Caroline Springs fell agonisingly short of its first Western Football League division 1 premiership on Saturday. The Lakers and Werribee Districts played out another thriller and went to overtime for the second time in as many years.
The Tigers did enough in extra time to get their second premiership win in three years.
For more grand final action, turn to sport
By Sam Porter
Brimbank council has adopted a new three-phase plan to tackle the ongoing issue of illegal footpath trading on Alfrieda Street in St Albans, which it said had escalated significantly, especially at weekends.
Theplan,estimatedtocost$360,000,will be carried out over a nine-month period with the third phase acting as an ongoing responsetotheissue.
Council said the plan recognises the complex circumstances driving informal trade that may include cost of living
pressures, housing insecurity, alcohol or drug dependency and barriers to formal employment.
Theplanalsohighlightsthatunregistered footpath trading may be a cultural norm among some migrant communities, particularly among older community members.
The first stage of the plan, running over threemonths,willfocusoneducatingand connectingunregisteredfoodtraderswith outreach programs using cross-cultural communicationtools.
This engagement campaign will be carried out throughout the nine-month
plan, and ahead of a targeted, intensive compliance program which will be implemented in phase two, also running overthreemonths.
The intensive program will involve a consistent compliance officer presence on Alfrieda Street between 11am to 7pm on weekdays and 11am to 5pm on weekends, with an evaluation of the program to be carried out at the six-week and 12-week marks.
In part three of the plan, two new permanent compliance officers will be hired to patrol and control activity in the streetalongsidepolice.
During the September council meeting, CrDuyenAnhPhamsaidtheissueofillegal footpathtradingismultifaceted.
“...While often treated as a compliance issue, [illegal footpath trading] drivers and impacts are broader and more complex.Councilrespondsinco-operated, culturally appropriate engagement and explanation to ensure enforcement efforts address language barriers, generational differences and unfamiliarity with local law enforcement procedures,” Cr Pham said.
By Sam Porter
The day the Tim Lewczuk bridge was renamed in the senior constable’s honour, thelatepoliceofficer’sparents,Richardand DotLewczuk,gatheredinagreenareaatthe bridge’sbase.
They said they were overcome with emotions.
“We did that there on the day with our other son and his children … and it was overwhelming,”Dotsaid.
“It’salwaystoughlosingsomebodybutwe wereveryproud,”Richardsaid.
Tim joined the police force in 1989, after
having worked various jobs, including as a maintenance fitter and a football fitness advisor.
“He came into our house one night and said ‘I’m going to join the police force,’ and that’sit,”Richardsaid.
On a Saturday night in 1997, Senior Constable Lewczuk and Senior Constable Kylie Towk pulled over a vehicle on the bridge over the Western Freeway, and parkedthepolicecarbehindit.
As Senior Constable Lewczuk was questioning the driver, another car crashed intothepolicecar.
Senior Constable Lewczuk was thrown
over the first car onto the highway below, andtragicallydiedatthescene.
It was the day that changed the family’s livesforever.
RichardandDotsaidtheywereemotional after learning Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart were shotandkilledinPorepunkahlastmonth.
“For anyone that’s lost somebody while they were on duty, it brings it all back.,” Dot said.
“Time goes on and you have to learn to live with it. It never goes away, and things likethatbringitalltothefore.”
A group of recycling companies from Melbourne’s west have been recognised for their efforts to make the industry more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
The Brooklyn Recycling Group (BRG) was honoured with the Greenstart Award at the 35th Australian Freight Industry Awards on at Crown Casino on Saturday, September 6.
Comprising EcoGypsum and Fertilizer, City Circle Group, ResourceCo, and Delta Group, BRG were awarded for developing a plan for the entire Brooklyn industrial precinct to reduce emissions, reduce dust pollution and improve air quality in the area.
Under the Better Environment Plan
(BEP) businesses in Brooklyn’s industrial precinct are committed to implementing strategies such as establishing natural wind breaks, installing dust monitors in more locations, planting more trees and providing regular updates to local residents.
The first plan of its type in Victoria, the BEP includes objectives and actions developedwiththesupportoftheVictorian Government’s Clean Air for All Victorians Strategy (2022) and the recommendations of the Inner West Air Quality Community Reference report, released in 2020.
TheplanwasapprovedbyEnvironmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) and began operation in October last year.
Accepting the award on behalf of BRG, EcoGypsum’s Christian Buxton thanked Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA), Victorian Transport Association,NationalTransportInsurance, local councils and the inner-west community for helping them implement the BEP.
“In the waste and recycling industry, we know we can compete in the marketplace — but tackling complex challenges, like improving air quality in Melbourne’s west, demands collaboration. By working together, we can create real, lasting change,” said Mr Buxton who invited other operators and businesses in Brooklyn and the inner-west to join them.
Cr Joh Bauch said illegal trading is also a health concern as well as a criminal matter.
”...Some food being sold may have potential health risks and not be prepared or stored in accordance with the relevant health regulations,” Cr Bauch said.
“And I remind again, our community, selling or even purchasing these stolen goods is a crime.“
Cr Bauch also highlighted that limited police resources has made it more difficult to combat the illegal trading in St Albans.
As part of the plan, council will also advocate for increased police resourcing.
Dot said National Police Remembrance DayhelpsTim’slegacytoliveon. “It just means that he’s never forgotten,” shesaid.
ANationalPoliceRemembranceday/Blue Ribbondaymemorialservicewillbeheldat ClubItalia,128-152FurlongRoad,Sunshine, onThursday,September25at11am.
National Police Remembrance Day will beobservedonMonday,September29,with moreservicesbeingheldacrossthestate.
Donations to the Victoria Police Legacy remembrance fund for families of Porepunkah tragedy can be made here: https://www.policelegacyvic.org.au/
Taskforce Hawk detectives have charged three men following investigations into a factory fire in Derrimut earlier this year.
A 33-year-old Craigieburn man, a 36-year-old Roxburgh park man and a 38-year-old Brunswick man were all charged with criminal damage by fire (arson) and theft of a motor vehicle.
ThetrioappearedattheMelbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday, September 19.
The charges follow a fire at a business about 5.35am on May 27.
Emergency services were called to the Calarco Drive business after a member of the public spotted the building fire.
Police allege the two men from Craigieburn and Roxburgh park were responsible for lighting the fire, while the third man from Brunswick directed the offences.
Detectives appealed for public information in relation to the fire, as wellasanearlierfireinMaribyrnong on April 6, which occurred outside a residential address on Scenic Drive shortly after 1.30am.
Footage released by police showed two people dousing two vehicles outsidethehomeinaccelerantbefore setting them alight.
The residence was not damaged andthefamilyinsidetheaddresswas not physically injured.
Police have continued to treat the two fires as linked and believe they may be linked to further incidents.
Operation Hawk was established in July 2024 to specifically target criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry and transitioned to Taskforce Hawk in June 2025.
“Illegal footpath trading undermines the legitimate small businesses in St Albans that already exist and is illegally congesting council-managed footpaths, and are hazards for pedestrians especially for the disabled and the elderly.
Brimbank Local Area Commander, Inspector Matthew Bui said police continue to run targeted operations in the area to address the community’s issues.
“We know the sale of stolen goods in our streets is a huge concern to the local community and businesses. That’s why we
are targeting it from both a plain clothes and highly visible capacity,” Inspector Bui said.
“We also utilise the powers under the designated area declaration which is in placeforStAlbansforayear.Thesepowers allow officers to issue banning notices to peopleforupto72hoursiftheyarecausing trouble or behaving in an anti-social manner.”
Inspector Bui said police regularly employ specialist resources such as the Public Order Response Team, Dog Squad and Transit Police to patrol Alfrieda Street with local police.
Policesaidthiswasinresponsetoa numberoffreshallegationsofserious and violent criminal behaviour. Taskforce Hawk is focused on assessing new intelligence and evidence relating to allegations of criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry.
It also continues to proactively target organised crime associated with the sector, including a focus on any individuals employed within the construction industry who have known links to outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Police are also instigating approaches with relevant industry stakeholderstogatherintelligence,as wellasworkingcloselywitharangeof lawenforcementpartners,regulators and government authorities.
By Sam Porter
The state government has scaled back plans to upgrade two busy roundabouts within close proximity of each other in Taylors Lakes and Keilor.
A 2023 VicRoads explanatory report on the project detailed plans to signalise two intersectionsonSunshineAvenuethatcross with the Melton Highway and also with the Old Calder Highway.
According to Transport Victoria, the state government will instead install one set of traffic lights at the Melton Highway and Sunshine Avenue roundabout and add new
turning lanes to both roundabouts.
Current turning lanes on the Melton Highway and Sunshine Avenue roundabout will be extended and the pedestrian crossingonShoppersLanewillalsobeupgraded.
Former Brimbank mayor and retired townplannerBruceLancashiresaidthetwo roundabouts regularly cause traffic to back up significantly.
“Roundabouts can only take a certain volume of traffic before they start to bottleneck. They’re great for low volume and they add safety, however there gets to a point where you have to upgrade traffic lights to get the traffic through,” Mr Lancashire said.
