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.
Carjacking nightmare
By Jaidyn Kennedy
The victim of a carjacking at Pacific Werribee is urging other young women to be cautious around the area.
Alisha, 19, who works at the shopping centre, said she was confronted by a masked male carrying a machete in the Coles car park at about 1.50pm on Monday, April 28.
“I was driving into the plaza, didn’t notice anyone following me, I was just going in there to go shopping,” Alisha said, who asked that StarWeeklynot publish her surname. She said a car pulled up behind her, but didn’t initially alarm her.
“Someone opened my door, and I just assumed it was someone I knew trying to scare me,” Alisha said.
According to Alisha, the machete-wielding male, who she described as no older than herself, demanded she get out of the car and hand over her keys and phone.
Frightened for her safety, Alisha did as she was ordered.
The man drove off with Alisha’s car.
Alisha said a female and three other men were in the other car.
She said she thought she was going to die and is still coming to terms with the terrifying ordeal.
“It’s so hard for me to speak at the moment.
I keep picturing in my head, and hearing the guy with the machete,” she said.
“I haven’t been to work, and at the moment, I can’t even drive past the plaza, let alone be there. I’ve just been at home, and I guess it’s
pretty boring, but normally I’m out every night with the girls going on drives and stuff.”
Alisha said she has struggled sleeping and is seeking counselling.
“I’ve definitely been having struggles trying to fall asleep, been envisioning it over and over in my head,” she said.
“I haven’t been out of the house by myself and every time I get out of the car, I have to look behind me.”
Her friends and colleagues have also become fearful, Alisha said.
“Most of my friends work at the plaza as well, and they park where I park, so they’ve been on edge.”
She said given the volume of foot traffic at the plaza, increased security measures and police presence in the area is worth consideration.
A Pacific Werribee spokesperson said the centre’s security personnel were supporting police with an investigation.
Spoil mum with a home cooked breakfast using Casaccio Eggs.
www.casaccioeggfarms.com.au
“The safety and wellbeing of our entire Werribee community is always our overriding priorityandsomethingwetakeveryseriously,” the spokesperson said.
Alisha warned others to be wary when driving or parking alone in shopping centre carparks.
“You don’t think it’s going to happen to you until it does.”
Victoria Police was contacted for comment. Anyone who may have witnessed the carjacking or has information about the incident can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Rupinder Kaur Rekhi and husband Gagandeep Singh Rehkhi with their 2-day-old son. (Damjan Janevski) 475083_06
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
Check before you travel
Arden Station
Wyndham backs the status quo
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Wyndham voters overwhelmingly backed Labor on Saturday night, as Anthony Albanese’s government was re-elected.
In the electorates of Lalor and Gellibrand, Labor’s candidates Joanne Ryan and Tim Watts secured 43.97 per cent and 47.02 per cent of the primary votes respectively.
The results marked the fifth election of Ms Ryan and Mr Watts, who have both held their seats since 2013.
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) said Ms Ryan would return as the Lalor MP.
AECdatashowedthatMsRyanhadsecured 62.98 per cent of votes on a two-party basis, over Liberal candidate Mira D’Silva.
In Gellibrand, Mr Watts secured 65.08 per cent of the two-party vote count, compared to Liberal candidate Ben Reeson’s 34.92 per cent.
Speaking to Star Weekly on Sunday, Ms Ryan said the result was “incredibly humbling”.
“It’s incredibly humbling to know that your neighbours and this community –people that have been here for generations and people who are just arriving in this community–allhavethatkindoffaithinme,”
Ms Ryan said.
“Today is actually about saying thanks to that community for the faith they are putting in me.”
Despite a 16.5 per cent swing against the Labor’s primary vote in February’s Werribee state by-election, the federal government whip said she stuck to her guns.
“I always had faith that my hard work in the community would hold me in good stead and that people knew the difference between a state and federal government,” Ms Ryan said.
“The way I ran my campaign was pretty standard to the way I’ve run every
Food relief grant has a purpose
PulsewithaPurposeiscertainlynottakingits recent grant of $15,000 for granted.
Every Tuesday at the Dianella Community Centre,theteamprovideshalal-friendlymeals for those experiencing hardship in Tarneit. That grant, which came from the state government’scommunityfoodreliefprogram, has helped the non-profit organisation buy glasscontainers,thermalbagsandingredients for the rest of the year.
Being able to have reusable containers and bags is a game-changer for the group’s focus on sustainability, founder Musarrat
Residents not
A community advocate does not believe Wyndham council’s most recent community satisfaction survey is an accurate reflection of more than 330,000 people’s opinions.
City of Wyndham Action Group spokesperson Trish Barcatta said the Community Satisfaction Survey, conducted by Metropolis Research for the last 12 years, relies on too small a sample size.
A total of 5765 households were approached to participate in the survey, from which 1204 provided responses.
“We are in a city of over 330,000 people and they only gathered results from 1204 households,” Ms Barcatta said.
“They use that data to say that the whole of
Saiyed said.
“People are given two sets of these bags and glass containers, of which they will reuse and leave out or bring back for the next week,” she said.
“Those bags allow us to be as environmentally friendly as possible, so we can collect those items [containers and bags] that would otherwise go to landfill.”
The success of the drive has put to bed any doubts that the organisation may have held starting out three years.
“We were having doubts if people would
agree to such a thing, but they don’t mind bringing their own containers,” Ms Saiyed said.
“We are really happy that we did go ahead and start it.”
While members of the community often comein,manyrelyonthefoodtobedelivered, so a portion of the grant will go towards a petrol allowance for volunteer drivers.
“We are a very grassroots organisation and we didn’t want it to be too costly for our volunteers,” Ms Saiyed said.
other campaign.”
Ms Ryan said working with state MPs John Lister and Dylan Wight on building the Wyndham Ring Road between Tarneit and Wyndham Vale was top of her agenda.
In a Facebook statement on Sunday, Mr Watts thanked his Gellibrand voters and commended Liberal candidate Ben Reeson and Ponraj Krishna Pandi of the Greens on their campaigns.
“We have different political philosophies but they have personally engaged in our democratic process in good faith and with dignity,” Mr Watts said.
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 theircreativesideandhowtheycarefor 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 localstudents,butalsobytheirideasfor water saving and caring for our water resources.”
The poster competition is open to all primary schools and pre-schools acrossVictoria,withprizesupforgrabs valued up to $100 for individuals 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, with winners announced during National Water Week (20-26 October).
To learn more about the categories, prizes and how to enter, visit National Water Week.
satisfied with council survey sample size
the city is satisfied and just not true – all you have to do is look at social media comments to see why people truly think.
“I’ve never had anyone knock on my door in the past 12 years –nor has anyone I know.”
Ms Barcatta said she has repeatedly contacted council in the last three years requestingitrevisesthesurvey’smethodology.
“We have approached them several times asking them to expand the scope of their methodology to include more residents and they’ve done nothing,” she said.
Ms Barcatta also said The Loop, council’s resident feedback portal, is inadequate.
“Wheneverthey[thecouncil]putsomething on The Loop they ask very specific questions,
but they don’t really give them an open forum to actually explain how they feel and justify it.
“But if anyone dares to say they don’t actually agree or want something, they just turn around and say it’s only one person –they have said that to me.”
“They don’t like you asking questions that go beyond their carefully crafted ones.
A Wyndham spokesperson said council has full confidence in the survey results, which the spokesperson said are statistically valid.
“The number of respondents is considered one of the largest of the 79 local government areas, especially considering that the state government requirement is a sample size of 400 per year,” the spokesperson said.
(Damjan Janevski: 255196)
Pulse with a Purpose deliver food to those who need it in Tarneit and beyond. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 469697)
River needs your help
The Friends of the Lower Werribee are seeking your help to keep the southern region of the mighty river in top shape.
Part of the Werribee River Association (WRA), the group meets on the first Thursday of each month, from February to November, to cultivate healthier land for local wildlife and restore the river to its natural beauty.
