Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 12th August 2025
Tails wag for new park
Pooches are wagging their tails for a new enclosed off-leash dog park at Delahey reserve.
The gated dog park features a drinking fountain, natural rummaging areas, shelter, dog waste dispensers and bins, and a run about area with a separate space for small and shy dogs.
It’s been a long time coming for the park, which locals started campaigning for in 2018.
Brimbank resident, Rachel Hayes, initially submitted a petition to council asking for the facility to be built.
At first, park plans were knocked back by council but later reviewed when Cr Maria Kerr raised a notice of motion in a 2021 council meeting, calling for a review of council’s Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan to include investigating the dog park at Delahey Reserve.
The motion was carried and works on the park commenced earlier this year.
Council said delays on the park were due to a need to modify design plans to reduce the impact on vegetation at the site after ecological surveys found native grasslands in certain areas of the reserve.
Police hours plea
By Sam Porter
Locals are calling for the Caroline Springs police station counter to be extended to 24 hours a day to better combat increasing crime in Melton.
A Victoria Parliament petition urging a review of the station’s counter hours and police resourcing in the region has received over 160 signatures.
Local resident Sean Montalto said the petitionisn’tjustaboutextendedoperating hours.
“It’s a catalyst for a comprehensive review of policing needs across the Melton
region. With rising concerns around youth crime, break ins and theft, it’s critical we assess whether local police are adequately resourced to respond swiftly and effectively,” Mr Monalto said.
Numerous petitions calling for extended counterhoursatthestationhavecirculated since 2013.
Mr Monalto said he was prompted to “re-open” the petition after seeing an increase of crime news coverage in the area.
“I wouldn’t say I started [the parliamentary petition]. It has been wanted for a while, I just re-opened it with
a fresh perspective and worked with local government to sponsor it.”
Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch, who sponsoredthepetition,toldStarWeeklyshe continuedtoadvocateforthecommunity’s push to see more police resources in the area.
The petition comes after the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) revealed a 20.4 per cent increase in total offences in Melton in the 12 months to March this year.
The CSA also revealed an 8.7 per cent increase in total offences for Brimbank during the same period.
Decisions regarding counter hours
at police stations are determined by Victoria Police, according to a Victorian government spokesperson.
“Our record $4.5 billion investment in Victoria Police means they can hire more than 3600 new sworn police officers. This includes 144 new police officers allocated to the Brimbank division, which services Caroline Springs,” the spokesperson said.
Even with the state government’s investment, local police continue to struggle with resources.
Continued: Page 5.
Rachel Hayes and her dog Hannah at the dog park. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 494242_03
FROM ROLLING SOLO TO
Local Business Bankers with personalised insights and on-the-ground support
Fine for language school
The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) has secured $14,145 in penalties in court against a weekend community Chinese language school, which operates out of a site in Braybrook, and its former volunteer chairperson.
The penalties were imposed in response to the Western Chinese Language School failing to comply with a notice that required it to calculate and make payments to four workers, in respect of their outstanding minimum entitlements, that it employed as Chinese language teachers for various periods between October 2016 and June 2021.
TheFederalCircuitandFamilyCourthas
imposed a $13,320 penalty against Western Chinese Language School and an $825 penalty against Baoquan Chen, who was chairperson of the school’s board on a volunteer basis.
Mr Chen was involved in the failure to comply with the compliance notice.
The court ordered the school to take the actions required by the compliance notice, including calculating and making payments to the employees in relation to their outstanding minimum entitlements, plus superannuation and interest.
The FWO investigated after receiving requests for assistance from the four affected
teachers, who were engaged on a part-time or casual basis.
A Fair Work inspector issued a compliancenoticetotheschoolinSeptember2022 after forming a belief the school had failed to pay Saturday and public holiday penalties and accrued but untaken annual leave entitlements at the end of one employee’s period of employment.
Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth said employers who failed to act on compliance notices needed to be aware they could face court-imposed penalties on top of having to back-pay workers.
“As this case demonstrates, legal action
Working hard to care for the evironment
Brimbank locals who dedicate their time to protect, enhance and restore the naturalenvironmentwerecelebratedaspartof Landcare week last week.
RunningfromAugust4to10,theannual campaign acknowledges the individuals, community groups and organisations committed to Landcare through conservation land management, environmental education, volunteer work, science and research innovation and other initiatives.
Friends of Kororoit Creek (FOKC) pres-
identJessicaGergersaidLandcareweekis a great opportunity to recognise and support hardworking friend groups.
“Landcare volunteers give time, love, passion and blood, sweat and tears all for the love of their local environment and community. Celebrating and recognising volunteer achievements goes a long way in keeping up spirits and energy,” Ms Gerger said.
Throughout the year the FOKC hosts a range of events to combat the negative
environmental effects of climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and deforestation. “We hope that we have helped to create a vibrant community around the creek — a community that also includes everything from the microbes in the soil, thewonderfulplants,fungiandanimalsto the creek itself,” Ms Gerger said.
“We can see the improvement in the landscape from our efforts — the increase in wildlife, the beauty and biodiversity.”
Skybus to start new Sunshine airport service in November
Melbourne Airport has announced a new express Skybus service which will connect Brimbank, one of Melbourne Airport’s largest workforce catchment areas, directly with the airport for the first time.
The sunshine express service, set to launch on November 9 this year, is one of two new Skybus services announced by the airport.
The other service, launching on August 31, will travel between Box Hill central and Melbourne Airport with stops at
Watsonia and Doncaster.
Melbourne Airport chief of property, retail and ground transport Jai McDermott welcomed the SkyBus expansion.
“SkyBus is an essential part of our transport mix, and these new services will provide much needed improvements to connectivity for our staff and passengers,” he said.
“The airport is growing, and with the recent approval of our third runway we are on track to welcome more than 76 million passengers by 2042, so we need
can be taken against both the employer and any individuals legally involved in the contraventions, including those who hold volunteer positions with the employer,” Ms Booth said.
“Employers must meet all their obligations to their workers and people in senior leadership positions must ensure that compliance is a high priority for those organisations.”
The entitlements were owed under the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 and the Fair Work Act’s National Employment Standards.
Police crackdown on e-bike riders
Victoria Police has launched a new operation targeting reckless e-bike riders.
Launched on Wednesday, August 6, Operation Consider, involves members from Victoria Police’s State Highway Patrol and Solo Unit teaming up with the North West Metro Bike Patrol in Melbourne’s CBD to crack down on e-bike compliance and safety.
It comes as the number of collisions involving e-bikes has increased significantly year-on-year.
New police data shows 79 e-bike collisions were recorded in 2023, jumping up 82 per cent the following year with 144 e-bike collisions recorded in 2024.
Provisional analysis of 2025 collision data indicates there were at least 113 e-bike collisions as of July 30.
The operation will involve police members patrolling on foot and using bicycles, motorcycles and highway patrol vehicles to target riders using overpowered and illegal e-bikes.
Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said the increasing popularity of e-bikes had unfortunately been mirrored by an increasing amount of road trauma incidents involving the vehicles.
“Nine times out of 10, the e-bikes involved in these collisions are either overpowered, non-compliant or they are not being used in accordance with the road rules,”AssistantCommissionerWeirsaid.
“We acknowledge there may be some confusion among the community when it comes to e-bikes, however the onus is on riders to ensure they understand and comply with the rules before using their e-bike.
“That means ensuring the e-bike does not exceed the power or speed requirements and that the rider adheres the road rules applicable to all cyclists – such as wearing a helmet, not using a mobile phone or device while riding, using bicycle lanes and obeying traffic lights.
“Victoria Police will be increasing its focus on e-bikes and we will particularly be on the lookout for reckless riders who are blatantly disregarding the rules.
the right transport infrastructure in place to support that growth and SkyBus will play a pivotal role in this.
“Melbourne Airport is the largest employment precinct in Victoria outside of the Melbourne CBD with an indirect workforce of more than 20,000 which is served by just four public bus routes, one of which does not run on weekends.
“That’s why we have long been advocating for more bus services and why we are so grateful for this announcement.”
“While education is always our preference, we won’t hesitate to issue infringements for non-compliance – particularly if it involves putting other road users at risk.
“We’re putting e-bike riders on notice – check your bike, make sure it’s compliant and obey the rules – failure to do so and there could be some hefty penalties coming your way.”
For more information, visit: https:// www.police.vic.gov.au/road-safety-0
President of the Friends of Kororoit Creek (FOKC) Jessica Gerger with FOKC volunteers and volunteers from AusNet. (Damjan Janevski). 494711_04
United stripped of licence
By Anna Harrington, AAP
DefiantWesternUnitedhavevowedtofight the stripping of their A-Leagues licence as the embattled club stands on the brink of folding.
Football Australia on Friday confirmed Unitedwouldhavetheirlicencewithdrawn as the current ownership were unable to satisfy the financial criteria required to maintain it.
Unitedhavebeeninfinancialturmoilfor months, with players and staff paid late in April, May and June while superannuation
Stylish
payments were also delayed.
