Bowls club funding calls
The Mount Cottrell Bowls Club is calling for funding for a host of upgrades to improve the accessibility of its facilities.
Secretary Kaye Matthews said the club is in need of an accessible bathroom block. Other upgrades needed are a new playing surface, lighting to host night games, improved heating and cooling in the clubhouse viewing room, and road signage.
Ms Matthews said the club is at risk of having to suspend its pennant games due to the state of the playing surface. She contacted Melton council requesting signage at the intersection of Greigs and Mount Cottrell roads that also marked the club’s location, but the request was not successful.
Melton director of city delivery Neil Whiteside said there are state government guidelines around street name signs at intersections and main roads, and the intersection did not meet the requirements for additional signage.
Cr feels ‘unsafe’
A Melton councillor says she feels ’unsafe’ attendingcouncilmeetingsinperson.
Councillor Ashleigh Vandenberg didn’t attend last week’s council meeting, apologising to residents on social media and accusing the council of denying her onlineaccesstothemeeting.
Cr Vandenberg, who was listed as ’not attending’, was one of four councillors absent from Monday’s meeting. Councillors Phillip Zada and John Verdon were listed as apologies, and councillor Sophie Ramsey was on an approved leave ofabsence.
In a statement published on her Facebook page, Cr Vandenberg said that she contacted Melton the week prior to the meeting, requesting a link to join the meetingonline.
“Duetoeventsaroundmysafetybrought on by a false and defamatory official [mayoral] statement published through [the] official [Melton] account and website … last week I sought council to provide me alinktoparticipateintonight’s[Monday’s] meetingformypersonalsafety,”shewrote.
“Council has denied me this request despitebeingknowledgeableofthecurrent circumstancesandparticipatinginthem.
“I am not an apology, nor am I unwell to participateintonight’smeeting.Iambeing denied access to represent my ward and community due to the actions of our local government.”
A Melton council spokesperson confirmed that Cr Vandenberg had
requested a meeting link to remotely attendthemeeting.
“[Melton’s] council chamber does not have the audio and visual technology for hybrid meetings. Council’s chamber has never had this technology for a councillor toattendanin-personmeetingonline,”the spokespersonsaid.
“During [Covid], council held its council meetings with all councillors online.
After [this], council returned to in-person meetings.
“The September 2025 council meeting was advertised as an in-person meeting with members of the public in attendance. Additional security measures were offered to Cr Vandenberg to accommodate her in-personattendance.”
Star Weekly observed two security guards at the meeting, with one stationed either side of the doors to the council chamber.
On September 18, Melton mayor Steve Abboushi released a statement confirming that Cr Vandenberg has been referred to the local government minister and Local Government Inspectorate over a series of socialmediaposts.
“Cr Vandenberg has made various unsubstantiated accusations of bullying, harassment and vilification. While council takes such accusations seriously, Cr Vandenberg has failed to provide any information or evidence to support them, despite repeated requests,“ his statement read.
Mt Cottrell Bowls Club is hoping to get funding for facility improvements, including accessible toilets, signage, and a new playing surface. (Damjan Janevski) 504051_01
Mayor’s message
Cr Steve Abboushi
I was thrilled to recently visit the site of the new Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Fraser Rise to break ground on this exciting project. With construction commencing in the next few months, I can’t wait to see this transformational project for our community start to take shape. This is Council’s biggest ever capital project and will be a huge asset for our residents.
This state-of-the-art facility will be an inclusive and accessible space for our community. It will include a range of aquatic and fitness options, allied health services, and community meeting spaces all under one roof.
Council has received $15 million through the Australian Government’s Thriving Suburbs Program. I look forward to sharing more news as this exciting project progresses.
At last week’s Council Meeting, we were presented with the results of our 11th annual Community Satisfaction Survey. Thank you to the 800 residents who took part in the survey and shared their thoughts. It was pleasing to see Council’s performance ranked in the “good” range overall, which was consistent with last year.
Our waste and recycling services, and libraries ranked especially high, and it was great to see a significant increase in satisfaction for our services for babies, children, youth, seniors, and people with disability. There are some areas for improvement, such as traffic management, roads, and community safety, and our focus will be on these areas.
Daylight savings starts this weekend, so don’t forget to turn your clocks forward and enjoy the longer daylight hours.
You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Steve.Abboushi@melton.vic. gov.au or on 0437 231 680.
Hard waste collections
Each household that receives a Council waste service is entitled to hard waste collections during the financial year. This includes renters.
Residents can either have two hard waste collections from their property, two visits to the Melton Recycling Facility with a car or trailer up to 1m3, or a combination of both.
To use the hard waste collection, make a booking and place the items to be removed within your property boundary (not on the nature strip), by 6am on the collection day.
Collections can be up to three cubic metres. Acceptable items include bikes, barbeques, sporting equipment, whitegoods, furniture, mattresses (limit of two). Unacceptable items include hazardous items, gas bottles, building materials.
Residents are encouraged to take items in good, working condition to the Melton Resale Shop to give them a second life.
To book a hard waste collection visit melton.vic.gov.au
Coolibah Ward with Cr Brandi Morris
I’m pleased to share an update on the Exford Road and Greigs Road intersection upgrade. A new roundabout will replace the current T-intersection, improving traffic flow and safety. Designs are complete, with works set to begin mid-2026. Stay updated at melton.vic.gov.au/projects
Works on the Weir Views Children’s and Community Centre are progressing well and on track to open in early 2026. The centre will provide funded 3 and 4-year-old kindergarten programs, along with early childhood services essential for supporting children and their families.
The Master Plan for the Weir Views East Weir Active Open Space is now complete and features two soccer pitches with floodlights, a cricket oval, community sports pavilion, two cricket practice lanes and a district level playspace with BBQ and picnic shelter, this space is set to be a thriving active community space. Visit Melton Conversations for project updates.
With the weather improving, the Eynesbury Market is a great family outing. Held the last Sunday of each month, it features farmers’ produce, jams, breads, crafts, and more— plus it’s dog friendly!
2025 CARE Melton Expo
The CARE Melton Expo celebrates older people, carers and people with disability and is an opportunity to find out what supports are available and to connect with other people. This free event will feature 35 local organisations and council services for residents in the City of Melton who require support.
Filled with guest speakers, interactive workshops, and entertainment, the day is designed to inspire, inform, and connect. A sensory and chill out zone will also be available all day.
Thursday 16 October, 10am-2pm Cobblebank Stadium
For information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/care
I’d also like to congratulate to all the finalists and winners of the 2025 Melton Business Excellence Awards. To find out more about how Council can support local businesses, visit vmbusinessnetwork.com
Finally, with Term 4 about to begin, I encourage residents to check out the incredible programs and activities on offer at the Melton South Community Centre.
Feel free to contact me regarding Coolibah Ward or Council related issues on 0418 999 577 or email: Brandi.Morris@melton.vic.gov.au
Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi
Deputy Mayor Cr Lara Carli Cr Kathy Majdlik
Cr Brandi Morris Cr Sophie Ramsey Cr Julie Shannon Cr Bob Turner
Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg
Cr John Verdon Cr Dr Phillip Zada
Retiring MP thanks Melton
Melton MP Steve McGhie will not seek re-election next year as he transitions to retirement.
Stepping away from his role as Melton MP next year, Mr McGhie told Star Weekly that he felt it was time.
“I’m 67 in December – I think it’s time for a fresh face and someone who can continue the growth in Melton and continue on infrastructure builds and what Melton needs,” said Mr McGhie, who was first elected to the seat in 2018.
Reflecting on the highlights of his time
as a member of parliament, he nominated the Melton Hospital project, new schools across the electorate, and “upgrading most of the schools, all bar two, in Melton”.
“Just working with the local community groups – the sporting clubs … the community in general, it’s just been fantastic and they’ve supported me really well,” he said.
“I think one of the biggest achievements was completely renewing Exford Primary School … also, the level crossing removals and the new Melton Station … it was somethingthatIdidn’tthinkwasontheagenda.”
Mr McGhie said that with 14 months remaining in his role, there is “a lot to deliver“.
He said post-MP life will include spending some time caravanning and travelling with his wife, Janet, and “enjoying the rest of our lives”.
“I just want to thank the Melton community for supporting me, and I hope they continue that support of whoever the new member will be,” Mr McGhie said.
He said that he will remain as cabinet secretary for as long as premier Jacinta Al-
Ken’s final run as our beloved postman
A well-known Melton postie is about to retire next month after more than 30 years on the job.
Starting with Australia Post in July 1995 and with his final run on Friday, October 10, Ken Keele said he has mixed emotions about finishing his role – with the people he serves his favourite part of the job.
“There’s a hell of a lot of those people who … you get to know over the years,” Mr Keele said.
“I’ve enjoyed the interaction with people at different stages. I’ve broken down and had people drive me into town, occasionally you’ve slid off the side of the un-
made road into the gutter … I’ve had people pull me out,” he said.
“I’m going to miss a lot of people that you sort of get to know in one way or another.”
Mr Keele said that he began delivering mail after formerly delivering orange juice in the area.
Whensalesbegantoslowdown–which he attributes to a sales tax introduced at the time – Mr Keele said it was time to look for a new career.
“I’m pulling my bloody hair out because I’ve got two young kids at school … all of a sudden there was an ad in the local
Vineyard Road speed reduction in pipeline
By Oscar Parry
The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) is in the early stages of planning for safer speed limits on Vineyard Road, with residents welcoming the news but calling for furthersafetyimprovements.
As reported by Star Weekly, in 2018 VicRoads ruled out installing safety barriers along a stretch of Vineyard Road adjacent to the Diggers Rest Early Learning Centre.
Residents have continued to call for these barrierstobeinstalledalongwithspeedlimit reductionsonVineyardRoad.
A DTP spokesperson confirmed the department is currently in the early stages of planning and development for the introductionofsaferspeedsonVineyardRoad.
Diggers Rest resident David O’Connor welcomedthisupdate.
“These are baby steps leading to better
safety outcomes for our community,” Mr O’Connorsaid.
Resident Kate Perkins said she worries abouttheroad“everysingleday”.
She said she would still like to see a con crete safety bollard on Vineyard Road adja cent to the Diggers Rest Early Learning Cen tre.
