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12 AUGUST, 2026

We deserve better By Sebastian Conidi The mayors of the western suburbs are calling for more police on the beat in the region in the aftermath of a series of high-profi le violent crimes. The most recent incidents – assaults on retail workers in Sunshine and Footscray on Saturday 1 August and Monday 3 August respectively – led to calls for more police and resources across the western suburbs. The victim of the 1 August attack, Van Viet Truong, died in hospital on Wednesday. The mayors from Brimbank, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Wyndham and Melton councils said local police resources have not kept pace with the growth of the region and the needs of their communities.

The community has sent a strong message. Enough is enough - Virginia Tachos “Recent attacks on traders, including the shocking assaults in Sunshine and Footscray this week, have shaken our people,” they said in a joint statement on Wednesday 5 August. “Crime rates are rising across Melbourne’s west with a combined 12.7 per cent increase in recorded crimes across the region so far in 2026. “Our communities deserve to feel safe in their streets. Our traders and workers deserve to feel safe in their businesses. Melbourne’s west deserves better.” The mayors pointed to a number of recent incidents including shots fi red at an Altona North home on Friday 31 July; the arrest of a man in Hoppers Crossing on Friday 24 July who was later charged with a number of offences including rape, false imprisonment and assault; the alleged murder of a man outside a Footscray pub in June; and an attack on two teenagers in Caroline Springs by a group of 11 people armed with machetes in December last year as evidence of the region’s growing crime problem. Just hours before fronting Wednesday’s joint press conference, Maribyrnong mayor Mohamed Semra, his predecessor Cr Pradeep Tiwari, council chief executive Celia Haddock and council employees were threatened by a man with a knife in

Councillors from across Melbourne’s west are calling for more police in the region. (Supplied)

Footscray Mall. “There have also been numerous violent machete attacks in community spaces right across the west from libraries to shopping centres and on our streets,” the mayors said. “The impact of this violence has been compounded by closures of our local police stations. “Public access to Footscray, Keilor Downs and Caroline Springs police stations has been reduced to three days a week, while the Williamstown Police Station counter is temporarily closed. The Altona Police Station counter is closed

overnight and on weekends.” Speaking at the press conference, Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos stated that the call to action was in the community’s best interests. “The community has sent a strong message,” she said. “Enough is enough.” In a statement, Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw said the municipality was one of the fastest-growing communities in Australia, but essential services have not kept pace. “Our residents deserve police resources that match our growth. Th is is about keeping families safe and making sure

Wyndham receives its fair share,” she said. The mayors have called on the state government to increase visible neighbourhood policing across the west, improve access to police stations and ensure police resources keep pace with population growth. They also want more prevention programs for youth outreach and support and more outreach for mental health, homelessness and alcohol and other drugs to support police and prevent problems from escalating. Continued: Page 4

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Need growing in Wyndham By Glenn Fisher With housing insecurity and homelessness a growing problem in Wyndham, some of the groups who help those in need hosted a community barbecue in Werribee as part of National Homelessness Week. Uniting Vic.Tas Werribee and Unison staged the barbecue at Station Place last Tuesday as a way of raising public awareness of homelessness and some of the services available. According to the latest figures, Uniting Vic.Tas assisted 537 clients during the 202526 financial year, divided into six categories: 103 in crisis accommodation or who

have no permanent housing, 51 families, 26 single adults, 60 youths (aged 16-24), 43 rough sleepers and 254 early intervention clients. “We’re definitely seeing an increase in people needing our services,” Uniting Vic. Tas homelessness and support (Werribee) team leader Kate Rose told Star Weekly at last week’s event. “It’s not only young people couch-surfing between friends’ houses, it’s also working people who just can’t afford rent, people we’ve helped in the past who are returning, domestic violence victims and now a trend with more people aged 55 and over,” Ms Rose said.

The barbecue event not only offered free sausages in bread courtesy of the generous Rotary Club Hoppers Crossing team, but fruit, vegetables, drinks, non-perishables and blankets to those in need. Crossroads Uniting Church in Werribee holds an ongoing blanket collection for the homeless, while substantial, ongoing food donations from Oz Harvest, Aldi, Foodbank and Pets for the Homeless are important facets of Uniting’s support. Manor Lakes Community Learning Centre and Penrose Promenade Community Centre are also drop-off points for Wyndham City Council’s winter donation and homelessness drives, collecting items such

as blankets, new socks and toiletries during the colder months. Ms Rose said the Werribee office of Uniting Vic.Tas had a team of 10, with more than 40 volunteers around Wyndham who assisted with food parcels and emergency relief support. Unison’s homelessness service is usually the referral point for those requiring help, and the more complex cases are then transferred to the Uniting Vic.Tas team. Unison said it estimated more than 200 applications a month came through its Werribee office. Uniting Vic.Tas Werribee is located at 1 Duncans Road, 9051 2000, and Unison is at 70 Cottrell Street, Werribee, 9216 0300.

Libs reveal candidate to replace Deeming By Callum Godde, AAP

Elephant calves sparring. (Zoos Victoria)

New routine for rambunctious Roi-Yim Werribee Open Range Zoo’s littlest bull elephant is embarking on a very relatable nighttime rite of passage. He is graduating from the ‘nursery’ to his very own big boy bed. In the wild, male Asian elephants will naturally begin distancing themselves from their maternal herd in adolescence to form bachelor groups with other males. While he still has a long way to go before he’s ready to move in with dad, RoiYim’s zookeepers are helping him prepare

for the transition. A temporary dividing wall has been built within the herd barn so Roi-Yim and mum Mali can curl up together as he becomes accustomed to sleeping apart from the rest of the female herd. Werribee Open Range Zoo Elephant Trail keeper Jasmine De Milliano said that nearly four-year-old Roi-Yim is already showing off his growing independence by spending more time on his own and with his father Luk Chai

“The age that bull calves will separate from their herd really depends on the calf, the individual, and the herd. It depends on their confidence and growth, but also the herd’s tolerance of his behaviour,” said Ms De Milliano. “It’s natural for him to start attempting to spar like a bull elephant does. He has two sisters that are the same age as him and they love play fighting with him, but they do get to the point where they’ve had enough, and he hasn’t.”

Creative strategy looking ahead to 2030 adopted for Wyndham Wyndham residents will be given diverse opportunities to connect with the arts while supporting the growth of the local arts industry, as part of the recently adopted Wyndham council Creative Wyndham Strategy 2026-2030. The strategy is an overarching strategy, that incorporates art, culture, festivals, events, creative programming, placemaking and activation of business centres. Mayor Mia Shaw said the strategy was developed with community and industry feedback. The goals of the strategy are thriving creatives, vibrant and connected audiences, and creativity connected to place. “It recognises the role arts and culture

plays to improve community wellbeing and the need to plan for the continued growth of the creative industries in Wyndham,” she said. “It builds on Creative Australia’s research that almost all Australians (98 per cent) engage with the arts in some way, either by listening to music, reading, creating art, engaging with the arts online or by attending arts and cultural events and festivals.” “Creative Wyndham Strategy 20262030 sets a clear vision for supporting and investing in local creatives by fostering opportunities for creative development, increasing community participation through reduced barriers to engagement,

2 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 12 August, 2026

and shaping places using creativity, arts and culture to make Wyndham’s public spaces, neighbourhoods and community facilities more vibrant, inclusive and reflective of local identity, environment and shared stories through public art, creative activation and partnership with First Nations peoples.” “The strategy highlights that as Wyndham grows; arts, culture and creativity, play an important role fostering community, cultural understanding and a sense of belonging and helping to nurture a vibrant community where people feel connected.” said Cr Shaw Details: https://www.wyndham.vic. gov.au/creative-wyndham-strategy

The Victorian Liberals have selected Melbourne’s deputy lord mayor to replace disendorsed MP Moira Deeming as a leading upper house candidate. Barrister Roshena Campbell was picked to top the Liberal ticket in the Western Metropolitan region for the November state election by the party’s state executive on Thursday night. She beat out sitting Liberal MP Trung Luu, who will have to reapply for second position on the ballot. Ms Campbell is deputy to Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece and ran as the Liberal candidate for the 2023 federal Aston by-election, losing to Labor’s Mary Doyle. It marked the first time in more than 100 years that a government has won a seat from the opposition at a by-election. The contest for top spot on the Western Metropolitan ticket was reopened after the Liberal state executive unanimously revoked Mrs Deeming’s candidacy on July 18 when she declined to apologise over unsubstantiated claims of violence against former leader Matthew Guy. The first-term MP accused Mr Guy of grabbing her ’’violently’’ in a headlock at a community event in May, but later claimed she misunderstood the meaning of “headlock’’. Mr Guy told reporters in June that Mrs Deeming owed him a public apology, vehemently denying anything untoward took place. A police investigation concluded no offence was detected at the event. Mrs Deeming has since moved to cross bench and is yet to indicate whether she will run as a candidate in November. Her husband took to social media on Thursday night to slam the party’s decision to select Ms Campbell. “More contempt by the Liberal Party for the voters of the west with non-western suburbs resident Roshena Campbell ’winning’ the western metro Liberal preselection,“ Andrew Deeming wrote on X. Ms Campbell would have to step down from council if elected to parliament, which is almost assured. In a statement, the mother of four spruiked up her ties to Melbourne’s west, saying her parents lived in Point Cook and she had spent many years volunteering at a Footscray soup kitchen.

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Station opening date set The opening date for West Tarneit station has been set. The station, near the intersection of Davis and Leakes roads in Tarneit, would open on Sunday 13 September, the state government announced. The Geelong line station features a four-bay bus interchange, car park, and pedestrian and cycling connections to local streets. Earlier this year, works wrapped up on installing more than 500 vibrant green tiles incorporated into the underpass design

following feedback from locals they wanted colour to feature in the station precinct. Crews also installed more than 1.78 kilometres of new cabling to service five train signals and seven train safety systems. The state government also announced more peak services from Wyndham Vale would be upgraded to nine-car VLocity trains from Sunday 23 August. The move is part of a boost to train services across the network and, according to the government, would increase capacity from Wyndham Vale by 50 per cent.

