Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 26th August 2025
Riding high
A remarkable Aussie has made a quick stopover in Braybrook as part of a 200-day, 20,000km duathlon across the country to raise awareness and funds for heart health.
Dawn Beaumont, also known as the queen of hearts, is hoping to raise $2 million for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Heart Foundation research team as part of the 200-day running-cycling journey.
Beginning in her hometown in Adelaide, Ms Beaumont has travelled through every Australian state and territory, and will head onto Tasmania after passing through Victoria.
“There’s definitely been days where it’s been rough. It’s all for a good cause so that gets you moving and you’re going ‘this is bigger than what I’m doing, it’s what I’m trying to do it for’,“
Ms Beaumont said.
Ms Beaumont was inspired to take on the run-ride challenge after she successfully performed CPR on her mum who went into cardiac arrest at the age of 53.
Petition launches
By Sam Porter
A petition calling for new inclusions to Development Victoria’s proposed development in Cairnlea has been launched by frustrated community members opposing the current plans. The petition, addressed to Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny – the responsible authority for the planning approvals – outlines two conditions for precinct structure plans for the development at at 147a Cairnlea Drive and 265 Glenbrook Avenue, one of which calls for the plans to include a diverse range of housing options that aren’t solely high-density dwellings. Thesecondconditionurgestheinclusion
of an indoor multi-purpose recreational facility into the plans, which the petition states “would incorporate an aquatic facility and integrated parks and sporting field for residents of all ages and abilities”.
Cairnlea resident and community advocate Graeme Blore said the proposed conditions would benefit all residents in Brimbank.
“What the petition is seeking to achieve is creating additional services and facilities that will actually service, not just southern Brimbank, but a greater catchment area, and provide a revenue boost for council and facilities and services that will enhance community outcomes for many years to come,” Mr
Blore said.
“It’s an opportunity to construct a major new facility that will be a drawcard for the whole region that will provide opportunities for community building, for equity, for diverse recreational opportunities, and importantly will provide a positive social alternative to the majorgamblingvenuesthatarelessthana fiveminutewalkfromtheproposedestate.
“We intend to gain 10,000 signatures to ensure this debate is not swept under the carpet and is debated in parliament.”
Development Victoria acting executive general manager housing Nemesia Kennett said the agency appreciated that there was strong community interest in
the proposed Cairnlea development.
“We’ll continue to keep locals informed asplansareconfirmedandkeymilestones are reached,” Ms Kennett said.
“The delivery of much-needed housing within the established suburb of Cairnlea will give more Victorians in the growing west the opportunity to live closer to jobs, schools, transport and essential services.
“Inadditiontodeliveringamixofdiverse and affordable housing opportunities, the new development will build on the existing character of Cairnlea and offer a connected network of open and green spaces for everyone to enjoy.”
Ms Kilkenny was contacted for comment.
Dawn Beaumont will run and cycle 20,000km across 200 days to raise awareness and funds for heart health. (Damjan Janevski) 496579_05
Solomon Heights proposal
By Sam Porter
Glen Ora, the company that owns undeveloped roads in the southern part of the Solomon Heights precinct, has made a proposal to transfer ownership of its roads to Brimbank council.
Glen Ora director Ron Silverstein said he believes the proposal could be one logical way of resolving the development issue in Solomon Heights, which has now remained undeveloped for a century due to several issues – one of which is due to limited road access in the area.
“In terms of what we would be seeking in
compensation for the roads, that would become part of the charges that would be levied on the lot owners and [Glen Ora] would be paid over a period of 10 years,” Mr Silverstein said.
“What we’re not prepared to do is just hand the roads over to council and nothing happens.”
Council acts as the responsible authority and planning authority for the subdivision.
The ownership transfer to council is one potential solution to unlocking development of the precinct proposed by Greater Western Water (GWW) to Glen Ora.
It means the precinct would meet re-
quirements outlined in the water supply code and therefore allow GWW to supply roads in the precinct to water connections.
Glen Ora took GWW to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) to appeal its decision to refuse to grant water connection permits to the estate earlier this year.
Mr Silverstein and GWW did not wish to comment on the VCAT proceedings as matters are still ongoing.
A Brimbank council spokesperson confirmed council received a proposal about ownership of roads in the Solomon Heights area.
Youth Fest in the West offers free fun
Young people in Brimbank have all the reason to celebrate next month when youth fest in the west returns with free events and activities.
The youth festival, which runs from September 1 to 30, is a statewide initiative open to all young people aged 10 to 25 years, unless stated otherwise.
“The proposal falls outside of the typical process for roads to be accepted by council and may be subject to additional processes or considerations in accordance with applicable legislation,” the spokesperson told Star Weekly.
“AquestionrelatedofthismatterwasdisallowedattheAugustcouncilmeetinginaccordance with rule 55.11.9 of council’s governance rules, which states that questions relating to proposed developments may be disallowed. Questions relating to current or potential future developments are disallowed so as not to prejudice any future council decision.”
Brimbank council has formally requested the state government to review the emergency services and volunteers fund (ESVF) levy, which was introduced in July this year.
The ESVF will support services for emergencies including fires, floods, and storms and replaces the fire services property levy (FSPL) previously implemented by the government.
The council said the levy amount is set by and collected on behalf of the state government and does not contribute to council income.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said the ESVF places a significant financial strain on Brimbank ratepayers.
“The ESVF introduces a higher levy amount than the former FSPL and we estimate this new charge will cost Brimbank ratepayers approximately $12.3 million,”she said.
“This added financial pressure comes at a time when our community is already grappling with rising living expenses.
“Our residents are not only being asked to shoulder this increased burden, but councils are also being tasked with the responsibility of collecting this levy for the Victorian government.
“We think [the ESVF review request] is essential to create a fairer funding model that considers the financial challenges faced by communities like ours.
Other events over the month include a young entrepreneur meetup, a car maintenance workshop, a healthy cooking lesson, an LGBTQIA+ youth soiree, painting afternoons and introduction to chess sessions, among other activities.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang, welcomed young people living, working, and
Ongoing activities throughout the festival include youth boxing classes, tennis and pickleball sessions, and creative after-school hangs where students can drop in, have a bite and take their minds off school with some art-making. Young residents looking to improve their fitness can also claim a discounted bucket of golf balls at Keilor public golf course, and get discounts at Brimbank leisure centres too.
studying locally to explore the exciting range of events on offer.
“Youth Fest in the West is a lot of fun, and a time to celebrate the many positive contributions that young people make to their communities – especially our own,”
Cr Dang said.
The activities, organised by Brimbank council and other local organisations, will take place at different locations around Brimbank.
Brimbank is gearing up to celebrate Adult Learners Week
Brimbank residents can participate in a range of free activities as part of Adult Learners Week, which runs annually from September 1 to 8.
For Brimbank green thumbs and chefs, there will be an edible garden workshop, a food nutrition presentation and a bread making demonstration on offer.
Locals looking to sharpen their minds can compete in a community chess challenge, practise their English skills or research their family history with the help of a librarian.
Creative workshops will also be available as part of the week’s events with locals having the opportunity to attend a yarn and stitch event and partake in a multicultural community choir rehearsal too.
There are also sessions that offer practical advice for residents looking for career guidance and seniors needing assistance with preparing for the age pension.
Adult learners week sessions will take place at Brimbank libraries, neighbourhood houses and community centres, and are designed to offer practical knowledge and
skills that participants can take home and build upon.
Sessions are hosted by Brimbank council with some events being delivered alongside council’s partner organisations.
Adult learners week, which is now a UNESCO initiative, shines a spotlight on the importance of lifelong learning and offers an opportunity to discover new interests and skills.
This year the event is celebrating its 30th year in Australia.
Details: news.brimbank.vic.gov.au
“Council is collaborating with other councils and organisations to seek a fair resolution for both ratepayers and local governments.”
Star Weekly contacted the Victorian government, asking why the ESVF is considerably higher than the previous FSPL.
“Emergencies like floods and fires are getting more frequent and more severe - that’s why every single dollar raised by the new ESVF will support our emergency services – helping them to keep communities safe year-round,” a state government spokesperson said.
“This levy – introduced originally by a Liberal-National government –has been collected by local councils for years.
“Because our emergency services volunteers give our state so much, eligible CFA and VICSES volunteers and life members are able to access a rebate, administered by the Department of Government Services.”
The state government said in the 2025-26 financial year, the average residential property will be required to contribute about an extra $63 a year as part of the ESVF.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang with Shivam Palta, Ryan Le, and Fartun Said. (Damjan Janevski) 494923_02
Runway health fears
By Sam Porter
Melbourne Airport’s announcement that it would start initial construction on a third runway this month has sparked concern among locals about how the increased air traffic will negatively affect their health.
Keilor Village resident Susan Jennison lives directly under aircraft flight paths and is looking to move out of the area.
She said the impacts of noise from aeroplanesisamajorfactorinherdecision.
“My house would shake at night. That’s without the third runway. You think, ’what’s it gonna be like with the third runaway?’“ Ms Jennison said.
“People are learning about that third runwayandtheyaremovingout,including myself, because they are sick of noise.”
Keilor Valley local and former GP Dr Michael Howson is also worried about extra noise from aircraft once the third runway opens.
“The night time is really important because each time you hear a noise in your sleep it triggers a fight or flight response and your body is meant to be recovering and healing,” Dr Howson said.
“If you’ve got planes every half hour it keeps breaking that natural cycle, that’s whythoseplanesaresodangerousatnight.
“It’s really gonna hit the houses in Keilor … it’s going to make that place unliveable.”
Melbourne Airport announced the community consultation for its noise amelioration plan is underway.
According to the Melbourne Airport website,theplanisarequirementaspartof
the commonwealth approval for the third runway project.
The plan will inform the noise amelioration program, which will address and mitigate negative impacts of aircraft noise for Hume and Brimbank residents as well as sensitive public buildings in these areas, according to the website.
Dr Howson believes the community consultationisjusta“box-tickingexercise“.
Melbourne Airport third runway executive director Peter Lellyett said the airport is committed to working closely with local communities to manage the impacts of the project, particularly when it comes to aircraft noise.
“Consultation for the noise amelioration plan is a key step in making sure residents have access to information, can provide
Runway works to begin this month
Melbourne airport has announced initial construction for its third runway will commence this month, alongside community consultation for the development of the third runway noise amelioration plan.
Brimbank and Hume residents are being asked for feedback on the plan, which will be designed to reduce the impacts of aircraft noise for residents and sensitive public buildings in the communities closest to the airport.
