Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 15th October 2025
Fight for paradise
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Local woman Melissa Frost is fighting against a proposed industrial precinct that she believes will irrevocably harm Skeleton Creek and the liveability of Point Cook, Seabrook and Altona Meadows.
On 2 August, 2024 Wyndham council received a planning application to subdivide land located at 5 Firth Place, Point Cook, into 19 lots that would eventually house an industrial precinct through which the creek would flow.
Wyndham council and the developer, theSchiavelloGroup,hadseveralmeetings about whether council had the ability to grant a permit due to the site boarding Hobsons Bay council residential areas and the environmental maintenance that would be required.
The developer later submitted an application to have the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) hear the case because Wyndham council took too long to make a decision on a permit.
At a planning meeting in September this year, Wyndham council supported more than 100 resident objections and unanimously voted against an officer’s recommended VCAT stance of agreeing to grant a permit to the developer.
Ms Frost lives less than 300 metres from the earmarked zone and will attend the first compulsory VCAT conference on 17 October to submit her formal opposition to the proposed development.
She said industrialising the location would ruin the area and turn it into a “depressing, disgusting concrete jungle”.
“Itisacompletelyinappropriatelocation. Therewillbepollution,noisepollution,the destruction of vegetation and the loss of wildlife that goes with it,” Ms Frost said.
“It will start there, but the entire creek and its ecosystem will be impacted by the inevitable run offs.
“The ecosystem would be damaged forever. Generations to come will rue the loss of this.
“There are so many walking groups, cyclists, Scout groups, parents and children just enjoying nature. This would destroytheirrighttoenjoysuchabeautiful environment.”
Shesaidheroppositiontoindustrialising the space was not tied to her wallet.
“This has nothing to do with the value of our homes, it is about the value of our
lives,” she said.
“The reason I bought this house was because I thought it would never be industrialised and this view would last forever.
“Even though you can hear a little traffic in the background, the predominant sounds you can hear when sitting on my deck or living room are the bird and the trees and it brings you a sense of peace.
“I always thought it would be my little slice of paradise while living in the city.”
Ms Frost said she was baffled that
Melbourne Water, which acts as the regionaldrainageandfloodplainauthority, supported the proposal.
“How Melbourne Water can put their stamp of approval on this is beyond me.”
Melbourne Water executive general manager Chris Brace confirmed that, subject to conditions, Melbourne Water hasconsentedtotheproposedsubdivision.
“The location of the development does not make sense because there is no way to directly access it from Palmers Road,” Ms Firth said.
“You would have to go through
residential streets to get to the proposed development. The address itself, 5 Firth Place, is just the end of a quiet, residential court with houses on it.
“Anyone who supports the idea of this proposal ought to just come and take a look at the location for themselves– pretty soontheywouldseethatthereisnologicto it.
“I urge anyone living nearby to speak up against this, because once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.”
Hobsons Bay council and The Schiavello Group were contacted for comment.
Melissa Frost is outraged about plans to build an industrial precinct next to Skeleton Creek. (Damjan Janevski). 509138_04
Free tunnel trips in 2026
By Cade Lucas
Motorists can look forward to a weekend of toll-free travel on the new West Gate Tunnel early next year.
After announcing free weekend public transport this summer to coincide with the opening of the Metro Tunnel, Premier Jacinta Allan challenged toll road operator Transurban to do the same when its West Gate Tunnel opens in December.
On Thursday, Transurban, which will operate the West Gate Tunnel along with its
Citylink toll road, partially agreed.
“We’ve been working with government on ways to say thank you to Melburnian drivers travelling on the West Gate Tunnel including free weekend travel on West Gate Tunnel in January so that people can try the tunnelsoutoversummer,“aspokesprsonfor the company said.
While only for one weekend and only on one of Transurban’s toll roads, the offer will still appeal to inner west motorists who’ve endured years of disruption while the the $10 billion tunnel has been built.
On Thursday morning, Ms Allan was joined by Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabriel Williams and Roads, Ports and Freight Minister Melissa Horne for a test drive along the elevated ‘skyroad’ section of the tunnel which connects the Yarraville entry and exit point to the Wurundjeri Way extension in Docklands.
“You’ve met skyrail, now meet skyroad,” MsAllansaidafterdrivingalongthesixlane, 1.5 km road which sits 13 metres above the old Footscray Road.
“The new elevated Footscray Road will
Family fun at Little Lorikeets community
As both the teacher and principal of Little Lorikeets Steigner Pre-School and Playgroup in Yarraville, Karen Church is pretty busy.
Her daily routine involves running playgroups in the morning and then teaching older children’s classes in the afternoon. But for the next couple of weeks, Ms Church will be even busier than usu-
al as she juggles running Little Lorikeets withorganisingitsannualcommunityfair.
Supported by the Seddon Community Bank, the community fair is the Steiner school’s biggest annual fundraising event and this year takes place on Saturday 25 October at Yarraville’s Pilgrim Uniting Church.
mean less time in traffic and more time at home.”
A 2.5-kilometre cycling veloway underneath the new skyroad is also nearing completion, with technicians currently installing wiring for cameras and lighting.
Ms Horne, who is also the MP for Williamstown,emphasisedtheimpacttheWest Gate Tunnel would have on reducing inner west truck traffic.
“Together with the truck bans, this will help take thousands of trucks off local roads.” Ms Horne said.
Men wanted for health study holiday
Victoria University (VU) is offering men aged 18 to 40 who regularly play sport, a free holiday.
Sort of.
As part of a new exercise study looking at health impacts in men who don’t eat enough while doing large amounts of exercise, VU is offering a 12 day ‘live in’ at its Footscray Park campus.
“It’s like going on a holiday, you come, you stay for 12 days, then you leave,” explained PhD candidate at VU’s institute of health and sport, Shannon Fizer, who is conducting the study into Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDS).
REDS occurs when active individuals don’t consume enough food to fuel the demands of their training, potentially leading to health problems such as stress fractures, poor immunity, impaired reproduction, and low mood.
While the physical impact of REDs on women is well-established, Ms Fizer said the effects of underfueling and over-training in men are less understood.
“Over 80 per cent of REDS studies have been in women. But there has been little research into the syndrome in men – and as a result, we do not fully understand how they could be endangering their health by under eating while training intensely.”
Ms Fizer is hoping to change this by providing men with free food and accommodation and putting them through two exercise sessions a day for 12 days.
Various health tests are also included in the live in which Ms Fizer said would best suit men who can work or study from home.
In addition to the food, arts and crafts and live music on offer, a silent auction will also be held.
“We have lots of children’s activities, lots of really yummy foods, live music and craft stalls,” Ms Church said of what patrons can expect at this year’s fair which will run from 10am to 3pm, with entry via gold coin donation.
Details: wrwef9@gmail.com
Hobsons Bat Wetlands Centre secures state government grant
The Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre will benefit from a funding boost from the state government as part of the latest round of Landcare grants.
The government will provide the centre with $500.
Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said each project funded through the 2025 Victorian Landcare Grant is aimed at making a difference to enhance and protect Victoria’s great outdoors.
This year $3.6 million in grants will support 509 Landcare and environmental volunteer groups across the state, helping fund on-ground works, community education
and engagement activities, group development, and small grants supporting administrative functions, including insurance, incorporation and operational costs.
Landcare grants deliver lasting benefits to the environment, the funding will help Landcare groups restore and protect vital habitats and waterways, and grow strong, connected communities that will continue to care for the land for generations to come, the government said.
Grants were available to all Victorian Landcare and environmental volunteer groups, including Landcare and Friends groups, Conservation Management Net-
works, Committees of Management, Coastcare groups and Traditional Owner or Aboriginal groups and organisations working on Country.
“Landcare and environmental volunteer groups make a significant contribution to our communities managing projects that restore and enhance our parks, coastlines, nature reserves and waterways,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
“Over many years these grants have delivered incredible value to Victoria and we’re proud to continue supporting their work to protect our environment for generations to come.”
“The study is set up so participants can work a normal workday online,” she said, adding that exercise sessions were done in the morning and evening, leaving the rest of the day for participants to focus on their jobs or studies,” she said.
“We have an apartment where they will live and office space, free WiFi and meeting rooms so they can work.”
But despite $500 worth of gift vouchers also being offered, plus free access to test results that would normally cost hundreds of dollars, Ms Fizer said more men were needed with time running out.
“The study has to wrap up by the end of the year,” she said.
Sign up at: https://shorturl.at/DbKPd
Little Lorikeets Steiner Pre-School and Playgroup in Yarraville is holding its annual fundraising fair on 25 October. (Damjan Janevski) 507398_05
Confidence high in west
By Cade Lucas
Despitesomewildfluctuations, theinnerwest housing market is mostly on the up, according to quarterly data released by theRealEstateInstituteofVictoria(REIV).
For the three months to September 30, median sale prices in both Footscray and West Footscray reached $1 million for the first time, rising by 8.7 and 4.1 per cent respectively.
Following a 7 per cent increase, SeddoHowever, the latter two both dropped for the quarter, with Kingsville down 1.3 per cent and Yarraville dropping by 3.5.
n reached $1.2 million, an equal high for Maribyrnong shared with neighbours Yarraville and Kingsville.
Despite the decline, Yarraville still recorded the highest ever price for a townhouse in the inner-west, when a property on Hawker Street was sold for $1.46 million.
To the north, Maribyrnong also recorded a median house price of $1million, but this came after an extraordinary 20 per cent drop from the previous quarter.
