Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 21st July 2026

By Laura Michell

Wicket call ‘not feasible’

Brimbank council has rejected a western suburbs MP’s call for the temporary removal of concrete cricket wickets from shared-useovalsduringthewinterfootball season, stating it is not feasible.

St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman wrote to Brimbank council chief executive Fiona Blair on Monday 13 July, urging council to take action to bolster player safety, following the tragic death of Epping footballer Nathan Fitzgerald.

Fitzgeralddiedinhospitalafterreceiving threeheadknocksduringareservesmatch on 4 July, the third being when he hit his head on turf covering the wicket at Lalor Recreation Reserve.

In the days following the incident, EppingFootballandNetballClubpresident Luke De Vincentis said he hoped it would encourage a rethink.

“It’sprobablybeenanaccidentwaitingto happen,” he said.

In the letter, seen by StarWeekly , Ms Suleyman urged Brimbank council to consider the temporary removal of concrete wickets during the football seasonwherefeasible,andtoengagesafety experts to assess risks.

She also called on the council to conduct an immediate audit of all local sporting fields where AFL or soccer is played over a

concrete orsynthetic-coveredpitch,andto publicly release any previous safety audits, complaints, or injury reports.

“Sincethisheartbreakingincident,many locals, parents, volunteers and sporting clubshavecontactedmeaboutthesafetyof cricket pitches on shared sporting grounds throughout Brimbank,” Ms Suleyman wrote. “With thousands of children playing AFL and soccer across St Albans and Brimbank every week, council has a responsibilitytotakeeveryreasonablestep to minimise avoidable risks.

“Parents should be confident that every reasonable precaution is being taken when theirchildrenstepontoasportingfieldand should not wonder if a preventable hazard exists.”

A Brimbank council spokesperson said Ms Suleyman’s request was not feasible, adding that council also had no plans to convert any of its existing concrete cricket wickets into natural turf.

The spokesperson said doing so might limit community participation in cricket, “particularly among younger players”.

Ms Suleyman also said local clubs had told her they had raised concerns and reported injuries caused by concrete wickets on shared ovals to council for a number of years.

Continued: Page 3.

Running to give others hope

Ten years ago, Jessica Cassar from Taylors Lakes was in a wheelchair battling for her life. On Sunday she participated in Run Melbourne.

“I didn’t think I was going to be able to walk, let alone live a ‘normal life’. I was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease and I’m running this marathon for everyone who lives with a rare autoimmune condition who was told

they couldn’t do it - you can,” said Jessica before the event.

The 27-year old was one of more than 28,000 people who ran, jogged and walked through the heart of the city on Sunday, many of them raising money for charity.

To read Jessica’s inspiring story turn to page 3.

Plumpton questions raised

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Federal MPs Sam Rae and Alice JordanBaird have joined the community in seeking answers over the proposed large-scale data centre in Plumpton, stating residents deserve greater transparency and meaningful consultation before the project progresses.

In a joint statement, Mr Rae and Ms Jordan-Baird said they had been contacted by a significant number of residents worried about reports of the development. If built, the proposed facility would span about 350 hectares, making it the largest data centre ever publicly proposed in Australia, covering an area equivalent to approximately 175 MCG playing fields.

Both MPs said residents had expressed concerns about the potential impacts

on local energy and water supplies, increased traffic, ongoing noise, and additional pressure on infrastructure across Melbourne’s ever-rapidly growing western suburbs.

They said concerns reflected a community seeking to understand how such a major industrial development could affect local livability, the environment, and the future of the region.

They acknowledged the growing demand for artificial intelligence and cloud computing, but said any investment in data centre infrastructure needed to deliver clear benefits for the local community.

Mr Rae and Ms Jordan-Baird pointed to the federal government’s expectations for major data centre developments, which include supporting Australia’s national security and resilience, while also creating

local jobs, backing research and innovation, responsibly managing water usage, supporting the transition to renewable energy, and avoiding upward pressure on electricity prices.

The MPs said they would not support developments which failed to meet those expectations.

“Our community deserved clear answers, genuine consultation, and transparent planning processes,” they said in their statement.

“The west cannot simply become the destination for infrastructure that places additional strain on resources while delivering little in return.

While any future planning application would be assessed by the state government, the MPs confirmed they would write to the minister for planning, and the proj-

Rotary

president reflects on busy year

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs has a new president.

New president, Dr Navedita Nagarale, has taken over the mantle following a changeover from former president Martin Farrugia.

Mr Farrugia’s was president in 202526 as well as as president of the Rotary Club of Melton in 2022-23. He said he had proudly watched the Rotary club grow over his time as president.

“I’ve seen the Rotary Club of Caroline Springs continue to grow in both membership and community impact,”

he said. “New members have joined our club, bringing fresh energy, skills, and diversity. We’ve also strengthened our relationships with a number of local community groups, deepening our partnerships and expanding the reach of our service projects.

“The club is becoming increasingly recognised as a trusted, active, and collaborative force within the Caroline Springs and wider western Melbourne community,” he said.

Despite handing over the role to Dr Nagarale, Mr Farrugia said he would

continue to serve the club and his community.

“I will continue to serve Rotary and our community with the same commitment and passion,” he said.

“My focus now shifts to supporting the incoming leadership team, mentoring new members, and helping drive key projectsthatstrengthenourclubculture, community engagement, and long-term impact. Rotary service doesn’t end with the presidential year — it evolves, and I look forward to contributing wherever I can add value.”

Vote for Brimbank park works to help secure government funds

Brimbankresidentsarebeinginvitedtovote for their favourite park project to share in state government funding.

Under the latest round of the state government’s ‘Pick My Park’ project, 97 park, playground and community space projects across the state will share in $18 million in funding.

Brimbank projects vying for funding are Singer Avenue Reserve Neighbourhood Park upgrade, Keilor Downs Recreation Reserve Neighbourhood Park upgrade, Willis Street Pocket Park in St

Albans and Collenso Street Dog Reserve in Sunshine West.

Caroline Springs’ Springlake Village Park revitalisation is also vying for a share in the funding. The program, now extended to include metropolitan Melbourne, has already resulted in the development of a range of new urban pocket parks, playground revamps, fitness equipment installations and accessibility upgrades, according to Development Victoria and Precincts Minister Jacyln Symes.

ect’s operator seeking clarification on how the proposal aligns with the Federal Government’s expectations for data centres and AI infrastructure.

A state government spokesperson called data centres the “backbone of our digital economy”

“...we’re going after the jobs they create,” the spokesperson said.

“Any future proposal will be assessed on its merits and in accordance with the relevant planning scheme.

“Our plan will position Victoria as the national leader in data centre investment.”

Star Weekly understands no formal application has been lodged for the Plumpton project.

Proposed Plumpton project developer

Syncline Energy was contacted for comment.

Alarming rise in dog attacks

Australia Post is sounding the alarm on the growing threat of dog attacks faced by its delivery workers, with new data revealing a concerning spike in incidents.

In Victoria Sunshine West recorded the second highest number of dog incidents between November 2025 and May 2026. Only Belgrave had more reported incidents, followed by Essendon Fields third.

According to the report, an average of 47 posties, or postal workers, are encountering aggressive or unrestrained dogs each week, amounting to nine incidents per day nationwide. This represents a 5 percent increase from the same period last year.

Australia Post’s general manager of safety Russell Munro emphasised the unpredictable nature of these encounters, stating that “what seems like a routine delivery can quickly escalate, and our posties can’t predict how a dog may react, regardless of breed or temperament.”

The majority of these incidents occur when dogs are not properly secured during deliveries, with nearly two-thirds of cases happening on the street after a dog escapes a property or is roaming freely. More than a third of the incidents take place on a customer’s property, often as a postie approaches or leaves the front door after making a delivery.

The consequences of these attacks can be severe, with postal workers suffering injuries ranging from bites and puncture wounds to scratches, lacerations, and even being knocked off their vehicles. In some cases, the victims have required hospital treatment.

To address this growing problem, Australia Post has introduced a citronella spray as a last-line-of-defense measure, which has proven effective in 95 percent of cases in the past six months. However, the company emphasises that prevention remains the most effective solution, urging dog owners to ensure their pets are securely contained during deliveries.

“We’re upgrading parks so they’re safer, easier to use and better for families,” Ms Symes said.

“We’re also transforming underused spaces into new green places where locals can relax, play and connect.”

“When families are juggling work, school and bills, it is the simple things close to home that matter most.

Cast your vote by Monday 3 August.

Details: https://engage.vic.gov.au/ pick-my-park

Australia Post reports all dog-related incidents to local councils to support enforcement and mitigate risk, and may suspenddeliveriestopropertiesorstreets where it is deemed unsafe for its workers. The company says it is also working with local councils and state governments to strengthen animal management laws to better protect its frontline staff.

Former Rotary Club president Martin Farrugia with new president Dr Nivedita Nagarale and Melton councillors Steve Abboushi, Lara Carli, Julie Shannon, and Bob Turner. (Supplied)

Maps show more flood risk

By Cade Lucas

The amount of properties in Hobsons Bay and Brimbank that are at risk of flooding in a major rainfall event has risen dramatically.

Updated draft flood maps released for community feedback by Melbourne Water lastweekshow15,420propertiesareatrisk of flooding in Hobsons Bay, roughly 28 per centoftheentiremunicipality,while11,820 propertiesaccountingforabout13percent ofBrimbankareconsideredatrisk.

Bothfiguresrepresenthugeincreaseson projections in previous flood maps, with

just1950propertiesthoughttohavebeenat riskinHobsonsBayand4515inBrimbank.

However, the level of flooding most at riskpropertieswilllikelyfaceislow.

