Star Weekly - Wyndham - 22nd October 2025

Cup fun at Palm Lake Education stand

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Wyndham council has doubled down in its fight against a developer’s plan to build houses on a Truganina site originally set asideforaschool.

At the Tuesday 14 October planning committee, council voted to update its refusal to grant Intrapac Ellarook Pty Ltd, the landowner of 267-279 Woods Road, a permit to build houses instead of a previouslyplannedprimaryschool.

Council will inform the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) it does not have the authority to settle the matter at a compulsory hearing, expected

totakeplaceinlateOctoberorNovember.

Council first refused to grant the permit in December 2023, deeming that houses did not provide a net benefit to the community and that the proposed Forsyth P-6 school was needed to accommodate populationgrowth.

Star Weekly understands Planning

Minister Sonya Kilkenny has received a request from the landowner to reclassify 279 Woods Road from ’potential governmentprimaryschool’to’residential’ zone.

It is also understood that the state government opened Wareen Primary Schoolandakindergarten400metresfrom

the site and the Department of Education no longer need Forsyth P-6 to address publicschoolcapacity.

Cr Preet Singh said granting the permit couldbeaslipperyslope.

“This issue is not merely about planning, it is about protecting the rights of our children, our residents and the future of Wyndham,”CrSinghsaid.

“This could set a concerning precedent, potentially obliging us to future demands from developers at the expense of our community’slongterminterests.

“While the government has secured an alternative site and constructed a school there, this does not negate the need for

One of the most famous trophies in Australian sport, the Melbourne Cup, paid a visit to Wyndham on Monday 20 October as part of the LexusMelbourneCupTour.

Since 2003, the tour has clocked over a million kilometres, visited more than 600 towns, and helped raisevitalfundsalongtheway.

The cup was hosted by residents at Palm Lake Resort in Truganina who got into the spirit of the occasion, turning out in their fancy racewear, hats and fascinators.

For more coverage turn to page 15

Dressed up to wlecome the Melbourne Cup were Heather Smith, Anne Eustace, Cheryl Reynolds, Linda Wilson, Cheryl Humm, and Carolyn Parker of the Palm Lake Resort social committee. (Damjan Janevski: 50305)

anothereducationfacilityinthisarea.”

Cr Shannon McGuire said, “Ultimately, I think if we just fill every parcel of land we have with housing– and this is a big parcel of land– with housing, all it does is create more demand for schools and infrastructureinthearea,”hesaid.

A spokesperson for the Department of Transport and Planning said it will consider the council’s submission before making a decision about reclassifying the site.

IntrapacPropertywascontacted.

30km/h zones considered

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Wyndham council may consider implementing 30km/h speed limits following a study that suggests dropping resident speed zones may save lives.

On Wednesday 15 October, RMIT’s Centre for Urban Research showed that bicycle riders’ exposure to roads with high levels of traffic stress dropped by 30 per cent when the speed limit was reduced from 50km/h to 30km/h.

The findings come as Victoria enacts a new speed limit law allowing local councils to propose 30km/h limits in school zones and local streets.

A Wyndham spokesperson said council is constantly reviewing its road safety policy and would consider slashing speeds on some streets.

“Council regularly reviews the road traffic network through a safe systems lens that considers safe speeds and other safety measures,” the spokesperson said.

“In line with our Road Safety Strategy, we aim to reduce road trauma on our roads to enable everyone to get home safely and speeds are an important part of this.

“As such, we may identify suitable locations for 30 km/h precincts in the future.

“Any speed limit reductions that council proposes go through a public consultation

phase to ensure we listen and consider feedback from our community.

“Safety considerations, we consider individual road characteristics, road function, traffic congestion and traffic incidents including car crash history and vulnerable road users including pedestrians and cyclists.”

Study lead author Dr Afshin Jafari said while driving at 30km/h might seem slow, thelimitmostlyappliestoresidentialstreets, so it has little impact on average car trips,

“Most trips should use residential streets only at the start and finish, so 30km/h rather than 50km/h on those short sections makes little difference,” he said.

Manor Lakes gets a taste for free food

The LizzyBizzy food swap is now operating in Manor Lakes and members of the community are invited to come along to exchange their fresh produce.

Taking place at the Manor Lakes Community Centre from 10am-noon on the final Saturday of each month, participants swap excess homegrown produce and gardening extras

On the day the process works by swappers bringing their own produce and then selecting what they need from the table of goods left by others.

Founder Elizabeth Secoulidis has

previously operated similar food swaps in Hoppers Crossing and Wyndham Vale, and said the idea stemmed from not wanting to waste food.

“I started it to just help everyone out if they have too much of a certain thing on hand and don’t want to see it go to waste,” Ms Secoulidis said.

“You might have a lemon tree and someone else might have too many cucumbers, so it works.

“People might have a veggie garden or other people could have home made jams they have too much of, so what

they all bring them, put them on a table and swap them.

“People even talk about things such as if they are having problems with their plants.”

Exchanging food is not where catch up ends— those who attend often have a drink and a chat, create friendships, share skills and seasonal recipes.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own bags to the food swaps.

The event is free and those interested in coming along or can reach out to Liz at: liz.secoulidis@gmail.com

Council endorses Mambourin Town Centre expansion

Wyndham council has signed off on a plan to subdivide land and use it for the expansion of the Mambourin Town Centre.

The site, which is located at 370 Black Forest Road, Mambourin, is proposed to include a child care centre, swim school, an automotive repair centre and a restricted retail premises.

The submitted plans project the child care centre to have seven rooms and a capacity for 116 children, and at this stage, a Bridgestone Select Tyre Centre is expected to be a tenet.

Part of the flagged retail scheme are three convenience restaurants and a bottle shop, both of which will have adjacent car parking spaces.

Service areas, waste storage, and loading zones are distributed throughout the site, including a substation kiosk in the south-east corner.

The layout also allows for pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle access throughout, and landscaping includes a variety of trees, shrubs, and grasses.

According to the officer’s report, the

“Slowing traffic makes bicycle riding less stressful, encouraging more people to choose bikes as a safe and viable mode of transport.

“Slowing down vehicles is a cheap and effective way to improve safety while we wait for longer-term infrastructure upgrades.”

While bicycle riding is often seen as the domain of city commuters, Dr Jafari said outer suburbs stood to benefit the most from lower speed limits.

“Outer suburban streets often don’t even have footpaths, let alone other infrastructure to separate bicycle riders and pedestrians from motorists.”

Plea not to feed stray cats

People who feed feral or stray cats in Wyndham may think they are doing the right thing, but the act of kindness might be doing more harm than good, according to an environmental educator.

NatureWest nature educator Susie Inglis said the practice can make the containment of cats more difficult.

“Where there are stray cats that live in colonies, it is hard for the council to trap those cats if they are being fed by local residents who think they are doing a good thing,“ Ms Inglis said.

She also said that the idea of cats that are impounded being euthanised may be upsetting for people, but roaming cats can pose a huge risk to the native ecosystem.

“I understand this can be a very heated subject, but we also have to think about the local wildlife. Wyndham is semi-urban, there are lots of wild places, there’s wetlands and creeks.

“If a cat is not getting fed by humans, it needs to find a way to feed itself, they will also eat baby birds, frogs, lizards, skinks–they prey on local wildlife.

“They are cute and fluffy but they are also extremely formidable hunters.”

In September, Wyndham council voted on a draft domestic animal plan for the next four years that includes extending the current 10pm-6am cat curfew to 24-hours.

A Wyndham City spokesperson said there are more than 8000 registered cats in the municipality.

“Wyndham City’s cat trapping program targets unowned and semi-owned cats,” the spokesperson said.

“Council also encourages residents not to feed an animal they do not own. Feeding unowned and stray cats can contribute to negative impacts on local wildlife, the spread of disease, and increase the risk of injury or death due to vehicle collisions when cats wander.”

“Council encourages residents, where possible, to take ownership of stray or unowned cats instead of just feeding the problem.”

The spokesperson also said Wyndham prioritises education, outreach and regularly consults about the matter.

building scale is appropriately balanced and does not dominate the skyline or detract from the future town centre hub, allowing for the preservation of key view lines and connections across the area.

It was also deemed that the proposal will bring economic benefits to Mambourin and expand the access of goods, services and amenities to the surrounding community.

The report further stated that it will have social benefits for Mambourin while not causing any environmental concerns.

“Support is available through education on responsible pet ownership and how to safely confine cats to their property.

“Council also offers assistance with microchipping, registration, and desexing to ensure the wellbeing of the cats.“

Nicole Caruana and Elizabeth Secoulidis. (Damjan Janevski) 497592_06

Bus lane frustration boils

By Jaidyn Kennedy

A local man is calling on other drivers to stop cruising in the bus lane on Palmers Road to save time.

Point Cook resident Dwayne Kelly said he sees people regularly cut into the bus lane and is sick of it.

“I wouldn’t be able to put a number on the amount of people I see doing it, but it is a regular occurrence,” Mr Kelly said.

“At the end of the day, you are going to

potentially seriously injure or kill some to save a minute– if that.

“I put these people in the same category as those people who are able yet decide to park in the disabled parks.”

Mr Kelly said that he has seen firsthand what can happen when people drive in the bus lane.

“I have seen accidents occur when people are turning left into The Strand, and I actually saw something a couple a weeks ago,” he said.

“There was a car turning left and someone came along, driving in the bus lane and t-boned them.

“It was a shock seeing it, but you shake your head because there is no need to go into the bus lane whatsoever, it is just laziness from people who don’t want to get caught in traffic.”

Mr Kelly said people waiting at bus stops on Palmers Road should be vigilant of drivers disobeying the law.

Another issue Mr Kelly cited as poten-

for the end of the Seniors Month. Pastor Garry Cowley with church members. (Damjan Janevski) 509566_04

Church welcomes a broad flock for fun day

The Werribee Church of Christ is opening its doors for a day of fun and good spirit on Tuesday 28 October.

Each year the congregation hosts a day of singing, quizzes and games to celebrate the Victorian Seniors Festival. This year’s theme is ‘On The Job.’

Pastor Garry Cowley said the day is as simple as getting people together and building a stronger community in the process.

“It is mainly just about encouraging people to come along, enjoy themselves and relax,” he said.

“There will be many people who we know already, but it will be great to welcome people we haven’t seen before.”

