Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 25th February 2025

Call for rail before runway Take a shot at victory

By Prealene Khera

Brimbank council has issued an urgent call to both tiers of government to get the “west moving” by delivering on the long-promised Melbourne Airport Rail before the third airport runway takes off.

Council launched its aptly named ‘Rail Before Runway’ campaign and community movement on February 18, turning the heat on the federal and state governments to fast-track the airport rail project.

Despite being one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, Melbourne’s west has been “short-changed in government infrastructure

funding”, council said in a statement. “To keep up with its rapid population growth, critical infrastructure projects such as Melbourne Airport Rail and the development of the Sunshine Precinct must be delivered now.”

According to council, Melbourne Airport Rail will connect the airport to Victoria’s regional and metropolitan train network for the first time and will provide a cost-effective, time-efficient, and sustainable public transport alternative for all.

Developing the Sunshine Precinct, which includes the full implementation of the SunshineStationMasterplanandtherebuildof AlbionStation,willleverageoffthisinvestment

andstimulatetheeconomyinthewestthrough tourism, education, housing, shopping, and business growth.

MelbourneAirport’sthirdrunwaywasgiven the green light in 2024 and is expected to open in 2031, with passenger numbers set to rise exponentially to 83 million per year, by 2046.

“With the Tullamarine Freeway already congested, this spells disaster for Melbourne’s traffic, with commuters from the west doomed to spend hours in gridlock unless we get the Melbourne Airport Rail back on track now,” council’s statement reads.

“A survey of 1000 Melbournian’s found that 72 per cent want to see an airport rail link and

Embark on a medieval adventure, with wizards, knights and monsters as your guides helping you traverse through a fantasy realm – all at the Sydenham Library.

It could be your one-shot, so roll a dice and find out what your characters will do at the Brimbank ‘Dungeons & Dragons’ event.

By combating different scenarios and completing missions, the tabletop storytelling game will bring the community together as part of a men’s mental health initiative, host Lachlan Hodge said.

“If you like the idea of playing alongside like-minded people, slaying monsters and completing quests for the good of an imaginary realm, then this will be a fun way for you to learn, play and make new friends around the table,” he said.

Equipment will be supplied, and rules will be explained to ensure all locals are welcomed, regardless of their experience.

Held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood House from 3.30 -7pm, anyone 15 years or older can attend.

Sessions will also be hosted on March 14 and 28, and April 11.

Kaija Du and Prealene Khera

better bus services in the west before more money is spent on less critical projects.”

Mayor Thuy Dang said people of the west were tired of being left behind, with government investment continually funnelled into projects in more affluent areas that are already privileged with extensive public transport and road infrastructure.

“Fast-track the Melbourne Airport Rail and SunshinePrecinctnowandbuildtherailbefore the runway – it’s not just a nice-to-have, it’s a necessity. Melbourne’s west deserves better,” she said.

Continued: Page 15.

Roll a dice and test your luck with game master Lachlan Hodge.

(Ljubica Vrankovic) 460436_01

Clean-up at waste site underway

By Prealene Khera

Liquidators have begun work to clean-up contaminated waste at ACB Group’s Derrimut factory site which was at the centre of two significant industrial blazes, including a fatal fire in 2023.

Since ACB Group entered into voluntary liquidationinDecemberlastyear,SVPartners’ liquidator Matt Hudson and his team have been working with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), government agencies, and other stakeholders to wind up the company’s operations.

AccordingtoMrHudson,thesite’sclean-up is the top priority.

EPA has issued two regulatory notices requiring the entities in control of the site — the company or the liquidator — to remove the fire impacted waste and ensure the waste does not impact the environment.

This includes the removal of any contaminated water.

Both notices also require controls to remain in place to ensure no contamination leaves the site.

On Friday, February 14, the federal court grantedapprovaltotheliquidatorstouseACB

Group’s funds for the clean-up.

When the company folded, it owed more than $5 million to creditors and Mr Hudson saidtheclean-upwillputadentintheamount creditors receive at the end of the process.

“We were mindful of the impact it would have on creditors’ dividends,” Mr Hudson said.

“But also if it wasn’t done then there would be significant risks associated with non-compliance of those EPA notices.”

EPA western metropolitan regional manager Jeremy Settle?said his team were continuing regular inspections of the site,

Marking International Women’s Day

Members of the not-for-profit organisation, Give Until It Hurts (GUIH), are hosting a local International Women’s Day celebration event on February 28 to empower community members.

The purpose of the event is to bring agencies like Orange Door, Services Australia, IPC Health, Brimbank Childcare, Multicultural Resource Centre and other service-providers together for a question and answer session.

According to GUIH president Garnet Jacob, it is a great opportunity for local women to get all their queries resolved.

“Locals will have the opportunity to connect with around ten support agencies under one roof, gaining valuable information and

resources to empower their lives,” Mr Jacob said.

“GUIH has built strong ties with the Brimbank community since 2021 [and] this event was designed to provide essential support after noticing a rise in family violence impacting women — especially those from non-English-speaking and diverse cultural backgrounds.”

Mr Jacob said while the event is open to everyone, its primary focus is on women.

“This focus is driven by the fact that most service providers at the event specifically support women,” he said.

“Everyone is encouraged to attend, share experiences, and support the cause, but the

programming is tailored to address the unique needs and challenges faced by women in our community.”

The upcoming event Mr Jacob said is vital in keeping women connected and reducing isolation.

“By hosting this gathering, GUIH offers a safe space where women can access support through mentorship programs, workshops, and ongoing outreach,” he said.

The free event will start at 11 am at the St Albans Community Centre.

Details: news.brimbank.vic.gov.au/giveuntil-it-hurts-guih-information-session/

Prealene Khera

Ambulance response times are on the rise in

Ambulance response times in Brimbank increased between October to December last year, a new report shows.

Duringthatperiod,localpatientshadtowait nearly a minute and a half longer on average to receive urgent paramedic care compared to the previous 12 months, according to Ambulance Victoria’s (AV) quarterly performance data.

The average response times for critical code one patients increased from 13.28 minutes towards the end of 2023, to 15.04 minutes in

the same period in 2024.

With a total of 3132 code one call outs, 68.3 per cent were responded to within 15 minutes – a decrease from the previous quarter, where 69.8 per cent of 3279 cases were attended in the stipulated time.

Across the past five quarters, the three months to December in 2024 posted the highest average response time as well.

Response times in Brimbank were, however, lower than the Victoria-wide time of 15

including unannounced visits, and was actively assessing any possible risk to human health and the environment.?

“IssuesaroundACBGroupandtheJuly2024 fire at Derrimut remain under investigation,” Mr Settle said.

On July 10 last year, an explosion at ACB Group’s chemical blending factory on Swann Drive sparked a major fire which engulfed parts of Melbourne’s west in thick smoke, and took about 180 firefighters to battle.

In 2023, another fire at the same factory led to the death of a worker and injured two others.

Free industry training

Caroline Springs or Hillside locals from multicultural backgrounds, looking to explore employment opportunities in the construction, transport or warehousing industry can now make use of a free program to nail their chances.

Melton council is delivering two accredited training courses at Hillside Community Centre in March, April and May, for members of the Arabic, Punjabi and Chin Haka speaking communities, who are looking to gain qualifications to support their employment options.

The first session is called ‘Construction Induction Card’ — before commencing any work on a construction site, it is a requirement that workers hold this credential.

This one-day course will give participants an understanding of basic occupational health and safety principles, current legislation, emergency procedures, hazards, risks and control measures.

The second session, which also runs for a full-day, will cover first-aid basics — teaching attendees the skills and knowledge required to respond to medical emergencies and provide a first aid response.

It is a requirement that interested locals attend both days of training, from 9 am to 5 pm.

Sessions are planned throughout the next three months, with varying dates for different communities.

Beforeparticipatinginthesetraining sessions people will need to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment, to make sure they have the necessary reading, writing and mathematics skills required to complete the course. An interpreter cannot assist in completing this assessment.

Details: meltonlearning.vic.gov.au/ free-white-card-first-aid-training-inhillside/

Brimbank

minutes and 42 seconds.

The municipality also recorded a higher percentage of responses within 15 minutes, compared to the overall state result of 64.9 per cent.

Paramedics and first responders across the state, including in Brimbank, responded to nearly100,000criticalcodeoneemergenciesin the respective quarter.

The period was also AV’s fourth busiest on record,with99,799codeonecalloutsstatewide

— the third quarter in a row with close to or above 100,00 cases.

AV Metropolitan regional director Michael Georgiou said “there is more work to do”. “AV continues to work with hospitals to promptly transfer patients and ensure all Victorians receive the right care at the right time,” he said.

“Morenewparamedicshavealsohittheroad to help meet demand.”

Prealene Khera

Veena Moraes, Audrey Gambian and Alejandra O’Connell-Bello from Give Until It Hurts will be in attendance at the empowering event. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460432_04

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.

Road disruptions: Road, lanes and ramps closed

West Gate Freeway, Spotswood Until late MarchCitybound lane from Millers Road to Williamstown Road

Citybound exit ramp to Williamstown Road

Millers Road, Brooklyn Until late MarchCitybound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway

Grieve Parade, Brooklyn Until late MarchCitybound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway

Princes Freeway, Laverton North At times until mid March

M80 Ring Road, Laverton North At times until mid March

10pm 1 March to 5am 3 March

West Gate Freeway, Laverton North 8am to 10pm, 2 March

Citybound ramp to M80 Ring Road

Greensborough-bound from Boundary Road to the Western Freeway

Altona-bound from Western Freeway to Boundary Road

Greensborough-bound from Boundary Road to the Western Freeway

Greensborough-bound ramp to M80 Ring Road

Garden fest will bloom

The McKay Gardens Community Festival is readytobloomagain,returningwithabouquet of events and activities on March 2.

Each year, the program brings the community together in appreciation of the heritage listed HV McKay Memorial Gardens.

Friends of McKay Gardens’ Speroulla Christodoulou said she was excited to get the festival on the road, with a special anniversary celebration on the cards.

