Star Weekly - Wyndham - 28th January 2026

Veteran honoured

By Jaidyn Kennedy

If any one man in Werribee deserves an accolade for serving others, Daryl Ryan would have a fair case.

On Australia Day, Mr Ryan was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to veterans and their welfare.

A member of the Werribee RSL Sub-branch for more than 55 years, and its president for more than 40, the journey started in Vietnam.

Mr Ryan served as an infantry soldier in the 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regimentin1969,andamongthethingshe earned for his efforts was a bullet in the left shoulder.

“To be quite honest, I had thought

someone had just thrown dirt,” Mr Ryan said.

Afterhearingcallsforamedicandseeing a stream of claret, he realised it was a more sinister kind of sediment.

His new mission came about by chance, but the experiences of those who live through war fuelled his drive to complete it well.

“When I came from Vietnam, one of my bosses paid for my first year’s RSL subscription in 1970,” Mr Ryan said.

“The hardest thing for Vietnam veterans was the acceptance from the community and trying to battle the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“Oneofthebiggestissuestheyhaveisthe hassle they have with the bureaucracy – it makes it so bloody hard, in some cases a

veteran has to prove they were overseas.

“My goal has always been to try, while I am still capable, to help veterans who aren’t capable.“

That help has gone well beyond words and well wishes.

“Any veterans who need any assistance can come to the RSL, there will always be someone to try and help out and if we can’t,wewilltryandsendthemintheright direction, that is what we are here for,” Mr Ryan said.

“We will have a veteran come to the sub-branch and he’s got nowhere to go, then we will arrange for him to get into one of the motels and help him.“

Unannounced acts of decency and duty such as helping veterans get to their appointments and making sure widow’s

gardens are tended to are things the sub-branch will help with.

Mr Ryan said he was humbled by the honour, but it’s not why he does it.

“Iwasalittlebittakenbackbythis,Ihave received life membership at the RSL and the like, but I have never strove for any of this.“

He said that while he is president he will justkeepmakingsureveteransgetafairgo.

“Iamgoingtostepasideandletsomeone else take the reins, and that will be in March,” he said.

“I think the biggest thing I can say I am proud of is the roll up we get on ANZAC Day.

“The attendance at our dawn service has gone from a few hundred to when I started, and now we are talking 8000.”

Defenceless wife murdered

By Emily Woods, AAP

A man who stabbed his defenceless wife to death and then called emergency services has pleaded guilty to murder.

Father-of-four Jessie James Tumaliuan, 42, accepted a sentence indication of 20 years as he pleaded guilty in the Victorian Supreme Court on Wednesday 21 January. His wife, Czarina Tumaliuan, was found stabbed to death in the back yard of a Werribee home in Melbourne’s west on March 27.

Tumaliuan’s barrister Chris Hooper previously told the court the couple had been separated before the murder but his client was continuing to attend their

home.

On the day of the killing, Tumaliuan used a key to enter the home intending to confront his wife verbally about money, Mr Hooper said on Friday.

CCTV footage captured some of the murder, including Ms Tumaliuan’s screams as she ran into the back yard, but 10 seconds later the video went quiet.

Mr Hooper said his client accepted the woman was unarmed, while he had equipped himself with a knife.

But he said Tumaliuan had not visited the house with murderous intent as he was initially unarmed.

“Circumstances occurred off-camera ... where his intention was not to kill, but to

cause really serious injury, that’s his position,” Mr Hooper said.

Tumaliuan called triple zero for assistance three times, the court was told.

Prosecutor Nadia Kaddeche said an assault occurred inside the home before the victim ran outside and she could be heard saying she had been hurt.

“There is no desisting from when she goes outside and it (the assault) continues not on camera, around the side of the house,” Ms Kaddeche said.

Justice Amanda Fox indicated to Tumaliuan she would sentence him to up to 26 years behind bars if he pleaded guilty to murder.

He would have to serve 20 years of that

Cousins starting school a terrific little trio

A trio of cousins are about to share in a big milestone as they start school at Bellbridge Primary School.

Ava, Elizabeth and Poppi-Ann, all 5, have come to be known as the triplets by their parents – who are all siblings – because they were born within six months of each other.

Ava and Elizabeth came into the world less than 24 hours apart in July 2020, and despite being two rooms away in the same hospital, couldn’t meet due to Covid.

Poppi-Ann followed six months later.

According to Elizabeth’s mum Vicky Sullivan, it didn’t take long for the three musketeers to earn a shared reputation.

“Triple trouble” were the first words out of our mum’s mouth,” she said.

“Triple trouble for sure were her exact words when she saw they were all blonde-haired, innocent-looking angels.”

Ending up at the same school came through pretty pragmatic reasons.

“My sister has moved back into

mums and my brother works and we all help out with Poppi-Ann.

“I threw it out there that it would be practical and that it would be really cool to have them all there to support each other and not be so daunting for them

– and aunty Vic would be there for their first day of school and surprisingly they agreed.”

Registrations now open for free business expo in Wyndham

Local businesses are encouraged to register for one of the area’s biggest networking opportunities.

Exhibitor applications are open until 8 March for local businesses to be part of the WYNnovation Business Expo.

The expo is intended to help local businesses drive growth, efficiency and build local supply chains.

Wyndham Council will host the event at the Werribee Racecourse on 7 May and will have sections dedicated to different business types.

Alongside the business to business expo,

the drop-in, full-day program will feature business and innovation workshops, high-profile keynote speakers to open and close the day and the pitch grand finale, followed by an evening networking event.

Entry to the expo and workshops for local businesses will be free, with ticketing for the keynote sessions and networking. The full program will be announced in March.

In order to be eligible, participants must have an active ABN registered in Wyndham, or have a physical business location in Wyndham.

They must also provide services to other

sentence before becoming eligible for parole, she said.

Tumaliuan’s sentence will be formally decided following pre-sentence hearings later in the year.

He appeared distressed after hearing the sentence and refused to stand as Justice Fox exited the courtroom on Friday.

However, after discussing the matter with his lawyer, Tumaliuan accepted the sentence indication as he pleaded guilty to one count of murder on Wednesday.

“Guilty your honour,” he said, as he stood in the court dock.

He will return to court on March 13 for a pre-sentence hearing.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

Calls for council to scrap Australia Day

A Wyndham resident is calling on Wyndham council to reconsider hosting Australia Day and civic celebrations on 26 January.

Wyndham for Palestine spokesperson Fatima Measham said some in the community do not support the council’s decision to host celebrations on the public holiday.

“By retaining Australia Day in the calendar, Wyndham Council is sending the wrong message to our multicultural communities, that a sense of belonging to this land could be based on the dispossession of it,” Ms Measham said.

“That is shameful, and should be open to the community to interrogate.”

Across the west, Brimbank, Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay councils have moved away from holding events on the contentious date, while neighbouring Geelong has backflipped and reinstated a celebration.

Ms Measham said that many Wyndham residents were born in or belong to a diaspora of people whose countries experienced colonialism and disposession.

“Many members of the community come from countries that were colonised, as well as religious backgrounds that are about love and justice.

“So we recognise harm when we see it and respond with solidarity.

“In other countries, such days are based on independence and freedom from oppression which, as a settler-colony, will never be our foundation story.

“We would like to see the idea of Australia Day itself examined as a national celebration. If we’re going to have a unifying moment in the year, it should be built around a Treaty with Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders.

“That is a much more inclusive moment that we can work toward.”

Mayor Josh Gilligan pulled no punches in his response.

