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Dying to discuss death
As a funeral celebrant, Karen Ingram is more comfortable talking about death than most people. Most people, except Dr Hannah Gould, who has written a book on death titled: How to Die in the 21st Century.
To help others become as comfortable discussing death as they are, the pair will be doing just that at Altona Library on 8 August.
“We’re really wanting to ignite a conversation in the community, in families and in groups to improve death literacy, so we all become comfortable in making our wishes known,” Ms Ingram said.
“It’s about estate planning, end of life care, even down to funeral or no funeral, what is a funeral.”
In her main role as manager of Louis Joel Arts and Community centre, Ms Ingram has been having these conversations during bi-monthly ‘death cafe’ events.
She said rather than scaring people, discussing death actually gave them peace of mind.
“It’s been proven the more we talk about it the more we make the most of everyday and it actually improves our wellbeing,” Ms Ingram said.
Details:https://shorturl.at/7t5EY
Design under fire
By Cade Lucas
Opposition to the proposed removal of the Yarraville level crossing is growing, with Maribyrnong council demanding the projectbepaused.
In a strongly worded letter to the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority’s VIDA Rail, Maribyrnong councilsaidithad“seriousconcerns”about the lack of information on how the current design,whichwouldcloseAndersonStreet to traffic and involve digging two tunnels under the rail line for pedestrians, was arrivedat.
Councilarguedthat“itisnotappropriate for any further work to occur on this
project”untilmoredetailwasprovided.
“We request that VIDA Rail release their concept design options assessments and support technical analysis to improve the transparency and integrity of the consultation process, and to enable us to better understand the constraints and impacts associated with the design,” council’s director of planning and environmentMikeMcIntoshwrote.
Mr McIntosh also demanded that alternative designs such as the addition of an above ground pedestrian crossing be explored,addingthatthelocalcommunity wasconcernedabouttheproposedlocation of the two underpasses and the possible demolitionofnearbyhomes.
Among those affected is Yarraville residentRobertPricewholivesnextdoorto oneofthehomesthatcouldbedemolished to make way for the northern underpass near Goulburn Street that would include a rampforcyclists.
MrPriceaskedwhytheunderpasscould not be located closer to the station, before answering his own question - “It would costmoremoneyandtime”.
Mr Price is a member of newly formed community group LXRAY Anderson Street Champions, which has launched a campaign to have the current design scrapped.
“It’s the wrong design for Yarraville,“ he said.
“Everythingaboutthissmacksofdoingit onthecheap.“
The Yarraville Kingsville Business Association (YKBA) is also opposed to the design fearing it could hurt the local economy by restricting access to the village.
A VIDA Rail spokesperson said the Yarraville level crossing was one of Melbourne’s most dangerous and needed togo.
“The community will have two safe and accessible points of access across the busy railline,withlift,stairandrampunderpass options catering to all different mobility needs,“thespokespersonsaid.
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Louis Joel Arts and Community manager and funeral celebrant Karen Ingram is excited to be discussing death with author and academic Dr Hannah Gould at Altona Library next month. (Gary Sissons) 564717_01
WestCASA’s home for healing
The Western Region Centre Against Sexual Assault (WestCASA) has transformed a balcony at its headquarters into a healing spaceforvictim-survivors.
Featuring plants and furniture donated by a local Bunnings and put together by volunteers, the repurposed balcony is aimed at providing a calming, welcoming environmentwhereclientsandvisitors can breathe,relaxandconnectwithnature.
Located within the Women’s Health Hub inHoppersLanenearWerribee,thehealing spaceofficiallylaunchedonMonday13July.
WestCASA chief executive Annette Vickery said the new space was in keeping with the organisation’s commitment to delivering compassionate, trauma-informedcare.
“At WestCASA, we know that healing happens not only through specialist support, but also within environments that promotesafety,comfortandwellbeing,”Ms
Vickery said while thanking Bunnings for helpingtomakeitpossible.
“We are sincerely grateful to Bunnings for their generosity in helping us create a beautifuloutdoorspacethatwillbeenjoyed byvictim-survivors,theirfamilies,ourstaff andvisitorsforyearstocome.”
Aswellasofferingaquietoutdoorretreat, the upgraded balcony will also provide spacefor informalconversations,moments ofreflectionandstaffwellbeing.
While based in Werribee, WestCASA is a leading not-for-profit sexual assault counselling service operating across the entire western metropolitan region of Melbourne.
The organisation assists in the recovery and healing of victim-survivors of sexual assault as well as providing community educationprograms.
For more information, visit: https:// westcasa.org.au/
Briefs
Tree day
Tree planting events will be held in both Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong to mark National Tree Day on Sunday 26 July. In Hobsons Bay, tree planting will take place at the Altona Coastal Park from 10am-noon. Plants will be provided, while some native wildflowers and ground covers will be available to take home. There will also be a free coffee van, sausage sizzle and kids activities. In Maribyrnong, trees will be planted in Braybrook Park from 9am-1.30pm, with a barbecue lunch, free coffee cart,
painting and a wildlife show also on offer.
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Altona chef’s Modi menu
By Cade Lucas
ForanIndian-Australianchef,it’saboutas big as it gets.
Ujjwal Sarin, or Chef Sarin as he is more commonly known, was preparing for anothernight’sdinnerserviceathisAltona restaurant, Oye Bombay, on Wednesday 8 July, when his friend, the executive chef at Sofitel Melbourne, John Savage, gave him a call.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was due in Melbourne the following day and would be holding a diplomatic meeting with his Australian counterpart AnthonyAlbanese overlunchattheSofitel that afternoon.
Savage had barely made the offer to come and cook for the two PMs when Chef Sarin palmed that night’s dinner service offtohisteamandrushedovertothehotel
on Collins Street to begin preparing the biggest meal of his life.
“I was the main cook and John Savage and his team helped and I directed them,” Chef Sarin said of how he went about preparing the meat-free buffet menu.
