HQ won’t do: SES
By Cade Lucas
Volunteers from the Hobsons Bay State Emergency Service (SES) unit are pleading with the state government to fund the construction of a new facility ahead of this year’s state election, arguing the unit’s existing headquarters are too old and small.
The unit, one of just two located in the inner-west, has been based next to Hobsons Bay council’s works depot on the corner of Civic Parade and Sugar Gum Drive in Altona for 40 years.
But with Hobsons Bay SES now responding to more than 300 emergencies a year and having added extra capability to meet this demand, volunteers claim the facility is now so cramped that the unit’s primary rescue truck has to be parked elsewhere.
“Our primary rescue truck is effectively in exile,” VICSES Hobsons Bay unit controller Mel Smith said of the vehicle –essential for storm and flood responses –
that is now stored in a secondary shed 200 metres away from the main facility.
“Because it doesn’t fit in our main building, our crews have to run across an industrial depot in the dark or rain just to turn a key.”
This200mjourneyfromfacilitytostorage shedhasbecomesonotoriousthatit’sbeen dubbed “the obstacle course”, with SES personnel having to navigate their way through potentially hazardous machinery in the council depot every time they are called out to an emergency.
Even once they reach the storage shed, the lack of space still presents a problem, with the truck packed in so tightly that there are only centimetres of clearance, making it impossible to walk in front or behind the vehicle once the roller is down.
Ms Smith said that having such a logistical bottleneck at an SES facility wasn’t acceptable.
“In a life-threatening emergency, this forced eight-minute delay is a physical barrier we can no longer ignore,” she said.
A volunteer with nearly 20 years of experience with the Hobsons Bay unit, Michael Casha, agreed.
“Hobsons Bay residents deserve the fastestpossibleresponsewhentheycallfor help,” Mr Casha said.
Along with delays caused by a lack of space, volunteers claim the outdated facility presents a number of other issues, including a lack of dedicated “dirty zones,” such as laundry facilities and decontamination showers for personnel who may have been exposed to hazardous materials.
Currently, volunteers must change clothes in a crowded shed surrounded by vehicles, which increases the risk of them carrying contaminants home on their clothing.
There are also concerns that the facility does not meet disability access standards, with its training rooms only accessible via a steep staircase, preventing those with mobility issues from volunteering.
In last year’s state budget, the Footscray
SES unit received $14 million for a new headquarters in Maidstone, with construction currently underway.
Mr Casha said that the Hobsons Bay unit needed something similar, adding that the whole community would benefit.
“We have the people and the expertise; we just need a facility that doesn’t work against us,” he said.
“A new building isn’t just an upgrade for volunteers - it’s an investment in the safety and resilience of every household in our area.”
While it’s understood that some improvements are currently being made to theHobsonsBayfacility,aspokespersonfor the state government said decisions about which units are built and upgraded were driven by VICSES operational priorities.
“VICSES units support thousands of Victorians every year when they need it most,andwethankourvolunteersfortheir outstanding service,” the spokesperson said.
Hobsons Bay SES volunteers (L-R) Guy Mazille, Michael Casha, Rachel Brown and unit controller Mel Smith outside the headquarters which they claim are outdated and too small. (Damjan Janevski) 553377_04
Air quality project launched
By Cade Lucas
Maribyrnong council is calling on residents to help identify local air pollution hotspots as part of a new air quality monitoring project led by RMIT University.
The Community-Led Air Quality Network Victoria project, funded through the Air Quality Improvement Precincts Grant Program 2025, aims to improve local air quality monitoring in communities that are more exposed to air pollution, including those living near major roads, industrial areas and ports.
Few, if any, communities in Victoria meet these criteria better than Maribyrnong and the rest of Melbourne’s in-
ner-west.
A recent study by researchers from DeakinUniversityfoundchildreninMaribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Brimbank council areas were hospitalised with asthma at far higher rates than in the rest of Victoria, with air pollution caused by truck emissions considered one of the main causes.
It’s hoped the project will help council pinpoint locations where air pollution is particularly bad to inform future advocacy and mitigation efforts.
To achieve this, low-cost air quality monitoring sensors will be installed, with local community organisation, Maribyrnong Truck Action Group, advising council on possible locations.
Residents can also make their own nominations on council’s Your City Your Views website until 31 May.
Of the almost 800 responses provided so far, most have nominated locations around Footscray Station and nearby Hopkins, Napier and Whitehall streets.
“Trucks, trucks, trucks,” one respondent said in nominating Whitehall Street as a location for an air quality sensor, while another said the amount of trucks travelling along the street made it feel like the neighbourhood was being cut in half.
“After years dealing with soot on my washing and problems with my asthma, I was very disappointed that Whitehall Street didn’t get a truck ban,” the respon-
Shaleena helps herself by helping others
While volunteering is all about helping others, a new survey has found that volunteers help themselves too.
To mark National Volunteer Week 2026 from 18-24 May, migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia commissioned a survey of its own volunteers to find out how beneficial they found giving up their time to help others.
AMES asked 85 volunteers, most of whom worked one-on-one with newly arrived refugees and migrants, whether they benefitted from their volunteering work.
The overwhelming majority said yes, with 32 per cent saying they benefitted ‘significantly’ , while 78 per cent said they benefitted ‘somewhat.’
Among the top benefits listed were ‘a feeling of satisfaction through contributing’ (96 per cent), ‘learning about new cultures (77 per cent), ‘building social and professional networks’ (59 per cent), ‘improving personal and communication (soft) skills’ and ‘enhancing employment opportunities’ (39 per cent).
Someone who can vouch personally for the benefits of volunteering is Indian migrant Shaleena Shaik who volunteers with AMES both in Footscray and Werribee.
“I started volunteering a year ago and it has helped me meet people and better understand how things work in Australia,” Ms Shaik said.
A former lawyer who came to Australia when her husband was transferred here with his banking job, Ms Shaik said volunteering helped her adjust to living in a new country where she didn’t know anyone.
“Volunteering gives me the opportunity to get out and meet people and do something worthwhile,” she said of her work teaching English to new migrants and helping out at Mother’s Day and Christmas events.
“I really enjoy volunteering. It is rewarding to be able to help people start new lives in Australia.”
Ms Shaik said it was especially rewarding to help people with similar problems
to the ones she faced when she first arrived.
“When I first arrived in this country, I went through the same experience of isolation and with no family here,” she said.
“It makes me happy to support people who maybe don’t have any relations or
many friends here.”
Find out more about more about National Volunteer Week at: https://www. volunteeringvictoria.org.au/events/national-volunteer-week/
To volunteer at AMES Australia, go to: https://www.ames.net.au/
Community events to help mark World Africa Day in the west
Monday 25 May is World Africa Day and Maribyrnong council is marking the occasion by hosting a week-long series of community events throughout Footscray and Braybrook.
The festivities begin on Friday 22 May with Africa Fest, a free drop-in session for young people aged 12 - 25 at the Braybrook Community Hub.
Running from 3.30pm-6pm, the event will offer young people the chance to play a variety of team sports, and socialise while enjoying African music and cultural food. For those more musically inclined, an
African drumming workshop hosted by renowned local drummer, Ray Pereira, will also be held on 22 May at the Phoenix Youth Hub in Footscray.
From 25-29 May, Maribyrnong Libraries will have curated book displays celebrating African culture, while the weekly playgroup and after school homework club at Braybrook Community Hub will also have African themes on 28 and 29 May.
World Africa Day commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May, 1963 in Addis Adaba, Ethiopia.
Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra said holding events to mark the day reflected council’s commitment to celebrating multiculturalism.
“The City of Maribyrnong is one of the most diverse communities in our country,” Cr Semra said.