United, based in Tarneit, have also been unabletoregisterplayersduetoaFIFAban related to an ongoing dispute with former striker Aleksandar Prijovic.
That ban meant new signing Jaiden KucharskiandcaptainBenGarucciocould not be registered in time to play in United’s Australia Cup round of 32 loss to Sydney FC. The club, led by chairman Jason Sourasis, had hoped their issues would be solved by a planned takeover by American group KAM Sports, which was announced in May - but that is yet to be completed.
Football Australia’s First Instance Board (FIB), an independent body responsible for club licensing, met on Thursday.
A Football Australia (FA) spokesperson saidtheFIBhad:“determinedthatWestern United FC has failed to meet the criteria requiredtobegrantedanA-Leaguelicense.
“As such Western United FC’s license has been withdrawn, effective immediately.
“Western United FC can appeal this decision to the Appeals Body established under the regulations on certain grounds outlined in the regulations.
United responded on Friday, confirming
toad’s kindness message published
A rogue toad inspired a Sunshine author’s heartwarming celebration of individuality, acceptance, and kindness.
Kelly Brodie-Brown hopes picture book TheStyleSecretsofGarethMcGreenleaves readers feeling “a little bit braver, a little bit bolder in how they want to present themselves to the world.”
Gareth landed on bookshop shelves in August after leaping into her imagination during a holiday, a toad staring up at her from a puddle.
“Toads tend to get a bad rap in stories,” she said.
“I thought, what if this little guy was a super suave style icon!?”
The tale of a stylish amphibian crafting dazzling outfits for animals of all sorts soon took shape.
they would immediately appeal the decision.
“The club will be exercising its right to appeal the decision immediately, with confidence of a positive outcome as the saleoftheclubandinjectionofcapitalfrom KAM Melbourne continues to progress,” the club said in a statement.
“We wish to assure every single member, supporter and the broader Australian football public that we will fight for our club with the same spirit, belief and resiliencethathasdefinedusfromthevery beginning.”
Brimbank suburbs picked for park program
Brimbankresidentsarebeinginvited to suggest ideas for new or improved parks,playgroundsandgreenspaces in their neighbourhood.
With the help of park and land managers, the best ideas will be developed into project proposals that will then be voted on by the general public as part of the state government’spickmyparkprogram.
The winning projects will then receive grants ranging from $20,000 to$250,000tohelpbringthemtolife.
It’s a lovely way to teach children - entertaining them, and hopefully making them laugh - Kelly
Brodie-Brown
A shy young possum teaches Gareth to look past the fabric and frills to discover the real secret to feeling fabulous.
Kelly’s daughter, Astrid, 6, listened to many iterations of Gareth as Kelly painstakingly crafted her idea into a succinct, rhythmic, and lyrical story.
“Finding my way into picture books came from reading to Astrid,” she said.
“It’s a lovely way to teach childrenentertaining them, and hopefully making them laugh.
“The heart of this book is the big celebration of diversity and the spirit of individuality.
“What makes the world an interesting place is that we’re all different.
“It’s about finding your own style and finding your way of expressing yourself.”
Kelly would love to write a second Gareth story, but for now, she has two new picture books due for release next year.
Brimbank suburbs included in the program include Albion, Sunshine, Sunshine North and Sunshine West.
The program which is aimed at areas earmarked for future housing development such as activity centres surrounding train stations.
“The Pick My Park program will target precincts and areas that are building more homes because as we continue to grow, we need to grow well - which includes delivering vibrant parks for our communities,“ said Development Victoria and Precincts Minister Harriet Shing in announcing the first phase of the program on August 1.
Ms Shing encouraged those living in eligible suburbs to think about how their neighbourhood could benefit from a new or updated park and then make a suggestion.
“Pick your park, share your ideas – we know how important parks are forcommunitiesforconnectingwith their friends, neighbours and family, so we want to hear what matters to you.”
To view the full list of eligible suburbs and make a suggestion, visit: engage.vic.gov.au
Protect yourself from burns this winter warns Ambulance Victoria
Ambulance Victoria is educating the community about burn prevention and correct treatment.
AV metropolitan acting director regional and clinical operations Jessica McGowan said burn prevention should be the forefront of everyone’s minds.
“When the temperature drops, we often reach for products to help ease the cold, whether that be warm food or drink, heaters or hot water bottles and heat packs,” she said.
“While these are all common household items, they can be dangerous if used incorrectly or by unsupervised children.
“There are a few simple steps that can significantly reduce the risk of burn injuries in high-risk places such as kitchens, bathrooms, around heaters and campsites.”
AV has a list of burn prevention tips:
• Always supervise children in the kitchen and keep hot items out of reach, such as the kettle or coffee mugs, and turn pot handles so they can’t be pulled down.
• Always test bath temperatures before letting your child enter.
• Remain vigilant around open flames, keep them out of reach and away from flammable materials.
• Make sure safety guards are around fireplaces and always use water to fully extinguish campfires. Burns can be serious and it’s important to know how to treat them properly and when to call for emergency assistance. Treatment is the same for all burn injuries and should begin with holding the burnt area under cool running waterfor20minutes.Clothingorjewellery that is not stuck to the burn should be removed.
Do not apply ice or food products, such as butter, to the burn as these can make the injury worse.
For minor burns, the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department is available 24/7 via video link.
“VVED is a convenient, free service that virtually connects you with doctors and nurses from the comfort of your home with no need to attend an emergency department,” Ms McGowan said.
“It can be used from anywhere in Victoria, all you need is a device with internet and video connection.”
For serious burns or emergencies, call 000.
VVED: vved.org.au/
Sunshine author Kelly Brodie-Brown.
Voice for the young
By Sam Porter
St Albans local Lauri Pavlovich has been selected as a new member of this year’s Victorian Youth Congress (VYC), and said they plan to use their position to advocate for all young people in the west.
For Lauri, being selected as part of the 2025 youth advisory group was an unexpected but exciting moment.
“Ifeelveryprivilegedfortheopportunity. It is a really incredible space to have my own voice heard and be able to represent my community but also to hear and learn from others,“ they said.
Eachyear,aspartoftheVYC,anewgroup consisting of 12 to 25 year-olds works with the Victorian government to identify and address issues facing young people.
During their term, Lauri plans to advocate for better mental health care and access to alternative education pathways.
Theyalsowanttostrengthenprotections and representation for marginalised groups such as transgender youth, chronically ill young people, and people with disabilities.
“I’vegotalotofdifferentlivedexperiences that I pull from…using lived experiences with mental health, of disability and chronic illness, of neurodivergence as well as being trans and being queer…all that ties into being a young person,” said Lauri.
“That informs all of the advocacy and work that I do and I try to keep that in mind when I am advocating for my communities…knowing where I’m missing knowledge and trying to create conversations where those knowledge gaps are filled”
Lauri is currently studying a Bachelor of
Youth Work and has previously completed a Double Diploma in Community Services and Counselling.
Theystartedoutasayouthpeerfacilitator at Sydenham Neighbourhood House after initiallygettinginvolvedinthecommunity group’s programs as a participant.
From there they moved into working across community spaces focused on
youth, disability, mental health, research and the arts.
“All of those roles have been focussed on specifically young people in those areas,” they said.
“IlovemyworkinthatI’mabletoimprove upon the systems that both supported me and did not support me, and make sure they’re better for the next generations.”
Police hours plea
From page 1.
Melton local area commander, Inspector Lisa Prentice-Evans, said police resources continue to be committed towards offending that is causing the most community harm.
“We have been very open about our current staffing challenges … Although the [Caroline Springs’] reception counter is open from 9am to 5pm, police are still working at all hours of the day, and are actively out inthecommunitypreventingcrime,” Inspector Prentice-Evans said.
She also said local police are well supported by specialist units within the police force.
But Mr Monalto said he believes a 24-7 public-facing presence would send a clear message to locals that help is always available.
“The common argument is that staffing a police station around the clock would divert officers from patrol duties and responding to urgentincidents…butthatreasoning assumes a zero-sum approach to funding where resources must be shifted rather than expanded. Why should it be an either or scenario?” he said.
“Whethersomeoneisexperiencing domestic violence, needs to report a concern discretely or simply feels safer speaking to an officer in person rather than over the phone, they should have that option — day or night. It’s about accessibility, trust and ensuring our community feels supported at all times.”
Lauri Pavlovich has been chosen to participate in the Victorian Youth Congress. (Damjan Janevski) 494505_07
I teach them not just swimming, but selfcompassion ... In order to be good at something you have to be bad first
- Barbara Murotake
Taking a dive later in life
Many adults in Melbourne’s western suburbs are learning how to swim. Jaidyn Kennedy speaks to a few of those taking the plunge later in life and explores how more of the west can be made swimmable.
Many people take swimming lessons, but not many people take swimming lessons on the cusp of their eighth decade.
Anne Young had her first formal swimming lesson at the age of 70 after moving to Williamstown – a suburb people flock to for its beach.
“I had my first lesson at 70 because I could swim to save myself but no one else,” Anne said.
“I have always loved the water and to swim, and as the eldest of seven kids, my parents couldn’t afford swimming lessons.