“It’s our 10th year so it’s pretty great,” she said.

“The original idea behind starting this event was to introduce people to the gardens because a lot of residents don’t realize the significance of the space.”

While it started as an informative exercise, the event has morphed into an extravagant family fun affair.

This year, there’ll be seven back-to-back

performances on the day, including from Sounds of Polynesia, Women of Brimbank and the Westend Performing Arts Dance School.

Children will also enjoy free arts and crafts sessions, face painting fairies, and everyone’s favourite wizard Simsalabim will be roaming the grounds at the event.

An interactive circus with Circus Curbside will also dazzle and amaze all attendees.

There is also a fitness corner, with local sporting clubs attending and being able to promote their clubs.

Food and beverages will be available to buy butfamiliescanbringtheirownpicnicsaswell.

“If you want to have a relaxing time in a beautiful garden, then this festival is for you,” Ms Christodoulou said.

The event runs from noon to 5pm at the McKayGardensinSunshine.Details:facebook. com/FriendsofMcKayGardens

Briefs

West Gate Tunnel

Work on the West Gate Tunnel Project is entering the final stages before it opens at the end of 2025. From March, drivers from the outer western suburbs will enjoy a smooth run from the M80 Ring Road to the West Gate Bridge when three new city-bound express lanes open on the West Gate Freeway. Until late March, major surfacing works will occur on the West Gate Freeway between Millers Road and the West Gate Bridge. During this time, the city-bound entry ramps at Grieve Parade and Millers Road, and Williamstown Road city-bound exit ramp will be closed at all times.

Record travellers

January was the busiest month in Melbourne Airport’s history, with a record 3,393,977 passengers welcomed through the terminals, surpassing the previous record of 3,322,940 passengers set in December 2019. The airport also set a new monthly record for international travellers with 1,238,829 people passing through the international terminal, including a record 671,135 arrivals. The previous record for international travel at Melbourne Airport was set only a month earlier in December 2024, with 1,147,533 passengers, as seat capacity into Australia’s largest 24-hour airport reached an all-time high.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

The McKay Gardens Community Festival is returning for another year of fun (Supplied)

Business calls for more rate cuts

By Prealene Khera

While local business owners have welcomed the Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent interest rate cut, they say without further slashes, consumer confidence will remain stunted.

The RBA announced a rate cut on Tuesday, February 18, reducing the official cash rate by 0.25 per cent, bringing it down to 4.1 per cent from 4.35 per cent—the first cut since November 2020.

The cut could offer some respite for

companies and mortgage holders feeling the pinch but more needs to be done before people can truly enjoy shopping, according to Sunshine Business Association president Vu Du.

While pleased by the RBA’s announcement, Mr Du hopes it is the first in a long line of cuts.

“I just don’t think one rate cut is going to be enough to keep anyone happy,” he said.

“I believe there should be more cuts before consumer confidence rises.”

Operations manager for IGA Delahey, Jay

Morgan, reiterated Mr Du’s sentiments.

“It’s a great start by the RBA to cut it, but we also understand that this is not the end of the 0.25 per cent cuts,” he said.

“More work will need to be done for people to be able to pay their home loans. Once they can do that, then we will see more people truly enjoying their shopping.”

Mr Morgan noted that the high interest rates in the past have significantly impacted shopping patterns, with consumers making fewer big purchases.

Polish sports event races ahead

The Albion Polish Club will mark a significant milestone on March 2, as its 55th annual sports festival kicks off – with fun guaranteed on and off the track.

The Polish Sports Festival has become a hallmark of the Albion community.

According to club president Jan Kutypa, the event will be a celebration of sportsmanship and culture.

“I’m feeling very privileged to be able to host this festival that’s been going strong for so long,” he said.

“There’s so much happening on the day and I’m happy that the locals will also be able to enjoy a mix of Polish traditions and sport.”

Mr Kutypa said the sport side of things were mostly reserved for children, with the long jump, athletics and soccer the main competitive events.

Alongside the physical activities, there’s also a range of entertainment on offer.

“We’vegotmusic,activities,Polishfoodand souvenirs,” Mr Kutypa said.

While the event will heavily cater to Polish

people, Mr Kutypa said residents who want to appreciate their culture should attend the event as well.

“We welcome everybody to come and enjoy our festival – it’s a celebration,” he said.

“We also encourage young people to come and participate in the sport activities”

Although the main festival will get underway on March 2, the club will host table tennis and billiards competitions on March 1 and 2.

Details: Beata Calleri, 0410 298 122.

“Interest rate decision time always leaves us uncertain because of what we’ve had to go through as businesses in the last few years,” he said. “We’ve noticed people would previously shop a couple of times a week with big purchases—buying all their groceries at once.

“People are now shopping four or five times a week as a norm with smaller purchases, and we’re seeing that they’re shopping at multiple retailers where they can get the best price and value for money.”

- with Gladys Beretta

Push for local jobs for youths

Brimbank council has launched its Local Jobs for Local People program, with a renewed focus on younger residents.

The initiative explores the barriers and challenges faced by local youth and outlines the range of support that young people are asking for and what the council can do to meet those needs. It brings together the community and council’s partner organisations to respond to the changing economy and jobs market.

The program supports young people in building career and work paths by responding to persistent youth unemployment in Brimbank through a bespoke framework.

The program also recognises vulnerable groups, the need for diversity and partnerships, and defines council’s role in alleviating the burden by planning, advocating, partnering, leading, informing and delivering.

According to council, it is focused on creating better support for young people experiencing barriers, providing and promoting meaningful workplace experiences, and ensuring access to student placements.

The youth program was created as part of Brimbank’s first Youth Jobs Strategy, which was developed to address “serious concerns about Brimbank’s high youth unemployment rate” in previous years.

However, according to council, the relatively low unemployment rate in recent years has presented clear opportunities — indicating that young people in some parts of Brimbank thrive, with good support from well-resourced families, education and social networks.

The Local Jobs for Local People — Youth Program helps create those networks for local youth.

Details: brimbankjoblink.com.au/

Brimbank Clean Up Australia Day sweeps in on March 1

Organisers of Clean Up Australia Day event are inviting residents to make Brimbank rubbish-free.

The community is encouraged to put o gloves, pick up trash and make the change needed for the neighbourhood to be beautiful.

The nation-wide annual event motivates people to clean up their local area with 22 million people participating since its inception 35 years ago.

BrimbankSustainabilityandClimateAction is supporting the day with a clean-up event on March 1. It aims to set a good example and bring the

community together while working towards helping the environment, event coordinator

Shannon Meilak said.

“We’re inviting the community to get their hands a little bit dirty, have some fun whilst also looking after our community and get to know each other a bit better because our neighbours should be our friends,” she said.

Rubbish dumping and littering has been an ongoing area of concern amongst residents.

Often framed as an issue to be solved by council, this event allows the community to step up and take matters into their own hands explained Ms Meilak.

“It’s very easy to sit back and leave it for somebody else to do, but it’s also a rewarding experience to get involved and help your community with issues like this,” she said.

“Perhaps council should also be doing a little bit more in this space by regularly picking up thisrubbish—it’salsouptoresidentstoreport rubbish that they find to council because they don’t have eyes everywhere.”

Ms Meilak also proposed installing CCTVs in hotspot areas to identify and deter culprits.

Brimbank council city futures director KelvinWalshsaidtheorganisationwasgrateful to the residents who responsibly dispose of

rubbish but reiterated that illegal dumping remains a challenging issue.

“Council spends about $1 million annually investigating, enforcing and cleaning up illegally dumped rubbish,” he said.

“This includes surveillance cameras set up at rubbish-dumping hotspots, and those caught dumping are fined.”

The local Clean Up Australia Day event begins on March 1, at 10.30 am at 1 Melton highway, and is open to everyone.

Details: register.cleanup.org.au/fundraisers/ bsca-cuad25/brimbank-sustainability--climate-action---clean-up-australia-day-event

Chairman of the festival Andrew Kowalski and president of the Albion Polish Club Jan Kutypa are inviting everyone to attend the event (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460728_01

Simple breathing exercises to help you live well

Breathing is something we all do without much thought, but turning it into a conscious practice can have enormous benefits, especially for older adults.

Some of the benefits are:

• Better Lung Function: Breathing exercises help your lungs work more efficiently, delivering more oxygen to your body, which can leave you feeling more energised and less breathless.

• Stress Relief: Slow, controlled breathing activates your body’s natural relaxation response, reducing stress, improving sleep, and lifting your spirits.

• Sharpen Your Mind: Focusing on your breathkeepsyoupresent,improvingmental clarity, memory, and focus.

BellyBreathing(DiaphragmaticBreathing)

This technique encourages deeper breaths by engaging your diaphragm. Sit comfortably with one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. Breathe in deeply through your nose, letting your belly rise, then exhale slowly through your mouth. It’s a gentle way to start your day or wind down at night.

Pursed Lip Breathing

Especially helpful for those with respiratory conditions like COPD, this exercise helps manage breathlessness and keeps your

airways open longer. Inhale slowly through your nose, then exhale gently through pursed lips as if you’re blowing out a candle. It’s a calming technique that helps you regain control over your breath.

Box Breathing

This rhythmic breathing technique can help slow your thoughts and calm your nerves. To do it breathe in for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold again for four. Repeat this pattern a few times to feel more relaxed.

Gentle Yoga Breathing (Pranayama)

Sit comfortably, lift your arms as you breathe in, and lower them as you breathe out. This gentle movement pairs well with deep breathing, bringing a sense of balance.

Breathing for Well-being at Centennial Living Retirement Villages

Our communities, like Burnside, Taylors Hill and Keilor Retirement Villages, have spaces where residents can practise breathing exercises, join a gentle yoga or other exercise class, or simply sit in the garden and enjoy a breath of fresh air. We encourage everyone to make breathing exercises a regular part of their routine to help you feel more connected, calm, and ready to face whatever the day brings.

