Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 7th May 2025
Mum’s bundle of new love
While many mothers will be receiving breakfast in bed or handmade cards this Mother’s Day, Rupinder Kaur Rekhi will be spending her Mother’s Day cradling the newest addition to her family– a little baby boy.
For Ms Rehki and her husband Gagandeep Singh Rekhi, the arrival of their son has been a heartwarming and emotional experience, bringing a mix of emotions and deep reflection.
“It’s mixed feelings when you go into labour of course,” Ms Rekhi said.
“But after that it’s all well – when we see the baby, it makes it all worth it.”
While Mother’s Day might be a little more low-key this year, there will still be room for celebration.
“Grandmother is here so maybe we will go out and have dinner to celebrate,” Ms Rekhi said.
For Mr Rehki, witnessing his wife’s labour gave him renewed appreciation for the strength of mothers everywhere.
“When I see my wife giving birth, I get even more respect for motherhood. I always have more respect for my mother and for my wife, for every mother in this world,” he said.
Costs force pool pause
By Cade Lucas
A massive cost blowout has forced Hobsons Bay council to put a proposed aquatic centre in
Meadows on hold.
Having originally been given a price tag of $60 million when first endorsed by council in 2019, The Western Aquatic and Early Years Centre project at Bruce Comben Reserve has now been estimated to cost $99 million, an increase of 65 per cent in six years.
The council said after detailed design works for the project were completed, an updated cost estimate found a rise in construction
costs, an increased level of risk and the redevelopment would impact other sporting fields at Bruce Comben Reserve.
With$10 million fromthe state government the only outside funding for the project, Hobsons Bay council would have to fund the other $89 million itself, a price tag council officers argued could only be achieved by slashing its future capital works budget.
At the April 29 council meeting, councillors unanimouslydecidedfortheprojectbepaused and council’s aquatic strategy be reviewed, despite the anger, frustration and disbelief expressed by some councillors.
Cr Diana Grima who represents Altona Meadows ward where the aquatic centre project is to be located, said this was a huge letdown for her constituents.
“Many residents have expected this (aquatic centre) would be happening,” said Cr Grima, adding that lack of a swimming pool in the area meant local children were being left behind.
“We’re volunteering kids who’ve never been in a swimming pool.”
Cr Paddy Keys-Macpherson, who had earlier asked about the continued delay in re-opening the upgraded Laverton Aquatic
Centre, said he was “frustrated, angry and sad” at the situation.
“I believe this project is needed and I believedwehadaprocesstogetthere,”hesaid.
Mayor Daria Kellander argued such projects were too big for local governments to fund on their own and attempting to was “a risk that will threaten the financial viability of this council.”
Cr Kellander highlighted a New South Walescouncilthathadtodoubleratesinorder to pay for a swimming pool.
“I’m not willing to take this council down this path,” she said.
Rupinder Kaur Rekhi and husband Gagandeep Singh Rehkhi with their 2-day-old son. (Damjan Janevski) 475083_06
Altona
Citynews
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
Last month, we had the pleasure of welcoming a number of new citizens at our citizenship ceremonies. These ceremonies are a reminder of how fortunate we are to live in a peaceful, free nation built on shared values of respect, inclusion and opportunity. Australian citizenship is one of the greatest privileges, and it was truly inspiring to share in the joy, pride and excitement of those choosing to make Australia their home. It is moments like these that highlight the strength and diversity of our community and reaffirm our commitment to fostering a welcoming city for all.
We also launched the new electric vehicle charging hub at the Civic Precinct and Community Hub in Footscray. Featuring three dual 150kW chargers, the hub allows up to six vehicles to charge at once. Operated by Evie Networks and accessible via the Evie app, the new hub builds on our existing charging infrastructure, bringing Footscray’s total to five fast chargers across ten bays. This investment improves access to sustainable transport options for our growing community and supports our broader efforts to encourage more environmentally friendly ways of moving around Maribyrnong.
Council’s Proposed Annual Budget 2025/26 is currently available for comment, featuring $144.78 million to support core services, deliver on community priorities, and prepare for the future. The proposed Budget has a strong focus on road maintenance, major projects, and parks and gardens.
Like other councils in Victoria, we are facing significant financial challenges as the costs of delivering services and infrastructure rise alongside a growing population, while State Government rate caps limit our income. Greater funding support from both State and Federal Governments is essential to help us meet the needs of our growing community.
View the Proposed Annual Budget 2025/26 and share your comments at yourcityyourvoice.com.au
UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS
Tue20May: 6.30pm Council Meeting
Mon26May: 6.30pm Hearing of Budget Submissions
Tue27May: 6.30pm City Development Delegated Committee
These meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at Footscray Town Hall, 61 Napier Street, Footscray and live-streamed on the Council website. Community members can submit questions for public question time online on or before the day of the meeting. Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.
Maribyrnong City Council
Postal Address: PO Box 58, West Footscray, VIC 3012
P: (03) 9688 0200
F: (03) 9687 7793
OUT AND ABOUT
Mayor, Cr
3. Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, with Lola Anderson and Klaus Schulte from Friends of Cruickshank Park, commemorated Anzac Day with crochet poppies at Cruickshank Park.
4. Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, along with councillors Samantha Meredith, Susan Yengi and Mohamed Semra, joined the celebrations at the Eid Festival at Kindred Studios.
5. Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, presenting the 2025 Mayoral Award to recipient Stacey Earsman.
NO LIGHTS NO LYCRA
Every Tuesday night from 6:30 – 7:30 pm, join us at the Maidstone Community Centre for No Lights No Lycra – a casual, free-form dance session in the dark, all about the pure joy of dancing. Simply show up whenever you’re ready to boogie! With a friendly, non-threatening, and drug and alcohol-free vibe, it’s a space to let loose and have fun. Don’t miss our special IDAHOBIT Day event on 13 May! For more details, visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/nolightsnolycra
BLACKSMITHS FESTIVAL
The biennial Blacksmiths Festival returns to Footscray from 17-18 May 2025 for its sixth edition, held at Waterside Metal Art Studio. This exciting event showcases metal forging classes and displays, featuring coke fires, gas furnaces, hammers, and anvils, along with a stunning selection of hand-crafted metal art sculptures for display and sale. Beginners can enjoy ‘taster’ sessions, while kids aged 5-12 can try their hand at cold forging in a special, fire-free zone. With live music, delicious food, and drinks, this boutique festival by the Maribyrnong River promises a unique experience. More information can be found at maribyrnong.vc.gov.au/blacksmithsfest
1. Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, joined Katie Hall MP to announce the latest recipients of the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund grants, including a series of community events hosted by the Inner West Community Bike Hub.
2.
Pradeep Tiwari, opening the new electric vehicle charging hub at the Civic Precinct and Community Hub.
Watts, Mulino retain their seats
By Cade Lucas
The already safe Labor seats of Fraser and Gellibrand are even more secure after Saturday’s election, with both sitting members returned with increased margins.
In Fraser, Dr Daniel Mulino was re-elected on 60.8 per cent two party preferred after winning a 42 per cent share of primary votes, a swing of 0.76 per cent compared to 2022.
HefinishedwellaheadoftheGreensHuong Truong on 39 per cent who leapfrogged the Liberals into second place, with a six per cent swing towards her, winning 25 per cent of
primary votes,
As with the rest of the country, support for the Liberal Party crashed, with candidate Satish Patel suffering a 7 per cent swing against him, coming third on 16 per cent.
Victorian Socialists Jasmine Duff (6 per cent), One Nation’s George Rozario and Rob Rancie of Family First (both 4 per cent) had swings towards them.
“I’m genuinely humbled by the support I’ve received from the people of Fraser at this election,” said Dr Mulino of his victory.
“I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to serve this electorate.
Fraser is the face of modern Australia. Our community is hardworking, vibrant, optimistic and diverse - and importantly, it’s also very generous.”
In Gellibrand, Tim Watts recorded a swing of almost four per cent towards him to win on 65 per cent two-party preferred, ahead of the Liberals Party’s Ben Reeson on 35 per cent.
The Greens Ponraj Krishna Pandi came third on 16 per cent, while One Nation’s Stephen Bennett won 5 per cent of the vote to finish fourth ahead of Family First’s Jo Garcia, despite having no visible presence in
Festival in Footscray. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 472131_03
From film clips to film festival
Musicians with new albums often film clips for the songs that will be released as singles. But Indigenous sister duo, Charlie Needs Braces, enjoy making film clips so much that they made one for every track of their new album, Nyaa Wa.
Meaning take care in the language of the Guringai people of the NSW Central Coast where Charlie and Miri Woods hail from, Nyaa Wa is also the name of the documentary the film clips have been made into and which premieres at The Setting Sun Film Festival
(SSIFF) in Footscray on May 9.
“There’s about 10 different music video clips and in between those clips are interviews with mob from around the Central Coast,” explained Charlie Woods of how the film clips became a film.
“The interviews are very educational. They’re quite insightful and personal and tell a story.”
That story is of Gurngai country and the importance of protecting its people, wildlife and waterways.
Despite now living in Melbourne, it’s a story that is evident in the sister’s music too.
“It’s very obvious in the songs, there’s a lot of traditional language and messages encompassing those themes,” Woods said.
The premiere of Nyaa Waa will be held at Footscray’s Bluestone Church and will be followed by a Q and A session.
It’s one of the feature events of the 12th annual SSIFF which runs from May 8-19 at venues in the inner west and the city.
Detailsandticketswww.settingsun.com.au.
the electorate during the campaign.
“Thank you, Gellibrand!” said Mr Watts after being re-elected for another term.
“On Saturday, Australia rejected the politics of division and Australians embraced the fact that the things we have in common as Australians are far bigger than our differences.