A famously strict vegetarian, Prime Minister Modi is known to insist on specially prepared menus that match his dietary preferences, even when travelling internationally.
Along with dictating the ingredients, Chef Sarin said the Indian leader and his team expected particular tastes too.
“They wanted us to provide very authentic Indian flavours,” he said, pointing out that this meant having to quickly blend his own spices to ensure freshness.
“These people were coming from India so I wanted to provide that special flavour
for them.”
By Thursday morning everything was prepared and ready to go and soon both PM’s and about 60 diplomats from both countries entered the hotel, as did scores of security.
“There were ADF personnel with machine guns and sniffer dogs,” Chef Sarin said, adding that he only saw both leaders from a distance.
More important though was news that his food got a thumbs up.
“I heard the Paneer Butter Masala was a big hit,” Chef Sarin said.
And his reward?
“It’s not about the money. To do that function successfully was satisfying for me,” the Mumbai born chef said.
“Australia and India are both my countries so to cook for the leaders of my countries was a big pleasure.”
Digital arrival cards to be rolled out airports including Tullamarine
By Duncan Murray and Tess Ikonomou, AAP
Handwrittenpassengerarrivalcardswillbe replacedbyadigitaloptionatallAustralian airports,inamovehopedtomaketouching downamuchsmootherprocess.
Thefederalgovernmentwillprovide$56.1 millionoverfouryearstorolloutthedigital passenger cards to modernise airport operations across the country including at Tullamarine.
The change to a digital format follows successful trials involving more than
450,000 passengers on inbound Qantas flightsintoBrisbane,SydneyandMelbourne sinceOctober2024.
The digital Australian travel declaration will be introduced to other capital cities before the end of the year and rolled out to allotherinternationalairportsandseaports over12to18months.
Incoming passenger cards must be completed by arriving travellers and returning Australian citizens, and include a series of questions about imported goods, criminal convictions and other personal
information.
The digital version will initially be accessibleviaawebformasthegovernment collaborates with industry to co-design alternatives.
The change is aimed at streamlining processes for arriving passengers ahead of an expected influx of tourists for the 2032 BrisbaneOlympicGames.
Itwillalsoimprovedataqualityandspeed up collection in the case of global disease outbreaksorbiosecurityhazards.
Representatives from Australia’s
busiest airports in Sydney and Melbourne welcomed the change, saying for many visitors the airport experience is their first impressionofAustralia.
The former paper-based system had remained largely unchanged for decades, Australian Airports Association chief executive,SimonWestawaysaid.
“Seamless travel upgrades like this help ensure that Australia keeps pace with leading international border systems and add to the positive experience for both touristsandresidents,”hesaid.
Sofitel Melbourne executive chef John Savage and Altona restaurateur Chef Sarin after cooking for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday 9 July. (Supplied)
face
WestCasa and Bunnings staff members Agni, Ris, Cheyne, Heather, Adrian, Annette and Kathy launch the new healing space at the Women’s Health Hub in Werribee on 13 July. (Gary Sissons) 565219_01
Man charged following siege
By Cade Lucas
Police have charged a man following a siege in Footscray on Friday afternoon that forced a nearby school into lockdown.
It is alleged the man was stood on the balcony of an abandoned building on the corner of Barkly Street and Barkly Place armed with weapons and shouting at members of the public about 1.15pm on 17 July.
Soon after, Footscray High School’s Barkly campus was put into lockdown and Barkly Street was closed to traffic between French and Victoria streets as po-
lice attempted to negotiate with the man who could be seen hurling abuse and throwing projectiles at them from the rear of the abandoned bar and restaurant.
It is alleged the man also shot ball bearings towards police, causing damage to windows.
No one was injured.
After negotiations with the man broke down, heavily armed police stormed the building from the Barkly Place side about 3.45pm.
The man was tasered, then arrested and taken to hospital for assessment under police guard.
Edged weapons, a slingshot and imitation firearms were later found at the scene.
The 44-year-old has since been charged with 14 offences including reckless conduct endangering serious injury, assaulting police, possessing a prohibited weapon and four counts of possessing an imitation firearm.
He appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Saturday 18 July where he was denied bail and remanded in custody to reappear on 4 August.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education said all staff and students at
Emerging artists put to the test
The works of emerging artists testing new ideas with new materials are now on display in Altona.
The Testing Studio Exhibition has been open at the Louis Joel Gallery since Friday 10 July and will continue until the end of the month featuring the work of 11 artists selected to test, install and refine their work within a professional gallery environment.
For a week leading up to the exhibition, the 11 artists, including photographers, sculptors, painters, ceramic and contemporary artists, developed
their works through one-on-one sessions with the gallery producer inside the gallery itself. As a result, each work has been shaped in relation to the space around it, creating a layered exhibition reflecting multiple approaches to display and decision-making.
Among the artists involved is Brimbank based multidisciplinary artist Elijah Cristiano whose work ranges across photography, videography, and sound art.
Other participating artists include Fiona Sorrell, Gaelle Horsley, Nancy D
Lane, Peter Baylor, Zoe Elms, Melissa Baldrey Brown and Aleeta Northey.
The Testing Studio Exhibition will remain open until Wednesday 29 July, with visitors invited to come and view theworksondisplaywhilealsoengaging more deeply through artist-led prompts and sharing reflections that can contribute to the artists’ development.
For more information about the Testing Studio Exhibition, other exhibitions at the Louis Joel Gallery and other events at LJAC, visit : https://www.ljac. com.au/about-louis-joel-gallery/
Laverton North transport company chosen for electric truck trial
A western suburbs transport company will soon have an electric truck in its fleet after being chosen as the first participant in the state’s electric heavy vehicle trial.
Laverton North based Cahill Transport will take part in the $1.5 million Victorian Electric Heavy Vehicle Trial, a two-year program aimed at helping the sector integrate electric heavy vehicles into their day-to-day operations and collect operational data and user feedback.
