Star Weekly - Wyndham - 15th April 2026

Anzac Day in Werribee

The Werribee RSL is inviting the community to commemorate those who have made the ultimate sacrifice on Anzac Day.

First cab off the rank will be the pre-Anzac Day march on Watton Street, Sunday 19 April.

The march will begin at 2.20pm starting from the Wyndham Cultural Centre, and culminate with a service at the cenotaph at 2.45pm.

Those unable to attend are warmly invited to the dawn service at the Werribee Cenotaph from 6.30-7.30am on Saturday 25 April.

Plenty of action will be happening back at the RSL, for those not quite ready to go home.

Breakfastwillbeavailableandacoffee van will be on site, with all proceeds supporting veteran welfare.

Between noon-4pm, locals will be able to enjoy Two Up– a classic pastime for Anzacs in times gone by. Essendon against Collingwood will also be live on the big screens from 3pm, so footy fans can get their fix for the day as well.

Subdivision ‘pain’

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Williams Landing residents are opposing the prospect of land being used to build more than 150 new homes in the suburb.

Residents launched a petition following Wyndham council approving developer Cedar Wood’s proposal for a $51 million residential subdivision in Williams Landing in March.

Cedar Woods said the development would be a staged subdivision of land at 2 Forsyth Road into 154 residential lots and two larger lots for potential apartment buildings or mixed-use developments.

Akash Saggar is one 139 residents who signed a petition opposing the land being subdivided, which was tabled at the 24 March council meeting.

Mr Saggar said he and others believe Williams Landing lacks a defined town centre, and more homes would stress current amenities such as car parks.

“The main pain that residents are feeling is that if the land in question is lost, we are not going to get the town centre that was promised and deserved,” he said.

“The developer has been calling this a town centre, but in reality all that is on there is an aged care centre, town houses and

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office building.

“I have actually just moved to the area six months ago and the train station car park is tiny compared to the amount of people who use it.

“There is just not enough amenity to cater to the population increase that development would cause and there are going to be hundreds of extra cars trying to get a spot in that car park.”

A Wyndham spokesperson said Cedar Woods had successfully gained the right to develop the land as mixed-use and residential 19 years ago.

“Thestategovernmentrezonedtheland in

March 2007, changing it from an industrial zone (Comprehensive Development Zone, CDZ) to a residential and mixed-use zone (Priority Development Zone, PDZ), at the requestofCedarWoodsPropertiesLimited.”

A Cedar Woods spokesperson said its development has been assessed and approved in accordance with the required planning controls and they proceeding in line with the approvals granted by council.

“Cedar Woods retains a landholding within the town centre and, consistent with previous approvals, will continue to consider future opportunities in line with planning controls and council processes.”

Urgent appeal for food

By Cade Lucas

Footscray’sAsylumSeekerResourceCentre (ASRC) has launched an urgent food security appeal as rising costs, fewer donations, and increasing demand put unprecedented pressure on its foodbank service.

The ASRC run foodbanks in both Footscray and Dandenong that provide essentialfooditemstoasylumseekersand refugees, many of whom are on temporary visas and cannot work or claim welfare.

But since the onset of the fuel crisis

causedbythewarinIran,theASRCclaims that empty shelves have begun appearing atitsfoodbanksduetothetriple-whammy effect of rising food prices.

“We’re facing rising costs, people struggling to get donations to us and increasing demand all at once,“ ASRC founder and chief executive Kon Karapanagiotidis said of the situation.

Mr Karapanagiotidis said it left the organisation with no choice but seek help.

“I never thought we’d be launching another urgent appeal so soon after covid,

but here we are,“ he said.

“Without community support, we cannot guarantee a steady food supply for families who have no access to federal government support.

“The people we support have no savings, no income and no safety net. For many, we are the only place they can turn to for food.“

Other food relief services have reported similar problems, with Foodbank Victoria claiming it had experienced a 6 per cent increase in demand over the past two

Rajeev is ready to show off his skills

A pretty skilled Point Cook local will be heading abroad to represent Australia at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026— an event also known as the Skill Olympics.

Rajeev Jawaji and the team – known as the Skillaroos – will compete against the world’s best in several technical fields, taking place from 22 to 27 September.

Morethan1400competitorsfrommore than 70 countries and regions will take part across 64 skill competitions, making it one of the largest global events celebrating vocational excellence.

Mr Jawaji will be bringing his website

building prowess to the table.

“I have just liked computer science in general since I was in year 8– and I never expected to get here,” he said.

“It is a once in a lifetime opportunity, I won’t be able to compete again because they have age limits.”

In the web technologies category, he will have to complete an array of modules under timed conditions and with little preparation.

“Wehaveanideaofwhatitwillcontain, but we only get details when we do it,” Mr Jawji said.

“Typically there will be no use of the internet or AI during the competition– except for maybe 10 minutes of monitored internet when requested per session.

“This competition is really important as it gives you a lot of exposure to other peopleinyourfieldfromacrosstheglobe.”

Selection for Team Australia follows a rigorous two-year journey through regional competitions across the country and the national championships.

Details: https://www.worldskills.org. au/competitions/shanghai

Wyndham council confidentiality under review

Wyndham councillors have asked chief executive Stephen Wall to provide a report detailing how the release of confidential business is handled and options to make the process easier.

Cr Jasmine Hill brought the request to the chamber at the 24 March meeting. Duebackatthe28Aprilcouncilmeeting, the report will review the current process for releasing confidential items from past meetings.

It will also explore how the organisation can create a system for releasing past decisions that carry no legal risks to the

council.

On 25 March 2025, the council agreed to establish a process for the potential release of in-camera matters where confidentiality no longer applies.

At the time, the chief executive was asked to maintain a register of confidential decisions and review that register every 12 months.

CrHillsaiditwastimetofollowuponthe matter.

“In that time, no confidential items have been released and that raises a very real and reasonable question: Is the current

process actually enabling the intent of that decision?” she said.

“If a process exists but delivers no outcome then we have a responsibility in seeing whether it is working as intended.

“Confidentiality is something necessary and we all understand, but it should become the default position indefinitely.

“Confidentiality should have a life cycle. It should be when required and end when that requirement no longer exists.”

The nine present councillors unanimously backed the plan.

weeks, while receiving $900,000 in support from the state government to cover rising costs.

According to the ASRC, its foodbank service does not receive public funding and relies on community support to keep operating.

“We have a plan to get through this, but we cannot do it alone,“ he said.

“We’re asking our community to help us keep it strong.”

Details: https://donate.asrc.org.au/urgent-food-security-appeal

Buyers favour newer homes

By Jaidyn Kennedy

The age of a house, rather than its suburb, may explain recent property price movements across Wyndham, according to a local real estate agent.

Between January and March this year, the median sale price in Wyndham Vale fell, but rose in neighbouring Mambourin and Manor Lakes.

Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) figures showed the Wyndham Vale median house price decreased 2.3 per cent to $601,000 for the quarter.

In the same period, median prices increased 2.3 per cent in Mambourin, hitting $660,000, and 3.4 per cent in Manor Lakes taking the median to $683,000.

Ray White Werribee director Michelle Chick said buyers attracted to Mambourin and Manor Lakes because the houses tend to be newer.

“Manor Lakes and Mambourin are younger areas with newer houses and people are choosing to spend a bit more– if they can afford it– to go there,” Ms Chick said.

“They are choosing those younger houses because they have less maintenance. A lot of the houses in Wyndham Vale have similar sized blocks, but are 40 to 50 years old.

“People are particularly starting to focus on Mambourin because of the amenities, growing town centre and proposed train line.”

However, Ms Chick said she observed the opposite trend in Werribee, where prices dipped slightly by 0.3 per cent to $681,000.

“I have noticed a high percentage of buyers in Werribee are looking to buyintheWerribeeCBD,particularly the south side of Synnot Street, and that area is mostly older houses. This is purely because it puts them within walking distance to schools and the train station– which is a draw over someofthenewerestatesinWerribee.

