Star Weekly - Northern - 29th April 2025 by Star Weekly

among those who gathered at Anzac Park to honour the sacriﬁces of servicemen and women in times of war in a moving ceremony held on the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings.

page 8

Taylor elected new mayor

By Tom Ingleton

InasignificantleadershipshiftforWhittlesea council, councillor Martin Taylor has been elected unopposed as mayor, marking a new era of governance for the embattled council. The decision came during an unscheduled council meeting on Thursday, April 24, following the suspension of former mayor Aidan McLindon by Local Government Minister Nick Staikos on Wednesday, April 16.

Cr Taylor, who represents the South Morang ward and was first elected to council in 2024, will serve as mayor until the

conclusion

current term on November 18. Councillor Daniella Zinni will continue in her role as deputy mayor.

Addressing the chamber and community, Cr Taylor struck a tone of unity and renewal.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead this council through what will no doubt be a defining time for our city,” Cr Taylor said.

“It’s time for a new beginning. A time to rise above the challenges of the last six months to embrace a shared vision for the future.”

With a strong message of inclusivity, integrity and good governance, the new

mayor pledged to put residents at the heart of the council’s decisions.

“Our role as your elected council is to be custodians of your hopes and needs,” Cr Taylor said.

“I commit to leading with accessibility, fairness and a clear commitment to strengthening our communities.”

During the unscheduled council meeting, a number of councillors spoke about Cr Taylor’s appointment as mayor marking a new chapter for the council, noting that he had provided leadership to councillors during the events of the past six months.

Cr McLindon was suspended the same day

that the minister announced a Commission of Inquiry into the council.

Mr Staikos said that during his suspension Mr McLindon ceases to be a councillor and must not perform any duties or exercise the power of a councillor including attending council meetings, delegated committes or attending council presmises.

The state government said the independent inquiry would allow a detailed examination of matters affecting good governance at the council, and any legislative, regulatory or other reform needed to address the issues that have occurred at the council since the elections in October.

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CALLTOINSPECT

Rates and waste charge to rise

By Tom Ingleton

Whittlesea ratepayers are facing an average rateriseofthreepercentasthecounciljuggles governing a rapidly growing municipality.

Last week, councillors endorsed the city’s draft 2025-26 budget for community consultation which includes a $116.6 million capital works program.

The draft budget proposes a sharp rise in waste charges, driven by a 28 per cent increase in the state landfill levy and new four-bin requirements.

The average household bill will increase to $409.95, with the full levy now passed on to ratepayers.

Cr Cox acknowledged the concerns of residents struggling with living costs, but pointed to the challenges of governing a rapidly growing municipality.

“There will be a lot of criticism about the rate increase … but the reality is, as a council in a developing area, we need a lot more money. You want more services– we’ve got to fund them, and we can only do that through rates and grants,“ he said.

Despite the financial pressures, the council isinvestinginwellbeingandsocialconnection, including $18.2 million in community grants over the next decade.

Financial hardship support will continue, with flexible payments, deferrals and partnerships delivering food and material aid.

Speaking before he was suspended from council, Aidan McLindon condemned the state’s replacement of the fire levy with a new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, labelling it “dirty money” and warning it could double costs for ratepayers.

Fur-tastic news for Lalor dog lovers

Dog lovers in Lalor are set to reap the benefits of a new off-leash park, with Whittlesea council securing a $300,000 funding boost from the state government.

The money, delivered through the new and upgraded dog park program, will go towards developing a dedicated off-leash area at VR Michael Reserve– a much-anticipated addition identified in the reserve’s master plan adopted last year.

The local community will have their chance to shape the space, with consultation set to

open in the coming months.

Residents can weigh in on key features, from park layout and lighting, to the type and placement of furniture.

Aidan McLindon, before being suspended as a councillor, said the grant helps bring council’s vision for the reserve to life.

“Taking the dog for a walk down at the local dog park is a great way to get some exercise while having fun and socialising with like-minded pet owners,” he said.

“We’re grateful to the state government for

Hot playgrounds, cold truths

Hume’s playgrounds may have slides, swings, and seesaws but one crucial feature is missing – shade.

Councillors are now throwing some serious shade on that very fact.

Councillor Steve Gagen led the charge at the April 14 council meeting, putting forward a motion to investigate and improve the city’s approach to UV protection and shaded play spaces.

The motion, which was carried, calls for council officers to prepare a report on the best practice for shade provision, and consider including UV protection in Hume’s health and wellbeing plan.

“Good quality public spaces that have shaded areas are important for the health and well-being of Hume residents,” Cr

Gagen said. “Hume has low natural tree canopy cover and is impacted by the urban heat island effect, which causes higher local temperatures. Worse still, unshaded areas have dangerously high ultraviolet light levels.”

Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with two-thirds of Australians expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime.

Cr Gagen warned that over 95 per cent of skin cancers stem from UV exposure – and that children, who often play outside without seeking shade, are particularly at risk.

“There’s a Melbourne playgrounds website that ranks suburbs on shaded places and Hume, I’m sad to report, comes dead last,”

Cr Gagen said.

this $300,000 grant which will allow us to fulfil a key component of our vision for VR Michael Reserve.”

The Lalor site joins a growing list of dog-friendly destinations across the municipality.

Works on two other grant-funded projects–Allumba Park in Wollert ($500,000) and the upgraded facility at Whittlesea Public Gardens in Lalor ($340,000) are nearing completion, with both expected to open within weeks.

“Unfortunately, we are tasked with doing a lot of the dirty work– if we can minimize that, let’s make our voices heard,” he said. “While you are giving us feedback, now is also the time to give the state government feedback.”

Highlights of the capital works program include construction of the Mernda Regional Sports Precinct, West Wollert Community Centre, Murnong community centre in Donnybrook, Hill Top Splash Park and playground in Doreen and Peter Hopper Lake in Mill Park.

Community feedback is open until May 4

Say goodbye to green and hello to red as Whittlesea council is giving its rubbish bins a fresh new look as part of a statewide push to make waste disposal simpler and smarter.

From May, residents across Whittlesea will notice a bold new colour on their kerbside – red.

In line with the state government’s four-bin colour standard, the lids on general rubbish bins are being swapped from dark green to red.

The change is designed to eliminate confusion and improve recycling habits by making it crystal clear that the red-lidded bin is for landfill waste.

It’s part of a larger strategy to create consistency in waste management across Victoria, and which Whittlesea council said it is proudly getting on board.

The roll-out will take place progressively throughout May and June.

Locals are asked to put their bins out as usual on collection day and leave them on the curb until 6pm– even after they’ve been emptied–to allow for the lid switch.

Once the new red lid is installed, there’s no need to leave the bin out longer than usual.

In a win for sustainability, all old green lids will be recycled into new ones, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Whittlesea infrastructure and environment director Debbie Wood said the change marks an important step in improving waste management at the grassroots level.

“Making sure our bin lids comply with the state government’s four-bin system is part of our commitment to improving the way we manage waste at the local level, This will help residents and visitors sort their rubbish into the right bin.”

Environment Protection Authority Victoria | Environment Protection Act 2017

Notice of application for development licence

EPA Victoria has received an application for a development licence. We are seeking comments from anyone who may be affected by the proposal.

APP037261 Heidelberg Materials Australia Resource Recovery Pty Ltd

Proposed site 45 Bridge Inn Road, Wollert Victoria 3750

The applicant proposes to develop a new landfill cell, Cell 17, at the Wollert Landfill. In addition to the broad waste types already accepted at the Wollert Landfill, it is proposed that Cell 17 will also accept Category B waste. Wollert Landfill would be the second in Victoria accepting Category B waste.

Visit engage.vic.gov.au/epa-development-licence-applications to view the application. Comments must be made using the website above. You have 15 business days from the day this notice is published to comment or make a submission.

EPA will notify all submitters of our decision.

and quote the application number

EPA will notify all submitters of our decision. and quote the application number

Further details please contact 1300 372 842. For a translation service, call Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 and ask them to call EPA Victoria on 1300 372 842 and quote the application number. epa.vic.gov.au

Dog owners like Ezekiel, pictured with his pooch Atlas, will welcome news of a new off-leash dog park to be established at VR Michael Reserve in Lalor.

Inquiry into Whittlesea council

Whittlesea council will be investigated by a Commission of Inquiry while mayor Aidan McLindon has been suspended.

OnWednesday,April16,LocalGovernment Minister Nick Staikos announced a Commission of Inquiry into the council and the suspension of Mr Lindon for six months.

Mr Staikos said Mr McLindon had been suspended under the Local Government Act following the receipt of a report from the government-appointed municipal monitors overseeing the council.

Hesaidheconsideredinformationfromthe monitors and council staff, the unanimous call from 10 councillors for an independent investigation and that councillors also called for Mr McLindon to resign from the office of mayor and agreed to a vote of no confidence when making his decision,

“I am satisfied this is necessary to protect the health and safety of the councillors and staff at Whittlesea City Council,” he said.

“Forthedurationofasuspension,councillor McLindon ceases to be a councillor and

must not perform any of the functions and duties or exercise the power of a councillor. This includes attending council meetings, delegated committees or attending council premises.”

According to the government, the inquiry will have broad-ranging powers to address potentially serious and systemic governance issues at the council. The minister has not announced who will led the inquiry or when it will begin.

The inquiry will allow a detailed

Let’s hope history isn’t repeating

By Laura Michell

One hundred and fifty-six days – that’s how long Whittlesea ratepayers were represented by 11 elected councillors.

The city’s latest crop of councillors were declared elected on November 11. Their election marked the return of councillors to a municipality that had been run by administrators for four-and-a-half years after the previous council was sacked by the state government in March 2020 following years of in-fighting, dysfunction and the sacking of multiple council chief executives.

On April 16 – just five months into the new council term – Local Government Minister Nick Staikos suspended mayor Aidan McLindon for six months over alleged intimidating behaviour and launched a commission of inquiry into the council.

His decision means the residents of Kirrip Ward will be without a local councillor until October 17.

The minister has yet to announce when the inquiry into council will begin – or who will lead it – but said it was necessary to examine “matters affecting good governance at the council” and address the issues that have occurred since the October 2024 election.

For many residents, Mr Staikos’ words make it seem like the council is falling into bad habits. Afterall, the months since the local government elections haven’t exactly been smooth sailing for council.

In January, Mr McLindon announced he would contest the state by-election in Werribee – just nine weeks after he was elected mayor. The decision led to a petition calling for him to be removed as mayor, a local residents’ group writing to the council asking for him to be replaced as the mayor (and removed from council) and the city’s 10 remaining councillors requesting that Mr McLindon face internal arbitration over alleged breaches of the Model Councillor Code of Conduct.

In February, the 10 councillors passed a vote of no confidence in Mr McLindon and called for him to resign as mayor. He refused. And in March, it was revealed Mr McLindon had been barred from the council chambers and had restrictions placed on his interactions with councillors and council staff by Whittlesea chief executive Craig Lloyd. That led to Mr McLindon gathering his supporters outside the council chamber duringtheMarchcouncilmeetingandcalling for Mr Lloyd and the two state governmentappointed municipal monitors overseeing the council to resign.

On top of that, on November 13 – just two daysaftertheelectionresultwasdeclared–the Victorian Electoral Commission announced it had referred alleged vote tampering in Lalor Ward to police and the Local Government Inspectorate for investigation after it detected a high number of multiple ballot papers appearing to be from the same voters. The irregularities were also referred to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for a review of the election result –the review is currently underway. There is no suggestion any councillors were involved in any wrongdoing.

Weekly, January 21, 2025

Weekly, March 18, 2025 Star Weekly, February 4, 2025

, March 4, 2025

In recent months, the 10 councillors have repeatedly stated that they are working as a team in the best interests of the community.

