Star Weekly - Northern - 5th August 2025

A place to call home

Lalor District Men’s Shed is hoping upgraded facilities will help increase its member numbers.

The group’s home at the old trade wing in Lalor Secondary College has recently undergone renovations over the past 12 months, involving stripping back the old building to remove the asbestos that previously covered much of the structure, in order to allow the men’s shed to lease the location.

Shed president Merv Landy said Covid had hit the shed hard in terms of membership and once Covid was over, the renovations started. However, now that the renovations are complete, old members are re-joining and a lot of new members have joined up as well.

There are plans to install a garden and green room where members can go out and have a cup of tea or coffee.

The men’s shed is also currently on a membership drive, with a goal of reaching 100 members by Christmas. They currently have about 84 members. The shed will operate on Saturdays along with its usual Wednesday and Thursdays to accommodate younger workers.

Impound capital

By Laura Michell

Hume is the impound capital of Victoria, new police data reveals.

Police impounded 528 vehicles in Hume in 2024, according to impoundment statistics.

Police impounded 243 vehicles because the driver’s licence was disqualified or suspended, while 115 impounds were because the vehicle was being driven at more than 45km/h above the speed limit.

Sixty-one impounds were the result of unlicensed driving, 45 impounds related to a learner driver who was driving with a supervisor and 28 impounds were the

result of the driver being found with a bloodalcoholconcentrationof.10ofmore.

In Whittlesea, police impounded 395 vehicles, with 181 impounds relating to someone driving while their licence was disqualified or suspended.

FawknerHighwayPatrolSeniorSergeant Frank Cuce said removing unsafe drivers from the roads is an absolute priority for Victoria Police.

“It is astonishing how many people are prepared to breach the road rules, and blatantly commit serious traffic and criminal offences which warrants their cars being impounded,” he said.

“Taking away the ability of drivers to put others in danger is a powerful tool to

prevent death and serious injury, and we will use these powers wherever necessary.

“Our ability to detect drivers who are suspended, disqualified or unlicensed has never been greater, particularly with the use of ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) technology.

“If you’re impaired or unlicensed, it’s very simple – you shouldn’t be behind the wheel.

“Anyone choosing to make these high risk decisions and drive dangerously on our roads should know this won’t be tolerated.

Police said that while it is up to the courts to decide what happens to an impounded car, people who engage in serious and dangerous behaviour should not expect they will get their car back – it could be crushed or destroyed.

While the 2024 impoundment rate in Hume was the highest in the state – ahead of Wyndham where 525 vehicles were impounded–itisthelowestimpoundment rate in municipality since 2018.

Police data shows 690 vehicles were impounded in the municipality in 2023, 698 in 2022, 529 in 2021, 893 in 2020 and 844 in 2019.

“It is never okay to go over the speed limit. Speed limits are in place for a reason, and everyday in the news we see the repercussions of road trauma and this type of behaviour.”

The Lalor and District Men’s Shed president Merv Landy. (Damjan Janevski) 490135_01

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building North East Link. We’re also upgrading the Eastern Freeway and completing the M80 Ring Road in Greensborough, making travelling around Melbourne quicker and safer.

What we’re doing:

Tunnelling continues all year on North East Link, while entry and exit ramps are excavated in Yallambie and Bulleen.

Building the new ramps that will connect the Eastern Freeway to North East Link in 2028.

Making changes to Manningham and Bulleen roads in Bulleen to keep traffic moving as we work.

Constructing the new free-flowing interchanges at the M80 Ring Road and Grimshaw Street.

Road disruptions: Closed roads and freeways

Watsonia Road, Watsonia 5 to 7 Aug, 10pm to 5am each night

Grimshaw Street, Watsonia North 8 to 10 Aug, 9pm to 6am each night

Between Devonshire Road and Greensborough Highway

Between Macorna Street and Greensborough Bypass 9 to 10 August, 6am to 9pm each day

Eastern Freeway, Balwyn North 10.30pm 9 August to 9am 10 August

Between Macorna and Frye streets

Between Doncaster and Bulleen roads

$1 million reward on offer

By Laura Michell

A $1 million reward is on offer for information in relation to the fatal shooting of Robert Issa in a Craigieburn shopping centre car park in 2023.

Five men – a 29-year-old from Kew, a 31-year-old from Mickleham, a 33-yearold from Pascoe Vale and two 26-yearolds from Fawkner – were charged with murder, attempted murder and criminal damage by fire last week.

Investigators will allege the five men charged carried out the attack and detectives remain particularly keen to identify those further up the chain who

ordered, financed and organised the hit.

Now, police are offering a reward of up to $1 million, paid at the discretion of the chief commissioner, for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for the murder of Mr Issa.

The director of public prosecutions will consider the granting of indemnification from prosecution to any person who provides information as to the identity of the principaloffenderoroffendersinthematter, police said.

Mr Issa, 27, and a male associate were sitting inside a white Mercedes station wagon parked in the car park of Craigie-

burn Central Shopping Centre when a number of shots were fired into the car just before 3pm on Saturday, October 7, 2023.

Issa was pulled from the vehicle and a number of witnesses attempted CPR before emergency services arrived. He died at the scene.

Theothermaninsidethevehicle,anow 30-year-old from the northern suburbs, wastakentohospitalwithseriousinjuries.

A black Range Rover was located burnt out in Westmeadows a short time later.

Homicide Squad Detective Inspector Dean Thomas said police know Mr Issa had connections to a number of organ-

Free clothes to help youths get job ready

Young people in Hume seeking to look sharp on their way to landing a job are invited to participate in a new free program.

FutureFIT, a collaboration between Big Group Hug and Ready Set, will provide clothes for jobseekers to wear to interviews. Anyone aged 15-24 and who is experiencing financial hardship that prevents them from purchasing interview-appropriate clothing are eligible. The program has been designed to make the process less intimidating and

more accessible.

Upon arrival, two volunteer stylists will greet the young person and help them explore clothing options, offering tips on styling for interviews.

Big Group Hug chief executive Bernadene Voss said helping young people look their best was important.

“I have seen the data around unemployment in the west, so my aim is for everyone in the west to have the opportunity to get a job,” she said.

Youth aged 15–17 should attend with

a responsible adult, such as a family member or a caseworker.

FutureFIT will start as a pilot for six months and be run out of Big Group Hug’s Tarneit hub on Wednesdays between 1-4pm. Self-referrals are not accepted and must come from professionalsinemployment,education,health,or welfare services who can also support the young person if additional assistance is needed.

Referrals: https://www.readyset.org. au/referring-agencies-registration

Taskforce cracks down on underquoting at Hume auctions

Thirty-two real estate auctions across Craigieburn were subject to visits from the state government’s underquoting taskforce last weekend.

Taskforce officers targeted auctions in the area, checking compliance with auction and sales rules and using the opportunity to educate agents and buyers about underquoting laws.

The taskforce uses a range of methods to monitor the property market, including tracking sales campaigns, inspecting estate agencies and attending auctions.

This is the latest in a series of auction

inspection blitzes targeting specific locations, the government said.

According to the government, since it was launched in September 2022, the taskforce has received more than 4200 complaints through its dedicated webform, monitored more than 2500 sales campaigns and attended 275 auctions.

It has issued 185 fines totalling over $2 million and issued 244 official warnings to agents caught breaching their obligations. It is also currently taking legal action against several agents for alleged breaches of the law, Acting Consumer Af-

ised crime groups, which has added complexity to the investigation.

“This offending involves more than just those in the car on the night – it’s the planning, the financing, those further up the chain and the facilitators,” he said.

“That is the reason for this reward. We know there are others out there and we will take every step in this investigation to identify them. If this reward leads to someone coming forward, then any informationtheyprovidewillbethoroughly investigated.”

Information to Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com. au

fairs Minister Melissa Horne said

More than one third of complaints are submitted by real estate agents themselves, highlighting that agents who are doing the right thing are also frustrated with having to compete against unfair and unlawful practices in their industry, the government said.

“We know Craigieburn is popular with first home buyers – it’s why Consumer Affairs Victoria is monitoring auctions in the area to ensure the market is fairer for Victorians,” Ms Horne said.

Four machete disposal bins will be located in Melbourne’s outer north as part of a two-month amnesty period during which people are being urged to safely dispose of the weapon.

The safe disposal bins will be located at Mernda, Mill Park, Broadmeadows and Craigieburn police stations from September 1- November 30.

The bins will be accessible 24-7 and will be roughly 900 millimetres by 1200 millimetres in size, with a 70 millimetre concrete base to ensure they are secure and have feet to allow for safe removal.

The amnesty period will coincide with a statewide machete ban which will make owning, carrying, using, buying, or selling a machete without a valid exemption or approval a criminal offence from September 1.

During the amnesty period, people can hand in a machete without penalty, the state government said.

Anyone who fails to do so could face up to two years’ imprisonment or a fine of more than $47,000.

According to the government, agricultural workers who use machetes as part of their job and machetes that are used in a traditional, historical, or cultural capacity will be exempted.

Anyone covered by an exemption must comply with strict conditions and be able to demonstrate eligibility if asked by police.

Police Minister Anthony Carbines said the state government had a simple message to anyone who owned a machete.

“Get rid of them or face the consequences,” he said.

“We’re backing Victoria Police who work tirelessly to get these weapons out of young people’s hands and keep people safe.”

Premier Jacinta Allan said machetes destroyed lives.

“Victorians have zero tolerance for knife crime and so do we – we’re enacting this ban and boosting Victoria Police’s powers because community safety always comes first,” she said.

The government introduce an interim sales ban on machetes in May in response to a knife attack at Northland Shopping Centre.

Since then Consumer Affairs Victoria has inspected more than 470 retailers to enforce the ban – with only seven stores and one market vendor found to be breaking the law.

Details: vic.gov.au/machete-amnesty.

Big Group Hug chief executive Bernadene Voss, staff member Sonal Dang and volunteer Chris Pope. (Damjan Janevski). 490985_01

Machete

Reservoir plays a vital role

At the edge of Melbourne’s fast-growing north,GreenvaleReservoirishelpingshape theregion’sfuture,notjustbystoringwater, butbyensuringthereliabilityandflexibility ofdrinkingwater.

Commissioned in 1973, this 27,800-megalitre reservoir plays a behind-the-scenes but vital role in MelbourneWater’snetwork.

Greenvale Reservoir doesn’t rely on rainfall like some of Melbourne’s other storages.

Instead,itholdstreatedwaterthat’spiped infromSilvanReservoir.

Melbourne Water said this makes it a smart back-up, ready to step in and meet demandwhenandwhereit’sneededmost.

AccordingtoMelbourneWater,Greenvale Reservoir works on a seasonal cycle: it fills up during the colder, wetter months, then gradually draws down through summer to supporthigherdemand.

The reservoir helps supply suburbs from

Tullamarine through to Craigieburn and beyond – places where population growth issurging.

“Greenvale helps us reliably supply drinking water to Melbourne’s north and west,” Melbourne Water head of water supplyDavidNormansaid.

“It’s location and connectivity make it essentialtomanagingdemandinoneofthe city’sfastest-growingregions.”

