Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 9th September 2025

Celebrating Men’s Sheds

For many men around Australia, men’s sheds are a place to come together, connect and learn.

From September 8 to 13, the Australian Men’s Shed Association (AMSA) is celebrating Men’s Shed week and the role sheds play in building healthy communities across Australia.

Taylors Hill Men’s Shed team leader Ray Sykes said the shed provides an opportunity for men to gather.

“It helps you get away from social isolation, build new relationships, meet new people, learn from other people.”

The Taylors Hill shed is open four days a week and hosts a weekly Tuesday lunch. Each year at the Taylors Hill Men’s Shed, members mentor six children from local primary schools who are struggling with attendance.

“That makes the people involved pretty proud. At least there may be a chance they’ve pointed the children in the right direction … There are lots of things we’ve done for various charities around the place,” Mr Sykes said.

Upgrade derailed

By Oscar Parry

BacchusMarshcommuterswillmissouton nine-car trains after a Melton line upgrade reshuffle, with the changes disappointing MooraboolmayorPaulTatchell.

As reported by StarWeekly , in 2022, the state government pledged $650 million to upgrade the Melton train line, including a complete rebuild of Melton station, removingfourlevelcrossingsandupgrading platformstoallowlongertrainstorun. This also included upgraded platforms at Bacchus Marsh, Cobblebank, Rockbank, Caroline Springs, Deer Park and Ardeer stationstoallowforlongernine-cartrains.

On August 29, the state government announced the project will be fast-tracked to be completed in 2027, with changes meaning platforms will only be extended at Deer Park, Caroline Springs, Rockbank and Cobblebank stations – with Bacchus Marsh andArdeerdroppedfromthelist.

A new stabling yard will be built in Cobblebank instead of upgrading the existingyardinMaddingley.

StarWeeklyunderstands the government decided an upgraded Maddingley stabling yard that could facilitate nine-car services to Bacchus Marsh would be redundant under future Melton Line electrification –as another stabling facility would have to

be built at Cobblebank. According to the government, having the stabling yard at Cobblebankwillallowtrainstorunstraight fromMeltontothecitywhilealsoaddressing the need for train stabling closer to Melton aspartofMeltonLineelectrification.

Bacchus Marsh will continue to be serviced by Wendouree and Ballarat six-car trains. V/Line will continue to use the Maddingleystablingyard.

Cr Tatchell said there is an “ongoing dispute” about the 60-minute Ballarat to Melbourne line and the service to Ballan andBacchusMarshstationsamongothers.

“I’d see the change [with] the stabling [yard]asaredherringtodistractawayfrom

the real problem. Let’s face it, Melton hasn’t becomeelectrifiedyet,”hesaid.

“This whole rail system between Melbourne and Ballarat, including Ballan, BacchusMarsh,andMelton,wasneverdone properly in the first place … we have the slowest fast train in the world … how much quickerisitthantheoldone?That’sbecause thecrossingsweren’tdoneproperly.”

A government spokesperson said the upgrade will boost the line’s capacity by 50 per cent adding, “We will kick off works to rebuild Sunshine Station early next year which is the first step towards electrifying the Melton Line – and unlocking more services,moreoftenforMelbourne’swest”.

Taylors Hill men’s shed

Team Leader Ray Sykes. (Damjan Janevski) 500973_02

Tears for stabbing victims

By Callum Godde and Allanah Sciberras, AAP

Suspected gang members armed with machetes and knives were on the run on Monday after killing two young friends on suburban streets.

The boys, a 12-year-old and 15-year-old, were fatally attacked at Cobblebank on Saturday evening.

The 12-year-old was found on Marble Drive about 8pm, while a 15-year-old boy was discovered dead on nearby Cobble Street.

The pair, who were friends, were treated at the scene but could not be revived.

The 15-year-old victim has been named as Dau Akueng, whose father Elbino said his son and friends were attacked while walking home from a local basketball game.

The community had buried four children in the past month, Mr Akueng said.

“Similar incidents happening, there’s no answer from police,” he told reporters at the scene on Sunday morning.

An emotional Aboil Alor, a friend of the Akueng family, said the boys didn’t deserve to die.

“We needed justice especially for those children, 12 and 15 years old,” she said.

Witness reports and CCTV vision showed the killings were committed by a group of face-masked males armed with machetes and long blades, Detective Inspector Graham Banks said.

“Whilst the investigation is in its early

stage, it has the hallmarks of a youth gang crime,” he said.

“It is one of the most horrific crimes in a substantial and growing list of crimes of this nature.

“The children who were murdered were not gang members and it is not okay to

remain silent.”

Disturbing CCTV footage from the scene shows a group chasing down one of the boys before repeatedly striking him.

Police are working to identify the exact group of gang members involved in the attack.

Up to eight culprits fled the scene in a vehicle that is yet to be identified.

Officers believe the attacks were targeted but will probe if it was a case of mistaken identity.

Cobble Street resident Christopher McFarlaneheardacommotionoutsidehis home just before 8pm.

In what he described as a traumatic scene, Mr McFarlane said the teenager’s hand had been severed.

He said the area was usually quiet, with a school located 100m down the road.

Police were yet to get to the bottom of what is making young male offenders behave in such a violent and extreme manner, Detective Inspector Banks said.

There must be a “strong deterrent” for weapons-related violence, he added.

“As I stand here before you, I think the penalties aren’t in balance with what community expectations are or mine,” he said.

In a statement posted to Facebook, a Melton Basketball spokesperson wrote that the community has been shocked and saddened by “the unnecessary loss of two of our members last night”.

“Our hearts, thoughts, and [prayers] are tonight with the families and friends of the two boys, as they deal with this unimaginable loss,” the statement read.

“The impact of these losses is deeply felt across the whole Melton Basketball community, especially Nile Warriors and Wolfpackbasketballclubs,wheretheboys competed in their games yesterday.”

Event approaches grave topics

Deathisanuncomfortableandconfronting topic for many, but an upcoming event at the Melton Library is aimed at changing that at a local level.

Facilitated by the Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust, an event called ‘Leaves and Threads’ invites people of all ages to explore the topics of life, death, and legacy through physical activities, art, reflection, and intergenerational discussion.

The event is part of the annual Dying to Know national campaign, which promotes preparing for death with purpose, love, and a sense of legacy rather than with fear. Featuringattheeventwillbeatoolcalled

the Bioscope tapestry, which is a large embroideredtapestrythataimstopromote conversations across many ideas relating to life and death. It was developed by designer Chetan Shastri and co-designed withend-of-lifecareclinicians.DrShastri–who recently completed a PhD that sought to support better experiences at end-of-life – is one of the hosts at the event and said it aims to help people approach the topic of death to understand and come to terms with it.

“It’s important to speak about because it affects everyone … we speak about it in different ways – children speak it in

Future careers in focus

Amazon employees visited Lakeview Senior College in Caroline Springs last week, with career paths, the rapidly changing job market, and the company’s data centres just some of the topics covered.

Hosted on Friday, September 5, the event–titledAmazonInspiringStudents in Technology– was hosted as part of the Department of Education’s Head Start apprenticeships and traineeships program, which aims to support students in years 10–12 to participate in a school-based apprenticeship and traineeship program and promote skills and traits needed in growing industries.

Atthesession,apanelofspeakersfrom several Amazon departments spoke to students about their career paths, answered student questions and offered advice.

After the panel discussion, students had the chance to talk with the Amazon guests in a mentoring workshop.

Impact agency More Butter’s Lachlan McAllister, who represented Amazon

and the Department of Education at the event, said a significant number of careers and pathways where showcased to students.

“The key message of today’s session is that students don’t need to know their exact career path right now. Today is about showing them some of the many options available,” Mr McAllister said.

“The real crux of this is that the types of careers available are changing so rapidly.”

Mr McAllister said the session also encouraged students to take an active rather than passive role in their career choices to help put them on a trajectory to something that they truly love.

Amazon data centre operations technician intern Wasi Abidi, principal technical product manager Rajeev Muralidhar, account manager Rebecca Gardner, solutions architect Barry Conway, and More Butter Impact Agency’s Lachlan McAllister during the session. (Hamish John Appleby).

different ways and … it’s fascinating the way younger people think about it and talk about it,” Dr Shastri said.

“I think not everybody gets the same thing [out of it].

“Talking about it can help us be compassionate towards others, it can help us live more authentically, and it can also help us confront mortality.”

Independentfuneralcelebrantandevent host Karen Brady said that one of the aims of the event is to try and get people of all ages approaching these topics.

“There’s no such thing as talking about the conversation too early, because death

affects everybody … people of all ages die, but even if in someone in your family … it affects the children and then the grandchildren,” Ms Brady said.

The event will run from 1.30–3.30pm on Sunday, September 21 at the Melton Library and Learning Hub at 31 McKenzie Street, Melton.

The session is not intended to serve as a grief circle, group therapy, or counselling session, and those who feel unsure about attending are encouraged to contact the organisation.

Details: yoursay.gmct.com.au/harkness/ leaves-and-threads

Devastated family friend, Aboil Alor, reacts at the scene of a fatal stabbing in Cobblebank.

(AAP Image/David Crosling)

Roads closed for upgrade

Meltonresidentsshouldprepareforfurther roadclosures,withatemporaryclosureset to be in place as safety and improvement works begin this month.

FromMonday,September22toSaturday, October 4, a temporary road closure will be in place at the Centenary Avenue and Coburns Road roundabout in Melton West due to upgrade works.

The closure will be on the western side of Centenary Avenue at the roundabout, whereaMeltoncouncilcrewwillconstruct an additional lane, aiming to reduce

congestion and improve safety.

The works will occur during the September school holidays, which according to the council, was timed to minimise disruption to the community.

According to council, Centenary Avenue experiences a high volume of traffic congestion due to there being only a single lane entry to the roundabout from the western side, and the additional lane will increase the capacity of the roundabout, resulting in improved traffic flow.

Mayor Steve Abboushi said the upgrade

Enhancing firefighter safety

The CFA unveiled five new props for its Victorian training centres at an event in Ballan last week, aiming to enhance the safety of its firefighters while working at heights.

On Thursday, September 4, CFA acting deputy chief officer of operational doctrine and training David Maxwell joined other dignitaries to officially handover the five new props at The Victorian Emergency Management Training Centre (VEMTC) at Central Highlands, Ballan.

The $8 million project included the construction of Safe Work at Heights props at CFA’s VEMTCs at Sunraysia, West Sale, Longerenong, Penshurst and Central Highlands.

The existing prop at Hunty VEMTC has also been upgraded and plans are underway for Bangholme VEMTC to receive the new prop soon.

