Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 30th April 2025
fires up
The banks of the Maribyrnong River in Footscray will come alive with the heat of forges and the rhythmic clang of hammers as the highly anticipated Blacksmiths Festival returns on May 17-18.
Festival-goers will witness master blacksmiths shaping molten steel in real-time demonstrations, while browsing the artisan market for unique hand-forged treasures.
The ever-popular kidsmith zone invites children under 12 to create their own keepsakes, while the blacksmith games arena presents inventive, one-of-a-kind challenges and old world fun. The festival also offers a range of workshops, including sessions designed for total beginners, women, and neurodivergent individuals.
Festival co-ordinator, Lisa Fitzgerald said a major highlight of this year’s festival will be the collaborative forging masterclass which will create a sculpture in honour of the late Maribyrnong councillor Sarah Carter.
“Over five days, 14 blacksmiths will work together to forge a sculptural contemplative seat, guided by the expertise of Canadian blacksmith Sandra Dunn,” Ms Fitzgerald said
The festival aims to showcase traditional blacksmithing while celebrating the art, skill, and community involved in the craft.
Details: blacksmithsfestival.com
Lauren wants zero deaths Festival
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 thearea,willstageanMDCeventonthebanks of Maribyrnong River starting/finishing at Coulson Gardens.
The location will play host to a festival hub including market, entertainment and food trucks.
Continued Page 2
Robbie Alderson and Steve Phillips. (Damjan Janevski) 471177_03
Indigenous points unanswered
By Cade Lucas
An Indigenous affairs questionnaire sent to candidates for the seats of Fraser and Gellibrand in the upcoming federal election has received just four responses less than a week out from polling day.
Inner-west First Nations organisation Justice Action Maribyrnong (JAM) circulated the questionnaire which was originally put together by another fellow First Nations advocacy group ANTaR.
The questionnaire emailed to all candidates in both seats, asks for their stance on four policy areas: Closing the gap; justice and over-incarceration of Aboriginal people;
cultural heritage and country and Voice, Treaty and Truth.
The answers from each candidate are then posted on JAM’s website and at the time of writing, the only responses posted were from Fraser candidates Jasmine Duff of the Victorian Socialists , Huong Truong from the Greens and Family First’s Rob Rancie.
The office of sitting Labor MP for Fraser, Dr Daniel Mulino, said the government’s views on Indigenous affairs were on the website of Indigenous Australians Minister for Malarndirri McCarthy.
In Gellibrand, only Family First’s Jo Garcia had responded, while a spokesperson for sitting Labor MP, Tim Watts, said that
following redistributions, Gellibrand was no longer part of the Maribyrnong council area and that he would not be responding as a result.
All other candidates still to respond to the questionnaire were contacted for comment by Star Weekly.
JAM spokesperson John Chadderton said he was hopeful they would all still respond, especially both Labor members.
“Given their (Labor’s) position at the previous election on Aboriginal affairs was very positive we’d hope they’d recommit to those values put forward at when they were elected,” said Mr Chadderton.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
A Greek cookbook forged by fire
It’s the book which was written following one fire and which was launched shortly before another.
Yarraville restauranteur Eleftheria Amanatidis wrote her memoir and cookbook Ela na Fame (Come and Eat) in the second half of last year while her business Eleni’s Bar and Kitchen was closed following an arson attack on June 28.
Described as a celebration of family, food and Greek culture, the book was launched on Wednesday April 16, in the upstairs function room of the Anderson Street restaurant that was gutted by the fire and only reopened last November.
Like with the book itself, the launch was a celebration of the Amanatidis family, their history in Yarraville and the Greek culture they brought with them when patriarch Antonios Amanatidis arrived in the early 1960’s as the founding priest of the nearby St
Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.
“The church is very meaningful to me,” said Eleftheria Amanatidis, his great granddaughter, in an interview with Star Weekly at her book launch.
“I have so many memories in that church. I always feel a connection here (Yarraville) because of the church.”
In 1971 her grandparents Jimmy and Eleni then opened a Greek tavern in Yarraville, which Eleftheria and her sister and co-owner Natalie, named their restaurant after when they opened it in 2018.
The book launch doubled as a celebration of resilience and determination of the sister’s, both in recovering from last year’s fire and in being young women pursuing careers in the male dominated Greek hospitality industry.
And then it happened again.
Shortly before 4.30am on Easter Monday a whiteSUVwasrammedintotherearentrance
of the restaurant on Canterbury Street and set alight.
Just meters below the second story function room where book launch celebrations took place, arsonists attacked again.
This time they only damaged an outdoor dining area and Eleni’s Bar and Kitchen was able to reopen by Wednesday.
And while both it and last year’s fire are still being investigated, the book Eleftheria Amanatidis wrote and the stories and recipes it contains, is now out and available to buy or even borrow.
Speaking at the launch, Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari announced that the council had bought copies of the book for all local libraries.
“I didn’t expect him to say that. I was blown away by that gesture,” she said .
Students pay their respects to Pope Francis
The death of Pope Francis aged 88, sent Catholics across the world into mourning, including in the inner west.
Students and staff at St Monica’s Catholic Primary School in Footscray have been praying for Pope Francis and discussing and reflecting on his life and message.
St Monica’s principal Andrea
Wilberger said the values of Pope Francis – compassion, humility, anddeepcareforothers–mirrored those of the school.
“I believe we need people like Pope Francis in our world – people who help guide us and remind us of what truly matters,” Ms Wilberger said.
“Pope Francis was a voice for the
voiceless and a champion of social justice. He stood alongside those who were often forgotten, and his gentle leadership touched hearts around the globe.”
Among the hearts touched by the late Pope was that of St Monica’s year 5 student, Miceala.
“Pope Francis was such an inspiration to all young people
committed to honouring the Uluru Statement from the Heart and holding a referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament after winning the 2022 federal election.
While the referendum was defeated in October 2023, Mr Chadderton said that didn’t meanworkonachievingtheaimsoftheUluru statement had finished.
“In a sense you could say it’s been done, but from our perspective we still feel First Nations voices need to be recognised and heard and that the elements of truth telling and treaty area absolutely still on the agenda.”
To view the JAM questionnaire and candidate responses, visit: https://shorturl.at/ jY2nO
From page 1
“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 because we got out of the house. It was because we would shareaspecialtimetogetherandjusttalk.
“Sporthasalsobeenamajorpartofour lives, including the Maribyrnong Park FC,WilliamstownVFLFCandRosamond 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 diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer.
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
because he constantly showed selflessnessandkindness,”Micaela said.
“He played such a significant role in the Catholic church and his love for the Lord will be forever remembered. Pope Francis always wanted to help others and make a difference. He will leave a mark in history and in all our hearts.”
Lauren’s wish
St Monica’s Primary School students Micaela (left) and Lucia mourn Pope Francis. (Supplied)
Eleftheria and Natalie Amanatidis, co-owners of Eleni’s Bar and Kitchen in Yarraville, at the launch of Eleftheria’s memoir and cookbook Ela na Fame. (Supplied)
Lauren Philpot and her late mum, Leigh. (Supplied)
Calls for accountability
By Cade Lucas
Hundreds of people rallied in central Footscray on Tuesday afternoon calling for justice, greater mental health support and an independent probe into the death of Abdifatah Ahmed who was shot by police five days earlier.
The 35-year-old Somali man was shot dead after allegedly lunging at two police officers with a knife near the corner of Paisley and Albert streets on the night of Thursday, April 17.