“To turn round and say ‘look we’ve changed our mind’ is extremely disappointing.”
Mr Lancashire believes the altered plans won’t solve traffic congestion in the area.
“It’sstillgoodtohavethat[onesetoftrafficlights]donebuttheroundaboutsarevery closetogethersomyconcernisthatyoustill won’tgetridofthebottleneckifyoudon’tfix both,” he said.
In the August council meeting Brimbank council said the state government had advised it that the original project was descoped due to funding.
Council said it raised its concerns of the
Amazon employees visited Lakeview Senior College in Caroline Springs earlier this month, 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 – titled Amazon Inspiring Students 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.
At the session, a panel of speakers from 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. He said the session also encouraged students to take an active role in their career choices to help put them on a trajectory to something they love.
Brimbank council said it is taking action to improve safety near the Brimbank and Civic Community Centre and Sunshine Library on Hampshire Road, after recent incidents of antisocial behaviour were reported in the area.
Council highlighted several measures it is taking to make the public places more welcoming including increasing securityandpatrolsbylocallawsofficers, boosting training and support for council staff and security guards, and banning people from buildings who don’t comply with expected standards of behaviour
Council said it was also increasing its resources to improve connections and coordination between council services, health services and other organisations working with community members in need.
Other ways to make public spaces safer are being explored by council too, including proposed improvements to the Sunshine Library entrance.
On social media Cr Maria Kerr said thecommunitydeservessafe,welcoming and accessible public spaces.
“Council is also strongly advocating
two roundabouts not being replaced with traffic signals to senior staff at the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).
Star Weekly contacted the DTP for comment which said it continues to monitor traffic at the site to inform planning.
“We’ll continue to work closely with Brimbank council and the community as this project progresses,” the spokesperson said.
According to Transport Victoria, planning and early works for the upgrades are expected to be complete next year, with timelines for major construction to be confirmed at a later date.
Brimbank council has announced plans for a major new public artwork at the H.V. McKay Memorial Gardens in Sunshine, which will be created by Monash Art Projects (MAP).
The project, titled ‘The Birds (Sunshine)’, will feature six sculptural birdbaths created from honed granite, bluestone, and bronze.
The work will draw inspiration from the industrial heritage of the Sunshine Harvester Works and the surrounding basalt plains.
The artwork will provide a functional and artistic habitat for local birdlife, while offering the community new ways to engage with the H.V. McKay Memorial Gardens’ unique natural and cultural history, according to council.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said council is pleased to be adding to the publicartinBrimbankwithameaningful sculptural piece.
“The Birds will connect deeply with the legacy of H.V. McKay and the site’s industrial past while looking forwardcreating something that is both reflective andfunctionalforourcommunityandits environment,” Cr Dang said.
“Public art brings people together, sparks conversation, and helps us see the world differently – and in Brimbank, we are proud to support work that strengthens our community in such powerful and lasting ways.”
The sculptural forms in the artwork will be adapted from the Sunshine Harvester Company’s original parts catalogue, reassembled as modernist compositions reminiscent of Cubist collages.
Council said the work will offer a poetic response to the machine age, reimagining industrial forms as vessels for care, regeneration, and connection with nature.
The newly-announced work in Sunshine extends another recent project by MAP commissioned by Monash University Museum of Art, which featured carved boulders shaped to collect water for birds on campus.
The original work explored Victoria’s geological diversity while foregrounding the needs of non-human species in urban design.
for more state and federal government support for mental health services, including funding for outreach workers to engage with people in and around our libraries and public spaces,” Cr Kerr said.
Council continues to work with police on the issue.
Any incidents of illegal or antisocial behaviour should be reported to police by calling triple-0 and that if incidents are witnessed inside a council building, locals should inform staff members, who can call police.
The Sunshine project will build on these learnings with new research into local avian life and site-responsive design, council said.
Collaborating on the development of the artwork in Sunshine are prominent artists Callum Morton, Jen Berean and Linda Tegg.
The new public artwork is scheduled for installation in mid-2026 and is supported through Brimbank City Council’s Public Art Program.
Over 100 people walked along Taylors Creek Trail to Linear Park and back earlier this month as part of an event to raise awareness about domestic violence.
‘Walk with us - supporting women’s safety’ was hosted by Sydenham MP, minister for prevention of family violence and minister for women Natalie Hutchins in partnership with Watergardens centre manager Trish Gardiner.
Ms Hutchins said the event provided solidarity and support for women and children in the local community experiencing domestic violence.
“We were pleased to see the community come together for this important cause. The ‘walk with us – supporting women’s safety’ event was a powerful way to raise awareness and show solidarity in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of women,” Ms Hutchins said.
Participants were also encouraged to signa‘pledgeforactiononwomen’ssafety’
Over 40 people braved the windy weather to plant 1500 wildflowers at Iramoo Wildflower reserve in Cairnlea earlier this month.
Local greenthumbs had the opportunity topartakeinplantingtechniqueworkshops to ensure wildflowers could thrive after they were put into the soil.
Victoria University research associate Dr Megan O’Shea said Iramoo reserve has quitealargeareaofserratedtussock,which is an invasive and hardy grass species.
“We’re just adding to the complexity of the system which means that there’s greater resources that support the plants and animals that should be out there,” Dr O’Shea said.
to show commitment to supporting and promoting the safety and wellbeing of women in the community.
Gorton MP Alice Jordan -Baird, Melton mayor Steve Abboushi and Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang were present on the day along with Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria. Support services such as RESPECT Victoria, West CASA (centre against sexualnassault), Orange Door, CommUnity+ and Vietnamese Women’s Association held information stalls on the day and also joined the walk.
Watergardens Centre manager Trish Gardiner said the centre was proud to be able play a role in uniting the community against domestic violence.
“Watergardens is pleased to be able to supportlocalmemberNatalieHutchinsMP in providing a venue to host a community walk against domestic violence, and to honour and support victims across Australia.”
fire
A fire that blazed through two houses and spread to a third home in Sydenham on September 15 will be investigated by police and Fire Rescue Victoria’s (FRV) specialist investigators. FRV responded to the incident on Mountbatten Way to find one double-storey and one single-storey brick townhouse fully involved with fire. Due to the excessive fuel load and heavy winds, the fire quickly spread to a third double-storey property Firefighters were able to protect an additional two properties from damage.
fined
A Derrimut cooking oil transport company has been fined $4070 by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) after it was seen washing out its storage tanks then allowing the wastewater to escape their bunded area and flow to the nearby stormwater drain. The EPA said it previously warned the company located in Derrimut Drive –Cookers Bulk Oil System –about the illegal discharge of wash waters. It EPA said the company had not acted to change its practice. EPA west metropolitan regional manager Julia Gaitan said EPA officers saw wash waters containing grease trap waste being discharged to the stormwater system.
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A Delahey resident was slapped with a $1628 fine after Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) workers found a snapping turtle in their home, which is classified as an exotic pest animal in Australia.
DEECA officers executed a search warrant on the residential property on July 2, seizing a 12 kg, 84cm long female common snapping turtle.
Common snapping turtles are native in the south-east of the United States of America,andhaveapowerfulbitethatcan inflictseriousinjuryiftheyarethreatened or provoked.
The source of the snapping turtle is part of another ongoing investigation.
The discovery was made as part of operation DJANGO, which is a joint initiative between Agriculture Victoria, and the Conservation Regulator, supported by Crime Stoppers Victoria, to crack down on exotic animal trade.
Operation DJANGO project manager Adam Kay said that while convictions like this help protect Victoria’s biosecurity system, they also are an essential deterrence for future would-be offenders.
“Operation DJANGO is about ensuring the public is aware of the risks created by
illegal animal traders,” Mr Kay said.
“We remain committed to working closely across government to identify and address illegal animal trade, ensuring appropriate action is taken where necessary.”
As part of the operation, a south-east Melbourne man who was seeking to breed chameleons was also convicted of two counts of keeping a controlled pest animal.
Wildlife trafficking is the fourth-largest organised crime globally, worth over $450 billion a year, according to the Wildlife Crime Research Hub.
The Goss ’n’ Shop op shop in Sunshine is asking locals to extend a hand and make more donations as the shop experiences a periodwithashortageofstock.
The shop is looking to receive donated household items, such as cookware, utensils, towels and bedding, as well as clothing, kids toys, small items of furniture andbooks.
Manager Gail Tupua-Siliva said the shop aims to help the wider community as much asitcan.
“The donations are starting to wear thin
and people do come and buy because we aresocheap.Ikeepthepricesverylow.Most stuff in the shop, there’s nothing over $5,” MsTupua-Silivasaid.
“Next door to us, a part of the church, there’s an Anglicare and we get a lot of disadvantaged people who go there and that’s why we keep the prices very low, to helpthefamilies.”
Ms Tupua-Siliva said while she does not like to see household objects go into landfill, the shop is still looking for quality items that are clean, undamaged and still
suitableforuse.
“We also help people that come in off the streetsthatdon’thaveshoesoranything,we give them shoes for free,” Ms Tupua-Siliva said.
Theopshopisnotabletoacceptdonations thatarestained,chippedordamaged.
