfpenny was nammed as parliamentary secretary for the State Electricity Commission, while Greenvale MP Iwan Walters will serve as parliamentary secretary for multicultural and multifaith Victoria and parliamentary secretary for disability.

The reshuffled came after three ministers resigned ahead of November’s state election.

Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio remains the climate action, energy and resources and State Electricity Commission minister.

Additional School Tours

To be advised. Please refer to the Craigieburn Secondary College website for confirmation of dates and times.

Parents and students are warmly invited to contact the office on (03) 9308 1144 to arrange a suitable time and day to tour the College with our Assistant Principal, Ms Vianka Dass.

Out and about

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

Hume and Whittlesea.

MY PLACE

Dr Sarvesh Soni recently won Whittlesea council’s favourite tree competition and was the 2025 Whittlesea Citizen of the Year. He spoke with Courtney Black about his favourite tree and life in South Morang.

What’syourconnectiontoWhittlesea?

I’maproudresidentoftheCityofWhittlesea and was awarded the Whittlesea Citizen of the Year last year. I migrated from India and have been in Australia since last 17 years. I’ve spent eight years in Whittlesea with my family. I also won the Whittlesea favourite tree competition this year. I play for the South Morang Cricket Club, and that tree is just situated between the two playing grounds. It looks as if it is witnessing you, both the wins and losses, and it still stands tall. If that tree can stand tallandbeconfident,sowhycan’twe?Iam alsoinvolvedwiththeWhittleseaInterfaith Network, Epping cemetery community asset committee and also I contribute as a Hindu - Sanatan Dharma representative providing blessings to the emergency servicesbeforethebushfireseasonstarts.

Whatdoyoulikeaboutwhereyoulive?

I think South Morang is an amazing area. It’s not too far from Melbourne but I think the greenery is the main factor that attracted me and its very peaceful, even though it is surrounded by busy suburbs. There are hills on the back of my home, thereisasmalllake,andlotsofnaturallife.

What, if anything, would you change aboutwhereyoulive?

The amount of traffic is really increasing. Lakes Boulevard is a bottleneck in the morning because we have to follow the same route around the lake. Better traffic management in the growth areas in Whittlesea should be on the top priority. I’ve also seen many accidents and kangaroos on the road. I would like to see astrategywherewecansavethatwildlife.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

I like the Eagle lookout point, Quarry Hills in South Morang. I go very regularly to see the sunset which is so beautiful. I really want to recommend people to go there and also to see the new

Aboriginal gathering place. From there you can even see a very clear view of the city.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you … I’m a PhD in biosciences. I also work for

Art against racism

On22ApriltheAustralianMulticultural Community Centre (AMCC) held an art show in Broadmeadows displaying anti-racismartwork.

The collection includes both vibrant and vulnerable works that portray experiences of racism and stories of belonging.

StarWeekly photographer Damjan Janevski went along to the art show and captured social workers and studentswiththeartwork.

the federal department of health in the large-scalehealthpolicyspace.Whenever I meet with the people in the community, as soon as they got to know that I have a doctorate, I think that surprises them that ‘how come you can still be able to relate to the ground issues?’

Push for World Cup screenings

FIFA World Cup fever is brewing in Hume and residents may get front-row-seats to the action in public screenings close to home.

At its 13 April meeting, Hume council agreed to consider screening select World Cup matches in local public live sites this June.

Council officers will initially scout suitable locations in Broadmeadows.

Councillor Naim Kurt raised the successful motion and said this year’s World Cup will be the sporting event of a lifetime.

“Australia is going to be featuring again for the seventh time,” he said.

“Our very own Aziz Behich, the boy

from Meadow Heights, scored the winning goal against Japan to get us through the qualifiers.”

Behich along with Sunbury-born Jamie Maclaren were part of Australia’s 2022 World Cup squad.

He said there was pandemonium in Hume when Türkiye and Iraq qualified earlier this month.

“We had Iraqi fans out at Roxburgh Park Shopping Centre who were partying long into the night,” Cr Kurt said.

“Our Turkish Australian community was very, very excited to see their nation and diaspora into the World Cup for the first time in 24 years.”

Cr Karen Sherry seconded the motion and said residents will be thrilled by a local screening.

“Our residents who want to watch this match in a group situation won’t have to go to Federation Square, they can come to a place central in Hume,” she said.

She said that Broadmeadows is ideal as the screenings can be funded through existing Project Broadmeadows and Hume Central Program budgets.

Cr Sam Misho said he would like the sites scattered across the municipality with additional screenings in Anzac Park Craigieburn.

“We have a lot of people that will be

Nettle sting triggers hidden heart disease

Six-year-old family cat ‘Lil Guy’ was enjoying a harnessed backyard walk at his Mill Park home when he stepped on a stinging nettle. The trauma of this injury triggered an underlying congenital heart condition called Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, sending his family into a whirlwind.

Now facing $7000 in vet bills, Crystal Higham is raising awareness of this deadly disease which is often preventable.

“Lil Guy will unfortunately be on medication for his heart for the rest of his short life,” Ms Hingham said.

“He wasn’t able to breathe, his little body wasn’t getting enough oxygen and his lungs were filling with fluid.”

After rounds of medication and two overnight stays, he was sent home from the vet with an asthma inhaler to take everyday for the rest of his life.