MelbourneWatersaidthatoperationally, Greenvale is optimised for reliability. Its altitude enables gravity-based supply to areastothewestandsouth-westofthecity.

That means reduced energy cost and more efficient service, Melbourne Water said.

The reservoir is not just an engineering asset;it’spartofthecommunity.

The adjacent Greenvale Reservoir Park, withitssweepingviewsandpicnicfacilities, is a reminder that water infrastructure can coexistwithopenpublicspace.

Briefs

Friends agreement renewed Hume and Merri-bek councils have renewed a longstanding Friendship Agreement with the Municipality of Aileu in Timor-Leste, reaffirming a shared commitment to international friendship, cultural exchange, and community collaboration. This renewed five-year partnership builds on more than two decades of connection and cooperation between the three communities. The partnership allow the three municipalities to continue their efforts in opportunities such as climate resilience, sustainable development, and civic engagement.

Stay safe around schools With students back at school after the winter break, Whittlesea council is reminding everyone in the community to help keep children safe near schools. Whether you’re a parent, driver, neighbour or just passing by, your actions near schools matter. Council said that every day, children walk across busy streets, use crossings and move through car parks on their way to and from school. Unsafe or careless driving including parking incorrectly, speeding or being distracted, can quickly put children at risk, especially in areas with high foot traffic and limited visibility.

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Greenvale Reservoir. (Supplied)

Cost of monitors revealed

By Laura Michell

Two municipal monitors appointed by the state government to oversee Whittlesea council cost ratepayers more than $66,000.

The government appointed Jude Munro and Peita Duncan to oversee council as it transitioned from administrators to elected councillors.

The current councillors are the first elected representatives for Whittlesea council since March 2020, after the state government sacked the former council.

The council was sacked by the government following a report from municipal monitor Yehudi Blacher that found serious

governance failures at the council.

Administrators were appointed to the council to perform the duties of councillors until last October’s local government elections.

In appointing Ms Munro and Ms Duncan last November, then-Local Government Minister Melissa Horne said the monitors would help prevent the recurrence of issues that led to the council’s dismissal.

Ms Munro was appointed from November 6 and Ms Duncan from November 20.

Their time at council ended on May 20 when Local Government Minister Nick Staikos launched a Commission of Inquiry into the council.

Helping for half a century

St John Ambulance Victoria hosted a special morning tea on Friday, July 11 to farewell and thank Gladstone Park local Alan Marshall for his 52 years of service.

Mr Marshall first volunteered for St John in 1972, joining his wife who was a member of the Broadmeadows unit.

“The Broadmeadows unit had a rescue section and special rescue vehicle prior to the commencement of the State Emergency Service. There was additional training in cliff rescue disaster callouts and mine rescue and weekend camps to assist in the teamwork required to be accredited,“ Mr Marshall said .

“It is great fun when in the thick of the action.“

He said over his half century with St

John, the organisation had evolved and kept offering new challenges which kept his interest alive.

His involvement progressed through the ranks from divisional and regional roles to state appointments. He was eventually appointed to the St John Board in Victoria.

At state headquarters, Mr Marshall managed the emergency management section, leading a dedicated team that supports the state in times of emergency. He encourages more people to get involved with St John for the training and camaraderie.

What’s on

Help set our course for the next four years

will guide the delivery of services, projects and programs over the next four years.

provide a roadmap to ensure we achieve meaningful change.

A report to the July 22 council meeting revealed that Ms Munro and Ms Duncan’s time at council cost $66.192.

Ms Munro and Ms Duncan were meant to oversee the council for 12 months, however the council is now under the scrutiny of the Commission of Inquiry led by Prue Digby and Jim Gifford.

The inquiry was announced by Local Government Minister Nick Staikos on April 16 when he suspended former mayor Aidan McLindon for six months amid allegations of poor conduct and intimidating behaviour, and was launched by the minister on May 19.

It followed a vote of no confidence in Mr

McLindon by the city’s other councillors and his subsequent ban from council premises for occupational health and safety reasons. According to the government, a Commission of Inquiry is held when serious governance failures are identified.

Mr Staikos determined that an inquiry into Whittlesea council with broad powers was necessary to address potentially serious and systemic governance issues within the council and identify necessary improvements to ensure it can function effectively.

The council will continue to operate during the inquiry, with findings to be handed down in September.

Delivered in partnership with Solar Savers, the grant covers projects including , visit

Gurdev Bahia, Olivia Howarth, Grant Coultman-Smith, Alan Marshall, Doug Caulfield and Susan Fayers. (Supplied)

Land acquisition key to road

By Laura Michell

Whittlesea council will seek to publicly acquiretwosectionsoflandalongBoundary RoadinWollerttopavethewayforthedevelopment of an intersection.

DuringtheJuly22councilmeeting,councillors voted to ask Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny to apply a public acquisition overlay to parts of land at 70 and 80 Boundary Road, Wollert, to facilitate the construction oftheBoundaryandAndrewroadsintersection.

Ms Kilkenny will be asked to fast-track the process.

The intersection is identified in the Wollert Precinct Structure Plan (PSP).

A report to the council meeting stated that council had sought to acquire the land through voluntary negotiations with the landowners, which were unsuccessful.

Council planning and development director Emma Appleton told the council meeting that the intersection would not be delivered if the land was not acquired.

CrJarrodLappinsaidseekingapublicacquisition overlay was the right way forward for council.

“This intersection has been part of the Wollert Precinct Structure Plan for quite

some time,” he said.

“The time is right to get these works started.

“Those familiar with the area will know how busy and congested it can get around peak times and this intersection is an entry point into Mernda.

“These works are critical to the future growth of the area.”

Council will also write to Ms Kilkenny to highlightthebarriersaffectingthetimelyacquisition of land for public purposes in PSP areas, and the delays those barriers cause to the development of land for housing, employment and infrastructure required for

Artists bring creative to the community

What began as a modest idea in 2012 has now flourished into one of Roxburgh Park’s most vibrant community art events and artist Mary Herring has been there from the very beginning.

The 2025 Bridgewater Lake Art Show returns to the Bridgewater Lake Retirement Estate on August 30 and 31, with more than 50 artists exhibiting up to 300 works.

But for Ms Herring, it’s never just been about numbers.

“It’s a matter of finding something

that appeals to you,” Mary said of her creative process.

“I actually prefer landscapes as opposed to flowers and occasionally I might dabble in something more experimental.”

Ms Herring hopes her journey can inspire others to take the first step into the world of art, no matter their age or experience.

“I didn’t start painting until my later years, and it’s not just the opportunity to sell your paintings, but for me it’s the op-

portunity to share them,” she said.

“For me it doesn’t matter whether they’re sold or not, it’s the pleasure of actually putting your artwork in.”

When asked to recall her favourite year, Ms Herring said there were a couple that stood out.

“I think 2015 for me … It was the achievement of seeing how it started to what it eventually became.”

Mickleham man facing charges following Greenvale death

Police have charged a man as part of their investigation into the death of a man in Greenvale earlier this year.

A 48-year-old Mickleham man was arrested last week and charged with one count of murder and assault.

The murder charge follows an incident where police were initially called to reports of a physical altercation at a residential building site on Supreme Avenue in Greenvale at approximately 12.45pm

on March 30.

On arrival, they found a 42-year-old Meadow Heights man with facial injuries and a 48-year-old Mickleham man.

After speaking with the pair police left the scene.

Shortly before 4pm that same day, the 42-year-old man was dropped at an Epping hospital suffering critical injuries.

Investigators will allege a further assault had taken place post the police at-

growing communities.

Council will also request changes to the planning system to overcome the barriers.

Cr Lawrie Cox said the intersection was a clear example of the difficulties council has in its growth areas.

“We don’t have adequate infrastructure development planning occur in advance of the release of residential property,” he said,

“From a council, we are constable being blamed and held responsible for these failures.

“We want to see infrastructure in place prior to residents moving in, rather than the cat chasing the tail.”

Northern Health doctor awarded research fellowship

Dr Karen Kiang, a clinical paediatrician in the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), has been selected for the 2025 MacHSR (Masters in Health Services Research) Future Leaders Fellowship program.

This significant achievement reflects her dedication to advancing health equity, innovation, and environmental sustainability in healthcare.

“The fellowship offers protected research time, which is critical to ensure that my project is given the thought and attention that it deserves. I hope this opportunity helps me establish research independence and serves as a springboard for future projects and funding,” Dr Kiang said.

The fellowship program is open to fully qualified clinicians (doctors, nurses and allied health professionals) who are keen to use Health Services Research to explore an evidence-based solution to a practical healthcare problem that is pertinent to their health service.

Dr Kiang’s passion lies in addressing access and equity issues in healthcare, particularly for underserved populations, including refugee and asylum seekers, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and those living in rural and low-income settings.

Over the past decade, Dr Kiang has become a strong voice in advocating for the child health impacts of climate change and sustainable healthcare practices. Through her MacHSR project, she will focus on quantifying the environmental benefits of the VVED model of care.

“Almost 40 per cent of emergency department presentations in Victoria are lower-urgency cases that don’t necessarily require physical emergency department care,” Dr Kiang said.

“The VVED provides a state-wide virtual service that not only helps reduce overcrowding in emergency departments, but also delivers considerable environmental savings by avoiding unnecessary travel and resource use.”

Dr Kiang’s research aims to compare the environmental cost of physical emergency department visits with the savings achieved through virtual care models like the VVED.

tendance.

Police were notified on April 15 that the victim had died in hospital.

The assault charge relate to an assault which police will allege occurred at a construction site in Mickleham on November 23, 2024.

The two men attended a hospital in Epping, and the 42-year-old Meadow Heights man was admitted for two days to be treated for head injuries.

“Environmental stewardship is increasingly being prioritised in healthcare, while at minimum maintaining, and hopefully improving, clinical outcomes,” Dr Kiang said.

“Demonstrating the environmental benefits of VVED will not only support ongoing investment in the program, but will also strengthen Northern Health’s position as a leader in sustainable and innovative healthcare delivery.”

Mary Herring with her artwork. (Damjan Janevski)

Climbing for a cause

By Tom Ingleton

Every step counts when it’s for something biggerthanyourself.

That’s the mantra driving a team of dedicated firefighters from Mernda as they prepare to tackle 28 floors of Melbourne’s Crown Metropol – donning 25 kilograms of gear– for this year’s Melbourne Firefighter StairClimb.

Butthisisn’tjustatestofendurance;it’sa climbforhope,healingandhonour.

Mernda CFA community safety co-ordinator and firefighter Ethan Broomhall said the team’s involvement is partofaproudlegacy.

“Mernda members and firefighters across CFA have a long-standing history with the stair climb, the funds raised support an amazing cause each year. We have firefighters participating again from previous years and new participants this yearaswell!Thecrewareexcitedtotakeon thechallenge,”MrBroomhallsaid.

Thechallengeisnosmallfeat.Participants climb 28 flights in full kit to raise money for charities that support mental health, cancer,andtraumaservices.

Preparation has been tough but meaningful.

