Star Weekly - Northern - 2nd September 2025

Incinerator stalls

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Cleanaway has withdrawn its current application for a development licence for its contentious WastetoEnergy(WtE)facilityin Wollert.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) was scheduled to make a decision on Cleanaway’s proposal to build the Melbourne Energy Resource Recovery Centre (MERC) at 510 Summerhill Road on Saturday, August 30, but told StarWeeklyon Monday, September 1 that Cleanaway had withdrawn its application prior to the decisiondeadline.

StarWeekly understands the application has been withdrawn amid plans to submit an updated application to the EPA to reflect Recycling Victoria’s decision to grant Cleanaway a significantly higher waste

burningcap.

As reported by StarWeekly , on Sunday, August 17, Recycling Victoria approved a cap licence for Cleanaway to process up to 760,000tonnesofwasteperyear.

The licence was double the original applicationlimitof380,000tonnes.

The expanded capacity represents about 13 per cent of Victoria’s landfill-bound waste, projected to generate enough electricity to supply 140,000 homes and businesses.

No Northern Incinerator community group member Cath Rousse criticised the EPA for failing to update those who made individual submissions about the proposed WtEfacility.

Cleanaway’s decision came as residents opposed to the WtE incinerator gathered at Whittlesea’s council offices on Sunday,

August31, unawaretheapplicationhadbeen withdrawn.

The community meeting was attended by Whittlesea mayor Martin Taylor who said council moved to reject Cleanaway’s planning application and development license submission for the MERC back in December2024.

Ms Rousse said WtE facilities were not allowed in Sydney or the ACT, and residents didn’twanttheminWhittlesea.

GanbuGulinjWardcouncillorLawrieCox, speaking on a personal basis, said having a commercial industrial incinerator within a kilometre of residential housing is not acceptableinthisdayandage.

“It was some 40 years ago we recognised burning off in the backyard was a problem and we banned property incinerators,” he said.

“The community in Wollert and Epping Northhavebeenveryvocalintheiropposition tothisplannedincinerator.”

Julie Ahmad, a local resident and administrator for the No Northern IncineratorFacebookgroup,saidtheproject had been “very quietly put together” since Cleanawaypurchasedthesitein2021.

“Nooneunderstoodwhatthisincinerator meant. There’s been a complete lack of consultation,”MrsAhmadsaid.

“Cleanaway says they’ve consulted, but the only way people have heard about it is through our Facebook group. If you ask anyone in the supposed letter drop range, they’ll tell you they never received anything.”

Call on intersection safety

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

A growing chorus of Epping residents claim the Maserati Drive and Findon Road intersectionisunsafe,withalocaladvocacy group warning it’s “only a matter of time” beforemoreseriousaccidentsoccur.

Better Deal Whittlesea (BDW) recently conductedapollwithWhittlesearesidents, with 90 per cent of respondents saying they did not feel safe driving through the intersection.

Many cited frequent near misses and crashesascauseforconcern.

BDW has launched a petition calling

on Whittlesea council to advocate for the stategovernmenttodeclareFindonRoada majorarterialroad.

The group is also urging urgent traffic safety measures at Maserati Drive and a long-term plan to upgrade Findon Road to cope with current and future traffic volumes.

“Whilst traffic lights were installed here in 2021 to improve pedestrian safety, a lingering road safety problem appears presentgivenconcernsraisedbyresidents,”

BDW founding leader Nick Brain said in a Facebookpost.

In just over a week, more than 285

residentssignedthepetition,withnumbers continuingtorise.

A recent council traffic study confirmed both safety risks and congestion issues along Findon Road, highlighting the intersectionasakeyproblemarea.

At a recent council meeting, councillor David Lenberg threw his support behind thepetition.

“I’ll be out over the next coming weeks knockingondoorstogetsupport,”hesaid.

Residentsarguetheexistingtrafficlights have done little to resolve the dangers at MaseratiDrive.

“Another day, another accident,” BDW

Time is of the essence at St Monica’s

St Monica’s College Epping celebrated the opening of its new St Stephen/Gaudete Campus in Reservoir by burying a time capsuleinaspeciallocationonthegrounds ofthenewcampusonAugust19.

The site for the new campus was previously St Stephen’s Primary School and the original birthplace of St Monica’s College with St Stephen’s serving the Reservoir community from 1958. It’s now

being used as a specialist campus for year 8 students with an emphasis on numeracy andliteracy.

The planting of the time capsule marked the final celebration for the opening of the new campus. Items placed in the time capsule included notes from students and staff, special anniversary memorabilia, copiesofcollegeaccountsandrecords.

St Monica’s College principal Brian

Hanley said the capsule will be an important historic record of life at the college in 2024, the year the college celebratedit’s60thanniversary.

“It will be a fantastic experience for our staff and students in 2064 to recover this capsule as part of the college’s centenary year and enjoy the many surprises they will find inside which reflect on life at the collegein2024,”hesaid.

Incinerator licence application withdrawn ... for now

Prior to withdrawing its development licence application, Cleanaway told Star Weekly community engagement commenced in 2021 when the MERC project was first announced, with additional community engagement servicesmadeavailablelateron.

“There were additional engagement opportunities throughout 2023 and 2024 including in-person and online information sessions, as well as one-on-one meetings with the Cleanaway team,” a statement said. “Cleanaway also established a stakeholder reference group

made up of local residents from a range of diverseculturalandreligiousbackgrounds with an interest in the proposal, providing an active channel between the local communityandCleanaway.”

The proposed MERC will be one of Victoria’s WtE facility proposals to be examined as part of a parliamentary inquiry..

On August 26, the Victorian upper house backed the inquiry into WtE projects, followingamotionfromMPRachelPayne.

The inquiry will examine consultation processes, the siting of projects near homes and schools, and long-term

social, economic and environmental consequences. Ms Payne said while WtE facilities are often presented as a solution tolandfill,therapidgrowthoftheindustry inVictoriaraisedsignificantquestions.

“These are not backyard incinerators of the past, they will still be burning through millions of tonnes of waste,” she said. “We must ask whether this is the future we want – one that risks polluting ourpeopleandplanet?”

Wollert residents joined campaigners from Sunbury, Lara and Lynbrook at Parliament House to support the motion.

wroteinapostsharedtosocialmedia.

Other sections of Findon Road are also underpressure,withlocalssayingtheroad isnolongerfitforpurpose.

A state government spokesperson told Star Weekly no formal comment can be made until Whittlesea council formally raisestheissue.

BDW is urging more residents to add theirvoicesbysigningthepetitionatwww. change.org/fixfindonrd.

“Every signature helps build momentum,”BDWsaidin anonlinepost.

“Enough is enough – Findon Road and MaseratiDrivemustbefixed.”

New facilities for Huskisson Reserve

Huskisson reserve may soon receive new and improved facilities in a major project proposed for the reserveinLalor.

The $6.4 million project will include new multi-purpose pavilion, six new tennis courts with lighting, two hotshot-pickleball courts, a hitting wall, connecting paths and furniture, an upgraded car park, landscapingandutilityupgrades.

Whittlesea council originally heard of a proposed plan for Huskisson Recreation Reserve back in 2022, where the project was expected to cost about $9.8 million and included six new tennis courts, , a new community sporting pavilion to service both tennis and sports oval programs, redevelopment of the car park and improvements to the pedestrianpathnetwork.

The existing two pavilions (tennis clubpavilionandthecricket-football pavilion)willbedemolishedtomake wayforthenewpavilion.

Early works including upgrades to power supply, communications, stormwater, and fire services will be madetothereserve.

Cr David Lenberg said the reserve hasn’t seen any major works in decades.

“Inolderareas,weneedtoupgrade ourfacilities,”hesaid.

CrLenbergalsocommentedonthe economic benefits of the proposed plan.

“The project is expected to directly create 12 local jobs with flow on effects. These are the sorts of opportunities I think are really importantforourcommunity.”

The project was approved by council and is expected to start late 2025andbecompletedbyearly2027.

House at capacity

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Dallas Neighbourhood House (DNH) is calling for more space and hours to meet growing demand after tripling in size over the past two-and-a-half years.

Manager Leanne Cacoyiannis said the community house had reached full capacity despite expanding its programs to support residents with food relief, education and wellbeing initiatives.

“We’ve tripled in size in a matter of twoand-a-half years,” Ms Cacoyiannis said.

“We do 150-plus food parcels every week and a lot of social and health and wellbeing connection programs.

“We’re at total capacity. We’ve had to outsource a lot of our education programs because we’ve got nowhere to put them here. A lot of our programs have had to be put on hold.”

Despite the limited space, Ms Cacoyiannis expressed DNH’s wishes to grow even more.

“We want to be able to help our community. That’s what we’re fighting for. We’re wanting to grow. We want to employ more people here, whether that be more people who can work here, volunteer here. It helps everyone. That’s what Dallas Neighbourhood House is here for.”