“SafeWorkatHeightstrainingallowsCFA members to safely access roofs that aren’t already fire affected,” Mr Maxwell said.

“The prop involves the use of a harness, ropesandanchoringtocreateasafesystem for our members to access areas above two metres high ... it allows the rigging of the system in a controlled environment under supervision, preparing our members for real-life scenarios,” he said.

“The training also closely aligns with other emergency services, allowing for cross agency support in multi-agency situations ... this not only improves our safety and capability at incidents in Victoria,italsoallowsustofurthersupport our interstate partners by deploying our members to emergencies interstate when required.“

The training prop also has the ability to conduct low voltage fuse removal training, enabling members to disconnect overhead mainspowertoastructureatanemergency with specialist equipment.

CFA’s VEMTC sites and props are also widely used by other emergency services and agencies.

works will improve traffic flow and safety at this major intersection.

“We have scheduled the works during the school holiday period when there is less traffic to minimise the disruption to residents,” Cr Abboushi said. “We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation while these important works are completed which will make our city safer and easier to get around.”

A new footpath will also be constructed at the roundabout, aiming to improve pedestrian access and safety.

To allow for these works to take place, one lane will close on Coburns Road at the southern side of the roundabout.

Detours will be in place for the duration of the road closure, including via Rosyln Park Drive or Westmelton Drive, with the council encouraging residents to plan ahead and allow extra travel time.

Heavy vehicles will be able to detour via High Street.

Works will occur from Monday to Saturday between 7am and 5pm.

Details: melton.vic.gov.au/roadworks

Melton’s Wattle Day connection

The blooming of wattles marks the beginning of spring – but did you know National Wattle Day has a historical associationwithMelton?

Marked last week on September 1, Wattle Day is a national celebration of the beginning of spring, where many Acacia specieshavebloomedwithvibrantcolours.

AmemberofthePinkertonfamily–after whom Pinkerton Forest in Mount Cottrell isnamed– ArchibaldJamesCampbellwas the proponent of an annual country-wide celebrationofthewattlein1908.

In a historical excerpt of a book by Mr Campbell featured on the Australian National Botanic Gardens website, president of the federal and South Australian Wattle Day leagues William John Sowden gives credit to Mr Campbell

as a “pioneer in promoting the cult of the Wattle Blossom, particularly in the state of Victoria”.

“So long ago as the year 1899 he was the founder of a Wattle Club, and from that time onward every September he sent out invitations for a Wattle Day demonstration,”MrSowdenwrote.

“Campbell delivered for the first time his splendid and now popular lecture, poetically entitled “Wattle Time; or Yellow-haired September,” and in that address he advocated specifically the honouring of a Wattle Day throughout Australia.”

“He had not long to wait for the realisation of his ambition in this respect; for the observance of the anniversary is alreadysowidespread.”

Pinkerton Landcare and Environment Group’s Rosemary Fethers and Daryl Akers with a wattle in Eynesbury. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 500505

A group of CFA Ballan and Geelong West members. (Supplied)

Maureen honoured

By Oscar Parry

Long-time Melton resident Maureen Mohr’s service as a “compassionate and tireless community leader” was honoured through her induction into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women last week.

At a ceremony on September 2 at the Arts Centre Melbourne, 24 women were inducted into the honour roll, which aims to honour stellar community service, outstanding contributions, and the many ways in which women across Victoria make a lasting difference.

Ms Mohr was recognised in the ‘Local Champion’ category.

Living in Melton for more than 50 years, she was inducted for her work as a compassionate and tireless community leader whose work has had a significant impact in the region.

Through the Melton St Vincent de Paul society, she has helped women who have escaped family violence .

“We try and get them furniture for their home or clothing … because they come away only with what’s on their back,” Ms Mohr said.

With this organisation, she has also provided free breakfasts to children at St Dominic’s Primary School in Melton and St Catherine of Siena Catholic Primary School in Melton West.

She has also worked as an ageing well ambassador and as a community member with the arts and culture committee with Melton council.

Ms Mohr was also instrumental in determining a need for the Vinnies mobile soup van service in Melton that began

last November, working with others in her committee to bring it to fruition.

At home, she and her husband Tom volunteer their time to sort food and material aid donations to be distributed throughout the community.

When asked about her induction, Ms Mohr said she feels “very humble about the whole thing”.

“I was probably out of my depth [at the ceremony] with all of these other en-

riched people who have done so much for everybody … I thought I was a very minor player,” Ms Mohr said.

“I suppose when you volunteer, you get more out of it than what the person you’re helping does … it makes you realise you can do something for others without spending too much time.

“It’s just a matter of being mindful of others, I think.”

Melton youth space pitch

A multi-purpose youth space was proposed at last month’s Melton council meeting, with the idea aimed at enhancing existing outdoor spaces and supporting youth in the municipality.

Raised at the August 25 council meeting by councillor Phillip Zada, the notice of motion called on the council to consider including a youth entertainment space as part of an upcoming master planning project.

Cr Zada said that the youth entertainment space at Sutherlands Park in Western Australia provides an “excellent model” for this type of project.

According to Cr Zada, the Sutherlands Park youth space includes a covered skate plaza, pump track, multipurpose court, urban play areas, lighting for after-hours use, projection facilities – and it was constructed at a cost of $6.7 million.

“The proposed youth entertainment space directly addresses this, creating more than a recreational facility that delivers a hub of safety, creativity, and community pride,” he said.

“This is not a token gesture or a short-lived fix – it’s about building lasting infrastructure that generally improves the lives of young people.”

Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins and Melton resident and 2025 Victorian Honour Roll of Women inductee Maureen Mohr at the ceremony. (Supplied).

Push on to close the gap

Wyndham and Greater Geelong occupy one of Australia’s fastest growing population corridors. Jaidyn Kennedy explores the need for better public transport connectivity between the two municipalities.

It has been 10 years since trains stopped runningbetweenWerribeeandGeelong –a link that existed for more than 150 years and connected the city centres of WyndhamandGreaterGeelong.

Thatdirectlinkwasseveredin2015when the state government opened the Regional Rail Link, rerouting all Geelong-bound services through Sunshine to untangle suburbanandregionaltraffic.

And, according to Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj, a vital link between Melbourne and Geelong has been missing eversince.

“Theremovalofthisservicehascreateda largegapinthenetwork,requiringWerribee residentstoeitherdrivetoGeelongorcatch a bus to Wyndham Vale station for the V/ Line,”hesaid.

“Unfortunately, this makes our region less attractive as an employment option, and for those already working in Greater Geelong,itaddssignificantcostandatleast 25minutestotheircommute.”

Star Weekly experienced delays of about 50 minutes when attempting to commute fromWerribeetoGeelonglastweek.

While there has been investment, the reality is that demand has far outstripped supply - Mia Shaw

Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw said direct connectivity between the Werribee city centre and Geelong has not improved in 40 years.

“WhenIwasgrowingupinWerribee,you couldcatchatrainstraighttoGeelongfrom Werribee, and the Geelong line was far less congested,”CrShawsaid.

She said re-establishing a direct Werribee-Geelong train service would help encourage more Wyndham residents to workdownthehighway.

“Encouraging more Wyndham residents to work in Geelong takes pressure off the already overcrowded transport routes into centralMelbourne,“CrShawsaid.

“Strongerpublictransportlinksallowour residents to access jobs, higher education, health services, and cultural opportunities in Geelong – without being completely reliantoncars.

“It shortens commutes, improves work–life balance, and keeps more economic activityinthewest.”

However, Cr Shaw said the Wyndham of today is much bigger than the one she grew up in and there are more pieces to the connectivitypuzzle.

“Today, we have Tarneit and Wyndham Vale stations, which are among the busiest in the state, but our residents still face overcrowding and long waits for services,” shesaid.

“Outside of Southern Cross Station, the next busiest stations on the Regional Rail Link statewide are Tarneit, followed closely byGeelongandthenWyndhamVale.”

“So,whiletherehasbeeninvestment,the reality is that demand has far outstripped supply.”

For some Wyndham residents, the quickest route to Geelong on public transport involves heading back to the innersuburbsofMelbourne.

“For some residents in Point Cook, the quickest way to get to Geelong by train actually involves taking a Metro service from Williams Landing, Aircraft, or LavertonintoFootscray,andthenswitching toaV/Lineservice,”CrShawsaid.

“That shows just how disconnected parts

of our community are from the regional rail network, and why better direct links throughWyndhamaresoimportant.”

Itisunderstoodthatthestategovernment currently has no plans to redirect Geelong Line trains via Werribee due to the number of metropolitan train services operated on theWerribeecorridor.

ADepartmentofTransportandPlanning spokesperson said the state government had added hundreds of extra services on the Geelong line and would continue to upgradethebusnetworkacrossthewestern suburbsandwesternVictoria.

A spokesperson for federal Transport, Infrastructure, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the federal government is supportingtransportconnectivitybetween Wyndham and Geelong by funding major roadprojects.

In May, Wyndham and Greater Geelong signed a five-year memorandum of understanding. The Avalon Corridor Strategy, an initiative between the two councils and the state government to determine the direction of future development for land between Lara and Werribee,wasidentifiedasapriority.

Cr Kontelj said the precinct has the potential to generate 20,000 new jobs in the coming decades, but public transportation needs to stimulate its growth rather than catchuptoit.

“The precinct requires vital transport infrastructure to be able to accommodate industrial development, including a businessplanforanewrailconnectionand interimsolutionssuchasashuttlebusfrom LaraStationtoAvalon,”hesaid.

“The Avalon precinct’s proximity to road, rail and Geelong Port makes it a unique and unsurpassed location as an advanced manufacturing hub and freight and logisticsgateway.

A Friday morning from Werribee to Geelong

To get a sense of the potential gaps in public transport connectivity between Wyndham and Geelong, I ran an experiment.

I commuted from a random point in Riverwalk estate in Werribee to Star Weekly’s sister paper, the Geelong Independent, located on Pakington Street,GeelongWest.

Riverwalk is a newer area that has grown exponentially in the last decade and Pakington Street is one of Geelong’s most popular spots. Not an unrealistic commutingscenario.

I expected that starting my walk to the nearest bus stop at 7.20am would get me totheIndependent’sofficeby9am-itwas nottobe.

When I arrived at the Riparian Street-Newmarket Road bus stop at 7.30am, I checked the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) app to see the 441 bus to Werribee Station was three minutes away.

It was a close call considering it was more than a 40-minute wait for the next bus.

Iboardedat7.33amandgottoWerribee at7.45am

After consulting the PTV app, Google Maps and Apple Maps, I was presented withthreescenarios.

Long-term, he said a train station at Avalon that branches off from a direct Geelong-Werribeelineisneeded.