Hundreds honour parish priest

By Prealene Khera

A solemn and mournful crowd of about 1200 congregated at the St Albans Sacred Heart Catholic Church on February 18 to farewell a beloved local parish priest, Father John O’Reilly, who died on February 7, leaving behind a “profound legacy”.

Born in the west of Ireland in 1937, Father O’Reilly migrated to Australia nearly 25 years later, in 1961.

In the decades since, he became an instrumental figure in changing the lives of many people in St Albans and beyond.

He played a major role in establishing

numerous educational institutions, including the Catholic Regional College in Caroline Springs, St Albans, North Keilor, Sydenham and Melton.

Father O’Reilly was “a man of great vision and action” according to Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs principal Jamie Madigan.

“For over 50 years, as parish priest of Sacred Heart, St Albans, [Father O’Reilly] dedicated his life to the service of Catholic education and thefaithformationofourschoolcommunities,”

Mr Madigan said.

“His tireless work and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on

Borrowing beyond books

Maribyrnong council is expanding its Library of Things program to include a range of everyday items for library members.

Maribyrnong mayor, Pradeep Tiwari, said the community-focused service reimagined borrowing beyond books.

“TheLibraryofThingsnotonlyencouragesa cultureofsharing,whichhelpstoreducewaste, but also provides a more affordable way to try out new pastimes,” Cr Tiwari said.

“Given sustainability and the rising cost of living are key concerns for our community at the moment, it is more important than ever that people have access to resources that enable creativity and leisure without the financial strain or environmental impact,” he said.

Based on feedback from council’s 2024 collections survey, the expanded catalogue of ‘things’ has been selected to best reflect the genuine needs and interests of the community

beyond the smaller collection of introductory items initially released.

Currently the collection includes board games, a home efficiency test kit and an induction cooktop and will soon be expanded to include a wellness kit (blood pressure monitor,foreheadthermometer,andoximeter), party speaker, and scanner to digitise photos and documents. There are also plans to add more kitchenware, small appliances and power tools in the near future.

To celebrate the official launch of Maribyrnong’s Library of Things, Braybrook Library is hosting an event with Dr Kate Luckins, author of Live More with Less, on Thursday, February 27.

For more information on the launch event andtoregister,visit:https://www.maribyrnong. vic.gov.au/library/Events/Library-of-Thingslaunch-with-Dr-Kate-Luckinsand

Catholic education in Melbourne’s west.

“[He] also recognised broader needs within the community.”

In the mid-1980s, Mr Madigan said, Father O’Reilly saw a “critical gap” in palliative care and services for the terminally ill.

“With his characteristic resolve, he spearheaded the establishment of the Mercy Hospice within 12 months, offering comfort and dignity to those in need,” he said.

“His ability to translate faith into action trulyreflectedthewordsofStMaryMacKillop: Never see a need without doing something about it.”

Brimbank councillors also honoured Father

O’Reilly’s life at a recent council meeting.

“[He] was a visionary that championed education and the west, many people termed him as the Pope of the western suburbs,” Cr Virginia Tachos said.

“He was a force, tough … yet caring.

“He envisioned a parish that nurtured growth from birth right through to assisting the development of the Mercy Hospice for those in their last and final days.”

Cr Maria Kerr said Father O’Reilly had been a “leader” in the community.

“[He] was a man of faith, generous, supportive, and would go above and beyond to help people and families in need,” she said.

Dr. Napoleon Rodezno

Dr. Napoleon Rodezno joined Caroline Chisholm Catholic College in 2025, bringing over 25 years of educational leadership and a strong commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and faith-driven learning environment.

His experience across Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Melbourne, has shaped his vision for empowering students and staff to reach their full potential through high-quality education, strong community engagement, and a culture of inclusivity, ensuring every student is supported in their academic and personal growth.

Guided by Catholic values, he is committed to fostering a school culture that nurtures faith, integrity, and service.

He values the College’s commitment to holistic education, exemplified by our student WAA Awards, which recognise students’ achievements across academics, community, culture, and sport.

Napoleon arrived in Australia as a refugee at age 15 and has since been a passionate advocate for inclusive education.

He holds a Doctor of Education, where his research focused on fostering equitable and engaging learning environments. He is committed to empowering students, staff, and families, ensuring their voices help shape the College’s future.

With outstanding facilities at the College, that support student development across the spiritual, social, emotional, academic and physical spheres of learning, he looks forward to leading the College toward continued growth, excellence, and a dynamic learning experience rooted in Catholic values.

Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari at Braybrook Library with some of the items in available to be borrowed as part of council’s Library of Things. (Attie Mohebali) 459287_02

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Tennis club social night

Join the club on Monday nights for a free social hit and get to know other club members. All levels are welcome. Female players are also required for Thursday Competition — 10am-2pm , also for the B grade mixed team on Wednesday night 7 pm to 9pm.

 keilorparktennis@gmail.com.

Brimbank Book Group

Be inspired by thought-provoking books with a group of like-minded, literary fans with our Brimbank Book Group. All welcomed. This group, for adults, meets on the first Monday of the month, from 2 to 3 pm at Deer Park Library. Bookings are not essential, but please feel free to register your interest if you’d like to receive a reminder email.

 library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Create & Chat

Dig out your craft projects and get inspiration from fellow like-minded crafters with the Create & Chat sessions at Sunshine Library from 10 to 11 am on the first Tuesday of every month. All skill levels are welcome.

 library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning

Join Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning, a free, evidence-based early education program that combines music, play, and connection for families with children aged 0-5 years. Running for eight weeks, on Tuesdays, 10.30am to 12.30pm, this program is designed to incorporate singing, stories, and fun activities to support your child’s development. Running from February 11 onwards at the Sunshine Heights Playgroup Centre, 105 Glengala Road.

 9663 6733, or events@ds.org.au

Women Working Together

A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Brimbank.

 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/

Family & Local History Help

Need help in researching your family or local history project? Reserve a spot for this free tailored one-on-one 30 min session at Keilor Library to kickstart your project! Due to high demand and event waiting lists, please only book tickets for people participating in event. Multiple sessions are available from March 13 onwards.

 library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

National seniors meeting

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.

 0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@outlook.com

Learn to Relax Group

IPC Health’s Living Well team is running a free Learn to Relax Group at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road, every Tuesday at 11am. This group is for people over 18 years who are interested in learning how to relax and finding ways to effectively manage their stress. Registration is required to attend this group.

 livingwell@ipchealth.com.au, or 1300 472 432

Women’s only conversation English

Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30 am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.

 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au

Aboriginal Storytime Through Art Celebrate Cultural Diversity Week and learn about Aboriginal art symbols with Cultural Infusion at Sunshine Library. Children can create their own story using the symbols and techniques they have learned. This event is for families with children aged 3-5 years. Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian for all events. It will be hosted on March 19.

 www.eventbrite.com.au/e/aboriginalstorytime-through-art-3-5yearstickets-1046511322537

Crafternoons

Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.

 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au

Musicians Wanted Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Do you play Woodwind, Brass or Percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging

music? Rehearsals are held Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am to noon, at Braybrook College.

 westgateconcertband@gmail.com

Sunshine Repair Cafe

Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

 sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood Centre (rear of library) every Wednesday, from 1-2.30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.

Card games

Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from 7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine.

 Leisa, 0425 768 808

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green

club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.

 Robyn, 0425 387 880

Deer Park Lions Club

Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.

 Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass

Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm.

 Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.

 Roma, 0435 991 064

Caroline Springs Rotary

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall, from 7pm.

 rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The

This week’s photographer’s choice picture of Steve Scott, the owner of Woodend’s The Back Shed Gallery. Steve is pictured with one of his wooden puppet creations. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460857_01

Catch up with Big Ted and friends

Beloved Play School presenters Rachael Coopes, Alex Papps, and Teo Gebert are hitting the road to bring joy, laughter and learning to little ones through fun-filled dance, nursery rhymes and storytelling. The Play School LIVE 2025 National Tour kicks off in March. The tour schedule includes Williamstown on 29 March, South Morang on 31 March and Bacchus Marsh on 4 April. This year’s live production, Once Upon a Time,invitesfamiliestoexperiencethemagic of classic nursery rhymes as each page of the storybook is turned. Featuring Australia’s favourite Play School presenters and toys, including Big Ted, Little Ted, Jemima,

Humpty and Kiya, the show promises exciting adventure filled with stories, songs, and dance.

Audienceswillenjoyallthenurseryrhymes and songs they know and love like Little Miss Muffet, Incy Wincy Spider, Humpty Dumpty, Der Glumph, and Heads and Shoulders, performed live for young fans.

Rachael Coopes is an accomplished Australian television presenter, writer, and yoga teacher. Best known for her role as a presenter on the beloved children’s program Play School, Rachael brings joy and education to countless young viewers.

Alex Papps is well known as being a

much-loved host on the ABC’s children’s show Play School. An accomplished actor, he graduated from the prestigious Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) and became hugely popular as original foster child ‘Frank Morgan’ on Home and Away, having previously also starred in The Henderson Kids.

Play School LIVE: Once Upon a Time is a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting memories while celebrating the joy and imagination that Play School has brought to generations of Australian children.

For tickets and venue details, visit: www. kidspromotions.com.au

Exploring a fresh queer perspective

As visitors step into the Bowery Gallery in St Albans, they will be welcomed to a tender exploration of identity, intimacy, and vulnerability as part of a fresh, and playful exhibition.

Created by local artist and educator Nathan McGlynn, ‘Darling Boy’ is a familiar and intimate collection of works centred around its primary protagonist.

“DarlingBoyisthemainrecurringcharacter in my work … [the] figure often reinterprets traditional heterosexual imagery from a queer perspective, with a focus on celebrating human connection,” McGlynn said.

“‘Darling” implies warmth and closeness, while “Boy“ both nods to traditional gender roles and invites a space to challenge and expand upon them.

“Through Darling Boy, I aim to create a figure who embodies the subtleties of queerness, offering a space to reflect on both personal and shared experiences of identity.”

McGlynn said the exhibition is retrospective, showcasing both his own pieces and large collaborative paintings.