“We thought … he’d start to get back to normal but we were mistaken,” Ms Hingham said. First Lil Guy developed cellulitis and was put on antibiotics. Then his asthma took over. He was given steroid injections and even put on oxygen overnight but the attacks kept coming.

“He was back to struggling to breathe, wheezing, gargling and sitting up in a ball with his tongue out.”

After five vet visits, a cardiologist finally diagnosed Lil Guy with stage 3 Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

Lil Guy has a unique complication due to his feline asthma - he requires steroids to breathe, but the steroids negatively affect his heart function.

“While we don’t necessarily feel the most comfortable starting a GoFundMe, we know that to support our little boy for the rest of his life we need all the help we can get,” Ms Hingham said.

You can request the feline NT-proBNP test at your local vet to check your cat for positive markers of heart disease. Donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ medical-care-for-lil-guy

going to watch soccer and I think if we just put it here [in Broadmeadows] there’s going to be such a big crowd,” he said.

Cr Kurt said the first screening should be the Australia-Türkiye game at 1pm on Sunday 14 June.

“[We can] see how it goes, and then offer some select matches beyond that as well.”

Council officers will investigate potential locations, operational requirements and partnership opportunities. Complimentary festival food trucks and community engagement activities will also be considered.

Police Briefs

Fatal motorbike crash

A teenager has died following a fatal collision in South Morang. About 5.30pm on 22 April, a 15-year-old South Morang boy was riding on the back of an electric motorbike which collided with two cars near Plenty and Findon roads He suffered life-threatening injuries and was treated by paramedics but died at the scene. The motorbike rider, a 17-year-old male was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The two drivers stopped at the scene and spoke to police.

Lalor ram-raid charges

A 19-year old Lalor man has been charged with various offences after he allegedly rammed a stolen car into a Lalor pharmacy and stole medication. On 22 April, the man was arrested and charged with offences including aggravated burglary, car theft, offending while on bail, arson, drug and prohibited weapon possession and unlicenced driving. Police allege that about 10.45pm on 21 April the man rammed a stolen Toyota RAV4 into the front of a Lorne Street pharmacy before stealing medication and fleeing the scene.

Sixth blackmail charge

A Mill Park man is the sixth man charged as part of an investigation into blackmail allegedly carried out by a motorcycle gang in January. The 32-year-old man and member of the Bandidos outlaw motorcycle gang, was charged on 22 April.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Enjoy autumn, avoid the flu

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

It’s that time of year again. Summer is in the rearview mirror, and autumn is slowly starting to fade into winter.

It’s a time of bright and chilly days, trees turning orange … and respiratory viruses spreading through our communities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

And for all people who don’t fit into these categories, you can still get your vaccination at no or low cost if your regular

general practice is one of the increasing number which bulk-bills appointments.

Thisyearthereareafewdifferenttypesof vaccine available. There’s one, for instance, especially formulated for older people, and another which is a nasal spray – just right for children who are nervous about needles.

There are also formulations safe for people with allergies.

Your doctor or other immunisation

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

10 years ago 3 May, 2016

Trains are set to depart Mernda by 2019 after the state government announced the allocation of $588 million to fund thelong-awaitedMerndarailextension.

7 years ago 23 April, 2019

GPS trackers will be used to monitor chemical waste in a bid to crack down on the illegal storage of hazardous wasteacrossMelbourne’snorthernand western suburbs

provider will ask you some questions to make sure you receive a vaccine which is effective and safe for you.

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

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

providers near your home. And finally, if you’re going to get your flu vaccination done, think about some others you can have at the same time. Talk to your GP or other provider about perhaps also getting protected against COVID-19, or RSV, or measles or shingles. All of these are perfectly safe to get at the same appointment. This is a lovely time of year. Let’s all do our best to make it a safe one, too.

5 years ago 20 April, 2021

HumecouncilwilltakeBulla’stoxicsoil fight to the Supreme Court.

1 year ago 29 April, 2025

In a significant leadership shift for Whittlesea council, councillor Martin Taylor has been elected unopposed as mayor,markinganeweraofgovernance for the embattled council.

Turning carbon into cash

By Georgia Tacey

A new cost-saving initiative could turn Hume’s trees into money makers, according to a Sunbury councillor.

During its 13 April meeting, council agreed to investigate costs and opportunities to enter carbon and biodiversity credit markets, which would turn stored carbon in the city’s trees into income, following a notice of motion from Cr Kate Hamley.

Cr Hamley said landholders can calculate the amount of carbon stored, and by planting more trees, more carbon can be

pulled from the atmosphere.

“Council currently manages over 1897 hectares of open space and reserves and hundreds of street canopy trees,” she said.

“All of this vegetation is actively pulling carbon out of our atmosphere and storing it, which creates an opportunity. We could potentially generate carbon credits.”

Cr Hamley said these credits can be sold in carbon markets to generate an income for council, which she said could then be reinvested back into the city’s green spaces.

“With many things putting pressure on council’s budget, it’s important that we con-

tinue to look into new ways to generate alternative sources of income to support the really important work that we’re doing to protect our environment,” she said.

The federal government’s Australian Carbon Credit Unit Scheme encourages people and businesses to run projects that reduce emissions or store carbon, which includes changing the way vegetation is managed.