Melbourne airport third runway executive director Peter Lellyett said the early works and engagement mark a significant milestone for the project.
“Thethirdrunwayiscriticaltokeep Victoria connected, ensuring we can meet future demand for travel and supportthestate’seconomy,”hesaid.
“Consultation for the noise amelioration plan is a key step in making sure residents have access to information, can provide feedback andunderstandhowweareplanning for the future.“
The runway works will also result in changed traffic conditions on Sunbury road expected from late September, which Melbourne airport said are part of upgrades to improve traffic flow and safety in preparation for the runway construction.
The third runway is scheduled to open in 2031 and will support 37,000 additional jobs by 2046, according to Melbourne airport.
Soccer club receives grant
Keilor Park soccer club has received a $7500 grant from Bendigo Bank, which the club has used to purchase new equipment including soccer balls and bibs.
“We were again extremely thankful and appreciative of this year’s grant. Keilor Park soccer club has had a long history with Bendigo Bank Community Bank Keilor East. They have supported the club for many years. Every year our partnership grows,” Ms Camilleri said. “We rely on community grants like this to enable us to provide quality and professional services to our local football community whilst fostering a fun and engaging environment. Without partners like Bendigo Bank we would not be able to do this.”
In a Facebook post, Community Bank Keilor East said it was thrilled to announce its donation to the club.
“Keilor Park soccer club is more than just a place to play, it’s where friendships are formed, skills are developed,” the post read.
“Webelievethatstrongcommunitiesare built through connection, teamwork, and sharedgoalsandvaluesthatperfectlyalign with the spirit of Keilor Park soccer club.
“Our support will help the club continue to grow and provide opportunities for players from juniors taking their very first kick, to senior teams proudly representing our community on the field.”
Keilor park soccer club is a not for profit community-based club located at Keilor Park Recreation Reserve.
Keilor Park soccer club president Ben Di Lorenzo and Bendigo Bank Keilor East director Richard Lawrence. (Supplied)
Future vision of the Melbourne Airport. (Supplied)
Help at a critical junction
Youth crimes involving edged weapons have been on the rise in Melbourne, with a state government ban on the sales and possession of machetes coming into full force next month. A youth services organisation in Melbourne’s west is addressing the issue through an early intervention program. Sam Porter spoke to The Youth Junction program manager Eamon, whose last name has been omitted for security reasons, to learn more.
Anew educational program aimed at reducing youth weapon offending has officially begun in Melbourne’s western suburbs.
The ‘sharp choices – bladed weapon diversion program’ is designed to address underlying risk factors for offending youth and empower young people to make safer, informed choices through educational modules and ongoing case management.
The Youth Junction program manager, Eamon, helped develop the program and saidtheorganisationwantedtobemindful of the experiences of young people when identifying the need for intervention.
“We didn’t want to come at it through a punitive, telling-off almost, disparaging young people for carrying weapons. They mighthaveverysincereandveryrealfears, andsothatmightbeamotivatingfactorfor them,” Eamon said.
He said the reasons why young people carry weapons differ from person to person.
“I’d be hesitant to contribute it all to one or even two specific factors because in our ownexperience–supportingyoungpeople that we know and who have disclosed to us thatthey’recarryingweapons–thereasons theydosovarysomuchfromyoungperson to young person.”
Eamon said for some young people, carrying a weapon was about feeling a sense of bravado and machismo, and for others, a weapon helped make them feel safer when they were scared.
These programs empower individuals to make positive changes and reduce the likelihood of reoffending - Eamon
The presence of edged weapons in a young person’s peer group is also a contributing factor in determining whether an individual might carry one.
“The research shows that even just the perception that someone in a peer group is carrying a weapon makes it exceedingly more likely that another young person in that group will as well. The social proliferation of weapon carrying is tremendous,” Eamon said.
‘Sharp choices’ benefited from a $35,000 grant from Wyndham council, which helped to expand the program.
Participants enter the ‘sharp choices’ program through a referral process and begin by attending one-on-one sessions with a case manager.
After focussing on the individual’s risk factors and supporting the young person on their own for a period of time, case managers bring the participant into group sessions consisting of four to six young people.
In these group sessions, participants work through various modules, some of which focus on building communication skills and empathy.
In an introductory module, facilitators assist in creating social cohesion within the group and work with participants to help them each identify their personal strengths.
“A big risk factor is [individuals] not being aware of their personal strengths … how can we use those personal strengths in our lives,” Eamon said.
One particular module led by West Justice, an organisation that offers free legal services in Melbourne’s west, focuses on increasing legal awareness around the possession of weapons.
“[A weapons possession charge] affects travel, future employment, educational opportunities, all those things. So we really wanted to have a session set aside with a legal representative where they can gothroughthatwithyoungpeople…really trying to make those abstract concepts of impacts in the future approachable and digestible and understandable to young people,” Eamon said.
Another major component in the program is the inclusion of virtual reality (VR) immersive experiences.
In these VR POV (point of view) experiences, participants make decisions in realistic scenarios they may encounter in their daily lives.
The VR experiences are the works of Virtual Decisions, a creative arts and educational technology company based in Birmingham, England.
Virtual Decisions has created a range of VR programs designed to address issues such as reintegration into society after prison, alcohol and illegal drug usage, youth violence, coercion and child
criminal exploitation, among others.
The program about knives explores why young people carry edged weapons and the consequences of carrying knives.
Eamon highlighted the VR simulation does not show weapons or violence to participants.
Virtual Decisions chief executive Claire Downes said the company’s immersive VR programs allow individuals to experience the consequences of their actions in a safe environment.
“The effectiveness of Virtual Decisions’ immersive programs in reducing reoffending rates stems from their ability to engage participants emotionally, develop essential life skills, and provide personalised, supportive learning environments,” Claire said.
“By addressing the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behaviour, these programs empower individuals to make positive changes and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
“Overall, the response from participants after completing the Virtual Decisions programs has been overwhelmingly positive. They report increased self-awareness, enhanced skills, and a strong motivation to change their behaviours,contributingtotheirlong-term
commitment to reintegration into society.”
Eamon said the length of time a young person spends in the ‘sharp choices’ program depends on their specific needs.
“We don’t want to create a situation where a young person really learns they can depend on us for support, and then we kind of yank the rug out from under them at the end of, say, three months,” Eamon said.
“We really want to empower young people and not cut them off before they’re ready to be a bit more independent with themselves and how they approach supportservicesandthingslikethat.We’re pretty flexible with that.”
‘Sharp choices’ will be evaluated by Victoria University (VU), which has assessed other programs run by The Youth Junction.
“We’re really excited that we’re going to be able to get VU to help us unpack the program,seewhatworked,seewhatwecan improve on, and then build the evidence base for our programs and how we support young people,” Eamon said.
“We’re hoping to keep expanding it and growing it, and really get into more of an early intervention space where [individuals] may not have existing links with the justice system yet.”
Left: Eamon with The Youth Junction program chief executive Blake. (Damjan Janevski) 495098_03
Right: Immersive VR experiences, created by Virtual Decisions, are a major component in the program. (Supplied)
The Youth Junction program manager Eamon. (Damjan Janevski) 495098_02
Landfill fire to burn for years
By Sam Porter
Locals are distraught after learning an underground fire that has been burning at the Kealba landfill for six years may take another four years to be fully extinguished.
Three of the four fires have now been extinguished at the site, which is managed by Barro Group.
Local resident Nicole Power, who has been negatively impacted by odours at the site for years, said she was gutted by the news.
“If I could leave this area tomorrow, I would without any hesitation. I would jump
out of here in a heartbeat if I could,” Ms Power said.
“It’s pretty gut-wrenching to tell us another four years.”
In a statement to StarWeekly, EPA western metropolitan regional manager Julia Gaitan said Barro informed the EPA that extinguishing the remaining hot spot could take between two and four years.
“EPA met with members of the Kealba community to update them with progress at the Barro Group’s Kealba site now that the decision has been made to focus legal efforts on upholding EPA’s revocation of Barro’s licence to operate the landfill,” Ms
Gaitain said.
“[Barro plans] on using an oxygen suppression methodology to extinguish the hotspot. This seals up all air ingress pathways and monitoring the gas and temperature values to understand the progress of extinguishment.
“The process takes time and is dependent on multiple factors, but it has significantly reduced odour emissions from the abatement works.
“EPA will continue to receive quarterly progress reports and will monitor and act as required if reports of odour are received.
“EPA expects to receive further infor-
Major sports pavilion works commence
Brimbank council has commenced works on a $5.8 million pavilion at JR Parsons Reserve in Sunshine.
Thepavilion,whichisfundedbycouncil, will provide modern, inclusive and functional amenities for players, coaches, officials, and the wider community, according to council.
The pavilion will include gender-neutral and accessible change rooms for players and umpires, a social room and dedicated viewing area for spectators, and public toilets for spectators and localsusingthereserveforcasualactivities.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said the
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new pavilion will be an asset to the local community.
“We want to encourage people to enjoy and take part in sport, no matter their age, gender or ability,” Cr Dang said.
“This new pavilion will be a welcoming and inclusive space which will improve the experience for all players, officials and spectators.
“The pavilion will not only benefit our local sporting clubs, but also be available for school and community use, club meetings and events.”
Council said the pavilion will also feature environmentally-friendly design el-
ements, such as energy-efficient lighting and water-saving fixtures, with sustainable building materials also being used in the pavilion’s construction.
Located on the corner of Wright and Stanford streets, JR Parsons Reserve is home to Albion football club, Grand United cricket club and Sunshine Park tennis club.
The reserve has a range of recreational areas including two sports ovals, six tennis courts, cricket practice nets, a playground and bushland area.
Council said the new pavilion is expected to be completed by late 2026.
mation in coming weeks and will update the community if it leads to changes in our approach. We’re committed to keeping the communityasinformedaspossibleandwill host a community consultation meeting on the operations at the landfill in late September.”
Ms Barrow, who attended the meeting, said she felt the EPA has let the community down.
“I don’t trust the EPA one bit. They have failed us over and over and over again.”
The meeting comes after the EPA dropped criminal charges against Barro last month for its mismanagement of the site.
Sydenham man facing 13 charges
A 41-year old Sydenham man has been charged with 13 offences, including possessing prohibited weapons and imitation firearms, after police seized over 30 weapons from his home following an investigation into drug and firearm trafficking.