“Not only would this be a game changer for workers and travellers, but it would also help to facilitate future growth and opportunitiesforthebusinessprecinctand airport,”hesaid.

For Wyndham residents, who Cr Shaw said are set to number 500,000 by 2040, reliable public transport links to Avalon mayhaveanarrayofbenefits.

“Better public transport to the airport means Wyndham residents have easier, more affordable access to travel, without having to fight through the congestion of Tullamarine,”CrShawsaid.

“Efficient bus and rail links to Avalon would make it a true airport of choice for people living in Melbourne’s west and Geelong.

“It also opens up employment opportunities at Avalon itself, as well as in freightandlogistics.”

CommitteeforWyndhamchiefexecutive Leanne Down said building reliable public transport to the precinct would help both councils maximise the economic benefits that come from any potential growth at Avalon.

“As industries expand in the area, it will foster a more diverse economy, providing residents with greater employment opportunities and increasing overall economic stability for both Wyndham and Geelong,”shesaid.

“IncreasedinternationalflightsatAvalon would enhance connectivity, making it easier for residents to travel and for local businessestoaccessglobalmarkets.

“Growth in air traffic will stimulate tourism, attract foreign investments, and promote local exporters, ultimately enrichingthecommunityandencouraging economicdevelopment.”

Take the 190 or 192 bus to Wyndham Vale station; the 170 or 180 bus to Tarneit station; or the Flinders Street train to changeatFootscray.

Thefastestchoicewastakingthe180to Tarneit at 8.02am – which meant going backwards.

Moderate traffic on main roads and stopping frequent stops for students headingtoschooladdedtime.

My 8.35am arrival at Tarneit would have meant missing the 8.37am Waurn Ponds train, if was not delayed by five minutes.

The train departed Tarneit at 8.42am and arrived at Geelong’s main station at 9.15am.

It was a 22-minute walk to the Geelong Independent office for an arrival time of 9.37am.

Factoringinthenear20minutewaitfor a bus at Werribee – about the same time betweeneachV/LineservicetoGeelong–Iestimatedbeingabletotakeatrainfrom Werribee would have slashed about 50 minutesoftraveltime.

AlongthewayInoticedthatTarneitand Wyndham Vale stations pose their own issuesinthegreaterschemeofthings.

While technically stations on the Regional Rail Link, the vast majority of commuters are heading towards the MelbourneCBD.

Experiencing the difficulty of commuting from Werribee to Geelong and the amount of houses I saw being built between Tarneit and Geelong, I came to the opinion that two lines may beneeded.

The current line that runs through Tarneit and Wyndham Vale, and is expected to run through the proposed stations of Truganina and West Tarneit, offersdirectconnectiontoGeelong.

Reviving a Werribee route could simplify travelling to Geelong for many residents and make Avalon easier to get to.

Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw and Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj at Little River Station.

(Ljubica Vrankovic) 497337_05

Forging local friendships

BothwithinthegroupandoutintheMelton community, a community group is aiming to curb loneliness and provide support to local boys and men.

Formed in 2018, the Melton Men’s Group providessupportthroughfinancial,mental, social, material, and physical support to local boys and men through a range of initiatives, activities, and events.

The group meets every Thursday, from 5–8pm,attheArnoldsCreekChildren’sand CommunityCentretosocialiseoverateaor coffee and enjoy activities including carpet bowls, pool, table tennis, chess, cards, and light exercise sessions – with additional activities held throughout the week.

Men’s Group president Les Chitts said the organisation is not a service group but is committed to supporting local men who might be feeling isolated.

“Whenwestarted…wedidn’trealisehow many men that were out there who needed male support,” Mr Chitts said.

“The beauty of the group is a lot of friendships [have] formed.”

He said the group also provides a positive

alternative for other outlets, such as gambling or going to the pub.

Secretary Trevor Boyd-King said the main purpose of the group is “getting the guys together”.

“We’ve evolved into one of those groups where we’re out in the community in a big way,” Mr Boyd-King said.

The group’s major annual event is International Men’s Day on November 19, where this year, the organisation will host a two-course dinner event at the Melton Entertainment Centre with guest speaker and AFL legend Kevin Sheedy.

The men’s group also provides material aid to local men through creating men’s hygiene packs to be distributed by local support organisations – and to local boys through a fundraiser towards helping male Year 10 students from three local schools to continue with their schooling.

Those aged over 21 years who are interested in joining are encouraged to contact the group.

Contact: Les, 0429 431 370 or Trevor, 0404 494 649

Melton sports for all abilities

A range of inclusive sports and activities for all ages and abilities can be tried at an upcoming event at the Caroline Springs Leisure centre this month. From 10–11.30am on Thursday, September 25, this event is an opportunity to learn new skills and have fun experiencing a range of inclusive sports that are accessible for people living with a disability and their carer. Whether you are new to sport or are keen to try something different, this event is a great opportunity to experience or watch a variety of accessible sports in a supportive environment. The event is free, but tickets are limited and must be registered on Melton’s website.

Park connect and play

An ongoing event aimed at promoting Moorabool families and children to connect, play and enjoy local leisure spaces in the community is coming to Maddingley this month. This month’s Park Connect and Play event will be hosted at MARC Stadium in Maddingley from 10–11.30am on Wednesday, September 17 and is hosted by Moorabool council. Expect playful activities, friendly chats, and plenty of opportunities for little ones to explore and move. All ages are welcome. Registrations are encouraged and can be made on the Moorabool website.

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Melton Men’s Group president Les Chitts and secretary Trevor Boyd-King.

Road campaign endorsed

By Sam Porter

Brimbank council has endorsed a council campaign that will call on the state government to improve safety and traffic flow on Taylors Road, which has different sections owned by Brimbank council, Melton council and the state government.

Brimbank council said the “disjointed ownership” of the road makes it difficult to plan and coordinate upgrades to manage traffic congestion.

The endorsement will call on the state government to declare Taylors Road a state-managed arterial, and to duplicate a stretch of the road that runs from the

west of Kings Road to Bluestone Walk.

At the August council meeting, Cr Katharine Nikolic said one resident told her “driving on this road is like driving in the wild west.”

“I’ve heard from residents living on this road that they’re not able to safely exit… I’ve also seen and heard of instances of reckless behavior, constant accidents and our emergency services getting bottlenecked at this section…” Cr Nikolic said.

“What has happened to date is really not fair — that the traffic is continually being bottlenecked from the growing estates around the Brimbank area that use

this as a corridor all the way through to Melton. It’s not fair that if we were to fund something as a council that our ratepayers would have to brunt that.”

Cr Nikolic said Melton council partially funded sections of the road through developer contributions which Brimbank council did not have.

In a statement to Star Weekly, Melton mayor Cr Steve Abboushi said Melton council also wanted to see Taylors Road declared a state-managed arterial road.

“We are investing $51 million to upgrade Taylors Road, with projects either in construction or commencing in the next 12 months. However, this won’t cov-

Caring for carers at resources lunch, expo

KinshipcarerswereunitedinaMeltonevent this month aimed at promoting community and sharing resources.

Held on September 4 at the Melton Country Club, the Luncheon and Resources Expo for Kinship Carers was hosted as a partnership between Kinship Carers Victoria and Melton MP Steve McGhie. KinshipCarersVictoriaadvocatesforand aims to support grandparents, siblings, other relatives, and family friends raising children in out-of-home care.

The luncheon also marked the beginning of a new series of luncheon seminars for

kinship carers in Melbourne’s west.

Director Anne McLeish said the idea for the idea formed after Mr McGhie approached the organisation wanting to promote the work of kinship carers in the community.

“The purpose is to celebrate the work of kinship carers and to hear from them what sorts of services we could provide in Melton for them,” Ms McLeish said.

“It’s critical that kinship carers … [are] not alone and it’s critical that they mix with other kinship carers who understand the stresses and strains of their work.

“It’s also critical that the kinship carers mix with people from the wider community so that they realise how much that their effort is appreciated by the rest of us.”

Mr McGhie said that it is terrific to have the Melton Region Kinship Carers Group back and regularly meeting, sharing their experiences, thoughts, and ideas and supporting our most vulnerable children.

“It’s important to advocate for our carers who do an amazing job and I will continue to work with Kinship Carers Victoria to ensure carers get the support they need,” he said.

er all upgrades required and ultimately this road will need to be declared,” mayor Cr Abboushi said.

According to Melton council, the section of Taylors Road west of Gourlay Road carries approximately 22,000 vehicles per day with traffic modelling indicating this will increase to over 40,720 vehicles per day by 2031. Melton council said traffic volumes on Taylors Road are already over capacity for a locally managed road.

Star Weekly contacted the state government for comment.

Rubbish hubs pitch binned

A resident pitch for local rubbish drop-off hubs across Melton to help curb illegal dumping was knocked back by the council, with a report stating the idea is unfeasible.

A petition of 66 signatories was tabled at the June 23 council meeting, requesting that council officers investigate the feasibility of establishing small-scale ‘satellite drop-off hubs’ in identified illegal dumping hotspot areas across the municipality, aiming to make lawful waste disposal more accessible for all residents.

At the August 25 council meeting, a report was tabled stating that establishing satellite hubs presents significant challenges due to the complexity of site locations, lack of existing infrastructure, high operational costs, and strict legislative requirements.

At the council meeting, Melton director of city delivery Neil Whiteside said the report highlights that council “can’t really offer several waste disposal options … including hard waste collections, entitlements for the Melton recycling facility, free drop-off periods, and dedicated green waste disposal opportunities”.

“The analysis also included benchmarking with comparable councils, which highlighted that none currently operate satellite drop-off hubs specifically for hard or green waste,” Mr Whiteside said.

Kinship Carers Victoria Anne McLeish and Melton MP Steve McGhie with a group of Luncheon and Resources Expo for Kinship Carers attendees last week. (Damjan Janevski). 500773_03

MY PLACE

Peumila Jalajjage was recently named Mrs Australia Legacy International. The Taylors Hill resident chats to Laura Michell about the paegent and her hopes of making a difference in the community.

Tell us about your connection to the City of Melton ...

I’ve lived in Taylor’s Hill, in the City of Melton, for many years (more than 18 years)withmyhusbandandtwodaughters. This community is where my family has grown, where my daughters go to school, and where I’ve built my businesses. It’s not just home for us—it’s where I’ve been able to follow my passions in both the beauty industry and my community work.

What do you like about where you live? Ilovethesenseofcommunityhere.Melton isagrowingandvibrantareawithsomany familieslikeours,andthere’sarealwarmth in the people. I also appreciate the balance of having both peaceful neighbourhoods and access to the city, which makes it a wonderful place to raise children while still staying connected.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

Like many growing communities, I think more opportunities for women in small businesses and more support networks for mothers and families would make a big difference. I’d love to see more programs that encourage women to chase their dreams after raising families, which ties into my own project, Her Comeback.

