Missing road plea
By Tara Murray
A Manor Lakes school has launched a petition calling for the construction of a key road in the area to be brought forward to alleviate safety concerns and congestion.
Ngarri Primary School has experienced rapid growth since it opened, with enrolments increasing from from 234 studentsin2023toabout870studentsthis year. The school expects the number of childrenenrolledtopass1000soon.
Despite the growth, there is just one roadtoaccesstheschool
Principal Honey Stirling is calling for the construction of Macarana Avenue to be completed early to provide another access point to the school and ease mountingcongestion.
“Ultimatelythereisonlyonewayinand onewayout,”shesaid.
“We want to reduce some of the congestionareas.
“We’ve spoken to parents and they are just trying to drop off and get to their own jobsasquicklyastheycan.
“Safetyisnotthetoppriority.Peopleare sittingthereforagoodhalfhour.“
Ms Stirling said the school has spoken with local residents as well, with some havingtochangewhentheyleaveforwork toavoidthecongestion.
The school launched the petition with support from the school council,
because it believes opening Maracana Avenue is not just a convenience, it’s a necessity.
“We want the councillors to come out and sit in the traffic,“ Ms Stirlingsaid.
A Wyndham council spokesperson said that the construction of Macarana Avenue fell under the responsibility of two different estates, Parkbrook estate and Winterset Lodge estate.
The spokesperson said both developers were meeting their obligations and confirmed the Macarana Avenue would be completed as part of stage 15 of the Winterset Lodge estate. It is currently at stagefive.
“NgarriPrimarySchoolhasanallocated council school crossing supervisor that manages the school crossing before and after school to enable children, parents and carers to safely cross the road,“ council’s spokespersonsaid.
“As one of Australia’s largest and fastest growth councils, we know there will always be pressure points while developmentisoccurring.“
Parkbrook estate’s Jeremy Vile said the developer has constructed half of its section of Macarena Avenue, with the balance under construction and due for completionlaterthisyear.
Winterset Lodge estate was contacted forcomment.
Zoe was born to perform
A love of performing runs in the family for Truganina’s Desmier family. Oldest daughter Sienna made her way to the grand final of Australia’s Got Talent in 2022.
Now it is her younger sister Zoe’s turn to shine. The 11-year-old has just completed an 18-month national
Zoe
tour with the Tina Turner musical. She also wowed the crowd at this year’s Australia Open when she performed the national anthem.
is preparing to take on the role of Duffy, one of the orphans in Annie the Musical during the show’s Melbourne season. Story: Page 5
Zoe, 11, is playing Duffy, in the Melbourne season of Annie Musical at the Princess Theatre. (Damjan Janevski) 488021_08
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‘Fantastic’ transformation
An unused section of a Laverton North recreation reserve has been transformed into a sporting and recreational hub.
Wyndham council has completed a $3.7 million upgrade of Lawrie Emmins reserve at the corner of Sayers Road and Palmers Road.
Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw, chief executive Stephen Wall and councillors recently joined Laverton MP Sarah Connolly and Development and Precincts Minister Harriet Shing for the official opening of the reserve’s new Gateway and Youth Precinct.
Construction of the precinct started in February 2024.
The upgrade features a skate park, basketball and netball courts, a climbing wall and outdoor fitness equipment, offering plenty of options for young people to spend time outdoors and be active, Wyndham council said.
Residents can also enjoy two shaded shelters with picnic facilities, a spacious grassed gathering area with a volleyball court, newly landscaped surroundings, a toilet block, car parking and other amenities.
Cr Shaw said the upgrade delivered a great space for Wyndham’s young people – particularly those in Laverton North, Wil-
liams Landing and Truganina – to engage in sport and have fun.
“These fantastic additions to Lawrie Emmins Reserve have created a new valuable open space for our community and is a testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality recreational facilities for our residents,” she said.
“This project forms part of the broader Lawrie Emmins Reserve Master Plan that council adopted in 2019, which has also delivered a redeveloped motocross track.”
Bemin Ward councillor Preet Singh, added: “This new reserve boasts fantastic new facilities our community will love and
Choir searching for more keen voices
A community choir in Wyndham is searching for new members.
The members of One Voice Wyndham, who meet at Wayaperri House in Werribee each Tuesday from 7-8pm, place just as much emphasis on social connection as they do on singing.
The choir, led by conductor Steph Payne, has no auditions and is inviting anyone interested in joining its ranks to take part in two free sessions when it re-
sumes on July 22 for term three.
One Voice Wyndham member Cass Hill joined the choir after the Covid lockdowns.
“Being in the choir has had a significant beneficial impact on not only my physical, but especially my mental health and wellbeing,” she said.
During the lockdowns, Ms Hill followed One Voice’s Facebook livestream. Each night a different choir conductor
would perform to camera for about one hour. When she found out a One Voice choir had been set up in Wyndham she made inquires.
“I have had the opportunity to attend and perform at events I would never otherwise have the opportunity or awareness to attend,” Ms Hill said.
Details: https://www.withonevoice. org.au/choirs/wyndham/
Council announces community centre for Riverwalk residents
Wyndham council has announced plans to construct a new community centre in Werribee’s Riverwalk estate.
The Riverwalk Community Centre (interim name) will feature a kindergarten and open space, providing families and the broader community with much-needed facilities close to home.
The centre will also feature multipurpose community rooms, consulting rooms for maternal and child health and allied health services, meeting rooms,a community kitchen staff office accommodation and on-site car parking
Mayor Mia Shaw said the new $15 million community centre was wonderful news for residents in the Riverwalk estate.
“This new community centre will provide families with the facilities and services they need, and substantially improve the liveability of the area,” Cr Shaw said.
“Council considered this was the best, most cost-effective use of the land. The planned facilities will also integrate with the future Riverwalk Town Centre.”
Designs for the new community centre
enjoy, leading to healthier and happier lives“.
“I encourage families to come and enjoy this fantastic new facility.”
The state government contributed $1.5 million to the Gateway and Youth Precinct.
When launching the project last February, Ms Connolly said the 70-hectare facility would be of great benefit to the local community.
“Through projects like this we are helping to build thriving places and connected communities, where people live their best lives in the company of family, friends and neighbours,” she said at the time.
AI business help for Wyndham firms
A partnership between RMIT University and Wyndham council will enable local businesses to access an innovative program exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
The Partnering on the Future: Wyndham AI for Business program is being delivered by RMIT at the new RMIT Business and Technology Studio at Wyndham’s SPARK Business & Innovation Hub, located in the East Werribee Precinct. By leveraging the strengths of both RMIT’s research capabilities and council’s community networks, this collaboration will foster innovation and strengthen skills within the local business community through initiatives including business AI workshops and business AI solutions sprints.
The long-term objective of the partnership is to establish a Wyndham & RMIT AI Hub as the dedicated space for emerging technology training, ongoing research, and innovation addressing shared business challenges, using technology led solutions to enable new learning and growth opportunities in the region.
Mayor Mia Shaw, said the initiative was the first of its kind.
“This fantastic new ground-breaking initiative ... will benefit the business community in Wyndham. Through the partnership, Wyndham City Council and RMIT University will deliver a suite of tailored AI specific training programs,” she said.
“RMIT and Wyndham City Council aim to create a strategic partnership that will provide businesses in the Wyndham area with affordable access to advanced training, innovation, and resources in artificial intelligence (AI) for business.”
RMIT Deputy Vice-Chancellor Business and Law Professor Colin Picker said,: “At RMIT, we are undertaking a focused effort to advance our approaches and strategies related to technology as applied to business and law.
are expected to begin this year, with construction in 2027 and the centre expected to be operational in 2028.
Plans for the site include the demolition of the former Melbourne Water Discovery Centre building, with expert analysis deeming the building in poor condition, unsafe and not compliant with current building codes.
In the coming months, the community will be consulted on updates to the existing Riverwalk Estate Development Plan.
Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ project/riverwalk-community-centre
“It’s wonderful to be able to work with Wyndham City Council, utilising our respective strengths to help prepare local businesses to be able to respond to the challenges and opportunities of traditional, new and emerging technologies, such as those presented by the rise of artificial intelligence.
“This partnership is a fantastic example of how the tertiary education sector can work alongside government at all levels, for the benefit of local communities.”
Details: wyndham.vic.gov.au/aiforbusiness
One Voice Wyndham members Eva Capabianco, Maria Lickiewicz, Justin Davenport, Karen Maddigan, Cass Hill, Lorraine Wagner and conductor Steph Payne. (Damjan Janevski) 487965_03
We’re building an alternative to the West Gate Bridge and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re putting the finishing touches on the new West Gate Tunnel, an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. When the tunnel opens in 2025, you can enter on the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road, and take advantage of new exits to Footscray Road, Dynon Road or CityLink.
While we work, disruptions could affect your travel
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Sunbury Line Until 13 July North Melbourne to Sunshine
First train to 9.30pm, 25 July 28 July Sunshine to Sunbury
From 9.30pm 25 July to 27 July
Werribee and Williamstown lines
From 10pm 25 July to 27 July
Road disruptions: Closed lane and roads
Calder Park Drive, Calder Park
To Ballarat/ Geelong
North Melbourne to Sunbury
North Melbourne to Newport
Until late JulyAt the level crossing
West Gate Freeway, Spotswood 13 July to late August
Holden Road, Calder Park
Outbound lane between Williamstown and Millers roads
From 23 JulyPermanently closed at the level crossing
‘My child in his hands’: Dad
By Allanah Sciberras, AAP
A father of three has recalled the harrowing moment he unknowingly handed his daughter over to an alleged sex offender working at a local childcare centre.
Satbir, who asked to be identified only byhisfirstname,visitedtheCreativeGarden Early Learning Centre in Point Cook, on Wednesday last week after recognising the alleged offender on the news.
The troubled father said he was seeking information about Joshua Dale Brown’s supervision of his children in 2023.
He also wanted advice on whether two of his children needed to be tested after more than 1000 families were told to screen infants for potential diseases.
“I dropped off my child into his hands a couple of times,“ Satbir told AAP.
“I’m a bit worried, I (need) to find out everything. I’ve seen him in the classroom where I dropped my children.“
The charges against Brown, 26, include sexual penetration of a child under 12, attempted sexual penetration of a child under 12 and producing child abuse material.
They relate to eight victims aged be-
tween five months and two years who were enrolled at the childcare centre between April 2022 and January 2023.
He worked at about 20 facilities since 2017 and health authorities have urged the parents of 1200 children to get them tested for unspecified infectious diseases as a precaution.
Families with children at the centres have reported long wait times to access support and health information from a government hotline.