Vice president John Rutherford said the committee was in discussions with council about expanding access to the site.

“The reason we’re looking for extra hours is to provide extra services,” he said.

“We’re in the process of change. Now we can see that there’s a need for expansion and further development. Discussions have been opened up with the council.”

Hume council has welcomed DNH’s business case, but Ms Cacoyiannis acknowledged the uncertainty ahead.

“They may say no and we don’t know where we’ll be if that happens,” she said.

Hume council told Star Weekly council officers were authorised to continue negotiations with DNH to extend the license for more operating hours. These negotiations exclude the early years and maternal

and child health areas and, therefore, the programs and services that operate in this space will not be impacted.

“The negotiations also consider current user groups and regular hires as the negotiations are seeking to support the activation of underutilised spaces/times and for DNH to expand their service and run programs to maximise community benefit and the use of the facility,” council said.

Sunbury Road set for major works

Sunbury Road travellers are being warned to prepare for heavy delays, with works are set to begin on the third runway at Melbourne Airport.

The major roadworks are set to bring a widened Sunbury Road, with a new intersection installed along with traffic lights. The new intersection and traffic lights will be at the entrance to airport land between the Wildwood Road and Oaklands Road roundabouts, to accommodate construction vehicles entering and existing airport land.

Traffic divided along Sunbury Road heading towards the traffic lights and intersection.

The new traffic lights will only be activated by vehicles entering and exiting airport land, to reduce disruptions to other traffic along Sunbury Road, according to the Melbourne Airport.

Works are expected to cause disruption to traffic, with commuters and residents told to plan their journey ahead of time to allow for delays. During the works, the speed limit along Sunbury Road will be reduced to 40km/h. Access to surrounding properties and businesses will be maintained during works, and access to the airport will not be affected.

The works are expected to take 12 months to complete and will begin late September. Details: https:// tinyurl.com/rsh2y9mf

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building North East Link. We’re also upgrading the Eastern Freeway and completing the M80 Ring Road in Greensborough, making travelling around Melbourne quicker and safer.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Hurstbridge Line

8.30pm, 12 Sep to last service, 14 Sep

Between Macleod and Eltham

Road disruptions: Closed roads, ramps and freeways

M80 Ring Road, Greensborough 9pm, 5 Sep to 5am, 8 SepPlenty Road, Altona-bound exit ramp

7pm, 6 Sep to 5am, 8 Sep

Altona-bound between Greensborough Bypass and Plenty Road

7.30pm, 19 Sep to 5.30am, 22 Sep Between Plenty Road and Greensborough Bypass

Grimshaw Street, Greensborough 9pm, 12 Sep to 5am, 15 Sep Between Greensborough Bypass and Adeline/William streets

Greensborough Bypass, Greensborough

7.30pm, 19 Sep to 5.30am, 22 Sep

Between Grimshaw Street and the Diamond Creek Road/ Civic Drive roundabout

Data centres a ‘problem’

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Hume council is moving to take a stronger stance on the rapid growth of data centres across the municipality, amid concerns over environmental impacts, infrastructure strain, and limited long-term community benefits.

At Hume’s scheduled council meeting on Monday, August 25, councillors endorsed a motion calling for the development of a draft policy framework to better manage data centre applications, becoming the first Victorian council to do so.

Cr Kurt called out data centres for their impact on the environment, naming them a “wicked problem” for their limit-

ed benefits.

“They are a wicked problem. They’re huge in scale, consuming massive amounts of water and electricity whilst offering little back to the community in terms of jobs,” he said.

Data centres are increasingly being recognised as critical infrastructure in the digital economy, supporting innovation and technological growth. However, they are also highly resource-intensive, provide few ongoing jobs, and can create significant local disruptions.

Council highlighted ongoing issues in Tullamarine, where the NextDC facility on Sharps Road has caused parking shortages and reduced community

Music and connection

Hume’s seniors will be treated to a special afternoon of music, history and community when Little Pine Tree Productions brings Sincerely Yours to Tullamarine community hall next month.

The production will combine entertainment with opportunities to connect with community groups and local services and is designed to give older residents a chance to enjoy a professional musical performance before sharing in a social afternoon tea.

Council and community groups will host stalls, offering information and support while encouraging residents to strengthen their community ties.

At the heart of the event is Victoria

Mantenyn, who has designed the programs and performances to tackle loneliness in older Aussies.

“We’re trying to tackle isolation. The idea is to help older Australians access a world class performance and musical entertainment while also having the opportunity to socialise and connect with local community groups.”

Ms Mantynen will take to the stage as forces sweetheart Dame Vera Lynn.

Ms Mantynen said the show on September 30 at 2pm, aims to cater to those who may have a hard time making it to a typical event or performance.

Details: https://www.trybooking. com/DDVQP

amenity.

Similar concerns are emerging in Craigieburn and other growth areas, where developers are seeking approval for new centres which will place additional pressure on water and power supply.

Recent media reports have also pointed to data centres in other parts of Australia consuming vast amounts of water, with some projects being prioritised over new housing developments - a scenario Hume fears could also affect its fast-growing population.

Many applications are said to be assessed directly at a ministerial level, bypassing council scrutiny and limiting opportunities for local consultation..

“They send their projects straight to the minister for approval, often in new precinct structure plans where they can bypass council and communities with little scrutiny,” Cr Kurt pointed out. In other cases, data centres are embedded in Precinct Structure Plans (PSPs), which involve less direct engagement with residents.

Council officers will now prepare a briefing note examining issues such as water use, energy demand, employment, and environmental impacts. They will also explore advocacy opportunities with state and federal authorities to push for stronger regulations and planning controls.

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Help at a critical junction

Youth crimes involving edged weapons have been on the rise in Melbourne, with a state government ban on the sales and possession of machetes coming into full force next month. A youth services organisation in Melbourne’s west is addressing the issue through an early intervention program. Sam Porter spoke to The Youth Junction program manager Eamon, whose last name has been omitted for security reasons, to learn more.

Anew educational program aimed at reducing youth weapon offending has officially begun in Melbourne’s westernsuburbs.

The ‘sharp choices – bladed weapon diversion program’ is designed to address underlying risk factors for offending youth and empower young people to make safer, informed choices through educational modulesandongoingcasemanagement.

The Youth Junction program manager, Eamon, helped develop the program and saidtheorganisationwantedtobemindful of the experiences of young people when identifyingtheneedforintervention.

“We didn’t want to come at it through a punitive, telling-off almost, disparaging young people for carrying weapons. They mighthaveverysincereandveryrealfears, andsothatmightbeamotivatingfactorfor them,”Eamonsaid.

He said the reasons why young people carry weapons differ from person to person.

“I’d be hesitant to contribute it all to one or even two specific factors because in our ownexperience–supportingyoungpeople thatweknowandwhohavedisclosedtous thatthey’recarryingweapons–thereasons theydosovarysomuchfromyoungperson toyoungperson.”

Eamon said for some young people, carrying a weapon was about feeling a sense of bravado and machismo, and for others, a weapon helped make them feel saferwhentheywerescared.

These programs empower individuals to make positive changes and reduce the likelihood of reoffending - Eamon

The presence of edged weapons in a young person’s peer group is also a contributing factor in determining whetheranindividualmightcarryone.

“The research shows that even just the perception that someone in a peer group is carrying a weapon makes it exceedingly more likely that another young person in that group will as well. The social proliferation of weapon carrying is tremendous,”Eamonsaid.

‘Sharp choices’ benefited from a $35,000 grant from Wyndham council, which helpedtoexpandtheprogram.

Participants enter the ‘sharp choices’ program through a referral process and begin by attending one-on-one sessions withacasemanager.

After focussing on the individual’s risk factors and supporting the young person on their own for a period of time, case managers bring the participant into group sessions consisting of four to six young people.

In these group sessions, participants work through various modules, some of which focus on building communication skillsandempathy.

In an introductory module, facilitators assist in creating social cohesion within the group and work with participants to help them each identify their personal strengths.

“A big risk factor is [individuals] not being aware of their personal strengths … how can we use those personal strengths inourlives,”Eamonsaid.

One particular module led by West Justice, an organisation that offers free legal services in Melbourne’s west, focuses on increasing legal awareness around the possessionofweapons.

“[A weapons possession charge] affects travel, future employment, educational opportunities, all those things. So we really wanted to have a session set aside with a legal representative where they can gothroughthatwithyoungpeople…really trying to make those abstract concepts of impacts in the future approachable and digestible and understandable to young people,”Eamonsaid.

Another major component in the program is the inclusion of virtual reality (VR)immersiveexperiences.

In these VR POV (point of view) experiences, participants make decisions in realistic scenarios they may encounter intheirdailylives.

The VR experiences are the works of Virtual Decisions, a creative arts and educational technology company based in Birmingham,England.