“Many of the works feature people from my community – my friends often serve as the muses in these paintings,” he said.

Having his work on display for Brimbank residents to enjoy, has left McGlynn feeling “absolutely thrilled and honoured”.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my art will be seen by such a diverse audience,” he said.

“It’s also exciting to bring queer art into public spaces, where it can challenge perceptions and spark important conversations about identity.”

Darling Boy will be up on display at the gallery until April 5.

Prealene Khera

Get creative and help make Penrose pretty

Your creativity can help make Penrose Place in Tarneit even prettier by coming along to the Penrose Repurposed - Sustainable Art Experiences! project.

Three hour workshops will run on February 28, March 1, March 14 and March 15 between 10am-1pm, and will give participants the opportunity to weave and paint their hearts out.

Sally Walshe, also known as Lady Mohawk, will lead the event in collaboration with Wyndham council.

“I believe that when people come together to create, something truly special happens,” she said.

“One of my biggest passions is sustainability in the arts, and this project is a perfect example of how we can give new life to discarded materials.

“By using recycled and excess paint, we’re not only reducing waste but also encouraging artistic expression and a deeper sense of community connection.”

The first three sessions will involve painting large artworks with the help of expert artist and muralist Justine McCallister.

On March 15, Master Weaver Aunty Vicki Kinai will teach weaving techniques to integrate between the paintings, further beautifying the fence.

Author talk on researching the Shrine

Melbourne writer and visual artist Laura J Carroll, will be discussing her debut bookMakingtheShrineatWilliamstown Library on February 27.

A collection of 25 compelling stories about Melbourne’s iconic Shrine of Remembrance, Making the Shrine brings the war memorial to life and traces its journey from it’s early 1930’s construction through to becoming the cherished landmark it is today.

“It’llbeaboutwhytheshrinecontinues to matter deeply in Victoria and why I think that young people especially have a right to feel like it’s a place that belongs to them,” said Carroll of her presentation which will also explore her experience researching the shrine and its history and include a special connection it has to Williamstown.

She said the rich backstory of the shrine was partly why she chose to lean on her artistic background and make it a graphic novel rather than just a written history.

“The format allows for deep imaginative engagement and I hope it will help readers get absorbed in the shrine’s changing story - which in many ways reflects the story of Australia since the end of the First World War,” said Carroll, adding that the project also allowed her to indulge in her love of history and researching archives.

“I found much archival material about the shrine which hadn’t really been explored before, and it was a fun challengetoworkthebestofthismaterial into my book.”

Thefreeeventwilltakeplacefrom6pm to 7.15pm and signed copies of Making the Shrine will be available for purchase.

Bookings: https://shorturl.at/irOjo

Once completed, the artworks will be displayed on fencing around Penrose, turning the space into a vibrant outdoor gallery and connecting the local community to the space with their own artworks for all to enjoy. People of ages are welcomed and encouraged to join in on the fun.

Any volunteers or businesses who would like to contribute supplies to the project can get in touch with Sally at Sally@ladymohawk.com.au

Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/ penrose-repurposed-a-creative-communitycollaboration

Jaidyn Kennedy

Lady Mohawk, also known as Sally Walshe. (Anna Encio)

Alex with Jemima and Rachael with Big Ted. (Supplied)

Nathan McGlynn with this new Darling Boy exhibition. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 457579_14

The ultimate adventure awaits

BY LEE MCCARTHY

IF you are one of those fortunate travellers who havecoveredtheglobe,seenasmuchofEurope, Africa and Asia as you desire and are seeking a new experience, this one is for you.

It’s time to explore the final frontier, Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic.

The diversity and ruggedness of the terrain in the Arctic and Alaska will grip you as you celebrate life on a voyage of extremes.

Viking started sailing in the high Arctic in 2025 offering passengers the chance to be one of the first to pass through the scenic Canadian Maritimes and along the famed St Lawrence Seaway with time to visit historical cities along the East Coast.

Viking’s Australian and New Zealand managing director Michelle Black said this was a unique journey allowing passengers to witness stunning vista’s, unique wildlife and diverse cultures and enjoy a truly memorable voyage to the Earth’s far north by sea.

“Wearepleasedtobeabletooffersuchawide range of new and exciting expedition voyages sailing between the polar regions of the Arctic to Antarctica and the Great Lakes,” she said.

“These destinations offer encounters with wildlife like nowhere else in the world,”

“Guests will sail glassy inlets with whales and penguins between dramatic landscapes, glacier-carved fjords and rugged mountain ranges while immersing in the culture and traditions of the traditional Inuit peoples of the Arctic.”

“Our polar voyages offer an unbelievable opportunity to experience the remote wilderness and excite every type of traveller.”

The journey begins in cosmopolitan Nuuk, Greenland’s capital city and one of the smallest in the world, with just 16,000 residents.

Located on the southwest coast, the city is home to one of the world’s largest fjords, the Nuup Kangerlua Fjord, whose waters are brimming with marine life and where whale sightings are commonplace.

VisitorstoNuukcometoenjoynature,hiking along the dramatic coastline or exploring the fjord by boat or kayak. Its rugged landscape is dotted with colourful houses, set amid a beautifulbackdropoftheSermitsiaqmountain.

Passengers will have the chance to cruise these waters on the Viking’s Special Operations Boat and witness Greenland’s west coast, one of the Arctic regions spectacularly scenic highways and a favoured transportation route for Greenlanders. Iceberg-filled waters drift past changing landscapes, evoking experiences that were once followed by intrepid explorers for centuries.

Kayak among Icebergs In Illulissat, Greenland paddling along the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Floating icebergs glisten under the midnight sun as they drift by.

The Pond Inlet in Nunavut, Canada which sits on the northern shores of Baffin Island at the eastern entrance to the famed Northwest Passage is home to a small but vibrant Inuit community, and nicknamed the ‘Jewel of the North.’

The surrounding Arctic landscape a panoramic mix of glaciers, icebergs and rugged mountains. Pond Inlet is also a gateway to SirmilikNationalPark,‘theplaceoftheglaciers’ in the local language.

Coveringmorethan8,400sqmi,theparkisa declaredmigratorybirdsanctuaryandsupports an array of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, wolves, narwhals and beluga whales.

The Canadian High Arctic is a region of raw natural beauty and is characterized by extremely cold temperatures and extended periods of darkness.

The spectacular natural beauty is dominated by rugged terrain, snowcapped mountains, drifting icebergs and vast ice fields that stretch to the horizon.

During the journey enjoy enriching days of exploration with the use of expedition equipment,includingwalkingpoles,binoculars and dry suits for kayaking which is all included in the fare.

Greenland enjoys a diverse food scene and the country’s capital encourages visitors to fully embrace the gourmet dining experiences on offer.

These are just a few of the highlights of Artic cruisewithViking-achancetomakememories to cherish forever.

To enjoy the itinerary and find out more please visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.

With most of the country covered in ice, traditional Greenlandic cuisine heavily features seafood, fish and meat. In restaurants serving traditional fare, Suaasat will commonly be found on the menu—a tasty stew of potatoes, onion, rice or barley and meat. A selection of cafes and eateries offer tasting plates or tapas-style dishes, providing a sampler of local delicacies to enjoy, alongside international favourites.

Viking Orion in the Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska.

Viking guests will sail glassy inlets with whales and penguins between dramatic landscapes, glaciercarved fjords and rugged mountain ranges

Why ’Coolcations’

TAKEN a Coolcation recently? All the ‘cool kids’ are taking ’coolcations’ where they explore vivid and exciting destinations like Canada, Alaska, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland.

‘Coolcationing’ is one of the top travel trends of 2025 and is so called as many travellers are tired of travelling in the intense heat so are choosing destinations like Scandinavia, Alaska and Canada.

As this is the very region Viking calls home, they are without question the best placed to show travellers around these spectacular regions and share their homelands with them.

Viking introduces their passengers to the history, culture, architecture and art of the region and offer them the chance to explore their culinary uniqueness all while travelling in understated luxury.

TravellingthefarseasofCanada,Greenland, Iceland and the Arctic is a chance to discover distantshoresandvisitvillagesandscenerynot overrun by tourists.

From quaint fishing villages to snowcapped mountaintops, witness majestic landscapes, and learn about Inuit traditions, revelling in the history of Viking exploration.

Visit vibrant Bergen in Norway, home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence.

Join shrimp-peeling experts as they demonstrate their different preferred methods. Try both and see which techniques works best before savouring a hard-earned meal with white bread and a glass of chilled white wine.

Meet some of the four-footed locals and learn about the classic Norwegian brown goat cheese called Gjetost.

Norwegians love their coffee, and a trip behind closed doors to discover the process that brings Friele, Norwegians favourite coffee to life and learn about the fascinating art of ‘cupping’ will entice the senses.

Explore the stunning beauty of the Svalbard archipelago, hundreds of Norwegian islands halfway between Norway and the North Pole. Stunning panoramas unfold here with dramatic fjords leading into glimmering bays surrounded by massive glaciers and rugged peaks cloaked in snow.

The austere tundra unfolds to an Arctic desertwherepolarbear,Arcticfoxandreindeer roam. Many regions have been designated ImportantBirdAreasbyBirdLifeInternational for the countless winged creatures that breed and hunt along the coast.

Theregion’sendlesswonderscanbeexplored by zodiac, kayak and by land. Discover what life in the Arctic is like during a drive through

Longyearbyen and a visit to the Svalbard Museum.

Journey to Camp Barentz in the remote Advent Valley and meet its lovable husky dogs and their musher.

Fossil hunting, sled ride, and a thrilling ride totheadventValleybyATVarejustafewofthe adventures to experience.

Discover the area’s natural beauty by kayak against a stunning backdrop of sweeping mountains or ascend into hard-to-reach places andadmirepanoramicviewsaroundÍsafjördur on an exhilarating ATV excursion.