“On the whole, central Werribee is a pretty consistent location because you get quite a bit for your money and people are prepared to pay extra to be in that location.”

Among the other suburbs with median price increases were Hoppers Crossing (up 3 per cent to $721,000), Point Cook (up 2 per cent to $872,000) and Williams Landing (up 1.7 per cent to $895,000).

Median prices dipped in Truganina (down1.4percentto$690,000),while Tarneit had the same median sale price as the last quarter at $675,000.

Push for station upgrade

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Werribee Station is “no longer fit for purpose” and is in urgent need of an upgrade, according to Wyndham councillor Mia Shaw.

Cr Shaw, who previously called on the state government to upgrade the station in July 2025, said in her opinion the station has major shortcomings in basic accessibility.

“In believe the ramps are far too steep, there’s no lift access, and people with disability, mobility challenges or prams are left struggling to access the platforms,” she said.

“I believe it is filthy, at times dangerous,

slippery when wet, the toilets are disgusting, and I believe it fails to meet basic accessibility standards.“

Cr Shaw said much of the Werribee line itself had been modernised, but the terminus was in poor condition.

“I’ve been using this train station since I was a teenager, so about 40 years ago, and not much has changed, but Wyndham has.

“The last major upgrade to Werribee train station was back in 1983 when the line was electrified, and in my opinion it is currently in a terrible state.

“I have had feedback from residents on the train station’s appalling state.

Law Baw’s guide is kindness

Wyndham local and Karen-Burmese refugee Law Baw is living proof personal adversity can be channelled into helping others in their darkest hours.

Law Baw escaped Myanmar to Malaysia as a 19-year-old in 2000, and recently supported his 1000th refugee family into affordable and permanent housing.

“I lived in the so-called ‘brown’ area of Myanmar, the Karen homelands that were constantly under threat from the Burmese military,” he said. I lived in a small village and one day, when I was 12 years old, I was arrested by the military.

He was granted a humanitarian visa by Australia in 2008. Soon after he started a long affiliation with Adult Multicultural Education Services Australia (AMES).

“I was initially a client of AMES Aus-

tralia and then started work for AMES in 2009 as a community guide,” he said.

“After that, I joined the accommodation team.”

He said he has been fortunate to see the impact of his service.

“Two years ago. I met an Afghan family who were staying in our short-term accommodation facility in Werribee.

“They were grateful to be here, and we helped them with accommodation.

“Then, two weeks ago I was walking around my neighbourhood when someone shouted out to me, ‘hey Law Baw’.

“It was the Afghan man who yelled out. He thanked me for the support AMES had provided and told me he had opened his own business – a grocery store that was doing well.”

Inclusive market will be welcoming space

A new Wyndham Inclusive Makers Market will open to the public on Sunday 26 April at the Italian Sports Club of Werribee.

The market will showcase the talent of close to 30 unique makers with lived experiences of neurodiversity, chronic illness, disability and mental health conditions.

From individuals to micro-businesses, a wide-range of personally crafted items will be offered for sale, including 3D-printed objects, knitted products, beaded pens, quilted products and much more. Every item being sold has been hand-crafted by the market sellers.

“The market aims to reduce stigma around lived experiences and build community,” market organiser Michelle Harvey said.

“For the artists showcasing their work, this will be an opportunity for them to meet other people, especially those in similar sit-

“The Werribee train station is the gateway to our city centre and needs and I believe needs an urgent and significant upgrade.

“In my opinion it is no longer fit for purpose for our community and a modern, growing city.

“I want and deserve a train station that is safe, accessible and welcoming for everyone, and as the ward councillor I will continue to advocate for its revitalisation.“

Werribee MP John Lister said the state government had delivered “unprecedented investment” in public transport in Melbourne’s west.

“Work is underway to deliver better public transport for Melbourne’s growing west, including providing more services and making the Werribee Line level crossing free by 2030,“ he said.

“I’ll continue listening to local residents and working closely with the community, because I know how important Werribee station is to people here – and we’re always looking at how we can make it even better.”

Star Weekly understands the most recent upgrades to the station were in 2021, and included installing 130 car parking spaces, improving lighting, upgrading the pedestrian underpass and adding CCTV.

uations. Some sellers at the market are borderline house-bound, making this a special opportunity for them.

“This market is intended to be a healthy outlet for neurodiverse and disabled creators to create and defy the limitations placed on them in their everyday lives.

“People should come to the market to see what talented people can show [them].“

The market will be designed with sensory needs in mind, featuring slightly dimmed lighting and a sensory space if needed.

All items sold are handmade and original, crafted by talented neurodiverse and disabled creators, ranging from micro-businesses to individuals showcasing their unique talents.

Sensory-friendly spaces “make it easier for everyone to enjoy everyday things,” Ms Harvey said.

The market will be open 10am-2pm.

Family’s reel contribution

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

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

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

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

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

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

The western film genre was also surging in popularity.

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

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

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

A Sunshine Advocate article published in 1938 described how George Kirby and his family came to the working class region in Melbourne’s west seven years earlier, taking over the management of Sunshine Picture Theatre.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“When [the theatre] was up and running they used to allow community groups to go in there at no charge.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

establish the Village Roadshow company.

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

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

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

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

The Sunshine Picture Theatre continued operating until the 1970s.

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

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

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

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

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

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

New shed finally secured

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Following years of uncertainty, the Wyndham Vale Men’s Shed will have a new place to call home.

On Tuesday 7 April, Wyndham council unanimously voted to construct a new building for the group at Wyndham Vale North Reserve.

Designs for the premises are scheduled to be completed by the end of May, with construction finishing by October.

Shed president Peter Gibbons said the group was overjoyed to hear the news after years of lobbying the council for better

facilities.

“I think all of us jumped up and down like Easter bunnies—there is still a lot of excitement buzzing around the shed,” Mr Gibbons said.

“The fact the approval itself was unanimous was something else—I couldn’t believe it.”

Mr Gibbons said stability was important as the group had become a pillar of strength for many men in Wyndham.

“It is an amazing effect that the men’s shed has for blokes, it really gives them a new life and purpose.

“The whole purpose of a men’s shed is

Werribee RSL’s new leader

The Werribee RSL is celebrating the beginning of another chapter as a new president takes the reins.

John Thomson will take over from Daryl Ryan who was president for more than 40 years.

Mr Thomson did national service from 1971-73, completing basic training at Porepunkah and being sent to Townsville as an infantryman.

He has been part of the RSL for about eight years.

“I was on the committee for a couple of years, vice-president for about two years and was just elected [as president],” Mr Thomson said.

While he will focus on all members and their family, he said he’d like to put a focus on young people during his tenure.

“My passion really is for the young kids, it is the cadets,” he said. I really do want to promote them because they have helped us out so much in the past.”

Mr Thomson also said he’d like more students to take up work experience opportunities at the RSL bistro.

The new president said the RSL has given him a strong sense of purpose

“It has given me a real focus on being able to do things instead of being dormant. Rather than sitting home and doing nothing, there is always something to be done or discussed. It has energised me. I listen to everyone’s point of view, so I don’t speak for everyone and I would like that to be known. Although I am president, I don’t run the whole show. It is a team effort.”

so blokes like myself can get together and share things with each other. I learned wood turning at the shed. “

In the meantime, the blokes are keeping busy.

“We will be meeting in the Iramoo Community Centre thanks to their generosity, and we are going to be doing things as a group,” Mr Gibbons said.

“Instead of being at Iramoo at the time, we are going to be going out on outings.”

Councillor Maria King said she was “excited” the project was underway.

“This project is not just about a building, it is about creating a space that is fit

for purpose that supports our sporting clubs, our community groups, and importantly provides a long term home for the Wyndham Vale Men’s Shed,” Cr King said.

“This new facility gives certainty, dignity, and a place to belong for a group that plays a really important role in our community and that matters.

“Places like these are not just physical infrastructure, they are about connection, mental health and community wellbeing.”

The men’s shed extension to the main sporting pavilion project will cost $469,190.70.