Despite the celebration taking place in conjunction with the Victorian Seniors Festival, there is no gatekeeping and anyone is welcome.

“I think it’s to just get people reconnected, if you say seniors you lock them, but probably people who live around here who might be in their homes saying, ‘Well, I’m not doing anything’,” Mr Cowley said.

“You don’t celebrate the 30s month or the 40s month during the year.”

Mr Cowley said the funny thing about just coming along to an event like this is you just never know who you might meet.

“A couple of years ago there were two people who ended up being neighbours –and didn’t even know it until they started talking to each other.

“Sowethinkit’sjustagreatwaytoreconnect and be part of the greater community.”

The event will run 10am-1pm at 200 Tarneit Road, Werribee , and the $5 entry price will include lunch.

For more, reach out to Garry on 9741 6051 or Bronwen on 9749 2510.

tially dangerous is when drivers have to merge back into the regular traffic.

“When the bus lane out runs people have to do a quick merge anyway and that can cause even more danger and chaos,” he said.

“It’s those who are doing the right thing that end up paying for the actions of people who are doing the wrong thing.

“Stop doing it, you aren’t a hero and you will kill some who doesn’t deserve it.”

Spooky events to mark Halloween

If trick or treating isn’t your bag, then tag along to Powell Reserve in Hoppers Crossing for a movie night.

Hosted by Wyndham council, A Minecraft Movie – the same one with Jack Black screaming ‘Chicken Jockey’– will be on for all to see on the big screen between 6-9pm on Friday 31 October.

Locals are encouraged to come along for the free film, dig into some tucker from local eateries and enjoy some spooky, but safe, pre-movie activities.

The evening will serve as a great opportunity to get dressed up in your spookiest or blockiest best and have a chance to win the best dressed prize.

Pre-moviefunwillstartfrom6pm with face painting, a magic show and craft with the Trash Puppets. At 7pm, the main event will kick off with creepers, zombies, skeletons on the screen, and perhaps off it, depending on the crowd’s choice of costume.

However, there is plenty to do in anticipation of Halloween as well. Young people can also come in and make some fun creepy craft activities and spooky themed projects on Wednesday 29 October at Julia Gillard Library in Tarneit.

Ages five to 14 will have their activities in Tarneit from 3.45pm to 4.45pm. Hoppers Crossing Library will also have some activities for kids and teens aged eight to 14 from 4pm to 5pm.

Details: www.wyndham.vic. gov.au/whats-on/halloween-movie-night-

Werribee Church of Christ is hosting a celebration called On the Job

Five warehouses approved

By Jaidyn Kennedy

Wyndham council has settled on approving plans for the development of five warehouses at 865 Boundary Road, Truganina, that will form a future employment precinct.

At the planning committee meeting on Tuesday 14 October, all councillors in attendancegavethenodtothesiteowner and manager GTP Group to proceed with its $85 million development.

The proposed site for the development, which sits between the Ellarook housing estate and the border with Melton council, and will host approximately

98,340sqm of floor area are provided in total.

Currently, there are no nominated tenets for the warehouses and the development will be serviced by a combination of public and private roads to accommodate staff and freight.

A reduction in the current number of car parking spaces will also take place as part of the plans, reducing the total number of spaces on site to 414.

GPT Group development director Nat Roberts said the group, which already owns 24 warehouses in the Wyndham area,wasverycautiousaboutrunningan ethically sound operation.

“We aim to be a leader in that space, we are ranked number one for the S&P global corporate sustainability assessment, and we aim to integrate social and environmental aspects into our developments,” Mr Roberts said.

“What that probably means from a development perspective is there are a few initiatives we look to install in these developments– things like solar rays, grey water harvesting, LED lights, sky lights, but we also assess responsible building materials.

“In this instance, one of the main things we are looking at is the wellbeing of our workers, so there are green spaces,

walking trails, and a basketball court incorporated into the design.”

Cr Preet Singh said he considered the proposalanetpositiveforTruganinaand the municipality.

“I agree with the officer’s recommendation on this, and this will bring more jobs to our city,” Cr Singh said.

The subdivision works are expected to be completed either at the end of 2025 or sometime in early 2026.

The beginning of construction on the warehouse is slated to begin in early to mid-2026 and be finished by early to mid-2027.

Young voices have their say, paint a vision for the future

TherewasaveryspecialTedXtalkinTarneit on Wednesday 15 October, as students from three schools used their minds and voicestodiscusstomorrow.

Hosted by Barayip Primary School in conjunction with WImba Primary School and Wareen Primary School, 16 students from years four to six led presentations on importantissuesatTedXTarneitYouth.

From bullying and racism to immigration, environmental awareness, mental health and more – these young speakerscaptivatedtheaudience,showing thatcourageandvisioncomesineveryage bracket.

The occasion was organised under the globally recognised TEDx license, and showcasedthepowerofcommunity-driven ideas that are worth sharing, discussing andpondering.

Several distinguished guests attended including federal Lalor MP Joanna Ryan, school improvement leaders from the

New book sings a song for the Earth

Point Cook environmental scientist and author Shannon Jade’s book ‘A Song for the Earth’ seems to be striking a chord withquiteafewpeople.

Thebook,whichisaboutencouraging people to take positive action towards easing the climate crisis, has been recognised as a top three finalist in the Book of the Year category at the ABLE GoldenBookAwards.

“I’m an environmental scientist, so it is very much a focus for me wanting to communicate about the environment and science in an accessible way,” Ms Jadesaid.

“I also come from a professional publishing background so marrying thosetogetherwasthegoal.”

Through both these positions, she said she wanted to take an approach which framed discussions about the environment as an opportunity for

action,notadeathsentence.

“I think when people feel afraid of these kinds of issues they feel like it is toolatetomakeaneffort.

“A lot of people dwell and feel disempowered because of the climate narrative which can be a worst case scenario.

“When we have a hopeful lens, people can feel like there is a reason to keep trying and to do something positive.”

Having her peers and experts appreciateherworkhasbeensatisfying.

“It is amazing to have that kind of recognition and to know people in the know are enjoying it and finding value insomethingthathasmatteredsomuch tome,”shesaid.

A Song for the Earth is available at most good book retailers and can be foundonline.

Department of Education, principals, teachers,families,andotherstudents.

The successful coordination of TEDx

TarneitYouth was carried out by Barayip principal Nicole O’Brien, Wimba principal Paul Schwartz and Wareen principal JoannaStanford.

Ms O’Brien said the event was an inspirational display of how young people can generate ideas, talk about them and makeaprofoundimpactontheirpeersand therestofthecommunity.

“As the event came to a close amid thunderous applause and smiling faces, one thing shone brighter than ever,” she said.

“Thefutureishere,loud,proudandready tolead—andweareallinvitedtocelebrate theirjourney.”

Ms O’Brien also said that the student leadersfromthethreeschoolswerepivotal in coordinating the ceremony, and that it willberememberedfondly.

THEME: "ON THE JOB"

THEME: "ON THE in conjunction with the Seniors' Festival This event is open to everyone of any age Tuesday, 28th October 2025 10:00am-1:00pm Doors open at 9:15am including light lunch. Cost $5

Werribee Church of Christ 200 Tarneit Road, Werribee 3030

Singing, reminiscing, quizzes, games

Meet new people in your community and have some fun over a cuppa & lunch with friends

For more details, please contact: Bronwen on 9749 2510 or Garry on 9741 6051

Author and environmental scientist Shannon Jade and her book ‘A Song for the Earth. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 509949_01

Students from Barayip, Wimba and Wareen primary schools came together to host TedX Tarneit Youth. (Supplied)

Avalon ready to take off

Melbourne Avalon Airport and its employment precinct are set to play a pivotal role in the future development of Wyndham and Geelong. Jaidyn Kennedy met with chief executive Ari Suss to discuss the direction Avalon is taking.

Melbourne Avalon Airport may not be making headlines right now, but there is still plenty happening there.

Avalon’s chief executive Ari Suss said whilepeoplemaynaturallyfocusonflights, it is the expansion of freight capabilities thatwilldrivelong-termaviationgrowth.

Having major companies such as Australia Post, Cotton On and PetStock, set up at Avalon, as well as special defence manufacturers like Lockheed Martin and Hanwha is part of the strategy todrivethatgrowth.

“The investment in those non-aviation projects helps us derive an income that helps us support aviation here,” Mr Suss said.

Avalon has also built a new freight terminal to increase annual air-freight capacity from 10,000 to more than 100,000 tonnes to make it an attractive port for large-scale,scheduledcargo.

“Freight has been traditionally moved in and out of Victoria through Melbourne Airport, and what we know is Tullamarine isincreasinglycongested,”MrSusssaid.

“Avalon is in the fastest growing corridor in the country and we are seeing the benefits of that in terms of the demand for operationalactivityhereforbusinesses.”

According to Committee for Wyndham chief executive Leanne Down that growth is why the developing precinct is an unparalleledstrategicassetforWyndham’s future.

“Avalon represents a major opportunity to drive economic growth, create jobs, support tourism, and improve regional connectivity,”shesaid.

“Having more job opportunities at Avalon means residents can work closer to home, reducing travel time and improving work–lifebalance.

“A stronger local job market supports families, reduces congestion on roads and public transport, and helps keep skilled workersinWyndham.“

Committee for Geelong chief executive Michael Johnstone said Avalon would help Greater Geelong harness local talent and elevate Victoria’s second city as a place of businessontheglobalstage.

“Avalon is one of the most significant opportunities to drive economic development in the Geelong region – and thisismulti-faceted,”MrJohnstonesaid.

“Both as an employment precinct that will eventually see upwards of 15,000 workers on site each day, and as a freight and logistics hub of national significance, connectingair,sea,railandroad.

“There will be an increasing demand for international services into Avalon, and providing that connectivity will in turn further fuel the attractiveness of Geelong asaplacetodobusiness.“

While Mr Suss said while driving increasedfreightoperationsisakeypartof Avalon’s mandate, he hasn’t forgotten the expectationsofmanyVictorians.

“Weunderstandandareverysensitiveto the social licence that we have by running anairporthereandhavingthecommunity accessthat.

“We’ve got flights at the moment to Sydney,BrisbaneandGoldCoast–wewant tobroadenthatandwealsowanttoseethe reopeningofourinternationalterminal.

“We’ve got some pretty advanced discussionsunderwayatthemomentandI amoptimisticthatwearegoingtoseesome growthin2026.