As part of the service boost, trains would run directly between Newport and Sandringham via Flinders Street for the first time. The government said this would make it easier for people to travel between Melbourne’s west and bayside suburbs without changing trains. Passengers travelling on the Werribee, Laverton, Williamstown, and Sandringham lines would benefit from more than 180 extra weekly services and trains every 10 minutes between Newport and San-

dringham on weekdays as a result. Public transport minister Vicki Ward said the changes would make it easier to catch a train. “More trains on the timetable means less time waiting on the platform and more time to enjoy your destination, whether it’s getting home, going to the footy, hanging out at the beach, or heading to work,“ she said. The timetable changes would go live on Friday 7 August. To find out more, visit transport.vic.gov.au or the PTV app.

Teen’s brain injury plea before judge By William Ton, AAP

The Werribee River Association and Victoria University have launched the second phase of Platypus Watch. (Damjan Janevski). 568749_01

Citizen science project for river health The second phase of a citizen science research project exploring water quality and its impacts on platypus populations in the Werribee River is now underway. Run by the Werribee River Association (WRA) and Victoria University (VU), the Platypus Watch project aims to engage community members in hands-on learning about water treatment, laboratory analysis, invertebrates and the relationships between water quality and the health of one of Australia’s most iconic native species. Environmental engineers with backgrounds in water treatment, analysis, and research will work alongside the

WRA team and community volunteers throughout the project, which will run from August to June. National Measurement Institute, a specialist federal agency in measurement, testing, and research, will also collaborate on the project. “This project offers community members the opportunity to be part of a research group, meeting some of the best environmental engineers and chemical scientists in the field as we explore the research questions, methodologies, and testing facilities together. It really is a unique project,“ Werribee Riverkeeper David Tsardakis said.

“We encourage interested people to send in an expression of interest. We’ll keep everyone informed as the project develops, including opportunities to collect water samples, take part in platypus habitat assessments, join discussions about our river, and visit the Victoria University campus for a laboratory tour.“ Water samples will be collected at two locations over an 11-month period. A final report will be produced incorporating the results of the water quality analysis alongside the community engagement outcomes. The project received funding from Greater Western Water’s Thriving Community Grants program.

Werribee South Boat Ramp improvements begin Boaters can look forward to smoother, safer access to the water, with a major upgrade to the Werribee South Boat Ramp getting underway. It is hoped the $3.2 million upgrade, which is funded by the state government and delivered in partnership with Wyndham council, will significantly enhance the capacity and functionality of this much-loved boating hub, which services a large and growing community of recreational users accessing Port Phillip and

Corio Bay. According to council, the works will deliver a seventh boat ramp lane to increase capacity, the extension and realignment of existing pontoons and all-abilities access. The project will also reconfigure the formal and informal parking areas to create more rigging and tie down spaces, while also improving traffic flow and congestion issues, council said. This investment in the Werribee South boat ramp will ensure that the facility

keeps pace with increasing demand and remains a safe, accessible and reliable gateway to some of Victoria’s most popular waterways, council said, To safely complete this upgrade, the Werribee South Boat Ramp will be closed to the public from 3 August throughout the duration of works. The closest boat ramp options during this time are located at Altona, Avalon Beach and Newport. Work is expected to be completed in late 2026.

A teenager’s brain injury should be considered when he is sentenced over a deadly car crash and a violent assault that left a man permanently disabled, a court has been told. The teen faced the Victorian County Court on Wednesday 5 August after pleading guilty to culpable driving causing death, driving unlicensed, theft and possessing a controlled weapon. He was drunk, unlicensed and speeding behind the wheel of a stolen SUV when he ran a red light and crashed into an oncoming car, causing his vehicle to spin out of control and smash into a pole in Tarneit in May 2025. The teen driver, then 16, was ejected from the car, while Kevin Lomena-Olenga, also 16, was found unconscious half-hanging out the back seat. Kevin, who’d been a rear passenger, later died in hospital from a traumatic head injury. Police later found a machete under the driver’s seat of the car. The driver suffered lower body injuries in the 18 May crash but his defence team submitted a medical report that indicated he had a severe brain injury at the time. Barrister Naomi Smith said the report “crystallised“ for the first time the extent of the teen’s brain injury, which was initially believed to have been mild to moderate and acquired from a separate crash in 2023, for which he was not charged. The public defender said the boy, now 17, would be vulnerable in custody, arguing for a shorter non-parole period so he could continue his rehabilitation. She also said his limited cognitive impairment, mixed with his intoxication, meant he didn’t understand the potential consequences of his actions. But crown prosecutor Nanette Rogers SC said the judge needed to consider specific deterrence in her sentencing, arguing he was “not a person who is so physically disabled cognitively“. “He might not have ... that capacity to weigh things up in moments of stress or in difficult situations, complex social situations,“ she told the court “But, in that general sense, he appears to know he’s done the wrong thing.“ Ms Rogers argued Chief Judge Amanda Chambers must put community protection at the forefront of her decision when deciding the length of the boy’s parole. The teen offender, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, will be sentenced on August 18.

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Awards up for grabs The finalists for the 2026 Wyndham Business Awards have been revealed. This year is the 30th anniversary of the awards which celebrate local business entrepreneurs, innovators, operators and leaders. Mayor Mia Shaw congratulated the finalists. “This year, almost 50 per cent of finalists are new to the awards,” she said. “These awards recognise that businesses play a vital role in our local economy and in job creation in Wyndham. In a growing municipality like ours, with an evolving economic landscape, we need a strong, dynamic business community that fosters sustainable economic growth and prosperity. The future is local.” The Business Person of the Year finalists are Anthony Pante (AquaTap Plumbing) Dr Prettu Khillan (Western Specialist Centre) Lizzy Jacobs (Cowork + Create & Lizzy Jacobs Photography) and Simon Fenech (Fruit2Work). The Business Resilience finalists are Bouquet Creative, Lions Club of Werribee, Norman Carriers and Outwest Concrete, while Capture Recruitment, ebm-papst A&NZ and Mondelez Australia are in the running to take home the Corporate Social Responsibility Award. Cassandra Ame Artist Development, EQ Leaders, Stembirds and WebOptiMark have been named as the Excellence in Education & Training finalists. Athlete Fitness Index (Affy) by BibVault, Healthy Kids at Play, Kinesis Healthcare and The Dental Gallery are nominated in the Excellence in Health & Wellbeing category, while Honey Dee, Laverton Cold

Cedar Woods’ James Bowell at a 2025 Wyndham Business Awards finalists event. Cedar Woods is the major sponsor of the awards. (Supplied)

Storage and OYO Movers are Excellence in Manufacturing or Transport finalists. The finalists for Excellence in Professional & Business Services are Carter & Ko, Cowork + Create, Nanak Accountants & Associates, The Pooch Beauty Salon and Westend Business Hub. FoodWithATwist, François Eatery, Hopheads and Notorious Espresso are vying for the Excellence in Retail, Tourism & Hospitality award, while the Excellence in Social Impact finalists are Australian Multicultural Women Association, Big Group Hug, Comfort Care and Community Services and Fruit2Work. The Excellence in Trade & Construction finalists are ArcStructural, Ark Industrial, Perform Projects and RF Pest Manage-

ment, while the New & Emerging finalists are EcoRepair Labs, Multicultural Migrant & Community Services, Nurse Next Door Werribee, Rockstead and Zhani. The Rising Star nominees are Jason Go (Norman Carriers), Kylah Palis (Kylah Owo) and Thurah Maung (Comfort Care and Community Services), while the Technology Innovation finalists are ClinicTech, DATAAIT Technologies, FifthArk, MyCloud Services and Tretail Labs. The finalists will be celebrated at an event on 4 September and the winners will be announced at a Gala Presentation Night on 16 October. Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ businessawards

We deserve better From page 1 North West Metro Region Acting Commander Troy Papworth said there was no doubt the incident in Sunshine had a ripple effect through the community and had caused angst and concerns. “Police feel these concerns as well – we are as much a part of the community ourselves,” he said. “Following the alleged incident, we have enhanced our response to the Sunshine area to provide a dedicated and highly visible presence. Police will be there to provide support and ongoing reassurance as long as it’s needed. “We also have police patrolling the entire western suburbs community 24-7, including Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Wyndham, Brimbank and Melton areas. “While some local police stations have reduced public counter hours, officers continue to work and deploy from each station around the clock. “Our focus is on more street than station. Frontline patrols in the community have remained completely unimpacted, and have actually been enhanced by these public counter revisions.” Acting Commander Papworth said police have strong ongoing relationships with councils and support services across the west to address key issues including amenity, homelessness, drug and alcohol addiction and mental health.

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Leah’s furry labour of love

Leah Singh with Fuji. (pictures Ivan Kemp)

we sterilised about 3000 dogs. We still sterilise wherever and whenever we can, and all our dogs are sterilised.” But the financial challenges of such a project are never ending. The running costs of simply feeding the dogs and paying the employees totals about $6000 a month. “Some rescue dogs are in a really bad way, there’s always vet treatment to begin with, and sometimes they’re in the vets for months; no sick dogs ever come to Gaia, they’re always at the vet until they’re well,” she said. “There’s constant upkeep, constant disinfecting. We had to put a sewerage system in, because can you imagine 220 dogs? “It’s just ongoing, the washing machine can break down and then we’ve got to come up with the money to buy that straight away, things like that. It’s hectic.” Managing an overseas charity and animal sanctuary is no walk in the park, but Leah has been doing just that while managing her own business, raising two children with Jason and caring for their own three dogs, who are “just part of the family”. But for Leah, “this is what I’m meant to do…I’m on this earth for them, it just brings

Leah and Jason Singh with Gypsy, Fuji and Dolly.

me so much joy”. “It’s definitely my life’s greatest achievement,” she said. “I always said when I was a kid, one day I’m going to open up a shelter that doesn’t put down animals. I remember writing that in my journal.

“So bit by bit…I guess all my dreams are coming true. “And I’ve still got big plans. I want to make Gaiai bigger and open up another one maybe in another part of Bali. So yeah, besides my kids, it’s my greatest achievement.”

