Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 3rd September 2025

Kangaroo great Anthony Stevens writes exclusively for Star

....SEE SPORT

The Break by the bay

When the Melbourne Fringe returns from September 30 to October 19, it won’t just be going west, it’ll be going to the beach.Williamstown Beach will play host to the The Break, a site-specific dance performance that will bring choreography to the coastline. Choreographed by Zoë Bastin and performed by four dancers, The Break aims to push the boundaries of contemporary dance in public space, with dancers moving with the repetitive and hypnotic rhythm of waves, shaped by unseen tidal forces.

Beginning at 6pm on Wednesday, October 8, the 90-minute show will be performed across four nights until Saturday, October 11, with the latter three shows beginning at 6.30pm. To find out more about The Break and to book tickets, visit: https://www. melbournefringe.com.au/whats-on/ events/the-break

Council conflict

By Cade Lucas

Emotions ran high at last week’s Hobsons Bay council meeting as motions relating to the conflict in Gaza were debated before a packed public gallery.

A member of the gallery was thrown out and the meeting repeatedly adjourned as debate on the three motions from deputy mayor Rayene Hawli threatened to boil over.

With mayor Daria Kellander an apology, Cr Hawli chaired the meeting as deputy, but had to vacate when her motions were debated, with Cr Kristen Bishop

presiding instead.

ProceedingsquicklybecamerowdyasCr

Lisa Bentley moved an amendment to Cr Hawli’s first motion expressing solidarity with members of the community affected by the Gaza conflict.

Cr Bentley wanted a sentence calling on council to acknowledge “the pain, suffering and trauma of many residents of Hobsons Bay, who have lost loved ones over the last 22 months in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria,” to also include Israel, while demanding figures referring to the number Palestinians killed and injured be removed from the motion as

they couldn’t be verified.

After an adjournment, Cr Bentley’s amendment was voted down 4-2 with only Cr Michael Disbury joining her in support.

In moving the substantive motion, Cr Hawli said she was responding to a call that had been coming from the local community for more than two years.

“A call to recognise the pain suffering they’ve been experiencing,” said Cr Hawli.

Cr Bentley said while she felt for those upset by the conflict, the situation in Gaza was well beyond council’s remit and that passing the motion would be divisive.

“I have receive numerous emails from

peopleinourcommunitywhodidnotwant us to do this,“ Cr Bentley told the chamber to boos and heckling from the gallery.

“It divides our council, it divides our community.”

A member of the public was then ejected and the meeting again adjourned, before CrHawli’smotionwasfinallycarried4-2to cheers from the gallery.

A second motion calling for a review to ensure council did not do business with firms linked to human rights abuses in Gaza, was also carried, but a third motion demanding council advocate to federal government on the issue, narrowly failed.

Dancer and choreographer Zoë Bastin at Williamstown Beach where her show The Break will be performed as part of the Melbourne Fringe from October 8 to 11. (Damjan Janevski) 497399_02

Citynews

MESSAGE FROM THE

DEPUTY MAYOR

At the August Council Meeting, a major milestone was reached with the adoption of four key documents that will shape decisionmaking and investment across the City over the next four years.

The Council Plan, Financial Plan, Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, and Asset Plan together provide a clear roadmap for how Council will deliver services, infrastructure, and community initiatives. Collectively, they set priorities, allocate funding, and outline steps to enhance health, wellbeing, and liveability across Maribyrnong.

Council also endorsed the creation of a new public open space, the Austin Street Pop-Up Park in Seddon. This 18-month trial will transform Austin Street into a vibrant community hub where residents can gather, connect, and enjoy outdoor activities in the heart of their neighbourhood.

In addition, the Harris Reserve Concept Plan was endorsed at the same meeting. Works are scheduled to begin in the 2025/26 financial year as part of the Seddon Neighbourhood Plan, delivering much-needed upgrades and ensuring local open spaces continue to meet community needs well into the future.

The new community park outside of the Civic Precinct and Community Hub has been officially named balit bargoongagat banhul. In Woi-wurrung language, balit bargoongagat translates to “strong people linked together” and banhul means park – a name that embodies connection, community, and respect for Country and culture.

Finally, community engagement is now open on four draft plans – the Domestic Animal Management Plan, Live Music Action Plan, Nature Plan, and Road Management Plan. Council is also inviting comments on the Community Engagement Policy, Putting Customers First Strategy and Complaints Policy. Share your feedback at yourcityyourvoice.com.au to help shape these plans and policies to better reflect the needs and priorities of our community.

Deputy Mayor Cr Bernadette Thomas

UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS

Tue 16 September:6.30pm Council Meeting

Tue 23 September:6.30pm City Development Delegated Committee

These meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at Footscray Town Hall, 61 Napier Street, Footscray and live-streamed on the Council website. Community members can submit questions for public question time online on or before the day of the meeting. Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.

Maribyrnong City Council

Civic Precinct and Community Hub

61 Napier Street, Footscray

Postal Address:

PO Box 58, West Footscray VIC 3012

P: (03) 9688 0200

F: (03) 9687 7793

AND ABOUT

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Deputy

2. Deputy Mayor, Cr Bernadette Thomas, addressed attendees at the 2025 Plastic Free July celebration, highlighting our community’s commitment to reducing waste.

3. Deputy Mayor, Cr Bernadette Thomas joined the Hon Nick Staikos and Member for Footscray Katie Hall MP for the announcement of funding for Maribyrnong Libraries through the Premier’s Reading Challenge Book Fund.

4. Deputy Mayor, Cr Bernadette Thomas welcomed 92 of Maribyrnong’s newest citizens at two Citizenship Ceremonies in August.

5. Cr Cuc Lam celebrated the 101st birthday of Mr Yisheng Liao at the Royal Freemasons Footscray.

Council is reviewing our Community Engagement Policy, Putting Customers First Strategy and Complaints Policy to strengthen how we connect with and support our community. Community engagement helps us plan and prioritise projects that matter most, while customer service ensures residents receive the support they need. Together, these reviews aim to build trust and improve how we serve you. We want to hear from as many residents as possible. Explore the policies and share your feedback at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/engagement

ETHIOPIAN NEW YEAR FESTIVAL

The Little Africa end of Nicholson Street is the place to be on Saturday 6 September as it bursts to life with the colour and joy of Ethiopian culture. The Festival attracts hundreds annually with cultural demonstrations including Ethiopian coffee ceremonies, fashion, music and dance. Join in on one of the most significant events of the Ethiopian calendar, with many people travelling from right across Victoria to take part in this Footscray street party. For more information, visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ENYF2025

email@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

1.

Mayor, Cr Bernadette Thomas, joined Friends of Newells Paddock for a planting day along the Maribyrnong River.

Motion deferral ‘a cop out’

By Cade Lucas

A Hobsons Bay councillor whose motion calling for action on crime in the local area again failed to win support from her colleagues at Tuesday night’s council meeting, said she won’t give up until it is passed.

Cr Lisa Bentley’s motion on community safety and crime prevention was re-introduced at the August 26 council meeting after being controversially voted down on procedural grounds at the previous meeting on July 29.

At that meeting, Cr Bentley shouted “shame, shame, shame” when her col-

leagues voted against her attempt to introduce the motion as urgent business.

At Tuesday night’s meeting, Cr Bentley apologised to her colleagues for the outburst before again moving the motion which highlights Hobsons Bay’s 35 per cent increase in crime in the year to March 2025 and calls for more resources such as increased opening hours at Williamstown Police Station, to help bring it down.

“The community in Williamstown are concerned about the reduced hours at Williamstown Police Station, in fact many believe this is exacerbating the crime rate in Hobsons Bay,” said Cr Bentley in moving the motion.

Cr Michael Disbury spoke in support, but Cr Diana Grima said more research was needed to ensure extra resources were allocated appropriately, while Cr Kristin Bishop moved that the motion be deferred, arguing it was different to the version councillors were given beforehand.

The motion to defer was carried with only councillors Bentley and Disbury voting against.

Speaking later to Star Weekly, Cr Bentley called the deferral “a cop out”.

“I sent the amended motion before our meeting last week and they (fellow councillors) were aware of those changes be-

Rock star rhino calf adds important asset

Jabulani, the rock star rhino calf, is making yet more headlines from his home at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Victoria’s first successfully mother-raised rhino calf in more than 20 years, is now sporting horns.

Zoo savannah keeper Alison Edwards said it was an exciting time for the youngster.

“Rhinosarebornwithouthornsbutthey start to grow as they age,” Ms Edwards said.

“Jabulani’s primary horn was the first one to grow, and throughout the past couple of months the second one has begun to

grow too.

“The first thing that happens is the skin gets quite rough and lumpy, then it breaks and it’s like a pimple is erupting!”

Jabulani was born in August 2024 to 15-year-old father Kifaru and 11-year-old mother Kipenzi.

Hornsarejustoneaspectofhissubstantial growth.

“We estimate that he was born at about 60kgs. Now at a year old, he’s putting on two kilos per day and weighs 730 kilosthat’s the equivalent of a combined 250 domestic cats,” Ms Edwards said.

“But even with that remarkable growth, he’sstillstayingclosebymumandhiseight tonnes of rhino family ‘bodyguards’.

A rhino’s horn is made of keratin, which is the same substance as human hair and nails, and just like fingerprints, every rhino’s horn is unique.

Inwhiterhinos,thefronthorncanreach 1.5 metres long, while the rear grows up to 55 centimetres.

The horns grow continuously like a fingernail, though digging, rubbing and sparring usually prevent it from reaching extreme lengths.

Maribrynong libraries receive reading challenge funds

Maribyrnong Libraries will share in $1.1 million in state government funding as part of the the 2025–26 Premier’s Reading Challenge Book Fund.

Local Government Minister Nick Staikos recently joined Footscray MP Katie Hall and Maribyrnong acting mayor Bernadette Thomas at West Footscray Library to announce that $12,301 from the fund would go towards the municipality’s libraries.

The annual Premiers’ Reading Challenge encourages children and young people to read a set number of books and record their efforts online.

Each year, a book list is published as part of the challenge, containing a range of books suited to different reading levels and the fund enables Victoria’s public libraries to purchase many of these books, which are in significant demand.

It’s hoped the funding provided to Maribyrnong Libraries will result in a broader range of digital and physical editions being available to younger readers across all five of its branches and its app.

“Young readers will love the exciting titles in the Premiers’ Reading Challenge lists – this funding will ensure that our libraries in Maribyrnong will be fully

fore the meeting,” said Cr Bentley, adding that she would keep moving the motion until it was carried.

Progress on tackling crime was made elsewhere though, with the Hobsons Bay Local Safety Committee holding its first meeting on August 19 since being reinstated earlier this year.

Hobsons Bay mayor Daria Kellander and the Local Area Commander, Inspector Damien Madden, co-chaired the meeting at Altona Police Station which also involved community, business and other government representatives.

The committee will now meet quarterly.

Spotswood

street to get shared path

A shared path for pedestrians and cyclists will be built along Birmingham Street in Spotswood after Hobsons Bay council finally endorsed the proposal last week.

The proposal for a 3.5 metre-wide path along the southern side of Birmingham Street, between Hicks Street and Melbourne Road, was approved on August 26 after being delayed for a month due to confusion over whether the path should be shared by cyclists and pedestrians or if separate paths built for both.

Separate paths was the original proposal approved by council in February 2024, but by February this year planning was underway for a shared pathway along the southern side of the street next to the Spotswood Yards development.