Investigators located the man in his vehicle in a Port Melbourne carpark about 8.45am on Thursday, August 14.
Police will allege they located an imitation revolver, 10 rounds of .38 special cartridge ammunition, a pistol magazine, a butterfly knife and a flick knife as well as a small quantity of counterfeit money in the vehicle.
The man was arrested and a search warrant was subsequently executed at his residential address in Sydenham.
Investigators seized over 30 items, including two imitation pistols, an imitation assault rifle, assorted cartridge ammunition, knuckle dusters, a sword, varying quantities of what appear to be MDMA, methylamphetamine, testosterone and other pharmaceuticals, as well as a small quantity of counterfeit money.
Illicit firearms squad detective inspector Julie Macdonald said possessing imitation firearms is a serious offence.
The man was bailed by the court to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 29.
closure of the West Gate Freeway outbound
Weekend of 30 and 31 August
Plan ahead for lane and ramp closures on the West Gate Freeway outbound in August, including a full outbound carriageway closure between the West Gate Bridge and Millers Road on the weekend of 30 and 31 August. Major delays of over 90 minutes expected. Avoid the area if you can and seek alternative routes. If you need to travel from the east of Melbourne to the west, consider detouring early.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang with Grand United cricket club member Damian James, president Alan Hale and coaches Darren Jury and Terry Mikunda. (Damjan Janevski) 496043_04
MY PLACE
Emma Price is the manager of Duke Street Community House in Sunshine. She spoke to Sam Porter about her work and her community.
WhatdoyoulikeaboutBrimbank?
I love our community, the diversity and the sense of pride people have about living in Sunshine. I love the passionate and community-minded organisations, businesses and charities we partner and collaborate with to all work together to build and support community. Most of all I love the local community members who just want the best for their community, thosewhogiveuptheirtimetovolunteerto make Brimbank even better. We currently have 49 volunteers that support the work of our community house. We couldn’t do it without them, and it’s a privilege to work alongside them.
What, if anything, would you change aboutBrimbank?
A lot of our community are going through a really tough time at the moment, it’s very devastating to see people experiencing hardship, homelessness and financial distress. We are working hard to play our role in addressing need where we can. We feed hundreds of community members eachweekthroughourfoodreliefprogram and in the last financial year distributed over 100,000kg of food and 12 pallets of material aid to people in need. My hope
(and it’s a pretty big hope) is for systematic change where services like ours are no longer needed, and people have access to safe housing and affordable food.
Where is your favourite local place to spendtime?
At our community house, of course! It’s a beautiful welcoming space where people can connect, access education, information, support and referral. Where youcanpopinforacoffeeorjusttouseour Wi-Fi. There’s always a great fun, positive energy in our classes. I like to see the amazing creations of our crafternoon and expressive arts programs and join in the
Book week reading adventures
Young bookworms at Derrimut Primary School celebrated children’s book week in style, dressing up as a range of zany characters from their favourite stories.
Derrimut Primary School learning and reading specialist Rachael Dowling said book week brings the school community together to celebrate their love for literacy.
“As a school it’s about building a love of reading,it’sforthestudentsandbeingable to express their different loves of reading and different types of books,” Ms Dowling said. “It’s a way to be creative. It’s not just about reading, it’s about writing too.”
Children’sbookweekcelebratedits80th year in 2025.
Thisyear’sthemefortheeventwas‘book an adventure.’
infectious laughter of our women’s group. For a small house it’s a very dynamic and happening space, no two days are the same.
What’s something people would be surprisedtoknowaboutyou?
Next month I am off to walk nearly the wholewidthofSpainandcomplete(fingers crossed!) the 780km of the Camino De Santiago over 41 days.
What do you like about working at Duke StreetCommunityHouse?
Duke Street Community House is a pretty specialplacetowork.Itisveryunassuming
from the street, but behind the doors and across the other sites we deliver programs from, it’s pretty amazing what the small house and small team achieve. I love that we can have a positive impact on people’s lives, be it big or small. Our fantastic neighbourhood house is located just opposite the South Road shops on Duke Street. We’ve been operating from our house for 52 years, offering programs, classes, activities and services to meet the needsofourlocalcommunity.I’mproudto be able to continue to the legacy of all the great people that have come before me; staff, volunteers, committee members and house users.
Derrimut Primary School celebrates book week. Maryam.
Students Zehra, CJ, and Pote. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 497143
Ibsa (above), Kiara (below), and Ariel (right).
Emma Price (Ljubica Vrankovic) 492810_03
Westgate marks 40 years
Westgate Football Club celebrated 40 years since its formation with the soccer club hosting a memorable dinner function and receptionearlierthismonth.
Two-hundred and sixty locals attended the event, along with Fraser MP Daniel Mulino, Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang and membersofsupportingsisterclubs.
Past championship teams from the club’s men’s and women’s sides also joined in the festivities.
Club president Bobby Vulovic said the atmosphereonthenightwasfantastic.
“Our club is big on acknowledging our historyandvolunteersandpeoplethathave worked tirelessly. It’s very important for clubs to acknowledge that. You can’t forget aboutyourpast,”MrVulovicsaid.
MrVulovicwasoneofthreelifemembers inducted into the club on the night,
alongside Blagoja Sismanovic and Slavko Kunesevic.
Three members, Robert Pagnoccolo, Jovan Durkic and Daniel Glogovac, were inductedintotheclub’shalloffametoo.
MrVulovicsaidoneoftheclub’shighlights this year was establishing an under eights allgirlsteam—thefirstintheclub’shistory.
Mr Vulovic’s father was the first president oftheclubwhenitwasfoundedin1985.
It’s one of the reasons Mr Vulovic took on thepresidencythisyear.
“I’m a bit nostalgic and I want to help the clubmoveforward,”hesaid.
“All the current committee members in the club played for the club one time or anotherandgrewupattheclub.
“It’s a generational thing which I’m very proud of as well. Westgate people through andthrough.”
Briefs
Derrimut factory fire
Fourteen workers were evacuated from a manufacturing premise in Derrimut, due to heavy smoke logging, after a fire broke out in the premises on Wednesday, August 20. Crews were alerted of the incident by alarms at the Bliss Court premises, and worked to extinguish the fire, which was located in a metal hopper and ducting connected to a spray booth. The fire was under control at 4.43pm with firefighters removing the fire affected materials from the hopper. Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria were on scene assisting Fire Rescue Victoria operations.
Be Bold Festival returns
This year’s Be Bold Festival on Saturday, October 18 in St Albans promises a dynamic and vibrant program that celebrates the community’s diversity. This year’s highlights include live performances by Polynesian and Bosnian dance groups, food trucks, a silent disco, entertainment for the kids, a youth showcase, art exhibitions, and art and craft and cooking workshops. It’s on from 3-7pm at Bowery Theatre and St Albans Community Centre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans.
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Members of Westgate 2010 championship winning team Perry Floros, former captain Joe Debono, George Barkho and former coach Robert Marinkovic. (rhicreatives)
We’re building an alternative to the West Gate Bridge and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re putting the finishing touches on the new West Gate Tunnel, an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. When the tunnel opens in 2025, you can enter on the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road, and take advantage of new exits to Footscray Road, Dynon Road or CityLink.
While we work, disruptions could affect your travel
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Infrastructure Victoria (IV) is calling on the state government to invest a further $150 million to $300 million into community health infrastructure over the next five years, in light of a recent report released by the independent advisory body.
The IV report found that in 2023-24, about 546,000 people in Victoria could have avoided visiting a hospital emergency department if their health was managed by primary care or the community health sector.
IV said this could have saved Victoria’s public hospitals about $554 million in ex-
penditure in emergency departments.
IV chief executive Dr Jonathan Spear said community health organisations provide a single entry-point into the broader healthcare and social support system for people who cannot otherwise access affordable healthcare.
“They’re there for vulnerable Victorians, keeping them well and out of hospital for longer,” Dr Spear said.
“This fractional increase in funding would support vulnerable Victorians to manage complex health needs and ease the load of some of the 500,000 emergency hospital visits that could be managed in the community instead,”
IPC Health chief executive Jayne Nel-
son supported IV’s call for more funding, and said purpose-built local health services are more important than ever.
“We’re seeing more families accessing community health services for the first time due to cost-of-living pressures. We need spaces that can flex with demand, facilitate multi-disciplinary care and reflect the professionalism of the services we provide,” Ms Nelson said.
“We also require funding to drive digital transformation initiatives that will ultimately improve access, outcomes and productivity.”
According to a 2023 Planning Victoria report, the western growth corridor – including Wyndham, Melton, Brimbank,
Keyara helps amplify young voices
Keyara D’Souza is a Caroline Springs student who is passionate about advocating for other young people both locally and statewide.
Keyara, 17, served on the Melton Council Youth Advisory Committee for four years and has been re-selected for the Victorian Youth Congress, an advisory group ofyoungpeopleaged12-25whoworkwith government to identify and advocate for issues that matter to young people.
“Being part of this work allows me to engage with topics that affect both myself and
those around me, while also supporting others to amplify their voice and be heard,” said Keyara, who attends Suzanne Cory High School.
“It is an opportunity to take an active role in shaping the community I am part of, and to ensure that young people’s perspectives are included in discussions and decisions that influence our shared future.”
In 2024 the congress contributed to the development of YouthNav, a toolkit that equips young people with skills to better prepare them for their transition into
adulthood, including getting a job, budgeting, moving out, and voting.
“This year, we are focusing on promoting the toolkit so that many young people can benefit. I am proud to have taken part in this project, as it is an incredible resource that provides answers to many of the questions that young people are asking today,” said Keyara,whose goal is to work in healthcare.
“Thereissomuchpowerinwhatchange can bring. Collectively, we work towards making that tangible.”
and Hobsons Bay – is projected to experience a combined population growth of over 1.1 million by 2036.
IPC Health said the level of growth places significant pressure on local infrastructure, including community.
A state government spokesperson said the government would review IV’s recommendations and would continue to work with community health services to understand how best to support them and their vital work.
According to the spokesperson, the state government invested $188 million in community health last year.
New
Brimbank is now home to the first permanent soft plastics and polystyrene recycling program in metro Melbourne.
As part of the program, Brimbank council has partnered with recycling company Close the Loop, which will turn the collected soft plastics into an asphalt additive called TonerPlas used to pave new roads in the municipality. Every one kilometre of road paved with TonerPlas modified asphalt uses about 430,000 plastic bags.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang encouraged locals to use the service.
