There was plenty of sporting action across Brimbank and the north-west at the weekend, as sporting seasons started to heat up. Keilor was among the winners in the Essendon District Football League premier women’s competition. For more on that win and plenty of other action.
Turn to page 19
By Tara Murray
Brimbank council is calling for certainty around funding and timeframes for major road and rail projects in the upcoming state budget.
Melbourne Airport Rail, Sunshine station masterplan, Albion station upgrade and the Calder Park Drive interchange are the big ticket items the council is calling for state government support for in the state budget.
The council wants confirmation of the state government’s $5 billion commitment to the Melbourne Airport Rail and the
associated timeline.
The council is calling on MAR to be completed ahead of the opening of the third runway at Melbourne Airport in 2031.
It also wants to see funding for the implementation of the Sunshine station masterplan and Albion station rebuild and associated timelines for both projects to be revealed.
The council is also calling for funding for the construction of the Calder Park Drive interchange and the associated timeline.
The federal government recently contributed$300milliontotheproject.Inlast
year’s state budget, money for the Calder Park Driveprojectwasscrappedasthegovernment cut funds to several big projects.
Mayor Thuy Dang said council had been clear about its priorities and the need for the state government to invest in the west.
“We are looking forward to the delivery of the state budget and to understanding how it willbenefitthepeopleofBrimbank,”shesaid.
“The federal government has already locked in its support for the Melbourne Airport Rail, and now we need assurance of the Victorian government’s $5 billion commitment and clarity on the start and
end dates for these critical transport works, includingthedeliveryoftheSunshinestation precinct masterplan.
“Similarly, we look forward to the delivery of the funding promised for Calder Park Drive. These projects directly impact the safety and quality of life of everyone living in the west – they simply must be delivered in the state budget. We cannot wait any longer.”
The council is also calling for road safety upgrades and upgrades to sporting facilities as part of the budget.
The budget will be revealed on May 20.
Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial
Council would like to hear your thoughts on the following projects proposed for the City of Melton: Park upgrades
• Parkwood Green Reserve, Hillside Mt Carberry Reserve, Melton South Feedback is invited until 25 May.
Sports and recreation facilities
• Kororoit Active Open Space Draft Master Plan, Deanside
• Plumpton Active Open Space Draft Master Plan, Fraser Rise
• Rockbank East Active Open Space Draft Master Plan, Rockbank Feedback is invited until 30 May.
To view the plans and submit feedback visit, conversations.melton.vic.gov.au
Council is sealing the shoulders on both sides of Boundary Road in Mt Cottrell (between The Mall and Mt Atkinson Road), allowing for safe two-way traffic.
Works will commence Monday 12 May and take around three weeks to complete.
Boundary Road will be closed between The Mall and Troups Road South from Monday 12 May until mid-May, then between Troups Road South and Tarneit Road from mid-May until Wednesday 28 May.
For information and updates, visit melton.vic.gov/BoundaryRoad
Many residents will have seen the new signage at the future Plumpton Aquatic and Leisure Centre site in Fraser Rise. This marks an exciting milestone for an initiative that I have long championed.
In December, Council secured a $15 million grant from the Australian Government’s Thriving Suburbs fund to support the delivery of this major project. It will feature a two-storey aquatic and leisure facility, health and fitness areas, social and function spaces, and Australia’s first Sensory Room designed specifically for our community who live with disabilities.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2025, with the centre set to open in 2028.
Council is currently developing the draft 2025/26 Budget, which will be presented at our May Council Meeting. One initiative I’ve strongly advocated for is the Lake Caroline Master Plan and Activation Strategy. To be rolled out in stages, the master plan includes an upgraded playspace, event lawn, shared zone on Lake Street for markets and festivals, and new viewing platforms.
Ahead of the Federal Election, Council’s advocacy campaign delivered strong outcomes for our
Applications are now open for the 2025 Melton Business Excellence Awards. The awards honour businesses in the City of Melton that demonstrate exceptional performance, leadership, and commitment to their industry and community.
Businesses are encouraged to apply and showcase their accomplishments across nine categories.
Applications close Thursday 10 July. Winners will be announced at an Awards night in September.
For information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/MBEA
community, including a commitment from the Australian Government to invest $1 billion to upgrade the Western Highway between Melton and Caroline Springs. While details are still to be confirmed, this investment is expected to include extra lanes and interchange upgrades, and improved capacity and safety – delivering much-needed road infrastructure improvements for our fast-growing community.
You can contact me regarding any Council related matters. I can be contacted via email at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.
I want to wish a heartfelt Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible Mums in our community for last Sunday. This is a day where we celebrate not just mothers, but grandmothers, stepmothers, foster mums, and all those who take on the role of caregiver and guide. I hope you were able to spend this special day surrounded by family, remembering a loved one, or taking a well-deserved moment for yourself. Your daily acts of love, strength, and sacrifice don’t go unnoticed, and we thank you.
I would like to congratulate Sam Rae and Alice Jordan-Baird for being elected to the seats of Hawke and Gorton respectively in the Federal election. I look forward to working with them and the reelected Federal Labor Government on delivering the Western Hwy upgrades and Calder Park interchange as promised through election commitments, and on progressing the infrastructure needs of our community.
This week I will be attending our Youth Summit where local leaders, service providers, and advocates will come together to explore solutions for enhancing youth engagement, addressing antisocial behaviour, and fostering long-term positive outcomes for young people in the City of Melton.
I had the privilege of attending the Melton Youth Forum earlier this year and I am very passionate about making sure the voices of young people in our community are heard. Young people today face many challenges, and we all need to work together to recognise and harness their potential and create a community that empowers them to thrive.
You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Steve.Abboushi@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0437 231 680.
By Cade Lucas
With the state’s population continuing to grow and more housing and infrastructure needing to be built to cater for it, the amount of construction and demolition waste produced in Victoria is set to grow too.
Disposing of this waste requires either sending it to landfill or recycling it, but while the latter may be better for the environment, PHD student at RMIT’s school of property, construction and project management , Moein Behzad, said that didn’t mean it was popular.
“It’sreallyimportanttodevelopourrecycling facilities and establish new ones, but when
it comes to establishment of new recycling facilities, usually people who live in suburbs neighbouring these facilities, oppose them,” said Mr Behzad.
Like other heavy industries, many waste recyclingplantsthatdealwithconstructionand demolition waste are based in the inner-west, especially Brooklyn.
Mr Behzhad is conducting a survey of residents in Brooklyn to find out why they oppose these facilities and what can be done to assuage their concerns.
“It’s really important to address these concerns and on the other side it’s really important to consider recycling groups
concerns as well,” said Mr Behzad who warned of dire consequences if a workable solution between inner-city residents and recycling companies wasn’t found.
“If recycling groups relocate their facilities further away (from the city), it can increase their recycling costs and demotivate them from recycling and lead to them sending more waste to landfill which can be dangerous for the environment and communities.”
Mr Behzad has so far received about 35 responses to the survey and said air and noise pollution were the most common concerns.
He’ssaidheneedstodoublethatamountover the next two months in order for the research
OvernewtonAnglicanCommunityCollegehas once again been recognised for its outstanding efforts in sustainability practices, being named a finalist in the 2025 ResourceSmart Schools Awards.
The school, located in Keilor, has been nominated in the School Volunteer of the Year category for its successful Parent Sustainability Group (PSG) and volunteer work with Brimbnak council, including tree planting initiatives.
Overnewton Community College is no stranger to sustainability accolades, having previously won the Emerging School of the Year (2022) and Student Action Group (2023) awards. The school was also recognised as a finalist in the Volunteer of the Year category in 2023 and 2024.
The Parent Sustainability Group (PSG) was established in 2021 and plays a crucial role in advancing the school’s sustainability vision meeting each term to discuss and plan various projects.
In 2024, PSG focused on recycling and waste reduction through a waste audit, a reusable party kit, a stationery drive, and, in collaboration with staff, successfully certified the school’s RSS Waste Module.
PSGmembersalsoplantedtrees,contributing to local biodiversity.
Additionally, PSG members offered career adviceattheSeniorSchoolExpoandorganised site visits to explore partnership opportunities, including with a nearby organic farm and Melbourne Water for Maribyrnong riverbank revegetation.
Synergy Leader for Sustainability and Indigenous Connections, Sasha Koomen said the school hoped to achieve Five Star ResourceSmart status in the future.”
Currently, we are focusing on biodiversity. Our students are auditing and recognising the plants and animals around us,” she said.
“Practicing sustainability is integral for our students,helpingthemthinkabouttheirfuture and understand how we are all responsible for the land we live on.”
project to work, but that the outcome would be beneficial to both residents and industry.
“I’m going to apply the results of my survey to create a framework for recycling in the future. I’m going to include public opinion in my framework and this can be a good option for recycling groups in the establishment of their facilities,” said Mr Behzad, adding than consulting with local residents and engaging with them as early as possible was crucial.
“That’showwecanincreasetheacceptability of these facilities.”
The survey can be accessed at: https:// rmit.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ cMGLeowIgIW4Ake
An organisation pushing for another special development school to be established in the west will hold a community meeting on Monday May 26.
Equality for Autism Incorporated, which advocates for individuals with autismandtheirfamilies,haslaunched a campaign for the establishment of a third special development school in the west to be located at Victoria University Secondary College in Deer Park.
“We are calling on the Victorian state government to complete stage 2 of the Victorian University Secondary College and then utilise the current land of the junior campus in Billingham Road, Deer Park, already owned by the Education Department to build a substantial new special development school for Melbourne’s west,“ said a group spokesperson.
To achieve its aim Equality for Autism has launched a petition.
“It’s understandable that families out there who are fortunate enough not to have children with special needs may feel why sign this petition to the Victorian state government? But I challenge everyone out there in the community to speak with your families, friends and associates and I assure you that you will learn that at least one of them would have a connection to someone who suffers from autism and needs specialist support in education,” said the spokespersonurgingpeopletosupport the petition,” the spokesperson said.