Australia also has a national Nature Repair Market, which is a legislated biodiversity market designed to deliver high-integrity biodiversity outcomes and increase investment in nature. This also aligns with the car-

Lion cub duo make their adorable debut

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

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

Soontobenamedbykeepers,thebrother and sister are spending their days lounging in the sun, hanging out with their parents and grandmother and honing their play fighting skills.

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

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

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

“The female is probably a little more bold than her brother that we have seen so far but definitely that can change as time goes,” Ms

Fraser said.

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

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

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

The pair only weigh about 9.5-10.5 kilograms apiece, but are lethal in cuteness.

bon credit. Cr Steve Gagen said other councils across Australia are already participating in the Carbon Credit Unit Scheme and the biodiversity market. He said as part of the market, councils can register projects and earn biodiversity certificates which represent verified ecological improvements that can be sold to investors and businesses.

Officers will prepare a report, including what schemes council is eligible for, projects or works that could be included and costings for the project by June.

A Hume councillor has called for a review of the School Crossing Supervisor Program to tackle funding inequalities.

At the 23 March council meeting, Cr Ally Watson asked council officers to write to both the roads and road safety minister and education minister to advocate for more equitable funding for the program.

“Local councils are doing the heavy lifting, employing supervisors, managing crossings, and ensuring these services operate day-in and day-out,” Cr Watson said.

Funding for the program originally divided financial responsibility between the council and state government on a 50:50 basis.

However, the council claims the state government isn’t pulling its weight.

“Here at Hume, the 50:50 funding model with the state government is actually 70:30, and we’re the ones holding 70 per cent of the pie,“ Cr Watson said.

The School Crossing Supervisor Program was established to recognise that road safety is a shared responsibility between councils and state governments. The program was designed for the state government to provide funding and program oversight on local government’s practical implementation of the program.

A state government spokesperson said “Road safety is a shared responsibility, which is why we have worked with councils through the School Crossing Supervisor Program for over 50 years to actively seek solutions that improve safety around schools.”

The spokesperson said the state government committed $57.379 million for theprogramacrossthe2024-25and202526 financial years.

Fairhaven homes are designed for the way people live

At Fairhaven Homes, we’re seeing a shift in what Victorians want from their homes.

Buyers are looking beyond excess amenitiesandfeatures,insteadprioritising homes that support longevity.

As affordability pressures continue and block sizes reduce, homebuyers are thinking more carefully about how a home will perform long term.

Rather than trying to fit in more, many are choosing better-proportioned core living spaces.

That shift has shaped the way we design at Fairhaven.

As Taylor Lott, Product Manager at

Fairhaven Homes, explains, “We’re seeing a shift in what homebuyers are seeking, wanting homes that evolve with them, that can accommodate families, provide zones for different stages of life and still feel connected”.

This thinking is reflected across our latest designs. The Elwood, for example, is refined for modern living. Offering bedroom separation, a connected kitchen, meals and family hub, and flexible living zones.

In our double-storey designs, like the Brighton, we show how they can be designed with intention, not excess.

Generous living, considered zoning and flexible configurations support multigenerational lifestyles while maintaining flow and liveability.

Alongside these intentional layouts, buyers are also placing more value on quality finishes.

Durable,low-maintenancematerialsand warmer tones are increasingly preferred over sterile, trend-driven choices. We see this as part of a broader move toward homes that feel more authentic, practical and enduring.

Just as importantly, buyers want confidence in the building journey.

AsBenjaminSmarrelli,GeneralManager at Fairhaven Homes, says, “Delivering a seamless and reliable building experience is just as important as the homes we design.”

Connection, trust and reliability are also central to today’s buyer expectations. Our Build Time Guarantees reinforce this commitment, offering site start and build-time assurances for our customers.

At Fairhaven Homes, we believe the futureofhomedesignisnotaboutbuilding bigger. It is about building smarter, with thoughtful zoning, adaptable spaces and homes designed for real life.

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

Whittlesea Probus

Members of The Combined Probus Club of Whittlesea will meet on Monday 4 May at Whittlesea Bowls Club at 9.30am. The first meeting in real time! The presentation will be about criminal activities and policing. Visitors are welcome. The 1 June meeting will be about Jirrahlinga Dingo Conservation. whittleseaprobus@hotmail.com or 0427 021 592

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 noon-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-1pm at Kalkallo Community Centre, 33 Toyon Road, Kalkallo.

Sussex Neighbourhood House, 9354 2210

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

Craigieburn CWA

The Craigieburn Branch of the Country Women’s Association 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capturing maternal love

A personal photography exhibition exploring familial relationships, maternal love, separation, migration and memory is currently on display in Brimbank.

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

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

MovingtoAustraliaat15yearsold,Pham didn’t realise how much time he would eventually spend away from his family.

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

“Icametounderstandmymummorenot only through the photographs but through the time we spent together,” Pham said.

“I also reflect on my family’s past and history and the sacrifice of my mum as a single mother who worked really hard to raise me and my brother.

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

Pham recently won the student category at the 2026 Australian and New Zealand

He hopes the

encourages viewers to slow down and reflect on their own lives and families.

“Ihopethatpeoplecaremoreabouttheir family because I think time flies so fast, especially when you turn 20,” he said.

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

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

The exhibition is free to attend.

