Star Weekly - Northern - 6th January 2026

TUESDAY, 6 JANUARY, 2026

It’s a world record!

25 November

YEAR IN REVIEW...

STORIES OF THE YEAR

A world record has been set in Whittlesea.

On Tuesday 18 November, 1070 people made their way to Donnybrook’s Olivine Recreation Reserve to help developer Mirvac, Cricket Victoria and the Melbourne Renegades in their bid to set a Guinness World Record for the largest cricket lesson (single venue).

The previous record of 943, set at Lord’s in 2025, was comfortably beaten.

Children aged 6 to 14 from schools including Hume Anglican Grammar and Donnybrook Primary School joined in, as did locals and cricket fans. Cricket Victoria consumer and business general manager Dylan Prescott hoped the record achievement would inspire the next generation of cricketers.

The world record attempt was part of an ongoing partnership between Mirvac, Cricket Victoria, and the Renegades, focused on school programs and clinics in Olivine, aimed at inspiring more young people to try cricket.

Mirvac Victorian residential development general manager Elysa Anderson said the developer was proud to have teamed up with Cricket Victoria and the Renegades to achieve the record. “The Olivine Recreation Reserve reflects our commitment to creating healthy, active places, and seeing local schools and families come together for this milestone showed exactly what community is all about,” she said.

Hume Anglican Grammar students Luvyansh, Rohan and Aayan took part in the world record attempt. (Supplied)

Council in chaos Whittlesea council dominated the headlines in 2025 – but for all the wrong reasons.

The mayor was suspended, the council came under the scrutiny of a Commission of Inquiry and a monitor was appointed to oversee the council for the third time.

The chaos began in January when then-mayor Aidan McLindon announced he was contesting a by-election in the state seat of Werribee.

In February, the city’s 10 other councillors applied for Cr McLindon to face internal arbitration amid concerns media comments and social media posts in the lead up to and during his candidacy for the by-election had breached the Model Councillor Code of Conduct.

The Residents of Epping North and Wollert (RENEW) Community Association

wrote to council demanding it remove Cr McLindon as mayor, and by the end of the month, the 10 other councillors had voted unanimously to call for his resignation as mayor amid mounting public outcry over his decision to contest the by-election just nine weeks after being elected mayor. Cr McLindon refused to resign.

Whittlesea chief executive Craig Lloyd barred Cr McLindon from the council chamber and placed restrictions on his interactions with councillors and council staff in response to alleged “intimidating” and “aggressive” behaviour by the mayor towards council staff and councillors.

In March, as a further three internal arbitration applications were lodged against Cr McLindon by individual councillors, Crs

Daniela Zinni and Martin Taylor wrote to Local Government Minister Nick Staikos requesting that he intervenes with respect to Cr McLindon.

That month, council held its council meeting online amid safety concerns.

Cr McLindon attended a protest outside the council offices during the meeting, during which he called for Mr Lloyd and the municipal monitors appointed to the council to resign.

But by April, it was Cr McLindon who was suspended, with the Governor in Council issuing a six month suspension and Mr Staikos announcing a Commission of Inquiry into the council.

Cr McLindon launched a Supreme Court challenge against his suspension in June.

That case continues in 2026.

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In October, the Commission of Inquiry’s report into council was released, with the commissioners finding that Cr McLindon’s conduct while mayor was “detrimental to the council”.

They recommended a monitor be appointed to oversee the council until the end of 2026.

The report was released just before Cr McLindon returned to council.

And in December, the outcome of the internal arbitration processes were revealed. Cr McLindon was cleared of some allegations against him, but arbiter J A Silver found two charges to be proven and ordered Cr McLindon to apologise to council staff, undertake training and barred him from being mayor or deputy mayor for 12 months.

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Pigeon poisoning claims 27 May A culling operation to deal with an “infestation” of pigeons at Meadow Heights Shopping Centre has exploded into accusations of cruelty, cultural insensitivity and threats of violence.

According to centre management, the messy problem has been escalating for two years, exacerbated by people feeding the pigeons which congregate at the front of the busy shopping strip.

Meadow Heights centre management spokesperson Fiona Scott said the birds “posed a significant health and safety risk to customers and tenants” and “a genuine public health hazard to the primary school and daycare children adjacent to the centre, due to the bacteria and disease associated with bird waste”.

Ms Scott said non-lethal deterrents such as bird spikes, visual and audio repellents, signage, and regular cleaning had all failed to contain the problem.

When a professional pest controller applied a treatment, a group of people confronted him on-site and “compromised the procedure,” according to Ms Scott.

“The pest controller was forced to cease operations and leave the site due to concerns for his personal safety. He has since received hundreds of abusive messages online, including threats to his life.”

Images of distressed birds dying outside the shopping centre have triggered outrage among animal welfare groups and community members.

Pigeon Rescue Support Inc volunteer Emily Power said the scene was “disturbing and cruel”.

“A good Samaritan had seen the birds displayed like trophies up against the door,” Ms Power said.

“She rushed some to the vet, but many couldn’t be saved.”

She said poisoning birds was not an approved method of control, rather “they are supposed to be humanely trapped and euthanised”.

“There is a large Muslim population in

Pigeon Rescue Support Inc volunteer Emily Power. (Damjan Janevski) 479336_03

Meadow Heights, and pigeons have religious significance – they’re connected to the Prophet and seen as peaceful, protective animals. Imagine how distressing it was to see them convulsing and dying in front of families.”

Meadow Heights resident Liam Shaw, who spoke to Star Weekly while shopping at the centre last Wednesday, said he had seen dead pigeons and was concerned about the health implications.

“It’s a public health issue too, I would imagine. You’ve got dead birds near food outlets, people walking by not knowing what they’re stepping in, it’s pretty disgust-

ing to be honest and I hope something is done about it.”

Northern Metropolitan Liberal MP Evan Mulholland, whose electorate office is located at the shopping centre, said he did not support centre management’s decision to poison the pigeons.

“As a tenant of the shopping centre, my office, through the Department of Parliamentary Services, have made this very clear in writing to the centre’s owners.” he said.

“I have asked the department to put these objections once again in writing to the owner.”

Meadow Heights Shopping Centre has

confirmed it would revert to non-lethal deterrence methods in future.

“We are committed to being responsible and responsive to our community’s concerns,” Ms Scott said.

Pigeon Rescue Support and Ms Power are calling for greater regulation of pest control practices and accountability for those involved.

“We want a bigger inquest into holding pest companies accountable and centre management as well, because they’ve hired these pest companies and have clearly taken their word for it that they know what they are doing,” Ms Power said.

Scarlet Drive residents dirty on dust from former quarry 1 April Every Friday night, Rosa Radipitse has to hose down her backyard, outdoor seating and the solar panels on the roof of her Scarlet Drive house to remove the thick layers of dust blanketing them.

The dust covering Ms Radipitse’s home comes from giant piles of dirt next to her fence as a result of works on the former quarry at 149 McKimmies Road in Bundoora.

Intrapac Property Group is transforming the infill site into a residential neighbourhood comprising about 700 homes.

As part of the works, the original quarry hole is being dug up and refilled.

Ms Radipitse said while she is “all for” the housing development, she takes issue with workers stacking piles of dirt at roof height next to her fence.

She said the dirt stacks are so close to her fence that a water truck used to wet down the dirt is only able to spray water on the dirt on the side furthest from her home.

As a result, when the wind whips up, dust from the Scarlet Drive side of the dirt stack blankets her home and garden, she said.

“This summer has been hot and dry and the dust has been next level,” Ms Radipitse said.

“The last six months have been the worst it has ever been.”

Ms Radipitse said the dust interferes with

Scarlet Drive residents Vic and Mary Varano and Rosa and Kingsley Radipitse. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 466703

her family’s ability to enjoy their garden and prevents them from opening the windows and using their evaporative cooler.

“There is a musky clay smell when we use our evaporation cooler. We have spent a lot of money changing our air conditioning to refrigerated cooling,” she said.

“My roof is cream Colorbond and now it is poo brown.

“We can’t eat the fruit grown in our backyard because it is covered in dirt.

“We can’t put our washing outside.

2 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026

“We can’t even open our windows because of the level of dust.”

She is calling for the dirt piles to be moved or at least lowered to a height that would enable her garden fence to provide some protection from the dust.

However, her complaints about the dust have been ignored by Intrapac, she said.

As a result, Ms Radipitse and her neighbours submitted a petition signed by 25 residents of the Botanica Park estate to Whittlesea council, asking it to investigate the

dust levels in Scarlet Drive.

Ms Radipitse said she started the petition after reaching out to her new ward councillor, deputy mayor Daniela Zinni, on social media.

Speaking at the March 18 council meeting, during which the petition was table, Cr Zinni said she would work with council to address the residents’ concerns and help minimise the development’s impact on their lives.

She said she wanted to ensure the residents’ concerns were heard.

“Their wellbeing is my top priority,” she said.

Council has referred the issue to chief executive Craig Lloyd who will report back to a future council briefing on any action taken as a result of the petition.

An Intrapac spokesperon said the developer has not been contacted by council regarding the petition.

“Dust levels at the 149 McKimmies Road site are subject to ongoing monitoring. Intrapac’s longitudinal records show that dust levels have not exceeded acceptable levels as designated bythe [Environment Protection Authority],” the spokesperson said.

“Intrapac’s contractors regularly liaise with council and EPA representatives and have not been made aware of any recent complaints.

Intrapac continues to make efforts fa rbeyond the regulators’ requirements to reduce dust.”

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2025 YEAR IN REVIEW ... NEWS

Temple plan rejected 28 October A proposal to build a Hindu temple in Whittlesea’s green wedge has been rejected by council.

Whittlesea council rejected the application for 330 Grants Road, Woodstock, on 14 October.