“Soft plastic is one of the most problematic types of waste. It either ends up in landfill, or it pollutes our green spaces and waterways. Polystyrene too cannot be recycled through kerbside collections, and often ends up in landfill,” Cr Dang said. “Council’s new recycling service – to accept soft plastics and polystyrene at our Brimbank Resource Recovery Centre, is part of our broader effort to expand our circular economy programs and reduce illegal dumping and litter, by making it easier for residents to dispose of hard-to-recycle materials responsibly.”
Each year Brimbank residents use enough soft plastics to blanket the MCG oval 15 times over with most of this rubbish ending up in landfill, according to council.
Keyara D’Souza has been chosen to attend the Victorian Youth Congress. (Damjan Janevski). 495368_01
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 Sudden divergence (7)
5 Strong emotion (7)
9 Tempting (9)
10 Coronet (5)
11 Hark! (6)
12 Representative (8)
14 Rue (6)
15 New information (4)
19 Atop (4)
20 Taken illegally (6)
24 Situation (8)
25 Traduce (6)
27 Circular (5)
28 Evening entertainment (9)
29 Go before (7)
30 Follow (7)
DOWN
1 Rough struggle (6)
2 Naturist (6)
3 Abstained from (8)
4 Slender shoot (4)
5 Avoidance (10)
6 Disgust (6)
7 Solitary (8)
8 Rubbish (8)
13 Forethought (10)
16 Move faster and then overtake (8)
17 Water is one (8)
18 Fussy (8)
21 Dilly-dally (6)
22 Resembling instance (6)
23 Aim (6)
26 Ova (4)
Using
1 If you are born on December 13th, which star sign are you?
2 Which Greek poet was known as the ‘Tenth Muse’ and ‘The Poetess’?
3 Which singer was Mia Farrow (pictured) married to from 1966–1968?
4 Mont-Saint-Michel is a tidal island in which country?
5 Alyson ‘Aly’ Michalka is half of a musical duo with who?
6 In which year was the graphic design platform Canva founded?
7 And in which country was it founded?
8 The ‘Pale Mountains’ is another name for which Italian mountain range?
9 Saint George’s is the capital of which Caribbean island?
10 The Swimmers is a 2022 film about two young sisters from which country?
Discover Japan through food
FOODLOVERS make up some of the most dedicated travellers in the world - and why not?
Whilesomanycuisinesandrecipeshave travelled the world and are now available here in Australia, there is nothing better than visiting the country and region that your favourite comes from.
Imagine enjoying the fresh tomatoes and Bistecca alla Fiorentina in Tuscany, BouillabaisseinFranceoraproperEnglish pub meal in, well, a proper English pub.
For those who love sushi, ramen and tempur and want to know more about Japanese cuisine - the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has created the perfect list of where to go to try your favourites at their best.
Whilecertaindishescanbefoundacross Japan, each region also has its own unique delicacies based upon the local ecology, seasonal produce and the daily catch, with many areas renowned for a single iconic dish, perfected by chefs who hone their craft over generations.
From time-honoured fermentation techniques and seasoning staples such as miso paste, soy sauce, pickles and mirin which vary from region to region, to preparing meals which are both nutritionally balanced and beautiful to look at, the art of Japanese cuisine –washoku – is officially recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Property, yet many of the country’s fascinating food regions and flavours are still largely undiscovered by visitors.
To shine a light on the diversity and delicacy of Japanese cuisine, here are just some of the JNTO must-try dishes for Australian travellers keen to delve deeper into the flavours of Japan and the prefectures they can be found in.
Sweet octopus and eel (Aichi Prefecture)
Head to Himaka Island, locally known as ‘octopus (tako) island’ to sample super soft octopuswithasweeterflavour.Fromboiled octopus to octopus sashimi, deep-fried tentacles to octopus shabu, there are myriad ways to enjoy it…including off the plate, with octopus characters displayed throughout the town. Another Aichi favourite during the summer months is hitsumabushi, a dish of grilled eel (unagi) atop white rice with an eel glaze. Add an extra splash of flavour by pouring a broth of dashi and tea over the bowl.
Wonderful wagyu (Mie Prefecture)
Whilst less globally renowned than its wagyu rival Kobe beef, many Japanese locals consider Matsusaka beef as the country’s best. The product of cattle who
are raised in stress-free environment which contributes to the meat’s ultra-soft texture and marbling, the area around Matsusaka Station is home to a plethora of restaurants dishing up the local specialty in every manner imaginable, from sukiyaki (thinly sliced beef simmered in a soy-based broth and dipped in raw egg) and yakiniku (grilled with mixed dipping sauces) to shabu-shabu, teppanyaki and sashimi, this melt-in-your-mouth meat is a must for visitors to Matsusaka.
Remarkable ramen (Fukuoka Prefecture)
Famous for its Hakata ramen, a tonkotsu-style version with a milky pork bone broth and firm, thin noodles, Fukuoka is a haven for gourmet travellers, who can enjoy some of the region’s signature delights at its bustling yatai food
stalls. Set up every evening in the Tenjin and Nakasu areas, these street stalls are beloved by locals for both the flavoursome food and the chance to connect over a quick bowl of steaming broth or sizzling seafood. Popular picks to try include Hakata ramen (of course), grilled chicken yakitori, goma saba (a mackerel dish with sesame), or local oden hot pot. Remember not to overstay your welcome, yatai stalls aren’t the spot for slow dining and you should only stay whilst eating then pass your seat to the next diner.
Citrus delights (Ehime Prefecture)
While Australians take mandarins and oranges for granted, in Ehime Prefecture, they are elevated to a whole new level. Ehime is Japan’s top producer of mikan citrus fruits, a unique variety of satsuma mandarin, typically sweet and seedless, which are trending on TikTok for their jelly-like texture. Visitors can pick their own in the Yawatahama area, enjoy fresh mikan juice direct from taps around Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen, or try them in everything from fruit sandwiches to parfaits.
Unbelievable Udon (Kagawa Prefecture) No visit to Kagawa Prefecture is complete without slurping down a bowl of Sanuki udon noodles, named after the former Sanuki Province. Made from wheat with a square shape, flat edges and chewy texture, Kagawa is home to more than 700 specialist Sanuki udon restaurants. Simple and heartwarming, the dish is usually served with egg yolk or niboshi (dried sardines). Another iconic dish to dive into in Kagawa is hone-tsuki dori, a juicy, spicy version of our retro chicken Maryland.
Unagi. Grilled Eel rice.
Sanuki Udon noodles.
Katsuo no tataki.
Noto-don seafood bowl.
Hakata ramen.
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
JOURNEY FURTHER
HURRY, OFFER ENDS 1 SEPTEMBER 2025
23 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 19 GUIDED TOURS
SAIL: APR-OCT 2026; MAY-OCT 2027
From $15,895pp in Standard Stateroom From $20,895pp in Veranda Stateroom
Encounter Romania’s mysterious Transylvania and explore numerous castles and fascinating towns during this extension, featuring a two-night stay in Brașov and tours of Peleș Castle and Dracula’s Castle.
From $1,499 per person
Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa
11 DAYS | 5 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS MAR-NOV 2026; 2027
From $8,395pp in Standard Stateroom
From $9,895pp in Veranda Stateroom
PELEȘ CASTLE, ROMANIA
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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-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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Sunshine Community Brass
Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Point Cook P-9 College’s production of The Addams Family. Abigail, year 7, (front), Irene, year 9, Geronimo, year 6 and Dylan, year 9. (back). (Damjan Janevski) 495222_01
90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm.
Andrew, 0419 444 620
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/
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
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
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 18 October at the Yarraville Club. To express your interest or send updated contact details please contact us.
info@westernathletics.com.au.
Artists make connections
A special art exhibition will be on display next month at the Sunbury Library exploring themes of identity, strength and healing.
The Art of Connection is a powerful collectionofworkcreatedbywomenwhose lives have been shaped by resilience, strengthandthepursuitofconnection.
The artists are women with lived experience of the legal system and are participants in the innovative Women And Mentoring(WAM)program.
WAM is a community organisation that supports women, trans women and gender diverse people with justice system involvement by linking them with a volunteermentor.
up a paintbrush, pen or camera for the very first time. Others were made by those rediscoveringlong-lostcreativepractices.
WAM chief executive Tricia Ciampa said “Too often, the voices of women in contact withthejusticesystemareoverlooked.”
“This exhibition ensures their stories, talents and achievements are seen and recognisedbythecommunity.
“The artworks reflect not just the challenges women face, but also their creativity, strength and achievements. By providing this platform, we celebrate the whole person – not just one part of their journey.
“Every piece in the exhibition is a reminder that change begins when voices are valued. This is about more than art –it’s about recognition, empowerment and justice.”
The exhibition includes a special Library AfterDarkeventonThursdaySeptember4.
Ms Ciampa said people can expect an evening that goes beyond the artworks themselves.
“It’s an opportunity to understand the deeper issues that can lead to women’s offending, to hear about the power of mentoring and the solidarity it creates, and to see how connection can change the course of someone’s life. We’ll also be sharing ways the community can get involved and stand alongside us in this work.”
HearmoreaboutWAMataLibraries After Dark event from 6pm to 7pm on Thursday 4 September. Book online or by phone on 93566970.
The Art of Connection is on display from 1until15September.
Leonie Collins as Sybil Fawlty.
(Ljubica Vrankovic) 496123_02
Don’t miss Fawlty Towers with a feed!
Everything will go wrong in a way that feels oh so right when the interactive performance of Fawlty Towers lands at SanctuaryLakesGolfClub.
The television cult classic that came straight from the mind of John Cleese will dazzleanaudienceoverdinneratthevenue that came straight from the mind of Greg Norman.
Leonie Collins, or Sybil Fawlty for the night, will no doubt run around like a headless chicken keeping up with her fictionalhusbandBasil.
“We brought this series alive with a team
of professional actors and whatever could gowrongdoesgowrong,”MsCollinssaid.
While it is an act in the purest sense, there is an element of art replicating life, replicatingarttoitall.
“She [Sybil Fawlty] is a bit of a bossy beaver like me– I like bossing my husband aroundandIcannotbelieveallthemesshe getsmeinto.”
You won’t know exactly what you are in for, but there are still things you can
bankon.
“The best thing about it is the laughter, I am talking about belly laughs– it’s a laugh a minute.”
Flying solo should be no reason to miss out on a calamitous comedy that has been producing laughs for more than four decades.