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Former Point Cook resident Leah Singh is the founder of an ecofriendly sanctuary in Bali that provides a home for hundreds of dogs. She spoke to Matt Hewson about her love of animals and the lengths she will go to for our furry friends. Growing up in the western suburbs of Melbourne, Leah Singh has been animal mad for as long as she can remember. “My mum always said that I’d end up doing something with animals,” she said. “If I ever saw a lost dog, or a kangaroo or something, I’d make her stop so we could check it was okay. “I always had this connection to animals and as soon as I was out of home, that’s when I really ramped it up.” Leah began rescuing abandoned animals, which eventually led to founding her own cat rescue organisation Purrs of Point Cook, where she lived with her husband Jason Singh (of Taxiride fame) and their two young boys. Ten years ago, Leah and Jason relocated to the Bellarine, Leah began fostering animals through Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS). Three years ago she came up with an idea to have a really significant impact for some of the animals who needed it most. “I used to travel to Bali a lot, and it used to kill me seeing the way the dogs are treated over there,” Leah said. “So I started doing little fundraisers and then take medicines to treat the street dogs. Then I started boarding dogs, but I wasn’t happy with where I was boarding them because they’re all just concrete…and that’s not what I wanted for the dogs. “I ended up with about 11 dogs in boarding, which was costing me $150 per dog, per month. I was like, my God, I’m spending so much, maybe I should look into starting something myself.” And so the idea for Gaia Island of Dogs Bali was born. Leah founded the dog rescue and sanctuary as a place to give dogs a chance to heal, live well and hopefully be adopted into a loving home. Located in Tabanan, some 35km northwest of the Balinese provincial capital of Denpasar, Gaia is an ecofriendly facility that is now home to about 220 rescued street dogs. “We have eight staff, with one staff member who lives there, so there’s always someone with the dogs,” Leah said. “It’s unlike any other dog sanctuary, we’ve built it to be free-roaming, it’s very lush. The dogs get cooked meals morning and night, they’ve got pools, so it’s next level. “We had a big sterilisation program at one point, which was privately funded, and

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People get blown away by the diversity in such a space. Essentially, that is a crop to two square metres - Jerry Coleby-Williams Lettuce protected by bales of straw. (Pictures: Supplied)

How Jerry’s garden grows Resilient, reliable, sustainable - Gardening Australia’s Jerry Coleby-Williams has become known nationally as well as overseas for illustrating methods and techniques of gardening that anyone and everyone can have a got at replicating in a way suitable to their home conditions. Erle Levey spoke with the gardening guru.

erry Coleby-Williams has always been willing to share his knowledge and tropical growing skills accumulated over a lifetime. His grandfather was a keen gardener in London and that proved vital to survive in England’s war years. Jerry is one of the familiar faces on ABC-TVs Gardening Australia, with his customary trademark boater-style straw hat. He draws upon his experiences from 23 years of sustainable gardening, which includes everything from starting a garden from scratch to dealing with droughts, floods, heatwaves and a few frosts. And even though he is based in Brisbane, Jerry’s gardening advice is adaptable and relatable to anyone interested in sustainability and growing their own food. Jerry’s award-winning, sustainable property is known as Bellis. There he successfully operates a 300-square-metre sustainable garden boasting 127 different plants. “People get blown away by the diversity in such a space. Essentially, that is a crop to two square metres,” he said. Bellis is designed to be a model that anyone can replicate, featuring water efficiency, energy production, organic growing and climate resilience. Th is involves harvesting rainwater and utilising treated domestic wastewater, generating solar power, cultivating more than 100 different edible crops, rare plants, and heritage seeds. Planting native and subtropical species adapted to extreme weather, such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves has also been a priority. In 1992 he emigrated to Australia, following his ongoing passion for West Australian wildflowers. Th is led to his work at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney. In 2017 Jerry was invited to attend the United Nations conventions at Geneva in Switzerland to speak about sustainable food production. “So many things can change in an instant. “Remember we’ve been here before during Covid, remember supply chain failures and my responses to them? “I held drive-by plant sales. I supplied community nurseries with stock. I even sent the ABC an action plan to better support their gardening audience. “I warned that the Russian invasion of Ukraine would affect global grain, fertiliser

Above: ABC Gardening Australia’s Jerry Coleby-Williams. Inset: ABC gardening personalities Phil Dudman and Jerry Coleby-Williams.

and oil prices. “Remember lettuce at $12 a head? That was due to a flood crisis way back in 2022. “Now it’s the price of oil triggered by politics that’s behind the latest rising cost of food. “More prices rises are already in the pipeline because the cost of everything depends on the availability and cost of oil.’’ At the same time Jerry has a shared

6 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 12 August, 2026

hope for feeding the homeless through communit y-led initiatives. h Modern homes have garages for sprouting seed and for growing mushrooms. Sprouting seed is the quickest way to grow nutritionally dense food there is, he said. “Use a windowsill or a garage. I started

sprouting seed in a linen cupboard. “Sixty years ago my family used a garage for storing fruit and root crops. My current 1914 Queenslander had space under the house to park a car - until I put that space to horticulture. “In Sydney I recorded a story on just how productive a sunny garage with a permaculture makeover can be - its sides had potted fruiting tomatoes cascading down them.” Jerry has been a tenant in five cities, so he knows balconies and windowsills can produce food in containers. He gained a reputation for beautiful, edible window boxes in 1980’s Paris. Now he grows food in containers, in self-watering pots. Jerry put a raised garden bed in for his 93-year-old friend and he said she loves it. Gardening keeps her fit and attached … watering the plants, collecting seeds. In a food-sharing community you were not as isolated - anyone can share the catch from a day fishing, or cook a stuffed capsicum and have a gorgeous meal on a bed of lettuce. It’s a simple exercise that builds community. Garden clubs are another way of sharing propagating material and knowledge. “A garden is diverse. A lot I get from the garden for a meal is foraged - mint, fennel, parsley - so you are eating volunteers rather than a dedicated crop. “Lettuce cast their seed in the air. That’s the concept to get into our minds. “These are non-hybrid crops so the act of preparing dinner is a matter of getting order in yyour ggarden. “A classic example was 10 years ago I had planned an open garden day, but there was a complete crop failure in one bed. So we turned it into an exercise of what could grow in such a situation. “We created rows and blocks of bl mulch. l h useable “Enclosed by bales of hay, my crops were sheltered from drying winds and could easily be protected from frost. “Everyone thought it was planned. So saving face turned into success.’’

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A driver died following a two-car collision in Wyndham Vale on 8 August. Police were told two cars, driving on Bolton Road near Ballan Road collided about 2.05pm. The driver and sole occupant of one of the vehicles died at the scene. The driver and passenger of the second vehicle were not injured.

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Honoured were Joshua Redman, Cameron Ward, Paul Ryan, John Ryan, Sean Cross, Michael Wells. Additional; Brendon Gill and Michael Wells. (Supplied)

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Seven Werribee Fire Brigade members were recently awarded a CFA Unit Citation for Service for their quick-thinking and intuitive actions which led to saving the life of a local resident. The collective honour recognised the outstanding acts of service by brigade members Sean Cross, Joshua Redman, Paul Ryan, Michael Wells, Brendon Gill, John Ryan and Cameron Ward. In the early hours of 18 February 2025, the crew were returning to the fi re station from a response when they noticed a large plume of smoke and orange glow in the distance. Werribee Fire Brigade Captain Michael Wells said upon promptly locating the source, the members arrived at a fully involved structure fi re and immediately commenced extinguishment. “As they conducted normal fi re operations, one of our fi refighters Brendon Gill noticed a person within the structure during their initial search,” Mr Wells said.

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“Without hesitation he executed an extraction of the person from the window of the burning structure and gained assistance from other members.” As no alarm had been raised by the community to Triple Zero yet, the brigade paged another crew to assist them. Mr Wells said he was extremely proud of this brigade members and their early detection and observation. “They used strong detective work to investigate what was going on as soon as they saw it and their prompt actions allowed a person to leave the scene unscathed. “We would’ve been behind the eight ball otherwise waiting for someone to report it and the fi re could have become more established. “They are a reasonably young crew, but well trained and they operated well above their capability, it was fantastic. Everything they did was great.”

A man faces further charges following an investigation into sexual assaults in Hoppers Crossing. On 6 August, a 39-year-old Williams Landing man was charged with unlawful assault, common law assault, assault with intent to commit sex offence, stalking, aggravated burglary, false imprisonment and two counts of rape. The charges related to two alleged incidents in the Hoppers Crossing area. Police allege a man approached a woman near a school on Fraser Street around 5pm on 23 July and attempted to sexually assault her. In the second incident, a woman was outside a primary school on Langridge Street when a man followed her into the school building shortly before 7am on 24 July, where he sexually assaulted her. The 39-year-old also faces charges over an incident on 23 July, where an offender allegedly forced entry to house on Whitsunday Drive before sexually assaulting a woman. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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50% + 40% Ÿȋ Ÿȋ ƧġşġĒƳġęɔ ũõƳƳƟġƧƧġƧ*