“They had installed the bollard on the othersideoftheroadbecausetherearepow er poles there and it’s a risk to motorists ... where there are power poles on that side too – and the childcare centre fence,” Ms Perkins said.
Resident Jessica Kidd said she would like toseeapermanentspeedchangeintroduced totheroad.
Star Weekly understands that the depart ment’s project is in the early stages of devel opment – with designs not finalised – and that it intends to keep the community updat edasplanningprogresses.
paper, they wanted someone to start deliveringmailoutinRockbank,”MrKeelesaid.
He then also picked up an Exford and Toolern Vale round, and eventually, part of his run included delivering mail to an army barracks and to be left in a 44-gallon drum at Eynesbury when it was a sheep station.
Alongwithpeople,MrKeelesaidhehas had plenty of animal interactions too – including an emu coming up to a mailbox as he delivered mail.
Mr Keele has notified those in his mail run about his retirement with a letter in their mailbox.
lan would like him to and is happy to step back and let someone else take the role if need be.
InastatementpremierJacintaAllansaid Mr McGhie had “a long and distinguished record of serving communities in the western suburbs, long before he entered our parliament.”
“I want to thank him for his exceptional record of service: as a paramedic, a union leader, and as my parliamentary colleague. I wish Steve and his family all best for the future.”
The urban design framework for the Aintree Major Town Centre (MTC) was adopted by Melton at last week’s council meeting.
Anurbandesignframeworkisaplanning document that sets out a vision for an area and guides its use and development over time through urban design principles, objectives, planning and design requirements and guidelines. This document must be approved by a council as the responsible authority prior to considering any planning permit applications in the town centre. The Aintree MTC site covers about 116 acres of commercial,mixeduse,andresidentialland andisplannedtocaterforretail,residential, mixed use and community facilities.
According to Melton, it is situated in one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, where the Aintree suburb had 7982 residents in 2021 from a small base population of 334 residents in 2016. It sits within the Rockbank North PSP, which according to the council, is expected to enable a population of more than 20,000 people once fully built. This represents a more than 2300 per cent increase in five years.
According to Melton, the Aintree MTC in its ultimate form will create about 1420 dwellings; about 36,000 square metres of retailfloorspace;significantareassetasidefor commercial, medical and entertainment; and over 6400 new jobs.
Councillor Julie Shannon said the town centre is vitally important for Melton’s future growth. “It will be a place where our existing and future community will meet, shop, play, and work,” Cr Shannon said. “The UDF provides a vision for the town centre and is a necessary step,” she said.
The two landowners in the UDF area are Aintree Major Town Centre Pty Ltd, who own land in the north and west of the UDF area, and Leakes Road Rockbank Pty Ltd –Woodlea – who own land in the south and east of UDF area.
Melton postie Ken Keele is about to complete his final mail delivery run on October 10. (Damjan Janevski). 506048_01
Road closure stress
By Oscar Parry
Truganina residents are raising concerns over an upcoming 60-day road closure, with commuters ‘stressed’ about increased travel times.
Kirkpatrick Boulevard – between Hopkins Road and McKinley Drive in Truganina – will be closed from Monday, October 6 for about 60 days, weather permitting, for developer works to construct a new roundabout.
Commuters will be able to detour via Grand Boulevard and Clara Avenue.
Mt Atkinson Advocacy Forum group member Jaksha Shah said that she has several concerns about the upcoming closure.
“Mount Atkinson doesn’t have a bus, doesn’t have a train station – so the only way to go out is by road … so closing such
a major street down, it affects us to get our groceries, because it takes 40 minutes to get our groceries,” Ms Shah said.
“[It is] one of the two roads that go out, and we use this road extensively to do school pickups and drops … there’s school holidays going on – they could have used that but they haven’t,” she said.
“The biggest stress for me is groceries and towing my kids around for long times in school pick up and drops … they need to think about an alternative way to do this.
“Everything should have been done yesterday when it comes to Mount Atkinson.”
She said that it is the only road that takes residents to nearby gyms and is concerned about impacts to wellbeing and living standards.
Ms Shah said she is also concerned about having a road in the estate closed to emer-
gency services.
Melton director of city delivery Neil Whiteside said the council received a request from the developer to temporarily close the boulevard for the roundabout construction, which will enable delivery of a new road for a proposed homemaker centre.
“Council explored if the road could be kept open with lane closures, however for safety reasons temporarily closing the road was the only option,” Mr Whiteside said.
“It would also extend the project meaning works would not be completed before two new schools open on Clara Ave in early 2026,” he said.
“Council is currently seeking community feedback on the proposed traffic management plan and will work with the developer to minimise the impact on the community as much as possible.”
Melton university study hub opens doors
A new university study hub opened in the Melton Library last week, aimed at expanding tertiary education access in the area.
Launched by Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services in partnership with Melton council and Victoria University on Thursday, September 25, the Melton Suburban University Study Hub will provide free, campus-style facilities and support services for students studying with any Australian university or tertiary provider.
According to Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services, it is aimed at offering students quiet study spaces, modern infrastructure, high-speed internet, computers, video conferencing facilities, academic and administrative support, wellbeing services, career guidance –along with a welcoming and inclusive en-
vironment for all learners.
According to the federal government website, suburban university study hubs address barriers to tertiary education for students living in outer metropolitan and peri-urban areas of Australia.
Djerriwarrh chief executive Trish Heffernan said the hub addresses a “long-standing need for greater access to higher education in our community”.
“It’s about giving local students the tools, space, and support they need to thrive in their tertiary journey,” Ms Heffernan said.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi said the hub is a “fantastic offering for tertiary students” and provides dedicated study facilities and services to improve the opportunity for learning success.
Hawke MP Sam Rae said the new study
Spring celebration in Bacchus
Spring has returned – and so will the Bacchus Marsh Flower and Garden Show next month for its 12th year.
Running across two days from October 25 to 26, the community-focused show will include competitions across the sections of flowers, produce, jams and preserves, junior cakes and photography section, and more – all with a garden theme.
The popular plant sale will also be returning, offering the chance to bring home a new addition to your garden.
Show president Kathy Cairns said the event is put together by a committee interested in supporting the Bacchus Marsh and district community.
“The first year after Covid was quiet, but last year, we had a 25 per cent increase [of entries] from the previous year, and so we’re hoping for that sort of increase in this year … so finger crossed that the weather is kind to us!” Ms Cairns said.
“Our junior section has really improved enormously, each year that has gone up by a lot …that’s probably due to the effort that we put in [via the committee] with the local schools,” she said.
“We’re very appreciative that the schools support us the way they do.”
The committee has handed out a free colouring competition to all primary schools in Moorabool, and when they are returned, they will decorate a wall inside of the hall.
hub is a gamechanger for Melton, “bringing university education closer to home and making it more accessible for people in Hawke.”
“This is about delivering for Melton and providing the next generation with the support they need to achieve their education goals right here in our community,” Mr Rae said.
“Education shouldn’t be limited by where you live. This new Study Hub will give Melton residents the chance to study, grow, and succeed locally,” he said.
The hub is one of 15 others funded under a $66.9 million federal government program.
The Melton Study Hub is open during regular Melton Library hours, with staff available weekdays to assist students with academic and wellbeing support.
Next door in the James Young room of the Lerderderg Library, the B-MAC Gallery and local basket weaving group will present displays of their work.
Several local and Victorian organisations will host stalls at the event, and the local Country Women’s Association will be providing a Devonshire tea.
Entry costs $5 for an adult, and children aged under 16 can enter for free.
Further details on the event and entries are available online.
The show will be open for viewing from 12–4pm on Saturday, October 25 and from 10am–4pm on Sunday, October 26 at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall.
Details: bmflowershow.org
Djerriwarrh Community & Education Services deputy chair Stuart Deagan, Victoria University vice chancellor Adam Shoemaker, Melton MP Steve McGhie, Assistant International Education Minister Julian Hill, Melton mayor Steve Abboushi, Hawke MP Sam Rae, and Djerriwarrh Community & Education Services acting chief executive Roma Pedersen. (Supplied).
Bacchus Marsh Flower and Garden Show chair Kathy Cairns. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 361628_09_
Recycle
Subscribe, for facts sake
By Paul Thomas, managing director, Star Weekly
OnWorldNewsDay(28September)weare remindedofatruththatcannotbeignored andthisisthatfactsmatter.
In an era where misinformation and mistruths are constantly amplified on socialmedia,andwhereeventhePresident of the United States routinely distorts reality, the role of trusted, independent journalismismorecriticalthanever.
Local media in Australia is a necessity. We are the eyes and ears of our communities, telling the stories that matter most, celebrating our achievements, challenging injustice, and documenting the everyday triumphs and strugglesthatdefineus.
Justasimportantly,weactasawatchdog. We hold governments, corporations, and institutions accountable. We ask the questions that others would prefer to avoid.Weshinelightintodarkcorners. When misinformation and half-truths circulate unchecked, the consequences
are profound. Communities lose trust. Division deepens. People act on falsehoodsratherthanfacts.Atsuchtimes, local newspapers and news sites play a stabilising role, cutting through the noise and confusion with careful reporting, rigorous standards, and a commitment to truthandbalancedreporting.
At Today and Star, we believe that journalism is not just a business, it is a vital piece of public infrastructure, a cornerstone of our democracy, and a sharedresponsibility.
Everystorywepublishcarriestheweight of trust our readers place in us, and every headline we write reaffirms our promise toservethepublicinterestaboveallelse.
Without strong, independent local media, communities risk losing not only their voice but also their connection to one another. The threads that bind us fray whentruthisundermined.
That is why, on World News Day, we join with newsrooms across the globe to say clearly:Choosetruth,choosefacts,choose balanceandchoosejournalism.
Briefs
Nursing home fire
An abandoned nursing home in Melton South was engulfed in flames last week. Firefighters arrived on scene on September 24 to find the single-storey brick building on Bridge Road fully alight. The roof of the large building had collapsed and community advice was issued for smoke in the area, and some evacuations occurred. The building was an old, abandoned nursing home. No injuries were reported. The local building surveyor attended due to structural concerns.