Tell us about The Mrs Australia - Legacy International competition and why you decided to enter...

The Mrs Australia Legacy International competition is more than a pageant – it’s a platform to celebrate women, their stories, and their impact on the community. The platformisgivingthemthetoolstosucceed, both on and off the stage, and creates

LONG SERVICE LEAVE KICKS IN AFTER 7 YEARS: PLAN AHEAD

Most workers in Victoria qualify for long service leave after 7 years of continuous service with one employer – this includes casual workers.

The average leave entitlement after 7 years of service is over 6 weeks so, for employers, it pays to plan ahead.

(Supplied)

Why did you decide to make Her Comeback your legacy project, and what are you hoping to achieve through it? Her Comeback is very personal to me. As a mother, I put my own dreams on hold for many years, and I know so many women who have done the same. My project is about helping women rediscover themselves, step into their power, and realise that it’s never too late to make a comeback. Through workshops, my book, and community initiatives, I hope to build a movement that gives women the tools, confidence, and support to pursue their goals.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you. People are often surprised to learn that while I’ve spent over 20 years as a hairdresser and a makeup artist, also stepped into the world of modelling at age 43– a lifelong dream come true. At the same time, I’ve been working as a finance administrator for nearly two decades. Balancing both the creative and business worlds has given me a unique perspective and resilience, which I now carry into everything I do– from running my businesses to building my legacy project.

a space where every contestant has the chancetoshineandmakealastingimpact. It goes beyond beauty – it’s about creating a positive impact through leadership and setting an example that empowers other women. I decided to enter because I wanted to show that mothers and women canreinventthemselvesatanystageoflife. For me, it’s not about crowns and sashes, but about using my voice to inspire others and to create a positive legacy.

Peumila Jalajjage.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

God, movie and chat

A free community event, on the second Friday of each month, a film with spiritual themes is screened followed by discussion. The next screening will be of Mother Teresa (PG) from 10am on Friday, September 13. All thoughts welcome. Bring your own sandwich. Tea, coffee, and popcorn are provided. The event is hosted at Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19a Gisborne Road Bacchus March.

 bacchusmarshanglican.org.au

Lights of wisdom

The Bahá’ís of Moorabool warmly invite you to “Lights of Wisdom”, a monthly event providing an opportunity to relax in a tranquil environment and reflect on inspiring themes. First Friday of every month, 7.30-8.30pm, at Lederberg Library, Bacchus Marsh. This is a free community event open to all.

Probus Club of Melton Ladies

The Probus Club of Melton Ladies meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10am at the Melton Country Club. It is a social club where all ladies are welcome.

 Glenda, 0418 504 616

Grief Education Group

Described as “a group of people grieving the death of a loved one,” the Grief Education Group provides grief education, discussion and support at Melton Health on Wednesdays for six weeks from August 6 to September 10. If interested, please call Melton Health Intakes.

 9747 7609

Women Working Together

A program connecting women aged 50 above in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Melton.

 9655 2131, or EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au

Zonta club

Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. Meetings include guest speakers.

 Janet, 0421 080 923, or info@zontaclubofmelton.org.au

Melton Over 50s Social Group

Join a friendly group of people aged 50 and older who enjoy each other’s company while attending events such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you.

 Marlene, 0498 329 290

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club

Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am to noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh

 Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com

Melton Valley Ladies Probus

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Friday each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome.

 Ann, 0425 705 150

Sewing in Melton

If you love sewing, head on down to the Melton South Community Centre! Bring along your machine and materials and make new friends as you swap tips and work on your own projects. 9.30am–3pm each Tuesday. Each session costs five dollars.

 9747 8576

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Victorian Football League women’s premiers North Melbourne Werribee. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 500888_01

Rose carers of Maddingley Park

The group meets every Wednesday from 10am-noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join .

 Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538

Melton South Community Singers

Singers of all levels are welcome at the Melton South Community Singers. This free and friendly group meets at the Melton South Community Centre and rehearses to perform at local venues and events. The group meets from 12.15-2pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month and no bookings are required.

 Sue, 0400 082 413

Melton Concert Band

Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7.30-9.30pm at the Bridge Road Community Centre, Bridge Road, Melton South. Musicians of any age who are able to read music are welcome to come along with their instrument (oboe, bassoon, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion). Please contact the number provided if you are intending to visit.

 0401 474 582

Cancer Support Group

MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group is for prostate cancer patients and their carers and meets on the first Thursday of the month, from 12.30-2pm, at Melton South Community Centre. Attendees are encouraged as members share their journeys through what could be a very

traumatic time of their lives. Explanations of medical terminology used in the treatment of this cancer are given in this group.

 Grenville, 0412 741 865

Chatty Cafe Melton

Are you feeling lonely, isolated or just wanting to make some new friends? If so, Chatty Cafe is for you. The group meets on Friday mornings at 10am for delicious free coffee from Latin foods and wines at 10 Wallace Square, Melton.

 https://www.facebook.com/ groups/352071857283331

Darley Neighbourhood House

The Darley Neighbourhood House and Learning Centre is at 33-35 Jonathan Drive, Darley. It offers free and low-cost activities for all. There is a monthly repair cafe, a community pantry, a fortnightly chatty cafe and venue hire is available.

 www.bit.ly/DNHnow, or 5367 4390

Friendship Group

For all aged 60 and over – are you looking for some new friends? Then this group is for you. The Melton and Surrounding areas Friendship Group meets fortnightly for a coffee and chat night and organises affordable outings such as dinners, movie nights and many social events – plus occasional weekends away, and local or overseas holidays.

 Shirley, 0419 006 525 or Vera, 0406 493 734

Over 50s games and cards

Melton Club 50+ runs a games and cards afternoon every Sunday 2-4pm at Kurunjang Community Hub, 33 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. Join this friendly group and make new friends over games

and a cuppa.

 Denise, 0403 840 241 or Sharon, 0407 461 069

Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens

The Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens look forward to meeting up with new members at the Andy Arnold Centre, 10 Bennett Street, Bacchus Marsh.

 hopem@optusnet.com.au

Women’s Support Group

Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House, 239 Station Road, Melton. The group can discuss most subjects that may be of help.

 https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

Caroline Springs Rotary

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm.

 rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton Men’s Group

Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday from 5-8 pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre at 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on senior men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join them for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including, carpet bowls, pool, table tennis, cards and chess.

 Trevor 0404 494 649 or https://meltonmensgroup.home.blog/

New twist on classic film

Toinfinityandbeyond!

Families and fans of nostalgic animated movies can see their favourite Toy Story charactersbreakoutsomemovesonstage.

Dance Story is the annual 2025 productionofBKODE,adancestudiobased inDerrimut.

About 50 local dancers ranging in ages from five to 35 years old will feature in the show,performinghip-hop,urbanandstreet dancestyles.

BKODEdirectorandstudioownerMarlon Sangalangsaidtheshowexploresthemesof friendshipandadventurethroughthemagic ofdance,choreographyandstorytelling.

“It’s a bit of a twist on Toy Story, a bit of a spin on the movie. The characters are toys. The child that owns the toys gets a present and it’s a tablet… and the toy characters get neglected,”MrSangalangsaid.

“So the toys try to fight to grab the attentionbackfromthetablet.”

Mr Sangalang said the characters use dance to try to get the child to notice them again.

“The theme of the show is ‘imagination,’ how growing up when you play with toys you have this imagination and with technologythesedaysyousortofloseit,”he said.

ButMrSanglangsaidthecharactersinthe show explore ways to harness technology as a tool and still engage imagination in everydaylife.

“It’sabitofcomedy,abitofnostalgia,abit ofadventure,”MrSangalangsaid.

Dance Story will be showing at the Bowery Theatre on Saturday, September 13 from7to9pm.

Fullticketsare$35.

Moreinfo:creativebrimbank.com.au

Ava and Alannah will play lead roles in BKODE’s production, Dance Story. (Supplied)

Firefly

The Firefly market is returning to Tarneit.

Taking place at Penrose Place between 4-9pm on Saturday, September 20, there will be market stalls, live music, cultural performances and plenty of other thingstoimmerseyourselfin.

Rest assured, every continent will be represented by more than 70 market stalls from which locals will be offering gifts, jewellery, art, clothingandlocallymadesweets.

Plight of animals in the frame

A thought-provoking art exhibition in Melton is drawing attention to urbanisation and its effects on animals, aiming to promote empathy for the plight ofnativeandnon-nativespecies.

Created by local artist Mollie-Rose Chislett, ‘Metropolitan Menagerie’ at the Melton Civic Centre is a series of watercolour and ink works that focus on the theme of how urbanisation affects animals – including in the Melton municipality.

“There’s an increase in … housing developments, and that kind of impacts theirhabitats,”Chislettsaid.

“What I’ve noticed recently is this year we’ve had a lot of kangaroos move closer in to town … we’ve had kangaroos in my front yard, which we’ve never had before,” shesaid.

Chislett said she has also noticed animals begin to eat discarded food scraps and use human-created materials – such as witnessing magpies using twine to build their nests – as human urban and animalhabitatscombine.

“Mykeymessagingistoraiseawareness of the urban animals in our locality as a way to … make people more empathetic [about] the sort of plight we’re seeing

with urban animals in terms of adapting to this new urban habitat,” Chislettsaid.

“I’m really happy with the response that I’ve gotten to the work because people have said that it’s very impactful as well as looking quite nice … I’m glad that it’s working,”shesaid.

The title of the exhibition refers to the fact that there are plenty of animals to observe in our own backyards, acting as a formofurbanmenagerie.

TheexhibitionwillrununtilOctober5at theMeltonCivicCentre.

Details:tinyurl.com/ycxtpbve

Yarraville set to become another brick in The Wall

Prog rock fans and film buffs will unite at Yarraville’s Sun Theatre when a special 70mm release of Pink Floyd: The Wall is shownonSeptember12and14.

Released in 1982, three years after the band’s album of the same name, Pink Floyd:TheWall tellsthestoryofaconfined but troubled rock star who descends into madness in the midst of his physical and socialisolationfromeveryone.

Written by the band’s bassist and chief songwriter,RogerWaters,BobGeldofmakes hisfilmdebutasthetherockstarPink,while Bob Hoskins also stars in the film directed byAlanParkerandGeraldScarfe.

While not achieving the commercial successofthealbum,thefilmversionofThe

Wallwaswellreceivedbycriticsandisnow regardedasacultclassic.

Sun Theatre projectionist Bert Murphy said the 70mm release of the film to be

showninthetwoupcomingscreenings was extraspecial.