“Australia Day is here to stay in Wyndham and so is our commitment to recognising local heroes who make Wyndham a great place to live, work and raise a family,” Cr Gilligan said.

businesses, and not just the general public.

Cr Larry Zhao, who is also president of the Asian Business Association of Wyndham, said it was a great event to build the local business network.

“All small businesses should join in to promote each other, build connections and make change together,” Cr Zhao said.

Positions are expected to be filled quickly, so time is of the essence.

To register: https://www.wyndham. vic.gov.au/services/business-investment/ business-awards-special-eventswynnovation-business-expo-2026

“We are a nation who created Wi-Fi, the cervical cancer vaccine, Vegemite and AC/DC, just to name a few achievements.

“We should be proud to celebrate all we’ve achieved on 26th of January every year.”

Honour for Anne

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Women’s cricket is in pretty good shape right now– and that is no small part due to the efforts of Werribee’s Anne Gordon and her ilk.

On Australia Day, she was made a Member of the Order of Australia for her contributions to the sport as player, coach and administrator.

That all-rounder and left-hand fast bowler has hit massive heights but certainly started humbly.

“In the 1950s, Moe was a pretty young town and the boys used to play cricket, using the front gates as the wickets,” Ms Gordon said.

“They used to hit the ball over the fence

to a woman who had a very lovely garden–and now that I am older I can see why she used to confiscate it.

“Once I went to go get it and they let us have the ball back, so the boys allowed us to play so we could go get it.“

After spending a lot of time down in Melbourne, she got the nod to play state cricket for Victoria at 18 during the early 1960s.

Becoming captain of Australia and a selector for junior cricket in England throughout the 1970s, she and her squads hadepiphaniesthatwentbeyondthepitch.

A big one was witnessing political unrest and strife in Jamaica in 1973.

“I think it is also the journey– a lot of us hadn’trealisedthatwehadsuchagoodlife

in Australia– and when a lot of us went to Jamaica, we mixed with a lot of people on tour and grew up a lot.“

The impact she and her generation have had on the sport is evident in the young girls and women she still mentors.

“It is quite fulfilling really, because there are girls who are willing to listen to the stories.

“They are also willing to also put a lot more effort into the game, whereas before they used to be half hearted because they never had much in the way of coaching.”

She was asked for her best coaching tip:

“The only thing is to show faith when things are going bad… you just have to be there and nurture them through situations.”

Musarrat’s purpose is to help others

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Musarrat Saiyed has been named the 2026 Wyndham Citizen of the Year.

Hailing from Oman, Ms Saiyed moved to Australia in 2019 and has been instrumental in keeping Wyndham fed through her charity Pulse with Purpose. Throughherleadership,theorganisation provides weekly meals, food bank deliveries, and emergency assistance to hundreds of residents.

Ms Saiyed, who was by her own admission shocked to win the honour, said her Islamic faith is the pillar of her work.

“It is just how we were brought up–to help in whatever capacity that we can –and it is because of the faith we believe in,” Ms Saiyed said.

“You cannot be a true believer if your neighbour goes to sleep hungry, so that is a very strong motivation to help the community.”

Operating out of Dianella Community Centre in Tarneit, the vision started during a dark time for many Victorians.

“When we began it was after Covid and when we started there was a need for hot meals and there was nothing in the western suburbs–so that’s how we thought of starting something,” she said.

A big part of Pulse with Purpose is

fostering a sense of community through volunteerism.

“Our organisation reflects the demographics of the community we are in and is intergenerational,” Ms Saiyed said.

“Most people socialise within their workplace and schools, so they are with people their own age, but we wanted a space where it is truly multigenerational.

“We have volunteers in their early 20s and in their 70s, so there is passing of knowledge and experiences.

“It goes both ways and is mutual.”

As an advocate for wellbeing, sustainability, and inclusion, Ms Saiyed serves on several advisory committees where she champions equitable access to essential resources.

She thanked members of her organisation and Wyndham council for being supportive of volunteers.

Ms Musarrat also is very keen for anyone with a passion for helping others to come on board.

“We would like more people to join in whatever capacity they are able … sometimes it is not just the direct impact of what the work we do – it is the intangible impact on people we see,” she said.

Umar is a young leader

Umar Sheikh has been recognised as the 2026 Wyndham Young Citizen of the Year for his local leadership and dedication to education, enquiry and social justice. The 23-year-old helps provide meaningful employment to people living with disabilities through volunteering at Soulful Spaces, as well as assisting with family events, cultural programs and youth mentoring at Building Cultural Connections Australia.

He tutors many members of the community as the founder of Squidz Tutoring and at Pulse with Purpose, founded by fellow citizen of the year MusarratSaiyed.

Mr Sheikh said he was humbled to wintheaward.

“I feel very honoured and very humbled because I think there are so many amazing young people in Wyndham,”hesaid.

He said educational equity is among the issues nearest to his heart and that he prefers to incorporate fun in learning.

“At the tutoring, I don’t just focus on making people learn or helping them with their homework, I also make sure that they are having some fun. “Life is tooshortandjoyisaformofresistance.”

MrSheikhalsohasapassionforglobal justice, reflected in his involvement with Wyndham for Palestine, where he assists with outreach and fundraising, encouraging local solidarity with internationalhumanitarianissues.

“Ihaverealisedoverthepastfewyears that oppression of any community in the world is directly linked to our own oppression.”

Despite personal challenges, Mr Sheikh continues to model empathy, integrity,andresilience.

His leadership has inspired others to volunteer, strengthened community participation, and created more inclusivespacesacrossWyndham.

Lunar festival ready to shine

One of Point Cook’s most coloured and beloved community events is ready to return bigger and better than ever.

The Wyndham Multicultural Lunar Festival will light up the Point Cook Town Centre with Chinese and dragon dancing, international folk dances and vocal performances.

Vice president and performance manager of the Point Cook Cultural Community (PCCC) Becky Cui said there is something for everyone– and a platform for everyone.

“This festival offers an invaluable platform for local artists to perform in front of a large and enthusiastic audience, while allowing the wider community to experience the beauty of multicultural exchange,” Ms Cui said.

More than 400 performers from over a dozen countries will be strutting their stuff, while street food and local cuisine will round out the culinary side of the equation.

After the stage performance, artists will move to the PCCC booth to demonstrate the ancient art up close and invite the public to experience this remarkable form of tea painting first-hand.

TheTaiChiandQigongperformancewill include on-site instruction, encouraging audience members to join in and experiencetheflow,balance,andwellness of this traditional Chinese practice.

Handcrafts and cultural trinkets will be for sale, and have been made in an environmentally conscious manner.

Family-friendly workshops and cultural activitieswillalsobeavailablethroughout the day, offering creative and educational experiences for all ages.

The event is free and runs 11am-7.30pm.

Wonderful Wednesday at Iramoo

ItwasawonderfulWednesdayatIramoo Community Centre in Wyndham Vale as Star Weekly journalist Jaidyn Kennedy paid a visit to the Crafties group. Meeting every Wednesday for the past 21 years, the ladies put their knitting and crocheting skills to good use. Over spirited debates, items are made for each other and charitable causes. From beanies for babies in hospitals to balaclavas for soldiers in Afghanistan, people from all walks have benefited from the ladies sleight of hand. All are welcome to come and have a crack.