“I want to see more flights, I want to see more destinations and I think we will get bothnextyear.”

ChangesintourismtrendssinceCovid-19 restrictions halted international flights in

2020mightpresentnewopportunities.

“One in every 10 visitors from the Indian subcontinent to Australia spend at least onenightinWyndham,“MrSusssaid.

“When you talk to the tourism industry and the leaders in business, they say since Covid, some of that inbound Chinese tourism has fallen away, but Indian visitationhasreallygoneup.

“So that is something we are very consciousabout.”

MsDownsaidthereturnofinternational flights to Avalon would transform tourism intheregion.

“More flights into Avalon mean more visitors arriving close to Werribee Park, making it easier for tourists to explore our world-class attractions like the Werribee Open Range Zoo, Lancemore Hotel, Werribee Mansion, Equestrian Victoria andtheVictoriaStateRoseGarden.

“Increased access supports local tourism operators, boosts hospitality and accommodation sectors, and helps build Wyndham’s reputation as a leading destinationinVictoria.”

Mr Johnstone said the same benefits wouldflowdownthehighway.

“We have some of the most popular touristdestinationsinVictoriahere,andwe want people to broaden their experience to seeallGeelonghastooffer.

“By bringing people into Victoria via Avalon,thereisanopportunitytoshowcase all of what Geelong can offer. As a base to explore the Surf coast, and as a destination initsownright.”

With Melbourne’s population expected topassninemillionby2050–whichwould put it on par with London, a city served by six international airports– the location of a second international airport is an importantconsideration.

“Melbourne and London will have similar population sizes, and to our great credit, we are about 34 minutes from the West Gate Bridge at Avalon Airport,” Mr Susssaid.

“So not only does Melbourne have

this great opportunity to be selling the advantagesoftwoairports,buttwoairports that are very much in close proximity to Melbourneitself.

“A$15billionraillinktotheairportwon’t overcome the increasing road congestion that one road into Tullamarine that they haveatthemomentwillcreate.

“The great cities of the world have a number of gateways. New York, London, Paris has a couple of airports – Melbourne needstodothattoo.”

He said that international tourists spend on average $3000 per visit to Victoria, compared to $1200 from domestic travellers.

“If we can get those people travelling through Avalon, we know this region can definitely capture a dividend from that traffic.”

Compared to Tullamarine, Mr Suss said Avalon’s distance from existing residential areas has been and will continue to be extremelyusefulinthespeedandsimplicity ofdevelopingtheprecinct.

“Weareveryluckythatwehaveincredible community support from Lara, Geelong and the Wyndham area, but we can also do some very specialised things here with separationfromresidentialareas.

“This is a curfew-free airport – we’re not making noise or disrupting people as they go about their business from a residential standpoint.”

MrSusssaidLondonLutonAirportserves as a great case study for how a secondary airport can significantly increase its operations on the back of prudent public transportplanning.

“To give you an idea about how big some of that growth has been for secondary airports in the UK, London Luton barely moved a couple of hundred thousand passengersaroundtheyear2000.

“Then they built a train stop with a bus service connecting to the airport, and today they are moving about 18 million passengersannually.

“That’sprobablyjustalittlebitunderwhat Brisbane Airport is doing at the moment— andthat’sasecondaryairportintheUK.

“So improved infrastructure would certainly help facilitate our growth but we also need to demonstrate that we’ve got growth happening in aviation, and that is ourfocusforthenextfewmonths.“

Mr Johnson said that The Luton DART (Direct Air–Rail Transit), a driverless, automated 2.3km light rail link that opened in 2023 and replaced the shuttle bus services, is something Avalon could replicateinthefuture.

“This can be iteratively delivered, beginning with a dedicated new station on the existing Geelong-Melbourne line, with shuttlesrunning.

“As demand increases, this would then upgradetoatracklesstramorlightrail.“

Also an advocate for a future light rail connection, Mr Suss said Avalon is in advanced conversations with the state governmenttoreroutebusroutesinLaraas ashorttermsolution.

“We have discussed the opportunity to have a bus stop around the industrial precinct and then the second stop around theterminal.

“I’m confident something will emerge overthenextfewmonths.”

The Department of Transport and Planning was asked whether it would consider altering bus routes to serve Avalon.Itdidnotrespondbydeadline.

Melbourne Avalon Airport chief executive Ari Suss. (Supplied) Below: Ari Suss outside of the new freight hub. (Jaidyn Kennedy)

Experience The Blue Show

Local artists Karenne Anne and Vonne Beyer are bringing an enchanting exhibition all to do with the colour blue downthehighway.

The Blue Show was inspired by the pair’s 2019 trip to the Greek Isle of Skopelos, where they became fascinated with representations of the female figure, particularlygoddesses.

Ms Anne is a photographer who explores ideas of history and culture, and Ms Beyer is a painter who loves colour and texture.

WiththeazureoftheAegeanSeaserving as their guiding muse, the duo have returned to the aesthetic of blue, whether ultramarine,aquaorcobalt,manytimesin theirwork.

This upcoming exhibition at shed_31 celebrates the hues and subtleties of the colour blue in their artwork– the abstract,

representational,andphotographic.

Shed_31, is a not for profit gallery set up byMsAnneinStLeonards.

Ms Beyer said nature was the ultimate mediumtochannelthecolour.

“The artworks in this show are based on experiences with nature. The sea, vegetation, changes in the light at different timesofday,”shesaid.

“Wehopethatviewerswillbeinspiredto see blues and other colours around them, andrealisethemyriadsubtletieswithinall ofthem.

“Being by the sea is the most suitable for a collection of works which strongly reference the deep blues of the bay and otheroceaniclocations.”.

Opening day is 25 October, and the exhibitionwillrununtil8November.

Opening hours are by appointment, so pleasecontactMsBeyeron0404294674.

Briefs

Retro Motor Show:

The Wyndham Retro Motor Show roared into Werribee on Sunday 19 October, showcasing the best local, vintage rides and live entertainment. Car enthusiasts and families enjoyed the day and vital funds were raised for mental health care at Werribee Mercy Hospital. The free event, which was hosted by the Wyndham Health Foundation with the support of Werribee Racing Club and vintage car collectors, had rides from all builds and from several eras.

Pop Up Park results:

According to Wyndham council’s survey on the Point Cook Pop Up Park, the community wants it to stay. The open space– that takes up part of Murnong Street at the Point Cook Town Centre– is facing an uncertain future after founding group CoLocal withdrew from managing the space following Stockland Point Cook’s desire to reopen the road for vehicle traffic. Out of more than 2000 respondents, 91.4 per cent said they wanted the space to remain open to pedestrians, 8 per cent wanted to see the road reopened for traffic and less than 1 per cent stated they were undecided.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Vonne Beyer is an artist who will be showing an exhibition on the Surf Coast. (Damjan Janevski) 508372_01

Funds for illegal dumping

By Jaidyn Kennedy

The state government’s multi-million dollar funding to crackdown on illegal dumping hasbeenwellreceivedbyWyndhamcouncil.

Last week, the state government announced $21.5 million to bolster the Illegal Dumping Taskforce and deliver more money to councils and public land managers to clean-up illegally dumped waste.

Those funds will be divided into $8.5 million to help with the clean-up costs for illegally dumped and toxic waste in public spaces, as well as $13 million will help the Illegal Dumping Taskforce ramp up surveillance, enforcement and clean-up efforts

across Victoria.

The taskforce will be led by the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA), who will work with the conservation regulator and undertake enforcement activities using expanded intelligence and monitoring to detect and respond to waste crimes in key locations.

It is understood that this funding will cover up to 50 per cent of the clean-up costs in situations where all avenues to trace the perpetrator and recover costs have been exhausted or are not feasible.

Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw said the move was welcome and council was keen to collaborate.

“Illegal litter dumping is a significant and growing problem for all councils, particularly in growth areas and has cost Wyndham City ratepayers $6.1 million over the last five years,” Cr Shaw said.

“Wyndham city takes a zero-tolerance approach to illegal rubbish dumping.

“At Wyndham, residents are provided with a tip token each year, as well as three hard rubbish collections.

“We encourage everyone to help keep Wyndham clean by reporting incidents of dumping.

“We also encourage residents to take note of anyone dumping rubbish and record details including description of items

Werribee Primary School is kicking goals

Werribee Primary School has been kicking plenty of goals and the latest was being named AFL Victoria’s school of the year.

Along with several other schools in Wyndham, Werribee Primary has been working with the North Melbourne Football Club’s educational outreach branch, The Huddle.

The collaboration between the schools has led to the integration of footy and team sport into their learning curriculum.

Trent Archer, one of the AFL champions at the school who helps ensure the students and teachers are supported

during the program, said the award was a pleasant surprise.

“It was pretty unexpected and a very exciting time to be recognised for all the work the teachers and the students have put in,” Mr Archer said.

“It is not exactly something that you strive for, you do it for the students.

“To get that little cherry on top is very nice.”

Mr Archer said the real rewards come from seeing the students gain healthy habits, camaraderie and life skills.

“You get a lot of key learnings from be-

ing involved in team sport, I remember growing up and being a part of footy and cricket, getting to know the expectations of the club, but also the key values of other people.

“Sometimes they don’t always align, but it’s a part of the learning.

“It’s not all about winning, but it’s about learning to be part of a community.

He also said that more activity never misses the mark with student wellbeing.

“We see a big impact both on mental health and behaviour when kids are engaged in sports.”

dumped to assist council in undertaking enforcement action.

“Residents can contact council to notify any sightings of dumped rubbish by calling 1300 023 411.”

Werribee MP John Lister said dumping has been a regular resident concern brought to him.

“Illegal dumping around our new estates and rural parts of the Werribee electorate is disgusting and we will continue to crack down on it,” Mr Lister said.

“Many in our community have approached me about this issue, and I encourage them to continue to report dumping to the EPA and Wyndham City Council.”

New Servo Saver app launched

The state government has launched Servo Saver, an app which helps display the price of fuel across Victoria.

According to the state government, it could save Victorian motorists up to $333 a year at the pump.

The new app also helps deliver the first phase of the government’s Fair Fuel Plan by requiring fuel retailers to report their fuel prices in real time, with new legislation set to cap on the daily price.