The nature of the work depends on the season, entering into the cooler months, the focus will be more on planting native shrubs and trees when the soil is moist.
During warmer, drier periods, tasks like mulching to retain soil moisture, hand weeding invasive plants, and picking up litter
will be performed to protect the environment. WRA regeneration co-ordinator Kym McCoy said these small but vital actions are all about giving back to the land that gives so much to us.
For Ms McCoy, a proud Kamilaroi woman, the most rewarding part of the group’s work is seeing the land respond and the healing of the country.
“It’salsothepeople–connectingwithothers who share a respect for the environment and a passion for giving back,” she said.
“Every session is a chance to learn, share knowledge, and feel a deeper sense of purpose.”
Briefs
Sport club upgrades
New LED lights have been installed at Mossfiel Reserve’s netball courts and will allow teams in the Hoppers Crossing Netball Association to train and play later. Also at Mossfiel Reserve, rugby club Wyndham City Rhinos and Bellbridge Cricket Club have received a new electronic scoreboard for their games. Tarneit Football Club and United Tarneit Sports Club will share a new scoreboard at Wooten Road Reserve. Councillor Shannon McGuire said these upgrades marked a significant boost for grassroots sport in the region.
IDAHOBIT Day
Wyndham will celebrate IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia) on Thursday, May 15, with an event that includes a flag raising ceremony and features LGBTQIA+ and First Nations youth worker and reality TV star Brooke Blurton as the keynote speaker. The free event will take place at the Wyndham Civic Centre in Werribee, from 10am-noon.
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The Werribee River Association needs volunteers for the Friends of the Lower Werribee group. Acting riverkeeper Charlotte Williamson (front), and the volunteers (Damjan Janevski) 474447_01
From refugee to RAAF
By Jaidyn Kennedy
From refugee to earning a master’s degree in business administration, Able Seaman Naffissa Mohamed has been on quite the journey.
Fleeing Eritrea at the age of seven, she embarked on a testing journey that took her through a refugee camp in Sudan, on a trek through Egypt and into a United Nations shelter.
Throughout seven years in Egypt, she never lost hope the hope of finding a safe home.
That hope became a reality.
“Our names were on a refugee list and, by some miracle, Australia accepted us and we moved to Melbourne,” Ms Mohamed said.
“Nothing could prepare us for the joy we experienced when we arrived in our new country.”
Tarneit– where her family still lives– soon became home.
The local Eritrean community helped ease their transition.
“From the minute we landed, we had around us caring and supportive people. Our home was ready for us and we walked straight in – it was an incredible feeling,” she said.
Having served in Brisbane in the joint movements section of RAAF Base Amberley since 2023, it was genuine desire to give something back to her new home that led her into the navy.
“I became initially interested in serving when I was learning English in Melbourne–and I wanted to become part of something bigger than myself.
“This is a big thing for me, because with my backgroundasarefugee,beingabletosupport and assist others in need is a big thing; I’ve been there, I understand.”
Ms Mohamed also received the Sailor of
the Quarter award in 2022 for outstanding professionalism and team work.
With the backing of Defence and her husbandCorporalAkramSaleh,MsMohamed said she is ready to pursue doctoral studies
this year and is considering commissioning as an officer.
“Joining the Navy was my dream, and yet I’ve achieved so much and have so much more ahead.”
Animal plan feedback open
Wyndham council is calling for community feedback to update its Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-2030, to help respond to the needs of pet owners and non-pet owners.
Mayor Mia Shaw said the four-year plan needed to be updated to be more in line with the state government’s Domestic Animals Act 1994.
“When we held our last consultation, wereceived891submissions–thisstrong participation in consultation shows the importance of pet management in our community,” she said.
In response to feedback from the most recent survey, council increased ranger patrols to reduce dogs wandering off lead. Council also released more educational material about where it was appropriate and not appropriate to let a dog off-lead.
For those wanting to discuss the matter with council staff, several drop in sessions will be hosted this month across the municipality.
The Wyndham Civic Centre in Werribee will open on Wednesday, May 7, between 10-11am. Two sessions will run in Tarneit on Thursday May 15, at the Tarneit Community Centre between 10-11am; and at Camelot Drive Reserve off-lead dog park between 2.30-3.30pm. Saltwater off-lead dog park in Point Cook will host the last session between 11am-12pm on Thursday, May 22. Feedback until May 31: www. theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ draft-damp-2026-30
$449.00
Body exhumed in murder probe
Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she revisits the sad tale of Margaret Mould whose body was exhumed when police suspected she had been the victim of a poisoning during an “illegal operation”.
At the Williamstown Magistrates Court in January 1932, Claude William Mould, respected estate agent who had formerly had his office in Pier Street, Altona, was charged with having between 11 May 1931 and 1 September 1931 at Altona converted to his own use over 28 pounds received as an estate agent.
He had been instructed by Green, Dobson & Middleton, Solicitors, to collect the rent of three Altona properties on behalf of the mortgagees, Manchester Unity Independent Order of Oddfellows, and pay the monies into the solicitors’ account.
ConstableCowdonstatedthatforover three years, Claude Mould had run his Pier Street agency, C.W.Mould & Sons - the sons being Jack and Claude, aged 19 and 16 respectively. The defendant vigorously denied the charge, having discovered, 12 months previously, a cashboxdeficiencyof150pounds.Thishehad paid from his own pocket, and, suspecting that Jack had been helping himself, had tackled him with it. Jack denied it, blamed other members of the family, but was given the sack in May 1931. To Claude Mould’s grief, Jack was now busily getting into trouble in Adelaide and his father was still repaying the missing money.
As devastating as this family trouble was, it was a minor matter compared to a previous court case involving the family, one that shocked Altona in 1930 and led to a murder trial at the Melbourne Criminal Court.
On 6 August that year, a woman who called herselfnurseSylviaCook,orNurseSylvia Koch - there seems to be some doubt as to which was her real name – paid a visit to Claude Mould’s wife, Margaret. Two days later, Mrs Mould, aged 38, was dead in her Pier Street residence. A death certificate was duly issued and the much-loved lady was believed to have died of heart failure.
Her funeral on 11 August 1930 was well attended, her civic spirit honoured by wreaths from The Altona Cycling Club, the Altona branches of the Girl Guides and Boy Scouts, the Australian Natives Association, the Altona Baseball Club and the Church of England Ladies’ Guild.
The mourning community accepted the cause of death as misfortune, but the police had a shrewd idea why Mrs Mould had died, and obtained an exhumation order. The post-mortem was carried out by government pathologist, Dr Crawford Mollison on 1 September.
Mrs Mould had not died of heart failure but blood poisoning, following, in the coy language of the times, “an illegal operation”.
Senior Detective William Jones hurried to arrest Nurse Cook and seize certain surgical instruments from her premises. She was whiskedtoWilliamstownPoliceStation,where she allegedly confessed to murder, though this she would later vigorously deny. The 44-year-old unregistered nurse was allowed bail of 500 pounds, with two sureties of 250 pounds each, an indication of the seriousness of the charge.
At the City Court, Sylvia Evelyn Cook, the name under which she was charged, was represented by none other than high profile solicitor, Naphthali Henry Sonnenberg, who had clocked up an impressive 29 homicide cases, the most infamous being the doomed ColinCampbellRoss,wronglyexecutedforthe Gun Alley atrocity.
Sylvia Cook, manageress of the Waverley Private Hospital in Queen Street, Altona, was
committed for trial by the coroner. Many of her patients were new mothers, who gladly gave her their 5 pound baby bonus in return for her care. Where and how she had gained midwifery knowledge is unknown, but she was never a registered nurse, and without a properly qualified person on the premises, her hospital could not be registered.
How she and Mrs Mould came to meet is unknown, and mystery surrounds the case to this day. There is no record of any of the Mould family having fore-knowledge of Margaret Mould’s intentions.