Briefs

New Manor Lakes reserve Holyoake Parade Reserve in Manor Lakes is now ready for public use following its official opening on Thursday 22 January. Stage one of the project cost $9.5 million, and includes an oval with a cricket pitch overlay, cricket nets, six tennis courts and a multi-use court. There’s also a new pavilion with a social room, change rooms, storerooms and a kiosk to support sport, recreation, and community activities. Council also received more than $1.2 million from the state government and $40,000 from Cricket Victoria to deliver the project.

All age chess

Those who like a challenge are welcome to come to the Manor Lakes Library on Monday 2 February between 3.30-4.30pm to try their hand at chess. Beginners and experienced players are welcome to join in a friendly environment which is a program not a class. An experienced chess club volunteer will be available to help with strategies and to referee games, and bookings are not required. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Keeping cool on the savannah

As the Victorian summer continues, zookeepers and experts from Werribee Open Range Zoo explained to Jaidyn Kennedy how they help the animals keep cool when the mercury rises.

Slip, slop slap. Stay in the shade. Keep hydrated.

People who have spent a summer in the Great Southern Land would have these sun safety steps down pat.

Well, not just people.

The animals at Werribee Open Range Zoo (WORZ) have their own ways of keeping cool during heatwaves in Victoria –some of which aren’t too different from our own tried and true measures.

WORZ life sciences manager Dominic Moss said Victorian heatwaves can be more intense and sudden, with sharp temperature spikes compared to other parts of the globe.

“[When] animals aren’t naturally adapted… extra cooling strategies are so important,” he said.

“Different species cool themselves in different ways.

“Some examples are that Elephants flap their ears to release heat, rhinos wallow in mud to keep cool and protect their skin, as do elephants, big cats pant and rest in shade, while smaller carnivores seek cooler ground or dig to escape the heat.

“In general, animals use a combination of behavioural and physical strategies to stay cool in hot weather.”

Leading what is known as the cool-down crew is the zoo’s nine-strong elephant herd, who have been making waves in nearly two million litres of water across the Elephant Trail’s two mega pools.

The scenes Mr Moss describes don’t sound too different to what happens at Werribee Outdoor Pool just up the road.

“The elephants love dunking each other, blowing bubbles with their trunks and splashing water over their backs, and the calves often treat the pools like a giant playground, sliding, chasing and copying the adults,” Mr Moss said.

The herd’s “cool aunty” Kulab, typically leads the pool parties, and calves Kati, RoiYim and Aiyara love to join in.

The zoo’s five Southern White Rhinoceros also choose a soak as their preferred form of cooling down, taking advantage of muddy wallows – rolling, splashing and basking for hours.

Mud proves to be an all rounder in the cosmetics department, serving as natural sunscreen and insect repellent all in one.

Having thick skin is typically considered a strength, but if not handled with care, it can be an Achilles’ heel on the sweltering savannah.

“Animals with thick skin, darker colouring, large body size or limited ability to sweat, such as elephants, rhinos and big cats, can be more vulnerable in extreme heat, particularly if conditions are humid or prolonged heat events,” Mr Moss said.

The zoo’s lion pride embrace the heat with frozen meat blocks hung from trees, encouraging jumping, pawing and teamwork.

Two-year-old cubs Jango, Mwezi and Kianga love to claw and tug at the icy piñatas before dragging them down and settling in for a long, lazy lick in the shade.

Across the African River Trail, Serval sisters Nanki and Morili leap onto tree stumps to reach iron-rich icy poles.

“The icy poles are made using animal-specific ingredients like meat, blood, insects and vegetables, frozen in moulds,” Mr Moss said.

Curious meerkats make sure they get stuck into insect-filled ice slushies that are scattered across rocks and tunnels.

“Meerkat slushies often include mealworms, crickets and other insects blended with water,” Mr Moss said.

“They’re completely safe for animals, but definitely not designed for human taste buds.”

The humans still enjoy them, at least in a non-consumptive way.

“All enrichment is carefully planned and prepared before animals enter the space,” Mr Moss said.

“Keepers work behind the scenes using protected contact methods, timing, distance and barriers so animals are safely occupied elsewhere before enrichment is set up.”

There are important reasons why these treats aren’t spoon fed.

African River Trail life sciences coordinator Ben Gulli said ice-based enrichment helps animals stay cool while still engaging their natural instincts.

“Hiding food in ice encourages foraging, problem-solving and physical activity, es-

pecially during cooler parts of the day,” Mr Gulli said.

“It keeps animals mentally stimulated, thenallowsthemtorestoncetemperatures.”

While the animals are a smart bunch and good at managing their own affairs the zookeepers know what to do if there’s an emergency.

“Keepers closely monitor behaviour, appetite, movement and breathing, and watch for signs like lethargy, excessive panting or reduced activity, especially during extreme temperatures,” Mr Moss said.

He said teams will intervene if they suspect something is truly amiss.

“Animals are immediately moved, given access to cooler areas, given access to and the shade, water or mud, and monitored closely,” Mr Moss said.

“Veterinary teams are involved if needed, and cooling strategies are adjusted until the

animal is comfortable.

The team is pretty attentive to the details that help minimise the risk of those situations occurring.

The maintenance of the rhino’s mud wallow is a pretty good example.

“Keepers regularly top up water levels, monitor mud depth and texture, and ensure the wallows stay clean and safe,” Mr Moss said

“During hot weather, wallows and pools may be refreshed more often to keep them effective and inviting.”

And last but certainly not least of all, he gave a little pro tip about how the zookeepers themselves keep cool during scorchers.

You could probably hazard a guess.

Plenty of water, wide-brim hats, sunscreen and occasionally an ice cream from the Ben and Jerry’s on site at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Mother walks free on bail

By Emily Woods, AAP

A woman accused of killing her two young childrenbyleavingthemhomealonebefore a fire broke out has walked free from court onbail.

Shania Lee, 27, was granted bail for a second time on Wednesday 21 January despite having failed to present to court the week before, sparking a five-day police search and the issuing of a warrant for her arrest.

She is accused by police of leaving her threechildrenagedunderfiveathomealone about two minutes before fire engulfed a propertyinMelbourne’snorthwest.

Lee’s girls, aged one and five, died at the scene in Sydenham in September 2024, while her three-year-old boy survived with injuries.

She has been charged with two counts of negligent manslaughter and one of negligently causing serious injury and was

freed on bail in September last year despite prosecutorsopposingherrelease.

Prosecutors allege Lee heard the screams ofherchildrenonhomesecurityvideo,after leaving the property two minutes and 15 secondsbeforeasmokealarmsounded.

She failed to appear at court last week for a brief hearing, with a warrant issued for her arrest before she handed herself in on Tuesdaynight.

Prosecutors and police on Wednesday argued Lee should not be released on bail again because she had not been abiding by her bail conditions and posed a risk to communitysafety.

DetectiveSeniorConstableChrisMitchell alleged he had “criminal intelligence“ that Lee was involved in “high-risk offending“ including police pursuits, possessing a firearm,dealingandconsumingdrugs.

“My fear is she is potentially engaging in criminal offending,” he told Melbourne MagistratesCourt.

However, he later said her risk to the community would be reduced if she was handedstricterbailconditions.

Detective Senior Constable Mitchell said Lee had not been residing at her bail address in the NSW town of Moama with her mother, and had been “couch-surfing“ acrossvarioussuburbsinMelbourne’swest.

He said she had been reporting to Echuca policeuntilDecember24andthenstopped.

Detective Senior Constable Mitchell admitted the case faced delays as he was awaitingareportfromafireexpertaboutits timeline, to get calculations on how quickly the blaze may have spread after the smoke alarmsounded.