More than 1,200 retailers across Victoria are now compliant with the new mandatory reporting system. This price data is fed directly into Servo Saver, allowing motorists to see where they will get the best deal in their area or along their route and make informed decisions about when and where to fill up. Currently, fuel price reporting in Victoria is voluntary.

While commercial price reporting websites exist, Servo Saver will include every fuel provider, won’t be advertiser funded, and will never promote outlets.

The Servo Saver and mandatory reporting will support the next phase of the Fair Fuel Plan – to cap the fuel price once a day and lock that ceiling in place for 24 hours, or when the price is reduced.

Under the plan, the price at that outlet can’t rise at any time throughout that day, but there is not intended to be any limit to a company reducing its fuel price.

AFL learning specialist Trent Archer with year-2 students Loraine and Craigette. (Damjan Janevski) 510823_01

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Beginners’ Code Club

Code Club is for 8-14 year-olds and will cover the very basics of coding. Attendees can book into the whole term’s sessions. Each lesson builds on previously learnt skills and is designed to support beginner coding learners. Runs on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 3.30-4.30pm.

 CodeClub@wyndham.vic.gov.au or 8734 8999

The Creative Corner

A program to create an inclusive environment for young people from different schools to come together and learn new skills and ways to be creative. The program will aim to teach a variety of different skills and allow young people to create projects with different mediums each week. Meets every Monday from 3.30-5.30pm at the Youth Services Centre, 1 Everton Road, Truganina.

 Jordyn Griffiths, YouthInWyndham@ wyndham.vic.gov.au

Soulful Spreads Community Cafe

Soulful Spreads is a purpose-driven social enterprise based in Tarneit that looks to create meaningful work and training opportunities for women and young people with disabilities. Come meet for a meal and support inclusion, empowerment and connection. Meets 8.30am-noon every Monday and Thursday at the Tarneit Community Learning Centre.

 info@soulfulspreads.com

Wyndham

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

Lizzy Bizzy Food Swaps

Come along to the Manor Lakes Community Centre to exchange excess homegrown food. From vegetables, fruits, eggs to seeds and oils, members of the community are encouraged to participate and help reduce food waste. Runs between 10am-noon last Saturday of every month.

 Liz, 0448 781 111

Resume Help

Wyndham council is providing resume workshops for young people aged 15-25. Book into a one-on-one session, online or in person, with an education and youth services librarian to get some help crafting your resume and answering interview questions. Sessions run at 9am, several times a week.

 resumehelp@wyndham.vic.gov.au

Practise English with Let’s Talk

A weekly meet to help members of the community improve their practical English conversation skills to help with daily tasks such as shopping and booking appointments. Meets 10am each Saturday at Werribee Church of Christ, 200 Tarneit Road, Werribee

 Bronwyn, 9741 6051

Point Cook Combined Probus Club

Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10

am at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook.  John Sloan, 0436 480 728 or sloanrisk@gmail.com

Adult drumming classes

If you ever wanted to try out your rhythmic skills, the first class is discounted and concessions apply for other classes. All hand drums supplied or BYO. No experience required, just bring an open heart and mind and enjoy making some great rhythms together. The class is friendly and welcoming to everyone. Thursdays, 7.30-8.30pm, during school terms, at Saltwater Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Parade, Point Cook.  0411 028 077 or bfmusic15@gmail.com

Wyndham Ladies Probus

Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am.

 Pat, 0411 316 795

Watton Group

A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at 49 Watton Street, Werribee at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month.

 Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com.

With One Voice Wyndham Choir

With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The

community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee.

 wyndham@withonevoice.org.au

Adult community garden group

The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow.

 8742 3688

Seniors House of Fun

The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing.  Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@grangecommunity.org.au

Seniors club

The Werribee Senior Citizens Club meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea.  0403 041 499

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social

lunches, outings and theatre trips.

 Yvette, 0411 952 706

Bingo for all

The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm.

 9741 5525

Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus

Do you like to sing? The Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus wants you! Be part of a rewarding fraternity of fellow amateur musicians serving the community, sharing comradery and having fun.

Rehearsals at 7pm Tuesday evenings at St. James Church, Hoppers Crossing.

 Chris, 0400 414 215

Beekeeping group

Werribeeks is a group for beekeepers in and around Werribee and surrounding suburbs that meet every third Monday of the month at the Wyndham Park Community Centre to share information, tips and ideas on beekeeping..

 https://www.facebook.com/ WerriBeeksClub

Werribee River Association

New volunteers to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace.

 admin@werribeeriver.org.au, or www.werribeeriver.org.au

Wyndham Park Community Shed

A place to connect, share skills, get hands on, and have fun. New members and volunteers are welcome. Men’s shed open Tuesdays and Thursdays, women’s shed open Monday and shed for all abilities open Sunday. The tool library is open on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

 0437 270 791 or shed@wyndhamparkcc.com.au

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Michael Holian from Sunbury Model Railway Club. (Damjan Janevski) 509753_01

Authors take to the stage

A panel of Moorabool literary talent will present an engaging conversation at the Bacchus Marsh Strawberry and Cherry Fest, providing inspiration to the next generation of local writers.

Local authors Matt Romania, Allyse Near,HollyBrunnbauer,WayneMarshall, and Jem Tyley-Miller will present a one-hour panel discussion at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Saturday 15 November.

The talk will cover elements such as the author’s literary journeys, their experiences living in Moorabool, and advice for writers and those interested in

starting to write.

Romania, who will moderate the panel discussion, said the discussion is an opportunityforthoseinterestedinwriting their own book or becoming an author to receive advice from experienced writers.

“It’s a good group which I think will [lead] an engaging conversation,” Romania said.

He said the event is an opportunity to showcase Moorabool’s creativity and there will be a “nice community feel” to the panel discussion.

Marshall said along with speaking of writing successes, the group will

cover challenges and how they have overcome these.

As an organiser of both the Peter Carey Short Story Awards and the Moorabool Young Writers awards, he said he has a “big interest” in promoting literature to the Moorabool community.

“It’s the first time that there’s been a literary panel [at the festival]… it’s really exciting to try and have that across to a bigger crowd,” Marshall said.

The Moorabool Author Panel will run from 11am–noon on Saturday 15 November at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, and entry is free.

Migration explored through photography

A free exhibition exploring identity, memory, and transformation through the language of photography has opened in Brimbank.

Artist Aldona Kmiec said the ‘Veil’ series was created while dancing in veils of red, white,yellow,andblue.

“... The forms merge in a blur of light and gesture. Created using long exposures and movement, the works reflect my experience of migration — from Poland to the UK and later to Australia — and the process of rebuilding self in new cultural landscapes,”Kmiecsaid.

“These works were inspired by a visit to my family in Poland during the winter, when temperatures dropped to -17°C and thefarmwascoveredinpristinesnow.

“ReturningtoAustraliainJanuary2024,I reflected on the complexities of migration, especiallyastheonlyfamilymemberliving abroad.

“In my studio one day, I created these pieces as a meditation on resilience, memory, and belonging, offering an emotionalratherthanliteralnarrative.”

One of the works in the exhibition, ‘Veil, white,’ was a finalist in Omnia Art Prize

in 2025, as well as in Mullins Conceptual Photography Prize in Muswellbrook in 2024.

Kmiec started working on her art when she migrated to Australia in 2009 after studyingphotographyinLondon.

“Growing up on a farm in Poland, I didn’t do art and didn’t know any artists personally, but I always knew I’d do somethingcreativeoneday,”Kmiecsaid.

‘Veil, supported by Brimbank council, is on show at the Brimbank Gallery and Sunshine Library, 301 Hampshire Road, SunshineuntilTuesday18November.

Folk/country pairing offers two voices, one heart

Three-time Golden Guitar winning folk-countryduoFelicityUrquhartandJosh Cunningham (of The Waifs) are headed to Footscray.

Raw, real and ridiculously good, the music born of this unique pairing has been describedas“folksycountry”butintruth,it cannot be contained within a simple genre description.

The highly recognisable guitar work of Josh Cunningham has been a defining element to the sound of iconic Australian band The Waifs for over three decades, whilst over the same time span, Felicity Urquhart developed a voice and style that took her to the pinnacle of Australian countrymusic.

Not content to stay in their ‘folk rock royalty’ or ‘queen of country’ lanes, the couple simply make the music of their hearts,creatingthecategorydefyingsound

that inspires joy and stirs the soul. Already ARIA-nominated(TheSongClub)andthree times Golden Guitar winners (Birdsong), these legends aren’t resting on their laurels -they’rewritingthenextchapter.

Renownedcomedianandpersonality

Mary Coustas will be bringing her Logie-winning alter ego Effie into Werribeetownlaterthismonth.

As part of her UpYourselfNess tour, the ethnic Aussie icon will be challenging the social barriers that make it hard to say what you think–and in a way that will still have you institches.

Coustas, who has played the character for more than three decades, said Effie is enduring becausesheishonestaboutwhatshe thinks.

“Ijustthinkshesayswhateveryone feels, she is a mouthpiece for many typesofpeople.

“Anyone who is passionate truth telling and feels marginalised by the majority, so by sheer spirit and circumstances and her heritage she representstheunderdogalot.”

Effie’s tendency to engage in debate, rather than shut it down, is something Coustas said the world needsmoreof.

“People don’t know how to flirt anymore, how to have a joke – it just seems there are major consequences in how we interact with each other and there is such hypocrisy around that.“

Effiewilltaketheaudiencethrough the political and social landmines of isms –feminism, racism, sexism, wokeism, pronounism and goodlookingism – as we all grapple with the human condition and our placeinthecosmos.

“Ithinkthatisthegreatthingabout comedy, it points out the tension, evokesitandrelievesitwithlaughter andinsight,“Coustassaid.

The show will be held at the Italian Sports Club in Werribee on Friday 31 October.

Tickets: https://iscw.com.au/ product/effie-2025/

Catch fresh tracks from their upcoming album, plus the songs you already love as you join them on a musical journey that’s fiery and full of heart, where past and present harmonise, and every note tells a story.

The duo will be supported by Flynn Gurry. Hailing from Warrnambool, Gurry has been making massive waves in the Australian music scene. In 2025 so far, he’s toured nationally with Pierce Brothers, been named Port Fairy Folk Festival’s ‘EmergingArtistoftheYear,’andsupported The Dreggs, Kim Churchill, The 502s, and DICE.

Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham with special guest, Flynn Gurry, will perform at the Kindred Bandroom, Footscray,onFriday31October.

Tickets: www.moshtix.com.au/v2/event/ felicity-urquhart-josh-cunningham/183211

Artist Aldona Kmiec. (Damjan Janevski) 510339_05

Mary Coustas is bringing Effie to Werribee. (Nicholas Samartis)

Bacchus Marsh author Matt Romania is one of the five local writers who will be on the panel. (Damjan Janevski) 483706_08

Folk/country duo Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham. (Supplied)

Sharing ancient stories

SeaLink South East Queensland (SEQ) has partnered with respected Quandamooka Elder Matt Burns to share the ancient stories and cultural wisdom of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) through its signature Indigenous experience, the GoompiTrail.

A proud Noonuccal and Nughi man, Mr Burns has been delivering First Nations tourism experiences for more than 30 years.

Raised on Minjerribah as a traditional hunter and gatherer, his connection to Country is personal, profound and powerfully engaging. With knowledge passed down through generations, he brings the land and its stories to life through artefacts, cultural performance and hands-on demonstrations that invite gueststolearn,connectandreflect.

“I’ve been doing this all my life,” said Matt Burns, SeaLink SEQ’s Cultural ProgramsLeader.

“Themostrewardingpartisseeingpeople changetheirperspectives,whentheylearn something new about Aboriginal culture orhistory,anditreallystayswiththem.”.

Unlike newer offerings, the Goompi Trail is a well-established and deeply local experience,nowmarkingits30thyear.This coastal walk was created by Mr Burns and is still personally led by him, a cultural authority who grew up on the island and hasdedicatedhislifetosharingitsstories.

Mr Burns guides guests through Dunwich (Goompi), providing a First Nationsperspectiveontheisland’sancient past—sharing bush medicine, traditional hunting methods, native wildlife, and culturallysignificantsites.

The journey begins with a scenic passenger ferry ride from Cleveland to the island, where guests are welcomed with a traditional Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony beneath the native gums, before taking part in an interactive presentation of traditional tools and hunting implements. As guests walk the coastline with Matt, they gain insight into bush medicine, native foods, traditional knowledge and culturally significant sites that have shaped the Quandamooka way of life for tens of thousands of years and will gain insight into life before colonisation.

“It’s not just a tour,” Mr Burns said. “It’s aculturalconversation.Wetalkabouthow our people lived, the signs and sounds we look for in nature, and how everything is connected. You come away with a new awarenessofthelandaroundyou.”

InadditiontotheGoompiTrail,SeaLink offers a range of immersive cultural workshops co-designed and led by Mr Burns, tailored to groups of all ages, including:BushTuckerandBushMedicine Tours – Learn how native plants have long been used for healing, nourishment, and sustainable living. Spear and Boomerang ThrowingDemonstrations–Seetraditional huntingtechniquesinactionanddiscover theskillbehindtheseancienttools.Dance andDidgeridooWorkshops–Jointhelocal dance troupe as they share the stories, rhythm, and movement of Aboriginal culturethroughdanceandlivedidgeridoo performances. Cultural Awareness Programs – Engaging sessions tailored for schools, workplaces and community

groups to deepen understanding and respect for Quandamooka history and traditions.

The day concludes with a leisurely rooftop meal at Straddie Brewing Co, featuring a generous lunch and locally crafted beverages, before guests return to themainlandonaSeaLinkferryserviceof theirchoosing.

Mr Burns’ programs are recognised across Queensland for their educational and cultural value. He regularly partners with schools, universities and government bodies, and delivers Indigenous cultural training to SeaLink employees working in the Quandamooka region, ensuring authentic, respectful engagement with Countryandcommunity.

SeaLink South East Queensland General Manager Ben Renwick said Matt’s work is foundational to SeaLink SEQ’s reconciliationjourneyintheregion.

“Matt’s passion and knowledge create truly meaningful experiences for both visitorsandourteam,”saidhesaid.

Matt has worked alongside SeaLink SEQ for over a decade and officially joined the teamin2019.

“Whether you’re joining a dance workshop, exploring ancient traditions on the Goompi Trail, or sitting on the headland listening to stories passed down through generations, SeaLink’s cultural toursofferalevelofauthenticity,depthand perspectiveyouwon’tfindanywhereelse,” Bensaid.

Matt Burns.

Respected Quandamooka Elder Matt Burns shaing the ancient stories and cultural wisdom of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) through ithe Goompi Trail

Passing on the stories.

7 Nights

Apr 2026 - Mar 2027

Full-Board River Cruise

3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing

Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat

Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Hotel Stays

3 nights five-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner

Fully Escorted

Barossa Valley Tours

Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including:

Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement

Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours

2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus

Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

the Rhine. Discover the turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, historic cities, medieval towns and spectacular scenery of the Middle Rhine. Sip the region’s renowned wines, the roots of its terraced vineyards reaching back to Roman times, and savour the culinary traditions of Alsace.

BREISACH, GERMANY

An Australia Day ‘basho’

Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the rollicking tale of a fight that took place in 1925 outside a pub in Yarraville between locals and visiting Filipiino sailors on Australia Day.

Over the years, we have become accustomed to the various controversies leading up to Australia Day. Statues are routinely disfigured, decapitated and tastefully doused in paint. Graffiti proclaims the end of a colony whose name is never specified. Thousands of disgruntled marchersshoutslogans,and vote-seeking politicians bleat about the date. Millions more anticipate fighting off the blowies whilstenjoyingsun,sandandbarbecues.

One hundred years ago, on 25 January, 1925, the lead- up to Australia Day was far more straightforward for the working men, mostly ex-Diggers, who were quenching their thirsts in a Hyde Street pubinYarraville.

None was concerned with dates, coloniesorpoliticians.EvenCaptainCook didn’t enter their thoughts. Their sole focus was on slurping the turps before thedreaded6o’clockclosing.

This they did with practised abandon, watched admiringly by half a dozen Filipino sailors on shore leave. So it was true, after all. The fabled drinking of Australian males was no exaggeration. They themselves, though no wowsers, were more refined, preferring gentle sips tothecrazed guzzlingofthenatives.

And so, when “Time, gentlemen!” was bellowedto signaltheendofthebooze-up, theAustralians,though stillvertical,were visibly affected by their many glasses. The visitors were comparatively sober. The doors shut and the patrons spilled out ontoHydeStreet.

Andthat’swhenthetroublebegan.

One of the Aussies took a drunken dislike to a sailor and shirt fronted him. The Filipino, intending to push him away, pushed too hard, and sent the man flying totheground,smashingthebottlehehad inhispocket.

The seamen all rushed to his aid and helped him to his feet with profuse apologies for the accident. But the Aussie wasinnomoodtoforgivethesmashingof his bottle. With a howl of rage, he reared up and indiscriminately flattened two of hishelpers.

Within seconds, six Filipinos were battling against 15 Australians. The visitorshadtheadvantageofclearerheads; the locals had the assets of numbers and beer-fuelledbrawn.Byallaccounts,itwas a first class blue and greatly entertained the crowds which gathered to watch and yellencouragement.

Dong! Several men went down with unpleasantscalpwoundsinflictedwithan iron bar. As tempers flared, all available weapons were pressed into servicebroken bottles, fists, rocks, and, urged on by the crowd’s screams of “Garn, ‘ave a lash!” several brawlers became locked in wrestling holds and were rolling up and down Hyde Street, biting and kicking. They were soon joined by a dozen of the spectators hopping in to help with more fists and rocks. The Filipinos appeared to be getting the worst of the struggle until the noise of the affray alerted their brethren on board their ship anchored nearby inHobsonsBay.

Up Hyde Street 20 of them charged like knights of old to the assistance of their crew mates. The situation was

desperate enough to warrant the use of dire measures, to wit, slings, which they whirled and launched with devastating efficiency. The Aussies yelped about the lumps now appearing on their heads, as well as the unfairness of this dirty tactic, and then the familiar sound of a firearm, andasubsequentcryofpain alertedthem thatthingsweregettingcompletely outof hand.

Albert Marr, of nearby Seddon, displayed forpublicinspectionabloodied elbow that some seaman had used as target practise. Remembering the Anzacs of Gallipoli and Pozieres, the Australians screamed their outrage and redoubled efforts to beat back the foe, while Albert toddledofftofindabandaid.

The uproar in Hyde Street had not only reached the ears of the sailors at anchor, but also the ears of the police, who, naturally, had to butt in and ruin the fun withbusybatons.

Being greatly outnumbered, and knowing from experience that bitter enemies often joined forces against the common foe, the police employed a cunningtacticoftheirown. Ignoringtheir fellow-countrymen, they concentrated on the Filipinos, confiscating all the slings, plus a loaded revolver. A rapid inspection showed that it had not been recently fired.

They then dragged four sailors off to the Yarraville lock-up as the Australians, normally not overly enamoured with the

boysinblue,delightedlycheeredthemon.

The crowd gradually dispersed to relax andenjoyagloatingchat.

The Filipino sailors were hauled before the Footscray Court a few days later, charged only with offensive behaviour. They were released and thankfully returned to their ship, vowing never, under any circumstances, to enter any Australianpubagain.

The Aussies resumed their drinking in the Hyde Street pub, reminiscing over the great basho and what fun it had been. The police were mentioned with special fondness.

But the mystery remains to this day: whoshotAlbertMarr?

Barb McNeill. (Damjan Janevski) 432421_03

Racing gold in Truganina

Having been as far away from Flemington as New York, the Melbourne Cup spent a little bit of time at Palm Lake Resort in Truganina on Monday 20 October. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski captured the excitment and glamour when resort residents gathered to view and hold one of the racing world’s most coveted prizes. This year’s Melbourne Cup will be run on Tuesday 4 November.