Electricalitems,prams,pushers,walkers, mattresses, cots and car seats are also not abletobedonated.
The op shop has been operating for 16 years and is part of the Holy Apostles AnglicanChurch.
A group of 20 residents from Melbourne’s western suburbs protested outside Fraser MP Daniel Mulino’s office on Monday September,15,callingforAustraliato enditsdiplomatictieswithIsrael.
The group eventually moved into the foyer of Dr Mulino’s office where theystayedforfour-and-a-halfhours, chanting and playing war sounds from Gaza. Spokesperson for the group, former senator and Footscray resident Janet Rice, said the protest aimedtodisruptbusinessasusual.
“Multiple local residents and community groups have contacted Daniel Mulino, our local representative, about the genocide that Israel is inflicting on Palestine and actions that Australia could take to help end the starvation and the killings,”MsRicesaid.
“Dr Mulino has refused to meet us. We cannot accept silence in the face of genocide. We are occupying his offices to get him to unlock his door to listen to his constituents. We are breaking the silence about our government’s complicit relationship withIsrael,”MsRicesaid.
“Until Israel ends its crimes, the Australian government must sanction Israel as we are sanctioning Russia, end trade with and stop armingIsraelandenddiplomaticties withIsrael,”shesaid.
“Recognition of Palestine is not enough. Words are not enough… Sanctionsspeaklouderthanwords.”
Dr Mulino was contacted for comment.
While Melbourne’s west and Congo DRC are thousands of kilometres apart, Weir Views-based charity Initiative for Peace and Development (IPD) is providing on-the-ground support for women, youth, and children in both as a catalyst for change. Oscar Parry spoke with one of its founders and directors, Amani Karumba, about the charity and its story.
Amani Karumba was just 11 years old when he and his family left the DemocraticRepublicoftheCongo–acountrythatheandhisWeirViews-based charityarededicatedtosupporting.
“I was with my family and we sought refuge in Malawi that is in East Africa, and then we resettled here in Australia – of course escaping from the conflict and instability that gripped the Eastern Congo,”MrKarumbasaid.
“Yearslater,Ifoundmyselfinanewhome ... in Australia, and I’d left everything, really, in Congo. But, after knowing … what’s going on … to my country … I’m determined [to make] a difference, and that is how I founded the Initiative for PeaceandDevelopment.”
Mr Karumba said he did not embark on thismissionalone.
“At my side was my wife Veronique, whose[unwavering]supportandvisionary ideas as well were very instrumental in shapingtheorganisation,”hesaid.
“My close friend as well – we are three directors – his name is Mamadou Kenda … heisoneoftheco-founders.He’sbeenwith me from day one. So, we’ve known each other since we were in Africa in the camp in Malawi ... we were [some] of the lucky ones, we actually found ourselves again here.”
I know we cannot help everyone in the world, but the little difference that we make, the better
The organisation provides programs and aid through offices in the Congolese cities of Bukavu and Goma, along with local initiatives in Melbourne’s west from its WeirViewsheadquarters.
“We’ve been a little busy … the project that we are doing right now is with the situation in Congo at the moment, the population is in dire need of medical [support],”MrKarumbasaid.
“Because of the war that we’ve had … for the past 30 years – and it’s actually intensified in January – there is so much need in terms of medical [support]. There’s really not enough medical equipment or medical help in …Congo … especially in GomaandBukavu,”hesaid.
“We are on a mission to send medical equipment to these areas. We’ve been going around and asking for donations: either clothes, shoes, stationary, and … generalmedicalequipment.”
Mr Karumba said the organisation focuses on creating evidence-based programs that address “the most pressing needs of the marginalised communities – mostly women, children, refugees, and those actually persecuted of their religion, sexuality,andethnicity”.
“One of our core initiatives is promoting health and wellbeing. So, coming from DRC, we understood that access to healthcare is one … of the most pressing needs in many Congolese communities. So, through our organisation, we try to provide essential medical support including maternal and child health services, [and] health education efforts as well,”MrKarumbasaid
“On another level as well, [is] education – so, we believe that education is key to empowerment. So, with IPD, we created education programs that offer resources,
training, and scholarships to children, youth,andwomen.”
The organisation also runs a small trainingcentreinGoma.
“We actually train youth on computer skills, which really helps them for the future,” Mr Karumba said. “Women who have been sexually assaulted – but also former … wives of soldiers that we train as well in sewing. So, this helps them to deal with…everydaylife.”
IPD also provides child protection services, which according to its website, focus on preventing abuse, supporting childrenatrisk,andadvocatingforpolicies thatprotectchildren’srightsandfutures.
“AttheheartofIPDswork,there’sactually a deep commitment to safeguarding vulnerablechildren,whichmanyinCongo … face abuse, exploitation, and neglect,” MrKarumbasaid.
Its other services include women’s empowerment and gender equality initiatives, refugee and displacement support, and community development programs.
Thousands of kilometres away In Melbourne’s west, the group continues withitssupportforyouth.
“We try to engage them into different activities … there’s a lot that has been happening in the past three months … it’s been a very tough year for the Congolese
community where we’ve lost almost five youth in ways that are unimaginable,” Mr Karumbasaid.
“We try to bring them closer to our culture, to think about where they came from. So, we engage them into … sports, musicaswell…justtoreallytrytogetthem off the streets and to do something better forthemselves.”
Last month, IPD and two other organisations – ASPYA Foundation and RedseaMedia–hostedafundraisingevent calledtheAfricanUnityFundraiser.
The event included Congolese and Sudanese music, dance, and food to raise fundsforprovidingaidinbothCongoDRC andSudan.
“These we actually help just to bring … youth together – be it Congolese, be it Ethiopianyouth,beitSudaneseyouth–so, we were all together and we … became as onecommunity,”MrKarumbasaid.
“We are working hand-in-hand with so many other organisations just to bring the African-Australian youth together, trying tohelpthemin…thebestwaywecan.”
Part of the funds raised by the organisations from this event went to delivering 120 school kits – including school bags, books, rulers, and pencils –to students in Goma on Saturday, September13.
The group also partners with Rotary
Caroline Springs on youth and family violencepreventionprograms.
Reflecting on the results of IPD’s efforts, MrKarumbasaidthatheisoutofwords.
“I’m really out of words. Because when I startedthis,Iwasn’tsure,”hesaid.
“Everything we do is step-by-step, and I think we are going in the right direction. I knowwecannothelpeveryoneintheworld, but the little difference that we make, the better. So, if I help one person today, that person as well might help another person, andso,weareputtingsmilesback[on]alot ofyouth,alotofkids.”
He said he looks forward to doing “even biggerthings”.
“We are living in a very, very good country.Thebestcountryintheworld.And so sometimes we take things for granted, but outside there, there are people who do not have what we have – not near … this is the opportunity we are trying to take by bothhandsandhelpthosethatwecan.”
The group is currently fundraising to cover the expenses of shipping medical equipment – including electric hospital chairsdonatedbyMelbournehospitals–to CongoDRCinDecember.
Mr Karumba said he encourages anyone who would like to donate money towards the shipment, clothes, shoes, or stationary tocontacttheorganisation.
Details:ipdevelopment.org
CentralWestShoppingCentreisinvitingthe community to take part in Locals Behind the Lens, a photography competition that celebrates the everyday beauty of Braybrook and surrounds. Running from 15 September to 12 October, the initiative encourages residents to submit photos that capturethespiritoftheneighbourhood.
Whether it’s the buzz of a weekend market, the calm of a quiet park bench, or a spontaneous smile shared between neighbours - your lens can capture the heartofourcommunity.
“This is more than a competition, it’s a celebration of local life through the eyes of the people who live it,” said Kareem Hemeda,centremanageratCBRE.
“We’re excited to see the community’s creativitycometolife.”
Localscanenterunderthreecategories:
•JuniorPhotographer(Under18s)
•Beginner’s Eye (smartphones and basic cameras)
•ProfessionalAmateur(advancedgearand editing)
Each category winner will receive a $500 prize, and the top 20 entries will be displayed at the centre for the People’s Choice Award, where shoppers can vote from 27 October to 16 November. Voters will also go into the draw to win a $300 CentreGiftCard.
“We believe in the power of storytelling throughimagery,”MrHemedaadded.
“These photos will not only decorate our centre, they’ll remind us of the beauty and diversitythatsurroundsuseveryday.”
So grab your camera, explore your neighbourhood, and show us what makes Braybrook special. Entries are now open— don’t miss your chance to be part of this visualcelebrationofcommunitylife.
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
Sunshine Collective Market
A vibrant new gathering of makers, creatives, and locals in the heart of Sunshine, Victoria. Held at the iconic Westend Market Hotel on Sunday, September 28, 10am-3pm. There will be market stalls, reptile showings, food trucks, inflatables, kid activities, pony rides and more.