Hobsons Bay also experienced some wild fluctuations, with Spotswood rising by 12.7 per cent to $1.2 million and
Discover sailing on Sunday
With the weather getting warmer, the waters of Hobsons Bay are about to become a popular destination for people who want to go swimming or sailing.
But while the former is easily accessible to most people, the latter pastime can sometimes appear off-limits, with sailing or yachting traditionally considered a sport for the wealthy and privileged.
But the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria (RYCV) in Williamstown is attempting to change that by holding a Discover Sailing Day on Sunday 19 October.
With no experience required and all equipment provided, the day is billed an opportunity for people to give sailing a go, even if they’ve never been on the boat before.
“It’s the ideal chance to get out on the water, experience the thrill of sailing, and enjoy an adventure with friends and family,” RYCV’s marketing and communications manager Camilla Bett said.
Open to all ages, club members and volunteers will be on hand to guide guests through the basics and get them on the boat safety before they head out for a 30-40 minute sail around the bay.
“They can just sit back, relax and enjoy being out on the water, or if they feel comfortable, have a go helping on deck,” Ms Bett said.
Always wanted to give lacrosse a go, but never had the opportunity?
Well, this Sunday 19 October is finally your chance, with Lacrosse Victoria holding a free come and try session at PJ Lynch Reserve, in Altona North.
Runningfrom10amto2.30pm,qualified coaches will teach will you all the basics of lacrosse: catch, throw, scoop and score! Along with getting to try out an exciting new sport, the day will also feature activities for people of all ages including face painting, a photobooth area, fun outdoor games, music, food, and lots of lacrosse games.
LacrosseVictoria’scomeandtrysession is part of the Lacrosse Together Cup, an
annual social, pride event designed to celebrate diversity and inclusivity in lacrosse andmakeastandagainsthomophobia,biphobia, transphobia and intersex discrimination in the sport.
The Lacrosse Together Cup also includes a team event which individuals of all genders, abilities, and ages are invited to join, either by playing on a combined team or getting a group of friends together to enter a whole team.
To register for the come and try session, go to: https://bit.ly/lacrosse-come-andtry
Seabrookupby$11.4percentto$780,000.
Brooklyn rose by 7.1 per cent to $760,000, while Altona Meadows, Altona North, and Laverton all remained below $1 million after modest increases.
However, suburbs at the top end experienced some striking reductions, with Newport plummeting by 16.5 per cent to $1.1 million, its lowest in five years, while South Kingsville fell by 15.4 per cent from $1.2 million to $990,000.
Despite double digit drops, Seaholme and Altona remained at $1.1 million and $1.4 million respectively while a 1.2 per cent decrease couldn’t prevent William-
stown retaining the inner west’s top median house sale price at $1.6 million.
Even with some of the eye-catching drops, director and auctioneer at Woodards Real Estate in Yarraville, Leo Dardha, remained bullish.
“Right across Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong there is a high level of confidence,” Mr Dardha said, pointing to lower interest rates as a reason why.
“We’ve seen a steady increase in numbers at our auctions and they’re being snapped up faster.
“I think it will continue and it will be a strong run into December.”
Royal Yacht Club of Victoria sailing instructor Ava Schofield prepares for the club’s Discover Sailing Day on Sunday 19 October. (Damjan Janevski) 505910_01
Lacrosse Victoria’s Kristen Stone Hutchison and her daughters Sophie, 7, and Bailey, 10, get ready for the Lacrosse Together Cup and come and try day in Altona North on 19 October. (Damjan Janevski). 507708_02
Body exhumed in murder probe
Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she revisits the sad tale of Margaret Mould whose body was exhumed when police suspected she had been the victim of a poisoning during an “illegal operation”.
At the Williamstown Magistrates Court in January 1932, Claude William Mould, respected estate agent who had formerly had his office in Pier Street, Altona, was charged with having between 11 May 1931 and1September1931atAltonaconvertedto his own use over 28 pounds received as an estate agent.
HehadbeeninstructedbyGreen,Dobson & Middleton, Solicitors, to collect the rent of three Altona properties on behalf of the mortgagees,ManchesterUnityIndependent Order of Oddfellows, and pay the monies into the solicitors’ account.
Constable Cowdon stated that for over three years, Claude Mould had run his Pier Street agency, C.W.Mould & Sons - the sons being Jack and Claude, aged 19 and 16 respectively. The defendant vigorously denied the charge, having discovered, 12 months previously, a cash box deficiency of 150 pounds. This he had paid from his own pocket, and, suspecting that Jack had been helping himself, had tackled him with it. Jackdeniedit,blamedothermembersofthe family, but was given the sack in May 1931. ToClaudeMould’sgrief,Jackwasnowbusily getting into trouble in Adelaide and his father was still repaying the missing money.
As devastating as this family trouble was, it was a minor matter compared to a previous court case involving the family, one that shocked Altona in 1930 and led to a murder trial at the Melbourne Criminal Court.
On 6 August that year, a woman who called herself nurse Sylvia Cook, or Nurse Sylvia Koch - there seems to be some doubt as to which was her real name – paid a visit to Claude Mould’s wife, Margaret. Two days later, Mrs Mould, aged 38, was dead in her PierStreetresidence.Adeathcertificatewas duly issued and the much-loved lady was believed to have died of heart failure.
Her funeral on 11 August 1930 was well attended, her civic spirit honoured by wreaths from The Altona Cycling Club, the Altona branches of the Girl Guides and Boy Scouts, the Australian Natives Association, the Altona Baseball Club and the Church of England Ladies’ Guild.
The mourning community accepted the cause of death as misfortune, but the police had a shrewd idea why Mrs Mould had died, and obtained an exhumation order. The post-mortem was carried out by government pathologist, Dr Crawford Mollison on 1 September.
Mrs Mould had not died of heart failure but blood poisoning, following, in the coy languageofthetimes,“anillegaloperation”.
Senior Detective William Jones hurried to arrestNurseCookandseizecertainsurgical instruments from her premises. She was whisked to Williamstown Police Station, where she allegedly confessed to murder, though this she would later vigorously deny. The 44-year-old unregistered nurse was allowed bail of 500 pounds, with two sureties of 250 pounds each, an indication of the seriousness of the charge.
At the City Court, Sylvia Evelyn Cook, the name under which she was charged, was represented by none other than high profile solicitor,NaphthaliHenrySonnenberg,who had clocked up an impressive 29 homicide cases, themostinfamousbeingthedoomed Colin Campbell Ross, wrongly executed for the Gun Alley atrocity.
Sylvia Cook, manageress of the Waverley
Private Hospital in Queen Street, Altona, was committed for trial by the coroner. Many of her patients were new mothers, who gladly gave her their 5 pound baby bonus in return for her care. Where and how she had gained midwifery knowledge is unknown, but she was never a registered nurse, and without a properly qualified person on the premises, her hospital could not be registered.
How she and Mrs Mould came to meet is unknown, and mystery surrounds the case to this day. There is no record of any of the Mould family having fore-knowledge of Margaret Mould’s intentions.
Contraception in the early thirties was limited, abortion unlawful unless warranted by extreme circumstances, the deceased at 38 was considered middle aged, the Depression was creating great hardships for Australians, she had previouslysufferedthetragedyofastillborn son, and already had eight children.
Was it economic uncertainty which led her to take this dangerous step? We can speculate, but it seems very likely. She worked for the business, as well as being a home-maker. Was her husband anxious about the market when money was tight? Did the thought of yet another mouth to feed in such frightening times alarm her?
Without the family’s words, we will never know. Like thousands of women who could not afford the outrageous fees demanded by society doctors, Margaret was forced to risk her life.
The woman charged with murder before Chief Justice Sir William Irvine, was in danger of losing her life on the gallows. The Crown alleged that Mrs Cook had admitted to police, “ I knew what I was doing. I knew the law and took the risk… but I didn’t make money out of it.”
This the accused flatly denied, claiming that Detective McGuffy had threatened to pull her tongue out until she confessed. Her feisty response to him had been, “I’ll go to the gallows but I won’t admit to anything.”
On Friday 31 October 1930, the jury took four hours to acquit Sylvia Evelyn Cook, alias Koch, of murder. Thefollowingyear,shewasfined5pounds
for being an unregistered proprietress of Altona’s Waverley Private Hospital. In 1945, she was served with a Bankruptcy
Today, Pier Street is a leafy commercial thoroughfare.
Amateur historian Barb McNeill.
, after which this mysterious woman disappeared from headlines and died in 1962 at Pearcedale.
Call out ghost buses: MP
By Jaidyn Kennedy
WesternMetropolitanMPDavidEttershank
is calling on westies to start counting ghost buses – a phenomenon in which the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) app displays cancelled buses as still running.
The Legalise Cannabis MP said he is on a mission to find out how many bus passengers are affected by the issue so he can tally the results, table them in parliament and push for the app to be upgraded.
“Constituents tell me that ghost buses are haunting Melbourne – people trying to get to work, medical appointments, and
social engagements wait at bus stops for a bus the transport app says is approaching,” he said.
“And then a minute later, the app shows the bus has left their bus stop, but it never appeared.
“This is outrageous. Victorians deserve a public transport system that works; instead, they are subjected to the ongoing mystery of the vanishing bus.”
Mr Ettershank said he has already heard from 240 residents.
“The majority of respondents were struggling to get a bus from suburbs in Melton, but the same issues were felt by
Drama scholarship finalist
Braybrook College teacher Kat McLeod has been announced as a finalist in a theatre educator scholarship program, which honours exceptional performing arts educators across Australia and New Zealand.