Trio arrested following car thefts
Police have arrested three people in Truganina as part of an ongoing investigation into the theft of Toyota vehicles in Kyneton. Police said detectives tracked a car to Perpetual Street, Truganina and arrested the trio just before 1am on Friday, September 19. A 40-year-old Melton man has been charged with theft of motor vehicle and was remanded in custody. A 30-year-old Tarneit man was charged with handle stolen goods and driving offences and was bailed to Werribee Magistrates’ Court on January 6. A 30-year-old Princes Hill man was charged with Bail Act offences and was bailed to Werribee Magistrates’ Court on November 6. The arrests related to a series of vehicle thefts from Kyneton Toyota and Kyneton Hospital, with the arrests following a month-long joint investigation.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Melton offences increase
Theft and family violence order breaches have driven much of the overall rise in crime in the Melton and Moorabool municipalitiesaccordingtothelatestCrime StatisticAgencydata.
In Melton, there was a 17.8 per cent increaseintotaloffencesontheprevious12 months.
In the 12 months leading to June, there were 16,470 total offences recorded in the Melton municipality, up from 13,977 in the previous12months.
The top three criminal offences recorded in the municipality were theft other with 2295offencesrecorded,breachesofafamily
violence intervention order with 2156 offences recorded, and theft from motor vehicleswith1876offencesrecorded.
Thetoplocationforoffencesrecordedwas the house, with 6416 of recorded offences, followed by streets, lanes, and footpaths – with 2282 offences recorded at these locations.
TheMeltontownshipwaswherethemost offencesoccurred,with2354.
In Moorabool, criminal offences increased by 19.3 per cent in the 12 monthstoJune,jumpingfrom2591to3090 offences.
Morethanathirdofoffenceswererecorded
inBacchusMarshwith1186offences.
Darley and Maddingley were second and thirdforoffencelocations.
According to Victoria Police, across the state, there were 638,640 criminal offences recordedinVictoriainthetwelvemonthsto June – an increase of 86,587 offences or 15.7 percent.
The top three fastest growing offences state-wide in order are theft from a motor vehicle, motor vehicle theft, and family violenceorderbreaches.
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner of Regional Operations Bob Hill said that as a society “we simply cannot allow the level of
Boot scootin’ fun around Maddingley
Hold on to your hats – a series of come-and-try line dancing events are coming to Maddingley next month, offering fun, connection, and a boot scootin’goodtime.
Hosted as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival, the event is offered by Neon Cowboy Bootscooters –which aims to bring fun, fitness, and community together through line dancing.
No experience is required for the class, where attendees will learn basic steps andrhythm.
Neon Cowboy Bootscooters director and instructor Edward Kays said line dancing is a social and welcoming activity.
“Line dancing in general is probably one of the most open, up-front, all-inclusive … activities that I’ve ever been involved with,” Mr Kays said.
“For the … festival, on the day, we’ll actually have a group of ladies down there, they’ll do a couple of demos ranging in difficulty levels, and then they’ll finish the second with a coupleofreallyeasyteaches–soanyone will be able to get up and have a go,” he said.
Mr Kay has been involved in line dancing for more than 30 years and has beenteachingforaboutfourandahalfof those.
“I’ve lost count of the amount of new friends and new contacts I’ve made … I can go anywhere in Australia and look up a line dancing group, and I’ll be able to walk in there and they’ll welcome you with open arms,” he said.
The classes are free and will be hosted at Dream Entertainment Studios at 15 Station Street, Maddingley, from 10am–12pm every Wednesday from October8–29.
Those who would like to attend are askedtocontactMrKaysaheadoftime.
Details: moorabool.vic.gov.au/Events/ Victorian-Seniors-Festival-Come-andTry-Line-Dancing
crime we are seeing to become normalised andaccepted”.
“Every Victorian deserves to feel safe in their home, within the community and on theroads,”hesaid.
“Victoria Police is tackling these issues head on. Our members are doing exceptional work to resolve these crimes. But it must be said – the number of arrests weareseeingreflectsanunacceptablelevel ofoffending,”
“We will continue to make arrests and hold offenders to account, but we need to preventanddetercrimetoreduceoffending sothattherearefewervictimsinVictoria.”
The beginning of the universe and the billions of stars and galaxies that exist today are some of the topics that will be discussed at a science talk in BacchusMarshinNovember.
Hosted by science author and lecturer Peter Spinks – and presented at the Lerderderg Library – the upcoming talk titled ‘Our Cosmos Unveiled’ will aim to answer questions like ‘when and how did the universe begin?’ and ‘what gave rise to the many billions of stars and galaxiesthatexisttoday?’.
The presentation will feature photographs taken by the world’s most powerful telescopes, along with videos and computer animations of exotic phenomena – such as colliding galaxies – as Mr Spinks aims to take attendees on a memorable journey throughspaceandtime.
Itwillbesplitupintofoursections. Following an introduction, a ‘getting the big picture’ section will cover the relationship between our solar system, the Milky Way galaxy andourcosmosasawhole.
Then, a ‘start to finish’ section will cover how the universe came into being and how, sometime in the distantfuture,itmightallend.
Thefinalsectionwillbea20-minute question and answer session.Mr Spinks holds a master’s degree and has published in international academic journals, and since 1980, he has broadcast and written for several mediaorganisations.Thefreeeventwill run from 10am–12pm on Wednesday, November 8 at the Lerderderg Library at215MainStreet,BacchusMarsh.
Details: moorabool.vic.gov.au/ Events/November-BacchChat-Ourcosmos-unveiled
Free transport for seniors
Seniors can enjoy eight days of free public transport to explore thousands of Seniors FestivaleventsthisOctober.
Seniors from across the state can take advantage of free public transport travel from Sunday, 5 October until Sunday, 12 October.
The free travel applies for all forms of public transport, including trains, trams, busesandcoachservicesacrossmetroand regionalareas.
Seniors Card holders will need to carry their card while travelling, and touch on and off with their seniors myki as usual –but no fare will be charged. On non-myki services, seniors can simply show their Seniors Card to the conductor or bus driver.
This initiative is in addition to the government extending free weekend travel to be statewide for more than 650,000
Victorian Seniors Card holders from 1 January 2026 – allowing them to catch a train, tram or bus statewide at no cost and making it easier to stay connected with family,friendsandthecommunity.
Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams said that “with free trains, trams, bus and coach services –we are making it simple for seniors to get on board and enjoy both the sights and festivities our state has to offer over the courseoftheSeniorsFestival.”
“And from next year, free travel on weekends will mean Victorian Seniors Card holders can head out and about wherevertheylike–atnocost.”
Now in its 43rd year, the Victorian Seniors Festival runs in the month of October and will feature more than 3,000 freeorlow-costeventsandactivitiesacross thestate.
Neon Cowboy Boot Scooters director and instructor Edward Kays with a group of class attendees. (Damjan Janevski). 505720_06
MY PLACE
Melton Swimming Club committee member, coach, and national competitor Manar Mahfouz is a lifelong Melton resident and is passionate about the sport of swimming. In June, she won the Swimming Victoria Diversity Award for promoting a safe and inclusive environment with the Melton Swimming Club, especially among younger people. Oscar Parry spoke with Manar about her connection to Melton and her recent award.
What is your connection to Melton?
I’ve gone to primary school in Melton, highschoolinMelton,andI’vebeenapart of the Melton Swimming Club … I’ve been herefor22yearsofmylife.I’vedonepretty much everything in Melton.
What do you like most about where you live?
I think it would be the community – how, especiallywithschoolsandtheswimming club as well, how different communities come together and we all have interests in very similar things … swimming would be the big one for me … I’ve met so many people because of it.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
Probably the weather, to be honest … but otherthanthat,thereisn’treallyanything I would change.
Tell us a little bit about your Swimming Victoria Diversity Award this year. It came to a shock to me that I got nominated for this award ... but the award
does recognise a Victorian individual or an organisation that [has a] significant impact to promote diversity or inclusion in swimming in Victoria, and I think a big part of it is … it recognises an individual providing an environment of support for any young individual coming into the sport.With[beingapart]oftheswimming club ... I’m a committee member, I’ve been a captain with the swimming club for multiple years, and I’ve just been an athlete – and I love to be a role model for the younger individuals.
What do you enjoy most about the sport of swimming, and what benefits has it brought to your life?
The community I’ve been surrounded by, the individuals that I’ve come across, the opportunities – I’ve gone to travel and compete in other states with my swimming club – [building] long-living relationships … like friendships within the club. Even gaining mentors as well, so mycoach...isabigmentorformylife.And [it’s] also just a massive stress reliever, honestly.
Spring on display in Melton
Showcasing plants both native and international, the Melton Botanic Garden is bursting with colour as the warmer months roll in. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski met with Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden president John Bentley to take a look at some oftheeye-catchingspeciesinbloom atthegarden.
The native Eucalyptus Kruseanna.
Two flowers of a Eucalyptus Orbifolia
A Quandong fruit.
Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden president John Bentley in front of a Nuxia Floribunda, and inset, holding a Eucalyptus Tetraptera. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 505496
A Protea Repens.
The red flowers of a South African Erica.
A bright yellow cluster of flowers from an Acacia Camtoclada.
A cluster of flowers of a Leucadendron.The fragrant flowers of a French Lavender.
Melton Swimming Club committee member, coach, and national competitor Manar Mahfouz. (Supplied).
YOUR FOREVER NEIGHBOURHOOD
A bold new community in Fraser Rise, Society 1056 is more than a place to live, it’s a vibrant, sustainable neighbourhood with 9 hectares of open green space, waterways, parks, recreational areas, a proposed government primary school, shops, sporting ovals, and community centre.
It’s your opportunity to be part of something special.
New land now selling.
Eighth teenager in court
By Emily Woods, AAP
A 15-year-old boy has faced court charged with murdering another boy the same age as he walked home from basketball with friends.
The teen, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at a children’s court on Wednesday afternoon September 24 via video link from Parkville Youth Justice PrecinctinMelbourne.
The boy was already in custody for unrelated matters when he was charged with the murder of Dau Akueng, 15, on Tuesday,policesaid.
Heisoneoffivechildren,andthreeadults, chargedwithmurderoverthedeathsofChol Achiek,12,andDau15,onSeptember6.
The two victims were allegedly set upon by a group of masked males armed with machetes and other bladed weapons at Cobblebank, in Melbourne’s outer
northwest.