Another parent who visited the Point Cook centre on Wednesday, who declined to give their name, received a ge-
Zoe follows in her sister’s footsteps
After spending 18 months travelling the country playing young Tina Turner, Truganina youngster Zoe Desmier can’t wait to step into a more classic role in the upcoming Melbourne season of Annie the Musical.
Zoe, 11, will grace the stage of the Princess Theatre as Duffy, one of the orphans in Annie. Zoe said she was honoured to be chosen for the role.
“Duffy is such a fun character and similar to my personality. She’s confi-
dent, sassy and a bit of a leader among the orphans,“ she said.
Zoe said touring around Australia with Tina, the Tina Turner Musical was like a dream.
“I was so grateful that I got be a part of retelling the inspirational life story of the legendary Tina Turner,“ she said.
“Touring across Australia was an incredible experience, and I loved getting to live in so many beautiful cities I might never have visited otherwise.“
Zoe said her love for performing stemmed from her family.
She followed her older sister Sienna into the spotlight, with Sienna previously portraying the young Tina Turner.
“I come from a very musical family, sosinginganddancinghasalwaysbeen part of my life,“ Zoe said.
“I love being on stage, it’s my happy place. It’s even more enjoyable when I see how much joy it brings to my audience as well.“
Julia Gillard Library reopens at Tarneit after upgrades completed
TheJuliaGillardLibraryTarneitisbackopen for business.
The library reopened on June 5, following a series of key upgrades designed to enhance user experience.
The library was temporarily closed in early May for essential maintenance works.
Theclosureallowedfortheinstallationof new customer service pods which has doubled the number of service points from two to four — helping staff serve the community more efficiently.
Thenewrefreshedandupgradedlighting throughout the space has created a brighter, moreinvitingatmosphereforallvisitorsand improves the usability of the library spaces.
Wyndham mayor Mia Shaw said the library would again provide a huge range of services, activities and events.
“The Julia Gillard Library has an extensiveandcomprehensiverangeofbothphysical and on-line bi-lingual resources,“ she said.
“Wyndham Libraries are free to join and
neric response from authorities and later found the same information in the news.
His daughter attended the centre from 2021 to 2023.
“There’s a lot of stress, it’s very distressing so I needed to come and get some details,“ he said.
Brown was not known to Victoria Police until the start of the investigation, and there were no formal complaints against him. He had a valid working with children check.
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028
Wyndham council
fines dumpers
Wyndham council has fined two people $1,186 each after they dumped household items in a community centre car park.
The items were unloaded at the side of donation bins located at Arndell Community Centre car park in Truganina – behind signs that read ‘No Dumping’.
The donation bins, owned by the SCRGroup, accept clothing and textiles and small household electrical goods that are then recycled.
The bins clearly state that permitted items need to be placed inside the bins and those who dump outside the bins face prosecution.
Mayor Mia Shaw condemned the act and said it was important that people followed the directions on the donation bins.
“Those wanting to recycle through the SCRGroup donation bins need to use the bins correctly or dispose of unwanted goods through another avenue if their items are not accepted by SCRGroup or do not fit into the bins,” she said.
AccordingtoCrShaw,council’sattitude towards dumping is zero-tolerance.
“Illegal dumping has cost Wyndham City ratepayers $6.1 million over the last fiveyears,including$1.4millionin2024,” Cr Shaw said.
“This is an unfair impost on all our residents, the majority of whom do the right thing-that money could have been spent on delivering new parks, roads or essential services.
“We’re serious about fining people who illegally dump clothes, rubbish or wasteoutsidebins,bythesideoftheroad or on vacant land.
“In Wyndham we have three free hard waste collection services available to all residents every financial year. The waste collection trucks come to a resident’s house to pick up the items.”
Residents can also take a car boot load or trailer load of rubbish to the closest council tip in Werribee and use a free tip voucher once a year, council said.
Additional tip vouchers can be allocated by swapping one or more of their hard waste collection services if residents prefer.
give you access to a range of resources; hard copy books, magazines or e-books, e-audiobooks or podcasts.
“Our libraries offer so many benefits to our community, including providing access to information and education, acting as a gatheringspaceforeventsandactivitiesthat support physical and mental health wellbeing, and supporting social cohesion and cultural understanding.“
Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/libraries
Cr Shaw said the dumping sting was executed after the dumpers were observed from a safe distance, photographed, had their car registration numbers recorded and turned over to council to be investigated.
She encouraged residents to help keep the area clean by reporting all suspected illegal or improper dumping.
To report illegal dumping, visit: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/raiserequest-or-issue
Zoe, 11, is playing Duffy, in the Melbourne season of Annie the Musical. (Damjan Janevski) 488021_06
Stay healthy this winter
By Christopher Carter, CEO, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network
You don’t seem to hear all that much about COVID-19 these days, but that doesn’t mean it’s yesterday’s problem.
Indeed, early in June Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Dr Evelyn Wong, put out a statement revealing that the increase in COVID-19 cases between April and May this year was 2.5 times higher than the same time last year. Dr Wong added that there has also been an uptick in hospitalisationsofpeopleseriouslyillwith the virus .
Even a mild case of coronavirus is enough to make you feel crook for a few days,andabadonecankillyou,especially ifyoualreadyhavesomeunderlyinghealth concerns.
It’s true, though, that the availability of medicines called antivirals can really reduce the severity of COVID-19 infection, at least for the people eligible to receive them. These include older folk and those already battling other illnesses.
For everybody, however, one of the best ways to reduce your risk of catching COVID-19–ordevelopingnastysymptoms if you do – is to get a vaccination.
Dr Wong points out that respiratory diseases such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 become much more common in winter. This is largely because in cold months we tend to spend more time indoors with the windows and doors shut, making it easier for germs to spread around.
The latest recommendations about COVID-19 vaccinations, issued by the Department of Health, Disability and
Ageing, suggest pretty much everybody 18 years or older should get a jab once a year. Some people, such as those over 65, or who have impaired immune systems, should think about getting one every six months.
Childrenwithriskfactors–basicallyany medical condition that increases the risk of severe COVID-19 illness – should also be vaccinated. (Of course, it’s very important for parents or guardians to discuss this with a doctor.)
All COVID-19 vaccinations are free,
DISABILITY SERVICES
Creating positive change
Everyday Independence is helping people with disability in Wyndham and across Australia to live more fulfilling lives.
As a registered NDIS provider, Everyday Independence offers evidence-based therapies that empower children, teens, and adults to participate more fully in everyday life and make NDIS funding go further.
Thelocalteamofoccupationaltherapists, speech pathologists, physiotherapists, key workers and behaviour support practitioners delivers therapy where it counts — at home, school, work, or out in the community. By meeting people where they are, the Everyday Independence experts help them build skills and confidence to achieve their goals.
Whether it’s preparing a child for school, supporting a teen to become job-ready, or helping adults reconnect with community life, the Everyday Independence team is passionate about lasting, meaningful change.
ThisistheEverydayWay—ateam-based, community-focused approach grounded in inclusion and real-world outcomes. For over 25 years, Everyday Independence has championed what’s possible, helping people broaden their horizons and live with greater independence.
To learn more about how Everyday IndependenceissupportingtheWyndham community to create lasting positive change, visit everydayind.com.au or call 1300 179 131.
including for people without a Medicare card.
While we’re talking about vaccinations, it’s a good idea to get one for the flu, too, as we head into the winter months. Peak flu season is usually between June and September.
The vaccination is free for some groups of people , such as the very young, people over 65, First Nations members and pregnant women. Many general practices, community health organisations and pharmacies offer flu vaccinations to all
otherpeopleatbulk-billedorlow-costrates. RSV doesn’t get as much media as the flu (possibly because it’s difficult to pronounce) but it’s still a serious matter. There is now a national free immunisation campaign to protect pregnant women, and babies. People in these groups can access their jabs at general practices, community health clinics, and participating pharmacies.
Protecting yourself and those you love has never been easier. Enjoy the winter wonderland!
Upgrades for boat ramp
An extra ramp and an accessible pontoon will be part of upgrades to the Werribee Southboatramp.
State Outdoor Recreation Minister Steve Dimopoulos recently visited the Werribee South boat ramp to announce the latest round of better boating fund will invest $36.3 million in major infrastructure upgrades across Victoria, as well as significant ramp maintenance and dredging to optimise the functionality of ramps.
As part of proposed upgrades at the bustling Werribee South facility, which services growing demand from boaters in Melbourne’s booming west, an extra ramp lane and accessible pontoon will be added while the car park and entry points will be reconfigured to reduce congestion and the needtoqueuebackontoBeachRoad.
Parking and access lanes will be redesigned and resurfaced to improve
traffic flow and create a small number of additionalspacesforcarswithboattrailers.
The$2.2millionprojectwillalsoimprove boat preparation areas so skippers can rig theirvesselsoutoftheway.
Rampmanagerswillbeabletoundertake critical dredging and ramp maintenance through a pair of competitive grants programs worth a combined $1 million, while planning will begin for future upgradesatanothersevenfacilities.
Point Cook MP Mat Hilakari said these upgrades ensure boating remains accessible and enjoyable for families right across Melbourne’s west, while also supporting local jobs and our visitor economy.
Werribee MP John Lister said Werribee’s boating community will benefit greatly fromtheseupgrades–makingiteasierand saferforlocalsandvisitorstoenjoytimeon thewater.
Briefs
Man facing child sex offences
A second man is facing child sex offences after it was revealed a former childcare worker was hit with more than 70 charges against babies and toddlers. A 36-year-old Hoppers Crossing man, Michael Simon Wilson, has been charged with a range of sexual offences including rape, child abuse material and bestiality. A police spokesperson said the man was charged in relation to an alleged sexual assault in Hoppers Crossing in April. Police have confirmed that he’s not a childcare worker.
Armed robbery charges
Two teenagers have been charged following a spate of alleged armed robberies targeting businesses in Wyndham. An allegedly stolen grey Mercedes Benz was used in a total of 27 alleged incidents, including armed robberies, burglaries and thefts, since Tuesday, July 1. Polcie said the vehicle was involved in incidents between 10pm on July 1 and 3.30am on July 2 in Werribee, Tarneit, Truganina, Laverton North, Williams Landing, Bentleigh East and Nunawading. Alleged incidents involving the same getaway vehicle took place across Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs between 6pm and 2.30am on July 3. A 15-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy, both from the Greater Dandenong area, have been charged.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
The West Gate Tunnel will transform travel from Manor Lakes to Melbourne when it opens at the end of the year. You will be able to enter the new tunnel from the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road and travel quicker to destinations such as universities, hospital and sports events.