“I’m especially proud of how our local Labor campaign in Gellibrand looked like our community – bringing people from all possible backgrounds together in pursuit of a common cause to build Australia’s future.”
Bridge works disrupt trams
Tram commuters in the inner-west are being warned to prepare for disruptions as strengthening works on the Raleigh Road bridge in Maribyrnong begin.
From 8pm on Friday, May 2, to 3am on Monday, May 12, buses will replace tram services on Route 82 from Moonee Ponds to Footscray and part of Route 57 to West Maribyrnong.
Over the same period Raleigh Road will also be reduced to one lane in either direction, however these lane closures will not come into effect until 11pm this Friday night.
The strengthening works are to prepare the bridge for when the heavier Next Generation Trams begin operating along Raleigh Road from the new Maidstone Tram Depot. Alongside the strengthening works, maintenance is also be done e bridge’s concrete beams and columns.
While the disruption to tram routes and lane closures on Raleigh Road will finish on May 12, work on the bridge will continue until mid-June and may impact recreational activities along the Maribyrnong River.
Pedestrians and bike riders travelling along the Maribyrnong River Trail may be required to detour via the pedestrian crossing signals at the Raleigh Road and Clyde Street intersection, while on occasions only one span will be open below the bridge to on-water river users.
On-water exclusion zones and signage will be in place to alert rivers users to changed conditions.
More information: https://www.ptv. vic.gov.au/
Brooklyn residents surveyed on recycling resistance
With the state’s population continuing to grow and more housing and infrastructure needingtobebuilttocaterforit,theamountof construction and demolition waste produced in Victoria is set to grow too.
Disposing of this waste requires either sending it to landfill or recycling it, but while the latter may be better for the environment, PHD student at RMIT’s school of property, construction and project management , Moein Behzad, said that didn’t mean it was popular.
“It’s really important to develop our recycling facilities and establish new ones, but when it comes to establishment of new recycling facilities, usually people who live in
suburbs neighbouring these facilities, oppose them,” said Mr Behzad.
Like other heavy industries, many waste recycling plants that deal with construction and demolition waste are based in the inner-west, especially Brooklyn.
Mr Behzhad is conducting a survey of residents in Brooklyn to find out why they oppose these facilities and what can be done to assuage their concerns.
“It’s really important to address these concerns and on the other side it’s really important to consider recycling groups concerns as well,” said Mr Behzad who warned of dire consequences if a workable
solution between inner-city residents and recycling companies wasn’t found.
“If recycling groups relocate their facilities further away (from the city), it can increase their recycling costs and demotivate them from recycling and lead to them sending more waste to landfill which can be dangerous for the environment and communities.”
Mr Behzad has so far received about 35 responses to the survey and said air and noise pollution were the most common concerns.
He’s said he needs to double that amount over the next two months in order for the research project to work, but that the outcome would be beneficial to both residents and
industry.
“I’m going to apply the results of my survey to create a framework for recycling in the future. I’m going to include public opinion in my framework and this can be a good option for recycling groups in the establishment of their facilities,” said Mr Behzad, adding than consulting with local residents and engaging with them as early as possible was crucial.
“That’showwecanincreasetheacceptability of these facilities.”
The survey can be accessed at: https:// rmit.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ cMGLeowIgIW4Ake Cade Lucas
Charlie Woods, one half of musical duo Charlie Needs Braces, whose films clips have been turned into a feature documentary that will premier at this month’s Setting Sun International Film
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel and its five new underground stations, with three stations now complete. Work is continuing on two stations, and we’re testing trains through the tunnel to make sure they operate smoothly and safely.
While we work, disruptions could affect your travel
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Sunbury Line 10 to 11 May 17 to 18 May 24 to 25 May 7 to 8 June
Arden Station
Cautious budget for tough times
By Cade Lucas
Free parking throughout winter and lower rate increases for homeowners are two of the features of Hobsons Bay’s draft 2025-2026 budget which passed a council meeting on April 29.
Thedraftbudget,thefirstofthenewcouncil’s fouryearterm,includesarateincreaseof2.2per cent for residential property owners, below the 3percentcapimposedbythestategovernment which will apply to all other property types.
After expenses, a surplus of $8.353 million is predicted, a $13 million decrease from the
amount forecast last year, with much of the reduction attributed to an $11 million drop in capital grants from the state government.
Speaking in support of the draft budget, mayor Daria Kellander said the times required a cautious approach.
“Councilhasrecentlybeenthroughturbulent times and is still navigating choppy waters,”
Cr Kellander said referring to the recent resignation of former chief executive Aaron van Egmond who had earlier been suspended pending a workplace safety investigation.
Cr Kellander said council was deliberately proposing not to raise household rates to the 3
per cent cap in order to protect those suffering from the ongoing cost of living crisis.
She said measures such as increasing council-funded pensioner rebates from $75 to $100, continuing rate relief through the financial hardship policy and offering free parking throughout winter, were also aimed at those who were struggling.
Cr Kellander also said initiatives like pitch to project and the mayoral program, which set aside funding for the mayor to personally allocate, had been scrapped.
In another example of belt tightening, the proposed $55.848 million capital works
Lachlan Bartlett joins kabarett club
For the last month Yarraville-based performer Lachlan Bartlett has been living a double life. An inner-west resident by day, Bartlett has been transforming into a cabaret artist in 1920’s Berlin by night as part of his role in Club Kabarett.
Written by and staring the queen of German cabaret punk, Bernie Deiter, Club Kabarett is set in the burgeoning pre-war Weimar cabaret sceneandhasbeenshowingattheMeatMarket in North Melbourne since April 3.
But with the final performance on Sunday May 11, Bartlett’s double life playing is about to come to an end.
The Queensland born performer urged his fellow inner-west residents to come along and experiencewildworldofWeimarcabaretinthe few performances they have left.
“Club Kabarett is more than just a cabaret and variety show,” Bartlett said.
“It is a home where people can be “whoever the f*ck they want to be“ as our mistress of mayhem Bernie Dieter describes in the beginning of the show. Bernie is the leader of misfits where you’ll see a blend of circus, drag and music all inspired by Berlin’s Weimar era.”
It’s one of those misfits, Iva Rosebud, that Bartlett has been transforming into for the last month.
“Iva is a blend of Phyllis Dyller and Cruella De ’Vil. She is part showgirl, part story teller, part clown,”said Bartlett describing his character.
Unsurprisingly, transforming into Iva involves Bartlett adorning plenty of costumes and make-up, including a red sequined ballgown, beautiful black hair and, er, a moustache.
AsBartlettexplained,it’sinkeepingwiththe theme of Club Kabarett.
“It’s a show about freedom and giving stage to stories and identities that challenge the mainstream.”
which is on at the Meat Market in North Melbourne until May 11. (Damjan Janevski) 471329_01
program has been geared more towards maintaining existing infrastructure rather than funding new projects.
“We’ve picked up an organisation focussed on big projects,” Cr Kristin Bishop said. “What this has meant is that asset renewal hasn’t been kept up and you’ll see a real focus on that.”
The draft budget proposes to allocate $22 million to roads, $11.7 million to buildings and $9.6 million to recreation and open space.
The draft budget is open for feedback until May 21.
Greater Western Water’s (GWW) National Water Week poster competition is back for 2025, with entries now open to all pre-schools and primary schools across its service region.
For the 2025 competition, students are encouraged to create a poster reflecting this year’s theme Water Heroes: Save Every Drop.
GWW spokesperson Kessia Thomson said the competition was a great opportunity for students to show their creative side and how they care for the environment at the same time.
“We’re encouraging all local students to get creative and enter a poster to this year’s competition. You can draw, you can paint or use some other materials including digital technology to create an A3 or A4 sized poster,” Ms Thomson said.
“Each year we are blown away not only by the talent and creativity of our local students, but also by their ideas for water saving and caring for our water resources.”
The poster competition is open to all primary schools and pre-schools across Victoria, with prizes up for grabsvaluedupto$100forindividuals and up to $500 for schools for each of the following categories: early learning / kindergarten, prep, year 1 and 2, year 3- 4 and year 5-6.
Local winners will be announced in October. First prize winners from GWW’s local competition will automatically be entered into the state competition,withwinnersannounced during National Water Week (20-26 October).
To learn more about the categories, prizes and how to enter, visit National Water Week.
Collect your drink containers for a chance to win $10,000
Victorians, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, are in with the chance to win a million – a million cents that is – as the prize of a recycling competition from Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic).
The Win A Million! Cents competition offers five lucky recyclers a $10,000 cash prize each for returning their empty drink containers through the scheme.
CDS Vic is a recycling program that gives back to Victorians, the environment and the community by providing a 10-cent refund
for each eligible drink container returned.
Running from May 5 to June 15, the competition automatically rewards customers with one entry for every 50 eligible containers they return in a single transaction – regardless of whether they keep the refund amount or donate it to one of the registered donation partners.
The competition was launched launched last week at Melbourne’s North and West Melbourne Neighbourhood Centre in Errol Street, North Melbourne. Scheme coordinator VicReturn chief
executive Jim Round said since Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme launched in November 2023, participation has been overwhelming.
To date, 1.7 billion drink containers have been returned through the scheme, equating to $170 million back to Victorians.
This includes $1.7 million donated to local charities, schools and community groups.
“I’m so proud of how Victorians have embraced the scheme and the positive impact it is making on sustainability and
community fundraising.
“TheWinAMillion!Centscompetitionisa fun way to thank Victorians for their support and to encourage even more participation,” Mr Round said.
One of the five winners will score a bonus $10,000 to donate to a registered CDS Vic charity, school, or community group of their choice.
The competition is open to Victorian residents only. There are deposit points across Melbourne’s north-west.