In March local community group Better West lodged a petition calling on council to revert to its original separated path proposal on safety grounds, but in response council officers maintained their recommendation of a shared pathway, arguing the presence of underground gas pipes and the physical constraints of the site made it much cheaper and easier to build.

After moving to defer the matter at the July 29 meeting, Cr Kristin Bishop said she’d since inspected the Birmingham Street site with council officers and decided to follow their recommendation.

“It is apparent to me after all of that work that the shared path will meet the needs of the community for a very long time,” said Cr Bishop.

“Lets just get on with it” added Cr Michael Disbury who argued that in the future, cycling and pedestrian paths should be included as part of development plans, not built later.

Better West secretary Rowena Joske said the decision was “a massive kick in the guts to the community”.

stocked with these sought-after books,” said Ms Hall of the money provided to Maribyrnong Libraries.

“Reading not only supports a lifelong love of learning, but helps kids build important literacy skills that will remain with them for life,” added Mr Staikos.

Since the Premiers’ Reading Challenge began in 2005, more than 4.75 million children and young people have read more than 65 million books.

To participate in this year’s challenge, visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/premiers-reading-challenge

“Council has been talking about Birmingham Street as being part of a major cycling route with separated paths since 2021, and this was strongly supported by the community,” said Ms Joske, who speculated that cost and complexity were not the real reasons for council shifting to a shared pathway.

“It’s really disappointing to learn now they (council) have overturned (separated paths) to widen the road to build extra car parks instead of prioritising bikes and pedestrians.”

Jabulani, now 1, is growing horns. (Zoos Victoria)

CASH FOR UNWANTED GOLD & JEWELLERY!

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Is it worth keeping old jewellery that you will never wear again? The extra cash may help now or in the future rather than unwanted jewellery sitting in your drawer!

We buy all gold Jewellery, Antiques & Contemporary Jewellery Diamonds, Silver Jewellery, Gold Sovereign Coins and other coins, Precious Stones, Including Broken Jewellery and Watches and unusual Items.

“Your Jewellery maybe worth a lot more than what you think!” Tuesday 16th Sept - 11am to 3pm

Surf club plan concerns

By Cade Lucas

Hobsons Bay council has been accused of changing plans for the proposed redevelopment of the Williamstown Surf Lifesaving Club (WSLSC) without consulting the public.

Long-time WSLSC lifesaver and open water swimming coach Jason Bryce said concept plans for the redevelopment recently posted on council’s website, showed the project had grown.

“The premises of WSLSC and the extent of the works has been expanded, to the detriment of the public,” said Mr Bryce, who shared images of both the original and updated concept plans with

Star Weekly.

Of particular concern for Mr Bryce are red lines on the updated plans which extend over parts of the carpark and which he believes could inhibit access to the beach if they are fenced off.

“Most public swimmers access the beach from the carpark and the bus stop at the end of Victoria Street,” he said.

“These plans reduce public access to the western end of the beach, reduce public carparking, increase the fencedoff members-only areas to include three private lawns and a licensed function centre.”

In response, a spokesperson for Hobsons Bay council said it was unaware of

any expansion of fencing as part of the redevelopment.

It’s understood the red lines on concept plan indicate the project’s overall footprint, not the proposed fence line.

The council spokesperson conceded the project had changed, though wouldn’t confirm if it had expanded.

“Council can confirm the overall project footprint was adjusted following the first round of consultation to accommodatetheidentifiedneedsandadjustments required when the swimming pool was added back into the updated concept,” said the spokesperson, adding that the public had been given the opportunity to provide feedback on the adjusted plans.

Get involved and be part of the house art

Instead of just observing art, the Duke Street Community House in Sunshine is inviting people to come and be active participants in it.

Foritsupcominginteractiveexhibition, Collective Art Project, Duke Street wants community members to come along and make their own contributions to the installation exploring the six emotions of; happiness, surprise, anger, fear, disgust and sadness.

The art installation will grow, evolve and be led by the community’s interactions with it, with everyone welcome to come along and all materials provided.

Led by local artist and master of theraputic arts student Augustine Ang, the Collective Art Project is a new innovation for the Duke Street Community House designed to offer an inclusive way for people to get involved in art and creative expression.

Community house manager Emma Price couldn’t be more excited. “Why shouldn’t art be for everyone, by everyone? Why just look at art, when you can be part of its creation?” said Ms Price of the project.

The experience will be open from 9.30amto3.30pm,MondaytoFriday,from Friday, September 5 to Friday, September 19, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.

Footscray hospital emergency department ‘back to normal’

Emergency departments at Footscray and Sunshine hospitals have returned to normal after a spike in demand forced Western Health to recommend patients go elsewhere last week.

Western Health chief operating officer John Ferraro said the increase in demand happens periodically, particularly during the winter months, adding that the health service has plans to respond.

Those plans included recommending patients in need of non-emergency care use alternatives such as the nurse-on-call hotline

or the free video-based healthcare service

Victorian Virtual Emergency Department.

Patients were also advised to visit priority primarycarecentresinMaribyrnong,Melton and Sunshine, instead of attending local hospitals.

Those who did choose to present at the Footscray and Sunshine hospital emergency departments were warned to expect a long wait to be treated for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.

Mr Ferraro praised staff at both hospitals for bringing the situation under control.

“This project has been through two rounds of community consultation, receiving more than 700 submissions, which helped guide the planning and design process.

“Council’s statutory planning team is assessing a planning permit application.”

While the redeveloped WSLSC will largely be a private facility, the addition of public funding from the state government ($11.3 million) and Hobsons Bay council ($3 million) has made it a source of controversy for locals.

Submissions to the planning process can be made at: https://hbcc.greenlightopm.com/public/App_Advertising/122505079pfRiGa6l

Calls for community health funding

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 expenditure 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,”

The inner west’s two health community health providers both supported IV’s call for more funding.

IPC Health chief executive Jayne Nelson, said purpose-built local health services were 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.

cohealth chief executive Nicole Bartholomeusz said only the state government could fix the problem.

“Like many non-profit community health organisations, cohealth doesn’t have the money to invest in upgrading our facilities,” Ms Bartholomeusz said.

“Our staff work hard to respond to an increase in patients presenting to our emergency departments,” he said.

“All patients are triaged upon arrival, and care is prioritised for the most acutely unwell.“

The nurse-on-call hotline is 1300 60 60 24 and the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department can be accessed at: www.vved.org.au

In a life-threatening medical emergency, call triple-0 or attend an emergency department.

“The majority of funding received is directed into health services for communities who face significant barriers to accessing health care. This makes the upkeep or replacement of buildings next too impossible.”

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.

Duke Street Community House manager Emma Price (left) and master of therapeutic arts student Augustine Ang at the Collective Art Project, an interactive art installation on display at the Sunshine community house from September 5 to 19. (Damjan Janevski). 498950_01

Get creative

By Cr Diana Grima

Hobsons Bay really is a creative city.

I am always amazed by the range of opportunities there are for people to express their creative side and enjoy arts and culture right here in our community.

And that will prove true as there is plenty happening over the next few months across the city.

It’s great to see Laverton featured, with a new Woods Street Arts Space program announced, running until the end of the year.

The new program will feature a diverse line-up of creative workshops, activities and exhibitions for different ages, skill levels and interests.

Whether it is cultural dance classes, with the return of Indian Classical Dance and Samoan Dance for Boys, a new series of drawing workshops presented by Hobsons Bay Arts Society or songwriting workshops as part of Sound Step Studios, there is so much happening.

Recently we also saw the Melbourne Fringe Festival program announced, with plenty of local involvement.

The fringe festival is Victoria’s longest running multi-arts festival, taking place across Melbourne from September 30 to October 19.

Hobsons Bay plays a prominent part, with local sites and artists involved to help make the festival what it is.

Ontopofitsownprogram,WoodsStreet Arts Space will be involved by hosting multimedia workshops to create window art and displaying artist Peter Spring’s

Whatever Knitting Takes Me unique artwork.

The Substation in Newport will play host to dance and a sound installation performance, Williamstown’s Commonwealth Reserve will feature a temporary public art installation and there is even an arts focus for Williamstown Beach.

There is so much to do and see.

Andfinally,justaspecialmentiontothe

Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre in Altona, which celebrated its 20-year anniversary just last week.

What a special place that has become so important to our city over the past two decades.

Congratulations to all board members, staff and volunteers who have played a part to make the centre what it is today.

Formoreinformation,visit:hobsonsbay. vic.gov.au/fringe

Briefs

Armed robberies

Police have charged a man following a series of armed robberies in Footscray last week. It is alleged the man committed armed robberies and attempted armed robberies at three stores on Barkley Street from about 10.30am on Wednesday, August 27. The man was arrested a short time later on Paisley Street after patrolling officers spotted someone matching the offender’s description. A meat cleaver and stolen cash were allegedly located on the 31-year-old Norlane man and seized.He was charged with two counts of armed robbery and two counts of attempted armed robbery

Illegal dumping

Environment Protection Authority

Victoria (EPA) is still seeking information to help identify two men filmed illegally dumping waste on a section of the Federation Trail in Laverton North at the start of this year. The two men were caught on CCTV dumping a load of what appears to be household construction waste onto a section of the trail near Pipe Road on January 24. They were dumping the waste from an Isuzu Tradepack tray truck. Vision of the two men and their truck is available at: https://youtu.be/5Gx_tFdem9A Anyone who recognises them is can contact the EPA on 1300 372 842 or at: https://bit.ly/3PluyuV FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Memories of footy legend

Williamstown Football Club legend John Martin died on August 7 aged 92. Seagulls life member Geoff Van Wyngaarden recently interviewed John about his illustriouscareer.

John joined Williamstown in 1952 and went on to play in the club’s hat-trick of premiershipsin1954,1955,and1956.

The 1956 season was a special one for John, winning the J.J. Liston Trophy for the VFA’sbestandfairest.Johnrecalledhowhe learntofhiswin.

“Club delegate Eddie Marr came around to the family home around 9pm, I was in bed at the time. I finished up receiving

47 votes to the nearest player on 26 votes. In those days both the central and goal umpires awarded votes. I also won the Sporting Globe and Herald newspapers awards.”

John had many personal memories of clubidentities.

“WallyCarterwasaverygoodandastute coach, he didn’t roar or rant. The previous coach Billy Williams had the team well moulded.”

John also described some of the better players.

“Ray Smith was very elusive on the forward line, Jack Evans was a very good

Family history matters

Thanks to TV shows like ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ and websites like ancestry.com, family history has surged in popularity in recent years, making it an ideal topic for Adult Learners Week in HobsonsBayfromSeptember1-8.

And as a cultural historian and fourth-generation Williamstown local, Karen Wykes is the ideal person to teach it.

Ms Wykes will run a session on family history from 1-2pm on Thursday, September 4 at Williamstown Library, part of a variety of classes and workshops aimedatadultlearnersinHobsonsBay.

Ms Wykes said she’ll not only be teaching people how to start their family history, but what history is and how it differsfromheritage.

“History is something that’s happened in the past, heritage is a tangible thing,” explained Ms Wykes whose fascination

with family history began at a relative’s funeral.

“I’ve always loved history and when my husband’s mother passed away I was speaking to a family member at her funeral who’d done their family history and that got me interested. So I started doing it myself and I’ve completed family history courses and I’ve also done a mastersdegreeinculturalheritage.”

Despite her own interest starting at a funeral, Ms Wykes said the most important part of compiling a family history was starting it before relatives reachedthatstage.

“If you don’t do it now while those family members are alive, once they’re goneit’stoolate.”