InHobsonsBay,91percentofproperties considered at risk of flooding are included in the two lowest hazard categories, H1 and H2, where the level of flooding is generally considered safe for people and buildings.

In Brimbank, 84 per cent of at risk propertiesareclassedasH1orH2.

Higher hazard categories include H3 where floodwaters rise up to 1.2 metres in depth,H4wheredepthscanreachuptotwo

metres and H5 and H6 where floodwaters reachdepthsoffourmetresandabove.

The draft flood maps have been developed using modern flood modelling techniques and include drainage systems never previously modelled, and bring regional (Melbourne Water) and local (council) drainagesystemstogetherinone mapforthefirsttime.

Along with stormwater drains, the maps include smaller waterways, such as Cherry CreekandLavertonCreek,butdonotcover floodingfrommajorriversorthesea.

Melbourne Water executive general manager, service futures, Chris Brace,

encouraged Hobsons Bay and Brimbank property owners to consult the draft maps duringtheconsultationperiod.

“For most people, the draft maps will confirm they are not at flood risk, or that their risk is lower than they might have expected,”MrBracesaid.

“For those who are affected, we want to make sure they have clear and practical information about what that means for theirproperty.”

Toviewthedraftfloodmapsandregister for community information sessions, visit: https://letstalk.melbournewater.com.au/ flood-information

Running to embrace life

Run Melbourne participant Jessica Cassar. (Gary Sissons)

Ten years ago, running, jogging or even walking without falling over was almost impossible for Jessica Cassar.

Fast-forward a decade and the Taylors Lakes resident, who lives with a rare autoimmune condition, competed in her first Run Melbourne on Sunday.

When she was a teenager, Jessica’s life was thrown into disarray when it was discovered she had Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS), a condition that disrupts nerve signals to muscles, resulting in profound fatigue and loss of balance.

Jessica’s health got so bad she ended up

in a wheelchair.

“I didn’t think I was going to be able to walk, let alone live a ‘normal life’,” said Jessica, who is now 27.

“I got very sick when I was 16. I was having lots of falls and muscle weakness.

I couldn’t brush my hair or lift my arms abovemyhead.Gettingdressedwashard, feeding myself hard, walking was hard.

To go to school I had to use a wheelchair. I had anxiety that I would go to school and have a fall and not be able to get up.”

It took 18 months of testing for a specialist team at St Vincent’s Hospital to finallydiagnoseLEMS,whichhasnocure.

Fast-forward a decade and Jessica is working full-time and recently got married.

On Sunday 19 July she joined 28,000 other participants for the annual Run Melbourne which has raised $21 million in the past 18 years for charitable causes.

Her feat was a thank you to her family, friends and husband who have been her support crew over the past decade and to let others know that

“Life doesn’t stop after you go through something rough, there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

Wicket call ‘not feasible’

From page 1.

HoweverStarWeeklyunderstands no such complaints have been received by council, nor have any issues been raised by sports clubs, volunteers or community members relating to the winter covers on concretecricketwickets.

According to Brimbank, there are 16 council-managed shared use grounds in the municipality. Twelve grounds have synthetic wicket covers with nine used for Australian Rules football and three forsoccertraining.

Thecouncilspokespersonsaidall shared-use ground were recently audited and no safety issues were identified with the wicket covers, adding that monthly inspections arecarriedoutduringwinter.

“The synthetic rubber-backed winter covers on our shared-use grounds are top dressed to ensure they are level with the surrounding turf and to minimise any potential trip hazards,” the spokesperson said.

“Council engages a specialist contractor to inspect the covers and identify any required repairs, maintenance or replacement. This contractorinstallsthecoversahead ofeachwintersportingseason.”

Neighbouring Hume council conducted hardness testing on its concrete wickets following Fitzgerald’s death, replacing the synthetic covers on four wickets withsoilasaresult.

Students test their skills

From barbers to beauticians and bricklayers, Victoria University (VU) is hosting the ultimate skills showdown as WorldSkills Australia takes over two campusesfromthismonth.

Students will go tool-to-tool at VU’s City Tower and Sunshine campuses after the university was chosen to host 12 rounds of the WorldSkills Australia Regional Competition.

From 15 July, competitions are taged in seven key skills areas – beauty, barbering, hairdressing,signsandgraphics,plumbing, bricklayingandengineering(welding).

Students’skillswillbetestedinreal-world conditions and judged by experts against industrybenchmarks.

The biennial competition aims to uncoverthenation’stopyoungtalentacross more than 60 trades and skills, showcasing apprentices,traineesandstudentsenrolled in VET studies who display excellence in theirchosenarea.

Theregionalroundsareacriticalfirststep in the competition, with winners in each category going on to represent their state at the national championships in Adelaide in 2027 – and potentially, on the global stage forAustralia’steam,theSkillaroos.

Certificate III signs and graphics student Jack Shalders, 19, has been preparing for the event by applying vinyl signage on his carroof.

“I’ve had the squeegee out after TAFE, andIthinkI’mprettygoodtogo,”saidJack, afirst-yearapprentice.

“I’m a bit nervous but at the end of the day I’m just going to give it a go, it’s a great opportunity to show your skills. I want to open my own sign writing business one day,Ilikethecreativityinvolvedandallthe peopleyoumeet.”

Playspace among the best

A standout playspace in Caroline Springs has claimed top honours at the Parks and LeisureVIC/TAS2026AwardsofExcellence.

Melton council’s Cobblestone Green Reserve Playspace was recognised for its outstandingdesignandcommunityimpact, bringing home the play spaces (under $1 million)category.

The award recognises play spaces which create a strong sense of place for the local community while showcasing innovative landscape and structural design that inspires play and supports childhood development.

Recently upgraded by council, the Cobblestone Green Reserve Playspace draws inspiration from the Volcanic Plains Grassland, incorporating basalt rock formations and native grasses to create a uniqueandauthenticlandscapeexperience.

The playspace features custom-designed play elements, layered rock terraces and child-scaled structures which encourage

exploration, physical activity, and imaginative play. Carefully integrated planting works to create an immersive environment which invites children to connectwithnaturewhiletheyplay.

Council said the award-winning design complements the existing reserve and facilities, creating a welcoming destination for families, while accessible pathways and seating enable parents and carers to stay connectedandengaged.

“Cobblestone Green Reserve has been transformed into a vibrant destination where children can play, explore and connect with nature,” mayor Lara Carli said. “Through thoughtful design and nature-inspired play elements we’ve created a space that families can enjoy for yearstocome.”

The recognition secures Cobblestone Green Reserve its place as a finalist in the National Awards of Excellence, which will beheldinDecember.

Briefs

National Tree Day

Join Brimbank council and Friends of Kororoit Creek on National Tree Day to help restore habitat at the much-loved Stepping Stones site along Kororoit Creek in Sunshine West. Spend a rewarding morning planting native shrubs, grasses and wildflowers alongside community members, contributing to healthier habitats for local wildlife and a greener future for Brimbank. On Sunday 26 July, 10am-1pm. Entry via 60-62 Warmington Road, Sunshine West. Register: https://events.humanitix. com/brimbank-national-tree-day-atkororoit-creek

See it? Send it

Spotted something newsworthy in your neighbourhood, or is there a local story you believe is worth telling? Send your news tips, photos and videos to Star Weekly via westeditorial@starweekly. com.au or find us on Instagram: @ star_weekly

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Mayor Lara Carli at Cobblestone Green Reserve playspace. (Ivan Kemp) 565384_02

Logan during one of the heats. (Pictures: Gary Sissons) 564236_23

Signwriter Jack. 564236_19

Create a finger knit snake

Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspireandsparkcreativity.

Stephanie starred in the fi of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting.

JoinStephanieassheexplorestheendless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materialsintosomethingextraordinary.

This month, Stephanie is creating a fingerknitsnake.

Leave a short tail of yarn. Place the yarn over your middle finger, behind your index finger,

fingers. Gently pull the yarn tight.

Step 3: Repeat until your finger knitting is long enough to look like a snake.

Step 4: Cut the yarn and tie a knot at the end, leaving a small piece hanging out. Trim the other tail short.

Step 5: Cut a small tongue from red felt and glue it onto the small piece of yarn.

Step 6: Glue on the googly eyes to finish your snake.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago 23 July, 1986

Five western suburbs policemen received slight injuries after being punched and kicked in an angry brawl during a National Soccer League at SunshineonSunday.

30 years ago 24 July, 1996

Nurses at Western Hospital have given the Western Health Care Network to agreetotheircareerstructuredemands orfacebans.

20 years ago 18 July, 2006

Brimbank residents ended last week with money in their pockets, mayor Natalie Suleyman with a black eye and the $9.5 million Sunshine Swim and Leisure Centre redevelopment in limbo.Allinthespaceofthreedays.

10 years ago 19 July, 2016

Brimbank police have urged Derrimut residents not to become “vigilantes” after a “frightening” early-morning homeinvasiononJune30.

Stephanie Martinez.

Helping young learners build confidence through play

GlengalaKindergartenhelpsyounglearners buildconfidencethroughplay.

FamiliesinSunshineWestarediscovering a welcoming kindergarten community where children are encouraged to learn throughcuriosity,creativityandplay.

Located within the grounds of Glengala Primary School, Glengala Kindergarten offers a free sessional kindergarten program for eligible families, providing childrenwithastrongfoundationforschool in a purpose-built learning environment designedforthreeandfour-year-olds.

The kindergarten follows a play-based, child-led approach guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning Framework, with experiences that support language, literacy, numeracy, creativity, wellbeing and social developmentwhileencouragingchildrento exploretheirowninterests.

