70 abuse charges
By Cade Lucas
Babies less than six months old are among the eight children allegedly sexually abused by an employee at a Point Cook childcare centre who also worked at 20 other centres across Melbourne’s north andwest.
Point Cook man Joshua Brown, 26, was arrested on May 12 and has since been charged with more than 70 offences relating to the alleged sexual abuse of children, which occurred while he was an employee at Creative Gardens Early Learning Centre, Point Cook, between April2022andJanuary2023.
The charges against Brown include the sexual penetration of a child under 12, attempted sexual penetration of a child under 12, sexual assault of a child under 16 and producing and possessing child abuse material for use through a carriage service.
He was remanded in custody and will appear before the Melbourne Magistrates CourtonSeptember15.
Police said the families of the eight victims have been notified and have been provided with all available support services.
Brown is believed to have worked at 20 different childcare centres between 2017 and 2025, and the Department of Health is recommending 1200 children who
may have come into contact with him during this period be tested for infectious diseases.
While families of children recommended for testing have already beennotified,ahotlinehasbeensetupfor parentswhowanttoknowforsure.
MostofthecentreswhereBrownworked are in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.
They include: Nino Early Learning Adventures–PointCook(January15,2017 – June9,2019);ExplorersEarlyLearning–Point Cook, (August 18, 2019 – October 27, 2019, November 10, 2019 and December 22, 2019); Adventurers Education –WyndhamVale(November25,2019– July 24, 2020); Wallaby Childcare Centre–Sanctuary Lakes (April 13, 2021 – May 25, 2021); Nido Early Learning School –Werribee (June 21, 2021 – July 16, 2021); Greenwood – Point Cook (February 14, 2023 – March 10, 2023); Little Blossoms Child Care Centre – Werribee (August 14, 2023 – August 17, 2023); Milestones Early Learning – Werribee (August 14, 2024 – August 16, 2024); Milestones Early Learning – Hoppers Crossing (August 19, 2024 – August 19, 2024); and Papilio Early Learning – Hoppers Crossing (August 22, 2024– March12,2025).
Continued page 3
A night under the stars
Emmanuel College students swapped beds for a night outdoors as they held their annual winter sleepout on Friday.
The sleepout is part of the college’s social justice program, where students choose to spend a night outdoors to raise awareness and funds in support of those experiencing homelessness.
Social justice captain Kayleigh said she believes in using her voice and actions to raise awareness.
“I felt it was important to show solidarity with people experiencing homelessness and to support the St Vincent de Paul Foundation, which
does life-changing work,” she said. Kayleigh said from the experience she learnt “how uncomfortable, cold and isolating it can feel to sleep without the security of a home,” and it made her realise how strong and resilient homeless people are.
Faith captain Matthew said the most striking thing he learnt was how quickly things can fall apart.
“It reminded me that homelessness isn’t some distant issue, it’s something that could happen to anyone if their situation changes,” he said
Sam, Maja, Matthew and Kayleigh all slept outdoors. (Damjan Janevski) 485343_01
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Council funds patrol trial
By Laura Michell
Wyndham council will launch a trial privatesecuritypatrolinTruganina,despite some councillors branding the proposal as anoverreach.
Councillors adopted the city’s 2025-26 budget during a council meeting on June 24. Included was $372,000 for a 12-month trialofprivatesecuritypatrolsintheBemin Ward.
The idea for a private security trial in Truganina was part of an election pledge made by Cr Preet Singh during last year’s councilelections.
The proposal attracted significant feedback from the community, with 43 per
centofrespondentstocouncil’sdraftbudget opposing the trial, 34 per cent wanting to keep it in the budget, and 23 per cent wantingthetrialchanged.
Cr Larry Zhao unsuccessfully attempted to extend the trial to include his wardWilliamsLanding.
“Residents in Williams Landing Ward are particularly worried about this issue because Sayers Road is a boundary of Truganina security patrols trial, which if it is successful, will mean any anti-social behaviour will simply relocate to Williams Landing, Tarneit, Hoppers Crossing, or Werribee and we will need a Trump border walltoprotecttheotherpartsofthecity,”he said.
Crs Susan McIntyre and Jasmine Hill attempted to have the trial removed from the budget altogether, proposing that it be replacedwithfundingformeasuresthatare proven to deter crime such as lighting and CCTV, council’s Coffee with a Cop program or a municipality-wide youth safety and engagementgrantsprogram.
Both councillors’ attempts to do away withthetrialwerevoteddownbyamajority ofcouncillors.
Cr McIntrye said security patrols fell outside the core responsibilities of council andwas“notequitable”and“notagooduse ofratepayers’funds”.
She questioned whether residents who already pay for private security patrols of
Dive in for free swim lessons for adults
AquaPulse is encouraging members of the adult members of the Wyndham communitytojumpinthedeepend.
The sports and leisure centre has joined a partnership with Community Bank– Altona and Laverton to deliver a water safety initiative to teach adults fromculturallyandlinguisticallydiverse (CALD)backgroundshowtoswim.
Part of the WynSwim adult program, which commenced in 2024, classes are now being offered for free through subsidies.
For many CALD residents, especially those new to Australia, the surf and waterways can be unfamiliar and hazardousenvironments.
By addressing these disparities in swimming ability and water safety knowledge, the new initiative seeks to reduce drowning rates and build communityresilience.
Mahendra Patel, leader of the United Seniors Group, said the opportunity wouldbelife-changingformanypeople.
“Many of our members have never had the opportunity to learn to swim,” he said.
“Thisprogramismorethanjustlessons – it’saboutconfidenceandfeelingsafein thewater.”
WynSwim co-ordinator at AquaPulse Stacey Mancer said adults learning to swimisincreasinginthearea.
“We have always had good numbers of children attending our swimming lessons, but there are more and more adults now taking up the opportunity to learntoswimtoo.”
Localwatersafetyhasbeenakeyfocus area for Community Bank– Altona and Laverton in recent years, liaison officer LisaFieldsaid.
“This is exactly what community banking is about – responding to local needs, supporting vulnerable groups, andbuildingastronger,safercommunity foreveryone,”shesaid.
areassuchasSanctuaryLakes,Mambourin and Manor Lakes, would be reimbursed by council if the Truganina patrol was approved. Cr Hill stated that latest Crime StatisticsAgencydatashowedthatWerribee, HoppersCrossingandTarneithadrecorded thehighestnumberofcriminalincidentsin theyeartoMarch,
“Yet we are being asked to support a private security patrol in Truganina … which has significantly fewer incidents by comparison,”shesaid.
Speaking in support of the trial, Cr Singh said it had the “potential to significantly rebuild the community’s trust in their local council” while Cr Maria King said it would beadeterrent.
Slow down in Synnot Street
Synnot Street’s speed limit will be reduced from 60km/h to 50km/h in a bidtokeeproaduserssafe.
The change will occur from Thursday, July 17 and has been made duetoroadsafetyandvisibilityissues along Synnot Street especially at car parkentryandexitpoints.
This road safety measure follows a notice of motion from now-mayor Mia Shaw that highlighted road safety and visibility issues along Synnot Street, especially at car park entryandexitpoints.
Following the notice of motion, an independent road safety audit was conducted inline with Australian standards, recommended the changes to speed as well as the removal of 16 parking spaces to improvesightlines.
Councillor Shaw described the change as one that was small, but wouldmakeabigimpact.
“This is a common sense, evidence-based approach that puts safety first and will provide a safer-environment for drivers, cyclistsandpedestrians,”shesaid.
“We’ve listened to community concerns about visibility and safety along,particularlynearcarparkexits along Synnot Street and have acted accordingly.
“The reduction to to 50 km/h will haveaminimaleffectontraveltimes, butwillmakeamajordifferencewhen it comes to protecting vulnerable roadusers.
“This initiative balances the need for road safety with the community’s access needs, helping to create a safer, more accessible city centre for all.”
Point Cook childcare worker faces 70 abuse charges in ‘distressing’ case
From page 1
Brown also worked at Only About Children – Williamstown (October 28, 2020 - March 30, 2021); D.O.T.S Occupational Therapy for Children –Footscray(March1,2024– April30,2024); Aussie Kindies Early Learning – Sunbury (August 13, 2024 – August 21, 2024); Kids Academy – Melton (September 12, 2024); Milestones Early Learning – Bundoora (May 8, 2025); and Aussie Kindies Early Learning–Keilor(February11,2025).
Police said Brown first came to their attention during normal detective work in April. He was not previously known to
authoritiesandhadacurrentworkingwith childrencheck.
ActingCommanderJanetStevensonsaid establishing his employment history and identifying all the alleged victims was the reason for the lag time between him being arrestedanditbeingmadepublic.
“This is an incredibly distressing and confronting investigation for all involved and I know many members of the community will hear this news and feel enormouslyconcerned,”shesaid.
“The most important thing for our investigators was that we needed to identify the victims involved. These are some of the most vulnerable members of
our community and the conversations police have had to have with their families were no doubt life changing in the worst possibleway.
“There will be people in the community whohearthisnewsandfeelveryconcerned abouttheirownchildren.Parentswhohad a child at a centre at the time of the man’s employment are being notified today and a website has been set up by the Victorian Government with further information for impactedfamilies.”
Premier Jacinta Allan said she was sickenedbytheallegations.
Aspartoftheinvestigation,detectivesare also examining evidence of an allegation
ofoffendingatasecondchildcarecentrein Essendon.
Investigatorsareworkingwitharangeof other agencies including the Department of Health, Commission for Children and Young Persons, Family Safety Victoria, Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, Gatehouse, Department of Education, and the Royal Children’s Hospital to ensure the right support servicesareinplace.
