Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 14th January 2026 by Star News Group

WEDNESDAY, 14 JANUARY, 2026

Life is just beachy Families flocked to Williamstown Beach on Friday morning before temperatures again topped 40 degrees as Melbourne endured its most severe heatwave in five years. More pictures: Page 6

Mums (back from left) Ermi, Stapanie and Emily cool off at Williamstown Beach on Friday with children (front from left) Neve 5, Sofia 4, Hugo 3 and Xanthe 2. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 527274_01

Concern ramps up By Cade Lucas

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A woman who fell and injured herself at Newport station late last year claims its platform ramps are too steep and don’t comply with disability access standards despite the state government announcing upgrades nearly three years ago. Andelka Obradovic was walking down the ramp from platform two on Monday 15 December when she tripped and fell to the ground. Ms Obradovic suffered grazes to her hands and knees in the fall and said she still cannot kneel without pain. “I feel very fortunate that I didn’t break

anything or hit my head,” she said of the fall which she blames on the steep gradient of the ramp. “I don’t normally fall when I trip. I believe it was the steepness of the ramp that prevented me from being able to recover from the trip.” An occupation therapist, Ms Obradovic said she’d long suspected the Newport station ramps were not compliant with disability access standards. After recently measuring them, she said she’d been proven correct. “Public ramp gradients should be 1:14 (a four degree angle) to meet disability access standards, but based on my rudimentary

measurements, the six ramps at Newport Station are approximately 1.7 to 2.5 times that gradient,” Ms Obradovic said, adding that other compliance measures were lacking too. “They lack landings which should be at 9m intervals and there are gutters, instead of kerbing, on both sides of the ramps into which four-wheel walker and wheelchair wheels could get stuck.” Ms Obradovic wants to know why this is still the case when in 2022 the state government used Newport station to announce a $57 million package for accessibility upgrades at train stations across Melbourne’s west.

“This is another step towards a more accessible train network for residents in the western suburbs,” Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said in announcing the upgrade package alongside then Transport Minister Ben Carroll on 29 August, 2022. Asked about what accessibility improvements had been made at the station since, a spokesperson for the state government didn’t mention ramps. “In 2024, there was resurfacing work undertaken on platform two at Newport train station, to reduce the gap between the platform and train,” the spokesperson said.

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West foodie remembered By Cade Lucas Passionate, positive, focused and friendly are just some of the adjectives used to describe former Star Weekly sub-editor and renowned food blogger, Kenny Weir, who died on New Year’s Day after a 17-month battle with cancer. He was 69. Born in New Zealand, Weir moved to Melbourne as a young man and spent more than 40 years in journalism, most notably at the Sunday Herald Sun where he served as entertainment editor in the 1990’s. It was through this role that he met a

young jazz singer called Deborah Robertson who’d just moved to Melbourne from Brisbane. “He came and reviewed a show I was in and the next day it was “Deborah Robertson is star material,” Robertson recalled of her first encounter with Weir who she described as “extremely focused and ambitious.” Robertson soon realised this extended to Weir’s personal life too. “He pursued me relentlessly and like anything he pursued, he got,” Robertson said of how their relationship began in 1999. By 2001, Robertson had given birth to their son Bennie and they’d moved to the

western suburbs, settling in Yarraville where Weir lived for the rest of his life. After five years together, Robertson and Weir separated but remained close as they shared custody of Bennie. Robertson said Weir was just as passionate about his son as he was about music and food. “A fantastic father, devoted, completely devoted,” she said. After leaving the Sunday Herald Sun in the early 2000’s, Weir shifted from entertainment to food writing, starting his well known blog, Consider The Sauce, while also working as a sub-editor and occasional

restaurant reviewer with the Weekly, a predecessor to Star Weekly.. His former editor at the Weekly, David Bonnici, said Weir was not only a very good sub-editor, but a colourful and positive presence in the newsroom. “He was really good with the younger journalists and just had a really good friendly manner,” Bonnici said. “Kenny was just a very positive person and that really showed in his food reviews. He did some for us in the paper and then he just took that further with his own blog which was very well received. “He’ll be sadly missed in the west.”

Inner-west crime continues to motor

Advanced life support paramedic Louise Creasey, Matilda Little and triple-0 call-taker Nicole Middleton. (Supplied)

Twelve-year old recognised for bravery Twelve-year-old western suburbs resident Matilda Little has been recognised for her bravery and quick thinking after she helped save her mum Katarina Aleksevic during an anaphylactic reaction. On 1 November, the pair were at home when Katarina started experiencing a reaction to a chocolate bar. With Matilda’s help, Katarina administered her EpiPen, but her symptoms continued to progress including tight-

ness in her throat, shortness of breath, nausea and tingling in her lips. Matilda wasted no time calling triple-0 and was instructed to administer a second EpiPen. When Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics arrived on scene minutes later, Matilda directed them to her mum and provided as much information about what had happened as she could. Katarina said her daughter showed maturity, courage and calm that many

adults would struggle to maintain in such a terrifying situation. “It was a deeply traumatic event for both of us. We were both shaken but I am so grateful Matilda knew what to do,” Katarina said. AV advanced life support paramedic Louise Creasey said Matilda’s efforts made the world of difference to her mum’s outcome. “From the moment we arrived on scene Matilda was an amazing help,” she said.

State government announces plan to dump illegal dumping Applications are open for the state government’s the new $8.5 million Illegal Dumping Clean-up Rebate Program. The program will provide financial assistance to councils and other public land managers to help cover the costs of cleaning up illegally dumped waste. It will cover up to 50 per cent of cleanup costs when efforts to trace the perpetrator and recover costs have been exhausted.

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said illegal dumping was a big issue for public land managers across Victoria and the new rebate program would provide them with much needed support. “We’ve listened to councils and land managers about the challenges and costs of dealing with illegal dumping,” Mr Dimopoulos said. “Too often councils and public land

2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

managers are left with a costly mess to clean up from the actions of wrong-doers – this rebate scheme provides support to help cover these costs and keep our suburbs and towns clean.” In addition to the rebate program, the government has also allocated $13 million to ramp up surveillance, enforcement, and clean-up efforts through the Illegal Dumping Taskforce, led by the Environment Protection Authority.

Theft from motor vehicles has again driven an increase in crime in the inner-west. The latest data released by the Crime Statistics Agency last month shows that for the year to September 2025, recorded offences rose by 14 per cent in Hobsons Bay and 11 per cent in Maribyrnong, with stealing from a motor vehicle by far the most common offence in both. In Hobsons Bay, 1379 thefts from a vehicle were recorded, compared to 1095 to September 2024, an increase of 26 per cent. Other theft was the next most common offence, increasing from 760 to 816, with retail theft third on 633 up from 422. Along with theft from motor vehicles, the theft of motor vehicles themselves also increased, with 526 stolen, 44 per cent more than the 363 from a year earlier. Many of these thefts occurred in Altona North which recorded the most crime of any suburb in Hobsons Bay with 1691, a jump of 43 per cent. Second-placed Williamstown recorded a reduction in crime with 1292 offences down from 1434. Houses remained the most common location for crime, with 1961 compared to 1867, but crime on streets, lanes and footpaths rose sharply from 1166 to 1508., according to the Crime Statistics Agency. Overall 7906 offences were recorded in the municipality compared to 6942 to the same point in 2024. In Maribyrnong, motor vehicle theft was by far the most common offence, rising by 44 per cent over the year from 1908 to 2753, 1600 more than second placed other theft on 1153, an improvement from 1391 a year earlier. Footscray recorded 4510 offences, up from 4034 to September 2024 and more than double next placed Maribyrnong on 2187. Streets, lanes and footpaths were again the most common locations for crimes in Maribyrnong with 2863, well ahead of houses on 1947. Crime in shopping complexes marginally improved from 702 to 674. A total of 12,441 offences were recorded in Maribyrnong to September 2025, more than a thousand more than the 11,209 to the same point in 2024, the data showed. Crime in both inner west municipalities increased by more than the statewide figure of 10.8 per cent.

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Spotswood rallies with raffle By Cade Lucas When David Toeng died suddenly in August last year, it not only devastated his wife Frances and their three children, but also the Spotswood community where the couple had operated the post office and newsagent on Hudsons Road for 20 years. Now five months after the 72 year-old’s death and with Spotswood Post, News and Lotto permanently closed, the local traders association, Our Hood Spotswood, has launched a fundraising raffle to help his widow move on to the next stage of her life. “After David’s sudden passing the busi-

ness community felt they wanted to support Frances’s family in some form,” Our Hood Spotswood secretary Tony Mead said. “Local business Kieser Training offered to run a raffle as part of an open day they were running but it soon became obvious that the generous donations from so many local businesses was going to be too large to fit into a one day raffle.” Instead, Our Hood Spotswood took over organising the raffle and stretched it out over almost three months. Tickets went on sale on 22 December last year and will finally be drawn on March 13, with $4000 worth of donated prizes up for grabs.

Mr Mead said it was the least they could do for Ms Toeng, who along with her late husband, was an integral part of the local community. “All proceeds of the raffle will be donated to Frances to help support her moving forward and as recognition of the love and respect the Spotswood community held for David and his dedication to running this small but vital business in our area.” Frances Toeng said she was deeply grateful for the support. “I didn’t know there was so much support from other businesses and the customers and the community,” Ms Toeng

said. While operating Spotswood Post, News and Lotto, the couple travelled each day from their home in the eastern suburbs and with the business now closed, Ms Toeng said no longer visited the inner west as much. “I miss Spotswood, I miss the people, I miss the friends” she said, adding that she was looking forward to returning for the draw. “I’ll be always coming back to Spotswood.” Raffle tickets: https://www.ourhoodspotswood.com/raffle

Police briefs More charges over deaths Police have issued further murder charges as part of their investigation into the deaths of two children in Cobblebank last year. The charges follow two incidents in Cobblebank on 6 September which resulted in the deaths of a 15-year-old Dau Akueng and 12-year-old Chol Achiek. Police charged eight people in September, with a Thornhill Park man and four teenage boys initially charged over the murder of Dau. A Caroline Springs man, a Wollert man and a teenage boy were initially charged with the murder of Chol. All have now been charged with both murders.