Contraception in the early thirties was limited, abortion unlawful unless warranted by extreme circumstances, the deceased at 38 was considered middle aged, the Depression was creating great hardships for Australians, she had previously suffered the tragedy of a stillborn son, and already had eight children.
Was it economic uncertainty which led her to take this dangerous step? We can speculate, but it seems very likely. She worked for the business, as well as being a home-maker. Was her husband anxious about the market when moneywastight? Didthethoughtofyetanother mouth to feed in such frightening times alarm her? Without the family’s words, we will never know.Likethousandsofwomenwhocouldnot affordtheoutrageousfeesdemandedbysociety doctors, Margaret was forced to risk her life.
The woman charged with murder before Chief Justice Sir William Irvine, was in danger of losing her life on the gallows. The Crown allegedthatMrsCookhadadmittedtopolice,“I knewwhatIwasdoing.Iknewthelawandtook therisk…butIdidn’tmakemoneyoutofit.”
This the accused flatly denied, claiming that Detective McGuffy had threatened to pull her tongue out until she confessed. Her feisty response to him had been, “I’ll go to the gallows but I won’t admit to anything.”
On Friday 31 October 1930, the jury took four hours to acquit Sylvia Evelyn Cook, alias Koch, of murder.
The following year, she was fined 5 pounds for being an unregistered proprietress of Altona’s Waverley Private Hospital. In 1945, she was served with a Bankruptcy Notice , after which this mysterious woman disappeared from headlines and died in 1962 at Pearcedale.
Today, Pier Street is a leafy commercial thoroughfare.
Amateur historian Barb McNeill.
New kit helps with STI prevention
As a significant step in STI prevention for Australian women, the country’s first self-test kit for chlamydia and gonorrhoea is now available nationwide, offering greater privacy and fast results according to the company behind the break-through.
The first of its kind in Australia, the self-test kit detects chlamydia and gonorrhoea with one swab sample, producing a positive or negative result for both infections in 15 minutes.
STIs affect almost one in six (16 per cent) Australians in their lifetime and over the last 10 years, cases have increased at an alarming rate in Australia, with rates of chlamydia and gonorrhoea increasing by 26 per cent and 157 per cent respectively.
Chlamydia is the most reported communicable disease in Australia, with over 110,000 reported cases in 2023, but is often asymptomatic, leading to undiagnosed cases as people remain reluctant to test for the infection due to perceived stigma or lack of awareness. Gonorrhoeapresentswithpainordiscomfort in the throat, eyes, cervix and other areas but, similarly, it is often mistaken for other infections and remains undiagnosed.
Steven Quinlan, sales director at Touch Biotechnology which developed the self-test kit, says it gives “women immediate control overtheirsexualhealthinawaythattraditional clinical testing does not“.
“Touch Biotechnology’s STI self-test kit for chlamydia and gonorrhoea works similarly to the common rapid antigen tests, using a single
swab, buffer solution and test cassette to test for both infections in women, supporting early diagnosis and treatment,” he explained.
“By enabling women to easily test themselves when and where suits them, the self-test kit eliminates the anxiety associated with clinical settings and transforms the experience into a routine part of self-care.
“Knowing their STI status also helps women to communicate better with healthcare providers, access the right medication, and reduce the risk of antibiotic misuse, which can lead to drug resistance.
“Affordable and discreet self-test kits remove the barriers that have traditionally kept women from seeking care. When infections are caught early, swift action can be taken to prevent complications, such as infertility or chronic pelvic pain.
“In underserved communities, where access to healthcare can be limited, this type of testing is especially important. If adopted in healthcare centres, these kits could increase
The facts:
What are chlamydia and gonorrhoea?
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are both bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that affect both men and women. Chlamydia is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It often doesn’t show symptoms, especially in women, but can lead to serious health issues like infertility if untreated. It can be cured with antibiotics.¹ Gonorrhoea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can cause symptoms like painful urination and discharge, but many people don’t experience symptoms. Like chlamydia, it can be treated with antibiotics, though some strains are becoming resistant to treatment.²
What are the risks of untreated chlamydia and gonorrhoea? If left untreated, chlamydia and gonorrhoea can lead to serious health complications for both men and women. For women, untreated chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to chronic pain, infertility, and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. These infections can also increase the risk of HIV transmission.³ Additionally,
testing capacity, reduce costs, and improve overall health outcomes for women and the community.”
The Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea Rapid Test (for female) is now available for purchase at pharmacies, distributors, and online
untreated STIs can contribute to the spread of the infection to others, as well as cause more severe health issues over time. Timely treatment with antibiotics is essential to avoid these risks.
What are the symptoms of chlamydia and gonorrhoea?
Many people, particularly women, may not experience any symptoms, which is why these infections can often go undiagnosed. For women with chlamydia, common symptoms include abnormal vaginal discharge, painful urination, and pain during sex. Some may also experience lower abdominal pain or bleeding between periods or after sex.¹ Gonorrhoea, like chlamydia, may not always present clear symptoms. In women, symptoms often include increased vaginal discharge, painful urination, pelvic or abdominal pain, and bleeding between periods or after sex.
nationwide,tobecompleteddiscreetlyathome. Prior to this, the only option for women to test for gonorrhoea and chlamydia was to complete an individual lab or PCR test. This invasive process could be costly and takes too long, with results typically taking one to three days.
Why local downsizers are choosing to live at Avington
Tucked away in the heart of Point Cook, a new chapter in retirement living is unfolding — one that’s proving popular with locals looking to downsize without compromise.
Avington Living is quickly becoming the community of choice for over-50s who want to stay close to the people and places they love, while upgrading to a lifestyle that offers more freedom, more connection and more security.
While Point Cook has long been celebrated as a family-friendly suburb, it’s now welcoming a new kind of community — one designed for active, independent seniors seeking smart, stylish living. And the best part? Thanks to Avington’s land lease model, which allows homeowners to own their home while leasing the land, there’s no stamp duty, no council rates, and no exit fees — just more money in the bank to enjoy, and afford, what comes next.
For many locals, it’s a chance to unlock the value in their family home and join a vibrant, purpose-built community — one where neighbours become friends, and every day feels like a holiday.
Village manager Skye Tolley says the location is a major drawcard.
“Many of our residents have lived in the area for decades — their kids and grandkids are here, they know the shops, the doctors, the cafe owners. Avington lets them stay connected while embracing a new lifestyle that offers so much more.”
Behind the gates, residents enjoy manicured streetscapes, a clubhouse with everything from an indoor swimming pool and theatre to a gym and library, and a calendar of activities that make it easy to get involved in village life as much or as little as you like.
At Avington, you don’t have to leave
the area you love to find the lifestyle you deserve. With beautifully designed new homes now available, there’s never been
a better time to discover everything this community has to offer. Discover Avington for yourself — display
on 1800 418 341
by
Debut sport derby for health
The first ever senior Point Cook soccer derby will be a big occasion, but the cup on offer will mean a whole lot more than simple bragging rights for the wider Wyndham community.
The Point Cook derby between the Point Cook Jets and West Point, will be raising money for the Wyndham Health Foundation (WHF) with the winning side to claim a cup
WHF general manager Christine Thornton said the idea of the cup was well received by both clubs, which play in the FV state league 4 west competition.
She said that team sport was a great platform for getting people keen about their own health.
“We think it’s extremely important that you don’t need to be going to the gym for hours, you can be out in the community playing a
sport you love,” she said.
“I have seen first hand people re-join their soccer clubs and improve their physical and mental health as well.”
Raffles tickets, meat trays and plenty of WesternUnitedmerchandisewillbeonsaleat the game and money raised going towards the WHF’s goal of raising $85,000 towards a new respiratory machine that detects pulmonary issues for Werribee Mercy Hospital.
While the derby will excite and raise money for the foundation, it is also serving as a lead up to the Wyndham Health Festival in June.
The soccer match kicks off at 8.30pm on Friday, May 16 at Saltwater Reserve.