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Snooze Hoppers Crossing ȗȝȘɭȗȞȘɔ şęɔGġġşŸūĺɔªŸõęəɔNŸƜƜġƟƧɔ ƟŸƧƧņūĺəɔßS ɔȘȕȗȞɔʞɔȞȜșȝɔțȖȕȕɔʞɔƧūŸŸǥġɘĒŸũɘõƼ It’s amazing what a little snooze can do ɣ ȋġƟɔġūęƧɔȗȘɔ ƼĺƼƧƳɔȗȕȗțɘɔ ęǔġƟƳņƧġęɔƜƟņĒġƧɔõūęɔƧõǔņūĺƧɔƧŁŸǕūɔõƟġɔđõƧġęɔŸūɔ²ūŸŸǥġɔtõūõĺġũġūƳɔ§ƳǛɔiƳęɔªª§ɘɔ²ūŸŸǥġɔƧƳŸƟġƧɔõƟġ ƜƟġęŸũņūõūƳġşǛ ŸƜġƟõƳġę đǛɔņūęġƜġūęġūƳɔĹƟõūĒŁņƧġġƧɔõūęɔƳŁġƟġĹŸƟġɔƳŁġɔƜƟņĒġɔĹŸƟɔƜƟŸęƼĒƳƧɔƜƟņŸƟɔƳŸɔƳŁġɔƧõşġɔ ǕņşşɔǔõƟǛɔĹƟŸũɔƧƳŸƟġɔƳŸɔƧƳŸƟġɘɔ²ūŸŸǥġɔƧƳŸƟġƧɔĒõūɔŸȋġƟɔęņƧĒŸƼūƳƧɔŸūɔõūǛɔƳņĒŜġƳġęɔƜƟņĒġƧɔņūɔƧƳŸƟġɔũġõūņūĺɔƳŁõƳɔƜƟŸęƼĒƳƧɔũõǛɔđġɔƧŸşęɔõƳɔşġƧƧɔƳŁõūɔƳŁġɔªª§ɔõƳɔõūǛɔƳņũġɘɔ/ǚĒşƼƧņŸūƧɔõƜƜşǛɘɔ ȋġƟɔūŸƳɔõǔõņşõđşġɔŸūɔȑŸŸƟɔƧƳŸĒŜəɔ²ūŸŸǥġɔ%ġõşƧɔƜƟŸęƼĒƳƧəɔ ĒşġõƟõūĒġə ġęĺġõƟ ȖɔũõƳƳƟġƧƧəɔęġşņǔġƟǛə õƧƧġũđşǛ õūęɔƟġĒǛĒşņūĺɔƧġƟǔņĒġƧɘɔɔ ƧɔŸƼƟɔƧƳŸƟġƧɔǔõƟǛɔņūɔƧņǥġəɔņƳɔņƧɔƜŸƧƧņđşġɔƳŁõƳɔūŸƳɔõşşɔƜƟŸęƼĒƳƧɔõƟġɔęņƧƜşõǛġęɔņūɔõşş ƧƳŸƟġƧ đƼƳɔõşşɔƜƟŸęƼĒƳƧɔũõǛɔđġɔŸƟęġƟġęɔŸūɔƟġƞƼġƧƳɘɔàŁņşġɔǕġɔõņũɔƳŸɔġūƧƼƟġɔƳŁġɔ ņūĹŸƟũõƳņŸūɔƜƟŸǔņęġęɔņƧɔĒŸƟƟġĒƳəɔƧŸũġƳņũġƧɔġƟƟŸƟƧɔŸĒĒƼƟɔõūęɔǕġɔƟġƧġƟǔġɔƳŁġɔƟņĺŁƳɔƳŸɔĒŸƟƟġĒƳɔõūǛɔġƟƟŸƟƧɘɔvġǕɔŸƟęġƟƧɔŸūşǛɘɔ²ūŸŸǥġʉƧɔƧƳõūęõƟęɔƳġƟũƧɔõūęɔĒŸūęņƳņŸūƧɔŸĹɔƧõşġɔŸƳŁġƟǕņƧġɔõƜƜşǛɘɔņũõĺġƧɔõƟġɔĹŸƟɔņşşƼƧƳƟõƳņǔġɔƜƼƟƜŸƧġƧɔŸūşǛɘ

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Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 7

COMMENT

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Bookmark Materials Coloured cardstock (15cm x 10cm) Clear plastic pocket Yarn Gems Equipment Scissors Heart shaped hole punch (or craft knife) Hole punch Double sided tape Glue

Book in for crafty fun

Step 1: Fold the cardstock in half lengthways to create a bookmark.

Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity. Stephanie starred in the fi rst season of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting. Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary. Th is month, Stephanie is creating a bookmark.

Step 2: Punch a heart shape through both layers near the bottom of the folded bookmark. Alternatively, draw and cut out a heart with a craft knife. Step 3: Open the bookmark and cut a section from the clear plastic pocket slightly larger than the heart. Step 4: Use double sided tape to attach the plastic over the heart on the inside of the bookmark. Add a small amount of gems inside the heart window. Seal the opening with double side tape to create a shaker pocket. Apply double sided tape around the inside of the bookmark and fold it closed. Step 5: Decorate the front of the bookmark with some hearts. Step 6: Punch a hole at the top of the bookmark and attach a tassel. To make a tassel, wrap yarn around a piece of cardboard, tie one end, cut the opposite end, then tie a small section below the top to create the tassel head.

Stephanie Martinez.

NEWS

Scan the QR code and follow the links for more creative fun.

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

13 August, 1986 Teenage sex in cars, vandalism, under-age drinking and offensive behaviour from gangs of youth have sent a wave of terror and disgust through shopkeepers and residents in Vincent Cres, Werribee.

14 August, 1996 Werribee Cup Day revellers face an alcohol ban at the October 30 meeting – the fi rst time in the Werribee Racing Club’s history that patrons will not be able to take drink to the course.

9 August, 2006 Movie-goers left grappling with a real-life drama say Werribee 10 Cinema management was slow to react after a fi re started in a neighbouring restaurant, fi lling the cinema with smoke.

10 August, 2016 Th irty-six frontline police officers have been ripped out of Wyndham police stations to work on taskforces, according to the Police Association.

8 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 12 August, 2026

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NEWS

United cut from A-Leagues Wyndham council has terminated its agreement with the Western Melbourne Group to develop the Wyndham Stadium Precinct. The decision came after Western United had its A-Leagues participation agreement cancelled on Monday. In June, council issued a default notice to the Western Melbourne Group for its failure to deliver the Wyndham Stadium Precinct in line with the existing development agreement, as well as ongoing insolvency events. Wyndham corporate services directorMark Rossiter said the group was given an opportunity to rectify these issues, but failed to do so. “While this is not the outcome we had hoped for when we entered the agreement, we have a responsibility to make decisions

that serve the best interests of our ratepayers, and the decision to terminate this agreement reflects that commitment,” he said. Mr Rossiter assured residents that “all land earmarked for the Wyndham Stadium Precinct, including Ironbark Fields, is owned by Wyndham City Council, and any future plans will be a decision of council”. United has essentially been an A-Leagues club in name only for more than a year amid varied financial woes, which included not paying players and staff. The club was placed into hibernation by the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) in September 2025. West Melbourne Group avoided a windup order from the Australian Tax Office in January by settling a $15.5 million tax debt.

Football Australia declined to reinstate the Tarneit-based club’s licence in May. West Melbourne Group had another wind-up hearing in the Federal Court on Tuesday. “Since the club was placed into conditional hibernation in September 2025, the APL has been in close consultation with Western United as they’ve worked through financial, governance and legal matters to try and rebuild the club,“ APL chair Stephen Conroy said in a statement. “The club was in breach of a number of its obligations under that agreement, including its obligation to comply with the Football Australia National Club Licensing Regulations. It’s been a difficult period for everyone connected to Western United -

and we want to acknowledge the management, staff, players and especially the fans - who have given so much to the club and will no doubt be hurt by this news.“ Despite the latest development, the club on Monday said the situation “creates an opportunity for new custodians, new investment and a fresh start.” “The objective must now be to preserve Western United’s identity in Melbourne’s west and work towards a return to the A-League for the 2027-28 season. This should not be the end of Western United. It should be the reset that allows the club to rebuild and return stronger,” the club said in a statement. - with AAP

Personalities unite for menstrual equity

Swastika Ganguly, with actor Sayan Tani and actress Amitabha Chakraborty. (Damjan Janevski). 567293_12

Classic ghost story with a Bengali twist An Aintree local is set to present her Australian directorial debut, blending a classic ghost story with a Bengali theatrical twist which will take centre stage this October at the Encore Events Centre in Hoppers Crossing. Following the successful release of her cine-play Kashmir, co-produced with her husband Anirban Datta, the powerhouse couple have again joined forces, this time to present Kaantar Bil e Kelenkari. The new stage show production blends Oscar Wilde’s classical Canterville Ghost with Bengali storytelling in a captivating and side-splitting horror comedy filled with

suspense, mystery, wit, and drama. Ganguly will both direct and act in her upcoming stage production, bringing with her extensive experience as both a director and actress in an impressive 14 stage-shows in Auckland, New Zealand, prior to her latest release. Yet Ganguly’s skills do not end there - the production will also be accompanied by an original poem written by Ganguly herself, reflecting on themes of humanity, conscience, and the direction of modern society. Audiences are promised to be in for a treat, with the production to showcase the

old with the new, balancing suspense with comedy, and blending to create a story which perfectly connects light-hearted moments with scenes of mystery and suspense. “Our production promises a compelling theatrical experience that will keep audiences enthralled until the very last moment,” she said. “Prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening of mystery, suspense, laughter, drama and captivating performances.” Kaantar Bil e Kelenkari will take centre stage at the Hoppers Crossing Encore Events Centre on Saturday 10 October from 8.30pm. Tickets are free.

Iconic Australian sports and media personalities are coming together to support the nation’s largest donation drive for period products. Footy legends Sam Thaiday and Corey Oates, along with media personalities Christian Hull and Kip Wightman, have joined forces with Share the Dignity, Australia’s largest menstrual equity non-profit, to declare “Menstrual equity; it’s everyone’s business.“ The campaign, known as the Dignity Drive, is launching its most ambitious initiative yet as the need for support soars across the country. Throughout 2022, people who menstruate have cited rising cost-of-living pressures, including fuel and housing, as key reasons household budgets are falling short when it comes to affording period products. “The reality is many people are having to choose between putting fuel in the car to get to work or buying tampons and pads,“ said Share the Dignity founder and managing director, Rochelle Courtenay. “For those already experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, or severe financial hardship, they don’t have that choice at all - and that’s who our donated products are primarily helping.“ With collection points located in Woolworths Supermarkets and businesses nationwide throughout August, the campaign is calling on Australians to donate period products as part of a broader national movement for menstrual equity, to ensure no one misses out on life because of their period.

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Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS

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MY PLACE Since 2018 Mat O’Keefe has owned and operated Pride of Our Footscray, a prominent queer late night venue on Hopkins Street. He spoke to Cade Lucas about living in the area. What’s your connection to the north-west of Melbourne ? My grandfather Jack O’Keefe was from Footscray. He moved over to Pascoe Vale when he got married to grandma, but he took his love of the Bulldogs with him and rarely missed a game despite having 10 kids! So my dad was born in Pascoe Vale and I lived there too, as well as nearby suburbs like Preston, Brunswick West and Brunwick East. Even did a four year stint in Darwin. I found my way to Maribyrnong at the end of 2013, fi rst in Yarraville, but then moved next to the Whitten Oval to be closer to God (Bont). I have fi nally settled in Maidstone! And of course, I actually spend most of my life in Footscray running Pride of our Footscray. I’m on the Footscray Traders Association committee and am also part of the Future Footscray group through council, so I really do talk about Footscray a lot! What do you like about living/working here? I love the area, which is why I both live and work within Maribyrnong. For whatever magical reason, Footscray particularly feels like everyone’s in it together, like it’s a small village, and we’re all doing our best for the village and we’re proud of its achievements. Be it the success of the Bulldogs or when Cavallaro’s cannolli gets some attention or even hyper local amazing things like the Footscray Rubbish Runners or Crokinole Club or Trugo Club, just many very cool things, not to mention the obvious other things like the Vietnamese and African restaurants. Hung Vuong’s pho helped convince me to move to Footscray, and the Banh Mi places all have their own character and stories and are basically legendary. It’s also incredible that Footscray can live so harmoniously together with so many nations represented, possibly the greatest advertisement for multiculturalism in the world.

