Secrets of the west
This year’s Open House Melbourne WeekendonJuly26and27,givespeople the chance for a sneak peek at the Werribee Open Range Zoo expansion, alongwithopenaccesstoWerribeePark Mansion.
In nearby Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, there will be a Footscray heritage theatres, tours of Footscray Market, FootscrayParkandFootscrayTownhall, access and tours of Whitten Oval and the Sun Theatre. There’s site tours for the Altona Treatment Plant, Altona Homestead, Scienceworks and the Substation.
Funding returned
By Tara Murray
Much-needed upgrades to a Wyndham Vale sporting ground described as an ‘old paddock covered in grass’ continue to wait, with Wyndham council set to return $400,000 of funding for the project to the state government.
The council received a $500,000 state government grant from the World Game Facilities Fund for upgrades to Wyndham Vale North Reserve precinct.
The grant was to assist in the construction of two senior and one junior soccer pitches, including irrigation, drainage and lighting.
The lighting has been upgraded and
some work was done to the ground last year, but tenants Wyndham Football Club said the work has done little to improve the playing surface.
A council spokesperson said that a revised cost estimate placed the total project at $6 million, with council having to contribute $5.5 million.
The spokesperson confirmed council would return the remaining part of the funding to the state government.
“Council has already delivered the sports ground lighting – fulfilling the club’stoppriority,”thespokespersonsaid.
“Councilsoughttoredirectthe$500,000 grant to assist in the construction of a modular pavilion – a multi-million-dollar
projectincludedincouncil’scapitalworks plan. The reallocation was not supported.
“Instead, Sport and Recreation Victoria supported a contribution of $100,000 from the grant on a pro-rata basis for the installation of the lighting.
“Theremaining$400,000grantwillnow be returned to the state government.”
Star Weekly understands council’s ability to deliver projects like this may be considered in future grant applications.
Wyndham Football Club president TrevorBowensaidithadbeenanightmare for the club as the grounds were not up to standard.
“I would say half would be dire and sand,” he said.
“We’ve had motorbikes tear it up and community groups at all times of the day using the grounds. We can’t control them and tell them to stop using the ground.
“It’s got a lot of wear and tear. I’ve been at the club five years and it’s only had a small upgrade with council putting sand on it.
“We were back on the ground in three months. It needed 12 months.”
Bowen described the grounds as a paddock that was never set up probably as a sporting ground and said Football Victoria considers one of the grounds as not playable.
CONTINUED PAGE 7
Werribee Zoo. (Supplied)
Aged care centre approved
By Laura Michell
A $22 million aged care facility will be built in Point Cook after receiving the greenlight from Wyndham council.
During council’s July 8 planning committee meeting, councillors approved an application from aged care provider Arcare for a residential aged care facility at 151 Haze Drive, Point Cook.
Arcare is currently construction another aged care facility in Werribee, which is expected to be completed later this year.
Arcare property chief executive Michael Carnell addressed the committee meeting
and told councillors that the Point Cook facility would accommodate 136 residents and provide 150 ongoing jobs.
“It will provide people living in Point Cook the opportunity to have family members close by, and ensure long-term residents of Point Cook can stay in the community in which that are familiar with,” he said.
Mr Carnell said the aged care facility, located within the Saltwater Coast estate, would integrate into the local neighbourhood.
A report to the council committee meeting stated that the subject site was near two schools, a childcare centre, a recreation re-
serve and residential housing.
The centre will be a two-storey building featuring two internal courtyards, communal lounges, dining areas, meeting rooms, activity rooms, a hair salon for residents only, a theatre, a billiard room/bar, an internal ancillary cafe, a physiotherapy room and 52 car parking spaces.
Cr Susan McIntyre said she welcomed the application because it would cater for Wyndham’s ageing population.
“We know that we are having a significant increase in seniors across Wyndham,” she said.
Meanwhile, Arcare’s bid for a cafe at its
Winter entertainment to warm west
A range of winter events are set to warm up the west during July, with food, exhibitions, and live performances offering respitefromthechillyoutdoorconditions.
Hilarious and empowering show ‘The Musical’ – based on the 1980 film and with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton –will be performed at Altona City Theatre on July 18 and 19.
In Melton, a free Winter Disco featur-
ing complementary food, bowling, arcade games, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, and karaoke will be held from 3–6pm on July 18 at Xplosions Bar and Bowl.
Singer-songwriter stalwart Shannon Noll will be dropping in to Melton for a performance at Mac’s Hotel from 8pm on July 25.
Broomsticks will touch down in Plumpton for a Harry Potter and Hog-
warts-inspired dinner at Witchmount Estate’s Great Hall from 7pm on July 25 and 26, aimed at those aged 16 years and older.
Another event for the theatre fans – a world-premiere of gripping new production ‘The Yellow Line’ inspired by true events at Port Phillip Prison is set to run July 26-27 at the Wyndham Cultural Centre.
Tails wag as work at Cambridge Reserve dog park is completed
Wyndham canines are sure to be wagging their tails with joy following the completion of the Cambridge Reserve dog off-leash park.
Located within Cambridge Reserve in Hoppers Crossing, the park features a large, fenced lawn area for dogs to run free, an activity zone with agility equipment and dog-friendlyamenities,includingadrinking fountain, dog bag dispenser, bin and more.
Mayor Mia Shaw said the new Cambridge Reserve dog off-leash park was sure to get the woof of approval from local canines.
“We know how important our furry friends are to local families, and this new off-leash park at Cambridge Reserve is a fantastic space for your four-legged friends to run, play, and socialise,” Cr Shaw said.
“It’s a great addition to our growing collection of dog-friendly open spaces across Wyndham.”
Cr Shannon McGuire added: “This project has transformed a section of Cambridge Reserve into a vibrant, safe, and accessible space for our community and their dogs.
new Werribee facility to open its doors to the public is being considered by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
Arcare applied to council for a permit to allow the cafe associated with its facility on Newmarket Road to operate as a stand alone food and drink premises and cater to the public, aged care facility staff, residents and visitors.
Council failed to make a decision on the application within the prescribed 60-day timeframe, prompting Arcare to lodge an appeal with VCAT. The hearing was scheduled for July 15 and 16.
Former servo operator in court
The former operator of a United Petroleum outlet in Truganina is facing legal action from the Fair Work Ombudsman for allegedly providing false or misleading pay slips and underpaying a migrant worker.
The Fair Work Ombudsman said former commission agent and sole trader of the Leakes Road service station, Bharathi Karnati, and the former manager of the outlet, Ravikanth Baddam, would face court.
Fair Work is making no no allegations against the current operators of the outlet.
It is alleged that Ms Karnati knowingly provided a Fair Work inspector with false or misleading pay slips overstating the rates she had paid an Indian international student employed as a casual console operator.
It is alleged the worker was in fact paid unlawfully low flat rates of no more than $14 per hour, despite being owed at least $28.38 per hour.
It is also alleged the rates were below the minimum wage rate owed under the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020, and resulted in Ms Karnati underpaying the worker $2337 during his employment from December 2020 to January 2021.
The alleged underpayment has been rectified, the Fair Work Ombudsman said.