To find out more about Adult Learners Week in Hobsons Bay, go to: https:// www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Libraries/ Library-news/Adult-Learners-Week

utility player who could play anywhere forward or back, Sid Wookey in the ruck wasgreat,andFrankSimswasagoodlittle wingman.”

John started his successful career on the wing and eventually moved to the centre, wherehedominatedevenmore.

Hisfunniestmomentinagameoccurred against Port Melbourne at the North Port Oval.

“Frankie Johnson was the captain-coach ofPortMelbourne.Ataquartertimebreak, Portwouldn’tcomeoutoftheirhuddle.The umpire Billy Merrington blew his whistle and bounced the ball with Port still in the

huddle.Wegottheballandgoaled!”

After leaving Williamstown in 1958, John coached Wentworth in the Sunraysia League for four years, winning two league bestandfairests.

Returning to Melbourne, he coached Metro Farm in the Werribee League for one year, and played one season for Parkdale and then coached West Newport in the Western Suburban Football League for seven years, winning the flag in 1968.

John later returned to Williamstown in 1978 as chairman of selectors under captain-coachJohn“Sticks”Fanning.

Williamstown local, cultural historian, and founder of Cornerstone Family History, Karen Wykes, will run a session on family history at Williamstown Library on September 4 as part of Adult Learners Week. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 499215_06

Cr Diana Grima (right) with Hobsons Bay artist Sammy Martin whose exhibition Moving Forward is currently on display at Laneway Gallery in Laverton. (Supplied)

Fernwood Yarraville, empowering women’s health

National Women’s Health Week is the perfecttimetoreflectontheimportanceof women prioritising their wellbeing, body, mind,andspirit.

For more than 21 years, Fernwood Yarraville has been at the forefront of empoweringwomentotakechargeoftheir health, offering a supportive environment thatgoesfarbeyondjustaworkout.

From humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of the Yarraville community, Fernwood has remained committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inspiring spacedesignedexclusivelyforwomen.Over two decades on, the team is proud to say that Fernwood Yarraville continues to be a leaderinwomen’shealthandfitness,setting thebenchmarkforholisticwellness.

What makes Fernwood unique is its dedication to the whole woman. The team at Fernwood understand that fitness isn’t just about physical strength, it’s also about building confidence, managing stress, and fostering balance in everyday life. That’s why Fernwood offers more than gym equipment and classes. From Reformer Pilates and FIIT30 training, to nutrition guidance, meditation, and wellness programs, Fernwood has shaped a space where women can thrive both physically andmentally.

Fernwood’s longevity is a testament to the strength of its community. For 21 years, Fernwood has stood beside women of all ages and backgrounds, celebrating their wins, supporting them through challenges, and evolving with their needs. Whether it’s a first-time member taking her first step toward fitness, or a long-time member finding new ways to challenge herself, Fernwood is proud to be part of every journey.

everystepoftheway.

Here’stocelebratingwomen,theirstrength, andthepowerofputtinghealthfirst.

6 months

This National Women’s Health Week, the team at Fernwood encourage all women to pause, reflect, and prioritise themselves.

Yourhealthandwellbeingarethefoundation for everything else in life ,and at Fernwood Yarraville, the team is here to support you

Franchise Jessica Stickel (left) hs been with Fernwood

Fitness for 21 years and club manger Sam Cross has been with Fernwood for 22 years.

Switching to the front line

After working in business for more than 10 years, 33-year-old Eric Karanikolau made the switch to working as a paramedic. The new recruit is one of 59 graduates who started their career with Ambulance Victoria in July. He spoke with Georgia Tacey about his new role.

There’s a new paramedic in town, and he’s ready to keep Gisborne residentssafe.

Eric Karanikolau is Gisborne’s newest recruit with Ambulance Victoria, and alreadyheissettlingintohisnewrole.

FromEssendon,MrKaranikolaurecently decided to make the big switch from his morethan10-yearcareerinbusinessintoa life on the frontline, and is already reaping therewardsofthisfast-passedcareer.

“It’salotthefirstmonth,butIfeellikeI’m reallysettlingin,”hesaid.

“Especially after the third week, a lot of that administrative stuff you get under your belt, and you focus on just treating patientsandgivingthebestcareyoucan.”

Mr Karanikolau is one of 59 graduate ambulance paramedics who started their careers in July, ready to meet the winter demand, and one of three stationed in the MacedonRanges.

Mr Karanikolau said he always knew he wantedtoanswerthecall.

“There’ve been a couple of situations where something happened to someone andIwasnearbyandintrinsically,Iwanted tohelpbutIdidn’tknow,”hesaid.

It sort of sparked that fire to want to know more and learn more ... I wanted to help people in a more holistic way - Eric Karanikolau

“It sort of sparked that fire to want to know more and learn more, and be able to helpanditledmedownthispath.”

This journey has been seven years in the making, studying and training, and so far, he’slovinggettingintothecommunityand helpingothers.

“I wanted to help people in a more holistic way and I was looking for a new challengeaswell,”MrKaranikolausaid.

“I think the ever-changing environment of paramedicine and the ambiguity of not knowing what you’re going to get from a day-to-day,there’ssomeexcitementinthat andyou’realwayskeptonyourtoes.

“Ilovethrivinginthatsortofenvironment wherethere’sabitofpressure.”

The constant learning as well keeps him motivated,withnotwodaysthesame.

“You never know who you’re going to meet,”MrKaranikolausaid.

“Likeyougetapatient,andyouchatwith theminthebackoftheambulanceandyou learn a lot about their life and they sort of feel comfortable enough to share things abouttheirlifewithyou.

“I really enjoy engaging with the community and I enjoy engaging with the patients.”

Outside of the job, the 33-year-old spends his free time getting out and about, fishing, hunting and training dogs, all while preparing to welcome a baby with hiswifesoon.

He recently finished his studies at VictoriaUniversity,andwasthrilledtojoin hisfriendsamongthenewrecruits.

Graduates like Mr Karanikolau have been deployed to ambulance branches across Victoria to begin their 12-month placement, with three quarters of these taking up positions in regional Victoria, including Macedon Ranges towns like Gisborne,WoodendandRomsey.

“These new graduates will make a real difference – we’re proud to back them with

the resources and training they need to succeed and deliver care to Victorians,”

MacedonMpMary-AnneThomassaid.

“We’re backing our paramedics with more recruits and better training so they candowhattheydobest–savelives.”

During there 12-month placements, the new paramedics will work under the supervision of clinical instructors and alongside paramedics responding to real emergencies and developing their clinical skills.

The new recruits were welcomed by AmbulanceVictoriachiefexecutiveJordan Emery.

“Working as a paramedic is an extraordinarily unique experience. Very few jobs will have such a profound and deep impact on peoples’ lives,” Mr Emery said.

“Our paramedics, first responders, volunteers and support staff are our greatest strength. It is through them that we lead the way in patient care, including the nation’s best cardiac arrest survival rates.

“We now have more than 5500 on-road

paramedics delivering the very best life-saving care, everywhere, and it’s great toseemorejoiningourranks.”

After completing their university degrees, the recruits start at Ambulance Victoria with a four-week induction and training program before they hit the road alongsideexperiencedparamedics.

Duringthisinduction,recruitslearnvital skills such as safely moving and loading patients to prevent injuries, aggression and assault prevention, and safely driving ambulancevehicles.

Mr Emery said the best and brightest wereselectedforthejob.

“Ambulance Victoria has some of the mosthighlytrainedandskilledparamedics intheworld,”hesaid.

“These graduates will continue training and development throughout their entire careers to ensure patients receive the very best,andmostup-to-datelife-savingcare–andstaysafewhiletheyaredoingso.

“Itrulywishthemallthebestforlongand rewardingcareersatAmbulanceVictoria.”

Mr Karanikolau said he loves working withintheGisbornecommunity.

“The branch has been great and we have areallygreatteaminGisborne,theyhavea high calibre of knowledge and expertise in theemergencysetting,”hesaid.

“The highlight for me has been speaking to everybody and gaining the insights and the detailed knowledge of the area and picking their brains from a clinical point of view because they have years and years cumulativelyworthofexperience.”

For anyone looking to go into paramedicine and become a paramedic, Mr Karanikolau stressed consistency is key.

“Itcanbealongjourneyandeverybody’s different, but have the right reason why and have that goal in your mind and strive towardsit,”hesaid.

“Yes, there will be roadblocks and hiccups along the way, but ultimately persistence beats resistance … It’s a great job.

“Everyone’sinitfortherightreasonsand there’s a lot of really good mentors in the rolethatemergetohelpyouonthejourney.

“And as far as career progression-wise, it’snevertoolatetotryanything.”

Main: New Ambulance Victoria recruit Eric Karanikolau. Left: Regional and clinical operations director Matt McCrohan and Eric Karanikolau. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 495582 Right: The new Ambulance Victoria recruits. (Supplied: Ambulance Victoria)

Summerhill tenants move in

By Cade Lucas

More than 60 people are now moving into a purpose built social housing community in West Footscray .

Summerhill Village is a social housing developmentaimedatprovidingaccommodation for women over 55, one of the fastest growing groups of homeless people in the state.

Last year more than 1000 women aged 55 and above moved into social housing in Victoria.

On Sunday, August 24, new tenants at Summerhill Village began joining them, in-

cludingninewomenwholivedattheformer Footscray Lions Elderly Citizens Village.

The new Summerhill Road development features 49 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom homes as well as two fully accessible apartments and is built around a central green courtyard.

United Housing Co-operative (UHC) and the Lions Club of Footscray delivered the project, with $17.5 million in funding provided by the state government.

Housing and Building Minister Harriet Shing was on hand to welcome Summerhill Village’s new residents on Sunday as they moved in.

“Developments like Summerhill Village are tailored specifically for the growing number of older Victorians, and we know that ageing in place requires accessible and affordable homes that keep residents connected to their communities,” Ms Shing said.

“This project is a wonderful example of local partnerships providing ongoing benefit to the community - just like our collaboration with United Housing Co-operative, and the Lions Club of Footscray.”

United Housing Co-operative (UHC) chief executive Peter Sibly said incoming residents were given a say in the design of

Support for refugees and asylum seekers

West Welcome Wagon (WWW) hosted its annual open day on August 29 with a morning tea and a tour of the warehouse.

WWW chief executive Colette McInerney said the event is about thanking volunteers and making connections with other organisations, politicians and community members to better support refugees and asylum seekers.

Dr Abdul Saber Barak, a refugee from Afghanistan, spoke at the event about his lived experience.

Dr Barak arrived in Australia nearly two years ago after enduring years of hardship and displacement.

“Back in Afghanistan, I was a medical doctor and had dedicated my life to serving patients. Medicine was not maybe a profession for me, it was my mission and my identity,” he said.

Dr Barak said that when he arrived in Australia he had to undergo a process to have his medical qualifications formally recognised.

“Despite my efforts to get equivalency I have not yet received a response. This has meant that I must once again begin from zero,” he said.

Dr Barak said WWW has been a tremendous source of support to him and

his family.

“Without their support, I would not be standing here today before you,” he said.

“I do not share my story as a complaint but as an expression of hope for the future. Despite the challenges, I am determined to return to the medical profession, and still serve the Australian community which has welcomed me with open arms.”

WWW is a not-for-profit organisation in Melbourne’s west that provides donated items and support to asylum seekers and refugees.

their new homes and that collaborations would continue now they had moved in.

“UHC will have a strong focus on place making and building a connected community with a particular focus on tenant voice, food sustainability and community engagement,” Mr Sibly said.