“The team has been hitting the stair master and working on their cardio weekly to make sure that we are prepared for the event. The cause is the motivation for our members, recognising that climbing the stairs is easy compared to mental health challenges and battling cancer,” Mr Broomhallsaid.

For those in emergency services, the statisticsareconfronting.

“An estimated one in 10 of Australia’s

370,000plusserviceworkersandvolunteers will develop PTSD related to critical incidents,” Mr Broomhall said, quoting the BlackDogInstitute.

“It’s important to us that we support thosethatarehereforourcommunity24-7, 365daysoftheyear.”

Locally, the Mernda community has embracedthebrigade’sefforts.

“The community has been extremely supportive with their charitable funds. As a team, Mernda station has raised almost $2000,”MrBroomhallsaid.

As the team laces up and takes each step for those who can’t, their climb is more than physical – it’s a symbol of solidarity, strength,andservice.

“Fellow community members can support us by donating through our Facebook or the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb website. Even if you can’t donate, feel free to share our post to help raise awareness for this amazing cause.”

MrBroomhallsaid.

The Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb is onSeptember6.

New display homes now open

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Virtual research centre launched

NorthernHealthisaimingtoreshape thewaycareisdelivered,experienced, and improved, following the launch of the Victorian Centre for Virtual Health Research (VCVHR).

The VCVHR has been established to develop, evaluate, and scale innovativevirtualmodelsofcarethat are safer, more equitable, and more efficient. It will support the Victorian Virtual Care Strategy by providing robust evidence to inform service planning, policy development, and workforce initiatives.

VCVHR director Dr Rebecca Jessup said the centre, based at Northern Hospital, represented a powerful intersection of technology and humanity. “My mission is to harness technology to democratise healthcare,” Dr Jessup said. “At the heart of my professional journey lies a deep-seated passion for creating equitable health outcomes, ensuring that every individual has access to quality care when they need it.”

The VCVHR will focus on examining the safety, efficiency, and acceptability of virtual care models fromtheperspectiveoffunders,users and providers, while also improving access for people facing barriers to traditional health care, such as older adultsandthosewithcomplexneeds.

The centre will also investigate how virtual care is perceived by clinicians,andembedco-designwith consumers, clinicians, and system partners.

Mernda firefighters, David Gent, Ethan Broomhall and Stephanie Tamer. (Damjan Janevski) 480548_01

No date for hospital opening

By Laura Michell

The state government has refused to say when it will open the Mernda Community Hospital.

The state budget, handed down in May, includedfundingtoopenthreecommunity hospitals – Craigieburn, Cranbourne and Phillip Island – which are nearing completion.

No funding was allocated for other community hospitals, including the one at Mernda.

The Mernda Community Hospital was one of 10 community hospital announced

by the state government in the lead-up to the2018stateelection.

At the time, the government said construction would begin in 2022 and wouldbecompletedin2024.

Lastyear,theopeningdatewasrevisedto late2025.

The Victorian Health Building Authority website now states the hospital will be completed in 2025 - with no date set for its opening.

The state Opposition has raised concerns thehospitalwillnotopenthisyear.

Northern Metropolitan Liberal MP Wendy Lovell said operational funding

– like that assigned to Craigieburn, Cranbourne and Phillip Island community hospitals in the state budget – was needed before the Mernda hospital could open its doors.

“Wecan’tlettheAllanLaborGovernment abandon Mernda Community Hospital by failing to fund its operation once construction is complete. The catchment areaforMerndahospitalincludesthefastest growing suburbs in Melbourne, and locals deserve to have their hospital operating as soonasthebuildingiscomplete,“MsLovell said.

Star Weekly asked Health Minister

Cancer equity champion lauded

ADorenwomanwhoturnedherbattlewith incurablestage4lungcancerintoacatalyst for progress has been hailed as a cancer equitychampion.

Lisa Briggs was diagnosed at 32 after the birthofhersecondchild.

Now more than a decade post-diagnosis thanks to clinical trials and progress in targeted therapies, Ms Brigg’s advocacy championsdignity,equity,andvisibilityfor metastaticlungcancerpatients.

Through key roles with groups like Thoracic Oncology Group Australasia, Lung Foundation Australia, Rare Cancers Australia, and ALK Positive Australia, she has driven patient-centred research and

illuminated the challenges confronting those living with lung cancer, paving the wayforcrucialpolicyandsystemicreforms.

On Monday, July 28, her advocacy work was recognised, with federal Health Minister Mark Butler naming her one of four Jeannie Ferris Award recipients for 2025.

TheJeannieFerrisAwardcelebrateshose whohavemadenotableandenduringmark oncancercare,supportandoutcomes.

Ms Briggs received the award during a ceremonyatParliamentHouse.

“Receiving the Jeanie Ferris award is a powerful reminder that every time we speak up, we keep someone else’s dreams

alive,” she said. “It also honours 10 years of life,hope,anddreamsIwasneverpromised or guaranteed, but have dedicated to rewriting what’s possible, to help build a brighter future for those living with lung cancer.”

Mr Butler said the award recipients have made remarkable contributions to improvingcancerawareness,research,and supportacrossAustralia.

“By celebrating individuals who have made significant strides in this area, we are reinforcing our commitment to ensuring that every Australian, regardless of background or location, has access to high-qualitycancercare,”hesaid.

Mary-Anne Thomas when the hospital would be allocated operational funding andopenedtothecommunity.

In response, a state government spokesperson said the government would havemoretosayonitsopeningsoon.

The spokesperson did not say when operational funding would be allocated to Mernda.

“Once fully operational the Mernda Community Hospital will provide a range of important everyday health servicestaking pressure off nearby major hospitals and helping more people get the care they needclosetohome,“thespokespersonsaid.

Police briefs

Man shot in Wollert

Police are investigating a fatal shooting in Wollert on July 31. Emergency services were called to Champions Parade just before 9am. A 21-year-old from Wollert died at the scene and the other man fled Champions Parade in a car. Homicide Squad Detective Inspector Dean Thomas said the shooting appeared to be “very deliberate and targeted”. He said police received a report of a burn out vehicle in Amery Street, Reservoir, and would investigate whether it was linked to the shooting.

Spectators assault soccer player

A soccer player has been left a fractured spine after being assaulted by spectators at a match in Mill Park. Police have been told there was a small on-field scuffle between two opposing players during a match between Uni Hill Eagles Football Club and Kings Domain Football Club at Findon Reserve on July 6. One player was sent off as a result of the incident. Police said that as the player, a 33-year-old man from St Kilda, was leaving the field, he was assaulted by multiple spectators. Detectives wish to speak to anyone who witnessed the assault, as well as anyone who was a spectator at the match.

Mickleham shooting

Police are investigating a non-fatal shooting in Mickleham on July 27. Emergency services were called to Hazel Way following reports a man had suffered a gunshot wound to his lower leg about 8.40pm. The 39-year-old Roxburgh Park man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Cancer Australia chief executive Professor Dorothy Keefe, Health Minister Mark Butler, award recipient Lisa Briggs and Jeannie Ferris’ son Jeremy Ferris.

MY PLACE

Sahil Gulati, a 35-year old family man from Mernda, is one of the organisers of the Sunshine Collective Market. He spoke to Star Weekly about living in the northern suburbs and about the market which was revived after 26 years.

What’s your connection to Mernda? I moved to Mernda in 2019 and bought a house here. I used to be in Mill Park before so it’s been around 19 years I’ve been living in the northside.

What do you like about living in Mernda?

Mernda is such a beautiful suburb. It’s got all the mountains close by which I really like. We bought a house straight on top of thecliffwhichgivesmethevibeoflivingata height.Also,it’sconnectedtotheplainarea which my wife likes. And, it’s developed. There is nothing that I can’t say we don’t have in Mernda. The street I’m living on is multicultural and people are very polite. It’s a new area, affordable and developed. It’s got such nice drives close by. If you go towards Hurstbridge or Whittlesea, you’ve got a really nice drive over there.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

There is a park opposite to a pet park in Mernda which my kids call ‘horsey park.’ We just call it ‘horsey park’ because it’s got a nice horse over there with a tractor. We just stop at Woolies, get some refreshments and snacks and make our way to ‘horsey park.’

What’s something you’d change about where you live?

We definitely need more convenience when driving on the roads here. The traffic builds up too much. It has been improved butthereisalwaysroomtoimprovecertain places like Galloway Drive — it takes me nearly five minutes just to cross one light

YOU’RE INVITED

because it’s only one lane. So there are a few of the intersections which still need attention but progress has already been started I would say.

What do you enjoy most about organising the Sunshine Collective Market?

People and community. The community’s

Exclusive Retirement Presentation

support is appreciated because without community support, this market is not possible for us. When we started this market we had a lot of people approach us and tell us they used to visit the old market as a child. We also had about three to four applications from vendors that applied who used to come with their parents for

shopping, and today, they come to be a vendor. That’s an achievement. That’s special.

The Sunshine Collective Market will be held on the last Saturday of the month from 10am to 3pm at 47 McIntyre Road, Sunshine.

What to expect:

First 10 registered will receive a free copy of Downsizing Made Simple by

Join us at Sherwin Rise for an engaging and informative talk by Rachel Lane designed to help you make a confident choice about your next chapter.

• Retirement Living – What it is, how it works and why it might be right for you

• Ageing in Place – Staying independent and supported as your needs evolve

Thursday 21 August | 10:00am – 12:00pm 40 Chetwynd Grove, Wollert

RSVP by Tuesday 12 August

Visit sherwinrise.com.au

Scan the QR code to learn more. 12784976-KF31-25

Rachel Lane!

(Damjan Janevski) 490282_01

Views sought on master plan

New play and fitness areas, shelters and a restored wetland could be added to Doreen’s Lauries Field under a proposal by Whittlesea council.

Councillors adopted a draft master plan for the park during the Tuesday, July 22 council meeting.

Whittlesea council said the draft 10year plan outlines a range of proposed upgrades designed to make the reserve safer and more welcoming for everyone.

This includes better lighting, renewed entrances, improved paths, new play and fitness areas, shelters, seating, and a re-

stored wetland to protect the natural environment and make visits more enjoyable.

The 10-year draft master plan’s proposed works are subject to future funding.

Speaking during the council meeting, Cr Deb Gunn said that as a local residents and someone who walks their dog around the area, she was very excited about the proposed plan for Lauries Field.

Cr Gunn encouraged Doreen residents to view the draft master plan.

Community feedback has been instrumental in shaping the draft plan, helping to identify key priorities and opportuni-

Donating for a cause

Ambulance Victoria is going beyond the call of duty this winter – not just on the roads, but in the donor chair.

The organisation is once again teaming up with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood for the annual Emergency Services Blood Drive.

As part of the three-month campaign, running from June 1 to August 31, emergency service workers from Ambulance Victoria, fire, police, and SES sectors will go arm-in-arm in a friendly competition to boost blood, plasma and platelet donations.

Paramedic Stephanie Sherry and her parents Ruth and Ralph are among the everyday heroes stepping up to donate. Together, the family has made more than 550 donations through Lifeblood’s Bundoora Donor Centre.