“Eventhoughthepictureinthisprinthas now lost its colour, we still run it because of its unique six track magnetic sound,” Murphysaid.

“Further to this the fact that Pink Floyd didaspecialsoundmixjustfortheseprints.

The result is a breathtaking soundtrack that can only be heard in this way. Add to this that this print is the last one known to exist in the world (outside of the Academy Archive).It’saspecialevent.”

Details: https://suntheatre.com.au/ wp-cinema/movieS25PINKFLOYD/ PINK+FLOYD+THE+WALL+ in+70mm/

Adding to the culinary diversity will be food trucks providing sweet and savoury delights that cater to all with gluten free, halal and vegan options.

Among the highlights will be light installations, fire shows, and roving performers.

If they don’t excite kids, there will alsobeaseriesofdedicatedactivities foryoungsters.

This year will feature a large-scale wooden fire sculpture designed to burnsafelyandspectacularly.

The structure, in the shape of a candle,combinesrecycledmaterials, clever airflow design, and controlled flame display for a dramatic visual experience.

As well as the artistic sculpture, a second steel firepit will provide a steady source of warmth, creating a welcoming gathering point for attendees.

The event is free and run by Wyndham council, so all are encouraged to bring the family, catch up with friends and enjoy a vibrant night of entertainment while supportinglocals.

Thenightmarketisalcoholfree,but BYOfoodispermitted.

Parkingisavailablebutpatronsare encouraged to catch public transport viathe167bus,orwalk.

More: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ firefly

The special 70mm release of Pink Floyd: The Wall which will be screened at the Sun Theatre. (Supplied)

Artist Mollie-Rose Chislett with her work currently on display at the Melton Civic Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 499594_02

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Rio Ngumoha recently became Liverpool FC’s youngest goalscorer at what age?

2. Australian brothers Jett and Hunter Lawrence both compete in what sport?

3. Former West Coast Eagles player Mitch Brown has

4. Which late Australian cricketer will have a Gold Coast oval named in his honour?

5. Who will replace Des Hasler as the head coach of the Gold Coast Titans?

6. Which Queen song is most famously associated with The Mighty Ducks movies, playing during the iconic final scene of the first film?

US swimmer Diana Nyad gained national attention in 1975 by completing a record-breaking open-water swim around which famous city's island?

After a six-year hiatus, which AFL event returned with former athletes Dylan Buckley, Gary Ablett Jr and more

Luke Littler, the 18-yearold PDC darts world champion from England, has completed darts' prestigious ‘Triple Crown’ but has struggled to obtain what everyday qualification?

Ilona Maher is an US athlete in which sport?

Which F1 team, which will debut next year, has hired experienced drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez?

12. Which AFL team has qualified for the finals for the first time in its history?

13. And which team has missed out on playing finals despite winning 14 matches for the season?

14. Which major Australian cycling event will return in 2026, the race’s first running since 2020?

15. Which Australian batting all-rounder scored a century from 47 balls in the third ODI match against South Africa?

16. Which two other batsmen, both openers, also scored hundreds in the same match, with Australia amassing a mammoth 2 for 431?

17. The Wallaroos women’s rugby union team defeated which country 73-0 in their opening World Cup match?

18. Which increasingly popular paddle sport combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis?

19. NRL coach Adam O'Brien has been sacked by which club after a string of heavy losses?

20. Which South American country won the first ever FIFA World Cup soccer tournament, held in 1930?

21. Which AFL Women’s team recently kicked the highest score ever in the competition with a score of 18.6 (114)?

22. The National Museum of Australia recently paid over $400,000 for a baggy green cap worn by which legendary cricketer?

23. Which NRL team will finish on top of the ladder at the end of the 2025 Premiership season?

24. Before coming to Australia for the Ashes, which country will England tour to play three One Day and Twenty20 matches?

25. What was Geelong’s WNBL team known as before their recent name change to Geelong Venom?

26. Which Australian boxer, who famously went up against Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in his career, recently passed away at the age of 75?

27. The Hundred is a cricketing tournament held each year by which two countries?

28. In which water-based sport is the phrase ‘catch a crab’ used?

29. The BKFC is a boxing organisation featuring what style of boxing?

30. Late actor Burt Reynolds was a star player in which sport during his college years?

SUREWAY CHURCH

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

1 Cheeky (5)

4 Reduces expenses (4,5)

9 Tattletale (7)

10 Neat (2,5)

11 Generate out of order (9)

12 Medicinal plant (5)

13 Animal doctor (3)

14 Restrictions to how fast you may go (5,6)

16 A type of surfboard (11)

19 Video game console released in 1985 (1,1,1)

20 Plunder (5)

22 Excellently (9)

25 Endure (7)

26 OKs (7)

27 Propel (9)

28 Waits in ambush (5)

1 Staid (5) 2 Lost momentum (9) 3 Lout (coll) (5) 4 Style of handwriting (7) 5 Rear (4,3)

Perpendicular breeze (9) 7 African republic (5)

8 Exceeds (9)

13 Turns into gas (9)

14 Joining (9)

15 Hotelier (9)

17 Entreat (7)

18 Bituminous road layer (7)

21 Italian physicist, Enrico – (5)

23 Perform exceptionally (5)

24 Affirmative votes (5)

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

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 What colour are Bond Street, Oxford Street and Regent Street on a Monopoly board?

2 What was the title of Kate Bush’s 1978 debut album?

3 Russet, New and Yukon Gold are varieties of which vegetable?

4 In which Irish county would you find the Blarney Stone?

5 Robert Allen Zimmerman is a US singer and songwriter better known by what name?

6 The gall bladder is responsible for storing what bodily fluid?

7 ‘Rosebud’ is the famous opening line from which 1941 film?

8 Justin Timberlake (pictured) was part of which boy band?

9 What are complementary colours?

10 Which two Australian writers co-authored the 1979 novel PubertyBlues?

No.

More hatch than crossover

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

It’s been more than 18 months since we first drove the Kia EV6.

Not much has changed since then, although it will soon get some updates –namely a larger battery.

The new model lobbed at the Australian Open earlier this year, of which Kia is the major sponsor and its arrival is imminent. In the meantime, we couldn’t turn down the chance of another drive of what is surely one of Australia’s pre-eminent EVs – although describing it as a crossover is a stretch.

Styling

Prices start from $72,590 for the EV6 Air RWD.

EV6GT-LineRWDispricedfrom$79,590, while top of the range EV6 GT-Line AWD is priced from $87,590.

The high performance 430kW EV6 GT AWD is a whacking $99,590, taking it well over the $100K mark by the time you add on-road costs.

Our test vehicle, the GT-Line RWD, can be optioned with premium paint ($700) and a second cable that allows the car to be hooked up to a pay-as-you-go charger ($829).

It’s a long, wide car at almost 4.7 metres and 1.9 metres across, with an oh-so-long 2900mm wheelbase.

But the proportions are not what we have come to recognise as ideal, with a short bonnet and boot that brackets a long cabin.

After all, there’s no gas-guzzling ICE to accommodate.Thebatteriestakeupabitof space though, sandwiched and spread out under the floor.

To placate traditionalists, a grille of sorts remains at the front. Unlock EV6 and flush-fitting, body-coloured door handles pop out in welcome.

Gloss black A-pillar, wing mirrors and beltline garnishes complete the look, with full-widthtaillightsandastylishrearwing.

Standard kit includes 20-inch alloys with Continental255/45tyres,dualzoneclimate air with rear vents, and power-adjust, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel and mood lighting with 64 colours.

Trimisacombinationofblackandwhite, a mix of artificial suede and vegan leather upholsterywithwhitestitching,withpower adjustment for driver lumbar support.

There’s also LED lights, folding, heated door mirrors with integrated indicators, automatic high beam, smart cruise control with stop and go, auto parallel and perpendicular parking, tilt and slide sunroof and a smart power tailgate.

Rounding out the list is head-up display, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, along with a 360-degree camera.

Like all Kias, the EV6 is covered by a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty. Unlike others, pre-paid service plans are available.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of a 12.3-inch touchscreen, with built-in navigation, with AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth, together with wired Android AutoandwiredAppleCarPlayplus‘Sounds of Nature’ ambient background noise. The new one will get wireless connectivity.

In the GT-Line the standard six-speaker sound system makes way for Meridian premium audio with 14 speakers.

Connect with three USB Chargers (1 x TypeAand2xTypeC)inthefronttraywith multimediaconnectivity,twoUSBCharger

(TypeC)infrontseatbacks,plustwo12-volt power outlets (1 x boot side/1 x front tray).

Wireless Qi phone charging is also standard,butwatchoutbecauseourphone got very hot.

Safety

Five-star safety starts with seven airbags, a rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines, plus Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with car, pedestrian, cyclist detection (and junction turn assist).

There’s also Blind Spot (including rear cross traffic assist), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Lane Follow Assist (LFA), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning with lead vehicle departure alert (DAW+), Multi-Collision Braking (MCB) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

EV6 provides three top tether and two ISOFIX child seat anchors.

Engines/transmissions

GT-Line RWD with a single electric motor that powers the rear wheels produces 168kW of power and 350Nm of torque.

Drive in single motor versions is to the rear wheels through a single-speed reduction gear transmission.

Driving

Air is the more range focused version of the EV6, with 168kW of power and 350Nm of torque and a range of 528km.

RWD GT-Line with the same powertrain is good for 504km. The GT-Line with AWD adds a second electric motor and produces a combined output of 239kW and 605Nm, with a range of 484km.

The real deal, the GT AWD, pumps out 430kW and 740Nm, and dispatches the dash in a Ferrari-like 3.5 seconds – the trade-off is a range of just 424km.

All four versions are powered by the same 77.4kWh battery pack, which weighs 477kg and is located under the floor.

The new EV6, which is expected to lob soon, acquires a larger 84kWh battery pack that should boost driving range across the

Facing the wrong direction the pop-out handles are awkward to use and for a 4.7-metre-long vehicle getting in and out is not as easy as it should be.

RATINGS

Looks: 7

Performance: 7.5

Safety: 8

Thirst: 7

Practicality: 6

Comfort: 7

Tech: 8

Value: 7

Overall: 7.2

lineup by up to 8.5 per cent.

Drive in single motor versions is to the rear wheels through a single-speed reduction gear transmission.

Energy consumption is a claimed 17.2 kWh/100km.

There are four selectable drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow which also change the look of the instrument panel.

Adding some drama to the experience is Active Sound Design (ASD) with a choice of artificial engine sounds and a custom setting. They are unique ’electronica’ rather than engine noise emulations.

EV6 is the first fully-electric vehicle to go through Kia Australia’s local ride and handling program.