Get to know a local Greenlander and share a traditional snack during a home-hosted visit. Learn about the local culture, their traditional clothing and fabric, and gain insight into village life. Cap the visit by sharing a kaffemik, a Greenlandic tradition used to celebrate special events or milestones, such as birthdays or births. Enjoy this cultural exchange while tasting homemade Greenlandic cake and pastries

Viking travellers Jenny and Phil Morup were full of praise for their recent trips.

“AllofourVikingcruiseshavebeenenjoyable

and adventurous. We particularly enjoy scenic cruises in cooler climates,“ they explained.

“It is for this reason we enjoy sailing around Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Alaska and Canada. Cruises we have completed in these regions are Viking Empire (49 days), In the Wake of the Vikings (15 days), North Pacific Passage (22 days) and Iceland and Norway’s Arctic Explorer (15 days).“

Back onboard recharge and renew body, mind and spirit in Viking’s Scandinavianinspired Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of holistic wellness, today while at sea.

Whether choosing to unwind in the sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the Thermal Pool, it’s hard not to feel recharged and revitalized.

Viking’s inclusive value includes everything needed for a fabulous trip, such as a guided excursion in every port, all onboard meals including alternative dining venues, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty tea, coffee, and bottled water, access to the state-of-the-art Nordic spa, self-service laundry and all tipping. With no kids,nocasinos,fewerthan1,000guests,andall veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take their passengers as close as possible to each destination.

To learn more about Viking’s Coolcations visit www.viking.com or call and speak to member of the team on Reservations (AU) 138 747.

Viking guests Jenny and Phil Morup dressed for kayaking in Canada on the Great Lakes.

Jenny and Phil Morup, guests on Viking’s Arctic Explorer cruise with the sign which signifies the end of the Svalbard City limit and the risk of roaming polar bears. (Supplied)

LEE MCCARTHY

EUROPEAN SOJOURN

Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa

23 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 19 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: JUN-OCT 2025; APR-OCT 2026; 2027

From $13,995pp in Standard Stateroom

From $19,295pp in Veranda Stateroom

GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR

Amsterdam to Budapest or vice versa

15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 12 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: MAY-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; APR-NOV 2027

From $9,495pp in Standard Stateroom

From $13,795pp in Veranda Stateroom

EXPL RER

Enjoy free flight offers with selected river, ocean or expedition voyages, valued up to AU$2,400 per person. Plus AU$500 shipboard credit with any ocean and expedition booking. Available for a limited time only, offers end 31 March 2025.

PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa

11 DAYS | 5 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: MAY-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; 2027

From $7,895pp in Standard Stateroom

From $9,395pp in Veranda Stateroom

Hong Kong seamlessly blends Eastern traditions and Western modernity. The city’s iconic skyline, studded with futuristic skyscrapers, forms a stunning contrast to ancient temples and vibrant markets.

Your holiday includes

Full-Board Cruise

23 night full-board cruise on board the BRAND-NEW Queen Anne

25 Nights | 20 February 2026 | Prices fr $7,299pp

Enjoy a two-night stay in Singapore before embarking the newest addition to Cunard’s fleet, Queen Anne, for the voyage to Sydney.

From the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay to the cultural intrigue of Chinatown, Singapore remains one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. Discover the island-state’s beautiful botanical gardens and colonial landmarks during a two-night hotel stay ahead of a 23-night voyage on board Queen Anne as she sails to Sydney.

The newest member of the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne promises everything that makes a Cunard cruise so special, from Gala Evenings to a ernoon teas and enriching guest lectures. Enjoy a night in port in Hong Kong before sailing to Manila and onwards to Darwin. The sunshine of Queensland beckons next, from Airlie Beach to Brisbane, before your cruise culminates with a night in port in Sydney.

Visiting: Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)

brand-new Queen Anne is a luxurious cruise liner offering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and exquisite service, promising an unforgettable voyage of elegance and indulgence on the high seas.

Complimentary Hotel Stay

2 night four-star hotel stay in Singapore at the PARKROYAL on Beach Road with breakfast

Complimentary Outbound Flight, Taxes & Transfers

Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)

Poll indicates a pox on all parties

By Cade Lucas

With the dust settled on the Werribee by-election, attention has turned to what the result means.

For Emeritus Professor of Politics at Monash University, Paul Strangio, there’s one obvious takeaway.

“Clear disaffection with the Allan Labor government,” Professor Strangio said.

“There’s a powerful ‘it’s time’ factor.”

Yet, voters in Werribee didn’t think it was time for the opposition Liberal Party either, with their candidate, Steve Murphy, attracting just four per cent of the 17 per cent swing away from Labor.

Professor Strangio said this indicated that voter anger extended beyond just the Labor government.

“The second big takeaway is disenchantment with all of the established parties and by that I mean Labor, Liberal and the Greens,” he said, noting that while Werribee was not a Greens stronghold, their vote stagnated.

“It was most disappointing for Labor, but it’s not a great result for the Liberals and it was a poor result for the Greens so the voters were saying a pox on all your houses.”

Professor Strangio said this wasn’t a new trend, with the last federal election providing a precursor.

“If you go back to the 2022 federal election and you look at the western suburbs, the outer western and outer northern suburbs, there was a very similar pattern. Labor’s primary vote came off in a lot of its safest seats in those suburbs by about 10 per cent or so,” he said, adding that few of those primary votes shifted to the Liberals.

Professor Strangio said population growth and mortgage stress made the political environment in Melbourne’s north-west especially volatile, but that the trend away from the established parties wasn’t unique to Labor heartland.

“We’re seeing these patterns pretty well everywhere,” he said pointing to the success

Cricket club cools it down with grant

It’ll now be easier for players from the Sydenham Hillside Cricket Club to cool down post-match, with their canteen set to get a new ice-maker machine owing to a competitive grants program.

The club received $2750 from the CitiPower andCricketVictoriaCanteenfundinginitiative, which helps local sporting organisations ensure their canteens are upgraded with new appliances, resources and facilities.

Sydenham Hillside Cricket Club president Bob Kunesevic said he is grateful for the support.

“I was very happy and very thankful for the assistance along the application journey as well,” he said.

“Everyone was very generous with their time as well and in explaining the process, it made it a lot easier.”

Mr Kunesevic said the ice-maker will be a great addition to their facility.

“We spoke to our members to see what was necessary to improve our canteen area, and it was decided that we should invest in an ice machine,” he said.

“We were looking at purchasing one and so

we’re very lucky to be successful for the grant.”

Theclubhasbeenhopingtobuyanice-maker for a while, Mr Kunesevic said, given its many advantages.

“We needed one for various reasons — it’s great for drinks, for afternoon teas, for when we run barbecues and to help with injuries,” he said.

“There’s always a need for ice.”

The Sydenham Hillside Cricket Club was among twenty-one clubs from across the state to receive funding totalling $78,000 in grants this year.

of the Teal movement in winning Liberal heartland seats as an example. In Werribee, independent Paul Hopper performed strongly, capturing 15 per cent of the vote and plans to run candidates in all 11 western suburbs seats at the next year’s state election under the banner of the West Party.

Professor Strangio said it was still too early to predict how Mr Hopper’s party or anyone else would go at the November 2026 poll, but that it would ultimately hinge on whether voters had faith in the Liberals to do a better job than Labor.

“Will they believe they’re a viable alternative government, that remains a big question mark.”

“Despite many promises from governments over many years, there’s been next to no progress – no start dates,nocertainty,leavingMelbourne’s west waiting.”

Communitymembersacrossthewest can join the movement by writing to their state and federal political leaders and calling for immediate action and investment in the west, Cr Dang said.

A state government spokesperson saidtheMelbourneAirportRailproject was originally slated for completion by 2029, but has been pushed back by four years due to compensation-related discussions with the airport.

A federal infrastructure department spokesperson said the government “remains committed” to the delivery of the project.

“We are also working with the Victorian government to undertake refreshed modelling work of traffic capacity constraints on the Tullamarine Freeway, which will assist with identifying the timeline for when traffic volumes would require the Melbourne Airport Rail Link to be completed.”

The ‘Rail before Runway’ campaign follows a merits review application lodgedbyBrimbankcouncilearlierthis year against the federal government’s decision to grant conditional approval for the runway project.

Council is awaiting the listing of the matter before the Federal Administrative Review Tribunal.

Sydenham Hillside Cricket Club president Bob Kunesevic is excited to get the new ice-maker. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460438_01

‘Gamechanger’ for breast cancer

By Prealene Khera

More than 100 people with breast cancer across Melbourne’s west are among the first public patients in Australia to benefit from an innovativetechnologythathasbeenlaudedasa “gamechanger” for breast cancer surgery.

Sunshine Hospital is first public hospital in the state to use Scout, a small insertable device that streamlines the surgical removal of hard-to-feel tumours.

In late 2023, the hospital introduced it using ultrasound and mammogram, in a joint initiative between its breast surgery and medical imaging teams.

A year later, it became the first public hospital in the country to offer MRI-guided Scout placement, further enhancing accuracy.

Scout is a tiny reflector that can be directly inserted into small, hard-to-feel breast tumours.

Once inserted, the device emits a radar signal that is easily detectable by a hand-held device during surgery.

In pinpointing the precise location of the tumour for the surgeon, it improves accuracy of the procedure, and therefore outcomes for patients.

According to Breast Imaging director and radiologist Dr Joseph Paiva, the device’s introduction has been ground-breaking for patients and surgeons alike.

“Many of these cancers, they’re very small so they can’t be felt by the surgeon. We detect

General Classifieds

themthroughultrasoundsorMRIandweneed to be able to precisely allow them to be located during surgery but there needs to be a way of guiding surgeons to it,” he said.

“Previously, that was done with a metallic wire which was put in before surgery.

“It wasn’t very nice. We didn’t like doing it and the patients generally didn’t like it either.”

Inserting the hook wire requires multiple procedures on the day of surgery and can be uncomfortable for patients, with part of the wire remaining outside of the breast.

“It’s not a great experience, but that was pretty much the gold standard all over the world up until recently,” Dr Paiva said.

He said Scout had huge benefits on multiple fronts.

