Messy play encouraged
The Hume Men’s Shed in Craigieburn is bringing creativity and community spirit together, selling handmade mud kitchens and sinks designed to enhance outdoor and sensory play for young children.
The kitchens are made by shed members from recycled and sustainable materials.
“We’ve probably sold about 20 so far,” president Bruce Tripptree said.
“Some have gone to kindergartens, but most of them have gone to the public.”
“All the money goes straight back into the Men’s Shed. It helps us pay rent, buy materials and keep our programs running.”
Hume’s Men Shed also mentors students from Hume Valley School, providing hands-on learning and community connection through shared projects.
Each mud kitchen is built with care and delivered directly to customers, with prices starting at $250 for a basic model and up to $600 for a deluxe version with a working water connection. Contact Bruce Tripptree on 0403 111 213 or email humemensshed@bigpond. com to support local craftsmanship while inspiring messy, imaginative play for kids.
Aged care concern
By Jack O’shea-Ayres
More than 100 Whittlesea residents have voiced their opposition to a proposed three-storey aged care development, claiming the project is “not in the right location”.
Theproposed$5milliondevelopmentofa 51-bedresidentialagedcarefacilityat3Black Flat Road has sparked widespread concern amonglocals,whogatheredatacommunity meeting on 18 October to discuss the development’spotentialimpacts.
While residents made it clear they support aged care in principle, they claim
the semi-rural location, which sits next to a childcare centre currently under construction, is unsuitable due to traffic, parkingandsafetyissues.
Local resident Janine Harvey has coordinated the community opposition, and said the project’s design failed to accountfortherealitiesofthearea.
“This development is for 51 beds and just 21 car spaces - totally insufficient for staff andvisitors,”MrsHarveysaid.
“We’d be faced with a big increase in traffic, with cars parking up residential streets. The area is not designated for that kindofcongestion.
“Thetrafficandparkingissueswouldalso affect the residents close by but also many people, including residents from Eden Park and beyond that use Black Flat Road as accesstoWhittlesea.”
Asustainabledesignassessment(SDA)by LoraxCowhichformedpartoftheplanning application,indicatedthatthedesignaimed to “promote walking, cycling, and public transport,inthatorder,andtominimisecar dependency”.
According to the application, the site provides 139 square metres of carparkingaround3.9percentofthetotalsitearea-as well as eight secure bicycle parking spaces
andend-of-tripfacilities,includingshowers andlockersforstaff.
The SDA states the facility is “expected to service approximately 180 staff members and residents on average each day,” supported by a layout which “promotes low-emissiontransportchoicesandreduces relianceonon-streetparking”.
Planning permit application documents include plans for a driveway and parking area running parallel to the western boundary, which will provide undercroft parkingfor21vehicles.
Continued: Page 5.
Main: Hume Men’s Shed members Gino Merlo, Anthony AJ Magaton and President Bruce Tripptree with their hand-crafted mud kitchens.
Above: Anthony AJ Magaton adding the final touches, and Anthony with his young apprentice Darren. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 514750
Grant application dilemma
By Georgia Tacey
Hume councillors voted on whether or not council should submit an application for a federal government grant for funding that wasalreadypromisedtothecommunity.
Council was awarded $750,000 as part of the Strengthening Community Safety –ElectionCommitmentFundingfromHawke MPSamRaeandMcEwenMPRobMitchell, who each made an election promise to installCCTVinSunburyandKalkallo.
The funding would run until 2028, with funded initiatives needing to contribute to the objective of the program to strengthen communitysafety.
This is a non-competitive funding
program with unsolicited grant funding awardedtocouncil,butinordertoaccessit, councillorsneededtodecidewhetherornot tosubmitanapplication.
The decision was made at the 27 October council meeting, with the application deadline5pmthefollowingday.
Cr Ally Watson moved the recommendation that council apply for the funding.
“I’m really looking forward to hopefully getting colleagues’ support on this particularitem,”shesaid.
Cr Watson said this funding is a way in which council can make the community feel heard, especially for those in Sunbury andKalkallo.
“Itsaboutknowingthatourpublicplaces, our parks and our local shops have some security measures around them to help people feel more confident about going abouttheirdailylives,”shesaid.
“It’s not just about recording things, it’s aboutprotecting.”
Cr Jim Overend seconded the motion, but said this CCTV cameras won’t fix the broaderissue.
“I’dstillliketonotethatthiswillnotdeter anycrimefromhappeningbecausethiscan be clearly seen at the moment with what’s going on around us, especially in Hume with the violence that’s taking place with machetes, fighting and stabbings,” he said.
“They do that in broad daylight. They do
Salvos launch annual Christmas appeal
The Salvation Army is calling on the Hume and Whittlesea community to dig deep andgivebackthisChristmasasitlaunches itsannualChristmasappeal.
The appeal is aimed at helping those in need of support during the festive season which is reported to intensify financial and emotional pressures for those already experiencingdisadvantage.
TheSalvosareaimingtoraise$29million throughtheappealinabidtoensurethose
facing the pressures of Christmas get the helptheyneedthisfestiveseason.
Whittlesea Salvos store manager Kelly Clark said the drive is not only important tohelpoutthoseinneed,butalsoforthose involvedwiththeSalvationArmy.
“Onapersonallevelit’sreallyimportant. We do what we do because we want to help,”shesaid.
“From those who do paid work to those who volunteer, we all want to make a
difference, and things like the Christmas appealreallydomakeadifference.”
Community members are being called ontohelpoutinavarietyofways,including volunteering, donating products such as gifts and food, or offering a financial donation.
Donations can also be made at any SalvosStore,includingthoseinWhittlesea, Roxburgh Park, Craigieburn, and Mill Park.
thatinshoppingcentres.Theydothatunder camera.They’renotafraid.
“They keep themselves covered and they’ll get out there and they will hurt our residents. Anythingthatcanhelpmakeour residents feel a little bit safer, I’m all for it. I justcan’tseehowthiswillstopanycrimes.”
Councillors voted unanimously to apply for the funding, after spending six minutes discussingit.
Council officers noted in the four-page reportintheagendathatiftheydidn’tapply tothisfunding,therewouldbereputational damage to council, as the funding was alreadypromisedbybothfederalmembers, but the works were something council had nointentionstoundertakeatthistime.
Updates to the heritage overlay
Whittlesea council is seeking to modernise its heritage overlay provisions in a bid to improve decision-making and streamline planningpermitprocesses.
Councillors voted in favour of authorisation from the minister for planning to prepare and exhibit a planning scheme amendment which would propose updates to information and details for a number of sites already existing under the overlay.
If approved, affected property owners and occupiers will be invited to provide feedback during a comprehensive community consultationprocess.
The heritage overlay serves as council’s main tool for conserving and enhancing heritage places of natural and cultural significance, coveringsitessuchasfarmcomplexes, churches, cemeteries, schools, bridgesandhistorichomes.
A recent review identified 66 existing sites in need of updated heritage citations and statements of significance, while a further seven require other site-specific changesbringing the total number of affected properties to 73, with no new sites proposedtobeadded.
Mayor Martin Taylor said “The proposed amendment will ensure all parties have access to the most accurate information, helping to inform decisions and streamline planning.”
Whittlesea Salvos Manager Kellie Clark and assistant manager Marcia Ros. (Damjan Janevski) 513206_04
Men’s Shed opens its doors
TheLalorandDistrictMen’sShedisinviting the community to join in the fun at its open day on Saturday 29 November, between 10am and 3pm, at 34 Robert Street, Lalor. The event promises to be a day of family-friendly activities, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship that takes place inside Lalor’s shed.
Visitors are offered the opportunity to take a glance at the shed’s large variety of handmade items, including wooden and metalwork creations, indoor plants, seedlings, and unique Christmas gifts, all made by members of the shed.
Kidsbigandsmallwillalsohaveplentyto look forward to, with the day dedicated to celebrating community spirit, connection and creativity.
What’s on
Held four times a year, this preloved clothing market is all about affordable fashion that is good for the planet. You'll find dozens of stalls plus a donation area for baby clothes and textiles.
When: Sunday 16 November, 10am - 2pm
Where: Great Hall, Council Offices, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
Bring your reusable coffee cup for a free coffee as a thank you for helping us reduce waste.
For more information, visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events
The Lalor and District Men’s Shed aims to provide a welcoming space for men 18 and older, with inclusion for women interested in learning more, to come together, share skills and stories, make new friends and work on projects for the local community and beyond.
Lalor Men’s Shed president Merv Landy said the open day will give locals a glimpse intotheshed’simportantroleinsupporting wellbeing and social connection.
“Make this a great family day at your local Men’s Shed,” Mr Landy said.
“Come along, meet the members and see what your local shed is all about. Try a snag from our barbecue sausage sizzle, have a tea or coffee in our rec room, or enjoy a seat at a table in our green room nursery. ”
Briefs
Broadmeadows affray charges
Three men have been charged following an alleged affray and stabbing in Broadmeadows last month. Emergency services were called to Central Grove, Broadmeadows, after a boy was located with a stab wound about 5pm on Friday 24 October. It is alleged his injuries were as a result of a brawl between two groups on Stanhope Street moments earlier. The 17-year-old was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. On Thursday 6 November, police executed search warrants at properties in Westmeadows, Meadow Heights and Fawkner. A 19-year-old Westmeadows man, 18-year-old Meadow Heights man and 18-year-old Fawkner man were arrestedand charged with various offences including affray.
Thomastown home invasion
Police are investigating an attempted aggravated home invasion in Thomastown on Sunday 2 November. Detectives were told up to five male teens had attempted to gain entry to The Boulevard residence about 5.45am. A 42-year-old man home at the time managed to fend off the offenders, who were armed with machetes and demanding his car keys. The offenders fled empty handed when they were spooked by the victim’s neighbour. None of the occupants, sustained any physical injuries.
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Helping homes go electric and save money
Looking to cut energy bills and stay cool this summer? The City of Whittlesea has joined Solar Savers - connecting you with trusted, affordable suppliers for home energy upgrades.
Through Solar Savers, you can access:
• Split-system heating and cooling
• Induction cooking
• Electric vehicle chargers
• Insulation and draft proofing
• Home batteries
• Rooftop solar
For more information, visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/solar-savers
Michael Arimatea at work in Lalor and District Men’s Shed. (Damjan Janevski) 501484_02
Birds perish in drain
By Jack O’Shea-Ayres
A distressing wildlife incident has sparked concern among Craigieburn locals after severalnativebirdsdrownedinanoverflow drainalongAitkenCreekinrecentweeks.
Local school teacher and wildlife advocate Kassie Herny and her children discoveredthetrappedbirdsonSunday26 Octoberafterheavyrainfallsweptthrough thearea.
Patrick,12,saidhewasworriedthebirds werefacingdeathafterfirstdiscoveringthe trappedAustralianCoots.
“When I first saw the trapped birds, I felt verynervousthatthebirdscoulddieinthe overflowwell,”hesaid.
“I have seen birds trapped in similar drainsbeforeanditisdevastatingtonotbe abletodoanything.”
Patrick’s 10-year-old sister, Olivia, said shehasprayedforthebirdseachnightafter thesightleftherfeelingupsetandhelpless.
“It made me feel very sad because they are living creatures and don’t deserve to livelikethat,”shesaid.
Wildlife Rescuers Inc volunteer Debbie Gwyther-Jones said rescuers made repeated attempts to save the birds throughout the week, but many were lost beforehelpcouldreachthem.
“Acoupleofrescuerswentoutandtriedto extendarescueladder,”MsGwyther-Jones explained.
“When we went back on Sunday 2 November, we found multiple dead birds floatinginthewater.”
Ms Gwyther-Jones said the issue has probably happened before, with at least six Coots having died as a result of the incident.
“Ifyou’regoingtocreateacreeksystemin suburbia like this, there must be adequate planning to implement and maintain wildlifesafetymeasures,”shesaid.
Star Weekly understands that a marine rescue unit from Melbourne Zoo attended the site with Melbourne Water and
installed a temporary foam roam to help birdssafelyflyoutofthedrain.
Melbourne Water acting service delivery executive general manager David Norman said the organisation would continue to monitor the site while it works on a long-termsolution.
From page 1.