Details: cdsvic.org.au
Yarraville’s Lachlan Bartlett as Iva Rosebud, his character in the show Club Kabarett,
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Smiles for healthy teeth
The staff and children at Robina Scott Kindergarten in Williamstown are all smiles after receiving their first Smiles 4 Miles award.
An initiative of Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV), Smiles 4 Miles is aimed at improvingtheoralhealthofchildrenandtheir families in high-risk areas across Victoria.
The program is implemented in the western suburbs by IPC Health, mostly in preschools.
“Well done to Cecil St and Ferguson St centres,” said IPC Health chief executive Jayne Nelson in congratulating the Robina Scott Kindergarten on its award.
“Robina Scott Kindergarten-Cecil St and Ferguson St centres have achieved this award for the first time with assistance and guidance of IPC Health since starting in the program in 2024”, Ms Nelson continued.
Tooth decay is Australia’s most common
health problem and in Hobsons Bay, it’s estimated that 15 per cent of children aged 0–5 and 52 per cent in the aged 6-8 who attend publicdentalservices,haveatleastonedecayed, missing or filled tooth.
Children with tooth decay and poor oral health can have trouble eating, sleeping, and paying attention at kindergarten and day care.
Smiles 4 Miles assists early childhood services to encourage and promote good oral health habits and healthy eating among children in their care.
“Weareextremelypleasedbythisrecognition for our efforts,” said teacher and educational leader at Robina Scott Kindergarten, Laura Pearce.
“IPCHealthhasbeenahugesupportforusto achieve this milestone, and we aim to continue with the fantastic program.”
New hub to help children
By Cade Lucas
Children in Melbourne’s west who’ve experienced family violence now have easier access to support with a new counselling hub opened in Maribyrnong.
Western suburbs family violence support service, GenWest, officially launched its new child and youth counselling hub on Thomas Holmes Street, Maribyrnong on Friday, May 2.
The new hub replaces GenWest’s previous child counselling facility on Barkley Street, Footscray and comes with more space and an increase in staff to deal with what the service describes as unprecedented demand.
GenWest has about 80 families on its waitlist for support, with wait times varying between four and six months.
So far in 2025, 45 individuals have been provided single session counselling, and 17 children have taken part group therapy sessions.
It’s hoped the new hub will allow the number of people receiving counselling to grow and the waiting list to shrink, with the facility having twice the number of rooms as its predecessor.
Ithastwolargespacesandfoursmallerones, each with windows allowing natural light and painted with bright, welcoming colours.
There is also a large kitchen and waiting area and artworks are hung throughout.
GenWest chief executive Dale Wakefield said the service had been running its child and youth counselling program for more than a decade, helping thousands of children and young people to recover from family violence.
“Our new hub will enable us to help more kids experiencing domestic and family violence,” Ms Wakefield said.
“The new hub is a truly special place where kids can feel safe and a place focused on their needs and their healing. The service can continue to support kids and families break the cycle of violence.”
GenWest’s children’s counselling team use child and youth-focused therapeutic approaches, such as creative arts therapy, music, play and sensory-based activities, to help children to heal and recover from their experience of violence.
Briefs
Williamstown assault
A man has been charged with assaulting a 92-year-old woman in Williamstown on Wednesday 30 May. It is understood the woman was approached by 39 year-old Sean McLachlan, of no fixed address, outside a shopping centre on Douglas Parade about 12.20pm on April 30. Police will allege McLachlan hit the woman to the head, causing her to fall to the pavement and be knocked out. The woman, who is from Williamstown, was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries. McLachlan has been charged with intentionally causing injury and did not apply for bail when he appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
Ice cream fire
Police are investigating a suspicious fire at a Williamstown ice cream shop on Tuesday, April 29. Firefighters arrived at the two storey building on Nelson Place just after 2am, following reports of smoke coming from the shop which was unoccupied at the time. Firefighters took just under an hour to bring the blaze under control. The incident is the latest in a string of suspicious ice cream shop fires in Williamstown, including on January 5, 2024 at Capriccio Gelateria, which is located next door to the shop attacked last week.
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Seddon pop-up park prepared
Moregreeneryandopenspaceiscoming to Seddon, with a temporary pop-up park to be installed in Austin Street. The pop-up park will include picnic tables, planter boxes, festoon lights and moveable furniture and act as central gathering space for the inner-west community.
“Localresidentshavetoldustheywant more open space in Seddon, and this locationhasbeenhighlightedinprevious community conversations for potential development,” said Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari in explaining the motivation behind the pop-up park.
“A temporary pop-up park in Seddon Village would improve pedestrian amenity and visitation, and provide improvements to greening, shading and biodiversity,” he said.
It’s also focused on breaking inter-generational cycles of violence, with data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing that people who have experienced childhood abuse are more likely to go on to experience violence and abuse as an adult, compared to those who have not.
Construction of the new hub was funded by donations, with more needed to keep it running.
To donate: genwest.org.au/donate.
Before the park is installed, council is seeking feedback on which version the community would prefer: a partial closure of the western end of Austin Street, with a single lane access from Victoria Street or the full closure of the western end of Austin Street, with no access to and from Victoria Street. Both options will include a covered area for weather protection, seating and landscaping.
After a 12 to 18 month trial period, council will ask residents whether they want the park to be made permanent. In person discussion sessions will be held on May 20 and 24 and designs can be viewed and commented on until May 25.
Details: yourcityyourvoice.com.au/ austin-street
Footscray MP Katie Hall, Prevention of Family Violence
Minister Natalie Hutchins, and GenWest chief executive Dale Wakefield at the opening of GenWest’s new child and youth counselling hub in Maribyrnong on May 2. (Damjan Janevski) 475060_01
Back: IPC health promotion officer Saira Karim, IPC chief executive Jayne Nelson and Robina Scott director Alexandar Pallikaros. Front: Robina Scott educator Laura Pearce, Maeve Carroll (sitting on lap), Sebastian Rogers, Will Sadler and Patrick Rogers. (Supplied)
We’re with you for quality aged care services
For over 30 years, Doutta Galla has been a trusted provider of aged care services across Melbourne’s west. We recognise that every older person is unique, with their own life story, and we tailor our care to meet their individual needs.
• 7 residential care homes offering permanent and respite options
• New premium aged care suites in Footscray and Yarraville
• Expanded in-home care services now including Home Care Packages
• Retirement living in Moonee Ponds From your home to ours – we’re with you.
Thoughtfully designed to provide both elegance and comfort, these premium living spaces offer everything you need to feel at home while enjoying the highest level of care.
Step into our bright, spacious living spaces, benefit from our dedicated 24-hour nursing care, and savour the delicious, home-style meals lovingly prepared on-site by our chef. Call 9680 3300 for more details or to book a private tour.
Modern, two-bedroom apartments in a secure building across the road from spectacular Queens Park and a short stroll to cafes and vibrant Puckle Street.
To book an inspection call 9680 3300 or visit retirequeenspark.com.au
• Nursing and allied health • Home and garden maintenance
• Cleaning services and meal preparation
We won’t keep you hanging – we’ll call you back the same day to get started sooner, you can also self-fund to beat the waitlist - email us now on hcp@dgw.org.au
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
Photography project
Led by local artist Amanda Neville, this six-week program includes group planning, photo taking skills, capturing images on location and selecting photos for exhibition. The program starts on Thursday 6 May until 10 June from 10-11.30am. Cost is $60, for six weeks at the Maribyrnong Community Centre, 9 Randall Street, Maribyrnong
Maribyrnong Community Centre, 9032 4305 or email maricomm@ maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Williamstown Seniors
The group meets every Tuesday at 1pm-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon.
Marlene, president/secretary, 0402 769 204
Altona North Combined Probus
The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.
Lesley, 0414 481 442
AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club
The AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club would like to invite people who want to develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills, to join them on the first and third Thursday of every month. The club meets 7-9pm at the Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton,
Vimi, 0411 530 944 or aerospeakerstm@gmail.com
Heritage Walks
Enjoy a leisurely 90 minute walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John Becroft. Walks start at 9-20am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place.
John Becroft, 0418 377 336
Footscray CWA
Meet on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9m at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street.
cwaofvicfootscray@gmail.com, or https://www.facebook.com/ CWAofVicFootscray/
Social square dancing for beginners
Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday nights from 7.30pm to 10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning.
Janine, 0421 371 883 or contact@essendonsquares.com
Free English conversation classes
If English is your second language and you want to improve your English language skills, practice speaking with friendly volunteer tutors in informal and interactive group sessions held every Monday at 1 pm -3pm in the meeting room at Altona Library, 123 Queen St Altona. Light refreshments provided. Come along and make new friends!
Jill MacKenzie 0439994705 or jill.mackenzie111@gmail.com
Walking group
The Braybrook and Maidstone Neighbourhood House are holding a walking group from 9am to 10am every second Wednesday. The walking group is open to everyone and starts from the
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Werribeeks members Carmel Gerdsen, Debbie Conway and John Tulloch. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 475439_01
neighbourhood house at 113 Melon Street, Braybrook.
9317 5610 or jodie@bmnh.org.au
Walking group
The Mighty West Heart Foundation Community Walking Group meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am. Walk at your own pace for up to 60 minutes. Discover the many health benefits (physical and psychological) of walking together. All welcome.
0411 566 862
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support for anyone who wants to stop drinking.
Regular in-person AA meetings are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown –Wednesdays at 7.00pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport – Thursdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 8.30am. If you think you have a drinking problem, you are welcome to attend. Friends and family members supporting a loved one are also encouraged to come along.
https://williamstown.aagroup.org.au/ , aawilliamstown@gmail.com or 1300 222 222
Willin Wimmin choir
Join the wonderful women at Willin Wimmin choir in Williamstown for some singing fun! Term 1 begins on Wednesday January 29 and goes through to April 2. Try us out for free for two weeks to see if it’s your thing. The group is all about the joy of group singing, and we welcome new members. There are no auditions required. Members sing a mix of contemporary, folk, choral, and world music in acapella style. The choir meets on Wednesday evenings during school terms from 7.30-9.30pm at The Dennis Reserve, 109 Ferguson Street, corner Melbourne Road, Williamstown. willinwimmin.org.au or email willin. wimmin@gmail.com
Women Working Together
A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay.