“Then as things went on, I thought I would love to be able to swim with my head in the water.”
Daily strolls along the shore and seeing beachgoers enjoy themselves was what finally pushed her to take the plunge.
“Therewasanadvertforseniorswimming lessons and I thought why not, so I got into the pool and learned the strokes and how to breathe correctly,” Anne said.
“At the end of five or six lessons, I was presented with a beach towel for the most improvement.
“It was just enough to give me the confidence of going into the open water.”
Transmitting that confidence to others has become something of a calling and now she volunteers to help children with disabilities learn how to swim.
“That is so rewarding, just the pleasure of getting the kids in the water to start with – and then you can’t get them out,” Anne said.
“Its a bit of a cliché, but it really does give me joy.”
Anne warns that there may be no turning back once you jump in the water.
“It’s very addictive and the only side effects are that it gives you adrenaline and sets you up for the day.”
Growing up in India, Shailaja Samudrala harboured a persistent fear of water and drowning.
“Actually, I wanted to be able to survive in water during an emergency – I started as a newbie because I didn’t learn to swim as a child,” Shailaja said.
“Comingoverhere[toAustralia]Iwanted to overcome my fears and I always had this sense of waterphobia.”
In her mid-thirties at that stage, the inspiration to learn came from quite close to home.
“I saw my kids learning, so I thought why not? Why can’t I learn how to do it?,” she said.
“I got inspired and thought let’s do it this time – even I can overcome my fears.”
Themissionisnowmakingsureeveryone in her household knows how to swim.
“I keep telling my husband you should give it a try, there is no harm in giving it a shot,” Shailija said.
“Water survival is a must for everyone, you never know what is coming your way.”
Sometimes it can be the good things in life that come your way, too.
“I have made heaps of friends and have gone on coffee dates and holidays,“ Shailija said.
OneofthosefriendsisBarbaraMurotake.
While both proficient swimmers, the pair still take lessons to hone their skills and strokes at Shawn’s Swim School in Hoppers Crossing.
“I had just moved to Melbourne from Canberra and didn’t have many friends in thewest,soIwasabletomakefriends through swimming,” Barbara said.
“Shailaja and I have become good friends and that has been something really awesome.”
Barbara teaches adults how to swim – but it was never something she set out to do.
“I decided to become a swim teacher, because it sounds really weird, but I really wanted to either havemorekidsorgobacktoschool,” she said.
“I think the decision I made was to learn something new and still be around kids.
“That was this year actually, I wasn’t really comfortable with teaching adults swimming, I am a socially awkward person and sometimes I can’t
pick up on social cues.”
Turns out it wasn’t as daunting as she thought it would be.
“I find it really engaging to teach adults swimming – a lot of them are there because they really want to learn to swim, often to be with their kids or improve their fitness,“
Barbara said.
Imparting lessons that go beyond the pool is what she has come to love most.
“The thing I find really good about adults is learning how to play, it’s okay to mess up, or trip, you can always find it next time,” Barbara said.
“So I teach them not just swimming, but self-compassion, and just to be gentle with yourself.
“In order to be good at something you have to be bad first.”
Anne Young enjoying a dip in Williamstown.
Shailaja Samudrala and Barbara Murotake share an aquatic and terrestrial friendship. (Damjan Janevski) 490621_04
Many people are taking the plunge later in life. (Jan De Groen)
Cruise entries close soon
Time is running out to win the journey of alifetime!
Entries close at noon on Thursday, 14 August, so don’t miss your chance to win an eight-day Viking “Rhine Getaway” river voyage for two, valued at $16,190 –includingreturnairfares.
Thanks to Viking and this local newspaper, one lucky reader will enjoy
a luxurious cruise departing Basel, Switzerlandon22November2026. Cruise through four countries, explore historictownsandUNESCOsites,andenjoy Viking’ssignatureculturalexperiences. Have you entered yet? Act now before it’s too late! Visit starnewsgroup. secondstreetapp.com/Win-a-Europeanriver-voyage-with-Viking
Briefs
Youth Fest in the West Youth Fest in the West is back for 2025 with free events and activities. Try out a Pilates class, boxing, art and craft activities, connect with young entrepreneurs, or improve your chess game. These are just some of the fun experiences on offer throughout September in Brimbank as part of this annual event. Other great attractions include sessions on car maintenance, healthy cooking, sport activities, and more. The activities will take place at different locations around Brimbank. You can also apply for discounts on gym memberships and access to Keilor Driving Range. Details: brimbankyouth.com/youth-fest-2025
Aboriginal Honour Roll
The state government is celebrating First Nations people whose leadership and achievements have made a lasting contribution to Victoria with the opening of nominations for the 2025 Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll. Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins is calling for nominations from people whose advocacy, determination and work have shaped a better and fairer Victoria. Nominations close October 3. Details: www.firstpeoplesrelations. vic.gov.au/VAHR
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Scan the QR code for upcoming events and to explore Melbourne's newest roads with our Explore Your Journey Tool
The West Gate Tunnel will transform travel from Caroline Springs to Melbourne when it opens at the end of the year. You will be able to enter the new tunnel from the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road and travel quicker to destinations such as universities, hospital and sports events. Drive the West Gate Tunnel through our driving simulator at Caroline Springs Square 8 to 17 August
Cruise through four countries, explore historic towns and UNESCO sites, and enjoy Viking’s signature cultural experiences.
Scan this QR code to enter.
Boost for dust monitoring
By Sam Porter
Brooklyn Recycling Group (BRG) has announced a new major dust monitoring program that is soon to be rolled out at the Brooklyn industrial precinct to better record dust levels data in real time.
The program, which falls under the BRG’s Better Environment Plan, was announced at a Brooklyn Community Representative Group community forum on July 23.
Designed by independent experts, the technology measures PM2.5 and PM10 particles, recording the data for historical analysis.
BRG community liaison officer Lisa Field said the data will be used to track the effectiveness and progress of dust intervention methods.
She said the program will also assist with the investigation of community complaints made at particular times and locations.
“It’s to develop and implement a shared incident and dust monitoring response. Multiple stakeholders can see that [information] in real time and analyse that,” Ms Field said.
“It’s a good tool to see how things are tracking with the other interventions … you can look back, identify and assess
impact.”
MsFieldsaidwhiletheresearchandthe modelling of the program was complete there were still a few more steps to be taken before the program was implemented.
Synergetics Consulting Engineers representative Dave Collins spoke at the meeting and said the BRG’s contribution to dust within a 3km radius of the site was sitting at approximately eight per cent.
Mr Collins also spoke about the importance of vegetation buffers in reducing dust impacts.
Brooklyn resident Bert Boere said the dust monitoring program was impressive, and that dust levels had reduced in the area.
Youth bus drives change across the west
The Melbourne Youth Bus (MYB) had a big outreach day in Melbourne’s west on Saturday, August 2, making stops to help communities in Footscray, St Albans and Docklands.
The after hours mobile outreach service helps young people who are experiencing homelessness, are at risk of homelessness, or who are experiencing other complex issues.
MYB’s outreach coordinator Yasin Celik said while 16 to 25-year-olds are the organisation‘s main target group, MYB helps out anybody who needs it.
“We help out with essentials. We do have youth counsellors among our volunteers. We try to help out anybody who needs counselling or needs directing to services,” he said.
“[MYB is] just trying to create a safe space where [people needing help] can comeandsitdown.Iftheyseemtobelost we can give them a bit of confidence and if they need further help we can always stay in touch with them.”
MYB’s big outreach day came ahead of homelessness week, which takes place from August 4 to 8 and aims to raise
awareness of the impact of homelessness.
Mr Celik said community members shouldtrytounderstandthecomplexcircumstances that homeless people face.
“Those people the community are scared of are actually scared themselves,” he said.
“Sometimes a ‘hello, good morning or g’day’ can really change things.”
The MYB runs on the first and third Friday of each month from 3 to 5.30pm in Footscray and 6.30 to 9.30pm at Errington Reserve in St Albans.
“Certainly the dust amount and the odour occurrences have come down. It’s a lot better than it was in the past,” said Mr Boere.
But he acknowledged the situation was still not ideal.
MrBoereacknowledgedthatwhileit’sa historicalissue,hefeelstheindustrialprecinct should never have been built near a residential area. “[The industrial precinct] is just something that shouldn’t be there that’s anywhere upwind of a residential area. In NSW, they don’t do any of this near residential areas. They take it somewhere remote,” he said.
Three men have been charged as part of a police crackdown on an alleged group of hoon motorcyclists performing stunts for social media.
Police charged a 24-year-old Caroline Springs man, a 22-yearold Hillside man and a 23-year-old Tarneit man who is also a learner rider.
The group of riders has been under investigation after reports of dangerous driving on Melbourne’s freeways and roads over the past few months. It is alleged the group rode in sync together, carrying out dangerous stunts while having a person film the acts from a nearby moving vehicle.
The investigation focused on a meet up on February 21, where three riders allegedly performed dangerous stunts on CityLink, between Port Melbourne and Pascoe Vale between 10.30pm and 11.30pm.