“We are looking forward to adding our donations to the Ambulance Victoria team,” Ms Sherry said.

“But knowing our donations can truly make a difference to patients and their families keeps us coming back. It’s our routine and in our blood to donate.”

Lifeblood spokesperson Ashleigh Hales said, “Every day, we issue thousands of blood products to hospitals to meet growing patient demand…an hour of your time might give someone the rest of their life”.

Appointments can be made by calling 13 14 95, visiting lifeblood.com.au, or via the DonateBlood app.

ties for improvement, according to mayor Martin Taylor.

“Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their feedback and ideas, which have been instrumental in shaping the Lauries Field draft master plan,” he said.

“We listened closely to your concerns around safety, the limited play opportunities for older children and teens, and the condition of the wetland area. I am pleased to say these issues have been directly addressed in the draft plan.

“I encourage all residents to review the

draft and have their say. Your feedback is essential to ensure the final master plan truly reflects the community’s needs, aspirations, and vision for this important open space.”

Local residents and visitors to the area are invited to view the draft master plan and have your say on the proposed upgrades before the plan is finalised and presented for council endorsement in late 2025.

Consultation is open until August 22.

Details: engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ lauriesfield

Are your kids living in a world revolving around their passions? That’s a good thing.

It’s why the VCE’s new Vocational Major creates worlds where passions can be explored.

From agriculture to construction, health to clean energy. Whatever world our kids are into, there’s a VCE program to help develop the skills they’ll need to land a job in Australia’s most in-demand industries.

Stephanie Sherry (middle), with parents Ruth and Ralph at Bundoora Donor Centre. (Supplied)

Honouring the unconventional leaders behind GVL

Principal’s Week is an opportunity to recognise educational leadership across the country and at Global Village Learning (GVL), we do things a little differently.

At GVL, you won’t find bells ringing, principals behind desks, or classrooms in the traditional sense. Instead, you’ll meet Peter and Pip, two visionary leaders who have co-created an environment where young people are empowered to lead their learning, explore their passions, and contribute meaningfully to their community.

Peter and Pip don’t see themselves as traditional principals — they are custodians of a learner-led, guide-supported, future-focused learning village. Rather than managing from above, they walk alongside learners and guides, helping to shape a community that nurtures creativity, connection, and real-world impact.

Since its founding, GVL has grown into a vibrant educational community with campuses in New Gisborne and soon, at the Old Castlemaine Gaol. The learning model is Montessori-inspired and centred around Developmental Learning Hubs, replacing rigid year levels with natural stages of growth: Foundations & Play (ages 4–8), Exploration & Discovery (7–12), Entrepreneurship & Social Impact (11–16), and Pathways & Futures (15–20).

UnderPipandPeter’sleadership,GVLhas become a place where young people of all abilities—many of them neurodivergent— can thrive. The approach is deeply personalised, with a focus on mastery, agency, and meaningful community contribution. From building social enterprisestoexploringsustainability,over 200 learners are engaged in EDventurous

Projects that matter.

Ratherthanstrivingtomeetconventional standards, Pip and Peter are reimagining what education can be—and their impact is already being felt. Families, educators,

and communities across the region are watching closely as GVL becomes a model for learner-led education in Australia.

This Principal’s Week, we celebrate two individuals who remind us that leadership

doesn’talwayswearasuitorsitinanoffice. Sometimes, it looks like shared meals, muddy boots, thoughtful conversations, and a deep belief in the capacity of young people to change the world.

Pip Cleaves and Peter Hutton.

Waste dumping guilty pleas

A plan to dump truckloads of demolition waste in the country has ended in a criminal conviction and over $10,000 in fines and costs.

Ayach Demolition Pty Ltd and its director Mouhamed Ayach of Campbellfield were each fined $3000 for unlawfully depositing industrial waste at a place not licensed to accept it and failing to comply with a regulatory notice from Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

The court also recorded a conviction for the company director.

The Bacchus Marsh Magistrates’ Court ordered the business to pay EPA $2905 in court costs, and the tenant on the property at Parwan, near Bacchus Marsh, was fined $1500 for receiving and burning some of the waste.

The case began on August 3, 2023, when EPA officers inspected a property in Parwan and saw two Ayach Demolition trucks unloading demolition waste and green waste.

The investigation found the industrial waste came from a demolition the com-

pany was conducting at Templestowe.

When the case came to court on July 16, 2025, the company and director both entered pleas of guilty.

In delivering the sentence, Magistrate Bailin said the fines would have been larger without the guilty plea.

EPA south-west regional manager Anton Ponomarenko said the case shows dumping industrial waste is a serious matter.

“This kind of illegal dumping is a hazard to the environment and people’s

New organisation is a voice for refugees

Supporting vulnerable refugees, advocating for, and building the capacity of grass roots refugee communities is the mission of a new not-for-profit organisation.

The RCAA Foundation is a refugee-driven organisation that aims to give refugees with lived experience a voice to government and in national conversations.

The foundation chair is settlement sector veteran and the retiring chief executive of settlement agency AMES Australia, Cath Scarth.

An extension of the Refugee Communities Association of Australia, the bi-partisan foundation aims to work with grassroots refugee communities in Australia to build their capacity, advocacy and agency.

The foundation has a particular focus on Melbourne’s northern suburbs, which are home to many refugee communities.

RCAA Foundation director Parsu Sharma Luital said the foundation wanted to create opportunities for refugees.

“Many people don’t understand that

refugees are making positive contributions to Australia economically and socially. Part of the work of the foundation will be to change that,” he said.

“Many people also think that refugees come with problems and challenges. But they also come with solutions, skills, expertise and the opportunity to put forward and implement those solutions could materially benefit many lives.”

Ms Scarth said the foundation was about self-determination and agency for refugee communities.

health. Nobody should be thinking they can just unload this stuff in the bush and forget about it,” Mr Ponomarenko said.

“Anyone can report it with a simple phone call. After that, it can be an EPA investigation, charges before the court, and a criminal record, not to mention being ordered to pay the cost of the clean-up.”

Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online.

Details: epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution

Waterways across Hume could be renamed, under a proposal put forward by council.

During Hume council’s July 28 meeting. councillors agreed to contact relevant authorities including Geographic Names Victoria and Melbourne Water to seek approval to change the name of seven drains to creeks.

The waterways include Otway Crescent Drain and Warantina Drain in Broadmeadows; Broad Street Drain in Attwood; Somerset Road Drain in Campbellfield; Heyson Drive Drain in Sunbury; Greenvale Drain in Greenvale; and Shanklands Drain in Roxburgh Park.

Cr Karen Sherry put forward the proposal, referencing David Widdowson’s Down the Drain – Lost Tributaries of the Moonee Ponds Creek and the way in which waterways have been reduced down to underground drains due to development.

“Mainly, Widdowson contends that it’s really the 19th and the 20th century urban planning attitude that you had to tidy up urban areas,” she said.

“After the suburbs were cleared, creeks were left as more or less like dirt line drains and at risk of major erosion after heavy rain.

“We’d be aghast if we concreted a creek now, but that wasn’t the case in the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s. Calling them a drain is a mistake of the past and does not reflect the true value of these places.”

RCAA Foundation director Parsu Sharma Luital. (Supplied)

Dentures and healthy gum: The key to a confident smile

For many people who wear full or partial dentures,itiseasytoassumeoralcareisno longer as important as it once was.

But dental professionals warn that keepingbothgumsanddentureshealthyis essential – not just for comfort, but also for long-term oral health and wellbeing.

Gums still matter – even without naturalteeth

Gums and the underlying jawbone act as the foundation for dentures.

When gums are healthy, they provide a firm, comfortable base, helping dentures fit better and feel more secure.

However, over time, natural gum shrinkage can occur, which changes how dentures sit and feel.

To keep dentures fitting properly and avoid painful sore spots, denture wearers are advised to have a denture reline every couple of years.

Relining adjusts the inner surface of the denture to match the current shape of the gums, improving stability and comfort.

Healthy gums also lower the risk of irritation and infections, making daily life with dentures much easier.

Whydenturemaintenancematters

Dentures, although artificial, can still collect plaque, bacteria, and food debris. Without regular cleaning, this build-up can cause gum irritation, bad breath, staining, and infections such as denture stomatitis.

Daily maintenance, including gentle brushing with a soft brush and denture cleanser, keeps dentures clean and fresh. It also helps preserve their natural look and extends their lifespan, reducing the need for repairs or replacement. Removing dentures at night gives gums a chance to rest and helps prevent unnecessary pressure.

Simplehabits,lastingbenefits

Dental professionals recommend rinsing dentures after meals, cleaning your gums and tongue daily, and having regular check-ups to monitor denture fit and gum health.

Together, these habits support healthier gums, a more comfortable fit, and a smile that feels as good as it looks. With consistent care and professional advice, denture wearers can enjoy greater comfort, improved oral health, and renewed confidence every day.

Supreme Dental director Peter Lim. (Supplied)

Recognition after 45 years

The federal government officially welcomed home the athletics from the 1980 Olympics Games in Russia on July 30, 45 years after the Games. Tara Murray chats with David Smith, who was among those to compete at the Games despite Australia’s boycott.

There was no way that David Smith wasgoingtomissoutonrepresenting Australia at the 1980 Olympics.

The race walker from the then Williamstown Athletics Club had five qualifying times to compete on the biggest stage for the first time.

While Smith was keen to hit the track in Moscow, there were bigger things going on behind the scenes.

More than 45 countries boycotted the Games in protest of the Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan in December 1979.

There was intense pressure from the Australian government and many sporting administrators and commentators for local athletes to boycott the Games.

Some athletes snuck out of the country, others decided not to go at all.

Smith was unaware of a lot of the drama back home in the lead up to the Games, having spent the three months before the Games competing in Europe.

“Forty-five years ago I didn’t know that we were rejected and not acknowledged,” he said.

“I knew there was a boycott going on and theyaskedmetogoonthePeterCouchman Show, which is one of those personality shows.

They asked me, ‘are you going to support the boycott? I said no way ... There was no way I would miss out marching in the Olympic Games opening ceremony - David Smith

“Theyaskedme,‘areyougoingtosupport the boycott? I said no way.

“I had my ticket to Europe and the visa to get into the Games, even if the team didn’t turn up … I was still going.

“I would have walked under the neutral flag and competed under the natural flag if that was the case.”

Smithhadhisownconcernsheadinginto the Games. He found himself in Europe with no money and his Euro pass expired before meeting up with the Australian team.

He jumped on a train late at night in Belgium without a ticket and reached out to a real estate agent to send him money so he could meet up with his teammates.

Smith had given up work to train full-time for the year before the Games and was one of the first people named on the team.

He said the Olympic Games experience was amazing.

“I had the best time of all,” he said. “Totally enthralled with it. There was no way I would miss out marching in the Olympic Games opening ceremony.

“It was the best feeling of all time.”

Smith was later disqualified in the 20-kilometre walk event

After the Games, Smith continued to compete and travel through Europe for three months.

The 1980 event would be one of two Games that Smith would compete in. He finished 10th four years later at the Los Angles Games.