Children enjoy bright indoor learning spacesandexpansiveoutdoorenvironments featuringsandpits,amudkitchen,climbing equipment, vegetable gardens and sustainability areas that promote hands-on learningandexploration.

Sessional kindergarten manager Melanie Peters said creating a place where every child feels safe, valued and excited to learn isattheheartofeverythingtheteamdoes.

“Webelievechildrenlearnbestwhenthey feeltheybelong,”MsPeterssaid.

“Our role is to nurture each child’s natural curiosity and confidence through meaningful play, while building strong relationships with families to support every child’slearningjourney.”

A key advantage for local families is the kindergarten’s location within Glengala Primary School, giving children regular exposure to the school environment and helpingeasethetransitionintoFoundation.

“Being part of the school community gives children the opportunity to become familiar with their future learning environment,”MsPeterssaid.

“Ithelpsbuildconfidenceandmakesthat next step into primary school feel exciting ratherthanoverwhelming.”

With more than 25 years’ experience

in early childhood education, Ms Peters leads a team of qualified Goodstart Early Childhood Teachers and Educators committed to creating an inclusive community where every child’s strengths, ideasandculturearecelebrated.

The kindergarten also offers longer pre-prep programs for eligible children and

flexible blended three and four-year-old groupoptions.

“We encourage families considering kindergarten to visit, meet our wonderful team and experience the warm, welcoming community that makes Glengala Kindergarten such a special place to begin achild’slearningjourney,”MsPeterssaid.

Enrol today

Grow your child’s confidence to be truly ready for school with the local leaders in early learning.

Goodstart’s government-approved Kindergarten program is led by degree-qualified teachers who nurture, inspire and bring play-based learning to life.

With family-friendly hours year round, secure your child’s place with the local leaders in Kindergarten today.

glengala kindergarten

MY PLACE

Helen Reid is president of the Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club. She has lived in both Sushine and, more recently, Sunbury.

What is your connection to Melbourne’s north-west?

I was a long time resident of Sunshine. I lived in three different parts of the city from 1960 to 2010, and I still feel attached to it. I go to Sunshine every Sunday to attend church, shops and events. I moved away from Sunshine in 2010 and I find my new area, Sunbury, is quite different in climate, and in opportunity. I still enjoy coming back to Sunshine although no longer a resident there. I haven’t yet severed the link. Both places have their attractions.

What do you like about where you live?

I liked the chance to live in a place that has a historical link. Sunshine made a big part of what established Victoria. We can look back as this generation’s part which enabled the population growth for Victoria that gave workers a chance to achieve a fair lifestyle.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

I like to be in the H V McKay Memorial GardensandintheSunshinePresbyterian Church. I found a place in the church congregation and remain involved. I’m the kind of person that loves gardens, the layout, the planting pattern and the flowers. The H V McKay Memorial Gardens is a living area that is a jewel in the crown of the western suburbs.

What would people be suprised to know about you?

People might be surprised to find that when I first came to Sunshine to live I worked at the Albion Explosives Factory as a technical assistant, leaving when I

BUSINESS PROFILE

earliest sign that it is growing.

As president of the Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club what is it that you love about gardening?

It’s a great thrill for me to plant a seed, bulb, cutting, or seedling and see the

As president of the Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club I can encourage others to spend their spare time outside in the garden’s fresh air. I can advise (although I am not a trained horticulturalist), I can enjoy most of all, seeing iris in flower in the spring, seeing daffodils mark the fact that winter is beginning to pass away to give spring’s new life a joyful place of

colour for us to enjoy. The way that expert gardeners can produce huge pumpkins and marrows and fruits in the autumn harvest, these things amaze me.

The Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club meets on the second Wednesday of the month and welcomes news members. Contact Helen on 9746 3933 or reidhm@ hotmail.com

Warm up with Braybrook Hotel’s July buffet lunch deal

ThisJuly,lunchisgettingaseriousupgrade attheBraybrookHotel.

Pub Perks members can enjoy the Braybrook Hotel International Buffet for just $25 for lunch, Tuesday to Friday throughout July. With 40 plus dishes to choose from, it’s the kind of lunch that invites you to fill your plate, go back for secondsandtrysomethingneweveryvisit.

From international flavours to familiar favourites,thebuffetisbuiltforvariety.It’s perfect for families, work lunches, seniors, group catch-ups or anyone looking for great value without settling for the same oldmiddaymeal.

Adults and seniors dine for $25, kids aged 4–12 are $20, and kids under 4 eat free.

Andthevaluedoesnotstopatthebuffet.

Throughout July, Pub Perks members can also enjoy $7 schooners all day, every day, plus a 250gm porterhouse with chips and salad in the Sports Bar for just $22.50. Members also receive 10 per cent back on every full-priced purchase through the Pub Perks app, making every visit even morerewarding.

Not a Pub Perks member yet? Signing up is free, quick and gives you access to member-onlyoffersacrossthevenue.

With 40 plus buffet dishes, daily drink deals and Sports Bar specials, Braybrook Hotel is giving locals plenty of reasons to dropinthisJuly.

The Braybrook Hotel is at 353 Ballarat Road, Braybrook. For more go to braybrookhotel.com.au

married and was beginning my family as was the custom for ladies then. Some of the locals then knew the factory as Area No 3. It’s now Cairnlea.

Helen Reid is the president of the Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club. (Damjan Janevski) 559349_02

Smart home devices that enhance safety for seniors

As more technology is developed and brought to the shelves, more homes are seeing these gadgets brought into their homes. These smart home devices don’t just simplify life but can enhance safety, convenience, and peace of mind— particularly for seniors. As the population ages, the need for innovative solutions to supportindependentlivingandensurethe well-being of elderly individuals becomes increasingly important. Smart home devices offer a range of features designed to address the unique safety concerns of seniors, from fall detection to remote monitoringandemergencyassistance.

Let’s explore some popular tech being brought into homes for the elderly, exploring how these innovations revolutionise senior care and reassure residentsandtheirfamilies.

Smart Security Systems

Traditional security systems have evolved into smart home security solutions that offer comprehensive protection for seniors. Smart cameras, motion sensors, and doorbell cameras provide real-time surveillance, allowing family members to monitor their loved ones remotely. With features like two-way audio and smartphonealerts,seniorscanfeelsecure knowingthathelpisjustatapawayincase ofanysuspiciousactivityoremergencies.

Voice Assistants for Safety

Voice-controlled assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant have become indispensable safety tools for seniors.Thesedevicescanperformvarious functions, including setting reminders, making calls, and controlling smart home devices through simple voice commands.

In terms of safety, voice assistants can be programmed to send alerts during emergencies or remind seniors to take medication, enhancing their overall well-being.

Smart Health Monitoring Systems

Monitoring seniors’ health is essential for early intervention and preventive care. Smart health monitoring systems targeted for seniors use wearable devices, smartscales,andbloodpressuremonitors to track vital signs and health metrics in real time. Caregivers and healthcare

professionals can remotely access this data through smartphone apps or online portals, allowing for timely interventions andpersonalisedcareplans.

Astechnologyadvances,thepossibilities forenhancingseniorsafetyandwell-being through technology are limitless. Smart home devices offer a transformative solution to address the unique challenges faced by elderly individuals, empowering themtoliveindependentlywhileproviding peace of mind to their families. By embracingtheseinnovativesmartgadgets,

the elderly can enjoy a safer and more secure living environment, enabling them toageinplacewithdignityandconfidence. At Centennial Living, every home includes an emergency call system to provide an additional layer of safety and securityforseniorslivingindependently.

If you would like to learn more about our Centennial Living Retirement Villages, please call 1300 098 000 to speak to a friendly team member or visit www.centennialliving.com.au today.

Mayor’s message

Cr Lara Carli

This week, we proudly launched Melton City Council’s new Mobile Library Van, bringing books, magazines and library services directly to our community.

The Mobile Library Van complements our existing library services, which includes our libraries in Melton and Caroline Springs, as well as Library Access Points in Aintree, Diggers Rest, Fraser Rise and Strathtulloh. Residents can visit the Library Van at major Council events or request a visit to a playgroup or community group at melton.vic.gov.au/ libraryvan

Thank you to the Victorian Government for supporting this initiative through the 2023 Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and helping to provide residents with access to valuable library resources closer to home.

Join Daughters of the West in 2026!

Registrations are now open for Daughters of the West, a free, life-changing program, for women aged 18 and over who live or work in the City of Melton.

Registrations are now open for Term 3 programs at Council’s community centres and selected venues across the City of Melton.

There is also an exciting opportunity for our community to help shape the future of our local parks through the Victorian Government’s Pick My Park program, which is now open for voting. Four parks across the City of Melton are in the running, and by voting you can help secure funding for important upgrades that will benefit residents for years to come. The more votes the more chance for our parks so please support this initiative and vote for your favourite park at engage.vic.gov.au/ pick-my-park

Finally, don’t forget to have your say on the draft City of Melton Aquatic and Leisure Strategy 2026–2046. The strategy will guide future business cases for the provision of aquatic facilities and services across the City. Please let us know your feedback on the proposed high-level strategic directions by completing a short survey by Sunday 29 July. To find out more, visit conversations.vic.gov.au

Feel free to contact me about Sugar Gum Ward or our City more generally on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au

Delivered by the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation in partnership with Council, the 10-week program covers fitness, nutrition, gender equity and more. Join like-minded women for fitness sessions, interactive discussions and workshops aimed at making healthy lifestyles achievable and fostering social connection. Participants of all fitness levels and abilities are welcome.