In addition, the SDA notes permeable paving and stormwater systems will limit surface runoff and maintain local amenity, with “24,000 litres of rainwater storage plumbed to half of all toilets” and landscaped areas covering 15 per centofthesite.
While residents argue the project “doesn’t reflect the character of Whittlesea’s semi-rural community,” the assessment maintains the design “responds to site opportunities and constraints” and meets Whittlesea council’s Environmentally Sustainable Development(ESD)policyobjectives to “minimise environmental impacts” and supports sustainable transportoptions.
Residents have also disputed the developer’s claim that there are no aged care facilities within a 15-kilometre radius. Ms Harvey said there are already two existing facilities in Whittlesea and a third approvedbycouncilearlierthisyear forPlentyRoad.
“This proposal doesn’t reflect the needs or character of Whittlesea’s semi-ruralcommunity,”shesaid. Council will consider both community submissions and the SDA findings when the application returns for a planning decision later thisyear.
Siblings Olivia 10 and Patrick 12 have made attempts to help the trapped birds at the lake in Craigieburn. (Damjan Janevski) 515131_03
Call for crime solutions
By Jack O’Shea-Ayres
Hume council is urging the state governmenttobolsterpolicepresenceandimprove safety measures in schools and public spaces, following recent incidents.
Councillor Jim Overend asked his colleagues to support a proposal to write to Police Minister Anthony Carbines to determine what on-the-ground police resources are available in Hume to help prevent violent incidents from occurring; Education Minister Ben Carroll to find out how security is being improved at schools; and Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny to seek an understanding of how the government’s new bail laws are being implemented.
Cr Overend’s proposal followed three recent violent incidents: a fight outside
Greenvale Secondary College on 8 October, a fight which began outside Broadmeadows Central Shopping Centre on 11 October and a stabbing at Craigieburn Plaza on 14 October.
“Residentsaretellingmehowscaredand unsafe they are feeling in our community and asking council what we can do to stop crime from happening,” Cr Overend said.
Crime Statistics Agency data reveals the number of criminal offences recorded in Humerose15.3percentinthe12monthsto June30,with23,194offencesrecordedcompared to 20,116 in the year to June 2024.
A government spokesperson said 182 new police officers had been funded for Hume.
““WewillalwaysgiveVictoriaPolicewhat they need to keep the community safe,” the
spokesperson said.
An education department spokesperson said the safety and wellbeing of students and staff was a top priority.
“Victorian schools have zero tolerance for violence and take strong action against those who compromise the safety of our schools,” the spokesperson said.
“Government schools have 24-7 alarm monitoring and CCTV coverage in place, and clear processes to respond to any incidents of violence and aggression, including reporting incidents to police where appropriate.”
StarWeeklyunderstandsHumecouncilis also calling for increased support for Victoria Police’s community engagement teams, expanded funding for the Youth Crime Prevention Program (YCPP), investment in
Hume’s best businesses take a bow
Hume’sbusinesscommunityhascelebrated its night of nights, with council inviting innovators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries to mark a year of business success on Thursday 30 October.
ICAL International Customs and Logistics director Mark Coleman took home the award for Business Leader of the Year, while local business Kingspan Insulation was recognised as Business of the Year. Kingspan Insultation also won the Circularity Award and was a joint winner of the Manufacturing Award alongside Chair Solutions.
3 Social Sunbury won the hospitality
category of the Visitor Economy Award.
The bar’s Owner and Operator Rahul Chandhok said the award wouldn’t be possible without the support of the 3 Social team and patrons.
“This win means the world to us - and it wouldn’t have been possible without ouramazingteamwhobringtheirbestevery single day, and our loyal patrons who continuetolove,laugh,andcelebratewith us,” he said.
The Inclusive Workforce Award was won by DPV Health, while the Innovation and Economic Growth Award was shared by Diet Yumm and Directitude.
SystemTechnologyServicestookhome the Retail Services Award and Precision Group received the Small & Medium Enterprises Award.
The Startup award went to That Creative Hub, ICAL – International Customs andLogisticswontheTransport,Logistics & Warehousing Award and URBNSURF Melbourne won the tourism category of the Visitor Economy Award.
The Young Achiever of the Year Award wassharedbyAlishaShastri(iOptical)Fahad Rabbani (Imperial Advocates Australia) Samantha Fry (Precision Group).
State government announces more kindergarten places by ‘28
Early learning is being made more accessible for Victorian children after Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn announced up to 534 additional Kindergarten places are being created across four projects in 2028. The initiative will include the creation of hundreds of new kindergarten places on or near school sites, including one for Mickleham Primary School, in a bid to make early learning more easily accessible while saving families money. Other sites marked for a kindergarten
site include on or next to Coburg North Primary School, Wiyal Primary School coming toFrasersRise,andYarramPrimarySchool.
The plan comes after every new Victorian primary school opened since 2021 was built with a kindergarten on-site or next door, working to ensure Victoria’s kids could start learning close to home.
Blandthorn said the investment worked to give Victorian children the best start to life.
“This is about investing in children,
culturally responsive sports and recreation programs, support for early intervention diversion programs, and enhanced school based programs.
A council spokesperson told Star Weekly early intervention is critical in tackling the growing concern for antisocial behaviour in the community.
“We believe early intervention is critical in ensuring that people can make the right choices and veer away from crime and anti-social behaviour,” the spokesperson said.
“Hume City Council acknowledges the growing concern around antisocial behaviour in our community, which reflects broader trends across Melbourne. In particular, the increasing influence of organised criminal networks on disengaged young people is alarming.”
Dallas community hub is in good hands
Dallas Neighbourhood House (DNH) will take over the management of Broadmeadows Community Hub, marking a new chapter for one of the municipality’s key community facilities.
During the 27 October council meeting, councillors unanimously voted in favour of a plan to enter into an occupancy licence agreement with DNH, granting the organisation full operational management of the Broadmeadows Community Hub, excluding the council-run maternal and child health and early years programs.
The agreement will initially run for two years, with a further two-year option and annual reviews built into the plan to ensure smooth transition and accountability.
Council officers will work with DNH to finalise the license and implement an operational transition plan aimed at minimising disruption to the current user groups and services of the space in Broadmeadows.
Broadmeadows Community Hub was opened in 2013 and was purpose built to include DNH as a key tenant.
Cr Jim Overend said he was “very supportive” of the proposal.
“I have personally seen what Leanne and the team have done for the community and what they continue to do to help our residents that are in their time of need,” Cr Overend said.
The change comes after months of consultation and analysis of three operational models, with both DNH and council officers opting for an approach which would include full operational management conducted by DNH.
Under the new model, DNH will manage bookings, staffing and venue hire, while council contributes to utility costs for maternal and child health and early years programs.
DNH vice president John Rutherford spoke to the importance of handing over management to community centres like DNH.
families and communities – because every Victorian child deserves the best start to life,” she said.
“Building new kinders where families need them most, close to schools, homes and in communities right across Victoria, is vital in our growing state.”
Plans are also reportedly in place to support the delivery of 15 hours of threeyear-old kindergarten each week by 2029, as well as 30 hours of Pre-prep each week by 2036.
“Today, more than ever, there’s a need for organisations like Dallas Neighbourhood House to provide for the ever increasing necessities required by our community,” he said.
The new transition is expected to be completed by June 30.
Winners for Hume’s 2025 Business Awards were announced on Thursday 30 October. (Supplied)
Crosses for those who sacrificed
The Epping RSL has been busy preparing a moving tribute to honour Australians who served and sacrificed in wars and conflicts across generations.
In the lead-up to Remembrance Day on November 11, the RSL welcomed helping handsfromlocalchildrenatStCatherine’s Primary School in Lalor and the young learners from Little Assets Early Learning Centre in South Morang. They joined veterans and Defence Force members to lay hundreds of handmade memorial crosses in the RSL’s garden of remembrance.
OnThursday6November,PrivatesLock, Perrott, Broughton, Al-Kalaney, Haddock and Cotter, along with Sergeant Heverin from Simpson Barracks, visited Epping RSL to take part in the preparations. The crosses, each crafted by veterans and later adapted by the RSL’s staff and volunteers, serve as a powerful symbol of respect for those who served Australia in wars and peacekeeping missions.
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Students from St Catherine’s Primary School with Defence Force Soldiers for the laying of the wreath.
Soldiers joined Little Assets young stars in the laying of the crosses at Epping RSL. (Pictures: Jack O’Shea-Ayres)
Retired Victoria Police Detective Seregent Frank Torcasio leading the way
Ford’s legacy motors on
Car manufacturing may have disappeared from Broadmeadows, but its legacy continues to shape the identity of Hume. Panagiotis Theodorelos, known locally as Peter, and son Chris, chat with Jack O’Shea-Ayres about the important legacy that was left by the Ford manufacturing plant, and its everlasting effect on Australian culture today.
From its opening in 1959 until its closure in 2016, the Ford Broadmeadows Assembly Plant stood as one of Australia’s largest car manufacturing hubs.
At its height in 2011, more than 2000 peopleclockedineachday,producingiconic vehicleswhichrolledoutofBroadmeadows and into Australian driveways. Butthefactory’struelegacyliesnotinthe machines, but in the people who worked there, and former employee Panagiotis “Peter” Theodorelos embodies that history.
Very good times, they were ... The English wasn’t great, we couldn’t always talk to each other. But we had good times
-
Peter Theodorelos
Peter arrived in Australia from Greece in 1967 and like many others immigrating during that time, he needed a job to keep him going.
With the way things were back then, he simply picked up the phone, dialled a few numbersandaskedaround.Hephonedthe manager of a hotel, a cleaner who looked after a block of toilets in St Kilda, and a taxi driver with his own fleet.
Peter secured jobs with almost all of them, working as a cleaner, a taxi driver, a chef at a Toorak Hotel, and a position at a cafe in South Melbourne before stepping into the Ford plant just after his wedding in March 1968.
They all shaped him into the man he is today, but the Ford manufacturing plant in Broadmeadowsleftalastingimpactonhim and his family.
Peter said family friends introduced him to his job on the factory floor.
“I went there, asked for a job and started straight away,” he explains.
For Peter, the job was all about support, connection and the combination of cultures from all different walks of life.
His son Chris said the job “couldn’t come at a better time”.
“He’d just spent all his money being married,andhe’dlefthispreviousjobatthe cafe,” he said.
But two days into his job on the factory floor, an accident on the assembly line injured Peter’s hand, forcing him to give up his newfound work for a three month recovery period.
Still new to the plant, and a stranger to nearly everyone else working there, Peter was devastated that he couldn’t work, but Ford covered his medical bills and paid his wages during his time off until he eventually got back to working the floor again – a gesture that left a lasting impact on his perception of the working life.
Upon his return after three months of recovery,Peterwasputonlightduties,with his resilience and work ethic eventually leading him to a series of promotions as a leading hand, then team leader, and eventually inspector.
Peter explains he had next to no experience when he first arrived at the factory,baracoupleofskillsinweldingand repairs he’d gained during his time in the army in Greece.
Over time, connections were made
between many of those working the factory;fromthoseborninAustralia,tothe migrants from Vietnam, Greece, Italy, and even further around the world.
Herecallsaninvitationtothecelebration of a colleague’s traditional Vietnamese wedding.
Everyone Peter knew from the plant was there.
Despite the language barriers, stories were shared, and so was the food.
PetertoldofmassiveplatesofVietnamese delicacies being brought out for the friends and family to enjoy. The idea was to share from the same big plates.
Peter, like many others, didn’t know how to use chopsticks and it was him who startedgrabbingfoodwithhishands-there was no other way around it.
And so then everyone came together, reaching for the food with their hands, dipping the cuffs of their best suits in the various sauces and drippings, laughing together as they did.
It was a moment that defined the family Ford had built for Peter in his time there. No matter the background, the skills or the knowledge, every one of them were the same.
“Good times. Very good times, they were,” Peter reminisces.
“Very good people, too. The English wasn’t great, we couldn’t always talk to each other. But we had good times.”
Chris shares that a lot of those moving to Australia and starting work at the plant didn’t know what they were looking for, but they were in search of something better.
“Theyhadnothing,alotofthemhadcome out of wars and heard about Australia and the lives people were having,” he explains.
“They did it for the money, to make a living - but beyond that it meant security. [Dad] could work one job without having to worry about finishing up and going to the next one, like he used to do.