Arcare Werribee

WNBA chance for Rocci

By Tara Murray

Keilor Thunder’s Maddy Rocci is hoping to put a tough few years behind as she gets a shot at making a WNBA list.

Rocci, who grew up in Werribee, has earned a training camp contract with new WNBA side Toronto Tempo and will head to America later this week.

“It is very exciting,” she said.

“There had been talks with my agent, but I didn’t really believe it until I saw the contract in my inbox.

“I didn’t believe it and when I saw it, [I was like] it was actually happening.”

Rocci said this year was the first time she’d ever had a chance to make a WNBA squad.

She said they had spoken about the WNBA in other years, but this is the first year it has come about.

Rocci was on court with the Keilor Thunder in the Women’s National Basketball League, when the news came through that she had been offered a contract.

“I had a few missed calls from my agent and an email sitting there saying please call me when you can,” she said.

“I gave them a call when I got back in the car after the game, and they told me that Toronto had offered a training camp.”

For Rocci, the training camp contract is an added boost to her confidence.

While she is one of the top point guards in Australia, Rocci has gone through some tough times in the past few years as the comes into the back part of her career.

“You have a lot of doubt in your mind and how long you have left in your career, and where your basketball journey probably takes you when you get older,” she said.

“I think this is coming off the back of the WNBL season that I had. I wasn’t going to walk away from the game, but you have those doubts when you miss out on the Opals and the unknown of where and how long you have left in the game.

“I think getting this contract is super exciting and nerve wracking at the same time.

“I feel like I’ve had so many lows the last few years in missing out on Opals selection and I think that this has given me an indication that I can compete with the best players in the world.”

Rocci recently played her 200th WNBL game and has been part of several Australian Opals squads in recent years.

Having missed out on several Opals finals teams, has been tough for Rocci.

“Missing out on the Olympics and then not being able to go to the Asia Cup as I was injured and then missing out on the world cup qualifying team,” she said.

“Three in a row really got to me. Inside yourself [you[re thinking] it’s not going to happen, it’s never going to happen.

“I’ve been in the program for a little while and haven’t really got the success that I wanted, representing the Opals at a major tournament.

“There’s doubt in your mind always playing there. I’m lucky to have a close circle of people around me who really help steer me in the right direction and really help set me up in the last two years.”

Rocci said the move to Keilor Thunder a couple of years ago had been one of the big things in her basketball career.

She said it not only made her a better person and player, it had helped her see there’s so much more to the game of basketball.

Rocci said playing under coach and Australia’s greatest ever point guard, Kristi Harrower, had been the right more for her.

“I had been a point guard, but I feel like over the last two years my game has developed into something I probably needed to have as a player,” she said.

“If you want to be the point guard, you have to have the smarts and know the ins and outs of the game.

“Being coached by Kristi [Harrower] and having Anth [Anthea Stathakis] as well, and having that support and people who are probably steering you in the right direction to help you be successful in what you want to do.”

Rocci said heading to America was a little bit of bittersweet as it means having to stepawayfromKeilorforatleastacoupleof weeks.Thesidestartedtheseasonwithtwo wins and a loss.

“Keilor is one of my favourite teams to play for,” she said. “There’s an emotional side of it to leave and try out in the WNBA.

“Wehavestartedwellandstillgotplayers to come in.

“That is the unknown, but the girls are in the right position. We have the players and we have the coaching staff all there to help the girls who are in such great hands.”

Rocci is expecting to fly out on Thursday or Friday with the training camp to run for two weeks.

Among those from the club that have been in touch is coach Sandy Brondello,

who is also the Australian Opals coach.

“She messaged me this morning [Monday] and said welcome to the Tempo,” she said.

“I know her system and I think having a familiar face will help a little bit.

“Obviously going over to the WNBA is scary and a bit nerve-wracking, to be able to compete with the best players in the world, experience what they do day in, day out is super exciting.

“All I have to do is go over there for two weeks and do my best and you never know what will happen.”

Boost for Hindi education

Wyndham Central College will get a boost foritsHindilanguageprogramafteroneof itsteacherswasamongthefirsttograduate fromalandmarkcourse.

Shalika Sharma, who leads Hindi instruction at the school, was one of 18 Victorian teachers to complete Monash University’s Languages Methodology CourseforHindiandPunjabi.

The Werribee school is one of three designated as a beacon school, a status that allows it to teach Hindi and support other schoolsandstudentswithresources.

TheprogramwasestablishedatWyndham Central College in 2025, beginning with year7,butisnowofferedtotheyear8cohort andasanelectiveforyear9students.

Ms Sharma said the course would help

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her train other teachers and that bolstering languageprogramswasimportant.

“Learning Hindi at school gives students the opportunity to communicate with a larger global community and opens pathwaysforfuturestudy,travel,andcareer opportunities,”MsShalikasaid.

“By comparing Hindi culture and language with their own backgrounds, students develop intercultural understanding, which is essential for becoming respectful and informed global citizens.

“Through our program students explore festivals, customs, and ways of thinking, which builds a respect for cultural diversity and promotes inclusion in multicultural societieslikeAustralia.”

Briefs

RAAF feedback

The federal government is currently accepting submissions about its planned divestment of RAAF Base Point Cook. The submissions are due by Friday 17 April and will be presented to the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee. On 4 February, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles revealed the 342-hectare site and birthplace of the Royal Australian Air Force would be one of 67 military sites fully or partially divested. Nearby RAAF Williams Laverton will be partially divested, per the recommendations of a defence audit publicly released alongside the announcement. You can email your submission: Fadt.sen@aph.gov.au and/ or to seniorclerk.committees.sen@aph. gov.au

Free CPR training

St John Ambulance will be hosting free defibrillator usage lessons each Tuesday 10am-12.30pm until 12 May at St John Ambulance Werribee Divisional Hall in Werribee. The course will give participants the knowledge and confidence to perform CPR on an adult, child and infant, to describe alternative methods for delivering rescue breaths and how to manage a victim of drowning. The course topics include the DRSABCD action plan and responding to emergency situations, managing unconscious casualties, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and using a defibrillator (AED).

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History’s new home open

The Wyndham Museum and Werribee District Historical Society celebrated its grand reopening on Saturday 11 April. Hundreds of locals turned up to visit the museum, now located at the home in the Bluestone Manse at 21 Duncans Road, Werribee. The museum is open to the public 10am-3pm on Tuesdays and 10am-1pm on Saturdays. Star Weekly’s JAIDYN KENNEDY was out among the action.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago 16 April, 1986

Halley’s Comet has become household talk, not due to its spectacular appearance in the night sky, but because it only appears every 76 years. Formostpeopleitisaonceinalifetime experience. Ida Carter, 84, is one of the few Werribee people who can boast of seeingthecomettwiceinherlife.

30 years ago 17 April, 1996

After weeks of uncertainty, a family forced to be separated because of immigration laws looks likely to be reunitedsoon.

20 years ago 12 April, 2006

Wyndham irrigators are likely to face water rate hikes following the release of a draft decision on pricing from the EssentialServicesCommission.

10 years ago 13 April, 2016

Wyndham council parking inspectors slapped drivers with more than 15,000 fines valued at more than $1.5 million in 2015 – almost double the number fromtheyearbefore.

Spreading the netball fun

The RACV Wyndham Koorie Clinic was held at Eagle Stadium in Werribee on Monday 13 April, giving young First Nations people in the area a taste of netball. Children and teenagers aged five to 17 participated in the program, with some older than 12 participating in the umpiring clinic. Star Weekly photographer DAMJAN JANEVSKI was there to snap some of the action.

Progress on cancer clinic

Significant progress is being made on a new radiation therapy centre in Werribee that is expected to improve oncology care intheregion.

Delivered in partnership by cancer care provider GenesisCare and St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee, the new radiation therapy centre is expected to be completedinmid-2026.

GenesisCarehasnowinstalled$5million worth of cancer-fighting technology at the centreaheadofitslaunchlaterthisyear.