Let’s hope that is the case.

Whittlesearesidentsdeserveacouncilmade up of councillors who are passionate about serving them and not their own interests.

They waited four years to elect their representatives and so they rightly want

examination of matters affecting good governance at the council, and any legislative, regulatory or other reform needed to address the issues that have occurred at the council sincetheelectionsinOctober,thegovernment said.

“The situation at the City of Whittlesea is unprecedented — including the unanimous no-confidence motion in the mayor, and his subsequent ban from council premises for occupational health and safety reasons,” Mr Staikos said.

a council that can simply get the job done without being distracted by in-fighting.

Whether the remaining councillors – and Mr McLindon should he return to council in six months’ time – can do that is yet to be seen. But if they can’t, then the minister must take action sooner rather than later.

Laura Michell is Star Weekly’s news editor.

On a breezy morning outside Epping North’s Woolworths, shopping trolleys rattled and kids darted through car parks – but talk among locals turned quickly from groceries to governance.

The six-month suspension of former Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon has reignited community tensions, as residents weighed in on the current state of the council. For some, like long-time local resident Debbie Harrison, the suspension is less about misconduct and more about silencing dissent.

“I value his opinions, what he stands for and his philosophies,” Ms Harrison said. “That’s why I voted for him. We want truth, we want integrity, we want common sense in this crazy world of left wokeism and sick theologies pushing our country further into communism.”

Frustrated by what she sees as political gamesmanship, Ms Harrison didn’t mince her words. “Let’s get down to the nitty gritty. Our grasses aren’t being mowed. You have these left-wing politicians that want him out because he rocks the boat– and that’s wrong.”

Down the footpath, Patrick Richards, a plumber finishing up his lunch break, shared his frustration.

“Anyonewhoiswillingtostandupand fight wokeness is doing a good thing,” MrRichardssaid.“It’sbeenforcedonus, and frankly I’m sick of it.”

Pointing to the roadworks out on the street,MrRichardsadded,“Wejustwant the council to fix the real issues here–and that’s what us as taxpayers ask for by putting them there”.

Like many, he admitted to being unclear on the specifics of Mr McLindon’s suspension saying “Was there even any evidence? I haven’t read anything. They probably didn’t like the fact he wasn’t willing to be a part of their woke agenda.”

But not everyone outside the supermarket was buying that narrative.

Ravi Singh, a father juggling a toddler and a shopping bag, said the suspension was justified.

“Being outspoken is one thing, but being disruptive and disrespectful is another,” Mr Singh said. “That kind of behaviour undermines trust in the council. We need councillors who can challenge ideas without treating people poorly.”

Despite the conflicting views, there was one unifying theme among residents: frustration.

“The council should be working for the residents, not making headlines like theyhavebeenforthepastseveralyears,” Mr Singh said. “This whole circus just showshowfarthingshavegoneofftrack, things have to change and getting rid of a divisive character like McLindon is the first step in that process.”

Tom Ingleton

McLindon wants royal commission

By Tom Ingleton

The fading afternoon sun cast long shadows over the steps of Parliament House on April 16, as former Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon took centre stage – albeit before a modest crowd.

It was 4pm in Spring Street, and while the buzz of tram bells and pedestrian chatter carried on around him, the now-former mayor of Whittlesea stood alone yet defiant in front of a single camera operator.

“I was the mayor of Whittlesea until 8am this morning,” Mr McLindon declared.

“At the direction of the governing council, I have been asked to stand down – this is a very dark day for democracy in Victoria.”

Just hours after being formally stood down for six months by the local government minister, Mr McLindon arrived in the heart of the state’s political district to deliver his rebuttal – raw, unfiltered and deeply provocative.

Last month, he spoke defiantly outside the Whittlesea council chamber to a plethora of his supporter-base. The April 16 audience was sparse.

But Mr McLindon appeared unfettered, claiming he was being punished for daring to speak truths “no one else has the guts to say”.

Among his grievances: being stripped of his personal assistant, barred from speaking with fellow councillors, and accused – in his mind without evidence – of bullying and aggression.

“We are in urgent need of a Royal Commission into local government in Victoria,” Mr McLindon said.

“Make no mistake, this is democracy versus bureaucracy. And I will be the first cab off the rank.”

MrMcLindon’sfuryturnedtowardscultural

battles too, insisting his removal was linked to controversial remarks in regard to rainbow flags.

“DoIhaveregretforsayingtherainbowflags or whatever colour it is today need to be out of

our childcare centres? No way,” he said.

“They are re-wiring our children. Who’s going to stand up and say it as it is?”

When pressed by StarWeekly about the potential mental health impact on LGBTQIA+

children hearing such statements from a public figure, Mr McLindon dismissed concerns.

“I work with these kids,” Mr McLindon said.

“This isn’t about sexuality, it’s about what we’re doing to the minds of five-year-olds. It’s disgusting, cut it out.”

Despite 10 fellow councillors having written to the minister calling for him to intervene, Mr McLindon waved away the significance as “Toxic culture. Simple as that.”

Mr McLindon painted a picture of a council in disarray, a system stacked against independent voices, and likened his likely political demise to a warning shot for anyone who dared challenge the status quo.

“Caesar judging Caesar,” he scoffed.

“They’ll call me a racist or homophobic – but I haven’t done anything wrong. I’ve been doing my job.”

Mr McLindon said he was speaking with lawyers to challenge his dismissal, but was resignedtothefacttheinquirycouldultimately result in his dismissal from council altogether.

“You know what? I’m at the point of who cares,” Mr McLindon said.

“They’ve got the power to do whatever they want.”

There was an unmistakable sense that whethertheformermayorcanregainaposition oncouncilornot,thereiszerointentionofhim going out quietly.

As the public address drew to a close and the light over Spring Street faded, Mr McLindon shifted his focus to broader problems plaguing local government.

“Whittlesea has had a terrible past,” Mr McLindon said.

“But I don’t think Whittlesea is isolated from the problems we are facing. We need a commission into local government in Victoria. It must happen to see any justice in this state.”

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Aidan McLindon. (Tom Ingleton)

‘Stray steel baskets’ crackdown

By Tom Ingleton

Stray shopping trolleys – those clunky, rusting relics of grocery runs gone rogue – are about to meet their match in Hume.

Councilhasofficiallyhadenoughoffootpaths blocked, parks invaded, and streets littered with what councillor Naim Kurt dramatically dubbed a “sea of stray steel baskets“.

At the Monday, April 14 council meeting, Cr Sam Misho led the charge with a notice of motion to clamp down on trolley dumping, vowing that from July 2025 retailers will face stricter enforcement – and fines– under the

General Local Law 2023.

“This is something I raised back in 2021,”

Cr Misho said. “We need to take a very strong stance. It’s unsafe, unsightly, and frankly, we should actually tackle it.”

Cr Misho took aim at major supermarket chains, accusing them of outsourcing responsibility.

“There are retailers making super profits, but they get trolley contractors at dirt-cheap rates, who then sub-contract to smaller operators who can barely pay wages. That’s why we see trolleysscatteredalloverourneighbourhoods.”

Under the new motion, all retailers in Hume

must implement coin-operated trolleys by July 1.

Cr Steve Gagen applauded the motion, and said it shifts the burden away from customers and back onto the corporations.

“It’s like making McDonald’s or other fast-food companies responsible for the litter,”

Cr Gagen said.

However, Cr Gagen did express concerns about the effectiveness of coin-lock systems, pointing to Banksia Gardens where “trains of trolleys” are often found linked together and dumped.

Despitestrongerlocallaws,fines,signage,and

Eagles take ﬂight under new lights

Whittlesea’s sporting future just got a whole lot brighter.

The Whittlesea Football Netball Club is set for a major facilities upgrade, with McEwen MP Rob Mitchell announcing a re-elected Labor government will deliver $185,000 in funding to transform the club’s training and game-day infrastructure.

The funding will go towards installing floodlights at the Whittlesea Showgrounds oval, allowing night matches and training sessions for the first time.

The outdoor netball courts alongside the oval will also benefit from the lighting, opening the door for greater community use after dark.

In a further win, the indoor courts at Chandler pavilion will receive a much-needed resurfacing– giving the club’s netballers a high-quality, all-weather space to train and compete year-round.

Mr Mitchell called the upgrades a gamechanger for the club.

“This funding will give the Eagles every opportunity to grow and strengthen as a club,” Mr Mitchell said.

“We’rebackingwomen’ssportandtackling the chronic shortage of quality netball facilities across the north.”

Eagles president Luke Fraumano said the support was warmly welcomed by the Whittlesea community.

“Our members and sponsors cannot thank Mr Mitchell enough,” Mr Fraumono said.

“This will make a world of difference to our club, the players, and especially our netballers.”

Club President Luke Fraumano, McEwen MP Rob Mitchell and committee member Doug Prowl following the facility upgrade announcement. (Supplied)

countless emails to supermarket headquarters, Cr Kurt said the problem persisted.

Cr Kurt then delivered the evening’s most theatrical moment, waving a prop letter featuring what he dubbed “the shopping cart theory,” calling it the ultimate test of civic virtue.

“The shopping cart is the ultimate litmus test for whether a person is capable of self-government,” it read.

“Toreturnthecartisobjectivelyright,butit’s not illegal to abandon it. The shopping cart is the apex example of whether someone will do the right thing without being forced.”

Home invasion charges laid

Four Hume men have been charged in relation to an aggravated home invasion in Altona Meadows in January.

Police will allege that four men attended a Victoria Street address about 8.30pmonMonday,January20inastolen vehicle, forcing entry into the property before threatening the occupants.

A man living at the address was assaulted and taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

A second man fled from the address but was subsequently caught by the offenders, who allegedly made demands for money or threatened to shoot him.

As part of the investigation, police became aware of a second incident in Shepparton earlier that same day. It will be alleged two men entered the residential property, causing significant damage, before driving to Altona Meadows to commit the second offence.

Investigators will allege that this offence was carried out on the orders of person based overseas in exchange for payment.

Police executed search warrants at residential addresses in Dallas and Westmeadows on April 23.

Two men, a 20-year-old from Dallas and a 21-year-old from Westmeadows, havebeenchargedwithaggravatedhome invasion, extortion and intentionally causing injury.

Two other men, a 19-year-old from Meadow Heights and 20-year-old from Craigieburn, were both located and arrested in New South Wales earlier this year and have since been extradited to Victoria.

They were charged with aggravated home invasion, extortion, intentionally causinginjury,burglary,criminaldamage and theft of motor vehicle and remanded in custody to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 13.

Rezoing green light for new homes, parklands in Mernda

A balance between nature and neighbourhood it set to be struck, as Whittlesea council gives the green light to a major rezoning proposal that promises both new homes and lush open spaces.

At the April 15 meeting, the council unanimously passed a motion to rezone 21 hectares of land across 307 Bridge Inn Road and 390 Masons Road, Mernda.

The decision will allow for the construction of up to 200 new homes and a retirement village with an aged care facility– while also delivering a massive 35 hectares of parkland to

the community.

Councillor Jarrod Lappin hailed the move as a “win-win” for Mernda, celebrating both the boosttolocalhousingsupplyandtheexpansion of the beloved Quarry Hills Parkland.

“I think it’s a very well thought out amendment and a really good policy for Mernda,” he said.

“I know some residents were concerned about traffic and noise, but these issues will be addressed. This is great news for the community as a whole.”

Cr Deb Gunn also praised the integration

of the Parkland expansion into the city’s long-term planning vision.

“This is going to be great for Whittlesea,” she said.

“The expansion of Quarry Hills fits beautifully into the master plan, as explained by our executive team.”

The development will see one parcel used for the housing project and the other for the retirement village.