Tuesday’s rally began on Nicholson Street, a short distance from where Mr Ahmed was killed, before proceeding past Footscray Police station and finishing on Leeds Street.
Among those who attended was Somali Community Inc president Farah Warsame. He said the community was in deep shock followingMrAhmed’sdeathandtherallywas an opportunity for them to come together and raise questions about the conduct of the two police officers involved.
“We are still wondering why the police didn’t use any other means like capsicum spray or a Taser to de-escalate the situation,” Mr Warsame said.
“Why didn’t they look for some other way? It is human life at the end of the day.
“We are not condemning every Victorian police (officer), we are only calling for the officers involved to be held accountable.“
VictoriaPolicehaslaunchedaninvestigation by the homicide squad with oversight from its professional standards command. The coroner will also investigate the incident.
On Tuesday, police confirmed the officers were not carrying Tasers.
“Unfortunately, police were confronted with an extremely volatile and high-risk situation and made a tactical decision to use
their firearms in a small matter of moments,“ a spokesperson said.
“We strongly reject any claims that this matter was racially motivated.
“These decisions are made in line with rigorous training police receive around dealing with armed offenders, with the safety ofthecommunityandourofficersthenumber one priority.
“This was an incident that could have impacted the safety of a large number of people who were in the area on the night.“
A rollout of Tasers to all Victorian frontline policeisontracktobecompletedbySeptember 2026 and is currently 60 per cent complete.
Therolloutwasmovingas“fastasitpossibly can“, the police spokesperson said, noting that even with Tasers, officers had to assess which options to use.
The two officers involved are on leave, as per standard protocol.
• Lifeline 13 11 14
• beyondblue 1300 22 4636 - with AAP
Home invasion charges laid
Four 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 8.30pm on Monday, January 20 in a stolen 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, have been charged with aggravated home invasion, extortion and intentionally cause injury.
The duo will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court later today.
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Protesters rally in central Footscray on Tuesday afternoon demanding justice for Abdifatah Ahmed who was killed by police on April 17. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 473778_01
Hobsons Bay pays its respects
By Cade Lucas
Thousands attended Anzac Day services across Hobsons Bay on Friday morning to mark the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing.
Dawn services at Williamstown and Altona attracted the largest crowds, with more than 2000 people rising early to attend both.
The Altona service began with a march from the RSL on Sargood Street to the cenotaph where the eternal flame illuminated proceedings.
The address was delivered by army education officer, Captain Jamie Schofield, who said the importance of Anzac Day wasn’t really about war at all.
“It’s been said that the amount of influence that the Gallipoli campaign had on the outcome of the war, was nothing,“ Captain Schofield told the crowd.
“Anzac is more than a battle, it’s more than a landing it’s more than a campaign, it’s about the people.
“It’s a day where Australians fought under theirownflagasanation,notundertheirstate banners.”
She said the lasting legacy of Gallipoli was the Anzac spirit of mateship, sacrifice and togetherness that the events of April 25, 1915 brought about.
“It was born at Anzac cove and is alive within us today.”
Among the many veterans present at the Altona service was 96 year old George Coleman, OAM, who served in the Royal Australian Navy during the Korean War.
“I was a Leading Seaman quartermastergunner,” recalled Mr Coleman of his role aboard River-class frigate, HMAS Condamine, during the war which lasted from 1950 to 1953.
“WhenwewereatseaIwasaquartermaster and if we went into action I got relieved from
there and went to a gun,” said Mr Coleman who was awarded an Order of Australia for his service during the conflict.
In the nearby suburb of Seabrook, a much smallerdawnservicetookplaceatHomestead Run Reserve.
“OurAnzacDaycommemorativeeventwas
a resounding success, with 185 attendees and 12 dogs in attendance - a significant increase from previous years,” said co-organiser Naserah Khan.
TheSpotwoodandKingsvilleRSLheldboth dawn and morning services at it’s Memorial Garden just off Melbourne Road, while the
Newport RSL sub-branch, who organised the Williamstown dawn service, later held a smaller morning service at Paine Reserve.
With no major Anzac Day events in Maribyrnong, mayor Pradeep Tiwari laid a wreath at the Sunshine dawn service instead.
Table tennis Tuesdays are a hit at Maidstone
Tuesday is table tennis day at Maidstone Community Centre. Each Tuesday from noon to 1.30pm and then from 1.30pm to 3pm, local residents come to play the hugely popular table-top sport, also known as ping pong, in a fun and informal atmosphere. Entry is free of charge, but bookings are essential. Details: https://www.maribyrnong. vic.gov.au/Community/Community-Centresand-Neighbourhood-Houses/MaidstoneCommunity-Centre
Wansheng Xia and Yian Cui playing doubles. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 470622_06
Dong Ho playing table tennis at Maidstone Community Centre on Tuesday April 8. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 470622_01
Yian Cui playing in the Tuesday lunch time competition. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 470622_05
Yeeman Lui gets ready to serve. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 470622_08
Alan Lui plays a forehand. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 470622_04
Wansheng Xia puts his body into it. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 470622_07
Wreaths laid beneath the flame at the Seabrook dawn service at Homestead Run Reserve. (Cade Lucas) Ninety six year old Korean War veteran, George Coleman OAM after the Altona dawn service. (Cade Lucas)
The Footscray-Yarraville Brass Band play the Australian and New Zealand national anthems at the Williamstown dawn service at Nelson Place. (Cas Bukor)
The crowd gathered beneath the cenotaph for the Spotswood and Kingsville RSL’s morning service in its Memorial Garden. (Supplied)
3D ninja dream
By Cr Kristin Bishop
One of my favourite things about being a councillor is the connection to community.
I have loved meeting a range of different people, and hearing stories from across Hobsons Bay.
Recently I was lucky enough to join mayor DariaKellanderfortheofficialopeningofLeo Hoffmann Reserve in Newport.
I’m thrilled to see the new features at the reserve, including a new rotunda and outdoor seating area, new paths and barbecue areas among plenty of great upgrades.
While there is plenty to admire and enjoy, there was one area and its story which caught my attention in particular.
The reserve now has a unique outdoor fitnessstation,styledasaninjawarriorcourse.
And it’s the story of how this course came to be that I love.
Back when community consultation was taking place for the reserve upgrades, a local high school student reached out with a creative suggestion of a ninja warrior course.
The student’s passion shone through, 3D printing a design for the course to bring to a drop-in session, with the idea then put to the community.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and their dream is now a reality.
I love how this idea has come to life, truly highlighting the impact council and the community can make through engagement and collaboration.
I can’t wait for the community to enjoy the upgraded reserve and tackle the ninja course.
For other community minded young people, or those just young at heart, inspired bythisstory–didyouknowourlocallibraries in Hobsons Bay offer a whole range of digital
experiences including 3D printing to bring your ideas to life?
You can book a session, get a walk through to see how it all works and start to build your skills.
Libraries have become so much more than bookshelves and I encourage everyone, particularly those who haven’t seen the inside of a library for a few years, to go and visit and immerse yourself in a new experience.