PROGRAM DETAILS:

Beginning: Tuesday 11 August 2026, 10am–12pm

Location: Botanica Springs Children’s and Community Centre, Brookfield

Beginning: Wednesday 12 August 2026, 6pm–8pm

Location: Taylors Hill Youth & Community Centre, Taylors Hill

To register, visit melton.vic.gov.au/daughtersofthewest

Watts Ward with Cr Sophie Ramsey

Council’s 2026/27 Budget was endorsed at our June Council Meeting, and it was pleasing to see several projects that will benefit Watts Ward and our growing community more broadly.

The Budget includes more than $1 million to begin construction of a new competition-standard netball court at Melton Recreation Reserve, as well as $1.8 million for the Kurunjang Sports Reserve soccer pavilion. Funding has also been allocated for a new tennis pavilion and lighting upgrades at Kurunjang Recreation Reserve, creating even more opportunities for local people to

get active and connect. You can see the full budget at melton.vic.gov.au/ budget

One of the things I love most about our community is the incredible contribution our young people make. That’s why I’m excited nominations are now open for the 2026 Youth Fest Awards. The awards recognise young people aged 12 to 18 who are making a difference through leadership, creativity, community involvement, sport and personal achievement. If you know a young person who deserves recognition, please nominate them so we can celebrate their achievements and inspire others: melton.vic.gov.au/youth-fest

Whether you’re interested in beginner pottery, yoga for seniors, social groups or music sessions for preschoolers, there is something to suit all ages, abilities and interests.

To explore the full range of activities, visit meltonlearning. vic.gov.au

Council is also continuing to invest in young people through the FairGo 4 Youth grants program. The grants help young residents in our community to access sport, arts, recreation and other extracurricular activities that build confidence, strengthen social connections and support wellbeing. Eligible residents aged eight to 16 can receive up to $400 per financial year, while young people living with disability can apply for up to $600. Find out more at melton.vic.gov.au/communitygrants

Feel free to contact me regarding Watts Ward or our City more generally on 0412 584 067 or email sophie.ramsey@melton.vic.gov.au

Mayor Cr Lara Carli Deputy Mayor Cr Dr Phillip Zada Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Brandi Morris Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner Cr John Verdon

Locals in Comm Games action

Commonwealth Games action will get underway this week, with several locals in action across the two weeks.

Tara Murray has a quick look at some of the athletes to look out for.

ATHLETICS –

Chris Mitrevski, Linden Hall and Peter Bol

Three western suburbs athletes will be part of the Australian athletics team at the Commonwealth Games.

Keilor Downs’ Chris Mitrevski is headed to a third Commonwealth Games.

Mitrevskiwillcompeteinthelongjump, having competed in that event at Gold Coast in 2018 and Birmingham in 2022. He played sixth in 2018 but struggled with consistency and technical issues which plagued him for a few years.

Mitrevski then finished ninth in 2022. He also represented Australia at the 2024 Olympics and sits in the top five for Australian male long jumpers all-time.

Mitrevski has also won five Australian titles, finishing second this year, with a best jump of 8.12 metres.

SpeakingaheadofhisOlympicsdebutin 2024, Mitrevski said he started athletics as he loved to race everyone.

Football was his other love. He played with both Taylors Lakes and Keilor.

“I played every sport at school, I loved sports and if there was a chance of playing school sports with anything, I was doing it,” he said.

“Played footy and athletics pretty much the whole time, loved them both just as much.

“Iprobablywasn’ttoogoodatfooty.Iwas good for one effort and that’s it, probably why I’m good at athletics.

“I figured out I was quick and could jump, put those to together and made for a good long jumper.”

Former Riddells Creek resident Linden Hall will represent Australia at a third Commonwealth Games.

Having competed at the Gold Coast in 2018 and Birmingham in 2022, Hall has been named to compete in the 5000 metres.

She competed in the 1500 metres in

BOWLS –

Aaron Teys and Corey Wedlock

New Deer Park Bowls Club signings and best mates Aaron Teys and Corey Wedlock are headed to the Commonwealth Games. The pair were named in the Australian Jackaroos squad for the games.

A 12-player squad has been named with six Para-Commonwealth Games athletes in the team.

Teys and Wedlock make up the men’s squad along with Aaron Wilson. Wilson, who will compete in the singles, is going for a third straight gold medal in that event.

Wedlock, who competed at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, and Teys, who has been selected for his first games, will compete in the men’s pairs event.

Teyssaiditwasanunrealfeelingtohave made his first games.

“It’s something that I always dreamed of as a kid and being in the squad for a while nowandhadacoupleofsetbacksandwhat not,” he said.

“It’s a huge relief and I can’t wait.”

The pair said they can’t wait to team up together.

“We’re good mates on and off the green, we know each other’s game inside out, we know what makes us happy and what ticks us off,” Teys said.

“I think it was selected but I think if we both had the opportunity we would have

the past two Commonwealth Games, finishing fourth on both occasions.

The 35-year-old has also competed in three Olympic Games.

Hall went to school at Riddells Creek Primary School, before going to Braemar College for secondary school.

Speaking before the 2024 Olympics, Hall told Star Weekly she still had a lot of connections in the Macedon Ranges.

“I still have plenty of friends out there,” she said. “They are pretty good at supporting me on social media as well.

“I spent an afternoon at Riddells Creek Primary School after the Commonwealth Gamesandranalapwiththewholeschool.

“It was nice to be able to do that.”

PeterBol,wholivesinthe3032postcode which includes Maribyrnong, will be looking to go one better than in 2022 when he won silver in the 800 metres.

HecurrentlyownstheAustralianrecord in the 800 metres and has had an strong season on the track this year.

Bol recently broke the Australian 1000 metres record.

played with each other anyway.”

Wedlock added,” I’m really looking forward to teaming up with Aaron Teys, who is one of my best mates, and we’ve got a great record together, looking forward to get there out on the big stage together.”

The format of the bowls competition this year at the Commonwealth Games is different to the past.

The format is more like the Bowls Premier League competition.

Wedlock and Teys have won that competitiontogetherfourtimes,withTeys named player of the tournament three times.

“Igetboredprettyeasilysothisformatis going to be pretty good for me,” Teys said Wedlock said they have a good record

and know each other’s games well.

“We know what works for each other and what doesn’t work for us, having that friendship as well off the green puts us in good stead heading into the games.”

It comes after the pair signed with Deer Park for the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division competition.

Teys returns to the club and has signed on for two years, while Wedlock will join the Parkers for the first time and has signed for four years.

Bowls Australia’s performance director andnationalcoachGaryWillissaidhaving four Commonwealth Games debutants alongside athletes with multiple games campaigns creates a really strong balance within the squad.

Keilor Thunder’s Lara McSpadden is headed to the Commonwealth Games.

McSpadden was named in the Australian Basketball 3x3 women’s side.

The women’s Gangurrus will be led by Marena Whittle, who brings Commonwealth Games experience after claiming bronze at Birmingham 2022, alongside Amy Atwell, Emma Clarke and McSpadden.

McSpadden made her 3x3 debut for Australia last year and has been named in a number of squads since then.

She made the move to the Keilor Thunder in the National Basketball League 1 South competition this season and has been a key reason why the Thunder sit in the top eight.

Chef de Mission Petria Thomas said the selected teams reflect the depth and strength of Australian basketball across both programs.

“These squads reflect the incredible talent and depth we continue to see across Australian basketball,” she said.

“It’s particularly exciting to welcome our debutants into the green and gold, while also recognising the outstanding experience of our returning athletes.

“I know each of them will embrace the opportunity to represent Australia with pride on the Commonwealth Games stageandcontinueourstrongtraditionof performance in the 3x3 format.”

Basketball Australia chief executive Matt Scriven said the selection of the squadsreflectsthecontinuedgrowthand strength of the sport in Australia at the elite level.

“Today’s [Thursday] announcement is another strong demonstration of the depth and talent we have across Australian basketball,” he said.

“Both our Basketball 3x3 and Wheelchair Basketball 3x3 programs continuetoproduceathleteswhoperform on the international stage and embrace the demands of the Commonwealth Games environment.

“We’re proud of every athlete selected and look forward to watching them represent Australia with distinction in Glasgow.”

Continued: Page 14.

Chris Mitrevski. (Athletics Australia/Casey Sims)

Peter Bol after winning silver in 2022 (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Linden Hall. (AAP Image/Darren England)

BASKETBALL 3X3 –Lara McSpadden

The Australian Commonwealth Games bowls team. (Commonwealth Games Australia)

Lara McSpadden. (Basketball Australia)

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JUDO –

Aoife Coughlan, Maeve Coughlan, Tinka Easton and Danny Vojnikovich

It’llbeafamilyaffairattheCommonwealth Games for the Coughlan family, as four Resilience Training Centre stars are set to shine on the big stage.

Reigning women’s judo 70 kilogram Commonwealth Games gold medalist Aoife Coughlan has been named in the Aussie squad for 2026 as she aims to defend her title.

Her younger sister Maeve Coughlan will make her Commonwealth Games debut afterbeingpickedtorepresentAustraliain the 63 kilogram women’s event.

Aoife said Birmingham remains a defining memory, but her focus has already shifted to what lies ahead.

“Winning gold in Birmingham was a memorable moment in my career and I look forward to the opportunity to defend my title” she said.

“Tobeabletosharethisexperiencewith Maeve makes it even more special.”

For Maeve, selection marks the culmination of years of dedication and a chance to step into the international

NETBALL –

Liz Watson, Kate Moloney and Uneeq Palavi

Two former City West Falcons stars will lead the Australian Diamonds at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, while a current Falcon is also headed to the Games.

TheDiamondsteamwasnamed,withno surprises.