The application sought approval to use an existing dwelling on a 12-hectare rural site as a place of worship for up to 200 patrons each weekend, according to a council report.

The proposal included modifications to the existing home, an extended access-

way, and a 10-space car park, with plans for weekend prayer services from 8am to 10.30am and 3pm to 7pm and up to 30 patrons attending three larger annual events.

The application drew a large amount of community attention, with council receiving 753 submissions, including 366 objections and 385 letters of support, along with petitions both for and against the proposal.

Council officers found the proposal was inconsistent with several clauses of the Whittlesea Planning Scheme, including those protecting agricultural land and

maintaining the character of Melbourne’s green wedge areas.

Councillors said the use was not appropriate for a site zoned for agriculture and rural living.

Whittlesea Green Wedge Protection Group director Kerry Stewart said many residents submitted letters of objection to support the protection of Whittlesea’s green wedge.

“All the rejections were from actual residents. We were all affected in some way, especially people like me who live in Eden Park,” she said.

“We fought against this for the green

wedge. There’s safety concerns, but the protection of the green wedge has always been paramount.

“We have a green wedge, it’s what divides us from urbanisation and it’s there to be preserved. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

Council officers stated the development would “undermine the integrity and strategic intent of the green wedge land” and was “inconsistent with the established pattern of land use and development” in Woodstock and Eden Park.

The applicant retains the right to appeal the decision to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Incinerator proposal stalls, new application pending 2 September Cleanaway has withdrawn its current application for a development licence for its contentious Waste to Energy (WtE) facility in Wollert.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) was scheduled to make a decision on Cleanaway’s proposal to build the Melbourne Energy Resource Recovery Centre (MERC) at 510 Summerhill Road on Saturday 30 August, but told Star Weekly on Monday 1 September that Cleanaway had withdrawn its application prior to the decision deadline.

Star Weekly understands the application has been withdrawn amid plans to submit an updated application to the EPA to reflect Recycling Victoria’s decision to grant Cleanaway a significantly higher waste burning cap.

As reported by Star Weekly, on Sunday 17 August, Recycling Victoria approved a cap licence for Cleanaway to process up to 760,000 tonnes of waste per year.

The licence was double the original application limit of 380,000 tonnes.

The expanded capacity represents about 13 per cent of Victoria’s landfill-bound waste, projected to generate enough electricity to supply 140,000 homes and businesses.

No Northern Incinerator community group member Cath Rousse criticised the EPA for failing to update those who made individual submissions about the proposed WtE facility.

Cleanaway’s decision came as residents opposed to the WtE incinerator gathered at Whittlesea’s council offices on Sunday 31 August, unaware the application had been withdrawn.

The community meeting was attended

by Whittlesea mayor Martin Taylor who

Local residents came together with council and MPs to speak out against the proposed incinerator.

(Jack O’Shea-Ayres)

said council moved to reject Cleanaway’s planning application and development license submission for the MERC back in December 2024.

Ms Rousse said WtE facilities were not allowed in Sydney or the ACT, and residents didn’t want them in Whittlesea.

Ganbu Gulinj Ward councillor Lawrie Cox, speaking on a personal basis, said having a commercial industrial incinerator within a kilometre of residential housing is not acceptable in this day and age.

“It was some 40 years ago we recognised burning off in the backyard was a problem and we banned property incinerators,” he said.

“The community in Wollert and Epping North have been very vocal in their opposition to this planned incinerator.”.

Julie Ahmad, a local resident and administrator for the No Northern Incinerator Facebook group, said the project had been “very quietly put together” since Cleanaway purchased the site in 2021.

“No one understood what this incinerator meant. There’s been a complete lack of consultation,” Mrs Ahmad said.

“Cleanaway says they’ve consulted, but the only way people have heard about it is through our Facebook group. If you ask anyone in the supposed letter drop range, they’ll tell you they never received any-

thing.”

Prior to withdrawing its development licence application, Cleanaway told Star Weekly community engagement commenced in 2021 when the MERC project was first announced, with additional community engagement services made available later on.

“There were additional engagement opportunities throughout 2023 and 2024 including in-person and online information sessions, as well as one-on-one meetings with the Cleanaway team,” a statement said. “Cleanaway also established a stakeholder reference group made up of local residents from a range of diverse cultural and religious backgrounds with an interest in the proposal, providing an active channel between the local community and Cleanaway.”

The proposed MERC will be one of Victoria’s WtE facility proposals to be examined as part of a parliamentary inquiry.

On August 26, the Victorian upper house backed the inquiry into WtE projects, following a motion from MP Rachel Payne.

The inquiry will examine consultation processes, the siting of projects near homes and schools, and long-term social, economic and environmental consequences.

Ms Payne said while WtE facilities are often presented as a solution to landfill, the rapid growth of the industry in Victoria raised significant questions.

“These are not backyard incinerators of the past, they will still be burning through millions of tonnes of waste,” she said.

“We must ask whether this is the future we want – one that risks polluting our people and planet?”

Wollert residents joined campaigners from Sunbury, Lara and Lynbrook at Parliament House to support the motion.

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And then there were nine ....

13 May A by-election will the held in Whittlesea’s Lalor Ward after the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) voided the election result.

The October 2024 council election result in Lalor Ward was referred to VCAT by the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) as part of an investigation into suspected vote tampering.

The voting irregularities were also referred to police and the Local Government Inspectorate for investigation after the VEC detected a high number of multiple ballot papers appearing to be from the same voters.

Labor candidate and former Whittlesea councillor Stevan Kozmevski was elected with 4953 first preference votes, ahead of independent Ellen McNaught (4003 votes) and community independent Nicholas Hajichristou (3344). After preferences, Mr Kozmevski had 6170 votes to Ms McNaught’s 6131 – a difference of 39 votes.

VCAT’s decision means Mr Kozmevski is no longer a councillor.

The decision leaves Whittlesea with nine councillors, after Kirrip Ward councillor and former mayor Aidan McLindon was suspended for six months on April 16.

In her May 8 decision, VCAT vice president, Judge Caitlin English, said there had

been “attempted and actual interference” in the election, with ballot papers stolen from letter boxes in an area of streets west of Edgars Road.

She said the actual number of stolen ballot papers was unknown, with at least 81 stolen.

She said it was known that 57 fraudulent votes were admitted to the count and 24 fraudulent votes excluded from the count.

A further 24 genuine votes corresponding to the 24 excluded votes, were also left out of the count as they were deemed to be multiple returns.

The VEC submitted that 24 fraudulent votes excluded from the count identified

Mr Hajichristou as their first preference.

The VEC submitted that: “The tribunal can infer that the 57 fraudulent votes that were included in the count, which the evidence shows form part of the same fraudulent scheme as the 24 excluded fraudulent votes, were also made in favour of Mr Hajichristou”.

There was no suggestion Mr Hajichristou was responsible for, or involved in, the fraud, the VEC submitted.

In voiding the election result, Judge English said she was satisfied that a majority of voters might have been prevented from electing the candidate they preferred, “due to the systematic stealing of ballots and casting of fraudulent votes”.

Pet charity in crisis 8 July

Gwenda Williams. (Damjan Janevski) 505578_01

Gwenda has 100 reasons to celebrate 30 September Whittlesea Lodge Aged Care resident Gwenda Williams has joined the ranks of centenarians, celebrating her 100th birthday on Saturday, September 27, surrounded by family and friends.

Born in the family home on Hawthorn

Street in West Coburg, Ms Williams grew up as one of four children.

Community service played a big role in her life. Ms Williams taught Sunday school for 13 years and was a Girl Guide leader for 20 years. In 1950, life took her overseas when her husband accepted a role as an aircraft engineer in Hong Kong.

The family spent six years abroad across two postings, and their daughter was born during their time there.

Reflecting on reaching 100, Ms Williams said she was determined to outlive her mother, who lived to 95. Ms Williams marked her birthday with a high tea celebration at the Whittlesea Bowls Club.

Hume takes the prize as the car impound capital of Victoria 5 August Hume is the impound capital of Victoria, new police data reveals.

Police impounded 528 vehicles in Hume in 2024, according to impoundment statistics.

Police impounded 243 vehicles because the driver’s licence was disqualified or suspended, while 115 impounds were because the vehicle was being driven at more than 45km/h above the speed limit.

Sixty-one impounds were the result of unlicensed driving, 45 impounds related

to a learner driver who was driving with a supervisor and 28 impounds were the result of the driver being found with a blood alcohol concentration of .10 of more.

In Whittlesea, police impounded 395 vehicles, with 181 impounds relating to someone driving while their licence was disqualified or suspended.

Fawkner Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Frank Cuce said removing unsafe drivers from the roads is an absolute priority for Victoria Police.

“It is astonishing how many people are prepared to breach the road rules, and

4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026

blatantly commit serious traffic and criminal offences which warrants their cars being impounded,” he said.

“Taking away the ability of drivers to put others in danger is a powerful tool to prevent death and serious injury, and we will use these powers wherever necessary.

“If you’re impaired or unlicensed, it’s very simple – you shouldn’t be behind the wheel.

“Anyone choosing to make these high risk decisions and drive dangerously on our roads should know this won’t be tolerated.

A Craigieburn animal rescue service is calling for greater support from the state government and Hume council as it faces the prospect of closing its doors if it can’t raise $200,000 by November.

Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) was set up 17 years ago to help vulnerable animals and families in crisis by providing low-cost veterinary care, emergency boarding for pets of family violence survivors, and free pet food, among other services.

But the growing need for its services and dwindling funding avenues has left SCAR needing to raise $200,000.

According to SCAR, there has been a 43 per cent drop in government program grants and dwindling public donations in the recent years, amid a cost-of-living crisis.

The annual operating costs for the shelter services is $2 million, while essential vet care has cost SCAR $336,000 in just six months.