Further pay slip and record-keeping breaches are also alleged, including that Ms Karnati failed to keep proper timeand-wages records.
It is alleged that Mr Baddam was involved in these further pay slip and record-keeping contraventions.
Ombudsman Anna Booth said the nature of the alleged contraventions meant that litigation was the appropriate response.
“Employers should also be aware that taking action to protect migrant workers is a priority for the Fair Work Ombudsman,” she said.
“It’s another example of how we’re delivering on our commitment to enhancing neighbourhood liveability.”
The Cambridge Reserve dog off-leash park follows the recent opening of another facility at Alcock Road Reserve in Truganina and aligns with the Wyndham Dog Off-Leash Plan 2022 and Wyndham’s Open Space Strategy 2045 – both aimed at creating inclusive, accessible, and connected outdoor spaces across the municipality.
“We applaud the worker in this case for assisting the Fair Work Ombudsman’s investigation. Migrant workers have the same workplace rights in Australia as any other worker, regardless of their visa status, and anybody with concerns about their entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free assistance.”
Ms Karnati faces penalties of up to $13,320 per contravention for multiple alleged breaches of workplace laws.
Mr Baddam also faces penalties of up to $13,320 per contravention for his alleged involvement.
A directions hearing is listed in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Melbourne on July 21.
‘The Yellow Line’ inspired by true events at Port Phillip Prison. (Supplied)
We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 110 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 86 already gone. We’re also putting the finishing touches on the new West Gate Tunnel, an alternative to the West Gate Bridge.
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Werribee Line
8.30pm to last train, 8 AugustNewport to Werribee 16 August to 17 August
From 8.30pm 8 August to 17 AugustLaverton to Werribee
8.30pm to last train each night, 11 to 13 August
8.30pm to last train, 15 August
Williamstown Line
Geelong Line
North Melbourne to Werribee
8.30pm to last train each night, 11 to 13 AugustNorth Melbourne to Williamstown
8.30pm to last train, 15 August
Each night, 9 to 10 AugustSouthern Cross to Waurn Ponds
Each night, 13 to 15 August
16 to 17 August
Warrnambool Line 15 August
16 to 17 August
Road disruptions: Closed lanes
West Gate Freeway, Spotswood Until late August
Southern Cross to Geelong
Geelong to Warrnambool
Southern Cross to Warrnambool
Outbound lanes between Williamstown and Millers roads
Sports cuts ‘inexcusable’
Two programs aimed a boosting gender equity in sport have had their funding cut by the state government. The move has been labelled as “a kick in the face” to women and gender diverse people and have prompted a local MP to launch a petition calling for the funding to be reinstated, Sam Porter reports.
The state government’s decision to cut funding for two major programs aimed at improving gender equality in sports across all levels has sparked significant backlash.
Northern Victorian MP and Macedon Ranges resident Georgie Purcell launched a Legislative Council petition last month –alongside The Kyneton Women’s Football Club, Women’s Sport Australia and Not All Clubs – calling on the state government to reinstate the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation (OWSR) and reverse cuts to gender equality and violence prevention programs.
The petition currently has over 1200 signatures.
Ms Purcell said the cuts will have “disastrous impacts on women and girls“ and are “completely inexcusable”.
“We are in the grips of a gender-based violence epidemic nationally. We know the consequences of gender inequality are as clear as day,” she said.
“This isn’t just about cuts to sport – it’s a major roadblock in our fight against gendered violence.”
It feels like we’re going backwards in a space where we know we need these programs and this funding more than ever
- Natalie Korinfsky
The OWSR was established in 2017 and aimed to boost the participation of girls and women in sports, as well as in leadership roles at clubs.
ItdidthisbyprovidingChangeourGame grants to local clubs.
Clubswereabletousethesequick-release grants to make community sport a more welcoming environment for girls and women, by upgrading equipment and facilities, developing coaches and staff to work better with women, and increasing the number of women in club leadership positions.
The second program cut from the budget wasthePreventingViolenceThroughSport Grants Program, which provided funding for partnership programs addressing gendered violence in sporting clubs.
Kyneton Women’s Football Club president Natalie Korinfsky said she is “devastated and disappointed” by the cuts.
“We’re having to fight for something that we feel like should just be in place to support women and girls in sport,” she said.“Thesearereallyimportantprograms …tosee[thefunding]takenawayjustfeels like a bit of a kick in the face to women and girls and gender diverse people across our state.”
According to OurWatch, 39 per cent of women have experienced violence since the age of 15 in Australia.
On the sporting field, this violence can take form through gender stereotyping, sexist comments, spectator abuse, and physical and sexual assault.
“Something isn’t going right in communitysport…womenandgirlsaren’t feeling safe enough to stick around and keep playing,” Ms Korinfsky said.
“We want women and girls to feel safe. We want them to feel like they’re getting a fair go.”
Ms Korinfsky said that at local sporting clubs, women’s teams tend to receive
ill-fitting uniforms and second-hand equipment, and are often given the last choice for training sessions and match timeslots too.
These slot structures sometimes do not allow for proper recovery time, leading to an increased risk of injury, she said.
“You’re always getting the fringes of what everyone should be entitled to,” Ms Korinsfky said.
“We need a broader campaign and supporttohelpshiftthisbecauseitisn’tjust about shifting it at clubs, it’s shifting it at a culturallevel,it’sshiftingitatacommunity level and we feel like it is the responsibility of the government to be pitching in, to be helping change that rhetoric.
“It feels like we’re going backwards in a space where we know we need these programs and this funding more than ever.”
TheviewissharedbyLaTrobeUniversity Rural Health School associate professor, Dr Kirsty Forsdike.
Dr Forsdike’s research focuses on organisational responses to gender-based interpersonal violence.
TheprogramsheleadsincentralVictoria was one of the 12 collaborations funded through the Preventing Violence Through Sport Grants Program, which has now been cut.
The program’s evaluation reports were initially due at the end of May – about the time the funding cuts were made by the state government.
“[The state government] wouldn’t have had a chance by any manner of means to go through all those reports and really fullyassessthebenefitofthatprogram,”Dr Forsdike said.
“It’s like they haven’t cared about what’s been achieved.”
Aspartoftheprogram,DrForsdikebrings together a range of stakeholders – council, sports administrators, researchers, sports players, and family violence and sexual assault services – to review research findings and to discuss main issues and priorities to reduce gender-based violence in sports.
These discussions guide the program towards developing tangible solutions to make women and girls feel safer in community sports.
One of these solutions is to implement appropriate training for staff at Regional Sports Assemblies to better handle incidents of gender-based violence reported by clubs.
Regional Sports Assemblies, which only exist in the state of Victoria, are hubs that provide support, services, information and opportunities to community clubs in
regional and rural areas.
Providing formal training for sports club leaders was also identified as a necessary step in reducing incidents of violence against women.
“Sometimes we forget the culture of sport in Australia – how important it is to Australian culture but also how it’s a space that’s often been male-dominated,” Dr Forsdike said.
“Whilewe’veseenadramaticincreasein women and girls playing sports brilliantly, as we should, they’re often going into spaces that perhaps aren’t well set up for them to be there safely.”
A state government spokesperson said the functions of the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation would continue to be held within Sport and Recreation Victoria.