The group allegedly rode at double the speed limit, up to 160km/h, weaved through traffic, performed ‘wheelies’ and used products on their feet that throw sparks into the air when coming into contact with the ground.
The charges against the three riders included reckless conduct endangering life, obtaining financial advantage by deception and causing public nuisance.
Melbourne Youth Bus volunteers Bernard, Lerma and Rosario. (Supplied)
A tree-rific morning
On a wintery Sunday morning on July 27, approximately 130 locals gathered to plant over 6000 native grasses along the Kororoit Creek corridor in Sunshine West, helping to create much needed habitat for species suchastheeasternlong-neckedturtle.
The event, organised by council’s conservation team in partnership with Friends of Kororoit Creek, also celebrated NationalTreeDay.
InattendancewasBrimbankmayorThuy Dang, as well as councillors Lucy Nguyen andJohBauch.
They all had the opportunity to get their hands in the soil, as well as chat with community members over some delicious warm food provided by local caterers, the Granary.
The event and associated conservation activities along Kororoit Creek was supported by the Victorian government throughtheGreenLinksgrantprogram.
Phu Dong Scouts with Cr Joh Bauch and Cr Lucy Nguyen.
People of all ages particpated in the event.
Phu Dong Scout leader Thanh Nguyen. (Pictures: Andrew Robb)
Mayor Thuy Dang, Lachlan Amore, Ashley Onori, Zoe Thomson, Tracy Cassar, Cr Lucy Nguyen, Nicole Butler, Ian Smith, Ella Ryan, Martha Ragg and Hayley Bradbury
Cr Lucy Nguyen, Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang with Friends of Kororoit Creek members Beata Katarzyna Leslie and Michelle Muscat.
Sesame St circus dream
Families and kids of all ages can watch their favourite Sesame Street characters perform live alongside professional circus performers in Watergardens this month.
Elmo’s Circus Dream Live director Damian Syred said the show follows the story of a sleeping Elmo.
“It’sallaboutElmo’sdream,“hesaid. “He falls asleep and takes you on an adventure about finding where he fits in the circus.”
When asked for more details about Elmo’s journey, Mr Syred said he didn’t want to give too much away.
“You’ll have to see the show to see what
Elmo’s act is,” he said.
Elmo appears alongside other Sesame Street friends including Cookie Monster, Abby, Grover, and Bert and Ernie.
The show features all sorts of circus acts — from daredevil motorcycle stunts to aerialist acts to illusions and magic tricks.
Mr Syred said the performance is captivating for all audiences, regardless of age.
“We just finished up our first season in Caulfield,“ he said. “We had a great response from families in that area.
“There’s really something for everyone.
It’s a good way to get out of the house, take the family and experience something you’ve probably never seen before.
“We are excited and anticipating great things.”
Elmo’s Circus Dream Live, produced by Circus Royale and Showtime Attractions, will be performed under the big top at Watergardens Town Centre, Taylors Lakes, from August 8 to 31.
Ticket prices range from $25 to $55 with options for VIP passes and family packages.
More info: sesamestreetcircus.com.au
Exhibition with an important message
Point Cook is about to host an exhibition that celebrates Wyndham’s grasslands, rivers and encourages cat owners to keep theirfelinefriendsinside.
Artist and Werribee River Association volunteer Kath Jessop moved to Wyndham in late 2016 and fell in love with the place – in no small part because of the natural environment.
“I learned about the incredible biodiversity, people don’t know we have one of the best birdwatching spots and an ancientriversystem,”shesaid.
Thesecanbedifficulttospotifyouaren’t looking.
“When people go through their day to day lives, I don’t think there is a great deal of attention paid to what is around them,” Ms Jessop said. “Wyndham is not just an LGA,itisahabitat.”
She said that often the destruction cats can cause is through ignorance and not maliciousintent.
“I want to assure people a bit there is something you can do, so my key message is keep your cat inside, because it has an immediate impact on your local environment.
“It could be the difference between a nativespeciesthrivingandgoingextinct.
“It’snotaboutthekoalasorthekangaroos that everyone knows, it is about all the amazing animals you wouldn’t know about.
“I really hope my exhibition sparks curiosity because what we have is magnificent, but if we don’t care for it we loseitanditwillbegoneforever.”
The exhibition launches at Saltwater Community Centre between 6.30-8.30pm on Friday, August 15 and will run until September25.
Thursday avo gigs are back at Kindred StudiosinYarraville.
The second installment of the Thursday arvo gig series began on August7withCatherineMcQuadeand her Latin infused, 60’s inspired trio, featuringMichaelDavisondrumsand JimSwainstononguitar,previewinga few tracks from her forthcoming third album’TheCorruptionofMemory.’
The series then continues on August 14 when legendary duo Dave Graney and Clare Moore return to the bandroom to play tracks from their career spanning four decades and includingbandssuchastheMoodists, The Coral Snakes, The Lurid Yellow MistandMistly.
On August 21, IS, a three piece riff based dance jazz unit featuring Leo Dale (baritone and tenor sax), Moses Carr (digital accordion and keys) and Quinn Knight (drums) will play two funkedupsetsofimprovisedgrooves.
The following week on August 28 it will be the turn of Melbourne pop artist and self-styles queen of patio rock, Tanya-Lee Davies take to the stage.
Rounding out the run of shows is Melbourne two-piece, Mt Blushmoor onSeptember4.
Combining award-winning chanteuse Edwina Blush and gold-selling CousteauX songwriter Davey Ray Moor, Mt Blushmoor are described as The Carpenters singing David Bowie songs with Burt Bacharach on piano in a David Lynch universe.
All Thursday arvo gigs are free and take place from 1pm to 3pm at the Kindred Bandroom inside Kindred StudiosonHarrisStreetYarraville. There are discount drinks at the bar forseniorscardholders.
For more information, visit: kindredstudios.com.au
Celebrating Maltese traditions at Festa Marija Assunta in August
Brimbank locals can enjoy a weekend of festivities as part of the upcoming Festa Santa Marija Assunta, running from August15to17.
Celebratingits42ndyearofbeingheldin Deer Park, the traditional Maltese festival marks the Virgin Mary’s ascent into heaven.
Festival organiser Frank Galea said the festival is a special time to attend church, pray and contemplate the history and teachingabouttheVirginMary.
“I also relish the sight of the packed church, consisting of a happy community in prayer and contemplation during festa
time…itisadayofprayerandobligationto attend church on the day for all Catholics allaroundtheworld,”hesaid.
Mr Galea said the event brings Maltese/ Gozitan and other cultural communities togetherinaharmoniousfestivespirit.
“There is also the cultural tradition aspect of the festa — entertainment, enjoyment and merriment…the colourful festa procession parade with the artistic statue carried aloft on the shoulders of eight strong men for the duration of the procession, amid the fanfare of the brass band accompanying the procession parade.”
Celebratory masses will be held over the weekend accompanied by the Philippine Eucharistic Choir, with additional musical performances by the MMG Concert Band and the Maltese Own Band Philharmonic Society.
Locals can also enjoy traditional Maltese cuisine which will be available for purchase.
The Festa Santa Marija, supported by Brimbank council, will run from Friday, August 15 and end with the Festa day on Sunday,August17.
Details:https://events.brimbank.vic.gov. au/
Local artist Kath Jessop loves Wyndham’s nature.
(Ljubica Vrankovic) 493712_02
Elmo’s Circus Dream Live will be showing at Watergardens Town Centre. (Supplied)
New scenic river voyages
Debuting in Late 2027, the new Viking Brahmaputra will sail the company’s first River Voyages in India and as with everything Viking, the trip will be a stunningjourneydiscoveringthesensesof this amazing country.
TheVikingBrahmaputra,anew80-guest vessel has been designed specifically for the Brahmaputra River. Currently under construction and scheduled to debut in late 2027, the Viking Brahmaputra will set anewstandardformodernrivervoyagesin India. The ship will sail between Guwahati and Nimati Ghat in the northeastern state of Assam as part of Viking’s new 15-day itinerary, Wonders of India. In addition to an eight-day river voyage, the itinerary includes a fully guided land program with overnights in Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.
“With its rich heritage, deep cultural traditionsandfascinatingnaturalwonders, India is a vast and vibrant country that has captured the imagination of explorers for centuries,” Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen said.
“In recent years, our guests have particularly enjoyed visiting Indian ports on our ocean itineraries. We are now delighted to introduce a new way for curious travellers to explore the heart of this phenomenal country, in-depth and in Viking comfort.”
ThenewVikingBrahmaputrawillhost80 guests in 40 outside staterooms. Featuring the signature Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, all staterooms and suites will have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a veranda. Guests on the three-deck Viking Brahmaputra will also enjoy a range of amenities, including a Spa andFitnessCentreandanopen-airSkyBar on the Upper Deck.
The fifteen-day Wonders of India itinerary program will operate round-trip from Delhi, with hotel stays in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur that bracket an eight-day Brahmaputra River voyage, sailing east or west, respectively.