The meeting will be held at Sassella Park Community Hall, 119 Station Road, Deer Park from 6.30pm to 8pm.
Everyone is encouraged to attend.
A prominent US real estate family has been announced as the new majority owners of the A-League club Western United.
It was announced that the Kaminski family had agreed to acquire a controlling stake of the Tarneit-based franchise and its parent company Western Melbourne Group (WMG) on Friday, May 2.
The club is set to be acquired under the KAM Melbourne, a subsidiary of the family’s KAMSportscompanythatownsandmanages sports assets in Europe and North America. Chairman and co-founder Maciek
Kaminski said the building of the proposed 15,000-seat Wyndham City Stadium and adjacent sporting precinct was a part of the commitment.
“The prospect of being the first sports team to fully own their stadium is exciting and we look forward to accelerating the development ofthisandseeingitfilledwithlocalcommunity and supporters,” Mr Kaminiski said.
He said that the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the western suburbs was also a big driver in the company’s maiden investment in Australian sports.
“The combination of integrating sport and real estate to make a meaningful impact in the local community in the west attracted us to this opportunity,” he said.
“The continued development of local talent, both male and female, and creating grassroots to elite pathways under the Western United brand is top-of-mind for us.”
WMG chairman Jason Sourasis said that the group was “thrilled” by the purchase and that he expects the move will bring social and economic benefits for Wyndham and the wider west.
“Most importantly, it allows for the acceleration of sporting pathways for boys and girls in the west of Melbourne, allowing them to dream big” while supporting their local teams and hopefully following in the footsteps of their sporting idols,” Mr Sourasis said.
The transaction is subject to successful completion of the necessary approval processes by Wyndham council, the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) and regulatory processes by Football Australia (FA).
By Tara Murray
New Gorton MP Alice Jordan-Baird says she has lots of energy and a long list of things she wants to achieve in her new role.
Ms Jordan-Baird was voted in as the new member for Gorton, which covers part of Brimbank and Melton, replacing the retiring Brendan O’Connor.
Speaking before she headed to Canberra for the first time as an MP, Ms Jordan-Baird said she was excited and humbled.
“It’s been a big week and I think it’s still settling in,” she said. “I’m so excited and so humbled at the opportunity.
“It’s been a big campaign and I’m so proud. I’ve got some big shoes to fill.”
At just 32, Ms Jordan-Baird will be one of, if not the youngest MP in the new parliament. She said while she knew she was young, she felt she would represent her local community well.
“The medium age is 35,” she said. “It’s young families who need young voices. I want to be that voice.”
Ms Jordan-Baird comes from a science background but has always had a love of politics.
It was something she shared with her sister Clara, who died in 2017.
Ms Jordan-Baird said she felt her sister was on the campaign with her and she would be proud of her achievement to be elected.
The Sydenham resident, who celebrated her first wedding anniversary at pre-polling, said there were two key issues that locals had told her they wanted addressed.
The first main issue was infrastructure.
“With a growing community there has to be a more effective way of planning for growth and not being reactive,“ she said.
Brimbank council has welcomed the outcome of the federal election saying it now hopes the Labor Party delivers on its promises for the municipality.
After months of debate, Labor came away with a landslide victory and all seatsacrossMelbourne’swestremaining part of the Labor heartline.
In the lead up to the election, both parties promised that there would be funding for Calder Park Drive interchange and Western Freeway upgrades, with the Labor party committing to it in the budget.
The Labor party had announced funding for the Melbourne Airport rail project and upgrades to Sunshine station.
While the Liberal party had announced it would scrap funding for the upgrade of Sunshine station as part of its rail plan,
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said the councilwillcontinuetoadvocateforkey projects in the municipality.
“The Federal election result does offer Brimbank further stability, in the hope thatthere-electedAlbanesegovernment will not only deliver on its promises for Melbourne’s west but prioritise these critical initiatives too,” she said.
The other area is healthcare.
“We’re promised $8.5 billion to strengthen Medicare, which is life changing for a lot of people,” she said.
“A lot of people put off going because of the
“I’m excited there’s money in the budget for the Western Freeway and we can get that started and $300 million for Calder Park Drive so we can reduce traffic congestion.”
gap.The gap will be minimised and free for others.
“People are more likely to see the doctor and it’s a much better health outcome.”
Ms Jordan-Baird said the announcement to build an urgent care centre at Sunshine Hospital was also important for health care in the area.
“Council will continue to staunchly advocate for the projects outlined in our advocacy plan, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese knows about how important priorities, like the Sunshine stationprecinct,aretoourcommunities, as he heard during his time here on the election trail.”
The scent of freshly cut grass lingers in the air at Gladstone Park Bowls Club as Jo Briskey takes a moment to reflect on her first days as the newly-elected Labor MP for Maribyrnong.
Ms Briskey is clear-eyed about the task ahead as she talks with the bowls club owners – it’s evident she is deeply proud of the place she now calls home.
“I love living here, we’ve been here since the end of 2020 and my husband and I and my two little girls love being in this part of Melbourne –and Maribyrnong is such a beautiful community,” Ms Briskey said.
Ms Briskey, who moved from Brisbane, has already made a mark through a grassroots campaign.
“Over the course of the campaign I door knocked every single suburb so I really got to know the entire electorate,” Ms Briskey said.
“There are lots of differences [to Brisbane] but what drew them all together is a sense of community.”
Accusations that she was “parachuted in” to the electorate as a candidate don’t sit well with the new MP.
“Not at all, my husband and I have been livinghereforyears,wehavemadeMelbourne our home and our future, and the incredible opportunity to represent this electorate is an absolute privilege and an honour –I’m really excited.”
Ms Briskey has already committed $1 million to improve facilities at the Gladstone Park Bowls Club.
“We have committed $1 million…to help put shades over the top and another green to really make this bowls club a fantastic facility for this local community,” Ms Briskey said.
“I want it to look like getting the best outcomes for this community and that’s what I will be focused on… that will be my goal in the long and short term.”
Ms Briskey said her background as a psychologist, mother and long-time advocate
will shape how she governs.
“I think it gives me an understanding of ways in which we can best serve the community to get the best possible outcomes, and really bring people together,” Ms Briskey said.
“So I’m going to bring all that with me to this new role and make sure this community gets the best they can out of the decisions that are going to be made in Canberra.”
Tom Ingleton
TheVictoriaStateEmergencyService(VICSES)
Brimbank Unit has purchased essential equipment to enhance its operations thanks to the support of a generous grant.
Brimbank SES received $5,500 from Community Bank Keilor East, Bendigo Bank, which funded the purchase of casualty lifting and extrication equipment, along with two domestic rescue kits.
Deputy controller of members and administration Bailey Lambert said as a volunteer-based organisation, Brimbank SES relies heavily on grants and financial contributions.
“Support like this plays a crucial role in ensuring we have the resources and equipment needed to respond effectively to emergencies,” he said.
“Without this kind of community backing, it wouldbechallengingtomaintainourreadiness and provide the high level of service that our community depends on during times of need.
Every contribution, big or small, directly enhances our ability to continue supporting the community.”
The funding helped purchase a wheeled stretcher,referredtoasa‘mule,’whichprovides essential casualty lifting and extrication equipment. This equipment will assist VICSES Brimbank Unit and Ambulance Victoria in extricating injured people from difficult terrain across Brimbank and surrounding communities.
Additionally, the funding supported the acquisition of two domestic rescue kits, designed to assist in the extrication of trapped people or animals from items causing serious discomfort or injury.
VICSES Brimbank Unit deputy controller of operations Eli Poldi said “We are extremely grateful for Community Bank Keilor East and their incredibly generous donation of $5,500 to support the SES.”
Gladys Barreta
Four Brimbank teens have been charged following a string of alleged aggravated carjackings in Brimbank and Melton.
Police will allege three males, armed with knives, made demands for a man’s car on Timbertop Parade in Aintree about 11pm on May 9. It is believed the man, who refused to hand over the Toyota sedan, was assaulted by the males before they fled the scene. He was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Policewillallegethetrioapproached another man driving a silver Toyota Camry on Hertford Road in Sunshine about 11.50pm.
It is understood the trio made demands for the Camry, before fleeing in the vehicle.
The 25-year-old male driver was not injured, police said.
With the assistance of the Air Wing, officers spotted the Camry travelling in convoy with a Toyota Kluger. According to police, the vehicles split up and the Camry was followed to Matheson Terrace in Hillside, where the vehicle came to a stop.
Three male occupants attempted to flee but were arrested by police.
A fourth male was arrested by police when the Kluger came to a stop at Kellie Court in Albanvale.
Police will allege the Kluger was stolen during a carjacking from Neil Street in Sunshine on April 7.
The four will appear before a children’s court at a later date.
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The Western Football Netball League is set to develop a women and girls football growth strategy.
ThroughfundingsupportfromAFLVictoria, the WFNL has enlisted the services of former AFLplayerandAFLWWesternBulldogscoach and now leadership consultant Nathan Burke to lead the development of the strategy. “TheWFNLisextremelyproudofourwomen and girls programs and our member clubs who have delivered high quality environments and competitionsforthewesternmetropolitanarea
of Melbourne for many years now,” the league said. “The game is still in great shape with introductory and junior girls’ program and participation numbers at healthy levels.
“However, it is well known that the WFNL senior women’s competitions have suffered from decline in club and team numbers in the past few seasons.
“This project will offer the WFNL and our member clubs the opportunity to thoroughly review our current situation and to develop a plan to address any areas of decline that will
see an increase in club and team numbers from 2026 onwards.”
The league said the aims of developing the strategy include to engage women and girls to gain much needed feedback on all of its programs to improve its competition structures, development programs, clubs and league.
The strategy will aim to enhance the understanding of gender equity practices within WFNL and to see more women in leadership roles within our member clubs and
More places in Brimbank will stock free pads and tampons vending machines as part of a state government program to ease the cost of living.