“We have special tables for people to meet new people, and Sybil is really good at matchmaking,”MsCollinssaid.
The show is on September 6. For tickets go to www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1445498
Altona arts centre celebrates 20 years of creativity
Altona’s Louis Joel Arts and Community (LJAC) centre will mark two decades in existence with a celebration event on Thursday, August 28.
Held at LJAC on the old Altona Hospital siteinSargoodStreet,theeventwillfeature local artists and creatives, the very thing the centre has become renowned for since it first opened its doors in 2005.
“We’rehavingperformancesfrom(youth theatre group) Dramaworks, a ukulele group is performing a song for LJAC, there will be poetry and a silent auction on some stunning artwork by local artists,” said
centre manager Karen Ingram describing some of the performances that will take place on the night.
A short film looking back on the centre’s 20-year history and featuring members of the local community sharing what they love about LJAC and why it’s so important, will also be shown.
Ms Ingram said LJAC’s 20 year anniversary was more than just an ordinary birthday.
“The milestone is significant because there’s been a lot of challenges in the community sector,” she said. “We punch
An award-winning comedy about the neighbours you know and love to hate is making its way to Brimbank this month.
Stickybeak, supported by Creative Brimbank, is a dynamic, quick-change character show that catches the loudness in even the quietest of neighbourly interactions.
This troupe of mischief makers use character comedy to dig into the stories of fenced off lives and ask: who are these loveable yet revolting characters? Can their fences stop their worlds from tumbling out all over each other?
Performer, devisor and co-creator of Stickybeak Kimberley Twiner said the show is a loving mockery of the characters we share this world with.
“We all play multiple characters, as well as the animals of suburbia — dogs, cats, magpies, chickens, even snails. The show celebrates humans and creatures in all their weirdness and wildness,” Kimberley said, who also proudly performs as the lead snail in Stickybeak.
The laugh-out-loud show was the winner of the best comedy award at Melbourne Fringe in 2023.
The team behind the show — Kimberley Twiner, Laura Trenerry, Patrick Dwyer and Jessie Ngaio — are award-winning and award-nominated artists too.
Director Lily Fish said the show is sure to leave audience members laughing.
“It’s like Kath and Kim and the castle live onstage… utterly hilarious,” Lily said.
Stickybeak will be showing at the Bowery Theatre on Friday, August 29 at 7pm. Ticket prices range from $15 to $20 with further discounts available for groups of four or more.
Details: creativebrimbank.com.au
above our wait and it’s not always easy, especially in the last couple of years.”
Toensurethecentrelastsforanothertwo decades, the celebration night will also act as a fundraising and promotional event.
“We need to remind the community what we do and bring people on board and tojoinusinwhatthenexttwentyyearswill be,” said Ms Ingram.
LJAC’s 20-year celebration is a ticketed event.
To book : https://shorturl.at/F8SCS TodonatetoLJAC:https://www.givenow. com.au/organisation/public/6171
Divine Chakras by Jaimie D. (Supplied)
Patrick Dwyer and Lily Fish star in the comedy Stickybeak. (Tom Noble)
Community Survey - Rock and Concrete Recycling Facility
Barro Group Pty Ltd would like to notify the community that we are seeking EPA approval to continue operating our Rock and Concrete Recycling Facility in Kealba. As part of this process, we invite you to complete a short survey, which seeks feedback on your experience living in proximity to the Rock and Concrete Recycling Facility. An overview of the facility and the link to the survey can be accessed at www.surveymonkey.com/r/barro Translated versions of the background information and survey are also available: Vietnamese: www.surveymonkey.com/r/barro_v Chinese: www.surveymonkey.com/r/barro_c Arabic: www.surveymonkey.com/r/barro_a
SPORTS QUIZ
1. What did tennis player Emma Raducanu notably complain to the umpire about during her recent match against Aryna Sabalenka at the Cincinnati Open?
2. Diamonds netballer Donnell Wallam will return to Super Netball for the 2026 season, having signed with which team?
3. Which NBA player was spotted training with Shaolin monks in China during the current offseason?
4. Which country did Australian tennis player Alex de Minaur move to at the age of five in order to advance his tennis training?
5. Which US rapper was recently announced as the headliner for this year’s AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment?
Mirroring the result of the first ever AFLW game 10 seasons ago, which team won the first game of the 2025 season?
And which former Brisbane Lions player kicked the first goal of the 2025 season?
8. Which NFL duo hosts the New Heights podcast?
9. Rugby star Payne Haas has defected from Australia’s Kangaroos, opting to instead represent which country internationally?
10. Name the AFLWplaying sister of AFL players Xavier and Zane Duursma.
11. Which South African batsman scored a record 125 not out in a T20 international against Australia?
12. Which Fremantle player, a two-time Brownlow medallist, has announced his retirement from playing AFL?
13. Which French soccer club won the 2025 UEFA Super Cup, defeating Tottenham Hotspur in a penalty shootout?
14. In which two sports is the term ‘goaltender’ more commonly used, as opposed to ‘goalkeeper’?
15. Which Essendon player was recently banned for one week for inadvertently injuring his own teammate during an on-field contest?
16. Which famous European motor racing circuit includes corners named the Curva Grande and the Parabolica?
17. Which former boxer’s five sons all share the same first name as their father?
18. English driver George Russell competes for which Formula 1 team?
19. Which A-League club’s competition licence has been stripped by Football Australia?
20. The 2025 edition of which major cycling event started in Turin and will conclude in Madrid in mid-September?
21. In what year will Papua New Guinea join the NRL?
22. What will stadiums be allowed to have for the first time at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics?
23. The Boomers defeated which country by one point in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup final?
24. Which Ashes series was England’s most recent win in Australia?
25. The Aussie rules Legends Game was originally named in tribute to which legendary player?
26. How many teams are competing in the 2025–26 English Premier League?
27. Which AFL team was recently criticised for an online article about the league's Rising Star award?
28. Harry Grant is the captain of which NRL team?
29. True or false: no tropical nation has ever won a Winter Olympic medal?
30. Ange Postecoglou has managed which two A-League teams?
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YOUR NEW CAREER
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
Shaolin monks
Kia sails ahead with EV5
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Kia continues its journey into full vehicle electrification with the introduction of the EV5 mid-size SUV with sharp looks, state-of-the-art automotive technology and prices aimed at taking the wind out of rivals’ sails (and sales).
The EV5 comes in three trim levels –Air, Earth and GT-Line – with a choice of standard or long-range batteries and frontor all-wheel drive.
Prices start at $56,770 drive-away for the Standard Range FWD and signs off at $71,770, plus on road costs, or drive-away at$75,990fortheGT-LineAWDvariant.On test was the EV5 Air FWD Standard Range. Bringing standard and long-range electric power to mid-range SUVs, the Air is powered by either a standard range 64.2kWh battery, or long-range 88.1kWh battery, while Earth and GT-Line models come solely with the long-range battery.
The universal Kia warranty of seven years, unlimited kilometres, applies to the new EV5, with the battery limited to 150,000 kilometres.
Styling
Taking cues from Kia’s Opposites United designlanguage,theEV5standsitsground with a unique SUV silhouette, starting with the front end, which includes a wide bonnet and solid nose, robust lower skid plate and constellation-like Star Map signature lighting.
Star Map LED lighting extends to the reartoo,whichalsotakesinaruggedlower skidplateandanaerodynamicrearspoiler. From the side, the SUV is distinguished by door handles, which fit flush, roof rails and designer alloy wheels.
The EV5 is available with a mix of colour options, including two-tone colour exclusive to the GT-Line. The Air features cloth and synthetic leather seating, the Earth grade’s full artificial leather is
offered in Smokey Black or Nougat Beige on selected exterior colours.
Interior
The cabin sets a high standard of fit-and-finish through touches of the award-winning EV9 across the range. Comfort and convenience features include Kia Connect, over-the-air updates and steering column shift-by-wire. Sadly, a smart power tailgate is ‘off the Air’ making an appearance on the upper Earth and GT-Line variants only.
The base Air even gets powered driver’s seat adjustment and heated front seats.
However,thefrontseatingdoesthrowup a quirk or two: under the floating armrest there appears to be a third front-row seat in the centre.
Itis,infact,partofthepassengerseatand takes away from centre console storage. Luckily, the latter is functional.
The steering wheel is slightly flattened top and bottom and snuggles nicely in the hand.
Behind it are traditional stalks for the lights and wipers, a twist gear selector (not a favourite), plus paddle shifters for the regenerative braking range.
The rear seat also folds in one double movement (base and backrest together) to deliver a fully flat load area – expanding thealreadygenerous513-litreboot–which is also flat. Kia even offers an inflatable mattress to cover the whole area.
There are removable sections in the rear floor to expand the depth when carrying taller objects, or spillables. And there’s a fully sealed 67-litre front compartment which is opened by pressing a button on the key fob.
Infotainment
All grades are fitted with twin 12.3-inch instrument displays separated by a 5-inch segment, the product of Kia’s updated Graphical User Interface, integrating
climate monitoring. Unfortunately, vital sections of the latter can be obscured by the steering wheel spokes and rim. Rather than rely heavily on the touchscreen, Kia has retained some physical controls for vehicle systems and given others easily accessible displays.
Engines/transmissions
The entry-level Air gets a 160kW/310Nm single-motor powertrain, with a 64.2kWh battery giving the base variant 400km WLTP range and a larger 88.1kWh battery giving the Long Range a boost to 555km.
Safety
Muchattentionhasbeenpaidtoactiveand passive safety, with all variants including Highway Driving Assist 2 and centre side airbag.
The Air features autonomous emergency braking (including car, bicycle, pedestrian andjunctiondetection),lane-keepingassist with lane centring, blind-spot monitoring and avoidance, rear cross-traffic alert and avoidance, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, speed limit warning and a driver attention monitoring camera.
Driving
TheEV5isapleasingcartodrive.Roadand wind noise are well shut out of the cabin, the latter more so given the car’s square stance.
The steering feel is light and direct and changes depending on the drive mode. Press the button at the bottom of the wheel to switch to Sport or Eco modes. In Sport mode, the steering becomes noticeably heavier. Sport also adjusts throttle response to be more aggressive. The car is surprisingly capable of holding its own on corners, too.
Given it’s a relatively heavy SUV/ battery, it’s surprisingly far from cumbersome. Fuel consumption is put by the maker at 20.1kWh per 100 kilometres. The test vehicle recorded 17.5kWh per 100 kilometres on a run, mainly on the open road.