Details: https://www.vic.gov.au/ childcare-centres-investigation
United Seniors Group leader Mahendra Patel has welcomed the adult swimming classes. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 482520_02
We’re building an alternative to the West Gate Bridge and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re putting the finishing touches on the new West Gate Tunnel, an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. When the tunnel opens in 2025, you can enter on the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road, and take advantage of new exits to Footscray Road, Dynon Road or CityLink.
While we work, disruptions could affect your travel
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Sunbury Line 23 to 29 June
Watergardens to Sunbury
8.30pm to last train, 30 June North Melbourne to Sunshine
From 11pm 4 July to 13 July
Werribee and Williamstown lines From 11pm 4 July to 6 July
Road disruptions: Lane closed
North Melbourne to Newport and Werribee
West Gate Freeway, Spotswood 13 July to mid August Outbound
By Laura Michell
Wyndham council has adopted its 2025-26 budget – but not before councillors made several amendments to the document which was presented to the community during May.
The budget was adopted during council’s June 24 meeting, despite some councillors opposing the inclusion of $372,000 for a private security patrol trial in Truganina.
During the meeting, councillors moved eight amendments to the budget, some relating to the private security patrol trial, while others related to
community infrastructure.
Cr Peter Maynard’s proposal for council to conduct a survey to gauge support for Manor Lakes Library opening on a Sunday was accepted by his colleagues and added to the budget, as was Cr Maria King’s request for a potential location for the Wyndham Vale Men’s Shed to be identified as part of the implementation of council’s Wyndham Vale North Master Plan.
Cr Josh Gilligan successfully added funding for a signalised pedestrian crossing at Hummingbird Boulevard andWoottenRoadinTarneit;adedicated Wyndham North Events and Activations
School welcomes visitors Projects added to budget
Suzanne Cory High School recently welcomed 18 students and two staff from its sister-school - Shanghai Foreign LanguageSchool.
The sister-school program between the two schools was renewed in November 2024, with the agreement signed by both schools’principals.
The partnership reaffirms both schools’ commitmenttoglobalcitizenship,cultural exchangeandacademicexcellence.
During their stay from June 19-27, visitingstudentsparticipatedinarangeof culturalandeducationalactivities.
ThisincludedtoursofMelbourneaswell asvisitstolocallandmarkssuchasWerribee
Open Range Zoo and Sovereign Hill, along with immersive classroom experiences.
The visiting students were hosted by a SuzanneCoryfamily.
In return, a group of Suzanne Cory students will travel to Shanghai in September.
The reciprocal exchange offers students from both schools’ chances to develop international friendships whilst broadeningtheirglobalperspectives.
Jagrav and Marraj (Ljubica Vrankovic) 483647_01
Roulettes on display over Point Cook
Blue skies welcomed 500 enthusiastic aviation fans to the RAAF Museum, at RAAFBasePointCook,towitnesstheloops and rolls of the first full Roulettes display overthebaseinsixyears.
The Point Cook display was also an opportunity for three new Roulette pilots to showcase their skills for their first public display of the new Roulettes season with Flight Lieutenant Alex Christison, Flight Lieutenant Rich Taylor and Flight LieutenantLucasGrotejoiningtheteam.
The display was well received with RAAF Museum Officer in Charge Wing Commander Michelle McPhail thrilled that hundreds of excited fans turned out for the display and stayed to hear from the Roulettes after landing for a special meet andgreetfortheRAAFMuseuminteractive flyingdisplay.
“The interactive flying display is where our RAAF Museum visitors get to not only
see some incredibly skilled flying from talentedandhighly-trainedmilitarypilots, but they also have the opportunity to get ‘up close and personal’ with the pilots and crew before and after flying displays,” she said.
“Therewerelotsandlotsofwowsfromthe large crowd gathered to see the Roulettes’ returntotheRAAFMuseum.“
For Flight Lieutenant Alex Christison it’s a full circle moment, growing up watching the Roulettes practice displays and now becomingthenewRoulette2.
“I’ve always had a passion for flying and growingupseeingtheRoulettesflyingnear my home definitely gave me inspiration to join the ADF, flying Blackhawks for the Army, before transferring to RAAF as a flyinginstructor,”hesaid.
“My first display being at the spiritual home of the Air Force it has been a really specialwaytostartmytimewiththeteam.”
Program; and a suburb review to reform the size and total number of suburbs in the municipality.
Cr Susan McIntyre was unsuccessful in her bid to commit council to consider contributing any additional funding needed to re-develop Point Cook’s Saltwater Pavilion.
The project has already received $5 millionfromthefederalgovernmentand $1.4 million from the state government, but is not included in council’s budget.
The proposal was knocked back amid concerns it did not specify how much council would contribute.
On the other hand, Cr Jennie Barrera’s proposal for council to provide $600,000
over four years for concept designs for thepavilionredevelopment,cappingthe total project cost at $7 million, was accepted.
Cr Larry Zhao made an unsuccessful attempt to extend the private security patrol to Williams Landing Ward, while Cr McIntyre and Cr Jasmine Hill were unsuccessfulintheirattemptstoremove the trial from the budget altogether.
The budget includes a $165.1 million capital works program, which mayor Mia Shaw said had been informed by what the community had told council mattered most to it.
The budget also includes an average rates rise of 3 per cent.
Roulettes come to Point Cook. (464 Squadron)
(From back left) Zi Qi, Wye, Jinghi, Ruichen (front) Arisha,
Murder most foul in Werribee
Williamstown amateur historian Barb
McNeill
is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the mysterious tale of Italian immigrant Giovanni Garretto whose murder in 1932 has never been solved.
Giovanni Garretto, a 34 year old market gardener, lived alone in Tower Road, Werribee. His humble home was a sparsely furnished, two-roomed hut in the centre of six acres of a holding sub-leased from Mr George Abbott.
BorninVizzina,Sicily,Giovannihadbeen inAustraliaforthreeyears,sevenmonthsof whichhadbeenspentinWerribee,working from dawn ’til dusk growing cabbages, potatoes,garlicandpeas.
If he had any vices, nobody knew of them.Hisliferevolvedaroundfarmingand saving all his money to bring his wife and child to Australia. He was frequently seen showing photographs of them, exclaiming over their beauty and his love for them. If all went well, they would be joining him in early 1933. A hard worker who lived with extreme frugality, he was respected by his employer and liked by the Italian community,itcouldbesaidthathehadnot asingleenemyintheworld.
Buthedid.
On the afternoon of 4 September, 1932, a friend named Giuseppe Lentini, called in foravisit.HewashorrifiedtofindGiovanni lying near a water tank at the rear of the hut,shotdead, hisheadalmostcompletely blown off. A partly opened razor blade lay by his left foot; at his right foot stood a cup full of water. There were no signs of a struggle.
Sub-Inspector Deeley arrived with Constable Luca from North Melbourne, who was fluent in Italian. At first they pursued the vengeance theory. The local Italians pooh-poohed the idea. Sicilian feuds were settled with knives, not guns. The police tactfully made no mention that the Chicago Mafia had spawned no fewer than 90 murders in 1930, all committed by Sicilian gun-men. Constant rumours continued to swirl about the Camorra and Mafia lurking in Werribee, but the Italians were adamant: If the killer were Italian, he woulduseaknife,notafirearm.
So, if Giovanni Garretto was not known to have membership in or dealings with any secret society, what was the motive - jealousy, hatred, payback, or a woman? There were whispers of a Melbourne girlfriend whom Giovanni visited on Sundays. If she existed, whoever she was, she made no effort to come forward. Detectivessooncrossedheroffthelist.
Examination of the hut indicated that nothinghadbeenstolen; therewasnosign of ransacking, or of opening the bundle of letters from Mrs Garretto. Giovanni’s few silver coins were lying near the bed. But when the detectives reached under the pillow, they found something which demonstrated that the victim had been in fear of his life - a fully loaded automatic pistol, with seven cartridges in the magazineandoneinthebarrel.
The case became even more mysterious. The lack of any sign of struggle in or near the hut clearly indicated that Giovanni Garretto had been taken by surprise. What was truly baffling was that the killer had left not the faintest sign of his presence. In order to reach the hut, he would have had to walk over dozens of vegetable furrows yetnotasinglefootprint orevenpartofone was ever found. How did he manage on a rainy night tohaveleftnotevenone mark inthemud?
The only verifiable connection to the killer that was found at the scene was a piece of wadding from a No. 6 cartridge normallyusedforduckshooting.
Adding to that was the very strange story told by Mrs Christina Searle, whose holding adjoined Garretto’s . On the night of the murder, she put her children to bed and then stayed in her kitchen whilst her husband was with Giuseppe Lentini at a BoardofWorksdanceinWerribee.Atabout 10 pm, she heard a dog barking, and the sound of a shot coming from the direction ofGarretto’shut.
On 19 September, according to Mrs Searle, detectives from the CIB visited her for a statement and before they left, turned back her clock by several hours, with instructions not to touch it again or leave the house until they returned. No explanation for this bizarre behaviour, if indeed it had occurred, was ever supplied.
An unnamed neighbouring farmer reported seeing a well dressed “foreigner”, dark and stocky, on the Friday afternoon talking to Giovanni Garretto near the hut. They shook hands and the stranger departed. The stranger was seen again,
in the vicinity of Tower Road, heading towards Giovanni’s hut at about 8 pm on the night of the murder. Who he could be? Nobodyknew.
The inquest at the Melbourne Morgue was held on the 28 November 1932, the Coroner finding that Giovanni Garretto had died of gunshot wounds to the head, unlawfully and maliciously murdered by somepersonsunknown.
There is a faint possibility that the gardener was murdered due to jealousyperhaps a lover spurned by the woman who chose to marry Giovanni Garretto, travelling to Australia to track down his rival and wreak revenge - but somewhat unlikely, especially as nothing in her letters to her distant husband indicated anytroubles.