Keilor Cup 2025
Over four action-packed days, boys and girls teams from under-7 to under-13 face off in thrilling matches, demonstrating their skills, passion and community spirit. Now in its 25th year, the Keilor Cup 2025 promises to be more exciting than ever, with thrilling matches, special guests, and a few surprises along the way. Running from September 25 to 28 at Stadium Drive in Keilor Park info@keilorparksoccerclub.com.au
Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival
The Vietnamese Museum Australia
Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival will be a vibrant celebration of culture and community. Supported by Sunshine Business Association, the Victorian State Government and Local Businesses, this festival will be a cherished event that brings together families, friends, and visitors of all ages to experience the magic of the Mid-Autumn Festival. The festival will be held at RT Pollard Gardens on Saturday, September 27, 1-7pm.
Durga Puja Festival
As we revere Goddess Durga and her divine
family, may the light of goodness always conquer the shadows in our lives. Everyone is welcome to join in the festivities and enjoy cultural themed programs, tradition, pandal, rituals, food stalls, trinket stalls
and lots more.This event will be presented by Utsav Melbourne Association (UMA) and supported by Brimbank council. The Hindu festival will be held at 100 Forrest Street, Ardeer on September 27, 10am-9pm.
Local young DJ April Alatipi set the books bouncing for Youth Fest 2025 at Deer Park libraryonTuesday,September9. Students and young people were able to relax, unwind and listen to music together in a laidback environment with food and drinks.
The beat city DJ event was part of Brimbank council’s line up of fun and free activities during Youth Fest in the West, which celebrates young people in BrimbankthroughoutSeptember.
Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning
Join Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning, a free, evidence-based early education program that combines music, play, and connection for families with children aged 0-5 years. Running for eight weeks, on Tuesdays, 10.30am-12.30pm, this program is designed to incorporate singing, stories, and fun activities to support your child’s development. Running from February 11 onwards at the Sunshine Heights Playgroup Centre, 105 Glengala Road.
9663 6733, or events@ds.org.au
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.
0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@outlook.com
Learn to Relax Group
IPC Health’s Living Well team is running a free Learn to Relax Group at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road, every Tuesday at 11am. This group is for people over 18 years who are interested in learning how to relax and finding ways to effectively manage their stress. Registration is required to attend this group.
livingwell@ipchealth.com.au, or 1300 472 432
Locals can join the celebrations of Hindu culture as part of the major Durga Puja festival taking place in Brimbank on Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28.
The event will be presented by Utsav Melbourne Association (UMA) and supported by Brimbank council.
UMA public relations lead Pat Banerjee said Durga Puja is one of the most significant and joyous festivals in Hindu culture, celebrated globally with huge pomp and fanfare.
“Atitscore,thefestivalhonoursGoddess Durga, the embodiment of strength and divine energy, and marks her victory over thedemonkingMahishasura,symbolising thetriumphofgoodoverevil,”MrBanerjee said.
“Beyond its religious essence, Durga Puja is also a cultural and social festival. It showcases art, music, dance, theatre, and literature, bringing communities together incelebration.Familiesandfriendsengage in traditions, wear new clothes, share festivemeals,andenjoytraditionalsweets.
“The last day, Vijaya Dashami, is marked by the immersion of the goddess’s idol in water, symbolising her return to her celestial abode. Durga Puja beautifully blends devotion, creativity, and community spirit, making it a celebration of both faith and culture.”
Each day of the festival will feature different activities, such as offering pushpanjali (floral offerings) and prayers to the Goddess.
Priests will also perform rituals such as aarti, chanting of mantras, and dhunuchi dance, accompanied by the sound of dhaak (drums).
Cultural programs, including music, dance, drama, and recitations will take place in the evenings, showcasing Bengali art and heritage with people wearing traditional Indian attire, sharing festive meals, and enjoying traditional dishes.
“Our event will also emphasise community bonding, with friends and families gathering together. All these events will be offered for free amidst an electric and buzzing ambience… UMA offers a kaleidoscope of fanfare, with a blend of spirituality, art, culture, and community bonding,” Mr Banerjee said.
Durga Puja festival celebrations will take place at 100 Forrest Street, Ardeer on Saturday, September 27 from 10am to 9pm and Sunday, September 28 from 10am to 3pm.
More info: https://www.facebook.com/ utsavmelbourneassociation/
KynetonTheatreCompanyisgearingupfor its next performance, and it’s one not to be missed.
The next show will be Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s showstopping performance, Joseph and the Amazing TechnicolourDreamcoat.
Performed thousands of times across the globe, including multiple runs in the West End and on Broadway, Joseph has become one of the world’s most beloved family musicals.
KTC’s production features a line-up of local talent from across the Macedon Ranges, with the two casts including Michael von Bonin and Chris Sliwczynski as Joseph, Katy Somerville and Erin Haberecht as The Narrator, Iain Grant and Jayden Andrea as Pharoah – and lots more familiarandnewfaces.
The casts will be singing all the classics from the hit musical, including Any Dream WillDo,CloseEveryDoor,There’sOneMore AngelInHeavenandGo,Go,GoJoseph.
Taking over the Bluestone Theatre in October, many local families will take to thestageaswell,withplentyofyoungtalent makingtheirKTCdebuts.
Alongside the performers, the KTC band will also be returning for the shows, bringingitsline-upoflocaltalent.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour DreamcoatwillbeshowingattheBluestone Theatre,HuttonStreet,Kyneton,onFridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Friday, October3untilSunday,October26.Tickets: trybooking.com/events/landing/1446898
Out On The Weekend, the greatest one-day celebration of alt-country and Americana music in Australia, kicks off a new decade of good times on Saturday, October 11 at SeaworksinWilliamstown.
Leading the charge is Nashville outlaw Nikki Lane & Her Band, bringing grit, glamour and rhinestone swagger to the Seaworks’stageforthefirsttimein11years.
Joined by first time visitor, Texan troubadour Vincent Neil Emerson and his band, and groove-heavy road dogs Cordovas.
Also confirmed for the 2025 line-up:
local cosmic cowboys Lost Ragas, rising Californian folk songbirds Sylvie, Irish-American pickers and clawhammers Dug touring Oz for the first time, the down-home and dirty charm of husband-and-wife team Laid Back Country Picker, and Canadian folk duo Kacy & Clayton. Homegrown favourites Sskyscraper Stan & The Commision Flats, Ella Hooper, Loretta Miler Band and Midnight Chicken addtothelocalflavouralongsidetheHenry Wagons & The Tennessee Studs performing the good n gritty Cash: A Journey Through
TheAmericanRecordings. Make your way to the Pirate’s Tavern Honky Tonk for sets by James Ellis & The Jealous Guys and J.Taylor Bell & The Ding Dongsalongwithtwosteplessons. With its trademark mix of excellent live music, hand selected booze, fine food, and feel-good vibes, Out On The Weekend is the place to be for lovers of Americana, twang, andgoodol’countryandwesternforadayof celebration, old friends, musical discovery andlookinggooddownbythewater. Ticketsonsalenowat:outontheweekend. com.au
Prepare to have your senses awoken and your mind blown, as a magic show graces the Bacchus Marsh Public hall next month to raise money for an important cause.
Behind the visual spectacles and magic mastery is Pentland Hills Landcare Group member and magician Mark Mayer, who is volunteering his skills and time to raise awareness and funds for an issue of high importance in Moorabool – serrated tussock.
WhenMrMayermovedtoPentland Hills from Fitzroy, he said it was only through the Landcare group that he begantolearnabouttheextentofthe problem that ravages land across the region.
“Over the years, we’ve really enjoyed being there and being a part of the Pentland Hills Landcare Group, and then, at a couple of meetings,theyweretalkingaboutthe serrated tussock and what a problem itis–andhowmostpeopledon’teven know about it or know what it is,” Mr Mayer said.
“I’m a … professional magician, I have been for over 20 years, and I thought ‘well, if I could do a charity show that raises awareness, then we can use that money and awareness to buy more equipment, buy more poisons…andhelppeoplewiththeir farms,’” he said.
“[Serrated tussock] is very, very tough–it’sdroughttolerant–andthe headscanproduce100,000seedsand getblowninthesehotwindswehave around here.”
MrMayersaidattendeescanexpect plenty of audience participation at this family-friendly event – titled ‘Mind Games’ due to the interactive and playful nature of the show.
The show will end with an awe-inspiring final magic track that will share an important message aboutserratedtussockinMoorabool.
There will be a live jazz band, drinks, food, and raffle tickets – with prizes donated by local businesses. The event was funded through a Moorabool council grant, and all funds raised from the show will go towards Pentland Hills Landcare’s fight against serrated tussock.
The Landcare group will also have an information stand at the event.
Hosted at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Saturday, October 18, doors will open at 6pm and the show will begin at 7pm.
Further details and prices are available on the event page.
Details: stickytickets.com.au/ ryoxa/mind_games_with_mark_ mayer.aspx
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Dine (3)
3 Increase in value (10)
10 On the way (2,5)
11 Make clear (7)
12 The study of speech sounds (9)
13 Head cook (4)
15 Greatly impressed by fame (10)
17 Sunrise (4)
19 Stead (4)
20 Professed (10)
23 Exclamation of surprise (4)
25 One who restrains an impulse (9)
27 Repeats (7)
28 Hard to define (7)
29 Widespread destruction; disclosure (10)
30 Newt (3)
1 With embarrassment (10)
2 Pierce (9)
4 First showings (9)
5 Sways to and fro (5)
6 Opportunity (6)
7 Tolerate (5)
8 Irish singer (4)
9 Constraint (6)
14 Affection (10)
16 Dispiriting (9)
18 Eggplant (9)
21 Follow to the end (3,3)
22 Fruit (6)
24 Big, grey, herbivorous mammal (5)
25 Fastidious (5)
26 Operatic air (4)
more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Miranda is a moon orbiting which planet in our solar system?