Women’s Minister Natalie Hutchins visited Sydenham library on Thursday morning to announce the next 90 venues across Melbourne that will install vending machines that dispense free period products.
A number of shopping centres, including Watergardens, will be part of this stage of the roll out.
Keilor library will also be part of the next stage of the roll out.
‘‘ This is about dignity, equality and making sure no one misses out ’’
- Natalie Hutchins
The new locations form part of the Labor Government’s statewide rollout of 1,500 smart and battery-operated machines in up to 700 venues.
Ms Hutchins said that period products are a basic necessity that they were making sure women and girls could get for free when and where they need them.
“This is about dignity, equality and making sure no one misses out on school, work or community life because of their period,” she said.
Mayor Thuy Dang said there had been two vending machines at Sydenham library providing free products since January.
“Our free pad and tampons vending machines have been very well used and valued by many women in the community who are struggling to afford period products,”
she said. “Recently, a local mum came to the library to collect free pads for her daughters. She told us that her family was in financial hardship, and they couldn’t afford to buy pads and tampons until their
next payment.
“This mum was able to access enough pads from the vending machine to get both her and her daughters through their cycles and keep attending school.”
support its current female leaders.
The league wants to see more female coaches and to ensure the sustainability of all current clubsandincreasethenumberoffemaleteams.
The league plans to host a workshop forum led by Burke for all club officials and player representatives to attend and provide it with feedback on its current female football programs.
Surveys will be given to all participants and clubs to provide feedback into the development of the strategy.
A Deer Park chemical manufacturer has been fined after a team from Environment Protection Authority Victoria undertook a compliance audit and investigated breaches of its licence following a report of a strong odour from its Ballarat Road plant.
The smell wasn’t the only thing that left Hexion, with $9880 of the company’s money going to pay a fine for failing to report the incident to the environmental regulator.
EPA western metropolitan regional manager Carly McGregor said when the odour was reported on April 2, an EPA team was on site within hours.
“There’s a clear message for any business with an EPA licence or permission,” she said.
“That licence comes with conditions designed to protect the environment and the community. The conditions are backed by the law and must be taken seriously.
“In this case, the first calls came from members of the public, an EPA team was on the premises the same day and launched an examination of all aspects of the company’s compliance with its licence. The facility operates under an EPA operating licence and one of the conditions of the licence is that it must report any breaches immediately.”
EPAofficersarenowassessingwhether to issue a regulatory notice requiring the company to make improvements to reduce the risk of future leaks.
By Paul Thomas Star Weekly managing director
In the final days of the federal election campaign, Peter Dutton’s decision to lash out at the media was not just desperate, it was dangerous. Labelling the ABC and Guardian Australia as “hate media” and accusing journalists of being “activists” rather than reporters echoed the tired, toxic playbook of Donald Trump: when you’re behind, don’t reflect, just shout “fake news”.
Australians saw through that. No amount of spin, deflection or blame shifting could hide the truth. Voters rejected the Coalition’s message. Shooting the messenger doesn’t change the message.
Media scrutiny is not the enemy of democracy; it’s the oxygen that keeps it alive. A free press questions power, challenges spin and asks uncomfortable questions. That’s not bias, that’s journalism.
Sure, when journalists get something wrong, call it out. Point to it. Demand a
Paul Thomas.
correction. Any credible newsroom will make one. But blanket accusations, unsubstantiated claims and outright falsehoods aimed at delegitimising the media are not just cheap politics, they actively erode trust in institutions that underpin democracy.
We see this tactic far too often, not just at a federal level but in local councils, including one our newsroom currently covers. Rather than engaging with the facts or addressing legitimate public concerns, some in power choose the easy path: Attack the media. But in doing so, they expose themselves, not the journalists.
That’s why strong local media matters now more than ever. Local newspapers and newsrooms remain one of the last truly independent and accountable sources of community information. They report on councils, expose local corruption, celebrate community success and give a voice to residents. Yet their very survival is under threat.
Digital platforms and social media have stripped local media of its commercial foundations, and worse, they have helped legitimise the kind of rhetoric Dutton and Trump rely on. By feeding audiences personalised echo chambers and monetising outrage, they have weakened the public’s trust in credible journalism, while doing little to
support its production.
Those who benefit from journalism must also help sustain it, and that includes the massive digital tech companies who have profited enormously from republishing, aggregating and monetising news content without paying fair value.
Now, artificial intelligence platforms are doing the same, scraping content, harvesting the work of journalists and training their models on material they never paid for. It’s the same pattern we’ve seen for years with social media - extract the value, deny responsibility, and undermine the industry you depend on. This cannot continue. Everyone who profits from journalism must help fund it. That includes readers, advertisers, governments - and yes, the tech giants and AI developers whose empires have been built in part on the work of others.
On Saturday, Australians made it clear they won’tbefooledbyleaderswhoblameeveryone but themselves. Let’s hope they also recognise the essential role of a strong, independent media and are willing to fight for its future.
For some woman, pregnancy can trigger around-the-clock nausea and vomiting leading to weight loss, malnutrition and dehydration. The debilitating condition is known as hyperemesis gravidarum – or HG for short. Thursday, May 15 is international hyperemesis awareness day – a day dedicated to advocating for better treatment and a cure for HG. Laura Michell shares her experience of living with HG twice.
Imagine having gastro-like symptoms for nine months, battling to keep down a glass of water and most foods.
Now imagine being pregnant at the same time,becausethat’swhatitisliketosufferfrom hyperemesis gravidarum (HG).
Hyperemesisisa“potentiallylife-threatening condition that may cause weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration, and debility due to severe nausea and/or vomiting, and may cause long-term health issues for mother and baby(ies)”, according to The HER Foundation, a global charity advocating for better HG awareness and treatment.
It’s believed the condition affects between one and three percent of pregnancies and has a recurrence rate of about 80 per cent.
Recent research suggests there is a genetic component to the condition.
I’ve been unfortunate enough to suffer from it in both my pregnancies until I gave birth.
Looking back at my most recent pregnancy in2023,Iwasn’tfullyawareofjusthowunwellI was. It’s with the benefit of hindsight that I can see I was really just surviving day-to-day.
So, what’s it like to actually suffer from HG?
In my experience, nausea and vomiting were worst parts of the condition. I took a cocktail of drugs three times a day to keep the nausea, vomiting, and acid reflux under control.
Without them, I would never have ben able to leave my bathroom.
BeforeIfoundtherightmixofmedications,I wasnauseous24-7andeverythingIatewasjust about guaranteed to come back up.
OnceIfoundtherightmedications,Istillhad to lock myself in my bedroom at the other end of our house while food was being cooked and eaten until I was well into my second trimester. Then there were food aversions.
While other pregnant women carefully follow eating guidelines, giving up soft cheese and sushi for nine months, I struggled to find foods I could actually keep down.
I couldn’t eat meat, most vegetables, or anything sweet.
I survived on buttered toast and two-minute noodles – hardly a nourishing diet - and some days even those ‘safe foods’ would fail me.
I couldn’t even keep a glass of water down, whichmadehydrationanongoingbattle.Ioften
needed IV fluids to reverse my dehydration.
As you can imagine, all of these things combinedmadeitdifficulttogoabouteveryday life.
When you are constantly nauseous and on the verge of dehydration, everyday tasks like taking care of your family, cleaning your house, or working become too much to handle.
As a result, I have missed out on a lot. In my second pregnancy, HG left me with less time to play with my son or take him on outings, less quality family time, and missed family functions, including a wedding and significant birthdays.
While missing out on all those moments wasn’t been ideal, these decisions have been necessary to keep me out of hospital and well enough to function on a basic level.
Working with HG, especially in weeks nine to 12 – referred to as ‘the death zone’ by sufferers because that is when symptoms are at their worst – can be almost impossible. It is very difficult to concentrate and give your job your all when all you want to do is throw up and sleep.
Showing up to work each day meant I spend my evenings and weekends bed-ridden, recoveringfromtheexhaustionofworkingand relying on my husband, Tim, to look after me and our son, Harrison.
Tim did all the cooking and the majority of the household chores and kept Harrison
entertained, all while trying to work himself.
My parents religiously visited us every Saturday to help clean, entertain Harrison, and cook batches of whatever meals I thought I might be able to tolerate that week.
For many HG sufferers, one of the most frustrating parts of the condition is the lack of awareness about hyperemesis.
For the most part, people don’t understand just how debilitating the condition can be unless they have suffered from HG or watched a loved one go through it.
As a result, HG can be a very isolating condition.
It can be very hard for people to grasp the
extent of the condition and well-meaning friends and family often tried me to ‘just try and drink some water’ or ‘try some ginger’ without really understanding why they weren’t going to stop the sickness.
It is also widely misunderstood by medical professionals.
Iencounteredplentyofdoctors,pharmacists, and midwives across my two pregnancies who were dismissive – one GP in my first pregnancy told me “vomiting is part of life – get used to it” – or reluctant to offer the medication, fluids and intervention I needed to survive.
But, I also found there is a community of HG sufferers past and present who lend their support to one another on the Hyperemesis Gravidarum Support Australia Facebook page, helping you feel like you are not going through this alone, while charity Hyperemesis Australia has a wealth of resources to help get you through.
After my first pregnancy, I honestly didn’t think I had it in me to face HG a second time. And while I did, I definitely know I cannot make through a third HG pregnancy.
To this day, the slightest bit of nausea sends meintoapanicandvomitingelicitsanextreme fear response.
Myhopenowisthatbythetimemydaughter has her own children, researchers will have found a way to treat and manage the condition so she doesn’t have to suffer.
By Laura Michell
“We maybe don’t have a cure and the meds might be hit and miss, but it is possible for HG sufferers to receive empathy and care – and fluids!”