The winner of the $14,000 scholarship program, created by performing arts group tour specialists Travel Gang, will travel across the USA in January next year and partake in Broadway workshops in New York City, a Disney performing arts workshop in Los Angeles, and the Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta.
Ms McLeod said it felt special to be recognised for her work.
“It’s a real honour to be shortlisted among so many amazing people doing
such incredible things for drama education across Australia and New Zealand,” she said.
“I’m here because I had incredible teachers myself. I’d like to recognise them as well while I’m being recognised.
“My dad was a drama teacher for over 50 years and I’m really happy to be continuing his legacy as well.”
Ms McLeod has been the head of drama at Braybrook College since 2020. She has also played a leading role in supporting Victoria’s drama community through her elected position on the Drama Victoria Committee of Management.
The winner of the scholarship award program will be announced mid-October.
Talent on display at Inner West Art Fair
Thirty artists will showcase their works at the Williamstown Town Hall this weekend as part of the Inner West Art Fair.
Now in its third year, the fair aims to provide a platform for emerging and established artists without taking any sales commission.
Inner West Art Fair founder and director Julia Bevis said the fair’s zero-commission policy ensures that the community’s support goes directly to the artists.
“This fair isn’t just about viewing art — it’s about valuing and connecting with artists,” she said.
The fair, which runs from 17-19 October, will feature paintings, photography, ceramics, woodwork, weaving, steel-
Visitors can also experience artists in conversation events by The Cotton Mills artists Andrea Huelin, Godwin Bradbeer and Robert Earp.
There will also be an interactive room built by the team behind Decently Exposed, workshops and children-friendly activities.
The fair’s full program of events can be viewed at: www.innerwestartfair.com. au/
peopleinAltonaMeadows,Footscray,Seddon, Yarraville, and right across the west.”
Mr. Ettershank is demanding the state government invest in more buses to new outer suburbs, and real-time tracking of buses that can be viewed from the PTV app.
“The state government has buried its money in the Suburban Rail Loop, but it should also invest in better buses,” he said
“There needs to be buses taking commuters from their local area to train stations, as no one can get a park at a station after 7am in the outer west.
“Buses don’t require new infrastructure
like train tracks and a station – it’s an easy fix for Melbourne’s West.
“Right now, I’d say Melbourne’s bus system is cursed…it’s coming up to Halloween, and I want to hear those public transport horror stories.”
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said anyone who witnesses bus drivers skipping stops should report it to Transport Victoria.
Residents can reach out via Mr Ettershank’s website or use the QR code on his bus stickers that lead directly to a form.
The Melbourne Airport Noise Sharing Plan survey is now live.
Scan the QR code to take the quick survey.
Whyisyourfeedbackimportant?
Your input will help shape how flight paths and runway use are planned, ensuring the Noise Sharing Plan reflects what matters most to the community.
Community feedback is vital to make sure the consultation process is transparent and incorporates local needs.
Meettheteam
Visit one of our community drop-in sessions. Follow the QR code to our website for details about dates, times and locations.
Braybrook College teacher Kat McLeod has been shortlisted to win a $14k performing arts scholarship to learn from professionals on Broadway. (Damjan Janevski) 509049_01
Inner West Art Fair organiser Julia Bevis. (Damjan Janevski). 509142_03
Melbourne Airport Noise Sharing Plan
A special week to recognise those who care for others
Each year, National Carers Week shines a light on the extraordinary contribution of the more than 2.65 million unpaid carers acrossAustralia.
These individuals — often family members,friends,orneighbours—provide essential care and support to people living with disability, chronic illness, mental health conditions, or frailty due to age. Theirroleisvital,notonlytothepeoplethey care for, but also to the wider community andthenation’shealthsystem.
Carers are the quiet achievers of our society. They help loved ones maintain dignity, independence, and quality of life, often providing around-the-clock support. Their duties can range from assisting with daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning to managing medications, providing transport to appointments, and offering emotional support. This care allows many Australians to remain in their homes and communities rather than in institutional settings—abenefitthatimproveswellbeing and significantly reduces pressure on hospitalsandagedcarefacilities.
Beyond their practical contributions, carers play a deeply personal role in fostering connection, compassion, and resilience. Caring can be both rewarding and challenging. Many carers experience emotional strain, financial stress, and social isolation as they juggle competing responsibilities. Yet, despite these challenges, they continue to show remarkable dedication, often putting the needs of others before their own. National Carers Week, held from 13–19 October 2025, provides an opportunity to recognise their selflessness and advocate for greater supportandunderstanding.
According to Carers Australia, unpaid
carerscontributeanestimated$77.9billion in economic value each year. Without their work, the health and social care systems would face immense strain. Yet, many carers go unrecognised and unsupported. Carers Week encourages the community to acknowledge their efforts and to push for betterresources—fromrespiteservicesand flexible workplaces to financial assistance andmentalhealthsupport.
Workplaces also have a role to play. As Australia’s population ages, the number of people balancing employment with caring responsibilities is growing. By offering
flexible hours, remote work options, and understanding policies, employers can make it easier for carers to remain in the workforce. This not only benefits the carer but also strengthens businesses through greaterstaffretentionandwellbeing. Communities,too,canmakeadifference. Smallgestures—checkinginonaneighbour, offering to run errands, or simply listening — can help carers feel seen and supported. Localcouncilsandorganisationsoftenhold eventsduringNationalCarersWeek,giving carers the chance to connect with others whounderstandtheirexperiences.
Ultimately, National Carers Week is about gratitude and awareness. It’s a reminder that caring is not just an act of kindness — it’s a cornerstone of our society. By recognising and supporting carers, Australia acknowledges the compassionandstrengththatunderpinour communities.
AswecelebrateNationalCarersWeek,we sayaheartfeltthankyoutoallcarersfortheir tireless contribution. Their compassion, patience, and dedication make Australia a morecaring,connected,andhumaneplace foreveryone.
Our new premium suites at Footscray are twice the size of our standard rooms. Generously appointed, with quality fixtures in your private bedroom, ensuite, and lounge area.
New permanent residents who move in before November 1, 2025 will save $25k on the Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) and avoid the new government exit fees on deposits. Call us today to book your private tour and ask about the $25k saving!
Maintaining good health doesn’t stop at one check-up
Every October, we’re reminded of how important it is to look after ourselves — to book that breast screen, that health check, that little reminder that prevention matters. But good health isn’t just one appointment a year. It’s about noticing all the ways our bodies change and giving them the attention they deserve — includingourhearing.
Many people in our community tell us they “hear fine most of the time” but struggle in conversations or noisy places. It’s easy to brush it off, yet research now shows that untreated hearing loss doesn’t just affect communication — it can also speed up memory and thinking changes linked to dementia. Taking action early protects more than just your ears; it supports your brain and your connection toothers.
For over 15 years, Active Audiology has been part of Melbourne’s west and north — helping locals stay socially engaged and confident. Because Active Audiology is independent, the audiologists take time to listen and guide you through every option, not just what’s on an online list. Whether it’s a baseline check or a chat about better hearingstrategies,you’llalwaysgethonest advice from people who care about this communityasmuchasyoudo.
So this month, while we’re all thinking about self-care and early detection, add your hearing to the list. A simple hearing assessment can make a big difference — for your wellbeing today and for the years ahead.
Book your comprehensive hearing check with Active Audiology — local, independent, and trusted by families for more than 15 years. Call 1300 364 007. Www.activeaudiology.com.au
Tree change
By Cr Michael Disbury
As the summer months approach and we near the end of 2025, there has been plenty happening around Hobsons Bay.
It has been sad to see works continue at theChampionRoadlevelcrossingremoval, with tree removals having recently taken place.
These trees had been part of Newport streetscape for years, some for decades. It was disheartening to see them felled as part of this project our community continues to voice opposition to.
Thestategovernmenthaspromiseditwill plant 145 large trees and more than 35,000 plants, shrubs and grasses throughout the area, so I am hopeful we will see some regeneration in the area.
Tree canopy cover is already a serious issueinthewesternsuburbs,andremoving well-established trees obviously does not help the cause.
Council has been working for many years on its urban forest strategy, with the aim of increasing canopy cover from just 6 per cent in 2018 to 30 per cent by 2040.
Having more trees helps to absorb heat, making our neighbourhoods cooler, cleaner and healthier, and provides much-needed shade, meaning people can spend more time being active in the summer months.
Finally, a special mention for Council’s Make it Happen grants program.
Over the weekend, groups from across Hobsons Bay came together to share in the successes the grants program has given them.
in grant funding to support the work of 75 groups and organisations this year.
That money goes to great use, with an estimated 1240 community volunteers donating more than 20,000 hours of their timetodeliverthosegrant-fundedprojects.
And the projects will be enjoyed by more than 41,000 people, including residents and visitors. It is a truly wide-reaching program.
You don’t have to wait too long to get involved in the program, with the next round of grants opening in early February
Briefs
Tree feedback
Public feedback on Maribyrnong council’s draft Tree Management Policy and Guidelines closes in less than a week. Community members wanting to have a say on the draft policy and guidelines which set rules for how trees on council land are planted, removed, maintained and protected, have until midnight on Sunday 19 October to submit their comments. The two documents are designed to ensure consistent and transparent decision making on tree management in Maribyrnong and help council achieve its ultimate goal of 20 per cent tree canopy cover by 2040. To provide feedback on the draft policy and guidelines, go to: https://www. yourcityyourvoice.com.au/trees
Vape recycling
Vape recycling has been temporarily paused in Hobsons Bay. The decision to pause was made on Wednesday 8 October after some vape disposal bins were recently tampered with, creating a safety risk for the community and council staff. As a result, vape collection at the Newport Community Hub and Altona Library has been temporarily suspended while secure locks are installed on the disposal bins. Those wanting to dispose of vapes are advised to hold onto them until the bins are back in use.