Captain Liz Watson will once again lead the side, bringing her trademark composure, creativity and elite midcourt leadership to a team built for high performance tournament play.

Kate Moloney is the side’s vice-captain. The pair came through the City West Falcons pathway before making their way in Suncorp Super Netball and for the Diamonds.

Watson is one of three players who will compete at their third Games.

Watson, Jo Weston and Courtney Bruce won silver in 2018 before winning gold in 2022.

Moloney, Kiera Austin, Sarah Klau and Cara Koenen were part of the 2022 team.

Jamie Lee-Price, Sophie Dwyer, Georgie Horjus,SophieGarbinandMatildaGarrett will all make their Games debut.

“This is an incredibly exciting group with a great mix of youth and experience,” Watson said. “We know what it takes to perform on the world stage, and we’re committed to doing the work required to give ourselves every chance in Glasgow.

“There’s a lot of excitement around this group, but also a real determination

SWIMMING –Tara Kinder

Bundoora’s Tara Kinder is hoping to fire at the right time having made her first Commonwealth Games team.

Kinder will swim in the 200 metre breastroke.

Speaking on Swimming Victoria’s social media, Kinder said she was looking forward to being part of her first multiple sport event.

“It was a huge relief coming off the back of World Championships last year,” she said of making the team.

“There was that added pressure of trying to make selection at the trials.

“Havingthattextmessagecomethrough on the last day was really a huge relief and

spotlight alongside someone who has helped shape her journey.

“I was in the crowd in 2022 when Aoife won, now I’ll get to compete alongside her in Glasgow. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of and I really look forward to,” she said.

The pair’s older brother Eoin previously competed for Australia as well, including at the 2016 Olympics.

Speaking before the 2024 Olympics, Aoife said her sister was one of her main training partners.

“My sister Maeve is one of my main training partners and she keeps me accountable and we push each other to be

to defend the gold medal we won in Birmingham. We know the challenge ahead and we’re ready to embrace it together.”

Horjussaidearningselectionforherfirst Commonwealth Games was a moment of immense pride.

“It’s one of the biggest stages in sport, and the chance to represent Australia in Glasgow is really special. I’m excited for everything that comes with the Games

I now get to focus more on preparation leading into it.”

Kindersaidshehadsomeupsanddowns at the trails and had to wait until the final night to know if she had done enough to qualify for the Games and the Pan Pacs.

She said she didn’t get the results she wouldhaveliked,missingoutofqualifying times in the two medley events.

“I was lucky to get my foot through the door, so I can focus on being better overseas when it matters.”

Kinder represented Australia the World Championships last year in the 200 metre individual medley and 200 metre breaststroke.

Shefinished12thinthemedleyand25th in the breaststroke.

better every day,” she told Star Weekly at the time. “I hope I’m as good a role model for her as our brother is.

“I’m hoping we can qualify together for LA 2028.”

Joining the two Coughlans in the Commonwealth Games team are fellow Resilience Training Centre athletes, Tinka Easton and Danny Vojnikovich.

The Resilience Training Centre is based in Footscray.

Easton,whowillcompeteinthewomen’s 52 kilograms event, is also defending her title.

Vojnikovich is making his Commonwealth Games debut and will compete in the men’s 90 kilograms event.

Judo Australia performance and pathways general manager Maria Pekli saidtheselectionhighlightsthedepthand continued growth of the program.

“This team is the result of years of consistent investment in our pathway and high-performance system,” she said.

“To see athletes like Aoife return as champions, alongside new faces like Maeve, Vas and Saya stepping onto the Commonwealth Games stage together, shows the strength and sustainability of Australian Judo.

“We are incredibly proud of this group

experience and ready to make the most of the opportunity.”

Melbourne Mavericks player Uneeq Palavi has been named in the Tonga team for the Games.

Palavi, who has played two games for the Falcons this season, has been a key player for the Tongan team for a number of years.

It will be the first time Tonga is playing netball at the Commonwealth Games.

BOXING –

Jacob Cassar

Taylors Lakes’ Jacob Cassar is part of the next generation of Australian boxing that willgettheirchanceattheCommonwealth Games.

An eight-athlete boxing team has been namedfortheGames.

All eight boxers will be making their gamesdebut.

At just 19, Cassar is the youngest in the team.

“I’mveryhappy,”hesaid.“I’mexcited.

“It’s what I’ve dreamed of and I can’t wait.”

Cassar found out he had made the time withaphonecallbeforetheannouncement wasmadepublic.

Hewashopingthathehaddoneenough to be selected in the men’s 65 kilogram event.

“I did everything that I could at the selection event to try and take it out of the selectorshands,”hesaid.

“Youalwayshaveafeelingbutyounever know.Iwaswaitingfortheresult.”

Cassar was too young for the 2024 Olympics and set his sights on the CommonwealthGames.

Having always set himself high expectations, going into the games is no differentforCassar.

He embraces being one of the youngest competitorsinthering.

“I’m excited for the experience,” Cassar said.“Goldisthegoal.

“I’lltrainhardwithmydadandmycoach and I’m always trying to win tournaments andwinfights.

“It’sexcitingwhenyougetthosewins. “Iloveitandeverythingthatcomeswith it.Winsareabonus.”

Cassar played football as a junior with the Hillside but fell in love with boxing when one of his footy coaches got the playerstoputthepadsontoimprovetheir fitness.

Fromthere,hetookupthesportandhas notlookedback.

Cassar has competed in 65 fights, winning57ofthem.

He said both his parents had been big supportersthroughouthiscareer.

Cassar said the World Boxing Cup in Brazil was another good opportunity aheadoftheCommonwealthGames.

“I’m so grateful to Boxing Australia for theopportunitytogooverthere,”hesaid.

“It was a beautiful location and tournament.

“I had two fights and had one win and oneloss.”

Cassar competed in China before the Commonwealth Games and participated in some team camps before traveling to Glasgow.

“As dad would say, take the bull by the horns,” he said. “Take every opportunity.”

Boxing Australia chief executive Dinah Glykidis said the team announcement is an exciting moment for Boxing Australia to be able to confirm this team, with eight athletes selected to represent Australia in Glasgow,”Glykidissaid.

“Thisisatalentedanddeterminedgroup who’ve earned their opportunity and are ready to test themselves against the best boxersacrosstheCommonwealth.

“We know they’ll continue to develop over the coming months, and we’re really looking forward to seeing them represent thegreenandgoldinGlasgow.”

Jacob Cassar. (Boxing Australia)

The Australian judo Commonwealth Games team. (Judo Australia)

Tara Kinder. (AAP Image/Dean Lewins)

Uneeq Palavi. (Robbab Photography)

Kate Moloney, second from right is in the Commonwealth Games team. (Commonwealth Games Australia)

Liz Watson will captain the Diamonds. (Dylan Burns/ AAP)

Pure dance music to enjoy

Following performances of Katma at Sydney’s Carriageworks and Toronto’s Luminato Festival, Jack Prest and Azzam Mohamed next bring their thrilling, joyful sound-movement duet, Echo Mapping, to Melbourne’s inner west next month with performances at The Substation in Newport.

Prest is composer, mix-master, interdisciplinary artist and the senior engineer at Studios 301, Australia’s most prestigiousrecordingfacility.

His practice incorporates electronic, avant-gardeandambientmusic,soundart, newmedia,videoandperformance.

Their latest collaboration, Echo Mapping,isdescribedasdancemusicinits strippedback,purestform,withnosets,no spectacle, just body, voice, and live music inconstantconversation.

Prest’s live score moves from subtle textures to thundering beats to ethereal trumpet, while Mohamed performs with both voice and body, his movements shift from commanding stillness to fluid yet intense choreography, while singing Sudanese melodies recorded, looped and

Mohamed is a dancer, performer, and educator with 15 years performing experience and training in an array of differentdancestyles,fromafro-houseand kudurotohiphop,poppingandhouse.

Bluey on the big stage

The internationally-acclaimed stage adaptation of Australia’s best-loved children’s show comes to Geelong this month.Forreallife.

Sincepremieringin2020,Bluey’sBigPlay the Stage Show has toured the globe and beenseenbymillionsoffansworldwide.

Featuring brilliantly created, larger-than-life puppets and the instantly recognisablevoicesofMelanieZanettiand DaveMcCormackasMum(Chilli)andDad (Bandit),Bluey’sBigPlayfollowsBlueyand Bingo’s plans to get Dad off his phone and outofthebeanbag.

When master puppeteer Jacob Williams returned from the US to Australia in 2019 after a stint as head puppeteer for King Kong the Musical on Broadway, he had no ideawhoorwhatBlueywas.

“I got a phone call out of the blue from the producers asking if I’d be interested in

coming on as puppet director,” Williams said. “I thought at that stage it might be a nice summer job for a couple of weeks… Thatwassevenyearsago.”

Williams said a big part of Bluey’s magic was its representation of the universal experienceofbeingpartofafamily.

“IthinkwhatBlueydoesreallywellisfind the joy and the quirkiness in the ordinary experienceoffamilylife,”hesaid.

“One of the things that keeps me so engaged with the show, what always delights me, is the audience itself. It’s such a collective experience of joy, not just from thekids,butfromalltheadults.

“I’maparent,andtoseeyourchildseeing one of their icons live, the impact of that… there’ssuchjoyinthatexperience.”

manipulated into a mesmerising sonic atmosphere.

Performed in the round, Echo Mapping places the audience at the centre of the experience where every breath, every beat, every movement is magnified and everyone is drawn into a shared, visceral journey that is both deeply personal and powerfully collective. Expect to leave transformed, exhilarated, and completely immersed.

Echo Mapping is on at The Substation from12-15Augustfrom7.30pm.