Delivered in partnership with the state’s peak trucking body, the Victorian Transport Association (VTA), it’s hoped that by giving
transport companies real world experience in operating zero emission freight vehicles, the trial will make it easier and cheaper for the transport sector to transition to net zero.
Ports and Freight Minister and Williamstown MP Melissa Horne announced Cahill Transport as the first participant in the trial on Wednesday 15 July.
“We’re helping businesses play a leading role in reducing emissions in our transport sector by supporting a low-carbon economy,” Mr Horne said.
“The work we are doing is critical to meet our target of cutting emissions by transition-
ing to cleaner, more reliable technology.”
VTA chief executive welcomed Peter Anderson welcomed the start of the Victorian Electric Heavy Vehicle Trial and the selection of Cahill Transport as its first participant.
“Decarbonisation of the road transport industry needs to be understood by operators and data from this initiative will create a transitional pathway,” Mr Anderson said.
The Chinese-made Sany, the Mitsubishi Fuso eCanter and the Mercedes-Benz eActros from are among the electric truck models that will be used in the trial.
the Barkly campus were able to leave the school on time via a gate onto Geelong Road.
“All students and staff are safe and well,” the spokesperson said.
Earlier, in a message to parents seen by Star Weekly, Footscray High School principal Jillian English said the lockdown was a precautionary measure and that everyone inside the school was safe.
However, Ms English added that police had advised them to stay inside and to not leave until the incident was resolved and that parents should not approach the area either.
Protection push for grasslands bullant
There are calls for a rare bullant living in native grasslands in Melbourne’s north-west to be listed as a threatened species and given greater protection from poachers.
The first detailed study of the Myrmecia nobilis, a red and yellow bullant roughly 10-14mm in length that lives in grasslands in Hobsons Bay, Hume, Brimbank, Wyndham , Melton, and Moorabool, was recently undertaken by the Victorian National Parks Association (VPNA).
Among the findings contained in the report, Melbourne’s Grassland Bullants, released this week, are that they’re now found in just eight sites, including in Altona and Werribee, and that fire, encroachment from trees and shrubs and introduced grass species are among their many threats.
However, according to the report the biggest immediate threat is from poaching, a practice more commonly associated with giant beasts in the jungle than tiny insects in the grass.
“Ant collecting is surprisingly common, with poaching of wild ant colonies feeding a market for collectors,” the report said.
“We don’t think anyone has worked out how to breed them in captivity so poaching wild colonies is the only way of getting this ant.
“With poaching damaging wild populations, it’s really important to find out more about these ants and how we can help them.”
While urging anyone who witnesses poaching to contact authorities, the report concludes that formal protection is needed for the bullant to survive and that a submission has been made to Victoria’s Scientific Advisory Committee requesting they list Myrmecia nobilis as threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act.
While the report paints a worrying outlook for the future of bullants, the VPNA’s Grassy Plains Network Facilitator Adrian Marshall said the study was a big step towards protecting them.
“Understanding these ants better is essential if we’re going to save both them and the grasslands they call home,” Mr Marshall said, adding that he was amazed when he first heard about Myrmecia nobilis.
“I had never imagined there would be a rare grassland specialist bullant, let alone one found only in Melbourne.”
The grasslands bullants study was supported by the Altona and Laverton Community Bank.
The report can be found at: https:// vnpa.org.au/grassland-bullant/
Artist Elijah Cristiano with some of his artwork currently on display at the Testing Studio Exhibition in Altona. (Gary Sissons) 564717_25
Marsh to contest election
By Cade Lucas
Lawyer, human rights activist and Yarraville resident Jess Marsh will contest the seat of Footscray as an independent at November’s state election after being endorsed by the Voices of the Inner West of Melbourne community group.
Ms Marsh’s candidacy was announced at Footscray Park on Wednesday 15 July following a four-month process by Voices of the Inner West to find someone to take on and potentially unseat Labor incumbent Katie Hall, who is set to run again. Modelled of similar movements that re-
sulted in teal independents winning seats at recent federal elections, Voices of the Inner West was established in October last year with the aim of breaking the ALP’s monopoly on the area, but soon focused on contesting Footscray rather the neighbouring seat of Williamstown as well.
“Footscray’s been taken for granted as a safe seat for too long and too often decisions happen to our community not with them,” Ms Marsh said in explaining the motivation behind her candidacy.
“I think we need more choice at the ballot box and we need representatives that are going to listen to the community,”
she said, pointing to the West Gate Tunnel and data centres as examples of where this hasn’t happened.
“The intention is to get trucks off streets and pollution off streets, but the decision was made to not filter the (tunnel’s ventilation) stacks and I think that was really the wrong decision for the community.
“Data centres are being imposed on our community with little to no consultation. The implications of those right next door to childcare centres and schools and people’s houses, is really negative.”
However, the 41 year-old mother of three said that if elected she would do more than
Woman rescued from Footscray fire
A woman was rescued from an apartment above a Footscray shop which caught on fire late on Wednesday 15 July.
Firefighters were called to Nicholson Street after reports of smoke coming from a shop in the Little Africa precinct about 10.25pm.
Crews arrived to find a fashion boutique engulfed in flames and neighbouring properties, including a kebab shop next door, also ablaze.
While conducting a search of the building, firefighters found a woman in a second storey apartment and were able to evacuate her to safety.
The fashion boutique sustained major damage in the fire which spread through the eaves to affect three other stores.
The fire was deemed under control at 11.47pm and there were no injuries.
The cause of the fire is being investigated.
just point out problems, saying people were sick of politicians blaming each other
“What we need is people who are prepared to collaborate and solve problems.”
Traditionally a Labor stronghold, Footscray became a marginal seat at the 2022 election when Ms Hall suffered a 14 per cent swing against her.
Alongside Ms Marsh, Maribyrnong councillor Elena Pereyra is again the Greens candidate while migration lawyer Minh Quan Nguyen will represent The West Party.