“He got that time to socialise after, it was good for him. Cause all those workers got along they’d be seeing each other outside of work, too. Barely any spoke English but they showed up and that was enough.”
In 1993, Peter’s 25 years of service was honoured with an engraved gold watch, and when he retired in 1999 after 30 years with the factory, he received a gold bracelet and a lump sum of more than $8000.
Peter’s story of loyalty and hard-work reflects the strength and commitment of Australia’s industrial history, along with many more of the migrants employed by Ford in the Broadmeadows plant from its early beginnings right up to its closure.
The legacy of Australia’s industrial manufacturing history lives on in the enduringbondsbetweenworkerslikePeter and their workplaces.
Morecanbelearntaboutthelegacyofthe Ford Broadmeadows assembly plant at the Broadmeadows Museum, where the Gears of Time: Ford Broadmeadows through the Years exhibition, running through to Monday 15 December showcases the plant’s history, achievements and iconic vehicles.
Find original uniforms, awards, photographs by Wolfgang Sievers and Andrew Chapman, and powerful personal stories like how a Ford sponsored scholarship helped a local student work his way up to becoming a doctor.
For info, visit https:// broadmeadowsmuseum.org.au/
Peter Theodorelos with his special ordered EL Falcon at his son’s workshop. (Jack O’Shea-Ayres)
Peter being presented with his gold watch for 25 years of service, and below, at the Broadmeadows Assembly Plant.
Peter with his Silver Top Taxi, prior to beginning work at the plant.
Mr and Mrs Theodorelos in a Ford Capri.
Peter rolling the last of the Ford Lasers through the Broadmeadows factory. (Pictures: Supplied)
Four decades of fun
By Jack O’Shea-Ayres
Whittlesea’s Funfields Theme Park will swing open its gates for the summer season this Saturday 1 November, marking its 40th anniversary
Theparkwillunveila$10millionupgrade, which includes new attractions in the Lava Lagoon Lazy River and Cyber Drift Bumper Cars.
At just 23 years old, Lilly Primerano has takenovertheroleofattractionsmanager
Ms Primerano’s parents founded the park in 1985, and she said growing up in Funfieldswas“thebest”.
“It’slikemysecondhome,”shesaid.
“I started as a mini golf attendant when I was 11, and now I manage 200 staff. It’s very full-on in peak season but I love it - my family’samazingtoworkwith.”
Despite the hectic nature of her job, Ms rimerano says she’s always got time for one thing.
“Thelollyshop,”sheshares.
“My favourite memory growing up would probably be going to the lolly shop. I’ve always had the biggest sweet tooth and it doesn’t really help when your family owns a park and you’ve got free access to all the foodthere.”
“It even got to the point where I’d been banned by my aunty from grabbing any lollies. I got told off cause I’d been eating up allherstock,”shesaidwithalaugh.
Ms Primerano said a recent 40-year reunion brought together generations of past staff. “We invited everyone who’s worked here over the decades, as well as emergency services, police and locals for a soft-launch. It was hectic but ended up being a really good day - and of course, we
celebratedwithcake.”
Since its early beginnings as the Alpine Toboggan Park and across its 40 year
history, the park has been many Victorians go to destination for fun and adventure for generations.
Upgrade for shopping centre
Broadmeadows’ Olsen Place Shopping Centre is set for a major accessibility and amenity upgrade after Hume council endorsed plans addressing accessibility concerns at its Monday 27 October meeting.
Thedecisionfollowsamotionraised by Cr Karen Sherry earlier in the year callingforaDisabilityDiscrimination Act (DDA) compliance survey and a feasibility report into resurfacing the centre.
An accessibility audit carried out by Architecture and Access consultants found multiple areas of non-compliance with current standards, including uneven and steep pathways, poor drainage, non-compliant parking, and shop entries which exceeded accessibility thresholds.
CrAllyWatsonsaidit’simportantto update the accessibility of locations like Olsen Place for its use by the wider community.
“Olsen Place isn’t just a shopping strip or a thoroughfare. It’s a meeting point and a hub for our community,” she said.
“Addressingaccessibilityandsafety issues in our public spaces is not just important; it’s really essential for thrivingandinclusivecommunities.”
The proposed $2-2.5 million upgrade will include resurfacing and regrading of the precinct’s pathways,newrampsanddrainage,a reconfigurement of parking, and new street furniture and signage.
Heathcote Design shown
Funfields Whittlesea attractions manager Lilly Primerano, (Damjan Janevski) 513336_01
City View Bistro, a hidden family dining experience
If you’ve never been to the Melbourne Greyhounds at ‘The Meadows’ and dined in the City View Bistro, it’s about time you treated yourself, some friends or the family.
Aptly named, thanks to the amazing Melbourne city skyline views it offers diners,thisbistroisahiddengem(duetoit beingalittlehardtofind)andonlyoffering dining on Saturday nights. Don’t that that be your excuse to not give it a try.
Located on Northcorp Boulevard, access is off Camp Road, near the Sydney Road end. For those who have already dined in this elevated bistro, with its sensational racetrack and city views, you’ll be pleased to learn a new summer menu was launched recently, crafted and curated by head chef Steve Collins. He and the racing association’s hospitality manager, Harry Thackrayand CEO, have all worked diligently to take the City View’s dining concept to a new level. Google reviews are already singing the praises of the transformation that’s taken place. The desserts have received high praise from the dining public, as has the very affordable pricing.
Inthecasethatagreatdiningexperience doesn’t sound enough for you to get off the couch, don’t forget Saturday nights at the City View Bistro also revolves around the excitement of world-class greyhound racing. A twelve-race card provides a uniquenightofentertainment,whereyour table in the bistro remains yours for the entire evening (seatings start from 5.30pm and races run from 6.30pm to 10.45pm) and allows you to explore the venue and engage in the racing. It’s not just dinner, it’s a whole night of fun.
Complimentary track entry and parking are provided, and the bistro dining room bar prices are very easy on the hip pocket. The more adventurous can also delight themselveswithanexpertlymadecocktail
or a top-shelf spirit. This bistro is very popular (especially at this time of year), therefore a table reservation must be made. Bookings
From dumping to dazzling
By Jack O’Shea-Ayres
Hume council has endorsed the implementation of a variety of ‘Best Kept’ awards in a bid to combat illegal dumping aroundthemunicipality.
The recommendation came from Cr NaimKurtasapositive,community-driven incentive to tackle one of Hume’s most frequently raised concerns: Illegal rubbish dumping.
Council said cleaning up illegally dumped rubbish costs it about $5 million ayear.
The initiative would reportedly reward and celebrate residents, community
groups, and businesses which “go above and beyond to create and maintain clean, attractive environments” according to a reporttothe27Octobercouncilmeeting..
The proposal follows council’s previous initiatives to tackle illegal waste dumping, such as its ’Dob in a Dumper’ campaign –the active name-and-shame program for individuals and businesses found guilty of illegal dumping– as well as support from the state government through funding to supportcouncilsandpubliclandmanagers toclean-upillegallydumpedwaste.
But Cr Kurt said they were “not enough” totackletheproblem.
“Enforcement alone isn’t enough. It’s
New use for bamboo at zoo
Werribee Open Range Zoo is making do with bamboo in some ways that are pretty new.
Using bamboo donated from Geelong Botanic Gardens, keepers have been putting their DIY skills to the test and crafting everything from wind chimes to treat-dispensing totem poles.
Savannah Keeper Laura Harbridge said the team had a blast inventing new enrichment devices for giraffes, camels, nyala and tammar wallabies using the two tonnes of bamboo.
“We take inspiration from other zoos around the world, and our keepers and volunteers come up with ideas like, ‘how funwoulditbetomakeameerkat-apult?,’” Ms Harbridge said.
“For the giraffe, we built a feeder that
encouraged them to use their dexterous tongues to work the food out, it’s all about getting them to think, stretch and behave as they would in the wild.”
Geelong Botanic Gardens coordinator Keelee Reissinger said the donation was a perfect way to be sustainable.
“We donated bamboo to Zoos Victoria to protect our heritage trees at the Geelong Botanic Gardens from being impacted by its growth,“ Ms Reissinger said.
“If it wasn’t reused, the bamboo would have gone to landfill and taken up to eight years to break down.”
Visitors can also join in the fun through the Giraffe Behind-the-Scenes Experience, where they can help create their own bamboo feeding devices.
time we also reward and recognise the manyresidentswhodotakeprideinwhere they live and the neighbours who sweep their verges, care for their gardens and keep their streets looking beautiful,” Cr Kurtsaid.
Cr Ally Watson said the awards were a creativeapproachtothewidespreadissue.
“I think it’s great that we are looking at creative options. We need to celebrate wherewelive,”CrWatsonsaid.
Theprogramincludesplanstoimplement judging by a panel of independent experts from outside the Hume area, including representatives from National Landscape Associations, National Housing Design
Associations, Heritage Associations, and councilofficersandcouncillors.
Cr Steve Gagen said he applauded the “positivereinforcementofgoodbehaviour” to further drive the battle against illegal wastedumping.
The initiative also includes plans for potential high-profile awards events to be held annually, which would feature nationalambassadorsandmediacoverage to “showcase the most outstanding streets, neighbourhoods, and business districts”, accordingtothereport.
The planned initiative will be reviewed by council officers and prepared for a reportforcouncil’sconsiderationinApril.
Two giraffes enjoying their DIY bamboo feeders. (Zoos Victoria)
AI must be made to pay up
Country Press Australia (CPA) has welcomed the federal government’s decisiontoruleoutacopyrightexemption for AI companies, but says urgent action is now required to enforce copyright laws and stop AI platforms from stealing regional and suburban journalism.
CPA president Damian Morgan said the damage to regional and suburban journalism is no longer hypothetical or distant, it is already occurring.
“AI companies think they are above the law,” he said.
“They are harvesting local news stories, paraphrasing them, and delivering them backtousersasanswersratherthanlinks.
The public still consumes the journalism, but they never reach the publisher, never subscribe,andneverseealocaladvertiser.
The reporting is ours, but the commercial benefitiscapturedbyoffshoretechnology companies.”
Mr Morgan added that regional and suburbanpublishersnowoperatemetered or hybrid paywalls to fund journalism, but AI scraping routinely bypasses those protections, further threatening the economic base needed to keep local journalists employed.
“The problem is not only training data. These platforms are now replacing the publisher in real time,” he said.
“They extract our reporting, convert it into their own output, and keep the audience. That removes the economic baseneededtokeepjournalistsemployed in regional Australia.”
Mr Morgan said the policy failure that occurred when Meta walked away from funding news must not be allowed to repeat itself in the AI era.
Advertising feature
“Googlehasremainedengagedwiththe industry,butMetawalkedawaywhilestill benefiting from Australian journalism,” he said.
“We cannot go through a second cycle where big tech uses regional reporting to drive engagement but refuses to fund the journalism that makes it possible. If AI companies want to use Australian news, they must license it and pay for it.”
Country Press Australia is calling for a national framework that ensures licensingcoversbothtrainingandoutput; thatregionalandsuburbanpublishersare explicitlyincludedalongsidelargermedia companies; and that there is a low-cost, fast enforcement pathway for small publishers who cannot afford lengthy litigation.
“Regional journalism is not simply a commercial product. It is public infrastructure in democratic life,” Mr Morgan said.
“If scraping continues unchecked, local reporting will disappear not because communities don’t value it, but because AI has siphoned away the audience and revenue that sustains it. Once a regional newsroom closes, there is no replacing it.”
Mr Morgan said the government had taken the right first step by rejecting a copyright carve-out for AI, but the next stage – licensing and enforcement – will determine whether regional publishing can remain viable.
“Australia solved this problem once through the News Media Bargaining Code,” he said.
“We now need the AI equivalent before the harm becomes irreversible.”
SHOWCASING FERNWOOD FITNESS AWARDS
Fernwood Fitness Tullamarine celebrates national recognition
Fernwood Fitness Tullamarine’s personal trainer, Kara Sleigh, has been nationally recognised, taking home the Heather Ritchie Personal Trainer of the Year award at the Fernwood Conference Gala Awards 2025, held at the Sheraton GrandMirageResortfrom9–11October.