Home invasion

Carlos Vieira runs a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu studio in Maidstone and won the world masters championships in 2025. (Damjan Janevski) 523800_02

Carlos is Maidstone’s martial arts master Like many people at this time of year, Carlos Vieira is hoping for a successful year ahead, though it’s unlikely the Brazilian born martial artist will top what he achieved in 2025. Having lived in Australia with his wife and family for 17 years, the 48 year-old Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) black belt and owner and head coach at Cia Paulista Australia BJJ in Maidstone, was finally granted citizenship on Australia Day. The freshly minted Aussie then returned to BJJ competition after a seven

year absence by competing at the Asian Open in Japan. “I took first place,” Vieira said nonchalantly of his success in the masters division which he followed up a month later month later with an even bigger win: the World Masters Championships in Las Vegas. “It was a great experience because it was the only title I didn’t have until last year,” Vieira said of winning the Worlds, which along with earlier wins at the European, Pan-American and Brazilian championships, meant he’d won all of the so-called

big four BJJ titles. Returning home, Vieira then won at the Pan-Pacific Championships in Melbourne in September, before capping off the year by being awarded a prestigious sixth-degree black belt. “Last year was the biggest year ever,” he said of 2025. “It was a gold year.” For 2026, Vieira is aiming to compete in every state in Australia and be the number one ranked masters BJJ practitioner in the country.

A family was threatened at gunpoint during a home invasion in Altona North on 5 January. It is believed three male offenders wearing ski masks and hoodies forced entry to a property on McIntosh Road just after 2.20am. . After roughly 15 minutes inside the home the thieves removed a safe and then fled the scene in a white Volkswagen hatch.

Woman struck by truck A Tarneit man, 22, is facing charges following the death of a woman after she was struck by a truck in Melton on 2 January. It is alleged the truck stuck the woman on Coburns Road about 10am. Ambulance arrived and treated the 74-year-old Brookside woman at the scene, and she was taken to hospital but died on 4 January. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Gerard Morel from Melbourne Water which provided a water truck for the event. 523526_03

Lisa Field from the Brooklyn Recycling Group takes part in its Weed ‘n Water event in December. (Damjan Janevski) 523526_01

Kristy Court from Weed ‘n Water sponsor City Circle gets her hands dirty. 523526_04

Doug Palmer removes weeds from the corridor near the Federation Trail and Kororoit Creek in Brooklyn. 523526_05

Lee Mallia from City Circle gets into the swing of the weeding and watering event held on a Friday morning last month.523526_06

Debbi Woods volunteers at the Weed ‘n Water event along Old Geelong Road in Brooklyn. 523526_02

Volunteers weed ’n water Volunteers from inner-west environment groups and businesses got their hands dirty to improve the amenity of a section

of green space in Brooklyn.

There is power in your truth. Did you experience child sexual abuse in a Victorian government school or certain non-government school prior to the year 2000? The Forum is a safe space for you to share your experience and contribute to the public record. Help Victoria better prevent and respond to child sexual abuse in schools now and into the future. The Forum is open until 18 March 2026.

1800 967 933 (free call) contact@truthandrecognition.vic.gov.au PO Box 256, Collins Street West, VIC 8007

Scan the QR code to find out more or contact us 12834642-EB02-26

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Altona arrests

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Louis Joel Arts and Community centre manager and civil celebrant Karen Ingram is holding a milestone ceremony for incoming Year 7 students on 17 January. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 527467)

Helping students transition With school starting soon, new year 7 students are preparing to move from primary to secondary school. It’s a big transition, but one that is so common it often goes unnoticed, except at Altona’s Louis Joel Arts and Community (LJAC) centre. LJAC manager and civil celebrant Karen Ingram has been running milestone ceremonies for incoming year 7 students for 15 years and is doing so again on Saturday 17 January. Ms Ingram said while milestone ceremonies often have religious connections, this hasn’t always been the case. “When we think about a ceremony, there is usually a coming together of people, an intention, and acknowledging that a person or a group are moving from one stage to the next,” Ms Ingram said. “There is reflection on what has passed,

and looking forward to the next steps” She said the transition from primary to secondary school was an important part of growing up and deserved to be recognised. “When a young person finishes primary school, to some extent they are the big fish in a little pond. “Many have spent years in that same familiar environment, which, along with getting older, to being the oldest of the students at the school, it’s likely these “big fish” know what’s what in their little pond. “Then they ready themselves for life in a much bigger pond, secondary school. It is true you can be excited and nervous at the same time and this time can be a significant milestone for young people, who now may see themselves as little fish, all over again.” Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ milestone-ceremony-from-primar y-tosecondary-school

A West Footscray man and a St Albans were arrested following a theft in Altona last week. Officers were called to reports of a theft in progress at a demolition site on Modal Place about 9.20pm on 7 January. Two vehicles were allegedly spotted by responding officers leaving the scene and were followed by to Williams Landing where the two men attempted to flee on foot before being apprehended. The 50-year-old West Footscray man was charged with theft, trespass, handling stolen goods and possessing methylamphetamine. The 47-year-old St Albans man was charged with theft, trespass, handling stolen goods and committing indictable offence while on bail. Both men were bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 6 August.

Sprinkler fault The citybound West Gate Tunnel was closed for a number of hours on Wednesday afternoon after its sprinkler system failed in the hot weather. It’s understood a false alarm set off the deluge sprinkler system in the tunnel shortly before 2pm on 7 January when temperatures approached 40 degrees.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tra Dang is 102 not out “I believe it comes from living a healthy lifestyle,” Mr Dang said in correspondence with Star Weekly last week. “I exercise regularly, eat a nutritious diet, and attend regular medical check-ups.” Mr Dang said avoiding stress and regular relaxation were also keys to living a long life, adding that his current lifestyle allowed for both. “My life now is very relaxed. “Every day I exercise and go for walks around the aged care home, and I take part in the programs provided by the aged care home, such as gardening, cooking, playing bingo, and joining happy hour every Friday. “Every one to two weeks, the staff organise bus outings for my wife and me to shopping centres, beaches, parks, and local restaurants and cafes, which we really enjoy.”

Tra Dang (right) with wife Thi Bay Nguyen celebrating his 102nd birthday at Royal Freemasons in Footscray on 2 January. (Fred Chen)

Spring cleaning or moving house?

BOOK A FREE HARD RUBBISH COLLECTION If you live in Hobsons Bay and have large, broken items to get rid of (such as old furniture or white goods) you can book one free hard rubbish collection each financial year.

For more information scan the QR code or visit the Hobsons Bay City Council website hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/hard-waste

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Apart from his birthday being on New Year’s Day, the word new isn’t often associated with Tra Dang anymore. Thursday 1 January marked the 102nd trip around the sun for the great-grandfather who was born in 1924, left his native Vietnam in 1979, emigrated to Australia in 1982 and who has lived in Footscray since 1984. It’s a remarkable milestone and one which Mr Dang and his wife Thi Bay Nguyen celebrated with friends and some of their seven children, 17 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren, at their home at Royal Freemasons 2 January. Also there was Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra who presented Mr Dang with a certificate recognising his longevity. According to the man himself, it’s longevity which has a very simple explanation.

Wednesday, 14 January, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5

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Life’s a beach in the heat With the mercury topping 40 degrees on Friday 9 January as part of the strongest heatwave to hit Melbourne in years, Hobsons Bay’s beaches proved a popular place for people wanting to escape the heat. Even early on Friday morning, hours before the top temperature of 43 degrees was reached, Williamstown Beach was already busy as parents gave their children a chance to splash around in the shallows and cool off. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic braved the oppressive heat and scorching sand to capture images of beachgoers having fun in the very hot sun.

Mum Natasha, Sofia, 2, Amelia, 6 and dad David make it a family affair at Williamstown Beach on Friday morning. 527274_10

Mum Tessa and daughter Olive, 2, splash in the shallows. 527274_02

Oliver, 5, takes to the waters of Hobsons Bay. 527274_07

Grace, 9 and Poppy, 7, enjoy the sun, surf and sand. 527274_09

Mum Rebekah, Rilee, 18 months, Jack, 7 , and dad James chill out on the sand. 527274_03

Evan, 8, mum Michaela and Liam, 6, share a beach towel. 527274_04

Sun shines as Altona hosts national Impulse regatta Having already been named the Victorian Sailor of the Year, Mark Bulka capped off 2025 by winning his first Impulse National Title at Altona over Christmas. Bulka piloted his boat ‘Shaky Knees’ to five victories in the regatta held from 27 December to 3 January, to win the title ahead of Peter Kemp from Beaumaris Yacht Club in second and Queenslander Dave Harrison in third. While it was Bulka’s first national title, the winning skipper said it was another first that made the victory extra special. “For me, sailing the same regatta with my son, but for the first time in competition with each other, means a lot,” Bulka said, adding that conditions were challenging. “The breeze on day two was juicy with the big waves plus close racing and a good size fleet of 46 boats.” The regatta coincided with the 40th

anniversary of the Australia Impulse Association and Altona Yacht Club Commodore, Paul Lindemann said it lived up to the occasion. “It was a great regatta with varying wind conditions,” Mr Lindemann said before thanking the club members who helped make it possible. “Thankyou to our canteen volunteers, shore crew, powerboat crew and race committee. “There is a great community culture at Altona Yacht Club with many new faces getting involved in the many facets of what make a great club.” Altona Yacht Club will again provide sailing training for both children and adults each Saturday morning from 31 January to 28 March. Inquiries: training@altonayachtclub. org.au

The field takes to the starting line in the 40th Australian Impulse Championships off Altona over Christmas. (Danny Matesic) 527096_03

6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

A sailor negotiates the course in waters off Hobsons Bay. 527096_01

47 boats took part in the regatta hosted by the Altona Yacht Club from 27 December to 3 January. 527096_04

Sailors battled a variety of conditions during the six day regatta, with winds ranging from two knots to 20 knots. 527096_05

The field enjoys sunny weather during the regatta held over the Christmas-New Year period. 527096_08

A course marker and some of the 47 boats that took part in the regatta, captured from above. 527096_09

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Citynews M A R I B Y R N O N G

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

OUT AND ABOUT

In my first message for the year, I would like to wish you all a very happy New Year. It was a pleasure to ring in the New Year with an incredible fireworks and music spectacular at Footscray Park, celebrating our vibrant, diverse, and creative City. Thousands of people gathered along the banks of the Maribyrnong River to enjoy performances by artists Immy Owusu, DJ Andrew McLelland and Mark Seymour.