With thirteen included tours, guests will be immersed in India’s cultural treasures and will have the opportunity to experience as many as ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Guests will delve into the rich history of India’s Golden Triangle, exploringAgra’sfabledTajMahal,strolling through Old Delhi’s winding streets and glimpsing Jaipur’s ornate Palace of Winds. While sailing the Brahmaputra River, guests will see Guwahati’s temple,
encounter the thriving villages along its banks, search for the one-horned rhinos andbuffaloofKazirangaNationalParkand discover the cultures of Majuli, one of the world’s largest river islands.
For additional immersion opportunities, Viking is also offering a variety of new preand post-land extensions for Wonders of
India, including Delhi (two nights), Dubai (three nights; fully guided), Kathmandu (four nights; fully guided) and Cochin and Mumbai (five nights; fully guided).
Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers
with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences ’For The Thinking Person’ and has more than 450 awards to its name. For further information on this exciting new cruise and the extensions on offer, please visit Viking at www.viking.com or call 138 747.
The new Viking Brahmaputra will sail the company’s first river voyages in India in 2027 and it’s time to book for great discounts.
Window views and comfortable seating ensures dining is a pleasure on board the newest ship in the Viking fleet.
The comfortable and charming Lounge aboard the brand-new Brahmaputra. (Supplied)
A comfortable relaxed and immaculate Explorer Suite aboard the Viking Brahmaputra.
A stunning Veranda Stateroom aboard Viking Brahmaputra.
LEE MCCARTHY
Full-Board River Cruise
3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing
Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse
Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat
Taste Riverland food and wine
Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour
Hotel Stays
3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast
1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Fully Escorted Barossa Valley Tours
Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including:
Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement
Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours
2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
SCANDINAVIAN DISCOVERY
Oslo to Stockholm or vice versa
8 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 6 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAY-SEP 2027; MAY-AUG 2028
From $7,895pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $9,595pp in Penthouse Veranda
SCENIC SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC JEWELS
Bergen to Stockholm or vice versa
15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 12 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAY-SEP 2027; MAY-AUG 2028
From $14,595pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $17,995pp in Penthouse Veranda
Uncover the long history and rich culture of Bergen, encircled by majestic mountains, fjords and glaciers, and take in the setting that inspired the Viking sagas.
From $1,399 per person
ICONS OF THE VIKING AGE
Bergen to Copenhagen or vice versa
22 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 17 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: JUN-AUG 2027; MAY, JUN, AUG 2028
From $21,295pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $26,395pp in Penthouse Veranda
BERGEN, NORWAY
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
Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning
Join Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning, a free, evidence-based early education program that combines music, play, and connection for families with children aged 0-5 years. Running for eight weeks, on Tuesdays, 10.30am to 12.30pm, this program is designed to incorporate singing, stories, and fun activities to support your child’s development. Running from February 11 onwards at the Sunshine Heights Playgroup Centre, 105 Glengala Road.
9663 6733, or events@ds.org.au
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at The Club in Caroline Springs, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.
0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@ outlook.com
Women’s only conversation English Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Crafternoons
Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Learn to Relax Group
IPC Health’s Living Well team is running a free Learn to Relax Group at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road, every Tuesday at 11am. This group is for people over 18 years who are interested in learning how to relax and finding ways to effectively manage their stress. Registration is required to attend this group.
livingwell@ipchealth.com.au, or 1300 472 432
Musicians wanted Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Do you play Woodwind, Brass or Percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music? Rehearsals are held Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am to noon, at Braybrook College.
westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Sunshine Community Brass
Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm.
Andrew, 0419 444 620
Sunshine Repair Cafe
Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.
sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082
Women Working Together
A program connecting women aged 50
and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Brimbank.
9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/ Keilor Day View Club
The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.
Robyn, 0425 387 880
Deer Park Lions Club
Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.
Michael, 0417 307 572
St Albans senior citizens
St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm.
Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.
Roma, 0435 991 064
Caroline Springs Rotary
The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall, from 7pm.
rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com
Deer Park Probus Club
The Deer Park Probus Club meets at the Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, Deer
Park on the second Wednesday of the month from February to December. Meet at 10am followed by lunch available from 12pm. The club offers bus trips, lunches, morning melodies etc. New members welcome.
Peter, 0412 604 713 or Pat, 0413 126 714
Al-Anon Family Groups
Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Delahay Community Centre, 70 Copperfield Drive every Wednesday, from 1-2:30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.
Helpline, 1300 252 666
Western Athletics function Western Athletics is celebrating 30 years since the amalgamation of Werribee, Footscray and Sunshine athletic clubs. A function will be held on October 18 at the Yarraville Club.
info@westernathletics.com.au.
Santa Marija Assunta festival
Celebrating its 42nd year of being held in Deer Park, the traditional Maltese festival marks the Virgin Mary’s ascent into heaven. The festival runs from August 15 to 17. A service accompanied by the MWF Philippine Choir will be held on August 15. On Saturday 16, a dinner dance with live musical performances will be held at Luxor Function Centre from 6.30pm onwards. The Festa day will take place in Deer Park on August 17 from 2pm. For purchase of Saturday night dinner dance tickets contact:
Frank Mintoff, 0407 816 603 or Raymond Theuma, 0409 361 271
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Overnewton Anglican Community College students rehearsing for the ‘We Will Rock You’ musical. Kiki (front), Tristan, Pearce, Carly, Isabella, Fiona and Olivia (back). (Damjan Janevski) 493855_01
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Sharpshooter (8)
5 Aggressive maniac (6)
10 Relish (5)
11 Incapable of being seen (9)
12 Latin name of England (arch) (6)
13 Forest workers (7)
14 Endured (8)
15 Sickness (6)
18 Conviction (6)
20 Float (8)
21 Blasphemous (7)
24 Inflated (6)
27 Waxy secretion of sperm whale (9)
28 Prickle (5)
29 Cricket team (6)
30 Fire-resistant fibre (8)
DOWN
1 Extremely big in size, importance, etc. (4)
2 Indignant (9)
3 Multitude of fishes (5)
4 Brings to life (8)
6 First name of William Shakespeare’s oldest child (7)
7 Metal rope (5)
8 Hyperbolise (9)
9 Declare positively (4)
14 Conquer (9)
16 Taker of blame (9)
17 Fierce storms (8)
19 Declare one’s approval (7)
22 Wall with pointed roof (5)
23 Anecdote (4)
25 Measure of length (5)
26 Singles (4)
1 What was the first film to be released in the Barbie franchise?
2 Which living mammal is the only one covered in scales? 3 Which 20th-century writer is known for their works titled The Trial, TheJudgment and The Castle?
4 What colour is smaragdine?
5 Regarding the character trope in movies, what do the letters MPDG stand for?
6 Which
7 And which Australian pair won the 2022 title?
8 What is the ancient Egyptian underworld called? 9 In which country is the Lotte World theme park complex located?
10 Name J. K. Simmons' (pictured) recurring character who appears in both the original Spider-Man trilogy and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
No. 282
No. 250
SPORTS QUIZ
1. The father of which NBA star is the current head coach of NBL’s Illawarra Hawks?
2. Which 2006 comedy film stars Will Ferrell as a NASCAR driver?
3. What sport is the focus of the PBR Monster Energy Origin Series, a competition between New South Wales and Queensland?
4. Kaylee McKeown recently came first in which 100m finals event at the Singapore 2025 World Aquatics Championships?
5. Which country was the winner of the 2025 UEFA European Women’s Championship?
6. What country is NBA Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki originally from?
What sport was Sonny Liston known for?
AFL anthem UpThere was originally written for what purpose?
What is the name of the Australian women’s national field hockey team?
10. In what sport might a halo save your life?
Which Australian batsman scored 102 not out from 37 balls in the third T20 international against the West Indies?
Which Geelong forward scored a career-best 11 goals against North Melbourne in Round 20 of the AFL season?
13. Which Slovenian cyclist won the Tour de France for the fourth time in 2025?
14. Which team has won the Stanley Cup NHL ice hockey trophy for the last two years?
15. Which Wallabies veteran retired from international rugby after the Third Test against the British & Irish Lions?
16. Which English cricketer scored a century and took six wickets in the drawn Fourth Test against India?
17. Which is the only AFL team never to ‘win’ a wooden spoon in its history?
18. In which year was the English Premier League football competition founded?
19. The Supercars Championship stages its final round each year at a former Grand Prix circuit in which city?
20. Which Australian spinner played his 100th T20 international in game five of the West Indies series?
21. How many periods are there in a standard ice hockey match?
22. The 1992 comedy Ladybugs revolves around which sport?
23. Which English cricketer recently notched up his 39th Test century?
24. How many points did the Melbourne Vixens beat the West Coast Fever by in the Super Netball Grand Final?
25. How many AFL players have played 400 career games?
26. And how many AFL players have kicked more than 1000 goals?
27. How many games did the British & Irish Lions win during their 10-match tour of Australia?
29. In what year did Russia last compete at the Summer Olympic Games?
30. What is the nickname of the Australia women’s national rugby union team?
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
28. The South African cricket tour of Australia in August featured two games in what capital city?
Cannon difficult to ignore
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
As the price of 4×4 sports utilities continue to climb, Great Wall’s Cannon ute is an attractivealternative.