“Our greatest asset is strength in diversity, and making sure it is valued, respected and celebrated. We are proud to recognise our multicultural community by creating a sense of belonging through community events.”
Details: https://shorturl.at/4lPDq
dent said.
“I hope this will help.”
RMIT research fellow Dr Shilpi Tewari said the university would assist Maribyrnong council with research, technical guidance and data analysis support during the project.
“The university’s role includes assisting councils with site and sensor selection, supporting sensor deployment planning, contributing to the development of a project website and centralised data platform, and helping translate monitoring results into practical insights for local air quality management,” Dr Tewari said.
Nominate a location at: https://www. yourcityyourvoice.com.au/cleanair
Beevers and Bell plans blasted
Former Footscray mayor Fred Maddern has blasted Maribyrnong council for ignoring community opposition to redevelopment plans for two Kingsville reserves.
Concept plans for Beevers and Bell reserves were unanimously endorsed by council at its April meeting, despite community feedback showing opposition towards two features: a public toilet on Beevers Reserve and the partial closure of Coronation Street to in order to expand Bell Reserve.
Mr Maddern, who was mayor in 1972-73 and again in 1983-84, and who has lived in the area his entire life, said the endorsement showed councillors were out of touch.
“They’re not listening to local opinion,” the 88-year-old said.
While council’s community engagement report showed more than 60 per cent of online respondents supported the partial closure of Coronation Street, including among residents of the street themselves, in-person engagement was 66 per cent against, with most, like Mr Maddern, citing traffic congestion as their main concern.
“It’s just ridiculous,” he said.
“These streets are already well used and overcrowded at times.”
However, a traffic assessment conducted in October 2024 found the proposed closure wouldn’t have an adverse impact on traffic in surrounding streets.
Opposition to a public toilet in Beevers Reserve was more pronounced, with 57 per cent of online respondents against, while those living closest to the proposed location, on Wales Street between Webb and Shackell streets, were 100 per cent opposed. Among them was Di Ferrara who said anti-social behaviour and safety concerns were the main reasons why she and her neighbours didn’t want a public toilet nearby and that council’s decision to ignore community feedback amounted to a breach of process.
Ms Ferrara said their suggestion that she and her neighbours resort to peer surveillance of the public toilet instead, was even worse.
“This is totally unacceptable and an indictment of their poor planning processes,” she said.
Maribyrnong mayor Mohamend Semra said it was incorrect to say there was unanimous opposition to the proposal.
“While these residents did oppose the inclusion of a toilet, we need to also consider the views of the whole community, whose views are more diverse,” Cr Semra said, adding that council had offered to meet with concerned residents.
Indian migrant Shaleena Shaik volunteers with AMES Australia in Footscray and Werribee. (Supplied)
Improved public transport in the inner-west is a priority
By Cr Rayane Hawli
Reliable and connected transport is essentialtoathrivingcommunity.
Whether it’s getting to work, school, shops or spending time with family and friends, people deserve transport options thataresafe,accessibleanddependable.
That’s why improving public and active transport continues to be a key advocacy priorityforbothmyselfandHobsonsBay.
Across our city, transport challenges continue to impact daily life for residents. Congestion on key roads, gaps in public transport connectivity and barriers to walking and cycling all place pressure on our growing community. These issues affect everyone, from local businesses to students, older residents and families tryingtogetaround.
Iwaspleasedthatinournewly-endorsed Advocacy Plan, we emphasised the importance of advocating for improved transportoptionsacrossHobsonsBay.
Akeyfocusisdeliveringamoreconnected transport network with reliable public transport, safer cycling infrastructure and betterpedestrianconnections.Thismeans advocating for improved train and bus services, particularly where bus services remain infrequent and disconnected, whilereducingbarrierstoactivetransport and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace withpopulationgrowth.
Another key priority is advocating for a train station in Altona North. More than 3500 people have signed a community-driven petition calling for an Altona North train station, a clear statement of what the community wants
and needs. I encourage people to sign the petition and support the campaign to reachthe10,000-signaturethreshold.
Too many people are forced to travel out oftheirwayjusttoaccessthetrainnetwork, withmanyrelyingonsurroundingstations where parking is already under significant pressure. This is about more than convenience - a local train station would improve connectivity, reduce travel times andhelppeopleaccessjobs,educationand essentialservices.
Ourcityremainsheavilycar-dependent, and that has real impacts on traffic congestion and air quality in our area. Our community should have access to the same standard of public transport as the restofMelbourne.
Improving public transport access is something I care strongly about and will continue advocating for, because our community deserves better transport connectionsandinvestmentthatkeepsup withourcity’sgrowth.
Briefs
Train disruptions
Rail commuters in the inner-west face disruptions in the coming week due to planned works and the testing of new trains. Buses replace trains from Newport to Werribee from 11:50 pm to last service each night from Tuesday 19 May to Thursday 21 May, due to testing of the new testing new X’Trapolis 2.0 trains. The new trains will also be tested from 9.30pm to the last service on Sunday 24 May. Buses will already replacing trains between North Melbourne, Newport and Williamstown due to planned works that begin at 11.30 pm on Friday 22 May to 9.30 pm Sunday 24 May.
Place-based grants
Maribyrnong council’s place-based initiatives grants program is now open for applications. Grants of up to $20,000 are available for place-based activities that creatively activate public spaces, business precincts and local neighbourhoods throughout the municipality. Not-for-profit incorporated organisations can apply, while unincorporated not-for-profits can apply through an auspice arrangement. Applications close at 4pm on Monday 8 June and funded activities must be delivered prior to 30 June, 2027. Details: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ festivalcity/Grants
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Web: starweekly.com.au
Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Cr Rayane Hawli. (Supplied)
The new Tottenham Station. Artist’s impression – subject to change.
The new Albion Station. Artist’s
Children sail into creativity
A new picture book called ‘Sailing, Sailing’ transformed a local playgroup’s favourite toys into characters, their artwork into vibrant designs and their songs into a narrative. The book launched in Dallas on 1 May and Courtney Black joined in to hear the story behind Sailing, Sailing.
In Dallas, a partnership between a local playgroup and a non-profit arts organisation has helped a group of neurodivergent and diabled children create their own vibrant story.
Artists and writers from Kids Own Publishing (KOP) engaged with children from the Dallas Playconnect+ playgroup to create a book, ‘Sailing, Sailing’.
Playgroup facilitator Cheryl Paine said creating the book was a personal, meaningful journey for children and families.
“The concept of Sailing, Sailing is actually based on a song that I sing each week with our children,” Paine said.
“When the children are a bit unfocused I’llsay,‘haseveryonegottheirsailinghand ready?’ then I’ll start singing.”
While moving her hand like a boat over waves she would sing, ‘Sailing, sailing, over the ocean – Sailing, sailing, over the sea – Sailing, sailing, over the ocean – Sail back home to me.’
“I think it just captured the hearts of the KOP team.”
Theplaygroupwasabletocreatethebook afterbeingoffereda$20,000Humecouncil grant from the Dallas Brooks Community Hub.
“The book has given us a purpose and an outcome,” Paine said.
“Over five weeks the KOP team came in andengagedwiththechildrenintheirplay.
“They made special allowances for our children in how they directed and participated in the activity of art, because a lot of our children won’t sit for very long.
“We had our big plastic stand-up tray with all different lots of paint in it and our children were doing a sensory play experience with the paint.
“Then at the end of it they took these great big sheets of paper, laid it on top and lifted it up and then created these fabulous big pieces of art.”
On each page of Sailing, Sailing there are vibrant layers of paint which KOP lead artist Viet-My Buiveit said speaks for itself.
“All the artwork in the book is made by
All the artwork in the book is made by the children’s hands, they are expressing themselves so beautifully and so vibrantly through artwork
- Viet-My Buiveit
the children’s hands, they are expressing themselves so beautifully and so vibrantly through artwork,” she said.