The most likely reason for this murder is organised crime. Then as now, crime syndicates had an interest in controlling wholesale prices, and were renown for their total lack of conscience when it came to dealing with those who refused to play their game. This was a cool, calculated execution, committed by someone who vanishedlikeaphantom,nevertobefound, after destroyingthedreamsofthewife,the
childandtheindustriousmarketgardener.
The killing was never solved. The razor and cup near the body can perhaps be explained, as some cultures believe that the dead require to be neat and refreshed during their journey into the next life. Clearly, these objects were placed there afterthemurder.
On the 15 September 1932, a sad little scene took place at Werribee Police Station. The farming implements and bay horse owned by the murdered man were auctioned off. The sale raised a paltry sixteenpounds.
The queer story of the CIB altering the clock 15 days after the murder makes no sense at all if the visiting men were really police. Possibly they were members of a syndicate, with the altering of the clock intended to give them an alibi about the time of their call. Warning Mrs Searle to stay indoors would prevent her noticing whatsortofcartheyweredriving.
But the swarthy “foreigner” seen twice in the vicinity, the insistence that a gun would never be used to settle a feud, the absence of footprints, the pistol under the pillow, and no known motive – all present animpenetrableandenduring mystery.
Barb McNeill ponders the mystery of who shot Giovanni Garretto.
Win trip of a lifetime
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Buses
More than 450 extra bus trips will run across Wyndham each week, following a state government boost to four major bus routes. The state government said the extra trips would deliver better connections to train services at Werribee, Tarneit and Wyndham Vale stations and major local destinations including Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre, Manor Lakes Central Shopping Centre, Tarneit Central Shopping Centre and Wyndham Vale Square Shopping Centre. The extra trips have been added to bus routes 170, 180, 190 and 192.
Roads
RACV is reminding Victorian motorists that from Tuesday, July 1, they will be required to slow down to 40km/h when passing incident response vehicles that display flashing lights of any colour. The change, announced in April this year, has been welcomed by RACV and its roadside assistance team, following a two-year campaign to review Road Rule 79A. RACV general manager of automotive services Makarla Cole urged motorists to be aware of the rule change so that they could create the safest environment possible for roadside and incident response workers. Non-compliance with the updated rule may result in a $961 fine.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
A Viking Longship passes the Gymir Bridge Towers in Cologne.
Music is for everyone to enjoy at Wyndham Lodge
In the sunny music room at Baptcare’s Wyndham Lodge Residential Aged Care community,thechoirisingoodvoice.
Lyric sheets are handed around, but many people know the words to by heart. ‘RollOuttheBarrel’,‘Daisy’,‘It’saLongWay to Tipperary’, ‘On the Road to Gundagai’, ‘SidebySide’–everysongisaclassic.
There is a lot of good singing, a lot of laughter and a lot of smiles. The choir is a weekly highlight, and making a meaningfuldifferenceinalotoflives.
“There is abundant research that shows choirsinginghasbenefitsforolderpeople,” says Joyce Wanjiru Nyanjiru, Wyndham Lodge’s residential care and services manager.
“This includes mental and emotional wellbeing, stress reduction, cognitive function and respiratory health, plus an increased feeling of togetherness. And it’s fun!”
One of the leading lights of the choir is residentTomWebb,whohasamagnificent tenor voice. He remembers singing in the Williamstown High School choir at the age of 12. He can play several musical instruments, and is a virtuoso on a highly unusualapparatus–themusicalsaw!
“I inherited a musical saw from my father,” Tom recalls. “He could only play a couple of tunes, but I watched him and then taught myself. It’s something pretty rare.”
Thesawisplayedwithabow(likeaviolin) and bent to produce notes of different pitch. Tom has played his saw all over the world, including in Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart–whosharesTom’sbirthdate.
“I was in a caravan park in South Australia and heard a group of musicians practising. I joined in with my saw, and
Jean
they invited me to perform with them the next night in Adelaide at the Swiss Club. I played in the Swiss Club in Melbourne
regularlyafterthat.”
There is no saw playing at Wyndham Lodge, but a warm and welcoming
and Maureen. Mature in age. Young at heart.
residents’ choir with a great sense of togetherness. For more information, call 132278.
Welcome to Wyndham Lodge Aged Care, a truly unique community.
• Person-centered care
• Lush greenery and peaceful riverside walks
• Short stroll to shops, cafés and bakeries
• Fun daily activities
• A close knit home that feels like family
To book a tour and a giggle with Jean and Maureen
Wyndham Lodge resident Tom Webb warms up before choir.
Come home to peace of mind - every single time
There’s nothing quite like escaping the chill of winter to soak up a little sunshine –whetherit’sabeachsideholiday,aroadtrip up north, or visiting loved ones. At Lifestyle Communities, we make it easy to enjoy your travels without worry. Our low-maintenance homes are designed so you can simply lock up and leave with
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enjoy resort-style amenities just moments from your door. Whether you’re feeling social or seeking a quiet moment to yourself, it offers the perfect balance of connection and calm.
Plus, as a Lifestyle homeowner, you have exclusive access to Club Lifestyle – our coastal retreat on the Bellarine Peninsula. It’s great for a relaxing long weekend or a midweek escape. For the adventurers, motorhome hire is also available, giving youevenmorewaystoexplorethecountry, your way.
Curious about a lifestyle that lets you do more of what you love? Discover it today at lifestylecommunities.com.au.
Wyndham Central College offers lessons in Hindi
As the only Hindi Beacon School in south western Melbourne, Wyndham Central College is proud to champion cultural inclusivity and global citizenship through theintroductionofHindilanguageclasses in2025.
Thisinitiativereflectstherichdiversityof ourcommunityandpromotesintercultural understanding within a vibrant and supportivelearningenvironment.
Hindi, one of the most widely spoken languages globally, connects Australia with India, a connection made even more significant by the growing Indian-Australian population in Wyndham.
Feedbackfromstudentsandfamilieshas highlighted the success of the program in both language acquisition and cultural appreciation.
Beyond the classroom, students have embraced vibrant cultural experiences. Holi, the festival of colours, transformed the campus with a colour run, traditional sweets, and reflections on unity and renewal.
This event was supported by the ConsulateofIndia,Melbourne,andalocal MemberofParliament.
Diwali, the festival of lights, featured student-created rangoli, diya decorations, and performances symbolising the triumphofgoodoverevil.
The college also marked International Day of Yoga with mindfulness and yoga sessionsforstaffandstudents.
The program’s well-structured curriculum caters to learners at all levels and fosters sustained interest. Students have also showcased their language skills in competitions organised through the Consulate of India, winning awards and growinginconfidence.
Wyndham Central College’s Hindi programismorethanlanguageinstruction,
it’s a celebration of culture, community, and connection. It equips students with thetoolstothriveinamulticulturalworld, nurturing global citizens with a deep appreciation for language and cultural diversity.
Enter the ghost sign realm
Published last year, ‘Melbourne Ghost Signs’ – created by cultural archaeologist and former Seddon resident Sean Reynolds – presents images of old and often hand-painted signs across Melbourne and the stories behind them. His ghost signs fascination started in the west, where Oscar Parry met him to talk about some of the signs and their significance.
A‘ghost sign’ might sound like something haunted or related to the undead, but in the eyes of cultural archaeologist and former Seddon resident Sean Reynolds, these relics are full of life, humanity, and tales of community.
Ghost signs are old and often hand-painted signs that have been preservedorleftonbuildings,andalthough some are more faded and degraded than others, Reynolds makes sure to keep their stories clear and preserved.
There’s an artistry to them … they’re hand-painted signs, they have … almost a humanity to them
- Sean Reynolds
He created a book called ‘Melbourne Ghost Signs’ that was published by Scribe Publications last year and includes a collection of photographs and accompanying stories behind these spectral signs.
In the book, these have been split into chapters across Melbourne’s CBD and the west, south, east, and north.
It was in the west that Reynolds took his first step into the realm of ghost signs, where he now hosts regular ghost sign photography walking tours with the Footscray Traders Association.
First becoming fascinated with the signs after noticing them on repetitive daily lockdownwalksin2020,hesaidtheybegan to catch his eye.
“I’d walked past a lot of these signs dozens and dozens of times and never thought about them, but then I started noticing them … they’re kind of beautiful in and of themselves,” Reynolds said.
“There’s an artistry to them, and there’s kind of almost like this human touch to them – they’re hand-painted … so many signs now are big vinyl or big plastic signs, but these hand-painted signs, they have … almost a humanity to them,” he said.
“[I] wasn’t happy just photographing the signs, I wanted to know the story behind them, and it just kind of spiralled out from there.”
Creating an Instagram account initially just for his own records, his account now has more than 30,000 followers and has attracted interest for several reasons.
“People will comment, and they’ll tell their stories … they’ll have a family connection…youknow,‘mydadworkedat that factory,’ … ‘hey, that was my milk bar when I was growing up.’ And then, some of it is just kind of collective nostalgia or stories,” Reynolds said.
“The Skipping Girl sign – that’s such an icon of Melbourne, and people … almost without fail, someone’s got a story about it. Andalotofitisfromtheirchildhood–they remember seeing the Skipping Girl sign … they were coming in from country Victoria to visit their grandma or something like that,” he said.
Through sharing ghost signs online, Reynolds has met other enthusiasts, with people from across the globe documenting the signs in their own communities.
AthisFootscrayghostsignwalkingtours, Reynolds said that people of all ages come along for various reasons.
“You look at these old signs and stories and you’d think it skews older because the signs are older, the buildings are older – but I’ve found a lot of young people are interested in their community,” Reynolds said.
“A lot of young people have grown up, and spent their adult lives – and their childhoods now – everything’s digital, so everything’s online … I think there’s a bit of this kind of push collectively for people to really start to understand their community … so I’ve had a lot of young people show up to these tours, or I’ve had people [show up] who’ve never been to Footscray,” he said.