FootscrayMPKatieHallthankedMrSibly and UHC for helping deliver what she called a “brilliant project.”

“It’s wonderful to see local residents returning to Summerhill and settling into a place where they can feel connected, supported and part of community life,” Ms Hall said.

Questions from councillors remain

Councillor question time will remain a part of Hobsons Bay council meetings after an amendment to proposed new governance rules was passed at a meeting on August 26.

Cr Paddy Keys-Macpherson moved the amendment to re-instate councillor question time after it was removed from draft versions of the new governance rules in favour of an expanded public question time.

Despite the move alarming some former councillors and receiving strong opposition during community consultation, council officers argued that meetings were primarily a decision making forum where time was limited and that councillors could still make inquiries during the expanded public question time.

However, during debate Cr Keys-Macpherson moved his amendment to re-instate councillor questions, with each councillor limited to two questions on local government functions which council officers could take on notice.

“It is a worthwhile item to keep to be able to hold council officers accountable for actions going on,” said Cr Keys-Macpherson.

After the amendment was carried, the substantive motion to endorse the new governance rules was carried too.

The new governance rules, which have been reduced from 88 to 50 pages, will now be applied at council’s next meeting on September 23.

AMES CEO (chief executive officer) Melinda Collinson, Minister Ingrid Stitt, West Welcome Wagon CEO Colette McInerney, member for Footscray Katie Hall and Dr Abdul Saber Barak. (Sam Porter)

Get your garden ready for spring with James Wall

There’s something about spring that makes you want to step outside, roll up your sleeves, and get your garden looking its best.

But after months of neglect, sometimes it’s hard to know where to start. When is the right time to prune back old growth? What’s the best fertiliser or compost for your soil? When should you plant herbs andveggiessotheythriveandrewardyou with a summer harvest?

Rivervue Retirement Village is proud

of its stunning gardens, and we know just how much love and commitment it takes to make them thrive.

To help the community prepare for the season ahead, Rivervue has invited garden guru James Wall – a familiar voice on 3AW – to host a special gardening event.

James, the owner of Gardenworld, has spent more than 15 years helping people bring their gardens to life, and he often jokes that he feels more like a doctor –

people bring him their sad lookingplants, and he diagnoses what’s gone wrong.

“We love it when customers come back again and again with their gardening questions,” James said.

“There’s nothing better than helping someone find the right plant and seeing the joy it brings when they take it home.”

Join us at Rivervue on Thursday, September 18 at 1pm. Meet James and hear his practical hints, expert tips, and inspiring advice on how to get your own

Garden Guru - James Wall

garden blooming. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and get ready to make this your best gardening season yet.

This is a free gardening session, at RivervueRetirementVillage,25Bellavista Drive, Avondale Heights. To book call 1300 298 439 or register online atwww. rivervue.com.au

Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, you’ll take away simple, effective ideas to put into practice straight away.

Thursday 18 September • 1.00pm Friday 17th October • 12 noon

Join us for an inspiring session with James Wall, owner of Gardenworld Nursery, as he shares his expert advice on how to get your garden thriving this spring. Regularly heard on 3AW, James has over 17 years of experience and a true passion for helping people bring their gardens to life. James has plenty of tips, tricks, and insider know-how to keep your plants happy and healthy. Come along and learn from one of Victoria’s best.

Dust off your dancing shoes and get ready to rock with our special guests “The Treblettes”! This sassy local vocal trio will perform all your favourite, iconic songs from the 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s. Sing along to The Andrews Sisters, groove to Motown, sway to Elvis, or twirl to Bill Haley and the Comets, and many more. Come along and see why our residents say “Life Begins at Rivervue”. Scan to RSVP or call today. Limited places available.

Garden guru James Wall.

A MOSAIC of young voices

An original ensemble theatre show made up of young performers from Footscray, Wyndham and St Albans is coming to Brimbank for one night only.

MOSAIC: The Thrive Anthology edge ensembles show, presented by Western Edge, will take audiences through a kaleidoscope of stories ranging from funny and abstract to thoughtful and heartfelt. Western Edge co-artistic director John Marc Desengano said the show is completelydevisedandperformedbylocal theatre makers, ranging from ages 18 to 30. “It’saprettyspecialshow.Wehavescenes about capitalism, about being immigrants, about being a cat that wants a home…It’s this cacophony of wonderful voices and the way they see the world,” Mr Desengano said.

The show is inspired by the theme

‘thrive.’ MrDesenganosaidtheperformers intheshowbeganmakingscenesofartistic expression inspired by the theme over the course of 17 weeks.

“Each LGA (local government area) is led by a lead artist who is a professional theatre maker from Melbourne. They guide the process through a series of prompts, provocations, and improvisation activities. And through those provocations the young people make a piece that they are inspired by and that they devised… It’s completely original content,” Mr Desengano said.

The groups from separate LGAs come together for four major rehearsals in the lead up to the show.

“Some of [the theatre makers] have never been on stage before, have never been in a creative room and they are putting

themselves out there with vulnerability andexcitement.They’vecreatedsomething really really special,” Mr Desengano said.

“There’s no narrative through line…. it goes all over the place. You can expect comedy, drama, a little bit of absurdism, big characters, pathos. You can expect lots of character changes as well. It really is a complete variety show.”

MOSAIC: The Thrive Anthology will be showingattheBoweryTheatreonSaturday, September 6 at 7pm.

The show is supported by Brimbank Council’s community grants program, Maribyrnong City Council, Wyndham City Council and Hugh D.T. Williamson Foundation.

Entry costs are based on donation amounts. More info: creativebrimbank. com.au

Superpower fest returns to Scienceworks

Scienceworks’ Science is a Superpower Festival is back on September 13 and 14, packing two days with hands-on science, livedemosandmind-blowingexperiments designed to spark the STEM superhero in every visitor, from curious kids to lifelong learners.

Begin your journey with calmness, enjoying guided meditation in the Melbourne Planetarium under stunning wildlife imagery, before creating a unique artwork on the Scienceworks harmonograph. Channel your inner sports star in Sportsworks, race against Cathy Freeman, leap for height, or save goals like a champion.

Curiosity takes the lead in Think Ahead, where you can ask experts your most puzzlingquestionsandimaginethefuture. Kindness shines in the Energy Lab, where visitors can add their creations to the Wall of Kindness.

Feel the raw power of electricity in the Lightning Theatre, then put your energy to the test with engineering challenges from the Robogals Team. Ingenuity rolls in at the Arena, as the Monash Nova Rover Team’s Banksia robot roves the grounds.

Test your senses in Beyond Perception then head to Tinkertown with Engineers Australia to construct clever solutions

from everyday materials.

Finally, grow your resilience in the STEM Lab with the Plants for Space team, discovering how to grow greens in the most unlikely places - even outer space!

Originally created to encourage tween girls and non-binary children to engage with STEM, the Science is a Superpower Festival now welcomes all visitors for an inclusive weekend of learning, play and possibility.

Tickets and information: https:// museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/ whats-on/science-is-a-superpowerfestival/

Go places with the music of InSync Entertainment

InSync Entertainment is taking you on a journey through its next show.

‘Going Places’ is the group’s next performance, and it plans to be one that will get the whole audience dancing around and singing along.

Secretary Cynthia Marchment said its a show that can’t be missed.

“It’s a travel-themed music event,” she said. “We’ll be encouraging audience participation with our songs.”

The family-friendly event promises to bringplentyofhitsandclassics,withafun, entertaining afternoon planned.

The Sunbury-based choir also hopes this will be the first of its travel-themed shows.

“It will certainly be an enjoyable show

and entertaining for everyone to come and see us,” Ms Marchment said. “I think our show will showcase the

variety of talent we have in our group.”

Expect group performances and solos, costume changes and plenty of talent.

Ms Marchment encouraged the Sunbury community to come down and support a local group.

“It’s also really good to support community groups and support our local community and provide entertainment for them,” she said.

Going Places will be held at St Mary’s Church Hall in Sunbury on Saturday, September 13, from 2pm to 4pm.

Tickets will cost between $10 to $15, with tickets available online now. Refreshments will follow the show. Tickets: trybooking. com/events/landing/1441486

Calling all Swifties! Calling all Swifties! The ultimate Taylor Swift show is coming to Wyndham.

‘Reputation’ will land at the WyndhamCulturalCentreonFriday, October 3 – and you won’t find a better place to shake it off.

A five-piece band will play the biggest hits and most iconic tunes of the past decade’s most famous musical act.

On vocals, sibling duo Ella and Sienna McClean, who competed on The Voice 2022, will deliver their unique sibling harmonies.

Freddie Bailey, Dylan Paul and Michael Marino will fill the soundscape and bring every iconic era of Taylor’s story to life.

Thegroupiscomingoffamassively successful 2024 national tour, where they captivated audiences and sold-out shows around the country.

Considering she has evolved from countrymusic’sfastestrisingstartoa global phenomenon, there should be something Tay-lored to every taste you could imagine.

Theshowis110minutesofpurefun with no intervals – so there are no blank spaces in this set list.

With Tay’s recent engagement, what better time to come along and write your own love story.

It could even be the perfect night to bury the hatchet with a former anti hero in your own story– even if you are never, ever, ever getting back together.

There’s a ticket portal for you to write your name.

The show runs from from 7.30-9.30pm.

Tickets: https://www.wyndham. vic.gov.au/whats-on/reputationultimate-taylor-swift-show

Ella McClean and Sienna McClean. (Supplied)

Think Ahead at Scienceworks.

(Tiny Empire Collective)

InSync Entertainment are ready to take you to new places with their show. (Dennis Manktelow)

Young theatre makers from the west in rehearsal for MOSAIC: The Thrive Anthology. (Damian Vincenzi) 499106_01

Trips to the country

SPRINGintoQueenslandCountryforaseason ofcolour,flavour,andcelebration.Rollinghills, blooming gardens, and vibrant landscapes set the stage for festivals, farmers’ markets, and outdoor adventures. Families and friends gather to enjoy fresh local produce, live music, artisan crafts, and unique cultural events across the region. Wildlife awakens, rivers sparkle, and country roads invite exploration. Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride over scenic valleys, a lively street parade, or a laidback picnic in a blossoming park, spring in Queensland Country is pure joy.

Rotary Gourmet in Gundy, Goondiwindi Region

5 – 7 September

Set on the lawns of the Goondiwindi Cultural Centre beside the Macintyre River, Rotary Gourmet in Gundy is a springtime favourite. Enjoy local produce, fine wines, boutique beers, and live music inarelaxedcountrysetting.Celebritychef

Clarissa Feildel will host cooking classes onSaturdayandjoinSunday’smainevent, while Mondello the Magician keeps the little ones entertained. With great food, music, and warm hospitality, it’s a day not tobemissed.

Laidley Spring Festival, Lockyer Valley 12 – 14 September

Each year, the Lockyer Valley bursts into bloom for the Laidley Spring Festival - a three-day celebration of colour, creativity, and community spirit. Enjoy the much-loved Street Parade, Twilight Feastand Fest,SpringGardenFair,Orchid Show,QuiltandCraftExpo,andBeeHappy Day. With more than 60 years of history, this vibrant festival captures the charm of springinthecountry!

Miles Back to the Bush Festival, Western Downs 11 – 14 September

This festival is Miles from ordinary! Step back in time and celebrate country life with a vintage twist at the Miles Historical Village. This much-loved September festival is packed with bush fun. From the street parade, tractor pull, and markets, to quirky challenges like billy boiling and obstacle races. You will find live entertainment, hearty hospitality, and the charm of the Historical Village as its backdrop. It’s a weekend that captures the truespiritofthebush!