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Cr Michael Disbury. (Supplied)
Story time fun at Braybrook
Each Wednesday. Braybrook Library hosts a bilingual story time aimed at inspiring a love of reading and supporting early bilingual skills in a warm and welcoming environment.
The story times are held in a range of
community languages including Arabic, Vietnamese and Chinese, from 11am. The sessions are suitable for children aged 0-5. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic stopped by a recent session to capturethesepictures,
Lennox, 2. 508619_03
FEATURING ... HEATLHY LIVING
Foot and leg pain relief
Every step should feel easy. But for thousands of people in our community, it doesn’t. Foot and leg pain has a way of creepingin—slowingyoudown,changing how you move, and stealing the joy from evensimpledailyactivities.
Too often, people try to tough it out. They assume the pain is just part of aging, a side effect of long hours on their feet, or something they’ll “walk off.” But here’s the truth: ongoing pain isn’t normal, and it doesn’thavetobepermanent.
At Foot & Leg Pain Clinics, the focus is on getting to the root of the problem — not just masking the symptoms. Expert musculoskeletal podiatrist Dr Paul Dowie, usesadvanceddiagnostics,treatmentsand personalised plans to address everything from plantar fasciitis and heel spurs to
neuropathy, tissue injuries, arthritis and jointpain.Whetheryourdiscomfortismild orsevere,chronicorsudden,DrDowiehas the tools and expertise to help you move freelyagain.
Patients often describe their results as life-changing. Many feel relief after just a few visits. More importantly, they regain confidence with every step they take — without constant aches or pain holding themback.
So don’t let pain set the pace of your life. Take that first step toward lasting relief. Contact Foot & Leg Pain Clinics in Williamstown today to schedule a consultation and get back to living the active, comfortable life you deserve. Becausewhenyourfeetandlegsfeelbetter, everythingdoes.Call1300328300
Amelia, 3, and Sabrina 3. 508619_08
Sage, 4, gets creative. 508619_02
Zoe, 2, takes part in the craft activities. 508619_06
Lydia, 4, shows off her creation. 508619_07
Cancer survivor’s message
Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. As part of Breast Cancer Awareness month this October, Star Weekly reporter Sam Porter spoke to Keilor Park resident, mother, breast cancer and uterine cancer survivor Irene Karagiolis about her cancer journey.
In May 2017, Irene Karagiolis was diagnosed with breast cancer after having a mammogram at age 40.
Afternotfindinganytraceofthedisease, doctors recommended she return for another check 18 months later, however, Irenedecidedtotestagainafter12months.
“The breast cancer had developed and it had spread in that 12 month period out of nowhere,” she said.
“It was a shock. I was only 41 years old… if I waited 18 months, my prognosis would have been a lot worse.”
In Australia, women qualify for a free mammogram every two years if they are aged between 50 and 74.
However, as Irene had a family history of breast cancer she was advised to get mammograms from 40 years old.
You’d probably call me the luckiest unlucky person to cop cancer twice before the age of 50 ... both times, they were able to catch it early - Irene Karagiolis
“There’s more and more women these days that are getting diagnosed a lot earlier… I was fortunate that I had that deadline for a repeat mammogram.”
Irene’s breast cancer was aggressive and had spread to her lymph nodes.
She underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy followed by six weeks of radiotherapy.
During her treatment at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Irene was offered a treatment called scalp cooling.
According to breastcancer.org, scalp cooling systems and cold caps, which are tightly-fitted, helmet-like caps filled with cold gel or liquid, are fitted to patients undergoing chemotherapy to help people keep some or most of their hair.
The devices work by restricting blood vesselsbeneaththeskinofthescalp,which reduces the amount of chemotherapy medicine that reaches the hair follicles.
“I felt good about myself physically as I wasabletokeepthemajorityofmyhairdue toscalpcooling.Ithinkthatissoimportant when you go through this journey as a woman…itgivesyouthatconfidencetofeel a lot better,” Irene said.
After chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment, Irene was able to return to work and to her regular life.
She was given medication, tamoxifen, which is highly effective at preventing breast cancer recurrence.
“One of the very unlikely side effects of tamoxifen is uterine cancer. Obviously, they tell you that at the start. They say ‘yes there’s a side effect of uterine cancer however the ability of this drug to help prevent recurrence of breast cancer is far greater than the risk of you getting uterine cancer,” Irene said.
Doctors told Irene to inform them immediately if she noticed any side effects from the medication, including any unusual bleeding.
Irene experienced side effects and alerted doctors who rushed her to undergo an ultrasound.
unlucky person to cop cancer twice before the age of 50, but at the same time, both times, they were able to catch it early. The treatment I had was preventative in both cases, it wasn’t curative.”
Irene said that listening to doctors and following their instructions helped to detect the uterine cancer quickly.
She then underwent aggressive treatment to combat the disease.
“This time around I wasn’t as lucky with the scalp cooling. It didn’t work as effectively so I’ve lost a lot of hair on the crown of my head,” Irene said.
“Mentally I was okay going through the treatment up until the point where I lost all that hair, because I looked different. I didn’t feel confident about who I saw in the mirror and obviously that affected me a lot.”
Irene recently finished treatment for uterine cancer.
“As far as I know there’s not one trace of disease in my body at the moment,” she said.
She has not had a breast cancer recurrence for eight years now and has mammograms annually.
She also gets checkups every three months for signs of uterine cancer.
“I’m trying to stay positive. I’ve done everything the hospital has told me to do… just to give myself the best chance of this thing never ever coming back again.”
Irene’s family celebrated her 50th birthday with her this month.
“I’msogratefultobealive.I’msograteful to be here,” she said.
“A lot of people say ‘I can’t believe how strong you are’ and I don’t believe it, but then when I think back… I’m absolutely strong. I really can’t believe how I went through it all.
“If there’s one message for women, it’s just to be so vigilant about changes in your body. If there’s something that’s not right just go and get it checked. You’re better off wasting everybody’s time and getting all these scans for nothing than not doing anything and letting this thing fester.”
Irene Karagiolis. (Sam Porter)
Journey to penguin paradise
The weather is getting warmer by the day and thoughts are turning to getting away fromitalltosomewherecooler,somewhere different and new.
There isn’t anywhere that suits that description better than Antarctica – the land at the bottom of the world, the land of ice and penguins.
And let’s face it whether it is playing a starring role in a nature documentary or a blockbusteranimation,fewareimpervious to the charms of a waddling penguin.
The opportunity to encounter this loveable flightless bird in their natural habitat is one that draws many to Antarctica and sightings of colonies never fail to awe and entertain.
From Adelie penguins, who are 70 cm tall, to Gentoo penguins, who are the world’s fastest diving birds, there are so many fascinating penguin species to possibly encounter on a Viking Antarctica expedition voyage.
Viking offer a chance to “discover the “Last Continent”.
This ultimate adventure takes travellers to the Antarctic Peninsula, where they can witness towering glaciers, snow-covered landscapes, immense icebergs and epic wildlife.
It’s a chance to explore it in luxury – to follow in the footsteps of explorers such as Amundsen, Shackleton and Scott, to be one of the few to discover the world’s last truly wild frontier.
To go on a cruise where each day brings new surprises and the opportunity to change plans to maximize wildlife sightings and adapt to ever-changing weather.
TheAntarcticExplorerisAU$19,495from Australia and take travellers on a 13 day cruise taking in Argentina and Antarctica and travelling to the bottom of the earth.
The adventure begins (and ends) in Buenos Aires, Argentina with visitors checking in to a hotel in Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital – a place which is an eclecticcombinationofLatinandEuropean influences – for the night. The tree-lined streets and postcolonial architecture draw on the city’s Spanish, French and Italian heritage, while the many cafes and bodegasandvibrantnightlifearedecidedly Argentine. Its barrios, or neighborhoods, exude an intimate atmosphere that belies the city’s size.
After breakfast the next morning it’s time to check out of the hotel and board a charter flight to catch up with your home for the next 13 days. Travellers join the
cruise in Ushuaia - the southernmost city in the world. Its splendid setting, tucked between the Beagle Channel and the southernmost slopes of the Andes, lends it anoutpostatmosphere,asdotheAntarctic explorers readying for the expeditions that depart from here.
Ushuaia is the capital of and gateway to the celebrated Tierra del Fuego, the “Land of Fire,” named by Spaniards upon seeing the constant flames burned by the indigenous Yámana to keep warm.
This largely unspoiled region comprises the large island of Tierra del Fuego and countless Chilean and Argentine islands.
FirststopistheDrakePassage-namedfor
16th-century English privateer Sir Francis Drake, the frigid waters of the Passage stretch for some 600 miles between Cape Horn and Livingston Island in the South Shetland archipelago.
There is a chance to attend an informative lecture or watch a film on Viking’s 8k laser-projected panoramic screen in The Aula, one of the world’s most advanced venues for learning at sea before the first-hand adventure begins – the chance to explore Antarctica for the next seven days.
Atonceetherealandmajestic,Antarctica has inspired explorers and adventurers for centuries. In this icy wilderness, marvel
at icebergs glimmering in serene bays and mountains cloaked in white rising from the mainland basalt cliffs. These stunning landscapes evoke both utter tranquility as Weddell seals lounge on ice floes, and breathtaking drama as glaciers thunderously calve into the sea. In these cold and nutrient-rich waters, humpback, fin and minke whales have been known to greet expedition ships that venture into their habitat.