Smith said he entered the event in good shape having won a 10-kilometre event weeks beforehand.

“The only problem we had was the heat and humidity, we were all done sweating by seven kilometres as it was that dry,” he said.

“I pushed through. Theoretically on times and everything, I should have been one of the top contenders.”

While Smith made his name in athletics, it wasn’t his first sporting love.

Hewasanamateurboxerwithmorethan 50 fights under his belt and also played rugby league.

It was a move to Werribee that set him onto the path to the Olympics.

“When I came down from Darwin in year 12, I joined Werribee Athletics Club. In Darwin I was playing rugby league and my dad was the Australian lightweight boxing champion in his time.

“He was teaching me boxing. I was also riding track work with the horses.

“Dad got posted to Point Cook. There were no horses, no boxing and no rugby league.”

Having had some success at the NT Walkabout event in the Northern Territory, had got stuck into athletics when he moved to Werribee.

One of his classmates was a race walker

and he quickly joined the ranks as a junior and won two 10-kilometre titles in his first year.

He jumped into the senior ranks and moved to Footscray Athletics Club and then to Williamstown as it was ranked as a higher level club. He still holds four club records at Williamstown.

“I was running out of competition and running out of venues, as I was getting quicker and quicker,“ he said.

“I joined Williamstown as an A-grade club and spent a whole heap of time there. Theywerebrilliant,oneofthenicestgroups of guys in a club that you can imagine.”

Smith later turned coach and started helpingthenextgenerationofracewalkers.

Among them was his son Dane Bird-Smith.

It would take Smith back to the Olympics again.

In 2016, Smith watched on as his son won Olympic bronze in the 20-kilometre walk.

“I took him around the world [to] exactly thesameseriesofracesIhadraced33years

beforehand,” he said. “He mirrored a lot of the races that I had done.

“He pretty much broke all my Australian records on his way through.

“His bronze medal in Rio was absolutely brilliant. It was superb. I get the kudos of being his coach.

“He tells me he’s a far better athlete than me … I just told him he had a far better coach than I did. I was self coached.”

Smith, who recently turned 70, still loves the sport. He coached in several different countries but has now retired.

Living in Queensland, he is enjoying the sailing life.

Smith wasn’t at the welcoming home last week, due to already having committed to dog-sitting duties for his son.

Smith said competing at the Olympics has been a special memory.

“Once an Olympian, always an Olympian, that’s our catch cry,” he said.

“I don’t think there’s many people in Australia that appreciate what it takes to become an Olympian.”

Dane Bird-Smith and David Smith after the 2018 Commonwealth Games where Dane won gold.

(AAP Image/Tracey Nearmy)

David and Dane Bird-Smith at the 2016 Olympics, and a story on David Smith in the Mail newspaper ahead of the 1980 Games. (Supplied)

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A Lifestyle that supports you: Bringing everything together

As winter winds down, August offers a moment to pause – to retreat from the rush, reset your routine, and reconnect withwhatmattersmost.

It’s often in these quieter moments that we start thinking about what really adds value to our lives: good health, meaningful connection, and a lifestyle thatmakesspaceforwellbeing.

That’s exactly what life at Lifestyle Communitiesisallabout.

There, you’ll find more than just thoughtfully designed, low-maintenance homes.

Exclusively available to homeowners, the Lifestyle Wellness Program is designed to support every part of your wellbeing – physically, mentally and socially.

It brings together everything from yoga toagameofbowlswithfriends,tocreative workshops and social gatherings over coffee.

Whether you’re diving into something new or rediscovering an old passion, there’s always something to re-energise andinspireyou.

Thebestpart?Itallhappensrightwithin your community, and at your pace. Do a littleordoalot.Thechoiceisyours.

“Before joining the community, my husband spent most of his time alone. Retirement and Parkinson’s had isolated him socially. Now, he’s thriving – playing bowls, joining committees, and building strong friendships. The change in lifestyle and regular exercise has noticeably improved his health, and it’s made a world of difference to both our lives,“ homeowners from Lifestyle Kaduna Park said.

So before the rush of spring sets in, take a breath. Give yourself the chance to imagine a lifestyle that puts your wellbeing first and brings more ease, connectionandpurposeintoeveryday. There’s never been a better time to start livingthelifestyleyoudeserve.

Book a visit at a community near you or explore available homes at

The Lifestyle Wellness Program is designed to support your wellbeing. (Supplied)

Easy independent living in serviced apartments

Serviced apartments in Centennial Living retirement villages offer valuable housing option for older adults who remain independent but may require a little extra day-to-daysupport.

Serviced apartments are specifically designed to promote autonomy while ensuring residents receive practical assistancetomakedailylivingeasier,safer, andmoreenjoyable.

DailyMeals: One of the key features of serviced apartment living is the provision of daily meals. Most retirement villages offering serviced apartments provide nutritious, chef-prepared meals served in communal dining areas, promoting both convenience and social interaction. Residents can enjoy well-balanced meals without the effort of shopping, meal preparation, or cooking – an important benefitforthosewhomayfindkitchentasks increasinglychallenging.

Cleaning: In addition to meals, serviced apartments typically include regular housekeeping services. This includes cleaning of the apartment, vacuuming, dusting, and bathroom maintenance. Fresh linen and towel changes are often provided on a weekly basis, removing the burden of laundry and allowing residents to enjoy a more relaxed and stress-free lifestyle. Personal support is also available, although the extent of this assistance is flexibledependingonindividualneedsand thevillage’sserviceoffering.Someresidents maychoosetoaccesshelpwithmedication management, showering, dressing, or other daily living tasks. These services are delivered by trained care staff and can be tailored to ensure residents remain as

independentaspossiblewhilereceivingthe assistancetheyrequire.

Security: Securityandfeelingsafeisanother essential aspect of serviced apartment living. Emergencycallsystemsareinstalled in all apartments, ensuring residents have accesstoimmediatehelpifrequired.Onsite staff are available, providing reassurance forbothresidentsandtheirfamilies.

Social connection and wellbeing: Centennial Living Retirement villages offer a full program of social, cultural, and recreational activities, such as hobby groups,exerciseclasses,artandcraftclubs, musicsessions,andentertainment.

These activities encourage participation and engagement, which research has shown to be vital for maintaining mental andemotionalhealthinlaterlife.

In summary, serviced apartments in Centennial Living retirement villages provide a unique blend of independence and support. With services ranging from meals and cleaning to personal care and socialactivities,theyofferacomprehensive solution for older, frail but independent residents who wish to continue enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle in a safe and supportive environment.

Enjoy independent living at Centennial Living’s serviced apartments. (Supplied)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Walking Thomastown

Take a magical night-time journey through the culture and history of Thomastown. Experience one of Whittlesea’s oldest suburbs in a new light during Walking Thomastown on Saturday, August 30, from 6-9pm, walking from Main Street Recreation Reserve, along Edgars Creek, through Ziebell’s Farm and the pioneer precinct at Westgarthtown. This is a free event to attend and no bookings are required.

 https://shorturl.at/COUV3

Senior citizens meet

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.

 Liz, 0433 249 995

Bingo at Bridgewater

For over 55’s, on Tuesday, August 5, 9.30am-noon. Hosted by 3AW personality David Mann Free entry and morning tea. Great prizes. At 9 Wedgewood Road, Roxburgh Park. Book your seat or table of four or six.

 Peter Harry, 0419 028 518

Social club

M.A.P.S. Club Inc (Mature Active Person Social) meets Fridays, 9.15am-noon, for seated line dancing, indoor carpet bowls, computer classes and morning tea. Cost: $2. Every second Sunday of the month, the club hosts afternoon tea, dancing and an entertainer from 11.30am-3pm. Cost $10. Every fifth Sunday is fun Sunday, from 11.30am-3pm. At 185 Blair Street, Dallas. Yearly membership costs $10.

 0402 662 983 or odis257r@gmail.com

Bundoora Probus Club

Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Alma Road, Bundoora, at 10am. Enjoy guest speakers, excursions, coffee mornings, lunches, walks and craft sessions.

 Leanne, 0419 004 997

Inclusive tennis

A free weekly tennis program for people with disabilities and/or special needs, or if your just struggling to access mainstream sport programs. Held at Epping Tennis Club, 861 High Street, Epping, on Thursdays from 5-6pm.

 play.tennis.com.au/eppingtennisclub.au

Young parents group

DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young parents every Thursday, from 10.30am – noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 McDonalds Road, Mill Park.

 Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819

Community singing group

Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing.

 Sonja, 0429 587 285

Adult education

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.

 9309 8531

Chatty Cafe

Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park.

 https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/

TAC L2P Program

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.

 Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk.

 https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker and on the third Saturday, and a dance from 7-11 pm. All are welcome.

 Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, or lizmunro7@gmail.com

Craft and Conversation

Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday

weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.

 humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Craigieburn Toastmasters

Craigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. It meets the first and third Thursday, from 7-9pm, at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton Street, Craigieburn.

Education and community centre

Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding technology?

Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner English and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.

 9308 1477 or www.craigieburn.org.au

Whittlesea Historical Society

The Whittlesea Historical Society welcomes anyone interested in the history of the City of Whittlesea area. A meeting schedule is available on the society’s website.

 www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au

Indigenous Community Gardens

Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month, 11am-noon, to showcase the

gardens at the corner Toora Drive and Redan Court. All are welcome.

 Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park.

 https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Craigieburn Residents Association

Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening re-roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? Go along to the Craigieburn Residents Association and tell them about it. The association liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. They also give annual donations to a local charity each year. They meet on the last Wednesday of the month at Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn, 7.30pm.

 craigieburnresidents@gmail,com, or 0401 369 311

Menergise men’s walk and talk Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House. A nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze.

 0475 454 133

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Sunshine Model Railway Club vice president Joe Saliba. (Damjan Janevski) 492384_01

Art and verse intertwined

Artist Nur Terzi will host an evening of poetry and music at the Sunbury Hume GlobalLearningCentre.

The Enduring Inspiration of Rumi will feature live readings, music and art by Terzi, who is currently hosting an exhibitioninthegalleryspace.

A selection of Rumi’s poems will be read in multiple languages by Hume-based quests,setagainstthebackdropofWhirling Waters, Terzi’s exhibition inspired by Rumi’swritings.

ThesewillincludeonereadinEnglishby behavioursupportpractitionerZehraEker, one in Farsi read by Deakin University

psychology student Masuma Saeed, and one in Turkish read by interpreter and chaplain at Northern Hospital Özden Velipasaoglu.

Livemusiconthenightwillbeperformed by Gülsah Yildirim, who will play the Oud, and Dilge Hanife Altunates will be on vocals.

Terzi’s exhibition, Whirling Waters, showcases the dynamic beauty of Turkish Ebru marbling, illumination, and calligraphy.

A Turkish-Australian artist, she holds a deep appreciation for traditional Turkish-Islamic art, bringing a

contemporaryperspectivetotheseancient techniques.

Based in Hume, she has exhibited her work in various cultural and artistic spaces, sharing the timeless beauty of Ebru with new audiences while keeping its rich heritage alive in a modern context.