Details: creativebrimbank.com.au

Sunbury artists showcase their talents

Theworksoflocalartistswillbeondisplay for Sunbury Art Society’s annual art show.

Vice president Ken Winnell said there will be a huge display of art from local artists,withtheshowonenottobemissed.

“We’ve got 187 pieces from about 32 exhibitors,” he said.

“We’d love people to come down and have a look and see what we’ve been up to.

“We have lots of artists, lots of different styles and mediums … so there’s lots of exciting stuff to see.”

Winnell said it was also exciting for the group to be able to exhibit in its new

home at the recently developed Artrise building, with a new dedicated gallery space for artists.

Before the show officially opens to the public, an opening night will be held the night before with awards presented.

All artworks displayed will be available for purchase, with Winnell suggesting to get in early to secure your favourite pieces.

“That first night is usually the best time to buy a piece, you don’t want to go down there on the last day and miss out on a piece you really like,” he said.

The Sunbury Art Society’s annual art show will be shown from Saturday 2 May through to Saturday 9 May, from 10am to 4pm, at the Artrise Gallery, building five, with free entry.

The pieces will remain on display in the gallery after the official show has finished.

The opening night will be held in the gallery from 7.30pm on Friday 1 May.

Tickets for the opening night will be availableatthedoorfor$15,withcashand card accepted.

Details: sunburyartsociety.com

The ‘Sincerely Yours’ seniors event series is finishing off with a bang in Craigieburn, with an homage to womeninmusicaltheatre.

Join Victoria Mantynen on 28 May at the Hume Global Learning Centre as she performs musical theatre favouritesin‘PlayingSecondFiddle’.

The performance will showcase musical hits from the greatest female supporting characters. The audience can look forward to show-stopping songs from Les Miserable, Chess, Showboat,GuysandDollsandOliver. Mantynen is excited to perform these unforgettable musical theatre classics and connect local seniors in thisdazzlingevent.

“Our Sincerely Yours program aims togivetheseniorsofHumethechance to have access to a world class show and the opportunity to socialise and connect with their local community,” Mantynensaid.

Doors open at 12.30pm for a 1pm start,aftertheshowlightrefreshments will be provided and there will be an opportunitytosocialise.

Book your place at the final ‘SincerelyYours’eventonline:https:// www.trybooking.com/DILPF

DJ Renee Tui to hit the decks at the Royal Hotel

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

OnFriday1May,localgavouriteDJRenee Tui is bringing the beats back to the Royal Hotel for another night of music, nostalgia andcommunityspirit.

By day, she’s a busy mum of four running her own hair salon, but when the sun goes down, she swaps the scissors for the decks. While she’s quick to downplay her skills, her growing following says otherwise.

“I’mnosuperstarDJ,”shesaid.

“I just love playing all types of music and watching everybody having a great time on mydancefloor.”

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

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

With more than 30 years experience in

hairdressing and a side hustle as a DJ and karaoke host, Renee’s all about creating spaceswherepeoplecanletlooseandenjoy themselves.

Soifyou’relookingforyournextnightout with a local twist, follow the music down to the Royal Hotel, and meet DJ Renee Tui on thedancefloor.

The event is free and open to all 18 years and over. For details, visit: https:// welcometomoorabool.com/eventsbacchusmarsh-ballan-gordon-blackwoodgreendale/dj-renee-tui-at-the-royal-hotelbacchus-marsh.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT

(Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987)

The property affected by the application is located at: 14 Refuge Place DOREEN VIC 3754

The application is for a permit for: Construction of 2 new verandas to an existing dwelling (outside the restrictions of the MCP)

The applicant for the permit is: Melbourne’s Best Verandas

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application on the City of Whittlesea website via the following link https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/building-planning-development/planning/advertising/ The application reference number is: PLN-46002

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority: City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang.

This can be done during the office hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. This service is free of charge.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority.

An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 14th May 2026.

If you object, the responsible authority will inform you of its decision.

For information regarding access to Planning documents relating to this application please contact Council’s

SPORTS QUIZ

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

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

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

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

14. Mintonette was the original name for which sport?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. What sport does Australian Hannah Green play?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YOUR NEW CAREER

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

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

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

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

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

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

PUZZLES

ACROSS

1 Musically short, clipped and separate (8)

DOWN

1 Senior barrister (coll) (4)

2 Divine being of high rank (9)

Remember,

5 New York City neighbourhood (6)

10 Clear (5)

11 Cattle (9)

12 Minister (6)

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

14 Military unit (8)

15 Ill-gotten (6)

18 Constabulary (6)

20 Fauna (8)

21 Central Italian region (7)

24 Steering device (6)

27 First meal (9)

28 Established truth (5)

29 Widespread dominion (6)

30 Quaint houses (8)

3 Military student (5)

4 Open-minded (8)

6 Attack (7)

7 Father of Beau and Jeff Bridges (5)

8 Be logical or comprehensible (4,5)

9 Wickedness (4)

14 Respectable (9)

16 Hanging around (9)

17 The text of an opera (8)

19 Savoury biscuit (7)

22 Woolly mammal (5)

23 Chinese currency (4)

25 Preliminary drawing (5)

26 Flightless birds (4)

3

4

Today’s Aim:

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

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”. A G P Y C I E R N

preying, pricey, prying, pyre, racy, rainy, raying, repay, repaying, yarn, yean, year, yearn

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

LETTERS

AURAL AVAIL BOATS BREAD

1 Which singer released a 1963 album titled I’llCryIfIWantTo, in which every song related to crying?

2 Which colour has the longest light wavelength?

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

4 What was Monday named after?

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Solterra improved

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

The Solterra is the first fully-electric vehicle fromSubaru.