They died at the scene, with Chol found on Marble Drive and Dau found on Cobble Street, after police allege they were chased andattacked.
A magistrate told the boy on Wednesday he will be remanded in custody over the murdercharge.
She said he will return to court for a committal mention on February 18 alongsidehisunderageco-accused.
“Do you have any questions?“ the magistrateaskedtheteen.
“Nup,“hereplied.
Theboywillreappearatachildren’scourt forarolloverremandmentioninOctober.
The adult co-accused - Prince Conteh, 19, Peter Addo, 18, and Abel Sorzor, 19 - all faced Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday September 19, and were remanded in custody until their next appearance in December.
Stop the ‘pain and disorder’: Emergency meetings held
By Afraa Kori
The South Sudanese Community Association in Victoria (SSCAV) convened two ‘emergency’ meetings in the wake of recent tragedies.
ThefirstassemblywasheldatMelbourne University’s Wyndham Campus on September 20, followed by a second meeting in Springvale on September 21.
Melton resident and secretary of youth at SSCAV, Titan Debirian said real change requires broader participation in community decision-making.
“It’s not enough to have two people at the table,” Mr Debirian said.
We can’t keep repeating the same responses and expecting different results. It can’t be funeral after funeral and we don’t change things. Why are we always here?
-
“Weallneedtobeatthattable,rollingup our sleeves and doing what is necessary to get our community to where we want it to be.”
He criticised some community leaders for excluding young people from decision-making spaces.
“A big cohort that hasn’t been involved, that hasn’t been given a voice, that hasn’t been supported to be at this table is the young people,” Mr Debirian said.
“We’ve been ignored, but that has to stop and the only way that stops is if you guys show up. No more standing on the sidelines—that doesn’t work,” he said.
“Let’s be clear: nothing changes unless we change it. Not the government. Not the police. Not community leaders. Without you, the conversation is incomplete. With
you, we can start building real, tangible solutions.”
YoungpeoplerespondedtoMrDebirian’s call, turning out in force for the meetings.
“This is about transparency, inclusion, and young people realising the power they already hold,” Mr Debirian said.
“We needed to flood those rooms! Young people have to show up because you know what’s going on, you know what you want for your future. If you’re not at the table we won’t find solutions.
“All the influencers within our community - it’s time to have these conversations, use your platform to share,
don’t want to go out at all, they don’t want to go to school, they don’t want to go to shops, to the park,” Mr Ohide said.
“This problem is happening in the west, in the east, everywhere. We want to work with all councils, different communities, parents, police and other government bodies.”
Community advocate and panel speaker Deng Ajak Chiengkou described the gatherings as “lifelines”.
“In the face of challenges and the deaths of many young South Sudanese, the youth arestandingupwithremarkablestrength,” Mr Chiengkou said.
talk about what you want to do.”
He said the community is exhausted by “funerals, pain and disorder”.
“We can’t keep repeating the same responses and expecting different results. It can’t be funeral after funeral and we don’t change things. Why are we always here?
“Crime …street culture is not specific to the South Sudanese community, but our young people keep falling to it.”
Chair of SSCAV Andrew Ohide said the meeting focused on strategies to restore safety.
“Our kids don’t feel safe anywhere. Some
“They call for forgiveness, for healing, and for resilience in the midst of loss, worsening mental health, and youth violence.
“They are holding conversations many adults avoid, and in doing so, they are teaching us courage.”
Mr Chiengkou urged parents not to “remain absent”.
“They must be in these rooms, not only at funerals but at dialogues. Healing cannot be left to the youth alone. Dialogue between parents and children is essential. Without it, misunderstanding grows and the distance between generations widens.”
Titan Debirian
Chair of SSCAV, Andrew Ohide speaking to grieving families and youth. (Garry Sissons)
Melton resident and secretary of youth at SSCAV Titan Debirian.
Rayner shines on big day
By Shayne Hope, AAP
Not even Geelong’s high-profile midfielder Bailey Smith attracted more heat from opposition fans in the AFL grand final than Cam Rayner.
The Brisbane Lions’ fire-starter always knew he would be public enemy number one and lapped up the extra attention from Cats fans in the 100,000-strong crowd en route to his second premiership.
Rayner first drew the ire of the Geelong faithful in the qualifying final, when he kickedback-to-backgoalsfromcontentious free kicks, and leaned into it during the build-up to the season decider.
The former number one draft pick had a mixedbagattheMCGonSaturday,tallying just two disposals and giving away four free kicks in a quiet first half.
But he finished with 11 touches, nine contested possessions and a goal in the 18.14 (122) to 11.9 (75) win, kick-starting a run of seven consecutive majors for the Lions as they blew the game wide open in the final term.
“I loved it, I really did. The boos are like cheers for me,” Rayner said with a fresh premiership medal hanging around his neck.
“The grand final parade was awesome, I loved people getting into me. That was fun, and then again today, it was so awesome.
“Anyone that comes to the footy is a supporter and I understand that they’ve got every right. I welcome it all and I loved it. It was good fun.”
The fomer Hillside junior found a spark in the final term, nailing Cats midfielder Smith in a crunching tackle, while later jokinghecelebratedsohardthathe“nearly ripped my bicep” after his goal.
In the Lions’ change-room post-match, Rayner was speaking to reporters when he was embraced by AFL legend Leigh Matthews.
The 25-year-old said former Lions coach Matthews had been a valuable sounding
board throughout his career.
“Little Cam Rayner as a kid is actually eating his heart out right now,” Rayner said.
“My dad watched a lot of Leigh’s football and he absolutely pumps him up through the roof.
“I try to resemble a lot of my play style on him. He was the same sort of player; real explosive and a little bit of a tank.”
Matthews famously guided the Lions to
a hat-trick of flags from 2001 to 2003 before losing their fourth straight grand final against Port Adelaide.
Rayner and his teammates endured grand final heartache in 2023 but now have the chance to match the Matthews-led team’s three-peat next year.
“It’s funny: we lost our first one and they lost their last one,” Rayner said.
“Hopefully, history repeats and we can get another one and go again.”
Milestone night for Joe and Adrian Pace at Melton
Trainer Joe Pace and his son Adrian toasted two milestone achievements after their pacer Justalittlesip scored an upset win in the Lifestyle Communities Free For All at Melton on Saturday night.
Sentoutthe$26outsiderinthesix-horse field, Justalittlesip settled fourth as the field assumed an Indian file formation before Adrian Pace eased off the pegs with 800 metres to travel in order to apply some pressure to the leader Hes From Heaven ($2 eq fav).
Justalittlesip joined the leader halfway down the straight and managed to poke his head in front on the line, scoring by a head from Hes From Heaven in reeling off a 26.5 last 400 metres.
The win was 24-year-old Adrian Pace’s first success at free-for-all level on the Melton circuit.
“It’s good now that I’ve got the free for all out of the way,” Pace said.
Pace said the six-year-old was unlucky when he finished midfield behind Horn Player at his previous start.
“He’s been going really well and he didn’t have a lot of luck in his last start as the gaps didn’t come for him at the right time in a pretty nice field last week.
In the straight he was up for the battle, he always digs in and tries really hard so all credit to the horse. We always knew he had a free for all in him and when these better races come around in the summer I’m sure he’ll be right in them.”
Joe Pace reflected on Justalittlesip’s injury-interruptedcareerashecelebrated his 200th training success.
“We’ve been through a lot with him but he’s come back in really good form and his work has been good and he’s racing well,” Pace said.
“It (200th winner) has been a long time coming but all the work that we’ve been putting in and with our facilities it can be a bit of a slog, but you wake up in the
morningandthisiswhatyouget,”hesaid.
Promising juvenile trotter Howdy Mate ($1.45 fav) completed back to back feature race wins at Melton when he led all the way in the Aldebaran Park Tatlow Stakes (2YO Trotters).
The Jess Tubbs prepared son of Elite Stride broke clear of his rivals on turning for home and was untroubled to score by
seven metres from a gallant Notanotha Naughty with Elle Perfecto four metres away third.
The win followed Howdy Mate’s success in the Nutrien Equine Classic (2YO TrottingColts&Geldings)Finalafortnight ago and provided James Herbertson with the first of a winning treble.
“It’s the first time he’s led in a race and
he’s learning as he goes and his manners at the start tonight were good and I was really happy with him,” Herbertson said.
“He’s getting better all the time, he did that really easy tonight and the last 100 metres he was really cruising, and I didn’t ask that much of him… we haven’t found the bottom of him yet,” he said. John Dunne
Cam Rayner has won back-to-back premierships. (AAP Image/James Ross)
Justalittlesip. (Stuart McCormick)
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
Melton South Community Centre
Melton South Community Centre’s Term 4 program of classes has been announced. There are lots of activities and classes to join, including computers, cooking, first aid, yoga, and more. Call the centre or visit its website for further information.
9747 8576 or meltonsouth.org.au
Rope
By Arrangement with ORiGiN™ Theatrical
On Behalf of Samuel French A Concord Theatricals Company. Directed by Shannon Nicholson. Get ready for a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat drama. Rope, the classic suspense play by Patrick Hamilton, delves into the twisted minds of two friends who take crime to an unnerving new level. Their chilling experiment with murder, based on the real-life Leopold and Loeb case, is about to unravel in a way you won’t forget. Experience the tension, mystery, and dark psychological drama this October at Moonlite Theatre. Perfromances will take place on Friday, October 17 and Friday, October 24 from 8pm and Saturday, October 18, and Saturday, October 25 from 2pm and 8pm at Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19 Gisborne Road, Bacchus Marsh. Tickets cost $20.
trybooking.com/DBPIV
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/
Take weight off naturally
Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton.
Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739
Parkinson’s support group
The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month, 10.30am-12.30pm, at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers are welcome.
Helen, 0409 186 576
Melton Bridge Club
The Melton Bridge Club has weekly social bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of
poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you.
Rosemary, 0407 894 817
Melton South Knit & Natter
All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa.
9747 8576
U3A Melton
U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and older who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active.
0419 563 016
Melton Combined Probus Club
The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am.
9746 0271
Melton Trauma Teddies
Melton Trauma Teddies are seeking volunteers to assist with knitting, stuffing, or stitching teddy-bears that go to children in their time of need.