The Liberal Party is yet to pre-select a candidate.
Recycle cans for food relief
Victorians can turn empty drink containers into meals for those doing it tough this winter through a new partnership between the state’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) and Foodbank Victoria.
The ‘Your Empties, Full Tummies’ campaign was officially launched at Foodbank’s Altona warehouse on Thursday 16 July.
As part of the three-month campaign, Victorians depositing their empty drink containers with CDS Vic will be encouraged to donate their 10-cent container refunds to Foodbank Victoria, with every five donations helping to create one meal for those experiencing food insecurity.
Donations can be made by selecting Foodbank Victoria on the screen at a CDS Vic reverse vending machine or choosing the charity as a payout option on the CDS Vic app. Those depositing their empty drink containers at over-the-counter refund points and depots can personally request that their donations go towards Foodbank as well.
Foodbank Victoria chief executive Dave McNamara said that as the state’s largest food charity, it made sense to join forces with such an effective fundraiser.
Details: https://cdsvic.org.au/
Firefighters at the scene of a shop fire in the Little Africa precinct in Footscray on Wednesday night. (Pradeep Tiwari)
Firefighters on Nicholson Street after the fire was extinguished on Thursday morning. (Carey Carter)
Pounding out rock music
of the band’s story.
Without further ado, please welcome to the stage: Seven Pound Halo.
Keeping the beat on drums, Thomas Kunz; laying down the groove on bass, Avatar Rostein; on lead guitar Benjamin McLaughlin.Lastbutnotleast,ourrhythm guitarist, singer and subject: Max Paul.
Thefour-piecealternativerockbandfrom Wyndham are cutting tracks, trekking the world and helping grow the local scene.
But before there was a band, there was 16-year-old Paul, his guitar and a growing infatuation with melodies.
“I picked up the guitar during Covid when I was in year 11 and 12,” he said.
“Maybeitwasbecausetherewasnothing else to do while being locked down. Either way, it coordinated the path that led me to where I am today.
“I started watching heaps of videos on Nirvana and The Dandy Warhols. Those twobandsreallyexpandedmymindatthat age.Therewerejusttoomanypossibilities.”
The others joined shortly after in 2022 and there was no looking back.
Self-described as Aussie garage rock, Seven Pound Halo draws from 90s Grunge, UK Indie and alternative psychedelic rock sounds.
“The name comes from the film Seven Pounds, which itself has themes that go back to older Shakespearean ideas around sacrifice and paying your dues,” Paul said.
You
go through the thick and thin together, and the road really streamlines what it’s all about. It strips everything back to the music, the people you’re with, and the experiences you share
-
Max Paul
“It’sastrangestorywhen you really look into it. For us, paying our dues comes through music giving back to the world our music.”
With plenty of tracks already laid and doing the roundsontheairwaves,the band has already insisted on taking the world by storm.
“We had been smashing through a bunch of gigs and went over to the UK in December 2025 after one of songs got played on the BBC,” Paul said.
“ItstartedintheMidlands,spreadacross the UK and then a bunch of bands heard us and invited us to play. So we absolutely sent it.”
Starting at London, one of the world’s musical Meccas, the lads headed north, passing through cities like Nottingham and making their way up to Newcastleupon-Tyne.
“In London, we played a lot of gigs in Camden – a lot of international acts played their first gigs there,” Paul said The Clash, The Sex Pistols, Oasis, Primal Scream and Kasabian are just a few to buildsomeoftheirfoundationsinCamden Town.
The road proved to be the greatest of teachers.
“If you want it, you’ve got to go after it,” Paul said. “No one’s going to book you at first, and no one’s going to take your music and magically plan a tour for you. “It’s quite easy to miss things and fall behind if you’re not organised. On the
bright side though, you have a lot of fun with the lads. You learn a lot from each other.
“You go through the thick and thin together, and the road really streamlines whatit’sallabout.Itstripseverythingback to the music, the people you’re with, and the experiences you share.”
It takes all kinds to make a band. Holding the rhythm section down, Avatar the bassist is the grounded deep thinker–the epitome of staying calm and measured no matter what is going on.
Drummer Kunz is the backbone: Described as funny, but also oldest and thewisest. Ben,characteristicallyofalead guitarist, is on the adventurous side and has a way of making stuff fun.
“The boys would probably say I’m up in the clouds. But I’d also say I’m very driven to make things,” Paul said.
It is worth noting that this is just the frontman’s take.
Paul explained how a song can be an extension of the songwriter’s soul.
“If I’m in a good mood, I’ll write something cool melodically and find the right words and syllables to fit over the top of it. Sometimes really cool things happen naturally,” he said.
“Whenyou’reinthedumpsthough,I’d say my most intuitive songs come out. There’s not much thought involved, just complete surrender.
“Those songs tend to arrive on their own. They’re usually a bit more emotional, but often they’re the most honest and melodic.”
AsSevenPoundHalorises,itistheband’s mission to help elevate talent coming after it.
Recently,thebandhasbeenparticipating in Wyndham council’s Paradox FReeZA program– a volunteer-led initiative supported by the state government that puts on events for young people.
Paulsaidpassingonthemusic,especially inalivespace,issomethingtoovaluableto lose.
“Across six consecutive days we performed at five schools throughout Wyndham before finishing with a youth centreshowthatbroughtstudentstogether from across the west.
“I think it’s quite important because we’re living through a hyper-media space where everything is facing itself online.”
He said he sees two things the next generation can take from music.
“The first is that you can build a skill and express yourself to the fullest, while helping others feel understood through
what you create,” he said. “The second is that music gives people a way to ground themselves through all the noise, especially as AI and technology and social media become more reliant in our everyday lives.
“I genuinely believe musical skills could become a lost art form one day but we hope young people see that learning an instrument or developing a creative skill isn’t just about becoming a musician.