The annual Fernwood Conference and Gala Awards unite franchisees, managers, and the National Support Office to celebrate excellence across the Fernwood network. The event honours those who embody Fernwood’s mission of empowering women to shine through outstanding performance, leadership, andcommunityimpact.
Kara was recognised for her exceptional service, leadership, and embodimentofFernwood’scorevaluespassion,respect,integrity,commitment, openness,andservice.Herdedicationto helping women achieve their health and fitness goals has made her a standout withinthenetwork.
“Being awarded Fernwood’s Personal Trainer of the Year is an incredible honour and a proud milestone in my 23-yearcareer,”saidKara.“Itreflectsmy passionforempoweringwomenthrough fitnessandmycommitmenttoupholding the values that make Fernwood such a supportiveandinspiringcommunity.”
Fernwood Fitness continues to lead the way in women’s health and wellness, providing safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces for women across Australiatomove,connect,andthrive.
Fernwood Fitness Tullamarine personal trainer Kara Sleigh with her award.
Country Press Australia
president Damian Morgan.
How to choose the right school for your child in 2026
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. The school years lay the foundation for not only academic learning but also personal growth, confidence, and lifelong values. In Victoria, families are fortunatetohaveawiderangeofschooling options—frompublicandCatholicschools to independent and specialist institutions — but the variety can make the choice feel overwhelming. Here’s how to navigate the process and find the best fit for your child.
1. Start with Your Child’s Needs
Every child is different, so begin by considering their personality, interests, and learning style. Does your child thrive in structured environments or respond better to a more flexible approach? Are they academic, creative, or hands-on? Some schools excel in arts and sports, while others focus strongly on academic excellence or vocational pathways. Understanding your child’s strengths and challenges will help you find a school that supports their individual potential.
2. Understand the School System
Australia’s education landscape offers three main options: public (government), Catholic, and independent (private) schools. Public schools are funded by the government and usually free, aside from small fees and uniforms. Catholic schools charge moderate fees and often emphasise faith-based values. Independent schools are privately run, offering diverse educational philosophies — from Montessori and Steiner to academically selective institutions. It’s important to consider both cost and culture when exploring these choices.
3. Research and Visit
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, do some thorough research. Visit school websites, read their mission statements, and look at academic performance and extracurricular programs. Attend open days or book
Empowering Young Minds
Everychild’sstorybeginswithcuriosity-thosefirststeps,firstquestions,and firstfriendships.AtAspireEarlyEducation&Kindergarten,webelievethose momentsshapewhotheybecome.
Our centres are places of discovery, joy, and connection, where children feel known, supported, and inspired to explore the world around them. Through play, meaningful learning, and the care of passionate educators, every child grows in confidence, creativity, and capability.
ExceptionalCare,EveryDay
Where safety meets belonging, and every child feels valued.
JoyinEveryMoment
Celebrating childhood through play, discovery, and connection.
LearningThatSparksCuriosity Turning everyday moments into meaningful learning.
Together,WeGrow Families, educators, and communities united for brighter futures.
school tours — seeing classrooms, talking to teachers, and observing the atmosphere gives a valuable sense of the school’s culture. Pay attention to how teachers interact with students and whether the environment feels welcoming and supportive.
4. Consider Practical Factors
Logistics matter. Think about the school’s location,transportoptions,andcatchment zones. Proximity can make daily routines easier and allow your child to participate in before- and after-school activities. Also, consider facilities like libraries, sports grounds, and technology resources, as these can enhance learning and engagement.
5. Look Beyond Test Scores
While academic results and NAPLAN scores can provide useful information, they don’t tell the full story. A good school nurtures curiosity, creativity, and emotional intelligence — not just exam success. Ask about student wellbeing programs, anti-bullying policies, and how the school supports children who learn differently or need extra help.
6. Trust Your Instincts
After doing your research, trust your gut feeling.Sometimes,aschooljustfeelsright — the atmosphere, the values, and the people align with what you want for your child.
7. Involve Your Child
Finally, include your child in the decision-makingprocess.Visitingtogether helps them feel part of the journey and reduces anxiety about change.
Choosing a school is about finding the right fit — a place where your child feels safe, inspired, and confident to learn. With thoughtful research and open conversation, you’ll find the school that helps your child thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally.
Exceptional care, every day
Every family deserves a village, a place wheretheyareunderstood,supported,and surrounded by people who genuinely care.
At Aspire Early Education & Kindergarten, that is what we create every day.
Ourphilosophyissimple.Childrenlearn best when they feel loved, valued, and inspired. That is why everything we do is centred around our four pillars.
Exceptional Care, Every Day – nurturing spaces where every child feels seen and celebrated.
We are not just an early learning provider, we are a community built on connection. From the moment you walk through our doors, you will feel it, the warmthofeducatorswhoknoweverychild by name, the joy that fills each classroom, and the calm assurance that your child is safe, supported, and thriving.
Joy in Every Moment – discovering the magic of childhood through play, laughter, and belonging.
LearningThatSparksCuriosity–turning everyday moments into meaningful learning experiences.
A day at Aspire is filled with discovery. Morning play brings giggles in the garden and new friendships forming over sandcastles. Indoors, children paint, build, and explore ideas that spark imagination and confidence. Storytime becomes a moment of calm connection, while cooking, music, and movement turn learning into laughter. Every experience is guided by educators who see the potential in every child and nurture it with care and encouragement.
Together, We Grow – families and educatorsunitedtobuildstrong,confident, and capable children.
Because these early years matter most, andatAspire,wemakethemextraordinary. We go above and beyond to empower young minds with curiosity, confidence, and compassion that lasts a lifetime. With 2026 enrolments now open, there has never been a better time to begin your Aspire journey.
Come and see the difference genuine care makes.
Hume Anglican Grammar celebrates wellbeing award
Hume Anglican Grammar has been recognised with an Excellence Award for Best Student Wellbeing Program by the Australian Education Awards, a national acknowledgment of the school’s commitment to supporting every student, everystepoftheway.
“We’re absolutely thrilled,” said director ofstudentwellbeingNaomiWhite.
“Thisawardreflectstheheartofwhatwe do,ensuringeveryyoungpersonfeelssafe, valuedandequippedtothrivebothintheir learningandbeyondschool.”
The recognition highlights the school’s whole-school approach to wellbeing, guidedbyitsVisionforStudentWellbeing.
This framework shapes not only what is taught, but how the school community connects,learnsandcaresforoneanother, bringingHume’ssharedvaluestolifeevery day.
Hume’s wellbeing program continues to evolve in step with the changing needs of young people. In recent years, the school has introduced AI guidelines, a robust wellbeing leadership structure, and enhanced access to counselling and educational assessment services.
Students experience age-appropriate wellbeing lessons, external workshops and presentations, and have access to innovativespacessuchastheImaginarium andthenewsensorygarden,ensuringthat wellbeing remains relevant, engaging and evidence-informed.
The school’s cocurricular and camp programs also play a vital role, giving studentsopportunitiestobuildconfidence, independence and teamwork. Each experienceisdesignedtoprovidestudents with a strong sense of belonging, while helping them apply real-life skills that
strengthenresilienceandself-belief.
“Most importantly, our approach grounded in student voice,” Ms White explained.
“We listen closely to our students, and their ideas, experiences and challenges
helpguidehowwekeepimproving.”
Principal Bill Sweeney said the award is a reflection of the shared effort across the schoolcommunity.
“Thisrecognitionspeakstothecollective commitment of our staff, who prioritise
student wellbeing in everything they do,” hesaid.
“At Hume, caring for our students is everyone’s responsibility, and I’m incrediblyproudofthecultureofcarethat ourteamcontinuestobuild.”
Twilight Discovery Tours
Curious about Hume Anglican Grammar? Join us for our final Discovery Tours of the year! Explore our classrooms, meet our amazing staff, and get a feel for the welcoming environment we provide every day.
DONNYBROOK CAMPUS
13 November at 6:00pm to 7:30pm
KALKALLO CAMPUS
18 November at 6:00pm to 7:30pm
Director of student wellbeing Naomi White and students celebrate the wellbeing award.
Cancer is never really over
By Tracey Matthies
Breast cancer never made me sick, but the treatment certainly did.
My cancer is gone but now I’m left living with the aftermath of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgery and radiation because cancer isn’t always over when it’s gone and when the treatment ends.
I was diagnosed with a non-specific type, HER-2 positive, grade three (fast growing) tumourinmyleftbreastatabout 10.30am on Thursday 19 December, 2023. Ladies – just get your mammograms. My tumour was only detected and diagnosed by a regular BreastScreen.
Whatfollowedwasafloodofinformation and a maelstrom of tests, treatments and side-effects until I was finally told I was NED – No Evidence of Disease about 13 months later.
MyofficialHealthRecordforthatperiod shows 24 diagnostic imaging reports, including CT scans, with and without nuclearmedicine,bonestudies,PETscans, fluoroscopies, a lymphoscintigraphy (sentinel lymph node mapping to check for any spread of the cancer), ultrasounds, echocardiograms and even ordinary, bog-standard x-rays.
There were also 36 pathology reports. I was on a first name basis with the blood collectors.
Cancer isn’t necessarily over when it’s gone and when the treatment ends. It’s certainly not over for me
- Tracey Matthies
But that’s a rather dry summary of three different types of chemotherapy, and the innumerable side effects of rashes, nausea,diarrhea,fatigueandevenjustthe pain caused by breathing on the back of my hands at times, not to mention all the medicationstodealwiththosesideeffects.
Forget about hospital in the home. I had myownpharmacyinthehome,andwehit the PBS threshold much earlier that year than ever before!
There were countless GP appointments, surgerytoplaceaportforeaseoftreatment and another for a lumpectomy, not to mention three emergency department admissions along the way.
As well as my amazing GP who was there whenever I needed him - just as he promised immediately after my diagnosis - my medical team exploded to include a medical oncologist, breast surgeon, radiationoncologist,heartspecialist,lung specialist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist,oncologynurses,radiationtechs and nurses, McGrath BreastCare Nurse, and lymphoedema nurse.
My daily life was driven by medical administration, making and attending appointments, treatments, check ups, tests, tests and more tests.
But it wasn’t all doom and gloom. Fortunately, I found my support community quickly. As well as my husbandandoursons,wehadotherfamily membersandsomeveryclosefriendswho were, and still are, there with us. From phone calls and visits to dropping off meals, they held us up in the tough times.
I was also fortunate enough to have wonderful support from my employer, the Star News Group. They immediately made it possible for me to work from home and always encouraged me to take the time I neededwhenIwasn’twellenoughtowork.
AFacebooksupportgroupforAustralian women with breast cancer let me know I wasn’t the only person going through whatever that day’s experience was. There
are 58 people diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia every day so someone else out there has been through it before me.
And the cancer community on X (formerlyTwitter)wasabastionofsupport from people around the world where we got so close that I cried when two of my X friends died.
From day one I was assured that this was a beatable cancer, so I had a good headspace about my outcome.
Sure, I lost my hair to chemo, but it grew back.
In fact, it was just long enough at the time of my twin granddaughters’ fifth birthdaypartytohavetheirinitialsshaved into the sides of my head. Yeah, I was the cool grandma that day.
But cancer isn’t necessarily over when it’s gone and when the treatment ends.
It’s certainly not over for me.
Before my own experience I didn’t know that cancer treatment could leave permanent after-effects. I thought I would just go through the treatment and then go back to life as it was before.
A lot of women in the Facebook support group get frustrated when people in their lives think they should be back to the person they were before cancer.
Most of us live with ongoing fatigue, tiredness beyond tired. We plan our days
and weeks to avoid overdoing it because we know how hard that fatigue will hit us.
I have to take hormone blockers for 10 years because my type of cancer, HER-2 positive,feedsonoestrogen,andhormone blockers can have side effects. I’ve already beenswitchedtoasecondtypeofhormone blocker because the first one caused such severe joint pain that I could barely walk.
Blockinghormonesaffectsbonedensity, so for the next couple of years I have to have infusions every six months to build up my bone density. And scans to check they are working.
But there’s more.
It’s called peripheral neuropathy, basically nerve damage caused by chemotherapy, the very thing saving my life.
It started with tingling fingers and toes and quickly turned into numb hands, fingers and feet. I was dropping things because I couldn’t feel them to grip properly.