9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or https://cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/
Musicians Wanted Westgate Concert Band, Established in 1979 is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am-12noon at Braybrook College.
westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Williamstown Bridge Club
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 Friday 10am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Road, Altona. All levels welcome and partners can be provided. Bridge lessons start on Friday, May 2 at 10am.
Sandi 0417 315 760, Alan 0430 309 255, lessons Serita 0410 599 323 or www.bridgewebs.com/williamstown
Walking football (soccer)
For anyone aged 50 & over, any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay Council and Football Victoria, this is a free activity each Wednesday, from 10am to 11am, indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive, Altona.
Mike, 0423 291 708
Computer classes
Scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email, whatever. We all need to keep up with the internet, IT, computers, and changing technology. Classes every day of the week , mornings and afternoons, in Williamstown and Altona North.
Lynne, 9397 6168
Laverton Bowls Club
Experience the fun and skill of lawn bowls, a game which is suitable for all ages. Laverton Bowls Club is recruiting new members, so if you are looking for a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to bowl both socially or at pennant level Laverton is the place to be. Come to the club on Tuesday or Thursday
mornings for practise beginning at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows.
9369 1034 or secretary@lavertonbowls.com.au
Musicians welcome
Do you play any percussion, brass or woodwind instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band. Please note that rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden OAM every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Spotswood South Kingsville RSL, 59 The Avenue, Spotswood.
Hannah Prouse, hbcityband@gmail.com or check URL www.hbcb.org.au
Fiddle group
The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, 6.30- 8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.
https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong
Everyday English language course For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends. Fridays, 10am-noon. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Mouth Organ Band
Yarraville Mouth Organ Band is looking for new members. Band practice is held on Friday evenings at 8pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. For great music in a friendly atmosphere feel free to call in one Friday evening.
Heather, 9399 2190 or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au
The Dress is more that it seams
‘The Dress’ might just epitomise the notion that things aren’t always what they seem –especially in Melbourne at the end of the 19th century.
While widow Hannah may live in a grand mansion and not want for anything, loneliness is an unspoken curse.
For her flamboyant tailor Bertin, the advent of department stores and retail therapy is a hit to the pocket and prominence alike.
Essence Theatre Productions chairperson Alaine Beek, who wrote the play, quite literally puts herself in Hannah’s shoes by playing the character herself.
“In those days when you were a widow, you
were often just given tenancy and you didn’t really own much,” Ms Beek said.
“Wepresumewealthypeoplehadthishappy, exciting life, but it wasn’t necessarily the case.
“Women had very limited power, and it could actually be quite boring.”
Hannah loves Bertin for the light he brings to her overcast life, but his escapades are something she desperately tries to evade.
The dynamic duo will embark on a tale of insistence and resistance when he tries to drag her along to a masquerade ball, where he will try and showcase his work.
On top of facing the loss of his livelihood, Bertin must also walk a fine line as a gay man
in a society that can be both ambivalent and persecutory.
“Bertin’ssexuality–it’srevered,butit’snever spoken about, but if he gets in the wrong circle he could be in trouble,” Ms Beek said.
The show will be staged at Werribee Park Mansion on Friday, May 9 at 8pm.
Alaine Beek and Scott Middleton will depict the friendship of Hannah and Bertin in The Dress. (Supplied)
Artists share their creative journey
Altona’s Louis Goel Gallery has another exhibition that art lovers from the inner-west and beyond can enjoy.
ThreeArtists,OneJourneyfeaturesthework of Amanda Neville, Ilona Herreiner and and Juan Vasquez who are all based at the Altona Artisans ceramic studio at the Louis Joel Arts and Community (LJAC) centre.
Opened on April 26, the exhibition will run through until May 14 and features ceramics, mosaics, wood, and clay sculptures that explore the shared creative journey of three artists shaping raw materials into expressive forms.
Neville’s intricate mosaics piece together colour and texture, telling stories through fragments, while Vasquez’s ceramics celebrate thefluidityandstrengthofclay,capturingboth tradition and innovation.
Herreiner’s sculptures, crafted from wood and clay, speak of transformation and organic movement.
Though working in different mediums, each artist shares a deep connection to process, material, and storytelling.
Their hands shape, carve, and construct, bridging past and present, form and emotion.
The exhibition allows patrons to experience
this dialogue, where art becomes a reflection of touch, time, and vision.
The Louis Joel Gallery is located within the LJACcentreandisopenfrom 9.30am-4.30pm Tuesday - Friday, and from 11am - 2pm on Saturday and Sunday. Three Artists, One Journey closes at 3pm on Thursday, May 14.
For more information: https://www.ljac. com.au/about-louis-joel-gallery/ Those wanting to learn from the three artists as well as viewing their work, can do so at a range of courses offered at the Altona Artisans ceramic studio.
Details: //www.ljac.com.au/altonaartisans/
An optimistic art exhibition for the times
Brimbank Gallery in Sunshine is proud to present Onward & Upward, a solo exhibition byacclaimedAustralianartistPatrickFrancis, running until May 30.
This vibrant and emotionally resonant exhibition showcases a compelling new body of work that continues Francis’ unique exploration of humanity, movement, and transformation through bold colour and expressive form.
Known for his distinct style of figurative abstraction and powerful visual storytelling, Patrick Francis brings an intuitive energy to his work, celebrating both individual identity and shared experience.
Onward & Upward is a reflection on perseverance, joy, and the pursuit of personal growth, all deeply embedded in his signature style—vivid, direct, and deeply human.
Francis, a Melbourne-based artist, has exhibited widely across Australia and internationally. His work is held in major public and private collections, including the NationalGalleryofVictoria,Artbank,andthe Art Gallery of New South Wales. Recognised not only for his artistic achievements but also his advocacy for artists with disabilities, Francis’ practice continues to redefine expectations and expand conversations around contemporary Australian art.
Brimbank Gallery invites the community to experience Onward & Upward, where each work resonates with energy, optimism, and a bold sense of momentum.
The gallery is located onthe first floor of the Brimbank Community & Civic Centre. It is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Entry is free.
There are about 900 species of eucalypts inAustralia,andanupcomingworkshop at the Melton Botanic Garden will give you the opportunity to sketch and appreciate just some of these incredible trees.
Friends of Melton Botanic Garden and environmental psychology doctor Kathleen Bagot are partnering to host a two-hour nature sketching and journaling workshop this month, providing sketching skills and an opportunity to practise mindfulness in an outdoor setting with like-minded nature enthusiasts.
The event coincides with Botanic Gardens Week.
The workshop starts with a guided nature-based mindfulness practice, followed by a warm up with some different sketching techniques and discussion of template options.
There will then be a discussion about eucalypts, and the session will end with a chance to share your thoughts and sketching pages with other attendees.
All supplies will be provided to participants new to nature sketching or journaling, and no experience or art skills are required.
Experienced sketchers are welcome to bring their own favourite journal and supplies, or use those provided.
Ms Bagot said the event is aimed at being accessible and inclusive to all who would like to attend.
“You don’t have to be an artist or a scientist to do nature journaling … it really is about slowing down [and] noticingwhat’sinnature,”MsBagotsaid.
She said that a previous workshop held on March 23 for National Eucalypt Day sold out.
Theworkshopwillbeheldfrom10am–noon on Sunday, May 25 at the Melton Botanic Garden.
Tickets can be purchased online. Details: events.humanitix.com/naturesketching-eucalypts-in-melton-botanicgarden-25-may
The work of artists Juan Vasquez, Ilona Herreiner, and Amanda Neville is on display in the Three Artists, One Journey exhibition at the Louis Joel Gallery in Altona until May 14. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 472730_01
Artist Patrick Francis and exhibition curator Richard Orjis. (Supplied)
Environmental psychology doctor Kathleen Bagot at the Melton Botanic Garden. (Damjan Janevski 475273_01
Fine for fake building surveyor
A Maidstone man who posed as a registered building surveyor has been convicted and ordered to pay $60,000 plus $20,000 in costs following one of the most complex investigations in the history of the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).
Khanh Ho pleaded guilty in the Melbourne Magistrates Court to 16 charges across nine building sites over three years between 2019 and 2021.
The 49-year-old pretended to be a building surveyor and a building inspector at multiple locations across the nort- western suburbs and at the South Melbourne Market despite not being registered.
Ho forged documents, duped customers into handing over money, and signed off on worthless building and occupancy permits for residential and commercial properties.
ThecourtheardHowaspreviouslyregistered as a builder surveyor but his registration was cancelled in 2010 amid an investigation into serious financial misconduct.
Ho pocketed $30,000 for work performed while posing as a building surveyor on sites at Footscray, Altona North, Newport, St Albans, Hoppers Crossing, Laverton, Thornbury and South Melbourne.
In sentencing, Magistrate Meghan Hoare said Ho’s actions were a “grave concern” and
a “flagrant attack” on building regulation’s fundamental objective to protect the community.
She said purchasers and occupiers of buildings must be able to have trust and confidence in the regulation system.
Building surveying is a regulated profession inVictoriaandmustbecarriedoutbyqualified professionals registered with the VBA.
Building surveyors play a key role in the regulatorysystembyprotectingconsumersand ensuring all buildings are safe and compliant.