Briefs
Painted runners
The Maidstone Community Centre and Maribyrnong council are inviting members of the local LGBTQIA+ community to a painted runners workshop on Thursday, May 15. Open to people within the LGBTIQA+ community aged 12-25, the workshop will allow locals to showcase their identity, creativity and pride. The workshop will be held from 10am to 1pm at the Maidstone Community Centre and costs $20 per person, with bookings essential. Details: https://maribyrnong-events. bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_234 6e87152b748b18c6f2b665797badb
Drug raids
Police charged two men and seized luxury vehicles, watches and cash on April 23 as part of an investigation into drug trafficking in Footscray and Sunshine. A 33-year-old Sunshine North man was charged with trafficking and possessing heroin as well as being in possession of cocaine and methylamphetamine and dealing property suspected to the proceeds of crime. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 24. A 27-year-old Sunshine North man was also charged with trafficking and possessing heroin and three counts of dealing property suspected to be the proceeds of crime. He was bailed to appear at Sunshine Magistrates’ Court on August 21.
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Hobsons Bay councillor Kristin Bishop. (Supplied) 474439_01
Gellibrand’s shifting boundaries
The inner-west seat of Gellibrand has been held by the Labor Party since it was created in 1949 and while a series of redistributions and gentrification have changed its location and demographics since, there’s little chance of it changing political allegiances on May 3.
Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Tim Watts has held Gellibrand since 2013 and enjoys an 11.2 per cent margin after the latest redistribution, slightly down from 11.5 at the 2022 election.
Traditionally based around Footscray, the creation of the neighbouring seat of Fraser in 2018 meant Gellibrand was pushed to the south and west, taking in parts of the Wyndham council area such as Point Cook, Williams Landing and Truganina .
Meanwhile losing Yarraville means Gellibrand no longer takes in any part of the Maribyrnong council area and Spotswood and Brooklyn shifting to Fraser means it no longer covers all of Hobsons Bay either. No one knows these shifting boundaries better than Watts, who when first elected in 2013, occupied an electoral office on the junction of Geelong Road and Barkly Street in Footscray.
His office is now 7km away on Melbourne Road in Newport.
The change in location is unlikely to result in a change in fortunes though, with the sitting MP facing only four challengers compared to seven in 2022.
The Federation Party, Victorian Socialists, Liberal Democrats and United Australia Party are not running again, while Family First is.
The Liberals Ben Reeson and The Greens Ponraj Krishna Pandi are likely to vie for second place, with Krishna Pandi likely to benefit from continued gentrification of the area and discontent with Labor over its stance on the conflict in Gaza.
Newport is home to a large Muslim community and one of Victoria’s largest mosques and Krishna Pandi has been sharply critical of Watts on the issue of Palestine.
Reeson is a former state Liberal candidate for the seat of Niddrie and had a late start to the campaign, only being endorsed a week after the election was called.
Family First’s Jo Garcia is a mother of eight and grandmother of four, with a background in nursing small business and real estate.
What the Gellibrand candidates say:
Ponraj Krishna Pandi - Greens
I’m running for Gellibrand because politics should serve everyday people—not just billionaires and big corporations. As a father, community volunteer, and IT consultant, I see how inequality affects housing, healthcare, education, and our environment. Gellibrand is proudly multicultural, with residents from over 140 countries. I’m campaigning for rent caps, cost-of-living relief, fair lending practices, better public transport, and fully funded schools, hospitals, and youth services. I’m committed to bold climate action that creates secure, green jobs. I’ll be a strong, grassroots voice for a fairer, thriving Gellibrand.
Tim Watts - Labor If re-elected, we’ll back all Australians. Strengthening Medicare, making childcare cheaper, wiping 20 per cent from HECS debts and providing two more tax cuts for all. We’re building Australia’s future right here in the west, committing more than $70 million in infrastructure locally and putting $1.1 billion to upgrading the Western Freeway. We’re delivering $5 million for the Point Cook Community Hub, $5 million for the Kororoit Creek trail to transform our natural environment, and investing more than $840,000 in community sports infrastructure. A vote for Labor is a vote for investing in Melbourne’s west.
Garcia - Family First
I’m Jo Garcia, Family First candidate for Gellibrand. I live in Point Cook and I am committed to putting families first in Parliament. I will fight to cut power prices by ending costly net zero policies, protect parents’ rights to choose education aligned with their values, and safeguard children from harmful radical gender ideology in schools. I believe in restoring freedom, faith, and family values so every Gellibrand resident can thrive. Together with Family First’s lead Senate candidate Bernie Finn, we will be a strong voice for our community, standing up for affordable living, parental rights, and protecting the vulnerable.
Ben Reeson - Liberal It’s time for change to get Australia back on track. Like many people in Gellibrand, I work at a small family business and know how tough things have been for families under Labor. As a renter, I care deeply about the rising cost of living and I want to make housing cheaper, safer, and more stable.I know that we need to lower inflation to make homes more affordable and lower our cost of living. Only the Liberals have a plan to get Australia back on track.
Footscray Yarraville band strikes winning chord
For the first time in more than half a century, the Footscray Yarraville City Band (FYCB) is officially the best in the land.
FYCB took out the A-grade competition at the Australian National Band Championships held at Xavier College in Melbourne over the Easter weekend, the first time it has won the national title since 1974.
The competition has four components: the hymn,stagemarch,testpiece,andownchoice, with FYCB finishing first in each to win the overall competitions ahead of Willoughby Band, Kensington and Norwood Brass, Geelong West Brass Band, Boroondara Brass, Glenferrie Brass and Holroyd Brass Band.
The band was conducted by Glyn Williams, who has played with some of the best brass bands in the UK including Fodens and Cory Band and who was hired specifically for the national championships. Footscray MP Katie
Hall was among those to congratulate the band on its drought breaking win.
“This is a remarkable achievement by one of the inner west’s most enduring and accomplished institutions,” Ms Hall said.
“Whether performing at local festivals, AFL matches or international concert halls, Footscray Yarraville City Band always carry themselves with professionalism, pride and purpose.
This win is not just a recognition of musical talent, but a reflection of the strength of your community.”
The 150-year-old band didn’t have much time to celebrate its victory, performing at the Williamstown dawn service and the Melbourne march on Anzac Day.
FYCB can next be seen in concert next on Saturday June 14 at the Kensington Town Hall. Details: https://shorturl.at/ZQLV8
Members of the Footscray Yarraville City Band celebrate winning the A Grade competition at the Australian National Band Championships on April 21. (supplied)
Jo
The electoral map for the seat of Gellibrand. (AEC)
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
Deeming focuses on the west
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Moira Deeming has been hand-picked by opposition leader Brad Battin to spearhead the Liberal Party’s increased focus on the western suburbs.
Lessthanfourmonthsafterbeingreadmitted to the party, the Western Metropolitan MP has been appointed as the “leader’s representative to the western suburbs.”
Ms Deeming said the decision came after herself and Battin agreed on taking a “different approach,”toengagingwithconstituentsinthe region.
“We need to earn their trust not just their votes – we can’t just come along at election time and be promising money here and there and nonsense like that,“ she said.
“Itgivesmeextratimeforadvocacybasedon the west – it just means that I can do my job more effectively.”
PartoftheLiberal’snewapproachwillinclude MsDeemingincreasinghertimeontheground and she is in the early stages of developing a website dedicated to communicating with constituents and processing their queries.
“It’s actually a massive little movement that’s started, we’ve got some experts involved
already,“ she said.
MsDeemingsaidpartofthefuturesitewould include a space for members of the community to offer professional expertise relating to their field to the party.
“If they are in the west and happen to be a business owner or a nurse, or if they know how to fix something and have a bit of knowledge, they can get on board,“ she said.