With plenty of power and torque under foot, EV6 has plenty of get up and go, even with a single electric motor, with the dash from 0-100km/h taking 7.3 seconds.

With a burst of speed, overtaking can be accomplished virtually at will, but it’s a weighty device and wants to run wide in corners.

Steering is heavy and for the most part uncommunicative.

EV6 has powerful brakes too, perhaps too strong at times, or more specifically –irritatinglyabrupt.Itpullsupwithajerkand releaseswithalurch,andcanbedifficultto control in close manoeuvring. One way to avoid this happening is one-pedal driving, using the regenerative brake system that is controlled by the steering wheel paddles normally devoted to gears.

Inthisway,thecarslowswhenyouliftoff the accelerator – but not to a complete stop.

An electric parking brake is provided, but instead of being located close to hand in the centre console, it’s relegated to a position to the right and below the dash.

More jerkiness follows. Try releasing the brake and moving off in reverse if you’re parked on a slope.

Adabontheacceleratorpedalisrequired and is liable to result in a sharp intake of breath as the car shoots backwards.

EV6’s space-age design is polarising. Some people like it, others hate it.

The door openings are large, but a low roofline and relatively high seating position compromise access. Watch your head and hold on to your sunglasses.

Ditto for rear seat passengers, with an elevated seating position and low hanging roof, and surprisingly little legroom considering the length of the car.

Getting into the car for the first time I was confronted with a washed-out instrument panel with pale blue lettering on a white background that was difficult to see in sunlight.

I was later able to change this to black after finding the appropriate setting in the infotainment system, but for the first few minutes I was flying blind.

Moving from one Kia to another, the steering wheel switch gear is familiar, but theyhavebeentransposedfromonesideof the wheel to the other.

The dash layout is similar to other Kias, but I found that it has no physical audio volume control.

The luggage area is quite large with a hidden area underneath for cable storage, along with a small boot at the front of the car — but no spare tyre. A tyre repair kit is supplied instead.

And in case you’re wondering, the EV6 is capable of towing a 1600kg load.

Most annoying is the location of the charge port which is cleverly concealed near the driver side tail light.

The location necessitates reversing the car to access power. Nowhere near as easy as a charge port at the front.

As batteries become larger and range increases, the time required to charge an EV also increases. EV6 offers up to 11kW AC charging and a class leading 233kW maximum DC fast-charge rate.

Charging can take up to 33 hours with a standard power point, reducing to as little as 18 minutes for a 10-80 per cent charge with a 350kW DC commercial charger.

Or so we’re told. Try finding a 350kW DC charger – they are as rare as hen’s teeth.

The closest we’ve come is 250kW. It was quick, but it still took just under 50 minutes to add 67 kWh – and the best rate we saw was 93kW.

The fact the EV6 doesn’t come with a Type 2 charge cable can be a major inconvenience. Not all charge points supply the cable, including our nearest charger.

At the end of the day, after more than 900kmofmixeddriving,includingareturn trip from Sydney to Canberra, we were getting 17.5kWh/100km.

Summing up

More hatch than crossover, the EV6 is very doable as a daily driver. It’s roomy, comfortable, with good performance and, being electric, doesn’t cost much to run.

But all these fairy tales about 18-minute charging are starting to wear a bit thin . . . Please.

Others may have had more success, but we haven’t found one EV or charge station that even comes close to achieving this. Maybe one day, but in the meantime the infrastructure still has a lot of catching up to do and, we’re afraid to say, Tesla looks after its customers a lot better in this respect with Tesla-branded charges in many locations.

It’s a fairy tale to suggest the Kia EV6 takes 18 minutes to charge. (Pictures: Supplied)

Only the toughest survive

Finals footy never disappoints. Week one gave us Collingwood’s composure, Geelong’s power, Hawthorn’s resilience, and Gold Coast’s historic first finals win. Now the heat turns up again with two massive semifinals - Adelaide v Hawthorn on Friday, and the first-ever finals Q-clash between Brisbane and Gold Coast on Saturday. Two clubs will march into prelims, two will be gone by Sunday morning.

Adelaide Crows v Hawthorn Hawks Friday, Sept 12 – Adelaide Oval, 7:40 pm

Adelaide is still licking wounds from their loss to Collingwood, but their nine-game winning streak before that proved their credentials. Without the suspended Izak Rankine, they’ll need scoreboard impact from midfielders and small forwards to carry the load. Their strength remains territory and repeat inside-50s - if they trap the ball forward, they’re hard to stop.

Hawthorn arrives with momentum after holding their nerve against GWS. From 42 points up, to briefly falling behind, to then steady and win - that’s September steel. Their defensive structure can frustrate Adelaide’s ball movement, and if their pressure chains hold, the Hawks could flip this semi on its head. The winner books a

prelimagainstGeelong.

Brisbane Lions v Gold Coast Suns Saturday, Sept 13 – The Gabba, 7:35 pm

History beckons. For the first time, Queensland’s fiercest rivals square off in a final. Brisbane, battered by injury - with LachieNeale(calf)andEricHipwood(ACL) ruled out - lean heavily on their depth and homegroundadvantage.TheGabbacrowd will roar, but their clearance game must standupwithoutNeale.

Gold Coast, buoyed by their first-ever finalswin,rideintotheGabbawithnothing to lose. Noah Anderson and Matt Rowell give them contested punch, and under Damien Hardwick they’ve developed belief and resilience. Their 66-point thrashing of Brisbane in Round 20 lingers as proof they can take down their big brother.

Final Word

This weekend is everything September is about - pressure, pride, and legacy.

Adelaide and Brisbane carry expectation; Hawthorn and Gold Coast carry momentum. By Saturday night, we’ll know whether tradition holds or history gets rewritten - because in finals, only the toughestsurvive.

Magpie army roars back to life as finals fever takes hold

Collingwood’s late-season wobble had quietenedtheairwaves,butonefinalswin has changed everything. After toppling Adelaide, the Magpie army is back in full voice - loud, passionate, and already calling their team premiership favourites. That’s why I love Collingwood supporters: when they’re up, they walk taller than anyoneinthegame. Their leaders gave them reason to believe. Steele Sidebottom reminded everyone why experience matters in September, Jamie Elliott hit the scoreboard when the moment came, and DarcyMooreproducedthecaptain’sgame - intercepting, calming, and organising Collingwood’s defence. Then there was Nick Daicos. Tagged heavily, he still found

ways to hurt Adelaide with his running and precision disposal. He doesn’t need hugenumbers;it’sthetimingofhisimpact thatwinsfinals.

This balance of hardened veterans, a generational talent, and a captain who leads from the front is why Collingwood suddenly look dangerous again. And when the Magpies are dangerous, their supporters let the whole competition know. Ninety thousand black-and-white voices at the MCG is more than supportit’satidalwaveofnoiseandbelief.

For me, it brought back memories of North Melbourne in the 1990s. We never had the sheer numbers of Collingwood, but we had our own heartbeat. Carey’s brilliance, the courage of Archer, the

reliabilityofMartyn,andtheball-winning grit of Peter Bell and Adam Simpson gave us the foundation to thrive in September. Our supporters were fewer, but fiercely loyal - the shinboner spirit made us feel likefamily.

That’s the contrast. Collingwood thrives on scale and attention, North thrived on grit and being underestimated. Both cultures have their beauty. Collingwood embodies the roar of the masses; North embodiesthegritoftheunderdog.

But when the Magpie army cranks up in September - and the bandwagon fills to the brim - the AFL feels alive. Whether it’s 90,000 in black and white or 9,000 in blue and white, it’s the passion that makes our gamegreat.

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

Hawthorn held on against GWS to book a preliminary final against the Adelaide Crows (AAP Image/Dean Lewins)

Ecstatic Collingwood fans celebrate their team’s win over the Crows on Thursday night. (AAP Image/ Matt Turner)

Mustangs on the up as senior teams contest finals

A mountain of work over the past few years to rebuild the Melton senior program has paid off.

Both the Mustangs’ Hockey Victoria Vic League3men’sandwomen’ssidesfacedoff in preliminary finals this weekend.

President Matthew Simpson said in his time at the club, he can’t recall both of their senior sides both being this deep in the season.

“We’ve had some luck and it’s awesome,” he said. “It’s really good to see the women’s build up and make it this far.

“This has been 14 years in the making for our women’s side and a long, long time since we’ve had both sides in preliminary finals.

“It’s been over 10 years.”

Simpson said the vibe around the club had been really good and everyone was super excited to see what they could all achieve.

The men won through in its preliminary finalwhichwasalocalderbywithCaroline Springs, winning 5-4.

Riley Lawrence scored twice for the

Mustangs.

They will face Greater Dandenong which wasalreadythroughtothegrandfinal.The Mustangs are looking to go back-to-back.

Thewomen’ssidefacedEasternChristian HockeyOrganisationinapreliminaryfinal on Saturday afternoon.

The Mustangs lost 4-2.

Simpson said before the games that there were a lot of juniors in both senior programs which was encouraging for the future.

“We’ve got players from under-12s and under-14s in our women’s side in their first season in juniors,” he said.

“We’ve got young men coming through. It’s our youngest Vic League sides we’ve had for both sides.

“We’ve been trying to work towards this and have a good pathway for the kids. This is how we can keep them.”

Bloods are building

By Tara Murray

Timing is everything and things are starting to fall into place for Melton in the Ballarat Football League.

After battling injuries throughout the year, the Bloods are starting to get most of their list available at the pointy end of the season.

On Sunday, the Bloods gave themselves a red hot shot at making a grand final as they accounted for East Point in a knock out semi final.

Bloods coach Troy Scoble said considering the injuries they’ve had this year,theywerehappytojustmakethesemi finals.

“We’re really excited,” he said. “We were happy to be honest to get to the final four with the injuries we’ve had to go through the year.

“Nowtogetintothefinalthree,anything can happen when you can get into the final three.

“Finally, the grand final is in sight and we have a shot at one.”

Scoble admits they rolled the dice in recent weeks with their list and it has paid off so far.

Jordyn Cotter and Jordan Kight both returned to the side for the match with the Kangaroos after missing several weeks.

ThestartwasthekeyintheBloods,12.13 (85)-8.10 (58) win.

“It was really windy conditions,” Scoble said. “We probably set the game up in the first quarter. “We kicked four goals into a six or seven goal wind.

“And that’s probably where the game stayed for the rest of the day, it wasn’t like we did a whole lot with the wind the two times we had it.

“It was like last week, whoever got out in front it was going to be hard to chase them.”

Scoble said the Kangaroos gave them a scare early in the last quarter when they reduced the margin to just eight points.

He said they were able to stay pretty calm and knowing they had the wind they knew they had the advantage.