Reynolds said personal stories are often
shared at his tours, such as a man whose parents moved to Footscray in the 1940s and who remembered an Italian-only cinema in the suburb.
“Footscray’s always been a suburb of immigrants, so you had the Irish and then Italians and Greeks moved here and then … Vietnamese people and Chinese people and now we’ve got a lot of people from Ethiopia and Africa and the Middle East … with that has always been industry,” Reynolds said.
He said along the Maribyrnong River, there were plenty of textile plants, wool mills, and slaughterhouses.
“What you start to find is Footscray, in particular, was such a huge part of industrial Melbourne … it’s kind of the rise of that and then by the 1970s, that kind of globalisation takes over and we start to see these places closing down … I try to be fairly agnostic about it – I try not to put too much political spin on it – but there’s no questionthatweusedtoreallymakethings here,andnowwedon’tasmuch,”Reynolds said.
To those interested in hunting for ghost signs themselves, he recommended searching through alleyways and at the backs of buildings, as frontage signs are often painted over or covered up.
“I think it’s important though to document these things to remember the stories behind them, because the stories behind them are very human – they’re human stories,” Reynolds said.
“Just kind of being aware of what was here before, that everything has a story – I think that’s it.”
Details: instagram.com/melbourne_ ghostsigns
A ghost sign on the Yarra Coffee Palace building in Yarraville. (Sean Reynolds)
Cultural archaeologist and former Seddon resident Sean Reynolds in front of a ghost sign for one of the oldest Vietnamese bakeries in Footscray. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 483010_01
Sustainable Fiji
KYLIE MITCHELL-SMITH
Pr/ Travel Writer/podcaster
Www.travellingsenorita.com
It’s a short plane ride across the South Pacific for an island getaway on Malolo Island,Fiji.
It’s a place where you are welcomed by the Fijian charm the locals are known for, crystal clear waters and groves of tropical palms - the smell of fresh seafood fills the air.
From Nadi International Airport, take a ‘fast’ 40 minute boat ride to the dreamy Likuliku Lagoon destination, and quickly realise there’s more to this luxe resort than meets the tourists eye- like their conservationprogram.
Likuliku (meaning calm waters) is an adults only and ultra luxurious island resort, armed with an environmental team specifically engaged to adopt clean and green practises-to preserve the island, the localvillageanditspeople.
Theresortislocatedinapristine,natural landscape and is part responsible for the coralreefrejuvenation,waterfiltrationand solarpowerforthevillageandguests,along with preservation of the Islands iguana-an endangered species. Word has it, there was onlyoneIguanaleftonMaloloIsland,then the Likuliku team developed the breeding program, spotted another and presto the iguana population lives to fight another day.
Likuliku is home to one of Fiji’s first overwater bungalows, spacious and sustainable in design with the pristine environmentinmind.
The rooms are styled with local artists waresanddelightfullyinvitetheoutsidein. Relaxontheexpansivedeck,witha sunset
cocktailin-hand,asswarmsoftropicalfish and a baby shark swimming on by outside thedoor–mmmmthere’sasonginthat.
An active coral rejuvenation scheme has been implemented by the resort’s conservationteam,inspiredbythesuccess oftheMaldivesprogram.
The scheme is partly funded by Mars Confectioner. A chocolate company collaborating with a coral reef? Yep makes sensetome.
Large steel and sand encrusted webs are delicately placed on the ocean floor to entice the coral to rejuvenate and in turn-multiply, similar to garden beds on land.
Along with supporting an education centre, solar power and a water filtration plant in the neighbouring village of Yaro,
the resort-is leading the way in sustainable tourism from the sea up. The active coral nurseries and thriving iguana sanctuary, add to the beauty of the vast dry forest that coverstheIsland.
Before heading back to the mainland after our stay we take a short boat trip to visit the village of Yaro and immerse in the culture, meeting the friendly community and admiring their local handicrafts along the way. We support local and buy beaded jewellery gifts and a set of coconut cups, idealforourkavaceremonythatevening.
Checking out of Likuliku Lagoon Resort, the committed team encourage guests (in a gentle, Fijian way) to pledge support for their growing iguana population or you canbuyacoralwebtoaddtotheseagarden floor,weoptforthelatter.
As the sun sets on Malolo Island, we reflect on time spent snorkelling straight off our bure deck, Fijian fire feasts by the beach and pop-up picnics on secluded islands- a knowing that the Likuliku team are taking responsibility for preserving the regionintothefuture.
EAT
FIJIANA RESTUARANT
SALUWAKI RESTAURANT
SOLIS RESTUARANT DENARUA ISLAND
PLAY
• MOCIU PRIVATE ISLAND PICNIC
• TATADRA SPA STAY
SOFITEL FIJI RESORT
LIKULIKU LAGOON RESORT
Warriors.
A view to the restaurant from the hammock.
Overwater Bure view from lounge.
Artisan breakfast breads.
The fresh seafood.
Meet the endangered Iguanas.
Overwater from overhead.
Full-Board River Cruise
3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing
Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse
Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat
Taste Riverland food and wine
Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour
Hotel Stays
3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast
1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Fully Escorted Barossa Valley Tours
Full day Barossa Valley tour with
lunch and wine tastings including: Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout and Vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre
Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours
2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park and Flinders Chase National Park
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
Enjoy unhurried days in Barcelona, Rome or Venice. Wander storied streets, savour local flavours and absorb the city's unique rhythms. Our city stays include breakfast daily, airport transfers and a dedicated Viking Host to assist you.
Enjoy a seamless transition from hotel to ship. Then step on board your elegant Viking ship and begin a new journey of discovery. Be warmly welcomed by world-class staff, settle in and relax, knowing everything you need is included.
The journey continues with a new destination. Spend three days in timeless Istanbul or float above Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys. Our destination experiences include flights, transfers and are fully escorted by a Viking Tour Director.
ACCC backs local journalism
Country Press Australia has welcomed the release of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s final report from its Digital Platform Services Inquiry, describing it as a landmark moment that recognises the systemic challenges facing regional and local news publishers in the digitalage.
CPA president Andrew Schreyer said the report confirmed what independent publishers had known for years, that global tech giants are using their market dominance to control how journalism is accessed, valued and monetised in Australia,tothedetrimentoflocalnews.
“Thisreportconfirmswhatourmembers have experienced for a long time,” Mr Schreyersaid.
“Local and regional publishers continue tofacedeeplyentrenchedpowerimbalances in their dealings with the major digital platforms. This has real consequences for the sustainability of journalism in our communities.”
Mr Schreyer said the federal government must now move quickly to implement the News Bargaining Incentive legislation, especially in light of Meta’s refusal to renew deals with publishers since announcing their withdrawal from news arrangements lastyear.
“Meta has walked away from compensating publishers entirely, and others like TikTok have never come to the tableatall,”hesaid.
“The incentive legislation is essential to ensure that all major platforms are required to contribute to the journalism they benefit from, either by negotiating in good faith or bymakingafairpayment.”
He also emphasised that public funding support for journalism, including through the News Media Assistance Program (NewsMAP), must be directed to publishers
BUSINESS PROFILE
who are actively producing local public interestjournalism.
“Fundingshouldgotothejournalistsand newsroomswhoareonthegroundcovering councils, courts, community stories and localsport,”MrSchreyersaid.
“These are the voices that hold local institutions to account and help communities stay connected. They need directandmeaningfulsupport.”
The ACCC report draws attention to a range of broader issues threatening journalism, including a lack of dispute resolution options for small publishers, harmful practices by dominant platforms, and the growing use of AI tools that can devalueordisplacecrediblenews.
“We support stronger platform obligations to prevent scams and fake reviews, and we also support enforceable
DFV Lawyers protects clients from harm and injustice
DFV Lawyers is Melbourne’s first domestic and family violence law firm, founded by Director and Principal Criminal Lawyer Carmella Acciarito, Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme CourtandHighCourtofAustralia.
Carmella’s guiding principle is clear: “You do not have to put up with it! Take thatnextstepforwardandcallme.”
DFVLawyersisanexclusivespecialist firm dedicated to domestic and family violence law, as well as criminal cases linked to domestic and family violence such as unlawful assault, common assault, recklessly causing injury, stalking, child abuse, child protection, intervention orders, and personal safety orders including breaches initiated by Victoria Police and Child Protection applications.
Carmella regularly appears in Magistrates’ Courts across Melbourne, including Werribee, Heidelberg, Dandenong, Ringwood, and Sunshine. She also represents clients in County Court Intervention Order Appeal hearings and Melbourne Children’s Court for Child Protectionmatters.
DFV Lawyers advocates for Applicants and Respondents, assisting individuals of all genders including non-binary, marginalised, and vulnerable groups ensuring their protection from harm and injustice. The firm is committed to justice for those denied fair administration within the criminal justicesystem.
transparency requirements that ensure fair treatment of news content,” Mr Schreyer said.
“We need to see the major platforms treated as gatekeepers with clear responsibilities when it comes to how news isranked,labelledandmonetised.
“Weurgethegovernmenttoconsiderthe rise of AI and its use of publishers’ content and the need for publishers to be fairly compensated for this as part of the News BargainingIncentiveframework.”
He said the rise of AI-generated content andthecontinuedspreadofmisinformation on social media made it more important than ever for Australians to understand whatcrediblejournalismlookslike.
“Improving digital literacy must be a nationalpriority,”MrSchreyersaid.
“Australians need the tools to distinguish fact-basedjournalismfrommisinformation, especially in an environment where AI and algorithms are shaping so much of what peoplesee.”
Country Press Australia represents almost 240 independently owned newspapers that serve regional, rural and suburban communities across the country. These publishers are embedded in the communities they serve and continue to providevitalpublicinterestjournalisminan increasinglydisruptedmediaenvironment.
Mr Schreyer said the ACCC report providedaclearpathforwardandurgedthe governmenttoact.