“The way KOP works is that all the books are children-led, so the narrative and the artwork is all by the kids, and we don’t direct anything.
“It is a bit more challenging when they’re non-verbal but we wanted to really champion the fact that Neil and Lincoln communicatebeautifullyintheirownway.
“We wanted to try to put a book together that seemed true to them.”
Buiveit and her team led finger-painting, water play, and collage activities, encouraging the children to make their own artwork.
“Lincoln loves water play so I thought to combine art-making with the thing that he already naturally gravitates towards,”
she said. “He was just obsessed, he almost wanted to climb in and swim in the paint. He was just making so much art, and I didn’t really have to demand anything different of him.”
Buiveit said she observed the children playing and communicating by pointing, jumping and making noises.
“We noticed that the kids gravitated towards certain toys, so we thought, we can make those toys the characters of the story.
“We wove together a narrative based on snippets of conversations we heard and that’s how the book came to be.”
Paine said while the words appear random in the book, there is a larger story around them.
“A lot of our children are non-verbal, so they might just say random words like, ‘what, what, what’, or ‘splash, splash, splash’, which really came in through the book,” she said.
Oneofthepageswasentirelyinspiredby how Neil, 2, played with Velcro fruit toys.
“Neil started cutting the fruit toys and saying ‘that, that, that’s an orange’, and then he chopped a green Kiwi - so that’s what’s on his page.”
Neil’s mum Meg Talekar said creating thebookwasanewanduniqueexperience.
“At home, he normally doesn’t do the type of things that we did so it was quite eye-opening for me to see that. It gave me something to sort of take home and learn from,” Talekar said.
“Neil was so interested in the fruit platter,sowestartedputtingtogethersome art around the fruits, we used paper to put the different colours together and make a game out of it.
“I’m hoping that it is a memory [for Neil] that no photo or video can capture.
“I hope the book that he has helped put together will become one of our favourites at home for bedtime stories.”
Talekar said participating in the Dallas PlayConnect+ playgroup has been really valuable as a first-time mum with a non-verbal child.
“Since coming here it seems like his speech is starting to improve and get better,”shesaid.“It’sanicesettingtocome in and have a bit of a break, spending time with people and sharing experiences and the roadblocks that they have experienced and how they overcame those.”
This Dallas playgroup is facilitated by Playgroup Victoria and one of the many federally funded PlayConnect+ playgroups for children aged up to six with a disability and/or developmental concerns.
Playgroup Victoria programs and social impact manager Louise Buckle-Smith said PlayConnect+ playgroups are a safe, accessible space for families.
“It’s challenging for somebody that’s had a baby and things can be flowing normally and then all of a sudden there’s a bit of a halt, where something’s not quite right,” Buckle-Smith said.
“The highest emotional journey from there on is where they’ve got to connect to services and get a diagnosis, a lot of them are going through that period.
“PlayConnect+ really is for families to haveanunderstandingofwhatservicesare in their community that can also support them.”
Buiveitsaiditwasapleasuretocreatethe book with PlayConnect+, and she hopes to work with children from all backgrounds.
“People might think that neurodivergent kids have limitations when making something like this, and I just want to totally dispel that.
“Your child might not speak in a conventional way, but they are so rich internally.
“All children are innately creative, and they just choose to express themselves in totally different ways.”
TheKOPcommunitypublishingprogram is open to communities and organisations workingwithupto20childrenaged12and under.
Kids Own Publishing: https:// kidsownpublishing.org.au/
PlayConnect+: https://www.playgroup. org.au/playconnect/
This page of Sailing Sailing was inspired by Neil.
(Supplied: Mylie Nauendorf)
Above: Meg Talekar and Neil (centre), celebrated the book launch with playgroup facilitators Cheryl Paine (left) and Houda Musafa (right). (Pictures: Courtney Black) 553133_08
Below: Neil, 2, played a big part in the book’s creation. 553133_06
The playgroup members with Sailing Sailing lead artists.
(Supplied: Mylie Nauendorf)
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Tempers flare in the dairy
Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the tale of family fisticuffs which played out on the streets of Altona.
In the 1920s, “boarding out” was the forerunner of today’s fostering of children. Enlightened minds of the time considered it more humane to place needy youngsters in private homes where families could care for them in return for a government subsidy, rather than placing themincold,impersonalstateorphanages.
Unfortunately, there was some stigma attached to the parents, but these children hadnotbeenheartlesslyabandoned.
It frequently occurred that their parents had suffered injuries or illness which prevented them from caring for their offspring. Sadly, there were cases of foster parents abusing their charges, but on the whole, the scheme seems to have worked quitewell.
On Friday 3 June, 1927, Mrs Elizabeth GroomeofBayviewStreet,Altona,boarded a train at Flinders Street and noticed two women, Mrs Violet Malloy and Mrs Nancy Groome, both residents of Bayview Street, sitting in a carriage. She poked her head inside, to all appearances to enjoy a friendly chat. This innocuous action would culminate in fisticuffs and charges ofassaultbeingheardbythelong-suffering WilliamstownCourt.
A friendly chat never eventuated. As Elizabeth knew, Mrs Malloy’s daughter, Irene, had been boarded out. She mentioned this to Mrs Malloy, and although her exact words have been lost in time, they were considered vulgar, hurtful and offensive, ending with a suggestion of continuing the conversation at Seaholme. Mrs Malloy coldly informed Elizabeth that she had no intention of conversing with her at Seaholme, or anywhere else, for that matter.Elizabethcouldjustgoandboilher head.
Hostilities resumed after the ladies alighted at Altona. In the late afternoon, Elizabeth brought a jug to be filled with milk at Groomes’ Dairy in Bayview Street, and then loitered around Nancy’s front gate. Nancy immediately went for the jugular.
“Why did you say such horrible things to Violet?”
Then, remembering something that had rankled in Malloy and Groome bosoms for several months, she continued, “It was you who wrote that letter to Smith’s Weekly about Altona kids being boarded out, wasn’tit?Yougavetheminformationabout localchildrenunderthecareoftheWelfare Department!”
Elizabeth shrilly denied ever writing to thescandalsheetanddenouncedhersister –in-lawasaliar.
Nancythenscreamedfortheirrespective mother- in- law, Mrs Eliza Groome, who convenientlylivednextdoor,tocometoher aid and assistance. The old lady hobbled overasfastasageandrheumatismallowed. She immediately found herself on the receivingendofElizabeth’sacidtongue.
Alerted by his mother’s screams of outrage, another Groome came at the gallop,ThiswasNancy’shusband,Edward, owner of the dairy and no fan of his sister-in-law.
Emboldened by his wife’s tearful pleas, Edward asserted his masculine authority and ordered Elizabeth off the premises. Never one to submit to bossy males, Elizabeth loudly let Bayview Street know her views on the matter. She would leave
when she wanted to, and not before, so there.
Edward started to reply, but Elizabeth caught him off guard with the jug, which waswieldedwithdevastatingeffect.
Wham! With a howl of agony, Edward found his arm hanging limply, and swore thatitwasbroken.
Nancy leapt to her husband’s assistance bygivinghersister-in-lawadecentshiner.
Elizabeth counter-attacked by choking Nancy,hurlingmilkatEdwardandpouring theremainderoverhissputteringwife.
A hair-pulling match ensued between the two women, greatly entertaining the neighbourhood.
As usual, word reached police ears and the boys in blue hurried to break up the melee before someone was seriously injured.
On 14 June, Elizabeth Groome, charged with using insulting words in public and with assaulting Edward and Nancy Groome, appeared before the Bench of the WilliamstownCourt.