“They rolled the dice and really took the game on really aggressively, we thought they might kick one or two into the breeze which they did, but they kicked them straight away.

“We always knew that if we were to kick two or three in the last quarter they were going to have to kick seven goals into a really strong breeze.

“I was really happy with how the players responded to that.”

Liam Carter and Conrad Farrugia kicked three goals each for the Bloods.

Scoble said it was another really strong performance from the group with the

whole team playing well.

The Bloods now face the Sunbury Lions in a preliminary final.

Scoble said they could have five players available for selection in a massive boost.

He said the Lions would be a big challenge.

Simpson said grand final berths would be a reward for effort and would hopefully bring more people into the club. Hesaidtheirjuniorprogramwaslooking strong with 26 to 28 players named in teams for the junior championships. The under-18 championships will be the last of those events in the next school holidays. It’s the most the club has ever had.

The Mustangs under-12 girls and boys sides both played in grand finals on Saturday.

Numbers are increasing at the club, with Melton council starting work on a second pitch at the Bridge Road complex.

Simpson said they were starting to run out of space which showed the good work they had been doing was starting to work.

Tara Murray

Devils into the preliminary final

Darley had to overcome Lake Wendouree and tricky conditions to win through to the Ballarat Netball League preliminary final. It was wet, windy and cold conditions at Sebastopol on Sunday, making the task of winning through tothesecondlastroundoffinalseven more tricky.

Whiletherainhadgonebythefinal netball match of the day, the Devils and Lakers had to battle the wind.

The Devils set up the win in the firstquarterastheyjumpedoutofthe blocks to lead 15-3.

Lake Wendouree reduced the margin to eight goals at the main break, as the Devils scored just five goals for the quarter.

The Devils got better as the game went on and managed to come away with a convincing 45-22 win.

Oliva Cawthray shot 32 goals for the Devils, while Monique Nagle shot 13 goals from 16 attempts.

The Devils will now face North Ballarat in the preliminary final. North Ballarat lost its semi final with the Sunbury Lions, 59-55. The Lions await the winner of the preliminary final in the grand final.

The Devils won both games between them and North Ballarat by eight goals.

In other grades, Darley’s B-grade side also won through to the preliminary final as it beat Lake Wendouree, 40-33.

The C-grade side won through to the preliminary final with a 16-13 win against East Point, while the D-grade side and under-19s lost their semi finals and will also play in a preliminary final.

In E-grade, Bacchus Marsh got knocked out on Sunday.

“We’ve had two really good games against them,” he said. “We were able to beat them at our ground.

“They got a hold of us a couple of weeks ago when we played them, unlike any team has in my time coaching Melton.

“We know a really dangerous side.”

Megan Cook. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 499379_10

Matilda Elliot. (Jacob Pattison) 334038_07

Lochlan Ericson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 418821_04

Chapman ready for a new challenge at Melton Centrals

New Melton Centrals coach Ben Chapman knows he has a challenge ahead of him at the Riddell District Football League club.

The Centrals made a surprise coaching change in the off season, and bought in Chapman, who has signed a three-year contract.

Chapman, who has coached in the Western, Essendon District and Northern football leagues, said there had been an itch to return to coaching.

“It’s a different competition and it’s exciting,” he said. “When I stepped away last year due to work commitments, I didn’t miss it.

“Going and being a spectator this year, I didn’t do it overly well.

“After 20 years it was difficult being on the other side of the fence.

“I had a change in work circumstances and the time to do a senior coaching role needs.

“I made the decision to coach again in June.”

Chapman had several offers to coach but it was the honesty of the Centrals that drew him to the side.

Hesaidtheyputallthecardsonthetable and what they were looking for.

Centrals won just two games this year and finished bottom.

“I found some of their strengths were on the same page as mine in many respects,” he said. “The side hasn’t been successful for a fair period of time and there’s a lot of hard work involved.

“Hopefully we can hold things in good stead and move and hopefully get the results.”

Chapman has coached several Centrals players previously and had still been in touch with them throughout the years.

He said while he isn’t totally blind coming in, it would be a fresh start for them.

“It’s not different from when I came to Sunshine in 2022,” he said. “It can be a good thing as you go in with a clean slate.

“I signed for three years hopefully to see through changes at the club which is hell

Devils into decider

By Tara Murray

A strong team performance from Darley has seen it lock in the first spot in the Ballarat Football League grand final.

The Devils produced four quarters of solid football against the Sunbury Lions in Saturday’s semi final to win through to the finalgameoftheseason.

The scoreboard showed the margin to be justonepointatthefinalbreak,butwiththe wind in the final quarter the match was the Devilstowin.

They finished with seven final quarter goals to run away with a 15.10 (100)-9.8 (62) win.

Devils coach Dan Jordan said the group hadworkedhardtogetintothedecider.

“The boys were pretty massive and executed for four good quarters,” he said. “They stuck to the task and got the rewards andwillgoagain.

“They have put in a good body of work going back to the pre-season. They looked

at where they needed to improve and we’ve nowgivenourselvesanothercrackatit.”

Jordan said the game was tight for most of the match with the Lions keeping the pressureon.

The Lions led early with the breeze before theDevilstooka12pointleadintohalftime.

“In the first quarter they kicked two goals in the last few minutes so the scoreboard wasflattering,”hesaid.

“In the second quarter we went to work and attacked and hit the scoreboard and defendedreallywell.”

The Lions failed to use the breeze to their fulladvantageinthethirdquarter.

Itwasjustonepointatthefinalbreak.

With the breeze in their favour, Jordan said they knew they were poised to take the match if they executed well in the final quarter.

“Themessagewasnottogointoourshell,”

Jordan said. “The game was still there to be won and we had to still be confident to take thegame.

bent on being a successful club.

“I want to build a program up and set it upforsustainedsuccess.Itdoesn’thappen overnight .

“I want to invest time into the kids and have that pathway into the senior program.”

In a positive for Centrals, they are set to have both under-17s and under-19s next season which they haven’t had for a while.

Chapman said he was keen to fast track some of the younger players to help set standards and habits.

Centrals have already signed some new players before signing Chapman.

He said there were no illusions where the list is at.

“We want to be more competitive and consistent,” he said. “We’re talking to players.

“I think we will have a fairly competitive list.”

Tara Murray

Jason Lee has his sights set on next month’s Group 1 Victoria Cup with Keayang Tokyo after the lightly raced five-year-old’s win in the Hip Pocket Castlemaine Free For All at Melton on Saturday night.

Sent out favourite, Keayang Tokyo worked to the lead from his wide draw by the first turn and reeled off a 55 second last 800 metres to score with something in reserve from Rakajed and Louie Lou I in a mile rate of 1:53.6.

Lee said the margin could have been greater on the line. “He’s pretty casual and switches off a little bit in front,” Lee said.

At his previous start Keayang Tokyo finished third behind Catch A Wave after leading.

“With due respect to Catch A Wave who was amazing last start but this bloke could only see the one to his inside and outside, so he probably didn’t see the two horses on the extreme outside. I’m not saying he would definitely have beaten them but he would have been kicking a lot harder if he had seen them,” he said.

“Once we add a bit of gear and sharpen him up a bit he’ll be a better horse in front but at the moment he’s real sharp off a helmet.”

Keayang Tokyo boasts an impressive record of 11 wins from his 21 career starts.

“WeknewthatSunburywouldcomeatus veryhard.Wehadtoberesolvedindefence.”

The Devils did that as they kicked seven goalstoonetoclaimthewin.

Will Johnson ended up with five goals to bethemaingoalkickerontheground.

Mitchell Gardiner, Mace Cousins and Johnsonwerenamedtheirbest.

Jordan said he didn’t think they had a standout across the game with everyone steppingupandplayingarole.

“Our defence led by Billy Myers, Mace CousinsandMitchellGardinerledfromthe front,”hesaid.

“The midfield battle was really competitive. Nick Hind, Brett Bewley and Luther Baker were really good and Will Johnson up forward with five goals making themostofhisopportunities.”

TheDevilsnowgettheweekoffbeforethe grandfinal.

After a tough month of football, Jordan said it would be good to freshen up the groupaheadofthebiggestchallenge.

“Early on as a two-year-old he wasn’t much good which goes to show you sometimes you have to give them a second chance and a bit of time because he came back and racedreallywellasathree-year-old,” he said.

“Then coming back from a spell he got kicked by another horse in the paddock and injured a bone in his back leg, it’s lucky we own him ourselves and could be patient with him.”

Earlier in the night he partnered Letsstartinheaventoanauthoritative win in the Logical Staffing Solutions Tatlow Stakes before Jilliby Ballerini rounded off Lee’s successful night when she led all the way in the Aldebaran Park Trotters Free For All. John Dunne

Ben Chapman (right) has signed on as coach of Melton Centrals. (Supplied)

Jack Bewley. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474079_34

Initiative in the WFNL to change the view on umpires

A group of Western Football Netball League umpires have been working hard behind the scenes to try and make umpiring a better environment for females.

The league has been involved in an AFL initiative, Mates on the Mark, which is involves a group of umpires from the league working together to make some change.

Terry West was approached to join the program and he jumped at the chance.

“There’s eight of us,” he said. “We had three sessions that were run by a few companies.

“We had AFL players and former AFL players speak with us. Darcy Moore spoke about how he saw things as a captain of an AFL club.

“Ben Brown highlighted stats on women’s and girls participation in local footy.”

Westsaidthesessionsallowedthegroup to put forward their own experiences in football and what they’ve seen in the local community.

He said they spoke about how they wanted to change things.

“We want to see more female umpires,” he said. “They have never been super high but we’ve got an insight into other areas and it’s a national issue.

“The first session was more about why we’re not able to retain female umpires and why they leave.

“They don’t have female role models and there’s a lot of older men who are

stuck in the same ways that it’s a man’s sport.

“We have to change that midget and the keep them in the league as well.”

One of the other sessions involved the group highlighting 10 key issues that they wanted to change.

West said they are taking baby steps to try and change things.

“We picked one or two things each,” he said. “We wanted to try and do an all female umpiring team.

“We were able to successfully do that with two male umpires as we didn’t have enough female field umpires.

“Seven out of nine was really good. We want to show people in the community that girls and daughters can get involved and they don’t have to play.

Sharks into granny

By Tara Murray

Hillside made history on Saturday as it won through to its first Essendon District Football League division 1 grand final.

After a number of near misses in the years since they won the division 2 premiership in 2013, the Sharks are finally through to the final game of the season in this division.

Itwasastrongfourquarterperformance against Craigieburn on Saturday, that endedtheEaglesremarkablerunandkept the Sharks season alive.

While the Eagles kicked the first couple ofgoalsofthegameitwasalltheSharksas they won, 18.7 (115)-8.8 (56).