The EV5 did not exactly ‘float on air’ but the test Air, like much of Kia’s product, came under the influence of local suspension engineers to make sure the SUV could handle Australia’s less-than welcoming road conditions.
Lane-keep assist can be intrusive but not dangerously so. This, and other systems, can be easily turned off too with the single press of a button.
Summary
With a comfortable ride, easy-going performanceandimpressivefueleconomy, the Kia EV5 adds further polish to the mid-size SUV segment.
The Kia EV5 adds further polish to the mid-size SUV segment. (Pictures: supplied)
Stage set for finals action
Don’t you love AFL football?
What a weekend - quality games, mostly expected wins, and now the stage is set for September. Here’s my view on the up-and-coming final series.
The lay of the land (before Suns–Essendon play Wednesday)
Qualifying Finals locked: Adelaide (1) v Collingwood(4);Geelong(2)vBrisbane(3).
Freo surge, Dogs wobble: Fremantle’s must-win over the Bulldogs flipped momentum heading into finals.
Crows curveball: Izak Rankine’s four-game ban forces Adelaide to re-shape their forward mix - he will only be back if they reach the grand final.
Dimma’s challenge - accountability or bust
Gold Coast Suns’ coach Damien Hardwick nailed the message: own the moment. He framed the run-in as a two-game season and hammered home the need to lift their standards. If you can’t get yourself up this week, the leadership group must set the tone, or history will simply pass you by. That’s the Suns’ mindset going into Wednesday night and, if they get the job done,theirintotheirfirsteliminationfinal.
Form heading into finals
Collingwood, despite losing five of their
That
(AAP Image Rob Prezioso)
last six before beating Melbourne, remain finals-hardened but must sharpen late-game execution and cut turnovers.
Adelaide’s ball movement has been elite, but without Izak Rankine (suspended) they’ll need scoreboard impact from their mids and smalls.
Geelong v Brisbane shapes as a heavyweight qualifying final - the Cats’ system against the Lions’ stoppage power. Fremantle arrive with real momentum after toppling the Dogs, with contest strength and Jye Amiss’ timing crucial. GWS’ pressure has consistently stood up, though Hawthorn remains a threat if their mark-and-control game gets rolling.
Bulldogs or Suns?
Dogsin: Talentisthere,butdefensiveisthe big question at finals level.
Sunsin: Hardwick’saccountabilitymantra meets finals heat - a first-ever finals berth would mark a cultural turning point.
Match lenses I’d use in the box
AdelaidevCollingwood(QF)
Keys: Crows’ ground-ball strike vs Pies’ intercepts.
Watch: Adelaide’s forward-half time — Collingwood must keep it under 50 per cent.
GeelongvBrisbane(QF)
Keys: Clearance differential v territory control.
Watch: Lions’ inside-50 depth v Cats’
intercept denial.
GWSvHawthorn(EF)
Keys: Giants’ pressure v Hawks’ mark game.
Watch: GWS tackles + turnover scores; Hawks must break clean.
FremantlevBulldogs/Suns(EF)
If Dogs: Freo test the Dogs’ corridor defence.
If Suns: Hardwick’s responsibility mantra collides with finals heat.
What wins September (2025 edition)
Front-halffooty: Time in forward half and repeat entries — critical when games get strangled.
Pressure that sticks: Turnover goals are gold when stoppages stalemate. Leaders who absorb heat: Standards matter more than slogans.
Final Word
I love Damien Hardwick’s message –it’s about owning the moment. If you need a coach to motivate you in finals, you’re already in trouble. This is when accountabilityandleadershipmattermost. From my view as a past player, footy is 90 per cent above the shoulders. Finals are won on mindset and resiliencefinding that extra effort when the contest is at its fiercest. This is when leaders earn their stripes, and when mental toughness decides who moves on and who bows out.
one day in September of which dreams are made
As anticipation builds for the first round of the 2025 AFL finals, former North Melbourne premiership player Anthony Stevens writes what it is like for players as they face the biggest test of their careers on that one day in September.
There is no feeling in football like September. I can still hear the roar of the MCG crowd, smell the liniment in the rooms, and remember the nerves that made it hard to sleep the night before a final. For every kid who grew up dreaming of playing AFL, that one day in September was the pinnacle - and I was lucky enough to live it, three times in grand finals, with two premiership medals to show for it.
The journey to get there was brutal. In the 1990s, there was no pre-finals bye, no pause to catch your breath. You came off 22 weeks of bruising football and rolled straight into
the heat of finals. The only chance for a rest was if you earned a spot in the Grand Final and won the right to freshen up with a week off before the biggest game of all. That was thecarrot-theultimateprize,andthedream thatdroveusthroughpre-seasontortureand everypunishingsessionalongtheway.
Finals brought pressure like no other. Coachesdemandeddisciplineandflawless structures. Teammates looked each other in the eye, knowing any lapse could end the dream. And the supporters - they were everything. Their belief, their passion, and their noise lifted us higher, but it
also reminded us of the responsibility we carried every time we pulled on the jumper. Playing finals wasn’t just about us as players. It was about repaying the faith of every North Melbourne person who lived and breathed the club.
Winningwaseuphoric.TwiceItastedthe pure joy of a premiership - the siren, the hugs,thetears,therealisationyou’detched yourself into history. But I also felt the devastationofdefeat.ThatGrandFinalloss cut deep, left scars, and fuelled the fire to comebackstronger.Finalsfootballiscruel, but that’s what makes it the ultimate test.
Today’s players have more science, psychology, and support, but the emotions haven’t changed. What has changed is the glare. In the ’90s, scrutiny was sharp but manageable.Today,it’ssuffocating.Players can’t sneeze without a headline. Social media magnifies every slip-up, making finals even more mentally draining. Yetthroughalleras,theessenceremains. Finals football strips the game back to its core: belief, resilience, and courage. And whether it’s 1996 or 2025, that one day in September will always be the dream that defines our game.
Shai Bolton of the Dockers celebrates a goal during his team’s must-win game against the Bulldogs.
Anthony Stevens is the principal of Anthony Stevens Real Estate. Phone 0459 924 164.
Heartbreaking grand final losses
Burnside Heights and Taylors Lakes had high hopes as they tried to win their first EssendonDistrictFootballLeaguewomen’s premierships on Saturday at Coburg City Oval. It would be disappointment for both teams in two contrasting grand finals. Star Weekly’s Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting the action.
Burnside Heights’ Taylia Iglesias. 497599_28
Taylors Lakes. 497597_45
Burnside Heights’ Jorgia Redmond. 497599_01
Taylors Lakes’ Courtney McCormack and Gisborne-Kyneton United’s Natalie Korinfsky. 497597_04
Taylors Lakes’ Johanna Mercado. 497597_01
Taylors Lakes’ Charlie Goodwin and Gisborne-Kyneton United’s Alicia Chadwick. 497597_30
Taylors Lakes’ Mia Bondar. 497597_10
Burnside Height’s Kayla Ravanello. 497599_23
Isabelle Young kicks a goal. 497599_26
Burnside Heights’ Holly Mcgregor. 497599_16
Burnside Heights’ Nikkita Asani-Davis. 497599_10
Taylors Lakes’ Chloe Clark-Cain. 497597_34
Sharks lift to win their way into first women’s grand
Hillside didn’t panic as it came from behind to win through to its first Essendon District Football League women’s premier division grand final.
The Sharks found themselves trailing in thepreliminaryfinalagainstAberfeldiefor a second straight year.
There would be no repeat of 12 months ago as the Sharks kicked four last quarter goals to come away with a 5.1 (31)-3.5 (23).
Sharks coach Blaise Ferraro said it was a pretty special feeling for the group.
“It was a little nerve wracking at some points there,” he admitted.
“It’s a huge result for the girls after being knockedoutinstraightsetslastyear.We’ve hadthreedefeatstothetopteam[including last year].
“To bounce back, it is reward for effort.”
The progress of the Sharks saw them not give up. They also had the breeze in the final quarter.
Ferraro said they had plenty of
confidence in the group at three quarter time to get the job done.
“There was a slight breeze,” he said. “We managed our players throughout the game as we know they have some big names.
“We didn’t rush it and took our time. We
didn’t panic early despite Simone Ruedin killing us all day.
“We said we had nothing to lose, we were only two goals down.
“We knew talking to the girls they would put us in front.”
The Sharks grand final hopes looked a long way off after Mo Hope kicked the first goal of the final quarter for Abers to lead by 18 points.
Ferraro said the group had to regroup as it was now or never if they wanted to taste the final day for the season at Windy Hill.
“Sarge [Caitlin Sargent] kicked two important goals from the boundary,” he said. “[Ash] Thorneycroft, [Annalise] Wilkie and [Hannah] Ibrahim, people you would expect to stand up, did that.”
Sargent was the only multiple goalkicker for the Sharks with two goals.
Itwasthemidfielderswholedthewayfor the Sharks.
Ferraro said the return of Thorneycroft
Bears’ brave effort
By Tara Murray
Burnside Heights produced its best but it still wasn’t enough to get over the line against Strathmore in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 grand final.
The Bears went in as underdogs against a Mores side looking to complete the perfect season on Saturday.
Burnside Heights had built throughout the season and had produced its best two matches of the year to win through to a second straight decider.
Neither side kicked a goal in the first quarter before the Bears kicked the first two goals of the second quarter.
TheMoresgotoneontheboardlate,with the margin 12 points at half time.
It increased to 18 points early in the third quarter after skipper Kayla Ravanello converted a 50 metre penalty.
YasminWelsfordthendidthesamething at the other end.
The More took the lead late in the third quarter with the Bears leveling the scores heading into the final break.
The ball spent most of the last quarter in
theMoresforwardbuttheystruggledtoget the all important scores on the board.
Talia Motta, who has been the source of several Bears nightmares in finals before, kicked her third to put her side seven points up.
TaylaIglesiashadashotlatetogetitback to the Bears but it fell short and was rushed over the line.
That would be the ball game with the Mores winning, 5.5 (35)-4.5 (29).
Bears coach Michael Davis said he was so proud of his playing group.
“They were the better side on the day,” he said. “I’ve said multiple times we were coming and we couldn’t have planned this any better.
“The buy-in from the girls, they were sensational. It was their best game of footy for the year.”
Davis said while they knew they had a good lead early in the third quarter that it was far from over.
He said a good side like Strathmore wouldn’t give up.