They issue building permits and conduct mandatory inspections to ensure projects are following the agreed permit and meet all
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday,May10isWorldMigratoryBirdDay and there are few better places in the world to celebrate it than the coastal wetlands of Hobsons Bay.
ThecoastlinestretchingfromWilliamstown to Werribee attracts migratory birds from all over the world and May 10 signifies the time of year that those birds migrate back to the northern hemisphere.
Whatever the direction of migration, or the species of bird, the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre will be celebrating them with an event at Truganina Explosives Reserve from 10am to 2pm.
Supported by Hobsons Bay council, the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund and the Ross Trust, the event will feature a barbecue, giveaways and activities such as guided walks, birdwatching, children’s art workshops, bilingual storytelling and musical performances.
There will also be stalls from Australian Waterlife, Birdlife Australia, Friends of Skeleton Creek, Werribee River Association, Wilderness Society, Friends of Newport Lakes and Sea Shepherd Australia among others.
Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre chair, Pamela Sutton-Legaud, said they were aiming
to create an event that would inspire and engage the local community.
“Connecting people with nature is good for us and good for the environment,” said Ms Sutton-Leguad, who will kick off the day with an official welcome, before the Bunurong Land Council conduct a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony.
Performances from the F7 Soul Drummers and Maidens of Polynesia, followed by the drawing of a lucky door prize, will close out the event.
VBAchiefexecutiveandcommissionerAnna Cronin said the conviction of Ho sent a strong message to other unregistered practitioners that the authority was coming after them.
“Conduct like this undermines confidence in the building industry and those who engage in it should expect serious consequences,” Ms Cronin said.
“Consumers should always ensure the building surveyors and builders they hire are registered.“
To check the registration of builders and building surveyors, visit: https://www.vba.vic. gov.au/tools/find-practitioner
Safety group to reform
A safety committee made up of Hobsons Bay councillors and police has been revivedtocombattherisingcrimeratein the municipality.
Aproposalbypolicetore-establishthe Hobsons Bay Local Safety Committee (LSC), after a two year hiatus, was endorsed at a council meeting on Tuesday, April 29.
Hobsons Bay mayor Daria Kellander will co-chair the new LSC, while council staff will also be part of the committee which will meet quarterly from July. A previous version of the committee began in 2022, but concluded during 2023.
Crime surged across Hobsons Bay last year, with recorded offences rising by more than 30 per cent in the 12 months to December 2024.
Speaking in support of the motion at Tuesday night’s meeting, councillor Lisa Bentley noted there had been another arsonattackataWilliamstownicecream shop earlier that morning, the fourth in less than two years.
“It’s clear that our community needs a lot of safety and security,” Cr Bentley said.
Cr Kristin Bishop noted that police approached the council about re-establishing the safety committee.
“This is a really important way that we can have a voice and that we can engage (on the issue of community safety),” said Cr Bishop of council’s role on the LSC . Cr Diana Grima welcomed the return of the committee, saying it was overdue.
“I’ve been pushing for it for a number of years,” she said.
Victoria Police was contacted for comment.
Helen Meyer-Tinning, Nick Olliff, John Clarke, Jenny Mitchell and Vicki Tyrrell from the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre are excited for World Migratory Bird Day on May 10. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474548_02
Remembrance journeys
The memory of Anzac Day is still fresh in our minds for another year – a moving service of remembrance and history at a local cenotaph across Australia.
ButimaginebeingoverseasforAnzacDay at places where the battles actually took place.
EachyearthousandsofAustraliansfollow in the footsteps of the Anzacs at Gallipoli and on the Western Front, and while many choose to coincide their battlefield travel with Anzac Day commemorations, remembrancetraveltakesplacethroughout the year with specialist operator Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours offering weekly departures of its four-day Western Front Explorer from April to November, and private Gallipoli tours departing any day of choice year-round.
“The Gallipoli landings on 25 April 1915 marked the beginning of Australian service and sacrifice during the First World War,” War historian and battlefield tour operator, Mat McLachlan said.
“The Anzacs served at Gallipoli for eight long months, before the failed campaign was finally called off and the Gallipoli Evacuation took place in December 1915. Anzac troops then went on to serve on the Western Front for three long years in bloody and costly battles that became synonymous with the futility and horror of war.”
“Gallipoli was where the Anzac legend began, while the Western Front was where modern warfare erupted, the Anzac legend was cemented, and where remembrance began. Today, Gallipoli and the Western Front are incredibly meaningful and memorable places to visit, with many remnantsfromthishistoryeasytobeseen.”
It feels like something very Australian to do – to visit these places we have heard of at Services and readaboutinhistorybooks.
Butforsomebattlefieldpilgrimsthetripis very personal - including the group Mat has just had with him overseas.
ACT pilgrim Wendy Farnham visited the Western Front for the third time this year following her Anzac grandfather, James Bruce Lithgow, who served in the 36th Battalion on the Western Front from late 1916 and was one of the ‘lucky’ ones who made it home. During her Western Front tour, Wendy had the honour of reading the Ode of Remembrance at the Menin Gate Last Post Ceremony.
Wendy herself is veteran who served for more than 46 years, including tours in Iraq and East Timor. Anzac Day 2025 was Wendy’sthirdvisittotheWesternFrontwith
Mat McLachlan but her first for Anzac Day. Wendy will then join Mat for his Gallipoli Signature Tour in May this year to explore the Gallipoli Peninsula.
Gary and Jan Lloyd from Glandore, Adelaide followed in the footsteps of five Anzac relatives who all served at Gallipoli. Three will forever lie at Gallipoli. Two survived to fight another day on the Western Front and made it through the war, including Gary’s grandfather, and their Gallipoli Anzac relative who went on to make aviation history.
Gary’s grandfather, Frederick Gerald Lloyd, landed with the two brothers on 25 April, took part on the May offensive (in
which Rupert was shot and killed) coming out of it with a shrapnel wound in the leg, took part in the Battle of Lone Pine (in which William was killed in action), and fought on until the Gallipoli Evacuation in December 1915. Frederick went on to serve on the Western Front – arriving on the 1st of April 1916 in France. “My grandfather served at Gallipoli from the first day of the landings on 25th April 1915 right through the campaign to the evacuation, which for him was 18 December 1915,” he said before he left for his tour.
“Ihavehisdiarythatdescribestheplaces he was at, the conditions he experienced, and the death of mates around him. He
also took photos that I have, so I really want to walk in his footsteps up Artillery Road to LonePineandvisitShrapnelGullyCemetery where he took photos of the graves of some fallen mates.
“Whilst my grandfather went on to fight on the Western Front and survive the war, we have other close relatives who did not leave Gallipoli, so we want to visit their memorials to pay our respects and thank them ‘in person’ for their sacrifices.”
Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours offers commemorative Anzac Day tours and tours throughout the year to Australia’s significant WWI and WW2 battlefields, as well as Vietnam. Visit battlefields.com.au.
Gary and Jan Lloyd photo taken at the RAAF Edinburgh base in Adelaide.
Sleeping under the stars at Gallipoli.
Anzac Day at Villers-Brettoneux, Western Front.
Wendy Farnham recites the Ode of Remembrance at the Menin Gate in Ypres on her Mat McLachlan Anzac Day on the Western Front battlefield tour.
Menin Gate in Ypres, Flanders, Belgium - battlefield pilgrims from Australia visit to pay respects ahead of Anzac Day. (Supplied: Mat McLachlan)
Anzac Day at Polygon Wood.
Curated luxury escapes
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From now until 30 June, 2025, Viking is offering travellers the opportunity to save up to AUD $15,800 per couple on twelve of its popular itineraries across China, Southeast Asia and the Far East.
This pricing comes at a time when Asia destinations are in high demand with travelers. The Asia itineraries on offer include popular destinations for Australian and New Zealand travelers, such as Japan, Hong Kong, China, Indonesia and Thailand.
The autumn sailing dates are perfect for travelers wanting to avoid crowds, heat, and humidity while exploring the magnificent temples, ancient cultural traditions and authentic regional cuisine that Asia offers.
Discover More of Asia For Less Ocean Voyage Highlights:
Twenty-two-day Gems of China and Japan from Beijing to Tokyo, includes Tibet, is priced from $13,295 per person in aVerandaStateroom,withsavingsofupto $15,800 per couple based on 7 November 2025 departure.
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$7,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $10,800 per couple based on 19 October 2025 departure.
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Twenty-Six-day North Pacific Crossing from Vancouver to Tokyo is priced from $6,795perpersoninaVerandaStateroom, with savings of up to $8,800 per couple based on 9 September 2025 departure.
Thirteen-day Bangkok, Bali & Beyond fromBangkoktoBaliispricedfrom$6,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $6,200 per couple based on 2 November 2025 departure. Formoreinformation,pleasevisitwww. viking.com or phone 138 747.
Hailed as one of the most beautiful places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo, Chidorigafuchi.
The Wong Tai Sin-Temple Bridge in Hong-Kong.The extraordinary Terracotta Army located in Xi’an was discovered by local villagers in March 1974.
The understated luxury of the Explorers Lounge on board Viking.
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Luxury Cunard Voyage from Sydney to London
Sail on board the stunning Queen Anne during a half-world voyage to Southampton, paired with a London hotel stay.
In Sydney Harbour, greet the newest member of Cunard’s illustrious fleet, Queen Anne, as she sets sail on the 45-night voyage to Southampton. Cruising on board this iconic ship promises an exquisite experience filled with gala evenings, classic a ernoon tea services, and culinary delights from a choice of world-class restaurants.
Explore the beaches of Fiji before crossing the International Date Line to Hawaii’s Honolulu. Next, you’ll enjoy a night in port In Los Angeles ahead of the passage through the Panama Canal, modern marvel of engineering. Tropical bliss awaits in Curacao, Aruba and Miami before you cross the Atlantic Ocean to Southampton. Here, you’ll disembark and transfer to London, where your holiday culminates with a two-night stay in the heart of the city.