To purchase Wyndham Health Festival tickets: https://wyndhamhealthfestival.com. au/
Andres Guzman, Christine Thornton, West Point president Guillaume Nollet, Jets president Samantha Dunmall, Jets captain Blake D’Antino, Jets’ coach Tom Petreski (Ljubica Vrankovic) 473963_03
Be part of a close-knit and welcoming community At Avington Living, Point Cook.
‘‘ When you are feeling broken, the way to healing is through helping others ’’
- Liz Skitch
Four walls and a caring lifeline
Thomastown Neighbourhood House manger Liz Skitch runs a community hub from a room inside the local library, offering connection, creativity, and crisis support. Tom Ingleton spoke with Liza about mental health, hidden trauma, and why neighbourhood houses are crucial - but under resourced - pillars of community care.
Tucked away in a quiet room inside the Thomastown Library, you’ll find what might just be the suburb’s most essential service – though most people don’t realise it until they walk through the door.
There’s mental health slogans, and then there are mental health saviours and the latter certainly applies to the Thomastown Neighbourhood House.
“We didn’t know you were here!” is the most common thing people say when they discover the neighbourhood house, manager Liz Skitch says.
But once they do, it doesn’t take long for the truth to land.
Across Victoria, mental health services are overwhelmed and recent studies highlight this epidemic is only getting worse.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, one in five Australians will experience a mental illness this year, yet in outer-metro areas like Whittlesea, access to psychologists remains critically low– just 2.2 per 1000 people.
Liz is many things to the community –actress, comedian and an award-winning performer – one thing she is not though is a psychologist.
However, she is very often the first point of contact for individuals in distress at the neighbourhood house.
“You give me a reason to leave the house,” one regular told her.
Another: “Thanks to your playgroup, I now have friends all over the neighbourhood.”
Inatimemarkedbyskyrocketingloneliness, cost-of-living stress and the long tail of the Covid-19 pandemic, places like this – warm, inclusive, and quietly revolutionary – are holding communities together.
And they’re doing it under the radar, on shoestring budgets, and with a kind of fierce love that can’t be faked.
When someone walks in clearly struggling,
Liz doesn’t offer a script.
“I listen. Then if I can help – I do,” Liz says.
“The heart-breaking thing is that more often than not, the best we can do is provide a safe space and a phone number to a better resourced organisation.”
What Liz wishes for is modest but urgent: a social worker on-site, food vouchers to give, transport for those who are stranded and can’t access services.
“Wedoourbesttopartnerwithorganisations like Foodbank and Whittlesea Community Connections but this is not enough.”
In that one sentence is the quiet frustration of countless front-line workers across Victoria, whoareholdingspaceforotherswhileburning out themselves.
One moment that stayed with Liz this year happened in a surprise setting – the Death Cafè.
It’s one of Thomastown Neighbourhood House’s more unconventional offerings, a philosophy-based program that facilitates conversations about end of life.
“One of the women shared how she lost her daughter to leukaemia, many years ago,” Liz recalls. “I was struck by her resilience and her creativity. Despite her grief, she’s committed to her community. It reminded me you never know what someone’s carrying.”
It’s a lesson that echoes across the programs the centre runs – from playgroups and craft workshops to dance classes and legal aid visits.
The weight of people’s stories isn’t always visible. But it’s there.
Since the pandemic, GPS and psychologists have increasingly referred patients to neighbourhoodhousesforwhatsomecountries call “green scripts” which directs patients to attend places doing activities that boost social cohesion and wellbeing without ever feeling like clinical intervention.
“Social cohesion is at an all-time low. Loneliness is at an all-time high,” Liz says.
“Butwhenanewparticipantjoinsourgroup, wefocusontheirstrengths.Beforelong,wecan see confidence grow and friendships flourish, “When you are feeling broken, the way to healing is through helping others.”
It’s healing through connection – and often, through creativity.
One of Liz’s highlights each week is a Monday afternoon dance party called Lets Move for young adults with disabilities.
“It’s pure joy,” Liz says. “That’s how I keep going – friendship and creativity.”
But Liz didn’t enter this role at a gentle time.
She became manager mid-pandemic, when all the programs were shut down and the focus turned to emergency food relief.
Suddenly, she was running a pantry out of the library foyer five days a week, with food linesstretchingtowardthenearbysportsfields.
“Ifeltoutofmydeptheveryday,”Lizadmits. “It was like trying to fill a bottomless well.”
Theneedhasn’teased.Ifanything,it’sgrown.
Now, with the cost-of-living crisis biting harder, the support of partners like Foodbank Victoria–whichbringsitsmobilesupermarket to Thomastown on Wednesdays – has become essential.
But so too has the advocacy for more sustainable support.
When asked what she wants politicians and mental health services to understand, Liz doesn’t hesitate.
“Neighbourhood houses provide a sense of belonging and purpose – which is often the key to overcoming mental health challenges from depression and loneliness, to stress and anxiety,” Liz says. “We provide safe spaces for people. But across Victoria, most neighbourhood house managers are working full-time hours in part-time roles. Burn-out is common. It’s not sustainable.”
Liz believes every house should have at least two staff present at all times to ensure safety and adequately support the wide range of
services they provide.
And in Thomastown, there is a desperate need for a larger space.
“We’re grateful to the City of Whittlesea and the state government for the support we do have,” Liz adds.
“But demand is surging, and our capacity hasn’t grown with it.”
It’s a confronting question – what would happen if Thomastown Neighbourhood House didn’t exist?
“There are very few spaces people can go to for free without feeling pressure to spend money,” Liz says.
“Shopping centres have become the default for when we have free time these days.”
Liz is also a passionate advocate for public outdoor spaces, encouraging locals to kick a ball around at the oval, explore local parks or visit the new Whittlesea Gardens skate park.
In a community where many women are migrants, caregivers, or survivors of trauma – including family violence – the role of Thomastown Neighbourhood House is bigger than just activity programs.
“We see people rebuild confidence here,” Liz says. “We see healing. Sometimes people come inquietandwithdrawnandafewmonthslater, they’re running art class.”
Asked if she ever worries about her own mental health and carrying the emotional toll of caring for others, Liz is candid: “Stress and anxiety – it’s a big one for me. But I try to remember to breathe“.
And perhaps that’s the greatest power of neighbourhood houses like this one, they don’t just help others find stability –they model what compassion looks like in action, and yet community organisations like Liz’s are chronically underfunded and under-recognised.
As Liz states in a simple yet poignant truth “Neighbourhood houses are more important than ever.”
Thomastown Neighbourhood House manager Liz Skitch. (Damjan Janevski) 475040_02
Spoil mum with her favourite treats on Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to show your appreciation by treating your mum to something truly special – and what better way than with delicious food? Whether you opt for breakfast in bed, a luxurious brunch, an elegant afternoon tea, or a beautifully prepared dinner,theeffortandloveyouputintocreating a memorable meal will mean the world to her. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
Breakfast in Bed
Start her day with a tray full of her favourite breakfast items. Freshly baked croissants or pastries, a bowl of mixed berries, and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice make for a light but indulgent option. If she prefers something heartier, homemade pancakes topped with whipped cream and strawberries, or a classic eggsBenedict,wouldbearealtreat.Don’tforget agoodcupofcoffeeorapotofherfavouritetea to complete the experience.
Elegant Brunch
If a late morning meal suits your plans, an elegant brunch can be a wonderful way to celebrate. Think smoked salmon bagels with cream cheese and dill, a colourful frittata loaded with vegetables, or a fluffy quiche Lorraine. Fresh fruit salads, yogurt parfaits with granola, and freshly baked muffins can add variety and color to the table. A Mimosa or Bellini (or a non-alcoholic sparkling juice) makes a festive touch that feels extra special.
Afternoon Tea
Spoil your mum with a homemade afternoon tea. Arrange a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, such as cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and dill, or egg mayonnaise. Serve alongside scones with clotted cream and jam, mini cakes, macarons, and dainty pastries. Brewing a pot of
high-quality tea and presenting everything on a pretty tiered stand will make it feel just like a luxury hotel experience at home.