“We will always support women and girls’participationinsportandrecreation,“ the spokesperson said.
Dr Forsdike said the programs were “huge” and “absolutely unrivalled anywhere else.”
“We were the pinnacle. You could hold up Victoria as the way to do things and that’s all been obliterated by just one decision,” she said. “I’m yet to see the Victorian government change its mind [on the cuts] and I really hope that they do. It’s a misplaced decision.”
Left: Northern Victoria MP Georgie Purcell and Kyneton Women’s Football Club president Natalie Korinfsky. Right: Amber Gajic (top) and Chiara Dickens were among the footballers who wore red armbands during matches in protest of the state government’s funding cuts. (Pictures: Ties Urie)
Set sail on the journey of a lifetime with Viking
Imagine gliding through Europe’s most iconic landscapes, surrounded by history, culture, and luxury. Thanks to Viking and your local newspaper, one lucky reader will have the chance to do just that – by winning an eight-day “RhineGetaway”rivervoyagefor two, valued at $16,190, including returnairfares.
Departing Basel, Switzerland on 22 November 2026, this unforgettable voyage visits four beautiful countries –Switzerland, France, Germany, andtheNetherlands.
Enjoy six guided tours, all onboard meals with beer and wine, and a host of cultural experiences, including UNESCOWorldHeritageSites.
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Briefs
Harley impounded
A Harley Davidson motorcycle was impounded following a collision with a police vehicle during the early hours of Saturday, July 12. The motorcycle was spotted travelling at speeds of up to 140km/hr near the corner of Derrimut and Hogans roads about 1am. Police attempted to intercept the vehicle before it’s alleged the rider attempted to perform a U-turn and collided with one of the police vehicles. The rider, a 49-year-old Hoppers Crossing man, is expected to be charged with drug driving, drink driving and other driving offences. The motorcycle was impounded at a cost of $1225.
Western suburbs burglaries Police are appealing for public assistance following a series of burglaries across the west. It is believed two males attended a dozen retailers and restaurants in Hoppers Crossing, Sunshine, Keilor Park, Deer Park, Caroline Springs and Melton between March and June. They used crowbars to force entry and stole cash tills and safes. The first male is described as Caucasian, in his mid-20s to late-30s, 180cm tall with a slim build and was wearing dark clothing with a North Face puffer jacket. The second male is Caucasian, in his mid-20s to late-30s, approximately 170cm tall with a stocky build.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
The West Gate Tunnel will transform travel from Manor Lakes to Melbourne when it opens at the end of the year. You will be able to enter the new tunnel from the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road and travel quicker to destinations such as universities, hospital and sports events.
Drive the West Gate Tunnel through our driving simulator at Manor Lakes Central Shopping Centre
11 to 20 July
Scan the QR code for upcoming events and to explore Melbourne's newest roads with our Explore Your Journey Tool
Scan this QR code to enter the competition.
Prevent plate theft
With numberplate theft at record highs, Victoria Police is urging people to fit anti-theft screws to their vehicles.
Keilor Downs Police Acting Sergeant Sam Romano said installing a simple measure such as an anti-theft screw can be the difference between having your numberplate stolen or not.
Across the state, numberplate thefts have surged by 50 per cent to the highest number recorded in the state, with 29,790 recorded over the last year, equivalent to 83 a day or one every 17 minutes, according to police.
AccordingtodatareleasedbytheCrime Statistics Agency, Brimbank, Hume and Wyndham are included in the top five areas in the state for numberplate thefts over the year ending March, recording 1414,1966and1449incidentsrespectively.
“Number plate theft is often at the centre of more serious offending,” Acting Sergeant Sam Romano said.
Stolen numberplates are often used by offenders to hide the identity of a vehicle when committing other crimes such as burglaries,ramraids,petroldriveoffsand to evade police, police said.
“We have more capabilities than ever to detect stolen numberplates on our roads, sowe’dstronglyencouragethosethinking ofusingthemtohidetheirvehicletothink again,” Acting Sergeant Sam Romano said.
Police are urging vehicle owners to install anti-theft screws, which are available from hardware stores, automotive parts stores and petrol stations.
Police are also urging the community to blur number plate details when
advertising vehicles online, or when sharing photos on social media to avoid the likelihood of a vehicle’s numberplate being cloned.
Anyone who has been the victim of a number plate theft or suspected cloning activity is urged to contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
Council hands back money
FROM PAGE 1
The other pitch has been downgraded,withtraininglimitedto certainpartsofgrounds.
Theclubbelievesthattheconditions of the grounds have contributed to a number of serious injuries across all theirgrades.
Bowen said the club’s facilities also need upgrading, with the clubrooms nearly 40 years old and not female friendly.
With teams growing at the club, Bowen said the issues are only going tocontinuetogrow.
“We want to improve the club and getthingsdone,”hesaid.
Werribee MP John Lister said funding for the surface upgrade has been delivered and the community expectstheprojecttobedelivered.
“We are closely monitoring the progress of this project and expect the council to stop wasting time and start delivering this project they have been funded to provide for the local community,”hesaid.
“I will continue to fight for our community sports clubs to get the facilitiestheydeserve.”
Council said its investment in the precincthasincluded$500,000onthe sportsgroundlightingupgradeacross pitches one, two and three, $250,000 on the cricket net redevelopment, a multi-million allocation toward a pavilion and $100,000 for irrigation renewal across pitches one, two and three.
and Maureen. Mature in age. Young at heart.
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
Police are urging locals to install anti-theft screws in their number plates in response to increased number plate thefts across the state. Acting Sergeant Sam Romano. (Damjan Janevski) 487805_04
Icy winter school holiday fun
The Wyndham Cultural Centre car park was the place to be for icy fun last week. A pop-up ice rink took over the car park, providing an opportunity for kids young and old to get their skates on. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski stopped by to capture these pictures.
Martin Sadd with his grandkids Hayley, 8, and Jake, 9. (489267)
Hashika, 6. (489267)
Jess Sadd and her son Ryan, 3 go for a skate. (489267) Pranavi, 14. (489267)
Tarun Teja, 11, and Veda, 14, enjoy some icy fun. (489267)
Siblings Mason, 9, Cora,11, and Alexander, 5. (489267)
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ENTERNOW foryourchancetowinan8-day“RhineGetaway”cruisefortwo,departingBaselon 22November2026,includingreturnflights.Therivervoyagewilltakeyouthroughfourenchanting countries,offeringsixguidedtours,allonboardmeals,andenrichingculturalexperiences.
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CruiseDuration:8days,7nights
Accommodation:Standard(CategoryF)Stateroom Destinations:4countrieswith6guidedtours
CulinaryDelights:Allonboardmeals,withbeer&wineservedduringlunchanddinner CulturalExperiences:VisitstoUNESCOWorldHeritageSitesandViking'sCultureCurriculum Amenities:Allportcharges,freeWi-Fi,andallonboardgratuitiesincluded Flights:IncludedEconomyClassreturnflightsfromselectedmajorAustraliancities (upto$5,000percouple)
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Magical holiday entertainment
There has been plenty of entertainment for children at Wyndham Village Shopping CentreinTarneitovertheschoolholidays.