Sydney, Port Vila, Suva, Honolulu, Los Angeles (overnight in port), Puerto Quetzal, Panama Canal (scenic cruising), Willemstad, Oranjestad, Miami, Ponta Delgada, Southampton, London
In sun-drenched Miami, the options for exploration and entertainment are endless. Bask on the famed shores of South Beach, explore the vibrant street art of Wynwood Walls, or indulge in culinary delights Little Havana’s diverse eateries.
The brand-new Queen Anne is a luxurious cruise liner offering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and exquisite service, promising an unforgettable voyage of elegance and indulgence on the high seas.
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Complimentary Oceanview to Balcony upgrade
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.
ACROSS
1 Also known as (1,1,1)
3 Sacrilegious (11)
9 Difficult to understand (7)
10 Captivate (7)
11 Somewhat (8)
12 Smear, often with oil (6)
14 Spawn, similar to caviar (3)
15 Without aim (11)
17 Restrictions (11)
19 For this, ad – (Lat) (3)
20 Cease (6)
21 Plastic unit containing audio or visual tape (8)
24 High-protein pulse (7)
25 Middle Eastern national (7)
26 Impediment (11)
27 Televisions (abbr) (3) DOWN
1 Inherited from one’s family (9)
2 Whenever you like (7)
3 Stereotypically masculine (5)
4 Speed up (10)
5 Bars (4)
6 Designer of goods and structures (9)
7 Opening (7)
8 Separate metal from ore (5)
13 Crowning ceremony (10)
15 Metallic element (9)
16 People living together in communities (9)
18 Of the Freemasons (7)
19 Highest in temperature (7)
20 Rummage (5)
22 Wait on (5)
23 Operator (4)
four letters or more can you list? The
letter must be included and each letter may only be used
No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 What was the first successful contact lens made of?
2 ‘Herbst’ is German for which season?
3 What astrological term is used to describe the apparent backwards movement of a planet through the sky?
4 The legal drama series The GoodFight starring Christine Baranski (pictured) is a spin-off of which show?
5 What is the name of Taylor Swift’s 2023–2024 concert tour?
6 In which decade were the first Grammys awarded?
7 In which ocean would you find The Bahamas?
8 JojoRabbit, Hunt for the Wilderpeople and Boy were all directed by which filmmaker?
9 What are homonyms?
10 True or false: chickens can recognise up to 100 faces?
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which team selected college quarterback Cam Ward with the first overall pick of the 2025 NFL draft?
2. Peter Bosustow played 65 games with which VFL club from 1981–83?
3. Australian basketballer Anneli Maley is contracted to which WNBA team?
4. Former English cricketer Andrew Flintoff was badly injured in 2022 filming which television program?
5. Which Premier League team did Liverpool defeat 5-1 to secure the 2024–25 title?
6. Which club now shares with Liverpool the record of twenty titles
In which two major US sports leagues did Deion Sanders play professionally?
The NSW women’s rugby league team until recently shared a nickname with which A-League soccer club?
What was that nickname?
10. What is the name of the high school football team Archie plays for in the television series Riverdale?
With several months still to go in the 2023–2024 season, who did Arne Slot take over from as coach of Liverpool?
12. What colour beard features on the Canberra Raiders’ viking logo?
13. Which team emerged victorious in this year's Anzac Day clash?
14. What rhyming nickname is used to refer to players removed from the field for temporary penalties in NRL?
15. Australians Isabella Nichols and Jack Robinson won which recent surfing event?
16. Simone Biles’ husband Jonathon Owens is a defensive back for which NFL team?
17. The distance world record for women’s shot put is how many metres?
18. And in what decade was that record set by Russian athlete Natalya Lisovskaya?
19. Co-owned by Ryan Reynolds, Wrexham FC just secured its third straight promotion after a 3-0 win over which other club?
20. Which NBA team is most associated with the colour purple?
21. The LA Kings and the Seattle Kraken are in which conference of the NHL?
22. Matthew Kennedy has played for how many AFL clubs?
23. And which clubs were they?
24. Thea Trinidad is the real name of which WWE wrestler?
25. Campbelltown Sports Stadium is the home ground of which A-League men’s team?
26. How many times have the Toronto Raptors won the NBA championship?
27. What is the name of the racing series in the movie Cars?
28. NFL team the Falcons play out of which city?
29. Will Skelton captains which Australian national team?
30. The IPL was founded in which year?
Simone Biles
Still keeping ahead of the game
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
It’s amazing how the Toyota Corolla has evolved over the years.
Backinthedayitwasbasic,vanillatransport and that’s the way it stayed for years.
Then someone, somewhere flipped a switch and things began to change dramatically, starting with the 11th gen Corolla in 2012.
But it was just a warm up for the current model which arrived in early 2018, with its complex, unrepentant, multi-faceted design.
The long and short of it is that the company has been able to transform the image of the car from staid and conservative into something much more sporty with younger buyer appeal - and Corolla remains the best-selling cars in the world.
Styling
Corolla hatch starts from $30,630 for the AscentSport,$33,780fortheSX,$37,620forthe ZR - all with a 1.8-litre hybrid petrol-electric drivetrain and CVT automatic.
And, if the sporty ZR doesn’t float your boat, there’s also the high performance, all-wheel drive GR Corolla to consider.
But bring your money with you, because it’s a big hike in price: $67,990 in manual form or $70,490 with an automatic (before on-road costs). Two-tone paint adds $775 and is offered incombinationwithwhite,grey,red,silverand blue.
Our test vehicle, the ZR Hybrid hatch, is priced from $43,280 by the time you put it on the road in Sydney. The price varies a little depending on your address.
Finished in black over silver, the ZR looks stunning.
Standard kit includes 18-inch alloys, dual zone climate air and a combination of real and artificial suede trim, with heated sports seats up front with red accents and an eight-way, power-adjust driver seat with lumbar support.
There’s also a premium gear lever and steering wheel, smart entry and start, electric parking brake, adaptive cruise control, road sign recognition, auto lights and wipers, auto-dimming rear view mirror, front and rear parking sensors and rear privacy glass. In the lights department, it has auto high beam, bi-LED headlights, along with LED daytime, tail and front/rear fog lights.
ZR steps up to a full 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster along with windscreen head-up display.
Corolla comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of an 8.0-inch touchscreen with premium JBL 8-speaker audio,plusBluetooth,satellitenavigation,AM/ FMandDAB+digitalradio,andwirelessApple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.
You also get 12 months of complimentary access with remote connect to Toyota Connect Services which automatically notifies emergency services in the event of an accident as well as provides remote access to the car.
There’s also a wireless charge pad, two USB-C ports and a 12 volt outlet in the front (but nothing for rear seat passengers).
Safety
Corolla has been awarded a full five stars for safety by ANCAP. It comes with a rear view camera, seven airbags including a driver knee airbag and autonomous emergency braking (City, Interurban & Vulnerable Road User) as well as lane keep assist (LKA) with lane departure warning (LDW).
avoidance support for crossing vehicles and left/right turn, emergency steering assist and acceleration suppression at low speeds.
Cameras and radar sensors have also been improved offering a wider range for detection of obstacles or vehicles.
Blind spot monitor has been added across thehatchrange,whilelanetraceassisthasbeen expanded to include the emergency driving stop system feature that has been designed to bring the vehicle to a gradual stop if it detects the driver is no longer making vehicle inputs.
The active cruise control system has also been enhanced and now offers four distance settings, the ability to detect other vehicles earlier, and the addition of deceleration assist when changing lanes.
But it misses out on auto reverse braking.
Isofix child restraint anchorage points are provided for the rear outboard seats.
Engines/transmissions
With the introduction of the upgraded fifth-generation hybrid powertrain, performance has been boosted with a 13kW increase in power to deliver a combined output of 103kW.
The upgraded hybrid teams a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a newly developed high-output motor generator, power control unit and downsized hybrid transaxle.
The front, axle-mounted drive motor has been enhanced by doubling the number of magnets per pole inside the rotor, while the newly developed lithium-ion battery reduces weight by 14 per cent while increasing both input and output power.
Thehybriddrivesthefrontwheelsexclusively via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Driving
Corolla’s low stance and wind-cheating profile places the car quite close to the ground. As a result,itcanmakegettinginandoutdifficultat timesanditmeansdrivewaysandspeedhumps alsoneedtobeapproachedwithcaution,asthe low front apron is prone to scraping.
Sports seats with bolstered sides add to the difficulty. The sloping rear roof line also makes entry to the back seat more difficult than it probablyshouldbeandyoumightfinditalittle cramped once you’re in.
The boot gains some extra space, with a puncture kit instead of a spare tyre to make room for the hybrid battery pack.
OfnoteCorolla’scousintheLexusUXscores a larger 2.0-litre engine as the basis for its hybrid that produces a combined 146kW.
Putting the transmission of the hybrid in Power mode delivers more satisfying throttle response, with a turn of speed thanks to the boost from the electric motor. But make sure you don’t pull the transmission lever back all the way or you’ll find yourself in B instead of D, which is regenerative braking mode.
It doesn’t recognise electronic speed signs, nor does it differentiate between standard signs, timed school zones or bus and truck advisory speed - so until it encounters a real speed sign it could be telling you fibs.
Steering is sharp and the hatch corners flat and hard, but the ride is overly harsh and the cabincanbecomequitenoisydependingonthe surface.
Toyota does not permit operation of the satellite navigation system while the car is in motion.
It’s super annoying, but you have to be in park with the handbrake activated. And that means pulling over and spending precious minutes on the task.
Sluggish response from the touchscreen makes the task that much more difficult.