Edward swore that Elizabeth had used profanelanguagetohismother.
Nancy Groome and Mrs Malloy swore that Elizabeth had used loud, hurtful languageinthetrain.
As defendant, Elizabeth denied all accusations.Shehadmerelyenquiredafter Irene’s health, she explained to the Bench. Thechargesweredismissed.
Elizabeth chalked up a tactical victory and prepared for another with her charges againstNancyandEdwardGroome.
Hector MacLean, the beloved Williamstown doctor, stated that he had attended Elizabeth after the brawl, and her black eye and bruises were consistent with anassault.
These, she informed the court, had been caused by Edward throttling her whilst Nancypunchedherintheface.
She now suffered alarming fainting fits as a direct result of this brutality, and any Groome who claimed otherwise was perjuringthemselves.
The Groomes waited anxiously, accompanied by eager crowds of Altona well-wishers, who squeezed into the court house and interjected with many helpful suggestionstotheunappreciativeBench.
The Court chose to ignore Elizabeth’s version,withGeorgeGunn,J.P.,makingthe tart observation that these long-standing family grievances were better settled privately, rather than turning his court houseintoa viciouspublicarena,complete
withnoisyaudience.
Greatly relieved when the Court found in their favour, fining Elizabeth one pound on each charge of assaulting the dairyman and his wife with three guineas costs, the Groomesjubilantlyleftthecourthouse. They had been vindicated, and their troublesome sister-in-law given her come-uppance;itwastimetoenjoyaquick celebration before returning to their cows andmilkingsheds
But if Edward Groome, still nursing his bruised arm and punctured masculine pride thought that this was the end of familydramas,hewaswrong.
On Sunday 2October, his seven-year-old son, Francis, scared the daylights out of everyone when he found human remains inBayviewStreet.
With a possible culprit in mind, Edward immediatelyinformedthepolice.
Constables Smedley and Cooper dug up armbonesandaskull,whichweretakento theWilliamstownmorgue.
Regrettably for Edward and his family, this was not a homicide which could be pinned onto the nasty Elizabeth Groome. Forensic examination proved that the skeleton was Aboriginal and had lain there foratleast150years.
Barb McNeill. (Damjan Janevski) 432421_03
Boosting women’s health
By Christopher Carter, CEO, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network
Even though Australia has one of the best andmostaccessiblemedicalsystemsinthe world,it’simportanttonotethatsometimes overtheyearsithasn’tbeenwithoutfault.
One substantial area in which it was for decades less than ideal was women’s health. A combination of lack of focused funding, inadequate training and policy priority meant that conditions such as endometriosis, menopause and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) didn’t always receivetheattentiontheydeserved.
Across Melbourne’s north and west there are these days, thankfully, plenty of GPs very well aware of the pain and discomfort causedbywomen’shealthconditions.There are also specialist women’s health services availableatMeltonHealthandCommunity Services and the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’scentreatSunshineHospital.
Now, too, though, we have a whole new facility dedicated to the field. Funded by the Australian Government, there is a endometriosis and pelvic pain clinic in the west, one of 33 operating around the country.
Based at Werribee Medical and Dental Care, it provides expert, multidisciplinary services for endometriosis, PCOS, and other conditions. It also supports women experiencing symptoms of perimenopause andmenopause.
And that’s important, because it means women can discuss these matters without theanxietythatsometimesmayarisewhen talking about them with their regular GPs. It also means that for thousands of women and girls in the outer western suburbs they
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can find help and support much closer to home.
Endometriosis affects at least one in seven, often causing chronic pain and fertility issues. Many women can endure years waiting for a diagnosis, which may have a devastating impact on their daily lives.
Stories for other conditions are distressinglysimilar.
MEDICALLY SPEAKING
Foot and knee pain help
Mostpeoplesufferfootorkneepainatsome point in their lives but it can be difficult to find effective treatment with long-term results.
Foot and knee pain expert and musculoskeletal podiatrist, Dr Paul Dowie explains, “Many foot and knee conditions are misdiagnosed and incorrectly treated, often because only symptoms are treated and the cause and contributing factors are notaddressed”.
With 25 years experience in lower limb musculoskeletal medicine Dr Dowie has beenthechosenpractitionertosomeofthe world’sbestathletes.‘
He provides proven solutions to help alleviate pain, heal injuries and even delay oreradicatetheneedforsurgery.
Following are some insights Dr Dowie provided into best practice treatment formanycommonfootandlegcomplaints.
• Bad foot posture can continually pull your body out of alignment, placing undue stress on other joints and tissues contributing to pain, injury and degeneration. Consulting a lower limb, musculoskeletal expert who has an understanding of complex foot and leg biomechanics, is essential in ascertaining the exact nature of your condition and providing appropriate treatment.
• Many foot and knee conditions, e.g. plantar fasciitis symptoms, knee, heel and ankle pain, injuries and arthritis are incorrectly treated with cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory medications and arthroscopies. These may provide some temporary relief but rarely fix these conditions, and they can actually delay healing and even cause furthertissuedamage.
• To achieve safe, effective, long-term outcomes in assisting pain, function and mobility concerns, the latest medical research supports the following strategies:
1.Assisting load management, to reduce forcesandstressplacedthroughthejoints andtissues
2.Encouraging joint and tissue repair (often with natural regenerative therapies i.e. ProlotherapyandPRP)
3.Improving joint and tissue function, strength, condition and range of motion tosupportlong-termhealing
If you have any foot or leg pain, you can see Dr Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinics in Williamstown and other locations across Melbourne. Call1300328300.
Now,though,thingsarelookingup.
Patients don’t need a formal diagnosis of endometriosis or a referral from another doctor to visit the Werribee Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic (as it’s formally known).
The focus is firmly on early access to intervention and support, to make sure treatment and management is as easy as possible.
And if Werribee is too far away to reach easily, telehealth appointments are available. Werribee Medical and Dental Centre is a fully bulk-billing clinic. It is located at 1-5StationPlace,Werribee,3030. Call (03) 8734 0333 or visit werribeemedicalcentre.com.au for operating hours and to book an appointment.
Support for endometriosis and pelvic pain is available at a new clinic in Werribee.
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
Free lectures
The Footscray Mechanics Institute will be running a free lecture on the last Friday of each month until the end of October. The program includes book launches, discussion of books and authors, and community guest speakers. The lectures will take place at the Footscray Mechanics Institute, 209 Nicholson Street, Footscray. 9687 1935, or info@fmi.org.au.
Art classes
Bek & Jayne (Flipperfrog) are community artists who are offering art and collage classes at Joan Kirner House in Williamstown. The classes will run from 7.15-9pm every third Wednesday of the month. The workshops explore different types of collage, mixed media paint and lots of play with colour and mark making. All materials are supplied, with attendees asked to bring an apron and a picture or photo which can be incorporated into their work. The classes cost $25 per session in order to cover materials and venue hire. Walk-ins are welcome but places are not guaranteed.
Flipperfrog.com, or 0400 693 025
Hip hop dance program
L2R Dance is Australia’s only youth hip hop and street dance not-for-profit and social enterprise proudly based in Melbourne’s west. L2R makes dance accessible to children and young people who can’t access commercial dance opportunities and draws from the history of hip-hop culture with its aims to empower and critique social issues that affect young people in Melbourne’s West and beyond. L2R’s free Next-Gen dance program is held at Phoenix Youth Hub, 72 Buckley Street, Footscray (auditorium). Classes will be held from 4.30-6.30pm each Tuesday during term.
www.l2r.org.au/dance-programs, or 0490 811 605
Community storytime
Every Friday during term from 8-8.30am at the blocks behind Alfa Cafe Yarraville. Free to attend and a free babychino with every coffee purchase, when you mention storytime.