Meanwhile,thesignificantparklandtransfer to council ownership marks a bold step in preservinggreenspaceamidMernda’songoing

growth.

Cr Blair Colwell backed the officer’s recommendation, highlighting the broader vision, the Quarry Hills Regional Recreation Park is expected to grow a staggering 1000 hectares by 2040.

“The 21 hectares of urban development will provide-much needed housing and promote innovative urban design,” he said.

“We’re doing our bit to ensure housing supply– hopefully easing housing prices and opening the door for young and first home buyers.”

Fundraiser serves hugs

As the sun sets over the lush treetops of Plenty Gorge, a truly special evening will come to life at one of the region’s most breath-taking venues.

On Wednesday, May 7, from 5.30pm to 9pm, Farm Vigano will host a joyful fundraising event in support of Big Group Hug, a charity basedinThomastownandTarneitthatprovides vital support to children and families in crisis.

With its rustic charm, panoramic views, and warm hospitality, Farm Vigano is offering more than just a beautiful setting– donating its entire venue, gourmet food, and fine wines free of charge.

That means every single dollar raised on the nightwillgodirectlytowardhelpingvulnerable families.

Guests will enjoy a spread of seasonal dishes, hand-selected wines, and live entertainment,

What’s on

Tickets on sale for Victoria Mantynen

Join the incredible Victoria Mantynen as she pays tribute to the unforgettable songs sung by the amazing supporting characters in musical theatre.

The performance will include songs from Les Misérables, Chess, Guys and Dolls, Showboat, Oliver and many more unforgettable musical theatre classics. Suitable for all age groups

When: Wednesday 7 May, 11am

Where: Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC) 35 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang

For more information, visit www.pracc.com.au

all in the tranquil surroundings of Farm Vigano’s historic estate, nestled against a peaceful nature reserve.

“We’ll have speakers too, people who’ve received our help, case workers who have reached out to us in times of need, and members of our own team. It’s a rare chance to hear first-hand the impact that a small charity likeourscanhave,“BigGroupHugfundraising and communications manager Maria Quigley said.

Big Group Hug has been operating for 11 years and has helps about 7000 children each year, but as the cost of living continues to bite, the need for more help is growing.

“There are so many families doing it tough right now,” Ms Quigley said.

Details: events.humanitix.com/farmvigano-fundraiser-for-big-group-hug

Briefs

Black spot funding pledged Reliable mobile coverage is one step closer for thousands of residents in Whittlesea and Beveridge, thanks to a $3 million commitment from the Liberal Party to tackle long-standing black spots, if elected. Whittlesea council has welcomed the pre-election pledge, describing it as a critical boost for safety, connectivity, and digital inclusion in the north. The funding comes after sustained advocacy from council and the community, who have long flagged the dangers of patchy or non-existent mobile coverage– particularly in semi-rural and fast-growing areas.

Vintage motorcycle stolen Police are investigating the theft of a rare vintage motorcycle from a home in Gladstone Park. It is believed offenders targeted a property on North Circular Drive about 11.45pm on Wednesday, April 9, stealing a creme 1948 Panther M100 with Side Car- an inoperable collector’s item. Due to the bike’s condition, investigators believe it was manually pushed from the driveway and down the street. A male walking his dog at the time may have witnessed the incident. Anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersvic.com.au FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Bringing Up Kids Expo is back in May

Come along to this free event and enjoy a day of family fun, filled with activities for young children.

This special expo brings together local family support agencies and services in the one place to provide you with information on services, programs and events offered in the City of Whittlesea for your children and family.

When: Wednesday 7 May, 10am to 1pm

Where: Lalor Library 2A May Road, Lalor

For more information, visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events

Big Group Hug manager Maria Quigley and Farm Vigano wedding and event manager Suzie Cammareri. (Damjan Janevski) 471632_01

Craigieburn honours the fallen on Anzac Day

Tom Ingleton

On a gusty Friday morning beneath grey skies and and rustling gum leaves, hundreds of Craigieburn locals gathered at Anzac Park to mark one of the most sacred days on the national calendar– Anzac Day.

Among the crowd were veterans, members of council, school children, families and other local leaders to honour those who served and especially those who never returned home.

Wreaths were laid with care, children clutched poppies, and veterans stood tall, medals glinting against dark jackets as they proudly stood by the memorial stone.

The service honoured the brave Australian and New Zealand men and women who served and died in wars, conflicts and peace keeping operations, with particular reverence for those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Gallipoli campaign in 1915.

For Craigieburn residents, it’s a time to stand still, bow heads, and remember the sacrifices that underpins the freedoms of modern Australia.

Oneofthemorning’smoststirringmoments came as Major Brian Coward delivered a moving address, offering a vivid glimpse into the bravery of those who landed at Gallipoli 110 years ago.

“On the day of the landing, 12,000 Australians, 4,000 New Zealanders, and 8,000 men from Britain and France would come through,” Mr Coward said.

“The third brigade, the all- Australian brigade, would come to shore at dawn– they were the spearheads that would clear the way of the main source of fire.

“Despite the chaotic landing, the brigade bravelyandcourageouslystartedtofirewithin the first few hours. They encountered fierce resistance from the Turkish soldiers. They endured heavy artillery fire for the length of the campaign.”

“Australians new and old have got to be grateful for the generations of men and women who have served and who are still serving,” Mr Coward said.

“So many sacrificed their lives for us.”

Craigieburn schools also played a key role at the service, with students contributing

His words hung heavy in the air as the crowd continued to silently and respectfully watch on.

WOMEN’S HEALTH MATTERS

poems and readings to honour the Anzacs –ensuring the stories of courage and mate-ship are passed down through the generations.

Shortly after the last poem and despite the windtuggingatscarvesandrattlingflagpoles, the crowd stood in solemn silence as The Last Post echoed through the park.

“It doesn’t matter how cold or windy it is, I’m bloody freezing today, but we come to honour them,” Ms Newman said.

“It’s about respect, when the bugle plays and everyone goes completely quiet and still…you really feel it. That says more than words ever could.”

Long-time Craigieburn resident Margaret Newman highlighted the importance of the day, stating she had barely missed a service since moving to the suburb in the late 1970’s.

Lauren’s wish is for zero deaths

Lauren Philpot, 24, is raising awareness for a cause very close to her heart having lost her mother, Leigh, to breast cancer.

A lifelong Maribyrnong resident, Lauren is a passionate crusader for breast cancer research having raised more than $142,000 for the Mother’s Day Classic over the past four years.

Lauren’s mum, Leigh, was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2017, just five months after her 50th birthday. She beat it only forthecancertoreturninApril2021,asStage4 Metastatic Breast Cancer.

In 2021 Lauren formed, The Leigh Leigh’s to take part in their first Mother’s Day Classic. Around 50 of Lauren and Leigh’s family and friends donned their sneakers to participate in the MDC location at Flemington Racecourse and raised an incredible $15,800 for their efforts.

The following year, Lauren put her hand up to become an ambassador for MDC. She pushed her Mum in her wheelchair around the MDC’s biggest location at The Tan, with the group raising $8,500.

In 2023, Leigh could not make the start line for the Mother’s Day Classic as she was in hospital. Lauren, her brother Max and The Leigh Leighs Facetimed when they crossed the finish line. That year they raised $30,600.

“One of the last events Mum ever attended was the Mother’s Day Classic Media Launch,”

Lauren said. “A few weeks later, she cheered The Leigh Leigh’s on Mother’s Day from her hospital bed only to pass away a couple days after that.

“Don’t cry, she would tell me. She was afraid, but so incredibly brave.

“She kept fighting to stay alive, even when her body had already shut down.”

Leigh sadly passed away in May 2023.

“My Mum and I had a wish that we still share, zero deaths caused by Breast Cancer by 2030,” Lauren explained.

“For that to happen, there needs to be more funds going towards research.”

Last year Lauren led The Leigh Leigh’s in Leigh’slegacy,supportingothersgoingthrough the same thing. More than 100 participants walked in Leigh’s honour, raising $16,200.

This year Lauren is stepping up to host a Mother’s Day Classic event at Maribyrnong, one of 85 locations that will take place on Sunday, May 11. Lauren, a lifetime resident of the area, will stage an MDC event on the banks of Maribyrnong River starting/finishing at CoulsonGardens.Thelocationwillplayhostto a festival hub including market, entertainment and food trucks.

“The Maribyrnong River is very special

to me. It’s a place where Mum and I walked everyday during COVID. Walking the river was the highlight of our day. It wasn’t just becausewegotoutofthehouse.Itwasbecause we would share a special time together and just talk.

“We have lived in Maribyrnong my whole life. Our family has been affiliated with lots of different clubs and communities in the area.

“Sport has also been a major part of our lives, including the Maribyrnong Park FC,Williamstown VFL FC and Rosamond Bowling Club.

“The local community has been so generous supporting this cause and all are behind our MDC event.”

The Mother’s Day Classic is primed for another record-breaking year, with organisers announcing a renewed commitment to funding research to reduce deaths and improve survival for breast and ovarian cancer.

Every day in Australia 63 people are diagnosedwithbreastorovariancancer.Every day 12 people die from those two diseases.

Lauren’s team has already $71,000 raised, with a goal of reaching $100,000 in 2025.

“When I decided to run this event, not only did I want to raise money and awareness for breast and ovarian cancer. I wanted to promote community engagement. So, I am doing that by bringing two councils, numerous clubs, and communities together. Everyone is welcome, dogs too!”

Participants can contest the 8km run 8:30am or 4km walk at 9:30am. Hosted by The Leigh Leigh’s.

You can register at mothersdayclassic.com. au

Lauren Philpot and her late mum, Leigh. (Supplied)

Group Captain Carl Schiller addresses the crowd. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 473473

Major Brian Coward and Brian Coward. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 473473

Domenic Mercuri spoke during the Anzac Day service. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 473473

Veteran Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha lays a wreath. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 473473

Representatives from Ambulance Victoria. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 473473_31

Keep local news strong!

Dear readers,

This federal election, more than 240 independent local newspapers across Australia will do what tech giants and capital city media won’t - shine a light on the issues that matter to your town, your family, your future.

Our journalists live in your communities.

They tell your stories, champion your voices, and celebrate what makes your region unique.

But while we work hard to inform anduplift regional Australians, federal government advertising spend in local news has dropped significantly.

Instead, millions are funnelled to tech giants like Google and Facebook — platforms that don’t employ local journalists, don’t publish local stories, and are often home to misinformation and unchecked content.

We’re not asking for more spending.

We’re simply asking for fairness - for regional communities to get their fair share.

In fact, while the government continues to pour its advertising funds into digital and metro platforms, it recently announced just $3 million per year over two years of advertising spend in regional newspapers through the News Map program — a tiny fraction of what was historically spent and far less than what goes to social and digital media.

That money still hasn’tbeen delivered. And even if it is, it falls well short of what’s needed to ensure local news survives and thrives.

Meanwhile, our local newsrooms remain dedicated to reporting during fires, floods, and emergencies; holding councils, candidates, and institutions accountable; covering school events, sports, and community milestones.

Providing accurate, fact-checked journalism — not clickbait or conspiracy theories.

We are the first to show up when your community needs a voice. But we’re being shut out of the conversation.

The Victorian Government has already taken action, mandating at least one page per week of advertising in every local paper - a smart, simple policy that helps protect local jobs, journalism, and democracy.

Now it’s time for Canberra to do the same.

Our independent papers employ hundreds of journalists and publish tens of thousands of stories each year. We hold local candidates to account and ensure every voice has a platform.

This election, stand with local news. Stand with your community. Ask your candidates:

Will you commit to fair, equitable funding for local news? Will you ensure regional voices are not left behind?

Because when you support local journalism, you support a stronger, more connected Australia.