Book via The Substation: https:// thesubstation.org.au/program/ echo-mapping

Bluey’sBigPlayisatGeelongArtsCentre from 22 to 23 July. Visit geelongartscentre. org.auformoreinformation. Join

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

Garden club

The Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Glengala Community Centre, corner Simmie Street and Glengala Road, Sunshine West at 7pm. New members welcome.

President Helen Reid, 9746 3933, reidhm@hotmail.com

Over 50’s club

The Keilor Over 50’s Recreation Club meets at Kealba Hall, 24 McShane Drive, Kealba, on Tuesdays, from 10am-3pm, and Wednesdays, from 7-10pm. Have a coffee and a chat, play social table tennis, pool and card games, go on organised outings and enjoy barbecues. First two visits are free then annual membership fees apply. Graeme, 0404 809 640, keilorover50@ gmail.com, www.keilorover50.com.au

Deer Park Probus Club

The Deer Park Probus Club meets at the Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, Deer Park on the second Wednesday of the month from February to December. Meet at 10am followed by lunch available from noon. The club offers bus trips, lunches, morning melodies etc. New members welcome.

0427 495 584

St Albans senior citizen

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day. Beverley, 040 3685 632

first Tuesday of every month. All skill levels are welcome. library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

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 Brimbank.

9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@cotavic.org.au, cotavic.org.au/our-programs/ employment-support/

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Werribee’s Skeleton Creek Aqueduct, a heritage-listed 1890s brick structure that originally carried the outfall sewer over the Werribee River as part of Melbourne’s early metropolitan sewerage system. (Gary Sissons) 564221

Keilor Park Tennis Club social night

Join the club on Monday nights for a free social hit and get to know other club members. All levels are welcome. Female players are also required for Thursday competition from 10am-2pm and also for the B-grade mixed team on Wednesday, 7-9pm. keilorparktennis@gmail.com

Brimbank Book Group

Be inspired by thought-provoking books with a group of like-minded, literary

fans with our Brimbank Book Group. All welcomed. This group, for adults, meets on the first Monday of the month, from 2-3pm, at Deer Park library. Bookings are not essential, but please feel free to register your interest. library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Create & Chat

Dig out your craft projects and get inspiration from fellow like-minded crafters with the create and chat sessions at Sunshine Library, from 10-11am, on the

National seniors meeting

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more. 0425 713 004, lesley1.collins@outlook.com

Card games

Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from 7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine. Leisa, 0425 768 808

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies. Robyn, 0425 387 880

Bluey, Bingo, Chilli and Bandit at Geelong Arts Centre this July. (Supplied)

Electronic musician Jack Prest (left) and dancer and choreographer Azzam Mohamed will bring their latest duet Echo Mapping to Newport next month. (Supplied)

The application reference number is:

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority or alternatively at: www.melton.vic.gov.au/apa

must:

• be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing,

• include the reasons for the objection, and

• state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before.

If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you its decision.

The

its

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which three countries are set to host the 2026 Rugby League World Cup?

2. Who won the 2026 Wimbledon women's singles title?

3. FIFA will discuss expanding the World Cup from 48 teams to how many?

4. The 2026 Major League Baseball All-Star Game was held in which US

10. Which US college famously wears maize and blue?

11. How many substitutions per match are allowed in a FIFA World Cup game that does not go into extra time?

Who won the 2026 Wimbledon men's

12. And how long is each half of a FIFA World Cup match?

Which basketball league plans to add teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia by 2030?

Who plays the fictional golf professional Lonnie Hawkins in the Netflix series The Hawk?

The tagging and tackling team sport of kabaddi is the national sport of which South Asian nation?

Which New Zealand cricketer most recently coached England's Test team?

13. Breaking the record of 52, how many days did it take Kelsey Pfendler to row solo from California to Hawaii?

14. Who is currently ranked the world No.1 men’s tennis player?

15. How many apparatuses are there in men’s gymnastics?

16. Both Wimbledon 2026 Women’s finalists were from which country?

17. Fans of which Australian professional sports team have started copying Norway’s ‘viking row’ celebration?

18. Rugby player Will Jordan achieved what feat in July 2026?

19. New South Wales won which State of Origin 2026 games?

20. And who was awarded the Wally Lewis Medal for being the standout player of the series?

21. Sam Kerr recently signed with which NWSL team?

22. And what year was the National Women’s Soccer League founded?

23. In regards to sports governing bodies, what does IIHF stand for?

24. Who was the inaugural captain of the Gold Coast Suns men’s team?

25. How many points must you score to win a game of squash?

26. Which sport is featured in the NATO alphabet?

27. Which name did the NBL go by before it was renamed in 1980?

28. In which year did France last win a men’s FIFA World Cup?

29. The real-life sport of Quidditch was renamed to what in 2022?

30. In which two ball sports is a ‘solo’ a specific skill?

1 Soup ingredient with ham (3)

Tenacious (10)

Casserole (4)

Benevolent (10)

Scrutinise (4)

Seasonal movement of animals (9)

Island in the North Atlantic (7)

Consume (3)

16 Appalling (9)

18 Transmute (9)

21 Tour (6)

22 Babe (6)

24 Sneak (5)

25 Award (5)

26 Flat circular object (4)

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'.

Today’s Aim:

20 words: Good 30 words: Very good 41 words: Excellent

U E C I T T N R

trice, truce, tunic, uric

3 LETTERS

MySharona was an international success for which US rock band? 2 What English river’s name comes from the ProtoBrittonic word for 'river'?

In the fairytale, for how many years was Sleeping Beauty asleep?

4 What is the capital of Barbados?

5 Which two members of The Bee Gees were twins?

6 In what year was the United Nations established?

7 On which island was Nelson Mandela imprisoned for 18 years?

8 Nephology is the study of what?

9 The griffin is a mythological creature with the head of an eagle and the body of what?

10 Shailene Woodley (pictured) stars as Jane Chapman in which TV series?

Jimny: it’s just not cricket

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

It’sbeenmorethanfiveyearssincewelast drove the ‘new’ Suzuki Jimny.

The scary thing is that not much has changed in this time – it’s still fundamentally the same.

It’s the same engine, the same transmission and the same four-wheel drive system.

There’sanewtouchscreenandoperating system, while auto cruise control and parking sensors have been added front and back.

And along the way, a cheaper, more accessible version of the little 4x4 was added to the mix – known simply as the Jimny Lite.

Styling

Five years ago, a three-door Jimny was priced from $23,990. To get into the car now, it’s $31,990 and that is for the Lite version. The full-blown version is $33,990 for the manual or $36,490 for the automatic.

Five-doorJimnyXLmeanwhileispriced from $34,990, while the better equipped Heritage edition is $40,990 – all prices before on-road costs.

Any colour except white adds to the price, with Premium paint $745 and two-tone paintwork with a black roof is $1345. Lite is available only in Superior White or Jungle Green.

The bright green or perhaps yellow that everyone wants is called Kinetic Yellow and is available only in combination with a black roof.

Interestingly, it’s a very close match for the colour of Ryobi power tools.

There are seven colours to choose from, three of them two-tone combinations: Superior White, Jungle Green, Medium Gray, Chiffon Ivory Metallic/Bluish Black Pearl, Kinetic Yellow/Bluish Black Pearl, Brisk Blue Metallic/Bluish Black Pearl.

Our test vehicle was the three-door Jimny in top spec, finished in the black and yellow combo.

Cloth trim is standard across all grades, with a leather-clad steering wheel and single zone climate control for this grade.

Adaptive cruise control is also now standard on both three-doors, but only the auto version of the five-door gets it. And you still start the car with a key.

There’s also LED headlights, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, front fog lights, daytime running Lights (DRLs), privacy glass and 15-inch alloys with

skinny 195/80 tyres.

Jimnyiscoveredbyafive-yearunlimited kilometre warranty, with roadside assistance for five years.

Infotainment

The big story, if you can call it that, is the upgrade to the infotainment system.

A 9.0-inch screen (7.0-inch for Lite) now headsupthesystem,withBluetooth,voice control, AM/FM and now DAB+ digital radio, plus wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, with sound delivered via an ancient two-speaker audio system.

Built-in navigation, once standard, is missing in action. There’s a single USB-A port and a 12-volt outlet in the front, with another12-voltoutletfortheluggagearea.

Safety

Safety comprises six airbags and autonomous emergency braking which uses a camera and a laser sensor to scan the road ahead for traffic and/or pedestrians.

You also get lane departure warning, weaving assist to fight fatigue, plus automatic, traffic-sensing high beam.

Despite all this, Jimny scores only three of a possible five stars for safety.

Engines/transmissions

At the business end, a 1.5-litre, four cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine deliversastingy75kWofpowerand130Nm oftorque–thelatterat4000revs.

The 1.5 is available with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, with lockout overdrive that prevents the auto

chassis, as preferred by the 4x4 set, with a sparewheelthatsitsonthetailgate. Itopensfromlefttorightinkeepingwith right hand drive needs, but it can be heavy to manoeuvre, particularly if parked on a slope.

RATINGS

Looks: 8

Performance: 6.5

With the rear seats laid flat, storage is a thousand times better, but the hard plastic surface is extremely slippery and items slidearound.

Sa S fety: 7

Th T irst: : 6. 6 5

Suspension is three-link rigid axles front and back with shocks and coil springs, and it rides on 15-inch wheels with 195/80 seriesDunlopAT20rubber.

Practicality: 6

Comforrt: t 7

Tech: 7

Value: 8

Overall: 7

fromchangingintotopgear–sortofasport mode.

Driving

It’s a cutie, that’s for sure – but looks aren’t everything.