“We strongly support the ACCC’s push for a new digital competition regime and external dispute resolution so our members canoperateonalevelplayingfield,”hesaid.
“Our regional, rural and local news outlets are the backbone of Australia’s democracy and they must be supported through practical reforms and fairer digital marketconditions.”
Andrew Schreyer is the president of Country Press Australia, and publisher of the Warragul and Drouin Gazette.
Principal Criminal Lawyer Carmella Acciarito.
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ENTERNOW foryourchancetowinan8-day“RhineGetaway”cruisefortwo,departingBaselon 22November2026,includingreturnflights.Therivervoyagewilltakeyouthroughfourenchanting countries,offeringsixguidedtours,allonboardmeals,andenrichingculturalexperiences.
Prizeinclusions:
CruiseDuration:8days,7nights
Accommodation:Standard(CategoryF)Stateroom Destinations:4countrieswith6guidedtours
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TotalPrizeValue:$16,190percouple
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
NAIDOC Week event
IPC Health invites members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to a free NAIDOC Family Fun Day on Sunday, July 6, 11am-2pm at the Wunggurrwil Dhurrung Centre, Wyndham Vale. Enjoy a petting farm, art activities and a deadly feed. Registrations essential.
Lisa Saunders, 0491 089 069, Leehann Watt, 0490 794 923 or Alex Rojas, 0428 487 456
Werribee craft festival
Applications are now open for stallholders at the 45th annual Werribee Craft Festival. All sites are indoors and stallholders must attend both festival days. It will be held on Friday, November 7, 5-9pm and Saturday, November 8, 9am-5pm.
www.werribeecraftfestival.com, or werribeecraftfestival@hotmail.com
Resume workshops
Wyndham Council is providing resume workshops for young people aged 15-25. Book into a one-on-one session, online or in person, with an education and youth services librarian to get some help crafting your resume and answering interview questions. Sessions run at 9am, several times a week.
resumehelp@wyndham.vic.gov.au
Walking 4 Health Victoria
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 50 and older, those recovering from injuries, or anyone looking for a gentle yet engaging way to stay active.
Mick, mick_trim1@hotnail.com
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 49 Watton Street, Werribee, at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month.
Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com
All Abilities Netball
All Abilities Netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2.
Phil, 0437 078 739
Walking Netball
Walking Netball is a low impact, no running, no jumping version for those that love the fun, friendship and activity of a weekly game of netball. Sessions are run every Thursday during school terms, from 8pm, at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2.
Phil, 0437 078 739
With One Voice Wyndham Choir
With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free;
and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee.
wyndham@withonevoice.org.au
Practise English with Let’s Talk
A weekly meet to help members of the community improve their practical English conversation skills to help with daily tasks such as shopping and booking appointments. Meets 10am each Saturday at Werribee Church of Christ, 200 Tarneit Road, Werribee
Bronwyn, 9741 6051
Laverton Community Choir
Open to new members and everyone is welcome. If you enjoy singing, and are curious about joining a choir, come along and try out your vocal cords with our fun and inclusive group. No audience or musical knowledge required. Meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton from 7-9pm, with supper provided.
Sue, 0418 386 147 or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com
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 Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm.
Kaye Angel, 0407 551 694, or wcpc1306@gmail.com
Wyndham Ladies Probus
Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am.
Pat, 0411 316 795
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
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 10am at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook.
Cathy Guiterrez, 0421 188 129, or cathygutierrez@tpg.com.au
Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus
The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips.
Yvette, 0411 952 706
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 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
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is Augie, 4, trying out a tiny tots circus class in Footscray. (Damjan Janevski) 486806_01
From film to stage
As Elle Woods says in the cult film Legally Blonde, ‘Believing in yourself never goes out of style’.
Thatsentimenthasbeenfullyembraced by youngWilliamstownperformerArchie Newbegin,whoisamongthecastforanew stage version of Legally Blonde opening later this month.
Newbegin, 18, plays the role of Nikos, a pool boy who is a key witness in the murder trial which is central to the plot.
“It’s a pretty minor role but I’m also involved in the ensemble as well,” Newbegin explained.
“Ive been in the ensemble for a few shows pre-Covid but this is my first with my own role.”
Acting and singing is something Newbeginenjoysasacreativeoutletwhile he studies space science at RMIT.
“I’ve always been into musical theatre but it’s more of a side thing that I do.”
Intheleaduptotheshow,Newbeginand the rest of the cast have been rehearsing three times a week.
The role of Elle is played by Tasmanian Emily McDougall. McDougall and Newbegin join a dynamic cast that brings together fresh faces and seasoned performers, highlighting some of Melbourne’s finest emerging performers.
The award-winning musical follows the journey of Elle Woods as she tackles
stereotypes, defies expectations, and proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style!
The powerful messages from the show and film have stood the test of time and elevated the character of Elle Woods to a celebrated feminist icon who defies traditional stereotypes of women - as she rises to the challenges placed in front of her. Elle fearlessly demonstrates that femininity and intelligence can coexist, and that women don’t need to sacrifice their identities to succeed.
“It’s a really fun show, lots of really incredible dance numbers and the cast is absolutely incredible so it will be a really fun experience for the whole family,” said Newbegin.
Legally Blonde: The Musical, is presented at the The National Theatre in St Kilda for a limited season from July 12 by independent musical theatre group Theatrical Inc.
Tickets are now on sale for Legally Blonde:TheMusicalathttps://booktickets. com.au/legallyblonde/
Travel back in time to learn about dinosaurs
Learnabouttheancientworldofdinosaurs at the Wyndham Cultural Centre these schoolholidays.
Dinosaur Time Machine will teach youngsters about the science of dinosaurs throughpuppetry,theatreandcircus.
This fun and educational show is aimed atchildrenagedthreetonineyearsoldand featuresalife-sizedT-Rex.
Twoshowswillbeheldat11amand1pm, running for 50 minutes each. Plus, there will be a hands-on workshop at 2.30pm –sign up for this on the day after the second performance.
Make sure you also check out a special visitor who will takeover the forecourt of thecCentre… a breathtaking 10-metre inflatable plesiosaur, by artists A Blank Canvas.
Dinosaur Time Machine is among the shows gracing the stage of the refreshed culturalcentrethroughoutJuly.
The centre was temporarily closed late last year for refurbishment and maintenance works to the building with a new modern bar, foyer and amenities, upgrades to seating and improvements to the theatre including a hearing loop and new audio-visual equipment as well as refurbished dressing rooms and back of housefacilitiesforperformers.
Powerhouse bands King Stingray and ElectricFieldswillbethefirsttoexperience therevampedcentre,takingtothestageon Saturday,July5t7pm.
Perón and pirouettes
An upcoming youth ballet productionwillsharethestoryofEva Perón,withrehearsalsinMeltonand aperformanceinMooneePonds.
A group of 38 young dancers from several schools across the western suburbs and rural Victoria will perform EVA – sharing the story of former Argentinian first lady Eva Perón.
Herstorywillbepresentedthrough a blend of classical ballet, tango and Latinrhythms.
Eva Perón, nicknamed Evita, was an Argentinian activist, politician, actress, and philanthropist who served as First Lady of Argentina from1946beforedyingin1952.
AproductionbytheWesternBallet Project, the cast for EVA was formed three months ago and will all meet forthefirsttimeonlyfivedaysbefore show day – an incredible feat from choreographersanddancers.
Western Ballet Project artistic director Sophie O’Donnell said that when choosing the topic for this production, she was first drawn to themusic:tango.
The Melbourne Chamber Orchestra will mesmerise and enchant audiences with performances including the Australian debut of a forgotten concerto and string orchestrahighlightsonSaturday,July12at 7.30pm.
Essence Theatre Productions and Nga Matai Purua Inc will bring audiences a newworkinspiredbyeventsatPortPhillip PrisononJuly26and27.
Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw said, “The opening program kicks off in July and is full of entertaining and diverse shows and performances. There is something for everyone”.
To see the full listing of performances and programs and to book tickets, visit: www.wyncc.com.au
Dance the night away and raise funds for charity
OurLadyofMountCarmelParishwillhost adinnerdancefundrasier.
Proceeds will be donated to two local charities - Give Until it Hurts Wednesday Kitchen and the Winter Night Shelterwhich both assist those in the community whoaredoingittough.
On the night, expect good food, live music from John Curran and plenty of fun entertainment.
Community members can make donationsonthenight,orbeforetheevent, of goods like pantry essentials, toiletries, blankets, beanies, gloves, socks and sleeping bags. The grateful charities will distributethegoodstothoseinneed.
Cashdonationsarealsoaccepted.
“The dinner dance is a great way to
support the activities of GUIH including the Wednesday Kitchen and the Winter Night Shelter, whilst having a fun dinner out with your friends and family,” GUIH president and co-founder Garnet Jacob said.
“It’s a FUNdraiser with a difference, yummy food, live music, dancing, a raffle andprizestobewon.”
The Dinner Dance will be held on Saturday, July 5, at 6.30pm at St Anne’s ParishHall,101RiddellRoad,Sunbury.
Tickets will be $20 for adults and $10 for childrenagedsixto12.
Dinner includes rice with black bean beef,currychickenorvegetariannoodles.
For more information, contact Garnet Jacobon0411286428.
“Tango was born in the working-class neighbourhoods and port cities of Argentina. Tango was a danceofthepeople–raw,passionate, andattimes,rebellious.OnceIlearnt of the tango’s origins, Argentina, it instantly made me think of Evita,” O’Donnellsaid.
“After more research, I found I was drawn to the life of Eva – not as a famous figure, but as a young woman who rose from poverty with incredible determination. Eva’s story is about resilience, ambition, and finding your voice in a world that doesn’t always welcome you,” she said.
“I knew this was a message our young dancers, and our audiences, coulddeeplyconnectwith.”