“They were always going to come,” he said. “You don’t finish 15-0 after a final, you’re not going to stop coming.”
from the Victorian Football League women’s competition had been a massive inclusion.
He said having her in the team provided leadership and gave the other midfielders more of a chance to get free.
The Sharks will now face Oak Park on Saturday in the grand final at Windy Hill. The Kangaroos are going from a third straight premiership.
The two teams have played each other twice, with one win a piece.
“The grand final is a completely different task,” Ferraro said. “Oak Park is similar to us.
“They are even across the board and it will be a physical challenge. We have not played them at full strength, every time there has been players out.”
The Sharks reserves are also in the grand final.
Sharks secure a double shot
Hillside is firing at the right time of theEssendonDistrictFootballLeague division1seasonandhasearneditself twoshotsatthegrandfinal.
“Welookedtocomeoutoftheblocks and get the momentum going,” he said. “We were hoping to stay in the game for as long as we could and in frontatthefinalsiren.”
Davis said the final quarter they lost structure in the final quarter and the Mores were able to bury the ball and lock it in.
He said they were able to do what good sides do.
While the Bears suffered the same outcome as 12 months ago, losing a close grand final, the side and club were in a much better position this year.
Davissaidtheythinkeveryonewillcome back next year with the grand final side having six under-18s in good signs for the future.
He said they would enjoy this year as it had been a really special year.
“We were better this year,” he said. “Last year we were relying on individuals.
“I could name half a dozen girls who were outstanding this year that didn’t get a kick last year.
“Extremely proud of where we’ve come from and the girls.
“It’s been a whole team effort this year and been exceptional to be apart of.
“We will go out and reassess and work out what we need to do and have another crack next year.”
Kaakour said West Coburg had some good patches of footy especially lateinthegame.
He said their ability to pressure the ball carrier and defensive running patternswerethekeytosettingupthe lead.
“They gave us a scare late in the game,thatisforsure,”hesaid.“Allthe instructionsgotlouder.”
Robbie Castello and Noah Asciak wereotherstandouts.
The Sharks now face Oak Park for a spotinthegrandfinal.
“It’s a great opportunity,” he said. “I thought we were thereabouts round oneandtheypippedusandweweren’t playingourbestfooty.
“Round 10 we wasted some opportunities going inside 50. Their connection with mids and forwards wasthedifference.”
Tara Murray
Krissy Trang. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 497599_03
Tara Murray
Beejay Johnson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 485452_24
Braybrook left to rue poor second quarter after loss
Braybrook was left to lament a second-quarter blitz that proved the difference in Sunday’s Western Football Leaguedivision2eliminationfinal.
The Brookers produced an outstanding second half of the campaign to secure fifth position, but exited the flag race after a 34-point defeat at Yarraville Oval, 17.14 (116)-12.10(82).
Braybrook outscored its opponent in the second half, but the damage was done in 30 minutes as the Suns set up another sudden-death final against West Footscray thisweekend.
“It was the game. Everything else was pretty much all square all day,” Brookers coach Geoff Maddern said. “In the second quarter they played some really great footy, they got the rub of the green, they got the bounce of the ball.They just did everything rightandweweren’tabletorespond.”
BrandonAustinstarredforthelosingside, bagging five goals - his second-best return of the season - in a performance Maddern describedas“incredible”.
Travis Faulds also earned the coach’s praise for his efforts across half-back, while Justin Condo, Jayden Danaher, Corey Spackman and Chase Wassell were also namedinthebest.
“We had our chances, our moments,” Maddernsaid.
“But every time we got a goal, Suns were abletoanswer,andthatwascredittothem.
“They stuck to their structures really well and ran the ball beautifully. They used the ball much better than I expected, so they werevery,verygood.”
The Brookers had a slow start to the year before winning seven of their last nine home-and-away games to enter finals as oneofthecompetition’sin-formteams.
They knocked off the Suns in the last round, but were unable to repeat the feat whenitmatteredmost.
“Very disappointed to go out but at the same time philosophical because we were 3-6 at the halfway point and 7-2 in the back half,”Maddernsaid.
“We played a final every week for eight
Lions’ dream over
By Tara Murray
Taylors Lakes’ premiership dreams came falling down on Saturday as it proved no match for Gisborne-Kyneton United in the EssendonDistrictFootballLeaguewomen’s division2grandfinal.
The Lions always had a big task ahead of them in the grand final, with United undefeatedthroughouttheseason.
After a close match up between the sides earlier in the piece, United had the Lions measureincludinginthequalifyingfinal.
The Lions started well on Saturday at Coburg City Oval with their tackling pressure up and making the Lions work hardfortheball.
The Lions got one early goal, but United was also able to hit the scoreboard and lead by17pointsatquartertime.
From then on, United dominated the gamewithitallbutoverathalftime.
It continued into the second half, with Unitedwinning10.12(72)-1.2(8).
An emotional Joseph Antonetti said he
wasimmenselyproudofthegroup.
“We have come a long way,” he said.
“You;ve got to still think it’s our second year ofhavingateam.
“Probably could have made finals last yearandwewereunlucky.Butinoursecond year to make it all the way to a granny is a goodachievement.”
Antonetti said for them to pull off the upset win they needed to play the perfect game.ButUnitedwasswitchedon.
“They don’t let you play perfect footy,” he said.“Theyhurtyouallovertheground.
“I said 100-point wins at the start of the yearmeantnothing.Youlearnmoreoffyour losses and you can learn a lot off a team like that.
“They don’t give you any time and space and they were so good using the footy and spreadingtheground.
“Hats off to them. They are the best team allyearandthoroughlydeserveit.”
It was the Lions leaders that really stood upintheloss.
Rebecca Foggie was everywhere for the
weeks. Our boys have been up for a long time and they just found a few cracks in our armoury (on Sunday) and were able to exploit it, and that’s the way sport goes. Sometimesit’sjustnotyourday.”
The Roger Hand-coached Suns were well-servedbyJoshuaFoster,MichaelRyan, Daniel O’Leary, Joshua Harris, Matthew WrightandKyleDeRose.
North Footscray outgunned West Footscray in Saturday’s qualifying final, prevailingby23points,12.10(82)-8.11(59). SharpshooterMathewSerafinwasamong thebestforthewinnerswithfivegoals.
Minor premier Wyndhamvale will meet NorthFootscrayinthemajorsemi-final.
Luke D’Anello
Western United appeal lodged
Western United has officially lodged an appeal of Football Australia’s decision to withdraw its A-League licence.
As reported by Star Weekly, the club’s current ownership have been unable to satisfy the financial criteria required to maintain their licence, and had seven days to appeal the decisiontostriptheclubofitslicence.
United has been in financial turmoil for months, with players and staff paid late in April, May and June while superannuation payments were also delayed.
United, 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.
After releasing a statement on Monday saying it had been granted more time, United released another statement on Wednesday confirming the status of its appeal.
“Western United Football Club confirms it has today lodged an appeal of Football Australia’s decision to withdraw its A-League licence,” the statement said.
“As this is a regulatory process, the club will be making no further comment at this time.”
In its statement on Monday, the club thanked its supporters.
“We’d like to thank our loyal fans, members and partners that have rallied around the club in the past week. The support and love for the green and black from the community has been overwhelming. It is these supporters that we will continue to fight for.
team,withmultipleinterceptmarks.
Courtney McCormack was busy in the middleoftheground.
Stefania Valerio and Sarah McNally both came off with injuries but battled out the game.
Foggie and Valerio were already talking about next year and going one step further afterthegameandlookingatthepositives.
“You know what you get with them, Stef and Bec,” Antonetti said. “They are competitors and I know playing in this division is hard for them as they are so far aboveit.
“We have a lot of players who are new to footy and it’s hard for them. They are just suchgreatplayers.
“For mine, Bec was just about best on ground. I’m not sure how everyone else saw it.Stefaswell,sohungrytowin.”
Antonetti said he hoped the team had learned from the leaders and the opportunitytoplayinagrandfinal.
“I know winning isn’t everything, but you don’tcomeouttolose.”
PreviouslyanFAspokespersonsaid that the First Instance Board (FIB) –an independent body established under the National Club Licensing Regulations – has convened and determined that Western United has failed to meet the criteria required to be granted an A-League licence.
“As such Western United FC’s licencehasbeenwithdrawn,effective immediately,“ they said at the time.
“Western United FC can appeal this decision to the appeals body established under the regulations on certain grounds outlined in the regulations.
“This outcome, while regrettable, reflects Football Australia’s ongoing commitment to upholding the integrity, stability, and fairness of competitions for all clubs, players, and stakeholders.”
with AAP
Rebecca Foggie was outstanding for Taylors Lakes. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 497597_27
Caroline Springs through to sixth straight grand final
Caroline Springs incredible run in the Western Football League women’s competition has continued with the side through to a sixth straight grand final.
The Lakers, who are undefeated this season, booked the first spot in the decider with a hard fought win against Parkside Spurs on Saturday.
Lakers coach Alex O’Shea said it was pretty special to be back in the grand final again.
“Ihadtocounthowmanyinarowitwas,” she said. “It is exciting.
“You obviously play the whole season to get to finals and get to the end, the grand final in particular.
“We’ve worked hard all year, as have other teams. It’s a credit to our program at Caroline Springs.
“There’s girls coming through from juniors and we’ve got new recruits. I’m proud of what we are achieving and it’s a good reflection of the work we are doing.”
The Lakers hadn’t faced the Spurs since
round three. That was the only game the Spurs have lost for the season.
O’Shea said they knew it would be a challenge.
It was the Spurs that started the better of the two sides and led by 13 points at quarter time.
The Lakers then led by one point at half time and the Spurs by three points at the final break.
Three goals to none in the final quarter sealed the 6.11 (47)-4.5 (29) win for the Lakers.
“It was a competitive game for four quarters and we needed to lift our structures and the way we wanted to move the ball,” O’Shea said.
“We kept persisting and I’m proud of the girls.”
O’Shea said their defence stood strong early when the Spurs were attacking and allowed them to stay in the game.
When their chances came late, they made the most of them.
“In the fourth quarter we got the break,” O’Shea said. “At three quarter time the
message was keep playing our way and the way we have played all day.
“The break opened up and we were able to move the ball well and hit targets and make the most of our opportunities.”
Jacinta Kondis kicked three goals for the Lakers.
Taylah Lea, Jordin Williamson and Caitlin Pretty were named their best.
The Lakers now get a week off before the grand final where they will either face the Spurs or Yarraville Seddon.