“The patient has less anxiety on the day of surgery, and it’s just a better patient experience overall,”hesaid.“We’rejustexcitedthatwecan

offer this in the public sector to the women of the west because it’s a great technology.”

Breast surgeon Dr Sophie Nightingale, who led the introduction of Scout to Western Health, agreed with her colleague.

ShesaidScoutwasofparticularbenefitwhen pre-surgery chemotherapy had been successful in reducing the size of tumours.

“Many patients now have chemotherapy before surgery, because there is better survival, so cancers are shrinking, or even disappearing, with treatment so Scout is more useful than ever,” Dr Nightingale said. “It can be placed before chemotherapy starts, so no extra procedures are required before surgery.

“So far, the patients have all been very happy with the new technology, and we haven’t had anyinstanceswherethelocalisationhasfailed.”

Since Scout was introduced at Sunshine Hospital in October 2023, more than 110

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

procedures have been performed.

Among the patients to benefit from this technology is 71-year-old Marie Considine, who had her breast cancer removal surgery in November.

“I’m very glad I didn’t have to have a wire put in, that sounds so scary,” she said.

“I am so grateful that Scout was used instead because it was a really good experience, it didn’t hurt – you don’t really feel like it’s inside you.

“It was a smooth, seamless and quick procedure, all in all my surgery went quite well.”

Sunshine Radiology nurse unit manager Warren Gooch said this is a common response among patients.

“It’s so much better for our patients. It’s a great step forward. Scout has simplified the day of surgery for all parties,” he said.

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

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

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

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

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

Left: Marie Considine was one of the patients who benefited from Scout. 459001 Right: Dr Joseph Paiva and Dr Sophie Nightingale holding the device in its casing. ( Ljubica Vrankovic) 459346

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

ACROSS

1 Fugitive (7)

5 Fierce wind (7)

9 Creator’s protection (9)

10 Shoals (5)

11 Verse (6)

12 Advantageously (8)

14 Instrumental work (6)

15 Area on the body consisting of pelvis and upper thigh bones (4)

19 Merit (4)

20 Surpass (6)

24 Pseudonyms (3-5)

25 Very small pool of rainwater (6)

27 Woody plants (5)

28 Everlasting (9)

29 Stableman (7)

30 Show (7)

DOWN

1 Formula (6)

2 City and port in Italy (6)

3 Studio (8)

4 Physical and mental discipline (4)

5 Online metropolitan guide (10)

6 Bottle for the table (6)

7 Superimposed (8)

8 Writer of essays (8)

13 Warden of wildlife on an estate (10)

16 Discharge (6)

17 Royal family member (8)

18 Leave by will to another (8)

21 Hanging tuft of threads (6)

22 Meaning modifier (6)

23 Michael Jackson song (4,2)

26 Impel (4)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words

four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or

1 How many 'Arabian Nights’ are there in the Middle Eastern folk tales?

2 Which singer-songwriter wrote and recorded the theme song for the hit series Orangeisthe New Black?

3 What ingredient makes a latte a mocha?

4 True or false: spruce trees are evergreen?

5 Papillon is a breed of what type of animal?

6 In which country are the Cliffs of Moher located?

7 What type of exercise relies on the continual use of oxygen?

8 Annie Lennox (pictured) partnered with Dave Stewart to form which '80s British pop duo?

9 Name the narrator of Herman Melville's 1851 novel Moby-Dick

10 What device helps musicians keep a steady tempo?

Summing up Ford Transit Custom

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

The van section of the market is totally dominated by the Toyota HiAce, with 47.7 per cent of the market.

Behind it trails the Hyundai Staria Load, with a 13.8 per cent share followed closely by the Ford Transit Custom, with 13.5 per cent.

The only other significant player is the Chinese LDV G10+, with 11.2 per cent.

Transit Custom is not to be confused with Transit (no Custom) which applies to a range of larger vans.

Sitting on an all-new platform, the latest version of Ford’s mid-sized van arrived here in the first half of 2024.

While it was awarded International Van of the Year, it remains one of the more expensive options in a highly competitive section of the market where operators are keen to cut costs to a minimum.

To put this in perspective, HiAce prices start from $48,886, Staria from $46,740 and the Chinese G10+ from a low $37,358. Transit is priced from $55,990.

Due later this year, the new VW Transporter will be a rejigged Transit Custom, in the same way that Amarok is a rebadged Ford Ranger.

A plug-in hybrid will swell the ranks of Transit Custom towards the middle of the year.

Styling

Transit Custom is one of the more stylish vans available, particularly the Sport model with its stripes and alloy wheels.

Prices start from $56,590 plus on-road costs for the short wheelbase, front-wheel drive Trend 320S.

Our test vehicle, the 320L long wheelbase version, is priced from $57,590, or $64,214 driveaway by the time you put it on the road. It has seating for three with cloth-trimmed front seats, a separate, manual-adjust driver seat and two-seater pew for passengers, together with driver armrest, fold down tray table, barn-style rear doors and kerb-side slide entry.

The two outer seats are heated, the middle seat folds down to reveal a tray table for paperwork, and the passenger seat hides under seat storage. The faux leather steering wheel is both height and reach adjustable.

Standard kit includes push-button start, single-zone climate air, auto lights and wipers, auto high beam, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, plus front and rear parking sensors.

Transit Custom is covered by a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, with 12 months roadside assistance.

Service intervals are 12 months/30,000km.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of a 13.0-inch touchscreen with Ford’s Sync4 operating system, with voice-activated controls and an embedded modem compatible with FordPass.

Other features include FM and DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth with audio streaming, built-in satellite navigation (12 month subscription to Connected Navigation Services), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus four-speaker audio.

There’s also wireless phone charging, USB-A and USB-C ports plus a 12 volt outlet in the front.

Safety

Transit Custom is by far and away the safest van available to buy today.

Not only was it awarded five stars from ANCAP, but recorded an overall score of 96 per cent.

It performed exceptionally well across all scenarios, solidifying it as one of the safest options in its segment.

Six airbags are standard along with a rear view camera with a 180 degree split view

and Pre-Collision Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).

There’s also Intersection Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Keeping Aid with Lane Departure Warning. Add to this Roll over Mitigation,ReverseBrakeAssist,ExitWarning and Hill Launch Assist.

Emergency Call Assist will trigger your mobile to dial 000 in the event of an accident. Note, however, there is no provision for a children’s car seat.

Engines/transmissions

Power comes from a 2.0-litre, four cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 125kW of power and 390Nm of torque between 1750 and 2500 revs.

Drive is to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission with a steering column-mounted gear selector. You don’t see many of them these days.

Driving

Ford engineers have worked hard to improve useability of this new generation Transit Custom.

The floor has been lowered to improve ease of loading and unloading, and the overall height has been reduced to under two metres to help access height-restricted areas such as multi-storey car parks, garages, and underground loading bays.

A new access step makes climbing into the load compartment easier and a rear camera with180-degreewideviewingcapabilityassists rear visibility.

At 5450mm in length, the long wheelbase version is 40cm longer than its sibling, with a 40mm longer wheelbase, and stands 1980mm high.

It has a 12.1 metre turning circle.

A full width metal bulkhead is fitted, separating the cabin and cargo area, with a window and load-through hatch.

Our test vehicle was fitted with a moulded vinyl cargo floor liner, with eight tie-down pointsandLEDlighting,butlackedanywallor roof panels to protect the bodywork.

The load area is 1425mm high and 3002mm long, extending to 3450mm with the load-throughhatch,with1392mmbetweenthe wheel arches.

Maximum load capacity is 6.8 cubic metres and it has a 2500kg tow capacity.

Unless you make use of the tie downs anything placed in the back is going to slide around and could possibly be damaged if you are forced to make an emergency stop. A combined alarm and immobiliser are fitted.

There’s auto stop-start and four drive modes from which to choose: Normal, Eco, Slippery, Tow/Haul.

With a 70-litre tank, fuel consumption is a claimed 8.0L/100km. It also has a 20-litre AdBlue reservoir that helps clean exhaust emissions and that needs to be topped up occasionally.

There’s disc brakes front and back, independent rear suspension and an electric parking brake.

Trend rolls on 16-inch steel wheels with 215/65 rubber and plastic wheel covers finished in ‘Sparkle’ silver.

A full size steel spare is provided which is located under the rear.

Now I used to work as a courier with Australia Post and the fleet consisted mainly of rear-drive LDV G10s, rear-drive Hyundai iLoads and front-drive VW Transporters.

Some people might think rear wheel drive is an advantage, but without anything in the back, which occurs as the day wears on — traction or lack of it can be a problem.

Ioncehadtobepulledoffagrassnaturestrip because the rear wheels simply could not find traction on the slick grass.

Front-drive vehicles with the weight of the engineoverthewheelsdon’thavethisproblem. I kid you not.

The entry model comes with a single, kerb-side sliding door and barn-style rear doors.

A second slider and/or a lift-style tailgate are optional, but must be specified at the time of order.

Most of the vans we drove were kitted out in this way and the liftgate was great in the rain because it provided some shelter.

Getting into the van for the first time, I was disappointed to find a grab handle is not provided. It should be standard.

The driver seat has eight-way manual adjustment including lumbar and the steering wheel is tilt and reach adjustable.

But the seating feels short and minimalist, and a long way from what we’d describe as comfortable. Check out the seat in the G10+.

Double-decker exterior mirrors are fitted, with a wide angle section at the bottom, a

RATINGS

Looks: 7/10

Performance: 7/10 Safety: 8/10 Thirst: 7.5/10 Practicality: 7.5/10

Comfort: 6/10

Tech: 7/10

Value: 6/10

Overall: 7/10

driver’s footrest is provided and the floor covering is rubber.

The driver faces a 12.0-inch display which incorporates a 7.0-inch digital colour instrument cluster that is configurable.

Astartbuttonislocatednearthetoplefthand corner of the display from where it is a step up to the infotainment unit rather than flowing seamlessly from one to the other. Shrug. Alas, there are no physical controls for the climate system which is controlled from the touchscreen.