Staying true to the story of Eva, severalofthedressesinacttwoofthe productionareauthenticoutfitsfrom the1930s.
The rehearsals for EVA will be held from 9am–4pm from Tuesday, July 8 toSaturday,July12atGalacticDance andEventsinMelton.
The show will be performed at 6.30pm on Sunday, July 13 at The ClocktowerCentreinMooneePonds.
Ticket pricing and options are availableonthecentre’swebsite.
Details: clocktowercentre.com.au/ western-ballet-project-eva
Dance Effects (DFX) Ravenhall dancer Anita (15) at the Melbourne Academy of Performing Arts in Spotswood. (Supplied).
Williamstown performer Archie Newbegin. (Damjan Janevski) 481115_03
The event will help support the Wednesday Kitchen, supported by volunteer Levitt De Andrade. (Damjan Janevski) 485859_01
Learn about dinosaurs at Wyndham’s libraries with librarians Damion Monk and Ruth Terry. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 483588_01
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at;
- The Council website https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/advertising
- By Contacting the Town Planning Unit on the contact number above
Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority by post or in person or; - Online: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ planningobjection
- Email: statplanning@wyndham.vic.gov.au
An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.
If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its decision.
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 21 July 2025
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which car manufacturer recently won the Le Mans 24 Hour race for the third consecutive year?
2. Which Australian rock band played at Game Two of the State of Origin series in Perth?
3. Which New Zealand batter scored 151 from 51 balls for the San Francisco Unicorns in a Major League Cricket T20 match?
4. Which team defeated Essendon by 95 points in Round 14 of the AFL season?
In baseball and boxing, what is the name for someone who uses their left hand more than their right hand?
Which Mercedes F1 driver won the Canadian GP, the team’s first victory of the season?
Which English former soccer player was recently knighted?
Which Australian cricketer dislocated his finger during the World Test Championship final at Lord’s?
Which former Sydney and Brisbane forward has been banned from AFL matches after alleged inappropriate behaviour at last year’s Grand Final?
10. In ancient Greece, the messenger Pheidippides ran from where to Athens to deliver important news?
11. Who was the first Aboriginal footballer to play 200 AFL games?
12. How many current NRL clubs have never played in a Grand Final?
13. Who has replaced Ange Postecoglou as coach of the Tottenham Hotspurs?
14. Cactus Jack, Mankind and Dude Love are personas of which former professional wrestler?
15. Since 2003, Patrick Johnson has held the Australian record in the 100m dash with what time?
16. What is the most populous country to never win an Olympic medal?
17. In which sport would you use a foil?
18. Which country won the last two Rugby World Cups?
19. After converting to Islam, what did athlete Lew Alcindor change his name to?
20. Western Bulldog Tom Liberatore has tattoos featuring characters from which TV series?
21. Formerly of Russia, tennis player Daria Kasatkina will represent which nation at Wimbledon?
22. Jed Stuart recently debuted for which NRL club?
23. Justin Longmuir is the current coach of which AFL club?
24. In what year did Australia last play Zimbabwe in a Test cricket match?
25. Nicolas Cage will play which NFL legend in an upcoming biopic?
26. St Louis was awarded the 1904 Summer Olympics after which other US city had to relinquish them?
27. Which team was victorious in the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup playoffs?
28. Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds recently became co-owners of a team that competes in which sport?
29. Which State of Origin coach was forced to apologise for recent comments he made in the media?
30. In what year was the first Wrestlemania event held?
Daria Kasatkina
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Vehicle propelled by explosive thrust (6)
4 Send (8)
9 Relation (5)
10 Outsiders (9)
11 Smell (5)
12 Speak impiously (9)
13 Irritated skin bubbles (8)
15 NSW capital (6)
16 Get the better of mentally (6)
18 Lacking footwear (8)
23 Central American country (9)
24 Spotless (5)
26 Protected (9)
27 Sun-dried brick (5)
28 Brought together (8)
29 Actor, – Irons (6)
DOWN
1 Common crumble ingredient (7)
2 Chocolate tree (5)
3 Refined (7)
5 Cerumen (6)
6 Extensive collection (7)
7 To that (arch) (9)
8 Stockings and socks (7)
10 Sword (US) (5)
14 Travelling (2,7)
16 Continuing (7)
17 Frozen sheet (3,4)
19 Give (5)
20 Place or group different from those surrounding it (7)
21 Leather factory (7)
22 Farm animals (6)
25 Summon (5)
1 Robert Downey Jr. played Larry Paul in which TV series?
2 Who became president of the US after Richard Nixon resigned?
3 What weapon appears on the flag of Barbados?
4 True or false: The Whale (2022) is based on a true story?
5 Julianne Hough (pictured) played which character in the 2011 version of Footloose?
6 The 1930 Salt March, an act of civil disobedience, took place in which country?
7 Ni is the symbol for which element on the periodic table?
8 What is the name of Ed Sheeran’s 2023 album?
9 Which ancient city is adjacent to the mountain of Jabal Al-Madbah?
10 The Tatra Mountains form a natural border between Poland and which other country?
Q4 e-tron offers top value
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
IhadzeroexpectationsoftheAudiQ4.
I hadn’t driven one before, let alone an electricone.
I later learned Q4 comes only as an EV and is available in compact SUV and Sportbackcoupeform.
Launched in 2021, the five-seater shares a platform with sibling the Q5 e-tron along with cousins the Skoda Enyaq, Cupra Born andVolkswagenID.4.
Interestingly, the Q4 e-tron is the first AuditobebuiltinthecityofZwickausince the pre-war era of the company. It is here that Audi and its predecessor Horch were founded before the two brands merged to becomeAutoUnionwaybackin1932.
Thereendeththehistorylesson.
Styling Audi says the Q4 e-tron is more than just a new model; “it represents the future of driving”. It also happens to be the smallest andmostaffordableofitsEVssofar,andas suchhasabigjobtodo.
The Q4 was a long time in gestation and Audi has played with the spec so it could duck the Luxury Car Tax and qualifies for an exemption under Fringe Benefits Tax. As a result of this manoeuvring the price is enticingly low, starting from $84,9000 plus on roads for Q4 45 e-tron (524km); the Sportbackfrom$86,500(540km).
The Sportback is extra presumably becauseitgetstheSlinetreatment.
Moving further up the ladder we come to the higher performance Q4 55 e-tron quattro (488km), priced from $105,900; Sportback 55 e-tron quattro (503km) from $107,500.
Our test car the Q4 Sportback 45 e-tron was also fitted with the optional $2200 Comfort package which adds electric front seats, 360 degree camera, adaptive cruise assist with stop and go, active lane assist and emergency assist, park assist plus, with memory settings for driver’s seat and exterior mirrors, bringing the price to $88,700pluson-roads.
The S line interior package is a no cost option, consisting of sports front seats, combination fabric and artificial leather, black cloth headliner, dark aluminium inlays, stainless steel pedals, illuminated front door sills and a flat bottomed sports steering wheel. Metallic paint is also a no costoption.
The Sportback is a sexy beast, with a stubby front end, sloping back and a muscularstance.
The coupe-like roofline adds a healthy dose of style, finishing in a spoiler that splits the rear window horizontally – a la thefirstEclipseCross.
Our test vehicle was finished in pebble grey and rides on 20-inch, five-spoke alloys, with the S line body kit, a radiator grille finished in titanium black with horizontal aluminium slats, and lower air intakesinmattplatinum.
Although it’s an EV, the design of the Q4 has not made the complete transition to electric vehicle as it retains a blanked out radiator grille. Why? Ditto the old style instrument cluster and inset touchscreen inside which remain separate entities. And the instrument cluster is somewhat clutteredanddifficulttoread.
Range could be a deciding factor, stretchingfrom488kmto540km(thelatter forourQ4Sportback45e-tron).
Standard equipment includes leather appointed upholstery, three-zone climate air, twin-spoke leather steering wheel, power-adjust driver’s seat, heated front seats with four-way lumbar
support, ambient interior lighting and a power-operatedtailgate.
There’s also LED exterior lighting, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera,autodimminginteriormirror,auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, plus auto folding/dimming/ heated exterior mirrors with kerb-side dip onpassengerside.
Q4 is covered by a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, with 6-year roadside assistance and eight-year/160,000km coverage for the battery. Service intervals areevery24months/30,000km.
Infotainment
TheMMIinfotainmentsystemiscontrolled from an 11.6-inch touchscreen with a separate 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
It offers the usual array of features, including Bluetooth, voice control, built-in navigation, AM/FM radio and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Audio is provided by an in-house eight speaker 180 wattaudiosystem.
There’s also wireless phone charging, twoUSBportsinthefrontandanotherpair in the back plus a couple of 12 volt outlets (oneintheboot).
Notice we didn’t mention DAB+ digital radio–thejuryisoutonthatone.
Safety
Q4 scores a full five stars for safety but we weregobsmackedtoseeitisfittedwithrear drumbrakes.Rememberthem?WTF?
Driver support systems include Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Backover) as well as a lane support system withlanekeepassist(LKA),lanedeparture warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and blind spot monitoring (BSM)arestandard.
Not all safety systems are standard, however. Q4 55 comes with a more comprehensive form of adaptive cruise control, as well as active lane assist, 360 degreecameraandparkassistplus.
The Q4 55 can also be optioned with augmented reality head-up display, projecting new intuitive directions to the headupdisplaywithinthedriver’seyeline.
Powertrain
Motivation comes from a single electric
motor that provides 210kW of power and 545Nm of torque in this model, with drive to the rear wheels through a single-speed two-stageplanetarygearbox.
Driving
Sitting between the Q3 and larger Q5, the Q4 e-tron is Audi’s shooting star, quickly becoming its best-selling electric vehicle sinceitsbelatedlaunchherelatelastyear.