It’s not just a little cheaper but a lot cheaper than the front runners of the segment, and not at the expense of build qualitythesedays.
While Toyota’s Hilux tops out at more than$70,000andtheFordRangerRaptorat morethan$90,000,youcangetintoatopof the line Cannon XSR for as little as $49,990 -that’sdriveaway.
And that’s becoming difficult to ignore.
Styling
GWM has rationalised the Cannon lineup, pruning the seven models to just four, all packing the same 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel.
The range kicks off with the Lux priced from $40,490, followed by Ultra from $43,490, Vanta from $45,490 and XSR from $49,990 - all prices drive away for private buyers.
The larger Alpha variants come with the same 2.4-litre turbo-diesel, with the Lux priced from $51,990 and Ultra from $57,990.
The Alpha is also available as a hybrid andplug-inhybrid.
Our test vehicle was the second cab off therank,theCannonUltra.
The Cannon has been given a mid-life makeover with a more sophisticated look andfeel.
Standard equipment includes artificial leather and single zone climate air with rear outlet, power-adjust driver seat, heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel and ambient cabin lighting andfoldouttailgatestep.
There’s also auto high beam, LED front and rear lights, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, auto wipers, rear privacy glassandapoweredsunroof.
Side steps and a chrome sports bar are standardandthereartailgatenowfeatures large embossed GWM branding for a strongerroadpresence.
Cannon is backed by a seven-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year roadside assistance and five-year capped priceservicing.
Infotainment
Infotainment is accessed through a 12.3-inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth, voice control, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Autoandsix-speakeraudio.
There’salsowirelessphonechargingplus front (1 x USB-A and 1 x USB-C) and rear (2 x USB-A) and a USB-A port for dashcam along with three pre-wired 12v accessory buttons.
Safety Cannon carries a five-star safety rating, with seven airbags and features a suite of advanced active and passive safety technologies.
Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car and Vulnerable Road User) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and an advanced speed assistancesystem(SAS)arestandardonall variants.
There’s also blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert with brake, driver fatigue monitoring system, door open/vehicle approach warning (DOW), 360 degree
overhead camera and front and rear parkingsensors.
The rear seat has two ISOFix mounts and toptethersforchildseats.
Engines/transmissions
A 2.4-litre single turbo-diesel four-cylinder enginedelivers135kWofpowerat3600rpm and480Nmoftorquefrom1500-2500rpm.
It features an ‘advanced’ variable geometry turbocharger which GWM says optimises the aspect ratio at both low and high revs, reducing turbo lag while maintaining efficiency at higher speeds.
The diesel is paired with an in-house nine-speed conventional torque converter auto,withgearchangepaddles.
Driving
You’ve seen one ute, you’ve seen them all. There’s not much to differentiate them, apartfromtheirsize.
Their purpose dictates their shape and there’s not much scope to do anything with the rear, with vertical style tail lights almostmandatory.
All the action can be found up front and the only company that has tried to do anythingremotelydifferenthereisMazda.
Butitssmiley-facedBT-50gotthethumbs down from conservative buyers and a ‘bolder’lookfollowed.
All this leads us to the fact that Great Wall’s Cannon does not stray far from the formula and we reckon it bears a passing resemblancetotheHilux.
At 5416mm in length with a 3230mm wheelbase and 2630mm long tub, Cannon isnoshrinkingviolet.
Nowhere is its size more evident than in the large 13.1 metre turning circle. That meansplentyofthree-pointturns.
At least it’s not as large as the silly ‘full-size’ American pick-ups however that seemtobegainingtractionhere.
Rear legroom in the Cannon is generous, the tub has a moulded liner and there’s a handy pop-out step that makes access to the tub easier (but there’s nowhere to hang
on).
Also, the driver side support cable protruded from the gap between the body andthetailgateinourtestvehicle.
The tub has four tie-downs, but no light andnopoweroutlet.
There are side steps and all doors get grab handles to make entry easier, while the overhead handle on the driver’s door has morphed into a weird sunglass holder. The centre console has two cupholders, a storagetrayandcooledconsolebox.
The engine and transmission are a lift fromthelargerCannonAlpha.
It features an ‘advanced’ variable geometry turbocharger which GWM says optimises the aspect ratio at both low and high revs, reducing turbo lag while maintainingefficiencyathigherspeeds.
There’s up to seven drive modes, depending on grade, including Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow, Mud, and Sand. Ultra scores Normal, Eco and Sport, as well as lowrange(4L).
There are also three steering settings, which helps make lighter work of the large turningcircle.
The four-wheel drive system is a full-time, torque on demand system with anelectronicallyactivatedreardiff.
Easilyengagedviaacentrallylocateddial, the Borg Warner transfer case optimises traction,stability,andperformance.
XSR and Cannon Alpha models add a front locker, offering enhanced traction andcontrol.
Ground clearance is 232mm and wading depth is 500mm, but the plastic side steps will be a limiting factor off road (and easily damaged).
With a 78-litre tank, fuel consumption is aclaimed8.4L/100km.Weclockedupmore than 300km, but can’t tell you what we got because the trip computer refused to give upitssecrets.
Ultra can carry a 995kg payload while brakedtowingcapacityhasincreasedfrom 3200toaclassstandard3500kg.
Straightlineperformanceisexemplary.
But there’s some turbo lag and the boost when it comes on is strong and unpredictable. Plonk the accelerator and
you’re never quite sure what is going to happen. Sometimes it fires, sometimes it doesn’t, which can make pulling out at intersectionsnervewracking.
Lifting off the accelerator on the other handdoesnotalwaysdeliveranimmediate response, with some throttle overrun - or is that turbo overrun? The first-second, second-first change invariably produces a clunk.
The lane keeping software is intrusive andinsistent.We’vefoundwithexperience thatitisbestnottofightthewheel,because in theory the car knows best. It’s a lot less strenuoustodrivethiswaytoo.
However, giving the Cannon its head can result in the car over correcting and crossing the inside line which happened more than once. Ultimately this could lead to running off the road - so keep an eye on it.
Suspension is independent at the front withleafspringsundertherearandvented disc brakes at all four corners and 265/60 profileroad-biasedrubber.
The GitiXross HT71 tyres are designed for highways and light off-road trails, delivering durability and a quieter ride for SUVsand4WDs.
The ride quality is generally good, but not what we’d describe as Parramatta Rd friendly.
This is particularly evident compared with an SUV that has benefited from local suspensiontuning.
It’sagoodideatoslowdownfordriveway entry and the like which can be a bit calamitous.
Inside the dash is stylish and well laid out, but lacks functionality for simple often-usedfeatures.
Cannon is fitted with two computer screens: a 12.3-inch touchscreen for infotainmentandasmaller7.0-inchscreen for instrumentation which sits in front of thedriver.
The screens are not concealed behind a single,one-piecehousing,butsitseparately. The centre screen provides a rear and overhead view when reversing, with dynamicguidelinesforbacking.
Atleastit’ssupposedto.Ononeoccasion, the reverse camera refused to display anything for a couple of minutes when reverse was selected. This is simply not acceptable.Strikeone.
As mentioned, the trip computer also playedup.Wewereunabletocyclethrough the various screens using the buttons providedonthesteeringwheel.Striketwo.
A row of physical buttons below this screen provides shortcuts to various functions.
There are fan speed buttons, but not temperature adjustment. However, we discovered that pressing the heated seats button provides access to temperature controls.
All cars fitted with CarPlay and Android Auto need a home button because once you’re in Android world it is often difficult to find your way back, to do such things as setthecabintemperatureandflickthrough radiostations.
Also, you cannot access volume control unlessyoureturntothehomescreen.
Summing up
Apart from one or two niggles, the Cannon Ultraisacompellingproposition.
It must be the stuff of nightmares for the likes of Ford and Toyota who want big moneyfortheirvehicles.
People seem happy to stump up the price.However,it’snotacaseofifbutwhen the dual cab bubble will burst - wouldn’t yousay?
Apart from one or two niggles, the Cannon Ultra is a compelling proposition. (Pictures: Supplied)
Perfect sporting weather
There were grand final spots on the line, seasons coming to an end and other teams fighting for a finals spot and survival among Saturday’s sporting action. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting the drama.
Burnside Heights’ Holly Mcgregor. 494545_01
Craigieburn’s Daniel Perry and Hillside’s Jaksyn Grant. 494547_07
Craigieburn’s Harry Albon. 494547_03
Craigieburn’s Jacob Aquilina. 494547_20
Craigieburn’s Myra Wood. 494544_03
Old Paradians’ Tom Cooper. 494937_02
Thomastown’s Nick Jolly. 494937_19
Westmeadows’ Gemma Wright. 494545_09
Whittlesea Pacers’ Brendan Hughes. 494934_13
Whittlesea Pacers’ Taylah Scott. 494544_25
Whittlesea’s Angus Fischer. 494934_02
Spring Hills locks in National Premier League spot
By Tara Murray
Spring Hills has secured its future in the National Premier League women’s competition for next season.