Sincerely,

Andrew Schreyer President, CPA

Artist’s whirling waters of calm

Greenvale artist Nur Terzi is presenting an exhibition at the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre titled Whirling Waters, expressing physical and spiritual motion across Turkish ebru paper marbling, illumination, and Islamic calligraphy. Oscar Parry spoke with Terzi about ebru and the influences behind her works.

As whirling colours spread across the surface of water, ready to be transferred to paper, Greenvale artist Nur Terzi feels a strong sense of calm.

Thisispartofthenatureofebru–alsoknown as Turkish paper marbling – a traditional and meditative art form where intricate patterns are created by floating paints on the surface of water.

Terzi explained that ebru as we know it today originated in central Asia and travelled through Persia, before flourishing in Ottoman Türkiye – particularly from the 15th century onward.

It is achieved by thickening the water with a natural substance called kitre, made from tree sap or carrageenan, which helps the paints made by mixing earth pigments with ox gall float and spread across the water.

She said brushes made of rose branches and horse hair, combs, or styluses shape this paint to create patterns, which are then carefully transferred onto paper that is often handmade or specially treated.

“The beautiful thing about ebru is that no one paper … is the same. Once you pick it up, that’s it. There’s no residue left. So it’s a monoprint … which is a very unique form in itself,” Terzi said.

‘‘ That idea of releasing control and becoming a vessel for beauty, that’s very Suﬁ ’’ - Nur Terzi

“I don’t know how it’s going to be reflected on the paper, depending on … what kind of day I’m having, or what I’m experiencing, a totally different artwork can come out. So there’s a lot of … patience … and being in the present in the moment,” she said.

She explained that ebru and this process of letting go and being present aligns with the teachings of Rumi, the 13th-century Sufi poet and mystic, and Sufism more broadly.

“Rumi’s poetry speaks to the heart – it’s about love, surrender, inner transformation, and the soul’s connection with the Divine. These themes are very much present in my work,” Terzi said.

“Ebru and Sufism share a strong spiritual connection. Both embrace flow, surrender, and presence. In ebru, the artist doesn’t fully controltheoutcome–thepaintfloatsonwater, and we guide it gently, but we must also let go and trust the process.

“Thatideaofreleasingcontrolandbecoming a vessel for beauty, that’s very Sufi.”

Terzi uses a form of ebru called dalgali ebru – or wave marbling – which is a technique that generates ripple-like effects in the finished ebru art piece.

She said that in her latest exhibition Whirling Waters, these ripple-like effects form the central theme of “movement – both physical and spiritual“.

This movement is inspired by that seen among Sufi Dervishes performing whirling – a meditative Sufi practice.

“Whirling Dervishes are at the heart of the series. Their flowing motion symbolizes the rhythm of nature, the turning of the universe, and the soul’s journey,” Terzi said.

“I shake the paper in different directions and in different strengths … and different vibrationstogivethatwaveeffect.Eventhough it’s on a 2D paper it gives the effect of a 3D sort of waves and patterns as well … just like the motions, like the rhythms in nature and also the motions of the Dervish.“

Terzi said her approach applies a modern twist to traditional art forms, including in her choice of colours for her ebru works.

“There are a lot of more natural colours

in traditional ebru, like the browns and the greens … it’s very in line with nature, the sky, flowers … whereas with me I’ve used very non-traditional colours, so I’ve got very dark backdrops, it’s almost like it’s luring you in … deep purples and deep greens and golds … to give that sort of hypnotic effect,” she said.

She said ebru and its process has a meditativeandcalmingquality–andsheoften complements the process with the sound of ney – a type of flute used at whirling Dervish ceremonies.

“That effect shouldn’t go unnoticed, because … in Ottoman times, ebru was used as a form ofarttherapy,anditwaspractisedin…houses of healing, sort of institutions that people would go to – usually they were women after giving birth … [or] people who had anxiety, lower levels of depression,” she said.

Her exhibition will also present her works across tezhip – or illumination, a form of intricate decoration involving floral motifs –and Islamic calligraphy.

She explained that ebru, tezhip, and calligraphy “feed off one another,” where ebru artworksareusedasthebackdropfortheother art forms.

Terzi said her history with art spans back to when she was very young, and as both of her

parents were born in Türkiye, she often made visits to the cities of Istanbul, Konya, and Bursa.

“[This] left a deep impression on me. I was always drawn to the patterns, the domes, the tiles, and the spiritual energy in those spaces. Even as a child, I remember being captivated by the beauty and meaning woven into every detail,” Terzi said.

“It wasn’t until university in 2008 that I began to formally study traditional Turkish arts. That’s when I was introduced to ebru –and I instantly felt a deep connection. It felt like a return to something I had always carried inside me.

“Eventually, I made the decision to move to Istanbultopursuethispassionseriously.There, Ienteredintothetraditionalmaster-apprentice system, immersing myself in ebru, and later expanding my practice to include tezhip and Islamic calligraphy.”

She said learning these art forms is a “lifelong path,” and she continues as a student to send homework digitally to her teachers and keep that traditional connection alive across borders.

“It’s a relationship based on trust, discipline, and deep respect – just like it has been for centuries,” she said.

She said her goal is to keep the tradition of ebru alive in a contemporary context, “celebrating it while making it accessible and meaningful to audiences today”.

“Throughexhibitionsandworkshops,Ihope toraiseawarenessofebru’srichheritageandits continued relevance,” she said.

“Ebru is recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.”

Terzi received an artist grant from Hume council in 2024, which she said allowed her to ship her ebru materials from Türkiye, further develop her art, and support her to be selected to present her work in an exhibition.

With the opening night held in early April, Whirling Waters is being presented at the Gallery at Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre until Sunday, July 20.

Terzi will also be hosting workshops on Turkish floral art at Craigieburn Library on Thursday,August14at6:30pm,Broadmeadows Library on Thursday, September 4, and a workshop on sacred geometry at Tullamarine Library on Thursday, September 11 from 5.30–7pm.

Further details on the exhibition are available on the council’s website.

Nur Terzi is hosting an exhibition of Turkish Ebru marbling, illumination, and calligraphy.

(Damjan Janevski) 472925_01

Terzi working on an ebru piece.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Kicking tribute show to music’s powerhouse women

Shania Twain, Linda Ronstadt, Tammy Wynette and Olivia Newton-John - Man I Feel Like A Woman - is coming to Warragul’s West Gippsland Performing Arts Centre and South Morang’s Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre in May.

From the creators of successful touring production Coal Miner’s Daughter - this kicking tribute show to Shania, Linda, Tammy and Olivia was a sold-out smash hit at its premiereatthe2024TamworthCountryMusic Festival and again in 2025 and is now touring NSW, Victoria and South Australia.

“We have had the most incredible audiences forourCoalMiner’sDaughterperformancesin VictoriaovertheyearsandIamsoexcitedtobe bringing our brand-new show to Warragul and South Morang for the first time,“ said Amber Joy Poulton, star of Man I Feel Like A Woman.

“It’s the perfect time to celebrate and shine a light on these powerhouse women in music. They all come from their own niche market, some are from the country scene but there’s also Linda Ronstadt with her rock background andOlivawithhersweetballadsandmoviestar career and with Shania and Tammy battling it out for the country crown with one being very traditional and classic and Shania being more of the pop country. It’s a fight to the finish to see who will come out on top and it’s all up to the audience as to who gets to take home the crown.“

Inthequestfora‘CountryQueen’AmberJoy Poulton and her band, The Governing Bodies, will pick apart the fabric of the life and careers of four country greats.

Who could resist the sass of Shania Twain, mixedwiththedarlingofrock’n’rollMissLinda Ronstadt, backed up by country music royalty Queen Tammy Wynette with the innocence of Australia’s own Olivia Newton-John?

The spotlight will be beamed on the biggest

hits of these powerhouse women whose careers have led them to this night, as deserved contenders for the coveted Crown. Sing along to your favorites…. ’Just One Look’, ’Silver Threads & Golden Needles’,

’Country Roads Take Me Home’, ’If You’re Not In It For Love’, ’That’ll Be The Day’, ’Stand By YourMan’,’BanksOfTheOhio’,’StillTheOne’, ’When Will I Be Loved’, ’D-I-V-O-R-C-E’, ’I Honestly Love You’ and, of course, ’Man, I Feel

A Woman!’

the

on Sunday 4

or on Saturday 3

rd Sun, 4 May | Plenty

3 May | West

Like

Catch

show

May at the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre South Morang

May at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul.

Calwell Labor veteran retires

By Tom Ingleton

Afternearlyaquarterofacenturyrepresenting Melbourne’s north-west, Labor MP Maria Vamvakinou is bowing out, leaving the seat of Calwell wide open for the first time since 2001.

Calwell stretches across 191 square kilometres on the city’s fringe, taking in the diverse and rapidly growing suburbs of Broadmeadows, Dallas, Coolaroo, Meadow Heights, Greenvale, Roxburgh Park, Craigieburn, and Mickleham.

It’s long been a Labor stronghold, with the party holding the seat since its creation in 1984 and currently enjoying a 12.4 per cent margin.

However, with Ms Vamvakinou’s retirement, the race to inherit this deep-red patch is more open than usual.

Thirteen candidates have thrown their hats into the ring – one of the biggest fields in the country.

Labor’s new contender, Basem Abdo, hopes to retain the seat on a platform of social services, housing, and infrastructure to match the area’s bumping population.

But a crowded and eclectic ballot means every vote will count.

Liberal candidate Usman Ghani will test whether the Coalition can make inroads in the working-class electorate, while the Green’s Ravneet Garcha is pushing climate policy and social justice as core priorities.

Also vying for attention are independents like current Hume councillor and former mayor Carly Moore and Samim Moslih, and fringe parties including One Nation, Legalise Cannabis, the Citizens Party and the Trumpet of Patriots.

What the Calwell candidates say

Carly Moore - Independent

I’ve lived here my whole life, raised my four kids here, and served as a proud former mayor. I’m running because our community has been overlooked for far too long. We deserve better – more teachers, more doctors, better roads, and real cost-of-living relief. As an accountant and community leader, I’ll bring integrity, experience, and a strong local voice to Canberra. I’m not tied to any party – I’ll fight for what’s right for us. If you’re ready for real change and genuine representation, I’d be honoured to earn your vote.

Assad Issa - Trumpet of Patriots

The people of Calwell have been forgotten for too long by the major parties, our roads, schools and hospitals have been neglected. It’s time we had someone that cares about the community and will fight for our area. Trumpet of Patriots is the only party that is putting Australia and its people first. We have real solutions to the cost of living, housing and the rental crisis . It’s time to vote for change.

Ravneet Garcha - Greens

I’m proud to stand with the Greens, the only party in Parliament consistently pushing for a ceasefire in Palestine and standing up for human rights. As a young woman of colour raised in Melbourne’s north-west, I’ve seen how disconnected politics has become. Calwell has been neglected; there’s no hospital in Craigieburn, rising living costs, and little investment in our future. I’m running to change that. The Greens are fighting for free dental and mental health in Medicare, real local investment, and justice at home and abroad. If elected, I’ll be a bold, honest voice for the people of Calwell.

Dr Gianni Del Rosario-Makridis

- Legalise Cannabis Party

Basem Abdo - Labor Party

Our area was the manufacturing heartland of Australia. Growing up, we saw what good, secure, well-paying jobs did for our community. And we saw what happened when the Liberals tore the manufacturing heart right out of our area. And with it went local businesses across our supply chain. That’s why I’m proud to stand as Labor’s candidate in Calwell, so I can make sure our voice is heard in Canberra. To fight to bring back our local industry that gave us secure jobs and better pay– jobs that provided long-term careers. For skills and opportunity. And Labor’s strong agenda – from Medicare, education right through to cheaper childcare. And I know this because I’ve grown up here –and this area is worth fighting for.