Festival season continues this month with a range of events designed to bring our diverse community together. Highlights include the annual Midsumma Westside celebration which features 11 different events within the City of Maribyrnong, and East Meets West Lunar New Year Festival, led by the Footscray Asian Business Association and proudly supported by Council’s Signature Festivals and Activation Grants Program.

Families are also encouraged to make the most of the school holidays by heading to the Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre (MAC) to catch a movie on the big screen. Swimmers can watch from the grandstands or relax in the pool with an inflatable. You can find a full list of events at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au Community involvement remains central to everything we do. One of our goals for 2025 has been to expand Council’s engagement efforts to include more opportunities for residents to share their feedback. I’m proud to see that we interacted with more than 1,450 residents across 43 in-person events, including places like farmers markets, parks, shopping centres, and libraries. Through Council’s online platform, Your City Your Voice, we also received 3,618 contributions across 23 projects to help shape our City. Thank you to everyone who shared your ideas and insights over the past year. You can register for regular updates by visiting yourcityourvoice.com.au

Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra led the countdown to the spectacular fireworks at Footscray Park’s New Year’s Eve celebration.

Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra and Deputy Mayor, Cr Samantha Meredith joined the community at Maddern Square for Game On Footscray to celebrate the upgrade of the space.

Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra and CEO Celia Haddock took a first look at the new West Gate Tunnel.

Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra with Aaron Martin, Missy Ueda and artists who will feature in ‘CineRedux: Footscray Reimagined’, a community-centred film and media project centred around the historic Trocadero Arcade and Five Walls Gallery in Footscray.

Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra, celebrated Mr Tra Dang’s 102nd birthday at the Royal Freemasons Footscray.

THE ART OF OBSERVATION EXHIBITION Discover the City of Maribyrnong’s photography collection, showcasing generations of artists who invite you to look closer, think differently, and rediscover the familiar.

Mayor Cr Mohamed Semra

Works by Suzie Blake, Wilfred Disney Chapman, Jody Haines, Grant Hobson, Karenne Ann, Anna Kiparis, Viv Méhes, Kip Scott, Gayle Slater, Simon Terrill, Pierre Vairo, James Voller, Sarah Watt and Ammar Yonis are exhibited along with documentary images by unidentified early twentieth century photographers.

Follow me on Facebook ‘Mohamed Semra for Burndap Ward’

UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETING Tue 17 February:

6.30pm Council Meeting

Meetings are held in the Council Chambers at Footscray Town Hall and live-streamed on Council’s website. Community members can submit questions for public question time online on or before the day of the meeting. Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.

Visit the exhibition at the Civic Precinct and Community Hub until 8 May 2026. Find out more: maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/arts-andculture/Art-of-Observation Image: Ammar Yonis Salon Gâr 2023

Maribyrnong City Council Civic Precinct and Community Hub 61 Napier Street, Footscray

P: (03) 9688 0200 F: (03) 9687 7793

Postal Address: PO Box 58, West Footscray VIC 3012

email@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

NRS: 133 677 or 1300 555 727 www.relayservice.com.au

TIS: 131 450

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Wednesday, 14 January, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 7

BEHIND THE NEWS

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Transferring of the molten metal from furnace to ladle. (Jack O’Shea-Ayres)

Declan Whitehouse, Justin McKeone, and Jai Scoles are among the youngest working on the Foundry floor. (Jack O’Shea-Ayres)

Jai Scoles and Declan Whitehouse in the middle of a pour - an every day occurrence on the floor. (Jack O’Shea-Ayres)

Declan casts his own path In an era dominated by screens, automation and rapid turnover, the clang of tools and the glow of molten metal feel like relics of another time – but not in what’s now a rare sight of a foundry tucked away in Castlemaine. At just 22 years old, Trentham local Declan Whitehouse is helping ensure it doesn’t fade away, as Jack O’Shea-Ayres discovered. While many young Australians are encouraged toward university pathways and digital careers, Declan Whitehouse has taken a different road, committing himself to the centuries-old trade of metal casting at Billman’s Foundry, a job which demands physical endurance, patience, and a respect for materials - and one which fewer young Aussies are choosing to learn. Yet for Declan, 22, the foundry floor feels like home. “I’ve always liked working with my hands,” he says simply. “There’s something honest about it. You can see what you’ve made at the end of the day.” Billman’s Foundry serves as one of Australia’s leading manufacturers in cast iron, brass, aluminium and steel products, using techniques that have changed little over the generations. The work is hot, heavy and unforgiving,

but it carries a sense of permanence that Declan believes is missing from much of modern working life. “It’s not a job where you sit back,” he says. “You earn everything you make.” That attitude didn’t appear overnight. Declan grew up in Trentham surrounded by a culture of hard work, where effort was valued as much as outcome. From a young age, he was taught the importance of showing up, listening, and learning from those who’d been there before him. Those lessons carried weight when he stepped into the foundry as a young man, one of the youngest workers on the floor. “At first, you don’t know much at all,” Declan admits. “You’re watching blokes who’ve been doing this longer than you’ve been alive.” Rather than feeling intimidated, he leaned into it. “You learn by watching, by asking questions, and sometimes by making mistakes,” he says. “But you have to respect the people who came before you. They’ve kept this place going.” Much like Australia’s former manufacturing hubs, the foundry is built on generations of accumulated knowledge; things that can’t be learned from manuals alone. Every mould, every pour, every element that makes the metal relies on instinct sharpened through years of repetition, and it’s that passing down of skills that Declan sees as vital. “There aren’t many young fellas coming into this kind of work,” he says. “If no one learns it, it just disappears.” His supervisors agree. Older tradespeople at Billman’s have watched apprenticeships thin out, with fewer young workers willing to take on physically demanding roles. For them, seeing someone like Declan commit to the craft offers a rare sense of reassurance. “They look out for you,” Declan says. “But they expect you to work hard, too. Nothing’s handed to you.” The days start early. In the winter, the

8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

harsh snap of the metal in the early morning makes using the fingers an almost impossible feat, and gloves become your best friend. The work is far from glamorous, it’s sweaty, noisy and often relative, but Declan says the sense of pride outweighs the hardship. “You end the day exhausted, covered in the sand, dust and grime, but you know you’ve done something real,” he says. That sense of real, hand-made work is something those on the floor feel is becoming undervalued, particularly among younger generations pressured in chasing speed and convenience. “There’s nothing wrong with office jobs,” he explains. “But trades built this country. We shouldn’t forget that.” And it’s true – Australia’s industrial history is one defined by factories, foundries and workshops and has become steadily eroded over recent decades. As more and more manufacturing plants closed and production moved offshore, entire skill sets were lost with them. Declan is acutely aware of the rich history, even if he didn’t live through its peak. “You hear stories from the older boys here – how busy it used to be. Groups of people, all working together,” he says. “It’s different now, but in a way it makes the camaraderie that much tighter.” At Billman’s the work continues much as it always has. Sand moulds are crafted by hand, and the melted metal is poured with precision and care - mistakes aren’t easily undone. “Everyone has to be pretty switched on,” Declan says. “One wrong move can ruin hours, even days of work.” The pressure has made him mature quickly. At 22, he carries himself with the quiet confidence of someone comfortable with the responsibility of handling a 600kg ladle of molten metal. Outside of work, he remains grounded in his Trentham roots, valuing community and

routine over flash ambition, only choosing to speak about doing better at what he does. “I just want to keep learning,” he explains. “There’s always more to know, and a lot of experience to be shared on that floor.” On the floor, success isn’t measured by speed or status, or even experience, but by mastery and learning–- something the foundry gives in to teaching daily. “Some days are tough,” he admits. “But it’s something the older blokes here will always tell you; if it was easy, it wouldn’t be worth doing.” It’s the same philosophy which mirrors the values that once underpinned Australia’s manufacturing identity in resilience, loyalty, and pride in workmanship. All values Declan himself believes still matter, even if they’re less visible now. “People think the old trades are outdated,” he says. “But they’re not, they just don’t get talked about as much.” As industries evolve and technology reshapes the workforce, Declan sees a place for both progress and preservation. “I think we can move forward without losing everything from the past,” he says. “Someone still has to know how to make things - we wouldn’t be anywhere otherwise.” Standing at the edge of a glowing furnace, bearing a worn sledgehammer on its fourth replaced handle of the year, Declan, along with his work colleagues, mates and fellow foundrymen, represent more than just a trade which used to stand at the pinpoint of Australia’s growing industrialism – they represent continuity and a bridge between generations who shaped metal with their hands and those willing to do the same in a world increasingly removed from physical creation. While the trade of metal casting may be fading elsewhere, on the foundry floor in Castlemaine under the Billman name, and in the hands of a 22-year-old from Trentham, it’s still very much alive.