Her priorities are delivering several key infrastructure projects she believes have been “neglected” by the state government.
She said the electrification of the Melton rail line, the Outer Metropolitan Ring Road and
Public speaking club flies high
When three Williamstown toastmasters came together in 2013, stayed together, and worked together, Aerospeakers Toastmasters Club took to the air.
From the first meeting in 2013 to the club’s chartering on Thursday, June 18, 2015, when it was officially recognised by Toastmasters International, perseverance was key.
Committee met monthly and worked together to organise speaking events that would demonstrate the benefits and enjoyment of public speaking and reach those members of thecommunitywhowantedtogainconfidence in speaking not only publicly but also at work
and in social settings.
Because of the club’s proximity to the RAAF
Base the name Aerospeakers was chosen.
Although Aerospeakers was a young club, its members were soon speaking clearly, confidently, and competently before an audience.
The executive committee worked hard to improve meetings, build club morale and promote the Toastmasters speaking program. Committee involvement has enabled members to develop leadership skills.
New members were mentored, introduced to impromptu speaking, writing, and delivering
speeches, evaluating, chairing meetings and encouraged to enter club contests.
Since surviving two challenging Covid years and meeting online, Aerospeakers has seen strong membership growth.
It meetsat the Laverton Hub on the first and third Thursday of the month and welcome new members, who, through mentoring and encouragement soon grow into speakers and leaders who will take these skills into the workplace, home, and the community. Details: aerospeakerstm@gmail.com McKenzie-Fairlie
Western Interstate Freight Terminal were top of her list.
MsDeemingsaidtheLiberalswillattemptto build off a swing against the state government at February’s Werribee by-election.
“From my perspective prior to Brad, there was a bit of an attitude that because these are such strong Labor areas they didn’t think Labor voters wouldn’t listen to them,“ she said.
“I love the fact that in Werribee, they showed thatyoucannottakethemforgrantedanymore and so that’s why this is a really key moment in time.”
Kinder could honour Carter
A Maribyrnong kindergarten could be re-named after former mayor Sarah Carter after council gave in-principle approval for the idea at its April meeting last week.
Under the proposal the kindergarten at the Maribyrnong Community Centre would be re-named as the Sarah Carter Kindergarten in honour of the former mayor whose sudden death last year aged 45 shocked the local community.
The kindergarten was chosen as the appropriate location given Cr Carter advocated for its redevelopment and for early childhood services more generally.
Community feedback on the proposed name will be sought from early next month.
Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari said Cr Carter was an outstanding person and an exceptional public servant who spent 16 years on council and was fully deserving of such an honour.
“Thecommunityhasbeensupportive of honouring her memory, first in calling for her to be recognised in some way, and second for providing kind words as part of the tribute book that was presented to her family last month,” Cr Tiwari said.
“I look forward to hearing from the community regarding this opportunity to recognise Sarah.”
To provide feedback, visit Your City Your Voice from early May: yourcityyourvoice.com.au
Helen McKenzie-Fairlie runs the Aerospeakers Toastmasters Club, a public speaking club in Hobsons Bay. (Damjan Janevski) 471293_01
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Williamstown Seniors
The group meets every Tuesday at 1pm-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon.
Marlene, 0402 769 204
Maribyrnong Community Centre
My place through my eyes: photography project. Led by local artist Amanda Neville, this 6-week program includes group planning, photo taking skills, capturing images on location and selecting photos for exhibition. Running from 10.00am-11.30am on Thursdays from May 6 to June 10 at Maribyrnong Community Centre, 9 Randall Street, Maribyrnong. The cost is $60, for the full six weeks.
e 9032 4305 or maricomm@ maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Altona North Combined Probus
The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.
Lesley, 0414 481 442
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.
0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@ outlook.com
Heritage Walks
Enjoy a leisurely 90 minute walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John Becroft. Walks start at 9.20 a.m. each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place.
John Becroft 0418 377 336
Footscray CWA
Meet on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9m at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street.
Social square dancing for beginners. Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday nights from 7.30pm to 10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning.
Janine 0421 371 883 or contact@ essendonsquares.com
Braybrook and Maidstone walking group
The Braybrook and Maidstone Neighbourhood House are holding a walking group from 9am to 10am every second Wednesday. The walking group is open to everyone and starts from the neighbourhood house at 113 Melon Street, Braybrook.
93175610 or jodie@bmnh.org.au
Walking group
The Mighty West Heart Foundation Community Walking Group meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am. Walk at your own pace for up to 60 minutes. Discover the many health benefits (physical and psychological) of walking together. All welcome.
0411 566 862
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support for anyone who wants to stop drinking.
Regular in-person AA meetings are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown –Wednesdays at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport – Thursdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 8.30am. If you think you have a drinking problem, you are welcome to attend. Friends and family members supporting a loved one are also encouraged to come along.
https://williamstown.aagroup.org.au, aawilliamstown@gmail.com or 1300 222 222
Women Working Together
A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay.
9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or https://cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/
Musicians Wanted
Westgate Concert Band, Established in 1979 is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am to 12noon at Braybrook College.
westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Williamstown Bridge Club
The Williamstown Bridge Club has bridge sessions each week on Wednesday night at 7.25pm and Friday afternoon at 1.25pm for experienced players and a supervised session Friday 10am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Road, Altona. All levels welcome and partners can be provided. Bridge lessons start on Friday, May 2 at 10.00am.
For anyone aged 50 & over, any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay Council and Football Victoria, this is a free activity each Wednesday, from 10am to 11am, indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive, Altona.
Mike, 0423 291 708
Computer classes
Scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email, whatever. We all need to keep up with the internet, IT, computers, and changing technology. Classes every day of the week , mornings and afternoons, in Williamstown and Altona North.
Lynne, 9397 6168.
Laverton Bowls Club
Experience the fun and skill of lawn bowls, a game which is suitable for all ages. Laverton Bowls Club is recruiting new members, so if you are looking for a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to bowl both socially or at pennant level Laverton is the place to be.
Come to the club on Tuesday or Thursday mornings for practise beginning at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows.
9369 1034 or email : secretary@ lavertonbowls.com.au
Musicians welcome
Do you play any percussion, brass or woodwind instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band. Please note that rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden OAM every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Spotswood South Kingsville RSL, 59 The Avenue, Spotswood.
Hannah Prouse, hbcityband@gmail.com
Fiddle group
The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport. https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong
Prep for employment course
Seeking a change in career or how to improve your employability? Receive face-to-face help with job searches, resumes, interviews, upskilling and more in a prep for employment course. Register today. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Intro to computers course
For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Everyday English language course
For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends. Fridays, 10am-noon. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, outlets@outletsco-op.com. au
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.
“Ithinkit’simportanttohaveopportunities 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 inWerribeeonWednesday,May14at6.30pm.
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.
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. (Supplied)
Magician Dazzling Dan, also known as Dan Bingham, Kaarin Fairfax and Jess Fairfax will be at Cafe Philosophique. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 472918_06
Award-winning composer and musician Ania Reynolds will perform in op shops across Brimbank. (Supplied)
Making the best of a bad day
One of the appeals of an Asian holiday is an almostobligatorydaytriptoanisland,even if the place you are staying at is actually on an island.
Such is the case in Bali where the islands of Nusa Penida, Lembongan and the Gillies are only a relatively short distance away.