There were giggles, gasps and jaw-dropping moments during a magic showperformedon9and16July.
Throughout the break, children lined up eagerly to be transformed by the face painting talents of Ruscar Begum. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski captured the delighted faces of young shoppers on Friday July 11.
NATIONAL DESEXING WEEK
Why desexing is a good choice
At Greencross Vets, the staff encourage pet owners to consider desexing as a vital step in supporting their pet’s long-term health and wellbeing. Desexing, also known as spayingorneutering,notonlyhelpscontrol the pet population, but it also provides significant medical and behavioural benefits.
Desexed pets are less likely to develop certain cancers and infections and often display calmer, more predictable behaviour. The procedure also reduces the likelihood of roaming, aggression, and markingbehaviours.
“Desexing offers powerful health benefits—from preventing uterine infections and testicular cancer to reducing hormone-driven behaviours that can put pets at risk. It’s one of the most important decisions you can make to protect your pet’s future,” said Dr Fiona Witham, clinical director, Greencross Vet Hospital.
Whenshouldyoudesexyourpet?
•Kittenscantypicallybedesexedfromfive monthsofage
•Puppies are generally desexed between
fivetosixmonthsofage,althoughthiscan vary depending on breed and individual healthfactors
•Pet owners are encouraged to consult with the team at Greencross Vet Hospital for advice tailored to their pet’s specific needs
The state-of-the-art hospital offers a comprehensive desexing package that includes pre-surgical health checks, intravenous fluid therapy, pain relief and personalised aftercare. The staff tailor their approach based on your pet’s breed, age and health needs to ensure the best outcome.
Desexing is a simple, safe, and responsible choice every pet owner can make to give their furry family member a healthier,happierlife.
Trusted by the RSPCA and local communities – Greencross Vet Hospital at the University of Melbourne is proud to be partofOperationWanted.
Learn more about Greencross Vet Hospital services or book your appointment today by calling 8721 1414.
A little magic on Mishika’s face. (488467)
Mehreen, 6, chose a unicorn. (488467)
Siblings Brinda, 9, and Mivaan, four. (488467)
Face-painter Ruscar Begum weaves her magic.
Jora is a Batman fan. (488467)
Safia, 2, was tranformed into a butterfly. (488467)
Olivier’s European odyssey
BY LEE MCCARTHY
Noosa-based Olivier Miller is owner and principal of four Laguna real estate offices on the Sunshine Coast and Gympie and specialises in prestige and waterfront properties.
She and her husband Ian have travelled extensively by sea and land throughout Olivier’s40-yearrealestatecareer.
They have recently returned from the 23-day Viking ‘European Sojourn’ sailing three rivers and eight countries and said shewouldabsolutelyrecommendit.
OlivierandIanaddedanextensionoption before and after the Sojourn, so they spent an extra two nights in Amsterdam prior to catchingthecruiseandtwodaysafterthey embarkedtoexploreTransylvania.
The cruise included nineteen guided toursacrossAmsterdam,Vienna,Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania and more, cruising the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers through eight unique countries.
Olivier said they flew into Amsterdam and were met at airport and transported to accommodation by Viking staff and spentacoupleoffabulousdayssightseeing includingatriptotheimpressiveVanGogh museum.
“The accommodation was five stars, right in heart of the tourist spot and the Viking representative was based at the hotel to serve all clients needs which was greatfornewtravellersandoldertravellers especially,”shesaid.
“We had a lovely room with food and breakfastincludedanditwasfantastic.”
“We were transferred to the ship after two days touring the city and had booked a suite and I would definitely recommend doingthesameagain,howeverifyoudoall the tours, you don’t spend a lot of time in
theirroom.
“The embarkation was really good, and they have two dining situations; sit down waiter service in the dining room with excellentserviceandtheotheroptionisthe alfrescodiningwhichwasmypreference.”
ThecouplemetupwithNoosafriendson the boat and although they sat and dined with them, dining was a wonderful way of mingling.
There were only one hundred and eighty guests on board, around fifty were Australian and two dozen of mixed cultures the rest were from America and Canada. She said most were retirees of mixedfitness.
“I would highly recommend the tours, but many people choose not to and just
relax,“shesaid.
“Everydaytwoorthreetourswereoffered andratedbymobilitysoyoucanstillgoout andenjoytoursormorevigoroustours.
“They had it all covered. I enjoyed some of the leisurely tours which for me was perfect for this trip while my husband and his friend hired bikes on a few occasions andreallyenjoyedthat.”
“The food and people in Germany were very hospitable. We did visit the war camps on our own, which was actually quite awful. We hired a car, and it was just something we wanted to do and see the museum where you really get a sense of whathappenedtothesepoorpeople.
“We hopped off the boat for tours in Cologne, Miltenberger, Wurzburg,
Bamberg, Nuremberg, Passau, and Melk in Germany and we made sure we saw the mostandthebestofit.
“We decided we only wanted to do a morning or afternoon tour so we could do abitofrelaxing,andwefoundthatworked really well so we would have a morning or afternoonoffeachday.
“Sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau was beautiful with castlesontheriverandlovelytosee.
“We loved Vienna, we had a lot of fun. The buildings were absolutely amazing and had a look at those – you just don’t see anythinglikeitinAustraliaandtherewere lotsofofferingsinregardtovarioustours.”
* The second part of the story will be published in next week’s Travel Today feature.
The twenty-three day Viking European Sojourn takes in eight countries and three rivers.
Sail through a serene tapestry of terraced vineyards, forested slopes, charming towns and castle ruins in Austria’s Wachau Valley.
Scenic Sailing on the Main River, Spessart.
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
GRAND EUROPEAN & VIKING FJORDS
Bergen to Budapest or vice versa
22 DAYS | 6 COUNTRIES 18 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: JUL 2026; APR, MAY 2027
Combining the best of our award-winning river and ocean voyages, our new 22-day Grand European & Viking Fjords voyage is a unique and memorable way to explore Europe in comfort. Discover Norway by sea and tour historic cities along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers.
Let our world-class crew welcome you onboard our award-winning fleet of river and ocean vessels. With clean Scandinavian designs, each ship is intimate yet sophisticated and purpose-built to take you closer to each destination.
From $19,090pp in Standard + Veranda Stateroom
From $24,690pp in Veranda Stateroom + Penthouse Veranda
EXTEND YOUR JOURNEY 4 NIGHTS THE
NORWAY & SCENIC TRAIN OR 3 NIGHTS IN PRAGUE
ALWAYS INCLUDED IN YOUR VOYAGE
Combine one of the world’s greatest rail journeys with stays in Oslo and Bergen. Discover Norway’s maritime heritage and see the Akershus Fortress and the Royal Palace. Board the Bergen Railway for a journey over the Hardangervidda, Europe’s highest mountain plateau, and explore beautiful Bergen. Discover the Czech Republic’s vibrant capital, the “City of a Hundred Spires.” Tour Hradčany Castle, visit the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral and stroll along Charles Bridge. See the city’s monuments including the National Theatre, Prague Castle and the famous Charles Bridge. Enjoy a guided walk through Prague Castle.