At 4591mm in length and with a kerb weight of 2240kg, it’s a mid-sized SUV in practical terms if not name, with a flat interior floor, generous legroom and good-sized boot that offers 535 litres of storage – plus underfloor storage for charging cables. However, there’s no spare tyreofanykind–justapuncturerepairkit.
Dark tones produce an unnecessarily sombre atmosphere in the cabin, but this has been a complaint of Audi’s cars since thebeginningoftime.
Cabin storage is good with front bottle holders that are angled and located high on the inside of the front doors, instead of down low where you can’t see them. However,thefloatingcentreconsolewhich juts out obscures the lower storage area, particularly the USB ports and 12-volt outlet.
The start button is located on the far side of the gear selector, with a similarly sized audio control of some kind on the near side. Further back is a small, difficult to reach drive mode selection button. Gear selection is achieved via a small fore and aft toggle with a separate button for park, but we were never quite sure whether the car was actually switched off when it came timetoexit.
The steering wheel controls are touch sensitive and as usual the small cruise control stalk is difficult to see and work
out once you’re driving, and takes some mastering.
Separate air-con and seat heat controls are provided below the centre screen, with separate controls in the back for rear seat passengers.
There’s a number of drive modes and regenerative braking can be modulated with paddles on the steering wheel. No, they’renotforchanginggear.
Power is stored in an 82 kWh battery (77 kWh useable), with energy consumption thatisratedat16.9kWh/100kmandarange of540kmforthismodel(WLTP).Weclocked up617kmatarateof15.7kWh/100km.
Charging from a household power point takes up to 30 hours, while a 7.2kW single phase AC Wallbox reduces this figure to 11 hours. DC charging capacity has been upgraded to 175kW and this means the car can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in as littleas28minutes.Yeah,right.
The Q4 e-tron does not offer V2L functionality.
Rear-drive Q4 45 e-tron, SUV and Sportback, are capable of reaching 100km/h in 6.7 seconds. The all-wheel drive quattro Q4 55 e-tron does it in 5.4 seconds.
It’s not what you’d call lightning quick, butit’squickenoughtobeabitoffun. Ride quality is good, but tends to the wrong side of firm which becomes quickly apparentonourdeplorablebackroads.
Handling is also pretty good, but there’s thosedrumstoconsider,sowewouldn’tbe goingintoohard.
We’re surprised adaptive suspension is not fitted, but bearing in mind this is primarily a city-focused car, it’s hardly surprising.
Remember too Audi was focused on reducingtheprice–something’sgottagive.
Summing up
Ifnothingelse,theAudiQ4e-tronisagreat alternative to Elon Musk’s best-selling TeslaModelY.
TherangeisalmostonparwiththeTesla and it is stylish, unlike Tesla’s lookalike range,particularlythebulbousY.
The dynamic Q4 Sportback e-tron has come a long way since the first Audi to carrythee-trontag.
It’s surprisingly spacious and sporty to drive, and quite frankly, we expected it wouldcostalotmore.
If nothing else, the Audi Q4 e-tron is a great alternative to Elon Musk’s best-selling Tesla Model Y. (Pictures: Supplied)
The sun was out and the wind was calm making it the perfect day for football on Saturday. Star Weekly photographer
LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
Perfect weather for footy
Werribee Districts’ Daniel Nielson and Newport’s Sam Macafee go for a mark. 486901_06
Hoppers Crossing’s Anarkiikonda Van Wills. 486904_13
North Melbourne-Werribee’s Charlotte Blair. 486895_08
North Melbourne-Werribee’s Nyakoat Dojiok and Williamstown’s Georgia Howes. 486895_29
Point Cook Centrals’ Corey Muscat and Jalen Jaimangal tackle Hoppers Crossing’s Thomas Rowland. 486904_03
Werribee Districts’ Joshua Puli goes for a fly. 486901_13
Western Jets’ Chloe Kropman. 486897_02
Western Jets’ Grayson Lafaialii. 486900_03
Western Jets’ Rani Pavlidis. 486900_15
Western Jets’ Tayla Olivieri. 486897_05
Falcons focus on the future
It’s a season of development for Wyndhamvale in the Western Football League women’s competition.
With a young, new look side, the Falcons knew that things would look different on the field this year.
Coach Craig Prior said there were some really encouraging signs coming from the group.
“We have a young, developing side,” he said. “A lot of the girls have never played before.
“We have seven or eight girls who are new to footy. They are getting better and improving as we go along.
“We’ve also had a couple of players come back.”
Prior, who last coached the side in 2023, said there weren’t too many players left from when he last coached.
“The average age would be 21-22,” he said. “There are a lot of players who are 18, 19, 20 so we are very young.
“We’re a development side, that is for sure.”
Not helping the Falcons cause is the loss of Rachael Burton for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury.
Prior said Burton, who is the assistant coach, has really stepped up in that role when not out on the field.
“She is thriving as an assistant coach,” he said. “She is heading down the coaching pathways and will make a fantastic coach.
“She’s come back from VFL [Victorian Football League] standards and she wants to use what she learned and the girls are taking it all in.
“It’s really good. A different set of eyes.”
Prior said they had seen the work they had put in was paying off.
He highlighted their first loss to Caroline Springs which was 137 points before facing them four rounds late and losing by 96.
“There was massive improvement in four rounds,” he said. “We are heading in the right direction.
“We’re still a bit off competing against the top sides, but we are getting there. They are looking to learn and take on board what we are saying.
Daniel Nielson was one of
486901_07
Tigers ‘grind out the results in winter’
It hasn’t been about the scoreboard as much as the way it has been playing for Werribee Districts in the Western Football League division 1.
The undefeated Tigers have played several of the sides at the bottom of the ladder in the last month and came away with big wins on each occasion.
Since round six, the Tigers have won every game by at least 50 points with three 100plus wins including in the past two weeks.
Tigers coach Chris Gilham said it has been a bit of a different challenge for the group.
“The message has been to the boys that we were playing a few of the teams towards the bottom end and we don’t want to drop ground,” he said.
“We don’t want to drop a loss in a game that we should be winning. We don’t get more points for beating second or anything other team.
“We’ve been good enough to grind out the results in winter and the margins have been irrelevant.”
Gilham said they had been happy with how they were playing.
He felt they were playing in a positive manner and had some good results in the toughest part of the season.
“We’re still playing at a good level every week,” he said. “While we’ve had some big wins, our biggest challenges are still to come.”
On Saturday, the Tigers faced Newport, which is struggling a bit with injuries in its first season in the top flight.
The Tigers dominated from the start and were able to come away with a 23.16 (154)2.5 (17) win.
Joshua Mould kicked five goals for the Tigers, while Garrett Spinks kicked four goals. Spinks, Jack Fletcher and Daniel Schibeci were named the Tigers best.
Gilham said one of their main focuses in these matches was to make sure they were healthy and in good knick when the challenges come.
The Tigers remain a game clear on top of the ladder.
“We’ve had great numbers on the track.”
Improvement will remain the focus for the Falcons for the rest of the season.
Prior said while they set some goals internally they hadn’t put any expectations on the group.
“The scoreboard will eventually turn around,” he said. “We have to keep working hard.”
The Falcons faced Point Cook Centrals on Saturday and lost a thriller. It was tough going with the Sharks winning, 2.6 (18)-2.5 (17).
Zoe Hasenrader, Emily Kalos and Angel Noone were named the Falcons best. In other matches, Werribee Centrals were way too strong for the Suns.
Sports shorts
VTCA
Point Cook has added Neteen Chouhan to its squad for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield season. Fresh from VTCA senior division with Sunshine United and having played for 11 seasons with the Tigers, Chouhan makes the move to the Warriors. He is a long term top order batsman, wicketkeeper at the highest level of VTCA and has 20 first class matches under his belt. He joins another former Tiger Buddika Algewatta in joining the Warriors for the upcoming season.
VAFA
Westbourne Grammarians had a big win against Old Xaverians in the Victorian Amatuer Football Association women’s premier B competition on Saturday. The Grammarians led by 12 points at half time before three goals to none in the third quarter broke the game open. The Grammarians were able to finish it off, winning 6.7 (43)-0.3 (3). Temeika Cathery, who kicked two goals, was named the Grammarians best. The Grammarians sit fourth on the ladder.
GDFL
Werribee Centrals fell short against Thomson in the Geelong and District Football League on Saturday. The Centurions led at quarter time before Thomson came back with six second quarter goals. The Centurions snuck ahead heading into the final quarter before Thomson finished strongly to win, 17.16 (118)-15.4 (94). Regan Vesty and Ethan Gibson were named the Centurions best. After 11 rounds, the Centurions sit in ninth spot.
The Tigers face the other sides in the top five in the next five weeks, which will give them the bigger tests they are after.
Gilham said there wasn’t much between the top four sides with all of those matches having been close.
Hoppers Crossing also had a big win as it accounted for Point Cook Centrals on Saturday, 26.24 (180)-5.5 (35).
Ryan Kitchen kicked nine goals in a best on ground performance for the Warriors.
Josh Pickess was also busy up forward as he kicked seven goals.
Josh Gerolemou and Daniel Strnak were named the Sharks best.
Elsewhere, Point Cook fell just short against Spotswood, losing 10.12 (72)-7.11 (53).
Billy and Tyler Kolyniuk were named the Bulldogs best.
In division 2, Wyndhamvale suffered its first loss of the season as it lost to North Footscray, the Suns beat Laverton, while Tarneit had its best performance of the season in its loss to Albanvale.
A-League
Western United star Noah Botic is set to shine on the global stage having signed a contract with Austrian Bundesliga outfit Austria Vienna. The 23-year-old moves on after a spectacular breakout season at Ironbark Fields where he played in all 29 matches and scored 16 goals, including an historic hat-trick in the elimination final against Adelaide United. Now ready to take the next step in his career, Botic said his time in the west with some pivotal memories and experiences.