Walking took all my concentration. I couldn’t get my car keys out of my pocket and walk at the same time. I stumbled on uneven ground.
Then I had a couple of falls because my feet weren’t feeling the ground properly.
That’s when my medical oncologist calledahalttothechemo.Shesaidtherisk of permanent damage was greater than
the benefit of more chemo.
Unfortunately, the damage had been done,andshenowbelievesmyneuropathy is permanent. So don’t be surprised when you see me moving slowly, sometimes with a walking stick.
As if that wasn’t enough, I also have a persistent nighttime cough so bad that it leads to vomiting most nights.
My lung specialist believes it’s also permanent damage caused by radiation –another factor in saving my life. I’m going through testing to rule out other possible causes, but it seems like this is just one more thing I will just have to live with.
Am I grateful my cancer was detected early and successfully treated?
Absolutely!
Would I do anything differently if my cancer returns?
No, I would still follow the advice of the experts who have got me through this time. I might ask more questions about side effects and permanent after-effects, but I’d still rather be alive.
What I would ask is that the broader community be aware that the end of treatment isn’t necessarily the end of the effectsformanypeople.Don’tbesurprised whentheyhavearoughdayorweek,when they’re frustrated that they will never be the person they were before cancer. Just be there for them, with us.
Tracey’s hands were so sore due to side effects that even breathing on them hurt.
Tracey had just enough hair regrowth following chemotherapy to be the ‘cool grandma’ for her twin granddaughters’ fifth birthday party. She had S for Sophie shaved on one side of her head and L for Lily on the other.
Star News editorial coordinator Tracey Matthies underwent chemotherapy to treat her breast cancer. Tracey was immunocompromised during treatment and had to protect herself from possible infection on an outing with husband, Colin (pictured right). (Pictures: Supplied)
Seven ways to foster strong social bonds in your village
At Centennial Living retirement villages, we see daily how much connection matters. Residents living in Long Island Village in Reservoir and Bundoora Villages tell us that the real joy of village life lies in the friendships they have built. If you are wondering how to build social connection in a retirement village, here are seven practical ways to get started.
1. Participate in Community Activities: Oneoftheeasiestwaystomeetpeopleisby taking part in village activities. Morning teas, group classes, arts and crafts workshops, dinners or event celebrations all provide opportunities to strike up a conversation and share a laugh.
2. Join Interest-Based Clubs: Shared interests are a natural starting point for friendships. Joining a book club, a gardening group, or a walking club is a simple way to meet neighbours with similar passions. These clubs often lead to regular get-togethers, giving you both companionship and a sense of routine.
3.ExploreAdventureActivitiesSuitedto AllAges: Retirement is about enjoying life at your own pace. Many residents find joy in outdoor adventures or gentle exercise group activities. Organised day tours to nearbyattractionsareallexcellentwaysto spend time together.The best part of these activities is creating shared memories. Trying new things together builds confidence and community spirit too.
4. Volunteering: Helping others is one of the most fulfilling ways to connect with your community. Volunteering could mean organising a social event,
lending a hand with a community garden, or supporting a charity project. These activities not only create opportunities to meet people but also give you a sense of purpose and pride.
5.BeProactiveinMakingIntroductions: Sometimes connection begins with something as simple as a smile or a “hello.” Greeting neighbours in the garden, sitting with someone new at an event, or introducing two people to eachotheraresmallgesturesthatcanlead
to lasting friendships.
6. Create a Welcoming Environment: The spaces we share play a big role in encouraging connection. Comfortable lounges, sunny gardens or outdoor areas are natural meeting points where people cancometogether.Spendingtimeinthese spaces helps conversations flow more easily.
7. Stay Open to Diverse Friendships and Seek Support: A big advantage of
retirement village life is meeting people from all walks of life and hearing their stories.Beingopentodifferentfriendships makes your own experience better and creates a more inclusive community. Making and preserving social contacts inretirementisoneofthebestinvestments you can make in your health. Centennial Living villages make connections easy and meaningful. Friendly spaces, friendly staff and social calendars encourage bonds that last.
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
Lalor Men’s Shed Open Day
Join the Lalor and District Men’s Shed for its open day on Saturday 29 November, between 10am-3pm. Take a glance at the shed’s large variety of handmade items, enjoy a sausage sizzle and look at joining the Men’s Shed group. Open to all men 18 and over. 34 Robert Street, Lalor.
Merv Landy, 0480 193 939
Gladstone Park Probus Club
Have fun with like minded people if you live in Gladstone Park and surrounding suburbs. Monthly speakers, lunches, outings and bus tours. The probus club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 9.45am at the Good Shepherd Parish Hall, 88 South Circular Road, Gladstone Park. Visitors and new members welcome.
Chris, 0422 017 907
Craft Market
Enjoy a craft market, Devonshire tea and a 16-car vintage car display at Bridgewater Retirement Village on Saturday 29 November 9am-2pm where all money raised will go to children’s charities. Stall holders welcome. 9 Wedgewood Road, Roxburgh Park.
Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, or lizmunro7@gmail.com
Bundoora Probus
Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peter’s Anglican Church Hall, Alma Road, Bundoora, at 10am. Make new friends at excursions, lunches, coffee mornings, walks and craft sessions. Hear guest speakers at monthly meetings.
Leanne, 0419 004 997
Young parents group
DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young parents every Thursday, from 10.30am-noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 McDonalds Road, Mill Park.
Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819
Community singing group
Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing.
Sonja, 0429 587 285
Chatty Cafe
Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park.
https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/
TAC L2P Program
The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.
Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371
Adult education
Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.
9309 8531
Homestead Walking Group
Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk.
https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x
Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club
The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker. Enjoy a dance between 7-11pm on the third Saturday of every month. All are welcome.
Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, or lizmunro7@gmail.com
Craft and Conversation
Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.
humelibraries.vic.gov.au
Community lunch in Roxburgh Park
Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x
Craigieburn Toastmasters
Craigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. It meets the first and third Thursday, from 7-9pm, at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton Street, Craigieburn.
Education and community centre
Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding
technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner English and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.
9308 1477 or www.craigieburn.org.au
Whittlesea Historical Society
The Whittlesea Historical Society welcomes anyone interested in the history of the City of Whittlesea area. A meeting schedule is available on the society’s website.
www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au
Indigenous Community Gardens
Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month, 11am-noon, to showcase the gardens at the corner Toora Drive and Redan Court. All are welcome.
Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com
Craigieburn Residents Association
Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening about roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? Go along to the Craigieburn Residents Association and tell them about it. The association liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. They also give annual donations to a local charity each year. They meet on the last Wednesday of the month at Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn, 7.30pm.
craigieburnresidents@gmail,com, or 0401 369 311
Menergise men’s walk and talk Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House. A nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze.
0475 454 133
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
Senior citizens meet
The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the corner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.
Liz, 0433 249 995
Craigieburn Probus Club
Craigieburn Probus Club offers retired people an opportunity to socialise, go on monthly bus trips, enjoy dine outs and morning melodies among other activities like general business, morning tea and an interesting speaker. Every second Monday of the month at the Craigieburn Bowling Club, 233 Craigieburn Road, Craigieburn. Bill, 0411 517 217 or Marion, 0407 052 774
Inclusive tennis
A free weekly tennis program for people with disabilities and/or special needs, or if you’re just struggling to access mainstream sport programs. Held at Epping Tennis Club, 861 High Street, Epping, on Thursdays from 5-6pm.
play.tennis.com.au/eppingtennisclub. com.au
Mernda Repair cafe
Located at Mernda Neighbourhood House, the Mernda Repair Café will be open monthly for residents to come and have their faulty or broken items fixed. Staffed by skilled volunteers from the community. A range of repairers will be available at each session with skills in repairing items including bikes, small electrical items, clothing and jewellery.
Mernda Repair Cafe Facebook page for bookings each month.
Regular Storytime for Kids
Yarra Plenty Regional Library offers a range of children’s services and programs across their network of libraries. They are run every day with sessions for young babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and families. Come along to help your child develop those crucial language skills and social connections.
yprl.vic.gov.au
Little Diggers
Each week, Little Diggers provides creative craft activities and movement based games for children (eg: hide and seek, duck- duckgoose, grandmothers footsteps, charades etc.). Thursdays 3.30-5pm. Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown. Please note, children must be accompanied by a carer (16+).
0488 224 439 or manager@tnh.org.au
All Seasons
All Seasons provides young adults living with disabilities and their friends, family and carers, with the opportunity to garden, craft, recycle, be creative and connect nature in a supportive setting. Tuesdays 10am-noon. Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown.
0488 224 439 or manager@tnh.org.au
Recycled Teenagers Group for seniors Come and join the Recycled Teenagers every Tuesday between noon-3pm. Play Bingo, hold games days and enjoy monthly lunches. A $10 yearly fee, includes tea, coffee and afternoon tea every week. Natasha, 0408 561 597
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Natalie Davis and Beth Johnson who organised Tyldenvania to celebrate Halloween in the town of Tylden. (Damjan Janevski) 514408_01
Exploring the roots of okra
For artist Avrille Burrows, the okra is a pointoffascinationandcuriosity.
One time, when her partner and family were cooking with the vegetable, Burrows hadtheideatocreateartisticworksofokra.
“I went on this journey of doing it in plaster, doing it in clay, cooking it, growing it,”Burrowssaid.
“I’ve made 300 or 400 out of the clay. I make each one by hand. It’s not a mold or anything.”
Inherexhibition,‘OkraMemory’,Burrows honours the vegetable’s resilience and adaptability, its role in intergenerational
memory, and its enduring presence in blackandbrownkitchens.
Works in the exhibition were informed by Burrows’ extensive research on the vegetable.
“It just gave me a pretty interesting insight into how sturdy the plant was and how drought-resistant it was, and where it originated from –Ethiopia, West Sudan –andhowitgottoIndia,”Burrowssaid.
“Ithadthismetaphorofbeingabletostill be quite resilient … It’s able to adapt to its environment.
“I think I took it as a metaphor for our
existence here as immigrants as well, comingfromourhomecountries.”
Burrows is also an accredited mental healthsocialworkerandartstherapist.
She said her art is informed by her therapywork.
“Bringing that aspect into it is pretty important,”Burrowssaid.
‘Okra Memory’, a free exhibition supported by Brimbank Council, is showing at the Sunshine Art Spaces Window Gallery, 2 City Place, Sunshine until27November.
Details:creativebrimbank.com.au
Musical takes a wild trip to the nineties
The Williamstown Musical Theatre Company(WMTC)ispartyinglikeit’s1999 withitslatestproduction:CruelIntentions: The’90sMusical.
Based on the film of the same name and featuringascoremadeupofhitsongsfrom the 1990s, Cruel Intentions transports audiences back to the final decade of the 20th century and into the manipulative world of Manhattan’s most dangerous liaisons: Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil.
Seduced by revenge and fuelled by passion, the two step-siblings place a bet
on whether or not Sebastian can deflower their incoming headmaster’s daughter, AnnetteHargrove.
Yes,really.
It’s all rather silly, but it’s the sort of fare that pulled in millions of fans around the turn of the century, including WMTC director,StuartDodge.
“Cruel Intentions was one of those movies that hit hard for me,” Dodge said.
“Ibloodylovedit.”
Most of the cast members weren’t even born when the film came out 26 years
ago, which Dodge said had caused some confusion in rehearsals due to unfamiliar lingointhescript.
“It’s been so funny for us old buggers on theproductionteamtoseethescandalized faces of the cast when some of the more dated terms and words are thrown about onstage.”
Thosewhogrew-upinthaterawillsurely getthereferencesthoughiftheyattendone the 10 performances at the Altona Theatre from7-22November.
Tickets can be booked by calling 1300881545orvisiting:wmtc.org.au
Festive cheer at Wyndham’s Carols by Candlelight
Wyndham Carols by Candlelight is set to return to the Great Lawn of Werribee Mansion on Saturday 13 December for what promises to be a magical evening of music, family fun, carols and community Christmas spirit.
With 35 years of tradition, this event has grown to become Victoria’s largest Christmas celebration outside of Melbourne’s Christmas Eve concert, according to organisers.
Organisers expect more than 6000 people to attend this year’s event.
Headlining this year’s line-up is the internationally renowned singer-songwriter and Wyndham local Fatai Veamatahau.