Three SCAR staff members have been made redundant and shelter hours reduced in a bid to ease the financial pressure on the charity.

SCAR chief executive and founder Marisa Debattista said the service had the resources, know-how and manpower to support the community, but staff were struggling to provide the services while “chasing our tails” to cover the cost of running the charity.

She said SCAR received more than 25 calls every week from pet owners in need.

She said the charity had saved the lives of more than 17,000 animals over the past 17 years through rehabilitation, rehoming and emergency support, while its free pet food charity had distrubted 1.2 million meals to helping people doing it tough to feed their pets.

“Saying no to someone when you can the distress in their voice is really heart-breaking – that is not something that leaves you,” Ms Debattista said.

“We need Hume City Council and the state government to come to the party and help with ongoing, sustainable funding.”

On July 2, the government announced a$49,872 grant for SCAR through its Animal Welfare Fund. Ms Debattista said while SCAR was grateful for the funding, it was not enough.

A spokesperson said the state government was a long-term supporter of SCAR and provided $756,000 over the past 13 years, but did not answer questions about whether the government would provide ongoing funding to the service to help keep its doors open.

Hume council said it was able to support not-for-profit organisations, such as SCAR, through funds and grants programs open to the community.

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2025 YEAR IN REVIEW ... HEALTH

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Community hospital opens 9 December Mernda Community Hospital welcomed its first patients on the morning of Monday 24 November.

The hospital was officially opened on Saturday 22 November by Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas, who said the hospital is a warm and welcoming environment.

“This is a new model of care, to meet the everyday healthcare needs of the community, without needing to go to a big, busy, major hospital,” Ms Thomas said.

The hospital will be open from 8am5pm Monday to Friday, at 35 Flourmill Drive, Mernda.

Northern Health operates the hospital which will offer dental, pathology, allied health, respiratory, allergy and paediatric services.

“I am particularly excited about… the commitment to deliver paediatric services … and assessments for ADHD and autism,” Ms Thomas said.

The hospital does not have an emergency department, the nearest hospital for life-threatening injuries is the Northern Hospital in Epping, 10km away from Mernda.

Ms Thomas said the community hospital does not have an emergency department because there are no theatres available.

“Community hospitals are… designed to take pressure off of our biggest hospitals,” Ms Thomas said.

Northern Health’s Narrun Wilip-giin Aboriginal Support Unit senior liaison officer Karen Bryant did an acknowledgement of Country, and welcomed Aboriginal locals to the hospital.

“I see everyday the challenges that our mob face navigating health systems,” Ms Bryant said.

“To our mob in the area, this hospital is here for you, your health… and wellbeing matter.“ Luke Edwards, a Bangerang, Mutti Mutti, Wiradjeri man, gave Ms Bryant a gift of native, traditional Aboriginal medicines

that he said could be used in a future smoking ceremony.

Northern Health chief executive Debra Bourne said the hospital is responding to continued growth in the area.

“We are really proud to serve this rapidly growing community,” Ms Bourne said.

In a statement, the state government said in the new year the hospital will deliver renal and mental health services, which will later be followed by urgent care and imaging.

Ms Thomas said planning is important to ensure a smooth transition of staff.

“There are many healthcare workers who live locally… looking forward to… work[ing] closer to home,” she said.

No urgent care 19 August

Mernda firefighters, David Gent, Ethan Broomhall and Stephanie Tamer. (Damjan Janevski) 480548_01

Mernda firefighters climbing for a cause 5 August Every step counts when it’s for something bigger than yourself.

That’s the mantra driving a team of dedicated firefighters from Mernda as they prepare to tackle 28 floors of Melbourne’s Crown Metropol – donning 25 kilograms of gear– for this year’s Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.

But this isn’t just a test of endurance; it’s a climb for hope, healing and honour.

Mernda CFA community safety co-ordinator and firefighter Ethan Broomhall said the team’s involvement is part of a proud legacy.

“Mernda members and firefighters across CFA have a long-standing history with the stair climb, the funds raised support an amazing cause each year. We have firefighters participating again from previous years and new participants this year as well! The crew are excited to take on the challenge,” Mr Broomhall said.

The challenge is no small feat. Participants climb 28 flights in full kit to raise money for charities that support mental health, cancer, and trauma services.

“The team has been hitting the stair master and working on their cardio weekly to make sure that we are prepared for the event. The cause is the motivation for our members, recognising that climbing the stairs is easy compared to mental health challenges and battling cancer,” Mr Broomhall said.

Coroners Court report reveals rise in fatal overdoses in Hume 19 August Hume was the state’s fourth highest local government area for fatal overdoses in 2024, a new Coroners Court of Victoria report reveals.

The data comes as Victoria recorded its highest number of fatal overdoses in a decade in 2024.

The report stated that 22 deaths related to drug overdose were reported in Hume, rising from 13 in 2023.

The Hume area tied with Port Phillip for fourth highest recording of fatal over-

doses, sitting behind Greater Dandenong with 26, Greater Geelong with 35, and Melbourne with 42.

Overall, 584 Victorians died by overdose in 2024, compared to 547 in 2023 and 552 in 2022.

Coroner Judge John Cain said, “Overdose deaths occur all across Victoria and no community escapes their impact - ensuring that Victorians can access supports, treatment and education is vital”.

“However, the concerning rise in overdose deaths and especially those involving illegal drugs is a stark reminder that

6 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026

we need to keep building on our harm reduction efforts,” he said.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation chief executive Dr Erin Lalor said Victoria was lacking a long-term alcohol and drug strategy.

“This strategy needs a strong focus on preventing harms from occurring in the first place, with a dedicated budget alongside it,” Dr Lalor said.

For support or advice, visit adf.org.au orcall the National Alcohol and Other DrugHotline on 1800 250 015.

The Craigieburn Community Hospital has opened it doors but will not offer a key service originally promised by the state government.

The community hospital on Craigieburn Road opened on Monday, August 18.

It operates Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm, with dialysis services available from 7am8.30 pm, Monday to Saturday.

According to a social media post from Northern Health, the community hospital provides audiology, UV skin treatment, paediatric development and feeding clinics and antenatal and pre-term birth clinics from August 18.

Lung cancer screening and an insulin pump clinic will be available from October.

However, the state government has repeatedly stated that the hospital would offer after-hours urgent care.

The Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) website still states that the hospital would offer urgent care, and when releasing designs for the hospital in October 2022, the authority stated: “Operated

by Northern Health, the facility will offer a range of everyday health services. This will include after-hours care for minor, non-emergency medical issues such as the bumps, cuts and bruises associated with everyday life”.

When pledging the new community hospital in 2018, then-health minister Jill Hennessy said community hospitals would have after-hours urgent care.

Northern Metropolitan Liberal MP Evan Mulholland said basic services the community deserved and relied upon were not being delivered.

“The goal posts keep changing, we were promised it would be open last year, that promise was broken, now it will be open with only a few services and without the after hours and urgent care that the Craigieburn community needs,” he said.

“When Labor can’t manage money, Victorians pay the price. The good people of Craigieburn are being dudded by Labor mismanagement.”

Star Weekly asked Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas why after-hours urgent care wasn’t being provided at the Craigieburn Community Hospital.

She did not respond to questions.

Instead, a state government spokesperson said the community hospital would be an expansion of Northern Health’s Craigieburn Centre and services were being offered progressively to ensure “minimal disruption to patients and staff”.

“We will continue to work with the Craigieburn community to understand their health needs and how best to supportt hem.” the government spokesperson said

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NEWS

Time to get bushfire ready Yarrambat CFA is calling for residents to plan for their family’s safety this summer.

Captain Andrew Napoleone said CFA volunteers often meet people who are hesitant to prepare for fires.

“They are not sure when to prepare for summer, think it’s going to be too complicated, or think they’re so close to Melbourne that bushfires won’t affect them,” Mr Napoleone.

“The reality is that the bushfire season already is well under way.”

Whittlesea’s fire danger period started in late November , and will not end until 1 May. “While most Victorians won’t see [a bushfire] up close, being prepared can make all the difference if it happens here,”

Mr Napoleone said.

Mr Napoleone said there are simple ways to make your property less likely to burn and easier to save, and to ensure every family member knows what to do in an emergency.

“Planning beats panic every time,” he said.

Visit cfa.vic.gov.au and click on ‘Plan & Prepare’ to find a list of things you can do to plan for your family’s safety this summer.

During the fire danger period you cannot light a fire in the open air unless you have a permit or comply with certain requirements.

Early Learning Victoria is hosting open days at its Gamadji and Umarkoo centres on Wednesday 14 January and Thursday 15 January respectively.

The Gamadji centre will be open on Wednesday 14 January 10am-2pm at 39 Mackillop Street, Craigieburn (co-located with Gamadji Primary School).

Umarkoo’s open day on Thursday 15 January will be held between 10am-2pm at 28 Ellesmere Boulevard, Wollert (co-located with Umarkoo Primary School).

The open days will provide an opportunity to tour the centres, due to open in early 2026, and meet the skilled and experienced educators.

If you are looking to enrol your child, you can find out more about Early Learning Victoria’s high-quality childcare and integrated kinder programs. If you are looking to grow your career as a qualified, skilled or new early learning or support professional by working in an organisation where children’s needs come first, you can speak to our friendly team to learn more.

Find out about enrolling your child in 2026 at earlylearning.vic.gov.au/ gamadji or earlylearning.vic.gov.au/ umarkoo.

What’s on

Summer holiday fun - free and low cost activities

Bundoora Beats: New Date

Looking for something to do these school holidays? Youth services is running a range of programs and events for young people aged 8 - 25.

Enjoy an evening of live music, family fun and great food at this free outdoor concert.

Featuring JAZZPARTY, Kee'Ahn, Hana and Jessie-Lee's Bad Habits and Doe Eyes.