Carolyn Parker, Will Hayes, Anita Pell, Laverton MP Sarah Connolly and Lilian Steward. (Damjan Janevski). 503050_06

Katherine Potemski. 503050_09

Carmela Muscat. 503050_08

Lynn Cornfield. 503050_07

Heather Smith. 503050_04

Linda Wilson. 503050_03

The land affected by the application is located at: 11 and 13 Climbing

of Lots

application is for a permit to:

and 256 from Restriction No. 4 on PS920325Q before a person proceeds under Section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988. A permit is required under the following clauses of the Planning Scheme: Planning Scheme Clause Matter for which a permit is required

To Remove Restriction No. 4 from Lots 250, 251, 255 and 256 created on PS920325Q before a person proceeds

or

or;

www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/

Email: statplanning@wyndham.vic.gov.au

made to the Responsible

in

include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

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

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 30 October 2025

SPORTS QUIZ

1. What was the name of the 2010 TV special in which LeBron James announced his move to join the Miami Heat?

2. One of the largest First Nations gatherings in Australia, the NSW Koori Knockout is an annual event in which sport?

3. Matt Ross is an Australian soccer manager who currently coaches which country’s national team?

4. Which sports league’s Grand Final recorded more TV viewers this year: the AFL or the NRL?

5. Earlier this year, Broncos fullback Reece Walsh filmed himself drinking water out of what unusual vessel?

Who is the president of MLS club Inter Miami CF?

The Utah Mammoth played its first year in the NHL under which name?

8. And prior to that, what was the name of the team?

9. MetroStars and Wests Apia FC are teams in which recently announced competition?

10. Sydney Roosters player Aliyah Nasio will miss the start of the NRLW season after recieving a fourmatch ban for what?

11. Which Mercedes F1 driver won the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix?

12. Which top-ranked Australian women's tennis player has decided to take off the remainder of 2025, citing burnout?

13. Which horse won consecutive Melbourne Cups in 1974 and 1975?

14. Dean Vickerman coaches which NBL team?

15. Due to financial struggles, which VFL club has lost their competition license after 143 years of existence?

16. Which motor racing team won the 2025 Bathurst 1000?

17. Who, in their first season at the club, coached the Brisbane Broncos to their 2025 premiership victory?

18. Which AFL club has been fined $77,500 after an investigation into their controversial third-party deals?

19. In which two countries is the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup being played?

20. Which Canadian-born racing driver won the Bathurst 1000 four times in the 1970s?

21. Which Australian swimmer recently announced her retirement from all forms of competition?

22. What was the total prize money on offer for the 2025 Everest horse race?

23. Located on the Puget Sound, which US city is home to the Mariners, the Seahawks and the Kraken?

24. The Melbourne Renegades are rumoured to be considering a move to what regional city?

25. Which African nation recently qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time?

26. What was the highest WTA Tour ranking that Jelena Dokic achieved during her tennis career?

27. Carter Gordon was recently granted a release from his contract with which NRL club?

28. What club has Essendon captain Zach Merrett sought a trade to in 2025 AFL trade period?

29. Which Australian player scored 142 in a recent Women’s World Cup victory against India?

30. Cricket Central is a ground used for domestic matches in which city?

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au

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 Sucking action (7)

5 Encourages (7) 9 Shameless (11) 10 Australian bird (3) 11 Deep valley (6) 12 Australian desert (7) 14 Chances (4) 15 Comprehensible (10) 17 Mammals with pouches (10) 19 Quip (4) 20 Vie (7) 22 Ebb (6) 25 Curve (3) 26 Recur together (11) 28 Bright red (7)

Haunt (7)

1 Aspersion (4)

2 Plant with aromatic leaves and seeds (9)

3 Insinuate (5)

4 Type of medical procedure not requiring an incision (3-8) 5 Message broadcast in the public’s interest (1,1,1) 6 Perfect (7)

7 Lyric verses (5)

8 Wasted (10)

12 Learning (11)

13 Radiation travelling through space (6,4)

16 Ancestry (9)

18 Kitchen implement (7)

21 Type of coffee (5)

23 Cuts (wood) (5)

24 Bonds (4)

27 Egg of louse (3)

four letters or more can you list? The centre letter

be included and each letter may only be used

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 Which Spanish artist had a ‘blue period’ and a ‘rose period’?

2 Thumper is a rabbit from which Disney film?

3 What is the capital city of Wales?

4 Don Cheadle (pictured) starred as Marty Kaan in which US series?

5 What is displayed in the centre of the Argentinian flag?

6 Which composer wrote the WeddingMarch?

7 By what common abbreviation is polyvinyl acetate known?

8 In which Australian city did the Eureka Stockade take place?

9 Which planet was discovered by Sir William Herschel in 1781?

10 A falchion is what type of weapon?

Lexus is built for the bush

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

If you look carefully, you can just make out the Toyota Prado that lurks under the skin of the Lexus GX 550.

It’s more evident if you look at the car in profile,withitsrisingrearbeltline,courtesy of the 1971 Holden HG Belmont wagon. Lexushasdoneaverygoodjobdisguising the Prado and the styling looks as though it has not strayed fast from the concept, especially the bold face with its spindle grille.

The result is an arguably better-looking car than the donor, or is that the other way round, because the GX was actually revealed two months before the Prado. Prado is in its fifth generation, but GX is only up to number three and it’s our first encounter with this model because the first two versions never made it here.

Whynow?GuessToyota/Lexusmusthave identified a market opportunity (chance to make some money) or decided to plug the hole left by the departure three years ago of the seven-seat RX L.

Styling

GX slots between the family-sized five-seater RX and top-of-the-line LX.

Prices for the new-to-Australia 4x4 wagon start at $116,000 for the seven-seat Luxury, followed by the five-seat Overlander at $122,250 and flagship Sports Luxury at $128,200 (also a seven-seater).

Our test vehicle was the entry Luxury grade finished in a dark blue that looks almost black in some light.

Althoughitcomeswiththreerowsofseats as standard, the third-row packs flat when not required, freeing up valuable space.

Bear in mind this is a real 4x4 wagon with a high degree of off-road ability. More than the average punter will ever use or even contemplate.

Does the average Lexus buyer need or want this kind of ability? Perhaps, perhaps not, but then the vast majority of 4x4 owners never venture off road anyway-theyjustliketheideaofbeingable to do so.

One thing the new boxy shape has achieved is to shrink the size of the vehicle, or at least make it appear smaller, sitting on rather than perched over its wheels.

With its spindle-shaped, black frameless grille supported by the front edge of the bonnet and lower bumper, there’s no mistaking the Lexus for any other brand.

All GX grades are powered by the same 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine.

Standard equipment includes 20-inch alloys, LED lights all round, with self-levelling headlights, power-operated moon roof, flat roof rails, rear spoiler, rear privacy glass and body-coloured door handles.

Inside the seats are trimmed in artificial leather, with three-zone climate control, rear air vents with controls and nanoeX air filtering.

The front seats are heated and cooled, withpoweradjustment,withapower-adjust steering wheel, plus two-way lumbar adjustment and memory function for the driver (passenger misses out).

Second row outer seats are also heated with power-folding third-row seats, as well as power tailgate with a window that opens separately, illuminated side steps, smart entry and start and one-touch power windows.

There are also head-up display, adaptive cruise control, auto high beam, speed sign recognition, auto lights and wipers, auto-dimming rear view mirror and front and rear parking sensors.

The Lexus Warranty Experience covers

all GX grades for five years and unlimited kilometres, plus five years capped price servicing.

Owners also enjoy a free three-year subscription to Lexus Encore owner benefits, providing access to 24-hour roadside assistance, among other things.

Talking about servicing, it’s due every six months or 10,000km, fixed at $595 a visit.

Infotainment

A 14.0-inch touchscreen fronts the infotainment system, provides Bluetooth, with voice recognition, satellite navigation, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto plus 10-speaker Pioneer audio.

There are also wireless phone charging and a total of six USB-C ports, two in front, two for the second row and another two on the side for the third row plus a 12-volt socket in the front and 220-volt boot outlet.

All grades come with Lexus Connected Services facilitated by a pre-installed 4G data module that is guaranteed to work until 2033. It provides access to a range of safety, security and vehicle information.

Safety

Prado has a five-star safety rating, but the GX 550 remains unrated as yet (it’s not a given).

A comprehensive suite of safety systems includes nine airbags, 360-degree camera and the Pre-Collision System with auto emergency braking, that detects pedestrians (day/night), cyclists (day/night) and motorcycles (day).

There’s also intersection assistance, emergency steering assist, lane trace assist, curve speed reduction, front and rear parking support brake and a panoramic view monitor.

Blind-spot monitoring includes safe exit assist and rear-cross traffic alert.

Engines/transmissions

The 3.4-litre V6 delivers 260kW of power at 4800 revs and 650Nm of torque from 2000-3600 revs.

Prado has an eight-speed auto; GX ups the ante with a 10-speed automatic that has three drive modes and paddles to facilitate manual gear shifts.

Driving

It’s 25mm longer than Prado, but is the same width and height, and has the same wheelbase (that’s distance between axles).

While Prado is powered by a hybrid 2.8-litre turbo-diesel drivetrain, GX gets a twin turbo 3.4-litre petrol V6 (no mention of a hybrid of any kind).

There’s also second gear start which is an advantage when it comes to getting out of sticky situations off-road.

It’s a permanent four-wheel drive system, with proper dual range gearing, plus a lockable centre differential.

Ifyouplantousethecaroffroadtheseare important factors to consider, not so much if you’re not.

On road the dash from 0-100km/h takes 7.0 seconds and it has a top speed of 175km/h.

With an 80-litre tank GX takes premium 95 RON unleaded, with fuel consumption a claimed 12.3L/100km on the combined cycle, topping out at 17.0L around town.

Engine emissions are a whacking 279g/ km of CO2 on the combined cycle; or 385g aroundtown.AhybridRAV4produces147g/ km of CO2.

GX can tow a 3500kg braked load and comes with an integrated trailer wiring harness and tow hitch receiver.

A full-size spare is provided in the event of a puncture and is located underneath the rear.

It’s an SUV, so getting in and out requires someathleticism,butilluminatedsidesteps areprovidedwithgrabhandlesateachdoor to make the transition easier.

Accessingtherearseatsisviaa60:40split, fold and slide second row, with buttons either side of the luggage area to control power operated third row seats.

However, the second row needs to be in the correct position to facilitate this and there is the question of what to do with the luggage screen once it is removed.

Rear legroom is okay, but nothing special surprisingly given the size of the vehicle, whilethethirdrowasisthenormissuitable only for small children.

The front seats are comfy and the big 14.0-inch touchscreen is easy on the eye, with separate controls for air and volume.

There’s plenty of room for CarPlay or

Android Auto to do their thing, but if it’s the latter you’ll need a cable.

The driver gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can be customised in minor ways.

GXalsocomeswithhead-updisplaywhich magically projects essential information on the lower part of the windscreen.