That desire to ensure women suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) are taken seriously and receive a standard level of care, regardless of where they live, their background orsocio-economicstatuswasoneofthedriving forces behind Caitlin Kay-Smith’s decision to found the charity Hyperemesis Australia.
Ms Kay-Smith suffered HG for the first time when she was pregnant with her daughter in late 2017-18.
HG is characterised by severe and persistent nausea and vomiting that impacts the daily life of sufferers. It often leads to substantial weight loss and dehydration, with sufferers unable to eat or drink properly.
Ms Kay-Smith began struggling with the condition when she was about seven or eight weeks pregnant and was hospitalised for the first time at nine weeks.
She spent the next 30 weeks moving between her bed and the emergency department, never really receiving the care she needed and deserved – and never being told that there was actually a name for what she was experiencing.
“If I had more energy, I would have been enraged,” she said.
“IwassurprisedIwasexperiencingthisthing that everyone was telling me was absolutely
normal or would end soon.”
In the late stages of her pregnancy, Ms Kay-Smith found a Facebook group of fellow sufferers and UK charity Pregnancy Sickness
Support – and realised that she wasn’t alone.
“That was a light bulb moment,“ she said,
“There was a name for what was happening tome…anditwasn’tOKanditwasn’tnormal.”
After the birth of her daughter, Ms Kay-Smith turned her thoughts to establishing an Australian hyperemesis charity.
Having emailed a “laundry list of the ways they failed me” to her delivery hospital – resulting in changes to how the hospital managed HG – Ms Kay-Smith realised it was possible to make a difference.
“That made me realise that for every person I had met along the way who had been wilfully dismissive … there were … people who just didn’t know any better,” she said.
Hyperemesis Australia was set up in August 2018 and gained charitable status in January
2019. Since then, Ms Kay-Smith has worked to educate people about HG and empower sufferers and their loved ones to advocate for better care.
“So many of us are told this is a normal thing that happens,“ she said.
The charity also provides advice on treatment, diet and nutrition, mental health, postpartum recovery and how to support someone with HG.
Ms Kay-Smith said sufferers often reach out “in the depth of despair” asking for advice. They are directed to the Society of Obstetric Medicine of Australia and New Zealand (SOMANZ) guidelines on HG.
While the guidelines are “hard for practitioners to dismiss”, they are not used by hospital, obstetrician or GP around the country.
Ms Kay-Smith said Australia needed statewide guidelines on medications for HG and treatment options such as IV fluids –which sufferers regularly report being refused – to ensure a standard level of care.
She also wants an end to the “doubt or scepticism“ women face when presenting to hospitals, GPs or pharmacies for treatment, and for it to be acknowledged that HG is a condition that needs a significant level of care.
“I would like to get to a place where no womanchangesthenumberofchildrenshehas because of HG,” she said.
“A place where no woman feels the need to end the pregnancy because of HG.
“These are not huge asks.”
Ms Kay-Smith said the HG community was “very realistic” and wasn’t expecting a magical cure to be found, but just wanted to be heard and properly cared for.
“We are just asking for a bag of fluids.” Details: https://www.hyperemesisaustralia. org.au
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
Africa’s Got Talent
Africa’s Got Talent is a vibrant, youth-led capacity-building initiative that celebrates the artistic and cultural talents of African-Australian youth. Held annually by Africa Day Australia, the showcase brings together the best emerging performers from across Victoria through a series of auditions that highlight creativity, passion, and cultural pride. It’s on Saturday, May 24, 5.30-9.30pm at the Bowery Theatre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans.
africadayaustralia.org/
Over 50’s club
The Keilor Over 50’s Recreation Club meets at Kealba Hall, 24 McShane Drive, Kealba, on Tuesdays from 10am-3pm and Wednesdays from 7-10pm. Have a coffee and a chat, play social table tennis, pool and card games, go on organised outings and enjoy barbecues. First two visits are free then annual membership fees apply.
Graeme, 0404 809 640, keilorover50@ gmail.com, or www.keilorover50.com.au
Jobs showcase
Looking for your next job opportunity? Visit the Visy Cares Hub on Wednesday, May 14, from 1-5pm to connect with employers, training providers, and industry experts at the Brimbank Local Jobs Showcase. Explore local job opportunities in food manufacturing, retail, leisure, local government and more. Meet employers, connect with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), explore career pathways, ask questions, and even apply on the spot. At 80b Harvester Road, Sunshine.
www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1350481
Keilor Park Tennis Club social night
Join the club on Monday nights for a free social hit and get to know other club members. All levels are welcome. Female players are also required for Thursday competition 10am-2pm and also for the B grade mixed team on Wednesday, 7- 9pm.
keilorparktennis@gmail.com
Brimbank Book Group
Be inspired by thought-provoking books with a group of like-minded, literary fans with our Brimbank Book Group. All welcomed. This group, for adults, meets
on the first Monday of the month, from 2-3pm at Deer Park Library. Bookings are not essential, but please feel free to register your interest if you’d like to receive a reminder email.
library@brimbank.vic.gov.au
Create & Chat
Dig out your craft projects and get inspiration from fellow like-minded crafters with the Create & Chat sessions at Sunshine Library from 10-11am on the first Tuesday of every month. All skill levels are welcome.
library@brimbank.vic.gov.au
Women working together
A program connecting women aged 50
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of blacksmiths Steve Phillips (left) and Robbie Alderson preparing for the 2025 Blacksmiths Festival in Footscray on May 17-18. (Damjan Janevski) 475625_01
and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Brimbank.
9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.
0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@outlook.com
A night out under the stars is set to be a family affair for Sunshine Heights Football Club’s outdoor movie event.
The club has opened its junior fundraiser on May 24 to the community and is hoping that people of all ages will come along and enjoy the night. at Ainsworth Reserve.
Junior coordinator Hailey Attard said they want to get their juniors involved in their fundraising event.
“It’s catered for all ages,” she said. “We do junior functions in the past and have done things like trivia nights and have been pretty much for the parents.
“I kind of wanted to do something kid orientated.
“I seen it advertised on line and took it to the committee and they all loved it and we’re running with it.
Attard said all the families at the club were excited and had posted the event in school newsletters as well.
They are now opening it up for the wider community.
Attard said they were hoping a night like this would encourage more people to get involved with the club.
“Hopefully we can get more juniors involved
in the season as well,” she said. “The cut of for registration isn’t after until after the movie night.
“Hopefully they all come to the ground and they see hey this is actually family orientated club. They are more likely to join our junior sides as well.
The decision on what movie will be shown is still to be decided, but there were hoping it would be a movie that caters for all ages.
Tickets are $15 per person and it includes a bean bag, some popcorn and fairy floss.
Tickets have to be purchased by May 17.
Details: 0450 998 456
Nine Asian elephants are running loose in the middle of Werribee and there is a mad rush to confirm their whereabouts. While that first sentence is misleading, it’s not entirely false. To celebrate the recent opening of Werribee Open Range Zoo’s (WROZ) new Elephant Trail, there are nine elephants hidden in the business windows in Werribee city centre. Along Watton Street and between Wedge Street and Cherry Street, the tiny counterparts of the multi-tonne grey titans are waiting to be spotted.
The self-guided activity can be done on any date or time during the competition period–and with anyone.
In February, moving the nine elephants that now live in their new oasis at Werribee Zoo took an incredible logistics team of 21 elephant zookeepers, veterinarians and the support of cranes and trucks.
Once you find one of their mini-mes, make sure to scan one of the QR codes in the vicinity and enter their whereabouts on the site.
If you manage to find all nine, you’ll enter
Renowned Footscray percussionist Ray Pereira and his band The Mouth will be previewing their new album at Kindred Studios in Yarraville later this month.
Pereira along with The Mouth co-founder Julien Wilson on saxophone, Robbie Bellchamber on guitar, Quinn Knight on drums and Ashleigh Howell on bass, will perform Afro Cuban, African and Sri Lankan grooves from the as yet untitled new album on Saturday, May 24.
Proving too much percussion is never enough,Pereira’s50piece-yes,50-community drumming ensemble ’Drum Nation’ will also be performing at the gig, which will be held at thesamevenuewheretheyhaveweeklyAfrican and Afro Cuban drumming classes with one of the leading authorities in the field.
Pereira has been a percussionist for more
than 30 years and has performed and recorded across Australia and around the world.
In 2021 and Pereira received an Order of Australia medal (OAM) for his services to music, while he’s also been chosen as part of the ‘Face of Footscray’ initiative at the new Footscray Hospital.
When not playing with The Mouth or teaching, Pereira runs drumming and dance study tours to locations such as Ghana, Sri Lanka and South Africa.
But at 7pm on Saturday, May 24, he’ll be onstage in the inner-west doing what he does best: getting his groove on.
The Mouth live album preview show is supported by Maribyrnong council’s ‘Love Your West’ grants program.
The band’s new album will be released later this year.
the draw to win a family prize pack valued at more than $800.
The ‘staycation’ prize includes a WROZ family pass, a night at Holiday Inn for two adults and two children and $300 worth of vouchers at local restaurants.
It might not be the world-class 21-hectare trail that the crew at the zoo live at, but it is far from shabby.
Entries close at 10am on Saturday, May 31. Fill in your entries at: https://www. visitwerribee.com/findtheelephants
Crooks, clowns, and crab fishing all feature in an entertaining radio play set to be performed in Bacchus Marsh this month.
Written and directed by Bruce Carboon and performed by Bacchus Marsh community theatre group Moonlite Theatre Company, the Maltese Chicken tells the story of Richard (Dick) Pain and his trusted pianist, Fang Chew, who flee a Moroccan port city fearing retribution after a Nazi influencer, Freu Schlitz, is mysteriously killed.
They settle in the quiet seaside crab fishing village of Dodgy Bay, and Richard embarks on a new profession – a private eye.
Overnight, their world is upended as a gang of international villains and undesirables descend on Dodgy Bay in search of the precious statuette – The Maltese Chicken.