With memories made it’s time to return back through Drake Passage, Cape Horn and back to Argentina and everyday life.
For further information please visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
Happy feet and plenty of ice.
Journey to the bottom of the world.
Journey to the bottom of the world.
The penguins of Antarctica.
Visiting penguins on their home turf. (Viking)
Cultural Elegance: Murray Princess River Cruise, Aida Opera & Adelaide Retreat
8 Nights
5 February 2026
Your Holiday Includes
Full-Board River Cruise
4 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing
Burke Salter Boutique Winery tasting
“Murray River Cup”
Event Experience
Ticket to Franco Zeffirelli’s legendary production of Aida at the Adelaide Oval Fully Escorted
Barossa Valley Tours
Walking tour of Swan River
Swan Reach Museum (gold coin donation on entry)
Sunnydale Woolshed Show
Sunnydale Native Wildlife Shelter
Aussie Barbecue – cooked and served in a bush setting on the banks of the Murray River
Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park tour
Scenic tender boat ride
Hotel Stay
4 night four-star stay in Adelaide at the Stamford Plaza Adelaide with breakfast
Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including: Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
EUROPEAN SOJOURN
Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa
23 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES
APR-OCT 2026; MAY-OCT 2027
From $15,895pp in Standard Stateroom
From $20,895pp in Veranda Stateroom
GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR
Amsterdam to Budapest or vice versa
15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES 12
2026; APR-NOV 2027
From $10,395pp in Standard Stateroom
From $13,895pp in Veranda Stateroom
VIKING VIRTUAL EVENT
Grand European Voyage
Join Viking’s free live virtual information event to explore the Rhine & Danube, discover port highlights, excursions and expert travel tips.
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
West’s action-packed month
From festivals, to live jazz, to Diwali –Melbourne’swestisburstingwitheventsbig and small this month.
Love Westside – a campaign and website developed by Western Melbourne Tourism aimed at providing an easy to navigate website capturing the distinctive atmosphere of Melbourne’s western suburbs – is aiming to shineaspotlightonsomeofthelocalevents on offer this October.
One of these is the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, with free live music, rooftop jazz screenings, and family-friend-
ly activities across venues in Spotswood, Footscray, and Moonee Valley from 17–26 October.
Another is the Be Bold Festival on Saturday 18 October, where attendees can celebrate the bold and multicultural local community with live music and dance, youth performances, family-friendly workshops, interactive art, a silent disco, roving entertainment, and food trucks.
The free event will be hosted at the Bowery Theatre and St Albans Community Centre.
In Melton, the annual Djerriwarrh Festival will make its return on Saturday 8 November for a celebration full of community and colour.
Legendary Australian band You Am I will headline the festival that will include a vibrant street parade, other live music performances, children’s activities, interactive art, a pet expo, and markets.
Diwali – the Festival of Lights – will be celebrated at Werribee Open Range Zoo from 18–19 October, with highlights over thetwodaysincludingIndianandNepalese
Spotswood school hosts Friday night fete
For the first time in two years, Spotswood Primary School will hold its much-loved SchoolTwilightFeteonFriday24October.
Spotswood Primary’s last fete in 2023 raised more than $33,000 for the school, with the proceeds going towards the installation of a new playground.
Principal Jackie Green said money raised at the 2025 fete would also go toward upgrading the school grounds.
“All funds raised this year will go towards upgrading our school oval and sporting facilities, which will include new
grass,anirrigationsystem,alongjumppit and a refurbished cricket pitch,” Ms Green said, adding that the fete was the school’s largest fundraising event and an important event for entire school community.
As well as urging parents and friends andmembersofthepublictocomealong, Ms Green said donations were needed for the silent auction which will be held during the fete.
“Donations can be dropped off at our office,orwecanarrangepickupfromyou,” she said, adding that vouchers could also
be emailed to the school and that donors will be promoted through school newsletters, social media and at the fete itself.
“We will also continually encourage our school community to use your business and welcome other suggestions on how we can reciprocate your generosity,” Ms Green said to prospective donors.
The fete will be held at the school grounds on Melbourne Road, from 3.308.00pm.
Details: spotswood.ps@education.vic. gov.au
music, dance, Bollywood fusion, food, lanterns, and hands-on Henna.
Diwali will also be marked in Wyndham with the Diwali Grand Festival at Lawrie Emmins Reserve in Laverton North from 2.30–10.30pm on 25 October.
Love Westside is also calling on the community to vote for your favourite pie, favourite bánh mì, and favourite potato cake across the west in the ‘Vic’s Picks’ competition, with voting closing on Sunday, 19 October.
Details: lovewestside.com.au
Mosque gets grant for midday men
The Australian Islamic Centre (AIC) in Newport has been given $10,000 to help reduce loneliness and isolation among elderly men in its community.
The grant from Australia Post will go towards the AIC’s Midday Men’s Gathering, an eight-session Arabic-language wellbeing program for elderlymenwhoattendthemosque daily.
Over two weeks, more than 20 Arabic speaking men will gather after Dhuhr prayer for tea, conversation, and guided storytelling aimed at fostering emotional wellbeing.
“Many elderly men in our community experience loneliness, grief, and loss of purpose but do not access formal mental health support due to stigma, language, or cultural barriers,” AIC general manager Taher Elrafihi said.
“This program provides a safe, familiar space for meaningful conversation, reflection, and emotional support, delivered in their language and within a setting they trust.
“It addresses an unmet need for connection and wellbeing support among a vulnerable, often overlooked group in our community.”
The other Hobsons Bay grant recipientswereBrooklyn’sBeyondLabelsAu,whichwasawarded$10,000 to provide mental health first aid training to disability support workers, and the Laverton Community Centre, which got $4000 for fortnightly peer-led wellbeing circles for vulnerable residents.
Spotswood Primary School principal Jackie Green (centre) with students (L-R) Oscar, Lucy, Georgia and Florence who are excited for the upcoming school fete on Friday 24 October. (Damjan Janevski) 504385_03
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every
from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Wild dog (5)
4 Not at all sleepy (4-5)
9 Bituminous road layer (7)
10 Appointment to a job (7)
11 Doppelganger (4-5)
12 Offshoot (5)
13 Harden (3)
14 Having the power to make laws (11)
16 Reminding one of something (11)
19 Fuel (3)
20 Tests (5)
22 Relating to the lungs (9)
25 Set apart (7)
26 Breastbone (7)
27 Inelegant (9)
28 Saloon car (5)
1 Speak with elongated vowel sounds (5)
2 'Not to worry' (2,7)
3 Former US president (5)
4 Soaking (7)
5 Lower (7)
6 Helper (9)
7 Fact of being elsewhere (5)
8 Designer of goods and structures (9)
13 Tending to plants (9)
14 Visible features of an area (9)
15 Firmly fixed (9)
17 Highest (7)
18 Enrols in the armed forces (7)
21 Fragrance (5)
23 Auspices (5)
24 Arab state (5)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words
four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words.
1 The tree genus Salix is more commonly known by what name?
2 Which TV series centres around the angel-devil duo Aziraphale and Crowley?
3 As of 2023, who is the highestgrossing female actor of all time?
4 Which fruit is the main ingredient in a Som Tam Thai salad?
5 From which country did the Christmas tree tradition originate?
6 True or false: pogonophobia refers to a fear of needles?
7 Which character is also the narrator in Donna Tartt’s novel TheSecretHistory?
8 Glenn Close (pictured) appeared in a live-action Disney adaptation as which villain?
9 In which sport would you use a foil?
10 The ancient Egyptian goddess Bastet is commonly depicted with the head of what animal?
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Sing with WIllin Wimmin choir
Discover the joy of group singing with the friendly women at WiIlin Wimmin choir in Williamstown. New members are always welcome, no audition. The choir sings contemporary, folk, choral and world repertoire in acapella style. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings during school terms, 7.30 - 9.30pm at the Dennis Reserve Centre, 109 Ferguson Street, Williamstown. willinwimmin.org.au, willin.wimmin@ gmail.com
Jumble sale
The annual community jumble sale is on Saturday 15 November from 9-4 pm in the church hall, Montague Street, Yarraville. There’s 36 individual stalls and a barbecue. The aim is to raise $2000 for United Housing Co-operative which is based in Yarraville. Books, plants, clothing, vinyl, artwork, Pokemon cards, sports collector cards and much more! Reserve a table for $25 and run your own stall. Graeme, ghodgart13@gmail.com
Altona VIEW Club
VIEW stands for Voice Interest and Education for Women. Altona VIEW Club has just celebrated its 26th Birthday, and is not-for-profit. The club welcomes ladies from the Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and other areas to join on the third Wednesday of each month, at 11am, at the Altona RSL. Come along for lunch and enjoy the speakers each month. Other outings are arranged. Great opportunity to make new friends. altonaview@gmail.com, Julie 0421315846
Westgate diabetes support group
Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Altona bowling club at 10am. Elaine, 0415 030 996
Mainly music
A music-playgroup program for kids and their carers from birth to school age. Held every Thursday from 9.30-10.30am during school terms at Westgate Baptist Community, 16 High Street, Yarraville. The cost is $7 per family, per week. Jenny, 0401 651 012, Ruth, 0409 635 468 or westgatebaptist.org.au/ mainlymusic/
AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club
The AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club welcomes all who want to improve their communication, leadership and public speaking skills. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of every month from 7-9pm at Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton. Helen, 0474 498 052, or aerospeakerstm@gmail.com
Social square dancing
Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday nights from 7.30pm-10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning. Janine, 0421 371 883, or contact@ essendonsquares.com
Free English conversation classes
If English is your second language and you want to improve your English language skills, practice speaking with friendly volunteer tutors in informal and interactive group sessions held every Monday at 1-3pm in the meeting room at Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona. Light refreshments provided.