Dr Gianni Del Roasario is a medicinal cannabis scientist and educator. As the first Victorian to earn a PhD in medicinal cannabis plant genetics, Dr Gianni passionately advocates for increased investment in cannabis research, believing it can significantly improve health, reduce medical costs, and foster community harmony in Calwell. Enhanced cannabis research will provide jobs, improve alternative medicine treatments and guide smarter prescribing, creating affordable, culturally aligned healthcare solutions. This will empower Calwell residents to manage stress, chronic pain, and mental health effectively, improving family well-being, fostering community harmony, and reducing dependence on harmful substances. Voting for Dr Gianni means backing evidence-based solutions that build a healthier, more connected, and compassionate community.

Labor fortress Scullin faces familiar battle

Labor’s Andrew Giles enters the 2025 federal election as a familiar face in the northern suburbs – but with fresh challenges and an expanding electorate to navigate.

Holding the seat of Scullin since 2013, Giles will contest the election in an electorate that has long been a Labor stronghold.

Stretching across 174 square kilometres and including suburbs like Thomastown, Epping, Lalor, Mill Park, South Morang, and parts of Wollert and Bundoora, Scullin remains one of the safest Labor seats in the country.

Even after recent boundary changes slightly reducing Labor’s margin from 15.6 per cent to 15.4 per cent, the party remains firmly in front.

Liberal hopeful Rohit Taggar is aiming to chip into Labor’s dominance by campaigning on cost-of-living issues, while The Greens’ Loki Sangarya is focusing on climate action and affordable housing.

Independent voices such as Ursula van Bree of Gerrard Rennick People First and Adriana BucciantifromtheTrumpetofPatriotsarealso

on the ballot, as are the Victorian Socialists, Family First, and One Nation– highlighting the electorate’s growing diversity and wide political spectrum.

With a growing population in areas like Wollert and South Morang and increased infrastructure demands, voters are likely to be payingcloseattentiontopromisesonhousing, jobs, education and transport. What the Scullin candidates had to say:

Andrew Giles - Labor

I’m Andrew Giles and I have had the privilege ofbeingyourMemberforScullinsince2013.In that time, I have delivered the Epping Urgent Care Clinic, over $2.5 million in funding for local school infrastructure and secured a new uni study hub being built in Epping. Together with Anthony Albanese and the Federal Labor team, I’m working to deliver a fairer future for this community and for Australia. This election is a clear choice. A government led by AnthonyAlbanesewillcontinuestrengthening

Medicare, providing cost-of-living relief and Building Australia’s Future by investing in our community. Peter Dutton will cut everything – except your taxes. The choice at the election isclear–taxcutsunderLabororMedicarecuts under the Liberals.

Lokesh Sangarya - Greens I’m an engineer and a policy researcher. I am committedtobuildingafuturewhereeveryone in our community can afford the basicshousing, food, healthcare, and education, while ensuring that billionaires and mega corporations pay their fair share. Frustrated by major parties prioritizing corporate profits over community interests, I decided to stand as a candidate. I advocate for transparency, fairness, and evidence-based solutions. If elected, I will work to get Dental into Medicare foreveryone,makeUniversitiesandTAFEfree, provide universal free childhood education and care, and stop new coal and gas projects. People in Scullin deserve this.

The electoral map for the seat of Scullin. (AEC)

The electoral map for the seat of Calwell. (AEC)

Who will replace Shorten?

Four candidates have put their hands up to try and replace former Labor leader Bill Shorten in the seat of Maribyrnong.

With Shorten announcing his retirement, the residents of the Maribyrnong electorate will have a new MP for the first time since 2007.

Based in Melbourne’s western suburbs, Maribyrnong covers 70 square kilometres between CityLink and Pascoe Vale Road in the east, and the Maribyrnong River in the west.

Among the suburbs it covers is Gladstone Park, Keilor Park and Tullamarine.

Labor has held the seat from 1969 and is classed a very safe seat heading into the election.

After the redistribution of the last election, Labor holds a 63 to 37 per cent lead on a two party preferred basis.

Jo Briskey is hoping to keep that hold on the seat as Labor’s candidate.

Ms Briskey has previously served as the chief executive of The Parenthood, the peak advocacybodyforAustralianparents,fighting for families in our community and across the nation.

Tim Beddoe is standing for the Liberal Party.

Mr Beddoe has an extensive 17-year career in the Melbourne rail network, working his way up from being one of the youngest suburban train drivers to various senior leadership and specialist project roles.

Mr Beddoe was the only candidate to respond to Star Weekly’s question on why people should vote for them.

“Hi, I’m Tim - a lifelong Victorian who believesinafairgoforallAustralians,”hesaid.

“My journey into politics is not a traditional

Nine candidates vie for tightly held McEwen

McEwen is where Melbourne fades into rolling hills and fast-growing townships– and once again, it’s shaping up as one of the key battlegrounds for the federal election, May 3.

Held by Labor’s Rob Mitchell since 2010, the electoratecovers2288squarekilometresacross Victoria’s north and north-east, sweeping through Gisborne, Macedon, Wallan, Whittlesea and Diamond Creek.

Followingarecentredistributionthatshifted 7400Kilmorevotersintotheneighbouringseat of Nicholls, the Labor margin has increased slightly– from 3.3 per cent to an estimated 3.9 per cent.

But with its mix of outer suburbs and regional towns, McEwen remains a seat that could swing.

Nine candidates have put their hands up to

represent the electorate this year, each hoping to appeal to a diverse voter base.

Rob Mitchell returns for Labor, facing Jason McClintock for the Liberals, and a crowded field that includes Greens candidate Marley McRae McLeod, Legalise Cannabis’ Tom Forrest, Animal Justice’s Chloe Nicolosi, and One Nation’s Jeremy Johnson.

Other contenders include Julio G Valencia for Family First, Erin McGrath for the progressive FUSION Party, and Ali Antoniou fromGerrardRennick’snewlylaunchedPeople First movement.

McEwen is no stranger to close contests–withMrMitchelllosingbyjust31votesin2007 and winning in 2013 by 313 votes – and 2025 is shaping up to be no different.

Tom Ingleton

What the candidates for McEwen say

Erin McGrath - FUSION

Hello, I’m Erin, a proud resident of McEwen. At 37, I combine my experience in customer service and disability advocacy to drive meaningful change. As a firsthand NDIS user, I understand the system’s gaps and am committed to reforming it for better support. My priorities include tackling the cost of living, improving healthcare access, upgrading road infrastructure, and championing Indigenous rights. I believe in ensuring every voice is heard, from those in aged care to diverse communities. When you vote for me, you’re choosing a dedicated advocate for a supportive and inclusive future. If it matters to you, it matters to me—it’s that simple.

Marley McRae McLeod - Greens

Jason McClintock - Liberal

I love my community, and want to give back. In McEwen, there are so many communities that have been neglected, and I believe we need a change in local advocacy to ensure we get our fair share. Only a Coalition government led by Peter Dutton has a plan to provide sustainable cost of living relief. We will deliver most Australians up to $1200 in tax relief when they lodge their tax return for the upcoming 2025-26 financial year, and we will cut the petrol tax by 25 cents a litre, saving families with two cars approximately $1500 a year. Australians cannot afford another three years of Labor. It’s time to get Australia back on track.

I’m a student and mental health peer worker, deeply committed to community, justice, and meaningful change. In McEwen, I see firsthand the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis, mental healthcare inaccessibility, and climate inaction. McEwen is diverse and growing, yet we are too often overlooked by politicians lacking the ambition to create real change. The public transport and local infrastructure is inadequate and mental healthcare remains out of reach for many. I believe in the power of lived experience—listening to those most affected, means we make better-informed decisions. The Greens’ plan will transform our community. We must vote for change.

one, by trade I was a suburban train driver before moving into various management and project roles.

“My motivation for running for parliament is the fact that I love people and I genuinely want to ensure that government sets the framework correctly to enable Australians to thrive.

“Only a Coalition government will bring the focus back onto the things that really matter and ease the cost of living crisis that is currently affecting all Australians.

James Williams is standing for the Greens, while the other candidate is Alannah Casey, who is standing for One Nation.

Among the election promises, Ms Briskey announced last week that the Labor party would invest $1 millions to build a new synthetic green and shade sails at Gladstone Park.

Mitchell - Labor I’m Rob Mitchell, a proud local and your member of Parliament. As a young apprentice, I chose to call our community home. It is where I raised my family. I know that families are doing it tough – that’s why Labor is working to make it easier for everyone with: Expanded bulk billing, tax cuts for every taxpayer, $300 in energy bill relief, more investment in local roads, cheaper childcare, 20 per cent off HECS debts and fee free TAFE. Tackling the cost of living is my number one priority and I am committed to working everyday to deliver for our community.

I’m a lifelong advocate for animals and a proud candidate for the

With a background in tech, law, and psychology, I’m passionate about using smart, compassionate policy to protect animals, our environment, and our communities. I’m fighting to end live exports and factory farming, support ethical innovation like cultivated meat, and push for real solutions to the housing crisis. I’m deeply committed to the people of McEwen and ready to be a strong voice for the region; one that stands for justice, sustainability, and kindness for all.

Rob

Map of the electoral division of McEwen. (AEC)

Chloe Nicolosi - Animal Justice Party

Animal Justice Party.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Whittlesea Probus

Members of The Combined Probus Club of Whittlesea will meet on Monday 5 May, at Whittlesea Bowls Club 9.30 am. The presenter will be a representative of the Level Crossing Removal Authority. All visitors welcome. Probus is open to all retired and semi-retired members of the community.

 Contact membership officer Glenda on 0431 517 008 or email whittleseaprobus@ hotmail.com

Bundoora Probus

Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Alma Road, Bundoora at 10 am. Make new friends at excursions, lunches, coffee mornings, walks and craft sessions. Hear guest speakers at monthly meetings.

 Leanne 0419 004 997

Inclusive tennis

A free weekly tennis program for people with disabilities and/or special needs, or if your just struggling to access mainstream sport programs. Held at Epping Tennis Club, 861 High Street, Epping, on Thursdays from 5-6pm.

 play.tennis.com.au/eppingtennisclub

Young parents group

DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young parents every Thursday, from 10.30am – noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 Mcdonalds Road, Mill Park.

 Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819

Community singing group

Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing.

 Sonja, 0429 587 285

Chatty Cafe

Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park.

 https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/

TAC L2P Program

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.

 Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

Adult education

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.

 9309 8531

Senior citizens meet

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.

 Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk.

 https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker and on the third Saturday, and a dance from 7-11 pm. All are welcome.

 Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, lizmunro7@ gmail.com

Craft and Conversation

Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.

 humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park.

 https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Craigieburn Toastmasters

Craigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. It meets the first and third Thursday, from 7-9pm, at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton Street, Craigieburn. Education and community centre

Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner English and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.

 9308 1477. or www.craigieburn.org.au

Whittlesea Historical Society

The Whittlesea Historical Society welcomes anyone interested in the history of the City of Whittlesea area. A meeting schedule is available on the society’s website.

 www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au

Indigenous Community Gardens open day

Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month, 11am-noon, to showcase the gardens at the corner Toora Drive and Redan Court. All are welcome.

 Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com

Craigieburn Residents Association

Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening re-roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? Go along to the Craigieburn Residents Association and tell them about it. The association liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. They also give annual donations to a local charity each year. They meet on the last Wednesday of the month at Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn, 7.30 p.m.

 craigieburnresidents@gmail,com, or 0401 369 311

Menergise men’s walk and talk Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House. A nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze.