2 Which fruit is traditionally used in a Liverpool Tart?
3 In the story by Carlo Collodi, what is the name of the woodcarver who created Pinocchio?
4 Which animal is the mascot for Nesquik?
5 True or false: the vampire bat consumes blood?
6 What type of cloud produces rain?
7 Julianne Moore (pictured) won the Academy Award for Best Actress for which movie?
8 What bakery food is Homer Simpson’s favourite? 9 A mawashi is worn as part of which sport?
10 Who had a hit with the 1987 single Never Gonna Give YouUp?
By Lee Mccarthy
GazeuponNordicSplendourwithViking’s 15-day‘IntotheMidnightSun’voyagefrom LondontoBergenorviceversa.
The cruise will traverse deep-cut fjords along the fabled Norwegian coast, sail across the Arctic Circle where the midnight sun shines 24 hours a day and gives passengers a chance to follow in the footsteps of Vikings between the remote beauty of North Cape and the windswept ShetlandandOrkneyIslandsofScotland.
Bergen is the second-largest city in Norwayandastrollthroughthepicturesque outdoor fish market, Fisketorget where the fresh catch of the sea awaits from cod and prawnstolocalcaviarandicyoystersisnot tobemissed
Geiranger is the gateway to some of coastalNorway’smostmagnificentnatural treasures with the Seven Sisters Waterfall which tumble 1,000 feet into the fjord’s water, while directly across the fjord, the Suitor Waterfall also plunges down a steep face.
Throughout Scandinavia winter shows off pristine landscapes surrounded by snowcappedpeaksandtheauroraborealis, whose magical lights dance across the nighttimeskies.
SailtotheShetlandIslandscharacterised by dramatic landscapes, this incredibly scenic archipelago is one of Scotland’s mostremoteislandoutposts.
Explore the history of the Scottish Orkney Islands where Neolithic remains, including the ancient site of Brodgar, predate Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids.
There is no capital quite like Edinburgh, with its gorgeous setting on green rocky hillocks and splendid views of the sea. Edinburgh Castle, home of the Scottish Crown Jewels and countless medieval treasures, overlooks the city from Castle Rock.
The Royal Mile unfurls Edinburgh’s architectural gems in all their finery, from the Canongate to St. Giles’s Cathedral to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish residenceofBritishroyalty.
As the ship sails across the North Sea take advantage of the array of delicious cuisine offered on board. Guests can visit Mamsen’s, Viking’s casual gourmet deli, any time from early morning to late at night for a taste of traditional Norwegian fare. Or dine at Manfredi’s and savour an authentic Italian meal, with options
ranging from Milanese risotto to Tuscan inspiredclassics.
Arrive in Greenwich, home to the Royal Observatory where the world’s longitude ismeasuredfromtheprimemeridian,and GreenwichMeanTimesetstheglobaltime standard.
At the port, the clipper ship Cutty Sark, one of Greenwich’s renowned historic landmarks, is preserved as a fascinating museum.
Upriver,LondonishometoBuckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. In addition, this major economic and cultural hub boasts a long tradition of arts and architectural innovation from Shakespeare’s Globe TheatretoWestEndmusicals.
Viking Guests have the opportunity
to extend the stay in the British Isles with Viking’s four-night Great Homes, Gardens and Gin pre-extension in Oxford from $3,499 per person.
Extension guests will enjoy a flavour of English nobility and experience an exclusivelookatseveralcountryestates.
Included is a Privileged Access visit to Highclere Castle, the home of TV’s Downton Abbey as well as learn the histories behind the families of Broughton Castle, recognisable from Wolf Hall, and Chavenage House, best known for its appearance in Poldark and admire the idyllicgardensatHighgrove,homeofTheir Majesties King Charles III and The Queen Consort.
Viking’s inclusive value includes
everything guests need with a guided excursion in every port, all onboard meals including alternative dining venues, wine andbeerwithlunchanddinner,unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty tea, coffee, and bottledwater,accesstothestate-of-the-art Nordic spa, self-service laundry and all tipping.
With no kids, no casinos, fewer than 1,000 guests, and all veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take travellers as close as possible to each destination. Viking’s ‘Into the Midnight Sun’tripofalifetimeispricedfrom$13,395 per person, departing 17 June 2026, in a Veranda Stateroom with companion fly freesavinguptoAU$2,500perbooking. For further information please visit www.viking.comorphone138747.
FULLY ESCORTED TOURS OF
Full-Board River Cruise
3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing
Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse
Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat
Taste Riverland food and wine
Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour
Hotel Stays
3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast
1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Fully Escorted Barossa Valley Tours
Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including:
Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement
Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours
2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor
Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
Spring is a season of renewal and the perfect time to plan your next unforgettable journey. With exclusive airfare offers, you can experience the world The Viking Way —in comfort and with more included.
Book a river voyage and fly free, or book an ocean or expedition voyage and your companion flies free. Be quick, offers end 1 December 2025*.
Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi or vice versa
15 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES
16 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: JAN-APR, AUG-DEC 2026; 2027; 2028
From $12,395pp in French Balcony
From $14,195pp in Veranda Stateroom
Roundtrip from Cairo, Egypt
12 DAYS | 1 COUNTRY
11 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: JAN-JUN, AUG-DEC 2026; 2027; 2028
From $11,295pp in Standard Stateroom
From $13,595pp in Veranda Stateroom
Lisbon to Porto
10 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES
8 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027
From $8,995pp in Standard Stateroom
From $12,695pp in Veranda Stateroom
1. What is the official nickname of the New Zealand men’s national soccer team?
2. Former Tottenham Hotspur coach Ange Postecoglou is the new coach of which Premier League team?
3. Which country defeated
4. And which member of that country’s team was named the EuroBasket 2025 MVP?
5. Following their recent victory against the Springboks, how many consecutive games have the All Blacks won at Auckland’s Eden Park?
What is the nationality of golfer Scottie Scheffler?
Marking 25 years since the Sydney Olympics, how many athletes were recently inducted into Stadium Australia’s hall of fame?
The final stage of which road cycling race was cancelled with more than 55km still to race, due to disruptions from protesters?
After winning the 2025 US Open, which book did Aryna Sabalenka credit for her mental resilience?
Why did Magnus Carlsen withdraw from the 2024 World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships?
Which team did the Gold Coast Suns defeat by one point to win their first ever AFL final?
Australian soccer player Ellie Carpenter recently made her debut for which Women’s Super League
13. Which West Indian batting allrounder has played over 700 T20 cricket games so far in his career?
14. The World Athletics Championships was held in which city and country this month?
15. Which Australian motor racing driver announced his retirement from all forms of competition recently?
16. Car manufacturer Ford has been the sponsor of the Geelong Football Club since which year?
17. Which former New Zealand cricketer has come out of retirement to play for Samoa in the T20 World Cup regional qualifiers?
18. In which country is the annual Cheese Rolling competition held, in which participants chase a wheel of cheese down a steep hill?
19. The Australian national men’s soccer team is set to make what number consecutive World Cup appearance in 2026?
20. Which Australian tennis great was suspended for two weeks over an allegation he pushed a 60-year-old anti-doping volunteer?
21. Which Matildas star recently returned to the field for the first time since January 2024?
22. The upcoming Tasmania Devils team will wear what colour not currently worn by any AFL team?
23. Which Australian runner won bronze in the 1,500m final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships?
24. Late boxer Ricky Hatton lost how many of his 48 career fights?
25. Which Brisbane Broncos player was fined for a headbutt in the team’s final against the Canberra Raiders?
26. Which AFL player recently had a tense confrontation with a photographer during a training session?
27. Which AFLW team plays home matches at Brighton Homes Arena?
Which
29. Which nation recently knocked Australia out of the Davis Cup tournament?
30. Which AFL team holds the all-time longest premiership drought, with a 72-year gap between wins?
VCAT has made an order declaring that Site 98 at Ingenia Federation Sunshine, 639 Ballarat Road, Albion (which was the subject of a site agreement with Felice Mandanici) is abandoned.
If you have an interest in the estate of Felice Mandanici, or the Part 4A dwelling located at Site 98 or its contents, you can apply for review of VCAT's order by:
(i)visiting https://www.vcat.vic.gov.au/the-vcatprocess/decisions/reviews-and-rehearings; or
(ii)calling VCAT's Residential Tenancies List on 1300 01 8228.
Applications to review a VCAT order must be lodged within 14 days of becoming aware of the order.
After 6 October 2025, it is possible that the site owner will take steps to sell or dispose of the dwelling on Site 98 and its contents.
Want to place an ad but not sure where to start? Call our helpful classified team between 8:30am-5pm Mon-Fri for FREE advice!