Sharks coach Mo Kaakour said it was pretty special to make it to the final game of the year.

“We’ve worked so hard for it and it started back in November,” he said.

“The club has been around for 25 years and it’s our first division 1 grand final.

“It’ll be an exciting day with our 18s in the early game. It shows the depth at the footy club and that the club is in a good spot.”

On Saturday, the Eagles got the first couple of goals before the Sharks settled.

The Eagles led at quarter time by three points before the Sharks kicked six goals to one in the second quarter to take control.

Kaakour said they wanted to put pressure on the Eagles and make sure that they didn’t get on top.

“They were playing on confidence,” he said. “They’re a good football side and are well coached.

“It’s tough to come back in a final so we put the pressure on them early. We shut down their space.

“They like to chip it around and we took that away and played a front half game on the back of that.

“We executed really well.”

The Eagles kicked three goals with the wind in the third quarter but the Sharks were able to hold them at bay.

Seven goals in the final quarter sealed the deal for the Sharks.

Kaakoursaidtheyusedtheirexperience firstly to recover from a poor semi final

“I want to make change and I’m just one person. Together with other people I can learn from them and work together to see what comes from group.”

West said he would jump at the chance to be involved in this program again next season if he was given the opportunity to. He said the current group had a group chat and were constantly talking about what they would continue to do.

West said they won’t stop pushing for a better environment for women despite the program ending.

“We want to make it a welcoming place for everyone,” he said.

Western United in ‘hibernation’

Western United’s players are now free agents after the A-Leagues club’s men’s and women’s teams were placed in hibernation for this season.

The Australian Professional Leagues on Saturday confirmed the one-year pause after WMG Football Club, the club’s owner and operator, was placed into liquidation last month.

The wind-up process has dragged out, with various reviews and appeals pushed back until next week at the earliest.

With the men’s and women’s seasons beginning in October, the APL moved to officially put the club on pause ahead of next week’s fixtures announcement.

Players, including star midfielders Angus Thurgate and Dylan Leonard, are now free agents available to rival clubs while the transfer window remains open.

“The club needs time to work through these legal and regulatory proceedings and re-establish their financial and operating position, but with the timing and outcome for both up in the air, we need to progress with our plans for season 25-26 without Western United,” APL executive chairman Stephen Conroy said.

“Weseegreatvalueinthepotential of Western United.

and then to hold off Craigieburn.

“It was a good game offensively and defensively,” he said. “There’s no pressure without the defensive effort.

“The back seven, I thought were great and the mids owned the space as well.”

Josh Covelli kicked five goals for the Sharks.

He needs two goals in the grand final to kick 100 for a second straight season.

Lachlan Henson, who kicked three goals, was named the Sharks best along with Ryan Lojko, Ryan Schiavone.

Jackson McMenamin made a successful return from injury in a boost for the Sharks.

Kaakour said Riley Miksa was a chance to return in the grand final.

The Sharks will face Oak Park in the decider.

Kaakour said they were hoping it would be fourth time lucky against the Kangaroos.

“They are a quality side and are well coached,” he said. “We’re a different side than we were a couple of weeks ago.”

“The club has had great success on the pitch and their academies are an important pathway for emerging youngtalentintheVictorianfootball community - but we need to do what is best for the league, our partners and our other clubs at this time.

“This is the best path forward for theleague,andgivesWesternUnited the best opportunity to rejoin the A-Leagues and continue their work in the community.”

The club’s academies will remain inoperationastheyattempttoreturn for 2026 and beyond, potentially with a drastically rebuilt squad.

“Let us be absolutely clear: this is not a farewell, nor is it a step back,” a Western United statement read.

“This is an investment in our future, a proactive move that will empower us to reset and come back revitalised.

“To our A-Leagues players, coaches and staff, we say simply and sincerely: we are sorry. The uncertainty you have faced is not what you deserved.”

Hillside’s Khalil Kaakour was named in the best. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 494547_14

Caroline Springs ready to go again to secure GF berth

CarolineSpringsremainbullishabouttheir chances of securing a maiden Western Football League division 1 grand final appearance despite being overrun in Saturday’smajorsemi-final.

The Lakers led minor premier Werribee Districts by 17 points at three-quarter-time oftheclashatAvalonAirportOval.

However, the Tigers piled on six goals to onewiththeaidofthebreezeinafinal-term blitz to stamp their ticket to a fourth consecutive decider, winning by 17 points, 16.10(106)-12.17(89).

Caroline Springs were left to lament their wastefulness in front of goal earlier in the contest, which ultimately proved their downfall.

Brian Lake’s side will face Yarraville-Seddon in this weekend’s preliminary final in a rematch of the qualifyingfinal.

“We probably kicked ourselves out of it a little with (2.7) in the first quarter when we had the breeze,” Lakers football manager ShaunRainersaid.

“If we had converted a few more of those, we could have probably had a stronger lead at three-quarter-time, which would have at least put a bit more pressure back at Werribee.Buttheywerereallystronginthat lastquarter.

“The boys did a lot right, it was probably just converting opportunities which hurt themearly.

“But once Werribee got on top halfway through that last quarter, they ran away withitalittlebit.”

Cooper Pepi, Alexander Paech, Alipate Bryant, Ben Caluzzi, Jack Heron and Reece Blackman led the way in defeat, while star veteranRyanAllancontributedthreegoals.

Caroline Springs dismantled Yarraville-Seddon with an 11-goal-to-three second half the previous week and are confident they can advance to earn another crackatWerribeeDistricts.

The Eagles ended Hoppers Crossing’s flag defencewithaneight-pointwinonSunday.

“We should be going into this week confidentaftertheresultaweekagoagainst

Yarraville,”Rainersaid.

“If we do what we did in the second half against Yarraville, we potentially get to that elusive division 1 grand final, which would bereallygood.

“We’ve been thereabouts with these top sides, so there’s no reason why we don’t feel we can go all the way if we get the opportunity.”

The Lakers have cemented themselves as a force in the top flight after claiming the division2flagin2016.

They have contested finals in three of the past four seasons and secured the minor premiership in 2022 before suffering a straight-setsfinalsexit.

“Wewantedtobuildtowardsit-wedidn’t want to just throw away the club and throw ridiculous money. We wanted to develop anddevelopourjuniors,”Rainersaid.

“The majority of the team are CS juniors, which would be really great if we can go all theway.”

Lakers claim premiership

By Tara Murray

Caroline Springs is finally back on top in the Western Football League women’s competition.

After a couple of near misses and grand final heartbreak the past two years, the Lakers completed the perfect season on Saturday.

Yarraville-Seddon, which had come from fourth, gave the Lakers a few nervous moments late in the grand final.

There was a goal in the match early in thelastquarterbeforetheLakerswereable to find some composure to dominate the dying minutes.

AgoaltoMiraDiabsealedthewinonthe siren and the premiership for the Lakers, 10.8 (68)-8.3 (51).

Lakers coach Alex O’Shea said it was a pretty special moment.

“It feels relief to be honest,” she said. “We’ve worked hard all year, minor premiers, and Yarraville came into this gamewithalotofmomentumandweknew that.

“The girls had to be really on today [Saturday]. It was a four quarter performance of footy and we played our game.”

It was a high-scoring affair early on with both sides hitting the scoreboard in the opening quarter.

TheLakersledbyagoalatthefirstbreak.

A five goal to two second quarter really set up the win for the Lakers, who led by 23 points at half time.

The Eagles kept themselves in the game with the only goal of the third quarter with the margin 18 points at the final break.

When the Eagles kicked the first two goals of the last quarter with the margin back to just a goal.

Jacinta Kondis finally got the Lakers first goal of the second half in the 12th minute of the final quarter to steady her side.

The Lakers then had their opportunities as they scored the next four points. It meant the Eagles needed two goals to win.

They managed to get one back before Diab scored one on the siren to seal the win.

O’Shea said that the Eagles had put them under pressure all day. She had not much voice after a lot of yelling.

“It wasn’t an easy game, especially in that last quarter,” she said. “There were momentswheretheytookthatopportunity

“It got close there. Credit to our girls we got challenged in the game and we kept fighting and fighting, it shows our spirit of

our team.

“I’m very proud of the girls.”

O’Shea said they had used the lessons from the past two grand finals, where they had fallen short late.

Shesaidtheyjustneededtobecomposed inthosemomentsandthatwasthemessage to the group.

“From a coaching aspect, you can’t do much when you’re not out there,” she said.

“Just see how it is, make changes if needed be, and some changes needed to be made lucky enough to come up with the win.

“We’ve been in those scenarios before, beenchallengedlateandhaven’tbeenable to get over the line.

“Thisyearwefocusedonourpreparation and as a coaching staff looked at different scenarios and so forth.

“It was good to compose ourselves and get over the line.”

Diab finished with six goals for the Lakers. Akima Manoah was awarded the best on ground medal.

The premiership is the Lakers second having made the last six grand finals.

O’Shea said there was a lot of time that went into the club’s female program.

“The under-18s won their EDFL (Essendon District Football League) premiership last week as well, and we’ve won as well,” she said.

“It shows the strength in numbers that we have at Caroline Springs and a lot of people have put in a lot of time.

“Right from our under-10s program right up to seniors, it’s a credit to everyone at the club for this win today [Saturday].”

The premiership caps off a few big weeks for O’Shea.

Just six weeks ago, O’Shea gave birth to

a daughter.

“I made it back in time to coach,” she said.

“I’m very grateful to have a lot of people who are supportive and can help out.

“I needed that especially today [Saturday], the training sessions and other games.Veryluckyforthesupporttobeable to do what I do.”

Luke D’Anello Alipate Bryant. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 431493_02

Caroline Springs. (Kel Rowe)

Mira Diab celebrates one of her goals. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_53

Nikki Perrett. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_07

Caroline Springs finally got the second premiership it was after in the Western Football League women’s competition. The Lakers took on Yarraville-Seddon in a hard-fought game but were able to come out on top. Here’s some of the action.

Lakers’ winning moment

Yarraville-Seddon’s Rachel Culvenor. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_12

Caroline Springs’ Taya Meiers. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_21

Yarraville-Seddon’s Akec Makur Chuot. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_25

Yarraville-Seddon. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_36

Xanthe Chard. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_01

Caroline Springs’ Madison Cauchi. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_45

Hayley Herring tries to break through a couple of tackles. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_18

Caroline Springs. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_33

Caitlin Pretty and Alex O’Shea. (Tara Murray)

Best on ground Akima Manoah with Melissa Horne. (Kel Rowe)

Caroline Springs’ Jactina Kondis. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_04

Caroline Springs’ Stephanie Thompson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 501140_17