All activities are supervised by experienced youth workers and offer a relaxed, supportive space to hang out and make new friends.

When: Saturday 31 January, 6pm - 10pm

Some highlights from the program include:

Where: Norris Bank Parkland, 135 Mcleans Road, Bundoora

Wave Rave: Summer Swim Party - 15 January, Whittlesea Swim Centre

This is a free event and no bookings are required.

Enviro Beats - 21 January, Janefield Community Centre, Bundoora

For more information, visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/BundooraBeats 12823682-MC01-26

Creative Drawing Workshop - 20 January, Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC) See the full program at whittlesea.vic.gov.au/youthevents

whittlesea.vic.gov.au Tuesday, 6 January, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 7

2025 YEAR IN REVIEW ... PEOPLE

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Community focus recognised 10 June In the late 1970’s, Lynne Harris moved to a barren patch of Bundoora-Mill Park – new houses, no schools, no shops, and almost no community services.

Over 40 years later, the long-time director of Mill Park Community House has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community through social welfare organisations.

“I am absolutely overwhelmed by this award,” Ms Harris said.

“Receiving the Centenary Medal was wonderful, but this is on another level. I guess it is a recognition of all the work I have done, in conjunction with other valued community members, over the years.”

Ms Harris was instrumental in building the community from the ground up “Mill Park was a new area with lots of houses and very little else. There were lots of new mums who basically had nowhere to go outside of the home,” Ms Harris recalled.

“We looked at starting support groups from the beginning.”

Those early steps shaped a career of quiet, determined advocacy for inclusion, access and community connection.

“We looked at starting support groups and this is where the Mill Park Community House began to be developed,” Ms Harris said.

“The Mill Park Community House has grown to meet these needs.”

Over time, it has provided countless locals with a sense of purpose, connection and opportunity.

She has served as treasurer of the North East Neighbourhood House Network for

more than 20 years and volunteers with the Whittlesea Disability Network.

She began working with Janefield Residential Facility in the 1980’s, helping its residents, many of whom had disabilities, transition from a closed, institutional environment to independent lives in the broader community.

“We worked very hard assisting these residents to become part of the community,” Ms Harris said.

“It was a tough fight and change sometimes is not popular. However, 30 years later, we are still pushing for a better deal.”

30 years of volunteering recognised in honours’ list 4 February “It’s really nice recognition to know that someone appreciates me.” That was the sentiment of Meadow Heights resident Aysegul Koksuz when she learnt she would receive an Australia Day honour.

The 71-year-old was awarded a medal of the Order of Australia on January 26 in recognition of her service to the Turkish community of Victoria through volunteer roles.

Ms Koksuz began volunteering after she was retrenched in 1995.

While working out her next paid role would be, she began volunteering with community groups including Northern (Meadow Heights) Turkish Women’s Association and Orana Family Services.

A brief stint working as a hairdresser

following a 12-month course in hairdressing and beauty services, led her to realise that her passion was helping others.

“I love working with people,” she said.

Ms Koksuz, who then worked as a carer while continuing to volunteer, completed a certificate in leadership and community development, which she credits with helping her thrive in her volunteer roles.

In addition to her work with Northern (Meadow Heights) Turkish Women’s Association and Orana Family Services, she has volunteered her time at Northern (Meadow Heights) Turkish Families Association, DPV Health, the Hume Interfaith Network and Turkish Young Mothers Association.

She was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2006 and named a Hume resident of the month in 2018.

Aysegul Koksuz received an OAM on Australia Day. 454563_01

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An alternative school in Epping is helping students who have struggled at mainstream schools to re-engage with learning. For some of the students, the move to the Y Community School has been life-saving.

The school saving young lives 4 February Most footy scoreboards towering over school grounds stand at a height of about 20 feet, their LED displays diligently tracking winners and losers.

But when year six student Zane desperately clawed his way to the top of one, he didn’t need the board to illustrate what defeat looked like.

At just 11 years old, he had been told by his teachers that he’d never amount to anything.

Eventually those negligent barrages carried Zane to the edge – nearly two storeys away from death.

“I really didn’t think I was going to get this far in life back then,” Zane said, now aged 15.

Zane’s suicide attempt was brought on by his experience at a mainstream school, where according to him, he was incessantly chastised.

“It was very hard,” he said.

“I would feel like they were out to get me … they really wanted me gone.

“Ninety per cent of the time I did blame myself.”

Often after coming home from school, Zane would lock himself in his room with a recurring belief occupying his head.

“I would say to myself that it was all my fault”.

And every time it’d be followed by a chilling afterthought.

“Is it really worth it?”

Towards the end of primary school, Zane was officially diagnosed with autism, ADHD, auditory processing disorder, high anxiety, and oppositional defiant disorder.

Following the diagnosis, a behavioural plan was developed for him to allow the school to better manage Zane’s learning outcomes. Despite this essential blueprint, his mum Rebecca Hall said, improvements were few and far.

“He pretty much struggled the whole time,” she said.

“They just didn’t have the skills to manage his behaviour or to even educate him which is really sad because every kid deserves an education whether they’ve gotten some diagnosis or not.”

Not only was the school severely unequipped to provide a healthy-learning environment for Zane, Rebecca said its approach aggravated matters.

“We eventually found out they were telling him that he would never get a job,” she said.

“He was branded the naughty kid.

“Every time he would get in trouble at school he would self harm – he used to gouge his leg with a metal ruler.”

Witnessing Zane go through those episodes was extremely gut-wrenching for Rebecca and her husband Shane.

“It was awful and we were walking on eggshells quite because we didn’t want to exacerbate it,” Rebecca said.

“We blamed ourselves a lot.

“Throughout that entire time he was showing signs of depression, and he had become quite withdrawn– it was heart-breaking.”

In the middle of year nine last year, Zane was expelled from school.

“I appealed that decision but the education department told me that the teachers were scared and intimidated by him,” Rebecca said.

“Hearing that broke my heart, my kid wouldn’t hurt a fly.”

When the school closed its doors to Zane, another live-saving one was about to swing open.

Soon after expulsion, at the advice of his psychologist, Rebecca enrolled Zane into the Y Community School in Epping.

It’s a move that has been life-changing

Zane Hall has finally found a school where he feels like he fits in. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455462_01

The Y community school’s principal Sarah Abbott advocates for the importance of independent schools. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 454190_01

for the Halls. “The Y school has been an absolute godsend,” Rebecca said.

“If my son was still in a mainstream school, I guarantee he would not be here.”

Schools like the Y make an important contribution in addressing educational disadvantage by serving young people who are disengaged from mainstream education, according to a submission made by the Independent Schools Australia (ISA) into the ‘Review to Inform a Better and Fairer Education System Consultation Paper’.

“Students are often referred from community services, juvenile justice and other schools – both government and non-government,” the report stated. “[These schools] have developed programs and structures designed to re-engage students in education and prepare them for further training and employment.”

Since 2014, the number of alternative schools has almost doubled and enrolments have almost tripled – as of 2022 there are 96 institutions that cater to students who don’t do well in conventional settings, the submission said.

This philosophy of ensuring no one is left behind is one the Y strongly reinforces: “All young people want to learn and do well and should have the right to achieve their full potential regardless of circumstances and the barriers that have prevented them engaging fully in education”.

As a new student, Zane carried the weight of being told he wouldn’t do anything worthwhile in his life, into the Y. Several months later, he went to parliament with his fellow classmates to advocate for increased funding for independent schools.

According to campus principal Sarah Abbott, it’s hard to imagine Zane as anything but capable.

“Just reading his profile, looking at the previous data on him, hearing him talk about what he used to be like and how he used to behave, what he used to do – it’s a completely different person to what we’ve always seen at our school,” she said. “[Coming here] has meant life or death for Zane.”

Ms Abbott said most of her students have

Zane and his mum Rebecca Hall believe if it wasn’t for the Y community school, Zane would’ve continued to struggle. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455462_07

had similar experiences at some point in their lives.

“Every single student has had challenges in a mainstream setting, ” she said.

“We have a number who have come to us with safety plans from their mainstream schools because of attempts of self harm.

“It’s devastating – they’ve only been looking for somewhere where they fit in.”

That feeling of not belonging, “no one should be feeling that way in the first place,” Zane said. “For me, it finally feels like people are proud of me and that I’m not doing anything wrong.

“Before, I tried to do my best at all times but no one believed that. I’m just like other kids, I want to just be the best I can and live a good life and it feels like I finally can.”

This has been one of Rebecca’s biggest fights — ensuring her son was in a safe and supported environment.

But she never doubted his abilities.

“He was never naughty, he was just misunderstood,” she said.

If you or anyone you know is in need of support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14.

Tuesday, 6 January, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 9

COMMUNITY

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

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

Bundoora Probus Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peters 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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of St Monica’s Primary School students Jonah, 12, Vivien, 8 and Carlos, 11, who helped the school win a statewide science award for the second year in a row. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 523766_01

Craft and Conversation

Whittlesea Historical Society

National seniors meeting

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

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

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

open day

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

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

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 Toastmasters 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

The 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, lizmunro7@ gmail.com

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

10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026

Indigenous Community Gardens

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 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

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

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

2025 YEAR IN REVIEW ... COMMUNITY

Blacksmiths Steve Phillips (left) and Robbie Alderson (right) took part in the Blacksmiths Festival in Footscray in. 475625_01

Winni Wizard and the Ditzy Dizzard was s a kids comedy show at Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Pictured is comedians Lisa Gatenby (Winni Wizard) and Jacob Sacher (Ditzy Dizzard). 465765_01

Emmanuel Pace AKA ‘Manny the Clown’ performed at the inaugural Sunshine Collective Market in June. 481609_01

2025 through the lens Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski was out and about across Melbourne’s western and northern

suburbs throughout 2025. He shares his favourite pictures from the past year.