Drive the West Gate Tunnel through our driving simulator at Manor Lakes Central Shopping Centre 11 to 20 July
Scan the QR code for upcoming events and to explore Melbourne's
Werribee MP John Lister and Outdoor Recreation Minister Steve Dimopoulos. (Supplied)
Join diabetes study
Regular exercise is among the most common recommendations given to people with type 2 diabetes (TD2) as a way of managing the condition and improving their overall health.
NowthosewithTD2havetheopportunity to do regular exercise that could improve the health of others with the condition as well as their own.
Researchers at Victoria University are calling on people with TD2 to take part in their study looking into how exercise impacts bone, muscle, and fat interactions in those with the condition.
In order to find out, researchers require participants in the study to come to VU’s Footscray Park campus for regular high intensity, interval training (HIIT) sessions.
“They do it three times per week for 10 weeks,” explained researcher and PhD candidate Jiawen Huang of how often participants will have to train, adding that muscleandfatbiopsiesandfullbodyscans will be required as well.
“We want to find out the combination between the fat and muscle and how the body uses them to regulate the blood glucose level.”
Ms Huang and fellow research assistant and PhD candidate Rhiannon Healy are conductingthestudyunderthesupervision of Professor Itamar Levinger from the VU Institute of Health and Sport.
Professor Levinger said the main aim of the study is to uncover the role of bone hormones known as osteokines in the prevention, management and treatment of TD2 and if this role is sex specific.
“WeknowthatindividualswithT2Dhave lower levels of osteokines and osteokine levels also appear to be sex-specific,”
Professor Levinger said.
“Because we know that bone density is different between men and women, we would like to see the effect of exercise on those bone hormones, is sex specific.?
Participantsforthestudyarestillneeded, with professional health assessments and
gift cards worth up to $100 on offer for those who sign up.
It’s hoped the study will be completed by the end of this year.
Those interested in participating should email jiawen.huang1@live.vu.edu.au
GRUFFALO PLUSH & BOOKS
Seventeen people charged
Police arrested 18 people during an operation targeting weapons and anti-social behaviour at Hoppers Crossing on July 3.
An Omni operation provides police with additional powers to detect weapon offences within a designated search area under the Control of Weapons Act.
These operations are run across the state to detect weapons, protect community safety.
Approximately 50 police and PSOs – from the transit division, public order response team and local area - saturated the Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre and bus hub area to deter crime and boost safety.
Police wand searched about 450 people during the eight-hour operation.
During a search, officers located a fold out knife in a 17-year-old boy’s shoe. He was issued with a penalty notice for possessing a controlled weapon.
A further 17 people were arrested. Police will have a continued focus on shopping centres and public transport hubs in the western suburbs, with a number of proactive operations planned in coming months.
Acting Senior Sergeant Lauren Williams said “We hope it served as a reminder to those who carry knives that police are out at all hours detecting weapons, and we will have zero hesitation in seizing yours.
Professor Itamar Levinger (back middle) from Victoria University’s Institute of Health and Sport, is supervising PHD candidates Rhiannon Healy (front left) and Jiawen Huang who are conducting a study into the effects of exercise on people with type 2 diabetes. (Damjan Janevski) 478610_05
Business finalists announced
Forty-fivebusinesseshavebeenselectedas 2025 Wyndham Business Awards finalists.
Wyndham’s Business Awards program is now in its 29th year and celebrates local business entrepreneurs, innovators, hardworking operators and business leaders.
Theawardsprovideauniqueopportunity for businesses across key industry sectors of all sizes and types to be recognised for their hard work, effort, dedication, accomplishments and commitment to their customers and the community.
This year, 165 outstanding entries from businesses across the municipality were lodged. After an intensive evaluation process in the first stage of judging, 45 finalists were selected.
Wyndham mayor, Cr Mia Shaw, said “We acknowledge the effort from the 165 businesses who submitted entries, some for the first time, and we are proud to have a range of diverse and vibrant businesses in all of the 11 award categories, including the new categories Business Resilience for 20-plus year old businesses and Rising Star for up-and coming talent under 30 years old as well as excellence in key sectors that strongly align with Wyndham’s current and future economic growth.”
“All the finalists should be proud of their achievements.”
FinalistswillbecelebratedattheFinalist Breakfast Celebration on Wednesday 30 July.
“These awards recognise the important and vital role businesses play in our economic prosperity. In a growing municipality like ours, we need a strong, dynamic and entrepreneurial business
MY PLACE
community to lead, drive and grow our future economy,“ Cr Shaw said.
“We thank and appreciate the judges this year, for their generosity of time and in bringing their wealth of industry-specific and business knowledge, expertise and experience to this year’s awards”.
The coveted Business of the Year Award andallcategorywinnerswillbeannounced at Wyndham’s Business Awards Gala on Friday 12 September 2025 at Encore Events Centre. It is a night of nights to celebrate local business excellence.
For more information on the 2025 Business Awards, please visit www. wyndham.vic.gov.au/businessawards
Wyndham Business Awards Finalists
Business Person of the Year
• Emma Costin - EQ Leaders
• Maung Hnin Thwe - Comfort Care and
Community Services
• Steven Falkingham - Falkstar Garage Door Insulation
• Tonia Tribe - Tonia T Boutique Rising Star
• Amie Thomas - Living Prospect Real Estate
• Klodiwan Popaj - Popaj Facility Services
• Krushnadevsinh Ravalji - Third Culture Australia
• Renil Bhuva - Desi Kothi Icecream Pty Ltd
Excellence in Professional Services
• Citadel Group
• Kennedy Tax and Business Services Pty Ltd
• LygometryX.AI
• Workplace Edit
Excellence in Retail, Tourism & Hospitality
• Little Growling Cafe
• Mr G’s Donuts
• Oh Happy Day Cafe
• Quest Werribee
• Werribee Open Range Zoo
Excellence in Social Impact
• Western Gymkhana Club Inc
• WYN Fm
• Wyndham Health Foundation
• Youth Projects
New & Emerging
• Astri Studio
• Mycloud Services
• StarKids Salon Spa
• TogetherVsmile
Excellence in Manufacturing or Transport
• ArcStructural
• Desi Kothi Icecream
• Outwest Concrete
• OYO Movers
Excellence in Trade & Construction
• Humble Designer Homes
• Panache Designer Homes
• Plum Electrical
• RF Pest Management
Excellence in Education & Training
• Amiga Montessori Wyndham Vale
• EQ Leaders
• Multi Skills Training
• Weboptimark
Excellence in Health & Wellbeing
• BibVault
• F45 Training Point Cook
• Move Me Physio
• Kieser Werribee
Business Resilience
• Bouquet Creative
• Class Plastics (Aust)
• R.P. Motors
• Shawn’s Swim School
Rohan Rizzoli’s family has lived in Werribee since the 1950s. He has deep connections to the community through the Werribee CFA, his job as a school sports adiminstrator and his support of local sporting teams.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m a born and bred local, my family has been in Werribee since the 1950s. I grew up in Wyndham Vale and moved to Werribee in my early teens. I attended St Andrew’s Primary School and MacKillop College,whereIwasfortunatetobeoffered a traineeship after completing Year 12. Fourteen years later, I’m still working at MacKillop as a sports administrator, working closely with students and staff across all year levels, organising the logistics and administration of sporting teams and competitions. I also support the physical education and applied learning areasandhaveworkedwithseveralstudent engagement programs, assisted students who face various challenges.
What is your connection to the Werribee community?
I’m a proud volunteer with the Werribee CFA and have been a member for 14 years. I currently hold the rank of Lieutenant and have been part of the brigade’s leadership team for the past four years. Werribee is the busiest of over 1,200 CFA brigades in the state.
In the past year alone, our brigade has responded to over 1100 incidents, I have attended over 450 of them. We have a dedicated group of community focused individuals at our brigade which is like a second family to many of us. It is a challenging role to play in your own community, but I am grateful to be able to help others in their time of need.
What do you like about where you live? Even though Werribee and the wider
Wyndham area have grown into a large city, we’ve managed to keep a country town heart. Whether you’re walking down WattonStreetorpoppingintoalocalcaféor shop, you’re bound to bump into someone you know. There are many friendly faces and you’re quick to make a connection with every person you encounter. If you ever need something, you will always be able to find it in Werribee.
Why did you become a firefighter?
I always wanted to become a police officer, and I thought volunteering with the CFA would be a great stepping stone and a way
togaininsightintotheemergencyservices. What I didn’t realise at the time was just how much was involved, from community engagement and education to fundraisers and events, plus training and responding to emergencies. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to support community members duringwhatareoftenthemostchallenging moments of their lives.
What are some misconceptions about firefighting?
A lot of people may not realise the level of commitment involved in being a volunteer firefighter,especiallyinWerribee.Wetrain
weekly, often multiple times a week, and respond to around three incidents a day on average. Recently, we had a day where we responded to 13 incidents, starting at 2am and finishing with the last call at 10pm. It’s a huge responsibility and involves a lot of sacrifice.
Where is your favourite place to spend time?
I love watching local sport and supporting our teams. I’m often down at Soldiers Reserve or Galvin Park watching Werribee Districts or Werribee Centrals play. I also enjoyfollowingtheWerribeeFootballClub at Chirnside Park — it was fantastic to see them win the VFL premiership last year.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I’d like to see more action on crime and stronger support for our police and wider emergency services, I see the challenges theyfacefirsthandeveryday.Ibelieveboth council and state government need to take a more proactive approach on crime. We desperately need more recreational spaces for young people, particularly in areas like Manor Lakes, Tarneit, and Point Cook. Facilities like Eagle Stadium and Aqua Pulse should be replicated in these areas to meet the growing demand. There are too many local sporting clubs that cannot cater for our youth due to lack of infrastructure. Sport and recreation are powerful tools for youth engagement, and I believe expanding access would play a key role in reducing crime, not just in Werribee and Wyndham, but across Victoria.
Cedar Woods is the major sponsor of the Wyndham Business Awards. From left, Karen Huong, Sophie Zhou, Laurence Hutt, Anna Notari and Victorian state manager James Bovell.
That career brought him a world title and arecordof 41winsfrom49fights,including 28byknockout,butit’soneofhisonlyeight defeats that he’s most remembered for.
The same could be said for the man who defeated him, Barry Michael, who went onto defend his world title another three times in a distinguished career that included win 48 times from 60 fights, but which is often boiled down to those 15 gruelling rounds in what is now known as Australia’s ‘fight of the century’.
Thereasonsforthisaremanyandvaried. One is that, like all great sporting contests, the bout was a product of its time.