Our holiday resort in Candidasa offered a great view of Nusa Penida so after several days of fine weather, we decide to book a day trip which would incorporate transfers from our resort to the boat, passage to the island, swimming with manta rays, lunch and some sight-seeing on the island – it sounded wonderful.
However, the best laid plans do often go astray and if there is one thing you should realise, never bank on the weather.
The day we booked, the weather was fine and hot, and our anticipation for the following day was high.
However, waking up on our trip day, we were confronted by rain and winds and rather than letting common sense prevail, we decided that “things might be better on the island” and went ahead.
Right from the outset, we should have realised this wasn’t going to be our day.
The man we booked with, Smiley, rang to apologise that he wouldn’t be able to be our guide as the winds had brought down trees near his house and he was sending his son, Putu along instead.
It rained the entire trip to the boat, a howling gale greeted us at the port and Putu was nowhere to be found at first but once located he and his girlfriend, who had never been to Penida, ushered us onto the boat and to our covered seats. This was Putu’s first time as a tour guide.
Despite the weather and choppy seas, the journey to Penida wasn’t too bad and things improved slightly when we arrived - but not for long. After we were transferred to the dive centre/resort for the mantra ray boat we were told the seas were too rough but we could go snorkelling near Nusa Lembongan.
Not ideal but we thought “OK let’s go” –that was until we saw the boat.
It was about seven metres long, only had a cover over the driver and about 20 people were being crammed on board. Add to that choppy water, driving rain and no shelter.
One look at my wife and I said “we’re not going on this”.
While disembarking, a wave lifted the back of the boat and I immediately lost my footing and fell backways into the water,
only just managing to keep our backpack with our phones and wallets out of the briny.
I was drenched.
Fortunately, I had packed another T-shirt and after scrounging around the dive centre/resort, I found a towel and proceeded to dry myself as best I could, having to suffer the indignity of wearing wet shorts.
A phone call to Putu, via his dad, saw them return to pick us up – totally not on the planned schedule.
However, all was not lost and they suggested we head to some of the more famed tourist locations on Penida.
This is where our day started to come good.
Not only did we get to appreciate the skill of our driver negotiating roads that were essentially single lane being shared by multiple vehicles in both directions, but we saw a lot of the island’s interior, passing small villages, seeing agape farms providing the basic ingredient for tequila, and the eastern coastline featuring some fantastic scenery.
One of the stops was Broken Beach, where boats normally take people to see the manta rays off the coastline.
The seas were boiling and we completely
understood why they had cancelled the trip.
It was fascinating to see so many tourists queuinguptohavetheirguidestakephotos of them in key vantage spots.
The next stop was even more spectacular – Kelingking Beach – where a virtual goat track takes you from a cliff hundreds of metres above the beach to the water, if you are game or fit enough.
What made this more challenging was quasi-cyclonic winds (actually the tail end of a cyclone that was near Australia) driving people to seek shelter wherever.
However, the sky cleared, allowing us to get some great shots of the headline and coast.
Having seen these attractions and feeling a little drier, we stopped for lunch (part of the package) before heading back to the port.
Arriving ahead of schedule, we had time to talk to Putu and his girlfriend over a few decent cocktails.
Another choppy boat trip back to Bali and then onto Smiley’s restaurant to sort things out.
He apologised profusely about the day and how it didn’t work out as planned and reduced the price while offering us free drinks.
The food at his restaurant (Wayung) was excellent and his hospitality and company was great way to end a mixed bag of a day. Making the best of bad situation adds to the challenges of travelling and turning a negative into a positive makes it even more rewarding.
Just check the weather before you book anything.
The Angel Billabong near Broken Beach on Nusa Penida off Bali.
BOB ANTHONY
The spectacular east coast of Nusa Penida near Kelingking Beach.
Broken Beach at Nusa Penida.
Kelingking Beach.
Not a great day for a boat trip.
Boarding the boat to Nusa Penida in a howling wind. (Bob Anthony)
Cairo and the call of the Nile
The newest Nile River ship in the Viking family is almost ready to take its place in the fleet looking after guests who seek adventure on the magnificent Nile River in 2025.
The Viking Amun was ‘floated out’ earlier this month, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water.
It is due to sail in September 2025 and will join the company’s growing fleet of state-ofthe-art ships for the Nile River and will sail the cruise lines iconic 12-day Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary.
Viking CEO and chairman, Torstein Hagen said they were “very proud of our growing fleet in Egypt, which we consider to be by far the most elegant vessels on the Nile”.
“Egypt is one of the world’s most captivating destinations, and we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to this extraordinary region in the coming years,” he said.
It has been said of Egypt’s exhilarating capital, “he who has not seen Cairo has not seen the world”.
During the 12-day Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Grand Egyptian Museum. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring visits to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings.
Also included are excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colourful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school.
The journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.
Hosting only 82 guests in 41 staterooms, Viking Amun is inspired by the company’s award-winning river and ocean ships, with the signature Scandinavian design for which the ships are known. An identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, Aton, Sobek and the Hathor, the Amun features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. Other ships in Viking’s Egypt fleet include the Viking Ra and the MS Antares.
In addition to the Amun, the company plans to welcome five new ships in Egypt in the next two years, which will bring the fleet to 12 vessels on the Nile River by 2027.
The traditional float-out ceremony took place at Massara shipyard in Cairo and is significant because it marks the ship moving into its final stage of construction.
She will now be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior buildout. For more information, please visit www. viking.com or call 138 747.
The Viking Amun will join the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships for the Nile River.
Staff readying the Viking Amun to join its sister ships on the Nile.
Discover More of Asia FOR LESS IN 2025
Are you planning your next 2025 ocean voyage? Explore Asia’s magnificent temples, immerse yourself in ancient cultural traditions and enjoy authentic regional cuisine. Sail with us and gain insights from knowledgeable local guides as you discover iconic cities and breathtaking natural wonders.Wherever it is that sparks your curiosity, you can enjoy savings of up to $15,800 per couple on selected 2025 Asia Viking voyages. Hurry, these offers are available on new bookings from 1 April 2025 until 30 June 2025
FAR EASTERN HORIZONS
Hong Kong to Tokyo
JEWELS OF JAPAN & CHINA
Beijing (Tianjin) to Tokyo or vice versa
26
Hong Kong (Shenzhen) to Beijing
22 DAYS | 1 COUNTRY
From $12,795pp in Veranda Stateroom
15 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES | 9 GUIDED TOURS From $10,795pp
15 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES | 9 GUIDED TOURS From $7,195pp in Deluxe Veranda
Bali to Sydney
Surrounded by UNESCO-listed wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is a haven for divers and explorers. Teeming with exotic fish and indigenous marine life, visiting the Great Barrier Reef whilst in port in Cairns is an unforgettable experience.
Your holiday includes
All-Inclusive Cruise
21 night all-inclusive luxury cruise on board Azamara Onward
Azamara Onward’s intimate atmosphere welcomes you with open arms, exquisite personal service, divine cuisine, and unparalleled amenities, so all you have to do is sit back and relax.
21 Nights | 3 March 2026 | Prices fr $8,299pp
Experience Sydney’s views and embrace the warm Filipino hospitality with this Australasia and Pacific Islands voyage.
Your journey begins in Sydney, where you’ll embark Azamara’s newest ship, Azamara Onward. During an overnight in port, explore Sydney’s iconic landmarks, such as the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, before cruising around Australasia and the Pacific Islands. Highlights of your voyage include the UNESCO sites of Cairns and the breathtaking scenery of Palau.