It’s a great idea, but as always invisible to those of us who wear polarised sunglasses.

Although the turbocharged V6 is smooth and offers plenty of low-end grunt, the wagon feels big and cumbersome to drivemore truck than car-like.

Infact,theenginesoundsverydiesel-like, but is a little coarse for our liking and a long way from the whisper-quiet Lexus powertrains of the past.

The engineers have done a great job with the 10-speed auto which is as smooth as it is intuitive, making timely subtle changes as required.

Despite being equipped with adaptive suspension, ride quality is decidedly un-Lexus like, deteriorating quickly on secondary roads where bumps can set off annoying jiggle.

There’s no other way to really describe it and a reflection of its ladder frame construction.

But GX handles pretty well for a biggish 4x4 and can be pushed fairly hard without undesired consequences.

The electronic systems are not intrusive, apart that is from rear auto braking which had a thing for our hedge.

Slammed the anchors on hard, scaring the bejesus out of us.

Dare we suggest, in closing, that V6s like this one have had their day with their high fuel and emissions figures.

We were getting 14.5L/100km after around 300km of mixed driving. Seriously, this kind of fuel consumption just doesn’t cut it in this day and age.

Summing up

If you’re into off-road adventure, the GX 550 could be for you.

If you just want a luxury SUV, there are other models to consider.

If you want seven seats, then you might have to look elsewhere.

As always, the choice is yours.

If you’re into off-road adventure, the GX 550 could be for you. (Supplied)

The weather again put on a show as cricketers across Melbourne’s north-west made the most of being able to get out on the pitch. Star Weekly’s LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out among the action.

Cricket comps in full flight

Footscray’s Daniel Wilczynski. 510967_01

Sydenham-Hillside’s Alexander Barlas. 510970_02

Werribee Centrals’ Tarique Jeffrey. 510978_07

Williamstown

CYMS’ Miles Bradshaw. 510975_01

Bellbridge’s Steve Kelaart. 510978_01

Altona North’s Haydn Wilkinson, Nicholas Rainone. 510970_15

Footscray’s Liam Mason. 510967_05

Sunbury players look on. 510975_19

Some of the crowd at Spotswood and Hoppers Crossing. 510981_12

The scorers at Altona and Werribee. 510973_10

The umpires get their moment. 510981_16

Great season despite loss

By Tara Murray

Wyndham fell just short of claiming the inaugural Victorian Wheelchair Basketball League title.

The team was unstoppable from round three and finished second on the ladder before beating Bendigo in the semi finals to win through to the grand final.

Kilsyth proved too strong in the grand final, winning 65-35 to claim the title and end Wyndham’s hopes.

Coach Damian Duke said it was a massive achievement for the group.

“It was an amazing feeling, we didn’t expect to get to the grand final,” he said. “How the group came together and go through the

semi final and made it to the grand final.”

Duke said the process of getting to the grand final was exciting with several players who hadn’t had many minutes during the regular season, getting their chance in the semi final.

He said the support of other sides despite competing against each other was on show throughout as well.

Duke said they gave it all in the grand final.

“We went out early in the game and gave it our all,” he said. “We were close at half time but after half time we fell a little bit behind and it all started to unravel.

“Itwasatoughmatchup,wejustcouldn’t get there.”

Duke said this season and the grand final was a really good start point for the side. Weeks out from the season they didn’t even know who would be playing in the team.

“We will enjoy what we achieved and get better and develop everyone,” he said.

“It’s one step to the future. We’ve got a core group that will push forward together and with some more training, there’s a bright future.

The association said it was proud of the side and what it had achieved this season.

“Exceptional work by the players and coaching team,” it said on social media.

Duke was awarded the league’s first coach of the year award.

Cats fight back as young players step up

By Tara Murray

The future is now for Hoppers Crossing in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west.

With injuries and visa issues, the Cats fielded seven players 21 and under on the opening day of their match with Spotswood.

With the Woodsmen set to be one of the teams to beat this season, Cats’ coach Simon Lambert knows it is a big test for the group.

“There’s a lot of opportunities to step up,” he said. “We saw that improvement yesterday [Saturday].

“They were 2-200 on a flat pitch and it was a huge improvement as they should have scored 320.

“It leaves the door open for next week.”

The Woodsmen ended up piling on 279 as they were bowled out in the second last over.

Lambert said the group didn’t give up and made sure that Spotswood worked hard for every run.

“We responded really well on what was a flat pitch,” he said. “I thought their batters at the top, they’ve got the best top four in the competition, batted conservatively and made it hard to get them out.

“For 90 per cent of the team we were really good. After tea we dropped off for 1015 overs which was a little bit disappointing with a few misfields and there were a few mistakes.

“The way we stuck at it was pleasing.” Arihant Rawal took six wickets for the Cats and was the standout bowler.

He’s a Hoppers Crossing junior, who has come back to the club from Victorian Premier Cricket.

Lambert said he was fabulous.

Lambert said the run chase leaves them needing three and half runs an over.

“We bat all the way to 10,“ he said. “If we bat well right to the finish and take the opportunity when it matters.

“It’s a good test of where we’re at at as a team. I think they’re a team that will finish in the top four.

Lambert said they were hoping to get Abbas Faiyaz back from split webbing in his hand in the next couple of games.

He said they were still awaiting for Daryl Ferrario to arrive in the country.

Ferrario is yet to get his visa approved. Lambert said they were hoping to have that sorted as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, Werribee will need early wickets if its to beat Altona.

The Tigers were bowled out for 153 with Dean Russ top scoring with 49.

Tim O’Brien and Adam Alifraco were the others among the runs.

Altona set itself up for a good shot at the win in week two, finishing Saturday at 2-44.

Matt Watt has a wicket for the Tigers,

The association said Duke has been exceptional, leading the Wyndham representative team that is a group of varying abilities who had never played together five weeks ago.

“Leading them straight into the grand final. His leadership and ability to forge a winning team are truly what we needed to have at WBA.”

Duke said that recognition came as a bit of a surprise.

“It was a little unexpected,” he said. “It’s a reflection of the whole team, not just myself.

“The support staff, the WBA. I’m happy for the whole team that helped me achieve it.”

Thunder moves into senior comp

Truganina is set to make the move into senior football for the first time next year in the Western Football League.

The Thunder has announced the intention to field a side in the thirds competition, a first step in setting the pathway from juniors to seniors.

Ross Innocenti has been appointed the Thunder’s thirds coach and brings more than 30 years of experience to the role.

Thunder president Nick Ladbrooke said this was a huge milestone for the club.

“It’s a step forward as having seniors is really difficult,” he said. “There’s only a limited number of players in the pool.

“The ability to get them to come from other clubs is difficult. For us, having a thirds team is a good stepping stone in building a senior program.”

The club had previously attempted to set up a women’s side without any luck, but this is the first time trying to get a senior men’s team up.

The thirds play on Friday nights, which Ladbrooke said meant there was no crossover with junior matches.

“We want to make it a big social night,” Ladbrooke said.

“We want it to be a pathway. We’ve looking at under-16 boys footy in 2026 and that is a big goal for us.

“The older age groups suffer in our demographic as AFL [Aussie Rules] is at the bottom of the table.

“When they get to the older age group the talented players are ultimately poached by other clubs.

“We’re working hard to keep those players at the club and the number one thing is to have a pathway.”

Innocenti will also coach the under-16 boys, having coached the under-14 boys side last season.

The club is aiming to field under-8, under-9, under-10 teams, under-12 mixed and girls, under-14 mixed and girls teams, along with under-16s.

Ladbrooke said they were putting out interest for under-16 girls team as well as having a boys team and the senior thirds as new sides.

The Thunder is still searching for players for all of its sides for next season.

Details: 0418 998 082 or president@truganinathunderfc.com.au

the Cats

side lost to Mambourin in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association

Arihant Rawal. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 510981_10

Dahlhaus, Riding re-sign

Four key players have re-signed for Werribee for next year’s Victorian Football League season.

Forward Jay Dahlhaus and midfielder Jack Riding are two of the latest players to commit to Werribee.

The 2025 campaign was a significant one for Dahlhaus, who brought up his 50-game milestone in round 18 against Richmond.

This season also saw Dahlhaus take on added responsibility, being inducted into the leadership group for the first time in his career.

Dahlhaus’ 2025 season began in round two, after missing the round one grand final rematch through injury.

He went on to play 16 of the remaining 17 games, finishing with the second-most

goals for Werribee for the second straight year.

Dahlhaus now sits on 52 games and 72 goals as he prepares to enter his sixth season at the club.

Dahlhaus said Werribee is his home away from home.

“The club, the community, and the people are so special, and I’m extremely privileged to be a part of such a great group and club,” he said.

“I know we will be back at our best in 2026. We are all driven to reach what we achieved in 2024 again, and I can’t wait to rip in.”

Dahlhaus joined the club in 2021.

Across 17 games, he averaged a career-high 24 disposals per game, along with five tackles and five clearances,

missing only round three through injury.

He was named in the 40-man VFL team of the year squad for the second straight season.

Riding’slate-seasonsurgewasreflected in the Bruce Montgomery Trophy count, where he stormed home to finish equal fourth alongside Jake Smith on 157 votes, just one vote behind Hudson Garoni and Bior Malual, who were joint runners-up.

“I’m stoked to be part of the club for season 2026. I love the club and everything it’s done for me on and off the field, so it was ultimately an easy decision to sign on,” Riding said.

“I’m as eager and motivated as ever to get back to where we belong and will do everything in my power to contribute to that happening.”

Ben Garuccio. (Western United)

Western United players pick up pieces

By Anna Harrington, Aap

When the A-League Men season starts without Western United, the players left in the lurch by the club’s untimely demise will still be picking up the pieces.

And former captain Ben Garuccio says a similar situation should never happen again.

After months of financial issues and missed payments to staff and players, United were stripped of their A-Leagues licence in August, then issued a wind-up order by the ATO in September.

“Especially myself, being the captain, I was one of the ones that didn’t want to jump ship. I wanted to stay there, and I wanted to hope that everything was going to be fine,“ Garuccio told AAP.

“And for a big part of the time we did think that it was going to be fine.

“The day that they wrapped it up and said Western Melbourne Group were to be wound up and liquidators appointed, that’s when it became very real for us. That was probably one of the worst days of my career.