A part-time four-wheel drive system, featuring high and low range gearing, is engaged via a second stubby transfer lever locatedattherearofthemainone.

This can be accomplished on the move for high range, which is permissible on wet roads, but the change to low range for the roughstuffrequiresastopandshifttoPark beforeitcanbeengaged.

The rest of the time the car remains rear-wheeldrive.

As well as hill hold and hill descent control, the 4x4 system also boasts what’s knownasBrakeLSDTractionControl.

Basically, it means that if two diagonally opposed wheels lose their grip in slippery conditions, it will automatically brake the slipping wheels and redistribute torque to theothertwo.

Withatiny40-litretank,ittakesstandard 91 unleaded, with fuel consumption rated at 6.4L/100km for the manual or 6.9L/100kmfortheauto.

It’s a stubby thing, at 3.64 metres in length,witha2250mmwheelbase.

But Jimny still accommodates four people, although the two rear seats are child-sized with little leg room and very littleroomremainingforluggage.

There are no air vents in the back either, nor cupholders or storage bins – just the oneseatpocketonthepassengerside.

The body is bolted to a separate ladder

With a creditable 210mm of ground clearance and short front and rear overhangs, it has an approach angle of 37 degrees,rampoverangleof28degreesand departureangleof49degrees.

But no figure is provided for its water crossing capability, although we understandthefiguretobe300mm.

Jimny is started with the twist of a key, just like cars all used to be in the old days. With a small four-cylinder engine, it needs some revs to get going, with maximum torquenotavailableuntil4000rpm. No test of the Jimny would be complete withouttakingitoffroad.

Changing in and out of high range four-wheel drive is simple and the suspension and ground clearance are adequate.

Engaging low range requires a stop and thetransmissionmovedtoPark.

This is a vehicle that has little trouble scaling rocks and rock shelves, but seems tohaveanaversiontomudandwater. Embarrassingly, we got it bogged and it wastimetodialafriend…

Jimny’s small size allows it to squeeze easily in and out of tight situations, but don’texpecttoomuchfromthecarandyou won’twindupdisappointed.

Get to know it, get to know what it can andcan’tdo,anditwon’tletyoudown.

Summing up

Adventure seekers will be drawn to the Jimny because of its rugged looks and the promiseofoff-roadability.

Sadly, few if any buyers will actually take the vehicle off road and with a crampedcabin,itislikelytoquicklyloseits attraction.

For those who just want something to drive around town, a more conventional vehiclewillbemorepracticalandcertainly morecomfortable.

For those who just want something to drive around town, a more conventional vehicle than the Jimny will be more practical. (Supplied)

TIPPING 2026

Benny Nguyen OBrien

There were big wins, bounce back performances and some late season form shine through on Saturday. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shootingsomeoftheaction.

Tullamarine’s Sam Lazarevski. 565913_02

Tullamarine’s Jack Skidmore. 565913_10

St Albans’ Mitchell Pittaway. 565908_01

Taylors Lakes’ Stephen Tieppo and St Albans’ Brodie Johnson. 565908_05

Albion’s Christopher Tomazos. 565909_01

Hume City Broncos Monique Caparello. 565918_01

Hume City Broncos’ Olivia Woods. 565918_11

Hume City Broncos line up. 565899_03

Sunshine and Albion went head-to-head on Saturday. 565909_08

Hume City Broncos’ Robbie Heath. 565899_10

Cats continue on winning

By Tara Murray

Albion continued its good form and made it five in a row heading into the Western Football League division 1 bye.

The Cats have built some good form in recent weeks and were able to set up a big win against long time rival Sunshine on Saturday.

The damage was done early, with the Cats leading by 46 points at half time.

After half time there was nothing between the sides as the Cats won, 14.12 (96)6.10 (46).

Cats’ coach Blake Richards said they were really happy with the way they were tracking.

“It’s good to get that consistent improvement,” he said.

“We had a lot of contributors out there

and yesterday [Saturday] we had 20-21 players that really contributed.

“The structure we’ve got… gets a lot more players into the game and we’re more competitive which is good.”

Richards said it was always a big day they faced Sunshine and trying to find a parking spot was at premium with a good crowd in attendance.

He said the 2024 grand final loss to the Kangaroos still drove a lot of people.

Richards said both sides were heading in the right direction in division 1, which isn’t always the case for teams which come up from division 2.

Richards said after the Kangaroos looked good for the first 10 minutes, they were able to get the game on their terms.

“We had a period where we just opened up our forward line and played fast footy

and kicked eight goals in a row,” he said.

“Sunshine then put a player or two behind the ball to slow us down and it was an arm wrestle in the second half.

“We got our work done early between the 10 minute mark of the first quarter and the 10 minute mark of the second quarter.”

Five players kicked two goals each for the Cats.

Josh Bench led the way. Richards said

Lions show positive signs with ‘good’ footy

By Tara Murray

Taylors Lakes showed plenty of resolve on Saturday as it got its fourth win of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season.

After a year from hell injury wise, the Lions were able to put out a strong performance to get the job done against St Albans.

“It was a good brand of footy, which was even better,” Lions coach Steve Burns said.

“We got a couple of players back in and that helped with structure and we set up like a normal footy side.”

Burns said they had 10 players out of their senior side on Saturday and 21 players across their seniors and reserves.

He said they had been regularly calling people to fill in for their reserves side this season, with so many injuries.

Burns said he’d never seen an injury riddled season like this in his 25 years of coaching.

“Every time the phone rings, you think what has happened?” he said.

“Quality players like [Chris] Vulic and Jake [Hobbs] are done for the season

“Matt Jones hasn’t played much and James Vistarini has been in and out.

“Lockie Rayner missed three weeks and Brandon Coletta has missed a couple.

“Aaron Vendramini has missed half a season.”

Burns said they had been able to welcome a couple of players back on Saturday, there were a couple of new injury concerns out of the match.

He said the performance against St Albans was one of their better ones this year, with the Lions winning 16.14 (110)-13.11 (89).

“We dominated for most of it,” he said. “Our midfield looked like a midfield for the first time in a number of games.

“Lockie Rayner could jump in the ruck after not being able to the last few weeks.

“They kicked the last three or four goals.

“We took a couple of our better players off.“We were being cautious about them getting through.”

Damien Petrone kicked four goals for the Lions, while Bowey Larizza kicked three goals.

Brandon Coletta, Larizza and Tomi Ibar-

Bench had been in really good form the last month, particularly in the absence of co-captain Caleb McPherson the past couple of weeks.

Oliver Doyle kicked four goals for the Kangaroos and he was named their best.

The Cats sit fourth on the ladder, while Sunshine is now eighth and 12 points outside the top five.

There’s a division wide bye this weekend, with Richards saying it came at the right time.

“A-grade footy is pretty tough and the players need the bye,” he said.

After the bye, the Cats are at home against Werribee Districts.

Richards said they wanted to further close the gap on the Tigers, who would travel to their home ground for the first time in a long time.

Goalkicker and coach locked in

Albanvale has locked in Scott Oldfield as its coach for next year’s Western Football League season.

Having taken over as senior coach this season, Oldfield will continue on in the role next season.

Oldfield had previously been an assistant coach at the Cobras.

“Since taking the reins, he has built an environment founded on trust, accountability, and belief,” the club said.

“His ability to generate exceptional buy-in from the entire football program has been a defining factor in the club’s progress.

“The playing group has embraced the club’s vision and committed wholeheartedly to the execution of a clear and consistent game plan.

“Equally impressive has been the strong relationships he has developed with both the players and assistant coaches.

“By creating an inclusive and collaborative environment, he has built a united football program where everyone is invested in the same goal.

“The respect he has earned across the group has helped establish a positive culture, with players and coaches working together to continually raise standards both on and off the field.”

ra were named the Lions best.

For the Saints, Kyan Kretiuk Clarke and Jacob Hunt were their best.

Burns, who has announced that he’s not continuing on next season, said they were now just focused on trying to finish the season on a high.

“We’ve got kids who are 16-17 and reserves players who don’t normally get a game, fitting in well for us,” he said.

“That’s been a bonus this year. We want to play the kids and try and get as many games into them.

“We’ve been trying to get in form and make sure we’re out of the relegation zone. We don’t know what is happening with Parkside, so we’ve been a bit edgy.

“Hopefully we can find a little bit of form and the new coach has something to build on.”

Burns said he wanted to finish his time at Taylors Lakes on a high as well.

He hasn’t ruled out coaching again, but said it would have to be a role that really interested him to see him coach again.

“I’m happy with what I’ve done with Taylors Lakes and Hillside.”

The club said Oldfield re-signing had provided stability, continuity and confidence as the club continued building towards sustained success.

Having locked in their coach, the Cobras have also announced that their leading goalkicker is back for 2027.

Reece Field has re-signed in a massive boost for the club.

He is a two-time club leading goalkicker and is leading in the race to win that award this season again.

“Reece has taken his game to a new level this year, highlighted by his elevation into the leadership group as a vice-captain, where he has had a massive effect on the rest of the playing group,” he said.

“We look forward to watching Fieldsy do his thing for a long time to come in the blue and white.”

Corey Field and Jackson Williams have also re-signed.

Kane Holden. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 565909_12

Zach McCasker chases down Bowey Larizza. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 565908_04

Big milestone for Warriors

By Tara Murray

History was made on Wednesday as the Western Warriors secured their first finals berth in the Victorian Netball League, with their 23 and under side locking in sixth.

While the Warriors championship was knocked out of contention in the second last round, a win over ladder leaders Geelong Cougars, put the 23 and under side in the box seat.

A win on Wednesday night against Boroondara Express would be enough to play finals.