$16,190 valuedat including airfares
I hated him that bad on the night, I just wanted to knock his block off ... I wasn’t thinking about boxing him and trying to get the points - Lester Ellis
ENTERNOW
Havinggonethroughthedoldrumsinthe 1970’s,Australianboxingwasexperiencing a revival by the mid-1980’s with the likes of Jeff Fenech and Ellis at the forefront.
With most fights happening overseas, the prospect for an all Australian world title fight in sport-mad Melbourne was box-office dynamite.
out was both fast and furious.
Fortunately, Ellis has been able to console himself in the years since with the knowledge that, contrary to reports, he didn’t actually lose.
“Watching the fight [back], up into the 10th round, I thought I was in front.
Viking &yourlocalnewspaperinviteyoutoexperiencetheeleganceandserenityofarivervoyage.
“In the last five rounds, I gave three to him and two to me, so with me being the champion, I should have got the result,” he said, adding that Michael’s father influenced the judges.
foryourchancetowinan8-day“RhineGetaway”cruisefortwo,departingBaselon 22November2026,includingreturnflights.Therivervoyagewilltakeyouthroughfourenchanting countries,offeringsixguidedtours,allonboardmeals,andenrichingculturalexperiences.
But beyond that Ellis vs Michael was a classic case of friends turned foes.
Both were ten pound poms (Ellis was born in the northern seaside town of Blackpool, while Barry Michael was born Barry Swettenham in Watford, just outside London), both were from families that settled in Melbourne’s west (Ellis in Sunshine and Michael in Williamstown) and both displayed brilliance in the ring, rising quickly though the ranks at similar weights.
The only real difference was age, with Michael 10 years Ellis’s senior and already a seasoned pro by the time the younger man started to make his name.
“I loved him, I loved the ground he walkedonmate,”saidEllisofhisthenhero, who he first shared a ring with as a kid.
Likeallgoodfeuds,theexactreasonforit is hard to decipher, but it seemed to begin when Ellis, then just 19, greatly offended Michael by winning a world title before him by beating South Korea’s Hwan-Kil Yuh in March 1985.
“He [Michael] was a 24-year-old, Australian lightweight champion. I was a 14-year-old Australian flyweight amateur champion, and he used to come down and spar me.
me for? I asked him one day, he goes, ‘oh, you’re fast, you’re clever, sharpen me up. You help me, you know.”
Prizeinclusions:
To add insult to injury, Michael’s American trainer, Dana Goodson, then walked out on him only to appear in Ellis’s corner soon after.
“I was filthy on him, which I was entitled to be,” said Michael of Goodson in an interviewwith Star Weekly earlierthisyear.
CruiseDuration:8days,7nights
Accommodation:Standard(CategoryF)Stateroom Destinations:4countrieswith6guidedtours
Seeking to settle the score Michael immediatelydemandedfirstcrackatEllis’s new world title, something the champ didn’t appreciate.
“I was a little bit disgusted when he challenged me for my world title,” said Ellis, hinting that jealousy on the older man’s part played a role too.
Ellis and Goodson with giving him motivation he needed.
“When I got in the ring I said, ‘thanks for the title Lester,” said Michael.
He was good to his word.
Michael scoffed incredulously when I relayed this to him, retorting that Ellis’s brother got to the judges too and that he’s since has admitted he wouldn’t have won a re-match.
There of course wasn’t a re-match, something which briefly extended the bad blood between the pair (and contributed to Michael’s bashing by notorious gangster Alphonse Gangitano) but which has been consigned to the past.
The pair have long since returned to being friends, something Ellis said began in the immediate aftermath of the fight.
CulinaryDelights:Allonboardmeals,withbeer&wineservedduringlunchanddinner CulturalExperiences:VisitstoUNESCOWorldHeritageSitesandViking'sCultureCurriculum Amenities:Allportcharges,freeWi-Fi,andallonboardgratuitiesincluded Flights:IncludedEconomyClassreturnflightsfromselectedmajorAustraliancities (upto$5,000percouple)
Ellis however, wasn’t so disgusted to turn Michael down and soon contracts were signed and Australia’s biggest boxing blockbuster was booked.
TotalPrizeValue:$16,190percouple
After starting out behind the young champ, the raucous crowd of 7500 at Festival Hall slowly swung behind the old challenger, as Michael’s years of experience, guile and fitness took over.
“I was proud that he won the fight so instead of him waiting for the belt to come from America and getting it a couple of months later, I gave him my belt on the night so he could get photos with it,” he said of the arrangement which lasted a few months longer than expected.
“I wanted my belt back, so I rang him up, ‘Barry,where’smyfuckingbelt,mate?’That was my belt, buddy.”
EntryandtravelConditionsapply(ScanQRcodeforT&C’s)
While he believes most of the bad blood
that these friends would eventually come to blows, but even by the low standards of the fight game, Ellis and Michael’s falling
“I’d never come across somebody that could talk for 15 rounds. He never shut up,” recalled Ellis of the fight in which Michael bashed his ears as well as his body.
After 15 gruelling rounds, Michael was announced the winner by unanimous decision, becoming world champion for the first time at 30 and ending Ellis’s reign after just four months.
The ex-champ spent the rest of the night
“Every time that I went for a wee [after the fight] it was just purple, red blood from the kidney shots.”
Just a few months after fighting at Festival Hall, the two men met at the Deer ParkHotelwhereMichaelreturnedthebelt and they buried the hatchet.
“I gave him a cuddle and said ‘you deserved it,” said Ellis.
‘Last
To attend the
On July 12 the two old foes will meet at another western suburbs establishment, Pelican Waters in Williamstown, to mark the 40th anniversary of their fight of the century and launch Michael’s biography for which Ellis wrote the forward.
and pre-order the book: https://shorturl.at/vZ7W0
By contrast, the eventual winner credits
Man Standing: The Barry Michael Story’ is published by New Holland.
launch
Boxing legends Lester Ellis and Barry Michael reunite ahead of the 40th anniversary of their fight of the century. (Damjan Janevski) 486471_01
Referee Gus Mercurio watches challenger Barry Michael connect with a right to Lester Ellis’s head during their world title fight in 1985. (David Johns)
What do Viking guests love?
MANY readers have been introduced to the magic of Viking and their outstanding cruises through articles here and in the quarterly Travel Today magazine.
The cruise line, which celebrates ten years of ocean voyages in 2025, provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world and designed for curious travellers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine,
Somehavetakentheplungeandbooked a long-awaited dream holiday, while many areontheirsecondorthirdadventurewith Vikingandofferaccoladestothecompany andthemanywaystheycontinuallyriseto exceedexpectations.
Viking offer ‘Destination Focused Dining’whereregionalcuisineisprovided by passionate chefs for guests dine as they dineonboardateachlocation.
Onboard at the Chefs Table, known for its culinary experience savouring gastronomic delicacies, the sommeliers andculinarymasterscreatetheperfectfood and wine pairings during a multi-course tasting, enjoyed in the restaurant or in a privatediningroom.
Oneguest,BenH,recentlyreturnedfrom the Mediterranean Odyssey cruise with plentyofgreatmemories.
“So many memorable nights at the Chefs Table on Viking, an intense dining experience that goes beyond just great food,“hesaid.
“Eachcoursewaspartofathemedtasting menu highlighting different regions of the world and paired perfectly with wines selectedtobringoutthebestineverydish.”
Other guests have enjoyed the thoughtfully curated shore excursions offered in every destination some only offeredtoVikingguests.
GuestKimP,whorecentlyreturnedfrom theItalianSojournitinerary,saidsheloved goingashoreandseeingthesites.
“What I enjoy most about the cruises are the excursions and here we visited the historic town of Trogir, which not surprisingly was a backdrop for the city of Qarth in the show Game of Thrones and more importantly a UNESCO World HeritageSite,“shesaid.
“But the best excursion was continuing on to the charming small village of Jurlinovi Dvori in Draga, where we visited the farmhouse of a retired priest who welcomedustohishomeandchapelwitha tastingofhisfigsandalmondsgrownthere
aswellasahomecookedmealandmusic.”
ThoseinEuropenowhavebeenenjoying the warm season with guests enjoying a romantic Danube experience with iconic World Heritage sites, stunning sunsets and sunrises on the Trades Routes of the Middle Ages itinerary, or a guest favourite, theRhineGetaway.
Recent guest Juliana B said it was a wonderful time to savour the Rhine in full bloom with a Rhine and Main Explorer itinerary which offers a blend of culture historyandnaturalbeauty.
“Wevisitedsomanycutetownsthisweek enjoying the architecture, art museums, castles, churches, palaces, gardens and more.Wealsoenjoyedrelaxingontheship watchingthescenerychangeandsampling regional dishes and delicious meals from thecomfortofourhomeawayfromhome,” shesaid.
As first time Viking cruiser Joe A loved the way the Rhine Getaway cruise was handled.
“OurfirstcruiseonViking,“heenthused.
“It was an awesome experience.
Everything runs so smoothly, and they handlethelogisticssowell.”
A firm favourite for guests on the Ocean Ships is the Kitchen Table, an onboard cooking school where guests experience firsthand how to prepare regional dishes. Onportdaysguestsareinvitedtohandpick ingredientsatalocalmarkettocreatethree courseregionalmealswiththechef. Is it time to book a dream holiday where all the boxes are ticked? Then it’s time to contact Viking on 138 747 or visit www.viking.com.
Dark sky over Cologne aboard Viking on the Rhine.
The Acropolis in Athens is on many guests ‘must see’ list.
Viking ships offer comfort, attention to detail and is called the thinking persons cruise. While on-board settle in and have a glorious spa included in the trip.
LEE MCCARTHY
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 four-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 and Vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre
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
Lisbon to Istanbul or vice versa
36 DAYS | 10 COUNTRIES | 29 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL: MAR, APR 2027
From $32,995pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $40,495pp in Penthouse Veranda
MEDITERRANEAN’S ICONIC SHORES
Barcelona to Istanbul or vice versa
29 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 23 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL: MAR-NOV 2026; FEB-MAY, JUL 2027
From $24,095pp in Deluxe Veranda
From $28,395pp in Penthouse Veranda
Explore the epic natural beauty and ancient history of captivating Cappadocia. Take to the skies for a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia and journey through the Dervent Valley admiring the “Fairy Chimney” rock formations. In Istanbul see historic landmarks such as the “Blue Mosque,” the Hippodrome of Constantinople and the Topkapi Palace.
ANCIENT ADRIATIC TREASURES
Venice to Istanbul or vice versa
15 DAYS | 5 COUNTRIES | 12 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAR, APR, JUN, AUG, OCT, NOV 2026; MAR, APR, MAY, JUL 2027
From $11,795pp in Deluxe Veranda
From $13,695pp in Penthouse Veranda
CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY
CCTV upgrades for station
Metro’s safety tools continue to grow at Werribee train station with upgrades to the station’s CCTV system
Whiletherearemetrostationstaff,authorised officers and PSOs on site at the station to provide support and assistance, there will now be greater CCTV coverage.