It’samid-sizedSUVthatwentonsalehere inearly-2024.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our testvehicle was the SolterraTouring.

Styling

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

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

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

Style overrides substance at the rear with theabsenceofwipers.

The Touring model gets a full-length poweredpanoramicsunroof.

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

The base Solterra runs on 18-inch alloy wheelswithTouringsteppingupto20-inch. Bothget aerodynamic caps.

Interior

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

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

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

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 8.5/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 7/10

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

Front and outboard rear seats are all heated.

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

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

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

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

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

Powertrain

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

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

Infotainment

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

There are two 15W wireless chargers on thecentreconsole.

The entry-level Solterra comes with a

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

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

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

Safety

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

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

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

advanced parking assistance via displays andalerts.

There are ISOFIX child seat anchor points ontheoutsiderearseats.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summary

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

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

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

Anzac Day sporting moments

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

Cannons in the fast lane

By Tara Murray

A new quicker game plan will be the Calder Cannons style in the Talent League girls this season.

The Cannons kicked off their season in round two of the competition before a bye.

They got their first win of the season on Saturday.

Nic Tenabel takes on the coaching role this season.

Tenabel was in charge early last season while Ross Smith was on leave, and now takes on the role in a permanent capacity this season.

She said it had been nice to put her full spin on everything.

“I can put my own footprint on it and it’s being able to plan around that,” Tena-

bel said.

“We’ve changed the game plan around to mimic the AFLW game which is a high transition game.

“I’m excited to put my own stamp on it and see it come to life and the parents are saying that they can see it.”

Tenabel said they had previously been a more defensive side and liked to maintain possession.

She said they would now be a transition side with speed and carry which she called a new style of Cannons footy.

Pleasingly for Tenabel has been how the playing group has reacted.

“They have embraced being an aggressive team,” she said. “They’re now watching AFL, AFLW vision and see that is what they are doing.

“They see the way we want to play this season as well. The girls are really buying into.”

Tenabel said they struggled to get their game going in their season opener, with the weather really not helping them either.

In their loss Sandringham Dragons, the Cannons struggled to get the ball out of their defensive 50.

Tenabel said once they can do that it will allow their game style to flow a bit more.

The Cannons squad this year has a few more bottom age players with plenty of talent coming through the region.

Tenabel said there is some great depth within the club.

“Last year we had a few under-16s play in the under-18s and it’s good to see them

Brendan Young and Lachlan Kego. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 546139_08

Eagles sneak home in a Big V thriller

By Tara Murray

Craigieburn Eagles won a thriller against the Whittlesea Pacers in the Big V division 1 men’s competition on Saturday night.

Early signs have shown that both teams are likely to be in the mix come later in the season, and the Anzac Day match up didn’t disappoint.

The match came down to the final 12 seconds of the game.

Shawndale Jones Jr put the Eagles in front by one point before a timeout was called.

The Pacers’ Gabe Evans managed to get a three point shot up with four seconds to go, but the shot missed, giving the Eagles a 105-104 win.

Eagles coach Tim Annett said it was a really high quality match.

“It was a good win and it was good to be on the right side of the outcome,” he said. “We have shown that we are both up there with the top sides

“It was a good spectacle for those who were watching.”

Annett said it was a high pace game with

both sides going on runs.

He said both sides had a number of scoring options.

The Eagles entered the final quarter seven points down and had to get the win the hard way.

“Wehadtohanginthereforlongenough,”

Annett said. “We were hoping that the last two or three minutes would go our way.

“There was a lot of scoring power and high quality scoring power for both sides. We needed a little bit of luck as well.”

Jones Jr and Max Barkeley scored 29 points each for the Eagles.

Matthew Fennell top scored with 27 points for the Pacers, while Brendan Young had 26 points.

The win takes the Eagles to 4-1 and they sit third on the ladder.

Annett said they were still a fairly new group, so they would take the early wins.

“We’re not expecting to hit our park until the middle of the season,” he said.

“Being 4-1 we’re in a good position. If we can have a strong next two to three weeks we should finish towards the pointy end of the ladder.”

Annett said they’ve had their ups and downs to start the season.

He said with an experienced group they were working out what they needed to do.

“We hadn’t been at our best for 40 minutes,” he said. “Saturday was our first four quarter performance.

“I’ve got confidence in the group and there’s bigger things to come. It will take a little to get where we would like.

“There’s still a lot more gelling to happen.”

In the women’s division 1 matchup between the two sides, it was the Pacers who got the win, 73-52.

The Pacers jumped out of the blocks and led by nine points at quarter time.

The margin was eight at half time, before the Pacers controlled the second half to claim the win.

Sharna Ayres top scored for the Pacers with 19 points, while Ivana Vasiljevic scored 17.

For the Eagles, Viv Saad top scored with 19 points.

playing key roles,” she said.

“We’ve got a couple of former Sydney and Gold Coast academy players who will find their feet in the next few rounds.”