Homemade Dinner
For a truly memorable evening, prepare a homemade dinner featuring her favourite dishes. Start with a light appetizer like a fresh Caprese salad or a creamy mushroom soup. For the main course, dishes like roast chicken with garlic and herbs, pan-seared salmon with
lemonbuttersauce,orarichvegetarianlasagna canbeshowstoppers.Pairthemealwithagood wine if she enjoys it. Finish with a decadent dessert such as a chocolate lava cake, lemon tart, or a classic pavlova topped with fresh fruits.
Sweet Treats and Extras Don’t forget the power of homemade sweet treats.Bakingabatchofherfavouritecookies,a moist carrot cake, or a luscious cheesecake can
be the icing on the cake (literally). You could also create a small box of homemade truffles or chocolate-dipped strawberries as a gift.
No matter what you cook or bake, the key is totailorthemealtowhatyourmumlovesmost. Add thoughtful touches like a handwritten menu,avaseoffreshflowers,oraheartfeltcard to make the meal even more special. When it comes to spoiling mum, it’s the love, time, and effort that truly count.
Mum’s the word and so is “yum”! Lock in your Mother’s Day plans with us for a lunch or dinner she’ll love, complete with mouthwatering specials and $3 oysters all day long. Tables are booking up fast, so don’t leave Mum hanging reserve your spot now!
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Call for extended library hours
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Residents are calling on Wyndham council to extend the opening hours of Manor Lakes Library to include four hours on Sunday.
LocalparentsSeanandVeronicaRowsaidthe library’s current open hours, 10am-6pm (8pm Wednesdays) on weekdays and 10am-4pm on Saturdays, make it difficult for families to access the library.
“People who work full-time don’t have access to the library during the week, and a lot of people have swimming lessons, sports and family time on Saturdays,” Ms Row said.
According to Ms Row, travelling to the Hoppers Crossing and Tarneit libraries is not always practical for themselves and other families they know.
“The kids want to go on Sunday, but it’s not always practical to sit in traffic,” she said.
“It’s stressful to find parking at the plaza (Hoppers Crossing), and the next closest is Tarneit – which is just too far for us.”
Mr Row said the library offers children and teenssomethingotherthansporttoparticipate in on a Sunday.
“If you don’t like sports in this area or going to a park there’s really not much else for kids to
do in the area,” he said.
“You also have a lot of high school kids that might not be able to study at home due to various circumstances.”
Mr Row said the couple has written to council about the matter.
“Council have pretty much said they are not going to open on Sunday, so we are at the point where we have to try and get people to help advocate for us.”
“Obviouslyweaskedthequestionandwegot an answer which was pretty wish washy.”
A Wyndham spokesperson said council would like to provide Sunday opening hours
Werribee group brings history to life
Those looking to embrace local history in an action-packed way are invited to have a shot with the Werribee Half Battery (WHB).
In 1889 Andrew Chirnside of Werribee Park raised a half battery of horse artillery as a joint private-government initiative to help in the defence of Victoria.
In 2013 Allan and Maryanne Sterling brought the unit back to life and it has become one of Victoria’s most prominent military living history groups.
Every year, the Half Battery plays an integral role in important ceremonies such as the Werribee Anzac dawn service and performing the gunfire salute for Victoria Day in the city.
Whether sporting their ceremonial blues or their khaki field uniforms, there is plenty that the group can do.
The WHB an original 12-pounder cannons from the late 19th century and a number of small cannons as well.
Apart from ceremonial events, the group
participates in marksmanship competitions with artillery and small arms, historic military encampments,engineering,lateVictorianstyle military training and social events.
Membership is open to males and females over the age of 18 years and new members are most welcome.
Those interested can reach out via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/279889620572710 or email: werribeehalfbattery@gmail.com
for all its library locations but is unable to due to funding restraints.
“Over the years, the state’s contribution has declined to just 17 per cent, leaving councils to cover the remaining 83 per cent, the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said the shift has created significantfinancialandoperationalchallenges for the council and the current funding model does not reflect the diverse needs of the community.
Local Government Minister Nick Staikos was contacted for comment.
More shops for Tarneit
Construction is set to commence on a new shopping centre in Tarneit.
The $41 million Bluestone Hub shopping centre will be delivered by developer-builder Oreana, and is set to include 4200 square metres of lettable space on Gaits Drive.
The new town centre will feature approximately 23 shops, including a supermarket, food and beverage, gym, medical centre and a chemist.
Already committed to leasing at the town centre are Yes Yes Grocery, Ray White, a cafe, barber, laundromat and Aspire Early Education.
A notable design feature of Bluestone Hubistheplannedpedestrianwalkway, whichwillconnectthewaterwaystothe west with the parklands and historic homestead to the east once built.
This link will host three community spaces, which may be suitable for alfresco dining, retail, medical services, or a gym.
Oreana managing director Tony Sass said he expected the new shopping precinct to be a ‘one-stop destination’ for locals living in the Bluestone and Harlow estates.
“This new town centre is perfectly positioned between two fast growing communities, offering key retail and services to enhance daily life for residents,” he said.
“These centres play a crucial role in shaping vibrant, well-serviced neighbourhoods and we take pride in delivering high-quality retail spaces that enhance the everyday lives of local residents.“
Bluestone Hub is expected to be completed in mid to late 2026.
Ryan Lewis, Nathan Jackson, Jack Krol, Josh Ferguson and Allan Sterling in their khaki field uniform. (Maryanne Sterling)
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.
But imagine being overseas for Anzac Day at places where the battles actually took place. Each year thousands of Australians follow 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, remembrance travel takes place throughout 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 thenwentontoserveontheWesternFrontfor 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,GallipoliandtheWesternFront are incredibly meaningful and memorable places to visit, with many remnants from this history easy to be seen.”
It feels like something very Australian to do – to visit these places we have heard of at Services and read about in history books. But for some battlefield pilgrims the trip is 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’s third visit to the Western Front with 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.
“I have his diary that describes the places 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 Lone Pine and visit Shrapnel Gully Cemetery 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
For those seeking alluring booking incentives to make the final decision on where and when to travel, here are twelve offers from Viking.
The offers apply to select Asia ocean voyages sailing between September and November 2025, so those who are yet to book haven’t missedtheboatforcompetitivelypricedtravel this year.
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 a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $15,800 per couple based on 7 November 2025 departure.
Twenty-two-day Pearls of Japan and China from Tokyo to Beijing, includes Tibet, is priced from $14,295 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $13,800 per couple based on 31 October 2025 departure.
Fifteen-day Coastal Jewels of China from Beijing to Hong Kong or vice versa is priced from $5,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,800 per couple. Departures on 5 and 19 September and 3 October 2025.
Twenty-Two-day Best of China from Hong Kong to Beijing, includes Tibet, is priced from $12,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,800 per couple based on 5 September and 3 October 2025 departures.
Twenty-Two -day Wonders of China, a round trip from Beijing, includes Tibet, is priced from $12,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,800 per couplebasedon19September2025departure.
Fifteen-day Jewels of Japan & China from Tokyo to Beijing or vice versa is priced from $6,295 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,200 per couple based on 31 October and 14 November 2025 departures.
Seventenn-day Komodo & the Australian Coast from Bali to Sydney is priced from $7,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $10,800 per couple based on 14 and 16 November 2025 departures.
Fifteen-day Southeast Asia & Hong Kong from Hong Kong to Bangkok is priced from $7,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $10,800 per couple based on 19 October 2025 departure.
Twenty-day Classic China Discovery
from Hong Kong to Beijing or vice versa is priced from $10,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $10,800 per couple based on 5 and 14 September and 3 October 2025 departures.
Fifteen-day Far Eastern Horizons from Hong Kong to Tokyo is priced from $10,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $8,800 per couple based on 4 October 2025 departure.
Twenty-Six-day North Pacific Crossing
from Vancouver to Tokyo is priced from $6,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $8,800 per couple based on 9 September 2025 departure.