9314 5996 or office@sayarraville.catholic.edu.au
Book sales
Friends of Altona Libraries (FOAL) hold monthly book sales at the rear of Altona Library during the first week of each month. Books no longer required by the library are sold for as little as $2. All money is returned to the Library to support community programs. New members who are happy to volunteer to help organise and sell books for only a few hours per month are welcome.
Ann Nicol, 0408 460 062
Walking group
The Mighty West Heart Foundation Walking Group begins at 10am on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Discover the many health benefits of walking, talking, and enjoying post walk coffee and chat together. Walks can take up to 60 minutes and explore Hobsons Bay, its history, coastline, and inland scenic walks. Walks can be done at your own pace. 0411 566 862
Laverton Bowls Club
Experience the fun and skill of lawn bowls, a game which is suitable for all ages. Laverton Bowls Club is recruiting new members, so if you are looking for a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to bowl both socially or at pennant level Laverton is the place to be. Come to the club on Tuesday or Thursday mornings for practice
beginning at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows. 0419 53 6148, or lavertonbowls@gmail.com
Musicians welcome Do you play any percussion, brass or woodwind instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band. Please note that rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden OAM every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Spotswood South Kingsville RSL, 59 The Avenue, Spotswood. Hannah Prouse, hbcityband@gmail.com or www.hbcb.org.au
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support to anyone who wants to stop drinking. The Western Unity AA Group holds weekly in-person meetings in Williamstown. If you
10-11am, indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive, Altona. Mike, 0423 291 708
Women Working Together
A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay. 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or https://cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/ Fiddle group
The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, from 6.30- 8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport. https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong
Yin Yoga
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 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, or yogawithhong.com
Craft, laugh and connect
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
Mouth Organ Band
think you may have a drinking problem, you are welcome to attend. Friends and family members supporting a loved one are also encouraged to come along. https://williamstown.aagroup.org.au/, aawilliamstown@gmail.com or 1300 222 222
Musicians wanted Westgate Concert Band, Established in 1979 is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am-noon at Braybrook College. westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Walking football (soccer) For anyone aged 50 and older and, any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay council and Football Victoria, this is a free activity each Wednesday, from
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
Drop in chess, cards and scrabble
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.
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
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of award-winning cabaret artist Miss Friby, who is taking over the historic Bluestone Church Artspace in Footscray. (Damjan Janevski) 552322_01
Soccer at The Substation
The Substation in Newport is about to play host to a new billboard art project that puts women’s soccer front and centre.
‘Grassroots Never Dies, Worldwide’ is an exhibition of photography and embroidery from London-based textile artist Nicole Chui made in collaboration with local Melbourne soccer club, Brunswick Zebras.
The exhibition is an extension of Chui’s original project ‘Grassroots Never Dies,’
which was based on the London-based grassroots team she co-founded; Baes FC; a grassroots football community for women, trans, and non-binary people of Asian heritage to play soccer.
Thetitleofbothexhibitionsisinspiredby the community organising involved in local grassroots soccer, especially during periods of transition, and the difficult yet necessary changes needed to build a strong founda-
tion for the future.
Known for artwork that is messy, brash, and disruptive, Chui’s work explores her identitythroughsoccer,butalsoothersports forms of movement, especially dance.
Before focusing on art, Chui spent 10 years training to be a ballet dancer.
Grassroots Never Dies, Worldwide will belaunchedTheSubstationonThursday21 May alongside fellow artist Megan Stread-
Jackson returns home in new exhibition
Hume artist Kim Jackson’s exhibition has arrived at Sunbury’s Hume Global Learning Centre.
Jackson’s collection of works, titled Return, spans over a series of mediums, as she returns to her own past ideas and images as a means of quarrying deeper insights into changing feelings and exploring the potential of her imagery to communicate with the shifting emotions of her viewersFeaturing florals and plants, the series of pieces are designed to work togetherasacohesivegroup,Jacksonsaid.
“My hope was that each piece would strengthen the other and that I could create a sense of resonance through colour relationships and repetition of motifs,”
she said.“This was important because the art works are quite different in their composition - I’ve incorporated installation, soft sculpture, embroidery, drawing and painting.”
The Westmeadows-based artist said she was inspired by her recent return to theareawhereshegrewup. “Movingback toWestmeadowsandreturningtothearea I grew up in brought back a lot of memories, particularly of being at my grandparents, where being in and tending to the garden and being surrounded by flowers were central,” Jackson said.
“My uncle would grow orchids, and most of the vegetables we would eat, and the memories of being in that garden still
hold so much emotional weight for me.
“When I was making the work last year, I was grappling with grief related to my own health situation and some family circumstances, and making work related to plants and flowers provided an anchor and a lot of comfort.”
Jackson said being in the studio and creatingwasawayforhertostopandslow down. “I found myself making things that required me to work really slowly and deliberately, so that being in the studio felt like a way into a sense of contemplation, where I could really explore and enjoy the physicality of the material I was working withandalsohaveaspacetoprocesswhat was going on,” she said.
Catch the finest work-in-progress at Wyndham Cultural Centre
If you want to see some of Melbourne’s best creatives in action, then Werribee is the place to be on Friday 19 June.
The Green Room Project Showcase will be on full display at the Wyndham Cultural Centre from 7-9pm.
This initiative unleashes a new wave of emerging writers, each delivering original 10-minute plays that ignite the stage with raw emotion, striking originality, and unforgettable voices.
A collaboration between Wyndham Cultural Centre Theatre and Melbourne Writers’ Theatre offered the opportunity
for local playwrights to develop a fulllength play.
Participants were supported at every stage by an experienced dramaturg, which is a literary adviser, researcher, and editor in theatre, opera, or film who guides a playwright, for those who might not be familiar with the term.
Throughout the process, the emerging talent tried their hands at hands-on writing workshops, a script development session, a rehearsal and a live showcase.
In this showcase evening, you will have the rare opportunity to see these
pieces as work-in-progresses, and experience stories that are on the path to becoming complete, finished plays– theatre in its most daring stage.
The show is suitable for audiences aged 18 years and older due to adult themes and strong coarse language.
It is also worth noting that this performance may contain smoke, haze and strobe lighting.
Tickets: https://www.wyndham.vic. gov.au/whats-on/green-room-projectshowcase-emerging
er’s latest work ‘A Residual Pulse.’
Both exhibitions will be launched from 6pm and will be followed at 8pm with a screening of the art installation ‘Margaret and the Grey Mare’ in The Substation Main Space.
Thelauncheventisfree,butbookingsare essential.
Details: https://thesubstation.org.au/ program/grassroots-never-dies-worldwide
Western suburbs idol superstar to perform at the Royal
FreshfromastandoutrunonAustralianIdol, westernsubutbsfavouriteJacintaGuirguisis headingbacktoBacchusMarshforaspecial live performance that has already sent local fans into a frenzy.
Better known by her many fans as Cynta, she will perform a second show by popular demand at Royal Hotel on Sunday 24 May following a string of impressive performances which landed her a spot in the top six on this year’s season of Australian Idol.
Demand for a first show on Saturday17Maysawticketsflyoutthedoor, with organisers revealing tickets sold out before the show could even be officially posted online.
The show is expected to draw huge crowds, with the venue preparing for capacity attendance and advising ticket holders to arrive early.
Local performers Paul and Nath will kick off the afternoon’s entertainment from 1pm ahead of Cynta’s highly anticipated appearance later in the day.
Fans lucky enough to secure tickets have also been told there may be queues while staff check ticketing and issue wristbands for those staying beyond 4.30pm for the main performance.
For Bacchus Marsh locals, the performance marks a homecoming celebration for one of the region’s rising music stars after her breakout success on national television.