Like most diesel vans it gets along fairly briskly. You change gears manually with the shifter, but who’s going to bother?

The steering and brakes are excellent, while handling one way or the other is not really a consideration.

What’s not so good is the adaptive cruise/ autonomous braking system. Travelling through one of Sydney’s many underground tunnels generated numerous false alarms. It saw the speed drop from a nominated 90km/h to 60 or 70km/h for no discernible reason, unless perhaps it was picking up the exit limits. With daylight dead ahead, it false-alarmed again as we exited the tunnel, this time dropping to a low as 37km/h, much to the consternation of those around us.

What the hell?

The system also seems to have a problem reading electronic speed signs. All in all, it needs some work and in this context, it is difficult to understand how the judges missed this one?

Intermsoffuelconsumption,weweregetting a long-term fuel average of 7.8L/100km after 2124km, a little better than the manufacturer’s claim.

Summing up

Ford Transit Custom is as safe as it gets for this type of vehicle, with a near perfect score of 96 per cent in crash tests.

But, and it’s a big BUT, bosses generally put price before the safety of their employees, although they would never admit to it – and this is Ford’s Achilles heel.

It’s just too damned expensive compared with its competitors, all of which are several thousand dollars cheaper and as such much more boss friendly.

Given the choice we would, however, spend the extra $1000 for the long wheel base version as tested – you’d be silly not to.

Transit Custom is by far and away the safest van available to buy today. (Supplied)

Last week it was the rain and this week it was the heat that greeted players as they took to the greens, pitches and diamonds. While some games were called off due to the heat, many others went ahead. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic captured some of the action.

Weekend heat causes havoc

Sunshine Eagles’ Scott Maore. 460954_14

Sydenham Hillside’s Jack Harding. 460944_01

Taylors Lakes’ Chalitha Chamoda. 460947_01

Westmeadows’ Donovan Pell. 460944_04

Westmeadows’ Stephen Mihelakos-james. 460944_03

North Western Titans’ Blair Murphy. 460940_26

North Western Titans’ Nyssa Boath. 460940_03

Sunshine Eagles’ Jaimie Young. 460954_03

Sunshine Eagles’ Josh Byrne. 460954_01

Sunshine Eagles’ Susan Thomas. 460940_01

Taylors Lakes’ Nilan Fernando. 460947_09

Eagles keen to keep the momentum going

Keilor Park is ready to go again, this time with the new challenge of FV state league 1 north-west.

After spending just one season in state league 2 north-west last season, the Eagles are back up in state league 1 after claiming the title and promotion.

Coach Serge Sabbadini said they were confident that they could have an impact at the higher level.

“We want to get promoted in the NPL [National Premier League], that is our aim,” he said. “That is what we are planning and we’re going to try and win the whole thing if possible.”

The Eagles bring back a similar squad to the one that won the state league 2 north-west title last season.

They lost just one game last season, winning 20 of a possible 22 games.

Sabbadini said they are on the hunt for a striker though after their star striker hurting his knee after coming off a motorbike.

“We signed everyone from last year,” he

said. “We had a great year last year and when we recruited for last year, we looked for players that would be there for the long term, not just five minutes.

“Theyareattheagetheycanplaytogetherfor three to four years.”

Sabbadini said it had been a stop-start off season for the squad but they were hoping that is behind them.

He said its full steam ahead between now and the season kicking off in March.

“We’ve been juggling things with all the boys coming back,” he said, “We have not had a full squad to train until the friendly on the weekend.

“It was a better performance as we beat Mornington2-1.Wecanrampthingsuponthe physical side now, we need to step things up.”

TheEaglesareinactionthisweekendintheir first Australia Cup match against Baxter, in the second round of the competition.

While many clubs don’t care too much about the cup competition, the Eagles want to go as far as they can.

“We’re looking to get playing,” he said. “It’s a pretty serious thing as we want to go out and win and get to the next round.

“Every game we want to win and take that mindset into every game. We want to go as far as we can.”

Falcons ready to reload

By Tara Murray

Defending champions City West Falcons are relying on some familiar faces to get the job done in this year’s Victorian Netball League championship division.

Having won the past three titles, the Falcons havebeentheteamtobeatandwillremainthat way this year.

The Falcons have just two additions to their side from last season.

Maddie Romios, nee Gray, returns after havinglastseasonoffafterhavingherfirstbaby.

Charity Nasalio is the other new member having come from New Zealand.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said having the same squad was good, but it would also have some challenges.

“I think it’s a bit challenging having done so well last year and keeping that determination,” she said.

“I think having Maddie and Charity around will help with that and help keep the pressure on.”

Romios will give the Falcons another attacking option, while Olivia Cameron, who joinedtheteamasafillin,isbackthisseasonas another goal option.

Lind said that Romios has been working hard since before pre-season.

“She has been good,” she said. “It’s been a slow burn.

“She joined me at boxing a month before the season started which has been good.

“She fits in seamlessly and she has been captain before. She adds a bit more maturity to the group and has that commitment.”

Nasalio is a defender with Lind saying she was similar to fellow defender Mel Oloamanu. Lind said they had been working on some differentthingsduringthepre-seasonthatthey were looking to put into place,

She said not having Uneeq Palavi and Montana Holmes train, due to Melbourne Mavericks commitments, meant they would have to fast track things when they come back. The Falcons under-23 squad has had a bit of a freshen up.

They kept a number of players from the squad that made finals last season, but have changed up the midcourt.

LindsaidtheyhadretainedVictorianplayers Lani Fauonuku and Holly Adams-Alcock will leadtheattackend,whiledefendersAchelYout, Maddison Mckiernan and MIkaela Minns will head up defence.

“We’re reinvigorated the midcourt,” Lind said. “Olivia Powell and Amelia Holland, had both come through our junior program.

“They can run all day and not stop. We were good for five minutes and unable to continue that.

Maddie Romios is back for the Falcons. (Robbab Photography)

“They’ve got that commitment and determination and bring a bit more grunt through the middle.”

Lind said she was excited to see what Minns could do after a big off season.

Minns has been playing in the Malaysian league. “She has done really well over there,” Lind said. “I think missing out on the state team threw her a little bit and she’s taken that opportunity at a higher level.

“It’s brave for her to go over there.” WIth a top six this year, finals will look different.

Lindsaidtheywerefocusedonmakingfinals again and going from there.

“A lot of clubs have picked up players, some that have not played for a whale and played at national level.”

The Falcons season gets underway on March 12 against the Western Warriors

Sports shorts

Western FL

Braybrook has announced the signings of Jack Vivian and Jarrod Garth for the Western Football League division 2 season. Vivian joins the Bookers from the Sunbury Kangaroos where he has spent the past two seasons. Vivian is a highly mobile, dynamic forward with a keen eye for a goal. Garth joins the Bookers from Simpson in the Colac and District Football League. He is a 190 centimetre forward with more than 900 career goals to his name. He was rookied list by Geelong when he was 18 and played Victorian Football League with Geelong and Werribee.

EDFL

Keilor has signed former Calder Cannons captain Damon Hollow for the upcoming Essendon District Football League premier division season. Hollow joins the Blues from Epping in the Northern Football League. Hollow captained the Cannons last year and was invited to the AFL draft state combine. Hollow will combine his Keilor commitments with Victorian Football League commitments with Williamstown.

VNL

Western Warriors goaler Abbey Ellis has been recognised for her achievements for another sport, basketball. Ellis has played a key role for Townsville Fire in the WNBL in their finals run. At the league’s awards night last week, Ellis was awarded the Betty Watson breakout player of the year. This season Ellis has averaged 9.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists for the Fire. Ellis will join the Warriors for their Victorian Netball League season after her basketball commitments end.

Western FL

Albion has locked in Daniel Rosenzweig for the Western Football League division 1 season. Rosenzweig joins the Cats from Point Cook Centrals where he was the Sharks leading goalkicker the past two seasons and was named in the division 1 team of the year twice. He also previously played with Glen Orden, where he made the division 2 team of the year twice.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Albion Rovers, Westside Strikers, Westvale Olympic, Sydenham Park, Brimbank Stallions, Keilor Wolves, Western Eagles and Westgate are also in action this weekend in the Australia Cup.

Tara Murray

Keilor Park is seeking more success. (Supplied)

Blues back in youth as they continue to rebuild

Keilor is backing in youth and has added some key recruits ahead of the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division season.

The Blues had a tough 2024 with only a couple of wins on the board and having to forfeit a couple of matches.

So far things have been tracking well under new coach Giovanni Castello.

“We have good numbers as well,” he said. “It’s nice and hopefully we’ll have a better year than last year.

“We’ve had a few under-18s that have come up and really complement the squad.

“We are full of confidence at Keilor at the moment.”

Castello, who previously coached the club’s under-18s,saidtheyhadfiveorsixgirlscoming up from the under-18 side.

Withthreeoftheirsigningsalsointhatsame age bracket, it’s good signs for the future. Most of them have already played senior football. Castellosaidtheysuitedtheagedemographic of the club and they had all fitted in really well.

“They know what they are in for playing against senior women,” he said. “The bigger bodies and more experience has done them well.”

FormerCalderCannonsMaddisonAlbrecht, who comes from Craigieburn, Ava Gerada, who comes from Westmeadows, and Chelsea Mcdermott, who has come from Collegians, have all joined the Blues.

Albrecht is also on Essendon’s Victorian Football League Women’s squad.

Joining the trio at the Blues is a couple of the EDFL’s stars,

Tegan Matthews, who was named the league rising star last season, returns to the Blues after one season at Maribyrnong Park.

She kicked 41 goals to finish second in the goalkicking in her breakout season.

“I coached her in under-18s,” he said. “It’s good to have her back in the fold at Keilor.

Liv Woods, who was best on ground in the

Phillippe leading the way

By Tara Murray

Ryan Phillippe might be just 20 years old but the guard is set to be one of the leaders of Keilor Thunder’s new era.

The Thunder has had some major player changes over the off season, while Ash Arnott has come on board as coach.

Phillippe is one of the few that returns this season.