Jean, 0412 931 498
Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh
Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh make reusable shopping bags from rescued fabric. They need people to cut, sew, iron
and market our bags. The group meets on the first Sunday each month at Darley Neighbourhood House, 2-5pm.
https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/
Community singing group
If you love to sing, come join the Melton Singers. The group rehearses regularly and also performs at aged care facilities. The group is very relaxed and sings songs mainly from the 1960s and 70s. It meets Tuesdays at 10am.
Val, 0418 667 150
Garden Club
The Bacchus Marsh and District Garden Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month except January, from 7.30pm, at The Laurels, 229 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh. Guest speakers and supper provided.New members welcome.
Michelle, 0421 106 268
Fishing club
Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club of Melton and Bacchus Marsh is a fishing club that welcomes and encourages people of all ages, genders and fishing abilities to partake in enjoying the outdoors in a relaxing and friendly environment. The club holds monthly fishing competitions at various locations, fresh and saltwater. New members are most welcome.
Andrew, 0407 303 438, or Wayne, 0414 785 366
Bacchus Marsh Flower and Garden Show
Save the date for a local family event on the weekend of October 25 and 26. Flowers, produce, crafts, photo competitions, plant
sales, children’s activities, and more!
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
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. The event is held on the first Friday of each month from 7.30–8.30pm at the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh. The next event will be on October 3 on International Peace Day This is a free community event open to all.
Women for Justice Conference
Grace Community Church is hosting two sessions as part of its Women for Justice Conference on October 4 from 10am to 3pm. A $10 donation covers refreshments, lunch, and a gift bag. The two sessions will be the ’Justice for our World’ and ’Justice for our Country’ in the morning, and in the afternoon, a panel and discussion about justice for our community with intercultural speakers, questions, and discussion concerning how we can support people in our community experiencing disadvantage and injustice. The event will be hosted at Grace Community Church, 15-17 Yuille Street, Melton. Register by September 28. admin@gracecommunitymelton.org.au, or 9746 0488
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of the Melbourne skyline and a canola field seen from Diggers Rest. (Damjan Janevski) 504858_01
Piano concert at the Salvos
A series of free piano concerts is coming to Sunshine as part of the return of Allegro Non Oppo Out West.
Award-winning composer and multiinstrumentalist Ania Reynolds will performoriginalpianopiecesinLatin,jazz and classical genres inspired by people, places and moments experienced during her overseas travels in Europe, Latin America and Asia.
Reynolds said the idea of the concerts is to provide cinematic ambience and atmosphere to local op shops.
“People describe that sort of piano
music as soothing and meditative and it encourages them to linger a bit longer with the op shopping,” she said.
Reynolds will perform pieces from previous albums as well as her more recent works.
Her 2023 album, Além was influenced by the complex rhythms and groove of Latin America.
Other compositions have been inspired by travels across Asia where Reynolds performed as a saxophonist in a festival in Japan.
“There’s definitely more of a stillness
and a contemplateness to how I felt in the ambience of Japan, and later Vietnam. So the pieces from there are very much more meditative in their mood,” she said.
The Allegro Non Oppo Out West piano concerts, supported by Brimbank council, will take place each Saturday in October from noon to 3pm at the Salvos Stores Sunshine,6/147HarvesterRoad,Sunshine.
The concert series will continue throughout the following month with concerts being held each Tuesday in November from 1 to 4pm at Salvos Stores Derrimut, 7/20 Mt Derrimut Road.
Artist’s exhibition of sacred expression
Meditation and sacred expression are two themes in focus in a Melton artist’s exhibitionondisplayattheMeltonLibrary.
Titled ‘Shakti Rising’, the exhibition is a collection of painted works by Melton artist Mata Kamaleshwari, celebrating sacred feminine energy.
According to Kamaleshwari, Shakti is a universal creative force that arises from pure existence and flows into all creation. After20yearsofintensespiritualpractice – with Kamaleshwari also a meditation and spiritual teacher – she wanted to communicate her experience through her art.
“I just wanted to paint what my
experience was with meditation … my innerworld…it’sthemovementofenergy,” Kamaleshwari said.
“To me it’s the final frontier of mankind …. they’re even going to mars and the moon but they can’t go into their inner world,” she said. “Everything I paint has come from that experience.”
Sheusesfluidacrylicswithrichpigments – including unique Australian hues –aiming to weave a cultural fusion of divine imagery set against Australian landscapes and colours.
In a statement about her exhibition, Kamaleshwari said her journey is one of devotion – a lifelong love affair with
India’s spirituality, merged with a modern Australian context, offering a unique and personal path that bridges worlds.
“As a woman in her 50s, having faced many challenges, including health and loss and many of those brought by the pandemic, I’ve found a renewed way to express my spiritual journey through art,” she wrote. “This [re-emergence] reflects a subtle yet vibrant connection to Shakti, inviting viewers to observe, contemplate, and connect with the divine feminine energy in their own way.”
The exhibition will run until October 3 at the Melton Library and Learning Hub, 31 McKenzie Street, Melton.
Discover Altona’s amazing birdlife
The Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre is holding an open day to mark World Migratory Bird Day on Saturday, October 11.
Running from 10am to 2pm at the Truganina Explosives Reserve, the opendayfeaturesfreeartworkshops, science activities, music, storytelling and guided walks.
Participants can also engage with environmental and community groups, enjoy the surrounds and even take home some freebies like Indigenous plants.
The program will begin with Welcome and Smoking Ceremony led by a Bunurong Land Council Elderfollowedbyperformancesfrom the Hyde Street Youth Band, The Inklings, The Ricolas, The Connies and storyteller Jackie Kerin. Gypsy Janine will be on hand to do face paintings.
All activities and stalls will highlight the roles of various community organisations in addressing climate change issues and protecting the environment.
World Migratory Bird Day coincides with the period when migratory shorebirds arrive in Australia after breeding in the Northern Hemisphere summer.
These birds travel along the East Asian Australasian Flyway, some from as far as Siberia, to feed in local coastal wetlands and estuaries such as the wetlands of Hobsons Bay.
Several migratory bird species that visit the wetlands are classified as threatened due to factors such as habitat loss and human activity and it’s hoped the open day will highlight the threats faced by these birds and also the ways in which their habitats can be protected so that they keep coming.
Crafty creations set to go on display at colourful Gisborne quilt show
Handmadegoodswillbeondisplayforthe
St Andrews Presbyterian Gisborne Craft Group’s Quilt and Craft Show.
Showcasing their hard work throughout the year, the show will feature hand-sewn quilts made by group members and a variety of crafts.
One of the organisers Marion Place said there will be an impressive collection on display.
“Every second year we have a quilt show and some other crafts,” she said.
“We put the quilts in the church over the pews and on the walls, and the hall has morning tea and soup and things like that.
“We’ll also have other displays of crafts.”
Ms Place said while it is a small group of crafters, they have been very busy throughout the year with plenty of works to display.
She said they have been donated lots of beautiful fabrics, which they have used to create the quilts.
“We make quilts to donate to charities,” Ms Place said.
“WedonatetotheGisborneandKyneton foodbanks,theSalvationArmyinSunbury and Catholic Care in Bendigo.
“Usually we give away about 150 to 200
quilts a year, and this year we’ve already given away 60 this year and we have a big distribution, usually mid-November coming up to Christmas.”
Alongside the impressive crafts, some of the quilters will also be available on the day to talk about their work and where the quilts will be donated to after the show. There will also be opportunities for card making and beading activities in the hall, alongside the refreshments.
The show will be held from 9am to 3pm on Saturday, October 4 at the St Andrews Presbyterian Church, Gisborne.
Details: Marion on 0448 887 657.
Melton artist Mata Kamaleshwari with her exhibition ’Shakti Rising’ at the Melton Library. (Damjan Janevski) 505295_02
Quilt and Craft Show organisers Marsha Ellis, Marion Place and Glenys Ariss. (Damjan Janevski) 505350_03
Ania Reynolds will perform free piano concerts in Sunshine every Saturday throughout October. (Sean Healy)
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which NBA team is currently in Melbourne, where they’ll be taking on the NBL’s Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix?
2. Which two countries will the Matildas be facing in a series of friendlies this October?
3. The contact team sport known as kabaddi is the national sport of which country?
4. Who portrayed the English ski jumper known as Eddie the Eagle in the eponymous 2016 film?
5. Which WNBA player was recently named the WNBA Rookie of the Year?
Jess Stenson won gold in which event at the 2022 Commonwealth Games?
What is the name of Jordan Peele’s 2025 horror film about an NFL player whose dreams take a terrifying turn?
Which Summer Olympic Games are considered the most-watched internationally, with an estimated five billion viewers worldwide?
And which Olympic Games drew the smallest international TV audience?
What is the name of the final runner in a baton relay race, usually the fastest member of the
Which former Geelong and St Kilda player has been named senior coach of the Melbourne Demons AFL
12. England’s cricket team scored a remarkable 2 for 304 against which team in a recent T20 international match?
13. And which batsman scored 141 not out from 60 balls in the same game, a T20 record for England?
14. The World Athletics Championships was first held in which decade?
15. Which company is the official tyre supplier of the Formula One World Championship?
16. US tennis star Taylor Townsend has apologised for critiquing the traditional cuisine of which country?
17. Australian teenage sprinter Gout Gout was born in which state?
18. Which A-League club has won the most championships and premierships in the league’s history?
19. Which Australian motor racing legend is known as the ‘King of the Mountain’ due to his success at Bathurst?
20. Which team handed the Australian women’s one-day cricket team its biggest ever international defeat recently?
IMPOUNDING OF LIVESTOCK ACT
NOTICE OF IMPOUNDED LIVESTOCK
The following animals have been impounded from within the municipal district of the City of Melton by Council Authorised Officers.
2 white sheep, one adult female and one juvenile, displaying no ear tags, were Impounded on Tuesday 23rd September 2025 from Croxton Drive, Kurunjang.
If not claimed and fees paid by Thursday 9 October 2025, these animals will be disposed of in accordance with the Impounding of Livestock Act 1994 or sent to a valid rescue organisation.