Mat O’Keefe. (Damjan Janevski) 553537_02

What, if anything, would you change about the area? Within the boundaries of Footscray, you have a number of very impressive things: an incredibly busy train station, the home of the world’s greatest football team, the mighty Maribyrnong River, a brand-new hospital, Footscray Park, the Heavenly Queen Temple, Footscray Community Art Centre and of course, the famous market. There’s a lot to be grateful for. But sometimes the centre of Footscray can seem eerily deserted. So we need to encourage people visiting the outskirts of Footscray to also visit the centre and there’s some really good work going on to make that happen, as things currently seem a

The Nritya Rockers host regular Bollywood dance classes. Posing in their colourful costumes are Garima Gupta, Moumita Mukherjee and Ashwini Shetty. (Damjan Janevski) 568088_01

Lisa Peplow has completed 250 parkruns at Brimbank Park. (Damjan Janevski) 567563_02

bit unbalanced. One simple idea that was mentioned was directing safe slow-speed cycling through the middle of Footscray to encourage visitation. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? Footscray Park and the Maribyrnong River trail for Pokemon with my partner Howard. The Local Cafe and French Baguette Bakery for Banh Mi. Hung Vuong for soup, Don Don for bento, Tan Thanh Loi, Viet Kitchen or Co Tham Can Tho for Viet meals, Conway Coffee, and Foodle at High Point! Also special mentions to Savers Footscray and Yen Huot Gift Shop ($2 shop) on Paisley for shopping.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. I won the under 14s cricketer of the year in Darwin in 1992, after a good year which included my fi rst century. I thought I was going to open the batting for Australia! But I never made another 100 ever again. So my memories of cricket are quite painful, though I did contribute to a premiership in our park-grade seconds for Melbourne Wanderers as an openly gay player in 2002, wherein they called me Matty “Pretty Boy” O’Keefe in the end of season team report. Like the elusive second century, I was never called pretty ever again! Now I’m bald and hoping to learn golf! Time fl ies.

Moorabool mayor Steve Venditti-Taylor and Cr Sheila Freeman at the Carberry Drive Recreation Reserve new playground. (Damjan Janevski) 568179_01

Young soccer player Rayhaan has raised $500 for the Cancer Council. (Damjan Janevski) 568670_06

Faces of the west Each week, Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing the people and events across Diane Capelli, Noelene Wattie, Siovhan Brister and Nicole Power; were delighted when they heard that Barro’s Kealba landfill would close. (Damjan Janevski) 568522_05

10 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 12 August, 2026

Melbourne’s north-west.

The Tarneit-based United Seniors Club received a funding boost for its Heart Healthy Generations Cricket Cup, which enocourages grandparents and grandchildren to play cricket together. (Damjan Janevski) 568771_06

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Netballers scoring goals program and an all-abilities youth program. Here’s some of the action sent in by the association.

Are you a photographer based in the western or northern suburbs who loves shooting sports and news? Star Weekly is looking for new team members to join its pool of casual photographers. A driver’s licence, reliable car and photography equipment are essential. Experience shooting video is highly desirable. The role may involve Saturday work and after hours assignments. Send your resume and examples of your work to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

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The Wyndham Netball Association’s Saturday competitions continues to be a hive of activity. The association runs three different times slots, along with a NetSetGo

Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 11

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@ starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication. Laverton Community Choir Open to new members and everyone is welcome. If you enjoy singing, and are curious about joining a choir, come along and try out your vocal cords with our fun and inclusive group. No audience or musical knowledge required. Meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton from 7-9pm, with supper provided. ■ Sue, 0418 386 147 or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com Wyndham Rotary If you have an hour or two to volunteer in a local project Wyndham Rotary would love to hear from you. If you have an idea and you want some help taking the idea to action, contact us. If you want to connect with friendly, likeminded people, come and chat to us. Meeting locally each week, you will be made welcome. ■ Julie, 0406 196 630 Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour Assist with service projects in the local community and overseas. The club meets at 7pm on the first Tuesday of the month at the ‘By the Bay Cafe’ in Wyndham Harbour. ■ Mamode, 0469 888 126 Wyndham Probus Club A social club for retired or semi-retired people. There is a broad range of social activities to suit all interests such as lunches and brunches each month, day trips, theatre outings and longer trips away. Hear interesting speakers and make new friendships. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Iramoo Community Centre, Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm. ■ Kaye Angel, 0407 551 694, or wcpc1306@gmail.com Point Cook Combined Probus Club Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of director and actor Swastika Ganguly (middle), with actors Sayan Tani and Amitabha Chakraborty. (Damjan Janevski) 569192_01

the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook. ■ John Sloan, 0436 480 728 or sloanrisk@ gmail.com Lions Club The Lions Club of Point Cook meets at the Featherbrook Community Centre on the third Monday of the month at 7.30 pm. The club is seeking to grow the Lions free vision screening in schools team. Volunteers needed to work with the region’s schools in combating undiagnosed children’s vision issues. You do not have to be a Lions member but must obtain a working with children check. ■ Robert Eyton, 0417 549 684, or robeyton@bigpond.com Adult drumming classes If you ever wanted to try out your rhythmic skills, the first class is discounted and concessions apply for other classes. All hand drums supplied or BYO. No experience required, just bring an open heart and mind and enjoy making some great rhythms together. The class is friendly and welcoming to everyone. Thursdays, 7.30-8.30pm, during school terms, at Saltwater Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Parade, Point Cook. ■ 0411 028 077 or bfmusic15@gmail.com Wyndham Ladies Probus Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly

12 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 12 August, 2026

outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am. ■ Pat, 0411 316 795 Watton Group A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at 49 Watton Street, Werribee at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month. ■ Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com All Abilities Netball All-abilities netball for 10-to-25year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2. ■Phil, 0437 078 739 Walking Netball Walking netball is a low impact, no running, no jumping version for those that love the fun, friendship and activity of a weekly game of netball. Sessions are run every Thursday during school terms, from 8pm, at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Come and try your first

session for free, with stadium entry $2. ■Phil, 0437 078 739 With One Voice Wyndham Choir With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by taxdeductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee. ■ wyndham@withonevoice.org.au Adult community garden group The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow. ■ 8742 3688 Seniors House of Fun The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. ■ Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@ grangecommunity.org.au

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ENTERTAINMENT

Ready to rock the Ranges The Ranges are ready to rock as some of the region’s best talent battle it out. Macedon Ranges council youth team’s Music in the Sticks (MITS) will once again host the Battle of the Bands, with the line-up this year featuring five local youth bands with a total of 24 young up and coming musicians. On Friday 14 August, the Civilians, Dead Silver, Saile, Bandemic and the Felonys will all take centre stage as they vie for the winning crown and top prize. The bands will be judged by three music industry judges, including MITS graduate and local youth sound engineer Arabelle Poucher, award-winning musician and local music tutor Lucy Wise, and local youth music industry mentor and sound engineer Jacob Munnery, with two prizes up for grabs. The main prize of the night will be a $1500 recording opportunity at local Field Day Recording Studio, while People’s Choice will take home a Mannys Music

Store voucher worth $1000, helping local artists kickstart their careers. MITS leader and music industry professional Jeff Tynan said there’s a vibrant youth music scene in the Macedon Ranges, with this event an opportunity to highlight their talents. “MITS events like this one celebrates talent and creativity whilst bringing young people together to connect with peers and contribute to a thriving community,” he said. “It’s as much about the personal growth as it is about the musical journey and through the MITS program it’s a privilege to share with young people skills and opportunities to help fulfi l their dreams of pathways into the music industry.” The five bands will battle it out on the Kyneton Town Hall stage on Friday 14 August. Doors will open at 6pm, with the event expected to conclude at 10pm. Tickets are $5 and are going fast. Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/mits

Kyneton High School’s Bandemic will perform at the Battle of the Bands. Pictured is Francis Allen, Frankie Stagoll, Sidney Price-Robertson, Mila Hardiman, Asher Thomas and James Jarrett. (Supplied)

Greek myths set upon St Albans A new, original musical, Low Key Chaos, is set to run at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans Saturday 21August and Sunday 22 August . Written and directed by Sonja Wright, this community production mixes classical chaos with theatrical intrigue. “It’s original everything. Original story, original lyrics and its fully community based,” Wright said. “We have talent from ages 17-73 amongst the class from all different backgrounds with people coming from across the state.” The story centres around the Greek gods of Olympus, with a drama featuring Dionysus, Hera and norse god Loki. “The central themes are identity, belonging and friendship. It asks the question – is adoration worth sacrifice or should you be your authentic self even if you are not always admired?” Wright said. Wright was aided by talented family members with her niece and daughter contributing to choreography as well as her brother assisting with sound and audio-visuals. “It was actually quite daunting,” she said. “I’ve been working my full-time day job as well as doing all the behind the scenes stuff, advertising, meetings. It’s been a huge effort but to see my little story from two years ago about Dionysus now come alive on stage with people wanting to watch feels amazing.” Wright applauded the cast for its efforts in learning the original material. “The cast have done an amazing job of learning everything,” she said.