Virtual Decisions has created a range of VR programs designed to address issues such as reintegration into society after prison, alcohol and illegal drug usage, youth violence, coercion and child

criminalexploitation,amongothers.

The program about knives explores why young people carry edged weapons and theconsequencesofcarryingknives.

Eamon highlighted the VR simulation does not show weapons or violence to participants.

Virtual Decisions chief executive Claire Downes said the company’s immersive VR programs allow individuals to experience the consequences of their actions in a safe environment.

“The effectiveness of Virtual Decisions’ immersive programs in reducing reoffending rates stems from their ability to engage participants emotionally, develop essential life skills, and provide personalised, supportive learning environments,”Clairesaid.

“By addressing the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behaviour, these programs empower individuals to make positive changes and reduce the likelihoodofreoffending.

“Overall, the response from participants after completing the Virtual Decisions programs has been overwhelmingly positive. They report increased self-awareness, enhanced skills, and a strong motivation to change their behaviours,contributingtotheirlong-term

commitmenttoreintegrationintosociety.”

Eamon said the length of time a young person spends in the ‘sharp choices’ programdependsontheirspecificneeds.

“We don’t want to create a situation where a young person really learns they can depend on us for support, and then we kind of yank the rug out from under them at the end of, say, three months,” Eamon said.

“We really want to empower young people and not cut them off before they’re ready to be a bit more independent with themselves and how they approach supportservicesandthingslikethat.We’re prettyflexiblewiththat.”

‘Sharp choices’ will be evaluated by Victoria University (VU), which has assessed other programs run by The Youth Junction.

“We’re really excited that we’re going to be able to get VU to help us unpack the program,seewhatworked,seewhatwecan improve on, and then build the evidence baseforourprogramsandhowwesupport youngpeople,”Eamonsaid.

“We’re hoping to keep expanding it and growing it, and really get into more of an early intervention space where [individuals] may not have existing links withthejusticesystemyet.”

Tongan roots celebrated

Pacific Island playgroup celebrated Tonga language week on Monday, August 18, at Broadmeadows Community Hub with Tongan food, song and dance.

The community playgroup for children and families with Pasifika heritage was started by Greens Northern Metropolitan

MP Anasina Gray-Barberio and is led by a team of volunteering Pasifika mums dedicated to ensuring their children grow up with a rich understanding of their Tongan identity and heritage.

“The playgroup is made up of volunteers, everyone chips in,” Ms Gray-Barberio said.

“The credit goes to the mums. Often pacific islanders are stigmatised - this early childhood intervention is crucial for their success.”

Theonlyplaygroupofitskindinnorthern

Melbourne, regulars said it’s important to theculturalidentityandsenseofbelonging for the children and families who attend.

Volunteering mum Mava Tuitupou has been attending the playgroup with her children since its start and said “it’s been great coming along. I didn’t realise I needed a place as much as this“.

“It’sbeenreallypositive.Igettobringmy kids to be with others like them - to learn about our culture. It can be tough growing up in Australia and trying to connect to your Tongan roots,” she said.

TheplaygroupishostedatBroadmeadows Community Hub every Monday, between 9.30 and 11.30am and invites families from all backgrounds to join in on the fun.

Find out more on Instagram: @ pacificislandplaygroup

Briefs

Kalkallo home for Scouts Scouts in Hume now have a purpose-built home, with the opening of a new hall in Kalkallo to support the area’s rapidly growing youth community. Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman officially opened the $600,000 facility this week at Gilgai Plains Primary School, marking a new home for local Scouts and Girl Guides. The new hall will serve as a hub for leadership programs, social connection and outdoor activities, offering young people a safe and inclusive space to develop skills and resilience. Located next to the Kalkallo Recreation Reserve, the hall provides easy access to community and sporting facilities, aiming to further strengthen ties between the Scouts and the wider community.

Pedestrian dies

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

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Students ready to dance

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

Students from the Whittlesea area will take part in the 2025 Victorian State School Spectacular (VSSS) performing in two shows on Saturday, September 13 at 1pm and 6.30pm at John Cain Arena.

This year, 2500 Victorian students from 200 government schools began their seven month creative journey in March, which will culminate in the state’s budding creative talent taking to the stage as circus artists, musicians, singers and dancers as well as students taking on the behind-the-scenes roles in stage management, audio, lighting, vision, costumes, and production.

Students from Lalor Secondary College, Edgars Creek Primary School, Morang South Primary School, and Mill Park Secondary College are just some of the many students taking part as principal vocalists, principal dancers, backing vocalists, and stage managers.

Lalor secondary college’s Amelia has been a part of the spectacular for three years and is in her final year of school as she takes on the role of principal dancer.

”It’s always an amazing experience being part of something so special and I’m excited to learn new skills and techniques from the industry professionals,“ she said.

Behind the scenes, fellow student Annalise has also taken part in the VSSS for the past three years and is excited to have another opportunity to be involved this year as rehearsal stage manager.

“The Victorian State School Spectacular would be the highlight production that I’ve been involved in because of the scale of it,” she said.

Mill Park secondary college’s Honey is in year 12 and is taking part as a rehearsal stage manager after being involved in the mass dance with her school in 2019.

She said she’s “excited to navigate the pressure of stage management in order to build my skill in problem solving.”

“I love to hear from professionals about their choice of pathways, combined with their experience backstage when they were my age. I’d love to pursue a career in stage and event management. I found this to be a great path for my journey,” she said.

This year’s 30th anniversary show will include 42 musical items, carefully curated by suggestions from the students, with music from Sheppard, Max Richter, Queen, Gotye, and more. The orchestra will also be playing specially commissioned original music by Kai Chen Lim.

What’s on

and

Upcoming sessions include:

Community Grants Information Sessions

When: Thursday 11 September,

Where: Civic Centre - 25 Ferres South

Community Grants Writing Workshop

When: -

Where: Civic Centre - South

Register now:

Join us for f

Upcoming sessions include:

Supporting Your Child’s Development and Referral Pathways

When: Wednesday 3 September, 10 - 11.30am

Where: Jindi Family & Community Centre -

Read, Play and Connect

When: Tuesday 9 September, 10 - 11.30am

Where: Whittlesea Library

For more sessions and information, visit:

Green light for development

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

Whittlesea council has given the green light to a major residential redevelopment in Mernda, with a focus on boosting affordable housing options for the community.

At council meeting on Tuesday, August 19, councillors approved changes to the planned subdivision of 17–19 Johnsons Road.

Council originally endorsed a subdivision layout of 35 lots, reserving three for affordable housing, while also providingopenspaceandroadupgrades.

The revised plan will deliver a 37-lot neighbourhood, with six lots reserved for affordablehousing.

Cr Jarrod Lappin praised council for its plans.

“I think it’s a great place for residential development. It’s near the recreation reserve and the train station. I think it’s a smartplaceformorehousing,”hesaid.

Council purchased the Johnsons Road site in 2015 for $1.8 million, with the intention of transforming it into a residentialdevelopment.

Councilsaidtheupdatedneighbourhood layoutisdesignedwiththeaimtoenhance

safety and liveability by activating street frontages at the entrance to the site, with houses overlooking public open space, improvingpassivesurveillance.

Street trees, indented parking, water-sensitive urban design and connections to surrounding parkland will alsobedelivered.

CrChristineStowcommentedontheuse ofspacefortheproposeddevelopment.

“It’s a great use of the former Mernda primary school. There’s a portion of affordable housing stock within that development which is going to be great,” shesaid.

Company’s water treatment breakthrough

A Thomastown company is set to lead the way in tackling harmful “forever chemicals” in water, after being awarded $3 million in federal funding for a groundbreakingsustainabilityproject.

Bygen Pty Ltd has received support through the federal government’s Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) program, which backs collaborations between industry, research andsciencetosolvemajorchallenges.

One of 21 projects sharing $50.4 million in funding, Bygen’s project will focus on removing toxic chemicals which persist in the environment and pose long-term risks tohumanhealthandecosystems.

Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres said the investment showed the government’s commitment to fostering Australian innovation and rebuilding manufacturing capability.

“The CRC-P connects industry with cutting-edge research to solve real world problems,andhighlightsthebestofAussie ingenuity,“hesaid.

“Investing in local projects means support for local economies and jobs, keeping local know-how right here in Australia and building Australia’s productivity.“

Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said the project would deliver both economicandsocialbenefits.

“The Albanese Government’s support for this collaboration between local manufacturerBygenPtyLtdandwaterand researchorganisationsisgreatnewsforthe local economy and jobs, now and into the future,”MrGilessaid.

“Itwillalsodrivebetterhealthandsocial outcomes for Australia by improving the quality, efficiency and sustainability of water treatment for the local community andourwiderregion,”hesaid.

The CRC program has been running since 1990, supporting industries ranging from agriculture and clean technology to manufacturingandhealth. Forafulllistofsuccessfulprojectsunder Round17,visitwww.business.gov.au/crc-p.