Calling at both Alotau and Madang, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the lush rainforests, turquoise waters, and picturesque islands that Papua New Guinea is famous for. During an overnight in port in the bustling capital of the Philippines, explore the walled city of Intramuros, the San Agustin church and the bustling Divisoria markets. You’ll finish your holiday in Hong Kong, where you will disembark ready for your flight home.
Visiting: Sydney (overnight in port), Mooloolaba, Airlie Beach, Cairns (overnight in port), Alotau, Madang, Koror, Manila (overnight in port), Hong Kong (overnight in port)
Complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages including house spirits, wine and international beers
Pre-paid gratuities and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings® event
Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations
Complimentary Inbound Flight, Taxes & Transfers
Sydney (overnight in port), Mooloolaba, Airlie Beach, Cairns (overnight in port), Alotau, Madang, Koror, Manila (overnight in port), Hong Kong (overnight in port)
Mooloolaba
Airlie Beach
Madang
Koror
Alotau
Cairns
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) DOWN
1 French abbot (4)
2 Alaska’s largest city (9) 3 Boredom or lethargy (5)
4 The kina is the national currency of which nation?
5 Who provides the voice for Smaug in The Hobbit:
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?
rid of their glasses for most of the time. And this is without the use of laser surgery. Dr Stubbs formerly at the Royal Victorian Eye Hospital who has worked with the Fred Hollows eye department at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, says he began his career through the inspiration of his father, Dr Maxwell Stubbs.
“My father was a pioneer in cataract implant surgery from 1963! He has now passed away but some of his patients still come in for a check-up. Not only is this inspirational, it also demonstrates that good surgery outlasts the surgeon,” Dr Stubbs says.
A specialist who helps people who have been advised they are unsuitable for laser surgery, Dr Stubbs is also committed to demonstrating that age, corneal distortion or astigmatism are no barriers to eliminating the need for glasses.
One of my best moments was treating a 12-year-old girl who was struggling at school because of poor vision due to congenital cataracts even with the use of thick glasses. Now 10 years later, she still has 20/20 vision without glasses. That inspires me.
“Seeing my patients’ bright smiles after surgery, as they stop squinting and can read without glasses, is definitely the best part of my job.”
No referral is needed and no out-of-pocket expenses are incurred for an assessment to enable all options available to be considered.
(Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2020, the Council gives notice that it has prepared a Proposed Annual Budget for the financial year commencing 1 July 2025 and a Proposed Revenue and Rating Plan 2025-26 to 2028-29.
Public inspection
The Proposed Annual Budget and Revenue and Rating Plan can be viewed online at: participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
The document is available for inspection in person at:
• Hobsons Bay Civic Centre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona
• Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona
• Altona North Library, cnr Millers and McArthurs Roads, Altona North
• Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre, Central Square Shopping Centre, Altona Meadows
Anyone can comment on the Proposed Annual Budget and Proposed Revenue and Rating Plan by 5pm, Sunday 25 May 2025:
All
• Written submissions via participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
• Or, addressed to Hobsons Bay City Council, Reply Paid 21, Altona Vic 3018 (no stamp required).
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
Summit
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-colourroof.Thegrilleisflankedbythelatest 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 thefrontwheels,supportedbya54kWhnickel 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
$60,990.
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.
Altona Gators are starting to piece it all together
The Altona Gators have had an interrupted start to the Big V men’s division 1 season, but feel they are now on the right track.
UndernewcoachGrantDucait’sadifferent looking Gators to the past few seasons.
With high hopes, the Gators have had a bit of an interrupted start to the season with injuries and illness.
“It was looking really good and we had put together a solid team,” he said. “A week before the season one of our starters [Jake Psaila] got injured.
“He is now out for the season and we’ve been chasing our tail a bit. We’ve had two really good wins and we’ve played how we’ve needed to.”
With the tough start, Duca said the bye had come at a really good time for the group. He said they had used the time to look at how things were travelling.
“It’s a good time to reassess and I’ve made
some changes and we’re in a much better spot,” he said.
“It’s been a fun start, a challenging start. We have a good group of players and guys who have pulled together to fight back.”
Duca said Psaila was still around the group and had been at every training and game that he could.
“He is still giving leadership,” Duca said.
“He is one of our captains.
“We’ve definitely been using him in a leadership role off court.”
Duca said over the week off they’ve done some team and player reviews to help see where they are at.
He said they had some tough sides coming up.
“I’m excited to see what they are capable of doing,” he said. “It’s about piecing everything together and doing the right things and learning from each other as well.
“It’s a new season and we have only three or four returning players that played well last season, along with some players up from youth league.”
The Gators were back in action on Saturday against Warrnambool.
It was a big win for the Gators as they won every quarter to come away with a 98-78 point win.
All five starters scored double figures with Majok Maniel and Jaylin To’o top scoring with 17 points a piece.
The win was the Gators third of the season and moves them to fourth on the ladder.
In division 1 women, the Gators beat Collingwood, 76-54.
There wasn’t much between the two sides before the Gators came home strongly with a 23-6 final quarter.
Tara Murray
Ethan Williamson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 428570_05
Eagles soar to a big win
By Tara Murray
Yarraville Seddon finally got its game going for four quarters and it worked to a tee as it came away with a big win against Sunshine on Saturday in the Western Football League division 1 competition.
The Eagles had a tough start to the season with matches against two of last season’s finalists, but had a different challenge against the Kangaroos.
Afterafairlyevenquarteronthescoreboard in the first quarter, the Eagles were able to run away with the match, winning 19.14 (128)-7.5 (7).
Eagles coach Brad Julier said they were really happy with that performance.
“It was good to put four quarters together,” he said. “We’d had a tough couple of weeks and it was nice to get a good win.
“We moved the ball a little bit better, which we had not been great in the first couple of weeks.
“We were able to play better and were able to hit the scoreboard.”
Making the ball movement even better was
the weather conditions with it being a wet and windy game.
Will Kliszewski and Spencer Wray kicked five goals each for the Eagles.
Julier rated the game of Kilszewski, while saying Lachie Green and Kobe Cikala both had good games on the ball.
He said they felt the win would help set themselves up with another couple of tough weeks coming up.
Coming off finals last season, Julier said they felt they were in a stronger position heading into this year.
“I think it will help,” he said of being together for a couple of years. “We have a really young side that has now played 40 to 50 games in division 1.
“It gives them confidence and hopefully it sets us up to play finals and hopefully improve on last year.
The Eagles face Spotswood in round four. Julier said it would be another challenge.
The Woodsmen come into the match after losing a thriller with Altona.
Spotswood led by two points at quarter
Sports shorts
Coates Talent League
It was a tough day for the Western Jets in the Coates Talent League girls competition on Saturday. The Jets were at home to the Eastern Ranges. The Ranges jumped out of the blocks and led 43-1 at quarter time. The Ranges were able to extend the lead at every change on the way to an 18.20 (128)-0.3 (3) win. Jazmine Dalli, Caitlyn Volpe and Kiara Boyd were named the Jets best. The Jets boys side had a bye.