Deluxe accommodation | Shore excursions | Enriching lectures & destination performances
Wine & beer served with lunch & dinner | Wi-Fi & gratuities | No credit card surcharge
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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 Ave, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm.
Kaye Angel, 0407 551 694, or wcpc1306@gmail.com
Point Cook Combined Probus Club
Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on
the second Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook.
Cathy Guiterrez, 0421 188 129, or cathygutierrez@tpg.com.au
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.
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 of the Ice Queens cheerleading team members Taylor Hallas, Laura Yildirim, Emily Hopkins and Bridget Bayliss. (Damjan Janevski) 488505_01
Heritage fruit tree festival
OneofAustralia’slargestgatheringsoffruit tree lovers is just around the corner.
Sunday, August 10 is the date for this year’s Winter Heritage Fruit Tree Festival at Werribee Park Heritage Orchard. The festival is set to delight gardeners, history buffs, and curious visitors of all ages. Held between 10am to 3pm in the heart of the historic Werribee Park precinct, this unique one-day event offers a rare chance to explore the orchard’s rich past, learn
practical gardening skills, and take home your own piece of heritage.
The orchard dates back to the 1870s, when pastoralist Thomas Chirnside planted an extensive array of fruit trees including apples, quinces, pears, plums, grapes, peaches, walnuts, olives, and the area’s first figs.
Thanks to the dedication of local volunteers and WPHO (Werribee Park Heritage Orchard) — a community group
formed in 2010 in partnership with Parks Victoria — the orchard has been lovingly restored and is once again thriving.
Enjoy live music, grab a bite to eat and browse the stalls selling all things gardening.
All activities are free, with a gold coin donation for parking.
Thefestivalisa’must-attend’eventforall gardeners, from novice to seasoned green thumbs.
Here and There explores a sense of space
Old mates, painter John Anrep and photographer Bob Gilpin, are again taking centre stage, this time with artist Jill Pung Clifford at the Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre.
The trio will host the Here and There exhibition, following on from the Journey AcrosstheBay’sexhibitionfromAnrepand Gilpin last year.
The exhibition explores our relationship with a sense of place, through comparison and contrast, in scale and medium. This exhibition will take you from familiar and meaningful images, to a sense of wonderment for images of the world we
only dream of seeing.
Anrep’s experience of his first exhibition was an overwhelmingly positive one and as a result he is getting ready to do it again.
In his mid-fifties Anrep suffered a stroke whichendedhispreviouscareerofworking as a chef. This led to him to turn to other pursuits and ultimately, painting.
Gilpin is from Scotland, but migrated to Australia with his parents and siblings, they then settled and lived in Altona.
Afterleavingthecorporatelifehebought a camera and learnt how to take photos, leading to his love for photography.
Pung Clifford describes Australia as becoming the canvas on which she could explore a spectrum of passions after moving from Malaysia.
She hopes that through her art she hopes to inspire others to embrace life fully and describes her journey as one of determination, reinvention and courage.
The Here and There exhibition begins on Saturday, July 19, with a launch event startingat4pm,andrunsuntilWednesday, August 6.
The exhibition is free and will be open during regular Louis Joel Gallery opening times.
Dance the night away with singer Julee Johnson
Rock ’n’ roll fans should get ready to clear their Saturday night schedule and put on their dancing shoes.
A free music performance by A Blonde Momentissettogetpeoplemovingtosome classic tunes at the Sunshine City Club on Saturday, July 19.
“It’s one of my favourite places to play. It always has a great crowd,” said Julee Johnson, the performer behind A Blonde Moment.
Johnson will entertain audiences alongside guitarist Joe Mandica, singing covers of popular songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.
“The music depends on the crowd. We catertoallstylesandallstylesofdancing,” she said.
“WhateverIgiveoutonstageIgetitback tenfold from the people that are dancing
Step right
up and see the show
Stop clowning around and make your way down to the circus these school holidays.
Eroni’s Circus has arrived in Sunbury and set up camp in the Golf Driving Range, offering up multiple shows of family fun for the first time in eight years.
Expect a show-stopping performance filled with glamorous costuming, lively original music, immaculately presented animals and traditional circus clowns in a show full of nostalgia.
Acts and performers promise to wow, with tight wire walking, whip cracking, illusions, juggling and trapeze acts. Baby goats will keep you entertained with their antics, while the stars of the show, the palomino horses, will keep you captivated.
The show is perfect for all ages, and with two hours of non-stop entertainment, its a must-see these school holidays.
Shows will be running every day except Wednesdays, with Monday and Tuesday shows running a 1pm, Thursday and Friday running at 7pm, Saturday at 1pm and 7pm, and the last show, Sunday, July 20, running at 1pm.
Tickets cannot be prebooked, so make sure you arrive before showtime to guarantee your spot. Tickets can be purchased at the door from one hour before each showtime.
Tickets range from $25-$40, depending on seating and ages. Kids under three are free if sitting on a lap.
Carnival food will be available on site, as well as games to play and souvenirs to purchase.
and the people that are enjoying the music.”
Johnson fell in love with music from a young age, taking to the stage at six years old.
She later started writing original songs with a band and toured the country with them.
Overhercareer,Johnsonhasalsoworked as part of a trio – performing covers six to seven nights a week – and as a singer with the Brian Fitzgerald Band in the 90s.
Johnson said she loves to get a crowd dancing when she performs.
“If an audience isn’t dancing there’s something wrong,” she said.
The free performance by A Blonde Moment will start at 8pm on July 19.
Details: www.sunshinecityclub.com.au/ whats_on
Julee Johnson will perform as A Blonde Moment at a free event in Sunshine. (Supplied)
Photographer Bob Gilpin and artists Jill Pung Clifford and John Von Anrep with some of their artworks that will be showcased in the exhibition. (Supplied)
Winter Heritage Fruit Tree Festival.
Step behind the curtain at Eroni’s Circus. (Supplied)
The application is for a permit to:
Remove restrictive covenant P040890E from Lot 1014 on PS29972M with Vol, 09997 & Fol. 659.
A permit is required under the following clauses of the Planning Scheme: Planning Scheme Clause Matter for which a permit is required
43.01-1
To remove a restrictive covenant under Section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988.
The application number is: WYP15169/25
The applicant for the application is: Nickas Legal Pty Ltd
Responsible Authority: Wyndham City Council Telephone: 8742 8387
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: 30 July 2025
To
ACROSS
1 Alehouse (3)
3 Compulsory (10)
10 Examines (7)
11 Part (7)
12 Unconvinced (9)
13 Align (4)
15 Absurd (10)
17 Edible rootstock (4)
19 Undiluted (4)
20 Methodical (10)
23 Minute skin opening (4)
25 Canadian city (9)
27 Suggests (7)
28 Fragile (7)
29 Reinforce (10)
30 Point (3) DOWN
1 Note written after the writer’s signature (10)
2 Person who serves alcoholic drinks (9)
4 Essentially (9)
5 Urge (5)
6 Check (6)
7 Bulb used in cooking (5)
8 Tug (4)
9 Marked by great excitement, activity, confusion, haste (6)
14 Synchronous (10)
16 Insupportable (9)
18 Triggered (9)
21 Short-sighted (6)
22 Decorative pattern; plan or sketch (6)
24 Of equal value (2,3)
25 Call on (5)
26 Area on the body consisting of pelvis and upper thigh bones (4)
1 Thanatology is the scientific study of what?
2 What is the only Tim Burton movie to star Christoph Waltz (pictured)?
3 How many countries do the Alps cross?
4 Which small lizard ‘chirps’?
5 Lokum is the traditional name for what confection?
6 The star Polaris is more commonly known by what name?
7 Where in Spain is the Alhambra Palace located?
8 Who directed the 2009 film Bran Nue Dae?
9 At what age does a filly become classified as a mare?
10 What are the prongs of a fork called?
Ice Age lingers with Pajero
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Inthefaceofthered-hotadvanceofelectric power, one internal combustion engine vehicle is moving at glacial pace to extend the Ice age.