Her rich vocal range and blending of soul and pop has led to her sharing the stage with the likes of Guy Sebastian,
Jessica Mauboy, and PJ Morton, as well as tour the United States, United Kingdom and Europe.
She will be accompanied by the sensational Salvation Army Melbourne
Good vibrations hit Bundoora
A new twilight concert is making its way to Whittlesea, set to light up Bundoora as spring comes to a close with Bundoora Beats 2025 bringing live music, food and community spirit to Norris Bank Reserve on Saturday 29 November.
The free, family-friendly event invites locals to unwind under the gum trees with a lively line-up of Melbourne talent in JAZZPARTY, Jess Ribeiro, Charlie Needs Braces and Ramona Sky.
Adding to the festive atmosphere will be roving performers, kids’ activities and a tempting array of food stalls.
Music and foodie lovers are invited to spread out a picnic rug and bring the whole family for an evening of home-grown music in Melbourne’s diverse and creative musical lineup.
Families can look forward to plenty to keep the little ones entertained with face painting, badge-making and bubble shows, while the park becomes filled with rhythm and colour.
Headliners JAZZPARTY are renowned for their high-energy shows, blending 50s RnB, mambo, punk, ragtime, calypso and soul into a sound that gets everyone dancing.
The evening will be hosted by popular Melbourne emcee BennyGregs, known for his infectious energy and fancy flair.
Staff Band who has graced us with their full and magical sound for the last few years.
The Wyndham Carols by Candlelight is a non-profit event organised by the Wyndham Ministers Network, representing over 17 local churches in the Wyndham area, and supported by the Wyndham City Council.
This year’s program will also feature the nativity procession.
Gates will open at 5pm, giving families time to enjoy pre-show activities, including a wide selection of food trucks and kids’ activities.
People are encouraged to invite their friends and family along to make a spectacular night of it and spread the Christmas cheer as far as they can.
Tickets: www.wyndhamcarols.org.au
Guests can bring their own picnic or sample local favourites from Pizza Forno X’Press, Twisted Temptations, Balkan Bites, Bundoora Rotary Sausage Sizzle and Cruising Creams Ice Cream. City of Whittlesea Mayor Martin TaylorsaidBundooraBeatsisabout celebrating creativity, connection and community.
“We’re proud to offer a free, family-friendly event that showcases amazing local and emergingartistswhileencouraging everyone to enjoy our beautiful parklands at twilight,” he said.
“Whether you come with family, friends or a picnic rug, Bundoora Beats promises a fantastic night out close to home.”
Details: Norris Bank Reserve, McLeans Road, Bundoora, Saturday 29 November, 6pm to 10pm
Thiseventisfreeandnobookings are required
The cast of Williamstown Musical Theatre Company’s latest production, Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical. (Supplied)
‘Okra Memory’ is a free exhibition showing until 27 November. (Charmine Moorhouse)
Wyndham Carols By Candlelight is returning.
Heritage Woven Wire & Gates are Powdercoated in 8 standard colours.
They are also available in a galvanised finish. Gates come in 7 different pedestrian and driveway styles.
For your local distributor please call: 1300 360 082 Fax: (03) 9308 5822
Email: sales@emuwire.com.au
Dr. Tony Stubbs, Eye Surgeon, says that just about anyone can have their vision restored and be rid of their glasses for most of the time. And this is without the use of laser surgery.
Dr Stubbs formerly at the Royal Victorian Eye Hospital who has worked with the Fred Hollows eye department at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, says he began his career through the inspiration of his father, Dr Maxwell Stubbs.
“My father was a pioneer in cataract implant surgery from 1963! He has now passed away but some of his patients still come in for a check-up. Not only is this inspirational, it also demonstrates that good surgery outlasts the surgeon,” Dr Stubbs says.
A specialist who helps people who have been advised they are unsuitable for laser surgery, Dr Stubbs is also committed to demonstrating that age, corneal distortion or astigmatism are no barriers to eliminating the need for glasses.
One of my best moments was treating a 12-year-old girl who was struggling at school because of poor vision due to congenital cataracts even with the use of thick glasses. Now 10 years later, she still has 20/20 vision without glasses. That inspires me.
“Seeing my patients’ bright smiles after surgery, as they stop squinting and can read without glasses, is definitely the best part of my job.”
No referral is needed and no out-of-pocket expenses are incurred for an assessment to enable all options available to be considered.
Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.
Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.
Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
1 Cutting tooth (7)
5 Tidies, – up (7)
9 Rally participant (9)
10 Around (5) 11 Scanty (6) 12 Australian food spread made from yeast (8)
14 Admirably brave (6)
15 Vampire tooth (4) 19 Burden (4)
20 Bug (6) 24 Bloopers (8)
25 Strip (6)
27 Streets (5)
28 Liveliness (9)
29 Accidents (7)
30 Afternoon rests (Sp) (7)
1 Mischievous (6)
2 Hymn tune (6)
3 Draws (8)
4 Mechanical procedure (4)
5 Respect (coll) (6,4)
6 Vehicle propelled by explosive thrust (6) 7 Circus (8)
8 Search in discarded waste (8) 13 Big string instrument (6,4)
16 Image made of light beams (8)
17 Weddings (8)
18 Last (8)
21 Sickness (6)
22 Favouring one or the other gender (6)
23 Compensates (6)
26 Life simulation series developed by Maxis, The – (4)
1 What is the birthstone for the month of May?
2 Actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas (pictured) is married to which Jonas brother?
3 If something is squamous, what is it covered with?
4 What do the letters of the company IBM stand for?
5 Which is closer to Australia: the Tropic of Cancer or the Tropic of Capricorn?
6 Is a brouhaha a laugh, drink or an uproar?
7 In Greek mythology, what was the name of Jason's ship?
8 By what modern name is the Victorian era ‘snap dog’ known?
9 Leopold Bloom is the protagonist of which 20th-century novel?
10 What nationality was the folk hero William Tell?
Lexus UX hefty price rise
By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring
The Lexus UX range of compact SUVs has been on sale in Australia since 2019, originally as the UX 250 with the choice of petrolorhybridpowertrains.Afullyelectric variant was added in 2021 with the current UX 300 replacing the UX 250 and dropping thepetroloption.
TheUX300ewasdiscontinuedearlierthis year.
We’re told the name stands for Urban Explorer which, sort of, identifies its target audience.
A compact SUV, the UX 300 sits on the same platform as the Toyota Corolla hatch, CorollaCrossandC-HRSUV.
The UX 300h hybrid comes in three variants, Luxury, Sports Luxury and F Sport Luxury is front-wheel drive only, the higher-spec models adding the option of all-wheel drive. Prices range from $55,370 forthe300h2WDLuxurythroughto$73,210 for the AWD F Sport On-road costs need to beadded.
Optional Enhancement Packs are available with additional features over those that are standard in the particular models. These range from $2050 through to $5600withtheFSport.
Our test vehicle was the UX 300h Sports Luxury.
Styling
Although classed as a compact SUV the UX 300h is 4.5 metres long and so just 10cm shorter and 15cm lower than the Toyota RAV4,givingitmoreofahatchbackthanan SUVprofile.
The front of the UX 300h is dominated by the characteristic Lexus ‘spindle’ grille with vertical fins on the outer edges and eyebrow-likeLEDheadlightsandvertical.
Standard in all models are heated and powered folding door mirrors, rear privacy glass,roofrailsandasharkfinantenna.
TheFSportgetsitsowndesignforitsfront and rear bumper, F Mesh grille, jet black platingandfrontfenderemblems.
A moonroof with opening tilt and slide function is standard on the AWD Sports Luxury and F Sport and through EnhancementPacksintheothervariants.
The UX 300h Luxury comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, Sports Luxury and F Sport get differingdesignsof18-inchalloys.
Up to 10 exterior colours are available dependingonthevariant.
Interior
ThecabinoftheUX300hasapremiumlook and feel, which is expected from any Lexus vehicle.
The front seats are comfortable and supportive with synthetic leather in the F-Sport and Sports Luxury. The entry level LuxurygetsNuluxinteriortrim.
All models come with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and eight-way for the front passenger. All are heated but only the F-Sport and Sports Luxury are ventilated.
The steering wheel is powered with both heightandreachadjustment.
Switches for the seat heaters and seat ventilation are integrated into the upper console.
Leather-accentedsteeringwheelandgear knobarestandardinallvariants.
Safety Safety starts with eight airbags including driverandfrontpassengerdualstage,driver and passenger knee bags, driver and front passengersideairbagsandleftandrightfull curtainprotection.
The Lexus Safety System+ is the brand’s
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 9/10
Practicality: 7.5/10
Comfort: 8/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 7/10
AdvancedDriverAssistanceSystem(ADAS) that uses sensors, cameras and radars to alert drivers on potential problems. It includes a pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and daylight cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, road sign assist, blind spot monitoringandparkingsupport.
Other safety features include rear cross-traffic alert, hill start assist, low tyre pressure warning, rear Isofix child seat anchorsandrearseatoccupantreminder.
F-Sport and Sports Luxury add auto-levelling three-eye Bi-Beam LED headlamps.
Drivetrain
Powerisprovidedbya2.0-litre,four-cylinder direct petrol injection engine producing 112 Kw and 188 Nm. This is backed by a permanent-magnetmotorandalightweight lithium-ion battery giving combined maximumoutputsof146kWand206Nm.
This is put to ground through an electronic continuously variable automatic transmissionandall-wheeldrivesystem.
The F-Sport and Sports Luxury AWD variants come with the Lexus E-Four system.Thisusesadedicatedelectricmotor mounted to the rear axle to automatically provideextragripinslipperyconditions.
Infotainment
A 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen supportsfullsmartphonepairingincluding
wirelessAndroidAutoandAppleCarPlay.
The digital instrument cluster is also 12.3-inchandcanbecustomisedaccording todriverpreferences.
Luxury and 2WD Sports Luxury get a 10-Speaker Lexus Premium Sound System; AM/FM radio, MP3 and WMA (Windows MediaAudio)playcompatible.
Sports Luxury and F Sport graduate to a 13-Speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System; Clari-FI and QuantumLogicSurround.
Driving
Although it’s a relatively small vehicle it’s easy to get into and out of thanks to large doorsandafairlyhighgroundclearance.
There is a colour head-up display but it only comes with Enhancement Packages in theF-SportandSportsLuxury.
On the road the Lexus UX 300h is quiet inside, at least on smooth bitumen. It’s versatile, easy to maneuver around town but not challenged on motorways where it’s reasonablysmoothandcanbepushedhard withoutbitingback.
The transmission is smooth with instant response. In manual mode switching between 3rd, 4th and 5th gears keeps the engine in the preferred power zone at all times.
The steering is relatively light with a nice leveloffeedback.
Handlingisneutral,thankstoalowcentre of gravity, with progressive breakaway,
controlled with some steering input, but some tyre squeal is evident during tight cornering.
The brakes are well-balanced although a bittooaggressiveforourtaste.
There are three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. Eco mode maximises fuel savings across all driving conditions by smoothing the throttle response and by moderating air-conditioning operation. Normal mode provides an optimal balance between driving performance and fuel efficiency. Sport Mode delivers quicker throttle response and increased power steeringfeel.
Fuelconsumptionislistedas4.4litresper 100 kilometres on the combined cycle. We averaged a tad under 5.0 L/100km during ourtest.
Summary
Comparisons between Toyota and Lexus models are inevitable, often coming down tocomparingcost/benefitanalysisbetween similarvehicles.
In the case of the Lexus UX 300h it sits around the same size as the Corolla Cross SUV but costs almost $20,000 less. Both are hybridswiththesamepowertrainincluding anall-wheeldriveoption.
The UX brings the higher level of prestige and extra quality that’s expected from any Lexus vehicle. But is that, together with the different badge, enough to justify the 20-grandpricehike?
The UX brings the higher level of prestige and extra quality that’s expected from any Lexus vehicle. (Pictures: Supplied)
‘Exciting times ahead’ as Sterjovski joins Craigieburn City
By Tara Murray
NewCraigieburnCitycoachTonySterjovski
is keen to lead a new era at the FV state league 3 north-west club.
Sterjovski has been appointed coach for next season, replacing Nick Murphy, who stepped up as coach when inaugural men’s coach Michael Loche stood down during the season.