Footscray Flix to show 80’s hits

Alexander Glenk as Dionysus. (Supplied)

Wright has already put out a call for those interested for future productions. “We’ve already got next year’s musical in the pipeline. If people enjoy singing,

dancing and acting then it would be great to see community support.” Details: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1548029

Inner-west film buffs wanting to see a movie have long had the choice of going up to Highpoint or down to the Sun Theatre in Yarraville. However, up until the late 1980s, Footscray was the west’s cinema central with La Scala, Trocadero, the Grand, and Barkly Theatres once located within 500m of each other. In honour of those four theatres that closed nearly four decades ago, a for-day film festival will be held in Footscray at the end of this month. Presented in partnership with Sun Theatre in Yarraville, Maribyrnong council is hosting Footscray Flix from Thursday 27 August to Sunday 30 August. With none of the four theatres able to be revived for the event, a purpose built 100-seat pop-up cinema will be erected at 34 Moreland Street , in between Yewers and Wingfield streets. The venue will host four nights of 80s and 90s popcorn classics, with tickets at 1980’s prices. The program opens on Thursday 27 August with films shot in Melbourne’s west, including The Big Steal, filmed in Footscray, and Mad Max. Friday 28 August is Slackers Night featuring Dazed and Confused, and Trainspotting, while 30 August is Sci Fi Saturday with ET, Alien, Blade Runner all showing. Footscray Flix then concludes on 31 August with Swayze Sunday and two of the 80’s heart-throb’s biggest hits: Point Break and Dirty Dancing. Details: https://collections. humanitix.com/footscray-flix

Go Bacchus to the 80s at a spectacular live concert this September Celebrate one jam-packed, fun filled event for the whole family, featuring your favourite songs from one of music’s most colourful decades over one weekend next month. Turn back the clock and get ready to relive one of the greatest decades in music when the Bacchus Marsh Theatre Company presents Back to the ‘80s, a spectacular live concert celebrating the unforgettable hits of the 1980s. Featuring a full cast of talented local

performers backed by live musicians, the high-energy production is set to combine the iconic hits of the 80s with stunning vocals, dazzling choreography, and a spectacular light show. Organisers have promised an electric night filled with 80s hits to suit everyone, regardless of their age. Whether you remember the decade firsthand or you’re introducing a whole new generation to the music, there’s something

for everyone in the fun-filled family show that’s guaranteed to have audiences singing along. “Re-Live the 80’s or share it with a whole new generation - there’s something for everyone,” organisers said. Everyone young and old is invited to tag along, with four performances across one weekend in September available to choose from for an entertaining trip back to one of music’s most colourful and electrifying

eras. So get back to the 80s on Friday 4, Saturday 5, and Sunday 6 September with the Bacchus Marsh Theatre Company at the Bacchus Marsh Arts & Cultural Hub, located at 5 Grant Street, Bacchus Marsh. Performance times are from 7.30pm on Friday, 1pm and 7.30pm on Saturday, and 3pm on Sunday. Tickets and details: https:// events.humanitix.com/back-to-the-80-seq6sa7dc.

Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 13

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Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 15

SPORTS QUIZ 1. True or false: Simone Biles has won the most Olympic gold medals of any gymnast?

3. I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! contestant Luke Bateman played 71 games for which NRL team?

2. Terry Bollea is the real name of which late US professional wrestler?

4. Kyle Shanahan is the head coach of which NFL team?

11. When and where were the ﬁrst Paralympic Games held? 12. Who has captained the Australian women’s football team since 2019?

5. Which Whic Fremantle Dockers footballer’s nicknames foot include The Big Cohuna inclu and Cyclone? 6. Which Whic country’s national netball team won gold at netb 2026 Commonwealth the 2 Games? Gam 7. Wh Which New York Liberty player play was awarded MVP of the th 2026 WNBA AllSta Game? Star 8 Which country did 8. Australia’s national netball team defeat to claim bronze at the 2026 Commonwealth Ga Games? 9. And which country defeated Australia in defe netball semifinals? the n 10. Whic Which state or territory capital is set to host the capi finals of the NBL’s infinal seas season Ignite Cup from 2027? 2027 Simone Biles

13. What is considered to be the national sport of Japan? 14. Winning gold in her debut at the London Olympics, who is widely regarded as the greatest female swimmer of all time? 15. Which North Melbourne player captained Australia to victory in the 2026 AFLW Australia v Ireland match? 16. English amateur cricketer Brian Devine has become widely known by what nickname?

20. In the Super Netball league, how many points is a super shot worth? 21. How many balls are on the table at the start of a standard game of pool? 22. Which sport is featured in the movie The Game Plan?

18. What is unique about the technique of table tennis Paralympian Ibrahim Hamadtou?

29. Which wrestler became interim WWE Women’s Champion at this year’s SummerSlam?

24. What are the nicknames of the two Sydney AIHL teams?

19. Controversial ﬁgure Gianni Infantino is the president of which sports governing body?

27. In which year did Sir Don Bradman die? 28. The Gangurrus is the nickname of which Australian sports teams?

23. Potential Carlton prospects Cody and Lukas are the sons of which former players respectively?

17. Which class of car has the highest top speed: IndyCar, NASCAR or Formula 1?

26. Who was the only Collingwood player represented in the 2026 AFLW Australia v Ireland match?

30. And which match did she win?

25. Which word that can mean ‘the clothes worn by sports players’ is used in the NATO alphabet?

1. False (Larisa Latynina) 2. Hulk Hogan 3. Canberra Raiders 4. San Francisco 49ers 5. Josh Treacy 6. New Zealand 7. Jonquel Jones 8. England 9. Jamaica 10. Canberra 11. 1960; Rome, Italy 12. Sam Kerr 13. Sumo wrestling 14. Katie Ledecky 15. Jasmine Garner 16. Clicky Ponting 17. IndyCar 18. He holds the paddle with his mouth 19. FIFA 20. Two points 21. 16 (cue ball and 15 object balls) 22. American football 23. Andrew Walker (Cody) and Anthony Koutouﬁdes (Lukas) 24. Ice Dogs and Bears 25. Uniform 26. Sarah Rowe (for Ireland) 27. 2001 28. 3x3 basketball teams 29. Chelsea Green 30. Five-way ladder match

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PUZZLES

easy

4 1 2

2 9

8 4 9

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

medium

3 8

5 4 8 3 9 7 6

ACROSS

DECODER

7 2

hard

9 2 7 8 6 8 3

18 5

19 6

20 7

21 8

22 9

23 10

24 11

25 12

26 13

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

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

10 11 12 13

9-LETTER WORD 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: 19 words: Good 28 words: Very good 38 words: Excellent

S L S

K A

No. 302

L O V E

5 LETTERS ALERT ALOUD ALTOS APRIL ARVOS ATONE BASIC BATHS CARGO CHEWS DINGO EASES EDITS GARBS GATES GLUED GREET HEART IDEAL IOTAS NERVE

4 LETTERS BASE BLOC CAGE CYST GIRL ISN’T LETS LOVE NEST SECT SEWS THEN TOSS WEAN

NEWSY NINNY ODDER ONSET OPERA PAPAS PASTA PEEPS PIECE RENEW REUSE ROUSE SEEDS SHELL SLEET SLEPT SLICE SNARL SNORE STATE STEER SWAYS

7 LETTERS INTENTS LESSONS PLUSHER ROUGHER SEVERER TRASHES

TEENS TERSE TESTS THESE THETA TORSO WHIRR 6 LETTERS ANYONE ASSAIL ENACTS STRAIN

8 LETTERS ABSENTEE GUERILLA HITHERTO OPTICIAN

14-08-26

The 1992 movie A League of Their Own revolves around which sport?

Gravity Let Me Go is a 2025 book by which Australian author?

‘Running dead’ is a political term that originated in which country?

The tombstone of Edgar Allan Poe features a quote from which one of his poems?

Explorer Alfred Giles crossed Australia from south to north how many times?

Kochius is a genus of what type of predatory arachnid?

10 Anne Hathaway (pictured) stars in a 2026 sequel to which hit movie released two decades prior?

Spanakopita is a spinach pie originating in which country?

Daiso is a variety store that was founded in which country?

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

Crisis on Inﬁnite Earths is a famous comic book crossover series published by which company?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

No. 409

C U R S E A R O M A R I C E S A N K L E T E S T S

bake, baker, bakes, bark, barks, bask, basket, beak, brake, brakes, break, BREAKFAST, breaks, fake, fakes, freak, karat, karate, kerb, kerf, kraft, rake, rakes, sake, sark, skate, skater, stake, stark, steak, streak, take, taker, takes, task, teak, trek, treks

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

E M

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5x5

5 3 2 9 5 1

Y L X Q A E V C P G J W Z

5 9

R H N T F M S K O B I U D

3 LETTERS ADO AGE ALL APE APT ARE ATE CRY EEL ERA GEL GNU HEW LAG NEE NET ONE PEA RAP SIP SOD SPA TNT TOP

8 '

WORDFIT

6 1 4 9 5 5 4

No. 334

5 4 7

8 8

Pithy (8) Shorten (7) Foul language (9) Exceptional; illusory (9) Astray (5) Mountain range (5) Life-form category (7) Gas vital to life (6) English side, – pudding (9) Build (9) Giving (8) Organise (7) Mouths of volcanoes (7) Emblematic person, animal or thing supposedly bringing good luck (6) Pursue (5) Ballroom dance (5)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 15 16 18 20 21

23 24

DOWN

Rascal (5) US city, San – (9) Comic strip (7) Visuals (7) Hoosier State of the USA (7) Dawn (7) A physical science (9) Ready money (4) Simple (4) Recorded history (9) Stone fruit (7) Gorge (7) Include (7) Before birth (2,5) Consequently (9) Jobs undertaken (5)

1 4 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 19 22 25 26 27 28 29

No. 302

QUICK QUIZ

ANSWERS: 1. Japan 2. DC Comics 3. Australia 4. Seven 5. Scorpion 6. Greece 7. Baseball 8. Trent Dalton 9. The Raven 10. The Devil Wears Prada

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

No. 302

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

SUDOKU

Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 17

MOTOR Peace of mind for motorists Dash cameras are no longer just gadgets for car enthusiasts. Across Melbourne, and particularly in fast-growing areas such as Wyndham, more motorists are fitting dash cams to provide extra peace of mind on increasingly busy roads. With thousands of new residents moving into suburbs including Tarneit, Truganina, Manor Lakes and Werribee each year, local roads are carrying more traffic than ever. From congested peak-hour commutes on the Princes Freeway to busy school drop-off zones and shopping centre car parks, even a minor incident can quickly become a dispute over who was at fault. A dash cam can provide an independent record of what happened, making it easier to resolve insurance claims and reducing the chance of confl icting accounts between drivers.

Protecting Yourself After an Accident

Know the Rules

dash cam footage can investigations and claims.

often

assist

Parking Protection For many Wyndham residents, parking at train stations, shopping centres or sporting venues is part of everyday life. Unfortunately, hit-and-run damage in car parks is not uncommon. Dash cams with “parking mode“ can continue recording while the vehicle is parked, provided they have an appropriate power source. If another vehicle strikes your parked car or someone causes damage, the footage may capture the incident or the offending vehicle.

dash cam won’t prevent reckless behaviour, but it can document unsafe driving if an incident occurs. Th is can be valuable should police request evidence following a serious road incident.

Capturing Unexpected Moments Not every recording involves an accident. Dash cams often capture unusual wildlife encounters, dramatic weather events, spectacular sunsets or memorable road trips around Victoria. Many motorists have also recorded acts of kindness, such as strangers helping after a breakdown or emergency services responding to incidents.