The Pajero Sport landed Down Under more than a decade ago and, with its long-standing diesel motor, is sticking steadfastly to the fossil-fuelled task.
The MY24 large seven-seat family SUV is betting on competitive pricing and the slow-to-thawroll-outofpublicfastcharging infrastructure for the EV upstarts, leading to a pandemic of ‘range anxiety’ among owners.
The ladder-frame Pajero Sport competes with other rugged pickup-based SUVs such astheFordEverest,IsuzuMU-XandToyota Fortuner and Prado.
The five-seat Pajero Sport GLX comes in all-wheel drive only these days and costs $51,540, plus on-road costs. The GLS, adds a third row of seats, plus power tailgate, satellite navigation and six-speaker audio, and is from $56,890.
The latter carries the option of a $2250 Deluxe pack, which includes leather seats (a mix of real and synthetic), powered front seats and surround-view camera, while the range is topped off with the Exceed 4×4 at $60,690 and GSR 4×4 ($64,840).
The Pajero Sport GLS is about $6000 cheaper than a mid-range Isuzu MU-X LS-U and about $10,000 cheaper than a mid-range Ford Everest Trend. Mitsubishi leads the segment with its 10-year warranty and capped price servicing, which carries a distance limit of 200,000km. All Mitsubishis are sold with 12 months of roadside assist for up to four years if the vehicle is serviced on schedule at an authorised Mitsubishi dealer.
Styling
With a premium leather three-spoke steering wheel, equipped with intuitive paddle shifters for seamless 4WD mode transitions, Mitsubishi says the MY24 Pajero is designed with functionality and elegance equally in mind.
With latest enhancements such as new 18-inch wheels, grilles, bumper garnishes and black headlamp extensions there’s no shortage of street presence or off-road vs versatility.
Interior
For a seven-seater the GLS does not have theroomiestcabin,nordoesitlackinrather dated surroundings. However, it does have its compensation. The driver can enjoy longer drives courtesy a seat lumber power adjustment.
Bothfrontseatsaddtheluxuryofheating, while the revised interior, including a three-spoke leather steering wheel, has things covered with superior support for the long haul.
ConveniencestartswiththePajeroSport’s advanced power tailgate. Go hands-free by simplywavingafootundertherearbumper, or use the intuitive smartphone app. The automatic tailgate is put into operation on approaching or leaving the vehicle.
In five or seven-seat configurations there’s no excuse for leaving anything behind. packed to the rafters for a weekend escape or looking to load up the boot with work gear, Pajero Sport cargo capacity has it all covered.
Cargo space is 131 litres, and with the second row in place expands to 502 litres for the GLS, Exceed and GSR. With all seats folded, it amounts to 1488 litres for all seven-seat versions.
There’s a 12V power socket, a small
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Safety: 7/10
Thirst: 7/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 6/10
Tech: 7/10
Value: 8/10
underfloor compartment, a full-sized spare wheel, and Exceed and GSR boast an automatic power tailgate.
Infotainment
The 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, with its pixelated graphics and basic set of features supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the interface feels dated. Also, a little old fashioned are the navigationsystem,DABradio,plusachoice of audio outputs.
Engines/transmissions
This Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is powered by a 2.4 litre turbodiesel engine producing 133kW of power at 3500rpm and 430Nm of torque at 2500rpm delivered to the front or all wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
According to maker Mitsubishi, expect the Pajero Sport GLS 4WD seven-seat vehicle to go through eight litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the combined city andhighwaycyclewhileputtingout212gof CO2 every kilometre.
Safety
The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport received a five-star rating from ANCAP in 2015,
which means it has lapsed due to dated construction.
However, all models include forward autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a speed limiter, reversing sensors, and trailer stability control, as are dual front, front-side and curtain airbags and driver’s knee.
Forexample,forwardcollisionmitigation detects obstructions ahead and issues a visual and audible alert when there is a danger of collision and automatically applies the brakes to avoid collision or reduce impact speed and severity.
Blindspotwarningandlanechangeassist helps lane changing with confidence, the lane change assist sounding an alert and displaying a blinking warning in the door mirrors when the system detects a vehicle moving in the same direction within 3.4m.
Adaptive cruise control uses radar technology to detect any cars ahead in the samelaneandadjuststhespeedofyourcar while maintaining a safe distance set by you.
Rear cross traffic alert uses the rear side radar sensors to detect another vehicle approaching from the side when reversing. The system operates when the vehicle is in
reverse at speeds below 8km/h.
MitsubishiMotors’MultiAroundMonitor providesa360-degreebird’s-eyeviewofthe car.
Driving While the Pajero Sport’s 2.4-litre MiVEC diesel engine, with an all-aluminium alloy block and a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivers marked fuelefficiencyandminimalCO2emissions, the word ‘Sport’ in terms of on-road performance is sadly misplaced. The car is no race circuit record breaker. The test GLS was hesitant off the mark and slow to get into its stride. Once there, however, the eight-speed auto shifted intelligently under varying loads and road conditions.
Off-road is a different matter: designed for versatility, the Super Select 4WD II featuresfouroff-roadmodes–Gravel,Mud/ Snow, Sand and Rock – each calibrated for complete driver confidence.
Summary
A cool reception for the ‘prehistoric’ Pajero Sport. Best to wait for the next Triton-like Pajero round the corner.
A cool reception for the ‘prehistoric’ Pajero Sport. (Pictures: Supplied)
There was no shortage of sporting action on Saturday across Melbourne’s north-west. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
Plenty of sporting action
Macedon’s Molly McGrath. 489391_01 Melton Centrals’ Imogen Sexton and Woodend-Hesket’s Georgia Bowkett. 489385_30
Riddell’s Benjamin Borg. 489394_28 Rupertswood’s Mitchell Johnson. 489393_05
Woodend-Hesket’s Hayley Rogers. 489385_05
Sunbury Kangaroos’ Bradley Collins. 489393_21
Rupertswood’s Tom Markey and Sunbury Kangaroos’ Mitchell Streiff. 489393_11
Melton Centrals’ Imogen Sexton. 489385_01
Macedon’s Katie Clarke. 489391_18
Kyneton’s Caleb Perini. 489394_06
Kyneton’s Angus Nolte kicks goal. 489394_22
Wyndham’s bright future
By Tara Murray
Wyndham is building for the future in the FV state league 5 west competition.