The show kicks off at 6pm on Sunday 24 May, and tickets are priced at $15. Details and tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/cynta-second-hometownthank-you-show.
Kim Jackson at her exhibition at Sunbury Library. (Damjan Janevski). 552487_01
Royal Hotel owner Tracey Seiarra with former Australian Idol Superstar Jacinta Guirguis. (Damjan Janevski) 548740_02
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.
1 Office of the Pope (6)
4 Understood by a select few (8)
9 Fault (7) 11 Reindeer (7)
12 Quality of being experienced (11)
13 Determined (3) 14 BLT, e.g. (8)
16 Become liable to (5)
19 US city (5)
20 Tissue death (8)
22 ‘Born’ (3)
24 One who studies the development of words (11)
26 Tsar’s wife (7) 27 Flyer (7) 29 Faith (8)
30 Biological molecular catalyst (6)
Boll (3) 2 Baltic region (9) 3 Made well (5)
Football (6) 6 Defeating soundly (9)
Picture puzzle (5) 8 Fake (money) (11) 10 Jerk (6) 12 British parliament (11)
15 Bleaching (9)
17 A physical science (9)
18 Buddhist temple (6)
21 Electrical generator (6)
23 Cyber message (5)
25 Commonly used edible bulb (5)
28 Cereal (3)
3 LETTERS
Today’s Aim:
16 words: Good 24 words: Very good 32 words: Excellent
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”. C A D N T E D A I
naiad, neat, nice, tend, tine
1 Which Russian playwright wrote TheCherryOrchard Three Sisters and UncleVanya?
2 Greenware is the term for pottery that has not yet undergone what process?
3 What was the name of the moon in BearintheBigBlueHouse?
4 Fleetwood Mac’s three principal songwriters were Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham and which other member?
5 The headquarters of the UN are located in which city?
6 Which British singer topped the 2026 Triple J Hottest 100 with the song Man I Need?
7 Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs were originally bred to hunt what animal?
8 Which conflict is widely recognised to have ended with the Good Friday Agreement of 1998?
9 Name the three countries whose national flags feature a dragon.
10 Caleb McLaughlin (pictured) plays Lucas Sinclair in which scifi TV show?
Planning
and Environment Act 1987
WYNDHAM PLANNING SCHEME
Notice of the preparation of an amendment to a planning scheme
Amendment C284wynd
Amendment C284wynd updates the Wyndham Planning Scheme to replace references to the Werribee South Green Wedge Policy and Management Plan (Wyndham City Council, 2017) with the (Draft) Werribee South Green Wedge Management Plan (Wyndham City Council, October 2025) as a background document to inform planning decision-making.
The amendment supports implementation of State and local planning policy relating to Green Wedges, environmental and landscape values, agriculture and tourism.
For further details, refer to the explanatory report about the amendment.
Details of the amendment
The Wyndham City Council planning authority has prepared amendment C284wynd to the Wyndham Planning Scheme.
The land affected by the amendment is all land in the Werribee South Green Wedge which is the area of land bound by the Port Phillip Bay coastline to the south, the Urban Growth Boundary to the north-east and the Princes Freeway to the north-west and Little River to the west. A map showing the boundary of the Werribee South Green Wedge is included in the Explanatory Report.
The amendment proposes to update the Wyndham Planning Scheme to ensure that planning decision-making for the Werribee South Green Wedge is informed by the most current and adopted strategic guidance.
Specifically, the amendment updates Clause 02.03-2 (Environmental and landscape values) and Clause 2.04 Strategic Framework Plan - Map 4 within the Municipal Planning Strategy, Clause 17.041L (Facilitating tourism) within the Planning Policy Framework and the Schedule to Clause 72.08 (Background documents) within Operational Provisions to ensure the Planning Scheme is supported by Council’s most current and adopted Green Wedge strategic framework.
You may inspect the amendment, any documents that support the amendment and the explanatory report about the amendment, free of charge, at:
•the Department of Transport and Planning website www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation; •the Wyndham City Council website at www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/building-planning/ planning-scheme-amendments/current-planning-scheme-amendments; and •on request, during office hours, at the office of the planning authority, Wyndham City Council, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee VIC 3030 by contacting 1300 023 411 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.
Any person may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.
Name and contact details of submitters are required for the planning authority to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend planning authority meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions.
The closing date for submissions is Monday 22 June 2026. A submission must be sent to Wyndham City Council, PO Box 197, Werribee, Victoria, Australia, 3030, or via email mail@wyndham.vic.gov.au with reference C284wynd.
The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/or on its website for any person to inspect free of charge until the end of the two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses.
A weekend of big match ups
There was a plenty of big match ups on Saturday across all sports. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shootingsomeoftheaction.
Craigieburn’s Maddison Albrecht. 553481_01
Craigieburn’s Mietta Datson and Burnside Heights’ Kynesha Barker. 553481_06
Keilor’s Nick O’Kearney. 553484_02
Greenvale’s Daman Aujla. 553484_10
Rupertswood’s Matt McDonald. 553487_04
Albion’s Joshua Bench. 553488_05
Albion’s Cody Bench goes to lay a tackle on Spotswood’s Sam Leitch. 553488_12
St Albans’ Finn Urie. 553487_03
Keilor Park’s Caitlyn Crameri. 553479_03
Gisborne’s Amanda Crooks. 553479_12
Jets are humming along
By Tara Murray
The Western Jets already have more wins on the board than they did for all of last year, but the enjoyment factor is the biggest win so far.
The Jets have four wins for the Talent League boys season, having only won three games last year.
Coach Christian Stagliano said the group had put together a really good group of games to start the season.
“It’s been very good,” he said. “Looking back now at the game against Tasmania in round two and GWV Rebels in Ballarat in round three we were ahead late in those games as well.
“We had the sort of pre-season where we would not change a thing.
“Based on the summer we had, we had an underlying confidence that we were heading in the right direction.”
Stagliano said it had been cool seeing the playing group get some real validation for the work they had put in during the off-season.
He said those players who were in the under-16s last season or bottom age had shown growth over the pre-season and it had continued into the season.
“They are enjoying themselves and there’s some real validation for the work they put in over the summer and the work they are doing week to week.
The Jets headed up to Darwin on the weekend to face the Northern Territory on Saturday.
Stagliano said having made the trip up last season, they were excited to be on the road as a team again.
“It brought the group together posttrip,” he said. “We were happy about it as it’s a fair bit of time together.”
Despite the warm conditions and humidity, the Jets were able to come away with a 19.13 (127)-8.7 (55) win.
Stagliano said they settled early and played some good football across the game.
“We got what we were hoping to see.”
Lachlan Hicks and Khaled El souki kicked four goals each for the Jets.
Hicks, Kobe Williams and Joshua Djatschenko were named their best.
Williams, the son of former Hawthorn
Baker makes baseball World Cup team
By Tara Murray
When Footscray’s Brittney Baker returned to the baseball mount this season after starting a family, being selected in her first Australian squad wasn’t on the radar.
Having narrowly missed out on Emeralds squads in the past, Baker was recently named in the Aussie squad for the Women’s Baseball World Cup.
It comes after having not played since before Covid.
“It’s pretty exciting,” Baker said. “I was a little stunned to be honest.
“I didn’t give the coach much, I was in shock.
“He told me about a debut rookie at 27 and I finally clicked on what he was telling me, I thanked him so much.”
Baker said the thought she had made the Emeralds team was mind blowing and knew so much hard work had gone into it.
She said she never expected to get the opportunity.
“It’s a dream come true,” she said. “My
road to being in the Emeralds has been quite up and down as I’ve been in and out with family and injury.
“I went to the nationals this year and played really well.”
Baker became emotional talking about her journey back to baseball and being an inspiration for her son Bellamy, who is now four.