Sterjovski brings a wealth of experience, having spent five years in Germany with Tennis Borussia before returning to play in the Victorian Premier League, where he achieved great success — including a 2007 championship with Preston Lions. He also represented Hume City and Fawkner Blues throughout his playing career.
Transitioning into coaching, Tony guided Lalor United to back-to-back titles in 2018 and 2019 and has since coached at Uni Hill and Albion.
Sterjovski said it was a really good opportunity to join Craigieburn.
“It’s a really exciting time ahead,” he said. “The club has a vision and is clear and transparent with what they want to achieve in 2026.
“It’s exciting to jump on board and create that winning culture again.”
Sterjovski started last season at Uni Hill Eagles after a long stint with Lalor United. After that didn’t work out, he finished the year at Albion Rovers but was keen for a new challenge in 2026.
The new coach said the growth of Craigieburn City and expected continued growth in the area was something that he was excited about.
“The main goal is to be competitive and push for promotion,” he said. “We’re building a squad that has the right balance and hunger.
“Players connected to the club and each
other and creating a winning culture.”
Sterjovskisaidhehadbigshoestofillwith what Loche was able to achieve in the club in his time.
He took them from state league 5 through to state league 2.
The past couple of seasons, Craigieburn has struggled to match it with the top sides in the state league 2 competition for the whole season.
It finished bottom this year and will drop back to state league 3 north-west for next season.
Sterjovski said he wanted to bring success to the club and the supporters.
“Not too fussed what league we are in,” he said.
Sterjovskiisalreadyhardatworkaheadof next season.
He said they had already locked in some newplayersaheadofthepre-seasonkicking off in December.
Focusing on footy
By Tara Murray
CalderCannons’CooperDuff-Tytleradmits he might have made the call to choose football over basketball earlier if he knew what was to come.
The Woodend teenager had made his name in both basketball and football, including representing Australia in basketball.
Late last year he made the call to focus on just playing football.
Since then Duff-Tytler’s name has been on the minds of AFL recruiters with the ruck-forward set to be taken in the top few picks in the draft.
“If someone had told me it would go this well, I probably would have made the decision sooner,” Duff-Tytler said.
“I’m pretty happy with it. I think it was just the work that I put in over the previous years, even through basketball.
“Just learning the work ethic and it translatingoverintofooty,Ithinkitheldme in good stead.”
While there has been hype surrounding the tall, Duff-Tytler said he had just focused onwhathecoulddoandintheenditwasup to AFL recruiters where he is selected.
Afterabackinjuryearlyinthepre-season, Duff-Tytler cracked in and did his first full pre-season focusing on just one sport.
He said he felt that he was able to stay mentally prepared in whatever program he entered.
“Getting back to Cannons in January, February, March it was good to be able to focus and I played some strong footy at the start of the year,“ he said.
“It kind of showed when I got that consistency, my game has improved.”
Duff-Tytler, who also played school footy atPEGS,waspartoftheVictorianMetroside for the national championships mid-year.
He said it wasn’t quite what he and the team had hoped for.
“I wasn’t overly happy with my nationals campaign,” he said. “I would have liked to have done a bit more and as a team we would have liked to have gone better than going 2-2.
“We had kind of been hoping to win the whole thing.
“I think I still showed off some traits and stuff which is important, but I would have liked to do a bit more.”
Duff-Tytler got his opportunity in the Victorian Football League as well with Essendon, kicking three goals on debut. He said he felt that he belonged at that level.
“I was excited to kind of step up to VFL level and see how my game would translate,” he said. “Essendon did a really
good job of embracing me and bringing me in, which is key for me having a decent day.
“It was good to get that experience and to play ok, even better.
“My game was good enough to step up to the next level, maybe some people didn’t expect me to play that well.”
Duff-Tytler said being able to play ruck andforwardwasoneofhisbiggeststrengths and would open more doors heading into the AFL.
He said it had been a pretty surreal experience having AFL clubs come to his house to chat.
Whittlesea lock in netball coaches
Two Whittlesea young guns, including a Melbourne Vixens training partner, have been named Whittlesea’s coaches for next year’s Northern Netball League season.
Ella Tennant has been named the club’s senior head coach.
She has played with Whittlesea in recent years, having also played at Diamond Creek juniors.
Tennant has been part of the Victorian Netball League for the past five seasons, playing with North East Blaze the past four years.
The goaler has been promoted in the championship team for next season.
Joining Tennant in the Eagles coaching ranks is Tara Watson. Watson, who grew up in Whittlesea and has played for the club, is one of the rising start of Victorian netball.
ShemadeherSuncorpSuperNetball debut in the Melbourne Vixens come from behind preliminary final win last year.
Watson was recently named as a training partners for the Vixens for a second straight year.
The midcourter plays at the Blaze with Tennant as well.
“We are both so excited for the 2026 season and to be both stepping into the new roles,“ the pair said on social media.
“Whilst continuing the success throughout the four teams from 2025. We can’t wait to get stuck into the new season, hopefully bringing more new faces down to the club & building something special for the WFNC in 2026 and into the future.“
Elise Keith has been named the club’s senior netball coordinator with Amy Goodwin named the senior assistant netball coordinator.
Heading interstate would be an exciting challenge which Duff-Tytler said was something he was prepared for.
With the draft soon approaching on November 19, Duff-Tytler is focused on his year 12 exams.
“I’ve kind of done everything I can for the draft now,” he said.
“I’m just trying and prepare myself for when it does happen to be ready to |come into a club, just through individual training.
“Not much more I can do for the draft now, I can focus on exams.”
Cooper Duff-Tytler. (AFL Photos)
Ella Tennant and Tara Watson. (Whittlesea FNC Facebook)
Tony Sterjovski. (Craigieburn City)
Power appoints co-coaches to spearhead a new era
By Tara Murray
It’sthebeginningofaneweraforLaurimar in the Northern Football League women’s competition.
After a tough 2025 where it won just two games in division 3, the Power has locked innewcoachesfornextyear.
Chris Morton and Sam Halpin will be co-coaches this season, hoping to guide thesideuptheladder.
Thepairwerekeenspectatorslastseason and decided they wanted to step up and helpthesidedevelop.
“We’re very keen and we can’t wait for it to start to be honest,” Morton said. “Since we got appointed we’ve been trying to get everything in place ready to go and we’re just waiting for pre-season to start and get stuckintoit.”
Halpin, who has played in the reserves side for a number of years, started his involvement in the women’s side when his
partner playing in the women’s side the pasttwoyears.
He said with the side struggling for numbers at times and not getting many wins, it had been tough on the playing group.
That’s when the pair decided to put their handsup.
“Webothcametogetherandthoughtwhy notgiveitacrack,”hesaid.“Westeppedup totheplate,welandedthegig.
“We’re both really excited, imprinting a bit of our experience onto the girls and drivingabitofexcitementandculture.”
It will be the first time Halpin has coached football, but has more than 10 years of basketball coaching experience includingatahighlevel.
Morton was assistant coach for Laurimar’s reserves side when it won the premiershiplastyear.
Halpin said the reaction had been really positive.
“I’ve had an influx of messages,” he said. “Thegirlswererapt,Iwaspartofthegroup towards the end of the season, last year beingarunner.
“Bunch of girls have massaged Chris through his job who have said they would comedown.
“We’ve passively recruited about
Hocking steps up
By Tara Murray
One of Roxburgh Park’s biggest supporters of its women’s side will take on the coaching role for next year’s Essendon DistrictFootballLeaguewomen’sseason.
Kaine Hocking, who has held a number of different roles at the Magpies, will step intocoachthewomen’sside.
Hocking said he was excited by the opportunity.
“I’m very excited,” he said. “It has been a while since I’ve coached, I’m a bit more maturethanmyfirsttimecoaching.
“I’m a bit more grounded and thinking about where to start and what we need to do. The response from the women we have inourgrouphasbeenpositive.
“You’re always nervous how people will respondtochangeandanewcoach.”
“Thefeedbackhasbeengood.”
Kevin Allan had coached the side the past two seasons after returning to the competition,takingittofinalsbothyears.
The club decided to advertise the role at the end of this year and when Allan didn’t re-apply, Hocking decided to put his hand up.
Hocking is a premiership winning reserves coach at Coburg Districts and previously coached the Magpies reserves side.
“I have interest in the women’s program andIdon’twanttoloseit,“Hockingsaid.
Hocking said one thing he was looking forwardtowascoachinghisniecewhowill besteppingintohersecondyearoffootball.
He said conversations with players were happeningaboutwhattheywerelookingat doingnextseason.
“We’re figuring it out, but we still think a highpercentagewillstayon,”hesaid.
“We’re speaking to nine or 10 players about coming across and how many come throughisunknown.
“It’s been successful the first two years withKevin,ithasbeengoodtomakefinals twoyearsinarow.”
Hocking said the playing group was driving that success and wanted to continuethatwhilehavingfun.
The Magpies have some recruits in the works, which Hocking said they would hopefullyannounceinthenextfewweeks.
Thefirstofthoserecruitswasannounced on Thursday with Haylea Cooke crossing fromGreenvaleinpremierdivision.
Cooke started her football with the Magpies and will add to the Magpies attackingoptions.
Shehaspreviouslybeennamedinteams of the year and is an experienced player to addtothemix.
He said they want to push into division 1 in the coming years and and hopefully pushgettingmorejuniorgirlsplaying. The club is looking to try and get a youth girls side up for next year as well, with some senior players keen to be involved in driving that so there is a
10 players already and it’s only been announcedforaweekandhalf.”
Morton said while there were a number ofplayersalreadykeentocomedown,they were hoping to get some more players on board.
He said players of any skill level were welcome.
“It’sbeenafewleanyearsforthewomen,” he said. “They’ve struggled with numbers andthat’snotuncommonaroundwomen’s footballatthemoment.
“Therewasalargemixofgirlsplayedalot of football, grist here for their first year or comingintotheirsecondyear.
“I think we’re most excited about it, almostgetablankcanvasandwecanreset. We get to go in and teach girls the basics andstartatthefundamentals.”
The pair said there was no pressure on themorthegroupintermsofwins.Hesaid it was about setting up the culture and the fundamentalsandbuildingfromthere.
Rising stars recognised at tennis awards
Sunbury’s Jin Woodman’s and Bundoora’s Ava Beck’s rise up the tennis ranks have seen them again recognised the Tennis Victoria awardsnight.
Woodman, who trains at the Hume Tennis and Community Centre,wasnamedTennisVictoria’s most outstanding athlete with a disability.
The teenager, who was also up for the top award of Victorian player of theyear,
It’s a second straight Tennis Victoriaawardhavingwonthemale junior athlete of the year award last year.
The 16-year-old has risen to number three in the junior singles ITF rankings and number nine quadsinglesasofSeptember.
Earlier this year, Woodman was supposed to go to Korea and Japan tocompete,butsufferedaninjuryto hisfemurwhichforcedhimtotakea breakfromtennis.
Having returned to the court at the US Open, where he avenged his 2025 Australian Open defeat to Ahmet Kaplan from Turkey, defeating the number four seed to reach the US Open quad singles quarterfinals.
Beck won the junior female athlete of the year award for a secondstraightyear.
She was just five when she picked up a tennis racket at Bundoora TennisClubandneverlookedback.
After reaching a career high juniorrankingof103inOctoberlast year, she continued to build and reached a career high ranking of 82 duringthenominationperiod.
The 17-year-old claimed singles titles at the J200 Miki and J100 Canberra before adding the 2025 J100 Mornington crown to her record.
She also competed at the 2025 Australian Open juniors, reaching the round of 64 in singles and the roundof32indoubles.
pathwaymovingforward.
Hocking said they were after interested players for both the women’s and youth leaguegirlssides.
Any interested players can contact: https://www.facebook.com/ RoxburghParkFootballNetballClub
Indoubles,Beck’ssuccessincludes titles at the J300 Beaulieu-sur-Mer, J100CanberraandJ100Mornington in 2025, as well as the J200 Sydney andJ100Canberrain2024.
Chris Morton and Sam Halpin. (Laurimar FC)
Haylea Cooke and Kaine Hocking. (Roxburgh Park FNC)
Split weekend results for Bundoora
It was a mixed weekend for Bundoora in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division, as it split the results on the weekend.