“It’s about finding an outlet, building confidence and discovering who you are. As technology and AI become more prominent, human creativity becomes even more valuable in my opinion.
“At the end of the day, I think we just want to give back and create something people can relate to.
“That’s truly my goal to let people know they’re not alone and that everyone goes through transformations in life.”
For bands cutting their teeth, Paul said it starts with practise and refining songs.
“Listen to The Beatles and, believe it or not, orchestral music. Listen to it a thousand times if you have to. Your brain starts mapping out where music wants to go structurally,” he said.
“Most importantly, have fun with it. If you decide to take it seriously, you’ve got to believe in yourself first.”
Naturally, the band is heading back to the studio this month to practise what it preaches and record new songs.
For more of the band and their sound: https://sevenpoundhalo.com/
Seven Pound Halo is a Wyndham-based rock band. Jaidyn Kennedy listened to a bit
Seven Pound Halo. (Pictures: Supplied)
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
Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand
The club meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6pm for a 6.30pm start at Pelicans Landing, Syme Street, Williamstown. Everyone is welcome to attend just contact the club beforehand. Pam Barnes, 0418 347 691, rotarypointgellibrand.com
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, 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.
0400 693 025
The IT Club
A free, informal weekly drop-in workshop designed to build digital skills. Participants can bring their phone or digital device to learn from each other and work through tech challenges together. Held at Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street Williamstown on Mondays, 10-11.30am. No bookings necessary.
Lucila, 9397 6168
Mystery music sessions
Held at Altona Senior Citizens, 2 Sargood Street, every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30pm. The sessions feature performances by local musicians, including solo artists, duos and groups. Entry is free to both members and non-members. 9932 1311
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. 0490 811 605, https://www.l2r.org.au/dance-programs
Community story time
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, 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.
St Augustine’s Primary School Playgroup
Free playgroup for ages 0-5 held from 1-2.30pm every second Friday during term at the St Augustine’s Primary School library. library@sayarraville.catholic.edu.au
Ann Nicol, 0408 460 062
Sing with WIllin Wimmin choir
Discover the joy of group singing with the friendly women at WiIlin Wimmin choir in Williamstown. New members are always welcome, no audition. The choir sings contemporary, folk, choral and world repertoire in acapella style. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings during school terms, 7.30-9.30pm at the Dennis Reserve Centre, 109 Ferguson Street, Williamstown. willinwimmin.org.au, willin.wimmin@gmail.com
Altona VIEW Club
VIEW stands for Voice Interest and Education for Women. Altona VIEW club has just celebrated its 27th year
and is not-for-profit. The club welcomes ladies from the Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and other areas to join us on the third Wednesday of each month, at 11am, at the Altona RSL. The Club is closely affiliated with The Smith Family and sponsors ten children through the “Learning for Life” programme. Come along and join us for lunch and enjoy the speakers each month. Other outings are arranged. Great opportunity to make new friends.
Julie 0421 315 846, altonaview@gmail.com
Westgate diabetes support group Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Altona bowling club at 10am. Elaine, 0415 030 996
AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club
The AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club welcomes all who want to improve their communication, leadership and public speaking skills. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of every month from 7-9pm at Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton. Helen, 0474 498 052, aerospeakerstm@gmail.com
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
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
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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 at the Braybrook Hotel.
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 old midday meal.
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 more rewarding.
Not a Pub Perks member yet? Signing up is free, quick and gives you access to member-only offers across the venue. With 40 plus buffet dishes, daily drink deals and Sports Bar specials, Braybrook Hotel is giving locals plenty of reasons to drop in this July.
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
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 prestigious recording facility.
His practice incorporates electronic, avant-gardeandambientmusic,soundart, new media, video and performance.
Mohamed is a dancer, performer,
and educator with 15 years performing experience and training in an array of differentdancestyles,fromafro-houseand kuduro to hiphop, popping and house.
Their latest collaboration, Echo Mapping,isdescribedasdancemusicinits strippedback,purestform,withnosets,no spectacle, just body, voice, and live music in constant conversation.
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
Bluey on the big stage
The internationally-acclaimed stage adaptation of Australia’s best-loved children’s show comes to Geelong this month. For real life.
Sincepremieringin2020,Bluey’sBigPlay the Stage Show has toured the globe and been seen by millions of fans worldwide.
Featuring brilliantly created, larger-than-life puppets and the instantly recognisablevoicesofMelanieZanettiand DaveMcCormackasMum(Chilli)andDad (Bandit), Bluey’s Big Play follows Bluey and Bingo’s plans to get Dad off his phone and out of the bean bag.
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 idea who or what Bluey was.
“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… That was seven years ago.”
Williams said a big part of Bluey’s magic was its representation of the universal experience of being part of a family.
“IthinkwhatBlueydoesreallywellisfind the joy and the quirkiness in the ordinary experience of family life,” he said.
“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 the kids, but from all the adults.
“I’maparent,andtoseeyourchildseeing one of their icons live, the impact of that… there’s such joy in that experience.”
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 from 12-15 August from 7.30pm.
Book via The Substation: https:// thesubstation.org.au/program/ echo-mapping
Bluey’s Big Play is at Geelong Arts Centre from 22 to 23 July. Visit geelongartscentre. org.auformore information. Join
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors
40 years ago 23 July, 1986
Morethan200workersatWilliamstown Naval Dockyards, officially classed as being on “idle time”, are to be retrenched in the next 12 months.
30 years ago 24 July, 1996
Reported crime in Altona Meadows and Laverton rose nearly 25 per cent over the past year, according to crime figures released last week.
20 years ago 26 July, 2006
Altona Memorial Park Trust has been told to address a number of inappropriate practices listed in a report by the auditor general into cemetery trusts.
10 years ago
20 July, 2016
A seven-storey apartment block may go up on the edge of Footscray Park after Maribyrnong council unsuccessfully fought to claim the land as its own.
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)
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 12.
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)
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.