As Dodgy Bay becomes a haven for murder,mayhem,andunrequitedlove, will Dick survive and get his hands on the priceless Maltese Chicken?
A good old-fashioned radio play set in the 1950s, performances will be held from 8pm on Friday, May 16, and from 2pm and 8pm on Saturday, May 17 at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19 Gisborne Road, Bacchus Marsh.
Tickets cost $20.
The Moonlite Theatre Company began in 2017 after a group of local residents united to start an amateur theatre group in Bacchus Marsh.
Details: trybooking.com/DAYTF
This week the world’s eyes will be on Basel, Switzerland where performers from all over Europe plus Australia are gathering for the 69th Eurovision Song Contest, screening here live and in prime time from 14-18 May exclusively on SBS and SBS On Demand.
Baselcanlookbackonmorethan2000years of history - there has been a settlement there since Celtic times. Its geographic location between Vosges, the Black Forest and the Jura Mountains gives the city an exceptional amount of sunshine and one of the warmest climates in Switzerland.
But with the world’s biggest song contest in town, the historic city’s population –usually about 190,000 - is expected to swell as thousands of people from all over the world arrive to watch the 36 contestants, including Australia’s own Go-Jo (Marty Zambotto), compete for the coveted glass trophy.
There is no permanent home for the contest which is hosted by the country that wins the year before with the host city chosen from a group of bidding cities – competition is fierce with international exposure on the line and so when Switzerland’s Nemo won in Mamo, Sweden in May 2025 Basel, Bern, Geneva, and Zurich all officially declared their interest.
Eurovision fans wait with bated breath to see where it will be and are quick to book tickets and accommodation when the host city is announced. And while last year 2.2 million Australians watched Eurovision on television in 2024 – there were hundreds maybethousandsmoreonthegroundsoaking up the atmosphere.
Going to Eurovision is a holy grail for many – something that long-time Sydney-based fan Henry Yau and his wife Lauren Davis finally achieved two years ago when Liverpool hosted for war-torn Ukraine. It was a long-held ambition for Henry, who had been a fan since 2004, originally planning to go to Rotterdam in 2020.
“Having been a fan for as long as I have, I suppose it had always been on the bucket list. And so, when we were planning the wedding and the honeymoon to follow – and given that my wife Lauren is also a fan, thanks to my influence – it sort of became an opportunity to actually go there and do something,” he said.
“We needed something as extravagant and celebratory as a honeymoon to kind of justify the not-insignificant expense of the international travel, as well as the tickets to the event itself. And of course, for the past few years Eurovision has been hosted in countries that tend to not be particularly affordable to travel to, and then you add Eurovision on top
of that….
“But my wife and I got married in March of 2020. So, we were originally planning on going to the Rotterdam contest – with the idea of spending a week in the Netherlands, a week in Germany and a week in the UK –and that fell through. We weren’t really feeling comfortable with the international travel for a few years after that, which meant that we ended up going to Liverpool 2023 instead.”
Of course, Eurovision wasn’t the only reason for Henry and Lauren choosing the UK for their honeymoon.
“It certainly wasn’t the only drawcard,
because both my wife and I are big Anglophiles,” he explained.
“There were plenty of things going on in the UK that we were very keen on –pop culture stuff, just lots of little nerdy things that we’re interested in.
“TheUKwasalwaysgoingtobeonthecards for our honeymoon, even before we knew they were hosting, because there was so much stuff that we were interested in that we wanted to check out. So, we spent time in Manchester, in Liverpool, in Cardiff, in some more village-y parts of the south of England, and in London.
“I’m not sure if we would have visited Liverpool necessarily if Eurovision had been hosted in some other part of the country, but that said, the time that we spent there, it seemed like a really lovely place. Like we’re not Beatles fans particularly, but just the fact that we’re big Doctor Who fans, and there have been some scenes and episodes shot in Liverpool, meant that we were able to knock that out – two big things in the one city.”
Liverpool’s event was a special moment for Eurovision – a real coming together with UK hosting geographically but culturally the event was about Ukraine.
“TherewereallthesereallylovelyUkrainian cultural touches dotted throughout the city, with Eurovillage at Liverpool Pier Head being the kind of centrepiece for that,” he said. He said the circumstances made the event “really something special.”
And was being emersed in the Eurovision culture what he expected?
“There’s a big difference between watching it at home, and maybe talking about it with some mates or colleagues afterwards, and seeing how an entire community can get behind this event,” Henry said.
“Ithinkthesheerscaleofthat–eventhough you sit at home and you’re aware that there are people that are really passionate about it, and there’s a huge community, and there are lots of fans, and it brings a lot of people together –you’re not really prepared for the scale of how it impacts things.”
IS it time for Switzerland? What does the name summon up? Pristine Swiss Alps, chocolate tasting, panoramic sightseeing cruises, cable cars, glaciers, train rides through the alps, glaciers, chalets, and fondue?
Anyone who has travelled to Switzerland will agree the reality is every bit as good as the guidebooks say and by far one of the most stunning and luxurious ways to explore this pristine country is with Viking.
From the Rhine River, Viking offers unparalleled journeys through Switzerland to discover the country’s scenic beauty among the Alps.
Whether it’s a Basel walking tour or a day spent among the rich culture of alpine Switzerland with a drive to the charming village of Brienz travellers never fail to thrill at the beauty of the country.
Holidaymakers can pedal through the beautiful Alsatian countryside, following its famous wine route to quaint villages.
Savour the taste of Switzerland with a delicious cheese fondue dining experience. Fondue is a meal of bread dipped into a hot pot of cheese flavoured with garlic and a dash of wine and is synonymous with Switzerland.
Derived from the French word fonder, meaning “to melt,” fondue has its origins in the 18th century as a way for Swiss farmers to stretch their limited food stocks during the winter months.
From its simple origins, fondue has become a winter tradition and the national dish of Switzerland.
Guests of the Viking Rhine and Main Explorer cruise can experience this tradition. Travellers leave their stunning rooms onboard toboardatramforashortridetooneofBasel’s Beiz to dine on national and local dishes. Swiss hosts love to show guests more about cheese fondue as they dip their bread into the mouthwatering concoction, accompanied by a glass of white wine or beer and a shot of Kirsch.
Take the opportunity to explore Zürich’s charm with its stunning lake setting and exceptional architecture with scenic alpine views from the traditional Swiss town of Lucerne.
Viking guests can take advantage of extension tours before or after selected cruises with a favourite being the four Nights in Geneva and Zermatt extension which is an ideal option for those seeking to take in more of the beauty of the region.
On this extension guests have the chance to breathe in the pure mountain air of Zermatt, a
car-free haven high in the Alps set at the foot of the famed Matterhorn and explore the rich culture and stunning setting of Geneva.
The Glacier Express train from Zurich to Zermatt passes through dramatic mountain tunnels, and up and down alpine slopes with breathtaking vistas and soaring peaks, and wide green valleys.
Guests rest for the night at the Resort Hotel Alex, Zermatt before they jump on board a cogwheel train to the summit of Gornergrat.
Strollitsnarrowlaneslinedwithchalet-style buildings and venture into the surrounding countryside, with its high meadows and breathtaking views.
On day three head to Lausanne to enjoy the impressive Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, the largest continuous vineyard in Switzerland.
TasteChasselaswinewithlunchthentravelon to Geneva for a two-night stay at the elegant Intercontinental in spacious, well-appointed accommodation within walking distance to the Botanical Gardens.
Another extension choice is ‘Five Nights in the Swiss Alps’ where guests explore Switzerland’s renowned lakeside cities of Zürich, Lucerne, and Geneva.
Guests love the two-night cruise extension in Basel where they discover the city that stands at the point where France, Germany and Switzerland meet.
Here travellers can enjoy the lovely Middle Bridge, the Basel Cathedral and the winding cobblestone streets lined with medieval houses and colourful fountains and explore the museums and art galleries.
The opportunities are endless and now is time to talk to one the Viking staff about a trip to Switzerland in 2025.
For further information please visit www. viking.com or phone 138 747 to plan the trip of a lifetime.
Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or vice versa
Uncover the history, culture and traditions of the world’s most captivating destinations – for less.
Our voyages are meticulously crafted to offer you immersive experiences, exceptional service and everything you need included.
Save up to 30% on selected river and ocean voyages booked by 30 June 2025*.
15 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES | 16 GUIDED TOURS
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From $10,595pp in French Balcony
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12 DAYS | 1 COUNTRY | 11 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAY-JUN, AUG-DEC 2025; JAN-JUN, AUG-DEC 2026; 2027
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Complimentary escorted tours of Iguazu Falls
Includes specialty dining, drinks*, Wi-Fi & gratuities
Iguazu
Buenos
Santiago
Includes
30 Nights | 13 February 2026 | Prices fr $14,899pp
Explore the wonders of Antarctica and South America, from the mighty Iguazu Falls and Christ the Redeemer to the Glaciers of the Chilean Fjords.
Your holiday begins in Santiago, where you’ll enjoy a one-night hotel stay before embarking the luxurious Oceania Marina for a 20-night, all-inclusive voyage. Enjoy two days cruising through the Chilean Fjords, where shimmering glaciers cleave between snow-capped mountains. Explore the vibrant cultures of Punta Arenas and Ushuaia before you reach Antarctica for four days of scenic cruising.
Disembarking in Buenos Aires, the ‘Paris of South America’, you’ll enjoy a two-night hotel stay before flying to Iguazu Falls for an immersive tour from both its Argentinian and Brazilian sides. Finally, your holiday culminates in Rio de Janeiro, where you’ll ascend Corcovado Mountain to stand at the feet of Christ the Redeemer.
Ushuaia
Towering icebergs, dramatic glaciers, and snow-capped mountains create a mesmerising backdrop for wildlife encounters on the Antarctic Peninsula. Marvel at colonies of penguins, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat, and spot majestic whales swimming in the icy waters.