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba Region 12 September – 6 October

For 76 years, each spring, Toowoomba bursts into bloom with four spectacular weekends of flowers, flavours and entertainment.Fromaward-winningparks andprivategardentourstotheiconicfloral street parade, live music, and delicious foodie experiences, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is the perfect way to celebrate the season in Queensland’s gardencity.

Blackbutt Avocado Festival, South Burnett 13 September

Celebrate the cream of the crop at the Blackbutt Avocado Festival, a family-friendly event bursting with quirky fun, delicious food, and country charm. Enjoy avocado-themed games and activities,andsamplelocaltreats.Withlive music, homemade goodies, and a chance to explore historic Blackbutt, it’s a festive way to support local farmers and savour

thebestofcountrylife.

Murphy’s Creek Chilli and Craft Carnival, Toowoomba Region 21 September SpiceupyourspringwiththeMurphys CreekChilli,Craft&CakeCarnival. Sampleover350chillisauces,localjerky, cakes,crafts,andinternationalstreetfood, allwhileenjoyinglivemusicandfamilyfriendlyfun.Withquirkycompetitions, chillichallenges,andafestivecountry atmosphere,it’saflavoursomedayout supportinglocal producersandcharitiesinthescenic LockyerValley.

CelticFest, Southern Downs and Granite Belt 3 – 5 October

Celebrate Scottish and Irish heritage in the heart of the Southern Downs at CelticFest in Warwick. Held over the King’s Birthday weekend in October, at

the Warwick Showgrounds. The festival features Highland Games, pipe bands, Celtic markets, traditional food and drink, and even Highland cows. With live music, medieval encampments, and community-runCelticFringeeventsacross Warwick, it’s a weekend of culture, fun, andheritagenottobemissed.

Warwick Rodeo, Southern Downs and Granite Belt 20 – 26 October

Experience the thrill of Warwick’s iconic rodeo and campdraft, celebrating the skill and determination of riders since 1928. Watch bulls and horses fly out of the gate, admire the bond between rider and steed, and enjoy a week-long festival of country food, trades, live music, and local stories. With opportunities to meet rodeo stars, shop for authentic gear, and soak up true Aussie country spirit, it’s a high-energy eventyouwontwanttomiss!

Waiting for the train -Miles Back to the Bush Festival.

Laidley Spring Fest Twilight Feast and Fest.

Miles Back to the Bush Festival.

The Gathering are returning to Warwick for Celticfest.

Gourmet in Gundy.

Festval of flowers grand parade.

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

Spring is a season of renewal and the perfect time to plan your next unforgettable journey. With exclusive airfare offers, you can experience the world The Viking Way—in comfort and with more included.

Book a river voyage and fly free, or book an ocean or expedition voyage and your companion flies free. Be quick, offers end 1 December 2025*.

*T&Cs apply

Dr. Tony Stubbs Eye Surgeon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Writers’ Success Summit

Level up your writing career at the West’s first Writers’ Success Summit! Join emerging and established writers from 9am - 4pm on Saturday, September 6 at the Altona Civic Centre. Gain expert tips, skill-building workshops, and valuable industry contacts. Hosted by Writers Out West for Hobsons Bay residents. Limited spots available—register now to secure your place among Melbourne’s writing community.

 https://bit.ly/WritersSuccess

Mahjong Mondays

Join us to learn how to play Mahjong. Beginner or expert, everyone is welcome to come, chat and unwind with us.

 library@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au or 1300 179 944

Weight loss group

A new weekly weight loss support group is starting at 7pm on September 8 at the Williamstown Community Education Centre, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown. The sessions will be run by healthcare worker, registered nurse and counsellor Sarah Allard who has lost nearly 30 kgs since commencing weight loss injections and wants to share her knowledge of the medication effects and understanding as a counsellor of the highs and lows of treatment. The group is for anyone who is battling weight loss and is using injections or considering it. It is for sharing successes and failures in a private group setting, or just showing up to listen.

 Sarah Allard, 0439 972 074, or ms.sarah.allard@gmail.com

Games, cards and conversation

Do you like playing games? Canasta, Scrabble, Triominos, 500, Sequence, Rummikub and more, let’s all learn together. Held from 10am to 12pm every Tuesday at Altona North Community Library, cnr Millers and McArthurs roads, Altona North. Entry is free, no bookings are required and morning tea is provided.

 library@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au or 1300 179 944

Westgate diabetes support group

Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Altona bowling club at 10am.

 Elaine, 0415 030 996

Altona day view club

Meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Altona R.S.L. at 11am

 Jan, 0419 159 783

Mainly music – Yarraville

A music-playgroup program for kids and their carers from birth to school age. Held every Thursday 9.30-10.30am during school term at Westgate Baptist Community, 16 High Street, Yarraville. The cost is $7 per family, per week.

 Jenny, 0401 651 012, Ruth 0409 635 468 or https://westgatebaptist.org.au/ mainlymusic/

Williamstown Seniors

The group meets every Tuesday at 1pm-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon.

 Marlene, president/secretary, 0402 769 204

Royal Yacht Club of Victoria lunch

Enjoy midweek lunch specials each Wednesday: $10 entrée, $20 main course. RYCV 120 Nelson Place, Williamstown.

 Reservations: www.rycv.com.au

498117_01

Altona North Combined Probus

The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.

 Lesley, 0414 481 442

Social square dancing for beginners

Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday nights from 7.30pm to 10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning.

 Janine 0421 371 883 or contact@essendonsquares.com

Free English conversation classes

If English is your second language and you want to improve your English language skills, practice speaking with friendly volunteer tutors in informal and interactive group sessions held every Monday at 1-3pm in the meeting room at Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona. Light refreshments provided. Come along and make new friends!

 Jill MacKenzie, 0439 994 705 or jill.mackenzie111@gmail.com

Angling club

The Essendon Angling Club Est 1903 is looking for new members. If you are interested in fishing come along and join fellow minded anglers and help our club grow strong. The club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 7 pm at the club rooms 44 The Boulevard Moonee Ponds. On the 3rd Wednesday of the month there is also a social get together where people talk about fishing and make some great friendships

 president@essendonanglersclub.org.au or 0432 744 802

Laverton Bowls Club

Experience the fun and skill of lawn bowls, a game which is suitable for all

ages. Laverton Bowls Club is recruiting new members, so if you are looking for a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to bowl both socially or at pennant level Laverton is the place to be. Come to the club on Tuesday or Thursday mornings for practise beginning at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows.  9369 1034 or secretary@lavertonbowls.com.au

Walking group

The Mighty West Heart Foundation Community Walking Group meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am. Walk at your own pace for up to 60 minutes. Discover the many health benefits (physical and psychological) of walking together. All welcome.  0411 566 862

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support to anyone who wants to stop drinking. The Western Unity AA Group holds weekly in-person meetings in Williamstown. If you think you may have a drinking problem, you are welcome to attend. Friends and family members supporting a loved one are also encouraged to come along.

 https://williamstown.aagroup.org.au/, aawilliamstown@gmail.com or 1300 222 222

Willin Wimmin choir

Join the wonderful women at Willin Wimmin choir in Williamstown for some singing fun! Term 1 begins on Wednesday January 29 and goes through to April 2. Try us out for free for two weeks to see if it’s your thing. The group is all about the joy of group singing, and we welcome new members. There are no auditions required. Members sing a mix of contemporary, folk, choral, and world music in acapella style. The choir meets on Wednesday evenings during school terms 7.30-9.30pm at The Dennis Reserve, 109 Ferguson Street, corner

Melbourne Road, Williamstown.  willinwimmin.org.au or willin.wimmin@gmail.com

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 Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay.

 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or https://cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/

Prep for employment course

Seeking a change in career or how to improve your employability? Receive face-to-face help with job searches, resumes, interviews, upskilling and more in a prep for employment course. Register today. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.  9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Intro to computers course

For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble

If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon-2.30pm.

Mouth Organ Band

Yarraville Mouth Organ Band is looking for new members. Band practice is held on Friday evenings at 8pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. For great music in a friendly atmosphere feel free to call in one Friday evening.  Heather, 9399 2190 or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Phil Davis and his vintage 1947 Ford Mercury. (Damjan Janevski)

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every

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.

1 Fume (6)

Finnish capital (8)

More exciting; more fragrant (7)

Jelly sweet (7)

Situation (11)

Sense of self importance (3)

Jumble (8)

Cheapskate (5)

Milk fat (5) 20 Practicable (8) 22 Website address (1,1,1) 24 Responsiveness (11) 26 Enclose (7)

Commentators (7)

Hamper (6)

Moxie (5)

Indecorum (11)

Concerned (11)

15 Dope (9)

17 Sponsor (9)

18 Astrological belt (6)

21 Overrun (6)

23 Centre (5)

25 Colloquialism (5)

28 Litigate (3)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 In relation to music, does presto mean a) quickly, b) slowly or c) loudly?

2 What is a baby crocodile called?

3 Hailee Steinfeld (pictured) played Petra Arkanian in which 2013 movie?

4 Where in the human body is the patella bone?

5 Whose face is on a one-dollar bill in the US?

6 The Jog Falls plunge waterfall is in which country?

7 What does an entomologist study?

8 In what year was the Dunlop Volley shoe first produced: 1939, 1941 or 1972?

9 Torah Bright is an Olympic gold medallist in which sport?

10 What colours are on the flag of Mauritania?

Lexus luxury, big or small

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

The boss said, ‘give me the best car in the world’.

It was 1983 when Toyota president, Eiji Toyoda, challenged a crack team of 4000 highlytalentedstafftodohiscommand.

That’showLexus,abrandworth$US10.2 billiontoday,wasborn,withaluxurysedan, theLS400,generallyacceptedasasegment superstar, shading the best that Europe could make, including the best from Benz. It was a big day when the car came Down Underintheearly‘90s.Iwasthere.

Sincethen,Lexushasprettymuchkeptits foot on the pedal of its Kaizen (continuous improvement) philosophy across all its brands. Now it is bringing this to the small SUVsegmentwiththeLexusLBX.

“The first LBX breaks new ground,” says Lexus Australia Chief Executive John Pappas. “It is proof that luxury is not dictated by vehicle size and is in keeping with our electrified strategy, offering the latest in hybrid technology with an advancedfuel-efficientpowertrain.”

Available in Luxury 2WD, or Sports Luxury 2WD or AWD variants, prices start at$47,550,pluson-roadcosts,andtopoutat $56,990fortheflagship,aimedatappealing to youthful buyers with active lifestyles. Theentry-levelLuxury2WDwasontest.

All come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, and Lexus being what it is, a three-year complimentary subscription to the manufacturer’s Lexus Encore lifestyle program boasting benefits such as exclusive offers from luxury hotel partners, invitations to premium events and fuel discounts at participating Ampol servicestations.

Styling

Urban, or should that be ‘urbane’; as the first Lexus in the compact B segment, designersweredeterminedtheLXBshould make its mark for future generations of city-slickSUVs.

Based on the rigid GA-B platform, the all-new compact creates a striking visual impact, the trademark Lexus spindle dominating the front, vertically compressedtositlowinthevehiclebodyto accentuatesportiness.

The bonnet crease seamlessly moulds into the slim high-set LED headlights, which include a high/low beam light and bi-functional daytime running light and turn signal with an inverted version of the L-shapedsignaturelighting.

With minimal overhangs and robust wheelarches,darksidesillsandwheelarch moldings complement the expressive SUV design.