“We’d just finished a training session and basically we made it up there just in time for that news and all the office staff were up there as well.

“It was a very chilling atmosphere in the room,veryquiet,andyou’relookingaround the people’s faces and people are coming to the realisation that the club maybe might not exist anymore, which was very, very challenging, very daunting.“

Garuccio is proud of the players, who

kept training through the issues, with support from Professional Footballers Australia and club staff who volunteered their time.

Players were finally able to leave on September 6 when the club, which is appealing its various sanctions, was put into hibernation for the upcoming season.

The left-back has since joined Sydney FC, on a two-year contract, where he’ll be joined by United teammate Abel Walatee and hopes to win silverware.

Angus Thurgate (Western Sydney), Rhys Bozinovski (Perth Glory), Matthew Grimaldi (Melbourne Victory), Ramy Najjarine (Wellington Phoenix), Charbel Shamoon (Perth), Jordan Lauton (Brisbane), Besian Kutleshi (Melbourne City) and Jake Najdovski (Adelaide) headline those with A-League gigs.

Others have joined NPL clubs, while some still don’t have contracts - and some staff, like coach John Aloisi, are still contracted to United.

Garuccio has only been in full team training for these two weeks, meaning his involvement against Adelaide United in Friday’s season opener will be limited at best.

He expects other Western players to have similar slow starts as they settle in at new clubs.

“Look at how many of them actually walk into starting 11s this weekend - that will be the tell-tale sign,“ Garuccio said.

“It was probably the worst timing it could have actually been.

“The timing has made it really difficult to go in there and knock the door down

Ryan Eyers will be hoping to build on his first season at the club next year.

The 22-year-old key defender quickly became one of the first names picked on the team sheet each week having a breakout season.

“I’m absolutely stoked to be at Werribee again in season 2026,“ he said. “The playing group and coaches are so eager to get to work, and I can’t wait to be back out there in the Big W.”

Emerson Jeka, who joined the club mid-season has also re-signed.

“I really enjoyed my first year with the club and the group we’ve got here. It was an easy decision to go again,“ he said.

“There’s a strong belief in what we’re building, and I’m excited to keep improving alongside the boys next season.”

Sports shorts

Baseball Werribee Giants proved no match for Moorabbin in the Baseball Victoria summer league premier 1 first nine competition on Saturday. Playing at home, the Giants trailed all day after conceding two runs in the first innings. Moorabbin continued to build its lead before eventually winning, 13-2. The Giants sit 1-2 after the first three rounds.

WSCCCA

Truganina Strikers had a day out with the bat in the Western Suburbs Churches and Community Cricket Association A.E Shield competition on Saturday. Facing Altona Sports, the Strikers made 7-310 off 59 overs before declaring. Babbal Dubb made 139 at the top of the order. Altona Sports will resume at 0-32. In other matches, AA Tarneit is 1-79 in reply to Manor Lakes’ 9-308, while West Point Titans made 9-251 against Williams Landing.

NWMCA

and hopefully command a starting 11 spot straight away.“

Throughout the saga, United players supported each other through a group chat - and they will keep doing so despite being scattered around the country.

“I said when everything happened: ’we don’t delete this group chat’,“ Garuccio said.

“We keep it here, at least for this season, and everyone put their little bits and pieces in, or put their five cents in whenever something happens.“

Garuccio hopes the league can move forward from the United saga and enjoy a strong season ahead of next year’s World Cup, while never allowing a similar situation to unfold elsewhere.

“We need to learn from this mistake,“ he said.

“When you see a club maybe going down a path that could be detrimental, the powers that be need to recognise it probably earlier next time around and ensure that this doesn’t happen again.

“Because the ones who ultimately suffered the most were the players, the coaches and the staff at the football club.

“They’ve gone from having a place to work to then not getting paid to then working until the very last day and still not getting paid and then being out of a job the next day.

“So for myself, I’m very fortunate that I’ve landed at Sydney FC. But for some of these other people that haven’t managed to secure other jobs, it’s very real what happened and it’s really sad.

Tarneit Central survived five overs at the end of the day one to be in a good position in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association George Luscombe Shield. Tarneit was able to bowl the Darebin Chargers out for 255 after they decided to bat. Anil Bhatia took four wickets for Tarneit. Tarneit will resume at 0-8.

Western FL

Wyndhamvale has announced the signing of Craig Blaschke for next year’s Western Football League division 2 season. The reigning premiers said Blaschke will add some more experience to the side. “At just 22 years old, Craig brings a wealth of experience, having captained Tasmanian representative sides and played senior football at Lauderdale in the Tasmanian State League,“ the club said on social media. “After a short stint at Hoppers Crossing, Craig now joins the green and gold and we can’t wait to see him in action.“ The Falcons also announced the re-signing of league best and fairest winner and leading goalkicker Lewis Stanton. FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

New role for Matt Stephens

By Tara Murray

Matt Stephens will step up from youth league women’s coach to Wyndham’s Big V women’s championship coach next season.

Stephens had been re-appointed as coach of the youth league side, but when the opportunity came to apply for the championship role it was something he was keen to do.

Wyndham announced that he had been successful and would take on the role and help the next group of players come through.

Stephens said it was a massive honour to take on the role.

“I’m giving up the youth league role and take on champ this season which is

exciting,” he said.

“The previous coach stood down and the opportunity presented itself and I decided to go for it.

“It was a win-win [having already had the youth league role]. It’s exciting and champ women will be good.”

Stephens said having been around the association a little while he knows what it takes to lead the female program at the association.

He said the youth league and championship sides would work closely together with the association having a big focus on local talent.

“Our youth league side is quite young and our champ women are young as well,” he said. “We’re going to maintain that pathways for the younger playing group.

“The synergy between the two teams will be key.”

Wyndham’s championship side finished with just two wins in 2025. Stephens said despite finishing bottom they were set to stay up in the top flight.

Stephens said they will remain in the top flight next season.

He said while 12 months under their belts would help, he said it could be another season in 2026 with some challenges as they continue to look to the future.

Open runs for both women’s sides started last week.

“We’ve started laying the foundations for the 2026 season with open runs with the youth women and senior players, and we know we’ll need to build steadily towards competing in 2026,“ Stephens said.

Bears put faith in the next generation

By Tara Murray

Bellbridge has a new sense of motivation as the next generation starts to make its mark at the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Evans Clark Shield club.

Of the 45 players to play for the club on the weekend, more than half of them are under-21 showing the direction the club is going.

First XI Captain Dillon Hinge said it’s exciting to see what these younger players can do.

“The club is going through a phase into promoting the youth,” he said. “It was the youngest side that we have fielded in the time since I’ve been at the club.

“Half our players are juniors coming through and that is so exciting. It’s something we planned in the pre-season and it’s the direction the club wanted to go in.”

Hinge said they had a good group of youngsters who were really committed to playing cricket.

He said having them in the side had given some of the older blokes some more motivation.

In the Bears team on Saturday, they had three players under 20.

Kade Sullivan was playing his second game this week and he’s only 17.

Rudra Bavanaka is another one who is 17, while Vinay Kaler, 19, is playing his first game.

The Bears find themselves in a good position after day one of their match with Werribee Centrals.

Winning the toss and batting first, the Bears were bowled out for 316 in the final over.

Hinge was the star of the innings, making 100.

Daniel Stock made 68.

Hinge said they were really happy with that total. He said batting was one area they had looked to improve.

“We went out and got some recruits,” he said..

“Daniel Stock has made two 50s in two hits and was a major player in getting the in again over the line in round one.”

For the Centurions, Shuvro Saha took 5-44 off 16 overs.

Hinge said they hope they can con-

“We are excited to face that challenge while continuing to give Wyndham pathway players the chance to represent Wyndham in Big V and make an impact.“

Wyndham representative chairperson Leigh Bellingham said Stephens was an integral part of the 2025 Big V season and it’s always a success when they can promote within the association.

Wyndham will now commence the search for a youth league women’s coach to replace Stephens.

Meanwhile, Brian Rolph has been appointed the club’s youth league men’s side. Rolph joins Wyndham for the first time, with the association saying he brings a strong coaching and playing background along with experience across the Big V landscape,

Western United will still field sides in the Victorian Premier League next season.

Football Victoria last week released its provisional declaration of league structures for its National Premier League, VPL and state league competitions.

The provisional league structures have been determined in conjunction with the rules of competition and the order of merit process and has been released two months ahead of schedule after ongoing work with clubs to ensure compliance.

A significant development heading into the 2026 season is the transition of state league competitions from a five division structure to a seven division structure.

The change, which was announced last December, introduces a more streamlined and consistent framework, with all leagues within each division zoned as north-west and south-east throughout the entire state league structure.

FV’s head of competitions Frank Karatzas is excited for the simplified structure heading into the 2026 season.

tinue the same form into day two of the match.

“We will find it tough at times being a young team,” he said. “We’ll keep pushing through.

“We’ll try and build on that momentum and get the job done on the weekend.”

Despite going with a younger side, Hinge said finals still remained the focus for the club.

Meanwhile in the Roy Picone Shield, it was varying days for Point Cook Centrals and Point Cook.

Point Cook Centrals is in control against Moonee Valley.

The Sharks made 227 with Rasanjana Jayarathna top scoring with 84.

Moonee Valley will resume at 3-30.

Point Cook has already conceded first innings points against Keilor Park.

The Warriors were bowled out for 117, with the Devils finishing day one at 4.124.

In the Russell Pollock Shield, Wyndham Vale is in trouble in its run chase with St Andrew’s Footscray.

The Vales are 2-12 chasing 8-270.

“Off the back of a huge 2025, highlighted by the success of NPL clubs in the Nike Cup and Dockerty Cup as well as state league clubs in the Steph Catley and Cecil Earley plates, we’re looking ahead to an even bigger 2026, showcasing the only statewide football pyramid in Australia”.

“With the Veto Sports state leagues now expanded to seven divisions, the pathway to progress through the pyramid is clearer than ever, strengthening and unifying the competition from top to bottom.”

As part of the release, Football Victoria confirmed that Western United’s VPL1 side and junior boys sides will play next season.

After months of financial issues and missed payments to staff and players, United were stripped of their A-Leagues licence in August, then issued a wind-up order by the ATO in September.

Due to the issues, the VPL1 side was kicked out of this year’s finals.

Dillon Hinge. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 510978_09