 0475 454 133

National Seniors

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets atthe 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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Pouya Salehi who recently helped his adopted home retain the prestigious International Cup team event, by defeating Kaito Yoshioka of Japan. (Damjan Janveski) 473762_01

Sight and perception in Werribee

Café Philosophique is coming back to Werribee in May and this time will be challenging preconceived notions of sight and perception.

Produced by The Little Theatre Company (LTC) and tracing its inspiration from a Parisienne intellectual tradition, Café Philosophique is about exploring the hidden forces shaping our lives.

LTC producer Jess Fairfax said the event provides a space for people in the outer west to come together with others they may not usually encounter to have conversations that push us to see things in a new way.

“I think it’s important to have opportunities to question elements of our lives that have a great impact on us, but we often take for granted,” she said.

“Our event is also about bringing the arts into our everyday lives, through creating a space where we can be reflective and creative, without judgement.”

A performance from magician and illusionist Dazzling Dan and poetry from Tariro Mavondo will help set the atmosphere for prompted creative and reflective writing.

So far exploring sound, transcendence and purpose, Ms Fairfax said the monthly fixture

has made a great return.

“We’ve had sound baths and silent sound walks, wrote a lot of poetry and stories, been privy to beautiful musical performances, had many aha-moments and wonderful conversations.”

“It’s a space for creativity and connection, something our busy lives often don’t afford us the time for.”

To bridge the gap between the known and unknown, make your way to The Bridge Hotel in Werribee on Wednesday, May 14 at 6.30pm.

Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/cafephilosophique-sight-and-perception

Enjoy musical shopping experience

Shoppers will have their experience enhanced by cinematic soundtracks, with a series of free publicpianoconcertssettobeperformedinop shops across Brimbank.

The concerts will be delivered by award-winning composer and musician Ania Reynolds,whowillperformoriginalsolopiano compositions at the Salvos Stores in Taylors Lakes most Saturdays in May.

Ms Reynolds said the unique concept came to her after a staff member at the Sacred Heart Mission Op Shop bought a CD of her solo and found the music calming and soothing.

“I wanted to create live performances that wouldallowopshoppersandthegeneralpublic to have similar experiences,” Reynolds said.

She said she liked performing in op shops because those environments were welcoming, inclusive and accessible to everyone.

“I am passionate about creating work that is free, and also about bringing live music performances to unexpected locations where I can meet and perform for diverse communities,” she said.

“I find op shops to be friendly and fun environments that are a joy to perform in.”

According to Reynolds, other than shopping along to great music, people who decide to attend the concert will also be able to wind down.

“I think live music has a great ability to connect with people through emotion…,” she said.

“I hope to create an ambience in the stores that is lyrical, calming and good for lingering and browsing.”

The concerts will be held each Saturday in May excluding May 31, from 12.30-3.30pm.

Award-winning composer and musician Ania

Art is illuminated after dark in Footscray

Skeleton puppets, punk photography and a nocturnal film festival are just some of the weird and wonderful attractions that can be found after dark in Footscray next month.

The 2025 Sleepless Footscray Festival takes place from May 2-18 featuring dozens of public art displays, space activations and performances that only begin once the sun goes down.

Among the attractions will be the much loved Footscray institution, Snuff Puppets, who will be hosting Skullies Cinema.

Held at the historic Footscray Drill Hall on May 2 and 4, the cinema will screen a dozen funandexperimentalshortSnuffPuppetfilms, with Skullies - human-sized skeleton puppetsacting as hosts.

From cinematography to photography, Footscray’s Melynda von Wayward will be showcasing images from her youth

in Melbourne’s punk scene in ’Punk a Photographic Journey.’

The installation will be on display at CO-CO Bananas record store for the duration of the festival, with pictures of events such as infamous ’Punk Pub Crawl’ and other punk gigsaroundMelbournebetweentheyears2004 - 2007.

“Come along and see gravity defying hairdos, handcrafted studded jackets, vibrant clothing and the anti-social attitude that goes hand in hand with being a punk,” said Ms von Wayward.

On May 6 and 7, the Melbourne Nocturnal Film Festival (MNFF) will be held in collaboration with Sleepless.

Featuring weird and wonderfully off-beat short films from Australian directors, MNFF will be held at Footscray’s Bluestone Church. Details: https://sleeplessfestival.com/

The Gallery Mount Macedon is presenting the works of local artist Christine Turner in an exhibition exploring the themes of her garden and life drawing.

Titled ‘Impressions in Line and Colour’, Turner’s works push boundaries andrevealhowsheisnotafraidtoconvey to the viewer a sense of the energy ever present in her work.

Turner discovered a love for drawing figures at 16 while studying A level art at school.

Growing up in Stow-on-the-Wold, Turner was actively involved with regional art in England, and soon after moving to Australia, she joined the Woodend Art Group, which provided a golden opportunity to meet local artists and participate in workshops.

This passion stayed with her, and she takes every opportunity to pursue life drawing, mostly rendering the figure in watercolour washes.

Turnerworksfreelyandspontaneously to capture the essence of her chosen subject.

She combines her free-style monochrome drawings with coloured painting and in this exhibition introduces a variety of mixed mediapaint, graphite, chalk, pastel, ink and collage – to help her achieve her varied mark making while often using her beautiful garden plants as a source of inspiration.

The exhibition will be open from Monday, May 5 to Sunday, June 1 at The Gallery Mount Macedon, 684 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon.

Therewillalsobeanopeningafternoon from 2– 4pm on Sunday, May 11.

Details: thegallerymtmacedon.com.au

A painting by Macedon Ranges artist Christine Turner set to be exhibited at The Gallery Mount Macedon. (Supplied)

Skullies, human sized skeleton puppets, will be hosting a cinema night as part of Sleepless Footscray Festival which begins next month.

Magician Dazzling Dan, also known as Dan Bingham, Kaarin Fairfax and Jess Fairfax will be at Cafe Philosophique. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 472918_06

Reynolds will perform in op shops across Brimbank. (Supplied)

SECTION 7 - NEWSPAPER OR SOCIAL MEDIA NOTICE PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION 1760 MICKLEHAM RD MICKLEHAM VIC 3064

1.Vodafone and Optus are proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station at 1760 MICKLEHAM RD MICKLEHAM VIC 3064.

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of:

• A headframe on the existing monopole (no height increase proposed).

• Six (x6) Vodafone panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m in length), including 4G/5G, on the new headframe.

• Nine (x9) Optus panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m in length), including 4G/5G, on the new headframe.

• Twelve (x12) Vodafone Remote Radio Units (RRUs) on the new headframe.

• Six (x6) Optus RRUs on the new headframe

• An equipment shelter on a concrete slab.

• Ancillary equipment including antenna mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners and other associated equipment.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.

4. Please direct comments to Scott Sibly, Senior Town Planner for Service Stream Limited, 0455 214 172, tpg.submissions@servicestream.com.au and PO Box 14570 Melbourne VIC 8001 by Thursday 15th May 2025.

FOR SALE TopqualityAussie hardwood. Soldin3.5mloads.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which team selected US basketballer Paige Bueckers with the first overall pick of the 2025 WNBA draft?

2. With what number pick of the 2025 WNBA draft did the Washington Mystics select Australian basketballer Georgia Amoore?

3. Which Canadian player led the 2024–25 NBA regular season with 32.7 points per game?

4. The jumper worn by the Gold Coast Suns during a recent AFL Gather Round match was predominantly what colour?

5. Which Lithuanian-American player led the 2024–25 NBA regular season with 13.9 rebounds per game?

British tennis player Harriet Dart has apologised after asking an umpire to tell her opponent to wear what during a recent match in France?

Which US basketballer led the 2024–25 NBA regular season with 11.6 assists per

The fictional Charlestown Chiefs minor league ice hockey team featured in which 1977 film starring Paul Newman?

9. Which Australian basketballer led the 2024–25 NBA regular season with 3.0 steals per game?

The late Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel was born in which country?

11. In April, Oscar Piastri took his second and third F1 Grand Prix victories of the year at races in which two countries?

12. Which former AFL player and premiership coach is known by the nickname ‘Choco’?

13. Running 100m in 10 seconds flat, who became the second-fastest Australian in history at the national championships in Perth?

14. Which Italian soccer club is the reigning champion of the UEFA Europa League?

15. And with seven victories, which Spanish club has won the Europa League title the most times since its 1971 inception?

16. In cycling, what term describes a crash where one fall causes many others?

17. Which French tennis player, nicknamed ‘The Crocodile,’ went on to found a fashion brand known for its polo shirts and reptile logo?

18. Which UK city is UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett originally from?

19. And for what comedic reason does Pimblett claim he can’t be knocked out?

20. Which two teams played in the AFL’s first ‘Opening Round’ in 2024, a week before the traditional Round 1?

21. What colour is the number 13 pool ball in a standard set?

22. Auston Matthews plays for which NHL team?

23. San Jose’s Major League Soccer team goes by what nickname?

24. How many lanes are there in an Olympic swimming pool?

25. And how many metres wide are they?

26. In which year did the Essendon Football Club last win a final?

30. Circuit of the Americas is a motor racing track in which US state?

27. WWE wrestler The Miz stars in which 2013 action movie?

28. Jamie Elliott debuted for the Collingwood Football Club in which year?

29. Long on and long off are positions in which sport?

Oscar Piastri

Sudoku

or box.

ACROSS

1 Scholarly (8)

5 Practices (6)

10 Breakfast favourite (5)

11 Divide into parts (9)

12 Jolly (6)

13 Squirm (7)

14 Ways of speaking (8)

15 Capital of Czech Republic (6)

18 Bring into being (6)

20 Haughty (8)

21 Sloping type (7)

24 Unfold (6) 27 Bewitch (9)

28 Whinny (5) 29 Lengthy list (6) 30 LAN network (8)

1 French abbot (4) 2 Alaska’s largest city (9) 3 Boredom or lethargy (5) 4 Rude (8)

6 More irridescent (7) 7 Current (5)

8 Most heartfelt (9) 9 Sketch (4) 14 Dishonest (9)

16 Subtle change by degrees (9) 17 Debate (8)

19 Coaching (7)

22 A useful quality (5) 23 Wound-mark (4) 25 Flinch (5) 26 Informal conversation (4)

1 Which newspaper did Clark Kent work at?

2 If a ship is a collier, what does it carry?

3 Name the ghost in Shakespeare's Macbeth

4 The kina is the national currency of which nation?

5 Who provides the voice for Smaug in The Hobbit: The DesolationofSmaug? 6 What does the Kelvin scale measure?

7 Which was the first Mr Men book: MrHappy Mr Tickle or MrMessy?

8 True or false: bream is a species of bird?

9 What character did Alan Rickman (pictured) play in RobinHood:PrinceofThieves?

10 Jørn Utzon designed which iconic Australian building?

Avenger toughs it out in the city

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Buyer beware: while so-called ‘range anxiety’ can strike fear in the heart of the electric vehicle driver, there is another phrase that is doing just as much to dim EV appeal and that is ‘out of service’.

More than once, I have been rebuffed by a public fast DC charging station with this uncontrollable (by me) message showing up on the information screen.

For example, driving the new Jeep Avenger Summit, down to 40 per cent battery charge, had me facing disappointment and scrambling to find the closest compatible ‘fuel pump’.

MyEVappsuppliersaidthemachineneeded fixing by the maker, who had gone belly up in 2023, by the way. The owner, in this case the local council, was responsible for getting the machine up and running again.

Months went by with council assuring me they were working on it. No wonder EV sales are stuttering along with public charging infrastructure as it is. However, I digress. I did get a decent crack at the Avenger (irony noted) after tracking down a top-up.