Afteraslowstarttotheirfirstseasoninthe state’s top flight, Spring Hills has secured its spot with three rounds remaining.
Coach Tom Markovski said it’s been a pretty good first up season.
“I’m happy with the season,” he said. “We’re officially staying up.
“We are safe and want to push for a top six spot. We have four games left which are winnable and we have a chance.”
Markovski said losing some players in the off season meant they had a slower start than they would have liked.
Once they found their feet they’ve been able to put together some strong form.
“We have come good,” Markovski said. “Our lost our last game with Heidelberg but we held our own and did enough to get a point.
“It’s been a tough season but we’ve been able to find our way. It was our first loss in eight games.”
Spring Hills has continued to focus on bringing junior players through into the senior side.
Markovski said they had played more youngsters than they thought they would at the start of the season, but it was good signs for the future.
“We’ve debuted 10 or 11 girls under the age of 18,” he said. ‘Our under-20 captain,
who is 18 years old, didn’t end up playing in theunder-20suntilround11or12asshehas come up to us.
“There’sacoupleofgirlswhowereplaying in the under-20s and have been thrust into the senior team and it’s been a good opportunity.
“I’ve been really happy.”
Also pleasing for Markovski has been the performance of their junior girls sides whicharealsoplayingNPLforthefirsttime.
The club’s under-15s are sitting second on the ladder, which ?? said was a great achievement, while their under-13s and under-17s have had good seasons as well.
TherewasabyeontheweekendforSpring Hills with the Nike F.C Cup and men’s competition cups being held.
Falcons into granny
By Tara Murray
The City West Falcons dreams of a fourth straight premiership remain alive in the Victorian Netball League.
After their most disappointing performance in years in the semi finals, the Falcons didn’t waste their second opportunity against the Boroondara Express.
There would be no blow out like in the first week of the finals between the two sides, but it would be the same result.
TheFalconsstartedwellandled5-1early on before the Express settled.
It was goal for goal for most of the first two quarters with the Express leading by one goal at the first break and two goals at the main break.
The Falcons came out hard early in the third quarter to regain the lead.
They threatened to break it open more than once but the Express kept it close.
City West had all the answers in the final quarter as they locked in a 61-55 win and a date with the Hawks in the grand final.
Falcons coach Marg Lind said they weren’t going to drop the match.
“We’ve given ourselves a chance,” she said. “That was the goal this week to get there a lot of work to do.
“I think it took until today [Wednesday] to get over it. I wasn’t feeling confident until we got messaging today.”
Lind said they started well before they threw a few balls away and couldn’t turn the ball over.
She said they played around with their defensive structure and it took them a while to get going.
“Once they got their heads on what we wanted to do and stuck to it, it definitely made a difference and we started to get hand to ball,” she said.
“We got them to get a few misses and you have to take every turnover that you can get and a rebound is a good one.
“Istillthinkwecandobetterdefensively, there’s more to come.”
Lind said one thing she was really happy about was the playing group showing anger and that really got them going in the third quarter.
“They gritted their teeth,” she said. “Cookie [Jane Cook] chased a loose ball, we didn’t get it but it was a little bit of a catalyst for the others to think, we’re going to go.
“I think that is where we broke the game open. I believe that was the turning point.”
Lind said they thought they fed Cook, whoshot53goals,wellearlybeforemaking a couple of errors which they will need to tidy up in the grand final.
They ran the goaling combination of Cook and Maddie Romios for most of the game,withtheconnectionintheattacking third working well.
Jane
Cook. (Michael Baker/Netball Victoria)
Olivia Cameron in her couple of minutes in the first quarter did cop a corkie which also played a role in that decision.
“I thought Maddie got herself into the game, so well that we couldn’t take her off,“ Lind said.
In a bonus for the Falcons, co-captain Maggie Lind played the whole 60 minutes as she continues to struggle with a leg injury.
Markovski said it would have been nice to keep playing and continue their momentum.
ItwillbeabusyfewweeksforSpringHills. It faces Brunswick Juventus on Friday night, before a catch up match with the FV Academy on Tuesday night and then t is back in action on the Friday in the second last round.
Markovski said while he was already looking forward to next year, they wanted to finish this year off strongly.
Looking to the men’s side, which is currently sixth in FV state league 5 west, Markovski said it had been a good season and they had blooded a lot of youngsters and they were setting up the program how they wanted it to be set up.
Sports shorts
VTCA
Sunshine YCW has announced its latest signing for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Evans-Clark Shield season. Shaun Weise joins the club from Yarraville Club, where he captained the second XI as a seam bowler in 2023-24. “But really he’s been a Cougar since birth. We’re rapt to have him back in the fold and he can’t wait to see him, with his brother Max, donning the blue and gold,“ the club said.
VTCA
Grand United has announced the signings of best mates Kyle Welsh and WIll Rhodes for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield season. Welsh is a hard hitting top order batsmen joins the club from Undercliffe Cricket Club in England’s Bradford Premier League. He played in the Bendigo District Cricket Association last season. Rhodes is described as a talented allrounder, who will be joining from Tong Park Esholt in England. It will be his first season in Australia.
Netball
Netball Victoria has named its top 50 player under-19 and under-17 squads. The squads which will be later reduced to pick the state teams for next year have a range of talent from across the state. The under-17 squad includes St Albans-Caroline Springs’ Lilah Kinderis and Payton Simeki, and City West Falcons’ Emily Fitzgerald, Ella Leith, Imogen Sexton and Manon Muir. Among the under-19s are Western Warriors’ Kiara Boyd, Eva Ryan and Amelia Sharp, and the Falcons Amalani Fauonuku and Olivia Powell.
EDFL
Her mum said it was a miracle to get her up and she made just one error for the game. The Falcons now face the Hawks in the grand final. The Hawks beat the Falcons in the semi finals, their only loss for the season.
“We were so bad against the Hawks,” Lind said. “We can never ever be that bad again.”
Northern Saints and Rupertswood’s reserves sides won’t be able to take to the field until an investigation into why their reserves match was called off. Police were called to Salesian College in Sunbury on August 2 after receiving reports of an affray during a football match, which was abandoned. The league has confirmed that a more extensive investigation is required. It said while the investigation is underway, Rupertswood and Northern Saints reserves sides will not participate in any EDFL scheduled match.
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Western Suburbs future secured, looking ahead
By Tara Murray
Western Suburbs have secured its spot in the FV state league 1 north-west competition for next season.
With not much between the top and bottom sides this season, ensuring that the side was out of the danger zone was important for Western Suburbs.
Western Suburbs committee member and reserves coach Sasha Pete said it was nice to have their spot locked in for next season with four rounds remaining.
“We’re very pleased,” he said. “It goes to show how tight the league is. A couple morewinsandwewouldbepushingforthe promotion race.
“It’s a tough league but we’re definitely matchetically safe.”
After 18 rounds, Western Suburbs sits seventh on the ladder on 25 points. Ladder leaders Banyule City are on 34, while they are just 10 points clear of ninth spot.
Pete said with sides below them facing each other in the final few rounds it means they won’t slip into the bottom two, who will be relegated.
With the closeness of the competition, Pete said there is a little bit of what might have been this season.
“If we could have turned three of those losses into wins we would be in the title race,” he said.
“But we’re definitely safe and we can enjoy the rest of the season without the pressure on us being related.
“We’ll look to blood some more reserves players. They are second on the ladder and likely to take the runner up place there.
“It’s been really good for us.”
There was a bye on the weekend for the three cup finals and catch up rounds.
players to be ready come the Clifton Hill game at home,“ he said.
Having found a good rhythm the last few years on and off the field, Pete said they wanted to continue to grow the club that is in its 60th year.
“We have stabilised the club and the question is now how do you grow the culture and club even more,” he said.
“We are really proud of what we’ve been able to do. Only four years ago we had no junior teams.
“We have eight and we have a girls team. The atmosphere at the club is growing as is the community.”
In other matches in state league 1 north-west this coming weekend, Keilor Park hosts the Brimbank Stallions, Sydenham Park plays Westvale Olympic and Westgate will face Ballarat City.
Devils sitting pretty
By Tara Murray
Keilor Park ended Westmeadows’ winning streak and has put itself in a good position foradoublechanceintheEssendonDistrict Football League division 2 competition.
The Devils’ belief has continued to grow as the season has come along and the win against the Tigers has only seen that grow.
Devils coach Colby Blyth said things were tracking along really nicely.
“We’re in a good position and it’s a good feeling,” he said. “We’re confident in our system and we knew that the boys would be OK.
“The boys have something special going on. It’s definitely a point of difference.
“Thebondthattheyhaveweusethatand try to take it on the footy field. We feel like we have that.”
ThelasttimetheDevilsplayedtheTigers, the Tigers came home hard late to sneak a win.
There would be no repeat this time, with the Devils winning 6.10 (58)-5.14 (44).
Blyth said it was about sticking to what
they knew worked and they had done so well for most of the season.
“Wewereconfidentgoingintothegame,” he said. ‘We had to keep our momentum level the same throughout the game.