She only returned to playing in the recent season.
“When I fell pregnant with my son, it was unexpected,” she said.
“I was at my peak, young and fit and not much else going on.
“It happened as covid was happening and I was out for four years. Everyone was asking if I would play nationals this year or try for the national team.
“I said I would do what I could and if it fell into place, I would take the opportunity.
“ItfellintoplaceandIcouldn’tbeprouder that I can show my son what I can do.”
Baker said Bellamy understands that she plays baseball and that when they play at
and Essendon player Mark Williams, is doing his mid-season draft hopes no harm.
“He works super, super hard,” Stagliano said.
“Kobe had as good a pre-season last year as anyone. He had school football and some injuries.
“We got him back and he had a great pre-season. The last two weeks have been the best that I’ve seen him play.”
Noah McMenamin, who made his Victorian Football League debut for Collingwood on the weekend, is the other Jet in mid-season draft contention.
The Jets have a bye this week which Stagliano said comes at a good time after the trip north.
Sports shorts
VTCA
Jack Cook has been appointed coach of Barkly Street Uniting for the next Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock Shield. Cook, who previously coached juniors at the club, said he was proud of returning to the club, “Having previously played for this club, I already know how special the people and culture are here,” he said.
“It’s an honour to return in this role and help lead the next chapter for the Dragons.”
Dockerty Cup
Williamstown and Altona East Phoenix’s Dockerty Cup runs came to end on Tuesday night in round six. Williamstown lost to Caroline Springs George Cross, 2-1. Jose Arancibia gave Williamstown the lead in the 20th minute. Josh Whiteley levelled the scores in the 54th minute for the Georgies. Callum Pickford put the Georgies ahead in the 69th minute, with what would be the winner. Heidelberg United ended Altona East Phoenix’s run with a 3-0. The two teams along with Uni Hill Eagles were the last three state league teams left in the competition, meaning they are through to the Cecil Earley Plate finals. The Phoenix will face the Eagles in the semi final, with Williamstown to await the winner in the final.
Nike FC Cup
stadiums with steps it means it’s a big deal.
She said her Footscray teammates were like aunties for Bellamy.
“He doesn’t understand that mum will be playing for Australia and the gravity of it, but I keep telling him,” she said.
Baker is one of two mums in the Emeralds, along with Jess Johnson who is also making her Australian debut.
They were the only two mums at the recent national championships as well.
Baker said looking back, making her first Australian team with her son in tow, is the best way possible to make it.
“It’s proof that women can come back and be strong after having a family and also live their dreams especially in sport,” she said.
“He gets to watch me and bunch of strong women who can do everything that men do.
“I want to pass on the message to my son and others to respect women’s sports.
“I’m glad I get to do this with my son watching.”
Altona City’s run in the Nike FC Cup came to an end on Wednesday night in the fourth round. Altona City faced National Premier League women’s side Keilor Park and lost 4-1. Caitlyn Tomal scored twice in the first half to give the Eagles the lead. Veronica Margo got one back after half time to give Altona a chance.Tomal scored a third in the 64th minute before Marguerite Lena put the icing on the cake in the dying minutes.
VSDCA
Spotswood has announced the signing of former Northcote opening bowler Michael Edwards for the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season. The Woodsmen said Edwards brings a wealth of experience and quality to its playing group.
FOR MORE SPORT VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
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@starweeklysport @star_weekly
Brittney Baker. (Baseball Australia)
Seagulls start with a win
By Tara Murray
Williamstown couldn’t have asked for a much better start to the Victorian Football League women’s season on Saturday.
Having had to wait to start the season due to the later start date, the Seagulls came away with a big win against Geelong.
The Seagulls were able to win every quarter on the way to a 12.3 (75)-3.2 (20) win.
Seagulls’ coach Paul Groves was pretty happy with his first official game in charge.
“It was really pleasing and I’m happy with a number of aspects,” he said.
“There’s a few little areas that we need to sharpen up, but it was very positive.”
Groves said it took them a little while to adjust to what Geelong was doing as they tried to move the ball quickly.
He said once they were able to control the ball a bit more they were able to get the game on their terms.
“We were able to get deeper entries and score,” he said.
“We have a fair bit of firepower in the front half and we were able to score.
“Mia [Zielinski] was outstanding up forward and we have a good blend of smalls, and some pressure forwards.
“It was very pleasing.”
Groves said it was pleasing to put 12 goals on the board and part of what they had been working on.
Zielinski finished with four goals for the Seagulls, while Teagan Brett kicked two goals.
Emily Eaves had 22 disposals for the Seagulls, while Ellen Williams had 19.
The Seagulls had 10 players making their club debuts as they had a very different side to last season.
Sophia Rothfield came in at the last minute replacing skipper Eliza Stratford, who Groves said was a bit sore and they didn’t want to take any risks.
“Sophia came through the Ammos [Victorian Amateur Football Association] rep game with me and I’ve known her for a number of years,” Groves said.
“She was a bit stiff to miss out originally after her praccy match form.”
Groves said he had been pretty happy with the squad that they had put together.
He said as well as the players who had been named in the final squad, there was plenty of talent in the local football leagues pressing their talents as development play-
Falcons get job done against the Waves
By Tara Murray
It wasn’t the City West Falcons best performance but they still did more than enough to come away with another win in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday night.
The Falcons were in action against the Peninsula Waves and got off to a flying start to lead by 10 goals at the first break.
That would be the difference in the game as the Waves kept the Falcons close.
The Falcons won 75-61.
Falcons’ coach Marg Lind the group wasn’t as focused as they needed to be.
“We were probably that up at the start in the first quarter,” she said.
“I thought we took our foot off the pedal in the second badly and lost a bit of momentum and they gained a bit of momentum.
“That really hurt us taking our foot off, we needed to be a little bit more vigilant and keep the speed up in the second which we didn’t do.
“It was a topsy turvy game for us.”
The Waves tried everything including moving Mwai Kumwenda from goal shooter into goalkeeper
Lind said it took Jane Cook a little bit to work it out but they also wasted a lot of ball and didn’t turn the ball over in the third quarter to help Cook’s wage.
She said they finished off strongly and ran some better structure off the centre pass and tied up the defence end.
In a big moment for the Falcons, Soli Ropati played her first game since the 2024 grand final after coming back from a knee injury.
Lind said she was able to get four quarters and she would be able to provide more depth in all three midcourt positions as the season goes along.
“It’ll be a slow burn over the next month for Soli and then back full strength,” she said.
“We’re mindful that it has been a while.”
Lind said their attack end was fantastic in the first quarter and then took their foot off the pedal.
Cook finished with 67 goals at 100 per cent.
Lind said Achel Yout did a good job on Kumwenda early in the game and was coming along nicely.
The Falcons sit in fourth with a 5-4 record.
The Falcons 23 and under side continued their good form, with a 67-56 win.
Lind said Mikaela Minns was playing really well in the defence end.
Molly Moylan retuned to the side and took a lot of pressure off the attack end.
Lind said they had managed Moylan’s load with having to travel from Albury and being part of the state set up.
With the state program finished, they
Sussu Liai. (Tania Hardin)
were hoping to see her more regular.
The Falcons sit third on the ladder.
The Falcons face Melbourne University Lightning in round 10.
ers.
“I’ve brought in a number of new players, a number who I have personal connections with,” he said.
“Naomi Ferres from the Bulldogs, Ellen Williams from the Ammos.
“We consolidated what we had as a squad.
“With a change in the game plan and a different way of playing we made a few changes.
“I’ve watched quite a bit of the Ammos … There’s players through the EDFL [Essendon District Football League] and the WFL [Western Football League] as well.”
The Seagulls will face the Box Hill Hawks in round two.