All enquiries regarding the above-mentioned animal should be directed to Council’s Animal Management Unit on 9747 7200. Attention Officer Tiffany Naughton, Animal Management. 12804362-EB39-25
21. What city will get a new sporting stadium in the suburb of Bruce sometime in the 2030s?
22. Aussie athlete Nicola Olyslagers won gold at the World Athletics Championships in what event?
23. Which Formula 1 driver crashed out on lap one of the recent Azerbaijan Grand Prix?
24. What position did the Penrith Panthers finish on the ladder at the end of the 2025 NRL Premiership Season?
25. Daisy Pearce, now coaching the West Coast AFLW team, recently faced her former club for the first time. Which team was it?
26. Indian cricketers refused to shake hands with players from which country during a recent Asia Cup match?
27. Which two nations competed in the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup final?
28. Which NBA team is under investigation for allegedly breaching the league’s salary cap?
29. Which retired NFL superstar recently floated a sporting comeback at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics?
30. The UFC will hold an event in June 2026 at which iconic Washington, D.C. location?
ACROSS
1 Baby dog (coll) (3)
3 Of an unemotional disposition (10)
10 Voter (7)
11 Utter rapidly (4,3)
12 Clickers (9)
13 A law – himself (4)
15 Ionised part of Earth’s atmosphere (10) 17 Cicatrice (4) 19 Simple (4)
20 To continue indefinitely (10)
23 German automobile manufacturer (4)
25 Maryland city (9)
27 Nimbleness (7)
28 Annoying (7)
29 Synchronous (10) 30 Used a seat (3)
A gathering (4-2)
Takes by theft (6)
Profane (10)
Disgust (9) 18 Making loud and confused noise (10)
21 Ticklish (6)
22 Surroundings (6)
24 Fusion (5)
25 Purchaser (5)
26 Fashion designer, – Jacobs (4)
In which continent is the historical drama series
How many members does Australia's House of Representatives
Which
dystopian novel features a calming drug called soma?
10 In the nursery rhyme, who did Simple Simon meet going to the fair?
H6GT plugs into a new world
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
With more than 32,000 sales in Australia, the Haval H6 has never been backward at coming forward.
And that’s not about to change anytime soon if the brand’s first plug-in electric vehicle is anything to go by.
PHEVs have been slow to take off, but with ballooning fuel prices, climate change through fossil-fuel pollution and the ever-present driver albatross of ‘range anxiety’, things are changing.
And the new H6GT, with its bumper 35.4kWh battery, has gone straight to the top of the segment with an electricity-onlyrange,withzeroemissions, of up to 180km, almost twice that of its nearest rival. This is backed up by a combined ICE/hybrid distance of more than 1000km.
Lux and Ultra models share the new-gen line-up.
Pricedat$55,990driveaway,makerGWM claims‘exhilaratingperformance’fromthe UltraPHEV,viathebrand’snewHi4Hybrid Intelligent AWD, with a sprint from zero to 100km/h in a nippy 4.8 seconds.
Thevehicleoffersvariedchargingoptions from30to80percent,viaAC(6.6kW),orDC (48kW), in as little as 26 minutes.
This new flagship comes as part of a significant H6 upgrade inside and out, with the entry-level Lux variant, a 2-litre turbocharged front-wheel drive, coming to market for $35,990 driveaway.
All are covered by GWM’s seven-year unlimited new car warranty, eight-year unlimitedkilometrebatterypackwarranty, five-year 24hr roadside assistance and five-year capped price servicing through GMW’s network of dealerships.
Styling
The H6GT AWD flies the flag for Haval’s SUV range with a premium design language, including an expansive cascading radiator grille with dark finish ‘proudly’showcasingabolditerationofthe brand’s logo.
AverticallayoutofLEDdaytimerunning lights support the vehicle’s upright stance, while the sloping coupe-style roof, as opposed to the H6 standard SUV square shape, bears witness to the GT suffix.
Side-on, new black wheelarch cladding runsfromfronttorear,combiningwithnew 19-inch multi-spoke black alloy wheels. Gone are chrome splashes in favour of a cleaner, modern, minimalist look.
At the rear, the full width light bar has been ousted in favour of a more contemporary array of angled individual taillights. Centrally situated between the lamps the Haval badge has been replaced byG-W-M,reflectingthemovetoitsunified GMW brand identity.
The rear reno introduces a power tailgate to the H6, that can be easily operated at the push or a button, or with a kick motion beneath the bumper.
Interior
A 50mm increase in body length gives the cabin added room, while a shift of the gear selector to the steering column frees up the centre console for more storage and wireless phone charger.
The steering wheel has been reworked to offer a thicker profile with indentations at the 10 and 2 o’clock positions to improve grip and comfort on longer drives. An automatic parking brake adds to convenience.
Premium materials and finishes to the minimalist decor features a new luxurious cream interior option adding
the personal touch to proceedings. The changes, while small, are testament to GWM’s broader focus on the driver throughout the cabin.
Infotainment
A‘hearttransplant’fortheH6hascomevia the GT’s instrument layout, the centre of which lies a 14.6-inch infotainment screen powered by GWM’s latest-generation operating system delivering faster processing speeds and more intuitive access. The latter is debatable.
A fixture in other GWM models, including the Tank series, the system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enabling smartphone mirroring and cable-free access to sat nav, media and communications.
In front of the driver is a 10.25-inch high-res digital instrument cluster with new visuals already seen in Tank models displaying driving information in three key segments. A 360-degree surround view monitor, with see-through chassis offers visibility for safe manoeuvring.
Engines/transmissions
The plug-in hybrid powertrain is exclusive totheUltragradeinall-wheeldrive,coming up with a strong, refined, yet efficient performance.The1.5-litreunit,matedwith
GMW’s Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, produces 110kW and 230Nm.
Complementing this are three powerful motors – two up front and one at the rear. Integrated with the 4WD system, the latter an independent 135kW and 232Nm, the combination delivering more than 1000km range.
Safety
Fitted with the latest active and passive safety systems the Haval H6GT is designed to look after occupants and other road users to the best of automotive ability. Advanced technology such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition and traffic jam assist seamlessly support the driver.
Adding to core safety are autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic assist and lane departure warning. Convenience is enhanced by auto parking assist and for Ultra parking sensors all round.
Seven airbags – two front, two side, two curtain and one centre – cover all seating positions and Isofix child restraints and driver fatigue monitor cap off the cabin.
Driving
In place of a standard transmission the Haval H6GT relies on a two-speed system
that predominantly powers the vehicle up to around 80km/h before the ICE chips in, so take-off is all but silent, without being rubber ripping.
Switching into full steam is all but seamless, with the engine making itself noticed with only a restrained growl. A selectionofdrivemodesiscalledupviathe touchscreen.
Close by is a power mode setting, which allows the choice between EV, EV priority and Intelligent Hybrid going.
As far as power consumption is concerned the test car on a motorway run recorded 18.0kWh per 100km, which is acceptable for a vehicle of its heft. With the battery depleted, GWM suggests the hybrid mode will come up with 5.4 litres per 100km of fuel use. The test car bettered that with 4.9 litres of petrol per 100km.
The slick(ish) off-the-line sprint (GWM suggests 4.9 sec to 100km/h) is subject to handling stresses on corners, mainly due to its mid-size SUV bulk, so it’s probably best to back off.
Summary
For a first effort at a plug-in hybrid the Haval H6GT Ultra is up with the best in performance but not in its infotainment communication with the driver.
For a first effort at a plug-in hybrid the Haval H6GT Ultra is up with the best in performance but not in its infotainment communication with the driver.
(Pictures: Supplied)
The Lions roar into history
The Brisbane Lions roared into history, crushing Geelong by 47 points - 18.14 (122) to 11.9 (75) - in front of 100,022 fans at the MCG to claim back-to-back premierships. Former AFL premiership player Anthony Stevens gives his take on an enthralling grand final.
It was an arm-wrestle early. At half-time the scores were level at 5.6 (36) apiece, Geelong’s system holding firm despite the lossofTomStewart.SamDeKoningbattled bravely down back, Mark Blicavs worked in the ruck, and the Cats looked well placed. But after the break the game flipped. Brisbane kicked 13 goals to three in a second-half blitz, their pressure overwhelming and their forward half swarming with opportunities.
Will Ashcroft, just 21, was again the standout. He gathered 31 disposals, set up multiple goals and claimed his second consecutive Norm Smith Medal. Charlie Cameron lit the forward line with three goals and trademark pace. And Logan Morris, the 20-year-old key forward, filled the Joe Daniher role - presenting, clunking packs and kicking a vital goal to open the floodgates.
Down back, Harris Andrews was a wall, intercepting and shutting down Geelong’s tall targets. In the middle, Josh Dunkley and Hugh McCluggage drove the surge, while
LachieNeale,underaninjurycloudallweek, came on as the substitute in the second half to steady the Lions when needed.
For Geelong, Stewart’s absence was glaring. De Koning and Blicavs carried the load, but once Brisbane’s midfield gained control, the Cats’ structure cracked under relentless pressure.
When the final siren sounded, the roar
faithful was deafening. Flags waved, fans cried, and the Lions had stamped themselves as the AFL’s new powerhouse.
As someone who’s felt premiership joy, I know this: in the moment it’s pure relief and pride. Only years later do you truly appreciate what it took. Brisbane’s players will learn that truth in time. They haven’t
The siren, the flags, and what they meant
People ask what it feels like when a grand final siren goes your way. The truth is, you don’t hear it as much as you feel it - a shock through the body, then a wave that doesn’t stop.
1996 was that wave. North hadn’t won a flag for 19 years. We’d been jumped early by Sydney but ground our way back, and whenthelastsirensoundedattheMCGthe dam burst: players everywhere, coaches in tears, families on the fence, a club finally exhaling. It was the AFL’s centenary grand finalandNorth’swinremainstheonlytime ateamhasliftedthegoldpremiershipcupa little piece of history on top of everything else.
The rooms afterwards were chaos in the best way - sweat, laughter, and that feeling that the years of work, knocks and doubt had been turned into something
permanent. And to share it with my best mate, Glenn Archer, who won the Norm Smith that day, made it even more special. His hardness and courage lifted the team, and for me, standing next to him as we celebrated was something I’ll never forget. 1999feltdifferent-and,forme,evenmore personal. Eight days earlier I’d damaged my ankle so badly the first diagnosis was “14-to-16 weeks.” The plan became a sprint: ice, strapping, hop tests, then a promise from Denis Pagan - “If you can get on the track for ten minutes on Thursday, I’ll play you.” I made it.