“We had to get the fundamentals on our terms and maintain them throughout the whole game and we knew we would be OK.
“We had to make sure we stayed composed when they did gain momentum and go back to the fundamentals.“
The Devils were in fourth spot heading intotheweekend’smatches,afterdeadline.
The minor premiers, which is likely to be Glenroy will get the first week of finals off, while second and third get a double chance.
The Devils were in fourth spot, two points behind Rupertswood. The Devils have the easier run home of the two teams, with Westmeadows having already sealed the other double chance.
Blythsaidtheywereawareofwhatwasat stake the last couple of rounds.
“Wehavebeenfocusingonweektoweek, but the club put little more in them saying
Eggesvik to depart United
Sara Eggesvik will depart Western United to take up an opportunity in Europe, signing for LSK Kvinner in Norway.
The Philippines international – who has Norwegian heritage through her father – made 19 appearances for Western last season, her first season at the club.
She scored two goals for the club, both with her head – the first at home against Western Sydney Wanderers and second on the road against Wellington Phoenix.
Following on from her performances at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, Eggesvik continued United’s connection to thePilipinasbybecomingthethird capped international to feature for the club.
Eggesvik etched her name into Philippineshistoryatthe2023FIFA Women’sWorldCupafterproviding the assist for Sarina Bolden’s goal that earned the country their first ever win at a World Cup finals, and she arrived with a prestigious CV. Western football general manager Mal Impiombato thanked Eggesvik for her commitment to the club and her performances as Western made it deep into another finals series.
the opportunity is there if they want it,” he said.
“We’ve beaten Westy on their ground and they had not lost there. We take a lot from that.
“We almost beat Glenroy and we’ve beaten Rupertswood and Coburg Districts.”
“We take a lot of confidence out of all of that.”
The Devils were set to face East Sunbury on Saturday, after deadline.
They finish the season against the Sunbury Kangaroos.
Both games are at home and Blyth said they were keen to get wins on the board in both games.
“We’ll look to go back to making sure our structures, systems and fundamentals are good and everyone is healthy and ready to go for finals.”
In other matches on the weekend, Rupertswood was away to Hadfield, the Sunbury Kangaroos played Glenroy, Burnside Heights faced Westmeadows and Northern Saints played Coburg Districts.
“On behalf of everyone at the football club, I would like to thank Sara for her fantastic contributions over the past season,” he said.
“Adding her international pedigree, Sara played a part in securing another finals berth for ourClubandaddingtothegrowing history of our women’s program.
“We wish Sara all the very best in her future endeavours and look forward to supporting her from afar.”
Eggesvik will arrive immediately in season in Norway, with LSK Kvinner sitting in fourth place on the table at the halfway point of the campaign.
Eggesvik joins Catherine Zimmerman in departing the club in the off season for other opportunities overseas.
Chloe Lincoln has also announced that she won’t be returning after finishing her contract with Western.
Savvas Thalalaios. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 412101_22
Nicholas Kilty. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 488178_20
Devils take positives, look to rebound for next challenge
Keilor Park showed some positive signs as it had a free hit at making the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 grand final.
The Devils faced an undefeated Strathmore in the opening week of the finals, with a grand final spot on the line.
Having lost their three matches to the Mores, the Devils weren’t given much opportunity to knock them off.
There were some positive signs but the Moreshadenoughclasstocomeawaywith 4.10 (34)-2.2 (14) win.
Devils coach Marcus Barclay said they would take a lot out of the game.
“We wanted to try and play defensively,” he said. “They are a lot quicker and are more youthful.
“We wanted to make it hard for Strathmore to score and you have to play that way against them otherwise it becomes a shootout and they kick 15 goals.
“We have a plan in place and the girls were fantastic for a half and then in the
lost quarter when we kept them scoreless which was a massive effort.”
Neither team kicked a goal in the first quarter and it was just one goal apiece in the second.
The Mores kicked 3.6 to nothing in the third quarter to blow open the match.
Keilor Park won the final quarter but it wasn’t enough.
Barclay said there was always a chance that the Mores could go away from them but his group continued to contest the game out for the whole 80 minutes.
Rhiarn Daley and Krystyn Raymundo were the goal kickers for the Devils.
Aleisha Dorrington, Antonietta Parisi and Alexandra Kilty were named their best.
The Devils season is not over though having secured the double chance, they will now face Burnside Heights in a preliminary final.
Barclay said they were keen to bounce back and get another shot at the Mores in
the grand final.
“We are almost a brand new team so it was a thrill for the girls to finish second on the ladder,” he said.
“Anything else is a bonus but it would be nice to have a fifth crack at Strathmore. Burnside is similar to us, Westmeadows is pretty good too.
“Burnside Heights has that finals experience and it’ll be a test for us coming off a Strathmore game.
“It’ll be a nice test for us.”
Barclay said he thought the Bears had been the measuring stick the past two seasons and were firing at the right time.
The Bears won through to the preliminaryfinalwitha9.10(64)-1.1(7)win against Westmeadows in the elimination final.
The Tigers kicked the first goal of the game but then struggled to get the ball into their half for the rest of the game.
Thunder bows out
By Tara Murray
A brave Keilor Thunder fell just short of a second straight National Basketball League 1 South grand final.
Having fought through adversity all season, the Thunder had their work cut out for them against the Knox Raiders on Saturday night in the preliminary final.
With two season ending injuries and Kasey Burton missing, the Thunder received the news that Jasmine Dickey had torn her ACL, ruling her out as well.
With the Thunder’s Big V youth league side playing its grand final at the same time, the Thunder was down to just seven players.
Thunder coach Kristi Harrower said while they didn’t get the result they were after,shewassoproudoftheplayinggroup.
“We gave it everything that we could,” she said. “Going in with seven players was pretty ridiculous.
“We played pretty well and got on the scoreboard and got our defensive structures right. [Maddy] Rocci, Issie [Bourne] and P [Penina Davidson] had to carry the offensive end.
“Itwasaprettytoughphysicalgame,that was pretty taxing.”
With the two finals being scheduled at the same time, the Thunder had some decisions to make in terms of who played where.
Harrower said in the end they didn’t give Macey Boyle a choice, saying they needed her in the NBL1 side.
Caitlyn Peterson remained with the youth league side where she played a key role for them.
Harrower said while everyone played their role, they ultimately were one or two players short of being able to really challenge for the full 40 minutes.
The Thunder led throughout most of the game against the Raiders.
The margin was four points quarter time and out to nine points at the main break.
Knox was able to bring that back to just one point heading into the final quarter.
The two sides traded the lead early in the last quarter before the Raiders made one last push which would be enough to come away with an 80-73 win.
“We were right there until the last 90 seconds,” Harrower said. “That’s what hurt us the most.
“We couldn’t come up with the defence boards and Kristy Wallace scored a basket for them. We didn’t run the right plays down the stretch.”
Maddy Rocci was outstanding for the
Thunder with 32 points, seven rebounds and nine assists.
Harrower said the group had been through so much adversity with unavailabilities and injuries throughout the year.
She said had they had their full side they felt they could have claimed the championship.
“I’m really proud of the group to make a preliminary final, where we had a chance
Lions make their finals debut
Taylors Lakes will take plenty of confidence out of its opening finals match, despite suffering a big loss to Gisborne-Kyneton United in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 2 competition.
The Lions faced Gisborne-Kyneton United on Saturday in a qualifying final, with a grand final spot on the line.
For Taylors Lakes, it was the club’s first time playing women’s finals.
The undefeated Gisborne-Kyneton United showed why it is the team to beat with an 11. 4 (70)-1.3 (9) win.
Lions coach Joseph Antonetti said the group were outclassed in the end.
“They [United] played their best,” he said. “We were able to mix it for a lot of the game, but we couldn’t keep with them in the end.
“I said to them [his players] we had a good experience and we now know what finals footy is about. The pace and intensity goes up.
“We’ll take some learnings from it.”
Antonetti said there were a few nerves coming into the game, but they had done their best to make the focus that it was just another game.
The group held a team bonding session on Friday night in the lead up to the game.
Having finished second, the Lions have a second chance and will face the Sunbury Kangaroos in a preliminary final on Saturday.
The Kangaroos beat Roxburgh Park in the elimination final.
Antonetti said his side’s win against the Kangaroos the last time they played would give them plenty of confidence heading into the game.
“It was a massive win, not just in the context of the season, but one of the best wins I’ve been involved in as a coach,” he said.
“They had the edge on us but the way we came out and in the key moments was something we’ll really cherish.”
to win it,” she said.
“The last two years we’ve shown we are right up there with the top teams and we have some good kids coming through.”
Harrower said they would look to keep the core group together next year and add a couple of key pieces.
It was also heartbreak for the Thunder’s Victorian youth league championship women’s side which lost the grand final to Kilsyth in double overtime, 97-89.
Antonetti said he felt confident in the group that if they showed the same intensity as they did against Gisborne-KynetonUnitedtheywould be in with a good shot of making the grand final.
“Anything can happen,” he said. “There’s everything to play for.”