Brookfield resident Jacqueline Licitra’s elaborate Halloween decorations in her front yard entertained passers-by in October. Pictured is Jacqueline with her grandsons Maddix, 3, and Zanon, 1. 511243_01

St Albans Secondary School students Paul (front), Luca, Cindy, DT, Talia, Thien, Ryan and Xai took to the stage for Spamalot in August.

496630_01

The Ice Queens cheerleading team members Taylor Hallas, Laura Yildirim, Emily Hopkins and Bridget Bayliss used money raised by recycling drink cans to buy new bows for their uniforms. 488505_01

Natalie Davis and Beth Johnson organised Tyldenvania to celebrate Halloween in the town of Tylden. 514408_01

Iva Rosebud starred in Club Kabarett, Melbourne’s bold new circus-cabaret in April.

471695_01

Zoe, 11, who played Duffy in the Melbourne season of Annie the Musical at the Princess Theatre in July. 489773_01

Dancers Mai Vu, Mai Nguyen, Ngoc Huynh, Thoa Tran, and Tina Nguyen and Brimbank councillor Thuy Dang (seated) brought festive fun to St Albans in November. 517610_01

Elephants arrived at Werribee Open Range Zoo in February. 468666_01

Thomas Stockdale won race four at the Kyneton Cup in early November. 516055_01

Tuesday, 6 January, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 11

2025 YEAR IN REVIEW .... COMMUNITY

‘‘

When you are feeling broken, the way to healing is through helping others

’’

- Liz Skitch

Thomastown Neighbourhood House manager Liz Skitch. (Damjan Janevski) 475040_02

Four walls and a caring lifeline Thomastown Neighbourhood House manger Liz Skitch runs a community hub from a room inside the local library, offering connection, creativity, and crisis support. Star Weekly spoke with Liz about mental health, hidden trauma, and why neighbourhood houses are crucial - but under resourced - pillars of community care.

13 May

T

ucked away in a quiet room inside the Thomastown Library, you’ll find what might just be the suburb’s most essential service – though most people don’t realise it until they walk through the door.

There’s mental health slogans, and then there are mental health saviours and the latter certainly applies to the Thomastown Neighbourhood House.

“We didn’t know you were here!” is the most common thing people say when they discover the neighbourhood house, manager Liz Skitch says.

But once they do, it doesn’t take long for the truth to land.

Across Victoria, mental health services are overwhelmed and recent studies highlight this epidemic is only getting worse. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, one in five Australians will experience a mental illness this year, yet in outer-metro areas like Whittlesea, access to psychologists remains critically low– just 2.2 per 1000 people.

Liz is many things to the community – actress, comedian and an award-winning performer – one thing she is not though is a psychologist. However, she is very often the first point of contact for individuals in distress at the neighbourhood house.

“You give me a reason to leave the house,” one regular told her.

Another: “Thanks to your playgroup, I now have friends all over the neighbourhood.”

In a time marked by skyrocketing loneliness, cost-of-living stress and the long tail of the Covid-19 pandemic, places like this – warm, inclusive, and quietly revolutionary – are holding communities together.

And they’re doing it under the radar, on shoestring budgets, and with a kind of fierce

love that can’t be faked.

When someone walks in clearly struggling, Liz doesn’t offer a script.

“I listen. Then if I can help – I do,” Liz says.

“The heart-breaking thing is that more often than not, the best we can do is provide a safe space and a phone number to a better resourced organisation.”

What Liz wishes for is modest but urgent: a social worker on-site, food vouchers to give, transport for those who are stranded and can’t access services.

“We do our best to partner with organisations like Foodbank and Whittlesea Community Connections but this is not enough.”

In that one sentence is the quiet frustration of countless front-line workers across Victoria, who are holding space for others while burning out themselves.

One moment that stayed with Liz this year happened in a surprise setting – the Death Cafè.

It’s one of Thomastown Neighbourhood House’s more unconventional offerings, a philosophy-based program that facilitates conversations about end of life.

“One of the women shared how she lost her daughter to leukaemia, many years ago,” Liz recalls. “I was struck by her resilience and her creativity. Despite her grief, she’s committed to her community.

It reminded me you never know what someone’s carrying.”

It’s a lesson that echoes across the programs the centre runs – from playgroups and craft workshops to dance classes and legal aid visits.

The weight of people’s stories isn’t always visible. But it’s there.

Since the pandemic, GPS and psychologists have increasingly referred patients to neighbourhood houses for what some countries call “green scripts” which

12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026

directs patients to attend places doing activities that boost social cohesion and wellbeing without ever feeling like clinical intervention.

“Social cohesion is at an all-time low.

Loneliness is at an all-time high,” Liz says.

“But when a new participant joins our group, we focus on their strengths. Before long, we can see confidence grow and friendships flourish, “When you are feeling broken, the way to healing is through helping others.”

It’s healing through connection – and often, through creativity.

One of Liz’s highlights each week is a Monday afternoon dance party called Lets Move for young adults with disabilities.

“It’s pure joy,” Liz says. “That’s how I keep going – friendship and creativity.”

But Liz didn’t enter this role at a gentle time.

She became manager mid-pandemic, when all the programs were shut down and the focus turned to emergency food relief.

Suddenly, she was running a pantry out of the library foyer five days a week, with food lines stretching toward the nearby sports fields. “I felt out of my depth every day,” Liz admits. “It was like trying to fill a bottomless well.”

The need hasn’t eased. If anything, it’s grown.

Now, with the cost-of-living crisis biting harder, the support of partners like Foodbank Victoria – which brings its mobile supermarket to Thomastown on Wednesdays – has become essential.

But so too has the advocacy for more sustainable support.

When asked what she wants politicians and mental health services to understand, Liz doesn’t hesitate.

“Neighbourhood houses provide a sense of belonging and purpose – which is often

the key to overcoming mental health challenges from depression and loneliness, to stress and anxiety,” Liz says. “We provide safe spaces for people. But across Victoria, most neighbourhood house managers are working full-time hours in part-time roles.

Burn-out is common. It’s not sustainable.”

Liz believes every house should have at least two staff present at all times to ensure safety and adequately support the wide range of services they provide.

And in Thomastown, there is a desperate need for a larger space. “We’re grateful to the City of Whittlesea and the state government for the support we do have,” Liz adds.

“But demand is surging, and our capacity hasn’t grown with it.”

It’s a confronting question – what would happen if Thomastown Neighbourhood House didn’t exist?

“There are very few spaces people can go to for free without feeling pressure to spend money,” Liz says. “Shopping centres have become the default for when we have free time these days.”

Liz is also a passionate advocate for public outdoor spaces, encouraging locals to kick a ball around at the oval, explore local parks or visit the new Whittlesea Gardens skate park.

In a community where many women are migrants, caregivers, or survivors of trauma – including family violence – the role of Thomastown Neighbourhood House is bigger than just activity programs.

“We see people rebuild confidence here,” Liz says. “We see healing. Sometimes people come in quiet and withdrawn and a few months later, they’re running art class.”

Asked if she ever worries about her own mental health and carrying the emotional toll of caring for others, Liz is candid: “Stress and anxiety – it’s a big one for me. But I try to remember to breathe”.

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4. Please direct comments to Mark Baade (Planning Consultant) on mark@saqconsulting.com.au, 0417 088 000 or to SAQ Consulting, P O Box 50 Clayfield QLD 4011 by Tuesday 20th January 2026 For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3752004

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Tuesday, 6 January, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13

High quality, bargain price

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring Yet another new name for Australian buyers to grapple with, Jaecoo is one of three sub-brands from the Chinese Chery brand.

Chery is the leading exporter of Chinese vehicles worldwide with Australian sales more than tripling over the past 12 months.

Marketed as the group’s premium brand, Jaecoo was launched here in March 2025 with the J7, a mid-sized SUV powered by either petrol or plug-in hybrid powertrains.

It was joined recently by our test vehicle, the J8 family-size SUV. Although they are built on different platforms, they do share many of the same design elements, most noticeable being what Chery describes as its Waterfall Grille with 20 vertical chrome and piano black bars and the Jaecoo name in the centre.

The J8 differs also in that it only comes with a single power option, a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine although it seems likely that a PHEV will follow.

Although J8 is significantly larger in all dimensions than the J7 both are five-seaters.

It’s highly likely that a third row will be added later to allow it to compete against similarly-sized vehicles like the Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan X-Trail, Kia Sorento and Toyota Kluger.

Jaecoo J8 comes with two variants, the Track 2WD priced at $49,990 and the AWD $54,990 Ridge. Both prices are driveaway.

The Jaecoo J8 is one of the best offerings yet from China, certainly the best SUV. (Pictures: Supplied)

RATINGS Looks: 9/10

Styling

Performance: 7.5/10

Chery’s design team, headed by a former Mercedes-Benz stylist, have done an impressive job with its two Jaecoo vehicles.

Both have an understated but stylish appearance, one that proved to be real head-turners wherever we drove, invariably followed by the need to explain that Jaecoo was the upmarket version of the Chinese carmaker Chery.

The 320mm extra length of the J8 over the J7 is the most obvious difference between the two siblings with its stretched, slightly tapering roofline just crying out for that extra row of seats.

There’s LED lighting all round, both external and internal, with a light bar connecting the tail lights.

Safety: 8/10

Interior The quality and premier feel of the Jaecoo J8 extends into the cabin.

The front seats are heated and ventilated with massage function and four-way lumbar support. The Ridge variant adds heating and ventilation to outer second row seats.

The driver gets an eight-way powered seat with extended thigh support, four-way lumbar support and memory function.

The front passenger has six-way power adjustment.

The rear seats get their own air conditioning controls and a folding centre armrest.