After a few tough seasons, Wyndham finallyfeelslikeitisontrackwithbigthings to come.
President Trevor Bowen said since starting the club in 2020 the club has had its challenges. He said they had been working with community groups to try and provide a home for as many players as possible.
“We’ve had some bad years,” he said. “We are mainly made up of refugees and giving them somewhere to play is the most important thing.
“We want to make our community, their community. The last couple of years we’ve
lost players and players that have just not turned up.
“All teams across Football Victoria like us have the same problem.
“There’s some families playing for nothing as they can’t afford the fees.”
With the number of sides increasing each season, Wyndham has built a strong base in their juniors.
Three junior sides are sitting strongly this season in the third highest division in their age group.
A couple of years ago its under-18 boys side won the B-title.
Bowen said they have some very dedicated junior players who were keen to play each week.
“That is through the coaching and the commitment of the juniors is very high,”
he said. “It’s not something that we’ve had before.
Their senior men’s side sits in ninth place.
Bowen said their match with ladder leaders Newport Storm, where they pushed them, showed that they could compete with the best in the division.
Eight of its 10 losses have come by one goal.
“They complimented us for putting up a fight against them,” he said. “Last year we finished eighth, this year we’ll finish sixth or seventh.”
On Saturday, Wyndham had a 2-2 draw with Maidstone United after leading 2-1 at half time./
With a restructure of the competition next season, Bowen said at this stage it
Blake Jago. (Jacob Pattison)357617_05
Suns defensive focus showing through
The Suns are taking on the challenges on and off the field in the Western Football League division 2 competition.
Looking to build on last season, the Suns have cemented themselves in the top six heading into the back part of the season
Coach Roger Hand said they were tracking along OK.
“We’ve had injuries and players away on holidays,” he said. “It’s mostly been injuries.
“Dean Cachia hurt his calf and hasn’t played since round two. Cameron Joyce is our best midfielder and he’s had to have a knee reconstruction.
“It’s more than we would have liked. We’vebeenabletogetafewresultsgoour way with some decent football.
“We have a great test against West Footscray [this week]. It’s a huge game forusaswecanlevelupinthirdspotand potentially secure a double chance.”
Hand said with having key players out, players who have played in the reserves have stepped up and played roles in the senior team to keep them competitive.
On Saturday, the Suns had a really
strong performance against the Western Rams.
TheSunsgotthejumpontheRamswith the only four goals in the first quarter.
Withsevengoalsinthesecondquarter, the game was all but over at half time.
The Suns finished strongly to come away with an 18.25 (133)-6.12 (48).
HandsaidtheRamswerebattlingtheir own injury issues.
“The conditions were perfect for football,” he said.
“We controlled the game and defensively we’ve been really good the last couple of weeks.
“The guys have been working hard to stop the score against.”
Hand said their defence had been something they were really working on, having been easy to score against when playing good sides.
He said it was about getting a better balance, with the side’s scoring ability never being questioned.
“The last 18 teams to win the AFL premiership have been in the top five or six defensively,” he said.
“To win we need to work on that and
would be in state league 7 north-west.
He had big aims already for that competition and next season.
“We will win it next year,” he said. “It willmakeitamoreevenbalanceofteams.
“We’ve got players coming back to the club already and we’re confident we’ll have our strongest team we’ve ever had.”
The women’s team which dropped back to state league 5 west this season, is on track to be promoted back into state league 4 west.
On Sunday, the women’s side had a 1-0 loss to Yarraville.
It currently sits fifth on the ladder.
In other FV state league 5 matches, Truganina Hornets lost to Ocean Grove, 4-1.
Briefs
A-League
Jaiden Kucharski will bring blistering attacking flair to Western United after signing a two-year deal with the A-League men’s club. The 23-year-old adds bona fide goal-scoring and creative prowess to the squad with seven goals and five assists for Sydney FC. Three of Kucharski’s league goals were match-winning strikes in the final 10 minutes of matches. Western United described him as equally adept at striking off either foot and that he has just about every kind of goal in his locker.
Coates Talent League
The Western Jets had a tough day out against Geelong Falcons in the Coatest Talent League boys competition on Saturday. Heading down to the Geelong, the Jets lost the game in the first half when they trailed62-15 at half time. The second half was a lot closer, but the Jets couldn’t bridge the gap as they lost 19.9 (123)-8.5 (53). The Jets sit 16th on the ladder.
FV
they are getting the point and looking forward to those challenges against the better teams.
“We played Albanvale last week and they were higher on the ladder.”
Hamish Holmes kicked five goals and Patrick Hynes kicked four goals in the win against the Rams.
Both were named in the best along with Daniel O’Leary and Matthew Wright.
Hand said with the side sitting in fourth spot and in reach of the sides above it, a top three spot and double chance come finals would be really pleasing.
“It’s important for us to finish as high as we can,” he said. “We want the best chance to go as deep as we can in finals.
“Making finals would be a tick, winning one we would be really happy.
“A double chance and potentially playing Wyndhamvale in the second week of finals would be fantastic.”
In other results, Wyndhamvale beat Sunshine Heights, 26.17 (173)-7.4 (46) and Tarneit lost to Laverton, 25.20 (170)-8.2 (50).
Hoppers Crossing had a tough day out against Heidelberg Eagles in the FV state league 3 north-west competition on Saturday. The Eagles scored twice in the first half to put the pressure on the Reds. They soon scored a third before the Reds got one back late. It wasn’t enough as they lost 3-1. Dylan Lee was the goal scorer for the Reds. The Reds sit in eighth spot. In state league 4 west, Point Cook had a 2-1 win against Lara United, while West Point lost to Melbourne City, 4-1.
Western NL
Glen Orden had no issues at all in getting past Werribee Districts in the Western Netball League division 1 competition on Friday night. It was a dominant display from the Hawks, who won 84-46. Payton Simeki shot 46 goals for the Hawks in the win. The Hawks sit four points clear on top with Werribee Districts in fifth spot.
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Aloisi re-signs with United
By Joseph Ibic
Western United coach John Aloisi has signed a new two-year contract to remain in the job.
The former Socceroo is Western United’s longest serving coach surpassing 100 matches in charge during the A-League men’s 2024-25 season.
It was a record-breaking season for Western United which enjoyed its best-ever season in terms of wins, points and goals scored.
The 2022 finals series and grand final victory remain at the very top of Aloisi’s achievements.
Aloisi brings a renewed motivation for success with his reappointment.
“The reason I re-signed is I still see so
much growth left on and off the pitch and I can’t wait to continue this journey together as a club, with the support of our fans who have stuck by us through the highs and the lows,” he said.
“First season at Ironbark last season, and we already started to make it our fortress. It was so special to play there in front of our home fans and I’m eager to see them all there again cheering our boys on.
“I am super excited to continue working with this group of players, we played some great attacking football last season and I know this group is still hungry to keep learning and improving.”
Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato labelled Aloisi a difference maker for the club.
“Since he joined the club, John has revolutionised the culture from our football department through to the admin office and left an indelible impression everyone at the club.”
“We firmly believe we have one of the brightest Australian coaches and leaders at our club and we are delighted to have John guiding our group into an increasingly exciting future.”