The free event will be held on Thursday, August 7 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre. For more information or to register, visit https://tinyurl.com/mxvv7br6

Tezri’s exhibition will also be on display inthegalleryuntilSunday,October5.

Overnewton students are ready to rock

Students from Overnewton Anglican Community College will take centre stage in an upcoming performance of We Will Rock You the musical.

Themusicaltakesplaceinafuturewhere originality has been erased and music no longer exists.

The story follows a group of outsiders who dare to challenge the system and bring real music and freedom back to the world.

Director Cailin McCarthy said the show is loud, funny, chaotic and full of heart, and that it has challenged the students in

the best possible ways.

“The vocals are demanding, the pace is fast, and the characters are bold, and they have embraced every moment,” she said.

“Their focus, creativity and teamwork have been remarkable. Watching them work and grow together has been a highlight of the year.”

Head of performing arts Carolyn Hernandez said the production is more than a school musical.

“It’s a full-scale theatrical experience, brought to life by an incredibly talented groupofyoungpeople,fromtheperformers

and musicians to the backstage crew, hair and makeup teams, and our technical students,” she said.

“With Queen’s iconic soundtrack, high-energy performances, and a story thatisbothcleveranduplifting,audiences will be thoroughly entertained from start to finish.”

Overnewton Anglican Community College’s production of We Will Rock You will be showing at the Bowery theatre in St Albans from Thursday, August 7 to Saturday August 9.

Ticket prices range from $20 to $35.

If you have ever considered giving bookmakingago,nowisyourchance – as a workshop is about to be hosted atLerderdergLibrarythismonth.

Set for Tuesday, August 19, a bookmaking workshop with guest artist Kerrie Maloney will teach attendees how to give old books a new life through creating a collaged concertina book using a recycled old hardback book and a selection of old book pages. These pages will be reworked into a collage which will thenbecutuptocreateabook. Maloney works across a range of disciplines, materials, and techniques, while initially working from a garment, textile, and stitch background. As a keen reader, it was a natural progression for her to begin creating artist books, altered books, andbookart.

Eachparticipantisrequiredtobring anoldnovel-sizedhardbackbookand aselectionofbookpages.

Thepagesshouldpreferablyinclude differentprinttypes,sizesandshades, for example. white, cream, beige, foxed, stained, or dirty – and include some interesting pages such as old maps, drawings, or handwritten elements.

The event is facilitated by B-MAC Gallery, which is run by local artists and volunteers and supports art and artists across the extended Bacchus Marshregion.

The workshop will run from 10am–3pm on Tuesday, August 19 at the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh. Details: facebook.com/ events/1566252444355322

Singers from the western suburbs to join together for annual choir jam

The sound of singing will reverberate through the western suburbs on Saturday, August30,whentheannualChoirJamtakes placeattheLavertonCommunityCentre.

Featuring local choirs, With One Voice Hobsons Bay and Wyndham, the Laverton Community Choir, Newport Community Choir and Willin Wimmin, Choir Jam will alsofeatureamysteryguestchoiraswellas members of the public who want to join in andexercisetheirvocalchordsontheday.

Member of With One Voice Hobsons Bay, Brenda Alexander, explained how the third annualeventwouldwork.

“We’re going to work together to learn a song together to sing and then we’re going to take turns to perform for each other and thecommunity,”Alexandersaid.

As for what type of songs they’d be singing, Alexander said that was still to be

determined, but that there would be tunes the audience would know and be able to singalongwith.

“There’ll be a variety of songs, but mostly upbeat, popular songs. Songs that people willbefamiliarwith,”shesaid.

Those who are not a member of any of the participating choirs but who still want to have a go, are welcome to do so, with all experience levels, vocal ranges, abilities, culturesandgendersabletoparticipate.

Thereisalsoroomforextrachoirstocome and join in the showcase concert section of theprogram.

Entry for audience members is free, but bookingsarerecommended.

For bookings, visit: www.trybooking. com/DCRMX

To inquire about singing, email: willin. wimmin@gmail.com

Overnewton Anglican Community College students Tristan, Pearce, Carly, Kiki, Isabella, Fiona and Olivia. (Damjan Janevski) 493280_07

Choir Jam co-ordinator Stephanie Payne with participants preparing for the community singing event in Laverton on August 30. (Damjan Janevski) 491010_01

Nur Terzi. (Damjan Janevski) 472925_02

Dr. Tony Stubbs, Eye Surgeon, says that just about anyone can have their vision restored and be rid of their glasses for most of the time. And this is without the use of laser surgery.

Dr Stubbs formerly at the Royal Victorian Eye Hospital who has worked with the Fred Hollows eye department at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, says he began his career through the inspiration of his father, Dr Maxwell Stubbs.

“My father was a pioneer in cataract implant surgery from 1963! He has now passed away but some of his patients still come in for a check-up. Not only is this inspirational, it also demonstrates that good surgery outlasts the surgeon,” Dr Stubbs says.

A specialist who helps people who have been advised they are unsuitable for laser surgery, Dr Stubbs is also committed to demonstrating that age, corneal distortion or astigmatism are no barriers to eliminating the need for glasses.

One of my best moments was treating a 12-year-old girl who was struggling at school because of poor vision due to congenital cataracts even with the use of thick glasses. Now 10 years later, she still has 20/20 vision without glasses. That inspires me.

“Seeing my patients’ bright smiles after surgery, as they stop squinting and can read without glasses, is definitely the best part of my job.”

No referral is needed and no out-of-pocket expenses are incurred for an assessment to enable all options available to be considered.

TRADES & SERVICES

1.Telstra is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station at 37-45 Camp Road, Broadmeadows VIC 3047. RFNSA: 3047007.

2. antennas, removal of three (3) existing panel antennas and removal of three (3) existing 5G panel antennas. Installation of three (3) new panel antennas (each 2.5m long) at a height of 20m. Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (each 0.8m long) at a height of 20.9m.The upgrade will also include the Installation and relocation of ancillary equipment.

3.In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.

4.Please direct to Ben Lavery, Planning Consultant on behalf ofTelstra at telstra.submissions@servicestream.com.au, 0497 833 252 or by post to: Service Stream (Wireless) - Level 3,Tower B, Zenith Centre, 5pmWednesday 20August 2025.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3047007

An

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au

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 Strike (3)

3 Murder a politically important person (11)

9 Cowboy literary genre (7)

10 Print process (7)

11 Trustworthy (8)

12 Leave off (6)

14 Aye (3)

15 Debates (11)

17 Not anxious (11)

19 Buddhist temple or monastery (3)

20 Peril (6)

21 Despot (8)

24 Speech (7)

25 Stamp (7)

26 A phrase marked off by brackets (11)

27 Lord (3)

1 Common greeting question (3,3,3)

2 Fights (7)

3 Playground (5)

4 They protect the eyes from glare (10)

5 Staunch (4)

6 Made greater (9)

7 Japanese emperor from 1989 (7)

8 Type of boat used in rowing competition (5)

13 Amounts (10)

15 Flower tea (9)

16 Soaked (9)

18 Mythical horse-man (7)

19 Soaking (7)

20 Sag (5)

22 Ribbons (5)

23 2.54cm (4)

1 What is the most southerly county of England?

2 A cinquain is a poem of how many lines?

3 Which animal has the Latin name Equus africans asinus?

4 Philip J. Fry is a main character in which animated TV series?

5 What is the title of actor and comedian Amy Poehler's (pictured) memoir?

6 In which country did halloumi cheese originate?

7 The dime is a US coin worth how many cents?

8 Erik Weisz is the birth name of which illusionist?

9 Which 2015 movie is based on a novel by American writer David Ebershoff?

10 What colour is the 'e' in the Google logo?

An example for others

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

After a week in the futuristic Audi Q4 EV, the diesel-powered Q7 marked an almost welcome return to normality.

Weheadedoutwestforafewdaystovisit friends and taste some wine and it meant not having to worry about when and where to charge the car.

Country folk know all about diesel and support the technology.

Dating back to 2015, the updated Q7 is currently Audi’s third most successful model, behind its smaller and cheaper siblings the Q5 and Q3, and offers the same kind of utility, but with extra seats and space to burn. Now in its 10th year of production,thisisprobablythelasthurrah for this model which will almost certainly be replaced by an all-new, fully electric model.

Then again, Audi says Q7 has recently undergone a “considerate” mid-life cycle update, which suggests it’s going to stick around for another 10 years?

Styling

Built in Slovakia and updated towards the end of last year, the second generation Q7 comes in five grades, with a choice of turbocharged petrol, hybrid turbocharged petrol or diesel or twin-turbo V8 petrol powertrains.

Entry to the range is the 2.0-litre turbocharged Q7 45 TFSI quattro, priced from $108,000 plus on-road costs. It is followed by the hybrid, diesel-electric Q7 45 TDI priced from $117,000, then the hybrid petrol/diesel Q7 55 TFSI/Q7 50 TDI S-Line,bothpricedfromthesame$136,000 and finally top of the range twin turbo V8 SQ7 TFSI priced from $174,000.

The more you pay, obviously the more performance and equipment you get although you might like to weigh up whether the extra cost is justified.

More of a cosmetic and tech makeover than a mechanical upgrade, it might not be as fast or flash as the others, but our test vehicle,theQ745TDI,wasacomfyplacein which to spend a few days on the road and light on fuel as a bonus.

It was optioned with the gloss black exterior package ($1850), metallic paint ($2400), and panoramic glass sunroof ($4000),bringingthetotalpriceto$125,534 plus on-roads.

Standard equipment includes leather appointed upholstery, three-zone climate air, electric front seats with heating and driver seat memory, leather three-spoke steering wheel with multifunction plus and shift paddles, electric luggage compartment cover and a power-operated tailgate.

There’s also 20-inch wheels, adaptive air suspension, automatic parking assistance, auto-dimming interior mirror, auto lights andwipers,frontandrearparkingsensors, LED matrix headlights, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control (with stop & go, distance indicator, traffic jam assist and lane guidance system).

Q7 is covered by a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.

Infotainment

An enhanced MMI infotainment system letsyoudownloadanduseappslikeSpotify without the need for a phone.

But the system follows Audi’s tried and tested approach with separate screens devoted to different functions.

There’s a 10.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment, with a second smaller 8.6-inchscreenbelowthisonetoprimarily control the air conditioning. A third

12.3-inch screen acts as a traditional instrument binnacle, but in digital form with limited customisation available.

Simple things like the reset for the trip computer can be incredibly hard to find (once upon a time there was a simple button).

Soundcomesfromanin-house10speaker audio system that includes a subwoofer, with Bluetooth, voice recognition built-in navigation, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless capability.

There’s also wireless phone charging, twoUSBportsinthefrontandanotherpair inthebackplusthree12voltoutlets(onein the boot).

Buyers get complimentary three-year access to connected services, but Emergency call and Audi service request remain valid for 10 years.

Safety

Q7 earns a full five stars for safety with eight airbags, 360 degree cameras and front and rear autonomous emergency braking (AEB), but the third row lacks side, chest protection.