IN FOCUS

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Summerhill Village central courtyard. (Supplied)

Lions member Max Skirrie, Footscray MPKate Hall and Lions member Bert Jessup.(supplied)

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Tragedies at Chirnside When brothers Thomas and Andrew Chirnside escaped the dreary climate of Scotland to try their luck in Australia, they brought with them a love of horses, drinking, observing the Sabbath and hunting foxes. As pioneer pastoralists, their labours brought them wealth and the building of a fine mansion in Werribee, completed in 1877. The substantial estate provided employment for a large labour force of cooks, maids, butlers, gardeners, carpenters and grooms. There they hosted grand dinners, picnics and balls, gave generously to charities, and, to complete their happiness – though not that of the native wildlife or future generations -– imported foxes to enable them to ride to hounds. Thomas, a former director of the National Bank of Australasia, never married. The one love of his life was Mary Begbie, whom brother Andrew had treacherously wooed and married without informing Thomas until it was fait accompli. In the hope of at least being able to see and speak to Mary, Thomas allowed her, Andrew and their three children to move into Chirnside. As the property contained 60 rooms, family members were able to maintain some privacy if they wished. In 1887, family and staff noticed that Thomas was becoming gloomy and drinking heavily. At first this was attributed to age – he was 72 years old – but when he began hinting about ending his life, medical expertise was summoned. Depression was little understood in those days; Dr Fitzgerald did what he could, but Thomas sank deeper into melancholy and self-medicating with the whiskey bottle. On Saturday, 25 June, 1887, following a sombre lunch with his family, he demanded a glass of whiskey. Fearing that this would only worsen his mood, his relations refused to pour so much as a drop. Whatever demons were clawing away at Thomas’s mind, probably stemming from the shock of his brother’s marriage, this refusal seems to have provided the tipping point. Without further ado, he went outside and shot himself in the head. Did the sad ghost of Thomas drift around, affecting and influencing those who lived there? Andrew died three years later, and Mary, the woman who was the most likely cause of Thomas’ overwhelming sadness, was burned to death in 1908. Or did the shock, grief and guilt which invariably follows a suicide create a long-lasting atmosphere at Chirnside? In the years that followed, Henry Fitzsimmons, rabbit trapper, lived with his wife Mary and his father-in–law, Frederick Jenkins, in a two-roomed hut on the Chirnside estate. As married people often do, the couple quarrelled at times, their bickering happily egged on by old Fred, a former wharfie who, crippled by rheumatic fever, found that domestic fights - as long as he was not physically involved - provided some much0needed entertainment in his otherwise dull and restricted life. That plus the arrival of Mary’s brother John, who had unexpectedly bobbed in from New South Wales and showed a strong disinclination to ever leave, only exacerbated the family tensions.

Barb McNeill. (Damjan Janevski) 432421_03

Henry was becoming extremely fed up with having to support a crippled family member, which had been the condition set by the old man before giving permission to wed his 19-year-old daughter in 1890. Henry was 27, a former industrial school boy when he married. Since then he had been a labourer and rabbit trapper at the Werribee estate. He was a good worker, mostly sober, and things went along fairly smoothly until the birth of two boys , not twins, but so close in age that they were considered such, placed more pressures on the crowded occupants. This put Henry into a permanently foul mood from sleep deprivation. Sometimes Mary went away to stay with friends in Melbourne rather than put up with her husband’s grumbling, her brother’s teasing, and her dad’s moaning. Two screaming babies were more than enough for any woman to endure without the men’s aggravating ways. A huge marital fight erupted on the night

10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

of Wednesday 13 December, 1893. The following night’s fisticuffs were even worse, and old man Jenkins, deciding that what had once been an invigorating and amusing spectacle was now looking extremely dangerous, planned to flee on Friday with Mary and his grandchildren . The following day, before Fred could put his plan into effect, Henry asked John to get the horses harnessed in the cart. John had to search over the plains to find them and when he returned, it was to find his sister and father lying together on the kitchen floor, battered almost beyond recognition. Mary managed to tell her brother that Henry had walked into the kitchen with a melodramatic, albeit polite, “Prepare for death. I’m going to cut your throat”. Henry then smashed her head with a pick handle, fracturing her skull. Alerted by his daughter’s screams, Fred crawled painfully into the kitchen to her aid, only to be felled by his son- in- law who dealt the old man a severe bashing. Believing them both dead, Henry walked to an empty

hut, drew out a razor and slashed his own throat. Horrified, John raced to inform the Werribee police. Mary, Fred and Henry were taken to Melbourne hospital. Doctor Lyons k new that operating on Fred was futile, but thought that Henry and Mary would survive. Police constables were placed on guard at Henry’s bedside lest he escape or attempt further self-harm. What had triggered this outburst of violence? Due to his throat injuries, he could not speak, but communicated by writing on a slate. Now calm, he expressed concern for his wife’s welfare and claimed that Fred and John had both attacked him, and his actions were self-defence. Dr Lyons’s judgment was proved correct when Fred died on 17 December but his hopes for the killer’s survival were dashed when Henry died two days later. An inquest held on the same day found that he was guilty of the murder of his father- in- law and the attempted murder of his wife.

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Explore some Mekong magic By Lee McCarthy IF it is time for that holiday of a lifetime, a retirement trip with a chance to see and visit exotic countries and cultures then it’s time to explore Viking’s fifteen day “Magnificent Mekong” voyage from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or vice versa.

Shop Old Hanoi’s markets, see the Khmer temple complex of Angkor Wat and the haunting beauty of Ta Prohm Temple, where jungle vines embrace ancient ruins. Explore Phnom Penh by cyclo rickshaw. Discover silk towns, fishing villages, monasteries and local river life. With hotel stays in Hanoi, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) bracketing the eight-day Mekong cruise, this cruise tour reveals the beauty and grace of a land Australians have only begun to know. All of this and more is available for travellers on the fifteen-day, two country river cruise which includes sixteen guided tours called the “Magnificent Mekong”, just one of the many river, ocean and exploration cruises available with Viking. The most wonderful fun of a river cruise besides the exceptionally comfortable rooms, the stunning seating options, the generous and tasty meals, the stunning scenery is you simply unpack once and let the dedicated crew take care of the rest allowing guests to relax on board the beautifully crafted and appointed Viking Longship. Local guides immerse guests in the history and culture of each destination with enriching excursions. Enjoy all onboard meals with complimentary beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Plus, Viking guests enjoy endless specialty tea, coffee and bottled water, unlimited Wi-Fi and all onboard gratuities, port charges and taxes. Vietnam is fast becoming a desired destination and on the cruise guest will enjoy a treasure trove of tasty delights to awaken the senses in the Vietnamese capital. Hanoi is famous for its delicious street food, serving up an array of dishes from all corners across the city. Steaming bowls of pho, a Vietnamese rice noodle soup, are served alongside marinated meats grilled to perfection. The cafe scene in Vietnam is equally as popular with egg coffee a local specialty and a decadent cap to any meal. For those who have not visited the Phnom Penh, Cambodia it is a capital time seems to have passed by. Once known as the “Pearl of Asia,” this bustling

Twilight over West Lake or Ho Tay Lake in Hanoi.

Explore the cities on cyclo rickshaws in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Cambodian capital is home to charming French colonial architecture along relaxed boulevards, beautifully wrought pagodas and the monumental Angkorian complexes for which Cambodia is revered. The city’s park-like riverfront boasts plenty of inviting cafes and restaurants, and its rich collection of universities, museums and other institutions have grown into Cambodia’s centre of cultural heritage. For those who book before 31 March 2026, travellers can save up to $5,000 per couple fly free, have a flight upgrade credit on selected 2026 to 2028 cruises. The trip is priced from $12,495 per person with fifteen days accommodation in a stunning French Balcony Stateroom. With no kids, no casinos, fewer than 1,000 guests, and all veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take guests as close as possible to each destination. For further information please call 138 747 or go to website viking.com which has this and many more stunning trips around the world to choose from.

The Viking Saigon in the Mekong-Delta in Tien Giang in Southern Vietnam.

Guests relax and feel at home in the comfortable and very classy French Balcony rooms onboard Viking.

The blue blue sky above Angkor Wat in Cambodia. (Supplied)

Dedicated travel content delivered to an untapped audience weekly. To advertise in our Travel Today section, please contact Gayle Williams e: gayle.williams@starweekly.com.au t: (03) 8318 5777

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14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which Formula One driver was voted as the 2025 Driver's Driver of the Year? 2. The NHL’s annual outdoor game played on or around New Year’s Day is known by what name? 3. US-born Maya Joint represents Australia in what sport?

4. Which Australian mixed martial artist is set to appear as Joe in the upcoming Street Fighter film?

11. Which Matildas player recently tied the knot with her partner Kristie Mewis on New Year’s Eve?

5. Rock League is the name of a proposed professional league featuring which Winter Olympic sport?

12. In which two Italian regions will this year’s Winter Olympics be held?

6. Which Canadian-born player is set to captain Essendon in the 2026 AFL season? 7. Which US college’s basketball team is also known as the Blue Devils: UConn, Gonzaga or Duke? 8. Which British heavyweight boxer was injured in a December 2025 car crash in Nigeria? 9. In March, the ISPS Handa Japan-Australasia Championship of what sport is set to be held in New Zealand? 10. Which Canadian television series features the fictional Montreal Metros and Boston Raiders ice hockey teams?