Western FL Yarraville Seddon had a big win in the Western Football League women’s competition on Friday night, Facing North Sunshine, the Eagles jumped out of the blocks in the first quarter and were able to build throughout on the win to a 27.22 (184)-1.0 (6) win. The Suns also came away with the points, beating West Footscray on Saturday. The Suns did the damage in the middle two quarters to win, 3.4 (22)-1.2 (8). Parkside Spurs pushed Caroline Springs but couldn’t get the job done. There was just one goal in it heading into the final break before the Lakers kicked three final quarter goals to seal the 7.6 (48)-3.5 (23) win.
Premier Cricket
time before five goals from the Vikings in the second quarter opened up a 14 point lead.
The margin was back to four points heading into the final quarter.
The first five scores of the final quarter were all points as neither team could find an advantage.
The Woodsmen finally found the first goal of the final quarter through Oliver Castro more than 22 minutes in to bring the margin back to one point.
That would be the final score of the game with the Vikings holding on to win, 9.8 (62)-9.7 (61).
Connor Bulley kicked three goals for the Vikings, with Will and Ethan Taylor named their best.
Elsewhere, Parkside proved no match for Caroline Springs.
After scores were level at quarter time, the Lakers kicked nine goals to two to come away with a 13.15 (93)-6.6 (42) win.
In division 2, North Footscray won the Footscray derby, Braybrook remains without a win after losing to Albanvale and Laverton got on the board against Tarneit.
Footscray has announced the signings of three players for the Victorian Premier Cricket season. Mikey Edwards comes across from Mernda where he had a breakout season, while Declan O’Brien has been playing for Spotswood in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association. Ashton Frost, who had been playing for Melbourne had made the move across.
VTCA
Gellibrand has announced Ben Coddington as captain-coach for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield season. Hailing from the United Kingdom and most recently Wimbledon, Coddington has completed stints at South Caulfield, Taylors Lakes and Druids in Melbourne. Gellibrand in its social media post said he brings with him a wealth of experience, both on and off the field.
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay
Jordan Lino. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 424321_39
Season over for Western United women
It’s season over for Western United in the A-League Women after being knocked out in the opening round of finals.
Adelaide United secured its spot in the semifinalwithahardfought1-0elimination win against Western.
Western United unleashed 22 shots to six inSunday’smatchatCoopersStadium,butit was Adelaide defender Matilda McNamara’s header from a corner in the 24th minute that proved the difference.
Adelaide was lively in the first half of Sunday’s do-or-die match, with Emily Condon’s early strike well saved, before McNamara gave the hosts the lead. It could have been 2-0, but Lucia Leon’s 34th-minute shot from just inside the box hit the post.
At the other end, stat Western striker Chloe Berryhill (nee Logarzo) also struck the woodwork just before half-time.
Western pushed hard for an equaliser in the second half but couldn’t find a way through.
ItisthesecondseasoninarowthatWestern
United bombed out in an elimination final.
“Itwasjustoneofthosedaysprettymuch,”
United midfielder Catherine Zimmerman said.
“I’m pretty proud of how we played. We battled and we created a lot of chances, we just couldn’t score.”
Meanwhile, Western had a 1-0 win against Sydney FC in the men’s competition, to dint Sydney’s finals chances. A controversial fourth-minute goal to Western winger
Matthew Grimaldi was all that separated the teams in Sunday’s match at Ironbark Fields.
United (44 points) moved to third spot, just one point adrift of second-placed Melbourne City with a game against premiers plate winners Auckland to round out their regular-season campaign.
The situation is perilous for Sydney, who need a win or a draw against Melbourne City at AAMI Park next Saturday to secure sixth place.
If Sydney fails in its task, Adelaide will secure a finals berth.
That match also looms as critical for Western United, given a Melbourne City loss or draw would give them a chance to steal second spot and an AFC Champions League Elite berth.
Western coach John Aloisi was pleased with how his team bounced back from defeats to Western Sydney and Brisbane Roar.
“It was a tough game. We knew it wouldn’t be easy. Sydney needed at least a point to secure finals,” Aloisi said.
“I thought defensively we were good, not only the back four, but everyone.
“We scored a really good goal. I’m really pleased with the players because it’s been a tough week.
“We just wanted to make sure we got back to winning ways.
“We want to try to see if we can finish as high as possible. We know we’re only one point away from City now.
“Hopefully Auckland are still celebrating (their premiers plate trophy).”
Falcons are clear on top
By Tara Murray
The City West Falcons are the only undefeated team left in the Victorian Netball League after a commanding performance in the top of the table clash.
The Falcons and Boroondara Express both entered Wednesday’s grand final rematch undefeated.
It was the Falcons in front at every break on the way to a 72-56 win.
Falcons coach Marg Lind was pretty happy with how they played.
“I thought they did really well,” she said. “Boroondara is a really strong side and I thought they had lots of variations and they threw all of them at us.
“Credit to us for adapting and I think that is where we did well. We did a lot of homework on them, I think that paid off a bit.
“We knew that we would only play them once in the rounds, so we wanted to have a good hit out.”
Lind said she thought they didn’t waste the ball a lot and were really solid in attack.
She said the defenders adapted really well, especially after the Express brought Zanna Woods onto the court.
Charity Nasalio, the one new addition to the Falcons this season, was outstanding at goalkeeper.
Lind said she just fits in really well with the other girls.
“Has a great relationship with the other girls and is so committed,” she said. “A lot fitter when we first saw her come from New Zealand.
“She has just fitted in beautifully and is a good person too. I think that shows on the court too, really trusting.
“I can’t believe she’s able to pinpoint someone in the mid third in transition with just two hands.”
The Falcons got the win with only nine players available.
Lucia Fauonuku missed the game through illness.
Jane Cook was also unwell but managed to get on the court and still shoot 64 goals from 67 attempts.
The other thing that pleased Lind was the intensity of the group from start to finish.
“Chasing loose balls,” she said. “I think Maggie [Lind] chased one over here, Sophie [Hanrahan] chased one over there.
“Charity, Liv Cameron. We did a few drills on desperation the last couple of weeks, so that has paid off.”
ItwasagoodnightfortheFalconswiththeir 23 and unders getting back on the winners list, with a 58-46 win.
Sussi Liai (Grant Treeby/Netball Victoria)
Outside of a slow start to the second quarter the Falcons dominated the contest.
Among the highlights, Imogen Sexton made her debut, shooting 19 goals. Sexton, who is 16, has come through the pathways at Altona.
The Falcons changed things up in the win
CYs on the board
Williamstown CYMS has broken through for its first ever win in the VictorianAmateurFootballAssociation women’s premier season.
After being promoted the top flight weeks out from the season, the CYs started the season with a couple of tough results.
It was a different feeling on Saturday astheyhadaconvincingwinagainstthe Old Yarra Cobras.
The CYs kicked four goals to none in the first quarter and it was game over at half time with the side leading 61-0.
TheCYscouldn’tcontinuethescoring pace in the second half but still won the last two quarters to come away with a 12.11 (83)-2.0 (12) win.
Alessia Acquaro kicked six goals in the best on ground performance for the CYs.
Krystal Russell was strong on debut, while Marli Russell also had a strong game.
The CYs will be aiming for a second win on Sunday against MUWFC, which is yet to have a victory this year.
Meanwhile, Williamstown CYMS got its second win of the men’s premier B season on Saturday.
Facing Fitzroy, the CYs came away with the win, 11.9 (75)-13 (55).
After trailing by one point at quarter time, the CYS held a two goal lead at the nexttwobreaksbeforefinishingoffwith a three to one goal final quarter.