Jill MacKenzie, 0439 994 705 or jill.
mackenzie111@gmail.com
Chit Chat Tuesdays
A ladies chit chat group which is on every Tuesday from 1.30-3pm at Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre in Altona. As an extension of this sometimes we host guest speaker events for women in the community.
Dione, 9398 2511 or LJAC.com.au
Williamstown Seniors
The group meets every Tuesday at 1-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon.
Marlene, 0402 769 204
Altona North Combined Probus
The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.
Lesley, 0414 481 442
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more. 0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@ outlook.com
AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club The AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club
welcomes all who want to improve their communication, leadership and public speaking skills. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of every month from 7-9pm at Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton. Helen, 0474 498 052, or aerospeakerstm@gmail.com
Footscray CWA
Meet on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9pm at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street. waofvicfootscray@gmail.com or https:// www.facebook.com/CWAofVicFootscray/
Social square dancing for beginners. Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday nights from 7.30pm-10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning.
Janine, 0421 371 883 or contact@ essendonsquares.com
Free English conversation classes
If English is your second language and you want to improve your English language skills, practice speaking with friendly volunteer tutors in informal and interactive group sessi ons held every Monday at 1-3pm in the meeting room at Altona Library, 123 Queen St Altona. Light refreshments provided. Come along and make new friends!
Jill MacKenzie, 0439 994 705 or jill. mackenzie111@gmail.com
Braybrook and Maidstone walking group
The Braybrook and Maidstone Neighbourhood House are holding a walking group from 9-10am every second Wednesday. The walking group is open to everyone and starts from the neighbourhood house at 113 Melon Street, Braybrook. 9317 5610 or jodie@bmnh.org.au
Computer classes
Scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email, whatever. We all need to keep up with the internet, IT, computers, and changing technology. Classes every day of the week , mornings and afternoons, in Williamstown and Altona North. Lynne, 9397 6168
Chit Chat Tuesdays
A ladies chit chat group which is on every Tuesday from 1.30-3pm at Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre in Altona. As an extension of this sometimes we host guest speaker events for women in the community. Dione, 9398 2511 or LJAC.com.au
Angling club
The Essendon Angling Club is looking for new members. If you are interested in fishing, come along and join fellow minded anglers and help our club grow strong. The club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 7pm at the club rooms 44 The Boulevard Moonee Ponds. On the third Wednesday of the month there is also a social get together where people talk about fishing and make some great friendships president@essendonanglersclub.org.au or 0432 744
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Ben from Pony Club Victoria, competing at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 508255_01
Step into the supernatural
Ever wanted to communicate with the dead?Achancetodosoiscomingtovenues across Melton and Moorabool, with a local company recently launching a series of paranormalexpeditions.
Hosted by Bacchus Marsh organisation Mysteries Lost in History, the Paranormal Explorations event series invites sceptics, the believers, and the curious alike to use a range of paranormal equipment to attempt tocommunicatewiththedead.
Upcoming events in the series include nights at the Border Inn in Bacchus Marsh on 28 October, the Willows Homestead in
Melton on 31 October, and the Border Inn againon18November.
According to the organisation, each venue is chosen after an initial paranormal investigation to determine if there is any supernaturalactivity.
Tools used include a voice recorder, spirit boxes,andaOuijaboard.
Mysteries Lost in History owner Amanda Powell said that the event is intended at being factual rather than theatrical, and therefore witnessing paranormal activity is notguaranteed.
The explorations begin with a history
of the venue, examples of how to use the equipment, followed by an opportunity for participants to use the equipment themselves. There is an optional cleansing ritual offered to participants at the end of eachsession.
“It’s about people having their own experiences and not us giving them an experience,”MsPowellsaid.
Ticket prices vary depending on the session, and further details on the times and how to purchase tickets are available onthecompany’swebsite.
Details:mysterieslostinhistory.com
A bold festival celebrating diversity
The vibrant ‘Be Bold Festival’ is returning to Brimbank this month in a spectacle not to be missed.
Hosted by Brimbank council, the free of charge, all ages event celebrates diversity through a fusion of everything from culinary dishes to music workshops and dance performances by community groups from as far afield as Bosnia and Aotearoa (New Zealand) to Vietnam and Spain, according to Brimbank council. This year’s highlights include live performances by Polynesian and Bosnian dance groups, food trucks, a silent disco,
entertainment for the kids, a youth showcase,artexhibitions,andartandcraft and cooking workshops.
Therewillalsobeface-painting,painting activities, a food tour and more.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang described the family-friendly festival as one that brings the world to Brimbank.
“Brimbank is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Melbourne which is why this festival is so fantastic,” Cr Dang said.
“This festival is a dazzling expression of all that is good and exceptional about the fabric of our community.
“At the heart of it is our ability to welcome people of all cultures and backgrounds from all corners of the globe and celebrate our uniqueness. I encourage everyonetocomealong,bringthekidsand enjoy the food, the fun and activities on offer.”
The ‘Be Bold Festival’ will take place on Saturday 18 October at the Bowery Theatre and St Albans Community Centre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans, Wurundjeri and surrounding areas from 3-7pm.
Beyond the Ballerina is probably the most appropriate title for the exhibition currently running at the Wyndham Culture Centre.
The eight-artist team of Joel Bray, Zoë Croggon, Anne Ferran, John McCormick, AdamNash,SallySmart,LeylaStevensand Anne Scott Wilson have brought together a patchwork of movement.
Executed across several rooms and through a multisensory experience, the integrated work serves to challenge our understanding of what dance is, where it can be experienced, and how we engage with it.
Photography, video, virtual reality, augmented reality and 3D video span across the open rooms to convey the organic and unrestrained nature of movement.
Included in the exhibition is an 3D audio
visual demonstration of a vessel in the Antarctic with choreography replicating the actions workers would use on deck, facing the elements and with only each other to rely on.
Get down to Urinetown
The Altona City Theatre wants to take audiences down, down, down to Urinetown.
Described as a hilarious show withapissweaktitle,Urinetownthe musical (not the place) is currently being performed at the Altona Theatre until Saturday 18 October. Directed by Dean Mitchelmore, and starring Joan Christie, Laura Williams, Maria Roitman and Adrian Jones, Urinetown is set in a citywhereagreatdroughthasraged for 20 years (the “Stink Years”).
ThegreatcorporationUrineGood Company (UGC) has promised to combat this existential threat in exchange for the trust and cooperation of the people.
All they must do is comply and relieve themselves at a public amenity (ie toilet) – and pay for that privilege.
The poor people who do not or cannot cooperate are taken to Urinetown, a strange place, a mythicalplace.Aplacenobodyever returns from…
One of those who’ve disappeared to Urinetown is the father of Young BobbyStrong,aworkeratoneofthe more dreary public amenities who begins to question the status quo. He meets Hope, the daughter of the evil Caldwell B Cladwell, and instantly (spoiler alert) falls in love. A short time later, he finds himself leading a revolution! And anothershorttimelater,wefindout where the mysterious Urinetown actually is.
Inner west audiences can find out where Urinetown is by booking tickets at: altonacitytheatre.com.au
Balletitselfhassymbolicrelevanceinthe overall scheme of the collaboration, itself starting an extremely formal, disciplined profession but evolving and adapting to regions, as well as becoming a source of pleasure and wellness.
The decentralised approach of using eight artists across several artistic and technological mediums represents the evolution of movement and its core universality.
Beyond the Ballerina looks at dance through the visual arts, taking the artform out of the theatre and off the stage, placing it in the gallery, seen through the eyes of visual artists.
It is a free event and will run 9am-5pm each day between 9 October and 21 December.
Mysteries Lost in History assistant Kriss Powell and owner Amanda Powell at the front of Border Inn, Bacchus Marsh. (Damjan Janevski) 508800_04
Performers are gearing up for the Be Bold Festival this month. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 503869_01
Star Weekly journalist Jaidyn Kennedy received a preview tour of Beyond the Ballerina on Tuesday 7 October. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 508598_17
Joanna Christie (Becky Two-Shoes), Maria Roitman (Hope) and Adrian Jones (Hot Blades Harry) star in Urinetown, which is being performed at the Altona Theatre until Saturday, October 18.
(Supplied)
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which NRL team has won 21 premierships, the most of any in the league?
2. Do characters in the animated franchise Cars compete in the Motor, Piston or Octane Cup?
3. Which iconic former NBA player is known as ‘His Airness’?
4. Who did Billie Jean King defeat in the 1973 tennis match known as the Battle of the Sexes?
5. What is the name of the Netflix documentary series that follows NBA players throughout a single season?
6. On which day do AFL players traditionally hold their end-of-season ‘Mad’ celebrations?
Which ultra runner broke a two-year-old record by running 90 marathons in 35 days across Australia, despite doubts about his speed and heart rate?
Often used in sports like field hockey and American football, what is AstroTurf?
Nina Kennedy is a national world record holder and gold medallist in which sport?
In running, what does ‘cadence’ refer to?