The upgrades have been made to improve visibility across all areas of the station and the car park.
Metro said this upgrade ensures Metro can see any safety incidents that require a response.
This includes making sure passengers are staying behind the yellow safety line, it
allows quick action to help ill passengers, and a rapid response to safety incidents that may need police or emergency services assistance.
Each weekday about 3700 people use Werribee station.
Metro’s chief operating officer Aline Frantzen said Safety is the foundation of everything they do.
“CCTV is a key tool we have to keep the train network running smoothly and safely,” she said
“We work closely with Victoria Police every day to minimise disruptions to passengers in the event of a safety incident,
and these new cameras give us even better visibility of what’s happening at Werribee station.”
Recent Crime Statistic Agency figures released showed Werribee was the number one spot for crime in Wyndham, with 4474 offences in the 12 months to March.
The figures showed that there were 435 recorded offences at train stations in Wyndham in the 12 months to March.
There were also 243 offences in railway carparks and 41 on buses or at bus stops.
Metro said an increased CCTV coverage also allows Metro and Victoria Police to see the network in real time to allow for a quick
Little River hall stands the test of time
For 110 years, the mechanics institute hall has stood in Little River as a local landmark.
Next month, the hall will received new stage lights, allowing volunteers to proceed with plans to host live music performances.
Volunteer Les Sanderson said the addition of live music would add to the history of the important local landmark.
The Little River Mechanics Institute began in 1908 when the townspeople came together to raise the money needed to
build a community hall.
The building opened on August 3, 1910, and the library opened in July the following year after a 100 pound grant from the state government.
The hall is community owned and managed by volunteers, like Mr Sanderson.
He said the hall has been used for a variety of events over the past 110 years, with parties, dances, weddings and funerals being among the most common events.
There are also groups that regularly use
the hall including the historical society, the cemetery trust and railway revival group.
“It’s still one of the main focal points for any large gathering,” Mr Sanderson said.
“The school always use it to do their annual Christmas concerts” and sports clubs have used it for their fundraising events in the past.”
Mr Sanderson said the mechanics institute is well worth the visit, with the building “still having a lot of its early day charm about it.”
response to ensure safety is prioritised and disruptions to passengers is kept to a minimum.
“We’re continually improving and upgrading stations right across the rail network to get Victorians home sooner and safer, every passenger deserves to feel safe on our network - any form of harassment on public transport network is completely unacceptable,“ Metro said.
“We work closely with public transport operators and Victoria Police to improve safety across the transport network and make sure everyone’s experience is comfortable.”
More buses trips for Wyndham
More than 450 extra bus trips will run across Wyndham each week, following a state government boost to four major bus routes.
The state government said the extra trips would deliver better connections to train services at Werribee, Tarneit and Wyndham Vale stations and major local destinations including Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre, Manor Lakes Central Shopping Centre, Tarneit Central Shopping Centre and Wyndham Vale Square Shopping Centre.
The extra trips have been added to bus routes 170, 180, 190 and 192. The government said the bus services would operate later into the evening most days of the week.
The government said the extra services would give locals and shift workers more ways to travel that works for them
Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the government understood the importance of buses to local communities.
“More evening and night services on our busiest routes reflect changing travel patterns, including the increase in people travelling to and from the city in the evening for our major events, hospitality and work,” she said.
Timetables and more information on the July service improvements will be available from Sunday, 13 June at ptv.vic.gov.au
Volunteer Les Sanderson at Little River Mechanics Institute. (Damjan Janevski) 487511_01
ACROSS
1 Infatuated (8)
5 Portable computer (6)
10 Separately (5)
11 Authorise (the use of) (9)
12 Colour points of a digital image (6)
13 Area of level high ground (7)
14 Death notice (8)
15 Seas (6)
18 A sheep’s coat (6)
20 Calamity (8)
21 Water well (7)
24 Clamour (6)
27 Arranged (9)
28 Silly; pointless (5)
29 Formally inspect (6)
30 Vegetation (8)
DOWN
1 Prejudice (4)
2 Keep steady (9)
3 Heading (5)
4 Revelation (8)
6 Old (7)
7 Doubly (5)
8 Forerunner (9)
9 Aid (4)
14 Obtrusive; meddlesome (9)
16 Sub (9)
17 Unruliness (8)
19 Purify (7)
22 Sucrose (5)
23 Bird’s bed (4)
25 Strong thread (5)
26 Refute (4)
1 In which decade was Tutankhamun's tomb discovered?
2 Approximately how long does it take for the moon to orbit the earth: 18, 27 or 40 days?
3 Which two TV personalities were Australia's commentators for the Eurovision Song Contest from 2017 to 2024?
4 Name the Japanese shrine famous for its rows of red torii gates.
5 Sarah Burton, the designer of Kate Middleton's wedding dress, is the creative director of which
6
7 To which demographic is the annual Stella Prize awarded, and for which sector of the arts?
8 The pasta dish cacio e pepe translates to what?
9 In which Australian New Wave film did Jacki Weaver (pictured) appear as maid Minnie?
10 What is the chemical symbol for lead?
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Werribee craft festival
Applications are now open for stallholders at the 45th annual Werribee Craft Festival. All sites are indoors and stallholders must attend both festival days. It will be held on Friday, November 7, 5-9pm and Saturday, November 8, 9am-5pm.
www.werribeecraftfestival.com, or werribeecraftfestival@hotmail.com
Resume workshops
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
Walking 4 Health Victoria
Walking Football 4 Health Victoria runs at Eagle Stadium every Friday morning between 10-11am. Walking Football is a low-impact, modified version of football where players are required to walk instead of run. Ideal for individuals 50 and older, those recovering from injuries, or anyone looking for a gentle yet engaging way to stay active.
Mick, mick_trim1@hotnail.com
Watton Group
A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at 49 Watton Street, Werribee, at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month.
Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com
All Abilities Netball
All Abilities Netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2.
Phil, 0437 078 739
Walking Netball
Walking Netball is a low impact, no running, no jumping version for those that love the fun, friendship and activity of a weekly game of netball. Sessions are run every Thursday during school terms, from 8pm, at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2.
Phil, 0437 078 739
With One Voice Wyndham Choir
With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee.
wyndham@withonevoice.org.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
Laverton Community Choir
Open to new members and everyone is welcome. If you enjoy singing, and are curious about joining a choir, come along and try out your vocal cords with our fun and inclusive group. No audience or musical knowledge required. Meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton from 7-9pm, with supper provided.
Sue, 0418 386 147 or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com
Wyndham Rotary
If you have an hour or two to volunteer in a local project Wyndham Rotary would love to hear from you. If you have an idea and you want some help taking the idea to action, contact us. If you want to connect with friendly, like-minded people, come and chat to us. Meeting locally each week, you will be made welcome.
Julie, 0406 196 630
Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour
Assist with service projects in the local community and overseas. The club meets at 7pm on the first Tuesday of the month at the ‘By the Bay Cafe’ in Wyndham Harbour.
Mamode, 0469 888 126
Wyndham Combined Probus
A social club for retired or semi-retired people. There is a broad range of social activities to suit all interests such as lunches and brunches each month, day trips, theatre outings and longer trips away. Hear interesting speakers and make new friendships. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Iramoo Community Centre, Honour Ave, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm.
Kaye Angel, 0407 551 694, or wcpc1306@gmail.com
Point ook 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 a.m. at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook.
Cathy Guiterrez, 0421 188 129, or cathygutierrez@tpg.com.au
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
Point Cook VIEW
The Point Cook Day VIEW Club (for ladies) meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Point Cook Library, 1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook. Members enjoy afternoon teas and outings. New members welcome. VIEW Is part of the Smith Family.
Catherine, 0407 726 852
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
U3A Werribee
The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes-activities specifically designed for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres. Rick, 0402 299 220
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Emmanuel College students: Sam, Maja, Matthew and Kayleigh who took part in a winter sleepout. (Damjan Janevski) 487099_01
Two worlds, one life
Essence Theatre Productions (ETP) and Nga Matai Purua Inc. (NMP) proudly bring audiences a gripping new work inspired by events at Port Phillip Prison, now set to close in 2025 amid major prison reforms.
Based on NMP president Tyson Tuala’s real-life experience, at the heart of The Yellow Line stands Jordan - a young Pasifika guard tasked with teaching Haka to a bunch of disconnected and disinterested prison inmates. As Jordan walks the metaphorical (and literal) yellow line that separates guard from prisoner, this compelling new Australian work asks ’What does redemption look like when you carry the weight of culture, identity, and justice on your shoulders?’
Co-written by Berne-Lee ’Nana’ Edwards, Alaine Beek and the ensemble cast - which includes first-time performers with lived experience - The Yellow Line delivers visceral honesty, unforgettable performances, and deep emotional truth.
guard tasked with teaching Haka to a bunch of disconnected and disinterested prison inmates. (Supplied)
important insight into the Victorian justice system through a Maori andPasifikalens,delvingintothesystem and its impact within these communities. It shines a crucial spotlight on the human stories often buried behind headlines - particularly for communities disproportionately impacted by incarceration in Australia.
“The experiences that shaped The Yellow Line come from a part of my life I never expected to revisit - let alone reimagine for the stage,“ said NMP president Tyson Tuala.
“This show is not about me. It’s about all the people - seen and unseen - who carry their culture with them into places that were never built for it. It’s about Maori and Pasifika men behind bars and the power of Wairua, haka, and music to reach through concrete and steel.“
Art explores impacts of colonialism
A story of humour, vulnerability, and connection, The Yellow Line also shares
“Even though the focus is Maoriculture, all cultures will deeply connect with this play”, adds co-writer/co-director Alaine Beek.“It’sbasedonaspecifictruestoryand audiences will be immersed into the Maori culture in a thought-provoking way. Each character is based on a real person and although dealing with a very significant topic, so much comedy shines through in the production.”
The Yellow Line will run for three performancesonlyatthenewlyrefurbished Wyndham Cultural Centre on July on 26 and 27. To book go to www.essencetheatre. productions/the-yellow-line-1
Museum treasures for children to explore
Take a deep dive into the wonders of the oceans and beaches at the fun and informative pop-up museum coming to Whittlesea for the school holidays.
Museums Victoria will be staging the pop-museum at two locations on Friday, July 11 called the Ocean Wonders.
The first of of those is Riverside Community Activity Centre in South Morang, from 10.30-11:30am and Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre, from 2-3pm.