Werribee Districts best on Saturday. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Botic takes skills to Europe
Western United star Noah Botic is set to shine on the global stage having signed a contract with Austrian Bundesliga outfit Austria Vienna.
The 23-year-old moves on after a spectacular breakout season at Ironbark Fields where he played in all 29 matches and scored 16 goals, including an historic hattrick in the Elimination Final against Adelaide United.
It was only fitting that Botic scored in his final game for the Club against Melbourne City, his 27th goal in 72 appearances in green and black to make him the greatest-ever goal scorer in United’s history.
Now ready to take the next step in his career, Botic said his time in the West with
some pivotal memories and experiences.
“After spending the past four years at this amazing club, it is hard to say goodbye,” he said. “The amount of love and kindness I have received has been through the roof, and I will miss everyone
“The club has meant the world to me as it was the first, and still only, professional club that I’ve played for.
“I want to thank everyone, from the background staff to the team staff and players. They’ve all had a big impact on my time at the club and I’m truly grateful for that. But I especially want to thank the boss for giving me the opportunity to have made my debut and help me properly kick start my career.”
Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato celebrated Botic’s success at the club and the exciting future he has ahead of him.
“We are extremely proud of Noah for all of the hard work he has put in to developing his game and earning another dream move overseas,” he said.
“Noah is cemented in our history books forever for his achievements and the role he has played in our best-ever season in club history. His talent on the pitch has been met with an incredible impact on our standards and culture off the pitch.
“This is also a major milestone for our club to send a player off to a top European league. The club is proud of the role it has
The VTCA is focused on improving all areas
Plenty is happening behind the scenes in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association off season.
Coming off its biggest season, the competition is set to increase again for the 2025-26 season.
All top grade sides will return this season, with Glenroy making a return to the competition after not being able to field a side last season.
It will resume in division 5.
VTCA president Zoran Havranek said they were investing in the association in a number of different ways.
He said they’ve had to knock back some clubs increasing the number of sides that have due to not having enough grounds.
“We are landlocked and don’t have the grounds,” he said. “Cricket is the loser here.
“We haven’t had one side drop off. We don’t like having clubs fold and don’t like to see mergers either.
“For that reason we are doing what we can to accommodate them. We’ve worked closely with clubs before on the brink to make sure it doesn’t happen.”
Havranek said there were clubs in the
growth areas that could join the competition in the coming years as they want to move onto turf,
He said they had changed their points system in recent seasons to try to attract players from other competitions, rather than take from other sides in the competition.
“There’s a lot of overseas players who want to play given how good the competition is,” he said.
“The points are in place to ensure clubs go outside to get good talent to come in.
“It’s the beauty of a good competition.”
Having formed a partnership with Vanuatu cricket last season, they will continue that as well as having formed a new partnership with Japanese cricket.
Havranek said improving their umpiring had been a focus the past few seasons.
“We’re doing a lot of training with our umpires,” he said. “It used to be when you went to an umpires meeting there were only 15 people attending, now there are over 60.
“With Frogbox we are getting footage of our umpires and they can see what is hap-
played to get Noah to this point in his career and we have firm beliefs that we have developed our next Socceroo.
“On behalf of everyone at our club, I would like to thank Noah for the indelible mark he has left on Western United and wish him every success in the future. We will be watching and celebrating every achievement from afar.”
Botic will become the third Australian in the Austrian Bundesliga next season, joining Jed Drew and Jacob Italiano who play for TSV Hartberg and Grazer AK respectively.
Austria Vienna finished third in the league last season, just three points off champions Sturm Graz.
Wyndham falls to ladder leader
Wyndham put up a big fight against the ladder leading Hume City Broncos before falling just short in the Big V men’s championship.
The Broncos led by as much as 20 points throughout the game before Wyndham reduced the margin to try and get an upset win.
The Broncos showed their composure late to get across the line, 97-88.
Coach Stuart McMurray was proud of the performance.
“Champ men displayed a courageous performance with an injury riddled squad against a very strong Hume side who are top of the ladder,” he said.
“Champ men came all the way back down from 20 but were unable to close out the game in the final two minutes.”
Jalen Rosemond had 16 points and 10 rebounds in the win, while Mayoul Makuc top scored with 24 points.
Gojce Stevovski also had a strong game with 20 points.
The loss comes after the departure of import Maik Miller.
Wyndham announced the mutual release of Malik Miller as he seizes an exciting opportunity in the USA.
He was averaging 19 points and eight rebounds this season, while helping with coaching the junior program.
pening.
“We’ve had more umpires rotate through the senior division. They’ve been able to educate captains of the standards of senior cricket and it’s kept them on their toes as well.
“The senior players have given good feedback and it’s one way to improve the game overall.”
Havranek said they were looking at having umpires for second grades this season as well this season.
One area they are looking at is improving the slow over rate.
The association’s junior academy has continued to grow in the past two years.
A coaching academy is now being put in place as well in partnership with the Western Region Sports Club.
“It’s three to four weeks with some coaches from the senior division to help division 2, 3, 4 and 5 coaches with planning, what the season looks like, how to recruit and running training drills,” Havranek said.
“There will be some sessions before the season and follow ups in the season.”
The club also announced that women’s player, Sydney Skinner would be returning to New York for rehab following a season ending injury. She was averaging 14.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.3 assists a game.
The Wyndham women also had a close loss to the Broncos on Saturday night. Wyndham led early before the home side narrowly won each of the next two quarters to lead by five points heading into the final quarter. Wyndham couldn’t get any closer as Wyndham won, 77-72.
Ella Macleod top scored with 17 points off the bench for Wyndham, while Birgit Osk Snorradottir had 15 points.
In the youth league men’s battle between Wyndham and the Broncos, Wyndham lost 102-57. It came after Wyndham lost its first game of the weekend to the Keysborough Cougars, 99-93. Spencer Smith played big roles in both games.
Trent Lawford. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 465587_22
New pathway for juniors
By Joseph Ibic
The
Football Club have launched itsfirststandalonejunioracademy.
The initiative is set to provide another pathwayfortalentinWyndham.
Werribee community coordinator Krista Woodroffe said they were proud to launch the WFC Junior Academy as a key step in developing young talent across the Wyndhamregion.
“With a focus on high-performance training and skill development, this
program strengthens the pathway for aspiring athletes to take the next step in theirfootballjourney,”shesaid.
Increased sponsorships from A Cleaner World, Kieser Werribee, and Corio Waste Management has helped bring the academytolife.
Corio Waste Management’s Melissa Thompson said they were proud to be a foundingsponsoroftheacademy.
“With a 24-year relationship with the club, we’re pleased to strengthen our partnership through a program that
nurtures the next generation of footballers inMelbourne’swest.
“We recognise the value of investing in people and supporting the communities in which we operate. We look forward to seeingtheprogramgrowandthrive.”
The invite-only program is aimed at Wyndham-based players selected in Western Football League under-13 and under-14 interleague teams, for both boys andgirls.
Theprogramconsistsoffivefreesessions and is delivered by Werribee’s community
team,alongwithsupportfromVFLplayers, coachesandstaff.
An excursion to North Melbourne FootballClubwillalsotakeplace,building on Werribee’s partnership with the AFL club.TheacademystartedonMonday,June 23, at Melbourne Avalon Airport Oval with morethan70participants.
The session was run by our community team, Majok Ngong and Krista Woodroffe, withthesupportoffourVFLstarsAnthony Depasquale,FosterGardiner,FergPinnuck andCooperWard.
The Kangaroos stamp their authority on the VFLW
While Werribee had a bye on the weekend in the Victorian Football League, North Melbourne-Werribee put together an importantwinintheVFLW.
The Kangaroos faced Williamstown on Saturday, in what was a big test for both sideswhoenteredonthebackofsomegood form.
Both sides entered the match equal on points.
It was a hard slog in the first quarter with neither side able to kick a goal in the openingquarter.
Two goals in the second quarter opened up a lead for the Kangaroos to lead by 14 pointsathalftime.
The lead slightly increased to 16 points at three quarter time as both sides kicked a goal each. The Kangaroos made sure they got the win with another goal in the final quartertowin,4.9(33)-1.6(12).
It was all single goalkickers for North Melbourne-Werribeeinthewin.
Stella Reid had 23 disposals in defence, while Madeline Di Cosmo and Charlotte Blairhad21each.
All three were named in the best along
withZoeSavarirayan,whoplayedoneofher bestgamessincemovingtohalf-back.
Coach Brett Gourley told North Melbourne media it was nice to go out and getthewin. He said they thought they stepped up
The vision for a vibrant Tarneit is outlined in the draft Tarneit Centre Urban Design Framework which Wyndham City has community feedback.
The Tarneit Major Town Centre is designed to be a hub of prosperity, that is beautifully designed with green corridors, capacity to accommodate a centre for art, health and education. It offers quality recreational and retail opportunities and celebrating the area’s Indigenous and cultural heritage –dynamic destination of choice.
The framework will be a guide for staged development in attracting investment over the next 30 years.
It will help to ensure the town centre meets the needs of population in Tarneit with the centre ultimately providing 8,000 jobs and a home to more than 10,000 people.
Please register for an information session to find out more:
underalotofpressureinaphysicalcontest.
The Kangaroos are now two points clear ontopoftheladder.
Sandringham Zebras are now in second, two points behind, while the Box Hill Hawks and Williamstown are a further two
pointsback.
TheKangaroosfacetheWesternBulldogs onFridaynight,inagrandfinalrematch. Werribee will be back in action on Saturday at Avalon Airport Oval against theGWSGiants.
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
Nyakoat Dojiok. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 486895_33
Zara Flanigan and Krystal Russell go up in the ruck on Saturday. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 486895_19
Werribee
Werribee has established a junior academy. (Supplied)
Werribee has established a junior academy. (Supplied)