Thirteen-day Bangkok, Bali & Beyond from Bangkok to Bali is priced from $6,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $6,200 per couple based on 2 November 2025 departure.
For more information, please visit www. 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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Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa
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Amsterdam to Budapest or vice versa
15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 12 GUIDED TOURS
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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.
Suva, Honolulu, Los Angeles (overnight in port), Puerto Quetzal, Panama Canal (scenic cruising), Willemstad, Oranjestad, Miami, Ponta Delgada, Southampton
Complimentary Oceanview to Balcony upgrade
Real estate mogul buys United
A prominent US real estate family has been announced as the new majority owners of the A-League club Western United.
It was announced that the Kaminski family had agreed to acquire a controlling stake of the Tarneit-based franchise and its parent company Western Melbourne Group (WMG) on Friday, May 2.
The club is set to be acquired under the KAM Melbourne, a subsidiary of the family’s KAMSportscompanythatownsandmanages sports assets in Europe and North America.
Chairman and co-founder Maciek
Kaminski said the building of the proposed 15,000-seat Wyndham City Stadium and adjacent sporting precinct was a part of the commitment.
“The prospect of being the first sports team to fully own their stadium is exciting and we look forward to accelerating the development ofthisandseeingitfilledwithlocalcommunity and supporters,” Mr Kaminiski said.
He said that the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the western suburbs was also a big driver in the company’s maiden investment in Australian sports.
A walk for men to talk
Men in Wyndham will have the opportunity to walk, talk and express themselves in a non-judgemental environment while enjoying a free coffee.
The Men’s Reset & Walk will take place at Lollypop Creek Community Centre in Werribee, from 8-10am on Saturday, May 10.
Hosting the session through his group Core Journey Transformation, Cameron Terrill said the idea came from his own need to speak openly about his thoughts with other men in a non-judgemental space.
“I’ve found that when you allow yourself to be vulnerable, it’s surprising how many other men you meet who are experiencing similar thoughts and struggles,” he said.
“Yet, in Australian society, we’re often discouraged from expressing vulnerability, which leads to many men silently battling with their own thoughts.”
Having recently participated in a three-month men’s immersion program with a diverse group of men from all walks of life, Mr Ternill said sometimes a stranger can be the easiest person to open up to.
“Personally, I’ve found it can often be easier to open up to another man who isn’t a close connection, as they bring no preconceived ideas or biases into the conversation and can simply listen,” he said.
“Male friendships are especially important in the age of social media because of the pressure to present only the ‘highlights’ of our lives but rarely the struggles or failures.”
Mr Terrill said he would like to expand into adedicatedwomen’sresetandwalkexperience.
Cameron Terrill will be hosting a Men’s Reset & Walk through his group Core Journey Transformation on May 10. (Damjan Janevski: 474515)
Relay smashes goal
Members of the Wyndham community took their stand against cancer when Relay For Life returned to Werribee on Saturday, May 3.
Between 12-10pm, 454 participants from 31 teams completed laps around the Victoria University Sporting Complex to signify their commitment to a cancer-free future.
All money raised will fund the Cancer Council’s research, prevention and support services,and2025provedtobeagreatouting.
The initial goal of raising $70,000 was not only reached but exceeded, with more than $77,000 pouring in.
Committee chair Ron Croce and his wife arestalwartsoftheevent,havingparticipated for 20 years.
“It was one of those things that we thought was a good cause to get behind,” Mr Croce said.
“Little did we know then that we’d
“The combination of integrating sport and real estate to make a meaningful impact in the local community in the west attracted us to this opportunity,” he said.
“The continued development of local talent, both male and female, and creating grassroots to elite pathways under the Western United brand is top-of-mind for us.“
WMG chairman Jason Sourasis said that the group was “thrilled” by the purchase and that he expects the move will bring social and economic benefits for Wyndham and the wider west.
“Most importantly, it allows for the accelerationofsportingpathwaysforboysand girls in the west of Melbourne, allowing them to dream big” while supporting their local teamsandhopefullyfollowinginthefootsteps of their sporting idols,” Mr Sourasis said. The transaction is subject to successful completion of the necessary approval processes by Wyndham council, the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) and regulatory processes by Football Australia (FA).
experience cancer ourselves, with both my in-laws, my sister- in-law and my father being diagnosed,” he said.
“Cancer doesn’t discriminate – and with one in two Victorians diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, we’ll all know someone affected it by it.”
The day was particularly special for Mr Croce, as it was his last one at the helm.
Relay For Life is a global movement that celebrates cancer survivorship, commemorates those who have died from cancer and funds cancer prevention measures.
According to the Cancer Council more than 134,000 participants take part in Relay For Life events nationally, raising about $14 million each year.
Anyone wanting to join the Wyndham Relay for Life committee or volunteer can head to the Relay for Life website.
11 Mauvelous Avenue, Tarneit
Welcome to 11 Mauvelous Avenue, Tarneit. An exceptional opportunity awaits with this titled vacant block of 238m2 (approx.), perfectly positioned in a highly sought after location. This prime land offers the perfect canvas for creating the home you’ve always envisioned. Situated in a thriving, well-established location surrounded by reputable schools, scenic parklands, and everyday conveniences, this premium allotment provides an enviable lifestyle.
Team Wild and Wooly at the 2025 Wyndham Relay for Life (Supplied)
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
National Seniors
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of National Seniors meets atthe Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.
0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@ outlook.com
Men’s Reset & Walk
Get Men active in the community. Connect with other like-minded men. Enjoy a free coffee. Core Journey Transformation is inviting men to come along, get active and connect with other like-minded men over a free coffee. Held from 8-10am on Saturday May 10 at the Lollypop Creek Community Centre in Werribee.
Walking Football 4 Health Victoria runs at Eagle Stadium every Friday morning between 10-11am. Walking Football is a low-impact, modified version of football where players are required to walk instead of run. Ideal for individuals over 50, those recovering from injuries, or anyone looking for a gentle yet engaging way to stay active.
Mick, mick_trim1@hotnail.com
Practise English with Let’s Talk
A weekly meet to help members of the community improve their practical English conversation skills to help with daily tasks such as shopping and booking appointments. Meets 10am each Saturday at Werribee Church of Christ, 200 Tarneit Road, Werribee
Bronwyn, 9741 6051
Wyndham Rotary
If you have an hour or two to volunteer in a local project Wyndham Rotary would love to hear from you. If you have an idea and you want some help taking the idea to action, contact us. If you want to connect with friendly, like-minded people, come and chat to us. Meeting locally each week, you will be made welcome.
Julie, 0406 196 630.
Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour
Assist with service projects in the local community and overseas. The club meets at 7pm on the first Tuesday of the month at the ‘By the Bay Cafe’ in Wyndham Harbour.
Mamode, 0469 888 126
Wyndham Combined Probus
A social club for retired or semi-retired people. There is a broad range of social activities to suit all interests such as lunches and brunches each month, day trips, theatre outings and longer trips away. Hear interesting speakers and make new friendships. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Iramoo Community Centre, Honour Ave, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm.
Judy Marsh, 0411 034 311, or wcpc1306@gmail.com
Point Cook Combined Probus Club
Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook.
Cathy Guiterrez, 0421 188 129, or cathyguiterrez@tpg.com.au
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Werribeeks members Carmel Gerdsen, Debbie
(Ljubica Vrankovic) 475439_01
Wyndham Ladies Probus
Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am.
Pat 0411 316 795
Point Cook VIEW
The Point Cook Day VIEW Club (for ladies) meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Point Cook Library, 1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook. Members enjoy afternoon teas and outings. New members welcome. VIEW Is part of the Smith Family.
Catherine, 0407 726 852.
Watton Group
A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at the Eco-Living Centre at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month.
Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com.
Adult community garden group
The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow.
8742 3688
Seniors House of Fun
The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing.
Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@ grangecommunity.org.au
Seniors club
The Werribee Senior Citizens Club meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea.