We beat Carlton by 35 points. I got through the first quarter before ripping my pec in the second, but by then we had control. The siren that day wasn’t just joy; it was relief, vindication, pride - the feeling you get when a coach trusts you and a
group refuse to blink.
If 1996 was the club’s catharsis, 1999 was its proof. One flag ends a drought; the next one tells the competition you’re built to last. And as a player, you know you’ve been etched into history - remembered for life by the supporters who lived every bump, tackle and cheer with you.
But it’s really not until later years that you sit back and truly appreciate what it took to achieve such a feat - the sacrifices, the belief, the relentless work. Time gives you perspective, and only then do you understand how rare and special those premiershipmomentsare,especiallywhen you share them with your best mates.
That’s what the siren gives you: a second that lasts forever - and a reminder that every sprint, bruise and moment of doubt was worth it.
from Brisbane’s
Anthony Stevens is the principal of Anthony Stevens Real Estate. Phone 0459 924 164.
Lions players and coach Chris Fagan (centre) celebrate their win in the AFL grand final. (AAP Image/James Ross)
just won a flag - they’ve etched themselves into football history, remembered for life by their supporters.
Anthony Stevens in action for the Kangaroos in 2003 against Hawthorn. (AAP image/Ryan Pierse)
Familiar faces claim RDFNL top awards
It was some familiar names that took out the top awards at the Riddell District Football Netball League awards night on Wednesday night.
Steve Boyall, Tilly Shepherd and Ruby Watts all became two-time winners of the major awards after standout seasons.
Boyall won his second Bowen Medal, pipping Diggers Rest’s Marcus Calavresi and Melton South’s Lachlan Pritchard.
Boyall and Calavresi were tied on 20 votes heading into the final round, with Pritchard three votes behind them.
Boyall was the only one of the three to poll in the final round when he had 44 disposals and two goals to claim the medal.
He previously won the medal in 2022.
“Ididn’texpecttobeinfrontcominginto thefinalround,”Boyallsaidafterclaiming the medal.
“It was good to get the win.
“It is something one day I will be really proud of. At the moment, you play footy to
win premierships.
“It’s nice to get something for the hard work that gets put in, but I would trade these for a premiership any day.”
Pritchard was earlier named the Steve Turner Rising Star for the best senior football player under the age of 23.
Among those named in the team of the year were Melton Centrals’ Fabian Brancatisano, the Panthers’ Marlion Pickett, Sam Darley and Alec Goodson, and Burras’ Brandon Lester, Calavaresi and Shaun Campbell.
Campbell was named coach of the team of the year.
In the women’s football, Watts beat out Melton’sPaulineHutchinstoclaimthetop honour.
Wattswastherunawaywinner,finishing on 35 votes, 13 clear of Hutchins.
Watts was also named player of the year.
“It was really good, I enjoyed it,” she said. “It was a pretty different season with Kyneton not being there, it was good fun.
“I had a really good time with the girls this season.”
Two Melton players Vivian Lam and Danielle Roczniak were named in the team of the year.
Shepherd went back-to-back in the Ryan Medal as the best A-grade player in a close vote count.
She held off Lancefield’s Mia Daly and Riddell’s Mady Brown.
Shepherd was also named the player of the year.
Melton Centrals’ goals Imogen Sexton was named the young player of the year as thebestA-gradeplayerinthecompetition.
Other winners included, Melton South’s Anna Edmonds adding the D-grade best and fairest award to her leading goal scorer award.
Eynesbury’s Jack Darling won the club 18s best and fairest from Darley’s Lachlan Herring.
Diggers Rest’s Erin Kelly won the under-19 netball best and fairest award.
Lavis joins Warriors
By Tara Murray
TheWesternWarriorshavelockedinoneof Victoria’s top young goalers for next year’s VictorianNetballLeagueseason.
The first of the Warriors signings for next season have started to come through, with MiaLavisoneofthenewadditions.
The 2025 Melbourne Vixens training partner and Australian under-19 player crossesfortheNorthEastBlaze.
Lavissaidshewaslookingforsomething newandtheWarriorsseemedtobeareally goodfit.
“TheWarriorsarebuildingatthemoment and Kim Bailey is an amazing coach,” she said.
“I’m just excited to start fresh next year andgetsomegoodnetballundermybelt.
“Ruby Shannon who is at Warriors was a bigfactorformegoingacrossthere.
“I think some different coaching and new environment was needed, cause I’ve beenatBlazeforacoupleofyearsnow.
“Ilovedmytimetherebutitwasdefinitely time for a change and to challenge myself inanewwayatWarriors.”
Lavis had an injury riddled 2024 in her
first season at the Blaze before stepping into the championship side full time this season.
She said playing VNL gave her an opportunity to play at a really high standardweekin,weekout.
“The only way you can improve, just putting yourself out there and being challenged by the best players in Victoria,” shesaid.
“This year was challenging. Obviously last year I didn’t finish out a full season, but it was made easier living in Melbourne now.
“Last year mum and I were travelling down every Wednesday and that definitely tookitstollonus.
“It was nice to have the state netball centre just 10 minutes around the corner, getthatexposureweekin,weekout.
“It helped my netball physically and mentallygettingusedtothatenvironment.”
Lavis said her aim at Warriors was to hopefully lock down the starting goal attackposition.
She said playing other positions like wing attack and goal shooter had helped hernetballthepastcoupleofyears.
Harkness moves up this season
By Tara Murray
Harknessiskeenforthenewchallenge as it steps up into the Gisborne and DistrictCricketAssociationJohnstone Shieldthisseason.
Harkness had played the past coupleofseasonsintheJensenShield where it made finals and were among thetopteams.
When the Sunbury Kangaroos wanted to drop to the Jensen Shield and Aintree withdrawing its Johnstone Shield side to focus its attention more on the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association, Harkness took the opportunity to go upadivision.
Harkness president Marc Turner said the group was keen to see what theycoulddo.
“The guys are pretty excited to be steppingupalevel,”hesaid.“Theboys areprettyconfidenttheycanstepup.
“We’ve been around the mark for thelastfewyears.”
Turner said while they were going up a division, the playing group was expecting to be competitive and be able to play some good cricket at that level.
Signing with the Warriors caps off a big yearforLavis.
She was named as a Melbourne Vixens training partner and was named in the Vixensgamedaysquadononeoccasion.
“It was so surreal it still hasn’t sunk in,” she said. “I haven’t really reflected on 2025 yet. It was such an amazing opportunity to be able to train alongside girls who I’ve watchedontvthatI’veidolised.
“It was such a cool experience for me, somethingIcherishbeingabletositonthe benchfortheVixens.”
Lavis recently returned from Canberra where she spent time training with the Australianunder-19squad.
Shegottobepartofsomethingspecial.
“I think they were saying it’s a first for Australian netball having the Diamonds andthe21sandtheotherunderagesquads there.
“It was pretty cool to be in that environment. We got to watch diamonds matchplayitwasverycool.”
Also joining Lavis at the Warriors this season is Megan Allen from the United Kingdom and Fionnuala Mckeagney-Stubbs.
Hesaidtheclub,whichhasstruggled since Covid-19, is continuing to claw itswaybackuptheranks.
Harkness is set to have three sides againthisseason.
“It’sstillbeenprettytough,”hesaid. “We’ve got things in the works that will hopefully come to fruition and show that we are heading back in the rightdirection.
“We’re rolling in the seasons and hopefully the boys keep going this year.”
Elsewhere, Eynesbury, which finished bottom of the Johnstone Shield last season, remains in that division due to Aintree and the Kangaroos not having sides in that division.
Diggers Rest Bulla is among the other teams in the seven team division along with Kilmore, Eastern Hill and last season’s Jensen Shield premiers,Lancefield.
Blackwood is part of a six team Jensen Shield competition along with Hanging Rock, the Sunbury Kangaroos, Malmsbury, Riddell and Trentham.
Mia Lavis (Netball Victoria)
Steve Boyall. (Tara Murray)
Royals ready for challenge as they move up to division 3
By Tara Murray
MeltonSouthisreadyforthenewchallenge in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield.
The Royals, who won the Evans-Clark Shield last season, will play in the division 3 competition for the first time.
New president Blake Ivory the group was keen to get out there and test themselves at the next level.
“We don’t think there’s much difference in the standard to be honest,” he said. “We haveaveryseasonedgroupandwefeellike we will be more than competitive going up to division 3.
“It’ll be nice to challenge ourselves against some new clubs and play on some new grounds.
“We’reconfidentheadingintotheseason that we can give it a good crack.”
Ivory said they’ve had some really strong
numbers at training and were continuing to build on what they’ve done the past few years. He said there had been a number of new players joining the club.
“Everyone is really positive about the upcoming season,” he said. “We have been pretty strong in terms of our training culture the past few years, something worked really hard on.
“Our group has been very similar over thelastfewyearsandknoweachothervery well, I think that helps
“People feel connected to the club and feel they want to be there.
“We’ve been able to add some new players, through word of mouth and reputation and that culture we want to build which is positive.”
While most of the first XI side has returned for another season, the Royals have lost Praveen De Silva.
De Silva won the division 4 competition best and fairest award last season.
Ivory said he would be a big loss.
Chameera Perera, who joins the club from Craigieburn, is the big signing for the Royals and would bring plenty of experience to the club.
“He’s friends with one of our guys and has jumped on board,” Ivory said.
“He is a left arm off spinner and a bat as well, middle order bat.
“He’sourmainrecruitatthemoment,bit ofbattingandbowlingthroughouttheyear and hopefully he can give us something similar to Praveen did.”
Ivory steps into the presidency replacing PaulDavies,whostepsbackafteranumber of years in the role.
Ivory said he was excited for the new challenge taking over from Davies, who had done a lot of hard work for the club.
The Royals are set to kick off their season
A drive to succeed Burras lock
By Peter Howe
“I followed in my older brother’s footsteps,” comes the quick reply for this month’s Don Deeble Sports Star nominee Sam Simmonds on why he took up tennis.