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
With the landing of its Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in Australia, Great Wall Motors has shot its big ute into a leading spot in the segment, the Chinese maker claiming the PHEV sets a new yardstick in performance, range, and capabilities for electrified vehicles in the segment.
GWM’ssecondmodeltoenterthegrowing PHEV market in Australia, following the Haval H6GT PHEV, the Cannon Alpha PHEV comes in two variants, the Lux and Ultraonthemarketfor$63,990and$68,990 respectively,driveaway.
The maker claims the Ultra (on test) has an EV range of 110km (even off road and in 4WD) and a combined ICE and EV touring range of 880km, utilising the 75-litre petrol tank. Charging times from a DC fast chargerarereckonedat24minutesfrom30 to80percentcharge.
The Cannon Alpha PHEV is backed by GWM’s comprehensive customer-care program offering an eight-year unlimited kilometre battery pack warranty, seven-year unlimited kilometre new car warranty, seven-year roadside assistance with 24/7 support, and seven years capped priceservicing.
Styling
On first glance, the Cannon PHEV is instantlyrecognisable,ifnotforalltheright reasons.Thesparewheelsitsuptotheright of the tub (blame the battery pack), taking up precious load space, while the split tailgate, on test, was an open-and shut case – press the button once to drop the lot, or twicetosplitit.Sometimesitwenttoscript, othersnotso.
Up in size compared to the ICE Cannon ute, just shy of five-and-a-half metres long (13.1m turning circle), with a tidy 3350mm wheelbase, the Cannon Alpha leaves Ranger, D-Max and HiLux in the shade. A panoramic sunroof, on the other hand, opensupthecabintothegreatoutdoors.
Interior
TheCannonAlphaUltraPHEVisdecidedly commercial vehicle plush, with quality
features including leather accented seats, driver’s seat eight-way electric adjustment, front passenger seat six ways, heated/ ventilated/massagefrontseats.
Heated/ventilated rear outer seats have a recline function and two-way electric adjustment. Surprisingly, leg room is not limited by the adjustments. Oh, and there’s a heated steering wheel and a twee analogueclockinthecentrestack.
Up front, decor is de rigueur for a big ute with panelling across the dashboard, while piano black and satin metallic-looking section are suckers for smudges and spots. Cupholders take up positions down near the centre console, and a wireless charging padunderaslidingpanel.Poweroutletsare easytogetat.
Infotainment
The Lux grade includes 360-degree view monitor, 12.3-inch full-colour driver instrument cluster and similar-size touch screeninfotainmentsystem,wirelessApple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, plusfrontandrearUSBoutlets
Ultra adds nice touches with a 14.6-inch full-colour touchscreen infotainment system in place of the Lux 12.3-inch display.
Also upgraded are premium Infinity audio system with 10 speakers and amplifier, wireless phone charger (front and rear) and head-up windscreen display. There are physical controls on the steering wheel, and volume controls on the swipe-down, but a volume knob wouldn’t goastray.
The Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid’s infotainment system does allow for a lot of special controls around the powertrain – camping modes, power preservation, chargingcyclesandenergyconsumption.
Engines/transmissions
Powered by GWM’s Hi4-T Plug-in Hybrid EV technology and equipped with a 37.1kWh ternary lithium battery, the 2-litre turbo-petrol engine delivers a combined 300kWofpowerand750Nmoftorque.
The two ternary lithium batteries under theCannonAlphaof15.2kWhand21.9kWh adduptototalbatterycapacityof37.11kWh.
PairedwithGWM’snine-speedautomatic transmission, it offers up to 110km of pure EVdrivingrange,withacombinedrangeof 880km – 10 per cent more than its nearest rival.
GWM’s 9AT gearbox is no bigger than a conventional six-speed auto. Despite this, the unit achieves an impressive 97 per cent efficiency by utilising a lower viscosity gearbox oil and is engineered to handle a maximumof750Nm.
The all-new Cannon Alpha PHEV has received the maximum five-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program, following months of close collaboration between GWM and ANCAP.
Contributing to the top rating are seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking,
AEB junction assist, lane change assist and lanekeepingassist,hilldescentcontroland rearcollisionwarning.
For a start (literally), setting off in the Cannon Alpha PHEV can be something of a mystery with acceleration – from pedestrian to spritely – out of proportion to the pressure on the pedal. Initial response wasnotwithoutadealoflag.
Open road fuel consumption on test was recorded at 26.8kWh per 100km and 0.7 litres per 100km. The multimedia screen displays charging status and time, as does the GWM app. Filling the fuel tank with petrolisperICEvehicles.
The system has multiple modes to suit driveconditionssuchasEVpriority,fullEV andintelligentmodes.TheHi4Ttechnology allows the engine to remain in EV mode in 4×4 high range mode, in addition to supporting EV-only driving at highway speeds,afirstforthesegment.
Alpha PHEV in EV mode is primarily rear-wheel drive. Lock into 4x4 and the transfer case directs a 50:50 split front-to-rear.Offroad,4x4iseasilyengaged viaacentre-consolepushbutton.
The battery supports DC fast charging of up to 50kW, enabling a rapid 30 to 80 per cent charge in just 26 minutes. When using an AC home charger, the battery recharges from near empty to full in approximately 6.5hours.
Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities of up to 3.3kW output is included and enables the Cannon Alpha to provide AC power to devicesandsomehomeappliances.
Class-leading 3500kg maximum braked towing capacity is carried over from ICE models, while an impressive 800mm water wading depth and 224mm of ground clearanceensureflexibilityandversatility.
Summary
For those wishing to take an each-way bet on electric vehicles taking over the automotiveworldandwithpubliccharging infrastructure lagging, the plug-in hybrid – external chargeable electric power with ICE back-up – is an early favourite and the GWMAlphaPHEVwellhandicapped.
Grand Finals are the ultimate test - talent, system and nerve colliding in front of 100,000 at the MCG. This year it’s a classic: Geelong’sstructureanddisciplineagainst Brisbane’s pressure and flair.
Geelong’s Case
The Cats have been ruthless all year, built on a system that strangles opposition ball movement, forces turnovers, and grinds teamsdown.Theyrelyondisciplinerather than individual brilliance.
But the loss of Tom Stewart is massive. He’s their defensive general, and without him, Sam De Koning must rise - intercepting, organising, and driving rebound.
That makes De Koning’s role critical. If he holds firm, Mark Blicavs can stay locked in the ruck, where his athleticism and endurance are vital. If not, Geelong risk dragging Blicavs back to plug holes - and losing balance at both ends of the ground.
Brisbane’s Case
The Lions thrive on chaos. Their midfield intensity - Dunkley’s tackling, McCluggage’s polish, Rayner’s bursts - is tailor-made for finals. Charlie Cameron remains the lightning rod, but the swingman could be Logan Morris. At just 20, he must play the Joe Daniher role of 2024: presenting up the ground, crashing packs, and bringing the ball to ground for
Brisbane’ssmalls.Ifhecompeteshardand keeps Geelong’s defence honest, the Lions can pile on enough pressure to rattle the Cats’ structure.
The Decider This Grand Final is system versus surge. Geelong will look to slow it down and own territory. Brisbane will want to speed it
up, thrive on chaos, and feed their small forwards.
Prediction: Geelong by 16 points. I’m basing this on Lachie Neale not playing with his calf injury. If he misses, Brisbane lose their most composed clearance player, and Geelong’s system will hold firm.
Grand Final week isn’t just another week of football - it’s the greatest theatre our gamehas.Fortheplayers,thecoaches,and the fans, it’s a blur of colour, noise, nerves and history pressing down on your shoulders.
Fortheboysluckyenoughtobeoutthere, nothing compares. The parade on Friday feelslikeyou’refloating-tensofthousands liningthestreets,kidsonshoulderswaving scarves, supporters crying just to get a glimpse. You smile and wave, but deep down you’re wrestling with the nerves of what’s coming. You know you’re about to walk out in front of 100,000 people at the MCG and carry the weight of your jumper, your club, and every supporter who’s lived and breathed the journey.
I’ve been there. In 1996, when North broke a 19-year drought, the joy was overwhelming - the kind of joy that stays in your bones forever. In 1998, the disappointment was just as deep, because we knew we’d let one slip. And in 1999, batteredandbroken,wefoundredemption.
That’s the essence of Grand Final week: the line between ecstasy and agony is paper thin.
And that’s what makes it so powerful. Behindthepageantryistheharshestreality in sport. For every player strapping up an ankle or hiding nerves with a grin, there’s another told they’ve missed selection. I’ve seen tears in September that no camera captures - teammates gutted, knowing the dream has gone for another year. That’s
the human cost of Grand Final week, and it’s just as much a part of the story as the celebrations.
But when Saturday comes and you burst through the banner, everything fades. The nerves, the doubts, the bruises - they all disappear in the roar of 100,000. It’s just footy.
Hard, uncompromising, desperate footy, where reputations are made and legends are written.
That’s why Grand Final week is the greatest week in Australian sport. It’s not just about the cup at the end - it’s about the spectacle, the heartbreak, the joy, and the chance to etch your name into history. Because for players and fans alike, nothing else compares.