The Cannons currently have two players in the Metro quad, Felicity Mahoney and Chloe Capeci.

They have four players playing in the under-16 national championships currently, who will be among nine under-16 players who will start to train with the under-18s.

Tenabel said having the weekend off they were hoping it would make them more hungry to get back out there after having a break after just one game.

She got her wish with the Cannons beating the Bendigo Pioneers, 14.6 (90)7.7 (49).

Sports shorts

FV

Meadow Park has had an early season coaching change in the FV state league 5 north-west competition. The Eagles announced that Danny Moore had stepped away due to personal circumstances. Andy O’Dell has taken over as coach. Andy brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, having coached at [Caroline Springs] George Cross, Altona City, Preston Lions and more,”the Eagles said. “With an extensive resume and a proven track record, he’s known for building strong, competitive teams and driving a high-performance environment. We’re confident Andy is the right man to lead us forward.” On Saturday, the Eagles lost to Moonee Valley Knights, 4-1.

Australia Cup

It wouldn’t be an Australia Cup without drama for Hume City. The National Premier League side has played in plenty of thrillers in the past in the Australia Cup and on Tuesday night it was no different in round five. Facing Brunswick Juventus, the match went to penalties. Brunswick led 1-0 at half time before goals to Adisu Bayew and Frank Busas gave Hume a 2-1 lead. Brunswick levelled scores in the first minute of extra time, to lock the scores at 2-2, and send the match to overtime. Neither side was able to find a winner, with Brunswick winning the match 5-4 after the penalty shoot out.

EDFL

Westmeadows made it three from three in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 competition on Saturday. The Tigers faced Tullamarine on Saturday morning and continued their good form with an 11.18 (84)-1.1 (7) win. Courteney Munn kicked eight goals in a best on ground performance for the Tigers. Marianna Shiba was named the Demons best. In other matches, Craigieburn lost to Keilor Park, while Roxburgh Park lost to Coburg Districts.

VPL

Whittlesea United had to settle for a 1-1 draw against the Eastern Lions on Friday night in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition. Whittlesea opened the scoring in the 59th minute, before the Lions levelled in the 87th minute.

FOR MORE SPORT VISIT

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Pingers’ flying start

By Tara Murray

Twelve months of hard work and development is paying off for Epping in the Northern Football League women’s division 3 competition.

The Pingers won just two games in 2025 but after two rounds in 2026 the side has already equalled that tally.

They made it three from three on Sunday.

Speaking before the weekend’s match, coach Michael Simper says the group showing significant improvement early in the year.

After admitting he faced a steep learning curve in his first season coaching women’s football, Simper said both he and the players are committed to building a stronger foundation.

“There has been a large shift from last year,” he said. “I had never coached girls before and I was a fish out of water. It was a big learning curve.

“They were lacking skills. knowledge and

game sense so I dedicated last season to a full season of development and take the focus away from wins and losses so we could measure success in other ways and keep morale and positivity high the benefit was not just for the players, but for me as well.”

Simper, who has been involved at Epping for 15 years in a number of different coaching roles, took on the women’s role when his daughter asked him to step up.

He said they had been able to retain a large number of the group from last season and recruited well to give them a stronger side for this year,

Simper said the playing group had embraced a more professional approach.

“We’ve coached them like a senior men’s side and treated them no differently,” he said.

“We’vebuilttheirfitness,focusedonconditioning, and made better use of the club physio, medic team and club resources.”

Simper said the start to the season was a reward for the group and what they had done.

It’s the first time that the women’s side had won two games in a row.

Confidence is growing within the group, but Simper is mindful of the challenges that lay ahead.

“The girls are full of belief at the moment, but we know it won’t be smooth sailing,” he said.

“There are some tough games coming up, so we’ve got to keep a lid on it.”

Simper said the focus remains on consistent improvement.

“We’ll take it one game at a time. We want to improve on last season,” he said.

“We’ll control what we can control and see what happens, it’s a tight division and any team is capable of winning on game day.”

Looking ahead, the club has its sights set on more than short-term success.

“Our long-term goal is to build a strong female program and push out of division 3,” Simper said.

The Pingers beat Laurimar on Sunday, 4.9 (33)-2.2 (14).

Demons on the up with back-to-back wins

By Tara Murray

Tullamarine is taking the early honours for the most improved team of the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition.

After having a tough 2025, the rebuilding Demons have shown their improvement so far this season.

After losing a thriller against Craigieburn in round one, the Demons have scored back-to-back wins against Avondale Heights and Oak Park.

Demons’ coach Zack Carey is thrilled with how they’ve started.

He said it had been a while since they had won back-to-back games

“Last week was really good and we obviously rate Oak Park very high in the competition,” he said.

“We have a lot of respect for them.

“The first five games are really challenging against the remaining four finalists and Taylors Lakes, which has recruited well.

“We set the challenge to be ahead of the ledger after that period.

Carey said they’ve knew they would have to fight hard the last two weeks to

pick up the four points and it was exactly what they expected.

On Saturday against Oak Park, the Demons led by 32 points at quarter time having kept the Kangaroos goal less.

That was the key in the Demons, 12.8 (80)-6.10 (46) win.

Carey said 12 months ago they probably wouldn’t have taken home the win and Oak Park would have run over the top of them.