There’s even an in-built fragrance system in the Ridge that uses replaceable cartridges, located below the dashboard to release a choice of scents through the interior of the vehicle.

One feature that we haven’t encountered are speakers built into the front seat headrests. We received a few phone calls during our test – backseat drivers indeed.

Boot space is a huge 738 litres expandable to a van-like 2021 litres with the rear seatbacks folded. Note that these measurements are to the roof.

Both variants come with a full-sized spare wheel.

Engines/transmissions The Jaecoo J8 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 183kW of power and 385Nm of torque from 1750rpm. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes in either

Thirst: 7/10 Practicality: 8/10 Comfort: 8.5/10 Tech: 8/10 Value: 8.5/10

front-wheel drive in the Ridge and all-wheel drive in the Track.

The engine requires a minimum of 95 RON premium unleaded fuel.

Safety Jaecoo J8 was yet to be tested by ANCAP, however given that it shares all of its safety features with the J7 which was tested in May 2025 and received the maximum five-star rating, that would seem to be assured.

Track has eight airbags including front centre and driver’s knee. Ridge adds side airbags for the outside rear seats.

Both variants get Chery’s advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) package that includes forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, integrated cruise assist, blind spot detection, rear collision warning, rear cross traffic alert and braking, lane departure prevention with emergency lane keeping, driver monitoring system and tyre pressure monitoring.

The Range variant adds extra drive modes, torque vectoring and continuous damping control.

There are also four lane deviation and three driver inattention/speed limit monitoring systems. All can be turned off temporarily although, fortunately, they are nowhere near as intrusive as others we have come across One thing that impressed us, with both the Jaecoo models that we’ve tested, was that the vehicle will not move unless the driver’s seatbelt is fastened.

Such an obvious safety but one that very few other manufacturers have adopted.

We understand that ANCAP may add to its testing regime in future.

Infotainment In contrast to the portrait format of the Jaecoo J7’s infotainment screen the J8 reverts to the conventional landscape design. The touch screen is 12.3-inch and

14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026

is butted up against a driver’s information cluster of the same size to display as a single, panoramic screen.

Both screens are crisp, clear and easy to access. There’s inbuilt satellite navigation that can be displayed on both screens.

There are USB-A ports at both front and rear with fast-charge USB-Cs in both locations. 12-volt power outlets are located in the front and in the boot and there is a 50W wireless charger in both variants.

Audio is through an impressive 14-speaker Sony surround sound system.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both wireless.

Driving There are retractable handles on all four doors that open automatically when the key fob comes in range. Unlike most other vehicles with such door handles that can be awkward to open those in the J7 open fully square for easy opening.

Visibility isn’t great with about half of the narrow rear window blocked by the rear seat headrests. The A-pillar is wide and sharply angled which, together with the large side mirror, does restrict left-side vision for the driver.

As is rapidly becoming the norm, almost all vehicle functions are accessed through the touchscreen rather than using physical controls.

While these are among the many important safety features in the vehicle, and no doubt many drivers will appreciate them, they can be quite intrusive and frequently require the driver to look at the touchscreen instead of the road ahead.

They can be turned off although with most vehicles they then default back on when the engine is stopped. Fortunately, with the Jaecoo that’s not the case and, apart from the driver distraction alert, they remain off until turned on again.

Another problem we found was the

location of the gear selector on the right-hand steering wheel stalk. Typically, that is the location of the right turn indicator or windscreen wiper controls. On a number of occasions, we inadvertently moved the vehicle into neutral when we went to use either the indicator or wipers.

The drive experience from the Jaecoo J8 is predictable enough for a large boxy and relatively heavy vehicle but that applies equally to most vehicles in the medium SUV field. It does what the typical family owner wants and does it well.

It provides a smooth, quiet and comfortable ride both around town and on the motorway. Steering is light Note that, unusually for a relatively large vehicle, J8 does not have any towing rating.

Both variants get an adjustable head-up display.

Summing up Although the Jaecoo brand doesn’t have the badge prestige of European vehicles of similar size the J8’s driveaway price starting from just under $50,000 it offers incredible value for money.

The standard Jaecoo warranty covers eight years and unlimited kilometres.

There’s also 12 months of complimentary roadside assistance, that can be with the opportunity of extending for the full warranty period provided that the vehicle is serviced throughout at authorised Jaecoo dealers.

Another Jaecoo initiative is a ‘Future Price Promise’ that guarantees a minimum resale value subject to specific conditions being met including the aforementioned servicing criteria.

The Jaecoo J8 certainly gets our nod as one of the best offerings yet from China, certainly the best SUV. The combination of its, excellent interior space and comfort, safety equipment and pricing make it well worth checking out.

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 271

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

ACROSS

easy

8 2 3 1 4 5 8 2 3 6 4 2 9 4 9

9 1 5 6 1 2 3 2 8 6

7 9

DECODER 18 3

20

22

21

18

17

25

10

17

13

4

10

13

20

15

10

14

26

X

23

22

3

23

18 15

25

S

4

18

20

17 21

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6

12

10

17

23

14

12

25

5

22

S 23

7

8

23

22

9

25

17

S

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

5

24

25

10

19

8

23

2

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

T

Today’s Aim: 14 words: Good 21 words: Very good

9 4 5 7 8 2 6 3 1 7 3 6 1 4 9 5 8 2 1 8 2 5 3 6 4 9 7 6 9 4 3 5 1 7 2 8 8 5 7 2 9 4 3 1 6 2 1 3 6 7 8 9 4 5 4 7 8 9 1 5 2 6 3 5 6 1 4 2 3 8 7 9 3 2 9 8 6 7 1 5 4

2 1 5 3 4 9 6 8 7 3 7 4 8 2 6 1 5 9 6 9 8 5 7 1 4 2 3 5 2 7 4 3 8 9 1 6 8 3 9 1 6 2 5 7 4 4 6 1 9 5 7 2 3 8 1 8 3 2 9 4 7 6 5 7 4 2 6 8 5 3 9 1 9 5 6 7 1 3 8 4 2

Y

I O

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S

P

3 LETTERS ADD ADO ADS AID BOW EEL EGO FED GEE IDS ILL IOU IRE LIE MAR NIP NOR OFF OKS ORE PEN TEE WHO YOU

No. 271

A C C O R D

5 LETTERS ABATE ABODE ALIGN ALIVE AMISS AWARE BEARS BERET CANAL CRATE DEALT DYING EAGER EATEN EDGES EERIE ELUDE EVERY EXUDE FLORA HOSTS

4 LETTERS EARL EBBS FLEE GULP KEEL LILY MEET MIEN POPE SASH SLAM TALL TRAY USES

INANE KNOTS LADLE LAPEL LEERY LOVES NOTED PIXIE RISER SATIN SCANT SEDAN SHREW SLAIN SLEPT SLEWS SOLED SPEAK STAFF START STEAM STUDY

SWING TEASE TENET TENOR TILDE TOILS ULTRA

7 LETTERS ANTENNA APOSTLE GOATEES LEOTARD REALISE SNUFFER

6 LETTERS ACCORD ASSURE FRONTS ORIENT

8 LETTERS CELLISTS HANGOVER HYSTERIA TABLOIDS

09-01-26

No. 378

QUICK QUIZ

1

Who was the first wife of Roman emperor Nero?

4

The smoky spirit mezcal is derived from which plant?

2

Which band had hits with the songs Dreams (1993), Linger (1993) and Ode to My Family (1994)?

7

Dorothea Brooke is the heroine of which 19th century English novel?

8

3

Comedians James Acaster and Ed Gamble co-host which podcast?

True or false: the shoe company Dr. Martens was founded by a British doctor?

9

6

What long-distance hiking trail spans 4,265 kilometres from Canada to Mexico?

How many US states begin with the letter ‘n’?

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

F R A N K R O B I N A T O N E N O V E L C R E S T

K

H

I

WORDFIT

chip, chips, chit, city, hips, hiss, hits, itch, itchy, physic, PHYSICIST, physics, pitch, pith, pithy, pits, pity, schist, ship, ships, sips, sits, spicy, spit, spits, this, tips, tipsy, yips

4 7 2 5 8 1 6 9 3 8 3 6 7 9 2 4 5 1 5 9 1 6 4 3 8 7 2 9 1 3 8 5 4 7 2 6 6 8 4 9 2 7 3 1 5 2 5 7 3 1 6 9 8 4 1 2 8 4 6 9 5 3 7 7 4 9 2 3 5 1 6 8 3 6 5 1 7 8 2 4 9

A

I

C S

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

E

S

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

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

29 words: Excellent

hard

O

25

12

10 11 12 13

3

medium

A

S

23

2

easy

O

15

9-LETTER WORD

8

F

S

1

18

1 6 5

25

5

J W M V T Y Z K P O Q D U

7

S

2

16

S

6

13

19 22

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14

13

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10

23

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7

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16

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18

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17

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1

24

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

8 4 6

5x5

6

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7

10

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R C G I B L A F N E H S X

9

2 1

12

24

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1

18

19

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1

9

20

5

5

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4 3 8

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3

hard

6 9

25

18

19

5

9

No. 303

5

The 2006 film She’s the Man, starring Amanda Bynes (pictured), is a modernday retelling of which of Shakespeare’s comedies?