The pop-up museum will showcase real objects from the Melbourne Museum, helping kids learn all about incredible marine creatures while getting a close-up look at shells, sharks and ancient sea animals.
Highlights include a taxidermied green sea turtle and seagull, a tiger shark jaw and whale vertebra, as well as a tooth from a Megalodon, one of the largest sharks to ever exist.
Thepop-upmuseumisfree,butbookings are essential.
Themuseumisforchildrenagedbetween three and 13.
Other school holiday activities happening in Whittlesea include youth taking over Mill Park library, girls day out, NAIDOC youth event and 2000’s Nostalgia.
To book tickets to the muesum: https:// tinyurl.com/3pee4476
Exhibition delves into concept of nature as home
Is caring for the Earth and caring for each other any different? It’s an existential question which is explored in a new exhibitionthatopenedinHobsonsBaylast week.
Nature is a Home is an exhibition at the Louis Joel Arts and Community (LJAC) centre in Altona from June 28 to July 16 and features artworks that question our relationshipwithnatureandresponsibility to nurture it.
CoincidingwithLJAC’s20thanniversary, NatureisaHomefeaturesartworkinarange a mediums like ceramics, photography, paint and painting, sculpture, written text, film, paper and found materials which artists have used to to give voice to their artistic expression.
ThoseartistsareallbasedinMelbourne’s west and include Ariana Lim, Augustine Ang, Elijah Cristiano, Dovey Dee, Julee Latimer, Lan Pagliaro, Fatima Measham,
Also from the western suburbs is the exhibition’s curator, Jasmeet Kaur Sah, a writer, editor and arts programmer who has previously worked at Footscray Community Arts, Melbourne Writers Festival and Science Gallery at the University of Melbourne.
Kaur Sahi and LJAC manager Karen Ingramareinvitinglocalstocomeandview the exhibition, particularly on Saturday, July 12 when a special public program will be held at the LJAC gallery from 11.30am to 1pm.
The public program features a range of free events, including floor talks, a workshop and exhibition prize announcements.Entryisfreebutbookings are encouraged.
Details: https://www.ljac.com.au/ natureisahome/
An art exhibition examining the impacts of colonial land and water management across Victoria has opened at the Brimbank Gallery and Brimbank Projection Gallery.
In Occupation Studies: Agriculture Exhibition, Tahlia Palmer — an artist of Yuwaalaraay and European descent — explores the environmental damage caused by industrial farming and colonial land use, as well as the suppression of local Indigenous knowledge systems in relation to land and water management.
The exhibition features field recordings, historical footage, abstract imagery and AI-generated sounds and images.
Palmer said the research process for the exhibition began during her creative residency with the Public Records Office of Victoria last year.
“I spent four months looking through the archives for information about land and water management in Victoria, and conducted field researchbasedonsitesandsituations I was drawn to.”
Palmer then travelled to different Countries across Victoria where she conducted field recordings above and below different bodies of water including in dams, reservoirs, old mine sites, river revitalisation sites, and logging and plantation sites as well as the ocean.
“Because of the emotionally confronting nature of this research, and my acknowledgement of the sensitivities and protocols around speakingaboutCountrythatisnotmy own,myintentionwastomakeworks that speak to broader environmental impacts of the European invasion of this continent,” she said.
Through her art, Palmer said she would like audiences to reflect on how colonial land was not managed with the best interests of Indigenous peoples in mind.
“...those choices were made in the context of land theft. I want audiences to understand how much was lost because of those choices, and I want them to think about how hard Aboriginal people have had to fight to maintain our relationship to Country… the scale of violent disconnection that was forced,” she said.
Occupation Studies: Agriculture Exhibition is a free event at the Brimbank Gallery and Brimbank Projection Gallery, and is supported by Creative Brimbank.
The exhibition will run until August 29.
More info can be found on the Creative Brimbank website.
Artist Tahlia Palmer. (Supplied)
A pop-up museum is coming to Whittlesea. (Melbourne Museum)
Petra Tomecko, Nandita Nadkarni and Jenny Rütsch.
Louis Joel Arts and Community centre manager Karen Ingram and curator of the Nature is a Home exhibition Jasmeet Kaur Sahi. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 484023_04
Jordan is a young Pasifika
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which 17-year-old Australian sprinter beat his own 200m national record by 0.02 of a second at his first senior international event?
2. In which year will the Tasmania Devils AFLW team enter the women’s
3. How many consecutive cricket Tests did Marnus Labuschagne play before being dropped for the series against West Indies?
4. Which Australian golfer won the 2025 Women’s PGA Championship in
What is the name for the main body of riders in a bicycle race, meaning
Filmmaker Joseph Kosinski, who made Top , directed which much-hyped, recently released sports
Which Richmond player was given a courtordered curfew of 10pm to 6am due to an assault conviction?
What is the name of the Nike sports brand logo?
Who was man of the match in England’s First Test win over India in the fivematch cricket
10. In rugby union, the British & Irish Lions were defeated by which country at Aviva Stadium, Dublin?
11. The British & Irish Lions tour only happens once per how many years?
12. Which NBA star tore his achilles in game seven of the 2025 NBA Finals?
13. In gymnastics, is parallel bars a men’s, women’s or unisex event?
14. Which premier league club is nicknamed The Bees?
15. How many forwards are in a rugby union team?
16. What is WWE wrestler John Cena’s catchphrase?
17. How many holes of golf are played in a Masters Tournament?
18. What informal animal name is also used for a beginners ski slope?
19. Cristiano Ronaldo recently commited to a £492 million contract extension with a club in which country?
20. Which Aussie recently became the holder of the most X Games Skateboard gold medals won by a woman?
21. Who was picked first in the 2025 NBA draft?
22. Test cricketer Steve Smith recently used facilities associated with what other sport to help recover from a finger injury?
23. In basketball, how many points is an alley-oop worth?
24. Which Richmond AFL player was recently given a suspension following a hit on Adelaide player Jordan Butts?
25. Which two former players recently became the first AFLW players to be inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame?
26. AFL players Joel Amartey and Isaac Quaynor both have heritage from which African country?
27. Gehamat Shibasaki plays for which NRL team?
28. In which state have the Matildas recently played four friendlies against Panama and Slovenia?
29. The French alps are set to host which 2030 sporting events?
30. Who was player of the match in the recent first cricket Test between the West Indies and Australia?
Elite package but pricey
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
Launched by Hyundai in 2017, the second-generation Kona was revealed in December, 2022.
It is available with petrol, mild hybrid, hybrid and battery-electric powertrains, while the earlier diesel engine option is no longer offered.
Unlike the first version Hyundai claims second-generationKonawasdesignedfirst and foremost as a battery-electric vehicle before it was then adapted for use as other variants.
Whichever way it swings, it has been designed to blend in with the current environment, with no discernible radiator grille regardless of what’s under the bonnet. Still, accommodations must have been made during the design process which means some compromise.
Styling
In effect, there are three electric versions of this car, Kona Electric Standard Range ($54,000), Kona Electric Extended Range ($58,000) and Kona Electric Premium Extended Range ($68,000), all of them front-wheel drive.
The basic version comes with a 99kW electric motor and 48 kWh battery, with a range of 370km.
The extended range is $58,000 and has a 150kW motor, larger 64kWh battery and range of 505km. Premium extended range with the 150kW motor and larger 64kWh battery as standard has a range of 444km, due to the fact it has larger 19-inch wheels. You can’t get the Standard Range in Premium trim.
The sporty N Line option pack brings the priceofthebasicversionto$62,000andthe Premiumto$71,000.Anycolourotherthan white or green adds $595. The optional Meta blue of our car appears mauve in some light. N Line includes body-coloured cladding, exclusive bumpers, skid plates and side effects, wing-type rear spoiler, 19-inch alloy wheels and N Line badges/ wheel centres
Our test vehicle was the top of the line Kona Electric premium with 19-inch wheels, premium paint and optional interior trim, priced at $68,890 plus on-road costs. Standard features include 17-inchalloywheels,LEDheadlights,DRLs and tail lights, dual-zone climate control, interior Vehicle To Load (V2L) power outlet, heat pump cabin heating, battery conditioning and a wireless smartphone charger.
Premium adds 19-inch alloys, leather upholstery, powered, heated and ventilatedseating,aheatedsteeringwheel, headupdisplay(HUD),Boseeight-speaker premium audio, remote smart parking, wide glass sunroof and a power operated tailgate.
Onanothernote,KonaElectricisthefirst EV in its segment to come standard with a spare tyre, which is comforting when it comes to longer journeys.
Kona Electric is covered by a five-year/ unlimited-kilometre warranty, with a separate eight-year/160,000km warranty on the battery. Service is due every 24 months or 30,000km.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of 12.3-inch touchscreen together with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster that sit behind a single seamless glass panel.
It has a long list of features including Hyundai Bluelink and Over-the-Air update capability, improved natural language-based voice recognition, and a
dedicated EV user interface.
Other features include Bluetooth with multi-connect, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, satellite navigation, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
A 240-volt three-pin socket can be found at the rear of the centre console, which we used to power a car fridge.
There are two USB-C ports in the front and another two in the back, but there’s no power outlet in the actual luggage area.
Safety
Despite an extensive list of active safety and driver assistance features Kona scores only four stars for safety.
It falls short in two key areas: safety assist and vulnerable road user protection, achieving only an adequate result in the performanceofitsautonomousemergency braking system in tests with pedestrians and cyclists.
Powertrain
The electric powertrain in the extended version produces 150kW of power and 255Nm of torque, with drive to the front wheels through a single-speed reduction gear.
Driving
Second generation Kona Electric is bigger and roomier, 18cm longer with a 6cm longer wheelbase than its predecessor. This means a bigger boot and more legroom, with 7.7cm more legroom and 1.5cm more headroom in the back. Seating is comfortable without being inviting and perhaps a bit narrower than before.
Heating comes from an energy-saving heat pump, with physical temperature controls below the touchscreen.
Up front you get two retractable cupholders, a 1.5-litre drink bottle holder in each door and generous centre console storage. In back there’s 700ml bottle holders in each door and a fold-down centre armrest with two cupholders.
The luggage area has grown by 33 litres to 407 litres, with a 27-litre plastic frunk up front which is handy for stashing charge cables.
Never quite rising above its humble origins, hard plastic abounds in the cabin, disguised by soft touch material in such places as the armrests. Lifting the tailgate exposes a luggage area that looks
oh-so-average in generic grey felt.
The look is distinctive with a long thin light bar that spans the breadth of the bonnet, matched by a tail light strip at the rear, which together give the car a space-aged appearance.