“We got those early goals and we were never headed,” he said.

“Oak Park came hard at us.

“We’re still in the rebuilding phase and still missing a few players. But it’s one guy out, next one in.”

Tom Jackson kicked three goals for the Demons and will take a heavier load in the side’s forward line than expected.

Josh Covelli has missed the past two games, with Carey said that he was out indefinitely with a medical issue.

He said they hoped that Covelli might get back later in the season but his health and family was the main thing.

Nicholas Owens, Jake Long and Zak Wunhym were named the Demons best.

Also making an impression was for-

Pat Cronin round sparks conversations

Northern Football Netball League netballer Brooke Ryan will be among a record 78,000 players at the centre of a powerful message when she takes to the court for her third Pat Cronin Foundation Round.

The round which is being held on 1-3 May involves local football and netball leagues supporting the Pat Cronin Foundation’s fight to end the coward punch.

The round which will include nine leagues this year, highlights the importance of controlling emotions such as anger as well as aggression and respecting opponents.

Involving more than 3270 teams in more than 120 locations, the round complements the foundation’s work in schools throughout Australia, delivering specialised violence-prevention education.

It also honours coward punch victim Pat Cronin who lost his life after being struck from behind during what was meant to be a quiet night out with friends in 2016.

Cronin played in the Northern Football League.

Ryan, who plays with Panton Hill, was the winner of a foundation medal for her standout performance against Oak Park in last year’s marquee game in the Northern Netball League.

Ryan, 23, has since become a strong advocate for the initiative, which uses community sport to initiate conversations around social violence – both on and off the playing arena.

“All the players are given yellow armbands – the official colour of the foundation - to wear to symbolise our involvement in the cause, and last year we were also given wristbands,” she said.

The wristband, wrapped around the gear shift in her car and another in her partner’s vehicle, often sparks conversations.

“It’s a small thing, but it starts discussions,” Ryan said. “People ask about it, and it gives you a chance to talk about social violence – which is a concern in social settings in my age group - and ways to avoid it.

“The tips and strategies from the foundation apply to everyday day life, as well as sport – where emotions are often running high.”

mer AFL player Willie Rioli in his debut for the club.

Rioli played 109 AFL games including the 2018 premiership with West Coast.

Carey said Rioli would play more games for the club this season, but they weren’t sure how many

“Not only is he a good footballer, he’s a good person,” he said.

“I only met him this week and he went around to every single player and introduced himself.

“He asked the kids their names and spoke at the sponsors lunch and thanked everyone after the game.”

The task doesn’t get any easier for the Demons, who will face West Coburg in round four.

Carey said that West Coburg was up there with Oak Park as the favourites in the competition.

In other matches, Craigieburn remains undefeated after beating Moonee Valley, 14.16 (100)-10.6 (66).

In premier division, Greenvale got its first win of the season, beating Hillside.

Meanwhile in division 2, Westmeadows lost to Glenroy, while Roxburgh Park defeated Hadfield.

Through its partnership in the round, the NFNL will ensure its 45 clubs attend the foundation’s presentation, Live Wise Play Wise, over the next three years.

League chief executive Daniel Kelly said the league sees the partnership as a core value of what it stands for as a league in helping inform particularly young people about the harm and repercussions that violence has not only in sport, but in society more broadly.

“We’reproudtobefacilitatingahugely important conversation not just with our football and netball participants, but they can take that message away and speak to their family and friends about these issues and continue that cycle of learning.”

FoundationdirectorMattCroninsaid changing attitudes starts with education and they’re proud to be giving clubs the tools and the leadership to take action.

“In addition to almost 80,000 participants this year, our messages will also reach an estimated 300,000 supporters and spectators over the three days of competition.”

Details: https://patcroninfoundation.org.au/get-involved/pcf-round/

A memorable milestone

By Tara Murray

It was a party for the milestone man Patrick Fitzgerald on Saturday in the Northern Football League division 3 competition. Fitzgerald, who is in his second season at the Laurimar, celebrated game 300 as the Power faced Kinglake.

It was one way traffic on the scoreboard throughout the match, with the game all but over at half time with the Power leading by 75 points.

With the match and four points already in the Power’s pocket, the Power gave Fitzgerald a game to remember.

He would finish with 14 goals for the game, with most of them coming in the final quarter.

The Power eventually won, 29.15

(189)-4.7 (31). Fitzgerald was named best on ground by the Power coaches for his massive haul.

Matt Keys kicked four goals for the Power, while three others kicked two goals each.

Bailey Macleod and Jesse Donaldson were other standouts.

After three rounds, the Power sits atop the ladder undefeated.

While it was a good day for the Power, both Epping and Lalor suffered losses.

The Pingers were hoping to make it two in a row against Watsonia.

It was the Saints that led at each of the first two breaks, but there were only seven points in it at the main break.

The Saints had 10 scoring shots in the third quarter and while they weren’t able

to make the most of them, they increased the lead to 24 points at the last break.

Watsonia finished the game strongly to come away with a 13.12 (90)-7.10 (52) win.

Daniel Rakhlin kicked three goals for the Pingers, which Leigh Judd and Brent Macaffer named the Pingers best.

Lalor was able to stick with Old Eltham Collegians for a half in its match.