–
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)
BOXING
Jacob Cassar
1 Soup ingredient with ham (3)
Tenacious (10)
Too quiet to be heard (9)
Tranquil (4)
Think again (10)
Casserole (4)
Benevolent (10)
Scrutinise (4)
Seasonal movement of animals (9)
Consume (3)
Group of people with authority to rule (10)
16 Appalling (9)
18 Transmute (9)
21 Tour (6)
22 Babe (6)
24 Sneak (5)
25 Award (5)
26 Flat circular object (4)
3 LETTERS
ARENA
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
5 LETTERS ACING AGILE ALGAE AMASS ANGST APING APRIL
MySharona was an international success for which US rock band? 2 What English river’s name comes from the ProtoBrittonic word for 'river'? 3 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?
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?
TIPPING 2026
Leo Dardha Woodards
Benny Nguyen OBrien
Chris Byrne Yarraville Club
Rod Gaut Wyn Active
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
Williamstown’s big shot
By Tara Murray
Williamstown will get a rare chance to compete for silverware as it faces off in the Cecil Earley Plate final.
The plate was introduced last season, giving state league clubs an opportunity to play for a title following the Dockerty Cup and Australia Cup.
Williamstown, Altona East Phoenix and Uni Hill Eagles were the three state league teams to make it through to the sixth round.
In the draw for the Cecil Earley Plate, Williamstown was drawn to go through the final, with the other two teams to face off in a semi final.
The Phoenix won through to the final when the Eagles forfeited.
Williamstown coach Michael Loche said it was a massive occasion for the club.
“It’s exciting for the club and it’s the first time it is playing for silverware, it’s big,” he said. “It’s exciting and you often get this opportunity.
“There were a lot of state league clubs enter the competition and to be in the final two, is a massive achievement.”
The match will be held after the Dockerty Cup final between Preston Lions and Heidelberg United on 8 August at Lakeside Stadium in South Melbourne.
Loche said they were hoping that the big crowd would stick around and watch
their match as well.
He said it would be good playing one of their neighbouring clubs, the Phoenix, in the final.
“They are well coached and I know Donners [Paul Donnelly] well. They’ve done well in state league 1 this season, it will be a big test for us.”
While Williamstown is keen to win some silverware, it is still in the battle for promotion in FV state league 2 north-west.
After 16 rounds, Williamstown sits fifth on the ladder.
Just four points separates third and ninth.
Two teams will be promoted at the end of the season, while the team that finish-
Cameron Polson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 546142_11
Seagulls sneak home against Devils
By Tara Murray
Williamstown left it to the last minute to come away with the four points against the Tasmania Devils in the Victorian Football League on Saturday.
Having seen the Seagulls women’s side get the win against the Devils, the two men’s sides then faced off at DSV Stadium.
After a close game all day, the Seagulls found themselves trialling by six points nearly 28 minutes into the last quarter.
David Cunningham levelled the scores in the 31st minute before Angus Seivers kicked the winner with nearly 33 minutes on the clock.
The Seagulls won, 13.14 (92)-11.20 (86).
“It was too close for comfort,” Seagulls’ coach Justin Plapp said.
“It was good and we probably needed that going into the last four or five games.
“We didn’t know how long was left on the clock. We got told it was the last minute, but it felt like it went for six minutes.
“We weren’t really sure when it would go.”
Plapp said it was a good contested game of football.
The Seagulls led by 10 points at quarter time, with the margin reduced slightly to seven points at half time.
It was the Devils that led by five points heading into the final quarter.
The two sides traded the lead with the Seagulls doing enough.
Nathan Colenso kicked three goals, while Conor Willis, Kallan Dawson and Josh D’Intinosante kicked two goals each in the win.
Toby Triffett was busy with 37 disposals, while Jack Toner had 32.
The Seagulls move up to ninth on the ladder with eight wins. The top 10 sides play finals.
Plapp said they still have a lot of work to do to ensure they play finals again.
“We’re not consolidated in the top 10,” he said.
“We have to get the job done. We have three games left and we have to win at least two games to play finals.
“It’s do or die for us, we can’t afford to slip up in those games.”
es third will play off against the team that finishes third in the south-east for a promotion spot.
Loche, who is in his first year as coach at the club, said while they had gone better than they had expected and now wanted to push and see what can happen.
“We had a good win last week against Western Eagles,” Loche said before the game with Uni Hill.
“We face the Uni Hill Eagles this week who are in the top three.
“We had a couple of poor weeks but it was good to bounce back with a home win and hopefully we keep it going.”
Williamstown wasn’t able to get the job done against the Eagles, losing 2-0.
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VTCA
Gellibrand has announced its leadership group for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association McNamara Shield season. Mike Keating and Daniel Janka will share the captaincy this season. “Mike Keating, a multiple time club champion and premiership most valuable player, will lead the team for the majority of the season and Daniel Janka, club coach, will take the take the reins when Mike is unavailable.” Janka, who is in his second season at the club was previously announced as the club’s coach. Gellibrand has also announced the new signing of Will Espley, who is currently playing for Lindow in England.
VTCA
Altona North has received a huge boost for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season. The club announced that Patrick McArdle will return from Spotswood, where he took 63 wickets in Spotswood’s second XI the past two seasons. McArdle is a two-time premiership player at Altona North and has won two club champion awards and four first XI bowling average awards.
NPL
The Seagulls have lacked a bit of consistency in recent weeks, with Plapp saying who they had available had played a role in how they had played.
The club lost two players to AFL lists in the mid-season which hasn’t helped their cause.
“We’ve been ravaged by injury,” he said.
“Consistency is one thing, getting personnel back is another.
“We’ve got a few key players coming back, but it’s not long to get consistency.”
Plapp said they would get four or five players back in the next two weeks.
Luke Parks, Brayden Pruess and Tom Fullarton are all set to return against Coburg in two weeks time.
Before then, the Seagulls face Sandringham.
The Zebras sit 19th on the ladder with four wins for the year.