Lee’slawyerNickJanesaidshewas“going through an incredibly difficult emotional time“ in December as it was the birthday of heryoungestchild-whodiedinthefire-on the21st.

He said Moama was isolating for her and proposed she reside at a new address in

Altonaifreleased.

Mr Jane argued the prosecution case was weak and said delays would impact his client because she has never been imprisonedbefore.

Magistrate Olivia Trumble found bail conditions, including a therapeutic support program, curfew and a move from regional NSW to Melbourne, would minimise her risktothecommunity.

Lee would face lengthy delays if she remainedbehindbarsasthecasewaslikely togototrial,shefound.

Ms Trumble said it was clear she would benefit from treatment for drugs, mental health and grief issues, after she was found eligibleforthecourt’sbailsupportprogram.

The27-year-oldwalkedfreefromcourton Wednesday afternoon, with bail conditions including that she reside at an Altona property, report to police three days a week andabidebya10pmto6amcurfew.Shewill returntocourtonFebruary24.

Wyndham and Geelong councils back Avalon plan

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Geelong and Wyndham councils have announcedtheirAvalonadvocacyrequests for the November state election.

In conjunction with the Geelong Chamber of Commerce, Committee for GeelongandCommitteeforWyndham,the plan calls for greater investment in both the international airport and industrial precinct.

Mayors of both cities want the state government to eventually outline a three-year program of matched funding between the public and private sectors.

The establishment of a $1 billion regional infrastructure fund is one of the suggestions.

Geelong and Wyndham are also pushing for better road connectivity, with the upgrade of Beach Road between the Princes Freeway, the airport and the commercial precinct.

Further down the line, campaigners frombothsidesoftheYouYangswanttosee the Avalon Airport Rail Link delivered to connect Avalon to the Melbourne-Geelong rail corridor.

The airport is already ramping up operations, ending its six-year, post-Covid international flight hiatus, with Jetstar services to Bali resuming in March.

Defence and manufacturing activities have ramped up and a new freight facility was opened late last year.

Avalon Airport chief operating officer Dave Moreland said that having these

requests met could create thousands of jobs for both areas.

“Avalon Airport stands at the forefront of Victoria’s international future; emerging as a dynamic passenger and freight gateway that is reshaping aviation and visitation, expanding industrial capability, and creating thousands of new jobs,” Mr Moreland said.

“With the right investment, Avalon will unlock world class global connectivity, build a thriving industrial and logistics

hub, strengthening Victoria’s global competitiveness, while providing significant economic benefits to the region.”

Wyndham mayor Josh Gilligan said Avalon is primed to improve global connectivityforoneofthecountry’sfastest growing regions.

“Wyndham and Geelong are among the fastest-growing regions in Australia, and Avalon Airport is central to connecting our community to the world,” Cr Gilligan said.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj echoed the sentiment and added that it could be a super charge for the entire state.

“With the right investment, Avalon will become our state’s second international airport, driving jobs, freight capacity, and connectivity for millions of Victorians,” Cr Kontelj said.

“This is about unlocking economic potential and ensuring regional Victoria thrives alongside metropolitan Melbourne.”

A proud day in Point Cook

There wasn’t a cloud in the sky when Star Weekly journalist Jaidyn Kennedy ventured out to Point Cook for Australia Dayon26Januarytocapturetheoccasion.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

29 January, 1986

One of America’s largest broadcasting companies could open a major amusement park in Werribee Shire.

30 years ago

31 January 1996

Wyndham commissioners are alarmed at a decision to build a $200 million arms base at Point Wilson and fear the city will be used as a thoroughfare for the transportation of dangerous ammunition.

20 years ago

25 January 2006

Wyndham’s firefighters joined hundreds battling a weekend blaze that raged through the Brisbane Ranges, 30 minutes from Werribee.

10 years ago

27 January 2016

When Nathan Urquhart’s left leg was crushed at work by a tree stump grinder, he faced a tough decision – have his leg taken off or face a long and gruelling process of regrowing 18 centimetres of bone.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Crafties at Iramoo

The Crafties meet at Iramoo Community Centre every Wednesday between noon-2pm and put their knitting and crocheting skills to use. The crew make items for themselves and participate in charitable causes.

 8742 3688

Live Well For Life Group

IPC Health is hosting a free five-week program that will cover healthy lifestyle changes, including expert tips on heart health, diabetes, stroke prevention, nutrition, exercise and more. The group runs 10am-noon every Monday from 2 February to 2 March at IPC Health Hoppers Crossing campus, located at 117-129 Warringa Crescent. Adults who want to improve their health or reduce risk of chronic conditions can join.

 Register: 1300 472 432

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

Park Lounge

Get ready to shine at Park Lounge this summer – a mini Midsumma in Melbourne’s west on Saturday 31 January, 6-10pm in Kelly Park, Werribee City

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Japan’s Momoko Ohtani in action at the Victorian Wheelchair Open. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 528131_32

Centre. Enjoy an evening filled with colour, creativity and community at this free celebration of LGBTQIA+ culture.

Multicultural Eid Bazaar

A three-day community celebration to be held from 13–15 March at the Werribee Racing Club. The event will be a vibrant cultural festival showcasing the joy, heritage, and community spirit of Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations observed by Muslim communities worldwide.

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.

Baby Bump and Beyond program

The Bump Baby and Beyond program is a free service, excluding small fees for some excursions, that is offered to pregnant and or mothering young women up to age of 25 years who live, work or study in Wyndham. The group meets every Wednesday between 11am-1pm at the Youth Services Centre, 86 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing.  Wyndham Youth Services team, 8734 1355

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

Two artists, one exhibition

Two local studio artists will exhibit their workinasharedexhibitioninBrimbank.

Studio artists Ziggy Firth and Augustine Ang have created separate bodies of work, displayed in distinct sections of the SunshineArtSpaces.

Firth, who goes by the artist name of ‘Ziggy Filth’, said working in the space has helpedhertoliterallyexpandherpractice.

“The paintings that I’m doing are large-scale.They’reveryvibrant,”Firthsaid.

“Because I’m using a studio in Sunshine Art Spaces, I can explore bigger sizes. I’m used to working small-scale so basically I’m translating a lot of sketch books to something for a wider audience. It’s been goodforme.”

Firth said she draws from a range of different inspirations for her art, including classical Renaissance paintings, contemporary video games, and Hello Kitty.

“Cutethingsingeneral…brightyouthful things,”shesaid.

“There’salotofplayful,colour,cartoon-y imagery.”

Angworksusingpapercollageandpaper animation.

Hisworksexplorehowuniversalrhythms and inner cycles interconnect with living beings,cultureandthenaturalworld.

Ang’s thematic explorations culminate through various methods of interacting withpaper,suchascutting,slicing,ripping, stretching,andscratching.

Ang aims to evoke a wide range of emotions through his work, from the fun, weird, and absurd to the heavy, poignant, anddeep.

The Sunshine Art Spaces Studio Works exhibitionisopenuntilThursday12March at Sunshine Art Spaces Window Gallery, 2CityPlace,Sunshine.

Entryisfreeandnobookingsarerequired.

Dynamic duo ready to make Werribee laugh

The Umbilical Brothers are back down under and they have locked in a laugh out loudshowinWerribee.

On Sunday 8 February the globally successful comedy duo will perform Speedmouse– their new act– at the WyndhamCulturalCentre.

Winners of BAFTAs, an Emmy, and the Helpmann Award for Best Comedy Performers, The Umbilicals have wowed audiencesinmorethan40countries.