The project has been bolstered by a $7.1 million grant from the federal government’s Housing Support Program, securedearlierthisyear.

Council said the revised plan does not significantly affect the project’s financial feasibility but provides greater social value by aligning with the Whittlesea Social and Affordable Housing Policy and Strategy (2012–2016), which encourages15percentofnewdwellingsto beaffordable.

Lots will be sold on the open market throughpublicsale,auctionorexpressions ofinterest.

Open day at Wimbi in Fawkner

Early Learning Victoria invites everyone interested to attend an open day at Early Learning Victoria Wimbi, to view the centre and meet the experienced and committed educators.

The Wimbi team is excited to support children to continue their learningjourneyastheydiscoverthe worldaroundthem.

Theopendayofferstheopportunity to learn about Wimbi’s quality kindergarten and early childhood educationprograms.

Government-run, Early Learning Victoria Wimbi offers welcoming and engaging spaces to support all childrentolearn.

The staff can’t wait to show you around!

Early Learning Victoria Wimbi OpenDaywillbeheldonSaturday13 September,10am–1pmat84Lowson Street, Fawkner (co-located with MoombaParkPrimarySchool). Learn more at earlylearning.vic. gov.au/wimbi.

If you have any questions, please call Early Learning Victoria’s general hotline at 03 9057 444 or email elv@ education.vic.gov.au.

No more spring cleaning at Lifestyle Communities

Spring cleaning has a way of reminding us just how much time and energy go into keeping up a large family home. From cupboards that need clearing to gardens thatneedconstantattention,itcanfeellike the chores never end. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Downsizing to a Lifestyle Communities home means you can leave behind the heavy upkeep and step into a home designed with ease in mind. Imagine

waking up in a modern, low-maintenance home where the spaces are bright, open, and simple to care for. Instead of spending yourweekendsmowinglawnsorscrubbing surfaces, you’ll have the freedom to enjoy the things that really matter – whether that’scatchingupwithfriends,headingout for a day trip, or simply enjoying a morning coffee on your deck.

And the best part? You don’t have to worry about keeping the community

looking beautiful; we take care of that for you. Thanks to our landscaping partner, Absolute Plants and Landscapes (APL), every community is maintained to a high standard. Their team tends to all shared spaces and ensures that the front gardens of every home stay neat and welcoming, season after season. It’s one less thing for you to think about, and one more reason why life here feels so easy.

Thisspringcouldbethelasttimeyouface

a long list of chores. By this time next year, downsizing could mean a lighter, easier lifestyle with more time for yourself, and the peace of mind that even your gardens are cared for. Because life is too short for endless spring cleaning. Take the first step today – come and explore a community near you.

Visit lifestylecommunities.com.au for more information.

Ageist assumptions that ‘bleep’ off older people

National Seniors Australia (NSA) has released new research into the annoying and contradictory assumptions made aboutolderpeople.

More than 2,000 people aged 50 plus shared their views on assumptions that annoy them about older people’s bodies, brains,values,lifestyles,andmore.

Some people objected to the stereotypes of older people as frail and incapable, bad with technology, resentful of change, or unabletocontributetosociety.

Such assumptions were countered with comments about older people’s “enormous unpaid contribution to society and economy”, the fact they “still want to be a punk rocker”, or their “lifelong history of protest”.

Other people objected to the counter-stereotypes that older people are all fit, technology savvy, and excited about change.

As one person wrote, “I feel that society is impatient with the slowness of older people.”

NSA head of research Dr Diane Hosking said the research reinforces older people are extremely diverse and while some are sharperandfitterthanever,othersdoneed supportandconsideration.

“The research shows how ridiculous it is to make assumptions about people based onage,”DrHoskingsaid.

Objections to assumptions about Baby Boomers were common as well. Such assumptions include the contradictory ideas that Baby Boomers hoard wealth or areconverselya“drainonthepublicpurse”.

Some Baby Boomers shared stories of struggling financially during their lives – especially those who didn’t earn superannuation for much of their working

lives because of their age, gender, or profession.

“Older people don’t stop being our diverse selves just because we age,” Dr Hoskingsaid.

“More than a third of Australia’s

population is aged 50 plus. Like any large group, it is full of very different people. We were different from each other when we were20andwe’restillverydifferentnow.

“Part of recognising diversity in ageing is accepting that declines in body and

mind can come with age and adapting to ensure new needs are met. It is also about respecting people’s values, preferences, and lifestyle expectations, and enabling people to age in the way that’s right for them.”

What are the benefits of serviced apartment living?

Serviced apartments within a retirement village are ideally suited to older individuals who are mobile, and able to live independentlyand whowould enjoy some additional support to make daily life easier.

Typically located within the village community centre, serviced apartments fosterarelaxedatmospherewhereresidents canenjoysocialinteractions,participatein various activities, and receive assistance when needed. The serviced apartments at Latrobe Retirement Village in Reservoir offer an array of benefits that enhance the qualityoflifeofresidents.

Live Independently with Extra Support

Serviced apartments are designed to provide the best of both worlds: the independence of having your own space with the convenience of additional services.Keybenefitsinclude:

•Access to visiting health professionals andalliedhealthservicesformedicaland wellnessneeds.

•A wide range of social activities tailored todifferentinterestsandabilities.

•A supportive living environment that is not aged care but provides an extra helpinghandwhenneeded.

Fresh Daily Meals

Delicious dining experiences are essential for enhanced well-being, and serviced apartments ensure that residents have access to delicious and nutritious meals.

At Latrobe Retirement Village, every meal is freshly prepared by professionals, ensuring a high quality and taste. Residents can enjoy their meals in the communal dining area, fostering social

be delivered totheroom.

serviced apartments provide numerous opportunitiesforrecreationandleisure.

Residents are free to join in morning teas, live music performances, and various forms of entertainment.The village offers a widerangeofhobbyandcraftgroups,board games, and movies.Additional facilities include a bowling green, swimming pool, and regular outings such as shopping trips andexcursionsonthevillagebus.

Safety and Security for Peace of Mind

Ensuring the safety and well-being of residents is a top priority in serviced apartments.

Emergency call buttons are installed in every unit, providing immediate access to assistanceifneeded.

Be Freed up from Cleaning and Laundry One of the biggest advantages of serviced apartment living is the reduction in household chores, allowing residents to enjoy more leisure time.Weekly cleaning services ensure a well-maintained and comfortable living space.Bed linen and towels are also laundered regularly, taking thehassleoutoflaundrytasks.

Very Affordable Pricing

At Latrobe Retirement Village, serviced apartments have an entry price ranging from $160,000 to $230,000.A monthly service fee also applies, covering the cost of meals, cleaning, and other essential services.

Latrobe Village is part of Centennial Living – see their website: www. centennialliving.com.au. Or call 1300 098 000tospeakwithafriendlyrepresentative. (Please note: village visits are strictly by appointmentonly).

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

Community lunch

Take part in fun, friendship and food at Broadmeadows Community Hub. Share a meal and meet new people without blowing your budget for $3. Every Wednesday from 12-1.30pm. 180-182 Widford Street, Broadmeadows.

 9356 6160

Bundoora Probus Club

Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Alma Road, Bundoora, at 10am. Enjoy guest speakers, excursions, coffee mornings, lunches, walks and craft sessions.

 Leanne, 0419 004 997

Inclusive tennis

A free weekly tennis program for people with disabilities and/or special needs, or if your 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

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

Senior citizens meet

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.

 Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk.

 https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

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 and on the third Saturday, and a

dance from 7-11 pm. All are welcome.

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

Adult education

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.

 9309 8531

Craft and Conversation

Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.

 humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park.

 https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Craigieburn Toastmasters

Craigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. It meets the first and third Thursday, from 7-9pm, at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton Street, Craigieburn.

Education and community centre

Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner English and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.

 9308 1477, or www.craigieburn.org.au

Whittlesea Historical Society

The Whittlesea Historical Society welcomes anyone interested in the history of the City of Whittlesea area. A meeting schedule is available on the society’s website.

 www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au

Indigenous Community Gardens

Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month, 11am-noon, to showcase the gardens at the corner Toora Drive and Redan Court. All are welcome.

 Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com

Craigieburn Residents Association

Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening re-roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? Go along to the Craigieburn Residents Association and tell them about it. The association liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. They also give annual donations to a local charity each year. They meet on the last Wednesday of the month at Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn, 7.30pm.

 craigieburnresidents@gmail,com, or 0401 369 311

Menergise men’s walk and talk

Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House. A nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze.

 0475 454 133

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. Run by Mernda Neighbourhood House, Whittlesea Community Connections and the City of Whittlesea, the repair cafe will be 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. Saturday August 23, 10am - 2pm, Mernda Neighbourhood House, 2 Heals Road, Mernda.

 Mernda Repair Cafe Facebook page for bookings each month.