Both strips of lights are underpinned by large separate head and brake light assemblies. Studded, pixel-like inserts at the front and bottom of the rear bumper underline the futuristic look.
But to get the cooler, high-flying rear spoiler you need to shell out for the N Line kit.
Someiterationsofthecarlookabitgoofy, butfromHyundai’spointofviewthere’sno mistaking the Kona for anything else on the road.
An ‘active’ air flap opens and closes to reduce wind drag at the front and, believe it or not, extended range versions are pre-wired for towing and can pull a 750kg brakedtrailer.Evenmoreincredibleisthat this EV actually comes with a spare wheel, albeit a space saver - unlike the rest of its kind.
On a lesser note, Kona Electric is built on 400-volt architecture, so it does not offer the faster charging speeds of other Hyundai EVs.
Therearefourdrivemodes-Eco,Normal, Sport,Snow-plusiPedalone-pedaldriving (no need to brake separately).
With395Nmoftorquethefirstgeneration could accelerate from 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds. Heavier and with less torque, this one does it in a slower 7.9 seconds.
Steering wheel mounted paddles can be used to control the level of regenerative braking (lesser or greater brake drag). There’s also a smart mode.
With a DC fast charger, Hyundai claims 10-80 per cent charging can be achieved in 41 minutes, compared to 18 minutes for some of its 800-volt models.
The liquid cooled, high-performance lithium-ion battery is incorporated in the floor plan, maximising interior space and providing a flat floor.
Putting the battery down low gives the car a lower centre of gravity which enhances ride and handling, and sees it sit flatter through corners.
The charge port is located at the front of the car where it is arguably more convenient to use. The capacity of the onboard AC charger has been boosted
to 10.4kW, compared with 7.2kW in the previous generation. But that requires a home with three-phase power and higher charging rates are really not required for overnight charging.
With single phase power and a 7.2kW EVSE, the 48W standard range version can be fully charged in 6.75 hours, while the 64kW extended range will take up to 9.0 hours.
Plug it in when you get home and it will be ready to go again in the morning.
Topping up the car from a 300W Tesla Supercharger took much longer than expected and never even came close to the promised 100kW level.
Kona also provides vehicle-to-load (V2L) support, but leveraging the full capability means buying a $600 V2L connector.
Energyconsumptionforthisspecversion of the car is a claimed 16.7 kWh/100km. Our test vehicle was showing the long-term equivalent of 16.1 kWh after 2480km. We say equivalent because the tripmeterwassettokm/kWhnottheusual kWh/100km, and we could not find how to change it - not for lack of trying.
Moving from the Ioniq 5 straight into the Kona Electric was enlightening. They share the same twist-style transmission lever which is located on the right of the steering column and same basic layout. The big difference is in the way Kona rides and handles. Although tuned for Australian roads, the ride is noticeably harsher and it is less able to absorb road shock, due mostly to its smaller size.
ThebouncethatcharacterisesEVsisalso present and sees the car bob up and down when it encounters a large bump such as a speed hump.
Rather than sporty the Kona Electric is easy and relatively comfortable to drive around town, but we suggest it is better suited to shorter trips. Its size will make it tiring to drive over longer distances and country roads are likely to produce a choppy ride. It’s quiet inside, but there’s some wind noise, even at lower speeds. Head-up display is almost invisible to those who wear polarised sunglasses.
LiketheIoniq5,theover-speedwarnings are often wrong and can be annoying, but arereportedlyquieterandcanbeswitched off - though they must be disabled each time.
A ‘Virtual Engine Sound’ (like a Tesla) is emitted from a front-mounted speaker to warn pedestrians of the car’s approach, andaddstothespaceypersona.Itwasloud enoughtodrawanaudiencewhilewewere doubled-parked, and trying to load some gear into the back.
AndroidAutothrewusacurveballwhen we were unable to navigate back to the car radio screen and select a band and station to listen to.
Summing up
Kona Electric is a well-engineered, well equipped small crossover style wagon that doesn’t cut many corners. But the result of this strategy is an unexpectedly high price tag, perhaps too high.
Tick all the boxes and the Kona is just over $77,000 by the time you put it on the road. And that’s before you start thinking about installing a Wallbox at home which is really the only practical solution to charging.Itmeansyouwon’tbeconstantly worrying about when and where you can charge your shiny new toy.
At this point thoughts will probably turn to cheaper Chinese alternatives. Kona’s Main rival is the BYD Atto 3 which tops out at $47,499 plus on-roads. Over to you.
Kona Electric is a well-engineered, well equipped small crossover style wagon that doesn’t cut many corners. (Supplied)
Sporting around in the sun
There was plenty of action across the north-west on Saturday from the footy fields to the soccer pitch and basketball court. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out in the winter sunshine shooting the action.
Epping’s Marc Tartaglia and Mernda’s Declan Felle. 488180_19
Rupertswood’s Jackson Cardillo. 488178_09
Rupertswood’s Clayton Bonello. (488178_08
Keilor Thunder’s Adetomi Ayilara. 488186_01
Bernie Harrower in the coaching hot seat. 488185_09
Epping’s Corey Middleton. 488180_04
Lalor United’s Diego Miranda Ciudad Real and Whittlesea Rangers’ Nuoman Aliy. 488179_17
Whittlesea Pacers’ Chloe Crompton in defence mode. 488181_02
Keilor Thunder’s Daniel Foster. 488186_13
Lalor United’s Deon Roumeliotis. 488179_02
Whittlesea Pacers’ Isabella Ryan goes up for a shot. 488181_15
Keilor Thunder’s Penina Davidson. 488185_20
Grammarians notch up four
By Tara Murray
Westbourne Grammarians are a step closer to playing finals in the Victorian Amateur Football Association premier B women’s competition.
After a strong first season back in the competition, the Grammarians have built on that this year and it’s reflected in the results.
Co-coach Ian Allan said they were trying not to look too far ahead.
“We’re looking at one game at a time,” he said. “There’s been a lot of positives especially the last four to six weeks, “Wehavewonfourinarownow.Wehave beaten some teams that have really challenged us and seen where we are with our
footy.
“There’s a lot of patience and the girls are starting to believe.”
Allan said the coaching group always had plenty of belief in the group and it was a matter of taking the right steps forward.
He said they had tried to keep it simple.
“We need to keep doing the things we are doing at training and stick to what we believe in,” he said.
“The results show for themselves and seeing the results we are is exciting for the girls.
“We are the girls where they want to fit into football and it is working for us at the moment.”
On Saturday, it was a challenge for the Grammarians who were able to get the job
done against the Old Melburnians.
Old Melburnians led at each of the breaks before the Grammarians kicked the final two goals of the game to win, 4.1 (25)3.4 (22).
Allan said it was a really proud moment on Saturday.
“We beat them the first time round,” he said. “They are a top three side and where we want to head.
“The mindset was we are still in this game and we have to keep doing the things we have been doing week in, week out.
“Thatpaidoffforusandwekeptcompeting and our work rate was up until the final siren.”
The Grammariars sit in fourth spot, with three wins more than the two teams behind
Smiles as Sharks get their second win
There were plenty of smiles as Point Cook Centrals got its second win on the board in the Western Football League division 1. After winning in round one, it had been a long time between drinks for the Sharks in what has been a challenging year result wise.
OnSaturday,theywereabletogetthejob done against Sunshine, 7.11 (53)-5.11 (41).
Sharks coach Dean Chambers said it was nice to see the smiles on the faces of the playing group after the game.
“Itwasabitofarelieffortheboys’efforts,” hesaid.“Theykeepshowingupandpersonnel wise we don’t have a lot of A-listers.
“We’re playing the kids. There’s three kids that are still eligible to play 18s and full credit to them.
“They could take the easy option and go back and play with their friends, but they want to play the better standard of football which is good.”
Chambers said Saturday’s game was anything but pretty and not one that you could go back and watch again.
He said the wind proved tricky for both
sides at times.
The Sharks led all day after starting the match 29-0 in the first quarter when they had the wind.
“Itwasascrapandacontestedgame,”he said. “It was stoppage after stoppage.
“The first quarter set it up and I could then coach to look to nullify them.
“SpeakingtoafewSunshinepeople,they are in a similar position to us, just playing the kids.”
Mitchell Palma kicked three goals and was named the Sharks best.
Kwar Ater, Lachlan Grant and Nathan Williams were other standouts.
Chambers, who has already made the call not to continue on next season, said they were looking at the big picture for the rest of this season.
“Our focus is around our efforts in the game and training standards to launch into 2026,” he said.
“The experience of blooding some players is really good and it will take some time.
“We’re not so focused on the scoreboard and it’s about processes and playing the
them. There’s two weeks before the Grammarians play again, with Allan and co-coach Chris Grant giving the group this week off. Theythenhavefourweeksleftintheseason.
Allan said the match with ladder leaders Old Brighton was one they were looking forward to.
The Grammarians reserves side is sitting on top of the ladder in positive signs for the club.
Allan said they were starting to see players step up into the top side and have a real impact.
The club has also got an under-19 side whichishavingsomesuccessinaminicompetition that has been set up this season.
A-League
Western United striker Michael Ruhs is headed for a new opportunity after his A-League Men’s contract finished. Ruhs departs Western United after two-and-a-half years, after being a deadline day signing in February 2023 and went on to register 51 games for the club. Ruhs scored eight goals in that time, most notably bagging a brace in the first-ever men’s match at Ironbark Fields in Tarneit, contributing to a stunning 4-2 win. After confirming his departure from the west, Ruhs spoke of the special environment he has felt at the club.
AFL Victoria Victoria’s 20 state and metropolitan football governing bodies have aligned with AFL Victoria to formally endorse a unified strategic direction for the game’s future. The newly established Victorian Community Football Charter is a culmination of more than two years of collaboration. It marks the first time the state’s football bodies have aligned under a shared philosophy that through strong relationships, clearer governance, and effective structures, Victorian community football can thrive.
VPL
Werribee City wasn’t able to overcome an early deficit in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition on Friday night. Box Hill United scored in the seventh minute on Friday and that would be the difference in the game, with Box Hill winning, 1-0. The Bees sit in 11th spot, four points clear of bottom.
game we want and having small wins.
“There’s green shoots and it’s looking positive.”
The Sharks face Albion this Saturday.
While the Sharks beat them in round one,Chambersknowsitwillbeachallenge.
“It’s hard to beat Albion at Albion,” he said.
In other results, Hoppers Crossing suffered an upset loss to Newport, 11.3 (69)7.21 (63).
Klyde Milroy, Callum Buckingham and Kane Hynes were the Warriors best.