“My brother Leo was having lessons and playing at Brooklyn Tennis Club,” he said. “ I was six years old and wanted to do what he did.
“I’ve played footy, basketball and golf. I’m probably more sports oriented than an academic.
The Simmonds would pack the family into the car and tour Victoria entering all three kids into tennis tournaments on weekends and holidays.
“My first tournament was an under 10 competition in Bundoora,” Simmonds recalls.
“I was never winning but I loved to compete and train.
“I am one of the most competitive people I know. My brother and I won four junior titles in the under-12s as we travelled to play.”
Training has gone to another level now for Simmonds.
He is Victoria captain in the School Sport Australia competition and represents Kooyong Tennis Club as a foundation scholarship holder.
“I have played in the Pizzey Cup for the past three years, two as captain, and I have been selected in the All-Australian Schools team each year.
“I play in the grade one pennant team for Kooyong in both singles and doubles. We have won the competition, two years running.”
Combining year 12 studies and training becomes a juggling act, but Simmonds is committed to both.
He trains two mornings a week on the court and on the other three mornings he’s in the gym.
Each evening after school he is on the court hitting.
“On court sessions are either scenario based, or repetition drills to improve my consistency,” he said.
“They also include running and conditioning. Sunday is my day for homework, unless I can sneak out and get a round of golf in or go for a run.”
On court sessions are to help Simmonds become an all court player. His heroes are Alex de Minaur and Lleyton Hewitt.
“I stand at 193 centimetres which makes myserveaweapon,butyouneedmorethan one strength,” he said. “My brother stands at 200 centimetres, so I think I am still growing.”
“My coach focuses on my strengths as
a player which includes a never give up mental attitude.”
Simmonds currently has a Universal TennisRanking(UTR)of11.44thatisbased on a logarithm that compares him to every tennis player in the world.
He said it roughly means he is ranked in the top 10 under-18 players in Australia.
“I have been lucky enough to play in overseas tournaments, including Fiji four timesandNewZealandonce,“hesaid.“The points I earned in those competitions have added to my UTR.”
Simmonds has just returned from three weeks in France at a tennis camp playing every day against men.
He said it was an amazing experience.
“I came up against players with very
differentplayingstyles,”hesaid.“European, USA,ArgentinianandSpanishplayersfight towineverypoint,theyarementallytough.
“I found that I could change it up and match them tactically, but my consistency as a player must improve.
Simmonds is talking to colleges in America.
“It has been my dream to go to college in the USA and play tennis.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.
If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.
in a new coach
Diggers Rest has locked in a new coach for next year’s Riddell District Netball League season.
After a tough 2025 where they finishedsecondbottomontheladder, the Burras have appointed Deepak Patu as the club’s new A-grade coach for next year.
Patu is no stranger to the netball court both as a player and as a coach, both locally, nationally and internationally.
He has played in four Australian National Championships and four New Zealand National Championships.
He’s been an international representative for six years as well.
Patu returns to the RDNL having previously coached the Western Rams in 2023 in their final season in the competition before the club moved to the Western Football League.
In his time at the Rams, he coached their under-19 side to back-to-back undefeated seasons while they had success in other grades over that period.
The club said Patu is inspired by Maya Angelou’s quote, “do the best you can until you know better. When you know better, do better”
“A quote that inspires the way Dee coaches and leads every team he’s part of,” the Burras said.
“What excites us most is Dee’s passion for creating a fun, safe and hardworking environment where playerscanbethemselves,growtheir game and push to the next level.
“Season 2026 is going to be huge.”
The Burras won just one match this year, while they drew in two others.
The Burras said there would be more announcements to come.
Sam Simmonds. (Supplied)
Leona Hristovska and Deepak Patu. (Supplied)
Blake Ivory is the Royals new president. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 465585_05
Swimmers set for national stage after claiming state medals
Melton Swimming Club members will hit thenationalstagethisweekattheAustralian ShortCourseChampionships.
Seven swimmers from the club qualified for the championships after their performancesattherecentshortcourseage andopenstatetitles.
Three swimmers Peter Berens, Chloe Burke and Benjamin Wills come into nationals on the back of winning medals at thestatetitles.
Berens won silver in the 400 metres freestyle and bronze in the 200 butterfly metresinthe17-18boysevents.
“Claiming two state medals during the VictorianAgeStateChampionshipmademe extremelyhappyandexcitedtoachievethis successagainstthestate’sbestswimmersin myagegroup,”Berenssaid.
“Going into the events I medalled in, I knew there was a good chance that I could medal since I believed that the times I was entered in did not reflect my current capabilities, and this was shown when I achieved new personal bests including the medals.
“In the 200 fly along with the medal, I was able to get a national qualifying time that I have been aiming for throughout the season.
“Getting it really made my meet as I wanted to race against Australia’s finest swimmers at Australia’s national short coursechampionship.”
It will be Berens first open national short course meet, where he’s hoping to make the B-final.
Burke won four medals at the age short coursechampionships.
Shewonsilverinthe400metreindividual medley and 200 metre butterfly in the 16 years old age group, registering national timesinbothevents.
She finished third in the 200 metres butterfly in a national time, while finishing thirdinthe800metresfreestyle.
Burke said it was really exciting to be in finals and having the opportunity to race formedals.
“To come away with four medals I was really happy and it was nice to see all my hardworkpayoff,”shesaid.
“I was hopeful that I could medal based onhowIwentlastyearsotobeabletobuild onthatmademereallyhappy.
“I’m hoping to build on my results from statechampionshipsleadingintonationals. I hope that I can improve from the states anddobettertimesandmakefinals.”
Burke’s big aim this season is to qualify
for Commonwealth Games trials in Sydney inJune.
Wills finished second in the multi class 200metreindividualmedley.
Hewillswiminfiveeventsatnationals.
Wills said with only four swimmers in the 200 metre IM, he knew he was a good chanceofmedalling.
“Headingintonationals,I’maimingtoget into a few finals and of course aiming for
Sinclair’s big honour
By Tara Murray
Spring Hills’ Aleks Sinclair offered her ticket to the Football Victoria gala night to others, thinking there were others at the club who were more worthy of an invite.
Unbeknowntoher,somepeopleatSpring Hillswereinonalittlesecretthatwouldbe revealed at the gala on Friday night.
Sinclair had won the National Premier League Women’s biggest honour the Gold Medal.
She shared the top award with Bulleen’s Danella Butrus on 27 votes.
Speaking a couple of days later, Sinclair was still stunned at taking out the honour for the first time.
“It’s such an honour,” she said. “It’s been a long time in the making and I can’t believe it.
“I had no idea. At one point throughout the week I said to the club do you want to give my ticket to another committee member?“
“[Coach] Tom [Markovski] said you have to come. Everyone at the table knew. I was shocked to even see my name in the top four.”
For SInclair and Butrus, they are both at different times in their career.
WhileSinclairiscomingtowardstheend of hers at the age of 38, Butrus is only just starting out.
Sinclairsaidshemessagedherco-winner tosayshewashonouredtosharethemedal with her.
“As you get older both in life and in the game, there’s so many more challenges,” she said.
“To achieve something like that, you never know when time is on your side.
“She has a huge future ahead of her and opponents like her help me get better.”
Sinclair played most of career as part of the successful Calder United outfit before being selected in Western United’s inaugural A-League women’s squad.
After retiring from A-League W, Sinclair decided to join her local club, Spring Hills. She said it had been a number of years in the making.
“I watched them at lower leagues when I was at Calder United and every year Tom would give me a call about one day coming and playing for him,“ she said.
“After the A-League I reached out to him withsomegoodnews.HethoughtIwanted tocoach,Iwantedtoplayandhelptheclub get to the top.
“He was so over the moon. That was 2023 and we came third in the league and runner up in the grand final [in Victorian Premier League women].
“I said when I come back, give us two years and we’ll be in the NPLW and we trusted each other and made it happen.”
Sinclair said Spring Hills had been seen asoneofthelittleguysandlookeddownon in the past but had shown that clubs in the west could be successful.
“Little kids and girls want to come and play for the club,” she said.
“We are in the NPL and we will have one of the biggest trials in the history of the club this season which is huge.”
Sinclair said winning the Gold Medal had given her more motivation to keep playing for as long as possible.
She said she wanted to continue to give back and help Spring Hills push for finals.
“My family and friends have been my biggest supporters and seen everything on and off the pitch since I was a kid.
“I’ve been able to get through the tough times and maybe I can be an inspiration to those going through the tough times and show them that something like this is possible.”
improving my time and hopefully setting some new Victorian records for my S19 class,”hesaid.
“My goals for the rest of the season are to set some new records and try to get some more medals in states and aiming to make finalsatnationals.”
Manar and Layla Mahfouz, Aleesha BrownbillandMitchellDaviesaretheother swimmersheadingtonationals.
Scorpions stun Creswick
Bacchus Marsh Scorpions went into the Ballarat District Soccer Association under-16s grand final the underdogs but were able to come away with the premiership trophy.
The Scorpions faced Creswick in the grand final on September 20, with Creswick the hot favourites having gone through the regular season winning 15 games, drawing twice and not losing a single game.
Bacchus Marsh had come fromt fourthandwontwoknockoutfinals, scoring six goals in each of them.
The Scorpions embraced their underdog status and delivered a disciplined, powerful performance in the grand final.
Bacchus Marsh absorbed early Creswick pressure with a rock-solid back line. In the 14th minute, Darin Ssemaganda burst down the left wing and unleashed a shot from outside the box that found the net, giving the Scorpions a shock lead.
As Creswick pressed for an equalizer, goalkeeper Zane Vergles producedaflawlessdisplay,making a string of superb saves ensuring the Scorpions went into the break with a slender 1–0 advantage.
After half time the Scorpions maintained their collective focus, repelling every Creswick attack. In the 55th minute, a slick midfield interchange carved open the Creswick defense, allowing Austin Blanks to power through and score the second goal of the game and double the Scorpions lead.
Despite Creswick’s relentless search for a route back into the contest, Bacchus Marsh’s defence stood firm, closing out a historic victory and preventing Creswick fromscoringagoalinagameforthe first time all season.
Peter Berens, Chloe Burke and Ben Wills. (Supplied)
Tom Markovski and Aleks Sinclair. (Football Victoria)
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