Here goes. The Avenger, Jeep’s first electric vehicle, is sold as a city-centric small(ish) crossoverwitharangeofupto396km.However, the Jeepsters could not help themselves, slipping in specs normally found in off-road bush bashers, such as Selec-Terrain drive modes, Hill Descent Control, plus 200mm ground clearance, 20-degree approach angle, 20-degree break-over angle, and a 32-degree departure angle.

To match its dimensions the Polish-designed and built compact is set at three models –Longitude, Limited and aptly-named Summit for the top-of-the-range model on test. As for pricing, Jeep has already trimmed launch prices, it says, because of cost saving materials and manufacturing efficiencies.

The entry-level Longitude opens at $49,990, plus on-road costs, the Limited is $54,990 and

the Summit $60,990. Options include Premium paint ($990) or Avenger Bi Tone paint, $495.

Warranty is Jeep’s five years unlimitedkilometres,withthebattery attracting an eight-year, 160,000km stretch

Styling

The looks tend on the lite SUV side, yet with unmistakable Jeep DNA. This includes functionalall-roundplasticcladdingprotection covering lower sections of the vehicle.

The vehicle has been lifted to maximise ground clearance off road and offer protection to the high voltage battery and improve aerodynamics with a flat underbody.

Aerodynamics plays a part in fuel efficiency, hence long range, thanks to a frontal area of 2.25sq m and drag co-efficient of Cd 0.33. A turningcircleof10.5metresmakestheAvenger ideal in tight city centre conditions, too.

The flagship Summit features Jeep’s trademark glossy black seven-slot grille, plus bi-colour roof. The grille is flanked by the latest LED projector headlamps and LED foglights with cornering function.

LED taillamps share a prominent place with heated windscreen, privacy glass, hidden rear door handles, and last but far from least, 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels.

Interior

At 4.08 metres long, the most compact Jeep can take five adult occupants in reasonable comfort and offers 34 litres of storage, while a one-metre-wide boot and height adjustable cargo floor, with rear seatbacks up, has room for up to 380 litres of luggage, expanding to 1277 litres with them folded. No spare wheel, only a puncture kit.

Leather accented seats include six-way power driver’s seat adjustment with two-way power lumbar support with massage function. Generous front seats are heated.

Wide opening doors make for easy access and headroom is good, even with the sunroof. Missing are air vents and door bins. Just seatback map pockets.

Infotainment

Going down the digital road in an Avenger is no sweat, with a 10.25-inch Uconnect infotainment screen and a similar-sized digital instrument cluster as standard. Both displays are clear and easy to read.

Uconnect has access to embedded satellite navigation,withlivetrafficupdates,orwireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Short-cut buttons are situated below the screen, with climate controls and audio volume button.

Jeep Connected Services, via smartphone app, include door unlocking, battery charge checking, charging schedule and more.

Centre console is home to transmission controls, with four buttons – park, reverse, neutral and drive. Press twice to alert brake regeneration providing added engine braking.

Engine/transmission

Under the bonnet is an electric motor driving the front wheels, supported by a54kWh nickel manganese cobalt lithium-ion battery under

the floor. Producing 115kW and 260Nm kit’s enough for a maker’s range claim of 390km for the Summit.

Jeep claims charge time for 11kW is 5hr 34min (0-100pc); 50kW 43min (est 10-80pc), 100kW 24min (20-80pc). The test Summit charged 20 to 90per cent on a public machine in close to 45 minutes.

Safety

The Avenger EV has no ANCAP rating as yet. But a laundry list of safety systems includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, lane keep assist, driver attention assist, rear parking sensors, rear view camera with dynamic guidelines, frameless auto dimming mirror, and automatic high beam headlamps.

Selec-Terrain and hill descent control are welcome aids for off-road adventuring.

Drive

It must be said straight off that for a Jeep, the lack of noise from engine and road, inside the cabin, was a real wake-up. The front-wheel drive Avenger rode and handled with similar refinement. Thanks, rigid body.

Steering can be a bit ‘missing’ for feedback at speed but, with the Jeep’s skinny turning circle, is a capable parker at a crawl. Off the mark, the Avenger was instant ‘action’ and overtaking was encouraging. Six-mode Selec-Terrain of Eco, Normal, Sport, Sand, Mud and Snow are capable of matching almost anything out of the bush.

Summary

For a car maker whose reputation has its roots in the production of off-roaders capable of taking on the most challenging of terrain (the Rubicon Track, no less) in the US, the smooth transmission into electric powered on-road vehicles is a credit to its designers and engineers. Pity about the prices.

The looks tend on the lite SUV side, yet with unmistakeable Jeep DNA. (Pictures: Supplied)

Wet weather adds an element

Wet weather and wind confronted footballers and netballers alike after hot conditions the first couple of weeks of the season. There were plenty of local derbies and some break through wins.

Bacchus Marsh’s Jacinta Reid. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 470330_16

Bacchus Marsh’s Jack Kovacevic. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474079_09

Darley’s Michael Edwards. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474079_14

Sunbury Lions’ Tayissa Coppinger. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474082_04

Josh Webster, Zac McLeod, Joshua Debono, Rhys Briggs and Josh Eaton celebrate North Sunshine’s win. (Supplied)

Sunbury Kangaroos’ Summer Pazsa and Sunbury Lions’ Karla Tentonello. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474086_25

Darley’s women’s side. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 470330_01

Sunbury Lions’ Grace Azzopardi. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474086_16

North Ballarat’s Taj McMillan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474081_17

North Sunshine and North Footscray during the last post. (Supplied)

Sunbury Lions’ Rebecca Hicks. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474082_08

The Sunbury Lions. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474081_04

Jets women ﬁnd their feet in premier division

Greenvale is starting to find its feet in Essendon District Football League women’s premier division season.

Last year’s division 1 premiers, the Jets have two wins from their first three matches.

After being awarded the points in round one after Keilor played an eligible player, the Jets got their first actual win of the season on Saturday against Maribyrnong Park.

Jets coach Troy Newton said it was a challenging game but they were happy to come away with the points.

“Maribyrnong Park are struggling a little bit and only had 13 players,” he said. “We will take the win, it was not the prettiest game.

“The conditions were pretty good and you couldn’t tell there was rain about. It was a strange game.”

Kayle Peake kicked three goals in her debut for the Jets, while Jorji Allison and Marli Klaumanns-Moller kicked two each.

Peake and Klaumanns-Moller are both Victorian Football League women’s players.

Malake Hamdan, Kalani Tapungao and Hannah Masters were named the Jets best.

Newton said one of the biggest challenges for the side had been not having the depth that they would have liked.

They played with just 14 players in round two and have had to throw their team about.

“I think we bought nine players this week and lost five from the week before. We still have five or six not playing at the moment.

“It makes it a bit difficult.

“Depth is what we are lacking. We had one girl do a knee in round one and another with a broken ankle in round two.

“Keira Delia has done her hamstring twice and hasn’t played and we’ve got girls in Europe. We have not been able to get our best side on the park.”

Another yet to play this season is their main goal kicker Alisa Margi who is struggling with a leg injury she carried into last year’s finals series.

Newton said they were hoping she might be

back in six weeks.

He resigned to not having Grace Matser for most of the season with both of Carlton’s other VFLW rucks both hurting their knee, meaning she’ll have more opportunity at the higher level.

The Jets are hoping they might get an extra boost having put in a clearance for Audrey Rhodes on the weekend.

Rhodes was part of North Melbourne’s VFLW premiership last season and was named in the VFLW team of the year.

Playing the top flight for the first time, Newton said they had kept the goal simple this year.

“The aim is to stay up in premier division,” he said. “We want to get a feel for it and what it looks like.

“We want to be more competitive and stay in games for longer.”

Tara Murray

Jets players hang tough

By Tara Murray

Greenvale showed plenty of character and resolve as it came away with its first win of the Essendon District Football League premier division season.

It has been a tough start for the Jets and it didn’t get any easier on Saturday as it faced last season’s grand finalists Pascoe Vale.

The Panthers threw everything at the Jets, dominating inside 50s and scoring opportunities throughout the whole game. While the Panthers struggled to convert, the Jets made the most of their opportunities to give themselves a chance.

A Ryan Townsend goal in the 28th minute put the Jets in front one last time and they were able to stay there, winning 10.5 (65)-7.18 (60).

Jets coach Darren Bewick told the EDFL post-game show that they were really proud of the performance.

“The message has been pretty constant during the week, the last two weeks since our poor effort against Deer Park,” he said.

“We need to bring continual effort and

work and be the best teammates we possibly could.

“It was a good win, a determined win and it showed a bit of grit. We had a few questions asked about us and what we served up the first couple of weeks, mainly internally.

“I was really proud to hang in there against a good side.”

Bewick said they were hoping this performance would help kick start their season.

Defensively was where the Jets won the game.

“I thought they were terrific all game,” Bewick said. “When it was required in the final quarter, they were able to withstand a fair bit of heat.

“Kieran [Gallagher] is only 19, Corey [Baker] is 22-23, Jack [Wood] has only played a few games, JJ [Joe junior Giarratana] four or five games, Jase Kenneth did a good job.

“It was helpful with a bit of pressure through the midfield as well.

“To their credit they just hung in there, I thought they were excellent.”

As well as the pressure from the Panthers,

Sports shorts

VTCA

Westmeadows has announced two imports for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season. Ben Willsdon is a promising young batter from Sussex, England, and a product of the Sussex County pathway. Currently training with the county’s under-18 squad, he represents Cuckﬁeld. Cam Ward has also joined the club. Ward is a talented and developing wicket-keeper batsman from England, known for his standout performances in both underage county and school cricket. A product of the Hampshire and Sussex CCC pathway systems, he represented both counties from under-9 to under-18.

Football

AFL trial matches for the under-18 Vic Metro side have been held the past two weekends. On the ﬁrst weekend, two Vic Metro sides faced Vic Country teams. Northern Knights’ Tyson Gresham, Roman Moxon, Sebastian Murphy, Mitchell Moate and Lewis Houndsome were selected, along with the Calder Cannons’ Hussien El Achkar, Hamish Pearce, Hamish Bird, Cooper Herbert and Jackson Barber. Gresham, Murphy, Moate El Achkar, Bird, Herbert, Barber and Adam Sweid were named in the young gun series on the weekend.

NPL

the Jets had a couple of injury concerns.

Daniel Trifunovic hurt his ankle in the opening minutes of the game while Hayden Fraser ended with his arm in a sling.

Bewick said they chatted about that resolve after the game to continue on when things weren’t going their way.

Dylan Ozenc finished with three goals for the Jets, while Samuel Zumbo, in the unusual position as a forward, kicked two goals.

It was a number of the Jets young recruits that really shone. Gallagher, Reuben Rode and Riley Leedham were named in the best.

Rode was on debut, while Leedham battled against the competition’s best ruck, Matthew Dennis.

The Jets face Airport West this Saturday.

The Eagles have had a disappointing start to the season, dropping their past two matches.

Bewick said they hadn’t looked at the Eagles yet.

Meanwhile in division 1, Craigieburn had a hard fought win against Moonee Valley, while Roxburgh Park and Tullamarine both suffered losses.

Hume City made it two in a row in the National Premier League on Friday night. At home to the Melbourne Knights, Hume led 1-0 at half time before increasing the lead to 2-0 not long after half time. The Knights got a late goal back, but it wasn’t enough with Hume winning 2-1. In the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, Whittlesea United had a 3-2 win against Box Hill United on Friday night.

Coates Talent League

It was contrasting results for the Northern Knights and Calder Cannons in the Coates Talent League girls competition on Saturday. The Knights had a big win against the Bendigo Pioneers, winning 14.13 (97)-4.0 (24). The Cannons on the other hand lost to the GWV Rebels, 9.11 (65)-1.1 (7).