The biggest stage of the season didn’t end the way that Keilor and Caroline Springs would have liked in the Essendon District and Western football leagues respectively. The Blues ran out of steam, while the Lakers first division 1 grand final went to overtime. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was there shooting the action.
An investigation into an alleged spitting incident in the Western Football League women’s grand final between Caroline Springs and Yarraville Seddon has concluded, with the league saying the allegation could not be substantiated.
In a statement released last week, the league said it received a report of an incident of spitting occurring in the 17 to 18 minute mark of the final quarter as a Yarraville Seddon player retrieved the ball following a behind.
The league said following an investigation, including a detailed review of available video footage, the player is observed collecting the ball and turning toward the group.
“However, there is no visual evidence of any individual spitting, and no witnesses in the immediate vicinity – including the
WFNL goal umpire – that observed the alleged act,” the league said.
“Accordingly, the allegation could not be substantiated.
“The league treats all such matters with the utmost seriousness. Respectful behaviour is a non-negotiable standard at all community sporting events. Heckling, abuse, or any form of antisocial behaviour is entirely incompatible with the values of community football.”
Theleaguesaiditwould liketothankthe player involved for bringing the matter to our attention.
Both clubs then released their own statement.
The Eagles said they support and stand firm on the principles that their players and spectators should enjoy our game in a safe and respectful environment.
“We do not condone nor accept that its acceptable behaviour for players to be mistreated from the sidelines,” the club said.
“We respect the statements made [by the league and Caroline Springs] but fully support our player and believe that the incident occurred.
“We acknowledge however, that in the world of community football, it is difficult to determine all of the facts with the tools available to us.”
Caroline Springs said the club takes the allegations seriously and immediately convenedapaneltoinvestigatethealleged incident.
“In conjunction with the league, the club conducted a thorough internal investigation, meeting individually with members and supporters who were in
By Tara Murray
Keilorwilltakeplentyofpositivesoutofthe EssendonDistrictFootballLeaguepremier division season, despite falling short at the last hurdle.
The pacesetters all season, the Blues limped to the finish line and were made to pay by a red hot Strathmore.
The Mores had the wind early in Saturday’s grand final at Windy Hill and were able to build the ascendancy from there.
Strathmoremaintainedaleadalldaybut were never able to blow the Blues away. It was able to do more than enough though to get the job done, winning 11.18 (84)-9.10 (64).
Blues coach Mick McGuane said they knew going into the game it would be a battle.
“We’re realists,” he said. “There’s a lot of players in the grand stand that would have been playing if they were right.
“One team is really healthy and deserves their victory and one team limped in and from a structural impact was hampered.
“We tried to manufacture a team based on who was available and to their credit I thought they battled bravely against the odds.”
McGuane said they had eight players out injured or suspended, while they had
anotherfourwhomissedoutonqualifying.
Another two were injured on Saturday.
On Saturday, the Mores won the toss and had plenty of opportunities into the wind to gain the ascendency early on.
“There was a five goal breeze early on and we were happy with a 3.8 return,” McGuanesaid.“Wedidn’tcapitaliseonour opportunities in the first quarter against the breeze with the entries.
“We were fumbly and too many players didn’t impact the game. More than half our team would have had less than 10 possessions I would have thought.
“Togetthatcloseintermsofthescoreline … We probably got flattered a little bit in the end, due to their inaccuracy.
McGuane said their offensive was as bad as it had been but said there were reasons behind it.
He said he felt they were in the game all day, they just couldn’t finish off their work.
“To their credit, they punish you,” he said.
“Obviously, with [Sam] Hayes influence, hitouts to advantage … giving them first access at ground level.
“They had some players behind the ball that we couldn’t get over and through enough.”
JermarlDalyandJovanPetrickickedtwo goals each for the Blues
the area where the alleged incident took place,” the Lakers said.
“The individuals in the vicinity of the area deny that any player was spat at, or that any spitting took place. This account has been corroborated by bystander witnesses, including an off-duty member of the Victorian Police, as well as the available video footage.
“Wedonot,andwillnot,tolerateanyacts ofgender-basedviolence.Wedonotaccept the premise that ‘boys will be boys’ or that acts of gender-based violence are okay under the guise of banter, whether on the football field or not.”
Caroline Springs won the grand final by 17 points.
Tara Murray
A coaching change is on the way at St Albans with Zammy Muhtari stepping down as coach of the Essendon District Football League division 1 club.
Muhtari had coached the club since 2021 and led the side as it made the switch from the Western Football League into the EDFL competition.
The club announced on social media that he had made the call to step down.
“The St Albans Football Club wishes to thank Zammy Muhtari for his role as Senior Coach for the last four seasons. Zammy has informed usthathewillbesteppingdownfrom his duties,” the club said.
“The club recognises the extraordinary services that you have performed over the past four decades including; club games record holder, junior premiership coach, reserves coach, senior assistant coach, Simon Millo Academy coach and senior coach.
“In 2022 the club made the biggest change in its history moving from WRFL into EDFL and Zammy guided the club as coach through this new venture.
“You have been recognised as a club life member.”
Nick O’Kearney and Kane Barbuto were named the Blues best.
It wasn’t all heartbreak for the Blues on Saturday with their reserves knocking off Strathmore.
ParkerSneddoninhis400thgameforthe club was named best on ground.
Billy Teal played his 300th game in the grand final as well, alongside his two brothers.
McGuane said it was special to see them celebrate post game.
“It’s beautiful,” he said. “To see a group of guys… You can’t put 66 into 22, the next best thing is to give those 66 a chance to play in a grand final.”
McGuane said even though they didn’t get the ultimate success the season overall was still a success.
“I can’t be more than satisfied,” he said. “You return what we did and play the footy we did and bring excitement to the competition, we think.
“It’s a good brand we think stacks up. History tells you it has over a five year period, I think we’ve won 100 games and only lost 12.
“We set high standards and want to be the benchmark of the competition. We have lost that mantle this year with that result.
“Itdoesn’tdefineus.Weknowtheplayers are there, the club is united.”
The Saints made finals in their first twoseasonsintheEDFLcompetition.
They finished fifth in the first season, before making the preliminary final this year.
The Saints finished in sixth this season, percentage outside the top five.
The side started the season well as it as it won its first four games before a significant number of injuries derailed their season.
A late comeback to play finals fell short.
The Saints also say goodbye to star back Brandon Colletta, who has signed with fellow division 1 club, Taylors Lakes.
OneofAustralia’sbrightestyoungbowling perspectives will get her chance to shine at the under-19 World Cup.
Jasmine Kamboj, who has played with Melton Centrals and Sydenham-Hillside, is part of the Australian team that has recently headed to Sri Lanka for the event.
Kamboj said it was pretty exciting to be named in the Australian team for the first time.
“There’s excitement and a little bit of surprise,” she said. “I didn’t expect to be picked this early.
“It’s a great opportunity.
“This series I’m expecting to play in a few games and show my skills. It’s a great opportunity to be in the Australian squad,”
The Australian team was picked following the under-16 national championships before a Cricket Australia series which pitted the best in the country against each other.
The Perry-Lanning series is the first step in getting to the World Cup, with 15
players picked from there.
“It was a good experience being around a lot of new people,” Kamboj said. “From all these different states and having these games against us.”
Kamboj has grown up playing cricket havingfollowedherbrotherintothesport.
She played a number of years at Sydenham-Hillside before a season with Melton Centrals
Kamboj last season also made the move to Victorian Premier Cricket, playing with Carlton.
“I had my first season at premier last season, playing premier 2s and premier 3s,” she said. “Hopefully I’ll get some games in prem ones this year.
“It would be the highest level in Victoria which is amazing.
“The people at Carlton are really good and supportive. Just going with those people, it was great.”
Kamboj said she’d been happy with her progress so far and her cricket career had gone quite fast.
The 15-year-old is already bowling at 115 kilometres per hour, faster than what most female bowlers ever get.
The fastest ever speed by a female is 132.1 kilometres per hour
While she’s known as a fast bowler, Kamboj is also a handy lower order bat who can hit the ball out of the park.
She already has a 100 in the books.
Helping her career has been going to Maribyrnong Sports Academy.
The Hillside resident said the school gives her a lot of support.
“It has helped a lot honesty, done a lot of strength and conditioning it has it own highperformancecoachingthereaswell.”
Kamboj said she was keen to get as high as she could with her cricket.
“I want to keep working to get higher.”
Tara Murray
By Tara Murray
Caroline Springs is thinking what might have been after going agonisingly close to claiming two Western Football League division 1 premierships on Saturday.
The Lakers had both their division 1 seniors and reserves sides in action in the final games of the season.
Both sides faced an experienced Werribee Districts unit.
Both Tigers sides were facing off in their fourth straight grand finals.
The Lakers seniors side was playing in its first division 1 grand final. They hadn’t played in a grand final since they won the division 2 premiership back in 2016.
Just Lewis Tudor and Jerome Caterino played in that 2016 grand final, along with now Lakers coach Brian Lake.
The Lakers suffered a blow before the game with skipper Keenan O’Shea ruled out with a hamstring injury.