AEB (City, Interurban & Vulnerable Road User) works from 10km/h to 85km/h for pedestrians and cyclists, and up to 250km/h for vehicles.

There’s also lane keep assist (LKA) with lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK) are standard, as well as blind spot warnings.

Intersection assist monitors the area in front of and to the side of the vehicle at junctions and exit roads up to 30km/h.

Turn assist monitors oncoming traffic when turning right at low speeds. Exit warningdetectsvehiclesandcyclistswhen opening doors.

There are ISOFix and top tether Child seat anchors for the second and third row seats. However, head-up display remains a $3200 option.

Engines/transmissions

The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel and 48 volt mild hybriddeliver170kWofpowerat3500rpm and 500Nm of torque from 1500-3000 rpm, and you can hardly hear it. It’s paired with an eight speed ZF sequential auto with drive to all four wheels on demand, auto engine stop-start and a self-locking centre differential.

It may not be the latest or greatest Audi, but the Q7 sets an example for others to follow. ( Supplied)

Driving

At more than five metres in length and weighing in at 2255kg, and with a 3005mm wheelbase, Q7 is no shrinking violet.

A refreshed bolder face, incorporates a redesigned single frame radiator grille with vertical inlays, that gives the vehicle a moreassertivelook.Attherear,thebumper and diffuser have also been reworked. The modelvariantcanbefoundetchedintothe B-pillars.

Inside there’s room for seven and the third row of seats fold at the touch of a button, making it easier to get in and out of the back. But it’s fit for small children only. Luggage space is 295 litres with the third rowinuse,risingtoanimpressive780litres with the third row folded.

Although Q7 is an SUV with all-wheel drive,it’snotacarwewouldreallyconsider taking off road to any large degree, not with 200mm of ground clearance and low profile 285/45 series rubber. Dirt roads are fine, beaches to a point, but fire trails – no way.

This particular SUV is built for cruising, with an 85-litre tank and maximum range of more than 1400km. The mild hybrid boosts fuel efficiency, using a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter that supplies power to the main electrical system.

The auto includes gear change paddles and six different drive modes.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 7.1 seconds and it has a top speed of 226km. Fuel consumption is a claimed 7.0L/100km and it produces 184 g/km of CO2. The trip computer in our test vehicle showed 7.5L/100km after more than 1800km of driving.

In some ways the Q7 reminds us of our oldVWBeetle,becausethedoorskeptonly half closing. A shove was needed to do the trick.

Despite its size it’s an easy car to drive and steer, but suffers from the occasional spot of turbo lag and the suspension can become slappy on country roads.

We assumed the electric motor would have taken care of the lag, with its torque down low.

Sometimes we found finding forward or reverse gear more difficult than it should be.

The instrument screen feels dated, cluttered and difficult to read in the larger mode. The additional screen for the air-conditioning seems unnecessary and takes up quite a bit of console space. It’s easy to brush the panel and change the temperature or activate seat heating without being aware of doing so.

There’s a wireless charge pad buried in the console box, which puts it out of reach when you’re driving – perhaps a good thing?

Pairing our late model Pixel phone was easy, but the phone refused to reconnect upon re-entering the vehicle, and we needed to delete it and go through the whole pairing process over again.

There’s built-in navigation, but Android Auto works flawlessly.

Thecarcomeswithafirstaidkit,warning triangle and high visibility vests in case of trouble, but a tyre repair kit is supplied in lieu of a spare tyre.

In case you’re wondering, Q7 can tow a 3500kg braked load.

Summing up

Has it been that long?

It may not be the latest or greatest Audi, but the Q7 sets an example for others to follow. The evergreen Q7 continues to set the benchmark in the luxury SUV segment with its blend of performance, technology, and versatility.

There was a nice break from wet and wintry conditions on Saturday allowing for some high quality matches.

Star Weekly’s LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.

Spring breaking through

Williamstown’s Teagan Brett and Kiera Leare. 493536_13

Wyndhamvale’s Brodie Meadows beats West Footscray’s EJ Sharp to the ball. 493521_07

Williamstown’s Camryn Bux. 493536_03

Westbourne Grammarians’ Temeika Cathery. 493520_10

Westbourne Grammarians’ Paige Trajkovski. 493520_01

Sunshine Heights’ Rocco Tripodi and tackles Braybrook’s Jacob Bitzer. 493523_11

West Footscray’s Chris Long and Wyndhamvale’s Damon Stephens. 493521_14

Braybrook’s Luke Zammit. 493523_27

Essendon’s Matilda Dyke and North Melbourne’s Kim Rennie. 486680_03

North Melbourne’s Ruby Tripodi and Essendon’s Amy Gaylor. 486680_08

Pacers hoping to bounce back and be finals contenders

Whittlesea Pacers are already turning their attention to the second week of finals as they look to keep their title hopes alive in Big V men’s division 1.

The Pacers kicked off finals action on Saturday night against the Coburg Giants, for the chance to play Gippsland United for a spot in the grand final.

Things didn’t go to plan for the Pacers as they lost 110-86.

Scores were level at quarter time, before the Giants jumped out to a nine point lead at the main break.

They increased to 17 points at three quarter time before they finished the game strongly.

Pacers coach Des Radoslovic said they have to find a way to respond now.

“It’s never great to have a loss, but we’ve earned the double change and move to next week,” he said.

“We started well and going in without

our import Raheem Anthony, we needed to play a great game to beat a great team like Coburg on the road.”

Radoslovic said they started well and stayed focused on the game plan for most of the game.

He said there was one area of difference in the game that proved costly.

“They shot the ball better than us,” he said. “We generated the shots we wanted to get, but we didn’t shoot well.

“The intensity was right up, the crowd was really good.

“We were right there in the first half before they had patches in the second half where they went on a few runs and we went cold from the field.”

Radoslovic said they threw everything at the Giants in the final quarter and tried some different things to see if they could get back into the game.

He said they would rather the margin

blow out than not try and make a real contest of it.

Angus Fischer, Oscar Percy and Pat Green each scored 18 points for the Pacers in the loss.

The Pacers season will now be on the line this weekend in a knockout semi final against the Warrandyte Venom, which beat WesternPortintheeliminationfinal,112-96.

Speaking before the elimination final, Radoslovic said they’d had some success against both sides and had no preference who they played in front of a big Whittlesea crowd this Saturday.

Radoslovic said he wasn’t sure whether Anthony would return for the semi final.

“We’ll see,” he said. “He has a back injury and is one of those game time decisions.”

Tara Murray

Pacers’ strong start

By Tara Murray

Whittlesea Pacers return to Big V women’s division 1 finals kicked off in the perfect manner.

After not having a women’s side for a number of seasons, the Pacers have built across the season and secured second spot on the ladder.

On Saturday night, the Pacers got a first up finals win against Altona Gators, 70-63.

Pacers coach Shannon Bodley said going into a finals series as a group for the first time you never know.

“They played really well as a group,” he said. “I spoke to the girls about that [being a new group] when we put the team together at the start of the year.

“Finishing where we did and finishing second is a huge achievement. Some other teams have played together for two of three years and have a bit of chemistry.

“We wanted to play finals and we’ve now got a finals win is a pretty cool achievement for the group.”

Bodley said they felt that they hadn’t overachieved and that there was more to get out of the group.

Playing in front of their home crowd, the Pacers were made to work hard for the win against the Gators.

The sides had already played each other in the final round of the regular season.

The Pacers led by five points at quarter time. They would never give up the lead, but the margin never blew out.

Bodley said it was a real finals-like game.

“It was exactly what I expected,” he said.

“It was up and down and fast paced.

“Randy [Shanklin] is a good coach and they were well drilled.

“We controlled it early and I didn’t think that we would ever lose it. They had a couple of little runs, but we managed to maintain the lead.”

Tegan Cunningham top scored with 22 points, while also pulling down nine rebounds.

Bodley said they were starting to see the best of Cunningham.

Sports shorts

Coates Talent League

Four Calder Cannons are among the invite list to the AFL national and state combines in October. The invite list includes representatives from every state and territory, along with all 23 members of the under-18 boys All Australian team which was recently released. Cannons trio Cooper Duff-Tytler, Hussien El Achkar and Adam Sweid have all been named in the invites for the national combine. Duff-Tytler, who is from Woodend-Hesket, and Sweid, who is from Pascoe Vale, were named in the under-18 All-Australian team. Felix Kneipp, who has been injured, is the one Cannon that has so far been invited to the state combine.

EDFL

Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 and 2 finals will get under this weekend. In division 1, Keilor Park will play Strathmore for a spot in the grand final, while Burnside Heights will face Westmeadows in a knock out semi final. In division 2, Gisborne-Kyneton United will face Taylors Lakes for a grand final spot, while Roxburgh Park and the Sunbury Kangaroos will face each other in a knock out semi final for a second straight year. All matches will be on Saturday

EDFL

“It’s like having an import and you expect that to step up in the big games,” he said. “She’s been getting better and better, like us as a team.”

Bodley said their depth was again vital and they would continue to use that in the coming weeks.

Having already lost Meg Lucas to college, the Pacers will be without Indiana Bodley, who tore her ACL and broke her wrist in the same game.

The Pacers will now face the Craigieburn Eagles for a spot in the grand final this weekend,withadoublechancestillinhand.

The Eagles, who claimed the minor premiership,hadabyeinthefirstweekoffinals.

The Pacers won last time the two teams played last month.

“Craigieburnhavesatontopoftheladder all year and it’s going to be tough playing at Craigieburn,” Bodley said.

“They are the top team for a reason and they will be hard to beat. We’ll worry about it and what we can control.

“Hopefully it’ll be a fantastic game.”

Craigieburn kept its Essendon District Football League division 1 finals hopes alive with a win against Tullamarine. The Eagles had control of the match early and despite not converting on the scoreboard were able to come away with an 11.15 (81)-6.3 (39) win. The Eagles sit in sixth spot, a game outside the top five. Elsewhere, Roxburgh Park pushed Avondale Heights, but fell short as it lost 15.9 (99)-13.10 (88).

Northern FL

Old Paradians have sealed their spot in Northern Football League division 2 for next season. On Saturday, the Raiders beat Watsonia, 18.10 (118)-6.12 (48) to get its fifth win of the season. The Raiders are now three games clear of Watsonia, with three rounds remaining.

Patrick Green. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 424321_13

Isabella Ryan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 488181_14

Eagles women looking for more success and promotion

Uni Hill Eagles women’s side is on track to takethenextstepintheirjourney,withthe side leading the fight for the state league 2 north-west title.

The Eagles sit seven points clear at the top of the table after 14 rounds, having scored 50 goals and conceded just seven goals.

Eagles head of football Firass Ibrahim said side continues to amaze them.

“The senior women are doing really well and looking like they will earn promotion to state league 1,” he said.

“They are seven points up with a few games to go. We have picked up some players from Fawkner and the team is stronger than ever.”

Ibrahim said the coaching group of Wasim Najmeddine and Mark Di Carlo, team manager Lisa Gravina had done a fantastic job to get the side heading in the right direction, along with physio Zena Al hatab,

He said every challenge they had faced they had taken on and succeed.