The margin was just 15 points at half time, but the Turtles had been wasteful in front of goal.

Afterhalftimeitwaseightgoalstothree as the Turtles won, 12.22 (94)-6.8 (44).

Sam Rexhepi kicked four goals for the Bloods.

Alex Dao and Luke O’Keeffe were named their best.

Broncos break drought with two weekend wins

By Tara Murray

Hume City Broncos broke their drought with not one, but two wins in the Big V women’s championship on the weekend.

After a challenging few weeks, the Broncos were able to get some reward for effort with two wins in the space of 24 hours.

Broncos’ coach Brooke Davenport said it was nice to finally put it all together.

“It was a good weekend,” she said. “We stuck together

“We had a plan and played the Broncos style.

“Even though we weren’t winning they all stuck together and worked hard.”

Having had an injury riddled 2025, Davenport could have been forgiven for thinking the curse had continued into 2026.

“Maddy [Geislinger] our import had a concussion in the pre-season and only returned on the weekend in limited minutes,” Davenport said.

“Sammy [Labros] was coming back from an ACL injury which she did in game three last year

“Georgia [Keighran] had a few injuries in the pre-season and is working her way back.”

On Saturday night, the Broncos were on the road against the Bulleen Boomers. They were down by one point heading into the final quarter with the game on the line.

“In the fourth quarter we tried to instill in the girls to fight for it,” she said. “There was nothing to lose and we were running the floor really well.”

The Broncos finished with a 27-16 final quarter to come away with a 75-65 win.

Kelly Heimburger top scored with 32 points as four players scored double figures.

Davenport was full of praise for guard Monique Caparello and what she has brought to the side.

Having coached the Sunbury Jets last season, Caparello spent plenty of time on the practice court and got her itching to play again.

Davenport said she was the type of player that they needed.

“She’s got three kids and has put back on the boots,” she said.

“Her leadership and her basketball IQ is positive for the girls.

“The knowledge she gives the girls and it’s almost like having another coach out there.”

The Broncos didn’t have much rest as they faced the Sunbury Jets on Sunday.

The two clubs were playing for the Milner-Sellwood Shield.

Davenport said it was a bit of a battle throughout before the Broncos finished strongly again to claim the win.

Georgia Keighran. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 458917_06

A 17-7 final quarter for the Broncos, sealed a 75-59 win.

Labros top scored with 20 points.

Davenport said to finish like that in a back-to-back was a really pleasing sign.

The Broncos now face the Warrnambool Mermaids on Saturday night.

“It’s a single game,” she said. “We want to get out there and keep the pressure go-

In division 2, South Morang made it two in a row with a win against Lower Plenty in a thriller.

There was just two points in it at the final break.

The Lions managed to get a lead out to 13 points before a goal in the 14th minute to Mitchell Skipper reduced the margin to seven points.

The Bears peppered the goals in the dying minutes but only got six behinds for their efforts.

It meant the Lions held on to win, 14.14 (98)-13.18 (96).

Cayden Failla, Tyrone Leonardis and Teague Van Zwienen were the Lions best. In other games, Whittlesea beat Old Paradians and Thomastown lost to Fitzroy Stars.

Bundoora family recognised

Bundoora Cricket Club’s most famous name is being recognised by the Diamond Valley Cricket Association.

The DVCA announced after a thorough review process that the new fourth shield grade will be named the Dyson Shield.

The association said the decision recognisestheexceptionalandlongstanding contribution of the Dyson family to both Bundoora and the DVCA.

The Dyson name at Bundoora dates back to 1928 and there have been nearly 3000 matches played by the family.

The club said it was a pretty special moment for the club and the family.

“The Bundoora Cricket Club was founded in 1928 by Laurence Collins “Pop” Dyson with the purpose of providing organised cricket opportunities for players of all ages within the local community,” the club said.

“Pop Dyson was not only the club’s founding figure, but remained deeply involved in its leadership, serving as president of the Bundoora Cricket Club continuously until 1977 and providing nearly five decades of steady governance and direction.

“Since the club’s inception, the Dyson family contribution has been continuous and substantial over nearly a century.

“Over the past 98 years, no fewer than 21 members of the Dyson family have played cricket within the Diamond Valley Cricket Association.

“In addition to their on field contributions, Dyson family members have consistently served the game through club committee roles, coaching appointments,andexecutiveandgovernancepositions within the DVCA.”

The Bulls also highlighted the significant contribution to the DVCA made by Collins “Col” Dyson. Col played 221 matches, took 500 wickets, and made 3,292 runs across 28 seasons.

He also served as a DVCA executive memberthroughoutthe1960sand1970s.

“The Dyson family contribution has had a profound and lasting impact not onlyonourclub,butonthestrength,culture, and success of the Diamond Valley Cricket Association as a whole,” the Bulls said.

ing and keep moving.”

The Broncos claimed the Milner-Sellwood Shield, with the men’s championship side also having a win against the Jets.

The Broncos finished with a 36-16 final quarter to come away with a 117-100 win.

Robbie Heath scored 46 points for the Broncos, including hitting 10 three-pointers.

“From Pop Dyson’s founding leadership and long serving presidency through to multiple generations of elite on field performers, administrators and association officials, the Dyson family’s commitment spans generations, roles, and nearly a century of service to community cricket.”

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