Your holiday includes
Full Board Cruise
20 night full board cruise on board Marina
Visiting: Santiago, Puerto Montt, Castro, Puerto Chacabuco, Chilean Fjords (scenic cruising), Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Drake Passage (scenic cruising), Antarctic Peninsula (scenic cruising), Port Stanley, Puerto Madryn, Buenos Aires (overnight in port)
Complimentary Specialty Dining, Drinks*, Wi-Fi & Gratuities
One of two larger ships in the fleet, Oceania Marina takes advantage of increased space aboard to cra grand interiors with dramatic, unforgettable touches. The Lalique Grand Staircase will linger long in your memory as a stunning visual centrepiece.
Hotel Stays
Four-star hotel stays in Santiago and Rio de Janeiro
Five-star hotel stays in Buenos Aires and Iguazu
All hotel stays include breakfast
Escorted Tours
Complimentary walking tour of Iguazu Falls including both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of the falls
Tour of Christ the Redeemer
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers Overnight flights
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.
ACROSS
1 One who believes in sharing evenly amongst the community (9)
6 Majestic (4)
10 Possessive pronoun (3)
11 Notorious dispute (11)
12 Of cooking (8)
13 Situate (6)
14 Without (arch) (4)
15 Hitchhiker'sGuide author, – Adams (7)
20 Enterprise (7)
21 Not genuine (4)
25 Invisible (6)
26 Tied up (8)
28 Offender (11)
29 Special effects (1,1,1)
30 US university (4)
31 Not at all sleepy (4-5)
DOWN
1 Patience (8)
2 US state, North – (8)
3 Climb (6)
4 Closest to the centre (9)
5 Duration (4)
7 Package (6)
8 Wild dog native to North America (6)
9 Infested (7)
16 Clothed (9)
17 Erased (7)
18 US actress who portrayed Allison Dubois, – Arquette (8)
19 News title (8)
22 Provide, furnish (6)
23 Of the stars (6)
24 Himalayan mountain person (6)
27 The bow of a ship (4)
The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, UK is home to which annual tournament? 3 In Norse mythology, what is the name for the world tree?
4 Elizabeth Barrett Browning was an English a) poet, b) singer or c) actress?
5 What does the phrase ‘per contra’ mean?
6 TheJazzSinger (1927) starring Al Jolson was the first of what
7 In what year did the division of Korea take place?
8 Which famous gem was extracted from the Kollur Mine in Guntur, India in the 17th century?
9 What is the name of the town in the Netflix TV series StrangerThings? 10 Karen Gillan (pictured) plays which character in the Marvel cinematic universe?
1. Which women’s ruby sevens team defeated Australia to win the Los Angeles leg of the 2024–25 World Rugby SVNS series?
2. In what place did Australian racing driver Oscar Piastri finish the 2025 Miami Formula One Grand Prix?
3. Which tennis professional ended her four-year title drought by winning the final of the 2025 L’Open 35 de
4. Kagiso Rabada last played for which country’s mens national cricket team?
5. Why do PWHL jerseys feature the sponsor at the top and player name at the bottom?
6. In what place did Australian racing cyclist Jay Vine finish at the end of the 2025 Tour de Romandie?
7. Until stepping down recently, Gregg Popovich was head coach of which NBA team?
Steven May and Dion Prestia last played for which AFL clubs respectively?
Adelaide Lightning last competed in which professional women’s sporting league?
T-Rac the raccoon is the costumed mascot for which NFL team?
Half of the Fox Sports duo Fletch and Hindy, Nathan Hindmarsh previously captained which NRL team?
12. In which year was the Women’s Baseball Asian Cup founded?
13. Which Matildas forward is out for the season after rupturing her ACL in a Manchester City game?
14. What is considered the most popular sport in the world?
15. The cricket news website and app Cricbuzz is from which country?
16. Which former NBA player was nicknamed ‘Agent Zero’?
17. Endurance race designer Gary Cantrell is more commonly known by what name?
18. How old is Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who recently became the youngest centurion in men’s Twenty20 cricket?
19. Which Australian NBA player was recently bestowed the ‘Most Improved Player’ award?
20.And what team does he play for?
21. Tennis returned to the Olympics as a full medal sport in what year?
22.Which sport was the focus of the first episode David Duchovny wrote and directed for The X-Files?
23.On a standard dartboard, which two numbers are at the top and bottom?
24.The Crichton Medal is the best and fairest award for which AFL team?
25.How many riders will line up for the start of the 2025 Tour de France?
26.Which sport is the Vezina Trophy awarded in?
27. And who is it awarded to?
28.WMF stands for what?
29. ‘The Cavs’ is the nickname of which American sports team?
30.Perth will hold which major WWE event later on this year?
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
The futuristic-looking K4 is a replacement for the Kia Cerato.
But, for the time being at least, both are offered for sale by the South Korean car manufacturer. At this stage we get the sedan but not the hatch, which will probably turn up later in the year.
Kia says the change of name brings the K4 into line with the rest of the world, where it has already adopted the same naming strategy: K3 (Kia Rio), K5 (Optima) and K8 (Cadenza) and K9 (K900). Only the tiny Picanto remains.
At a time when many car manufacturers are dumping sedans, it is interesting to note that Kia has chosen to continue with the K4, which like the Cerato is a larger small car - but this time at a higher price.
Styling
K4 embraces Kia’s latest design language with bold, sporty lines and sleek, fastback style, with a lower roofline and lower beltline than its predecessor.
Inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, it employs vertical front headlights and daytime running lights at the outer edges to accentuate the wide stance.
K4 also incorporates Kia’s signature ‘Star-Map’ front and rear lighting graphics to align with the brand’s latest ‘Tiger Face’ styling.
Concealed rear door handles, integrated into the C-pillars, reinforce the coupe appearance, while black wheel arch cladding and wheel ranging in size from 16 to 18-inches add to the sporty stance.
From the back, K4 exudes a powerful presence punctuated by vertical tail lights and longer overhangs, plus a raked rear windscreen and air diffuser on GT-Line. K4comesinfivegrades,pricedfrom$30,590. There’s the entry-level K4 S ($30,590), K4 S w/ Safety Pack ($32,690), K4 Sport ($35,190), K4 Sport+ ($37,590) and K4 GT-Line ($42,990). They mirror Cerato grades but cost more, in the case of GT-Line $6130 more. Clear White is the only colour that isn’t extra.
Our test vehicle, the K4 Sport+ costs $5380 more than the Cerato it replaces. Sport+ is kitted out with 17-inch alloys, artificial leather upholstery, two-zone climate air with rear vents, solar shield glass windscreen, heated front seats, six-way power driver seat adjustment, smart key with remote and push-button start, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, intelligent speed limit assist, auto high beam, auto lights and wipers, auto-dimming rear view mirror, front and rear parking sensors and heated, power-folding exterior mirrors.
In this model a sweeping dashboard display incorporates a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and second 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, separated by a 5.0-inch climate screen - all housed within the one assembly. K4 is covered by the company’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty together with sevenyearsofcappedpriceservicing,roadside assistance and Connected Services.
Infotainment includes personalised user profiles, Bluetooth, satellite navigation, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, Sounds of Nature background noise, wireless and wired CarPlay and Android Auto, plus six-speaker audio.
GT-Line adds a Harman Kardon eight-speaker system.
The system also supports over-the-air updatesandKiaConnecttelematics,including auto SOS call, control some functions, vehicle status monitoring and you can even send an address directly from the app to the vehicle navigation system.
There are four USB-C outlets, two in front and another two in the back, plus a 12 volt outlet in the front, but only GT-Line offers wireless phone charging.
Access is complimentary for the duration of the warranty.
The car is yet to be tested and receive a crash rating from the ANCAP organisation, but comes with a full suite of safety systems.
All models get seven airbags, a reversing camera with dynamic guidelines and all-important automatic emergency braking (AEB).
Standard are Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go functionality, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Lane Follow Assist (LFA), Multi-Collision Braking (MCB), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Rear View Monitor (RVM) and High Beam Assist (HBA).
The Safety Pack adds Junction Turning & Crossing plus Direct/Oncoming Lane Change Detection functionality.
Sport+upstheantewithKia’slatestHighway Driving Assist 2, with stop-and-go capability, combining with Lane Following Assist (LFA) to keep K4 centred in the lane even when driving through a curve, while HDA 2 adds Lane Change Assist (LCA), allowing the K4 to autonomouslychangelaneswhentherequired conditions are met.
There are three child seat tethers and two ISOFix anchor points.
Engines/transmissions
Sport+ is powered by a carry-over 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four cylinder engine that develops 112kW of power and 192Nm of torque, together with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Driving
The new, five-seat sedan is more rigid and with reduced noise, vibration and harshness thanks to the use of high-strength steel and reinforced sound insulation.
K4 measures 4710mm long, 1850mm wide and 1425mm high, with a 2720mm wheelbase.
Inside, those dimensions convert to more space, especially with respect to rear legroom which has grown by 56mm.
Front seat occupants benefit from increased head and shoulder room.
Additionally, K4 boasts an increase in boot space over its predecessor, with the sedan offering 508-litres (a lot more with the rear seat backs folded forward).
The spare is a steel space saver.
K4 embraces Kia’s ongoing efforts in sustainability, incorporating the use of the brand’s 10 ‘must-have’ sustainability items, includingPPandBioPEplastic,PostConsumer Material (PCM), Bio PU Leather, Bio PU foam, BioPaint,BTX-freePaint,RecycledPETYarns, and Recycled PET Felt.
S, Sport and Sport+ are all powered by a carry-over 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four cylinder engine, together with a six-speed automatic transmission, that develops 112kW of power and 192Nm of torque, and uses a claimed 7.4L/100km.
GT-Line scores a more powerful 1.6-litre turbochargedunitandaCVT-basedeight-speed auto, that generates 142kW and 264Nm, with consumption rated at 6.7L/100km.
One wonders why a self-charging hybrid is not offered, but that would obviously bump up already inflated prices.