The technology includes a linear accelerator machine, which aims to target cancerous tumours with sub-millimetre accuracy by closely tracking patient

movementduringradiationtreatments.

The new linear accelerator machine weighs nine tonnes or about the same as a large male elephant and was brought into the centre with a crane and a team of experts in radiation therapy equipment delivery.

GenesisCare’s doctor director and radiation oncologist Mario Guerrieri said delivery of cancer treatment technology marks an important milestone for the developingcentre.

“Our highly dedicated team will deliver best practice radiation therapy techniques with the new linear accelerator for a range of cancer types locally so patients will no

Faces of the west

longer need to commute half an hour or moretoseektreatment,”DrGuerrierisaid.

GenesisCare general manager Brendan Foley said he is pleased with how the centreisprogressingandpatientswillhave an arrayofaccessibleoncologyservices on theirdoorstepsoon.

“Our $5 million investment into this technologyisapartofalargerofferingthat will include a highly dedicated and caring team of medical specialists, a comfortable environment for patients, and convenient access to St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee’sestablishedservices.”

Once opened, the new centre will also offer surface-guided radiotherapy along

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

with an on-site CT scan machine for the treatmentofawide-rangeoftumourtypes. The centre will also be the first to offer radiationtreatmenttolocalcancerpatients in the Wyndham area and will become part of the most comprehensive oncology service available in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

According to St Vincent’s Hospitals, the new centre will generate more than 20 highlyskilledjobsintheWyndhamarea. GenesisCare’s new service in Werribee builds on GenesisCare’s arrangements with St Vincent’s Hospitals in Fitzroy and in New South Wales, and long-standing relationshipswithdoctorsintheregion.

Honour the Anzacs

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

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

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

This month, Stephanie is creating an Anzac poppy brooch.

Major interfaith event

Faith leaders and community advocates from across Victoria gathered at the Melbourne Grand Mosque (MGM) in Tarneit on Saturday 11 April, to promote interfaith harmony.

Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and MGM hosted the Australian Religious Peace Academy forum under the theme: How can religion promote harmony and coexistence?

With about 50 people in attendance, the program opened with a reflection on the difference between passive and active peace– the distinction between the absenceofconflictandthedeliberateeffort of peace building.

Participantswereinvitedtoapproachthe forum not as observers, but as contributors to this effort.

At the heart of the program was an interactive trivia format drawing on the scriptures and teachings of Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and Sikhi.

Designed to make the program engaging and participatory, the trivia invited attendees to actively explore one another’s beliefs.

MGM head Imam Hysni Merja said there is no chance for peace and cooperation by taking simple first steps.

“We have to sit down together and try to understand each other, try to recognise each other, try to actually be in harmony with each other,” he said.

“If we don’t do that now, then we cannot expect peace and harmony in the future.”

Pandit of the Radha Madhav Mandir said the cornerstone of such exercises are understanding personal frustrations and then choosing to overcome them.

“Active peace means we actively understand the gap, build through meaningfulinteraction,meetinthecentre, and agree to disagree — respectfully, without hatred.

“That is what we really need to seriously think about, and work towards together.”

Anzac poppy brooch

Materials

Red glitter foam sheet

Green glitter foam sheet

Equipment

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

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

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

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

Dumping is getting worse

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Dumping has increased across a vacant section of land in Truganina in the last two months, according to a resident.

Suhail Mohammed said that he and other community members want to shine a light on the dumping that occurs on the corner of Forsyth and Dohertys roads.

Mr Mohammed, who previously spoke with Star Weekly in February and reported the matter to the Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA), said the issue was getting worse.

“The dumping has continued to

spread further across the area and I can see there are a few more large dumping loads,” he said.

“During that time, somebody has also dumped used tyres in that area and more construction materials have been left as well.”

Mr Mohammed said he had seen all manner of dumped waste including “syringes, suitcases, coat hangers and all kinds of things.”

Mr Mohammed said that a lack of fencing makes it easy to dump unwanted goods.

“The area should be fenced because

it is an open road– if there was a simple fence people would not bother crossing over to dump.”

Mr Mohammed said that if flammable liquids and materials prone to catching fire are dumped, the area’s landscape and close proximity to residential estates could pose a danger.

He urged others to pay attention to the spot and report illegal dumping.

“I would tell offenders not to do it, because either way you are hurting yourself and others by harming the environment.

“It is very bad and the show gives you a lot of bad impressions about the suburb

Waters of Life wins hearts at art prize

Todd Simpson has been crowned the 2026 Wyndham Art Prize People’s Choice winner for his piece Waters of Life.

Inspired by the Tasmanian bush and steeped in realism, the work was intricately painted in acrylic on an aluminium base.

On display for seven weeks at the Wyndham Art Prize Exhibition, 255 audience votes were cast, with Simpson’s work prevailing.

Visitors to the gallery voted for their favourite artwork from a wide variety of works including painting, sculpture, photography, textiles, drawing and installa-

tion.

Voters chose Waters of Life from a total of 79 pieces on display, several giving Simpson a run for his money – which was a $2500 prize.

Notably, local artist Jenny Rutsch came close with her work Wearing the Stories: Following the Threads.

Gina Kalabishis’ Lost Paths and the Silence of Birds, as well as Duain Kelaart’s Ocean Dragon also won many votes.

Simpson is a Melbourne based contemporary realist artist and studied at the Julian Ashton Art School in Sydney.

His work has received acclaim in Australia and New Zealand, having been named Australia’s top 100 artists in 2025 by top100artists.com.

Among his other accolades was the People’s Choice Winner at both the Glover Prize and Calleen Art Award and the Clayton Utz Art Award in 2025.

The Wyndham Art Prize is Wyndham Art Gallery’s signature annual exhibition and this year attracted over 700 artwork entries.

More than 5500 people visited the exhibition between 31 January and 22 March.

and the community as well.

“Dumping on any scale is not good –nobody likes it.

“Also, try to keep an eye on who is doing it so we can help minimise it, even if we cannot eradicate it.”

An EPA spokesperson said the organisation was investigating dumping in that location.

“EPA Victoria has received a report of dumped waste at Dohertys Road, Truganina. As the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to provide further details at this time,” the spokesperson said.

Easter crackdown

Police released the results of their Wyndham Easter road blitz with speeding the most common offence.

Operation Nexus ran from Thursday 2 April until Monday 6 April.

During the crackdown, local police caught 86 people speeding, 14 disqualified drivers, 13 people driving unregistered vehicles and seven unlicensed drivers.

Six people were caught not wearing seatbelts, and five for mobile phone offences.

Four drink drivers and four drug drivers were caught.

Eight vehicles were impounded, but police recorded no cyclist offences during the blitz.

Statewide, police detected more than 7500 traffic offences during Operation Nexus, including 3500 for speeding.

Police had warned motorists to expect an increased presence on the roads, recording a 19 per cent increase in patrol hours compared to the same Easter period last year.

The uplift in enforcement also resulted in a 23 per cent increase in the number of infringements issued over Easter this year.

One in every 464 drivers tested for alcohol was caught over the limit, police detected 316 drink-driving offences from 146,698 preliminary breath tests.

A further 178 drivers returned a positive roadside drug test from 3,505 roadside drug tests conducted.

PUZZLES

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

1 Melodious (7)

5 Sketch (7) 9 Agile (9)

10 Spanish for 'coast' (5)

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

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

14 Electronic novels (1-5)

15 Teaching period (4)

19 Slender support (4)

20 Dog with a curly coat (6)

24 Stressed (8)

25 Japanese robe (6)

27 'Well done!' (5)

28 Childish (9) 29 Ritual (7) 30 Unity (7)

Zany (6) 2 Church caretaker (6)

Scientific workrooms  (coll) (4,4) 4 Be ominously close (4)

Discourse (10) 6 Go up; climb (6) 7 Put back (8) 8 Interim period (8)

13 Intricateness (10)

16 A major city in Türkiye (8)

17 Trader (8)

18 League (8)

21 Situated within the building (6)

22 Beginner (6)

23 Roy or Ginger (6)

26 Curly hairdo (4)

3 LETTERS APT

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

Today’s Aim:

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

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

2 Where is the world's largest desert located?

3 True or false: hippos are unable to swim?

4 Who wrote the screenplay for Rocky?

5 What is the bestselling girl group of all time?

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

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

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

9 In what year was Earth Day first celebrated?

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

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

Werribee River Association

New volunteers are needed to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace. admin@werribeeriver.org.au or www.werribeeriver.org.au

One on One IT help

Free IT help sessions run Each Tuesday 10-11.30am at the Manor Lakes Library, covering everything from using email, creating accounts and accessing the online library. People can get help with their Macs, PCs and phones.