Joe Root

13. Spanish tennis coach Juan Carlos Ferrero recently parted ways with which champion tennis player? 14. Which yacht claimed line honours at the 2025 Sydney Hobart Yacht Race? 15. How old is England’s recent back-to-back World Darts Champion, Luke Littler? 16. The Commonwealth Bank Trophy was the toplevel national league of which sport in Australia between 1997 and 2007? 17. Coca-Cola has been formally associated with which sporting competition since 1974?

19. The Nordic combined is a Winter Olympic sport comprised of which two activities?

25. Which team did the Brisbane Broncos beat in 2025 to secure their seventh premiership?

20. English cricketer Joe Root has equalled which Australian great on the all-time Test century list?

26. In which year did Nat Fyfe win his first Brownlow Medal? 27. And in which year did he win his second?

21. Which two teams did current New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick play for previously?

28. The Indianapolis Colts compete in which American league? 29. What is the nickname of Australia’s men’s water polo team?

22. How tall is the crossbar of a standard soccer goal? 23. How many players are on the court for one team during a netball game?

18. Which former Australian cricketer recently emerged from a lifethreatening coma?

30. Who is the current captain of the BBL’s Melbourne Stars?

24. Ryan Petrik is the coach of which WNBL team?

1. Max Verstappen 2. The NHL Winter Classic 3. Tennis 4. Alexander Volkanovski 5. Curling 6. Andrew McGrath 7. Duke 8. Anthony Joshua 9. Golf 10. Heated Rivalry 11. Sam Kerr 12. Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo 13. Carlos Alcaraz 14. Comanche 15. 18 years old 16. Netball 17. FIFA 18. Damien Martyn 19. Cross-country skiing and ski jumping 20. Ricky Ponting 21. LA Kings and Vegas Golden Knights 22. Eight feet (2.44m) 23. Seven 24. Perth Lynx 25. Melbourne Storm 26. 2015 27. 2019 28. The NFL 29. Sharks 30. Marcus Stoinis

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Wednesday, 14 January, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 15

COMMUNITY

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FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

15 January, 1986

17 January, 1996

17 January, 2006

13 January, 2016

Newport residents and shopkeepers are working towards presenting the State Government with a 2000 signature strong petition next month, in a bid to retain their local police station.

Laverton residents have been urged to make their views known whether they want Point Cook to become a domestic airport.

Welfare services in the City of Maribyrnong are gearing up for a deluge of requests for financial assistance in the next two months.

Victoria University has been forced to apologise to thousands of prospective students after mistakenly suggesting they had been offered early entry to courses due to begin this year.

Newport’s Damian Costin. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 522507_01

Sean Hogan, Aaron Martin, Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra, Misuzu Ueda, Marc Eiden and Ivano Abram. (Damjan Janevski) 522746_03

Kalisitiane Lotulelei. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 520090_75

Alphan Culha from the Westgate Basketball Association has been named Basketball Victoria’s Volunteer of the Year. (Damjan Janevski) 521886_03

Faces of the west Each week Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing events and Sammika Perera and Joshua Hine. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 524045_08

people across the west.

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

Eshaan Mehta and his two-year-old daughter Aura, enjoying the Granite Hills park in South Morang. (Damjan Janevski) 523390_01

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of the Point Cook Lunar Festival’s Akshatha Karthickkamesh, Veronika Levchenkova, Becky Cui, Lizzy Li and Anitha Perumal. (Damjan Janevski) 524473_01

Free walking basketball Love basketball, but not the running? Join the Westgate Basketball Association’s walking basketball program. Walking basketball is ideal for those returning from injury, looking to get back into fitness and perfect for seniors and active adults. A great way to connect with others. Starts 18 February 10am at Recwest Braybrook. Register your interest now. westgatebasketball.com.au/walkingbasketball-1 or contact Penny, 0409 014 121

at Altona bowling club at 10am. Elaine, 0415 030 996

Mainly music A music-playgroup program for kids and their carers from birth to school age. Held every Thursday from 9.30-10.30am during school terms at Westgate Baptist Community, 16 High Street, Yarraville. The cost is $7 per family, per week. Jenny, 0401 651 012, Ruth, 0409 635 468 or westgatebaptist.org.au/ mainlymusic/

Heritage Walks

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club

Enjoy a leisurely one/two hour walk around Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9-30 am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. John Becroft 0418 377 336

The AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club welcomes all who want to improve their communication, leadership and public speaking skills. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of every month from 7-9pm at Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton. Helen, 0474 498 052, or aerospeakerstm@gmail.com

Bridge Club The Williamstown Bridge Club has bridge sessions each week on Wednesday at 7.25pm and Friday at 1.25pm for experienced players and a supervised session Friday 10am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Road, Altona. All levels welcome and partners can be provided. Sandi, 0417 315 760, Alan, 0430 309 255or www.bridgewebs.com/williamstown

Altona VIEW Club VIEW stands for Voice Interest and Education for Women. Altona VIEW Club has just celebrated its 26th Birthday, and is not-for-profit. The club welcomes ladies from the Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and other areas to join on the third Wednesday of each month, at 11am, at the Altona RSL. Come along for lunch and enjoy the speakers each month. Other outings are arranged. Great opportunity to make new friends. altonaview@gmail.com, Julie 0421315846

Westgate diabetes support group Meets on the first Tuesday of each month

well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon. Marlene, 0402 769 204

Social square dancing Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday nights from 7.30pm-10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning. Janine, 0421 371 883, or contact@ essendonsquares.com

Chit Chat Tuesdays A ladies chit chat group which is on every Tuesday from 1.30-3pm at Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre in Altona. As an extension of this sometimes we host guest speaker events for women in the community. Dione, 9398 2511 or LJAC.com.au

Williamstown Seniors The group meets every Tuesday at 1-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as

Altona North Combined Probus The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. Lesley, 0414 481 442

that invites stillness and subtlety - offering up powerful physical benefits by targeting the body’s connective tissues, joints, and fascia. For all bodies - stiff, sore, injured or just in need of deep release! Hong 0412 112 422, yogawithhong.com

Craft, laugh and connect

Braybrook and Maidstone walking

Join us for a fun, calming session filled with creativity and connection. All craft styles and skill levels are welcome. Bring your favourite craft - knitting, drawing, colouring, puzzle, anything that brings you joy (no painting please). It’s a great way to meet people, connect with your library and explore new creative activities.The craft sessions are held at Altona North Library from 1-3pm. Free of charge and no bookings required. 9932 3005, 0407 247 087 or https:// www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Libraries

group

Mouth Organ Band

The Braybrook and Maidstone Neighbourhood House are holding a walking group from 9-10am every second Wednesday. The walking group is open to everyone and starts from the neighbourhood house at 113 Melon Street, Braybrook. 9317 5610 or jodie@bmnh.org.au

Yarraville Mouth Organ Band is looking for new members. Band practice is held on Friday evenings at 8pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. For great music in a friendly atmosphere feel free to call in one Friday evening. Heather 9399 2190 or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au

Computer classes

Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble

Scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email, whatever. We all need to keep up with the internet, IT, computers, and changing technology. Classes every day of the week , mornings and afternoons, in Williamstown and Altona North. Lynne, 9397 6168

If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon-2.30pm.

Footscray CWA Meet on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9pm at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street. cwaofvicfootscray@gmail.com or https:// www.facebook.com/CWAofVicFootscray/

Yin Yoga Classes are running at Brooklyn Community Hall and the Healing Garden Williamstown. Classes are held every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Classes are costed for the community: $8-$25 per class. Star Weekly readers can get a complimentary first session to try it out. Yin Yoga is a gentle, passive practice

Woodcarving Workshop Held weekly at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, but women are welcome too. Aimed at all levels of ability in the ancient, international crafts of carving, whittling and chipping. Starter gouges and timber are available, but participants are advised to bring their own tools and projects if possible. Held on Tuesdays, 9.30am-noon, 280 Queens Street, Altona. John, jah2802rot@gmail.com.

Wednesday, 14 January, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

ENTERTAINMENT

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A free day of family fun Locals will be treated to a free family day out in St Albans this month. Hosted by St Albans Sports Club with support from Brimbank council, the event aims to help relieve financial pressure on local families looking for school holiday entertainment. Club marketing assistant Sheree Cantelmi said last year’s event was a huge success.

“We drew in a crowd, I believe, to be close to 2000 people. It was quite successful,” she said. “Now we have it on the oval so we’re able to get more entertainment for the kids. We’ve got more rides too.” There will be a range of free activities and attractions on the day, from face painting, rides, and food trucks to a giant fourlane slide and a special guest appearance

from Bluey and her younger sister, Bingo. Ms Cantelmi said while activities mostly cater towards younger kids there are also attractions for older children too. “We also have market stalls now because we’re wanting to promote local businesses and help them out,” Ms Cantelmi said. Residents will be able to engage with and sign up to local sports clubs and dance

groups at stalls too. “We’ve also got a Western Bulldogs mascot coming out on the day to help promote football,” Ms Cantelmi said. The ‘St Albans family fun day’ will run from 3-8pm on Saturday 17 January at Kings Park Reserve, Gillespie Road, Kings Park. “Come along and have a fun, free day out!” Ms Cantelmi said.