Werribee Districts snuck home against Spotswood, 10.14 (74)-8.13 (61).
Daniel Schibeci, Ben McMahon and Lachlan Rainbow were named the Tigers best.
Point Cook wasn’t able to get over the line against Parkside, losing 10.13 (73)-7.9 (51).
JockCoates,LochlanAllenandCameron Kizan were the Bulldogs best.
In division 2, Wyndhamvale returned to the winners list against Laverton, the Suns beat Albanvale and Braybrook beat Tarneit.
FV
Hoppers Crossing had to share the points with Altona North in the FV state league 3 north-west competition on Saturday. The Reds took the lead in the 19th minute through Ivan Silic, before Altona North hit back in the 34th minute. It was an arm wrestle in the second half, with the sides having to settle for a 1-1 draw. The Reds sit ninth on the table. In state league 4 west, Point Cook beat Barwon, 4-1. West Point’s match with Barnstoneworth United was postponed.
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Sharks strengthen squad
Exciting developments have come out of Point Cook Centrals after they announced a raft of signings for the upcoming Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield season.
Therecruitshavebeensignedtostrengthen the playing group in both an on field and off field capacity.
Vice-president Brett Talbot has described them as being really good cricketers and really good people that can assist with the growth of the junior program as well as the senior side.
Local recruits Max Rouvray, Kade Clowes and Max Pritchard have all made the switch to Point Cook Centrals from other clubs in the area.
Pritchard will be returning to the club after stints with Yarraville and Prahran, after going through the junior program at the Sharks.
Talbot said Pritchard got exposure to better quality cricket, and returns as a very strong bowler, a strong batsman and better than what he was when he left.
Pritchard will bring stability to the Centrals middle-order, whilst also being a genuine opening bowler, which is something the club needed.
Talbot said the trio of Rouvray, Clowes and Pritchard are excellent bowlers and batters who bring a “fantastic approach to cricket, and a real willingness to win.”
Navi Deol is another signing the club has made. Deol has moved over to Australia from New Zealand where he previously played a lot of cricket.
Talbot said he is someone the club has had their eye on for a while, but were waiting to see if and when he was going to move to Australia.
He is described Deol as a patient bats-
man, working well with their goal of seeing out the 80 overs and providing stability in the batting order, allowing others to play their natural game as well.
In further good news for the Sharks, last season’s Roy Picone player of the year, Rasanjana Jayarathna has committed to a third season at the club.
Talbot said Jayarathna has really fit into the club well and has been a wonderful addition since he came a couple years ago.
“He’s batting has got better each year, he understands our batting decks, he knows when to play and when not to play and he’s now an experienced senior batsman and exactly what we need at the top of the order,”he said.
Talbot also hinted that Jayarathna’s skills with the ball will be utilised more in the coming season.
In some surprising news Talbot himself is
Taranto shocked by Matildas squad call up
By Tara Murray
Western United’s Adriana Taranto thought a message that would lead to one of the biggest phone calls of her life was spam.
The message was anything but as she soon found out and the phone call would take her a step to achieving a dream.
Taranto was left shocked by the news she was selected for her first Matildas squad. On Saturday, she made her Matildas debut as she come off the bench.
“It was pretty crazy,” she said before the weekend. “I had finished doing a gym session and was going home in the car, got a little Whatsapp message from the team manager, asking for a call.
“I thought, is this a scam? What is this? I said sure and got the call and they said on behalf of Joe [Montemurro] we would like you to come into camp.
“I was a bit like, why? Are you sure? I was absolutely stoked.”
Taranto said she didn’t even realise on the radar of the new Matildas coach.
She only returned from an ACL injury in January.
“I think this year for me I was really focused on my rehab,” she said. “Just getting myself back to playing and the way I was
pre-injury.
“Try and get my confidence back. I did get quite a few games in with Western which I was really happy about.
“In the end, I did feel a lot more confident in playing in my body, but I didn’t really think Joe was maybe taking note.
“I just think for me, in my head I was building back up season and see what happens.
“It was a very, very nice surprise.”
Taranto, who is now in camp with the Matildas, said it was slowly settling in that she is part of the environment.
She is part of the squad that will play two games against Panama which started on Saturday.
“Sometimes I walk out to training and I look around and think what am I doing here?“ she said.
“Once we got that first session out of the way, I settled in a bit more.
“You do all the introductions and once that is all out of the way, it has been pretty smooth, I would say that it is getting there [in believing it].”
Taranto becomes the first player from the Calder United pathway through to Western United to be selected in a Matildas squad.
She said that was a pretty special mo-
making a comeback.
He said sitting out last season he found himself missing cricket and he feels he still has more to offer, with him looking at certain games last season and feeling he could’ve had an impact on the result.
“I think I could offer more value with the bat and from a leadership perspective as well,” he said.
“We have a wonderful younger captain in Owen Doolan and it was about looking for support mechanisms for him.”
Talbot said the club’s goals for the upcoming season were about building off a strong last season, with the club just missing out on a grand final spot.
Ultimately finals is what the club will be striving for.
“We’re going to train harder,” he said. “We’re going to work harder, we’re going to be better prepared than we were last year.”
Wyndham’s big win over the mermaids
Wyndham produced its best performance of the Big V women’s championship season to claim a big win against the Warrnambool Mermaids on Saturday night.
Both sides entered the match with just one win to their names for the season having had tough years.
On Saturday night, it was all Wyndham from the first whistle. It led by 11 points at quarter time and then lifted another level with a 36-9 second quarter. The lead continued to grow in the third quarter before the Mermaids claimed the final quarter by five points.
By that stage the game was already over, with Wyndham winning 104-65. Briana Bailey had 32 points while pulling down nine rebounds, while Holly Dolny had 21 points and six assists.
Coach Jason Bryant was thrilled by the result. “A strong first quarter set the team up well for the rest of the game with an 11 point lead at the first break,” he said.
“The second quarter being our strongest, we had saw outstanding shooting and defensive efforts building a 38 point half time lead.
ment with both clubs having a big impact on her life.
“Those two clubs, Calder and Western, have been a big part of my career and who I am as player. Everyone there Mark [Toscano], Amanda [Stella] and the coaches have been there have really helped me get to this point.
“The success we’ve had at Calder and even at Western, as team, has allowed me to build my game and learn, definitely helped me get to this point.
“Very proud to have played at both of them.“
Taranto said she has come into the camp trying to soak in as much as she can from the coaches and the staff.
She said she was loving the camp so far and being in the that professional environment.
“I want to show off a little bit of what I have got, and why I was bought in,” she said. “Just enjoying the camp and if I get to get on the pitch, it will be the cherry on the top.“
Taranto is one of two Western United players in the squad with Chloe Berryhill getting recalled.
She has taken Taranto under her wing and that they are so proud of each other to be in the spot they are.
“Both Briana Bailey and Holly Dolny had a great night shooting. Alana Anthony was relentless in defense, with four rebounds and five steals, and was the anchor at the defensive end of the floor. “All round this was a great team effort with the whole team contributing at both ends of the floor. The sort of game we’ve been building towards.
“Back to work this week for next round away against Bulleen.”
In championship men, Wyndham lost to Melbourne University.
At three quarter time it looked like Wyndham might be on track for an upset win. A 33-20 third quarter gave Wyndham a 10 point lead heading into the final quarter.
Melbourne University came home strongly and was able to run over the top for a 106-98 win.
In youth league championship men’s, Wyndham lost to the Kilsyth Cobras, 112-71. Coach Aaron Bensted said they played against the best team in the competition.
“We take a few great learnings away for the team to build on as a group but also as individuals.”
Adriana Taranto. (Football Australia)
Same story for Werribee
By Tara Murray
The frustrations continue for Werribee in the Victorian Football League.
Fresh off a week off, the Tigers returned to action on Saturday against the GWS Giants at Melbourne Avalon Airport Oval.
It was a similar story to many of their games this season, they found themselves in the mix but weren’t able to get the job done.
Therewasn’tmuchbetweenthetwosides inthefirstthreequartersastheytradedthe lead.
After taking back the lead early in the third quarter the Giants were able to stay there for the rest of the game, winning 11.12 (78)-8.11 (59).
Tigers coach Jimmy Allan said while there were some positives they were still making the same mistakes which had cost themseveralgamesthisseason.
“It was a familiar story,” he said. “We had a real crack and that was really good, we justthedecisionmakingandstructurestuff didn’tgetright.
“We’ve worked hard on it and it cost us again.It’sreallyfrustrating.
“Going through the review it’s the same stuff and it makes it hard to get over the line.”
Allan said the Giants took them away fromthegamestylethattheywantedtoplay andforcedthemtohandballmorethanthey wouldlike.
“They play chaos style football and at the stoppagestheygotaholdofus.
“They have some good players and their classshowedthrough.”
Allan said the message had been the same every week and they hadn’t seen a lot ofchange.
He said they would look at how they delivered their messages to see whether theycouldgetthroughwhattheywantedto.
Dom Brew had 32 possessions for the Tigers, while Louis Pinnuck had 31 in his returnfrominjury.
Harry Grintell was the only multiple goalkicker for the Tigers, finishing with two goals.
Allan said Grintell was one of two standoutsfortheside.
“He played as a wing-forward this week,” he said. “He had been playing back and he provided us with a real spark and kicked a coupleofgoalsandsetupsomeothers.”
TheotherstandoutwasBiorMalual.
Allansaidhehadbeenoneoftheirbiggest improversthisseason.
“He was excellent,” he said. “We threw himbacklastweekandputhimbackonthe wingduringthegame.
“Hisdecisionmakingwasoutstanding.
“He’sbeenbetterthanlastyearandcredit tohimhe’stakenonarealleadershiprolein thegroup.
“He leads the way with the way he takes things on board as well as anyone else. There’sbeensomerealgrowth.”
Werribee sits in 14th spot, two games
outsidetheplayoffspots.
Allan said they hadn’t given up hope of playing finals and defending their premiership.
Hesaidplayersarealsoplayingtomakea casetostayonthelistfornextseason.
“Someresultsontheweekendhelpedus,” he said. “It’s still a challenge and we have beencompetitiveeveryweek.
“We get that right more than wrong, we willbehardtobeat.Allfivegamesintherun homearewinnable.”
Werribee will play underlights on SaturdaynightagainsttheCaseyDemonsat WhittenOval.
Allan said there were six points between the sides so it was an important one in the finalsrace.
“We feel like if we play well, we can win,” he said. “It’s a matter of getting it done now.”
tarneitudf@wyndham.vic.gov.au
Jake Lohmann lays a tackle. (Werribee FC)
Bior Malual has been outstanding for Werribee. (Werribee FC)