Meanwhile, the Footscray Bulldogs beat the Gold Coast Suns, 12.11 (83)-7.13 (55).
The Bulldogs sit 16th on the ladder with six wins. They are eight points outside the top 10.
Altona Magic had to settle for sharing the points in the National Premier League on Saturday. Facing Heidelberg United, neither team could score with the match finishing in a 0-0 draw. After 21 matches, the Magic sits in 10th spot with six wins and five draws. In the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, Altona City lost to Box Hill United Pythagoras, 3-1. Altona City sits in 13th spot.
VAFA
Williamstown CYMS couldn’t get the job done in the Victorian Amatuer Football Association premier B competition on Saturday. Facing Old Carey, the CYs led by seven points at half time. After the main break, Old Carey kicked 11 goals to four to come away with a 16.13 (109)-10.11 (71) win. The CYs sit bottom with three wins for the year. In the women’s premier B competition, the CYs lost to Beaumaris, 4.9 (33)-0.7 (7). The CYs sit fifth on the ladder.
Race for the top four alive
By Tara Murray
The race for top four spots in the Western Football League women’s competition is well and truly alive with three rounds remaining.
The top three teams have all secured their top four spots, while four teams are still in the race to finish fourth.
There will be two sets of finals, the top four in one division, and the next four teams in a second division of finals.
On Saturday, Werribee Centrals got the win against West Footscray, 3.3 (21)-1.3 (9) to seal its top four spot.
Centurions’ coach Jade De La Rue said that the Roosters always gave them a good contest.
“I think they don’t get a lot of credit for what they’ve done,” he said.
“They are hard tackling and a fast team. It was a hard game and they took it to us for a fair while but we got over the line.”
Laura Littlepage and Tess Woltsche were named the Roosters best.
Madi Cronin kicked two goals for the Centurions.
Lauren and Meghann Basto were named the Centurions best in the win.
The Roosters sit in fourth spot, percentage ahead of Yarraville Seddon.
The two sides face each other this week.
The Eagles enter the match on the back of a 13.10 (104)-2.1 (13) win against Caroline Springs.
Ruby Colebatch and Katelyn Kissack kicked three goals each for the Eagles.
The Suns and Laverton sit a further game back.
On Saturday, the Magpies beat Point
Cook Centrals, 6.6 (42)-4.3 (27) to keep their top four hopes alive.
Kayla Ravanello and Jaime Sawers kicked two goals each for the Magpies.
Quetta Holloway-Jinks, Ashlyne McInnes and Jessie-Louise Nichols were named the Magpies best.
Elsewhere, the Suns lost to Parkside Spurs, 13.12 (90)-1.2 (8) on Saturday.
Falcons lock in the double chance with a win
By Tara Murray
The City West Falcons locked in second and the double chance in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday night.
Having found form late in the season, the Falcons were keen to put themselves in the best position come finals.
They put out a strong final round performance against the Peninsula Waves, winning 79-67.
“It was pretty good and we got everyone on,” coach Marg Lind said. “We rested players that needed to be rested.
“We got court time into some others and tried a few different combinations.”
Lind said they felt it was a good team effort against the Waves, who needed to win to have any chance of playing finals.
She said the margin got to within six but they were able to blow it out.
“They certainly took it to us and I thought they were good,” Lind said.
“It was a bit tricky for us with then having a shorter shooting circle and were quite quick and hard to get around.
“We ended up doing quite well, we were pleased.”
Jane Cook finished with 76 goals for the Falcons.
Skipper Maggie Lind didn’t play many minutes, but her mum said there were no concerns.
Marg said they were just cautious knowing Maggie’s injuries the last couple of years they didn’t want to take any risks. Finishing second is a long way from the start of the season when the Falcons started 1-3.
Lind had said pre-season it would be a challenge to continue the momentum of last season, having had a number of changes in the off season.
The side is now gunning for a fifth straight championship.
“A big surprise actually, we certainly would not have said that at the start of the year,” she said.
“It came from nowhere in the last few weeks [finishing second].
“Things just went our way and we obviously found a bit of form at the moment.
“We didn’t expect to finish second.”
The Falcons will kick off their final campaign against the Hawks in the qualifying final. The two sides faced off in the same game last season, with the Hawks upsetting the Falcons.
The Hawks lost two games in the regular season, one of those losses coming against the Falcons.
“They’re having a good year,” Lind said.
“They want to beat us too [after last year’s grand final loss]. We have nothing
to lose now, we’ve come from sitting on the bottom the first four weeks, to getting second.
“I think that double chance is going to be really important.
“They’re pretty determined and there’s a good vibe.”
It was a dominant performance by the Spurs who increased the lead in every quarter.
Stacy Rigon kicked three goals, while four other players kicked two goals each.
Natalie Pearce, Rita Ceravolo and Marlo Atkins were named the Magpies best.
A win this week for the Spurs will see them lock up top spot with two rounds remaining.
In the other match, Wyndhamvale beat North Footscray, 30.12 (192)-0.0 (0). Mariah and Rachael Burton both kicked seven goals each and were named the Falcons best.
Sonia Casey, Victoria Jouzkiv and Paige Kline were named the Devils best.
The Falcons will face Werribee Centrals this week, with second spot on the line, with the teams equal on points.
George is back
Melbourne Aces legend Darryl George will return to the club for the 2026-27 season.
George is the longest tenured player of all time, commiting for his 14th full season with the club.
Already holding a commanding place in the Aces record books, George remains a mainstay of the franchise as Melbourne continues to write its international chapter, both at Melbourne Ballpark and on the global stage.
“I’m excited to be back and looking forward to summer at the ballpark. Hope the party deck gets rowdy,” George said.
George gave the party deck plenty to cheer about during the 2025-26 International Baseball Showdown, where he played a key role in series wins over KBO clubs Hanwha Eagles and kt wiz.