8734 8930

Bridge sessions

The Williamstown Bridge Club has bridge sessions each week on Wednesday night at 7.25pm and Friday afternoon at 1.25pm for experienced players and a supervised session on Fridays at 10am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, Seaholme. All levels welcome and partners can be provided. Bridge lessons start on 17 April. Sandi 0417 315 760, Alan 0430 309 255, lessons Jan 0409 944 413

Rotary Bingo

Werribee Rotary hosts its weekly community bingo event on Monday evenings at the Italian Sports Club of Werribee. There are cash prizes and proceeds go to worthy causes that Rotary supports. 6.30pm arrival time. secretary@werribeerotary.org.au

Community connectors

Wyndham Council has launched a community connections and care service to support residents who may need help navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re looking for mental health support, food relief, or guidance accessing government services, this free and confidential service is here to help. Meets 8am-noon on Wednesdays at The Element’s Activity Park and Cafe.

Community Kitchen

Wyndham-based not for profit group Pulse with Purpose sells delicious meals each Tuesday 10am-5pm at the Dianella Community Centre in Tarneit. Each purchase helps provide free meals to families in need. Meals are by pre-order, the menu is typically updated every Sunday. bpulsewithpurpose@gmail.com

Wyndham Turkish Coffee Club

A place for older Turkish and Cypriot Turkish migrant women in Wyndham to gather, connect, learn and advocate for one another over coffee. Anyone is welcome to join the group at the Wyndham Park Community Centre from 1-2pm on the first Tuesday of each month.

Lutfiye, 0474 533 923

Victoria State Rose Garden

The Victoria State and Rose Garden

Supporters group are always welcoming new members to help keep Werribee Park beautiful. The volunteers work 7am-noon on Wednesdays and 7-11am on Saturdays. If you enjoy gardening, roses or just enjoy the company of like-minded people, visit: www.victoriastaterosegarden.com.au

Wyndham Makers and Farmers Market

This market serves as a hub for talented artisans and small businesses to display their unique creations, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and take their ventures to new heights. Food trucks, live music and children’s activities are regular staples. Runs on the third Sunday of every month at Werribee Racecourse. Gold coin entry.

Soulful Spreads Community Cafe

Soulful Spreads is a purpose-driven social enterprise based in Tarneit that looks to create meaningful work and training opportunities for women and young people with disabilities. Come meet for a meal and support inclusion, empowerment and connection. Meets 8.30am-noon every Monday and Thursday at the Tarneit Community Learning Centre. info@soulfulspreads.com

National seniors meeting

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more. 0425 713 004 or lesley1.collins@outlook.com

Lizzy Bizzy Food Swaps

Come along to the Manor Lakes Community Centre to exchange excess homegrown food. From vegetables, fruits, eggs to seeds and oils, members of the community are encouraged to participate and help reduce food waste. Runs between 10am-noon last Saturday of every month. Liz, 0448 781 111

Resume Help

Wyndham council is providing resume workshops for young people aged 15-25. Book into a one-on-one session, online or in person, with an education and youth services librarian to get some help crafting your resume and answering interview questions. Sessions run at 9am, several times a week. resumehelp@wyndham.vic.gov.au

Practise English with Let’s Talk

A weekly meet to help members of the community improve their practical English conversation skills to help with daily tasks such as shopping and booking appointments. Meets 10am each Saturday at Werribee Church of Christ, 200 Tarneit Road, Werribee Bronwyn, 9741 6051

Wyndham Probus Club

A social club for retired or semi-retired people. There is a broad range of social activities to suit all interests such as lunches and brunches each month, day trips, theatre outings and longer trips away. Hear interesting speakers and make new friendships. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Iramoo Community Centre, Honour Ave, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm.

Kaye Angel, 0407 551 694 or wcpc1306@gmail.com

Point Cook Combined Probus Club Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook.

John Sloan, 0436 480 728 or sloanrisk@gmail.com

Lions Club

The Lions Club of Point Cook meets at the Featherbrook Community Centre on the third Monday of the month at 7.30 pm. The club is seeking to grow the Lions free vision

screening in schools team. Volunteers needed to work with the region’s schools in combating undiagnosed children’s vision issues. You do not have to be a Lions member but must obtain a working with children check.

Robert Eyton, 0417 549 684 or robeyton@bigpond.com

Wyndham Ladies Probus

Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am. Pat 0411 316 795

Adult community garden group

The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow.

8742 3688

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips.

Yvette, 0411 952 706

Bingo for all

The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm. 9741 5525

Comedy tips on annoying parents and other old people

Matty Grey has the antidote to one of the biggestconundrumsinkidscomedyshows with his internationally renowned act 101 Ways to Annoy Your Parents and Other ReallyOldPeople.

In case you stopped to question what the act show actually involves— yes, it is exactlywhatthenamesays.

The stand up comedy is designed both for adults and kids, aiming to reach both ontheirownlevelwhilenotboringanyone.

“It taps into the fundamentals of childhood, parenthood and blends them,” Greysaid.

“I call it Simpsons-esque humour because the kids love it and the adults get it.

“Ihadtheideafortheshowinthebackof myheadforwelloveradecade.”

The maestro said his strong inner child will keep the action flowing and the audienceattentive.

“Iama49-year-oldwithseriousattention deficit issues, so my shows are designed to benon-stopstimulationallthetime.

“Wedon’tpauseforadownturnatall,we keepgoingatonespeed.”

Parents won’t be sent home with a

disadvantageeither.

“We will also be teaching parents a few extra ways to annoy their kids as well,“ Greysaid.

“It is an incredibly educational show, so everyoneshoulddefinitelycomealong.”

The show was debuted by Grey in 2023 and has been a hit for three years running attheEdinburghFringeFestival.

The show will run at the Wyndham Cultural Centre in Werribee 3-4pm on Sunday26April.

Tickets: https://tickets.wyndham.vic. gov.au/Events

HALO hits a high note

BoweryTheatrewillbefilledwithpowerful vocals, ethereal harmonies and palpable energy this month as the HALO vocal ensemble presents its HALO & Friends concertinBrimbank.

Ensemble founder and musical director

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

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

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

The show will comprise 12 performers, many of whom are from the western

suburbs, with the evening being emceed byrapperStrictlyD.T.

“Healwayskeepsthingslightandfunny,” Tatafusaid.

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

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

“Vocally,it’sveryharmonyheavy.”

Shesaidensemblemembersloveworking togethertodeveloplayeredharmoniesand musicalarrangements.

“[Theaudience]isgoingtofeelittoowith the words of love and community,” she

said. “I’d definitely love to encourage the audience to get up and dance. Be prepared to sing and cry, all the emotions. It’s gonna besuperfun.”

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

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

The event is only for people aged 18 and over.

Ticket prices and more info: creativebrimbank.com.au

Whether you’re a seasoned artist, or can barely draw a stick figure after a couple of wines, you’ll be in safe and slightly sassy hands at Drag, Paint andSipasitmakesitswaytoBacchus Marsh’s Royal Hotel on Saturday 23 May.

Drag, Paint and Sip is the fabulously fun event hosted by the iconic duo Terry Dactyl and Sabrina Chevrier, who have teamed up to deliver a night of colour, camp, and a littlecontrolledchaos.