Death cafe

An informal, open and thought-provoking conversation about end-of-life experiences, personal choices, and fears. Open to all who are eager to share their thoughts, or simply want to listen and reflect. Expect a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, open and judgement free conversation, and a

chance to expand your perspective on life and death. Be part of the conversation on Thursday, August 28 from 6.30-8pm at Mill Park library, 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park.

 9455 0822

Pop-up Playgroup

Bring the kids to Whittlesea’s fully facilitated pop-up playgroup and information sharing event. Parents and carers are given the opportunity to hear about local playgroups (supported and community) and Councils Children and Families services and programs. Wednesday, August 27 from 10am-12pm at Kids Zone, Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 McDonalds Road, Mill Park.

 9217 2170

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

Little Diggers

‘Little Diggers’ invites local families to gather, play and grow together. Each week, Little Diggers provides creative craft activities and movement based games for children (eg: hide and seek, duckduck- goose, grandmothers footsteps, charades etc.) in the safe space of the Library, Library Courtyard and Woodlands Area. Parents and grandparents of many different cultures are provided with the chance to connect while the TNH volunteer team keep the kids off their screens and encourage creative play. Thursdays 3.30-5pm. Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown. Please note, children must be accompanied by a carer (16+).  0488 224 439 or manager@tnh.org.au

All Seasons

All Seasons provides young adults living with disabilities and their friends, family and carers, with the opportunity to garden, craft, recycle, be creative and connect nature in a supportive setting. Tuesdays 10am-12pm. Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown.

 0488 224 439 or manager@tnh.org.au

Leaf your worries behind

For those looking to slow down, clear the mind, and reconnect with the natural world, an upcoming workshop at WoodlandsHistoricParkofferstheperfect escape.

Nature journaling – the practice of drawing or writing in response to observations of nature – is at the heart of thethree-hoursessioninSomerton.

Participants will be guided through simpletechniquesthatfostermindfulness, creativity,andadeeperappreciationofthe environment.

“Nature journaling is a practice that helps you notice the little details – the veins on a leaf, the song of a bird, or the way a shadow moves,” facilitator Dr Paula Peeterssaid.

“It’s about slowing down, connecting,

andcelebratingthebeautyaroundus.”

Dr Peeters brings a wealth of expertise to the session. With a PhD in ecology and evolution, and 13 years’ experience in forest research and wildlife conservation, shenowcombinesscience,art,andwriting to encourage stronger connections to Australiannature.

Since 2016, she has authored multiple books on nature journaling, as well as colouring books celebrating threatened speciesandecosystems.

The workshop will include beginner lessons in drawing and writing, an introductiontonaturejournalingprompts and materials, and plenty of time for quiet reflectionandfreejournaling.

Adults and teenagers over 16 are encouraged to attend, while children aged

10 and above are welcome if accompanied byanadult.

Participants should bring a blank

Superpower fest returns to Scienceworks

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

Begin your journey with calmness, enjoying guided meditation in the Melbourne Planetarium under stunning wildlife imagery, before creating a unique artwork on the Scienceworks harmonograph.Channelyourinnersports star in Sportsworks, race against Cathy Freeman,leapforheight,orsavegoalslike achampion.

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

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

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

fromeverydaymaterials.

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

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

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

Go places with the music of InSync Entertainment

InSync Entertainment is taking you on a journeythroughitsnextshow.

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

Secretary Cynthia Marchment said its a showthatcan’tbemissed.

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

The family-friendly event promises to bringplentyofhitsandclassics,withafun, entertainingafternoonplanned.

TheSunbury-basedchoiralsohopesthis willbethefirstofitstravel-themedshows.

“It will certainly be an enjoyable show

andentertainingforeveryonetocomeand seeus,”MsMarchmentsaid.

“I think our show will showcase the

sketchbook or notebook, pencils, a waterproof ink pen, and – if desired –coloured pencils or watercolours to add vibrancytotheirobservations.

With the workshop taking place outdoors,attendeesareadvisedtodressfor the weather, wear closed shoes, and bring essentials such as water, sunscreen, insect repellent,andsomethingcomfortabletosit on.

The exact meeting point in Woodlands Historic Park will be shared with booked participants. In case of bad weather, an indoor alternative may be arranged.

For bookings and enquiries, contact Hume council urban biodiversity officer Melissa Doherty: melissado@hume.vic. gov.auor0409702086.

varietyoftalentwehaveinourgroup.”

Expect group performances and solos, costumechangesandplentyoftalent.

MsMarchmentencouragedtheSunbury community to come down and support a localgroup.

“It’s also really good to support community groups and support our local communityandprovideentertainmentfor them,”shesaid.

Going Places will be held at St Mary’s Church Hall in Sunbury on Saturday, September13,from2pmto4pm.

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

Calling all Swifties! Calling all Swifties! The ultimate Taylor Swift showiscomingtoWyndham.

‘Reputation’ will land at the WyndhamCulturalCentreonFriday, October 3 – and you won’t find a betterplacetoshakeitoff.

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

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

Freddie Bailey, Dylan Paul and Michael Marino will fill the soundscape and bring every iconic eraofTaylor’sstorytolife.

Thegroupiscomingoffamassively successful 2024 national tour, where they captivated audiences and sold-outshowsaroundthecountry.

Considering she has evolved from countrymusic’sfastestrisingstartoa globalphenomenon,thereshouldbe something Tay-lored to every taste youcouldimagine.

Theshowis110minutesofpurefun with no intervals – so there are no blankspacesinthissetlist.

With Tay’s recent engagement, what better time to come along and writeyourownlovestory.

It could even be the perfect night to bury the hatchet with a former anti hero in your own story– even if youarenever,ever,evergettingback together.

There’s a ticket portal for you to writeyourname.

The show runs from from 7.30-9.30pm.

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

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT

(Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987)

The property affected by the application is located at: 67 Overland Drive, DOREEN.

The application is for a permit for:

1. Variation to Restrictive Covenant PS523399X to remove Restriction 1 which limits development to a single dwelling on a lot

2. Two Lot Subdivision

3. Inclusion of a Restrictive Covenant on both lots to limit further development to a single dwelling on a lot

The applicant for the permit is: Jason Taylor

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-44884

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 18 September 2025.

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 Building and Planning Department on 9217 2170.

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

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

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

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

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

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

SPORTS QUIZ

1. The WNBL recently announced its expansion with a ninth team set to operate in which state?

2. Which tennis player won this year’s Cincinnati Open men’s final after his opponent pulled out of the first set?

3. Lionel Rose was the first Indigenous Australian to become the world champion in what sport?

4. German footballer Lukas Nmecha plays as a forward for which Premier League club?

5. Which country is the defending champion coming into the EuroBasket 2025 competition?

6. A signed collectible card featuring which two basketballers recently sold for US$12.9 million –the most ever paid for a sports card?

Which tennis player made a surprise appearance to introduce Maria Sharapova at her Tennis Hall of Fame induction?

Kayo Sports first launched in December of which year?

Patrick Cantlay angered golf fans at the PGA for what issue with his style of play?

Australian basketballer Andrew Gaze was elevated to legend status as Sport Australia celebrated what anniversary of its Hall

In golf, what is the name for a score of two strokes under par for a single hole?

12. Manly captain Daly Cherry-Evans played what milestone game in Round 25 of the NRL?

13. Which former Australian cricketer and national coach died recently at the age of 89?

14. Which major sports stadium in Sydney is being closed for 10 weeks to repair its poor drainage system?

15. On August 16, the Wallabies defeated the Springboks at Ellis Park in Johannesburg for the first time since which decade?

16. AFL team St Kilda has re-signed which star player on a $2 million contract?

17. Two-time world motorcycle champion Casey Stoner won his home Grand Prix at Phillip Island how many consecutive years?

18. From which drawn barrier number has a horse never won the Melbourne Cup?

19. Which major soccer league is being partially shown on free-to-air television for its current season?

20. Melissa Sambrooks, Kaitlin Barr and Greta Miller recently became the first women to perform what type of umpiring in a men’s AFL match?

21. How many Australian batters scored centuries in the team’s recent third One Day International against South Africa?

22. Which North Melbourne midfielder secured 54 disposals in his team’s win over Richmond in Round 23 of the AFL?

23. Which nation will host the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup?

24. And how many nations will feature in the 2027 tournament?

25. Which two AFL teams have not appeared in a Grand Final since 1999?

26. What number is at the bottom centre of a dartboard?

27. West Coast recently became the first team in AFL history to lose how many games in a season?

28. Current West Coast captain Oscar Allen is expected to play for which rival team in 2026?

29. Which venue has hosted the most NRL Grand Finals?

30. Sydney forward Chloe Molloy recently kicked the equal-most goals in an AFL Women’s match with how many goals?

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every

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

1 Fume (6)

Finnish capital (8)

More exciting; more fragrant (7)

Jelly sweet (7)

Situation (11)

Sense of self importance (3)

Jumble (8)

Cheapskate (5)

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

Commentators (7)

Hamper (6)

Moxie (5)

Indecorum (11)

Concerned (11)

15 Dope (9)

17 Sponsor (9)

18 Astrological belt (6)

21 Overrun (6)

23 Centre (5)

25 Colloquialism (5)

28 Litigate (3)

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

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

2 What is a baby crocodile called?

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

4 Where in the human body is the patella bone?

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

6 The Jog Falls plunge waterfall is in which country?

7 What does an entomologist study?

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

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

10 What colours are on the flag of Mauritania?

Lexus luxury, big or small

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Interior

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

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

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

Infotainment

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

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

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

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

Engines/Transmissions

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

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

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

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

Safety

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

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

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

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

Road Sign Assist uses the monocular camera to detect road sign speeds and display them on the multi-information.