11. Which team won the prestigious 2025 Ryder Cup golf tournament?
12. Which two car manufacturers compete in the Supercars Championship?
13. Who won the 2025 Asia Cup cricket tournament?
14. After winning again in 2025, Essendon captain Zach Merrett has now won the Crichton Medal how many times?
15. What nationality was Bruce McLaren, founder of the ultra-successful Formula One team?
16. In which decade did the first female jockey compete in the Melbourne Cup horse race?
17. The 2027 World Athletics Championships will be held in which Asian city?
18. The late Harold ‘Dickie’ Bird was a well-known umpire from 1973 to 1996 in which sport?
19. Which NRL player won the Dally M Medal for being judged the season’s best player?
20. Which New Zealand batsman scored a century against Australia in the first T20 international match of their recent series?
21. How many NRL premierships have the Brisbane Broncos won?
22. Who won the Clive Churchill Medal at the 2025 NRL Grand Final?
23. Which NBA team recently played two pre-season games in Melbourne?
24. How much is a goal worth in Gaelic Football?
25. What is Australia’s national Men’s Rugby League team called?
26. Henson Park is a venue shared by which two AFL Women’s clubs?
27. Which team won the 2025 NRL Women’s Grand Final?
28. Which team has won the most Men’s Big Bash League titles?
29. And how many Women’s Big Bash League teams have won more than one title?
30. Ash Riddell recently set a record for disposals in an AFL Women’s match with how many touches?
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Super hybrid Chery on top
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
TheChinesecontinuetocarveoffasizeable
slice of the automobile cake worldwide, and with Chery on top, it’s hard to see this changing anytime soon. Last month the company claimed 3305-unit sales, putting it in the top 10 Down Under.
Now the fastest growing brand in Australia, Chery has done this on the back of the success of the Tiggo 4 and 7 SUVs, recently joined by the Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid, capable of travelling up to 1200km on one tank of fuel and a single charge.
Ispenttimewiththelastmentionedand, at first, found it hard to be serious about a car with a name like a schoolyard game of ‘catch’. Still, in the case of the Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid, I gave it a go. Based on the three-model Urban, Elite and Ultimate Pro Max Tiggo 8, the seven-seat SUV has been pared back to Urban and Ultimate models.
Priced from $45,990 driveaway, Chery has come up with a plug-in hybrid system, the Chery Super Hybrid, for the newbies, which it says, combines the benefits of an EV and internal combustion engine.
The flagship Ultimate sets itself against the plug-in hybrids from Mitsubishi, MazdaandKiainkitandqualitybutleaves them in the weeds on price and family appeal with seating for seven.
The Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is covered by Chery’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, a similar period of capped price servicing and up to seven years roadside assistance.
Styling
First impression is the lack of ostentation: the Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is a ‘regular guy’ seven-seater sports utility vehicle, albeit at almost five metres long, a large one. The almost utilitarian looks are all topped off with standard roof rails, shark fin antenna and rear spoiler.
The maker does make its mark with Chery’sbranddiamondpointgrille,unique 19-inch alloy wheels, power retractable door handles and stand-out LED headlamps and taillights, plus dynamic turn signals. To cap it off, headlamps have ‘follow me home’ function.
Interior
Enter the Ultimate cabin and settle into seven synthetic (who can tell?) leather seats.
Thedrivergetssix-waypoweradjustment, the front seat passenger six-way powered seat, including thigh support extension and massage function. Both seats are heated and ventilated. Interior lighting includes front and rear, plus cargo area, accessed via a power tailgate.
Second row seats have 60:40 split fold, the third row 50:50. Leg room is good in the former, with the third row, best left for kiddies,crampingcargospace.Occupants, however, are open to a light-and-airy environment through a tilt-and-slide panoramic sunroof with power shade.
Storage starts with a front centre console box topped off by a comfortable armrest. Fourcupholdersservefrontandback,map pockets can be found in front seat backs and coat hooks take outer spots. Dual zone climate control air-con is automatic.
Infotainment
Both variants feature a commanding centrally located 15.6-inch LCD infotainment touchscreen, the driver an added 10.25-inch instrument cluster and satellite navigation, wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Say ‘Hello Chery’ and an Intelligent
Voice Command takes on requests about system controls, or rely on the touchscreen or steering wheel switches to do likewise.
A word here. Almost everything is operated through the touchscreen and steering wheel, not to the best effect. The touchscreen lacks an intuitive bent, steering wheel buttons all-but disappear in bright light and the voice activation ‘stutters’.
Ultimate drivers can take advantage of a windscreen head-up display, which worksatreat,headrestspeakers,partofthe 10-speaker Sony audio with digital radio and AM/FM tuner.
Engines/transmissions
The revolutionary Chery hybrid system balances power and sustainability, reducing carbon footprint without compromising on performance. A fifth-generation 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which produces maximum 105kW of power and 215Nm of torque, is mated with a single electric motor delivering 150kW and 310Nm.
Power is sent to the front wheels via a single-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission.
This Stepless Electric Hybrid System offers four driving modes – pure electric, series, parallel, and energy recovery.
Safety
Both Tiggo 8 Urban and Ultimate feature an Advanced Driver Assistance System, which includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking and lane keeping assist, as well as the ubiquitous anti-skid braking, electronic stability control,electronicbrakeforcedistribution, brake assist and hill descent control.
As well as nine airbags – driver and front passenger, double curtain side, two front side, front centre and a pair of second-row airbags – manoeuvring at low speed is aided by 360-degree around view and reversing cameras, plus four front and four rear parking sensors.
Security gets into the act with proximity keys offering automatic walk-away locking and anti-theft alarm and engine immobiliser.
Driving
A proximity key fob gets the Tiggo8 Super Hybrid Ultimate ready to go – unlocked and powered up by the time the driver is seated, belted up and with foot on the brake. There begins a life of touchscreen swiping, steering-wheel button pressing and voice commanding (Hello Chery) unlike other petrol/electric hybrids, Chinese or otherwise, on the market.
Silently getting into its stride from a
standstill in full electric mode, the petrol/ electric mode can intervene, offering long range efficiency and speedy refuelling.
The stepless electric drive system offers four modes of operation – pure electric, series, parallel and energy recovery. Pure electricidealforlow-speedcitycommuting andfuelefficiencyatspeedsabove80km/h.
Up to 95km without charging, the lithium iron phosphate battery has a capacity of 18.3kWh and, according to the maker, can be charged from 30 to 80 per cent at up to 40kW on a DC fast charger in just 20 minutes. Above 30pc charge the Super Hybrid System can run as a pure EV up to speeds of 120km/h.
In hybrid mode the two units work together to deliver a driving range of up to 1200km.
Steering is soft, ride and handling conditional, braking sharp and acceleration impressive under a soft pedal touch.
Summary
TheTiggo8SuperHybridisseriously‘super’ inmanyways,fromcomforttopracticality. Pity about software and steering shortcomings. Last, but far from least, are theappealingprices,withthewell-specced Urban below $50,000 and the Ultimate worth the extra four grand.
The Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is seriously ‘super’ in many ways. (Pictures: Supplied)
The weather gods looked favourably on local sports people on Saturday as more competitions kicked off their summer seasons. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
Contests are heating up
Bacchus Marsh Lions’ Thomas Bens. 508554_01
Macedon Ranges Rockies’ Lucas Impey. 508555_10
Sunbury United’s Senura Perera. 508558_10
Bacchus Marsh’s Ella Sedge. 508552_02
Diggers Rest Bulla’s Travis Barratt and Charlie Hammond-Collins. 508559_09
Macedon’s Zac Waddington. 508558_01
Melton Thoroughbreds’ Aduto Chipuowuop. 508554_08
Sunbury Kangaroos’ Jacobus De Leeuw. 508559_01
Melton Thoroughbreds’ Ruby Murphy. 508552_14
Kyneton Tigers’ Josh Mundy. 508555_08
Angliss confidence boost
By Luke D’Anello
Footscray Angliss is hoping the return of two experienced players will help lift the club up the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Evans-Clark Shield ladder.
Angliss is in a rebuilding phase, president Michael Cox said, and finished seventh last season.
But star all-rounder David Khera is back in a boost after contributing 276 runs and 23 wickets in his last season with the club in 2022-23.
Stalwart Sean Tyrrell is also a key inclusion and will bolster the bowling stocks.
“We’re expecting to play some quality cricket. We’re bringing up some youngsters through the grades and we’ve welcomed back Sean Tyrrell and David
Khera to our ones squad,” Cox said.
“We’re expecting to be competitive, but it’s exciting. It’s a new chapter for us with some new personnel.”
The club has also locked in a new coach, with Michael Lea arriving from the Arundel Castle Cricket Foundation in the UK.
“He’s all about junior development, so we’ve appointed him as head of junior development as well, so he’ll have a lot to do with the junior side of the club. It’s about giving them the tactical nous basically.
“Michael has some really good qualifications so we’re really happy with his appointment and can’t wait to get him on board.”
KeybowlerJasonWozniak,whoclaimed 20 wickets last season, will captain the first XI.
“He’s really experienced, an older guy, andit’sallabouttheseolderguysassisting the younger ones coming through,” Cox said.
Angliss knocked off eventual premier Melton South in the final round of the 2024-25home-and-awayseasoninaresult that delivered a shot of confidence.
Teenagers Thomas and Lucas Evanson stood up late under pressure with the ball in the six-run win, showing the club’s future is in good hands.
“For them to bowl those final overs in a tight match obviously brings a lot of experience,” Cox said.
“So we’re looking at building off those guys.”
Eagles ready to build with a solid squad
By Tara Murray
Yarraville has a core group locked in as it hopes to rise up the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west ladder.
The Eagles finished two games outside of finals last season, but showed their best was good enough when they did it for long enough.
Eagles coach Michael Sheedy said it had beenabitofachallengingoffseasonforthe group.