You can bang in the name of a street only to look up and discover it failed to recognise the first letter and that means starting over.
Of course, you could try appealing to the car’s voice activation system, but that’s an even more frustrating experience.
At the end of the day the hybrid is all about economy and this is where the Corolla excels. Rated at 4.0L/100km, we were getting 5.2L after almost 400km of mixed driving.
Summing up
You can’t really go wrong with the Corolla ZR hybrid hatch, but it commands a steeper price these days at more than $43K on the road.
There’s no longer a petrol model to distract buyers, but the hybrid powertrain provides immediate, accessible, no frills fuel savings to the average motorist, with no need for user intervention.
Beware the low ride height however which makes entry and exit more difficult than you might think.
You can’t really go wrong with the Corolla ZR hybrid hatch. (Pictures: Supplied)
Competition heats up in the sun
Williamstown’s Tom Downie. 475540_01
Keilor Park’s Caitlyn Crameri. 475729_09
Spotswood’s Lachlan Heriot and Yarraville Seddon’s Wil Baker. 475545_14
Werribee Centrals’ Michael Culliver. 475479_01
Werribee Centrals’ Olivia Edwards. 475482_23
Keilor Park’s Isabella Arvanitis and Burnside Heights’ Krissy Trang. 475729_13
Yarraville Seddon’s Corey Hitchcock. 475545_02
Werribee Centrals’ Kai Gomes Pattiyage and Inverleigh’s Jarvis Miles. 475479_08
Williamstown’s Justin Plapp. 475540_22
Williamstown’s Toby Triffett. 475540_09
Werribee Centrals’ Ellie Tubbs. 475482_09
Ljubica Vrankovic
Hobsons Bay breaks new ground in the WNL
Hobsons Bay Netball Club is hoping to have put a pathway in place with the move to have senior teams for the first time.
The club has had junior sides in the Altona Netball Association the past five years and has nowenteredseniorsidesintheWesternNetball League competition.
Hobsons Bay is the first non-aligned club to join the WNL competition.
Co-president Helen Mullins said it was a really exciting time for the club.
“Our journey into the WFNL competition actually commenced last season,” she said. “Some of our club players, including myself, were competing in the competition for another club and loved the nature of the competition,” she said.
“Attheendoftheseasonwewereapproached to submit a proposal to enter HBNC into the competition as a non-affiliated club.
this reflects in the game.
Mullins set up the club with her husband and co-president Nathan Mullins and now vice-president Felicia-Anne [Ferguson], when they couldn’t find the right club for their kids. She said they wanted somewhere that those junior players could progress into the senior ranks at a competitive level.
“We see the WNL as a pathway for our junior players who may be aging out of the junior competition but are seeking a highly competitive playing environment,” Mullins said. “The calibre of the WNL competition allows our players to push themselves to their limits and learn a different style of playing.
An influx of members meant that they have been able to field four teams.
“We have players who have participated in highly competitive netball to those that have only played junior or social netball, but they have taken to the WFNL with gusto,” Mullins said.
“Soon after we received the phone call that we had been accepted as the first non-affiliated club. When we got that phone call, we were absolutely ecstatic and so proud as a club.” Coming into the process late, the club was hoping to enter two teams, maybe three into the WNL competition.
“As a club we want to see all our players develop to their full capability and maintain a great relationship with their team-mates, coaches and the club as a whole.
“We believe it is extremely important to establish connections with all players of each team and see them as mentors regardless of differing skill sets. Our players garner support from each other both on and off the court and
Panthers finding form
By Tara Murray
Newport is finding its feet in the Western Football League division 1 competition.
Competing in the top flight for the first time, the Panthers have put two wins on the board early in the piece.
The second of those wins came on Saturday against Sunshine.
Coach Ali Hamad said they had shown some really pleasing signs early in the season and were able to put it all together on Saturday.
“We played Sunshine late in the season last year and lost by 110 points and now we’ve beaten them by 50 points,” he said.
“That’s a 160 point turnaround in eight months. We’ve had 18 new players in the squad and it’s going to take some time to gel.
“It’s pleasing some of the things we’ve been doing as we learn the style we want to play. It was always going to take four to six weeks.
Hamad said coming up against a side they hadplayedthepastcoupleofyearsmadethings a bit easier this week.
They knew the ground and many of the faces on the other side with many of the Panthers faithful out in force at the game.
“It was nice to get one over them,” Hamad said. “It was a great team effort.”
The Panthers led at every break throughout the match with the margin blowing out to 50 points at the final break.
The Kangaroos were able to win the final quarter, but couldn’t really cut into the margin with the Panthers winning, 18.10 (118)-11.6 (72).
OmarSaadkickedfivegoalsforthePanthers, while Kamal Badra kicked three goals.
Mustafa Mesto, who kicked three goals, was named their best.
Hamad said Joel Freeman didn’t get the reward on the stats but played a key role for the team and bringing the ball down to the likes of Badra.
He said Muhammad Saad and Lukmain Haddara provided a lot of run and carry from the middle of the ground.
Having settled into the top flight, Hamad knowsthatthechallengeshaveonlyjustbegun.
“We’ve got Yarraville and Altona, teams that are well credentialed in this division and known for their programs.,” he said.
“We’ll see where we are against the top sides in the division. We hadn’t played Spotty before, we haven’t played Werribee [Districts], Hoppers Crossing.”
Overall things are going well at the Panthers with both their under-18 teams and reserves sitting undefeated.
In other results, Altona got the win against Point Cook Centrals, 14.12 (96)-7.8 (50).
Kai Coghlan, Mitchell Van Den Berg and Connor Bulley were the Vikings best, Yarraville Seddon got another win on the board, accounting for Spotswood, 15.14 (104)-8.15 (63). Wil Kliszewski, Corey Hitchcock and Tyson Brazel stood out for the Eagles, while Nathan Haylock, Lachlan Heriot, and Jack Charleston were the Woodsmen best. Werribee Districts beat Caroline Springs in the other match.
North Footscray, Braybrook and West Footscray were among the winners in division 2.
“As all clubs hope, we want our players to achieve success on the court, but we also want to carry this off court and into life - it’s not just about winning a trophy, but it is also about winninginamentalcapacity,physicalcapacity, winning great friendships and building resilience to have success in life.”
Tara Murray
Twins headed to nationals
A group of local baseballers is hoping to go all the way at the Little League national championships in June.
The Twins Little League team, which is made up of players from Sunshine, Williamstown, Fitzroy and Essendon baseball clubs, won through to the national titles after claiming the Little League Major Championship last month.
One of the parents, Natalie Eddy, said it was a special achievement for the group of players.
“They are all between 10 and 12 and havebeentrainingreallyhard,”shesaid.
Most of the group has been together for a few years, having played together since 2023 when they also made the national championships.
Last season, three of the group were part of the team as they won back-to-back Victorian Little League Development Baseball Championships. Others had moved up into the major league competition last season, with the rest moving up this year.
Eddy said the coach of the side this season had been focused on making nationals.
Players have to try out and are then selected for the team.
“He had every intention,” she said. “He is the same coach from two years ago and coached the development crew last year.
“He wants to go to nationals and win it. By winning it they get to go to America.”
Eddy said the kids were training hard, three times a week.
To help the team go to nationals, the club is looking for sponsors or people willing to help raise funds for the side.
One of Hobsons Bay’s first senior netball sides. (Supplied)
Aces leave the ABL to pursue a bold new vision
The Melbourne Aces are departing the AustralianBaseballLeaguetoembarkonanew journey.
The club announced last week it was moving forward with a bold new vision, stepping beyond the ABL to explore fresh opportunities on the international stage.
“After years of discussions with the ABL regarding unresolved concerns, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the league,” the club said in a statement.
“However, this is far from the end—it’s the start of something even bigger.
“BeyondtheABL,wehaveprovenourability to compete at an elite level, with successful international matchups against KBO teams that have strengthened our reputation on the
world stage.
“While our time in the ABL has come to an end, our journey continues with a thrilling schedule of games, both at home and abroad.”
The club will compete in the 2025 Ulsan KBO Fall League in Korea in October.
The Aces said it had secured home games at Melbourne Ballpark for early next year against prominent KBO teams, with additional games to be announced soon.
“This transition allows us to take the club to new heights, providing fans with an even better baseball experience,” the club said. “The Aces have been at the forefront of Australian baseball, leading the ABL in attendance for the second consecutive season.”
In a letter to fans in the finally days, the Aces
said it was clear that their respective views on how to move forward were massively different and clearly those differences could not be reconciled.
“The Aces could not continue on a path we neither believed in nor were prepared to fund any further. The Aces time in the ABL was over,” he said. “To be clear, we do not propose to apportion blame. The ABL is under no obligation to follow the direction advocated by the Aces. We claim no special entitlement. But the ABL was absolutely clear on where we were at and they made their decision. And at the Aces we have made our decision.
“Having determined that we would not be continuing in the ABL, the Aces had two choices.Ceasealtogetherorfindanotherwayto
The Falcons continue on
By Tara Murray
The City West Falcons aren’t getting ahead of themselves despite another dominant win in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday night.
The three-time defending championships remain undefeated after seven rounds after a convincing win against the North East Blaze.
The Falcons took a bit of time to get into the game before running away with a 79-51 win.
Falcons coach Marg Lind was pretty happy with the performance.
“It took us a while defensively to get there,” she said. “They had a pretty good moving circle and when Sam [Silvester] was in shooter, she presented different problems.
“We did talk about being adaptable tonight [Wednesday] and we got there in the end, the second half especially.”
Lind said they struggled with both the moving circle and the traditional circle early on before finding match ups that worked.
She said they needed to adapt a bit quicker.
“We rolled the defenders a fair bit too see if we could get some better match ups and that paid off in the end,” she said.