Throughout their careers they have played packed stadiums and even supported comedy titans like Robin Williams.

Expectlive-actionchaos,frame-by-frame hilarity,andthekindofcomedicchemistry

COMMUNITY

that’s made them legends of Australian comedy.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering them for the first time, Speedmouse is a laugh-out-loud celebration of imagination, timing, and mischief.

Theduo’strademarkinterplaytocleverly twist theatrical rules and everyday situations is the reason they amass more than200,000onlinevideoviewsamonth.

The act will live, unfettered and unfiltered, so you won’t know what’s cominguntilithitsyou.

Ahigh-octaneaffair,thisfast-pacedgigis ablendofphysicaltheatre,vocalwizardry andcomedicgenius.

Be seated for 5pm and start, sit back, relax and get ready for 75 minutes of uninterrupted,unhingedaction.

Speedmouse contains adult themes and course language, so the show is recommended for those older than 15 and with parental guidance— or whichever worddoesn’tsoundlame.

They are currently performing six different theatre shows across the planet, somakesuretofollowmoreoftheirwork.

Tickets are $69 full price and $64 for concessionholders.

Details: https://www.wyndham.vic. gov.au/whats-on/umbilical-brothersspeedmouse

Building confidence one shot at a time in Point Cook

Point Cook Town Centre was the place to be for young people aged 12-25 on Friday 23 January, as Summer at the Point rocked the area. Hosted by Youth Projects, the event was designed to give young people a space to build confidence and connections. Star Weekly photographer DAMJAN JANEVSKI ventured out to shoot the action.

Discover the last frontier

By Lee McCarthy

DISCOVER the ‘White Continent’, fabulous Antarctica and sail with Viking’s Antarctic Explorervoyageforthirteenmagnificentdays.

Journey to the stunning Antarctic Peninsula, a landscape defined by blue-hued icebergs, immense glaciers and snow-covered shores.

Walk in the footsteps of great explorers and venture into the world’s last truly wild frontier and participate in meaningful science on board Viking’s state-of-the-art expedition vessel.

Each day can bring unexpected wonders as guests embrace the ever-changing Antarctic weather as the ship sails pristine waters in search of epic wildlife.

The embarkation city, Ushuaia is the southernmostcityintheworld.Itssplendid setting, tucked between the Beagle Channel and the southernmost slopes of the Andes, lends it an outpost atmosphere, as do the Antarctic explorers readying for the expeditions that depart from here.

Purpose-built for expeditions, Viking’s ships provide superior handling, comfort and stability even in the roughest seas.

Just some of the extra benefits guests receive on joining a Viking cruise include 24 hour room service, king size bed with luxury linens and pillow, floor to ceiling heated drying closets for expedition gear, heated bathroom floor with spacious glass enclosed shower, anti-fog mirrors, premium Freyja toiletries, free Wi-Fi connection, 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports, 24-hour specialty coffees, teas and bottled water, beer, wine and soft

drinks with onboard lunch and dinner, complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Centre, self-service launderettes.

All this and much more including a Viking Expedition Kit with a variety of equipment to explore at no extra charge, all Viking excursion gear needed for any relevant excursions and one complimentary landing or shore excursion in every port of call

A fleet of military pro zodiacs, Special Operations Boats, two-seater kayaks and two yellow submarines enhance traveller’s experience, and all the inclusions ensure guests make the most of their expedition without having to keep paying extra.

Antarctica has inspired explorers and adventurers for centuries. In this icy

wilderness, guests will marvel at icebergs glimmering in serene bays and mountains cloaked in white rising from the mainland basalt cliffs.

These stunning landscapes evoke both utter tranquillity as Weddell seals lounge on ice floes, and breathtaking drama as glaciers thunderously calve into the sea.

In these cold and nutrient-rich waters, humpback, fin and minke whales have been known to greet expedition ships that venture into their habitat.

As with all Viking ships, the expedition vessel doubles as a classroom in which travellers can learn more about the next destination by joining the Viking ‘Resident Scientist’ for lunch on board before

heading back out to explore.

Guests can choose to get explore with dedicated experts in their field or relax and enjoy from the comfort of the ship. Those whochoosetostayonboardcanrelaxamid the luxurious and beautiful appointed surroundings in comfort, with heated couches and lava rock ‘firepits,’ allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors no matter the temperature.

On offer right now and for those who book before 31 March is Vikings “Fly free, flight upgrade credit or save up to $2,500 per couple.” The cruise is priced from $19,795 per person in a Deluxe Nordic Balcony.

For further information please contact Viking on 138 747 or Viking.com.

Bergen

From

$32,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

ICONS OF THE VIKING AGE

Bergen to Copenhagen or vice versa

22 DAYS • 8 COUNTRIES • 17 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • MAY-AUG 2028

From $21,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

From $26,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

BRITISH ISLES & IRELAND

Belfast to London or vice versa

15 DAYS • 4 COUNTRIES • 13 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-MAY, JUL-SEP 2027; APR-SEP 2028

From $13,295pp in Veranda Stateroom From $15,795pp in Penthouse Veranda

*Choose one offer per booking (all guests must select the same): Companion Fly Free (Economy) up to AU$2,500 per couple (code CFE25) OR Business Class Air Credit AU$2,500 per couple (CFB25) OR Cruise-Only Save AU$2,500 per couple (CRX25). Valid on selected 2026–2028 Viking Ocean voyages. New bookings only, prices in AUD per person (twin share), subject to availability, not combinable. Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyond based on 28 June 2028 departure. Icons of the Viking Age based on 11 May 2028 departure. British Isles & Ireland based on 17 April 2028 departure. Booking window: 02 Dec 2025 – 31 Mar 2026 (AEDT). Full T&Cs: viking.com.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which men's T20 cricket team is the only Big Bash League team yet to win a title?

2. Scott Robertson was most recently head coach of which country’s men’s

3. In which city was Andy Murray born?

4. Northern Territoryborn former cricketer Damien Martyn played representative cricket for which Australian state?

Which horse won the 2026 Magic Millions 2YO

Which arena is the largest Australian Open venue?

The top-tier professional basketball league in Great Britain for men and women is known by what

Amateur tennis player Jordan Smith won the 1 Point Slam at the 2026 Australian Open, as champion of which state?

Which two NFL teams are set to play off in the 2026 AFC Championship game?

Which two NFL teams are played off in the 2026 NFC Championship game?

11. Following his most recent victory, how many times has snowboarder Scotty James now won the Laax Open?

12. Name tennis player Daria Kasatkina’s fiancé.

13. Which team recently won the Africa Cup of Nations?

14. Australia’s SailGP team is co-owned by Hugh Jackman and which other Hollywood star?

15. An image from which sport won the 2026 World Sports Photography Awards?

16. Who recently became the oldest singles player to play in the Australian Open?

17. What sport does the 1993 film Rudy feature?

18. What is the quadrennial football tournament contested by only South American teams known as?

19. Regarding BASE jumping, what does BASE stand for?

20. The Los Angeles Dodgers recently signed which former Houston Astros and Chicago Cubs outfielder?

21. To how many points is a badminton game played?

22. And how many games constitute a match?

23. The Houston Dynamo play in which league?

24. Alyssa Healy made her international cricket debut in which year?

25. Burley is a manufacturer of which ball?

26. The Brave and the Adrenaline are teams in which Australian league?

land affected by the application is located at: 1 Sue Street WYNDHAM VALE VIC 3024 The application is for a permit to: Removal of Restriction

Scheme:

Planning Scheme Clause: Matter for which a permit is required

To remove Restriction A on PS826722 from Lot 111 with Volume 12274 and Folio 358 before a person proceed under Section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988.