Aloisi is straight back on the training track, as the team prepares for their Australia Cup round of 32 clash against Sydney FC later this month.
Meanwhile, Jaiden Kucharski will bring blistering attacking flair to Western United after signing a two-year deal with the club.
The23-year-oldaddsbonafidegoal-scor-
Tough task ahead for the valiant Bees
Werribee City doesn’t have any wriggle room as it tries to ensure its future in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition.
The Bees find themselves third last with the bottom three teams set to be relegated at the end of the season.
There are just seven points between eighth and bottom with five rounds remaining.
Bees coach Craig Moore said they have five mini cup finals in the run home.
“Ideally we need to win most of those games,” he said. “We need at least three wins out of the last five games.
“Anyone can beat anyone in the league. You see the top sides playing the bottom teams and the bottom side brings out the result.
“We have to be on point. We have to do our own thing and turn up and produce and get some points and look at our own situation.”
The Bees looked to strengthen their list during the transfer period with one eye on surviving this season but also looking to the future.
Josh Markovski, Jake McKetterick, Robert Taylor and Aaron Ricken have joined the club, Ali Dulleh returns to the first team while Gabriel Pablo has been promoted from the under-23s.
Moore said they wanted to tick both boxes in terms of now and the future.
“We want to build a culture and it can take a long period of time,” he said. “Changing players and coaches means it takes more time.
“We are building the foundations for the future. We bought in about four and bought in a couple that have come back to the club.
“They’ve come back which is pleasing that they trust the club. We bought in players to restock after having some long term injuries.
“We bought in four or five, but didn’t let 4-5 go.”
Moore said they would continue to look to bring some younger players up to at least train with the senior side as they have one eye on the future.
While most teams had the weekend off due to a catch up round, the Bees were in action on Friday night against Brunswick Juventus.
Brunswick sits in the top three.
The Bees managed to come away with a point in the 1-1 draw.
Moore said they deserved at least a point out of that match.
“We were really happy,” he said. “We understood how we thought they would lay and the boys set up well and did exactly what we wanted them to do.
“They got a penalty in injury time. We’re trying to get them to play the whole game,not just the scoreboard.
Bradley Murray. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
“We thought we deserved a draw, if not more with all the chances we had in the first half. We would have loved the three points.”
The Bees task doesn’t get any easier as
ing and creative prowess to the squad with seven goals and five assists for Sydney FC.
Kucharski said he is itching to get started and bring his quality to the fore.
“I’m really excited. I’ve been doing some training alone and all I want to do is get on the pitch in these colours,” he said.
“The team scores a lot of goals, they get a lot of balls in the box which is what I like.
“Hopefully I can get a good amount of goals next season and push for the top scorer, if I can.
“A lot of the boys are young, lots of vibrant and energetic flair. A lot of the good things happening last season were from young boys getting forward.
“I want to score goals, I want to do well for this team.”
Big V weekend for Wyndham
Wyndham claimed a rare win in the Big V men’s championship division and fell just short of a second one in overtime on the weekend.
Wyndham started its weekend on the road as it headed to Bundoora to take on RMIT University.
The Redbacks had a small lead heading into quarter time before Wyndham had a 35-21 second quarter to take control of the game.
RMIT fought back in the third quarter to reduce the margin to two points heading into the final quarter.
Wyndham finished strongly and did enough to come away with a 10895 win.
Wyndham had little time to rest as it was back on the road on Sunday as it battled the Blackburn Vikings, a battle of the bottom two teams.
The two teams traded the lead throughout the match with scores locked at 84-apiece at the end of the fourth quarter.
Scores were still level at the end of the first period of overtime before the Redbacks were able to sneak home, 111-108.
Wyndham sits 11th on the table.
Wyndham faces Pakenham this Saturday at home.
In the women’s championship, Wyndham suffered a big loss to the Bulleen Boomers.
Coming off its second win of the season, Wyndham was hoping to keep the momentum going.
The Boomers started strongly and led by 15 points at half time.
they face ladder leaders North Geelong on Saturday in Geelong.
“If we play how we play as well as we did on Friday night we should come away with at least a point if not three points.”
Wyndham was able to reduce the margin to 10 points at three quarter time before Wyndham finished strongly to win, 102-72.
Wyndham women also face Pakenham this weekend.
Junior Garbrah. (tjphotos)
Dark day for the Tigers
By Tara Murray
Werribeedishedupitsmostdisappointing performance of the Victorian Football League on Saturday as its finals hopes suffered another hit.
Needing everything to go their way in therunhometodefendtheirpremiership, the Tigers performance was something that hasn’t been seen for a couple of years.
TheTigerswereinthegameathalftime with the Casey Demons, who are also fighting for a finals spot, with the margin just 16 points.
After half time it was one way traffic withtheDemonspilingon11goalstojust two to run away with a 16.15 (111)-5.5 (35) win.
Tigers coach Jimmy Allan said they went away from what had kept them competitive so far this season.
“We were competitive for a half and thenitwasareallydisappointingeffortin the second half,” he said. “It was the first time this season we didn’t give a yelp, which was disappointing.
“They got right on top around the footy and we couldn’t stop them.”
Allan said while they hadn’t got the wins they would have liked this season, their effort had still been there.
He said in the second half they didn’t have that.
“It made for ordinary viewing in the second half,” he said. “We thought we were right in the game at half time.
“They broke our spirit in the third quarter and they ran away from there.
“We struggled to score. The second half felt like we weren’t in the game for the first time.
“It’s something we have to try and fix quickly.”
Allan said defensively they had been pretty good heading into the Demons game and had been the fifth hardest side to score against.
He said scoring continued to be their biggest issue.
“We hang our hat on being hard to play against,” he said. “Starting this week we have to get back to this with no easy games.”
Allan said having a new side this season had been part of the problem with the lack of consistency they’ve had the past two seasons on the way to two grand finals.
On Saturday night, Emerson Jeka became the club’s 18th debutant this season.
Jeka previously played VFL at Box Hill Hawks and Geelong when he was on Hawthorn’s and Geelong’s AFL lists.
“He ran out of steam towards the end,” Allan said of what was a good performance from Jeka.
“He’s a class act and with mainly his contested stuff. His kicking is a real weapon and we’ve needed it this year to move from our defensive 50 through to
our attacking 50 and he helps with us.
“Early in the season he came to us with a hamstring injury and then got injured in rehab. We didn’t want to rush him.”
Jeka was one of the few winners for the Tigers on Saturday.
Allan said Jaelen Pavlidis got back to the defensive work they wanted from him. Unfortunately a head clash with a teammate will see him miss a few weeks with concussion.
Harry Grintell was busy in the first half in attack before having to move up the ground with lack of supply in the forward line.
Werribeenowsitsin15thspot,10points behind the Demons, who sit in 10th spot.
This week the Tigers face Coburg at Coburg City Oval on Sunday.
Allan said the Lions enter the match in good form.
“They are fresh off the bye,” he said.
“They beat Casey the week before.
“They are in good form and pushing for a finals spot.
“I would like to think we would have a better effort this week.”
framework will be a guide for staged development in
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:
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
Emerson Jeka on debut for Werribee.
Werribee walk off disappointed. (Werribee FC)
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