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Terira Fry returned on the weekend. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425636_15

Jason Kenneth was strong in defence. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_424311_03

EDFL and NFNL take a stand against violence

Essendon District Football League and Northern Football Netball League are gearing up as part of a record 72,000-player Pat Cronin Foundation round, spanning 120 venues from Melbourne to Bendigo between May 2 and 4.

They will join five other leagues in the 3038 team event in honouring the memory of a 19-year-old Pat Cronin, a promising young footballer who lost his life after he was struck by a coward punch during a night out in Melbourne in 2016.

Every player will wear a yellow armband – the official colour of the foundation –to symbolise a stand against all forms of violence, including the coward punch.

Scheduled highlights of the round include marquee matches on Saturday, May 3, between Lower Plenty and Thomastown at Lower Penty Oval in the Northern league and East Sunbury and Glenroy at John McMahon Reserve.

Foundation director Matt Cronin, the father of Pat, said the growth of the round in the past two seasons had been “incredibly humbling”.

“Participation in the round this year alone is up by nearly 30 per cent,” he said. “In addition, we’re anticipating around 250,000 spectators across the weekend, which is an amazing opportunity to deliver our messages

into the heart of communities where the impact is felt most.

“The yellow armband is not just a symbol.

It’s a conversation starter about managing emotions on and off the field and walking away from violence – helping to prevent

Cannons look to future

By Tara Murray

It’s a bit of an unknown group for the Calder Cannons in the Coates Talent League boys season.

After having a heavy top age group last season, with four players being drafted, more of the Cannons list is bottom aged this season.

Cannons coach Sam Willatt said it was a really exciting group they had put together.

“Last year we were top age heavy, this year we have over 50 per cent bottom age,” he said. “It gives scope for more opportunity to play more games in their bottom age.

“We’re a little bit of an unknown for us in the season with this group.”

The Cannons have started the season with two wins from their last three matches, with their loss to Northern Knights a close one in their last game.

Willattsaidthestarthadbeenarealpositive one.

“The result on the weekend didn’t go our

way,” he said. “Overall the first three games have been positive from a team perspective.

“There have been some positive performances for us and sets some players up for the metro trials.”

While the Cannons are a bit of an unknown this season, there’s plenty of players who are already stepping up.

Cooper Duff-Tytler has been the name out of the Cannons on everyone’s mouths.

Willatt said the top draft prospect has benefited from having a full pre-season with the Cannons.

“It’s been a massive help,” he said. “It’s the first full football pre-season that he has ever done.

“He’s done a body of work to really set him up. It will only help him.”

Hussein El Achkar has kicked 10 goals in three matches and has been a star up forward.

Adam Sweid, who returned late last season from an ACL injury, has had some really good growth early in the season, while co-captains

situations that can change lives forever.”

NFNL chief executive Martin Stillman said the round was a significant event on the NFNL calendar. Pat played for Lower Plenty on the Northern league and league was the first to support the Pat Cronin Foundation.

“Since 2016, the league has proudly partnered with the Pat Cronin Foundation to promote awareness around the importance of ‘walking away from violence’,” he said.

“We’re pleased to see an increasing number of leagues and clubs supporting the foundation’s message, continuing the movement that began with the NFNL’s involvement nearly a decade ago.”

EDFL chief executive Andrew Johnston said it’s an honour again to be participating in such an important weekend to play our role in eradicating this senseless action in our community.

“It’s vital that the EDFL community continues to receive education and be reminded about strategies for managing emotions.

“We can’t wait to see players from Under 8s to seniors wearing the yellow armbands to continue the conversation and education.”

Details: https://patcroninfoundation.org.au/ pcf-round/

Tara Murray

Whittlesea Ranges go through

Whittlesea Ranges, Mill Park, Whittlesea United and Hume City kept their runs going in the Australia Cup.

The Ranges won through to the next roundwithvictoryagainstLalorUnited, Having recently played each other in the FV state league 2 north-west competition, the Ranges were able to turn the tables to progress through to the fifth round of the Australia Cup.

The Ranges led 3-1 at half time before findinggoalsearlyandlateinthesecond half to run away with a 5-1 win.

Oliver Napoletano scored twice, both inthesecondhalf.AnthonyD’Ambrosio was the goal scorer for Lalor United. Mill Park beat Western Eagles in its round four match, 5-1.

Mill Park scored twice in the first half to set up the win before finishing strongly to make sure of a big win.

Hume City was too good for the Eltham Redbacks in its clash.

The Redbacks hit the scoreboard in the second minute against the higher ranked side.

Jackson Barber and Hamish Bird have had good starts to the season.

Duff-Tytler, El Achkar and Felix Kneipp were named in the Vic Metro under-18 summer hub.

Willatt is hoping that a few more will join them in Metro contention, over the Easter weekend and following weekend.

He said while metro does help with getting drafted, the group only has to look at the experiences of the four draftees from last year.

“Hopefully a few guys will be added to the squad after the trial games,” he said. “Even if they miss out, they can look at Pat Said, who missed out on trials and the squad and everything and still got drafted.

“There’s a different perspective. They’re under a lot of pressure with year 12 and if they make or miss the squad.

After two weeks of metro trials, the Cannons will hit the road with trips against Bendigo Pioneers, Dandenong Stingrays and Geelong Falcons.

Two goals before half time gave Hume the lead and it scored another in the 66th minute to ensure it moves into the next round.

Whittlesea United beat West Preston to win through.

After leading 2-0 at half time, Whittlesea United claimed a 3-1 win.

Epping City’s run came to an end against Brunswick City.

Scores were locked at 0-0 at half time, before Brunswick hit the scoreboard in the 58th minute. It was able to double the scores in the 72nd minute to seal the win.

Dallas City’s run also came to an end after losing to Preston Lions.

The Lions scored the only goal of the first half to take a lead into break.

Dallas levelled scores in the 59th minute before the Lions hit back 10 minutes later to regain the league.

A third goal in the last 10 minutes sealed the win for the Lions.

Tristan Leeds. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 471376_12

Pat Cronin. (Supplied)

Craigieburn City continuing to build momentum

Things are starting to come together for Craigieburn City in the FV state league 2 north-west season.

After a slow start with its squad coming together late in the piece, Craigieburn has claimed points in three of its five matches.

On Saturday, Craigieburn got its second win of the season, beating Strathmore, 3-1.

Craigieburn coach Michael Loche said they were happy with how things were coming together.

“It’s been a far better start than last year when we only had one point at this stage,” he said. “It’s our second year in state league 2 and boys are doing well.

“The squad is still a work in progress but we’re coming together well.”

On Saturday, Craigieburn had a strong performance against Strathmore. Loche said they could have easily had a bigger win.

The win moves the side up to sixth spot.

“I think the boys played really well,” he said. “We took our chances early in the game but we should have buried them,

“We missed a penalty and they got one back before half time.

“In the second half, I felt like we were the better side.”

Loche said getting their goalkeeper back had been a massive help on Saturday, with the side winning both games he had played in.

Craigieburn has a new looking squad this season, with about10 players being added to

the group.

Loche said they wanted to close the gap with the top sides.

“We want to try and improve our depth and add a bit more quality,” he said.

“Last year was an unknown and we needed to improve the squad. We are nowhere near a finished product.”

Loche said after being around the relegation mix for much of last season, they want to improve on that this season.

“We want to be competitive in state league 2,” he said. “We don’t want to put parameters on what we can and can’t achieve.

“We don’t want to be around 10th where we were last year. We want to push up the ladder.

“We want to improve each game we play

Solid start for Broncos

By Tara Murray

The Hume City Broncos have gotten off to a strong start in the Big V men’s championship, but aren’t getting ahead of themselves.

The Broncos headed into the Easter break on top of the table with a 3-1 record having dropped their most recent game.

Coach Matt Foster said they would have rather been 4-0, but were still happy with the start.

“It’s hard to know where we sit with who we have played,” he said. “It has been a good start.

“We’re still a work in progress like a lot of other teams, I’m guessing. It’s all positive signs.”

Foster said having kept a core group of players from last season, it had held them in good stead heading into this year.

The Broncos went deep into finals again before falling short.

“We’ve kept a bit of a core with Zach [McKenzie]andEli[Saifaleupolu]andHaydon [McIntosh] have been around for a while with us,” he said.

“Keenan Gorski as well. It’s his second year with us.

“We’ve added quite a few new pieces and went the route of having played in the league before. Hopefully that helped fast track them, gelling and not having to get used to a new league and all that sort of stuff.”

Last season’s league most valuable player Kavione Green has made an instant impact having crossed to the club.

Foster said they couldn’t have asked for much more from him.

“He is very talented player, great guy, competed for a few years now,” he said. “It’s great to have KG, he can play basketball that is for sure.

“He’s a really good person to have around the club, and a gym rat who is in the gym as much as he can be.”

Foster said that the break was a good chance for them to reset after a big start to the season.

He said they would have preferred to be coming off a win though instead.

“Having a couple of weeks to stew on it a little bit, it would have been nice to get back

and get better as a group.”

Loche said overall the club continues to grow with it having more than 800 members and now one of the biggest clubs in the north.

In other matches, ladder leaders Lalor United had a 3-1 win against the Geelong Rangers.

Lalor scored two goals in extra time in the second half to seal the win.

Mill Park suffered a 1-0 to the Western Eagles.

The only goal came just after half time.

Whittlesea Ranges had a 2-0 win against Dallas City, while Uni Hill Eagles lost to Williamstown, 5-0.

Tara Murray

Whittlesea remains undefeated in the Northern Football League division 2 competition after a solid performance against Lower Plenty on Saturday.

Nothing separated the sides in the first half, before the Eagles opened a 20 point lead heading into the final break after five goals in the third quarter.

The Eagles continued the momentum going into the final quarter and were able to run away with a 12.11 (83)-6.13 (49) win.

Lucas Hobbs kicked three goals and was named the Eagles best, continuing his strong start to the season.

It was a tougher day for Thomastown and Old Paradians, who are both without a win.

Thomastown fell short against Northcote Park in its match on Anzac Day.

The Bears led by four points at quarter time but only kicked two goals for the rest of the year as they lost, 8.11 (59)-5.9 (39).

Sean Culhane was the Bears best.

Old Paradians had a day to forget against Diamond Creek on Saturday.

It was all one way traffic with the Creekers winning, 18.19 (115)-1.3 (9). It took the Raiders until the second half to kick a goal.

into it, keep things going,” he said.

“I think it is probably a good thing, a big pre-season and the first few rounds, nice to rest the body and rest the mind, and prepare of the next section of the season,

“I don’t think we’ve got another break until Kings Birthday weekend.”

TheBroncoswerebackinactiononSaturday against Wyndham.

Wyndham gave the Broncos a scare but they were able to do enough to come away with a 104-94 win.

Green top scored with 28 points.

Foster said for this next block of games they were just focused on redlining what they’ve been doing.

“We’ve sort of set out a bit of a strategy, on what suits us best with what we have,” he said. “Just refining that, getting guys used to playing different roles.

“They’re still getting the new guys up to speed on things that we do as well.

“We’re trying to focus on getting ourselves to be where we need to be, and hopefully puts us in a good position.”

In division 1, Bundoora and South Morang remain without a win after three matches.

For the Bulls, they weren’t able to go with West Preston-Lakeside in the final quarter of their clash.

The Bulls led by eight points heading into the final quarter, with the Roosters kicking four goals to no score to come from behind and claim the win, 10.8 (68)-13.9 (87).

The Lions on Saturday lost to Greensborough. A48-9firstquarterwasthedifference in the game with Greensborough winning, 14.9 (93)-7.13 (55).

Joshua Lansfield and Jesse John Christidis were named their best.

In division 2, Epping suffered a shock loss to Kinglake, Lalor lost to Reservoir and Laurimar beat Mernda.

Zach McKenzie. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 467506_15