The Eagles beat Werribee Centrals in the elimination final.
O’Sheasaidthefocuswastotryandkeep things as normal as possible.
They will be going for their second premiership from the six grand finals.
“We’ll treat it like any other game,” she said.
Sims takes last bow
By Tara Murray
Former St Albans skipper Jack Sims always dreamt of playing senior football for the Saints.
Having started his career at the club and spending the majority of his years playing at the Saints, it’s somewhat fitting he will go down as a club legend.
As St Albans season came to an end in late August, it also drew curtains on the careerofSims,whohadannouncedthathe would be retiring.
Sims said he knew the timing was right. He said it would likely take him a while for it to dawn on him that his playing days are over.
“My wife and I had a little one nine months ago and I want to spend a bit more time with him at home,” he said. “I’m 35 at the end of the year and it’s not getting any easier.
“I’ve felt it on the body the last five or six years.
“I haven’t really trained on Tuesday nights. I thought while I’m still getting a kick, why not go out on a high.” Simshasplayedmorethan350gamesfor
theclub,tickingoverthatmilestoneearlier this year.
He said while his teammates take the mickey out of him for his name being on the honour board, it’s pretty special.
“I was talking to a couple of older guys at the club,” he said.
“Growing up I always wanted to play seniors at St Albans.
“That was like the AFL for me. I didn’t imagine playing that many games as a kid.
“Those guys were amazing and I just wanted to play a few games and I ended up with 300 under my belt.”
Sims said growing up in the area it was a real blue collar sort of club and once you had your friendship group, you became entrenched all the way.
He played Western Jets and played a game in the Victorian Football League reserves competition.
Sims said while he would have loved to have gone higher, he probably wasn’t quick enough or tall enough.
While the Saints bookended his career, Sims did spend time at the Rockbank (now the Western Rams) and Tullamarine.
“I did an ACL in 2011 and came back
Saints claim premiership
St Albans Saints were shooting for premiership glory on Sunday in the Football Integration Development Association C-grade competition.
The Saints are in action against Wyndham in the grand final, having finished second behind the Tigers after the regular season.
Despite losing both games during the regular season, the Saints were able to come out on top when it mattered most.
On Sunday, St Albans jumped out of the blocks early on and led by 24 points at quarter time.
The margin stayed steady heading into the main break.
St Albans continued to run strongly in the second half and were able to run away with a 7.12 (54)-3.3 (21) win.
The Saints said the side has been a shining example of dedication, resilience, and community spirit since forming in 2015.
The team claimed its first grand final victory in 2017.
and wasn’t playing great football and I was considering whether I kept playing or not,” he said.
“I went there for a kick [Rockbank].
“At Tullamarine we made a grand final and preliminary final. I got the taste of real good footy and it was the catalyst for me playing for a long time.”
Sims returned to the Saints in 2018 and would later captain them before stepping down after last season.
He was the captain when the side made the move from the Western Football League to the EDFL.
“That move was really important for the footy club,” he said.
This season for the Saints was ruined by injuries with the side missing finals.
Sims said he would like to coach down the track, but for now was keen to enjoy some time off.
While he didn’t taste the ultimate success, a premiership, Sims said it’s the friendships that he’ll treasure the most.
“Three out of the four in my bridal party I met through football,” he said.
“Footy delivers those friendships over the years.”
“UndertheguidanceofcoachCraig Chamberlain, the players have been training hard every Wednesday at Kings Park Reserve, refining their skills and teamwork in preparation for this big day. Their commitment both on and off the field is nothing short of inspiring,” the Saints said.
“The journey to the grand final is a testament to the players’ determination and the support of the wider St Albans community. It’s more than just football—it’s about inclusion, diversity, friendship, and celebrating what these incredible athletes can achieve.
“Years of training, heart, and teamwork all come down to this— let’s cheer them to victory.”
St Albans Saints FIDA side. (Supplied)
- Tara Murray Mira Diab. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 485447_04
Jack Sims. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 478999_16
Changing the view on umpires to encourage women
By Tara Murray
A group of Western Football Netball League umpires has been working hard behind the scenes to try and make umpiring a better environment for females.
The league has been involved in an AFL initiative, Mates on the Mark, which is involves a group of umpires from the league working together to make some change.
Terry West was approached to join the program and he jumped at the chance.
“There’s eight of us,” he said. “We had three sessions that were run by a few companies.
“We had AFL players and former AFL
players speak with us. Darcy Moore spoke abouthowhesawthingsasacaptainofan AFL club.
“Ben Brown highlighted stats on women’s and girls participation in local footy.”
Westsaidthesessionsallowedthegroup to put forward their own experiences in football and what they’ve seen in the local community.
He said they spoke about how they wanted to change things.
“We want to see more female umpires,” he said. “They have never been super high but we’ve got an insight into other areas and it’s a national issue.
“The first session was more about why we’re not able to retain female umpires
and why they leave.
“Theydon’thavefemalerolemodelsand there’s a lot of older men who are stuck in the same ways that it’s a man’s sport.
“We have to change that midget and the keep them in the league as well.”
One of the other sessions involved the group highlighting 10 key issues that they wanted to change.
West said they are taking baby steps to try and change things.
“We picked one or two things each,” he said. “We wanted to try and do an all female umpiring team.
“We were able to successfully do that with two male umpires as we didn’t have enough female field umpires.
“Seven out of nine was really good. We
AFL prize is in sight
By Peter Howe
Don Deeble nominee Thomas McGuane grew up in the change rooms of Keilor Football Club.
His earliest memories are being among the senior players watching and learning from them.
“I just love the mateship, the culture and the enjoyment I get from being part of a team,” McGuane reflected.
“I tried all sports from athletics to swimming to cricket and soccer, but I always came back to footy. My dad, mum and family never interfered in my sporting choices.”
McGuane had the typical start to his football journey, Auskick into the Keilor under-8’s and then progressing through the grades.
He played in the Essendon District Football League premier division premiership last year as a 17-year-old, under his father and former Collingwood champion, Mick McGuane who has coached Keilor since 2008.
“Ilovedbeingthewaterboyforthesenior team because it got me into the rooms and onto the field on gameday,” he said.
Thomas played his early underage footy in the forward line developing his football IQ and his skills.
It was all about football.
“Ineverhitthegym,mydevelopmentwas all around improving the fundamentals of footy. I always had a football in my hands. It has held me in good stead.”
McGuane’s underage teams won three premierships in a row from under-14s through to under-16s and he won a league and three club best and fairest awards in those years.
That put him clearly on the Western Jets radar in the Coates Talent League.
“Those years coincided with my introduction into the Maribyrnong Sports Academy, the value they added to my football, and still cannot be discounted,” he said.
“Strength and conditioning sessions, running technique, plyometrics, touch craft, flexibility sessions are just some of the sessions MSA introduced me to, that are now part of my weekly routine at Collingwood VFL [Victorian Football League] training.”
Collingwood added McGuane to their Peter Daicos Academy squad the year before Covid struck having an eye on him for the future.
“It is a squad that includes potential father-son and NGA players,” he said. “We
meet and train together once a fortnight at Collingwood.
“It has been an eye opener.”
McGuane played three games in the Collingwood VFL team, with his dad presenting his jumper.
“I played on the wing and as a high half forward, with time in the midfield with the Jets,” he said. “They have given me added exposure in those roles to add to my versatility.
“In the Vic Metro under-18 team, I was played primarily as a winger with stints on ball.
“It was a great learning experience for me. I learned most about the importance of getting your running patterns right.
“You can have a 30-possession game but be more effective and influence a game more with better running patterns and 15 possessions.”
McGuane’sweekisjampackedwithyear 12 studies and footy training.
Training sessions at Collingwood, Western Jets, Keilor and at MSA means he can train five nights a week, playing on a Saturday or Sunday.
Then there’s plenty of recovery along
want to show people in the community that girls and daughters can get involved and they don’t have to play.
“I want to make change and I’m just one person. Together with other people I can learn from them and work together to see what comes from group.”
West said he would jump at the chance to be involved in this program again next season if he was given the opportunity to.
He said the current group had a group chat and were constantly talking about what they would continue to do.
West said they won’t stop pushing for a betterenvironmentforwomendespitethe program ending.
“We want to make it a welcoming place for everyone,” he said.
Sports shorts
AFLW
Several locals have been invited to the AFLW national draft combine and state combines to be held in October Selection to attend the combines was based on nominations provided by AFLW clubs. Western Jets’ Alex McBride-Loane has been invited to the state combine. She is the only Jet invited to the two drafts so far.
Netball
Netball Victoria has reduced its under-19 and under-17 state squads to 25 players. Western Warriors’ Kiara Boyd and Eva Ryan, and City West Falcons’ Amalani Fauonuku have been named in the under-19 squad. The Falcons’ Emily Fitzgerald, Ella Leith, Altona’s Manon Muir, Layla Pretorius and Imogen Sexton, and Warriors’ Payton Simeki and Haleina Tanoi have been named in the under-17 squad.
NBL1
with coaching reviews.
At the Jets this season, McGuane is ranked first overall for total disposals, leads the competition in handballs and finished fifth for total kicks.
McGuane said he has had some great mentors at Keilor while his heroes are Nick Daicos, Zach Merrett and Errol Gulden. He could join Dacios at the Pies later this year as another father-son pick.
“Finishing year 12 is important to me,” he said.
“I have always barracked for the Pies but obviously being drafted into the AFL system overrides what club might pick me up. I can’t control any of that, my mantra has always been to control the controllables.
“There is nothing wrong with daring to dream.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.
If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.comor0408556631.
Keilor has announced the reappointment of its two National Basketball League 1 South coaches for next season. Kristi Harrower will coach the women’s side for a third season, with the side making the top four both seasons. Ash Arnott will continue coaching the men’s side for a second straight season. “Having built a strong foundation in his first season at the helm, we’re looking forward to building on this progress next year,“ the club said of Arnott. Meanwhile, Keilor announced that Maddy Rocci had won its women’s best and fairest award.
A-League
Western United has lost star striker Jaiden Kucharski before he has even played a game at the club. Western announced that the club and player had mutually agreed to part ways. With consideration for the current FIFA registration ban, both parties have respectfully agreed to a termination. The club said while it’s disappointed with this outcome, it respects the player’s decision to pursue his career elsewhere. “Jaiden has been exceptional during his short tenure with the Club, and we wish him the best in his football future,“ the club said.
Thomas McGuane. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 432959_31
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