It comes after the side won the state league3northtitlelastseason.Theywere runners up in state league 3 north-west

in 2023, and won state league 4 north in 2022.

“St Albans that is sitting second, we defeated them 3-1,” he said. “The girls are also getting involved at training and at club functions.

“The girls are undefeated and looking togoback-to-back.Theywereundefeated last year and we are undefeated with a few weeks to go.”

Karen Mae Alora is leading up front of the Eagles, with 19 goals from 11 games.

Dream comes true

By Tara Murray

Whittlesea’s Tara Watson would have never predicted how she would make her Suncorp Super Netball debut.

A training partner for the first time this seasonwiththeMelbourneVixens,Watson has sat on the bench for a number of weeks as a replacement for the injured Hannah Mundy.

Thecalltotakethecourtfinallycameon, in a preliminary final no less.

While the game would always be special for Watson, it is a match that will go down in folklore.

The Vixens came from 10 points down at thethreequartertimetowinbyone,66-65, to secure a grand final spot.

Watson said being such a big game, she wasn’t expecting to get on the court.

“It’s pretty surreal, I never dreamt the gametobethewayitwas,”shesaid.“Itwas super special to be part of it with the other girls around me so supportive on and off

the court.

“Ididn’tthinkitwouldbethen,butitwas a different story. I wanted to continue to be confident.”

Watson was on the bench in the second quarter when assistant coach Di Honey told her she would be going on in wing attack.

A quick time out gave her a minute for it all to settle in before the debut came with the side that she had grown up supporting.

“The girls got around me,” she said. “I was shaking and so nervous.

“I wanted to take the opportunity when it came and get up to do the best I could … I was playing alongside some of my idols.

“IwasprettyhappywithhowIplayedout there, but there’s still a couple of things to work on.”

Watson finished with three goal assists andfourfeedsinhershortperiodoncourt.

Speaking on days after the game, the North East Blaze midcourter said the match and the outcome was yet to sink in.

She is the league’s leading goal scorer.

On Sunday, the Eagles had a 5-1 win against Spring Hills. Emily Jurgec scored twice in the win.

The success for the Eagles is coming across their whole female program and Ibrahim said they hoped it was only the beginning.

The club is only 10 years old and is one of the fastest growing teams in Melbourne’s north.

“Our under-16s girls who are coached by Bill Stavreski and with Fatima Daoud as team manager are sitting on top as well,” he said. “They are in a respectable division.

“Our under-14s are sitting second, one game from top. They are coached by Mo Ahmed and Hanane Jarmach is the team manager.

“Our female has a pathway and it’s looking really strong.

“We’re not shying away from our expectations next year. We want to be in the VPL [Victorian Premier League] by 2027 with both our men’s and women’s.”

Tara Murray

Eagles through, Lions go out

Whittlesea will get two cracks at making the Northern Football League women’s division 3 grand final,afterastrongfirstupfinalswin.

The Eagles, who finished second on the ladder, battled Montmorency 2 on Sunday morning in a qualifying final.

The Magpies scored the only goal of the first quarter before the Eagles did all of the attacking in the second quarter.

While they weren’t able to make the most of it, they still led by five points at half time.

The Magpies kicked two goals in the third quarter to lead by a goal heading into the final quarter, with the Eagles having the scoring end. They used it to perfection, kicking 4.1 to nothing to run away with a 5.7 (37)-3.0 (18) win.

Katrina Bruch kicked two goals for the Eagles.

Vice-captain Oliva Hodgson and Ashley Fitzpatrick were named the Eagles best.

The Eagles will face North Heidelberg in the major semi final thisSunday,withthewinnerthrough to the grand final.

Montmorency 2 and Heidelberg West will play off in the knockout semi final.

“It’s so special and it was so crazy,” she said. “I don’t think I’ve been part of a special game like that.

“In the last quarter, I can’t remember [what I was thinking]. I just knew they would get it done and believed in them.

“I couldn’t sit still. I couldn’t watch and then I watched and I was screaming and yelling, and so excited to see them take control of the game.”

The group was back at training on Tuesday with Watson saying it made it all feel a little bit more real they were playing in a grand final.

The grand final was played on Saturday nightinfrontofapackedhousewithplenty of Vixens fans in the house.

Unfortunately for Watson, she had to watch from the sidelines as Mundy returned from injury.

Therewasstillplentyofjoyforthesideas they won 59-58 to send Simone McKinnis out on a winning note.

In division 2, South Morang’s season came to an end with an elimination final loss to the Darebin Falcons.

The fifth placed Lions were able to stick with the Falcons in the first quarter before a four goal to one second quarter opened a lead up for the Falcons.

With three goals each in the third quarter the margin was still 20 pointsheadingintothefinalquarter.

The Falcons finished off the stronger of the teams to come away with a 9.6 (60)-4.4 (28) win.

Ruby Failla and Stefania Pauga kicked two goals each for the Lions. Failla,HaileyCordovaandDevony Hoare were named the Lions best.

The Falcons will face Kilmore in a knockout semi final, while Lower Plenty and Fitzroy Stars will play off for a grand final spot.

Under-14 girls. (Supplied)

Tara Watson. (Grant Treeby)

Lalor United players are focused on the task at hand

Lalor United continues to hold the chasing pack at bay in the FV state league 2 north-west competition.

With four rounds remaining, Lalor United sits atop the table with Altona East Phoenix just one point behind.

Uni Hill Eagles are also in the top two mix, while Whittlesea Ranges would need everything to go their way. The top two teams will be promoted.

Lalor’s Tony Josevski said they know whattheyneedtodointhelastfewrounds.

“We’re in a good spot, but it’s really tough with the top three teams close,” he said. “The top two there’s one point the difference.

“It’s two and half games to third, we’re stillabitnervous.We’retrackingalongOK.

“We’re looking to have promotion this year and hopefully another one next year.”

Josevski said a lot of hard work had been done in the off season with a new committee in charge.

They’ve looked to continue to build the culture with Thursday night team dinners and getting all the teams together.

He said that was showing on field as well with how close the group is.

It hasn’t been all smooth sailing for Lalor with a coaching change throughout the season.

The club’s junior technical director has stepped up to lead the senior side.

“He had been around quite a bit and the boys were undeterred in the way they played,” Josevski said.

“It wasn’t seamless but it has worked well.”

Lalor added another win to the tally on Saturday, accounting for Albion Rovers, 3-0.

Josevski said it won’t be easy on the run home.

“We have a couple of tough games coming up,” he said before the weekend. “Albion is a good side and we’ve got Altona East.

“If we get past those two we will get promoted.”

While the club’s focus is on promotion, they would be happy to achieve just that, Josevski said they wouldn’t be 100 per cent happywithanythinglessthanapromotion.

The club has been taking some big steps

Whittlesea hang in

By Tara Murray

Whittlesea United is determined to make its stay in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition for more than one year. The fight for spots division is on the line with just seven points separating Box Hill United in eighth spot and bottom side Pascoe Vale.

Threesideswillberelegatedattheendof the season.

Whittlesea’s Nabi Tuna said they had worked hard to give themselves a chance to avoid relegation.

“Since the new coaching staff have come into the club, it’s been a bit of fresh air and they’ve got a spring in their step.

“We’ve won three out of our four last games with the league with the aim of staying in the league.

“It is tight at the bottom of the ladder.”

Club legend Tansel Basar has taken on the coaching role after the club parted ways with championship coach Andrew Marth.

Tuna said Baser would do anything for the club.

“He’s a legend and captain for 10 years,” he said. “He was an assistant coach to Andrew Marth and he’s taken on our head coaching role.

“He’s doing well so far. When the opportunity arose he saw the club was in a hard position and knew that he was the man to step up.

“He’s doing what he can to keep us in the league. He’s a big club man and will put his hand up even it he’s not 100 per cent ready.”

With two matches to go, Whittlesea United knows its fate is in its own hands.

Tuna said they need another four or five points from the remaining matches to ensure they stay in VPL2.

He said staying in the division was important for the club’s future.

“We need to keep winning, starting Friday,” he said. “With six or seven teams in the drop zone, we need to stay out of the bottom three positions and get

off field as well with the juniors working out with the senior teams.

Josevski said they wanted to ensure that they had strong junior sides that would flow into their senior teams so they don’t have to look for players every year.

“A lot has changed and we have some great working volunteers,” he said. “They’re putting in a lot of time and are quitepassionateandwe’rehappywithhow we are tracking.”

Inotherstateleague2north-westresults, Whittlesea Ranges lost to Williamstown 2-1, Craigieburn City lost to Altona East Phoenix 4-0 and Dallas City lost to Strathmore.

Tara Murray

Craigieburn City’s female program continues to grow

The hard work has paid off for Craigieburn City as its women’s side goes from strength to strength in the FVstateleaguecompetition.

Craigieburn has risen through the ranks since forming in 2014 and currently play in state league 1 north-west.

The side sits in fifth position after 15 rounds, but with just eight points between the top four sides, means Craigieburn still has a chance of promotion.

On Sunday, Craigieburn City lost to ladderleadersCliftonHill,4-2.

Craigieburn president Paul Dugo said they were thrilled with how their female program is still continuing to grow.

“It’s been a long process,” he said. “Ourseniorwomenareinstateleague 1 and are the highest team in the City ofHume.

“We have girls teams in every age group and couple with multiple. It’s good to see that amount of girls that wehave,especiallyontheseniorside.”

Dugo said the aim was to get promoted again and play in the Victorian Premier League women’s competition.

He said the side had a real belief that they could do it and they were improvingeveryyear.

“Being in state league 1 we are very pleased with that,” he said. “It was not easy early on but there was a lot of persistence.

“The club wants to make sure they are happy and it’s a really good place tobe,

gaining points.

“We want to play and start preparing for VPL season next year rather than a state league one season.

“For a small community club like us to even get to where we are is exciting.

“To got down and try and come back up will be really difficult. We’ve got the club in a good position top to bottom and don’t want to lose that and start again.”

On Friday night, Whittlesea’s hopes took a slight hit as it lost to Box Hill United, 3-2.

Tuna said things were going well against the club.

They’ve had an increase of 100 per cent in the their junior program, while their women’s side is on top in state league 3 north and aiming for the championship.

Meanwhile in the National Premier League, Hume City had a 1-1 draw with Melbourne Knights.

Hume remains in sixth spot, just one point clear of Dandenong City.

There is a catch up round across both competitions this weekend.

“Eventually they want to play in the state’s top flight, the National Premier Leaguewomen.”

Dugo said they wanted to give everyone an opportunity to play sport. They’ve worked with some local schools to offer scholarships to girls thatmightnothavethechancetoplay duetofinancialconstraints.

Dugo said they want to break down the barriers and have been working hardforthat.

“We’ve always worked hard in that area and I think people come down totheclubwhichisaccessibleforgirls andwomen,”hesaid.

“Once you start to get them coming into the club more women and girls follow and we’re really pleased about that.

“On the committee I think there’s morewomenthanmen.

“Wewanttokeepgrowing.”

Mert Tuna. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 476969_08