There were no early game nerves for the Lakers,wholedby11pointsatquartertime despite the Tigers having the win.
Caroline Springs wasn’t able to make the most of the wind when it had it in the
second quarter, kicking 1.4 to extend the lead narrowly to 14 points.
The Tigers started to come in the third quarter and when they kicked four goals they turned the deficit into a seven point lead.
It became 13 points early in the last quarter when they kicked the first goal of the final term.
Caroline Springs, though, kept fighting.
When the Lakers kicked the next two goals, scores were locked at 62-apiece.
Tate Wood kicked the last goal in the finalsecondsofthequartertoputthegame into overtime.
For the two sides, this was not the first time they had found themselves in this position.
Thesemifinalbetweenthesideslastyear was decided in extra time, with the Tigers winning through to the grand final on that occasion.
Reece Blackman kicked three goals for the Lakers, while Jamie Ristoski and Wood kicked two goals each.
Cooper Pepi was awarded the best on ground medal in a losing side.
Alexander Paech and Lewis Tudor were other standouts for the Lakers.
The Western Football League under-18 division 1 grand final has been marred after an ugly incident post match.
Newport defeated Sunshine, 10.10 (70)-9.3 (57) in the first game of the final day of the season.
An incident between Sunshine players and some crowd members then broke out after the match.
Footage seen by Star Weekly, sees spectators come over to where the Sunshine side was post game.
Further footage, shows players, team officials and supporters pushing and shoving, while some involved were throwing items.
There was also plenty of yelling.
Police were called to Avalon Airport Oval following the incident.
“Police responded to reports of people fighting at the conclusion of a local football match in Werribee on 20 September,” a police spokesperson said.
“There was no fighting observed on police arrival and the crowd had dispersed.
Speaking in the post game celebrations, LakerscoachBrianLakesaidthisonehurt.
“WerribeeDistricts,thatwasanamazing game,” he said. “For the spectators out here, hopefully you enjoyed that
“What a fantastic year you have had.
“Onlyifwehadanextra15secondsthere at the end of that regular time. You’ve done that twice to us now, congratulations.
“To the boys, we put ourselves in a position, the reserves as well... position for success.
“We’ve got to understand loss and suffering and this is going to hurt for a while.
“Suffering is sometimes a good thing, we’ll learn from it.
“We’ll bounce back.”
Tigers coach Chris Gilham said the two sides matched up really well against each other.
“We shouldn’t have been surprised,” he said. “We’ve had a number of close games the last couple of years.
“We drew twice last year and one this year, with two of them in the finals. Lucky for us we come out on top.”
The reserves lost to Werribee Districts, 7.9 (51)-6.4 (40).
“It is understood a child may have been knocked over during a scuffle but was not seriously injured. Police are making further inquiries as to any offences that may have occurred.”
“The league released a statement following the incident.
“The league is aware of a significant incident that occurred following the under-18 men’s grand final at Chirnside Park on Saturday 20 September,” it said.
“A thorough investigation into this matter is currently underway.
“Until the investigation is concluded, no further comments will be made.”
In the game itself, Sunshine led early before Newport hit the front in the second quarter.
The Panthers led at the middle two breaks and were able to hold its lead until the final siren.
The incident marred what was otherwise a big day for the league.
Werribee Districts won both the reserves and seniors, with the senior defeating Caroline Springs in over time.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
By Tara Murray
New Hillside women’s coach Chris Daley didn’t hesitate to take on the role at the EssendonDistrictFootballLeaguepremier division side.
Daley, who previously coached the Sharks men’s side, stood back from full time coaching this year due to travelling overseas.
Unable to stay away from football and Hillside, he took on a part time assistant role with the Sharks women’s side.
Now he will guide the side next season as he replaces premiership coach Blaise Ferraro who has stepped down after coaching the team for two seasons.
Daley said he was excited for the new challenge.
“They’ve had a couple of really good
years and leading into next year we’re in a really good position,” he said.
“I worked with them this year as an assistantinaparttimeroleandIenjoyedit more than I thought I would.
“When this opportunity came up it was aneasyfit.I’vedevelopednicerelationships with the group and it’s a talented group.”
Daley said he knew he was always going to miss coaching when he stepped away from the men’s program.
Hesaidhestillenjoyedtheartofcoaching andtheabilitytohelpothersimprovetheir games and see growth in the group.
Daleysaidhewasalwaysgoingtoexplore coaching options for 2026 and this was perfectforhimandtherewasnohesitation to say no.
While having been part of the Sharks, Daleysaidthiswasthefirsttimehehadthe chance to really get to know the women’s playing group.
“I didn’t know a lot about them,” he said. “The senior women train at different venues and play at the same time.
By Tara Murray
St Albans’ Oliver Dragicevic is living the dream after earning his first A-League contract at just 17.
Having grown up in the changerooms at St Albans, Dragicevic will now call Melbourne Victory home after signing a contract with the A-League club.
Speaking after his first few days of training, the teenager said it was slowly starting to sink in that he had made it to this level.
He said he was grateful for Melbourne Victory to give him an opportunity.
“I’ve just completed my first three days of training and it has all the facilities that I need to take my game to the next level,” he said.
“It’salittlebitquickerfromNPL(National Premier League) which I thought it would be. I’m just happy to be here.”
DragicevicsaidtheriseintotheA-League ranks had come quicker than he expected being just 17.
He said having the opportunity to do
whathelovedeverydaywasprettyspecial.
Dragicevic’s have played a huge role in his career and getting him to this stage.
They were the ones that gave him the news he had been offered a contract.
“We played Melbourne Victory the week before and I ended up scoring a goal and played well,” he said.
“They called dad and said they were offering me a contract. I had a game the next day, so my parents kept it secret for two days.
“My mum doesn’t really keep secrets… she did for 48 hours.”
Dragicevic’s love of soccer comes from his dad.
Ilija Dragicevic is the president of St Albans.
“He’s been massive,” Oliver said of his dad. “Everyday from the age of four to 17 dad has been driving me, he’s been my Uber driver.
“WhenIwasatMelbourneCityAcademy it was long hours to Cranbourne. He is a role model for me.
“He is really excited. Sometimes he
“It was a great intro into the women’s program and Blaise has done an amazing job with them.”
Both Sharks senior women’s sides made the grand final this year, with the premier divisionsideclaimingthepremiershipina thriller.
With the club confident of getting under-18s back up and going, Daley said they were in a really good position with their senior women’s program.
“The club is confident in getting 18s up,” he said. “We had solid numbers in the 16s and in the 18 age group we had players move clubs as we didn’t have a side.
“Quite a few are coming back and it will set the program up for the long term.”
TheSharkshaveannouncedLindonWay, Rob Gray and Heath Day will coach the under-18 girls.
doesn’ttellmehe’sproudofme,butIknow he is. He wants me to keep working hard and to take it to the next level.”
Dragicevic said St Albans was like a home to him having grown up at the club.
He once dreamed of playing on the jumper for the senior team which he was able to do this season.
“Iwasgoingthereeverydaytowatchand experience senior football,” he said. “Every Sunday I walk out with the seniors and wonder if I could do that.
“My last ever game I was captain. It was a special feeling and people will never understand the connection with the club and community.”
Dragicevic knows that he has some hard work ahead of him to make his A-League debut.
When he gets out there, there’s one thing he wants to do.
“I love scoring goals and celebrating,” he said.“Iwanttograbtheballandkickitinto the next.
“I will do what I need to do. I’ll keep working hard until it comes.”
It’sbeenawhirlwindfewdaysfornew Melbourne Knights coach Michael Calandrella.
Last Sunday, Calandrella guided Brunswick Juventus to promotion up into Victorian Premier League 1 for nextseasonasitwontheVPL2playoff match.
The following day, he signed a contract to become the new Knights coach.
Calandrella said it was a massive honourtojointheKnights.
He said it had been a bit of a whirlwind.
“It’s definitely an honour and I’m over the moon,” he said. “They don’t belonginthesecondtier.
“I’m taking over to try and get them backtowheretheyshouldbe.
“It’samassivechallengeforthem.”
Calandrella said the club had approached him about coming across tojoinit.
He said that when a club like the Knights approach you, you take the timetolisten.
“The Knights reached out and I had acoupleofconversations,”hesaid.
“The thing I liked was they were really honest about everything and wheretheclubisat.
“They have that ambition and it lookedliketheperfectfit.
“Wehadsomegoodchatsanditwas somethingIknewIwouldtakeiton.”
The Knights are coming off one of theirtoughestseasonsinalongtime.
TheyfinishedbottomoftheNational Premier League ladder with just four winsoftheseason.
There were also multiple coaching changes and the club will now play in Victorian Premier League 1 next season.
Calandrella said the club was hoping it would be a short stay in VPL1. He said since his appointment hisphonehadbeenrunninghot.
“We want to get back up there as soon as we can,” he said. “They know that there is some disappointment in thembeingrelegated.
“It’ll be a different league, opportunity and the style of how the game is played. We are ambitious to get back to the top tier, where we belong.
“Theworkhasdefinitelystarted.”