10 What was the name of artist Frida Kahlo’s spouse?

ANSWERS: 1. Claudia Octavia 2. The Cranberries 3. Off Menu 4. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) 5. Twelfth Night 6. Agave 7. Middlemarch 8. False; he was a German doctor 9. Eight 10. Diego Rivera

6 8 6 1 5 7 4 5 4 9 3 1 2 7 1 7 8 3 9 4 2 6 5 6 1 3 4

S P E A K S C A N T A B A T E T I L D E T E N O R S O L E D U L T R A S W I N G E X U D E A I D L A D L E Y O U G E E M E E T D Y I N G F R O N T S O K S S N U F F E R S L A I N T A L L E A R L T A B L O I D S P O P E L I E A P O S T L E R E A L I S E S L A M H A N G O V E R F E D F L E E L I L Y E V E R Y G O A T E E S I R E A C C O R D N O T E D S A S H M A R I O U T E A S E W H O I N A N E S T A R T B E A R S E E R I E B E R E T S A T I N S L E P T S E D A N S L E W S

3 4

8 5

17 18 19 21 22 23 26

5

medium

1

Inhabitant (8) Abstinence (8) Childish (7) Pressurised dispenser (7) Light rainfall (6) Holiday spot (6) Fringe (4) Tableland (7) Meeting for an exchange of ideas (7) Sheath (8) Sing to (8) Unaffected (7) Settle (7) Help (6) Slip-on shoe (6) Ballot choice (4)

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 16

15

6

DOWN

Formula (6) Large rope (6) Climb (5) Light-headed (9) Disadvantage, disservice (9) Impugn (5) A spice (6) Plummet (4) Require (4) Source of wisdom (6) Schnoz (5) Incapable of being seen (9) Provider of information (9) Tropical climbing plant (5) Slave (6) Interfere (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 15 19 20 24 25 27 28 29 30

No. 271

14

7 3

QUICK CROSSWORD

Tuesday, 6 January, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 15

2025 YEAR IN REVIEW ...SPORT

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Lalor United’s Solomon Sunray. 488179_09

Keilor’s Daniel Poelsma. 488186_10

Footscray’s Paula Nailovolovo in June. 481972_18

Keilor’s Adetomi Ayilara. 488186_27

Sport through the Star Weekly photography lens Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic captured all the sport action across Melbourne’s western and northern

suburbs throughout 2025. She shares her favourite pictures from the past year.

Gisborne’s Elijah Bretherton. 496381_17

Myra Wood in action in for Craigieburn in August. 497759_32

Don Geodes in action in November.520809_21 Ashleigh Palmer won the women’s 400m at the Lancefield Gift in November. Also pictured as Grace Carter, Genevieve O’Brien, Lucy Zotti, Ella Tobin and Alex Tzilantonis. 517333_26

Footscray’s Kerry Nease during the women’s grand final in August. 499386_04

16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026

Ameir Majur on the court for Melton. 508552_12

Craigieburn’s Darren Wotu. 518147_02

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

2025 YEAR IN REVIEW ... SPORT

Chetcuti marks 800 games 8 July At 63, Mill Park’s Jim Chetcuti could be forgiven for sitting on the sidelines and watching football each weekend.

The games record holder at South Morang continues to rack up the games and the memories.

After starting playing football in his late teens, Chetcuti played the 800th game as Brunswick faced Carrum in the Super Rules competition on Sunday.

“It makes me feel old,” he said before the game. “I played 400 and broke the record at South Morang a couple of times.

“The footy keeps me coming back. I don’t play a lot of juniors. I started late, not until I was in my late teens.

Having grown up playing in the streets with his Collingwood gear, Chetcuti played a lot of basketball growing up.

When a teacher suggested playing football, he looked to join West Lalor before a neighbour suggested he play at Mernda.

He would play 74 games for Mernda in the Panton Hill Football League, before becoming too old of the junior age group.

After a couple of years out of the game, it was the former Fitzroy legend in Kevin Murray that would get Chetcuti back into football and the rest is history.

“Kevin Murray went to coach South Morang, a VFL legend and Brownlow medallist,” he said.

“We went down to check it out and we were behind the goals at the old ground.

“The president said you’re not allowed to watch and you have to sign a green card and that is now it started.”

Chetcuti played 442 games for South Morang, playing into 50s.

Off field, he took on coaching and every other role possible at the club.

Chetcuti now plays in the Super Rules competition. He used to play with Northern Districts and now plays with Coburg in the over-55s.

It’s simple why he keeps playing.

“The mateship,” he said. “We’ve played a lot with each other and against each other.

“It’s not as physical and we have a lot of fun hanging it on each other.

“We then tell each other who good we

are looking. It’s also fitness and keep ticking it over.”

He said he doesn’t know anyone that has played 800 games but sure there is someone somewhere that has played that many.

Football is in the genes for the Chetcuti, with Jim’s daughter Tara Chetcuti recently clocking up game 200.

Chetcuti played a big role in setting up the women’s program at South Morang and now helps at Coburg where Tara plays.

“We’ve played 1000 games between us,” Jim said. “We used to kick in the street and she’s played cricket and basketball as well.”

As for how long he will keep going, Chetcuti has put no limit on it.

United claims championship 15 September

Tara Watson. (Grant Treeby)

Watson makes her mark on Super Netball 5 August Whittlesea’s Tara Watson would have never predicted how she would make her Suncorp Super Netball debut.

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 call to take the court finally came on, in a preliminary final no less.

While the game would always be special for Watson, it is a match that will go down in folklore.

The Vixens came from 10 points down at the three quarter time to win by one, 6665, to secure a grand final spot.

Watson said being such a big game, she wasn’t expecting to get on the court.

“It’s pretty surreal, I never dreamt the game to be the way it was,” she said. “It was super special to be part of it with the other girls around me so supportive on

and off the court.

“I didn’t think it would be then, but it was a different story. I wanted to continue to be confident.”

Watson was on the bench in the second quarter when assistant coach Di Honey told her she would be going on in wing attack.

A quick time out gave her a minute for it all to settle in before the debut came with the side that she had grown up supporting.

“The girls got around me,” she said. “I was shaking and so nervous.

“I wanted to take the opportunity when it came and get up to do the best I could …

I was playing alongside some of my idols.

“I was pretty happy with how I played out there, but there’s still a couple of things to work on.”

Watson finished with three goal assists and four feeds in her short period on court.

Speaking on days after the game, the North East Blaze midcourter said the

match and the outcome was yet to sink in.

“It’s so special and it was so crazy,” she said. “I don’t think I’ve been part of a special game like that.

“In the last quarter, I can’t remember [what I was thinking]. I just knew they would get it done and believed in them.

“I couldn’t sit still. I couldn’t watch and then I watched and I was screaming and yelling, and so excited to see them take control of the game.”

The group was back at training on Tuesday with Watson saying it made it all feel a little bit more real they were playing in a grand final.

The grand final was played on Saturday night in front of a packed house with plenty of Vixens fans in the house.

Unfortunately for Watson, she had to watch from the sidelines as Mundy returned from injury.

There was still plenty of joy for the side as they won 59-58 to send Simone McKinnis out on a winning note.

Lalor United was able to hold up to the pressure to seal the FV state league 2 north-west championship.

Despite some challenges on and off the field throughout the season, including a coaching change, Lalor was able to secure the title with two rounds remaining.

Lalor’s Tony Josevski said it was a pretty special moment for the club.

“We were really under a bit of pressure being at the top all year,” he said. “We did a great job of managing that and we will enjoy one more match.

“To achieve what we have achieved we could not be happier for the committee, sponsors, supporters and the players.”

Lalor sealed the championship with a win against Altona East Phoenix in a battle of the top two teams in the third last round.

The 3-0 gave Lalor the championship and the opportunity to celebrate in front of its home crowd.

“The club is heading in a really good direction and it was quite awesome and there’s a lot of time to enjoy it.

“The reaction was really good from everyone and there was a big home crowd as well which was terrific.”

Lalor dropped its match to Western Eagles on the weekend, but Josevski said they were already looking ahead to next season and beyond.

“We’ve given some of the young kids a run and are already starting to prepare for next year,” he said.

Lalor finished its season on Saturday against Craigieburn City with a 1-1 draw.

Lalor finished five points clear of Altona East Phoenix, which will also be promoted. Uni Hill Eagles finished in third.

The club will also play off for the overall state league 2 title, with Josevski saying they would give it a red hot crack.

Next season Lalor United will be in state league 1 for the first time in more than 20 years.

“It is a massive achievement for the club,” Josevski said. “We are quite confident that we can still go up another division.”

Tuesday, 6 January, 2026 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 17

2025 YEAR IN REVIEW ... SPORT

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Panthers on top of shield 1 April Merrifield Panthers exceeded all expectations as they claimed their first North West Metropolitan Cricket Association George Luscombe Shield title.

The Panthers moved into the top flight of the NWMCA this season in just their third season of having senior teams.

They became the team to beat, losing just one match on the way to the premiership on Sunday.

President Harmandeep Bhathal said it was still like a dream the following morning.

“It was amazing,” he said. “I can’t explain it.

“To be in the position to try and

achieve this is amazing. There’s been only about four teams that have shared the premiership for a number of years.

“To have two different teams in the final, it had never been done before.”

The Panthers entered day two of the grand final against Tarneit Central with it in their control.

They had made 307 on day one with Rocky Sharma making a 100 and Talwinder Prince making 90.

Day two was meant to be held last Sunday, but with rain it was postponed to this season.

Bhathal, who is also skipper of the first XI, said they needed to bowl well early.

“We bowled really well and we got the first four wickets cheaply,” he said.

“Gurpreet Singh batted so well and didn’t give us any chances and gave them a chance. But we knew with a big score on the board it was a difficult challenge, but you never know with cricket.”

Bhathal said the run rate started to get to eight or nine runs an over putting the pressure on Tarneit.

He said Tarneit was struggling to find the boundary and make them pay for any bad ball.

“When they started to lose wickets, the run rate went up,” he said. “They didn’t have someone to hit fours or sixes.

“Our ground is a big ground.”

Satnam Singh took three wickets for the Panthers, while Daman Sidhu and Prince took two wickets each.

Sharma was awarded man of the match for his performance on day one.

He bowled just five overs on day two, but managed to get the early wicket of Pawanjot Saini to set the tone on Saturday.