It’s Sheedy’s second season in charge of the Eagles.
“We’ve had a number of kids choose to go through the pathways which is great for them,” he said.
“It’s a little bit of a challenge for us losing so many. We’ve had a decent turnover again, but that is the nature of cricket.”
While they’ve lost a number of players across the board, Sheedy said they had been able to keep most of their first XI group together which is a big bonus.
Josh Hahnel has retired “for now” and is
a big out for the Eagles, having captained the side last season and led the running scoring the season before after returning the club from Victorian Premier Cricket.
Sheedy said they felt they were in a good position with the group that they’ve got in place.
“A lot of kids got opportunities last year,” he said. “We have been rock solid with the group for 12 months now.
“They are bigger and stronger, and hopefully will provide plenty of support for the main four.
“Getting games under their belts for 12 months helps with that.”
Sheedy said their three wins against sides in the top six showed that their best last season was good enough.
Just 12 points separated sixth placed Caulfield, which won the premiership, and Ormond that finished in 13th.
“We need to put it together across both formats this year,” Sheedy said.
“The group will not change much and wewillhaveasetgroupof13-14playersbut there will be opportunities for others.
On the negative side, Angliss have lost Daniel Janka and Darren Wotu. Daniel Nightingale (356 runs at 39.56) and Ashane De Silva (22 wickets at 14.91) were the club’s standouts last summer. AnglisskickedoffitsseasononSaturday against Werribee Centrals.
The bowlers got the job done early for Angliss as they had Werribee Centrals in trouble at 7-17.
While the Centurions showed some late fight, they were bowled out for 96.
Wozniak took four wickets for Angliss.
There were no issues in the run chase, with Angliss finishing 2-98 as it hit the winning runs in the 27th over.
Daniel Nightingale finished 42 not out.
Elsewhere, Laverton opened up with a win, while Barkly St Uniting and Seabrook suffered losses.
Seagulls sign Braydon Preuss
Williamstownhasaddedsomemuch needed depth to its tall ranks after the signing of a former AFL player.
The Seagulls announced that former AFL journeyman Braydon Preuss would join the Victorian FootballLeagueclubfornextseason.
Preuss is the first new signing for the Seagulls.
The 207cm ruck began his AFL career with North Melbourne before spending time at Melbourne and the Greater Western Sydney Giants.
He played 28 games across the three clubs, the last of those games in 2022.
Taking a step back from AFL and VFL altogether, he spent this year with the Yarragon Panthers in the Ellinbank and District Football League, playing 16 games and kicking 37 goals.
Williamstown football operations general manger Ash Collins said the additionofPreusshasbroughtplenty of excitement to the club during this period of player movement.
“We’ve seen through his AFL experience that Braydon is a very capable ruckman and we’re delighted to have him join us,” he said.
“He has a hunger to return to high-level football and we believe Williamstown offers the ideal environment to relaunch his career.
“I think we have a pretty good side.
“They understand Subbies a bit better and we’ve done some more work. There were games that we should have done and not got over the line.
“Butwebeatthetopsideandstillfinished two games out of finals.”
The Eagles were set to start their season on Saturday, but the opening day of play was called off due to not enough grounds being ready.
They now started their season this Saturday in a one-dayer against Hoppers Crossing.
The Eagles were bowled out for 182 after being sent in.
Sheedy top scored with 53.
The Cats got the runs with three overs remaining, finishing 5-185.
The Eagles now face Sheedy’s old side Mt Waverley in round two.
He said it was a tough start but a good challenge of where they are at against two sides that played finals last season.
In other matches, Altona and Spotswood both had wins while Williamstown lost.
“Braydon will step into the role vacated by retiring ruckman Tom Downie and become a player our younger group can look up to. We can’t wait to see him get to work in the blue and gold.”
Ben Kennedy, Ned Pendergast, Cam Polson, Aidan Bonar and Zac Pritchard have all re-signed.
Braydon Preuss.
Matthew Kenvyn. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 443945_16
Phoenix celebrate promotion
An investigation into Altona East Phoenix’s final round match with Uni Hill Eagles has cleared the club, paving the way for the Phoenix to celebrate their promotion into FV state league 1 north-west.
The Phoenix’s final round match state league 2 north-west match with the Eagles was abandoned in the 43rd minute after Eagles players’ alleged racist comments were directed at one of their players. The Eagles decided to pull their players from the pitch
Scores were locked at 0-0 at the time.
In a statement, Football Victoria confirmed it received a report in the days following the match from Uni Hill Eagles alleging racist comments directed at one of its players during the round 22 clash with Altona Phoenix.
The Phoenix released a statement from president Leigh Karafillis in early October, saying that Football Victoria had concluded its investigation into the abandoned game and determined Altona East
Phoenix didn’t breach FV’s grievance, disciplinary and tribunal by-law or spectator code of conduct.
With the investigation concluded, it confirmed the Phoenix’s second placed finish behind Lalor United.
The top two teams get promoted.
“This season was built on hard work, resilience, and belief,” the Phoenix said on social media.
“From the very beginning, we set our sights on promotion — and today, we can
Billy Crofts caps off a stunning season
By Tara Murray
Billy Crofts wasn’t sure if he was going to play in the Victorian Football League this year.
After battling some injuries the past few years, Crofts had struggled to play as well as he would have liked and saw him move between VFL and local footy.
He decided to give it one last go this season with Footscray Bulldogs as he also returned to his junior club Melton as his local club.
Crofts was named in round one for the Bulldogs and didn’t let go of his spot in the team.
He was named in the VFL team of the year squad and earned himself a premiership medal.
Crofts then capped it off with the Bulldogs best and fairest award.
“It’s been a pretty hectic couple of weeks,” he said. “The grand final is still sinking in and that happened [the best and fairest] as well.
“There were three of us who got picked in the team of the year squad and thought it would probably be us three.
“When they got called out third and second I thought I would be a good chance,
and it ended up happening.”
Crofts said the achievement of winning the best and fairest was made even more special considering he struggled to lock down a spot the past couple of years.
He decided to give himself one last crack at VFL.
“I thought I owed it to myself to at least give myself a clean run at it,” he said. “I’m glad that I did.
“This year I was in from the start and I stayed there and put in a body of work and stayed in there for every game.”
Speaking with the coaches in the off season, they wanted to add to his inside game and get more of the ball on the outside.
The other big thing for Crofts was getting his body right.
“I had a bit of a different approach to pre-season,” he said. “I went up to Darwin instead of pre-season before Christmas and kept playing games.
“We spoke about it, that I kept getting injured around that Christmas period, when it was really starting to ramp up.
“I was able to work on the thing that they told me to work on and as a result my body held up as well.”
Crofts said much of the grand final was still a blur for him. He kicked a couple of
proudly say we achieved exactly that.
“Our PAOK family has been part of every step — this success belongs to all of us.
“With Football Victoria’s investigation now concluded, we can finally celebrate what we’ve worked so hard for — promotion secured.
“This promotion is for every player, coach, volunteer, committee member, supporter, and family who has worn and still wears black and white with pride over the last 45 years of our wonderful history.”
Western Netball League to grow
The Western Netball League competition is set to expand to new horizons in 2026.
Having grown the competition dramatically in the past few years, there’s set to be more grades and opportunities next year.
League netball operations coordinator Jordan Dalliston said the league was set to introduce a men’s competition to run alongside the women’s division.
“We’ll be fielding a premier men’s open competition alongside our women’s competition on a Friday night,” she said.
“They will be playing at the State Netball Centre after men’s nationals conclude in April and the season will run right through until the women’s grand final night.
goals and was one of Bulldogs best.
After a strong season and finals series, Crofts has shown he can make it with the best and put himself on the radar of AFL clubs.
“It’s such a big deal playing well in grand finals,” he said.
“Some guys get drafted on the back of good grand final performances alone. But once in the game, I’m not thinking about my own individual performance.
“It gives me confidence with some good games against some of the best teams. But I’m realistic, I am 27, it’s now or never.”
Crofts played just one game for Melton in his return to the club due to the VFL commitments.
He said Bloods coach Troy Scoble was someone who had always been in his corner.
He’s had a massive impact,” he said. “He’s the person who got me to Geelong [VFL] initially, he was there coached me at Western Jets at under-18s
“He’s one that has believed in me from the start
“It helps going back there, being around all my mates.
Croft will have a well earned break over the off season.
“We will be the first league to open the doors to include men’s netball in Victoria. It’s a very exciting time for netball in the west. We have so much talent coming through from the Wyndham and surrounds and we want to give boys and men more of an opportunity to play outside the M-League and VMMNA [Victorian Men’s and Mixed Netball Association] pathways.”
Several clubs include Caroline Springs and Glen Orden are already advertising for male players to join their programs.
The league said Albanvale, Braybrook, Hobsons Bay, Point Cook Centrals and Sunshine had all expressed their interest in having a men’s team next season.
The women’s competition is set to expand as well, with the competition to introduce an eighth division.
“Netball in the west is flourishing and we are proud to see the health of the netball programs within the WFNL,” Dalliston said.
Meanwhile, the league has been recognised in the Netball Victoria community awards. The league has been named one of three finalists for the netball association of the year in a massive honour for the league.
The winner will be announced on October 19 at a ceremony.
Billy Crofts with Stewart Edge. (Laura Manariti)
Rochelle Tieri. (Western FNL)
With a combined 85 years of real estate experience, John Verduci and Terry Cooper are trusted experts in Yarraville, Footscray, and surrounding suburbs, making them leading figures in Melbourne’s inner-west real estate market.