Groves said they were one of the stronger teams in the competition.
Spotswood’s Connor Wright. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 553488_28
Magpies continue winning ways
Parkside and Yarraville Seddon continued on their winning ways on Saturday, while the going was tougher for Spotswood and Altona in the Western Football League division 1.
The Magpies and Eagles both had big wins on Saturday as they continue to push their finals credentials.
Parkside was at home against Altona in what turned out to be a one-sided affair.
TheMagpiesledby34pointsatquarter time and the margin had blown out to 67 points at the main break.
It was more of the same in the second half as the Magpies won, 24.17 (161)-7.5 (47).
Zachary Morris kicked seven goals for the Magpies in a best on ground performance.
The Magpies sit fourth on the ladder with four wins.
Ethan Taylor was the Vikings best.
The Vikings had three players make their senior debut for the club on Saturday, including coach Rodney Van Riet. Meanwhile, Yarraville Seddon passed its test against Hoppers Crossing with flying colours.
The Eagles led by 35 points at quarter timebeforeextendingitto55pointsathalf time.
That would be the difference in the game as the two sides kicked nine goals each in the second half.
The Eagles won, 22.13 (145)-14.6 (90).
Brodie Catania kicked five goals for the Eagles, while Darcy Grieves was named their best.
The Eagles sit in third spot with a 5-1 record.
A good start wasn’t enough for Spotswood to get the points against Albion.
Lind said that it would tough challenge in both games. The Lightning beat Wilson Storage Southern Saints on Wednesday night.
The Woodsmen led by 11 points at quarter time before the Cats kicked into gear to come away with a 15.12 (102)-9.11 (65) win.
Jackson Williams and Chris Seymour were named the Woodsmen’s best.
Lozanovski suspended
By Tara Murray
Altona Magic coach Goran Lozanovski has been suspended for the rest of the National Premier League season following an ugly incident in the Magic’s loss to Avondale on 2 May.
Lozanovski was given a yellow card quickly followed by a red card in the 38th minute of the match after being unhappy with a referee’s decision.
He continued to yell at the referee and had to be held back from the referee by players from both the Magic and Avondale.
Altona Magic released a statement on Wednesday, saying that Lozanovski had been suspended for 17 matches.
“Altona Magic SC acknowledges the incident involving senior head coach Goran Lozanovski and a match official during our recent away fixture against Avondale FC,” the club statement said.
“Following Football Victoria’s disci-
plinary process. Mr Lozanovski has received a 17-week suspension.
“As a club, we recognise the importance of upholding the standards set out within Football Victoria’s codes of conduct and behaviour, including the expectations placed on coaches, officials and club representatives at all levels of the game.
“Respect for match officials and all participants in our game remains an important part of the values we uphold at Altona Magic.
“Goran accepts the outcome of the process and is remorseful for the incident and the attention it has brought
“While emotions can run high in football, the club acknowledges that this moment fell short of the standards expected across the game.”
The Magic said the club will continue to handle the matter with professionalism, care and respect for all involved.
“At this time, the club will not be provid-
ing any further public comment as we continue to navigate the matter internally,” the club said.
“We now look forward to focusing on our
Gorton shows that she is a star on the rise
By Tara Murray
Sixteen-year-old Ruby Gorton attended a selection training session for the Victorian under-21 side, just for the experience.
At no time did the Bacchus Marsh Grammar student think she would make the final team.
Despite still being eligible to make the under-18 team for another two years, Gorton made the under-21 team which won bronze recently.
“I was the rookie in the team,” Gorton said. “It was crazy.
“It was such a good experience playing with some really good quality players around me.
“I was not expecting it at all. I was pretty excited, more nervous than anything.”
Gorton said it was a quality that she had never experienced before.
She said she thought the trial on its own would be good to get a foot in the door.
“When I made the squad I thought wow, this is going to be a good training experience, did not think that I would make the team,” she said.
“I got some quality training in, trained pretty well and made the team and I was shocked.”
Gorton’s teammates included a couple of Hockeyroos players, who she said helped make her under-21 experience quite easy.
She said having played in the Hockey Victoria women’s premier keague competition with Footscray also made playing in the under-21 nationals easier.
“I ended up playing [trying out] against a lot of my teammates,” she said. ”I knew what the quality was going to be like.
“I think I did pretty good for my age and experience. I definitely tried to make the most of it when I was on.”
“I played my role for the team.”
Gorton will also play in the Victorian girls under-18 team, having been announced in the team in early May.
Speaking before that announcement, she said that had been her next focus.
“That would be so exciting,” she said.
“I was part of that team last year and fingers crossed get to go again
“I’m still bottom age in the under-18s team, not top age yet.
football, our people and continued support of the Altona Magic community.”
The Magic put the drama of the week behind them on Saturday as they faced the Preston Lions.
Aymane Sordo scored for the Magic in the 38th minute to give them the lead.
That would be the difference in the match with the Magic winning, 1-0.
Devon Bonne was named at head coach of the side on the scoresheet.
The win was the Magic’s third of the season.
They now have three wins, four draws and six losses to sit 11th on the ladder.
The Magic face a red hot Hume City on Saturday night in round 14.
Meanwhile in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, Altona City lost to Keilor Park, 1-0.
The Eagles scored through Ren Furuyama in the 24th minute with what would prove to be the winner.
CYs change divisions
Williamstown CYMS’ women’s side got its first win of the Victorian Amateur Football Association season, having dropped down divisions leading into the weekend.
The CYs started the season in the top flight, the premier competition, but had failed to get a win in the opening four matches.
The CYs replaced Latrobe University in the premier B competition after round four, with La Trobe University dropping to division 1.
“Both clubs requested to be re-graded down based on their results in the first four rounds,” VAFA chief executive Jason Reddick said.
“The requests were considered by the VAFA as part of our scheduled re-grading review period.
“The moves were made in line with our VAFA regrading policy which aims to group competitive teams in each of our divisions.”
On Saturday, the CYs got the win in the premier B competition beating the Old Melburnians, 5.5 (35)-1.4 (10).
The CYs kicked two goals in the opening quarter before adding a third to lead 20-0 at half time.
“There’s still girls in this team who are more experienced than I am, but I definitely think role model among my peers.
Gorton said the opportunities she’s had come down to the hard work that she has put in.
She’s hoping to have a good competition in July ät the under-18s to earn Australian selection.
“Hopefully I’ll have a good performance at nationals in Darwin and hopefully make under-18 Australian team.
“I made the under-16s last year, that was a great experience as well.”
Before then, Gorton is focused on her season with Footscray.
She’s part of the rising stars at the Bulldogs that have played in the top grade for a few years now.
Gorton said the longer she was in the top grade, the more challenges it presented.
She said while the competition is still tough, she’s more at home at that level.
“It challenges me more as I have more expectations and my ability to perform gets higher.”
The Old Melburnians finally got on the scoreboard in the third quarter with a couple of points, as the margin was three goals heading into the final quarter.
The CYs finished off strongly to claim their first win of the season.
Jess Court, Jasmine Farrugia and Megan Hazel Smart were named the CYs best in the win.
Meanwhile in the men’s premier B competition, the CYs suffered their second loss of the season.
Away to AJAX, the CYs were chasing all day.
AJAX led by 15 points at quarter time, with the margin still 10 points at the main break.
That extended to 19 points heading into the final quarter.
Four goals to one in the final quarter capped off the 14.8 (92)-7.13 (55) win for AJAX.
Oscar Ainsworth and Will Smyth kicked two goals each for the CYs.
William Bokma and Jordan Busuttil were named the CYs best.
The CYs sit sixth on the ladder after five rounds.
Goran Lozanovski. (Supplied)
Ruby Gorton. (clickinfocus)
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