A loss would have meant they would have had to rely on other results.

The Warriors made sure they didn’t have to worry about other results, as they beat the Express, 54-45.

Warriors head coach Kim Bailey said it was an amazing feeling for the group.

“After three years, this is our first time a Warriors team has made finals,” she said. “We’re really, really proud of them.

“They’ve dug in deep. We’ve got Leona [Hristovska], who is our goal attack, who has

gone overseas.

“To win like that, it’s really pleasing.”

Bailey said their 23 and under group was a young side and they knew they would have to be patient with them as they developed.

She said the side was able to back up the performance against the Cougars on Wednesday night.

“They just had to play the same and they did,” she said. “They stuck to their game plan, just really pleasing.

“The players stood up when they needed to. Every single player contributed.”

Ella Closter shot 41 goals for the Warriors.

Ebony Porter, who was part of the team last season, came up for a second straight week and did a good job in goals.

The Warriors will face the Blaze in an elimination final on Wednesday night.

The teams played recently with the Warriors getting the win on that occasion.

The Warriors championship side finished its season with a draw against the Express, 62-all.

Sophie Cameron reaches the magic 150

By Tara Murray

As soon as she was old enough to play girls football, Keilor’s Sophie Cameron was keen to get out on the field.

Having started in under-13s with the Blues, the senior co-captain became the first female to play 150 games for the club on 11 July.

Cameron said time has flown since she started playing.

“It was crazy and I can’t believe it happened,” she said of her milestone game.

“The time has just flown by so fast. I was trying to count it up before, it’s 12 years.

“It takes a long time to get there in female footy, I’m feeling old.”

Cameron’s sister Jessie Cameron started playing youth girls league football and her brother played Auskick.

Once under-13 football came in, Cameron was quick to jump at the chance to play.

“There was only one or two years before I was able to join under-13s,” she recalls.

“I remember even in under-13s we were playing against Caroline Springs and Mel-

bourne University-Flemington combined side.

“There were only three teams in the competition and we played each other all the time.”

Cameron said with her family already playing at Keilor, she had no choice but to play for the Blues.

She counts herself lucky to be part of the club.

“I’m fairly grateful,” she said. “Not every player, especially female players get to have the opportunity to play with one club their whole career.

“I’ve been lucky they’ve had that consistency.”

Cameron said the 2022 premiership was the highlight of her career, having played in a number of grand finals throughout.

She said after the Blues were awarded the premiership in 2021 without playing in a grand final due to Covid-19, it made it more special to win it.

“It was the best day and the best night,” she said of 2022. “It was the biggest celebration in my life.

“To back up 2021 and play in a grand

After being down the whole game, the Warriors came home hard with five of the last six goals to come away with two points.

The match wasn’t without drama with Fionnuala Mckeagney-Stubbs being sent on at one point.

“We just dug deep,” Bailey said. “I said to them this is our last 15 minutes together, let’s just be tenacious and fearless and they were.

“They won some important balls. To do it without Mia Lavis and Ruby Shannon, was amazing.”

Bailey said they were battling injuries at the end of the season, but limped through and had an impact on the top six.

The Warriors finished the season in 11th with five wins and two losses, but were only six points behind sixth.

Sports shorts

NBL1

Keilor Thunder finished the regular National Basketball League 1 south season on a winning note. Both the men’s and women’s sides faced the Bendigo Braves on Friday night. The Thunder men had to work hard in the first half, with scores level at the main break. The Thunder were able to kick away in the second half, winning 93-69. Daniel Foster top scored with 17 points. Earlier, the Thunder women beat the Braves, 112-58 after jumping out of the blocks with a 36-6 first quarter. Captain Maddy Rocci scored 31 points while also having 11 rebounds, 14 assists and five steals. Six players finished in double figures.

NBL1

Keilor Thunder pair Isabelle Bourne and Maddy Rocci were recognised at the National Basketball League 1 south awards on Sunday night. Bourne was named in the women’s all NBL1 south first team, while Rocci was named in the All NBL1 south second team. A number of players from the Thunder had been nominated for various awards.

NPL

final and earn the premiership was so good.”

Cameron spent many seasons playing with her sister in the backline, which she said was pretty special.

When Jessie stopped playing last season, Sophie took on the captaincy role.

She shares the role with Laura Wright this season leading a young group in the premier division.

For the Blues, it has been a tough year.

Without a win and sometimes short on numbers, there have had some challenges.

“It has been tough, but I’m proud of us,” Cameron said.

“We’ve had relentless pressure each week and week in, week out, we push through the losses and stay positive.”

Cameron said it’s exciting the young talent that is coming through the club and there would be lots of positives to come in years to come.

For the rest of the season, the focus is simple for the Blues.

“Our biggest focus is we want to have fun,” she said.

“Stay positive and keep the pressure up.”

Green Gully’s last season turnaround in the National Premier League continued on Friday night. The Cavaliers made it three wins in four matches as they beat the Dandenong Thunder. The Cavaliers scored twice in the the first 24 minutes to take control of the game. They went a man up when Frank Busasa was given a red card after his second yellow card. The Cavaliers were able to capitalise as they scored a third to win 3-0.The Cavaliers remain bottom but are now only six points off 12th.

Baseball

Sunshine Eagles’ Darryl George has signed for a 14th season with the Melbourne Aces. George is the longest tenured Aces player ever. “I’m excited to be back and looking forward to summer at the ballpark. Hope the party deck gets rowdy,” George said.

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Brydi Hutchinson. (Tania Hardin)

Sophie Cameron. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 560549_18

Cats

Cup triumph

By Tara Murray

North Sunshine Eagles’ Australia Cup win onWednesday nightwill go down as oneof their greatest moments in club history.

Playing in the national finals for the first time, the Eagles headed to South Australia to take on FK Beograd.

While they might have been the road team, there was a big Eagles presence as they were able to hold on to win, 3-2. Eagles’coachBenIsaisaiditwasapretty amazing result.

“Unbelievable, honestly amazing,” he said. “Not just the result, which was obviously really big. More so just the support.

“The lead up to the game, the support we had from the community in Adelaide andhaving over 120supporters travel from Melbourne is just insane.”

Isai said while the supporters had told them they were going to make the trek, it was amazing to see it in reality.

Scores were locked at 0-0 at half time before the Eagles through Julien Barras opened the scoring six minutes into the

second half.

Beogradlevelledthescoresnotlongafter before the Eagles reestablished the lead through Rai Dos Santos.

Dos Santos scored his second in the 83rd minutetogivetheEaglesa3-1leadandone foot into the round of 16.

There was still another twist when Beograd got one back to give his side some hope.

“We played really well,” he said. “We deserved to get the win.

“The last five minutes were a bit stressful after they scored a second, but to win in front of all that support was amazing.

“They threw everything at us.

“The club is super proud of the players and staff, the whole community is very happy.”

After the game, a close contact of theirs opened up their restaurant for the Eagles and their supporters to celebrate.

Isaisaidtherewereacoupleof100people there and it was as special as the game.

Now through to the final 16, the Eagles don’t know who their opponent is yet.

Isai said the one thing they would love is

a home game.

The Australia Cup is quickly on the backburner for the Eagles as they try and avoid relegation in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition, TheyfacedElthamRedbacksonSaturday.

Dos Santos gave the Eagles the lead in the41stminutebeforetheRedbacksscored in injury time equaliser for the match to finish 1-1.S

Speaking before the game, Isai said the game that it was a huge game in their context of their season.

He said he had plenty of confidence in the group to continue their improved performance.

“It’shuge,”Isaisaid.“Intheleaguestillin the relegation spot.

Isai said a lot of hard work had been done by many people to get into the VPL1 competition and they don’t want to drop back down.

“It would be one of my greatest coaching achievements if we can avoid relegation,” he said.

“It would be something I would remember.”

Lions get some reward

Georgies aim high

By Tara Murray

Caroline Springs George Cross’ women’s side has its sights set on two big goals.

The Georgies will be aiming for back-to-back titles when they face Craigieburn City in the Steph Catley Plate in August.

The group will then fully turn its attentiontotryingtoclaimpromotion in the FV state league 1 north-west competition.

Georgies’ coach Davide Gualtieri said it was exciting that they had an opportunity to win the Steph Catley Plate two years in a row.

“For us, it is fantastic for Caroline Springs and our program,” he said.

“We get to play at the home of the Matildas and it’s a beautiful day. It’s fantastic and you can have a day where you almost feel like you’re a professional.”

The Georiges were one of the last three state league teams left in the Nike FC Cup, which saw them into the Steph Catley Plate finals.

While the Georgies were drawn straight to the final, Craigieburn City had to beat Beaumaris to make the final.

Gualtieri said he wasn’t surprised that Craigieburn City is their opponent in the grand final. The two sides both play in state league 1 north-west.

While the Georgies have a focus on the plate final, earning promotion in the state league competition is a big aim this season.

They just missed out last year.

They currently sit one point off top spot.

“We were disillusioned last year to missoutonpromotionbythatmuch,” he said.

“Mill Park is on top... They’ve only lost to us.

“Wehavetobeatthemtopotentially win the league, but you never know what will happen for the rest of the season.”

Gualtieri said the club had been really supportive of the female program and ensuring there was a pathway from juniors through to seniors.

He said they would love to have an National Premier League license for their junior girls program.

Georgies’ general manager Liza Djuric said seeing results like this was really exciting for the club and what it wanted to achieve with its female program.

“The women’s team has had a fantastic season. They’ve had a few changes to their squad and are going for promotion.

“There’samandatefromtheclubto tryandgetpromotedintoVPLandwe are hoping to get there.”

Mohamad El hawli. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 543459_01