0403 041 499
Diabetes Support Group
The Werribee Diabetes support provides an opportunity to hear from experts on how to manage your diabetes, to share information on diabetes and to engage with other diabetics Meetings are at the old council shire buildings at 10am every second Friday of the month.
Bob, 0409 252872.
Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus
The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips.
0408 123 669
U3A Werribee
The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes-activities specifically designed
and
for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres.
Rick, 0402 299 220.
Bingo for all
The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm.
9741 5525
Western Budgerigar Club
The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars.
Don, 0414 975 862
Dementia Carers Group
IPC Health Dementia Carers Group is held on the first Tuesday of the month, from 12.30-2.30pm. The group is for people who care for someone with dementia or a similar condition associated with memory loss. It empowers carers through education, social connectedness and emotional support while socialising and meeting people in similar situations. Registration is essential.
Leah Hewitt or Joyce Chan, 1300 472 432 or https://bit.ly/48QFwBa
Werribee River Association
New volunteers to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace.
admin@werribeeriver.org.au, or www. werribeeriver.org.au
Conway
John Tulloch.
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.
Sketching
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
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?
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)
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 centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 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?
Still keeping ahead of the game
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
It’s amazing how the Toyota Corolla has evolved over the years.
Back in the day it was basic, vanilla transport 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.
Sittinglowerthanbeforewithasteeplyraked windscreen, it presents a predatory nose, with a designthatisasgoodasanythingfromEurope.
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 in combination with white, grey, red, silver and 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, plus Bluetooth, satellite navigation, 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).
An upgraded Toyota Safety Sense suite starts with the pre-collision safety system which adds motorcycle detection, intersection collision
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 also need to be approached with caution, as the 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 probably should be and you might find it a little 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.
Of note Corolla’s cousin the Lexus UX scores 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
There was plenty of sporting action around the grounds and courts on Saturday. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica
was out shooting some of the action.
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
Vrankovic
United seals home final with win over Auckland
Auckland’s 14-game A-League Men’s undefeatedstreakisoverwithWesternUnited pulling off a confidence-boosting 4-2 win.
Michael Ruhs punished the premiers from a poorturnovertoopenthescoringonSaturday at Ironbark Fields in the 18th minute before Noah Botic and Angus Thurgate hit the scoresheet.
Auckland substitutes Neyder Moreno and Jesse Randall scored in the 62nd minute and five minutes into added time respectively to keep the home side alert.
ButagoalbyWesternUnited’sOliverLavale in the final minute settled the matter.
The result was not enough for Western to realise their Asian Champions League Elite aspirations after Melbourne City defeated Sydney FC 5-1 earlier in the day to seal second place in the final regular-season round.
John Aloisi’s side at least sealed third and a home elimination final next week against Adelaide United.
Auckland and City will enjoy a week off before hosting the first of a two-legged semi-final.
It was the first time the Black Knights had suffered a defeat since their 1-0 loss to Perth Glory in January this year.
“Sometimes it happens after you win the premiership. It happened to me before at Sydney (FC),” Auckland coach Steve Corica said.
“The boys just switched off for a little bit, but we’ve got the finals to start thinking about and that’s our main focus right now.
“Johnny said, ‘See you in the final’. I said, ‘I hope not’.”
Aloisi chipped in: “I said, ‘I hope we see you in the grand final’. We’ve got a lot of games to play before we get there.
“He did say he hopes not because we’re the teamthatbeatthemtwicethisyearandmaybe
Wyndham on the board
By Tara Murray
Wyndham is on the board in the Big V women’s championship division.
It took a while for the new look Wyndham side to click and they were able to do that on Saturday night against the Warrnambool Mermaids.
Travelling down to Warrnambool, Wyndham started the better of the two sides and led by eight points at quarter time.
The Mermaids levelled the scores in the second quarter with it all tied up at the main break.
Wyndham was able to respond and get back out to an 11 point lead heading into the final break.
There were no last quarter nerves as Wyndham finished the job to come away with a 73-56 win.
Coach Jason Bryant was happy with the result.
“After a strong start to the game taking an eight point lead into quarter time, we had a rough second quarter, letting Warrnambool back into the game.
“Resetting at half time, Wyndham came out
strong in the 3rd quarter building an 11 point lead at three quarter time.
“The fourth quarter saw us consolidate that lead into a solid win. Strong performances off the bench and from our starters locked in the win.
Birgit Snorradottir top scored with 31 points while also having 16 rebounds, three assists and four steals.
Chelsea Suemai had a solid night with 10 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals, while Ayan Ali contributed 10 points and five rebounds.
The Wyndham women now face the Sunbury Jets this Saturday night.
The Wyndham’s season was again close without getting over the line in the championship division, twice on the weekend.
Facing Melbourne University on Saturday night, Wyndham trailed early before levelling the scores at the main break.
Scores were still level at the final change.
The Angels managed to kick the lead out late to come away with a 102-94 win.
Wyndham coach Stuart McMurray said they had their chances but weren’t able to finish.
he’sfeelingwe’reabitofabadomenforthem.”
Ruhs found the back of the net when opposition midfielder Marles Francois, receiving the ball from Nando Pijnaker, gave up possession under hot pressure from Western United’s Tomoki Imai.
With the Auckland defence rattled, Ruhs easily slotted for the opener in injured striker Hiroshi Ibusuki’s absence.
Ibusuki is expected to make his return from a calf injury next week.
Botic slotted his 12th goal of the season with a header in the 23rd minute following a corner kick.
A superb pass from Riku Danzaki looped over defender Pijnaker before Thurgate buried forthehomeside’sthirdgoalinthe49thminute. Western United’s win comes after welcome news of KAM Melbourne, a subsidiary of real estate moguls KAM Sports, taking a majority stakeintheclubandparentcompanyWestern Melbourne Group.
The club, whose finances have been under a microscope in recent months, also received a three-window ban from FIFA on registering new players earlier in the week.
Umpire boost
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, the Western league was involved 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.
Malik Miller top scored with 27 points for Wyndham.
Wyndham was back in action on Sunday against the Camberwell Dragons.
The Dragons led at quarter time by a point, before Wyndham led by that margin at the main break.
A 30-23 third quarter gave the Dragons a little buffer which would be the difference in the end with the Dragons winning, 94-90.
McMurray said the side couldn’t finish down the stretch but were very competitive and battled hard.
Junior Garbrah scored 21 points, had six rebounds and four assists for Wyndham.
Miller had another good game with 21 points, while Simon Bradbury had eight points and 14 rebounds.
Wyndham faces RMIT University and Blackburn Vikings this weekend in another double header.
Wyndham’s youth league division 1 men’s side had a 135-109 loss to the Casey Cavaliers.
Coach Aaron Bensted said offensively it was a really big step in the right direction with the ball movement, execution and shot taking.
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.
Birgit Snorradottir. (tjphotos)
Joanne Guelas, AAP
Noah Botic. (AAP Image/Will Murray)
Suns focused on development of female talent
It’s been a pleasantly surprising start for the Suns in the Western Football League women’s season.
After making finals in their first season, the Suns have had a little bit of change in the off season.
With that in mind, coach Leanne Meyer has changed the focus and the goals for the team this season.
“We had a bit of turnover in the list and lost about a dozen players,” he said. “There’s a lot taking a year off football.
“Pre-season was tough in the trenches but we slowly got there each week. We never gave up hope and in my experience, players often come in late during the pre-season.
“That is what happened. Between two
months ago and now we’ve picked up eight or so players.
“It’s given us a bit of breathing space.”
Meyers said they had a lot of younger players and players stepping up to play football for the first time.
She said it meant that it was a different dynamic and the message to the playing group had changed this year. The side has also increased its coaching panel to focus on development.
“They are learning how to play the game and how to play with each other,” she said. “Rather than focusing on winning, it’s about keeping it simple with one of two key messages.
Meyers said with games now being filmed
they have the opportunity to watch back matches and look at things they can improve the second time they play teams.
She said the message might change then, but it’s about that gradual improvement.