In a first for Lexus, owners can set a speed limiterlinkedwithRoadSignAssist(Speed Signs Only) to limit the vehicle’s speed in accordance with the associated speed limit.

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

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

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

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

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

Summary

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

Let the finals drama begin

What a ride 2025 has been - quality games, big crowds, and just enough upsets to keep us guessing. Now the finals are here, and while Adelaide, Geelong, Brisbane and Collingwood prepare for qualifying blockbusters, the rest of the top eight sharpenforsudden-deathSeptember.

For all the drama and twists of the home-and-away season, the real theatre of football begins now. Because this is the time of year when legacies are written, heroes are made, and one team gets to experiencetheultimate-thatlastSaturday in September, the big dance, holding the premiershipcupaloftontheMCG.

That’s where it all starts and finishes in theend.

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

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

Hardwick’s mantraresponsibility or bust No voice cut through louder this season thanDamienHardwick’s.HetoldhisSuns: “Ifyouneedmeasacoachtomotivateyou, thenwe’realreadyintrouble.”

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

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

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

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

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

Trade season: theatre off the field

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

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

thatconnectionispartofthemagic:seeing someonefromacountrytownriseontothe MCGstageonGrandFinalday.

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

Pressure that sticks: Create scores from turnoverwhenstoppagesdryup.

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

Final word

The 2025 season reminded us of one truth: the scoreboard often tells less of the story than the mindset. Teams that stood tall when it mattered most are the ones who survived. Now it’s about September - the stageeveryplayerdreamsof,thestagethat decidescareersandclubhistory.

Because no matter how thrilling the season has been, everything in AFL starts andfinisheswiththatonedayinSeptember -theGrandFinal,theroarof100,000atthe MCG, and one team lifting the cup to etch theirnameinhistory.

Andthat’swhywelovethisgame.

Finals storylines to watch

Players to Watch

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

Jeremy Cameron (Geelong): Coleman Medalwinner,theCats’barometer.

Hugh McCluggage (Brisbane): Midfield classandendurancewillbevital.

Nick Daicos (Collingwood): Can flip a gamewithskillandrun.

MattRowell(GoldCoast):Finallyplaying September — his contested work will definetheSuns.

Key Storylines

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

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

Brisbane’s resilience: Injuries tested them,butthey’restilltopfour.

Collingwood’swobble:Formquestioned, butdon’tunderestimatefinalsexperience. The Suns’ breakthrough: Damien Hardwick has them believing — can they shock the competition in their first finals campaign?

Whittlesea United women claim title

The celebrations have started early for Whittlesea United having secured the FV state league 3 north women’s title with three rounds remaining.

Whittlesea has been the standout team in that division this season and claimed the title with 15 wins from as many matches.

They made it 16 from 16 the following week. Results from Sunday’s match with Melbourne University weren’t online by deadline.

Committee member Koray Kolege said it was an incredible achievement by the playing group to achieve the title with three rounds remaining.

The club reformed its women’s side this season.

“They’vedoneincrediblywellthisyear,” he said. “We’ve had faith in the girls to do really well at this level.

“They have come from a higher level than being in state league 3.

“It wasn’t a shock for me to see the success, but football is a fickle sport.

“Anythingispositiveandit’satestament to them and the coaching staff to go undefeated to seal the championship.

“It’s massive for the club and massive for them and a combination of everyone across the park.”

Kolege said they had their challenges acrosstheseason,buthadbeenabletofire when they needed to.

In the first 15 games they scored 73 goals, while conceding just eight goals.

Kolege said while the group can celebrate the championship, they still have another goal they’re focusing on.

“We want to finish undefeated,” he said. “We spoke to the girls and that would obviously cap off this season if we can maintaintheundefeatedrununtiltheend of the season.

“It’s hard to keep motivated and winning. They are determined and capable of doing that.

“They’re putting in the hard work.”

In the match after winning the championship, Whittlesea accounted for

Brunswick Zebras, 3-0.

The championship and undefeated run will see the side play in state league 2 north-west next season.

Kolege said that was where they wanted to play this year and they have worked hard to achieve that.

“We’ve ended up where we want to be, it’s just taken us a year to get there,” he said.

“We’ll work on developing our program further, it’s important for us.

“Wehaveasuccessfulmen’ssideandwe wanttohaveapathwayforfemalefootball sides at the club.

“We have about four or five junior female teams and it’s growing year by year. We want to be successful so they have somewhere to go in the club ranks.

Tara Murray

Relief for Eagles

By Tara Murray

The monkey is off the back for Whittlesea in the Northern Football League division 2 competition.

After exiting finals in straight sets last season, the Eagles suffered heartbreak in thefirstweekoffinalsthisyear,losingafter being52pointsdown.

OnSunday,theEaglesputthatallbehind themtokeeptheirseasonalivewithahard fought win against St Mary’s in a knockout semifinal.

Eagles coach Garry Ramsay said it was nicetofinallygetone.

“It’s really good and it’s a relief,” he said. “We’reexcitedfornextweeknow.

“We didn’t quite play as well as last week butwewerestillabletogetthejobdone.”

The Eagles led by seven points at quarter time before extending the margin to 15 pointsatthemainbreak.

It could have been larger had the Eagles kicked straight, having kicked 6.11 for the firsthalf.

It was still 13 points at the last break

before St Mary’s kicked the first goal of the finalquartertoputallthepressurebackon Whittlesea.

There would be no repeat of last week as the Eagles kicked a steadying goal to come awaywithan8.16(64)-7.6(48)win.

Ramsay said there were a few flashbacks to last week early in the last quarter when St Mary’s reduced the margin under 10 points.

“I was having visions of last week but we were able to stop the slide to get the win,” he said. “We controlled things a little bit betterwhenweneededto.

“There were some things we worked on likemovementinthebackhalfandmoving intotheforwardline.”

Taidhg Bland and Clayton McCartney kickedtwogoalseachfortheEagles.

Mitch Andrews at half back, Bland, Tom Falls, Riley Carter and Jaron Murphy were some of the standouts for the Eagles in the win.

Ramsay said they still had plenty of thingstoworkonaheadofthepreliminary final.

Power go into the grand final

Laurimar produced one of the performances of the Northern Football League division 3 season to winthroughtothegrandfinal.

The Power were seen as the underdogs heading into the grand final against a Fitzroy Stars side that hadn’t lost a game heading semi final onAugust23.

Laurimarstartedthegamestrongly andled41-6atquartertime.

While the Stars were able to hit the scoreboard in the second quarter, they were able to maintain the margin.

A40-pointmarginstayedsteadyfor mostofthesecondhalf.

TheStarsgotacoupleoflastquarter goals to reduce the margin, but the damage was already done with Laurimarwinning,13.14(92)-.13(61).

Power coach Jimmy Atkins said they were thrilled to make it through tothegrandfinalagain.

It was really good and boys were impressive,” he said. “It was reward foreffort.

“The underdog status didn’t exist with in our four walls. We thought wereagoodsideallyear.

“Fitzroy Stars are a good side and theywillbackbounce.”

Atkins said they got off to a good start and they peppered the goals earlybuttheycouldn’tcovert.

He said goalkicking the connection between the mids and forward line could bebetter.

The Eagles will face Macleod again after it lost the other semi final to Diamond Creek, which awaits the winner in the grand final. Diamond Creek won its semi finalby36points.

Ramsay said while they lost that first game, the two sides have ended up in the same place anyway, playing for a grand finalspot.

“There was no damage done,” he said. “We have the chance again and hopefully it will be more like the first half than the secondhalf.

“If we get an early lead we’ll be trying to keepthemontrack.”

Meanwhileindivision1,Greensborough set up a clash with Heidelberg on Saturday withagrandfinalspotontheline.

Banyule will face Hurstbridge in the other semi final, with Hurstbridge beating Montmorencytocontinueonitsseason.

Oncetheygotgoingthemomentum waswiththePower.

“We kicked four to five goals in six tosevenandgotofftoaflyer,”hesaid. “We were able to capitalise in the secondquarter.”