Bhathal said at the start of the season they could have never imagined winning the premiership, having been knocked out in the semi finals of the lower grade last season.

It was a big weekend for the Panthers with their second and third XI sides also playing off in grand finals.

The second XI claimed the Keith Stringer Shield.

After making 9-394 on day one, the Panthers were able to restrict the Darebin Chargers to 278.

Perri claims DVCA best and fairest 15 April

Mernda claimed the premiership. (Supplied)

Underdog Demons secure the Mash Shield 1 April A welcome little boost in the form of Facebook memories was just what was needed for Mernda to help spurn to it the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Mash Shield premiership.

The Demons entered the grand final against Rivergum as underdogs and after day one were on the back foot.

Demons’ Shane McCarter said they knew they had it all in front of them and took it in their stride.

On the morning of the match, they discovered it was the anniversary of another part of history.

“It was 10 years to the day that we had won our last first XI flag,” McCarter said.

“It was a good surprise when we saw the Facebook memories on the morning of the game.

“There were three guys in the last flag and we’ve been through some pretty dark days the past few years.

“To have some success is so special.”

Captain-coach Callum Dean, who has

left and since returned to the club, Stuart Wright, who has been a long serving player and committee member were part of that last premiership.

Chris Smith is the third, having come into the senior side late this season after the Demons wicketkeeper broke his hand in the last game of the regular season.

McCarter said during the week they spoke about knowing if they bowled well that they could get the job done.

“We were in a relaxed mood,” he said.

“We were the underdogs as Rivergum has been good all year.

“It was a great opportunity to do something special and there was no pressure.”

The Demons bowlers executed the game plan perfectly on Saturday.

The Kookas were 2-28 and quickly slipped to 7-56 as the Demons tore through their batting line up.

The Kookas lower order also struggled to get going and they were bowled out for just 81 in the 54th over.

“We stuck to the plan,” McCarter said.

“A score of 140 could have been enough or

18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026

not been enough.

“The way we bowled was sensational.”

Lachlan Taylor took 4-23 off 25 overs and was named player of the match. McCarter said he had a sensational finals series.

Michael Edwards also took three wickets, with a big future ahead of the 19-yearold.

McCarter said it was that next generation that was starting to show the way.

The win was the Demons third this season against the Kookas, which also happened to be the Kookas only three losses for the season.

McCarter said it was strange how it had worked out.

“We saw them as the benchmark,” he said. “Matt Perri made 1000 runs and we have not seen that in a long time or ever.”

The Demons will return to the Money Shield next season.

McCarter said they are looking forward to it.

“We have a very young group,” he said.

“They won’t take a backward step and we will put our best foot forward.”

Rivergum’s Matt Perri claimed a remarkable fifth competition best and fairest medal at the Diamond Valley Cricket Association awards night.

Having won a B-grade medal and three Bill McFarlane medals in the North Metro Cricket Association, Perri claimed the Duckworth-Turner Medal as the Mash Shield’s best player.

Perri said while it was nice to be recognised for his season, it was a bittersweet moment.

“It’s a bit of a hollow feeling,” he said. “We lost a grand final just five days before.

“Celebrating an individual award now, doesn’t sit well with me. Once the dust settles, I’ll be proud of the season that I had individually.”

Perri topped the run scorers in the Mash Shield, making 845 at an average of 105.

He also took 21 wickets to finish in the top 10.

Perri said he thought he was hitting them well this season.

“I had a good season with the bat,” he said. “When you know your game a bit more and you get yourself in, it’s harder to get out.

“You get yourself out. I took advantage of that and cashed in a bit and took a few wickets as well.”

Perri said his really strong run of form started when he took over the captaincy six or seven years ago and felt that he needed to step up a bit more.

He said when he looks back at his career, the significance of what he has been able to do will sink in.

“Five competition medals, that doesn’t mean much now,” he said.

“You want to win premierships rather than individual awards.

“Hopefully any more will come along with a premiership as well.

When it’s all said and done, I’ll look back and think that I have a good local sporting career.”

For Perri and the Kookas, they already have one eye on next season after losing the grand final to Mernda.

“There’s plenty of motivation for next year. Most of the guys will go again.”

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Woodman’s big honour 16 December Sunbury tennis star Jin Woodman received a nice surprise when he woke up on Monday morning.

In America for a training camp and tournament, Woodman was half a world away from the Australian Tennis awards.

Nominated for a second straight year, this time for most outstanding athlete with a disability, Woodman would share the honour with Hunter Thompson.

“There were four other people in the running and everyone had a good chance,” Woodman said from America.

“I was praying before I left that I would win it.

“This [Monday America time] morning and looked at my phone and I had 10 noti-

fications on Instagram.

“The first thing I saw was a photo of me for the Newcombe disability award. I was stunned.

“I called my parents and asked if this was for real as I was half asleep.”

Woodman said winning this award was among the top three moments of his career so far.

The award caps off a year which has seen the 16-year-old become the number one ranked Australian quad player.

He has also moved into the top 10 in the world rankings for quad wheelchair tennis and he is currently second in the world in the junior boys rankings.

The year started at his home court at the Hume Tennis and Community Centre followed by his Australian Open debut.

Woodman then suffered a major setback.

“It was a good start to the year and I was supposed to go to Korea and Japan,” he said.

“I fractured my femur when I fell out of my chair.

“Then it was four to six months out of tennis which was really hard. I love playing tennis.

“It was then baby steps and I had to learn to hit a forehand and backhand again, it took a while.”

While Woodman thought it would take some time to get back into form, he made an instant impact.

In his first tournament back in China, he won both juniors and senior events.

There were some more strong results and he made the US Open senior draw for

the first time.

His results were enough for him to qualify for the season-ending 2025 NEC Wheelchair Singles Masters.

“I didn’t think that I would make the top eight at the end of the year,” he said. “I was ranked about 16.

“Each result got me closer. Being my first masters I wasn’t expecting much either as it’s the best of the best.

“I won my first game … I was super happy.”

Woodman said to have finished the season ranked at number seven exceeded all his expectations.

He’s hoping that 2026 will be even bigger.

“I’ve already qualified for the Australian Open and this time I’m hoping to go better than last year.”

Broncos fall short 2 September

Allie Bebbere. (Baseball.com.au/Izzy Lilburn)

Baseball draft a dream come true for Bebbere 9 December Wollert’s Allie Bebbere would have regretted had she not put her hand up for the first-ever Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL) draft.

Players from across the world nominated for the draft which occurred on 21 November with five teams selecting their squads for the new competition.

Bebbere was the only Victorian who made the draft pool. She was taken by Boston in round four, pick 17.

“It was so exciting,” she said. “I’m rapt and it’s very hard to describe how I’m feeling.

“I’m really excited.”

Bebbere said she was fairly confident of hearing her name called out in the draft with 150 players vying for 120 spots.

She said while the odds were in her favour, she did get nervous as the draft progressed and she hadn’t heard her name.

When it was finally read out, there were plenty of cheers from those who had gathered at Doncaster to watch.

There were 600 people who nominated for the draft.

Players could send through videos to clubs or decide to go over and trial.

Bebbere decided to head to America.

“There were 15 or so nominated from Victoria and then there were players from other states,” she said.

“I know four Australians who went over to trial.

“If I went over and did and didn’t get past the first day, at least I gave it a go. If I did a video and didn’t make it for the rest of my life I would have been thinking what if.”

Bebbere said she never imagined in her playing lifetime that there would be this sort of opportunity.

She said when it did come up it was one that was too good to refuse for a sport that has played such a big role in her life.

“There’s a natural hunger and competitiveness that you have to give it a go,” she said.

“It’s the next big thing in baseball and it would mean the world to do, “I work a full time job and then baseball

for 25 hours a week either playing or training.

“I was married on a baseball ground.”

While it’s baseball where Bebbere made her name, it was softball where she started.

She met her now husband at a softball ground in Mill Park.

Bebbere followed him along to watch him play baseball and the rest of history.

While Bebbere has made the squad, there’s still work to do.

Only 15 of the 30 players selected will get a contract.

Bebbere said she’d had a lot of support on the journey from within the baseball community, especially the women’s baseball community.

“We’re in the middle of our summer season which is our biggest season of the year,” she said.

“There’s trials for the Victorian team and then trials for the Australian team and hopefully I’ll make that.

“I’m always honing my skills and improving my fielding.I want to stay fit and active and keep the fitness up.”

It was heartbreak again for the Hume City Broncos as they fell agonisingly short in the Big V men’s championship grand final on Saturday.

The Broncos were hoping it was third time lucky under coach Matt Foster and that they would finally get the championship they were after.

Standing in the way of the Broncos and their first championship since 2004, was the McKinnon Cougars who had come from third to make the grand final.

The Cougars had beaten the Broncos in their last two grand finals.

The Broncos, who had started strong in their first two finals, again led early with the margin six points at quarter time.

The Cougars counted and scores were level heading into the main break.

McKinnon led by as much as nine points in the third quarter before the Broncos through Robert Coman fought back.

Coman hit eight points late in the quarter to get the Broncos going and they managed to take a two point lead into the final quarter.

The Broncos led for much of the early part of the last quarter with scores level with 6.18 on the clock.

The lead changed hands again and went back and forth before the Cougars took the lead for the final time with less than four minutes on the clock.

Hume struggled to find offensive rhythm down the stretch which proved costly. They hit just two free throws in the final three minutes.

Jordan Geer for the Cougars stood tall and was able to guide his side to an 87-81 win.

Speaking at the postgame presentation, Foster said he felt like he had been in the same position a few times before.

“To our team, this season we didn’t lose a lot and we’re a young team.

“We had a good couple weeks but couldn’t get it done tonight, got beaten by a hell of a team that put it out there tonight [Saturday].

“You should be proud of the year.”

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20 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 January, 2026