The event will guide participants in creating their very own cheeky artwork, topped off with a glitter-paint coating, all while they sip, giggle and enjoy live drag performancesthroughouttheshow.

Chevrier said this is the pair’s first time joining forces to mix entertainment,creativity,andagood dose of fun and laughter into one jam-packedevent.

“While people usually attend my workshops for a more transformational women’s experience, this one is intentionally a little more lighthearted and will be open to people of all genders,” she said.“Terrybringstheentertainment, the humour, and the sass. I bring the creative element, guiding you through a painting experience that’s easy, fun, and doesn’t take itself too seriously.”

All painting supplies are provided on the day, with a step-by-step guided session giving participants theirveryowncanvasmasterpieceto takehome,allsettothetuneofTerry Daktyl’sgloriousdragperformances.

“We’re really excited to bring this to life and share a night that’s all about fun, expression, and not overthinkingit,”Chevriersaid.

“We are a lot of things, but boring isn’toneofthem!”

Get your tickets at: https:// www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ drag-paint-sip-bacchus-marshtickets-1985038733287.

208 litres of Tasmanian rock delivered to the western suburbs

Tasmanian band 208L Containers visit Melbourne for the first time later this month to launch their new record Soft Monstrous Masses! and like the new Spirit of Tasmania, which is currently docked at Williamstown, the Hobart four-piece will becomingtothewesternsuburbstoo.

Unlike the costly new ferry which is too big to go any further, 208L Containers are making their way up the Maribyrnong to Footscray and Mama Chen’s, where they’ll be playing tunes from their fourth record onFriday24April.

Describedvariouslyas“absurdistrockers straddling the line between post-punk and pub rock,” and “imagine John Clarke riffing over a slightly warped Minutemen cassette,” 208L Containers will be supported on the night by two Melbourne based four-pieces with somewhat more conventionaldescriptions.

Noisy post-punk is the label Ze Wisenheimergivetheirmusic.

Shy pop songs done loud is the even plainer self-assessment provided by Sylvia of the sounds punters can expect from the

firstbandonthebill.

Doorsopenat7.30pmandticketsare$12 plusbookingfeeor$15onthedoor.

Those unable to make the Footscray show, or who want to go back-to-back, can also catch 208L Containers on Anzac Day, Saturday25AprilattheCurtainHotel. Details: https://mammachens.com. au/26-04-24-208l-containers/

SPORTS QUIZ

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

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

3. Nestory Irankunda plays what position for the Socceroos?

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Newcastle Northstars are a team in which league?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22.NRL player Tui Kamikamica plays for which club?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YOUR NEW CAREER

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

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

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

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

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

Huge news in big SUV dept

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

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

The 2015 Genesis was good, but would buyers be prepared to pay that much for a Korean car, everyone wondered?

FastforwardandwenowhaveGWM’sfirst vehicle to pass this milestone – its flagship Tank 500 Ultra PHEV seven-seat off-roader. And once again we find ourselves pondering whether buyers will stump up this sort of money to buy a Chinese vehicle this time.

In its defence, the large SUV is a substantial offering with plenty to offer those in the market for a large, luxurious wagon with some real off-road capability.

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

There are two powertrains and three grades from which to choose, all of them hybrids of one sort of another.

The range kicks off with the Ultra HEV, a conventional petrol-electric hybrid priced from$73,990.It’sfollowedbytheVantaHEV from $75,990 and finally the plug-in Ultra PHEV, the subject of our review priced from $77,990 – all prices are driveaway.

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

Both of the hybrid setups are based on a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

Also of note, the Tank 500 is a real 4WD, withtorqueondemandall-wheeldrive,dual range transmission and plenty of ground clearance for tackling the rough stuff

So, while it might sound expensive, it stacksupprettywellagainstthecompetition which includes the likes of Toyota’s Prado, the Ford Everest and Pajero Sport etc.

The styling is big, boofy and conservative with chunky tyres and lashings of chrome trim in evidence plus an aggressively styled radiator grille that would not look out of place on the front of a Ram pickup.

TheTankisobviouslytargetedattheolder cashed-up age group who like their shiny toys and are prepared to pay for them.

Ditto the cabin fitout which has a plush, heavily-upholstered look with wood trim and an inset instrument panel, rather than the more common minimalist approach. The old folks will love it.

They won’t love the heavy tailgate with its spare wheel however which requires quite a bit of effort to operate at times.

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

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

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

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

Watch out parents.

Other features include LED lights, hands-free auto parking, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

Tank 500 is covered by a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, seven years roadside assistance and seven years capped price servicing, plus eight years on the high voltage battery pack.

Infotainment

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

Head-up display is also fitted and comes intoviewoccasionallyifyouhappentowear polarised sunglasses. Why can’t they spend the time to fix this issue?

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

Wireless phone charging is also provided and another USB port near the rear vision mirror to power a dash cam.

Safety

Tank 500 scores a full five stars for safety in crash tests.

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

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

Engines/transmissions

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

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

Driving

Justshyof5.1metresinlengthandweighing close to three tonnes (2820kg), the Tank 500 is no shrinking violet.

But it gets moving surprisingly quickly for a big feller, especially the PHEV with a 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds.

Overseas there’s also a version with two electric motors and a larger 59kWh battery that produces 635kW and a staggering 1195Nm of torque. Bring it on baby!

A 150kW electric motor is integrated into the9HATtransmissionandsitsbetweenthe engine and gearbox, which is described as a P2layout.A37.1kWhbatteryisplacedatthe rear of the chassis.

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

There are also three levels of adjustment for the steering plus adjustable regenerative braking.

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

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

A fully charged battery will deliver a pure electric range of up to 120km (NEDC).

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

Remember that’s not a full charge, but if youinstallaWallboxathomeyoucanexpect it to be ready to go again in the morning.

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

Brakedtowingcapacityacrosstherangeis 3000kgandasyoucanseeitpacksafull-size spare on the swing tailgate (which will be a bugger to get off in the event of a flat).

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

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

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

If it has, it’s nowhere as good as the H6 PHEV that we drove recently.

The weight of the vehicle helps offset jar and rebound and on well-formed roads.

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

which causes the back to step out. In terms of off-road ability, the figures suggest it could be a contender. There’s under-body protection, dual range four-wheel drive, ground clearance of 224mm and a wading depth of 800mm, which all bode well, along with locking front, centre and rear differentials.

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

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

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

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

Buttheproofisinthepudding,solet’ssee Great Wall tackle Beer O’Clock Hill as it did with the smaller Tank 300 – then it will have something to crow about.

You can select between EV, HEV and Intelligent hybrid modes. EV prioritises the battery,HEVseesitoperateasaconventional hybrid and Intelligent is described as the ideal option for long-distance commutes. Experimentation showed it favoured the petrol engine.

HEV proved to be the preferred mode. Sitting at 100km/h on flat motorway for more than 30km saw the vehicle use hardly any fuel or battery.

We clocked up 750km in our week behind the wheel of the Tank 500, with an average 8.8L/100km fuel consumption and 6.0kWh/100km of energy consumption, but no composite figure.

After 515km and with 15 per cent battery and a range of 155km remaining, we opted to recharge the battery using an AC charger which took four hours and 40 minutes. The first time we plugged it in the vehicle failed to start charging and it was necessary to remove and reinsert the plug a couple of times before it got going, confirming it was indeed charging. Good thing we checked. Once it had finished charging it was reluctant to go into Drive and it was necessary to turn the car off and one a couple of times.

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

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

Summing up

The Tank 500 PHEV is surprisingly likeable, offering a heady mix of luxury and off-road ability in a hi-tech package.

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

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

Buyersthemselvesappeartohavebecome part of the test phase. Don’t you think?

High quality grand finals

It’s been a big couple of weeks for Wyndham Basketball Association with its summer 2026 domestic competition grand finals.

Conducted over a two-week period, the action was high quality with the atmosphere fever pitched with score lines close. Wyndham competition manager Chloe Prout said the grand Finals are the pinnacle of the season.