Recording Dangerous Driving

Choosing the Right Dash Cam

Unfortunately, aggressive driving, tailgating and dangerous overtaking are experiences many motorists encounter. A

If you’re considering buying a dash cam, look for features such as: High-defi nition video (at least 1080p,

In Victoria, dash cams are generally legal to use, provided they do not obstruct the driver’s view through the windscreen. They should be mounted in a position that complies with Victorian road rules and does not distract the driver. Drivers should also remember that dash cam footage may record other people, so any sharing of videos online should respect privacy and avoid identifying individuals unnecessarily. With traffic continuing to grow across Wyndham, many drivers see a dash cam as a practical investment rather than a luxury. Whether it’s providing evidence after an accident, protecting your parked vehicle or simply recording memorable journeys, a dash cam offers reassurance every time you get behind the wheel. For many motorists, it’s one accessory they hope they’ll never need—but are glad to have if they do.

12888712-CV33-26

One of the biggest benefits of a dash cam is the ability to capture clear video evidence following a collision. If another driver disputes responsibility or leaves the scene, recorded footage can help establish what occurred. Many modern dash cams automatically save footage when they detect a sudden impact, preventing important recordings from being overwritten. Some models even include GPS data showing speed and location, adding another layer of evidence if required. While police and insurance companies will assess all available evidence, quality

with 4K available on premium models) Wide-angle lens for greater road coverage Night vision for clearer low-light recording GPS location tracking Parking mode Wi-Fi or smartphone connectivity Front and rear camera options While premium units offer additional features, there are now many reliable entry-level models that provide excellent image quality at affordable prices.

Approved consumer applicants only. Offer ends 31/08/26. T&Cs, fees, charges, lending & eligibility criteria apply. Hyundai Capital Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 42 611 226 316), Australian Credit Licence 554051. Lmct 114.

18 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 12 August, 2026

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SPORT

Craigieburn’s Sienna Scuderi.569976_12

Deer Parks’ Joshua Cooper.569972_13

Westmeadows’ Danielle Linton and Courtney Bligh.569971_04

Keilor Park’s Ashleigh Guest. 569976_06

Finals action is underway Finals action got underway in several competitions, while there were plenty of season defining results on Saturday. Star Weekly

photographer Ties Urie was out shooting some of the action.

Deer Park’s Kwame McHarg.569972_01

Darley’s Brett Bewley goes flying.569980_08

Lancefield’s Meaghan Lyons.569969_21

Westmeadows’ Courteney Munn.569971_09

Riddell’s Ruby Ayers.569969_07

Melton’s Adrian Monitto. 569980_01

Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 19

SPORT

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Wyndham’s mixed finish By Tara Murray Wyndham split its final two matches of the Big V men’s championship season on the weekend. After a tough season, Wyndham was aiming to finish the season on a high with two home matches. Wyndham kicked off the final round of action against the Warrandyte Venom on Saturday night. After trailing by five points at quarter time, Wyndham had a 34-16 second quarter to take control of the match. It extended the lead to 18 points heading into the final quarter. While the Venom came home strongly, Wyndham held on to win 109-102. Wyndham assistant coach Peter Muscat

said they played some excellent team basketball. “Despite missing some key players, the team came out and played great basketball,” he said. “We had a number of strong individual performances, but what really stood out was our team effort. “We won the rebounding battle against Warrandyte and our ball movement and assist game were excellent. The second half of the season has been really positive, and it’s great to see the team continuing to build momentum and play for each other.” Supreme Cook had 32 points and 17 rebounds, while Malik Miller had 29 points and 10 rebounds, and Francis Wi Neera-mulvihill had 30 points, eight rebounds and four assists.

Wyndham was then at home on Sunday against the Redbacks. Wyndham never got going as it lost every quarter on the way to a 96-81 loss. Muscat said it was a tough loss, especially coming off a big game the night before. “Obviously, we would have liked to finish the year with a win, but as a coach, I’m really pleased with the way the group finished the season,” he said. “To win four of our last seven games shows the improvement and resilience the guys showed over that stretch. “Most importantly, we were able to finish the year playing some good basketball and with a positive mindset, which gives us plenty to build on heading into next season. “It was a tough loss being short handed but the guys tried their best.”

Cook finished with 15 points and 13 rebounds on Sunday, while Neera-mulvihill had 11 points, six rebounds and five assists. Eli Kocet had 15 points in the final game. Wyndham finished the season bottom with just five wins. The side is set to drop to division 1 next season. Meanwhile, finalists for the Big V youth league awards have been announced. Wyndham’s Admira Ali has been nominated as a finalist for the all-star 5 and most valuable player for the youth league women’s 2 competition. In the youth league 1 men’s competition, Wyndham’s Declan Reno has been named a finalist in the defensive player of the year and finalist for most valuable player and allstar 5 team.

Sports shorts VAFA It was a tough day out for the Westbourne Grammarians in the Victorian Amatuer Football Association women’s premier competition. Facing Old Scotch, the game was over at half time with the margin 50 points. After the main break it was two goals to one in favour of Old Scotch as it won, 10.13 (73)-2.1 (13). Sophie Mcintosh, Mia Cowan and Cassidy Mailer were named the Grammarians best. The Grammarians have a bye this week.

GDFL A win in the final round will give Werribee Centrals top spot in the Geelong and District Football League heading into finals. The Centurions were able to sneak home against Bell Post Hill, winning 9.8 (62)-9.5 (59). The Centurions set the win up in the first half and were able to hold on. With Winchelsea having a shock loss, the Centurions are a game clear heading into the final round. They face East Geelong on Saturday.

GDNL

Ryley McGaw. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 549686_25

Falcons back on track after two wins in a row By Tara Murray Wyndhamvale went back to basics to get its Western Football League division 2 season back on track. The Falcons had been cruising at the top of the table, before three straight losses saw the side slip back to third on the ladder. The Falcons have now won their last two games to steady ahead of a big finals series. Falcons’ coach Daniel Smith said it was good to see the side start to get back on track. “We went back to what we were good at,” he said. “We were getting too pretty on a few things so we looked to rein it in a little bit and we got back to basics. “We look at it that we had 15 kids under-22 in those three losses. It was a good experience for the young kids.” Smith said of the three losses, which were by a total of 12 points, the Braybrook match was the one that hurt the most.

The other two losses had come against North Footscray and West Footscray, which sit top and second. On Saturday, the Falcons got the job done against Sunshine Heights. After trailing by 10 points at half time, the Falcons kicked 16 goals to four in the second half to win, 18.14 (122)-8.5 (53). “We didn’t have a great first half,” he said. “I put it on the young kids to come out and show what we could do after half time. “I was happy that they responded.” Lewis Stanton kicked six goals for the Falcons to take his total to 95 goals for the season, having got the century last year. Isaac Fulton-Grover, Benjamin Dickson and Ryan Tyson were named the Falcons best in the win. Smith said the past three weeks they’ve had just one player 30 or older as they continued with their focus on youth. He said while there had been some injuries, youth was the way that they wanted to go.

20 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 12 August, 2026

“The young kids have stepped up and showed why we got them to the club,” he said. The Falcons will either finish second or third on the ladder, and will face West Footscray in a qualifying final in the first week of finals either way. Smith said the Roosters are a good side and he hoped they learned a lot from the last time they played. Despite not finishing top like last season, Smith said the focus and promotion remained the goal for the side. “Nothing has moved on that,” he said. “That is still the number one priority of the club, coaches and players.” The Falcons will face the Western Rams in the final round of the season. Elsewhere, results mean that Albanvale has secured its finals spot. Albanvale and the Suns both suffered losses on Saturday, meaning the Cobras are six points clear of the Suns with one round remaining.

Werribee Centrals lost a thriller to Bell Post Hill in the Geelong and District Netball League on Saturday. Bell Post Hill opened by a six goal lead at quarter time and that stayed steady through the next two quarters. The Centurions came home strongly, with 11 goals ot six in the final quarter but it wasn’t enough with Bell Post Hill winning, 38-37. Bella Mountain, Alual Garang and Daisy Smith were named the Centurions. best. The Centurions will finish their season against East Geelong on Saturday.

Western FL Finals spots are set in the Western Football League women’s competition. While the top four was set heading into the final round, spots in the second lot of finals, for teams five through to eight, were still up for grabs. Wins for the Suns and Laverton, against Point Cook Centrals and Yarraville Seddon Eagles respectively, sealed double chances. The Eagles will now face the Sharks in an elimination final. There’s a week off before finals start.

FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Combine invite for Wright By Tara Murray The dream season for Werribee’s Brady Wright has continued with the key forward receiving an invite to the AFL state combine. The best young talent in the country has been invited to the draft and state combine, with Wright the only Victorian Football League player to get a call. Werribee football manager Kyle Hartigan said it had been massive what Wright had been able to achieve this year. “From where he has come from and the work that he has put in the last couple of years,” he said. “He’s got that reward with being invited to the state combine, it’s great recognition to be looked at by a number of AFL clubs.

“His season so far has been outstanding and hopefully he keeps kicking goals and keeps improving his chances and moves up the draft board.” Hartigan said they had hopes for Wright this season and thought he had the talent to do what he has so far. He said Wright had shown glimpses in his first season at the club, having come from Darley. “He kicked three goals against Southport in the first half of the first game of the year last year,” Hartigan said. “He fell away and had some hammy stuff. “He got a full pre-season, after not having one with the full squad last year. He’s got the ability to get to more contests and his endurance has improved.”

Wright has kicked 45 goals this season, taking on the role as the full forward for the Tigers. Hartigan said Dan Lowther’s game plan had worked well for Wright and he took the opportunity that was there with the retirement of Hudson Garoni. While Wright’s name was in the mix for the mid-season draft, the hype has increased even more. Hartigan said it’s a tough one, as you don’t want to lose players but want to see them at the highest level. If Wright was to be drafted, he would be the latest player to be picked up from Werribee. Jack Henderson, Zac Banch, Flynn Young, Aidan Johnson, Riley Bice and Sam

Clohesy have all found their ways on AFL lists having been at Werribee. Dom Brew did a pre-season with the Western Bulldogs, while North Melbourne was interested in Louis Pinnuck in the off season. Hartigan said with recruiters watching Wright, it gives the opportunity for other players to put their hands up as well. He said there’s a few others that are being watched closely. “Aj Koul Mun came from Port Melbourne after not playing footy for a long time,” Hartigan said.. “Another from Darley, Mace Cousins, has gone under the radar. Jake Smith was having a good season until he was injured.”