While well in control at half time, Atkins knew the game wasn’t over especiallyagainstasideliketheStars.

Atkins said they had to continue playingforthefullfourquarters

“FInal siren,” he said for when he thought the game was won. “They reallypickonmeforthat.

“Midway through the last quarter we felt like we had it done but we couldn’t capitalise on a couple of shotstomakesureitwasover.”

PatrickFitzgeraldkickedfourgoals for the Power, while Kaiden Arthur kickedthreegoals.

TheStarsbouncedbackonSaturday tobeatIvanhoetowinthroughtothe grandfinal.

Tara Murray

Craigieburn’s stunning run continues through the finals

Craigieburn’s remarkable run through the back half of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season has continued, with the side now one win away from a grand final.

The Eagles entered finals as one of the form teams of the competition and have now knocked off fourth placed Avondale Heights, before ending second placed West Coburg’s run on Sunday.

Eagles football manager said the group continues to amaze everyone and there’s a real energy about the group.

“We’re absolutely elated,” he said. “It was a great win and a really gutsy win after a good start.”

Like in their first final, the Eagles started the better of the two teams in what would be a low scoring slug.

It’s something the Eagles had a lot of success in early in the season, with their defence being strong all season.

The margin was 20 points at quarter time before West Coburg reduced it to seven points heading into half time.

It was back to just one heading into the final quarter with an inaccurate West Coburg attacking hard.

After three quarters, West Coburg had kicked 4.12 to the Eagles’ 5.7.

The young Eagles weren’t daunted and found something else in the final quarter to come away with a 8.9 (57)-5.15 (45) win.

Andrews said West Coburg had a two to

three goal breeze in the final quarter.

“The last quarter was super gritty,” he said. “The backline was spectacular all day, led by Jai Robinson and Ben Fynch.

“We were not worried under pressure andwewerefocusedonthewaywewanted

Tigers go through

By Tara Murray

Twelve months of work has Westmeadows back in the same spot as last year, with the drive to go one step better in the Essendon District Football League division 2 competition.

After a surprise grand final run last year, the Tigers entered the season as one of the favourites and a real motivation to have a shot at glory.

On Sunday, the Tigers produced a strong performance against Keilor Park to seal its spot back in the final game of the season.

“It was hard this year to be where we are,” Tigers coach Ash Flavel said. “We wanted to finish top two at the start of the year and we did that.

“It was a bit harder with the way the finals structure was. We only needed one gametogetthereandwe’vedonethatnow.

“I think the heart of losing last year will hopefully go in our favour knowing we have been there before.”

Flavel and the playing group knew they

had plenty of pressure on them heading into the season.

A couple of early season losses hurt the side but the group has continued to build and build throughout the season.

Flavel said he thought the win against Keilor Park on Saturday was the most complete game they had put together.

He said he thought they played well for three quarters and it showed on the scoreboard.

The Tigers opened up an early lead and the margin was 33 points at half time.

That would be the difference with the Tigers winning, 14.15 (99)-11.4 (70).

Flavel said it was nice to be able to control the momentum.

“We started well and just had the good preparation for the two weeks,” he said. “I could see the steel in their eyes, they knew they were going to come to play.

“Keilor Park credit to them got their momentum throughout the game and they were coming, but stemmed a little bit in the third quarter.

“Then the last quarter was just a bit of a

toplayandaslongasweweretacklinghard and kicking goals we were always in the game.

“We were able to kick three goals against the breeze and get over the line.

“The co-coaches were absolutely thrilled.”

Nathan Stewart was the only multiple goalkicker for the Eagles, finishing with two goals.

Andrews said there were a few sore boys after the win, but that would quickly disappear with a preliminary final to play for.

The Eagles will face Hillside in the preliminary final, after the Sharks lost to Oak Park in the other semi final.

Craigieburn won the last match up between the two sides in round 17 by 59 points to give itself a shot at finals.

WhileanythingtheEagleshaveachieved in finals is a bonus, Andrews said there was a resolve in the group.

“We’re not going there to not win it.”

In premier division, Strathmore set up a clash with Keilor, while Airport West knocked out Deer Park.

Sports shorts

AFLW

Several locals have been invited to the AFLW national draft combine and state combines to be held in October. Forty-six players from across Australia have been invited to attend the three-day national draft combine, which will be held in Melbourne from October 1 to 3. Calder Cannons Jade McLay and Chloe Baker-West have both been invited to the national combine along with Northern Knights’ Olivia Gorman, Marlo Graham and Scarlett Johnson.

DVCA

The Diamond Valley Cricket Association has released its fixtures for the upcoming season. The top two grades have remained at 10 teams each, while the Mash Shield has increased to 12 teams with Old Ivanhoe Grammarians and Keon Park joining the competition in the off season. The top three grades will all kick off on October 4 with a one-dayer.

Coates Talent League

free for all.”

Flavel said while the Devils kicked four goals in a row in the third quarter and were able to stem the flow.

He said it didn’t matter how much you win by, as long as you make the grand final.

The Tigers will take a healthy list into the grand final.

Westmeadows is searching for its first senior premiership in 45 years.

It will face Rupertswood in the grand final, with the Sharks beating Glenroy in the other preliminary final.

The last time these two teams played, a Ryan Stingel kick on the siren won the game for the Tigers.

“Throughout the year we have beaten them both times but come the grand final, that doesn’t mean anything.

“They are a quality side.

“It’s been a long time and to see the people that have put in the hardyards around the club.

“To know they have finally got there and in that window now.”

Shauna McElligott has been crowned the Calder Cannons top girls player as the club’s awards night. McElligott won the Mg McArthur Medal as the Cannons top player, finishing ahead of Jasmina Curtis and Felicity Mahoney. Madison Spring-Brown was named most courageous while Eden Grant won the coaches award.

NPL

A final round win wasn’t enough for Hume City to seal a National Premier League finals berth. Hume had been in the top six for much of the season before dropping off in the back half of the year. Hume needed to win the final round and hope results went its way to move back into the top six. While Hume had a 4-0 win against St Albans, Dandenong City also had a 3-0 win, to ensure it stayed two points clear of Hume. In the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, a final round win to Whittlesea United ensured it stays in the VPL2 competition for a second year and avoid relegation.

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Arbanovski steps up as coach at Whittlesea Pacers

Christian Arbanovski jumped at the opportunity to step up to coach the Whittlesea Pacers’ Big V women’s division 1sidenextseason.

ArbanovskijoinedthePacersthisseason and was an assistant coach to Shannon Bodley as the women’s side was reformed afternothavingoneforafewyears.

When Bodley decided to step back from the role, Arbanovski was keen to continue with what he said was a really special group.

“It’s a very exciting time,” he said. “I’m excited and honoured to take on the role andhelpbuildonthisseason.

“I fell in love with the club and when the head coaching role was up for grabs, my handwentstraightup.

Arbanovski had been an assistant coach elsewhere before he came across to the club after Bodley said he saw some really goodpotentialinhim.

Hesaidhetookalotoutofthefirstseason atthePacers.

“IsawhowheoperatedandIlearnedalot fromthisyear,”hesaid.“They’redeveloping aclub,playersandacommunity.

“The junior program as well. Shannon thought it was the right time to step away with a heavy heart especially after the seasonendedthewayitdid.”

Arbanovski said the first season back in the competition had seen some amazing developmentintheside.

The group made the preliminary final afterputtingtogetherasidetostepstraight intothedivision1competition.

“It was a starting point and the biggest thing was the culture,” he said. “The girls were strangers at the start of the season and the relationships developed through

Broncos fall short

By Tara Murray

It was heartbreak again for the Hume City Broncosastheyfellagonisinglyshortinthe Big V men’s championship grand final on Saturday.

TheBroncoswerehopingitwasthirdtime lucky under coach Matt Foster and that they would finally get the championship theywereafter.

Standing in the way of the Broncos and their first championship since 2004, was the McKinnon Cougars who had come fromthirdtomakethegrandfinal.

The Cougars had beaten the Broncos in theirlasttwograndfinals.

The Broncos, who had started strong in their first two finals, again led early with themarginsixpointsatquartertime.

The Cougars counted and scores were levelheadingintothemainbreak.

McKinnon led by as much as nine points in the third quarter before the Broncos throughRobertComanfoughtback. Comanhiteightpointslateinthequarter

togettheBroncosgoingandtheymanaged to take a two point lead into the final quarter.

The Broncos led for much of the early part of the last quarter with scores level with6.18ontheclock.

The lead changed hands again and went back and forth before the Cougars took the lead for the final time with less than four minutesontheclock.

Humestruggledtofindoffensiverhythm downthestretchwhichprovedcostly.They hit just two free throws in the final three minutes.

Jordan Geer for the Cougars stood tall and was able to guide his side to an 87-81 win.

Ricardo Time top scored for the Broncos with 25 points while Kavione Green had 21 points.