In shaping the rear, designers were inspired by Kagami-mochi traditional Japanesericecakes(really?)andpositioned similarly to two mochi pieces, split by the rear lighting signature and giving the vehicle a sense of stability and low centre ofgravity.

Once again, Lexus SUV family features anchor the rear with combination lamps joined by an LED light bar spanning the widthofthetailgate,beforeframingthetail lampclusterwithadistinctiveLshape.

Dynamic 18-inch alloy wheels are standard across the range, with Luxury grade fitted with dark grey metallic wheels withabrightmachinedfinishhighlighting thetwinY-spokedesign.

Interior

The search for a serene, yet tech-weighted, cabinresultsintheTazunacockpitprinciple inspired by simple communication between a horse and rider through reins,

a user-friendly layout keeping all key vehicle functions within easy reach, while minimising line-of-sight movement. (Are youpayingattention,Chinesecarmakers?)

As for occupant comfort, Lexus says the split-folding rear seat and optimization of rear cargo space provide customers with active urban lifestyles the carrying flexibilitytheyneedforwork,familyandfun requirements. Not quite, the rear legroom is cramped, even with average-size front row occupants, and not too welcoming of anextendedjourney.

Infotainment

The dashboard is dominated by an integrated 9.8-inch multimedia display, set behind an anti-reflective glass coating (how thoughtful), with a single external knobforpoweron/offandvolumecontrol.

Powered by the latest Lexus multimedia system, the 9.8-inch display apes a smartphone layout and offers voice recognition and wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Luxury grade is paired with a six-speaker audiosystem.

Nativenavigationiscloud-based,storing map data, downloading it to the sat nav as needed using the data communication module built into the vehicle. This also facilitatesover-the-airsoftwareupdatesfor theheadunitandinstrumentcluster.

Up to three users can save personal settings for multimedia, vehicle settings and active safety parameters through a Bluetooth device or smart key. Customers can also pre-set audio and navigation settings,seatposition,interiorillumination, and parameters for the Pre-Collision Systemwarningtiming,blindspotmonitor sensitivityandothersettings.

Engines/Transmissions

All LBX grades share the same petrol/ electric powertrain, teaming a 1.5-litre ICE with an electric motor generator and nickel-metal hydride battery for fuel economywithrefinedperformance.

Peak power for the petrol motor is 67kW at5500rpmand120Nmoftorquefrom3800 to4800revs.Itismatedwithacontinuously variabletransmission.

The petrol engine is paired with a hybrid transaxle on the front axle including a permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 69kW/185Nm, powered by a compact nickel-metal hydride battery storedunderneaththerearseat.

Peak combined output for the three-cylinder hybrid powertrain is rated at 100kW, with low combined fuel consumption of 3.8 litres per 100km on the combined urban/highway cycle and average carbon dioxide emissions of 85 gramsperkilometre.

Safety

Theall-newLBXoffersexcellentprotection for occupants and other road users with a full suite of Lexus Safety System+ active safety features across a wide range of drivingscenarios.

Activesafetyusesacombinedmillimetre wave radar and monocular camera sensor, operating high-tech to provide peace of mind for road users. For example, the Pre-Collision System with Pre-collision Braking, which detects leading vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists in the daytime, as wellasoncomingvehiclesandmotorcycles inthedaytime.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control offers a broad range of associated features, allowing four levels of preset distances to vehicles in front and three levels of accelerationstrength.

TheDRCCsystemcanalsoofferstop-start and low-speed following, with smooth acceleration or deceleration as required.

Road Sign Assist uses the monocular camera to detect road sign speeds and display them on the multi-information. In a first for Lexus, owners can set a speed limiterlinkedwithRoadSignAssist(Speed Signs Only) to limit the vehicle’s speed in accordance with the associated speed limit.

The LBX comes equipped with eight airbags for excellent passive occupant protection.

Driving Lexus ‘lab coats’ (possibly with help from AI)didnotmissmeetingdesirableon-road credentials for LBX. Engineers improved the hybrid system’s responsiveness and acceleration thanks to the strong output of the motor and hybrid battery. Acceleration and deceleration characteristics are sensitive to up and downhill inclines and can adjust the drive forceaccordingly.

During acceleration, the hybrid system contribution is upped, which in turn decreases the workload of the petrol engine. With engine revs reduced by roughly 20 per cent compared to previous Lexus hybrids, there’s a cut in fuel consumption.

The LBX stretches the Lexus Driving Signature by intelligently checking the driver’sinputsandintentionswhendriving in Normal mode. For example, if driven in a sporty manner, additional deceleration may be provided when the accelerator pedal is stepped off, thereby reducing braking distance and enhancing the drivingexperience.

The new hybrid powertrain ensures the LBX provides spritely and refined performance while offering excellent fuel economy and low carbon dioxide emissions. After an average working week, the test LBX had managed to average 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres of fuel use.

Summary

The Chinese could take a leaf out of the Lexus LBX book in connecting with the driver – fewer intrusive warnings, alarms and physical interventions. By all means offerthemup,thenleavethedrivertoreact, hopefully,accordingly.TheLexusLBXticks all these boxes without ‘strangling’ the wallet.

The Lexus LBX is a touch of down-to-earth luxury. (Pictures: Supplied)

Let the finals drama begin

What a ride 2025 has been - quality games, big crowds, and just enough upsets to keep us guessing. Now the finals are here, and while Adelaide, Geelong, Brisbane and Collingwood prepare for qualifying blockbusters, the rest of the top eight sharpen for sudden-death September. For all the drama and twists of the home-and-away season, the real theatre of football begins now. Because this is the time of year when legacies are written, heroes are made, and one team gets to experiencetheultimate-thatlastSaturday in September, the big dance, holding the premiership cup aloft on the MCG. That’s where it all starts and finishes in the end.

The season that shaped the finals Adelaide earned the minor premiership and, with their slick ball movement, look every bit the powerhouse. Geelong once again proved their system is relentless, whileBrisbaneproducedwhatcoachChris Fagan called their best home-and-away campaign ever, even without key stars for much of the year. Collingwood’s form dipped late but their finals pedigree means they remain dangerous. Fremantle surged into September with momentum after toppling the Bulldogs, GWS stuck to their pressure brand, Hawthorn’s rebuild accelerated faster than anyone predicted, and Gold Coast finally broke through for their first-ever finals berth under Damien Hardwick.

At the other end, the Bulldogs’ slip was a reminder that timing is everything. It was a season where every week seemed to matter, and as always, it underlined a truth I’ve held since my playing days: footy is 90 per cent above the shoulders. The teams that absorbed pressure, set high standardsandrefusedtofoldunderfatigue or injury are the ones now preparing for finals.

Hardwick’s mantraresponsibility or bust No voice cut through louder this season than Damien Hardwick’s. He told his Suns: “If you need me as a coach to motivate you, then we’re already in trouble.”

That’s finals footy in one line. It’s about owning the moment, lifting after flat patches,andtakingresponsibilityfromthe

leadership group down. For Gold Coast, finally tasting September, Hardwick’s “two-game season” mantra has become a cultural turning point.

For every other club, it’s a reminder that standards matter more than slogans. Because once the first ball is bounced in September, the contest becomes as much about resilience and leadership as it is about skill.

Form pulses heading into September Collingwood, despite losing five of their last six before beating Melbourne, remain finals-hardened but must sharpen late-game execution. Adelaide’s ball movement is elite, but without Izak Rankine they’ll need scoreboard impact from their mids and small forwards.

Geelong v Brisbane promises to be a heavyweight qualifying final - the Cats’ system against the Lions’ stoppage power. Fremantle arrive with real tailwind after their late surge, and GWS’s pressure game looks built for finals intensity. Hawthorn, meanwhile, remain a live threat if their mark-and-control game clicks.

Trade season: theatre off the field

As finals heat up, trade whispers begin. We’ve already seen the sparks: Tom De Koning to St Kilda, Wanganeen-Milera rejecting $30 million offers to stay a Saint and become the AFL’s first $2m-a-year player, and Harley Reid recommitting to WestCoastdespiteVictorianclubscircling.

But trade season isn’t just about who moves. It’s about the journalistic arms race to be first. Agents leak to boost value, list bossesfloatwhisperstounsettlerivals,and journos fight tooth and nail to be the news breaker.Forfans,it’spuretheatre-because the headlines of October can shape the ladder we see the following September.

The regional heartbeat Crowds averaged nearly 37,000 per game this year, with more than 7.6 million fans attending overall. A fair slice came from the regions - families piling into cars and busesfromBendigo,Ballarat,theMacedon Ranges or down the Princes Highway to Geelong.TheAFLmightbeanationalsport, but it’s still powered by grassroots and country passion. For Star Weekly readers,

that connection is part of the magic: seeing someonefromacountrytownriseontothe MCG stage on Grand Final day.

What wins September (2025 edition) Front-half footy: Control territory and lock it in.

Pressure that sticks: Create scores from turnover when stoppages dry up.

Leaders who absorb heat: When momentum swings, true captains earn their stripes.

Final word

The 2025 season reminded us of one truth: the scoreboard often tells less of the story than the mindset. Teams that stood tall when it mattered most are the ones who survived. Now it’s about September - the stage every player dreams of, the stage that decides careers and club history.

Because no matter how thrilling the season has been, everything in AFL starts andfinisheswiththatonedayinSeptember - the Grand Final, the roar of 100,000 at the MCG, and one team lifting the cup to etch their name in history.

And that’s why we love this game.

Finals storylines to watch

Players to Watch

Jordan Dawson (Adelaide): The skipper sets the standard — clean ball use and composure under pressure.

Jeremy Cameron (Geelong): Coleman Medal winner, the Cats’ barometer.

Hugh McCluggage (Brisbane): Midfield class and endurance will be vital. Nick Daicos (Collingwood): Can flip a game with skill and run.

MattRowell(GoldCoast):Finallyplaying September — his contested work will define the Suns.

Key Storylines

Can Adelaide go all the way? Minor premiers but missing Izak Rankine until the Grand Final.

Geelong’s consistency: The old machine keeps on rolling — will experience count again?

Brisbane’s resilience: Injuries tested them, but they’re still top four.

Collingwood’swobble:Formquestioned, but don’t underestimate finals experience. The Suns’ breakthrough: Damien Hardwick has them believing — can they shock the competition in their first finals campaign?

Anthony Stevens is the principal of Anthony Stevens Real Estate. Phone 0459 924 164.

Suns players celebrate qualifying for their first ever finals following the AFL Round 24 match against the Bombers. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)

Big week of sport action

There were plenty of highs and lows on the weekend as finals action took centre stage. Star Weekly’s LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting the action.

Footscray’s Stephanie Kelly. 499386_05

Parkside Spurs’ Natalie Pearce. 499323_12

Footscray celebrates. 499386_20

Yarraville-Seddon’s Rachel Culvenor. 499323_08

Newport’s Margaret Collins. 499386_09

Footscray’s Kerry Nease. 499386_13 North Footscray’s Tommy Manley and Wyndhamvale’s Oliver Brett. 499334_18 North Footscray’s Barnaby Sianos. 499334_25

West Footscray’s Nathan Jarvis. 499384_07

West Footscray’s Chris Long. 499384_16

Glory for Altona North

By Tara Murray

Altona North wasn’t leaving anything to chance in its fight for promotion in the FV state league 3 north-west competition.

After missing out in the final round last season on goal difference, Altona North has locked in promotion with two rounds remaining.

Not only did the side seal promotion, but with other results falling its way it locked up the title.