“Players, coaches, and even referees, participate all season to be a part of a grand finals,” she said.

“Whilst there will be a champion crowned for each competition, all participants are winners by making it through to the grand final.

Attention will now turn to the winter season which will commence in late April-early May.

Wyndham general manager Jason Kelly said their domestic competitions are growing at a rapid rate with an increase in players wanting to play basketball.

“Clubs are always welcoming new registrations and on the lookout for coaches as well,” he said.

“We cater for players from five through to 75 years young. The junior competition and senior competitions are a great way to keep active, play in a structured competition and make friends”

Details: https://wyndhambasketball. com/ or email info@wyndhambasketball. com

Falcons ready to step up

By Tara Murray

Wyndhamvale is hoping to be more competitive in the Western Football League women’s competition this season.

The Falcons will have a really young side this season and it was something coach Craig Prior was looking forward to seeing on the field.

“We have a fairly young side, with the average age being 22-23,” he said.

“We want to be competitive, that is the aim. We did alright in 2022-23 and made the grand final in division 2.

“It’s been one division since and it’s a pretty big jump to come up.

“We’re working hard on closing that gap

on the top two or three sides.”

Prior said the pre-season hadn’t been too bad and they had added some key players to their squad.

He said he was keen to see how they would go in their side.

Larissa Renaut, who has won the league goal kicking previously, returns to the club where she started her football.

Former league best and first winner Jess Spall, also crosses to the Falcons from Werribee Centrals.

“Larissa has come home,” Prior said “She won an under-18 premiership a fair few years ago and has come back to where it all started.

“Jess has fitted right in with the group, it’s

like she has been there for years.

“That experience is going to help us.”

The Falcons will also have Chloe Prior back this season after she missed most of last year after having a baby.

Prior has won two league best and fairests previously.

The Falcons kicked off their season on Saturday against the Suns. which gave them a first look at the opposition.

It was a good start for the Falcons as they came away with a 4.2 (26)-2.3 (15) win.

It was the Suns that led at half time by one point before the Falcons kicked two goals in the third quarter to open up an 11 point lead.

Neither side was able to find a goal in the

final quarter with the Falcons holding on to win.

Spall kicked two goals in her debut and was named among the best with Prior and Rachael Sherriff.

For the Suns, Zoe Court, Matilda Brown and Emily Allan were named their best.

Meanwhile, Werribee Centrals also started its season with a win as it accounted for Laverton on Friday night.

The Centurions led by four points at half time before kicking three goals to two in the second half to claim the 6.7 (42)-4.8 (32) win.

Paige Cook was best for the Centurions. Point Cook Centrals started the season with a 6.7 (43)-0.2 (2) loss to West Footscray.

Centurions relieved to be on the board

By Tara Murray

There was a sense of relief for Werribee Centrals as it opened its account in round of the Geelong and District Football League.

After losing their first four games last season and ultimately missing finals, a good start was exactly what the Centurions were after.

The Centurions were able to adjust to the conditions and win, 12.13 (85)-9.12 (66) against Winchelsea.

Centurions’ coach Rhyce Prismall said it was a good way to start the season.

“Everyone wants a win in round one,” he said. “There’s always a lot more stress.

“It’s a relief as a coach.

“In the first quarter we were able to take control of the game on the scoreboard.”

Prismall said it was tricky conditions with wind and rain which probably suited Winchelsea more.

He said despite that they were still able to find a way, with their players who liked those conditions really stepping up.

“It was a windy day and we took our opportunities when they came,” he said.

“The wind was changing directions during quarters multiple times.

“There were a lot of new players and it was nice to get them involved early.”

The Centurions led 40-1 at quarter time which allowed them to set up the match.

Primsall said they thought their second quarter, which they lost by five points, was actually better than their first quarter.

Both sides had periods where they could hit the scoreboard in the second half but the game was already over.

Primsall said it had been five or six years since they had won at Winchelsea’s ground, making the result even better.

Aaron Stone kicked three goals for the Centurions, while Isaac Cohen kicked two goals.

Connor Linehan-Cunningham, Stone and Tate Camilleri were named their best.

Primsall said they had five players making their debut for the club as they look to have a different side this season.

He said there would be some coaching headaches with more depth across the board.

“We had five debutants and one player

who had been away for four years and has returned,” he said.

“We’re a new look side. There’s also two or three players who have had long term injuries and we didn’t have after round five last year.

“It’s good to have those guys back and there’s a lot of depth. It’s a luxury and we had a few guys in the reserves who were regular senior players last year.”

After not making finals last season, Prismall said they weren’t aiming too high this season.

He said they were just focused on the task in front of them.

“Early last year we were 0-4,” he said. “We have to get some wins on the board and we’re worried about playing Bannockburn.”

In the A-grade netball, the Centurions started the season with a 32-21 loss to Winchelsea.

Taylah Gates shot 12 goals for the Centurions.

Alual Garang, Julia Nash and Natasha Dimkovski were named the Centurions best.

Tigers do it again

Werribee Districts again showed it is the team to beat in the Western Football League division 1 competition, after getting the better of Caroline Springs in the grand final rematch.

Having played in a number of close matches the past few seasons, the Tigers were able to break Saturday’s round one clash open.

Scores were level at half time before the Tigers kicked the only three goals of the third quarter to lead by 19 points at third quarter time. It was hard going in the final quarter with the Tigers able to extend the lead to come away with a 10.15 (75)-6.9 (45) win.

Daniel Nielson kicked two goals as did Rani Pavlidis in his senior debut for the Tigers.

Alexander Alabakis, Joshua Puli and Joshua Mould were named the Tigers best.

Ben Caluzzi and Alexander Paech were the Lakers best.

Hoppers Crossing also started the season with a win as it accounted for Point Cook Centrals.

After an even first half, the Warriors were able to step it up a level. They kept the Sharks scoreless in the second half as they put on 11 goals to come away with a 15.12 (102)-3.3 (21) win.

Ryan Kitchen and Harry Maguire kicked three goals each for the Warriors.

Oliver Correla and Maguire were named their best.

For the Sharks, Cooper Langan kicked two of their three goals. Bennett Lafaialii, Joshua Grech and Brady Crews were named the Sharks best.

Elsewhere, it was a tough start for Point Cook as it lost to Albion.

After scores were level at quarter time, the Cats kicked five goals to none in the second quarter to open up the match.

The Cats were able to win each of the quarters in the second half as they ran away with a 13.19 (97)-6.8 (44) win.

Jalen Jaimangal was the only multiple goalkicker for the Bulldogs with two goals.

Tyler Kolynuik and Zayne Galea were named their best.

Miller is ready for more

By Tara Murray

Wyndham’s Malik Miller is back to complete unfinished business in the Big V men’s championship competition.

Miller was one of the highlights for Wyndham last season in what was a tough year.

He’s now back for season number two.

“I’m pretty excited,” he said.

“I think we have a lot of unfinished business.

“We have to take what went wrong last year and adjust … use that as a guide to thrust us forward, be in championship contention this year.

“I think we kind of understand each other’s tendencies, and what the coach is looking for this season and what to expect

from him as far as on both ends of the floor, whether it’s offence or defence.

“I think this time round there is a little bit more cohesion between the coach and the returning guys especially and the new guys are definitely buying in everything as just one.”

Miller spent the off season travelling the world playing in Mexico and Nigeria.

He said it was easy to come back to Wyndham for a second season.

“It’s been a lot, hopefully as long as the goal is to win the championship, I’m all for it,” he said.

“It feels like I should be here, a lot of comfort for sure.”

Speaking before the season started, Miller said they had a squad with a lot of size this season which they would use to

their advantage.

He said not many teams would have the players to match their size.

“Usuallythisleagueisveryguardheavy,” he said.

“Being able to have some other size.

“A little bit more versatile … There will be a mismatch somewhere and it opens stuff up for other guys.

Miller said the group was keen to build on last season.

“Two years ago both men and women both won the championship,” he said.

“I think it is important to get back to that culture of winning, last season was a rebuild.