The application number is: WYP15429/25

The applicant for the application is: Wyndham City Council

Responsible Authority: Wyndham City Council Telephone: 8376 5503

- By Contacting the Town Planning Unit on the contact number above

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority by post or in person or; - Online: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/planningobjection

- Email: statplanning@wyndham.vic.gov.au

An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

If you object the Responsible Authority will tell you of its decision.

27. Drew McIntyre currently holds which WWE title?

28. In the AFL, who will captain the West Coast Eagles in 2026?

29. In which year did Roger Federer win his first Wimbledon title?

30. Who currently holds the record for the most goals for the Toronto Maple Leafs?

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.

Pay (6)

A colourless spirit (3)

Merge (11)

Raunchy (5)

13 Loud and forceful (10)

15 Clergyman (9)

16 Clarified (9)

18 Orator (7)

19 Exaggeratedly enthusiastic (7)

20 Part of the limb remaining after amputation (5)

22 Brings up (5)

23 Yen (4)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The

letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 What is the world’s largest inland body of water?

2 Jennifer Saunders (pictured) and Joanna Lumley co-stared in which 90s British sitcom?

3 Which Beatles member’s solo work includes the 1973 album LivingintheMaterialWorld?

4 Cardamon, cinnamon, ginger, star anise and clove are commonly used in which spice mix?

5 In the fairytale, what three things does the miller’s daughter give

6

7

8

9 Which

is quoted to have said: ‘If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.’

10 In 1967, the first ever human heart transplant was performed in which country?

Sealion 6 is impressive

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

BYD’s Sealion 6 is one of the new breed of superhybrids.

So called because they are plug-in hybrids with larger batteries that deliver greaterelectriconlyrange.

These PHEVs are starting to gain traction in the market, with a 136 per cent increase insalesinrecentmonths.

Fully charged, with a range that exceeds 100km in some cases, they can be used in electric-only mode for the weekday commute.

Forlongertrips,theircombinedpetroland electric range exceeds 1000km, removing any lingering fear of being stranded with noaccesstoanelectriccharger.

Styling

Thefive-seatSealion6comesinfourgrades: Essential, Dynamic Extended Range, Premium,andPremiumExtendedRange.

Prices range from $42,990 for the Essential, $46,990 for Dynamic Extended, $52,990 for Premium or $52,990 for Premium Extended - all prices before on-roadcosts.

NotsurewhythePremiumandPremium Extended are priced the same, but they’re unlikely to sell many of the Premium variantsatthisrate.

The Essential and Dynamic Extended variants are front wheel drive; Premium modelsaddasecondelectricmotorandare all-wheel drive. Extended Range versions alsoacquirealargerbattery.

Our test vehicle was the entry Essential model. In fact, it presents so well that we needed to confirm it was actually the base model.

Standard kit includes synthetic leather trim and dual-zone climate air with rear outlets, keyless entry and start, six-way power adjustment for the driver seat and four-way for the front passenger, rear privacyglassandafull-lengthglassroof.

There are also adaptive cruise control, high beam assist, traffic sign recognition, auto lights and wipers, a manual-adjust rear vision mirror, plus LED lighting front andback.

All grades roll on the same 19-inch alloys fitted with the same GitiComfort tyres and thereisnothingtodistinguishthemapart.

Instrumentation is provided via a customisable 12.3-inch digital screen housedinaconventionalbinnacle.

Atyrerepairkitissuppliedintheeventof apuncture.

Sealion 6 is covered by a six-year/150,000km warranty plus eight years/160,000km coverage for the high-voltagebattery.

Servicing is due every 12 months/20,000km with maintenance costs forthefirstfiveyearsatotalof$1543.

Infotainment

Infotainment comes in the form of a 12.8-inch touchscreen that rotates, offering voice control, Bluetooth with audio streaming, FM and DAB+ digital radio, built-in satellite navigation, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (both wired or wireless) plus generic six-speaker sound.

No AM radio band means you won’t be able to hear emergency transmissions, for instance when there’s been an incident in oneofSydney’smanytunnels.

Dynamic and up get a premium 10-speakerInfinitysystem,alongwithtwin wirelessphonechargers.

Updates are over-the air and the BYD Store allows users to download a variety of applications,includingYouTubeandasuite

ofarcadegames(forthekids).

NFC connectivity means you can set up yourphonetolockandunlockthecar.

ThereareUSB-Aand-Cchargingportsin boththefrontandbackplusa12-voltsocket inthefront.

Safety

Five-starsafetyencompassessevenairbags, including a centre airbag to prevent front seat occupants knocking heads in a side impact.

There’s also a 360-degree reversing camera, rear parking sensors and autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car,VulnerableRoadUser,Junction &Crossing,andBackover).

Lane support includes lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), plus an advancedspeedassistancesystem(SAS).

There’s also blind spot, child detection andpayattentionwarnings.

Top-tether and ISOFix child-seat anchor pointsareprovidedfortherearseats.

Engines/transmissions

Essential’s hybrid powertrain produces a combined 160kW of power and 300Nm of torque, driving the front wheels through a reduction-style,single-speedtransmission.

Driving

The styling is round and feminine, taking itscuesfromcompetitorssuchasTesla.

The five-seat Sealion 6 is 4775mm long, 1890mm wide and stands 1670mm high, witha2765mmwheelbase.

Significantly, that is 175mm longer than the best-selling Toyota RAV4, as well as 35mmwiderand15mmlowerthantheRAV, with a 75mm longer wheelbase - adding up tomoreinteriorspace.

Parked alongside RAV, the Sealion is noticeably larger and having driven both vehicles back-to-back in recent weeks, it’s the Sealion that stands out - although we should mention there’s a new RAV on the way.

It’s an impressive feature but a bit gimmicky, because there does not appear tobeanypracticalapplication.

RATINGS

Looks: 7.5

Performance: 8

Safety: 7.5

Thirst: 8

Practicality: 8

Comfort: 7.5

Tech: 8

Value: 8

Overall: 7.8

Essential’s hybrid powertrain consists of a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, combined with a single electric motor and 18.3 kWh battery - that sendspowertothefrontwheels.

ExtendedRangevariantsacquirealarger 26.6kWhbattery.

Essential produces a combined 160kW of power and 300Nm of torque, driving through a reduction-style, single speed transmission.

Witha60-litrefueltank,ittakespremium 95 unleaded, with fuel consumption a claimed 1.1L/100km with anything more than25percentbatterycharge.

Electric only range is around 80km (WLTP).

It’s your choice whether you charge the Sealion or drive it as a standard self-charginghybrid.

Time and circumstances will probably providetheanswertothatquestion.

Petrol and electric fill points are located eithersideattherear.

Essential can be charged at a maximum rateof7kW(AC)or18kW(DC).

Itwilltakeuptoeighthoursusingapower point and the supplied granny charger, or upto10withthelargerbattery.

A wallbox reduces this time to two to three hours, while a fast DC charger takes from30to40minutes.

When driving you can easily toggle between EV and HEV powertrain options (electric or hybrid), with a toggle conveniently mounted on the centre console.

Therearethreedrivemodes:Eco,Normal and Sport, plus two settings for the level of steering effort required - Comfort (lighter) orSport(heavier).

The level of regenerative braking can also be altered, but only through the touchscreenmenus.