Coach Bob Stojcevski said it was nice to achieve what they set out to do at the start of the year.

“We set high challenges for the team and we have achieved two and there’s another two to go,” he said.

“We were celebrating that we got promoted on the weekend but winning the league was not on our minds.

“We thought we might achieve that this coming weekend. The celebrations stayed the same, just the songs were different.”

Stojcevski said he didn’t want to go through the pain of last season again as the side watched its promotion hopes go by the wayside.

With the club celebrating 50 years, it makes the achievement even more special.

“It’s not often you can combine two milestones in the same year,” he said.

“From everyone’s perspective, the committee, supporters, everyone is so

over the moon that it has all come together and we’ve won a championship.

“It makes it more special.”

While promotion and the championship is sealed, the task isn’t finished.

Stojcevski said they still had two more objectives they wanted to hit.

“We want to win the last two games,” he said. “We want to win every home game which we have never achieved in our history.

“It doesn’t impact the table, but if you win all your home games that is 33 points.

“The players and myself want to achieve that.

“Now we’ve won the league, the state league 3 final is thrown on the agenda.”

Stojcevski admits that it will be tough

Five premierships in a row for Footscray

By Tara Murray

Footscray had to dig deep to overcome Newport in the Lacrosse Victoria women’s state league grand final to make it five premierships in a row.

The two western suburbs clubs put on a show in the decider which could have gone eitherwaywithbothsideshavingchancesto win it late.

Footscray came from three goals down in the final quarter to win, 11-10.

Footscray coach Max Madonia said it was a pretty special moment for the club.

“There was a build up throughout the year,” he said. “The team was challenged on and off the field.

“Credit where credit is due and Newport was really good. Sometimes luck goes your wayanditcameourwayyesterday[Sunday].

Madonia said the game showcased the best of the competition with a lot of passion, grunt and determination.

Newport led by two goals at half time before the scores were level at the main break.

Three goals to one in the third quarter gave Newport back the lead heading into the final quarter.

When it scored first, the margin was out to three. Footscray managed to get one back, but still trailed with half a quarter to go.

Madonia said with Newport in some really good form it was going to be a big test for them to come over the top.

“I said to my assistant coach that if they got one more goal we were done and dusted,” he said.

“Sometimes you get a lucky break and we got a couple of lucky breaks, which we worked hard for.

“I’m not taking anything away from our

to stay focused, the group had trained really well in its first session after claiming the title.

Altona North faced second-placed Sunbury United, which is still in a battle with Surf Coast for second spot and the second promotion spot.

Stojcevski said they know that Sunbury has a lot to play for and are wary of them.

Altona North claimed another win, beating Sunbury 2-0.

Altona North faces Laverton in the final round.

In state league 2 north-west, Altona East Phoenix sits three points and eight goals ahead on goal difference from Uni Hill Eagles in the fight for second.

Season

Williamstown’s finals run came to an end at the hands of the Casey Demons on Saturday in a Victorian Football League elimination final.

After winning a wildcard final the previous week, getting over the line in an elimination was a step too far for the Seagulls.

Having travelled out to Casey Fields, the Seagulls were on the back foot early on.

The Demons kicked six first goals to two as they opened up a 23 point lead at the first break.

It was very similar in the second quarter, as the Demons extended the lead to 43 points at the main break and had one foot in a semi final.

While the Seagulls had their best quarter of the game in the third quarter score wise, the Demons were still able to outscore them to make the lead 50 points heading into the final quarter.

girls. They were ruthless and confident and composed.”

Madonia said they changed their game plan in the final seven and half minutes and went all out attack to try and get the win.

He said they had less and less options availabletothemastheclockwindeddown.

“We changed our philosophy and they took it on board,” he said. “Both sides were under the pump.

“Things were consistently changed and you have to adapt and they were able to do that.”

Bonnie Yu, who scored three goals in the final quarter, was named most valuable player for a third straight year.

Madonia said Marlee Wood from Newport had really impressed him in the final.

The premiership was Footscray’s fifth in a row. It has played in 18 straight grand finals

For Madonia, a former Australian women’s coach, it’s his first in this run of premierships.

He said kudos to the coaches that had come before him and everyone for staying focused on what they were doing to keep having success..

With the game all but over, the Demons stamped their authority in the final quarter to run away with a 20.12 (132)-8.8 (56) win.

Brodie McLaughlin kicked three goals for the Seagulls to add to his impressive haul for the year.

Damon Hollow was the other multiple goalkicker for the Seagulls with two goals.

Jake Greiser had 26 disposals for the Seagulls, while Joel Fitzgerald had 23 as both were busy with the ball in hand.

While the Seagulls season is over, Footscray Bulldogs continued on their merry way with a big win against Frankston.

The Bulldogs won 15.15 (105)-3.7 (25).

Zac Walker kicked four goals for the Bulldogs and Arthur Jones kicked three.

The Bulldogs now have the week off ahead of a preliminary final.

Footscray celebrates the win. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 499386_33

Bonnie Yu. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 499386_01

Hugo Hall-Kahan. (Stuart Chambers) 499252_28

United fights wind up order

By Anna Harrington, AAP

The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) will kick on with preparations for the upcoming A-Leagues seasons with or without Western United, as the embattled club attempts to fight a wind-up order.

United’s hierarchy were working towards an appeal of the Federal Court’s decision to wind up the club’s ownership group in insolvency, after successfully applying to stay the order.

Lawyers for the club had sought a fourweek adjournment to proceedings, claiming they had found a fresh $15 million investment to pay off their debts, but it was dismissed on Friday afternoon United on Friday confirmed it had been

abletohaveastayplacedonthewindingup while they prepare an application to have the court’s order reviewed.

“WesternUnitedFootballClubispleased to advise that an application made this afternoon to stay the court’s orders was successful,” United said.

“The winding up has been stayed pendinganapplicationtoreviewthecourt’sdecisionsubstantivelyandoncethatapplication ismadenextweek,thestaywilloperateuntil the appeal is heard.

“Western United is doing everything we can to continue our dream. We will continue to engage with the ATO (Australian Tax Office) and our sports and community stakeholderstohaveourlicencerenewedor reinstated.”

Facing a tax bill amid concerns over unpaid wages and superannuation - and while under a FIFA registration ban - Western were stripped of their A-League licence by Football Australia (FA) earlier this month.

FA’s move followed continued delays to a takeover deal with American-based investors KAM, who ultimately withdrew their bid on Wednesday following the decision to revoke the Tarneit-based club’s licence.

TheAPL,whichrunstheA-Leagues,confirmed it will address immediate implications for the upcoming seasons.

“We are extremely disappointed to learn that WMG Football Club Limited, the company which owns and operates Western United Football Club, has been placed into liquidation,” APL executive chairman Ste-

Game 50 up for Bulldog Ellie Gavalas

By Tara Murray

Western Bulldogs’ Ellie Gavalas never imaginedplayingoneAFLWgameletalone 50.

The midfielder-forward, who started her career at North Melbourne is set to round out for game 50 on Saturday.

Speaking before the milestone game, she said it was a pretty exciting occasion.

“I’m super pumped and super excited,” she said. “It’s Indigenous Round as well and it’s a home game.

“My family is up from Tassie and my nephew,who is one years old, will have a jumper with my number on the back.

“It’ll be the first time seeing me in person.”

Gavalas came from a soccer background, including playing for the under-17s Matildas before making the switch to football.

She played for the Bulldogs Victorian FootballLeaguewomen’steamin2019before being drafted to North Melbourne.

Gavalas returned to the Bulldogs last

season,thistimewiththeirAFLWprogram.

“I had five seasons with the Roos,” she said. “There was nothing but love and respect for the Roos.

“There was the opportunity at the Bulldogs where I played my one VFLW season and it drew me back to the Dogs.”

Gavalas said it’s the friendships and peopleshehasmetalongthewaythathave been the highlights of her career.

For the Bulldogs, this season is year two of the rebuild.

Gavalas said you can see the differences from 12 months ago.

“In my first year there were a lot of new players,” she said. “I was one of 11 new players and there was a new coach.

“With continuity we have been able to consolidate what we had been working on. This year has been good so far.

“Last year the intent was there and you couldn’t fault the effort. There were some teething issues. .

“But with continuity with the relatively samegroupaslastyear,we’reclearonwhat we want to achieve.”

phen Conroy said.

“This is a difficult time for all of the fans, staff, players and coaches of Western United, and we acknowledge their hard work and commitment to the club through challengingcircumstancesoverthelastsixyears.

“We will now work with the Liquidator, PFA and Wyndham City Council, to ensure the impacted staff, players and coaches at the club have access to the support they need at this difficult time.”

The United saga has left players and staff, who were together when Friday’s decision was handed down, in limbo.

Elsewhere, Football Victoria confirmed Western United is no longer eligible to participate in the state’s leagues after being placed into liquidation.

CYs miss finals

A final round win wasn’t enough for WilliamstownCYMSintheVictorian Amateur Football Association premier B competition.

The CYs needed to beat Old Camberwell on Saturday and hope that results went their way so they could sneak into the top four.

While the CYs completed the first part of the task, a final round win to Old Carey was enough for the side to claim the last finals spots.

For the CYs, the final round was a pretty solid win against Old Camberwell. The CYs led by seven points at quarter time and the margin extended slightly to eight points at the main break.

The CYs broke the game open in the third quarter with six goals to none to lead by 45 points at the last break.

The Bulldogs have started the season 1-1, with a win against Richmond.

Gavalas said there had been some good signs in round one against Melbourne before putting it together against Richmond.

“The belief in us being able to come out and execute what we want to achieve was really good,” she said.

“It was fun to get the win and hopefully we’ll get a few more for the year.”

Gavalas said the Bulldogs were aiming to play finals like every team but the main focus was about how they go about it and executing the game plan.

The Bulldogs faced Hawthorn on Saturday night.

The Hawks have won both their games heading into the match.

Gavalas said they had to back themselves in and play the way they wanted to.

It was a low scoring affair with neither side scoring a goal in the second half.

Hawthornwereabletoholdon,winning 2.2 (14)-1.4 (10).

Gavalas had 12 disposals in the loss.

The Bulldogs face Carlton on Saturday.

Williamstown CYMS kicked the first three goals of the final quarter to put the game beyond doubt. Old Camberwell kicked the last two of the game but the damage had already been done, with the CYs winning, 14.11 (95)-6.11 (47).

Ayden McCarroll kicked five goals for the CYs, while Harrison Miller kicked two goals. Cooper Brown, McCarroll and Rohan Diwell were named the CYs best.

The CYs finished in fifth spot, a game outside the top four.

In women’s premier action, the CYs finished their season with a win against Old Geelong.

The CYs led all day in the contest as they came away with a 5.3 (33)3.1 (19) win.

Polly Conway and Loren Mills kicked two goals each for the CYs.

The CYs finished the season in eighth spot with three wins for the season in their first season up in the top flight.

Ellie Gavalas. (AAP Image/Darren England)

William Chan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 405183_13

Eagles on the back foot

By Luke D’Anello

Yarraville-Seddon has been left with an uphill battle to claim its maiden Western Football League division 1 premiership.

The Eagles were outgunned by Caroline Springs in Saturday’s qualifying final, conceding 11 goals to three after half-time in a 34-point defeat.

They led by 12 points at half-time before conceding seven goals to one in a telling third quarter and four goals to two in the final term of the 16.12 (108)-10.14 (74) defeat.

Yarraville-Seddon coach Brad Julier said his team, which finished the regular season in second spot, was outclassed after an encouraging first half.