Possums living in the park are quite accustomed to human presence. (Supplied)

Eyes peeled for a possum during night walk in Melton park

Bill Jackson on a horse-drawn cart. (Kathryn Potempski)

Heavy horsepower back in Werribee Steadfast class and pure horsepower are set to make a gallant return to Werribee Park with the National Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Festival on 17-18 January. Breeds such as the quintessential Clydesdale, Friesians and Highland Ponies will serve as the perfect ambassadors of equestrian elegance. There will be educational workshops such as led stud heavy breeds, heavy harness, working draft, long reining/ obstacle course, as well as ridden heavy

horse and rider classes. Coffee, tea and great food will be in abundance, while kids can take their pick at a handful of activities. Some of the greatest minds in the heavy horse world will be making the trip down under to lend a hand – or hoof. Canadian judges Amber and Ray McLaughlin will be making their first appearance in Werribee, bringing with them five decades of family expertise

from shows all across North America. Ms McLaughlin is a fifth generation Clydesdale breeder, past president of the Canadian Clydesdale Horse Association, and has attended numerous shows in Scotland and Ireland. Tickets can be purchased for $15 at the gate on the day and children younger than 16 go free. The National Equestrian Centre is on K Road Werribee South the events will run 8.30am-4.30pm on both days.

Spotswood to get the full Kylie experience on Australia Day Grazeland in Spotswood will celebrate Australia Day on 26 January with a celebration of an Australian icon. 100&percnt; Kylie, a live tribute to Australia’s ultimate pop princess Kylie Minogue, will take over Grazeland’s Meadow Zone on Australia Day with a high-energy show full of Kylie hits. Kicking off with a DJ set at 12.30pm, guests will be able to enjoy lunch and drinks before 100 per cent Kylie takes to the main stage from 3pm-4pm. Starring world renowned impersonator

Lucy Holmes, 100 per cent Kylie has been described by Kylie Minogue herself as the ‘best Kylie act’ in the world, while younger sister Danni has also given it her seal of approval. Featuring replica costumes, dancers, a live band, multimedia displays and crowd interactions, the show has been performed more than a thousand times in 18 different countries across the last two decades and spans Kylie’s entire career, from the Locomotion and Better the Devil You Know, right through to Spinning

18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

Around and Can’t Get You Out of My Head. The fully ticketed event runs from noon5pm on Monday 26 January and patrons must be 18 years-old or over. Tickets are on sale now, with discounts for those who book early. Grazeland is located on Booker Street in Spotswood, next door to Scienceworks. Details: www.eventbrite.com. au/e/100-kylie-live-at-grazeland-tickets-1978791528730

Families, nature lovers and curious night owls are being invited to chuck on their walking shoes and see Melton’s wildlife after dark, with a guided Possum Night Walk set to take place at Hannah Watts Park this month. Hosted by the Eynesbury Environment Group, the walk will take place on Saturday 17 January. Kicking off at 7.30pm, the walk offers locals the rare opportunity to observe brush-tailed possums in their natural habitat along Toolern Creek. Unlike many nature walks, this outing is designed to be accessible for all ages and abilities. The stroll takes place entirely over a mown lawn – no bushwalking required – making it suitable for children and older residents alike. And for those worried about whether they’ll actually spot any wildlife, organiser Daryl Akers said this is one walk where sightings are “virtually guaranteed”. A number of possums call the well-known “Possum Tree” home and can usually be seen emerging around nightfall to forage, often attracted by picnic leftovers near the playground. Due to mobility considerations, the usual meeting point has changed. Participants are asked to meet at the Melton Recreation Reserve carpark in Reserve Road at 7.30pm, with the Possum Tree located just a short 60–70 metre walk away. Attendees are advised to wear sturdy shoes and bring a torch. Organisers have warned there may be snakes in the area, despite the walk being over maintained grass. Those wanting to make an evening of it can also take advantage of nearby food vans located at 142–144 High Street, Melton, before or after the walk. Details: Daryl Akers, 0438 277 252

PUZZLES 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.

easy

3 4 5

2 1

9 8

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

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

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Foot covers (5) Pleasure (9) Purchaser (5) Verification schedule (9) Purpose (6) Fearful (8) Speed up (10) Snow runner (3) Officiate (abbr) (3) Self-centred (10) Wedlock (8) Telemarketer (6) Kept up (9) Taut (5) Indigestion (9) Acting parts (5)

1 4 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 23 24 26 27 28 29

17 2

9 8 1 5 7 6 2 9 3

D 1

16 17 15

3 LETTERS ALL ASH AVO BOA DAM DNA ELK FRO GOT HOE ICE ILK INK INN ITS PAD PAR PER SAC SHE SPA UGH USE WIT

WORDFIT

17 16

No. 304

1 21

24 17

10 11 12 13

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

B D N A M E I P W T Y S K B D 19

Today’s Aim: 18 words: Good 27 words: Very good

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

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

E S

ALPHA APART CRIES CROCS DIETS DODGE DRONE DUVET EARLY EATEN ERODE EVENS EVOKE FAUNA FORTE KEEPS KNEED LISTS LITHE LOWER LUNAR MATTE

4 LETTERS APED DYED ENDS GOOF HOWS KEGS LAMP MONK ROES SAFE SLAG SLED TENS THAW 5 LETTERS ABATE ABODE

NAVAL NOOSE OFTEN ONION OPALS PATIO PREEN REBUT SEEKS SERUM SKATE SORTS SOUTH STAID STAVE STEEL STEMS STRUT TENTS TITLE TOUGH TSARS

ROOSTER RUPTURE TINSELS

UNTIE USERS WINED WREST 6 LETTERS LUSTRE ORDAIN RIDERS TRADES

8 LETTERS ASSURING ASTUTEST INITIATE TOLERATE

7 LETTERS AROUSES ENACTED PRISONS

16-01-26

No. 379 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

QUICK QUIZ

Which three zodiac signs are associated with the element air?

Bovine spongiform encephalopathy is more commonly known by what name?

Comedians Alex Horne and Greg Davies are the presenters of which UK television show?

The 1918 children’s book The Magic Pudding was written and illustrated by whom?

The film American Psycho (2000) starring Christian Bale (pictured) is based on a novel of the same name by which writer?

The Bay of Biscay is located between the coasts of which two countries?

What colour is the pentagram on the Moroccan flag?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

S C R A P A L O N E G O U G E E N T E R R E E L S

ashore, hair, hare, harries, harsh, harsher, hash, hear, hears, heir, hero, hers, hire, hirer, hires, hoarier, hoarse, hoarser, hoes, horse, HORSEHAIR, hose, hosier, rash, rasher, rehash, rhea, shah, share, sharer, shea, shear, shier, shire, shirr, shoe, shore

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

No. 272

M O N K

P N

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”.

37 words: Excellent

hard

9-LETTER WORD medium

V O F G C H L Z Q X R U J

4 8 4

easy

5x5

2 5 7 4 2 7 3

6 2 5

Surrender (6) Difficult to understand (7) Odd (7) Slash (4) Stated an argument (10) Trying (7) Newspaper executives (7) Begins a voyage (4,4) Personal items (10) Pledged (8) Woodlands (7) Islamic state (7) Farm vehicle (7) Forbidden by law (7) Complimentary (6) Notion (4)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13 16 18 19 20 21 22 25

DECODER

hard

No. 272

Who was the last emperor of the Pax Romana?

What is the oldest line on the London Underground?

10 Which American singer was known as ‘The Man in Black’? ANSWERS: 1. Green 2. Gemini, Libra and Aquarius 3. Taskmaster 4. Bret Easton Ellis 5. Marcus Aurelius 6. Metropolitan line 7. Mad cow disease 8. Norman Lindsay 9. France and Spain 10. Johnny Cash

No. 272

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

SUDOKU

Wednesday, 14 January, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 19

Polestar is a sporty drive By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

RATINGS

Gosh it seems like a long time since the Australian launch of the Polestar 2 EV. It was fresh, it was entirely new and it was late November, 2021 – although the car had actually been in production since early 2020. In fact, the production version was officially unveiled in February, 2019 and made its first public appearance at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show that month. Yes, it’s been updated since then, but that’s still an awfully long time in the electric vehicle universe which is evolving and expanding at an exponentially rapid rate. Polestar by the way is an offshoot of Volvo, now owned by the Chinese conglomerate Geely and the cars, or ours at least, are manufactured in China. It also has a factory in Ridgeville, South Carolina, presumably to keep Mr Trump happy, but it must be more costly to make vehicles there. So, does the Polestar 2 still cut it?

Looks: 7 Performance: 8 Safety: 8 Thirst: 7.5 Practicality: 7.5 Comfort: 7 Tech: 8 Value: 8 Overall: 7.6

STYLING A facelifted Polestar 2 was revealed in January, 2023 when rear-wheel drive was adopted as the default. The entry grade was previously front-drive. The single motor model was also upgraded to produce 223kW of power and 489Nm of torque, resulting in a faster 0-100km/h time of 6.2 seconds. Dual-motor models received a boost to 314kW and 740Nm, with 0-100km/h reduced to just 4.5 seconds. At this time the long-range battery was also upgraded to a capacity of 82kWh. Since then, however, power outputs have been adjusted to produce a clear, linear progression through the range, starting at 200kW and topping out at 350kW. The upgrade saw the original mesh grille replaced by a blanked-out version, with an array of sensors and a camera in the centre. The single motor, standard range is $55,509 driveaway, the long-range single motor version is $74,619 and the long range, dual motor, all-wheel drive is $81,444. Metallic paint is standard and all models start with the same basic range of equipment. You can crank the vibe up a notch or two with the addition of various option packs. Our test vehicle this time around was the Polestar 2 long range single motor version, with a recommended retail price of $66,400 before on-roads and claimed range of 659km – that’s better than some conventional cars. Standard kit includes embossed, textured textile trim and two-zone filtered air with vents for the rear seats. Driver and front passenger seats are heated and partly power adjustable, with four-way power lumbar adjustment for the driver. The angle of the seatback must be adjusted manually. The car rides on 19-inch alloys with wheel covers and has touch-operated locking with puddle lights, LED headlights with active beam, adaptive rear LED lights, retractable frameless mirrors, auto lights and wipers, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, front and rear park sensors and a foot-operated tailgate. Additional features can be added with the addition of accessory packs: Climate Pack ($1500), Pro ($1900), Plus ($4700) or Performance ($8990). Pilot Pack which was $3400 is now standard, which means Blind Spot is now standard, begging the question: why is it still listed at all? Among other things the Climate Pack adds an energy saving heat pump. Pro adds 20-inch graphite wheels, gold valve caps and black seat belts with a Swedish gold stripe. Plus brings a raft of features for the price including a full-length glass roof, Harman Kardon sound and a power-operated tailgate. The Performance Pack is available only with

Polestar 2 remains a favourite but it has lost the instant appeal. (Supplied)

Long Range Dual Motor that has been fitted with the Plus Pack, and not relevant to our review. Buying a Polestar is a bit different. The whole process takes place online from ordering to payment. What about a test drive, I hear you ask? You can book that here, either at a designated ‘space’ in each capital city or location requested by you. Polestar offers a five-year five warranty, along with five years complimentary servicing and roadside assistance. The battery is covered by an eightyear/160,000km warranty. Generally, Polestar 2 doesn’t need to be serviced for up to two years or 30,000km.