“Now we have some returning guys and new guys ready to buy in, I think we will be alright.”

Jets girls connect as a group in pre-season

By Tara Murray

Western Jets’ girls coach Kathryn

Chatelier

couldn’t have asked for much more in her first off season in charge of the Talent League side.

Chatelier took over the coaching midway through the Jets’ season last year, meaning there was a lot of learning on the go.

Now with half a season and an off season under her belt, she’s keen to get things underway this season.

“It’s been a really strong pre-season,” she said before the Jets season opener.

“There’s been no big hiccups and we’ve got a really connected group.

“The top age has moved on and we have another half come into the squad. They have integrated really well.

“We’vetickedalltheboxessofarwhichis encouraging.”

Chatelier said having had a full pre-season together had been really beneficial for not just her but the whole group.

She said it was a good chance to get to know the players and start to focus on

things they didn’t get a chance to look at last season.

“LastyearIwasthrowninandwasonthe run,” she said. “I’ve got to know the players on and off the field and that has shown in the connection and the game plan.

“We can have a bit more planned with the development. It has been fun.”

Chatelier said their list this year was about a 50-50 split between top age and bottom age players.

She said they had a few 19-year-olds stay with the club as well.

“We’ve got some exciting talent in our top age year and some exciting prospects coming through the bottom age,” she said.

“There’s some good young talent coming through both groups.”

The Jets had four players as part of the VicMetrosummerhub,KiaraBoyd,Jacinta Eteuati, Tayla Olivieri and Addison West.

Chateliersaidallfourhadbeendoingthe hard work in the hopes of being drafted.

“All four have put their foot down in the pre-season and are working really hard on theirstrengthsandthereasonswhythey’re in the metro hub.

Meanwhile,Wyndhamdroppedasecond straight match in the championship division.

Facing the McKinnon Cougars on Saturday night, Wyndham lost 108-98. Wyndham started strongly with 37 points in the first quarter before dropping off

The coaches said the side didn’t follow the game plan and needed to start working better as a team.

NgorNaitopscoredwith24points,while Nick Black had 21 points.

Wyndham’s women’s division 1 side suffered a 77-55 loss to the Mildura Heat on the road.

The side dug deep but wasn’t able to convert and keep the scoreboard ticking over.

Sports shorts

Dockerty Cup

Just 40 clubs remain in the Dockerty Cup with fixtures for rounds five and six drawn on Wednesday night. Round five of the competition will be played on the evenings of 21-23 April and 28-30 April. Among the match ups is Werribee City against Avondale. Meanwhile, Werribee City suffered a 2-1 loss to Keilor Park in the Victorian Premier League 2 on Friday night.

Western NL

The opening round of the Western Netball League kicked off on Friday night. In the division 1-2 competition, it was mixed results for Glen Orden, which claimed the premiership in both divisions last season. Hawks Emerald was able to come away with a 53-43 win against Yarraville Seddon Eagles gold. Lillith Mclean shot 48 goals in the win. Hawks Sapphire lost to Albanvale Cobras Blue, 54-50. Among other results, Werribee Districts beat the Altona Valkyries in a thriller, 46-45.

Hockey

Werribee’s women’s Hockey Victoria vic league 2 side started the season with a win on Saturday. The Tigers were at home to the Greater Dandenong Warriors and were able to come away with a 3-2 win. The Tigers men’s side was also in action in round on Saturday and was able to beat Caroline Springs, 5-4. Austin Breen scored twice for Werribee.

FV

“They have got better and have all had external help from a fitness point of view.

“There’s a few more knocking on the door.”

Boyd has been named captain of the Jets squad with Olivieri and West named vice-captains.

Piper Dixon, Makaylah Brne and Charli Parsons-Jones make up the leadership group.

Chatelier said the group had some high level talent and some were really underrated outside of the Jets.

The Jets kicked off their season on Saturday against the Northern Knights.

Chatelier said before the match they were itching to get out there.

“Once the boys started it became really real and we wanted to be done with pre-season and get out there,” she said.

“You never know what to expect in round one. They [the Knights] have some good talent in the program.”

The Jets were able to come away with a 6.16 (52)-2.1 (13) win.

Parsons Jones, Brne and Paige McHutchison were named their best.

A late comeback by Hoppers Crossing fell short in the FV state league 3 north-west on Saturday. The Reds were away against Epping City and found themselves down 2-0 after 21 minutes. The Reds were able to peg one back in the 61st minute before Epping hit straight back. The Reds got a late goal but weren’t able to equalise as they lost 3-2. After three rounds, the Reds have three points. In FV state league 4 north-west, Point Cook had a 2-1 win agianst Sebastopol Vikings, while in state league 6 north-west, Truganina Hornets had a 1-1 draw with Docklands Athletic.

FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Eyers helps secure thriller

By Tara Murray

A season ending injury last season to Ryan Eyersmadehimmorehungrytohavesome success on the football field.

Eyers made an instant impact in his first season with Werribee in the Victorian FootballLeague,somuchsohewasspoken about as a draft prospect.

While his 2025 season came to an end early, he started the 2026 on fire and was rewarded with a spot in the VFL’s state team on Saturday.

“It was a great opportunity,” Eyers said following the match.

“It was exciting. You play footy to win games and that sort of stuff but I’m trying to play as good footy as I can and try and get the best out of myself.

“Obviously it’s nice to get the recognition and reward for effort. It was an honour and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”

For a second straight season the VFL side won a thriller against the South Australian National Football League.

Werribee was once again at the centre of the result, boasting a league-high five representatives, with Louis Pinnuck

leading the side to victory as captain, while senior coach Dan Lowther made it a party of six Tigers involved with his role as assistant coach.

Dom Brew, Eyers, Jesse Clark and Jack Riding were the others in the final team.

The SANFL led at every change before a four-goal final term from the VFL saw it surge home to claim the 15.13 (103)-14.14 (98) win.

Pinnuck led from the front, producing a strong performance down back with 19 disposals, five tackles and nine marks.

Brew matched Pinnuck’s 19 disposals and finished with nine tackles, six clearances and two crucial goals.

Riding, playing forward, finished with 15 disposals and eight tackles, while Clark was solid down back with 13 disposals and four marks, and Eyers continued his outstandingstartto2026,holdingstrongin defence.

Eyers said it was nice to have a few Werribee teammates out there with him.

‘It was good to have a bit of familiarity,” he said.

“That was absolutely nice to have some teammates that I’ve enjoyed playing with

at Werribee,” he said.

“Obviously, the experience of winning with them over there is pretty cool.

“The last quarter was a bit nerve wracking. I was thinking that if it came down to my end, I did not want my bloke to kick the goal.

“There were some great players around us so I knew that if we stuck to the way that we had been playing all day that we would get the job done.”

Eyers said it was hard last season when his season came to an early end, having come across from Collingwood.

He said he would use it to drive him to be a better player.

“It was frustrating at the time,” he said.

“I guess an injury like that and when you know that you’re not going to get anymore opportunity it was frustrating,

“Nobody wants to be on the sidelines … As a lot of people do with injuries and being out for extended periods, it makes you really hungry.

“You miss it, you want to come back bigger and better.”

Eyers said his focus is on being the best player he can and seeing where it takes

him.

He said making the AFL would be awesome, but his focus is on helping Werribee achieve some team success.

“I just want to be a good player and try and become better in all the different ways that I can,” he said.

“I think Werribee has been a good club for that and I can’t wait to get to work with them for the rest of the year and hope that wegetthatteamsuccessaswellandmaybe a little bit of individual success as well.”

The Tigers will resume their season this Saturday at Avalon Airport Oval against Frankston.

Werribee has a 1-2 record prior to the state game break.

“It’s not the start we were after,” he said.

“We had a great win away up at the Gold Coast in some pretty harsh conditions.

“So that was a great win and then the last couple of weeks haven’t strung together full games.

“We’ve had some good patches and we know that we can match it with all the teams.

“We have to be more consistent through a four quarter effort.”

TIPPING 2026