Thetouchscreenitselfrotatesatthetouch ofabuttononthesteeringwheel,returning to its default landscape position when the car is switched off (but resuming the desiredorientationuponrestart).

In portrait mode it can’t be seen if you wear polarised sunglasses, nor does Android Auto (and presumably CarPlay) workinthismode.

Our phones connected quickly and easily to the infotainment system which is smart enough to drop aircon fan speed during phone calls to reducebackgroundnoise.

The start-stop button for the powertrain is located close to hand at the bottom right-hand cornerofthecentreconsole.

The system is designed to operate primarily in electric mode, with support from the petrol engine for charging and additionalmumboifrequired.

In HEV mode the battery charge in our test vehicle hovered between 60 and 70 per cent.

You can take a deep dive into the system and adjust this figure, but it works well left toitsowndevices.

Sealion 6 is generally comfortable and easy to drive, with plenty of rear legroom andagood-sizedluggagearea.

Blackandbrownupholsterywithcontrast stitching lends an upmarket ambience, but may not be to everyone’s liking (my wife didn’tfancyit).

There’splentyofcabinstorage,withlarge door bins, two large cupholders in the centre console and a tray that offers side by sideslotsforphones.

But don’t expect it to charge your phone, notinthisgradeatleast.

There’s also another largish storage area belowthemainconsole.

Luggage capacity is a modest 425 litres, nodoubtattheexpenseofrearlegroom. There’s also some underfloor storage available. We found the charge cable for the car stashed in a bag to one side of the luggagearea.

While Sealion 6 is a smooth operator around town, it demanded more rigorous testingonpoorer,secondaryroads. We took it for a punt along some of our favourite loop through the backlots and while we can report that like most SUVs it’s a compromise - it’s not the worst thing we’vedriveneither.

Handling is safe and predictable and it didn’t start to get out of shape in corners unlesspressedrelativelyhard.

Throttleresponseinthelowtomidrange is excellent, but it seems to run out of puff afterthat.

Rather than punching the accelerator, we found moderate force seemed to elicit a moresatisfyingresponse.

Nowforthebestpart.Unlikethemajority of Chinese SUVs we’ve tested, the driver assist systems in this car are for the most partunintrusive.Yay!

In terms of fuel consumption, we were getting 4.1L/100km after some 350km of driving,withthepromiseof555kmtogo. Norangeanxietytoseehere.

Summing up

TheBYDSealion6isakeeper.

It joins a short list of Chinese vehicles that we at Cars4starters would consider buying.

It’s cheap, well equipped, fit and finish is good and everything works as it should, withouttheinterventionofannoyingsafety assistancesystems.

It will even retain drive mode settings betweenstarts.

Whatmorecouldyouask?

Wyndham locks in pieces

By Tara Murray

Wyndham has locked in a number of key pieces for this year’s Big V men’s championship season, including a number of familiar faces.

Nick Black has made the move down interstate, while Alex Holcombe joins the club having recently played in Mexico import Malik Miller is returning for another season, along with youngster Gojco Stevkovski and Xavier Cotton.

Coach Stuart McMurray said Holcombe would add to the side defensively.

“I’m really excited for Alex to join us; his superior shot-blocking and rebounding is something we desperately need for the 2025-26 year,“ he said.

“He’s a defensive specialist and rim protector who is looking to come back to Australia after leading the NBL1 West in blocks during the 2024 season, and we expect him to be a game-changer for our program.“

Black brings a scoring punch and is expected to be a pillar of the team’s culture, bringing a veteran-like voice to the locker room.

“I’m super excited to be playing for Wyndham this season under coach Stuart and the rest of the staff,“ Black said. “I am really liking how our pieces are meshing so far, we are a group with championship aspirations.“

The club announced that Miller would be back for year two and with a point to prove.

Miller started 12 games for Wyndham

last season, averaging 19.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, 1.1 assists and one steal per game.

Miller said was excited to be back for a second season.

“I look forward to getting better each day and the only goal for this year is a championship. Nothing more. Nothing less.”

McMurray said they were thrilled to have him back.

He said he brings a unique ability to dominate at both ends of the floor.

In his debut season, Stevkovski earned seven starts as a young guard averaging eight points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.

Wyndham said at 21-year-old he is one of the most exciting young prospects in the league.

O’Brien bowls up 200 games with a win

By Tara Murray

Twenty-six odd years after making his Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association first XI debut, Werribee captain Tim O’Brien played game 200 on Saturday.

After making his first XI debut as a 13-year-old with Melton, O’Brien went on to spend 10 years at Victorian Premier Cricket.

He returned to Subbies at the age of 26 and decided to join Werribee.

It’s where he would become one of the club’s and competition’s top players.

O’Brien said it was pretty special to play his 200 first XI game in the competition.

“It’s taken a while,” he said. “It’s nice to get through and tick it off.

“I made my debut at Melton at 13 and I didn’t know what was going to happen in the future.

“I came back to Subbies at 26 and was hopeful of playing the game to where I am now.

“I never thought I would get there.”

O’Brien said making his debut so young

was a bit of a surprise.

He hadn’t played a second XI game at that stage and was thrown into the deep end.

“It was a long time ago,” he recalls.

“I had great support there. My dad and brother were playing back then and Anthony Gale was the coach back then.”

O’Brien then took his chance at Victorian Premier Cricket with Footscray.

Once he was done there at only 26, there was still plenty of cricket to be played.

“I knew a few of the guys at Werribee,” he said. “I live in Eynesbury and it’s in close proximity.

“I wanted to play Subbies and I’m glad I picked here. I’ve loved every minute of it.”

In the years since, the nearly 40-yearold has made almost 6000 runs, won three Jeff Dean batting awards and five Kirk Norton champion player awards.

He’s captained the first XI for the past 10 seasons and was head coach for five seasons.

The Tigers have also tasted the ultimate success in that time.

McMurray said Stevkovski’s elite court vision and ability to compete with the men at only 21 years old is impressive.

“He has worked incredibly hard on improving his scoring ability during the break, and we expect him to take a huge leap forward with Wyndham this season.“

Cotton had a strong debut season with Wyndham, averaging just under 10 points a game.

“I’m excited to have Xavier back for his tremendous leadership, his athletic on-court bounce, and his ability to post a highlight every time he steps on the floor,“ McMurray said. “He brings a wealth of experience to our group and is ready to leave his stamp on year two as we push for success.”

Sports shorts

VTCA

Bellbridge was able to get the job done against Burnside Springs United in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition. Burnside made 7-100 from its 20 overs. Joel Croswell took 3-17 for the Bears. The Bears made hard work of the run chase, but did enough to finish 6-103. St Andrew’s Footscray got the job done against Werribee Centrals. The Saints made 5-133 from their overs with the Centurions finishing 8-102 in reply. While in group B3, Sunshine Heights had a big win against Wyndham Vale. Laverton upset Point Cook in its match. Kingsville also finished the pool matches with a win, beating Point Cook Centrals. Kingsville finished first in that pool ahead of Point Cook.

VSDCA

Hoppers Crossing and Werribee are out of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 race. Hoppers Crossing’s loss to Williamstown on Tuesday night ended its title defence. The Seagulls won the toss and decided to bat, making 6-132. Antone Herb made 62 not out at the top of the order. The match went down to the final ball with the Cats needing five to win. They could only manage one run and finished 7-129. Elsewhere, it was a night to forget for Werribee. The Tigers were bowled out for just 25 against Strathmore. Strathmore needed just 7.5 overs to get the runs, finishing 1-27.