INFOTAINMENT Polestar 2 is the first car to come with a built-in Google operating system. Infotainment is controlled from an 11.2-inch portrait-style touchscreen, now looking somewhat small in comparison to competitors. High Performance Audio delivers 250 watts through eight speakers, including a bass-boosting air woofer mounted under the bonnet. The OS includes Google Assistant, Google Maps, with charging options and Google Play Store, which offers optimised in-car apps for seamless integration (with Gemini coming). There’s also Bluetooth, wi-fi hotspot, FM and DAB+ digital radio, but no AM band – so no emergency broadcasts in tunnels. Android Auto is supported as is Apple CarPlay, but neither is wireless. The system is connected to the net via 4G and receives over-the-air updates like a phone. It will even make an automatic emergency call in the event of an accident (or if the car has been stolen). Connected Services are complimentary for 12 months but after that you will have to pay to continue using them. There are two USB Type-C ports in front and two more in the rear of the car, with a 12-volt socket for the luggage area. You can use the ports to charge your compatible devices, but they do not offer a data connection.

SAFETY Polestar 2 gets a full five-star crash rating from ANCAP, with a rear-view camera and eight airbags including a centre airbag. There’s also autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction Assist) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane

20 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and an advanced speed assistance system (SAS). Surprisingly, there’s no head-up display for the windscreen.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS With a 82 kWh Lithium-ion battery, 79 kWh of which is useable, the electric powertrain in this particular model produces 220kW of power and 490Nm of torque, with drive to the rear wheels through a single reduction gear transmission.

DRIVING Polestar 2 is described as a fastback, but liftback is closer to the mark. It’s just over 4.6 metres in length, just under 2.0 metres wide with mirrors and has a 2735mm wheelbase. The sloping tailgate lifts to reveal a long but shallow luggage area, with another hidden area underneath and 407 litres of luggage space. A small front boot or ‘froot’ is hidden under the bonnet, with a capacity of 43 litres and is handy for storing cables. There’s no exterior release for the boot which is somewhat annoying as you fumble for the key fob. You won’t find a spare tyre either with a puncture repair kit provided in the event of a flat. The 2 was designed by Thomas Ingenlath alongside the Volvo XC40 with which it shares a platform. The decision to incorporate a radiator grille was a good one because it gave the car a classy look. The removal of the grille with the latest update, replacing it with a solid panel was a retrograde step in our opinion. Inside, the fit out is Swedish and minimalist, with grey wood veneer trim and a cabin that has a light airy ambience. So far so good, but coming from an SUV, the cockpit feels a bit cramped and lacks storage space, with only a small console box. Much of the available space is given over to the wireless phone charger, which tended to heat up our phones. Two cupholders are provided, but they are end to end. One is covered by the sliding lid of the console box, and not very practical – back seat passengers get the standard two. I’m 183cm and my feet kept getting tangled with the foot pedals getting in and out of the car. Rear legroom is not as generous as you might expect. Air outlets are provided but the rear windows

only partially wind down. The dash from 0-100km/h takes 6.2 seconds which is pretty quick. Energy consumption is claimed at 15.8 kWh/100km and the long-range single motor test vehicle has a claimed range of 659km (WLTP). That’s commensurate with a conventional ICE vehicle, but of course it takes much longer to fill up. The test vehicle displayed an initial range of 520km while a full overnight recharge upped this to 530km, still 130km short of its supposed range? We were getting 14.9 kWh/100km after 550km of driving. It took us a while to find the trip metre. Charging takes as little as 28 minutes using a public, high-powered DC fast charger or eight hours with a home Wallbox – that is if you have three-phase power. We’ve yet to find a charger that can deliver this kind of speed, even with a bank of Tesla Superchargers just down the road. The car is supplied with a ‘granny’ or home charge cable, but this can take up to 41 hours for a full charge from a 10A household power point. Most manufacturers are no longer supplying additional cables as charging stations provide their own (just like a petrol station). It’s easy to become fixated on range, but it is not really an issue with an EV such as the long range, single motor model, provided you have ready access to a charger when required. Like Volvos there’s no key or start button. Just hop in, put your foot on the brake, put it into drive and off you go. Acceleration is quick, but not lightning quick. It’s fast enough however to make you think you’re behind the wheel of something special. Helping to keep the battery topped up is regenerative braking, which reclaims power when the car is travelling downhill. You can choose between two levels of regenerative braking or adopt one-pedal mode where there’s no need to apply the brakes. Just lifting off the accelerator brings the car to a stop. It takes some practice, but may not be to everyone’s liking. The car weighs over two tonnes, but has a low centre of gravity which helps it sit flat in corners. The weight also impacts the suspension, taking a little longer to respond to bumps. The ride is sporty. Think Euro firm, but we didn’t find it jarring on our test circuit through the backlots. But all-in-all the handling is surefooted and it does not become unsettled by unexpected bumps mid-corner like some cars. Of note be sure you shut the doors properly as the car failed to lock with a door slightly ajar (and did not supply a warning). We had a running battle with the Google operating system. We could connect to Android Auto only with the original cable that came with our Google Pixel and both our phones (Pixels) failed repeatedly to reconnect on re-entry. Google Maps is the default for navigation, but we prefer the more user-friendly Waze which also supports speed camera warnings. Navigating with Android Auto saw the car totally lose the plot in one of Sydney’s many tunnels. It’s okay when it works.

SUMMING UP Polestar 2 remains a favourite, but it has lost the instant appeal that it once had. It continues however to offer a tight, sporty drive, or very sporty in the case of the dual motor, all-wheel drive version with the works. At the same time, it’s difficult to believe that the first car to get the complete Google operating system does not support wireless CarPlay or Android Auto, and that it is very picky about the cable you use – that brings back memories.

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Footscray United’s Frank Hoang. 525267_05

Point Cook Centrals players watch on. 525259_06

Seddon’s Tom Foulds. 25267_02

Point Cook’s Pavan Bade. 525259_14

Cricketers back in action The Christmas break is over and there was plenty of cricketing action across the weekend. Star Weekly photographer

Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action.

Werribee celebrates a wicket. 525260_17

West Newport’s Muhammad Qasim. 525271_01

Werribee’s Tim O’Brien. 525260_01

Laverton players watch on. 525265_05

Sunbury’s Rahul Singh. 525271_02

Seabrook’s Siddh Dang. 525265_08

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Bulldogs’ batting power By Tara Murray Footscray put on another batting show this time headlined by Dylan Kight six fest in the final over against Fitzroy Doncaster on Saturday. The return of the Victorian Premier Cricket season was a good one for the Bulldogs who moved to second on the ladder with another win. It was set up with the batting performance as the Bulldogs made 2-354 from their 50 overs. Mitchell Jamieson made his first century of the season, finishing 120 not out. Dylan Brasher again made runs with 54 before his departure brought Dylan Kight to the middle.

Jamieson and Kight put on 182 runs to push the score beyond 350. Kight finished with 128 off 80 balls including 14 sixes. The final over was one for the records. Jamieson hit a single off the first ball of the over, before Kight hit six straight sixes, including one off a no ball. Bulldogs coach Dale McDonald said it was amazing to watch. “It was no good for the young fellow batting,” he said. “It was pretty insane. “To get 38 off the last over and he went from 10 to 120 in just 10 balls. “It’s a club record. It was amazing to watch. We didn’t believe what we were seeing.” For Kight it’s his second 100 of the sea-

son to go with three half centuries. McDonald said they always knew that Kight could bat like this. “He’s a team first man,” he said. “He’s always batted down the order and his role has changed a little bit. “He’s batting a bit higher which I wanted him to do.” McDonald said it was pleasing to see Jamieson get some reward and get a century after five half centuries. The Lions were in trouble at 3-36 before recovering to be 3-100 but after that lost frequent wickets throughout, finishing 9-185. Max Birthisel took three wickets. McDonald said it was a really strong all round bowling performance.

Melbourne Renegades bowler Tom Rogers played for the Bulldogs as he comes back from injury. McDonald said any time you can have a player like that at the club it only provides benefit to the rest of the group. The Bulldogs now have a good launch pad for the second part of the season, sitting in second spot. McDonald said they can’t switch off with it being a close competition. “It’s pretty close in the top eight and we can’t rest on where we are. “Anyone in the top 10 can finish as high as second. We have to be on our game.” The Bulldogs face the Greenvale Kangaroos in a Saturday-Sunday game this weekend.