Speaking at the postgame presentation, Foster said he felt like he had been in the samepositionafewtimesbefore.

“McKinnon you’ve got us three times now, I don’t know what we need to do to

the year. I’ve never seen anything like it beforein25yearsinbasketball.

“ThemostimpressiveteamI’vebeenpart of. It’s like a family and a really positive environmentattrainingandjuniorplayers arecominginandit’sreallyinfectious.”

Arbanovskisaidhewasalreadyspeaking to the playing group about coming back next season and trying to get that championship.

Hesaidthere’salotofmotivationthere.

“I’ve spoken to a lot of core younger players to see what they are doing next season,” he said. “They want to add to what we’ve done and there’s unfinished business.

“The goal is to move into the state championshipandgetbiggerandbetter.”

Arbanovski said one of his focuses was to help further develop the relationship between the women’s side and youth league women’s side so the teams are in sync.

The Pacers announced that Des Radoslovichasbeenreappointedthemen’s division1coach.

Tara Murray

Season over for Knights

It’s season over for the Northern Knights in the Coates Talent League girls competition, knocked out in the firstweekoffinals.

The Knights were in action at PrestonCityOvalagainsttheEastern RangesonSaturdaymorning.

TheRangesstartedthebetterofthe sides and led by 15 points at quarter time. The margin grew to 36 at the mainbreakwiththeKnightsyettohit thescoreboard.

Northern finally got a goal in the third quarter but the Ranges were abletocontinuetobuildtheirlead.

The Ranges finished off strongly to come away with a 12.18 (90)-1.0 (6) win.

Somer McCormack was the goalkickerfortheKnights.

Meanwhile, in the boys wildcard round the Knights and Calder Cannonsbothsufferedlosses.

beatyouguys,”hesaid.

“Somuchrespectforyourprogram.

“Toourteam,thisseasonwedidn’tlosea lotandwe’reayoungteam.

“We had a good couple weeks but couldn’t get it done tonight, got beaten by a hell of a team that put it out there tonight [Saturday].

“Youshouldbeproudoftheyear.”

Fosteralsopaidtributetothesupporters who showed up each week, along with everyone who helped put the team and the programtogether.

“It takes a lot of effort to put a team out. We’re very fortunate we are the ones out there.”

Several Broncos players are up for the Big V awards that will be presented on September6.

Coman and Zach McKenzie are both up for championship youth player of the year, Fosterisupforcoachoftheyear,McKenzie isupfordefensiveplayeroftheyearandall star five, while Kavione Green and Time arealsoupfortheall-starfivehonours.

The Knights trailed all day against the Sandringham Dragons which were able to build a lead throughout the match on the way to a 17.8 (110)-9.3(49).

Nick Canavan kicked two goals for theKnights.

The Cannons lost a close one with theOakleighChargers.

The Chargers led all day with the Cannons never letting them break thegameopen.

Oakleigh was able to do enough to hold the Cannons off, winning 11.15 (81)-9.12(66).

HussienElachkarkickedfourgoals fortheCannons.

Hewasnamedamongthebestwith CooperDuff-TytlerandOliverWatt.

The Cannons as the highest placed metro loser still progresses through tofinals.

The Cannons will face the Eastern Rangesinthequarterfinals.

Demons on the up as they prepare for another season

By Tara Murray

Last season was about surviving for Tullamarine in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield, but this season is about thriving.

After a tough season which saw the Demons only just avoid relegation, it has been a big off season for the club.

President Peter Laddad said it had been a really good off season and they were excited for what’s to come.

“It’sbeenabigoffseasonandwe’repretty stoked,” he said. “We were able to stay up and we’ve got the kids coming through.

“It will be the first time we’ve had a full complement of junior teams, 16s, 14s, 12s and 10s as well.

“Our juniors are looking strong again.

Hopefullywe’llgetsomerunsontheboard. Labbadwillcontinueonascaptainofthe first XI, but has stepped down as coach. Devin Ratnasinghe will coach the side and play a key role in the first XI.

LaddadsaidRatnasinghehadbeenreally

good in the season working in the playing group.

Labbad said they had signed a number of new and returning players they were hoping would play big roles.

“Shehan Wedikkara De Silva returns to the club after three seasons in premier division.

“Heisaleftarmspinnerandhe’sgoingto be a key for the first XI.

“David Scott, who has been captain-coach, is back at the club and is a big one for us.

“Danny Law has signed on again. He didn’t play the last seven games last season. He is going to finish his career at Tullamarine.

Johanne De Zilva has also joined the club from Sri Lanka and is a top order bat

Eagles put up fight

By Tara Murray

Craigieburn Eagles’ championship dreams were destroyed in the cruellest fashion in the Big V women’s division 1 grand final.

The minor premiers hosted Western Port Steelers in the grand final on August 23 in front of a big Eagles crowd in Craigieburn.

The Steelers had an early lead before the Eagles had a 17-8 second quarter to have a sixpointleadheadingintothemainbreak.

It was back to three points at the last change, with the championship still on the line.

Thetwosidestradedtheleadthroughout the final quarter with a Myra Wood three-pointer with a one and half minutes on the clock levelling the scores.

A Brittany Suarjaya three-pointer on the buzzer broke Eagles players and fans hearts, giving the Steelers a 59-56 win.

Coach Tobi Swinley said the girls were gutted.

“We were there and we didn’t go down without a fight,” he said.

“They hit a shot on the buzzer and it is what it was.

“It is bittersweet losing that way. At the end of the day you want to be competitive with you win, lose or draw.

“We can hold our heads high. Had we been beaten by 20 points it would have stung a lot more.”

BrianaGraytopscoredwith16pointsfor the Eagles while Alexandra McKellar and Tegan Hindle scored 10 points each in the low scoring affair.

Swinley said while he hadn’t spoken with the playing group, he hoped they had been proud of the season they’d had.

The Eagles were the clear beat side through the regular season having locked uptopspotwithseveralroundsremaining.

“They’re doing some soul searching and dealing with it on their own,” he said. “We had an absolutely fantastic season.

“I think it was good and I’m proud of what we achieved. We spoke about it at training and everyone wanted to play hard for one another and that is rare in a team.

“Therewasthedesiretobegreatfortheir

and middle-fast pace bowler.

Labbad said they would again have a number of younger players playing senior cricket and were keen to see some under-16s in the first XI side.

Off field, things are starting to fall into place for the Demons as well.

After not having rooms for a couple of years,theclubwillhavethemforthewhole summer season.

“It has helped us financially,” he said. The cricket club is thriving and best it has been in years.

“Eighteen months ago we thought we were coming back.

“We’venowgotthekidsandafewplayers back to the club.

“The club is healthy and it’s all really positive. We want to make finals this year.”

Smith stands down as coach

By Tara Murray

Ross Smith has finished up as Calder Cannons girls coach.

The Cannons announced on social mediaintheleaduptothefinalround that Smith had told the playing group he will step down from the role of regional development coach for the Cannons girls program following the final game against the Northern Knights.

“The current longest-serving head coach in the Talent League, Ross has hadanimmenseimpactontheCalder Cannons, having started in the 2018 season, and having coached both boys and girls program across his time,“ the Cannons said.

“A 224-game player for North Melbourne, Ross brought an impressive coaching resume to the Cannons and talent pathway, including assistant coach stints at Geelong, North Melbourne, Hawthorn and Richmond. “While his ability to coach defence is renowned across the industry, he has shown his abilitytodevelopallmannerofplayer, with a number of AFL and AFLW players having come through the Cannons program under his tutelage.

teammates through the ups and downs and through adversity and we never lost momentum.”

With some injury concerns in the back half of the season, including two starters ruled out for finals, the Eagles had their challenges.

Swinleysaidtheyfeltlikethemomentum was still there, but the boulder they were pushing kept getting bigger and the mountain they were going up got higher as they battled those injuries.

With the season over, the Eagles will now look ahead to next season.

Swinley, who hasn’t signed for next season, said they hadn’t discussed anything beyond this year.

“We have no idea what the future holds,” he said. “It was a two-year journey that started last year.

“We were focused on this year and shut everything else out.”

Meanwhile, the Eagles have announced Warren Taylor and Zac Donoghue as their youth league women’s and men’s coaches for next season respectively.

“Ross has also had an impressive impact on the development of coaches in the talent pathway and Cannons region. From setting up coaching academies for local coaches in the Cannons region, to having a coaching tree that includes AFLW assistant coaches as well as a number of current Coates Talent League regionaldevelopmentcoaches,hehas alwaysshownanopennesstosupport and develop.

“WewanttothankRossforhiswork at the Calder Cannons and will miss him in the AFL Talent Pathway.“

The Cannons said the role will be advertised by the AFL in the coming days.

The Canons had three wins for the season.

Finals joy and heartbreak

There’s been plenty of highs and lows on the sporting fields and courts over the past two weeks as finals fever hits. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.