Dhatri Tatikonda. (Tara Murray)

Dhatri selected for Oceania Jake Miller. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 486900_09

Miller takes the opportunity to impress By Tara Murray Western Jets’ Jake Miller felt he was lucky to get the opportunity to play three games for Vic Metro at the recent under-18 National Championships. As a bottom age player, Miller was hoping to play one game and enjoy the experience. The youngster impressed playing three games, kicking five goals and being named in the All-Australian squad. “I was pretty rapt with my performances, obviously as a bottomager I was quite lucky to get a couple of games,” he said. “To take that opportunity and play consistent footy in all those three games was pretty special and something I’ll remember for quite a while. “I was very grateful to play for metro.” Miller said he had aimed in the pre-season to make the squad, knowing he was a bottom age player. Once he did, the focus was just taking everything he could out of it. Vic Metro claimed the championship which made it even more special. “My goal at the start of the season was to try and get a game,” Miller said.

“I didn’t really expect to play three games but I felt like a bit of reward for my effort in the pre-season and the work that I put in before champs started. “It was awesome. The whole carnival and eight weeks before the lead up to the champ games and all the training was special and the coaches have been awesome for me.” The championships added to what is already a busy schedule. Miller has been playing school football at Brighton Grammar, while also playing with the Western Jets. It meant little time to go back to his local club Yarraville Seddon. “It’s been ongoing school and then the Jets once a week with training,” he said. “Going to Brighton every day for school and school training. It’s pretty fully on, it’s good “If I’ve got training in the morning I’m normally driving so it’s about 45 minutes ... on the train with a couple of mates who go to school there, it’s not too bad, it’s about an hour train ride.” Miller was one of two Jets named in the All-Australian squad. Billy Wigmore, who is also from Yar-

raville Seddon, made the team. Miller said it was a reward for the form that Wigmore has shown. “It’s awesome,” he said. It’s a reward for his effort. “I know Billy and I’m pretty close to Billy, he deserved the opportunity and took that opportunity at Metro.” Miller and the Jets are hoping to continue a strong season, one of the strongest in the club’s history. He was full of praise for coach Christian Stagliano. “I’m pretty close with the head coach, he has been awesome for me individually,” he said. “The team has been awesome and it’s a good sign that the Jets are going in an upwards direction.” With Miller still 12 months away from possibly being drafted, he said he’s not looking that far ahead. He just wants to have fun with his mates. “You don’t get a lot of time playing football with 10-15 of your best mates and go out and have fun,” Miller said. “Just having fun and enjoy the moment and just staying present and don’t really think about the future and what is ahead.”

Wyndham’s Dhatri Tatikonda has been selected to represent Oceania at the 2026 ITTF World Hopes Week and Challenge in Sheffield, England. Dhatri was selected following her performances at the recent ITTF Hopes Week & Challenge Oceania 2026. The challenge caters for players 12 years of age and under and consists of a five-day training camp and a oneday competition. New Zealand claimed gold in both the boys and girls singles events at the Oceania Challenge, with Tatikonda winning silver in the girls event. Both Dhatri and Katie Chen entered the final undefeated and without losing a set in stage two of the competition. Dhatri had earlier finished top of her pool after winning both pool matches 3-0. Katie had a commanding performance in the final, winning it and the gold medal, 3-0. Competition and training camp assessments were taken at the event to select members of the Oceania squad. Speaking before the Oceania Challenge, Dhatri said Star Weekly that she was proud of herself to represent Australia. “I’m happy with my results as I finished first in the National Hopes tally, and ranked number two in Australia in the under-11 girls category. I’m looking forward to performing well in Hopes.”

Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 21

Tigers’ winning streak over By Tara Murray Werribee got a little bit of a reality check as its winning streak came to an end in the Victorian Football League. The Tigers headed down to Tasmania to face the Tasmania Devils. Prepared for a tough challenge, there wasn’t much between the two sides all day. The home side was a little more steady with ball in hand and it proved the difference as the Devils won, 14.14 (98)-12.14 (86). Tigers’ coach Dan Lowther said it was a good game of football. No more than four points separated the sides at any of the breaks with four goals the biggest margin of the game. “I didn’t think we were without our chances,” he said. “We started pretty well. “It’s always a hard one down there, we hit the post four or five times. “We weren’t efficient with the fundamentals and from that perspective they were better. “From that they were able to get their run and carry going and execute it well. “They were clean in the heat of the contest.” Lowther said they changed some things in the last quarter to try and stay with the Devils. “We had some different looks around the centre bounce and up front. “We were able to hit the scoreboard quickly and it was six or seven points with still a long time to go. “We could not get close enough to put the pressure on.” Lowther said it was only small things where they were off, but it was a good little reality check of where they need to improve heading into fi nals. He said some of the shots that they missed early in the game were goals they had been kicking the last seven to eight weeks. While they didn’t get the result, Lowther couldn’t fault the effort of the group. “It was in front of a hostile 4500-5000 crowd cheering against us,” he said. “It was a bit of a fi nals-like atmosphere. I’m proud that they stuck fat to the task. “There was no change in attitude.” Lowther said having a road trip together this late in the season was always a good bonding experience, despite the short time they were away they had learned a lot from the trip. Lachlan Charleson kicked four goals for the Tigers, while Brady Wright kicked three goals. Jack Riding had 22 disposals, while Louis Pinnuck and Charlie Lazzaro had 21 disposals. Lowther said Lazzaro was again dynamic around the footy, while Mace Cousins and Louis Pinnuck led the way in defence. AJ Koul Mun and Caiden Gardiner both battled hard in the ruck. For Gardiner it was his Werribee debut having been a late inclusion.

Jordan Busuttil is tackled. (Belinda Vitacca Photography)

Gardiner earned his opportunity after an injury-interrupted fi rst season at the Tigers, overcoming two long-term hamstring injuries to fi nally make his fi rst appearance in the black and gold Lowther said it was good for Gardiner but also the club to see what he could do at that level. Werribee will face Sandringham on Saturday at Melbourne Avalon Airport Oval at 2.05pm in the fi nal round of the season. The Tigers have already locked up second spot. “They rolled us last time,” Lowther said. “We didn’t kick a goal in the second half. “We kicked four points after half time, hopefully it’ll be better than that.” Lowther said they could have some inclusions for the fi nal round match as they ramp up fi nals preparation. Dom Brew is set to return after missing the past two weeks with calf soreness as long as he gets through training. Premiership players Jake Smith and Harry Grintell are pushing for returns. “They are experienced players pushing to come back in,” he said. “If they come back in great, if not we’ve had the development of our depth players the last few months.”

BARRO GROUP

22 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 12 August, 2026

Charlie Lazzaro gives the don’t argue. (Belinda Vitacca Photography)

Weekend’s result FINAL SCORES: ■ Werribee: 3.3 7.6 9.8 12.14 (86) ■ Tasmania: 2.5 6.9 9.12 14.14 (98) GOALS ■ Werribee: Charleson (4), Wright (3), Simpson, Lazzaro, Robb, Kuol Mun, Depasquale

■ Tasmania: Iverach (3), Menzie, Leary, Dixon (2), Payne, Hagan, Fox, Dolliver, Cox-Goodyer DISPOSALS ■ Werribee: Riding (22), Pinnuck (21), Lazzaro (21) ■ Tasmania: Leary (28), Boag (27), Rox (25)

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SECTION

ROUND 23 , 2026

TIPPING 2026 LW 5

Melissa Longo

135

Allan Cayzer

131

Rod Gaut

131

Mick Trim

119

LW 5

Rod Gaut Wyn Active

Allan Cayzer Wyndham Harbour

Brisbane Sydney Fremantle GWS Hawthorn Geelong Melbourne St Kilda Western Bulldogs

Brisbane Sydney Fremantle GWS Hawthorn Geelong Melbourne St Kilda Carlton

PH: 8734 5678

PH: 9233 8530

ROUND 23 FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 – SUNDAY, AUGUST 16 Brisbane Lions V Gold Coast SUNS (G) LW 6

LW 4

Essendon V Sydney Swans (MCG)

Melissa Longo Club Tarneit

Mick Trim Walking Football 4 Health Vic

Brisbane Sydney Fremantle GWS Hawthorn Geelong Melbourne St Kilda Western Bulldogs

Brisbane Sydney Fremantle GWS Hawthorn Geelong Port Adelaide St Kilda Western Bulldogs

PH: 8754 1300

Fremantle V Adelaide Crows (OS) GWS V West Coast Eagles (ES) Hawthorn V Collingwood (MCG) North Melbourne V Geelong Cats (MRVL) Port Adelaide V Melbourne (AO) Richmond V St Kilda (MCG) Western Bulldogs V Carlton (MRVL)

PH: 0430 163 550 PH: 9391 5261

*Correct at time of publishing

GROUNDS KEY: (AO) Adelaide Oval, (AS) Accor Stadium, (BA) Blundstone Arena, (G) Gabba, (GS) Giants Stadium, (M) Mars Stadium, (MRVL) Marvel Stadium, (MCG) Melbourne Cricket Ground, (MS) Metricon Stadium,,(S (S (SCG) SCG) CG)SSy SSydney Syd ydne dneyCCCricket rick ric i ket k t Gr ketG GGround, Groun roun oundd,(OS (OS)O (OS (OS))OOptus ptu t sOOOval, vall,(T) ((T) T)TIO T) TIOSt TIO St Staduim, adui adu d im im ((UTS) im, UTS)U UTS )UUniversity nivers niv i ers ersititity Of OfT f Tasmania Tasmania Tasma Ta niaSt i Stadium. Stadi adium dium di um.

Walking Football is a low-impact, modified version of soccer. No running – Players must always have one foot on the ground. Non-contact sport – Tackling and physical challenges are minimized to prevent injuries. Modified rules – Smaller pitches, lower-intensity gameplay, and reduced ball heights make it safer and more accessible. Team-based environment – Encourages communication, teamwork, and social interaction. We have programs in Point Cook and Werribee.

www.wf4hvictoria.org.au/

www.facebook.com/groups/wf4healthvictoria/

For more information please email info@wf4hvictoria.org.au 12850026-EB17-26

Wednesday, 12 August, 2026 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 23

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