The Suns have started with three wins to start the season, but know there’s big tests ahead for the side.
Meyers said they were yet to play any of the other finalists from last season in the first three rounds.
“After this week we start to play the finalists,” she said. “We will be challenged by them.
“As long as we play with integrity and maintain the key messages.
“Win or lose, that is irrelevant, we want to
Suns find a way to win
By Tara Murray
The Suns have been tested and challenged early in the Western Football League division 2 but have been able to find a way. With some injury concerns and unavailabilities, the Suns have struggled to get their best side on park in the first four rounds.
Despite that, the Suns sit with a 3-1 record. Suns coach Roger Hand said he was pretty happy with what the group was putting together.
“We’ve had a fair few missing and a few injuries,” he said. “We’ve been challenged and responded and I’m really happy.
“They played our way and we’ve got some good momentum up.”
On Saturday, the Suns faced an undefeated Albanvale side.
The two sides have built up a bit of a rivalry the past few years firstly in division 3, and now division 2.
Hand said speaking to the playing group it was a match they were always up for and one that was hard fought.
“We felt like there was a breeze and there were changes in momentum,” he said. “We were up for the challenge and they stuck with what we are trying to teach.
“We were able to run out the game better than Albanvale.”
The Cobras led at each of the three breaks, with the margin going from 20 points at quarter time to just six points at three quarter time.
The Suns kicked the only four goals of the final quarter to come away with the 14.18 (102)-12.9 (81) win.
Hand said the game plan they wanted to play was dependent on fitness and the work they had done had shown through.
PeterTomelty,PatrickHynesandMatthew Wright were the Suns best.
Hands said he felt like when they had their best side on the park they would be among the mix.
“Blake Jago was unavailable on the weekend and Dean Cachia has a calf injury,” he said of some of those missing.
“The first two or three rounds we didn’t have all recruits.”
be united and sticking together. We’re happy with the start, but we know there will be more challenges.”
The Suns faced Point Cook Centrals on Saturday in round four.
The Sharks in their return to the competition are yet to win a match. It was the Suns that came away with the points, winning 8.4 (52)-4.3 (27).
JenniferPlumb,MatildaBrownandLyndal Ridder were named the Suns best.
For the Sharks, Chloe Elkington, Emma Davis, Nya Chuol were their standouts. Elsewhere, Werribee Centrals beat Yarraville Seddon, 4.8 (32)-4.6 (30).
Tara Murray
Tough day out
The tough start for Werribee Centrals in the Geelong and District Football League continued on Saturday.
It hasn’t been the start to the season for theCenturionstheywouldhavebeenafter having played finals last season and that tough run continued against Inverleigh.
Saturday’s match started with both teams struggling to convert on the scoreboard, with just one goal apiece in the first quarter.
The Centurions had a better second quarter and were able to open up a 13 point lead at half time despite again missing some chances.
The Hawks got going in the third quarter and kicked five goals to take the momentum into the final quarter with a 12 point lead. They continued the momentum in the final quarter to come away with a 10.16 (76)-8.15 (51) win.
The Centurions kicked just two goals in the second half as they missed more opportunities in front of goal
Carmelo Saliba was the only multiple goal kicker for the Centurions, kicking three goals. Bradley Carlton, Tate Camilleri and Michael Culliver were named the best for the Centurions.
After four rounds, the Centurions sit last as the only team without a win.
Meanwhile, it was also a tough day for the Centurions A-grade netballers.
Inverleigh led by three goals at quarter time, before doubling the lead heading into the main break.
The margin continued to grow in third quarter as the Hawks won the term, 10-7.
Hand, who joined the side this season, said he expected it to take some time before it all comes together.
“We’vegotanewcoachandnewstructure,” he said. “It’ll take some time and we want to be playing our best football at the back end of the season.”
Overall, Hand said things were tracking well at the club with massive buy-in from everyone wanting to make the Suns a stronger side and potentially a club that can head up through the grades.
The Suns face West Footscray this Saturday.
In other results, Wyndhamvale remains undefeated after beating Laverton, 21.17 (143)-8.7 (55).
Lewis Stanton kicked 11 goals for the Falcons.
Tarneit had a tough day out against Braybrook, losing 25.15 (165)-5.7 (37).
Samuel Roberts, Connor Le Noury and Caleb Sciberras were the Titans best.
In division 1, Werribee Districts beat Caroline Springs, while Point Cook Centrals lost to Altona.
Iverleigh lifted a gear in the final quarter as it piled on 19 goals to just six to come away with a 52-30 win.
Ashlee Brunato shot 12 goals for the Centurions as they had four different options in the circle.
Veteran shooter Ellie Tubbs had her second game back in the grade after having last season off as she had a child.
The Centurions sit in 10th spot a spot that is unusual for them, as one of three teams without a win after four games.
The Centurions are on the road this Saturday,facingCarolineatShellReserve.
Jarrod Vella. (Jacob Pattison)
Blake Taylor. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 475479_14
The Tigers make it two on the trot
By Tara Murray
Werribee played some of its best football of the Victorian Football League season so far on Saturday, but still has plenty of work to do.
The Tigers made it two wins in a row on Saturday as they took on Frankston at Melbourne Airport Avalon Oval.
Aftergettingtheirsecondwinoftheseason the round before, the Tigers wanted to keep the momentum going.
They started well against the Dolphins and led by 18 points at quarter time.
The Tigers then led the Dolphins back into the game in the second quarter, with the margin back to just four points.
There were no panic stations for the Tigers at half time and they addressed a couple of small things.
It worked with the Tigers able to win both the third and fourth quarters on the way to a 19.15 (129)-14.6 (90) win.
Tigers coach Jimmy Allan said they were happier with that performance but they weren’t content.
“It was good and we played really well in patches,” he said. “We still have a bit of work to do and we made it hard for ourselves.
“We don’t want to concede that much on the scoreboard.”
Allan said they felt that they hadn’t defended badly, but were their own worst enemy at times with ball in hand.
He said they made some crazy decisions and execution errors that they were punished by the Dolphins a lot of the time.
Allan said it was about the players making the right decisions at the right time.
“We needed to tidy that up and if we adjusted to that we should be alright,” he said “It’s up to the players to make the right decisions and understand the situation and attack accurately under pressure.
“Good sides like Frankston will make you pay for it.”
Allan said after they tidied things up in the second half they were much better and it showed on the scoreboard when they played some of their best football of the season.
He said they still felt when they played their best that it stacks up with the rest of the competition.
Hudson Garoni kicked six goals for the Tigers, while Jay Dahlhaus got into the action with five goals.
Allan said both were really good, while Harry Maguire and Brady Wright were also good as key targets.
He said their small brigade again showed why it is among the best in the competition
“It is our strength of ours,” Allan said. “They’ve got back to their best footy the last couple of weeks, that manic pressure.
“Dahlhaus got on to the end of a few as did Jack Riding. Zac Banch, his pressure and work rate was good, as was Flynn Young’s.”
Dom Brew had 31 disposals and was good in the middle again according to Allan, while ruck Sam Conway was strong.
Allan said captain Jesse Clark led the way in the defence along with Louis Pinnuck and
the list of good players could have gone on.
The win moves Werribee to eight on the ladder with a 3-3 record.
The Tigers are back at home on Saturday at 12.05pm against the Box Hill Hawks.
“I think they are close to the best side in
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the competition,” Allan said. “They have talent right across the board and it will be a good test for us.
“It’s nice to play the best sides and it brings the best out in us. Hopefully it’s another good day for us.”
Questions can be emailed to tarneitudf@wyndham.vic.gov.au and feedback shared on the Loop by 20 March on https://theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/tarneitudf
Meanwhile, North Melbourne Werribee lost its first match of the Victorian Football League Women’s season on Saturday. Facing Essendon, the Kangaroos lost 5.5 (35)-4.8 (32).
Jake Smith. (@bvphotography.a)
Werribee players watch on at the huddle. (@bvphotography.a)