With a 47-litre tank, both engines take standard unleaded and we averaged 6.4L/100km after 470km of mixed driving in a week.
There are three drive modes from which to choose: Sport, Normal or Eco to suit your driving preferences.
GT-Line also gets beefier brakes and a more sophisticated rear suspension setup.
Six years ago, I praised the then Cerato Sport for its performance.
Although fitted with the same 2.0-litre engine as the K4, there was nothing dull or lifeless about the naturally aspirated engine.
“It’s a willing worker that likes to rev and evenproducesahealthynotewhenyou’rereally going for it,” I wrote back in 2019.
The same holds good for the current K4 Sport+ that we drove recently.
Ride and handling are particularly well-sorted, thanks to Kia’s local tuning program.
But the drive experience is somewhat spoiled by a down-market, polyurethane steering wheel that becomes irksome over time.
You’ll read a lot of reviews urging punters to skip this model and put their money into the turbocharged GT-Line, even if it does carry a $5400 premium.
But most of them are written by privileged young blokes who have become used to driving top-specmodelsandcravetheextrapowerthey bring.
Older,lessdemandingbuyersaremoreeasily satisfied.
At this end of the market that is a huge difference in price and one that many buyers will simply not be able to afford.
Yes, the turbo is quicker. Yes, the turbo is better for overtaking. And yes, the turbo even uses less bloody fuel.
However,arealitycheckrevealstheSport+is still a nice bit of kit.
Summing up
K4 is a better car than the Cerato, but the Cerato sold on price and value for money.
The extra cost of the K4 could see it slip from favour if Kia is not careful.
As the saying goes: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it (and it ain’t).
The sun was out and so were the fans as local sport seasons continued to heat up. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica
was out shooting some of the action.
The Western Warriors did just enough to come away with the win against the Peninsula Waves in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday night.
The winless Waves pushed the Warriors all the way and didn’t let them get away.
The Warriors led at every break and were able to hold on to win, 53-51.
Warriors coach Kim Bailey was just happy to take the win.
“It was more difficult than we thought,” she said. “They were chaotic and disruptive tonight [Wednesday]andwemostlikelydidn’trespond to that chaos.
“We were up most of the game, I think they drew level once. We are strong enough and composed enough to take those wins.
“We weren’t at our best and they played very well. We’ll take the four points, and I’m very happy with that.”
Bailey said that composure had come through winning a couple of games in the past few weeks and knowing how to get over the line.
The Warriors changed their line up, with KimBorgernotplayingmostofthesecondhalf with the combination of Rebecca Hicks and Poppy Douglass working well.
Hicks shot 25 goals for the Warriors.
“When something is working, you leave it,” Baileysaid.“Kimissuchaprofessionalandwas like just leave it and we did.”
Bailey said the injection of Georgia Hellyer in the third quarter made a real impact and she created some space.
That was when the Warriors got out to their biggest lead of the game, but the Waves were able to bring it back.
The Warriors have now won three of their past four games and are now up to eighth on the ladder.
“You have a look at the next few weeks and they are really competitive games,” Bailey said.
“Our aim, it was a block that we knew that if we worked really hard we could get some good results and hopefully we continue to do that and see what happens.
“Get back to training and do the basics well.”
TheWarriorswerestillwithoutElizaGollant and Ruby Shannon. Bailey said they were hoping to have the pair back in the next couple of weeks.
She said they had really missed Shannon, a Melbourne Vixens training partner.
“Even though Sim [Simona Di Filippo] and Georgia have done an awesome job, you still miss her creativity and it gives us an opportunity to put her into centre and we can put Tayla [Honey] into wing d. A lot more options,”
The Warriors’ 23 and under side slipped away in the final quarter against the Waves, losing 61-39.
Bailey said it was disappointing that they couldn’t finish it off and one that got away.
The Warriors face the Casey Demons this week.
Tara Murray
By Tara Murray
Keilor Thunder’s Daniel Foster is on the fast track having signed an NBL development contract with the South East Melbourne Phoenix for next season.
Foster, who finished up his college career last season, returned to Australia and made an immediate impact back on the court.
Fostersaidhewasn’texpectingtogetanNBL development contract so soon.
“It’s pretty good, pretty stoked about it,” he said. “Last year I did some workouts at the club and a bit of pick up.
“Once I got home I did some more workouts at the facility and got the offer. It was maybe a little sooner than I was expecting, but it’s better sooner rather than later.”
Foster said basketball operations general manager Simon Mitchell rang him up to offer him the opportunity before sitting down the next day to discuss it more.
Having been in America the past few years, Foster said it was good to be based in Melbourne for at least 12 months.
“That was a big thing,” he said. “To be at a great club like the Phoenix and being home in Melbourne is good for me as well.”
Mitchell said that Foster is an exciting prospect.
“He displays a strong all-around game, makesgooddecisionswiththeballanddefends multiplepositions,“Mitchellsaid.“Ourcoaches already like what they’ve seen from him — the opportunities are endless.”
Foster spent five years with the Nevada Wolf Pack in the NCAA division 1 competition completing his degree while in America. He is set to finish his masters in the next couple of months.
The signing with the Phoenix also brings a family connection with his brother Matthew Foster junior working in the front office.
Basketball has always been a family sport with his dad, Matthew Foster, heavily involved as well. He is currently the Hume City Broncos coach, where Daniel played before heading to college.
“I grew up playing footy and basketball,” Foster said. “I don’t even remember starting playing basketball.
“It’s definitely a family sport.”
Foster thought about returning to the Broncos and playing under his dad again, but decided he wanted to play in the National BasketballLeague1Southcompetition,joining the Thunder.
“Keilor was the right fit,” he said. “Maybe down the track if he [dad] is still coaching, I might play under him.
“For now I’m sticking with the NBL1 and Keilor, I love the club and love the people, Ash
[Arnott] and other coaches.” TheThunderishopingtokickstartitsseason after a thrilling win against Nunawading Spectres in round five, where it won 102-100. Foster said they felt that the group was really starting to come together.
Melbourne Knights legend Ivan Franjic has stepped down as coach of the National Premier League club.
The Knights announced on Monday that Franjic had handed in his resignation and the club had accepted it.
Franjic stepped in as player-coach lastseasonbeforeretiringfromplaying at this level and focusing just on coaching. Franjic had returned to the club as a player after his international and A-League career ended.
“Appointed midway through the 2024 season following the departure of Ben Surey, Ivan led the team to a strong finish, narrowly missing out on a top-six finals berth by just two points,” the Knights statement said.
“With a full pre-season and the opportunity to build his own squad, both Ivan and the club had high hopes of building on that momentum in 2025.
“However, a string of injuries—both long-term and short-term—dating back to the middle of pre-season severely disrupted squad consistency and performance.
“In light of these challenges, Ivan has made the difficult decision to step down as head coach of the Knights.”
The Knights sit in 11th spot after 12 rounds with three wins and nine losses. In Franjic’s last game in charge, the Knights lost 2-0.
Speaking to Star Weekly after the club’s round four Australia Cup win, Franjic said they believe they are a better team than what they are showing.
“We’re building and starting to get the scores,” he said at the time. “We’ve had a fair few injuries since round two.
“We’re starting to get them coming back into the side. It makes it tough when you have key personnel out.”
The Knights thanked Franjic for his service and commitment and said while his time as coach comes to an end, they look forward to seeing him play an ongoing role in the club’s future.
“It wasn’t your typical start to a game,” he said. “We were down big early and the guys were able to rally back.
“It’s a new group with only a couple of guys returning. Hopefully we can keep things rolling with that win.”
Assistant coach Josip Loncaric has alsosteppeddownfromhisdutieswith the senior squad but will continue on in his role as football director.
The Knights face Altona Magic on Saturday night.
By Tara Murray
A return to bowling spin was a big part of Sunshine’s Pramud Hettiwatte’s rise to one of the best players in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Isaacs Howarth’s best players.
Hettiwatte was named joint player of the year for division 1 alongside Altona Roosters’ Nadeera Thuppahi in his first season in the competition.
Currently over in England playing cricket, Hettiwatte was shocked when he learned he had won the medal.
‘It feels good,” he said. “I had no clue and one of my teammates sent me a picture from the awards ceremony.
“I knew I was in there with a chance. A little bit of a shock to be number one.”
Hettiwatte said he had a good run this season, with the medal a bit bittersweet after the Crows lost in the grand final.
He said he was looking for a club to play this season, when Crows coach Shafraz Mohamed contacted him about coming across.
Hettiwatte said he would only be a batter,
and not bowl as he had a finger injury that had prevented him from bowling.
“He was like, you have to bowl, just try it,” he said. “I tried to bowl and it all happened nicely.
“Troy [Stone] and Shaf pushed me to bowl spin again. I couldn’t bowl spin for like two years. I was really happy to bowl spin again.
“I feel confident as well.”
Hettiwatte finished with 30 wickets for the season, as well as having a good season with the bat.
As well as playing for Sunshine, Hettiwatte would play for Berwick Strikers on Sundays making it a big weekend of cricket each week.
“PrettymuchtiredonSundays,thenMonday mornings it was pretty hard to go to work.”
Hettiwatte is playing his third season in England.
He said he just wants to keep playing more cricket.
Hettiwatte said he hopefully will be back next season playing with Sunshine and helping the side go one step further.
Hettiwattewasalsonamedintheteamofthe year, as was PEGS Shakeem Clarke.
In the senior division, Sydenham-Hillside all-rounder Anthony Alleyne claimed the association’s highest honour, the Roy Paxino Medal.
The new Storm coach claimed the medal as the best player in the senior division on Friday night at the association’s awards night.
Alleyne claimed the medal ahead of Airport West St Christophers Ben Walkden, with Deer Park’s Aaron Ayre and Fawad Ahmed along with St Albans’ Akila Isanka finishing equal third.
Alleyne said it was nice recognition to claim the Paxino Medal.