Across 15 games last summer, he hit .305 with a .610 slugging percentage and 13 Rbi (runs batted in) while finishing top three on the club in home runs with four and doubles with six.
The 33-year-old infielder made his professional debut with the Aces as an 18-year-old during the 2011-12 season.
Now, 15 years later, George sits first in franchise history in career games played, hits, home runs, doubles, runs batted in, runs scored and stolen bases — earning him the title of “Mr. Ace” among fans.
That connection to the club runs deep.
“Clubs have tried to poach me over the years, and I am flattered they have asked the question, but leaving Melbourne to play ball just never seemed right,” George said.
Alongside his decorated career in Australia, the Carlton-born Sunshine Baseball Club product spent four seasons in the Tampa Bay Rays organisation from 2011 to 2014, driving in 82 runs across 206 games.
In 2023, George also had the honour of representing Team Australia at the World Baseball Classic, the largest stage in global baseball. He drove in two runs during the tournament and helped Australia reach the WBC quarterfinals for the first time in the nation’s history.
The Falcons will be going for a fifth straight premiership.
The Falcons 23 and under side finished the regular season with a 70-58 win against the Waves.
They will face the Bendigo Strikers in an elimination final on Wednesday night.
Another milestone came on 6 December 2024, when George sent a fly ball over the left-field wall for his 40th career home run as an Ace, surpassing club legend Brad Harman as Melbourne’s all-time home run leader.
Kaila Ducret. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 547345_09
Montana Holmes. (Tania Hardin)
George back for Aces
Belief boost for Roosters
By Tara Murray
West Footscray now has the belief that it can match it with the top two sides in the Western Football League division 2 competition, after an upset win on the weekend.
The Roosters got one of their best result in the past couple of seasons on Saturday, knocking off Wyndhamvale in a thriller.
Roosters’ coach Troy Beamond said while it was good to get the four points, it was bigger than that for the group.
“It was pleasing as over the last two years we have been the third best team and not pushed Wyndhamvale and North Footscray,”hesaid.
“It was really important that we showed something yesterday [Saturday].
“It doesn’t change the ladder, it’s more a mental factor.
“If we can play our best or close to our best, we can push the top sides.” Beamondsaiditwasareallygoodquality game of football from both sides.
He said they were able to welcome back a few players, who were hungry to get out
there and have an impact.
It was a game where neither side could breakaway,withtheRoosterswinning12.7 (79)-11.8 (74).
“It was tight all day,” he said. “After quarter time we were a goal ahead and when we kicked another, they would get one back straight away.
“Theygottoeightorninepointsupinthe last quarter. What was the most pleasing thing that happened was we showed some character in the group.”
The Roosters kicked the last two goals of the game to seal the win.
Socrates Mavrokostidis and Matthew Turcinovich kicked four goals each for the Roosters.
Mavrokostidis, Henry Lovell and Jai Haines were among those named in the best.
The Roosters remain in third spot, but are now only two points off second placed Wyndhamvale.
They have a gap of six points back to fourth in the battle for the double chance.
Beamond said they would have seven players come back into the side in the next
four weeks heading into finals.
The Roosters now face the three bottom sides,alongwiththeSuns,intherunhome to finals.
“The next four weeks if we play close to ourbest we shouldwin,”Beamondsaid.
“It’s important that we don’t get ahead of ourselves and we need to continue to improve.
“That is a key focus over the next four weeks.
“We need to be five to 10 per cent better heading into finals.”
In other results, North Footscray beat Laverton, 47.17 (299)-3.2 (20).
Mathew Serafin kicked 14 goals, while Lynden Dunn kicked seven goals for the Devils.
Barnaby Sianos and Mason Jacob were named their best.
Luke Westwick and Johnny Cooper were named the Magpies best.
Braybrook beat the Western Rams, 20.13 (133)-6.9 (45).
The Brookers are eight points outside the top five.
Falcons finish second
Solid win
By Tara Murray
Williamstown was challenged and responded in the best possible way in the Victorian Football League women’s competition on Saturday.
The ladder leaders had their work cut out for them early against the Tasmania Devils, before things startedto click.
They were able to kick four goals to one after quarter time as they won, 5.4 (34)-3.2 (20).
Seagulls’ coach Paul Groves said it was a good test for the playing group.
“Tassie has improved a lot from the firstfiveweeksoftheseason,”hesaid.
“Weknowitwouldbeareallytough challengewiththewaythattheyplay.
“They jumped us and our first quarter was poor. It was a good challenge and we saw some of our growth.”
Groves said they struggled with theirfundamentalsinthefirstquarter with the ground wet and dewey.
He said they were fumbling and dropped marks they would normally take, while they needed to lift their work rate and pressure.
“We challenged them about that and it worked well,” he said.
Mia Zielinski kicked all five of the Seagulls’ goals in the win.
Naomi Ferres had 25 disposals, whileEllenWilliamshad24andBella Smith had 21.
AdaPizzingamadeherVFLWdebut in the win, while Melina Ciavarella played her first game for the season.
Groves said Pizzinga had played some really good local football across a number of positions.
He said the challenge was to now try and lock down a certain position, having played forward on Saturday.
The Seagulls sit second on the ladder, a game behind the reigning premiers North Melbourne Werribee, which is yet to lose a game.
The tests continue to come for the Seagulls, they face Carlton this Saturday at IKON Park.
The Blues sit in the top five.
Groves said with AFLW practice matches now underway, they would start to see some AFLW players filtering down in the coming weeks.
He said it was good to have banked early wins as the teams across the competition become stronger and different to what they have been for the
“Itwillbeareallybigchallenge,”he said.“There’slikelygoingtobefouror five playing against us and they had a couple of under-18s girls from the Northern Knights on the weekend.
“They will have a loaded team and have been playing some good footy. IKON Park will be a good test for us being a big ground which will hopefullysuitourgamestylefromthe first six weeks.”
The Western Bulldogs had the bye.
Jai Haines. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 561964_11