“Lucia [Fauonuku] did a pretty good job on Sam, Sophie [Hanrahan] back and Charity [Nasalio] out was a bit better,
“Sussu [Liai] in goal defence as well. We kept bringing fresh legs on them.
“It took us a while to get where we wanted to be, we ran a bit more of a box in the second half bit more successful.”
Lind was more than pleased with the attack end, with nearly 80 goals against one of the stronger sides in the competition.
She said with the margin blowing out there were able to try a few different things.
Jane Cook finished with 64 goals with just one missed shot. Cook is on track for more than 1000 goals in a season again.
“They were pretty physical and hard one on one,” Lind said of the Blaze defence. “I
play.Thefinanciallysounddecisionwouldbeto stem the losses and shut down. “We have made themoredifficultdecisiontotryandfindaway to continue on and keep our team together and our fans entertained. Many think that it will be too hard and too expensive and they may well be correct. But we are determined to try.”
In a statement, Baseball Australia president David Hynes said the loss of the Aces to the ABL was a significant loss.
The ABL will continue working with ABL teams and planning for the 2025-26 season.
“We thank the Ralph family, and everyone involved in the Aces organisation for their contribution to baseball in Australia. The Aces have achieved tremendous success both on and off the field over many years.”
Sports shorts
Aust Cup
Altona City’s Australia Cup run has come to an end.
The Victorian Premier League 2 side faced National Premier League powerhouse Avondale on Tuesday night.
Avondale scored right on half time to take a lead into half time before scoring a second goal in the second half to come away with a 2-0 win.
Big V
The Altona Gators had a tough night out against Western Port in the Big V men’s division 2 competition on Saturday.
Hoping to continue their strong form, the Gators were in the match until half time. The second half was all the Steelers, who ran away with a 100-78 win. Majok Maniel top scored with 20 points for the Gators.
In the women’s division 1 competition, the Gators won 62-53.
NPL
Altona Magic had to settle for sharing the points on Friday in the National Premier League. The Magic was on the road against the Port Melbourne Sharks with both sides having opportunities and converting them In the end, they couldn’t be split, finishing 3-3.
The Magic sit in 13th, only ahead of the Sharks. In the Victorian Premier League 2, Altona City lost to Geelong, 2-0.
Western FL
Parkside Spurs had a big win, while Yarraville Seddon fell just short of an upset in the Western Football League women’s competition.
thought our attack end was solid.
“We made a few passing errors but pretty much when we were up by a fair but I thought we were pretty patient around the transverse line”
Lind said despite the good start they were still wary of how things could go.
“I think we’re in the danger zone with the SSN reserves starting,” she said. “Mon [Holmes] is involved there and it doesn’t look like we’ll get Uneeq [Palavi] back.
“We might have to look at a bit of coverage there going forward.
“Making sure as an older team, keeping them injury free and thinking about what we’re doing at training which so far we have done well, touch wood.”
The Falcons 23s suffered a 59-52 loss to the Blaze.
Lind said they couldn’t afford to give up a 10 goal start against a side like that.
Both Falcons sides face the Hawks this week.
The Spurs were at home against North Sunshine and were able to come away with a 42.16 (268)-0.0 (0). Chloe Lazzaro and Mary Sandral kicked seven goals each. The Eagles meanwhile almost upset last season’s premiers, Werribee Centrals. The Eagles led by 21 points at half time, but couldn’t hold on as they lost, 4.8 (32)-4.6 (30). In other matches, West Footscray lost to Caroline Springs, 17.15 (117)-1.1 (7).
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Montana Holmes. (Grant Treeby/Netball Victoria)
AFL Victoria changes club, team transfer process
By Tara Murray
AFL Victoria in collaboration with metropolitan football leagues and country football regions has amended the process for club and team transfers and the subsequent appeals process ahead of the 2026 application period, following an assessment of recent cases across metropolitan Melbourne and country Victoria.
The amendments come after it was recognised that the current Victorian state affiliate regulation which administer this process, and the introduction or amendment of any underage competition was not adequate in managing the significance of such changes.
The amended regulations have been designed to best provide a collaborative and strategic approach amongst community
football bodies in Victoria to prioritise positive outcomes for the game.
By providing early intent notifications to relevant parties and maintaining transparent communications throughout the process, the revised process to assess a proposed transfer will allow more informed and efficient decision making.
Newlycreatedresourcestocaptureevidence relevant to a proposition and amended timeframe requirements will ensure a more thorough assessment of applications by all involved stakeholders. Effective collaboration to reach agreement on these applications is important due to the weight of influence that such decisions can have on the future direction of the game in Victoria.
The AFL Victoria Affiliate Regulations which contain the Transfer of Clubs and Teams guidelines are effective April 23rd 2025
and apply for all relevant applications for the 2026 season onwards.
Previously applications had to be made by October 31 with that being bought forward to June 30.
There has been an introduction of forms to make a transfer application, including the requirement for more specific evidence to support the application.
There is now the requirement for clubs to meet with their existing league to discuss the application once the intention to transfer form has been lodged.
The two relevant leagues must meet to discuss the proposed transfer and the consequences, both positive and negative with a view to resolving the application in a way that is most beneficial to all involved parties.
“Whilst a collaborative and strategic
Macdonald wins again
By Tara Murray
A batting positional change for Gellibrand’s Jacob Macdonald did nothing to stop his run scoring as he claimed a second straight Victorian Turf Cricket Association competition best and fairest award.
After winning the Evans-Clark Shield last season as his side claimed the premiership, Macdonald on Friday night shared the best player award in the Roy Picone Shield with Point Cook Centrals’ Rasanjana Jayarathna.
Macdonald said heading into the season he didn’t think he had a chance of back-to-back medals.
He said it was icing on the cake, having claimed the premiership.
“It was good and nice reward to tick it off after a flag year as well,” he said. “To go back-to-back is special.”
Macdonald was quick to talk about the team’s performance than his own. Macdonald finished the season with 563 runs and 16 wickets.
He said from a team perspective they thought they would be competitive in the higher division and were aiming for finals.
They were not only able to achieve that, but managed to beat Moonee Valley in a second straight grand final.
“We were setting the bar low,” he said. “It was good to play finals and there was no expectation to win it.
“Definitely our best cricket was good enough and we played our best cricket at the right time.”
Macdonald, who had been opening the batting last season and early this season, moveddowntonumberfourpartwaythrough the season.
It was a decision many people weren’t sure about but it paid off.
“My captain midway through the year thought I would be better batting in the middle order and make sure the runs were ticking over as we went down the order,” he said.
“In the end it got us over the line. I had never batted at number four before.
“[Captain] Paul [Hetherington] also dropped himself from opening to number seven and he was player of the match in the grandfinal,sothepositionalchangesworked.”
Macdonald was also named in the division
approach amongst community football is necessary, it is possible that an agreement on a transfer proposition may not be reached and therefore an objection process (appeal) has been retained,” AFL Victoria said.
“The appeal is to be submitted to AFL Victoria with all parties having full disclosure of the evidence in support and defence throughout the entire process, not just in the final stages.
“In summary, the amended processes (both application and appeal) require the evidence in support of the proposed transfer to be identified at the earliest possible stage of the process, as opposed to the latest under previous regulations. This allows all interested parties to be fully informed and for an accurate and thorough assessment of the proposed transfers strategic benefit to the game immediately and longer term.”
Umpire boost thanks to AFL
Western Football League umpires were given a training session they will never forget, with some of the AFL’s best umpires coming down to training.
Part of the AFL community umpire round, theWesternleaguewasinvolved in a number of different activities to help promote umpiring.
AFL umpires Matt Stevic, Ian Burrows, Josh Mather and Anthony Laughton attended umpiring training along with a number of umpires from the Victorian Football League program. More than 150 local umpires were involved in a question and answer after the training sessions.
Western football director of umpiring Lachlan Harty said it was nice to have theumpiresinthespotlightfortheweek and their hard work recognised.
“We get umpires every year and this year we have one of the biggest names [Stevic] running training which is pretty unreal.”
Several umpires were part of a match day experience on Thursday night at Marvel Stadium for the Essendon and North Melbourne AFL match.
For them the night included a meet and greet with the matchday umpires and walking out with the umpires pregame.
3 team of the year, while winning the club champion award and first XI batting award.
Macdonald’s teammates James Ryan and Brayden Macdonald were also named in the division 3 team of the year. Ryan was named captain.
The side will now step into the division 2 competition, the Steve McNamara Shield.
For most of the side it will be the first time playing at that level.
“We have a new captain-coach which is exciting,” Macdonald said. “The squad we haveisyoungwithanaverageaverageofabout 27.
“The challenge is there and we want to be competitive again.”
Now having won two straight best and fairest awards and two straight premierships, Macdonaldsaidyoucan’truleanythingoutin the future.
“I sat here last year and said it won’t happen again and it did, so you can never say never,” he said.
“If we can go back-to-back-back premierships and I make zero runs, I’d be happy.”
The league also had AFL umpire Nathan Williamson recently umpire an under-12s girls match with some up and coming umpires.
FormerumpireRayChamberlainalso recently umpired a match in the league, marking a few big months for the Western umpiring fraternity. Another former AFL umpire Troy Pennell is an umpires coach in the league.
“We generally don’t draw attention to umpires, but it’s nice to have the opportunity to appreciate the umpires,” Harty said.
Harty said they had slightly more umpires than last season, but were always looking for more.
“We still have teams what we don’t have umpires for,” he said. “We would prefer to have a full panel of umpires.”
Harty said they were still especially short of field umpires, while the league is also focused on getting more females involved. The league’s umpires train on Tuesday and Thursday night at Hanmer Reserve from 5.30pm.
Jacob Macdonald. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 440866_12
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