“It is a great honour,” he said. “I think over the past few seasons I’ve done well and I’ve been rewarded for consistency.
“I’m just thrilled. It’s reward for my teammates and club members as well.”
Alleyne was named in the team of the year alongside teammate Cam West, Deer Park duo Ayre and Ahmed and the Saints’ Isanka.
In other awards, Burnside Springs United’s Shohan Rangier claimed the Russell Pollock Shield player of the year.
Taylors Lakes’ growth in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 2 has been on show in the early in the season.
After just missing out on finals last season as it fielded its first standalone side, the Lions have started with three wins from their first four matches.
Coach Joseph Antonetti said they’ve been really happy with how it has played out so far.
“We are pretty happy and we can’t complain,” he said. “We had a little hiccup on Saturday [round four] against theBulldogs[Gisborne-KynetonUnited].
“It is early one and we play them again and hopefully we can get them later in the season.”
Antonetti said the match against the Bulldogs, which was a top of the table clash, was a good test to see where they were at.
He said it was a game that could have gone either way with Gisborne-Kyneton United kicking away late in the contest.
Antonetti said the work the club had been doing to make it a place people wanted to be was paying off.
The club is keen to strengthen its female program, advertising for female football coordinator.
“It’s a good environment and the people are good, and we’re building a programthatisgrowing,”Antonettisaid.
“Hopefully we can grow on what we did last year. We didn’t know what to expect from the other teams coming into the season, so we’re a little surprised with the good start, but not surprised how good our footy is.”
The Lions had a bye on the weekend.
Antonetti said it came at a good time with a few injuries and unavailabilities.
“Everyone gets a break and that little bit of a reset,” he said. “When we get back we’ll continue to work towards the last week of the year.
“We need to put our heads down and get back to work.
“There’s always things to work on and have to get back to refining a few things.”
The Lions face East Sunbury this Saturday in the second week of the split round.
Tara Murray
Caroline Springs Caitlin Pretty claimed a second Victorian Turf Cricket Association women’s player of the year award, but it’s more team success she is after.
Pretty, who won the award in 2022-23, was again named the competition’s best player at the recent awards night, winning on 13 votes.
“I wasn’t there [at the night] as I couldn’t make it, I didn’t even know,” she said.
“I thought there were a couple of other great competitors in the league.
“I wanted to win the award again. My season was alright, it’s because of a lot of hard work the team puts in, I get to reap these awards.
“It comes down to their hard work.”
Pretty made 430 runs at an average of 61.43 for the season, including making a century.
She also took 14 wickets at an average of 6.93, including taking 5-0.
She said when her teammates set up the top of the order, she can come in and have a bit of fun with the bat.
The medal win was bittersweet for Pretty as the Falcons lost in the semi finals after going through the regular season undefeated.
The Falcons had been going for a third straight premiership.
“We didn’t take our chances this year and it was disappointing,” Pretty said.
“We were undefeated and in the finals we lost ourselves, so the season is a bit of a failure.
“It was an OK season, but we didn’t get to the great final and win it.”
Pretty said it was a bit of a reality check for the team and they were all keen to get back on top next season.
Pretty was one of three Falcons players named in the team of the year, along with Alisha Fowler and Miriam Hussain.
Pretty said Fowler, who had a change of batting position, continues to turn it on each year, while Hussain was their best and most consistent bowler.
“There were a couple of other girls in there and it’s credit to their hard work throughout the year along with my dad, who is the coach
and all the team that put in all year.
“I’m super proud of them.”
Pretty said the group would use the motivation of this season, when they head into pre-season and next season.
“The motivation is massive.”
Sydenham-Hillside’s Amber Andrews was also named in the team of the year.
AstrongfirstquartersetupKeilor’swininthe Essendon District Football League women’s premier division win against Moonee Valley on Saturday.
Aimingforitssecondwinoftheseason,the Blues jumped out of the blocks at Ormond Park, leading 21-0 at quarter time.
The Fog kicked the only goal of the second quarter to reduce the margin to 13 points at the main break.
Two goals in the third quarter settled the Blues and gave them a match winning lead into the final quarter.
The Blues were able to extend the lead and come away with a 7.8 (50)-2.4 (16) win.
Chelsea McDermott kicked three goals for the Blues, while Tegan Matthews got two goals.
Amelia Grech, McDermott and Maddison Reynolds were named the Blues best.
The Blues are now fifth on the ladder, just four points outside the top four.
Meanwhile, Hillside continued its unbeaten start to the season, accounting for Maribyrnong Park at Monk Oval.
The Sharks kicked four goals in each of the three quarters to have opened up an 83 point lead heading into the final quarter.
While they were only able to kick two goals in the final quarter, the Sharks were able to still extend the lead to win, 14.17 (101)-0.1 (1).
Beejay Johnson kicked three goals for the Sharks.
Mia Spiteri, Ashlee Thorneycroft and Johnson were named among the Sharks best.
After five rounds the Sharks are a game clear on top of the ladder.
The first week of the split round in division 1 and division 2 women’s competitions got underway on Saturday.
Keilor Park further stamped itself as one of the teams to beat this season, beating Westmeadows.
Both teams entered the match with one loss for the season, with both losses against ladder leaders Strathmore.
The Devils trailed at quarter time before kicking four second quarter goals to open up a 15 point lead at half time.
That lead slightly increased in the third
By Tara Murray
Sunshine was made to work hard for it but is finally on the board in the Western Football League division 1 competition.
TheKangaroosfirstwinoftheseasonwasn’t pretty nor the way they wanted to play, but they were still able to get the job done against Point Cook on Saturday.
Kangaroos coach Guy Barbuto said it was nice to get some reward for the hard work that they’ve put in.
“It felt good,” he said. “We’ve shown glimpses of looking at our best this season, but hadn’t been able to put it together.
“It was good to finally get that win on the board. We didn’t put all the pieces together but it was a start.”
Barbuto said Saturday’s game wasn’t the greatest skill execution from either side, partly due to the pressure they were putting on each other.
The Kangaroos led by 10 points at quarter time before the Bulldogs led at both the other two breaks.
The margin was 10 points at the
final change.
Four goals to two in the final quarter forced the game to go down to the wire, with the Kangaroos able to do just enough to get the win.
Barbuto said it was a good, hard game of football.
“We thought we were the more dominant side,” he said. “We gave away a couple of silly free kicks and 50 metres which kept them in the game.
“We should have won by more, but getting the win sets us up for hopefully a few more wins for the rest of the season.”
Riley Buckland kicked three goals for the Kangaroos, while Matthew Cravino kicked two.
Mark Mazzeo and Thomas Schwarzenberg led the way on Saturday, with Barbuto saying they had been their two standouts all season.
Patrick O’Keefe, Nick McKay and Ethan Sivijs were other standouts according to the coach.
Barbuto said one of the biggest issues for them early in the season has been the lack of cohesion in the side.
quarter before the Devils finished it off in the final quarter to win, 9.10 (64)-3.3 (21).
Georgia O’Donovan kicked three goals for the Devils.
Caitlyn Crameri, Alexandra Kilty and Maddison Cooper were named their best Burnside Heights got its second win of the season, with a big victory against Coburg Districts.
The Bears were able to build the lead in each quarter on the way to a, 7.14 (56)-0.0. (0) win
Holly McGregor kicked three goals for the Bears. Krissy Trang did her hopes of a recall to the Victorian Football League women’s competition no harm, with a best on ground performance.
Keilor had a big day out against East Keilor in the Essendon District Football League premier division. In the battle between top and bottom, the big gap between the sides was on show with the Blues winning, 36.31 (247)-2.2 (14). Cody Brand kicked 10 goals for the Blues, with Kane Barbuto, Kyle O’Connor and Nick O’Kearney among the best. In other results, Deer Park lost to Strathmore, 20.13 (133)-7.5 (47).
Brimbank Stallions, Westgate, Sydenham Park and Keilor Park were all on the winners list in the FV state league 1 north-west competition on the weekend. Sydenham Park claimed a 3-0 win against Clifton Hill, Brimbank Stallions had a 2-1 win against Yarraville, Keilor Park beat Banyule City 3-1, while Westgate beat Westvale Olympic, 2-0. Western Suburbs had to settle for a draw with Corio.
They’ve had a number of changes in the off season, while have been hit hard by injury and availability.
Barbuto said they were hoping with being closertohavingafulllistavailable,theywould be able to implement more of their structures and rotations.
The Kangaroos have a bye this week with interleague.
Barbuto said he would have liked them to have continued on with the momentum.
“We face Werribee Districts after the break and we’re looking forward to that challenge,” he said.
“Anyone on their day can beat anyone. We wait and see and hopefully we are up for a good fight.”
In other results, Caroline Springs beat Albion, 16.17 (113)-6.11 (47).
Malik Elfakahani kicked six goals for the Lakers with Cooper Pepi named best on ground. Johnathan O’Brien was named the Cats beat.
In division 2, Braybrook beat Laverton, Albanvale lost to North Footscray and Sunshine Heights beat Tarneit.
Caroline Springs continued on its winning ways in the Western Football League women’s competition, this time beating the Suns. The Lakers led 41-0 at half time and were able to keep the momentum going to win, 12.9 (81)-1.0 (6). Akima Manoah, Larina Abary and Taylah Lea were named their best. The Lakers are the only undefeated side at the interleague break. After the break, the Lakers face Werribee Centrals in a grand final rematch.
Green Gully had a big win against Avondale on Friday night in the National Premier League competition. The Cavaliers led 3-1 at half time before finishing it off in the second half to seal a 5-2 win. Aamir Abdallah scored a hat-trick. In other matches, Melbourne Knights lost to Altona Magic, 4-0 on Saturday night, while St Albans Saints lost to Hume City, 3-2. In the Victorian Premier League 1 competition, North Sunshine Eagles beat Langwarrin, 2-1 after a second half blitz.
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