William Bokma and Will Smyth kicked three goals each for the CYs.
The pair along with Jordan Busuttil, who was an emergency for Essendon’s Victorian Football League side, were named their best.
The CYs face Old Ivanhoe this Saturday.
with Lani Fauonuku moving from goal attack to goal defence, with Lind saying she had a red hot crack go in defence.
The Falcons have another test this week, taking on the Blaze that is top four in both competitions.
Alessia Acquaro. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403543_32
-With AAP Melissa Taranto. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Father and daughter pull off Stawell dream run
John Hilditch has won a couple of events at the Stawell Gift race meet before, but nothing will cap this year’s event.
John claimed the masters over-35 300 metre event as he competed in his 39th Stawell event. Alongside him in the final was his daughter, Laura-Jane Hilditch, who finished fourth in the race.
John said it was a pretty special day for the family.
“It was excellent and I’m ecstatic,” he said. “For the last four to five years I’ve had chronic injuries and didn’t think I would be winning races again.
“I won at Bendigo a month ago and pulled up sore. I just kept on running. It made it special with her in the final.
“I did get emotional in the speech.”
John has raced at Stawell every year since he moved to Australia.
He said it’s like the grand final day of
athletics and you always look forward to the event.
“To win there, you have to be on your game,” he said.
Laura returned to Stawell for the first time since 2019 having had twins in between then and now.
Laurawasthefirstofthepairtowinthrough to the final after winning her semi final.
“I’ve been going to Stawell my whole life,” she said. “It was my fourth ever final and to make the final with dad.
“I didn’t expect to do that.”
John watched on and thought that his daughter had done a really good time in her semi final. He didn’t think that he could match it.
In the end he went 0.1 second slower to win and make it through to the final.
The pair had only raced in a final together once before. On that occasion, John tore his
hamstring, “trying to catch her”.
There would be no repeat this time with John taking home the honours.
“She was fastest after the heats and I was second fastest,” he said. “I was nervous.
“There was part of me that thought she would win. There was another guy in front of us and the last little but I got in front of them.”
Both John and Laura said the weekend was the highlight of their running careers.
“Racing with my daughter and getting the win was amazing.”
Laura added, “both of us making the final was such a surprise.
“Just making the final was massive. I thought when dad got going, he had the win. It’s our best Stawell in a long time.”
John, who is also a coach, had two of his athletes win races as well.
Martin’s cricketing world
By Peter Howe
Asaleftarmslowbowlerandright-handbatter, this month’s Don Deeble nominee could be excused for being confused.
“It was just a natural happening that I didn’t think too much about to be honest,” reflects Jackson Martin.
Martin was always destined to pick up a bat and ball following his father, Dave and grandfather, Peter’s footsteps.
“I played Milo cricket as a four-or five-year-old, had a crack at playing footy until under-14s and I quite enjoy a game of golf, but I begged dad every week to let me play cricket.”
Martin was selected in the Caroline Springs under-11 team as a six-year-old and quickly progressed to playing senior open age as an 11-year-old in the fourths. Martin wanted more; he needed to be challenged.
“I took the opportunity to move to the Yarraville Club Cricket Club where the coach Mitch Johnstone allowed me to play senior cricket,” he said. “Bowling is my strength, but my batting is improving all the time. I made my senior debut in the VTCA [Victorian Turf Cricket Association] when I was 12 years old.”
Covid interrupted his cricket, but he played two full seasons in the seniors following the break and took 25 wickets in his last season with YCCC. “I was lucky to be scouted by a few Premier district clubs including Footscray, Melbourne and Carlton but I chose Essendon because of their coaching staff and getting to learn from the best.”
Martin played in the second XI last season at the Bombers. Martin has been part of Cricket Victoria’s pathway program since he was 10.
AsastudentatMaribyrnongSportsAcademy, he has a rigorous training regime. Three gym sessions a week at school that includes weights, strengthandrunningcoupledwithnetsessions with cricket coach, Leigh Holmes and then premier cricket training.
Martin gives much of the credit for his improvement to Johnstone who started mentoring him when he was 10 and by the time Martin was 13 they were premiership teammates, winning the senior division VTCA premiership. Leigh Holmes, cricket coach at MSA has been equally important in Martin’s development, spending hours with him developing his cricket skills. Both men continue mentoring Martin.
Martin was selected in the School Sport Australia cricket tournament for 2024-25 playing for Victoria in the 15 and under team.
In January, he returned to the Dowling Shield where most of the best young under-16 cricketers in Victoria compete representing
premier cricket clubs.
Martin was back playing for Essendon, where he had an outstanding tournament, being the third highest run scorer making 236 runs and taking 16 wickets. His best match for the tournament was against Northcote taking 6-35 and making 87 not out. He was named joint Dowling Shield most valuable player at the Cricket Victoria awards in early April.
It’snotsurprising,Martin’scricketingheroes are spinners.
“Shane Warne is my cricket hero,” he said. “He was a brilliant strategist and mentally strong. The most amazing opportunity I’ve had as a cricketer was bowling in the nets to the Australian team before the Boxing Day test last year. “I bowled to Steve Smith for two hours, Meeting Nathan Lyon was amazing.”
Martin is still learning his craft and had the opportunity to go to India last year and will get
Tough hit out for Seagulls
Williamstown’s early season struggles continued in the Victorian Football League, while its women’s side couldn’t match it with the reigning premiers on the weekend.
Both Williamstown sides were in action on Anzac Day in massive clashes.
The men’s side headed to Melbourne Airport Avalon Airport to face a Werribee side, which also had a 1-3 record.
The Tigers jumped out to a 16 point lead at quarter time before the Seagulls controlled the middle two quarters to lead by seven points heading into the final quarter
Werribee kicked the first two goals of the last quarter after it took 14 minutes for either team to kick a major in that quarter.
The teams then went goal for goal before the Tigers finished the match with the final two goals to seal a 12.7 (79)-8.11 (59) win
Lachie Gollant kicked four goals on debut for the Seagulls, while Brodie McLaughlin kicked two goals.
Toby Triffett and Riley Collier-Dawkins had 25 disposals each.
The loss sees the Seagulls slip to 1-4.
Earlier in the day, the Seagulls women’s side faced reigning premiers North Melbourne Werribee at Arden Street.
Having beaten the other grand finalist, the Western Bulldogs, the week before, the Seagulls were up for the challenge early.
another shot this year. He will participate in a ten-day camp in Chennai.
“It’s another world watching and playing cricket over there. Pitches here are very batter friendly and as a bowler you really earn your wickets.”“Mygoalsaresimple. Makethesenior side playing premier cricket for Essendon, be selected in the Cricket Victoria under-17 championship team. Long term, it would be amazing to play for Victoria and my ultimate dream is to play for Australia.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly.
If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.
They kicked the only goal at quarter time and trailed by one point at the main break.
While the Kangaroos increased the lead in the third quarter, it was still a gettable nine points at the final break.
The Kangaroos kicked the only goal of the final quarter to seal the 6.8 (44)-4.1 (25) win.
It was single goalkickers for the Seagulls. Emily Eaves had 21 possessions.
The Bulldogs got on the winners list with a victory against the Darebin Falcons.
The Bulldogs did the damage early, leading 26-0 at quarter time and were never headed.
Tara Murray Laura-Jane and John Hilditch. (Karl Meyer Photography)
Jackson Martin. (Supplied)
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