“I maybe have a bit of experience, but I’m still only 20 years of age,” he said. “Ash rang me early on in the process and reassured me that I would have a good role.

“Even though I’m young, he wants me to be one of the leaders on the squad. It’s very exciting any time a coach is happy to put a lot of trust into you despite the age.

“I think it’s something that I’ve worked for and something that I’m looking forward to.”

Phillippe said they would play an exciting brand of basketball and he expected that they would play some fast paced basketball.

“I think we will surprise a couple of teams in the league,” he said. “It will be fun to play and good to watch.”

Phillippe had a slow start to last season, before playing some big minutes towards the end of the year.

He said getting those opportunities really gave he the boost that he was on the right track.

“It was good to build some confidence after an unfortunate couple of injuries,” he said. “It was more fortunate in my favour to get some game time

“The supporting cast around me, especially Kyle Zunic was big in keeping my confidence up when I wasn’t playing.

“Therefore when I got minutes I was good to go straight away.”

Philllppe spent some of the off season playing for the Wallan Panthers in the Country Basketball League.

He said it was good to head back home and work on some things that he had identified that needed to go to the next level.

“It was good to get back home and have a bit of fun and continue my confidence.”

Philllppe said pre-season had been good with Arnott really pushing their fitness and working on the game style.

Personally, Phillippe has set some expectations.

“I want to continue on from where I ended the season with being able to control the team,” he said.

“I want to try and put my name in the youth league player of the year conversation. My main goal is to help the team go all the way.”

Phillippe said both the men’s and women’s teams were keen to build on the success of the women’s side last season.

While the men’s side just missed out on finals, the women’s side made the

“One

both

division 2 grand final, joins the Blues from CoburgDistricts.Shewasnamedcaptainofthe EDFL division 2 team of the year and finished second in the league best and fairest.

Castello said the Woods was keen to test herself at the higher level.

“She is really keen,” he said. “She has been loving training and her fitness is right up there.

“She is the most excited out of all the girls and is up for the challenge.”

Practice matches will kick off in the coming weeks for the Blues.

Castello said they were keen to see how the girls gel with each other before the season.

“We are building,” he said. “Last year was tough.

“We’ll look to rebuild over the next few years.”

The Blues kick off their season on April 5 against Greenvale.

Tara Murray

Grand final teams set

Deer Park and Altona North will play off intheVictorianTurfCricketAssociation T20 grand final.

TheLions,whowerethehighestranked team left in the semi finals, accounted for the Druids, while Altona North beat fellow division 1 side Sunshine in the semi finals.

The Lions continued their strong batting against the Druids at Kevin Shorten Reserve on Tuesday night. Deer Park was the only senior division side in the semi finals.

After losing an early wicket, having promoted Fawad Ahmed to opener, the Lions made 7-159 off their 20 overs.

Daniel Sartori top scored with 66.

Jared Andrews took three wickets for the Wizards.

The Wizards were in trouble early in the run chase at 3-11 with star Michael Hay out for a duck.

While the Wizards had some small contributions in the middle, they were never close as they finished 8-113.

Tom Hazell-Evans top scored with 45 at the top of the order.

Ahmed took three wickets for the Lions.

It was Altona North’s bowlers that set up the win against Sunshine in the other semi final.

Sent in, the Crows were bowled out for 94 with three balls remaining. Dilip Tharaka top scored with 23 at number three but there was little support after that with only one double figure score lower in the order.

Jinang Shah took 3-16 for Altona North.

Altona North was comfortable in its run chase and never seemed in trouble.

Asela Aluthge guided his side with 55 off 39 balls to 3-95. Altona North had nearly four overs remaining to get the runs.

ThegrandfinalwillbeheldonTuesday night at Crofts Reserve.

Altona North will play Deer Park in the T20 grand final. (Ljubica Vrankovic/Jacob Pattison)

Liv Woods has joined Keilor. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425635_21

grand final.

hundred per cent,“ he said. “They played a really exciting brand of basketball last year it was good to watch,

translated into success on the court. “It gives

suqada a bit of hope again, we are both capable of going all the way.”

Ryan Phillippe. (NBL1/Keilor Thunder)

Lions find some of their early season form

Taylors Lakes finally got the performance it had been hoping for, but it’s too little too late in the race for Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west finals.

The Lions had been one of the standout teams heading into the second half of the season,buthaven’thadawinsinceChristmas.

ItwasamuchbetterdayonSaturdayagainst Moorabbin in the penultimate round.

Lions coach Peter Brasher said they’d had a good conversation during the week and it showed through across all the grades.

“It felt like December again,” he said. “To be fair we are playing the second bottom team that hasn’t performed that well.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect and it was a pleasant surprise. It’s been a learning experience the last few weeks.

“We got them all together in their teams on Thursday and talked about a few things and what we still needed to do.

“Each side did what we asked them to do.”

Brasher said it had been hard with the first two losses after Christmas just falling short despite playing well.

It’s only been the past few weeks they had slipped away a bit.

The Lions still had a small mathematical chance of making finals heading into the weekend, but needed everything to go their way.

With Caulfield claiming first innings points on day one, that ended that hope.

While it doesn’t matter in the scheme of the ladder now, the Lions needed an outright win against Moorabbin.

After day one they are on the right track.

Moorabbin decided to bat and was bowled out for just 99.

George Sakkas, Saihaj Jaspal and Dhanushka Lahiru Kumara took two wickets each for the Lions.

Brasher said it was a real team bowling performance.

“We bowled pretty well,” he said. “All the bowlers played their part and not one in particular stood out.”

Waiting game for Keilor

By Tara Murray

Keilor was in fine form in its Bowls Victoria weekend pennant division 2, section 1 semi final but has had to cool its heels as other finals were postponed.

The semi finals and preliminary finals were allmeanttobeplayedat theweekend,butjust Keilor’ssemifinalwithRosamondwentahead in division 2, section 1.

The other semi final between Bacchus Marsh and Werribee was postponed from Saturday due to total fire ban in the area.

It was to be played the next day, but there was still a total fire ban so was postponed again.

The final is now set for this Saturday with the winner to go through to the grand final and the loser to face Keilor in the preliminary final on Sunday.

Keilor president Joe Watkins said there wasn’t anything they could do about the wait.

“It was a bit unusual but bowls pales in significance compared to this,” he said. After a poor final round, Keilor found itself

inaknockoutsemifinalagainstRosamondon Saturday.

It was a really strong performance by Keilor which won, 88 (16)-44 (2).

ForKeilor,TonyDavis’rinkwon37-9,Mark Jacobsen’s rink won 17-9 and Steven Bellino’s rink won 19-9.

Jason Silverii’s rink ended up falling just short, losing 17-15.

Watkins said they were really happy with that performance.

“Thelastfivetosixweekswe’veplayedsome really good bowls,” he said. “We had a hard day against Buckley Park in the last home and away round, It was a bit of an aberration.

“We’re looking forward to the preliminary final.”

Watkins said it doesn’t matter whether they face Bacchus Marsh or Werribee in the preliminaryfinalhe’sexpectingaclosematch.

There’s been nothing between the sides all season.

“It’ll come down to who is better on the day,” he said.

“We’ve got 16 players and we’re happy with

It wasn’t an ideal start with the bat for the Lions losing three quick wickets. They recovered and will resume at 3-79.

Brasher said it was really good to see 16-year-old Jaideep Singh open the batting in his first XI.

“He’sbeenajuniorattheclubandcaptained our Craig Shield side a few years ago.

“He’s starting to come into his own.”

Brasher said while they know they won’t play finals, they still want to end the season on a high.

“We will look to really put the pressure on,” he said. “We don’t just want to pass the score, we want to put on a really good performance.”

The Lions thirds and fourth will play finals. Brasher said overall it was a relatively successful season.

Tara Murray

Keilor’s salary cap probe

Reigning Essendon District Football League men’s premier division premier Keilor will appear before a player payments disciplinary committee.

The league released a statement on Friday afternoon stating it was aware of the speculation concerning the Keilor Football Club and its player payments.

“The EDFL can confirm the Keilor Football Club will appear before a player payments disciplinary committee following an integrity review into player payments,” the league statement said.

“Keilor was subject to an integrity review as a result of competing in the 2024 premier division grand final, as required under rule nine of the player payment rules.

“The EDFL will not be making any further comment prior the player payments disciplinary committee hearing.”

Under AFL Victoria regulations, metropolitan clubs in their league’s top division could pay their players a maximum of $120,000 in 2024 and $110,000 in 2023.

All teams that make the grand final are required to undergo a player payments review.

In a statement, Keilor president Shaun Morris said the club is aware of an integrity review into its player payments.

our combination which are getting stronger week by week.after lots of changes at the start of the year.

“It took a while, it was a bit of a jigsaw coming together.”

It was a good day for Saturday, with Keilor’s second side winning through to a division 4 grand final.

It also means promotion into division 3 for next season.

Watkins said overall it had been a really good season

“Six of our nine sides have played finals including our midweek teams,” he said.

“We’ve done really well .

“We have two midweek sides in fionals and our second side finished on top and will play a home final.

“Our top side will stay in division 1 which is areallygoodeffortasthere’salotoftopsides.”

In premier division, Deer Park will start its final campaign this weekend against Yarraville Footscray.

The winner will go through to the grand final and the loser to the preliminary final.

“The Keilor Football Club wishes to categorically state that no past or present players have had any involvement at all in this integrity review,” he said.

“As it has done to date, the Keilor Football Club will continue to co-operate with the EDFL and its appointed officers, in an open, honest and transparent manner.

“Until this review is completed, it would be inappropriate for the Keilor Football Club to make any further comments in relation to this matter.”

Keilor has won the past two premierships and been the clear dominate team in the competition. Last season it lost just two games on the way to the grand final where it defeated Pascoe Vale after going through 2023 undefeated.

Tara Murray

Jaideep Singh. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460947_07

Michael Davis. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 448428_19

Tuesday 25th March 2025, 6pm-8pm

Thursday 27th March 2025, 6pm-8pm There is