Despitetherainthroughouttheweekend, there was plenty of premier division action with round three and round matches underway.
On Friday night, Bundoora was at home against Essendon and managed to get across the line in a close one, winning 76 (16)-69 (2).
Kaleb Shaw’s rink won 23-19, Ben Hubber’s rink won 19-14 and Matthew Kurta’s rink won 22-16.
Gary Kelly’s rink lost 20-12. BundoorawasbackinactiononSaturday against Moonee Valley.
Despite heavy rain falling all day, the match was completed with Moonee Valley winning, 88 (16)-80 (2).
Shaw made it two wins of the weekend, with his rink winning 21-18.
Kurta’s rink lost by one shot, 22-21, while Hubber’s rink lost 25-17.
Christopher Carswell, skipped in the absence of Kelly, with his rink losing 23-21.
After four rounds, Bundoora has a 2-2 record.
Itdoesn’tgetanyeasierforBundoorathis Saturday as it faces Deer Park, which has started the season strongly.
In premier reserve, Lalor claimed the points in both of its matches.
On Friday night, it had a big win against Flemington Kensington.
Nathan Rice’s rink had the biggest win on the day, winning 26-12
Matthew Lucas’ rink won 21-16, while Sebastian Pretty’s rink won 20-14 and Wally Hutson’s rink had a 20-16 win.
OnSaturday,Lalorwasagaininfineform with a 9 (18)-63 (0) win.
Lucas’ rink won 27-20, Pretty’s rink won 22-14, Hutson’s rink got over the line 24-13 and it was a 23-16 win for Rice’s rink.
Afterfourrounds,Lalorsitsatopthetable with four wins from as many matches.
Seven Lalor players have won their rink each week.
While the top couple of divisions got on the green, results were sparse in the other grades as rain washed out matches.
In division 1, section 1, Whittlesea claimed the points with Yarraville Footscray 2 forfeiting. Only one match was played in that division.
In division 1, section 2, Bundoora 2’s match with Mitcham was washed out, while Whittlesea 2 forfeited to Yarra Glen.
Meanwhile in division 2, section 1, Craigieburn was the unlucky team.
Facing Club Sunbury, which has an undercoverdome,theEagleslost95(14)-68 (4).
Max Smith and Marcus Denes were the winning skips for Craigieburn.
It was the only match that went ahead in that section.
Coaching changes
By Tara Murray
Thomastown is keen to bounce back next season with a new-look coaching panel in the Northern Football League division 2 competition.
The Bears finished second bottom this season after making finals last year with not a lot going their way.
Sash Spiroski will remain as coach next season, but his co-coach David Folino has made the decision to step down due to work commitments.
Supporting Spiroski will be new director of football, Paul Harris, and assistant coaches Adem Shemshedin and Ryan Fort. Spiroski said it was an exciting time ahead and he was looking forward to the challenge.
“It’s a big shift this year with David not continuing on,” he said. “We’ve added three guys who are coming in. Paul Harris has experience from division 1.
“It’s huge for myself and the whole club.”
Spiroski said he had been keen on going on as coach for a third season even when Folino decided he wasn’t going to continue on.
He said he never thought to step away from the role.
“Without Dave we needed to get some extra hands on deck,” he said.
“There was a big focus on getting help off field and we’re pretty happy with them coming on board.”
Harris was previously co-coach with Banyule with Ricky Dyson where they won a premiership, while he was assistant coach to Dyson at Bundoora.
Spiroski said bringing that division 1 experiencetotheclubwouldbeimportant.
“He’s been at some successful clubs and to have him around from a learning point of view for myself is massive.”
Shemshedin returns to the club after a year out of the box and has coached many of the players when he was the club’s under-19s premiership coach in 2023.
Fort has been a key part of Harris’ coaching panel at Banyule and Bundoora.
Spiroski admits that 2025 was a tough season and not what they had envisaged at the start of the year.
With just four wins, the Bears were in the relegation battle instead of the finals’ battle.
“It wasn’t ideal,” Spiroski said. “There was still plenty of growth and we’ll look to bounce back quickly.
“The playing group has been impressive
Blow for Watson
Whittlesea’s Tara Watson will spend significant time on the sidelines after a serious knee injury.
The Melbourne Vixens announced that Watson, a Vixens training partner, had sustained a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while competing for the Australian pathwaysteamonitsrecentthree-day international tour in Tonga.
Elevated as the Vixens’ eleventh player in 2025, Watson made her memorable debut in the club’s come-from-behind preliminary final win over the NSW Swifts.
A training partner for the first time this season with the Melbourne Vixens, Watson has sat on the bench for a number of weeks as a replacement for the injured Hannah Mundy.
The versatile 20-year-old plays across all three midcourt positions, and has been selected in her age group’s state and national squads each year since 2021.
She was recently announced as a training partner with the Vixens for a second success season.
“It’s incredibly disappointing news for Tara, who made such an impression in her first season in our Vixens environment this year,” Netball Victoria’s high performance and pathways general manager Sharelle McMahon said.
and they are in pre-pre-season. There will be some improvement next year.”
Spiroski said they were still chatting with potential recruits with the club set to announce its first batch new players in the coming weeks.
He said they had lost a few but were looking to add some key pieces to their team.
The first signing announced by the Bears is former AFL player Reuben William. William joins the club from Keilor in the Essendon District Football League competition.
“At 6’2”, Reuben brings serious class, agility and versatility, a genuine game-changer who can play at either end of the ground and hurt sides inside or outside the contest,” the Bears said.
He joins us after two standout seasons at Keilor, including their 2024 premiership, and brings elite experience from the AFL system where he played with the Brisbane Lions, plus time at Werribee and Footscray in the VFL.
“Off the field, Reuben is the talent lead at the Western Jets, helping shape the next wave of AFL talent and that leadership and footy IQ will be massive for our group in 2026.”
“Tara’s a valued member of our teamandhasabrightfutureaheadof her – we’ll wrap our arms around her and support her every step of the way with her recovery.”
“We’re proud to have a world-class medical team and high performance program at the Vixens, so we know Tara’s in the best hands and has a great support network around her as she begins her recovery.”
Tara Watson. (Netball Victoria)
Gary Kelly. (Damjan Janevski)
200392_06
Thomastown has locked in its coaching panel. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 494937_18
Jets announce first signings, including Matt Stillman
Greenvale has locked in a number of new signings for next year’s Essendon District Football League premier division season, including a favourite son.
The first new signing for the Jets is Matthew Stillman.
StIllman started his career at Greenvale before playing with Pascoe Vale more recently.
“An exceptional leader both on and off the field, Matt embodies the values that define our club- hard work, integrity, and team-first commitment,” the Jets said on social media.
“His character, professionalism, and genuine care for others make him a role modelforyoungerplayersandarespected figure among his peers.”
Dane Whitnall returns to the EDFL and joins the Jets.
The former Craigieburn player has been playing at North Heidelberg in the Northern Football League and has played in both the Coates Talent League and Victorian Football League.
“Dane is a dynamic key position player
capable of making an impact at either end of the ground,” the Jets said.
“Dane’s athleticism, versatility, and footy smarts make him a significant addition to our playing group. His ability to compete in the air and influence contests across the field will play an important role in our team’s success this season.”
Daman Aujla is set to add to the Jets forward line.
TheJetssaidheisaclassyandcomposed footballer renowned for his elite skills by both hand and foot, consistently making smart decisions and using the ball with precision.
“A damaging goal kicker, Daman has a proven ability to finish his work around goal - whether pushing forward from the midfield or creating opportunities inside 50,” the Jets said.
“He plays with a high level of consistency and demands the best of himself every week, setting a strong example for those around him. Daman’s professionalism, poise, and football IQ
make him an exciting addition to our club and a genuine game-changer in our lineup.”
Logan McDonald is the other new signing announced by the Jets so far.
He joins the club from Russells Creek where he won a league best and fairest.
“A hard-running, goal-kicking midfielder, Logan brings elite endurance, creativity, and a strong work ethic to our midfield group,” the Jets said.
“His ability to break lines and hit the scoreboard makes him a dynamic addition to our team.”
Meanwhile, Dylan Watts, Jarrod Lees, Thomas Crowley, Ryan Townsend and Daniel Trifunovic are among Jets players who have been in clearances to move away from section road.
Roos taste victory
By Tara Murray
Greenvale Kangaroos are back on the winners list for the first time in a year in VictoriaPremierCricket.
The Kangaroos were able to taste victory on Saturday as it accounted for Fitzroy-Doncasterinatwo-daymatch.
TheKangarooslastwinandonlywinlast seasoncameinthesameroundandacross the same two weekends, concluding on November1.
KangarooscoachSunnyFernandosaidit was pretty good feeling after they claimed that final wicket and get the victory they hadbeenhopingfor.
“It was a great weekend,” he said. “The other three teams last but the ones were able to beat one of the best teams in the league.
“I’m really happy. They were really excited.
“The best thing is our bowling group, apart from one bowler, the rest are under-19.
“It’sreallyexcitingfortheboys.”
The Kangaroos batted on day one of the matchandmade242fromnearly73overs.
Fernando said it was hard conditions andhadtheywonthetosstheywouldhave bowledfirst.
“Thepitchwasalittlebittwopacedandit wasabitwetunderneath.”
NewskipperWillLuxtonshoneinhisfirst game since taking the captaincy, making 120tobethebackboneoftheinnings.
The Englishman is in his second season attheclub.
Fernando said the innings was one of the best innings he had been involved as a coach and hoped it was a sign of things to come.
On day two, the young Kangaroos bowling attack had the Lions in trouble at 4-65.
SamElliottandLiamWinnputon106for theLionstogetthembackincontrol.
While for the old Kangaroos this might have been game over, it was far from it as they showed the growth that they’d made.
“We came back and got the breakthrough,” he said. “We had to grind togetthatwicket.”
The Lions tailed then crumbled as the Kangaroos bowlers stuck to the plan they hadcomeupwithduringtheweek.
The Lions were bowled out for 200 in the 54thover,givingtheKangaroosvictory.
Musa Hussain took three wickets for the Kangaroos, while Armann Singh, Tobias
Sutherland and Nirmana Fernando all tooktwowicketseach.
Fernando said they wouldn’t get ahead of themselves but the win did give them some confidence heading into the rest of theseason.
“We’ll take it game by game,” he said. “It’s a young group who now have some winningmomentum.
“Theyknowhowtowinagamenow,they
Sports shorts
EDFL
One of Greenvale’s best players is on the move for next year’s Essendon District Football League women’s premier division season. Oak Park has announced that Terira Fry is making the move across to the club for next season. Fry has been a standout for the Jets since joining the club from the Sunbury Lions.
EDFL
Brody White has signed with Craigieburn for next year’s Essendon District Football League division 1 season. White is a former best and fairest winner at the Eagles and returns to the club after spending the past three seasons at North Heidelberg. He was named in the Northern Football League division 1 team of the year the past two years and finished runners-up in the club best and fairest those two years.
Northern FL
Mernda has announced Joe Cali as its coach as it aims to rejoin the Northern Football League women’s competition. Cali brings a wealth of experience and passion for the game, with a strong background in football both on and off the field. “His coaching philosophy focuses on player development, team culture, and high-performance standards — values that align perfectly with our club’s vision for the women’s program,” the Demons said. “We’re thrilled to welcome Joe to the team and look forward to a fantastic 2026 season under his leadership.”
Boxing
didn’tknowthatfeeling.
“It’sreallygood.”
TheKangaroosweresettofaceFrankston Peninsula on Saturday, day one of a two-dayclash.
Rain washed out all matches, with matches now to become a one-dayer startingnextweek.
Women’s premier cricket was also washedoutonSunday.
Michael Zerafa and Nikita Tszyu will square off in a domestic blockbuster after two of Australian boxing’s biggest names finally reached an agreement to settle a years-long family feud in the ring. A location has yet to be confirmed for the January 16 or 17 bout, but Sydney and Melbourne are unlikely options, with both parties preferring to slug it out in neutral territory. A Zerafa versus Nikita Tszyu stoush has been earmarked ever since both boxers delivered devastating first-round wins on the same card in Sydney in August.
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Musa Hussain. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 445369_02
Matt Stillman. (Supplied)