“We had a good first half and got our nos-

es in front and the work rate and intensity lifted, and we just didn’t go with it in the second half,” Julier said.

“We weren’t horrible, but there’s definitely some things to take away from it.

“We get another chance, so hopefully we get to fix them up next week.

“I just think it was just our attitude and our work rate. Our pressure dropped away and it just allowed Caroline Springs to get their hands on the footy. We just couldn’t seem to get our hands on the footy in the second half.”

The result means the Eagles must win three consecutive sudden-death finals to lift the cup.

They will next tackle reigning premier Hoppers Crossing at Werribee’s Avalon Air-

port Oval on Sunday, while Caroline Springs will face minor premier Werribee Districts in the major semi-final on Saturday.

The Eagles and Warriors have split their two meetings this season.

“Obviously we’re all disappointed with the result, but we’ve got another chance, so we need to move on fairly quickly and get our heads into next week,” Julier said.

Julier said Darcy Grieves and Riley Anderson led the way in the defeat, while Lachlan Green, Archie Campbell, Kobe Cikala and Wil Kliszewski were also named in the best.

Green, Michael Selsby and Tyson Brazel contributed two goals apiece.

Ryan Allan, Jamie Ristoski and Benjamin Davey booted three goals each for Caroline

Eagles fly high into first WFL grand final

By Tara Murray

The belief and momentum is growing for Yarraville-Seddon as its through to its first Western Football League women’s grand final.

The Eagles hadn’t tasted finals until this season and they have held their nerve twice in two games to win through to the final game of the season from fourth spot.

On Saturday, the Eagles had to come from behind in the final quarter to beat the Parkside Spurs, 3.5 (23)-3.4 (22) in the preliminary final.

Acting Eagles coach Emma Steel said it was an amazing feeling.

“It’s very exciting for us,” Steel said. “It’s obviously a huge achievement for us and to also get two teams up this season is an incredible achievement.

“To have our WFNL team make the grand final is enormous for us.”

It was a wet and cold start to Saturday but conditions improved as the game went along.

The Eagles were able to make the most

of the conditions.

Yarraville Seddon kicked the only goal of the first half to lead by seven points heading into the main break.

When the Spurs kicked their first in the third quarter it was back to two points heading into the last.

Steel said it’s a blur what was said at both half time and three quarter time breaks with the Eagles in front.

“I honestly can’t remember what I said,” Steel said. “I think it was to go out and do what we did in the first quarter.”

The Spurs kicked the first goal of the final quarter to take the lead for the first time in the game.

The Eagles had the answers though and kicked the next two to lead by nine points heading into the back end of the quarter.

Parkside kept coming and when Mary Sandral kicked truly the margin was back to one point.

Steel said the quarter kept going and going and they were waiting for the siren to finally go.

Steel said they were proud with how

Springs, while Reece Blackman, Max Hudson and skipper Keenan O’Shea also earned mentions in the best.

Julier said he remained upbeat about his team’s prospects in 2025 after a 15-3 homeand-away campaign left it one game behind minor premier Werribee Districts.

“We definitely still think we’re good enough to get there and challenge,” he said.

“It makes it a bit harder now, but we know we’re playing every week now and we get that continuity. Hopefully we can win three more (finals).”

Julier said the premiership race was again wide open, with Hoppers Crossing claiming last year’s flag from fifth position.

“I don’t think there’s anything in it,” he said.

Sports shorts

Asian Cup

Three Western United players have been named in the Australian under-13 squad for the Asian Cup qualifiers. A 24-player squad has been confirmed to compete in group D alongside China PR, Northern Mariana Islands and Timor-Leste during the September 1-9 FIFA window. United trio Rhys Bozinovski, Matthew Grimaldi and Abel Walatee have been named in the squad.

Cricket

Spotswood has announced that Sandeep Mandalika will coach its women’s side this year. The club is reforming a women’s side, having not had a team since 2017. Mandalika has been a player at the Woodsmen in recent seasons. The club is still looking for more players for the side which will play T20s on Sundays. Details: 0405 192 830 or womenscricket@spotswoodcc.com.au

VTCA

Williamstown CYMS has landed the signature of Alex Browne for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield season. Browne is described as a hard-hitting top order bat who bowls handy off-spin. He played with Macedon in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association last season - he amassed 548 runs at an average of 45.6, including three tons and also chimed in with 23 wickets. Previous to his stint for Macedon, he has also played with Thame Town, and Catford and Cyphers clubs.

the group really responded after being challenged in the last quarter.

“It was a massive effort and the belief not to count themselves out even when they gave up the lead.”

Katelyn Kissack kicked all three goals for the Eagles.

She was named in the best alongside Ashleigh Guest and Rachel Culvenor.

The Eagles now face Caroline Springs in the grand final on Saturday at Spotswood at 12.10pm.

The Lakers, who had the week off, are playing off in a sixth straight grand final. The Lakers have won both games this season between the sides by 64 and 108 points.

Steel said they would continue to adopt the underdog status which they took into the preliminary final.

“Caroline Springs is going to be really tough and it’s good motivation for us.

“We’ve had two massive wins in finals and we’re building at the right time of the season.”

Socceroos

Former Western United star Noah Botic has earned his first Socceroos call up. Botic is one of four players to receive their first Socceroos call up for the ANZAC Soccer Ashes opener against New Zealand in Canberra. The Socceroos face New Zealand at GIO Stadium on Friday, before the return leg in Auckland on September 9 for the Ashes decider. Botic departed United at the end of the season earlier this year after singing with Austria Vienna after a breakout season.

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Roosters’ season still alive

By Luke D’Anello

A best-afield performance from first-year senior player Henry Lovell and an eightgoal haul from sharpshooter Matthew Turcinovich lifted West Footscray to victory over the Suns in Sunday’s semi-final.

The Roosters will face minor premier Wyndhamvale this weekend for a spot in the Western Football League division 2 grand final.

West Footscray trailed at half-time before gaining the ascendancy to secure an 18-point win, 14.18 (102)-12.12 (84).

With prime mover Jaycob Doyle missing because of illness, Lovell stood tall to ensure his team kept its premiership hopes alive.

“He was super. It (Doyle’s absence) probably put a bit more pressure on Henry, but he really stepped up and was a ball winner,” Roosters coach Troy Beamond said.

Turcinovich booted eight for the third time in 2025 to lift his season tally to 77 from games.

“He’s had a fantastic year and he deserves what he gets,” Beamond said.

“I can’t remember him ever missing a training session, he gets there early, he has shots on goal before training, he’s clean below his knees and he deserves every reward or success he gets.”

Chris Long, Otis Storti, Jai Haines and Johny Ho also fired for the winners.

“We were a bit scratchy early and (the Suns) capitalised early, but the way we

fought through that, persevered and kept impacting the contest was extremely pleasing,” Beamond said.

“Our ball use late probably separated (the two teams) a bit, and our run. I think we’ve been a pretty strong running side all year and we do rotate fairly heavily, so we can generally run out a game pretty well.

“Our midfield probably had its colours lowered a little bit early, but particularly in the second half I thought Henry Lovell and Jai Haines really got on top.”

West Footscray has lost both meetings with Wyndhamvale this season, but Beamond - a former senior coach at the Falcons - is hopeful his team can complete an upset.

“There’s two games all year that ladder

North Footscray into division 2 grand final

By Luke D’Anello

North Footscray is one win away from its first senior premiership since 2017 after conquering minor premier Wyndhamvale in a bruising encounter on Saturday.

The Devils earned a direct passage through to the Western Football League division 2 decider after in-form star Barnaby Sianos nailed a clutch goal at the 24-minute mark of the final to secure a memorable win.

The Falcons have dropped their past two games against North Footscray and will face West Footscray this weekend for a spot in the grand final.

David Battistella’s side prevailed by three points in a low-scoring struggle, 5.5 (35)3.14 (32).

“It’s a little bit surreal,” Battistella said.

“Making any grand final, I’ve been around long enough to know how hard they are.

“It was probably a game that for most of the day they controlled, and we just hung in there.

“To do it the way we did it, with Barny

Sianos kicking a goal in the last minute of the game, it was definitely special.”

Sianos has been best afield in consecutivefinals,histhree-goalcontributiontelling in a match where goals were at a premium.

He was moved to the forward line from the midfield late in the contest before sinking the match-winning major.

“We were on the opposite side of the ground, but it had to be a good 50-metre kick in wet conditions, and he nailed it. It probably went over by about a metre,” Battistella said.

“Then we had to hang on for about a minute.

“I think he turned 21 this year, and he’s one of the kids we got down to the club last year. There’s no doubt the boy can play.”

Battistella also lauded the efforts of teenager Lachlan Peterson, who limited Wyndhamvale star Lewis Stanton to one goal - his lowest return in a season in which he has 117 majors to his name.

Jackson Ryan was “huge” at full-back, while Adam Petridis, Jarrod Spry and Josh Crofton also starred.

positions and the results in the season don’t mean a lot, and I think they’re the preliminary final and grand final,” he said.

“No matter where you come from, they’re genuine 50-50 contests.

“We’ve just got to go out there and throw everything at it and try to put a bit of pressure back on them.”

Beamond will also continue as coach in 2026 after initially deciding to step down from the top job.

“I was able to free up a little bit of time with work and just the change in circumstances,” he said.

“It was a little bit awkward because you step down and then you throw your hat back in the ring, but the club’s been great about it, the players have been fantastic.”

Woodsmen knocked out

Spotswood was outclassed by reigning premier Hoppers Crossing in Sunday’s Western Football League division 1 elimination final. The Woodsmen were restricted to just a solitary major after quarter-time as they went down by 59 points at Werribee’s Avalon Airport Oval, 12.14 (86)-3.9 (27).

Spotswood started strongly, kicking two of the game’s opening three goals to lead by nine points at the 11-minute mark of the first quarter.

But it was all downhill from there as the Warriors proved a class above to advance to the second week of finals. The Woodsmen won by 22 points when the teams met in round 16, but there was to be no repeat of that performance.

The Falcons kicked 1.10 in the first half and Battistella said they could have been three or four goals up instead of one point at the main break.

“It was one of those games where we were lucky to hang in for a long period and then there were players who stood up when we were under the pump who kept us in it, and then players who stood up when the game was there to be won who gave us an opportunity,” he said.

The Devils lost Jarrod Johns (rolled ankle) and Daniel Duggan (cork) to injury in the first half but Battistella said the pair would be fit for the grand final at Yarraville Oval on September 13.

“You definitely enjoy the moment because it’s hard enough to get in them. It’s even harder to win them. We take nothing for granted,” Battistella said.

“Unlike probably the previous years, this is as open a competition as you can get and any one of us can win it.

“We’re just lucky enough to have the knowledge that we’re going to be in there and down to two.”

Captain David Iaccarino, Jack Charleston, James Cleaver and Spencer Meagher were named the best for the losing side. Spotswood finished the home-and-away rounds in fifth spot with a 10-8 record, three games behind the fourth-ranked Warriors.

While the season ended in disappointment, the Woodsmen improved significantly after securing six wins in 2024. Iaccarino, Cleaver and Charleston were among their leading performers this year, while Sam Cross booted 37 goals from 14 games.

Hoppers Crossing coach Jared Polec took a lot out of the win and hoping to take it forward into their match with Yarraville-Seddon this Sunday.

“It was a very pleasing result, and (for Spotswood) to have six scoring shots after quarter-time was a tremendous effort from all 18 players.”

Luke D’Anello

Tommy Manley tries to break an Oliver Brett tackle. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 499334_18

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