Sports shorts VTCA Altona North has added another new signing for the back part of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division competition. The club announced that Matt Waite would join the club for the rest of the season fresh of a Metrobank One Day Cup Championship, bringing with him strong experience and all-round quality. Waite has scored almost 200 runs while taking 122 wickets across 50 games. Adding to his resume, Waite holds a remarkable Vitality Blast feat, smashing 34 runs off a single over. Meanwhile, Altona North has already conceded first innings points against St Albans.

Western FL Yarraville Seddon has further strengthened its squad with the signing of Zachary O’Halloran for the Western Football League division 1 season. O’Halloran is a team of the decade player at St Bernards in the Victorian Amatuer Football Association, having more recently played with Lancefield and Werribee Centrals. The ruck-forward will play his 200th game in his first game for the Eagles.

Hockey Jacob Slator. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 525267_01

Dockers hoping to fire as season continues By Tara Murray Seddon is hoping to turn its competitive form into more wins in the second part of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Isaacs Howarth Shield season. The Dockers have made big strides forward this season but with a close competition sit in ninth spot. Just nine points separate them and the top teams, with only Altona Roosters out of finals contention at the Christmas break. President Leigh Davies said there had been some really positive signs this season. “It would have been great to get some more wins before Christmas,” he said. “It’s been a stop-start season and there’s some matches that we could have won. “We want to make finals. “We have been more than competitive.” The Dockers are hoping to kick start the second part of their season with victory against Footscray United. Batting first on day one on Saturday after winning the toss, the Dockers made 8-295 from their overs. Davies said they were really happy with

that total with contributions throughout. Veteran Ashley Hudson scored 74, while Joe Walker and Jacob Slator both scored half centuries as well. Frank Hoang took four wickets for the Bulldogs. Davies said their internationals, who have had good seasons, had really bought into the club on and off the field. Now with hopefully plenty of two-day cricket ahead of them, the Dockers are hoping to put some more wins on the board. “We are a better two-day side,” Davies said. “We have players who can play long innings and bowl long spells. “We got a guy from sub-district cricket, Ross [Suri] and he is suited more to twoday cricket.” Davies said things were going well throughout the club. The club will host a community day on 25 January. The day will include an all abilities match and cricket run activities and competitions across the day. There will also be a cricket masterclass held. Davies said they were hoping to get the

22 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 January, 2026

community down and involved and make a big day of it. In other matches, the Druids have a run chase on their hands against Sunshine United. Sunshine made 9-332 before declaring to bowl a few overs late in the day. The Druids will resume at 0-17 after getting through three overs unscathed. Altona Roosters are on top in their match with Maribyrnong Park St Marys. The Roosters made 242 before being bowled out in the 74th over. Captain Ashleigh Peters top scored with 43. The Lions had three overs to face at the end of day one and lost 2-9 to put the Roosters on top. Dishnaka Manoj has both wickets. Meanwhile in the Steve McNamara Shield, Williamstown Imperials put on a show against Tullamarine as they make 435. Williamstown CYMS is just 10 runs from conceding first innings points against Grand United, Newport-Digman and Gellibrand’s matc is evenly poised, while Sunbury is on top of West Newport.

It was a big end to 2025 for Altona Hockey trio Cooper Burns, Connar Otterbach and Nye Roberts. The trio were part of HC Melbourne premiership side in the Hockey One competition. Melbourne beat the Tassie Tigers, 3-1, in the grand final to make it back-to-back titles. Burns and Otterbach were then named in the Australian men’s national high performance program. Roberts has been named in the senior performance program, which is one tier below the national high performance squad.

WSCCCA Altona Sports will have a challenge on its hands on day two of its Western Suburbs Churches and Community Cricket Association A.E Lowe Shield match with Williams Landing. Sports was bowled out for 188 in the 68th over on Saturday on day one. Aidan Sinclair top scored with 64. Williams Landing will resume at 0-0 after getting through one over at the end of day one.

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Cavanagh joins the Dogs Liam Cavanagh will switch from the colours of Williamstown to the Western Bulldogs for this year’s Victorian Football League women’s season. Cavanagh, who had coached the Seagulls VFLW side for the past three seasons, has been appointed the Bulldogs AFLW head of development for 2026. He will be responsible for supporting the coaching team in developing AFLW-listed players and identified talent, while also serving as coach of the VFLW Bulldogs side to ensure alignment in game style and coaching philosophy. He joins the Kennel after three years as coach of Williamstown VFLW, where he led the Seagulls to finals in every campaign as well as a minor premiership in 2024. Across his three seasons, Cavanagh

achieved a coaching record of 30 wins, 17 losses and two draws, and is credited with fast-tracking the development of the club’s emerging program. In 2025, the Seagulls progressed to the second week of finals, yet fell short of a premiership after being defeated by reigning premiers North Melbourne-Werribee in Cavanagh’s last game at the helm. He also founded Breakout Academy, which offers targeted sessions including athletic craft, development and strength and conditioning aimed at coaches and players, while on field he has finished runners-up in the Essendon District Football League premier division competition best and fairest the past two years while playing with Strathmore. Bulldogs’ women’s football general manager Patrice Berthold was thrilled to

welcome Cavanagh to the club. “Liam brings a proven ability to lead teams and knows what it takes to help individuals reach their full potential,” she said. “His understanding of athlete development will ensure we continue to nurture talent and build pathways for success, while his coaching experience will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of athletes in our women’s football programs. “We look forward to welcoming Liam, his wife Louisa and daughter Heidi to the Kennel in the new year.” The VFLW Bulldogs will commence 2026 pre-season training in February. The side missed finals in 2025, finishing in ninth spot, having made the grand final the previous year, including beating

Cavanagh’s Seagulls. Meanwhile, the Bulldogs finalised its AFLW list for next season with ruck Alice Edmonds and forward Ellie Gavalas putting pen to paper, extending their time in the red, white and blue. Gavalas has signed on for the 2026 season, while Edmonds has added an extra year to her existing contract, taking her through to at least the end of 2027. Edmonds, 27, played every match of the most recent campaign, averaging 27.6 hit-outs and 10.4 disposals while ranking first across the league for total hit-outs (331), hit-outs to advantage and hit-out win percentage. Gavalas, 29, averaged 12.1 disposals and 2.6 tackles from her 11 games this year, with a season-high 19-disposal outing against St Kilda.

Lynden Dunn has joined North Footscray. (North Footscray Facebook)

Devils sign former AFL player Dunn

Seamus Lynch. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 510981_23

Woodsmen’s crucial win over Mt Waverley By Tara Murray Spotswood got an important win to keep a gap on the chasing pack in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west. With a logjam of teams fighting for finals spot, the Woodsmen were keen to start the second half of the season with a win against Mt Waverley on Saturday. Woodsmen coach Paul Baker said getting another win on the board was crucial. “It was an important game to get the second part of the season up and going,” he said. “We had two games that we dropped which were out of the blocks and we didn’t perform well enough. “The rest we’ve had an even spread with the bat and ball. We now have the chance to keep on winning and winning strongly to get a better finals spot instead of chasing.” Spotswood sent Mt Waverley in on Saturday in the first game after the Christmas break. Mt Waverley made 9-198 from its 45 overs. Samuel Hope, Jakson Knight and James

Stewart took two wickets each for the Woodsmen. Baker said a total like that is always tricky to chase down. . “We lost Blayde [Baker] in the first and then Ross Horkings came out and joined Seamus [Lynch] who was fantastic,” he said. “They played through the power play and we were 50-55 off the first 15 over period. The ground was really quick and they got the rewards. “Ross was great and then Jakson and Seamus got together.” The Woodsmen were able to chase the total down with nearly nine overs remaining, finishing 4-204. Lynch finished 104 not out, with his first 100 for the club. Baker said everyone was so excited to see him turn it into a big score. “He’s a hell of a player and it hadn’t clicked yet,” he said. “I think he was starting to feel the pressure of being our overseas player. It was a pleasing thing for him to get 100.” After nine rounds, the Woodsmen sit in

third spot on 42 points. Baker said the group had to just keep on winning to ensure they stayed there. It was a good weekend for the Woodsmen with their J G Craig Shield getting a win on the board in the opening game against Williamstown. The side didn’t win a game last season with most of the group returning this year. In other east-west matches on the weekend, Williamstown made it four in a row, Yarraville suffered a loss, while Altona suffered a costly collapse. The Seagulls made 8-162 against Donvale which they were able to bowl out for 115. Yarraville’s 9-158 wasn’t enough against Noble Park which finished 7-159 in the 35th over. Altona was on track for a big score at 3-226 heading into the final over against Croydon. Chris Brown’s final over proved to be one for the ages, taking 5-0 to see Altona finish 8-226. Croydon made the runs with an over to spare, finishing 7-230.

North Footscray has added a former AFL player to its playing and coaching stocks for the Western Football League division 2 season. The Devils, who finished runners-up last year, announced the signing of Lynden Dunn for the 2026 season. Dunn played 198 AFL games with Melbourne and Collingwood after being drafted in 2004. He is a life member at Melbourne and he currently manages Collingwood’s father-son and community pathway programs. On the Devils social media, it said Dunn would be involved in the club on and off the field. “Dunny brings an enormous amount of knowledge and experience across all levels of football, along with a genuine passion for developing young players and giving back to grassroots footy,” the Devils said. “In addition to pulling on the red and white at 2pm on a Saturday, Lynden has also accepted the role of director of coaching. In this role, he will work closely with our coaching staff to help develop not only our players, but our growing football program as a whole.” Since retiring from AFL, Dunn played with West Coburg in the Essendon District Football League and was player-coach at Caulfield. Dunn joins Nicholas Papakalodoukas and Abdi Fitaax as new signings announced by the Devils. Papakalodoukas joins the club from Tullamarine, while Fitaax joins from West Coburg, where he played with Dunn. Robbie Hudson will coach the side this season.

Wednesday, 14 January, 2026 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 23

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