Baseball

“The first year we made the grand final against Melton,” he said. “It took a while to get back there.

“There was the Covid interrupted grand final and then we were able to get a couple of premierships in a row.”

O’Brien said the premierships and the friendships were the most treasured things from his time at the club.

Having been part of a core group for a number of years, O’Brien is leading that next generation through now.

“It’s a transition phase and the younger blokes keep me young.”

The Tigers were able to celebrate the milestone game with a win against Box Hill.

Bowled out for just 131, the Tigers were able to sneak home as they were bowled Box Hill out for 120.

“It’s 20 less than I would have liked,” he said. “In the second 15 overs we took 5-30 to get back into the game and were able to get the win by 10 runs.

O’Brien said he would love to keep playing for as long as possible but it’s all dependent on how the body holds up.

It was a tough week for the Werribee Giants in the Baseball Victoria summer league premier 1 first nine competition. On Tuesday night, the Giants suffered a 19-3 loss to Sandringham in the first midweek game after the break. In hot weather on Saturday, the Giants lost to Upwey FTG, 12-2.

Cricket

The Victorian Turf and Western Suburbs Churches and Community cricket competitions both called off games on Saturday due to the heat. The VTCA games will now revert to one-day games. FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

New role for Dan Lowther

By Tara Murray

A whirlwind few months and perfect timing led to Dan Lowther’s appointment as Werribee’s coach for the Victorian Football League season.

After the departure of premiership coach Jimmy Allan to St Kilda, the Tigers quickly moved to sign Lowther.

Having had experience with the Geelong Falcons and then Geelong VFL and AFL programs, Lowther had spent the past five years at Geelong’s AFLW coach.

“It has been a whirlwind,” Lowther said. “I’ve jumped out of one program and into another a few weeks later.

“For me, it’s a positive step in the right direction.”

After finishing up at Geelong, Lowther always wanted to get back into coaching.

He said he hadn’t anticipated it happening that quickly but soon worked out this would be the perfect move for him.

“WithJimmymovingonatshortnotice to St Kilda and me leaving Geelong we got in touch with each other and whether it would work.”

Lowther said working in female football had opened up some new opportunities.

He said he loved working in that program and allowed him to take a deep dive from a holistic point of view and see where the program sits.

Lowther said a lot of his previous coaching involved working with younger

players in that 18-23 age group and this would be similar.

He said there were a number of things that stuck out to him about the role.

“I’mnotgoingtolie,it’sclosetohome,” he said. “I’ve only heard good things and things are structured well on and off the field.

“They are well resourced like an AFL program.

“It’s been a pleasant surprise.”

The Tigers are back in training after the Christmas break.

Lowther said football manager Kyle Hartigan had done a really good job with recruiting while also locking in the core group.

“He’s looked at depth and where we

Tigers pull off confidence boosting win

By Tara Murray

Werribee got a confidence boosting win in the Cricket Victoria Women’s Community Cricket Competition Shield 1 on Sunday.

Having lost some close matches throughout the season, the Tigers were able to hold their nerve against Melton at Chirnside Park.

Tigers coach Ruby Ruby said it was exciting for the group.

“It was a good win for us,” she said.

“Itwasamuchneededone.We’dhadno luck in the last few games so we were looking forward to the match.

“It was nerve-wracking towards the end as it became close.”

Melton batted first and started well as it put on 44 for the opening partnership.

Ruby said the Lions batted well and they could have gone on to make a big score.

She said their fielding put pressure on the batters and they were able to take control.

The Lions made 9-134.

Harkirat kaur Sarkaria took 4-36 for Werribee.

Ruby said chasing that score they felt comfortable.

“I told the girls to grab runs where they can,” she said.

“Don’t take risks as there’s plenty of overs and it’s not a big target.

“Itwasfantasticandwehadagoodopening partnership, we were pretty pleased.”

At 1-98 the Tigers were in control.

Theylostthreequickwicketstomakethe game a bit closer.

Ruby said they had confidence that Vicki King would be able to guide them home.

“She held her nerve,” she said.

“Forusaslongaswehadwicketsinhand we were a chance. There was just pressure on.”

The Tigers hit the winning runs in the 30th over, finishing 4-137.

Raima Bajaj top scored with 44.

The win was the Tigers third for the season.

Ruby said getting wins on the board was already pleasing, but it wasn’t their only focus.

She said they wanted to give everyone a goodgoanggetwhattheywantedoutofthe

need to improve,” he said.

“We’ve gone to work on some midfield depth. Last year we relied on too few to carry the load.

“When you have two or three end up on AFL lists as well as team staff it speaks to what they are doing well.

“We want to build on last year.”

Lowther said they were starting to get ready for a busy four weeks with practice matches, the standalone cup and intraclubs to be there before they know it.

Meanwhile, Werribee has finalised its coaching set up with Rowan McSparron joining as an assistant coach.

A two-time premiership coach at local level, Rowan arrives at Werribee following a lengthy stint as Colac senior coach.

Thunder finishes in top position

Glen Orden Thundwer locked in top spot for the Western Suburbs Churches and Community Cricket Association division 1 T20 finals on Tuesday night.

Finalists for all four divisions are locked in with the final pool matches played.

In division 1, the Thunder made it five from five with victory against Manor Lakes.

The match went down to the final over with the Storm pushing the Thunder all the way.

Manor Lakes won the toss and decided to bat, making 148.

Aditya Kumar top scored with 36.

Akhil Chaitanya Morsa took 3-17 for the Thunder.

The match went down to the final over, with the Thunder hitting the winning runs with four balls remaining.

The Thunder finished 3-150.

Sai Chaitanya Chatratie made 53 at the top of the order.

Altona Sports will host the other semi final after locking up second spot.

Facing Truganina United, Sports were able to restrict Truganina to 8-115 from its overs.

Prashant Krishna took 4-12 for Altona Sports.

Sports chased down the runs with nearly five overs remaining, finishing 5-119. Daniel Chitty top scored with 38 not out.

season.

“I think with our team we have developing players and women playing to have fun,” she said.

“We’ve got mixed skill sets. Winning is not the sole focus.

“We’vebeencompetitiveandsometimes we could have had close games that we thought we could have won had we played our best batters and bowlers but we want to share it around.”

TheTigerssitin11thspotafter14rounds. The Tigers are just five points off fifth.

Ruby said with the competition set to have division 1 and division 2 finals there’s still something for them to aim for.

“We’re hoping to get a few more wins and get into the quarter finals.

“It was mean extra games for us which is always good.”

Elsewhere, Point Cook Centrals lost to Youlden Parkville.

Youlden made 7-196 from its overs.

Sharvi Bellur took 4-17 for the Sharks.

The Sharks finished 9-70 in reply.

Hareem Fatima was the only batter to reach double figures, finishing with 14.

Tarneit Central beat Williams Landing in the remaining match to finish in third.

Williams Landing made 9-125 with Rapinder Singh top scoring with 22. Three players took two wickets each for Tarneit.

Tarneit had no trouble getting the runs, finishing 4-129. Vikram Singh made 37. The win means Tarneit will face Sports in a knockout semi final and the Thunder will face Williams Landing in the other. In division 2, Truganina Strikers will face Avyukt Aryahi Tarneit Legends and Altona Sports will face Western Eagles.

The Indigoes will face United Tarneit and Brimbank Strikers will play Seabrook in the division 3 finals, while in division 4 Manor Lakes will play Western Eagles white and Yarraville Club takes on Altona Sports for spots in the grand finals.

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