Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 27th May 2025

Recycling reaps rewards

Braybrook College has been named a finalist in 2025 ResourceSmart Schools Awards.

A winner in two categories in 2023, Braybrook College has this year been nominated in the Container Deposit Scheme Vic (CDS Vic) Excellence Award for its recycling efforts.

A green team of Braybrook College student volunteers have worked together to collect recycled containers in dedicated bright red recycling bins.

After encountering some initial issues with contamination, the students were able to solve these problems through education and raising awareness.

The school also worked together to implement one student’s proposal to replace the end-of-year skip with detailed waste-stream drop points.

The recycling initiative has united the school community in reducing landfill waste, offering financial incentives and enjoyable activities. Regardless of whether they win or not, Braybrook College students plan to spend the rest of 2025 establishing more permanent collection systems and addressing all co-mingled waste items.

Budget windfall

By Tara Murray

Brimbankwasoneofthebigwinnersinthe statebudget,withroadandpublictransport fundingflowingtothemunicipality.

Twelve months after funding was scrappedfromthestatebudgetforupgrades on the Calder Freeway, the project is back onthecards.

The state government announced the 2025-26 budget would include funding for a new interchange between the Calder FreewayandCalderParkDrive.

The funding is part of $1.2 billion announced for 19 projects in partnership with the federal government to upgrade roadsacrossgrowingsuburbsinVictoria.

Brimbank council said the state government would contribute $50 million,

with $250 million already committed by thefederalgovernment.

Calder Action Group president Russell Mowatt said the group welcomed any investmentintheCalderFreeway.

“It’s important … that this project be implemented quickly as a policy that resonated with voters during the federal campaign,” he said. “We particularly appreciate the promised $300 million joint federal and state funding for the Calder Park Drive-Calder Freeway Interchange, a project that aligns with our organisation’s goals to improve local infrastructure and supportcommunitydevelopment.”

Thefundingfollowsthestategovernment announcing it would partner with the federal government to build a transport superhubinSunshine.

The budget also contained money for a new bus connecting Cairnlea with Deer Park, while there will be upgrades and extensions for bus routes connecting Watergardens station with Caroline Springs town centre and Hillside, and a new bus route 464 to service growing suburbs of Hillside, Deanside, Fraser Rise andAintree.

Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershankwelcomedthefundingformore bus services but said the network changes were“piecemeal”.

“While we welcome these additional services, the government must commit to a comprehensive reform of bus routes and frequencies across the western and north-westernsuburbs,”hesaid.

“There are still major public transport

blackholes across the region requiring extensiveserviceimprovements.

“The only way to reduce congestion on roadsinthewestistodeliverqualitypublic transport, and we know that bus services can be rolled out fast without the need to buildnewinfrastructure.”

There was also $8.9 million to upgrade shared user paths in Taylors Lakes, Sydenham and Hillside and $500,000 to installroadsafetysignageatthreelocations alongTaylorsRoadinKeilorDowns.

Other projects to receive funding included the Vietnamese Museum Australia in Sunshine, toilet upgrades at Mackellar Primary School, planning for upgrades at St Albans Primary School and electronic scoreboards at Hillside Football ClubandWesternSuburbsSoccerclub.

Student recycling volunteers Ari, Ivy, Drake, Asha and Isabella from Braybrook College. (Damjan Janevski) 475239_03

STAY INFORMED

Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Help stop illegal dumping

Illegal dumping comes at a huge cost to our community. There are simple ways we can all help:

1.Claim your hard rubbish pick-ups and Recycling Facility visits

Residents are eligible for two hard waste collections or two drop offs at the Melton Recycling Facility (or a combination of each) each financial year. Waste entitlements for 2024/25 expire on 30 June.

2.Report dumped rubbish

If you see dumped rubbish report it via Council’s website or by phone and we’ll get a crew out to clean it up as soon as possible.

3.Dob in a dumper

If you witness someone dumping rubbish or have found dumped rubbish containing ID report them to Council via our website or by phone.

For information on how to claim collections or drop-offs or how to report illegal dumping, visit melton.vic.gov.au/dumping or call 9747 7200.

Join Melton Conversations

Council currently has several consultations open for community feedback on our City of Melton Conversations page.

This is an opportunity for you to provide your thoughts on a range of Council projects and activities. You can sign up to the page to receive updates on new and currently open consultations. Visit conversations.melton.vic.gov.au

King’s Birthday operating hours

Our offices will be closed on Monday 9 June. This includes City of Melton Libraries and the Animal Pound. There is no change to kerbside bin collections, so please put your bin out Sunday night for Monday collection.

The Melton Recycling Facility is open 8am - 4.30pm. For information, to report an issue and pay online via our website: melton.vic.gov.au

Coolibah Ward with Cr Brandi Morris

Like much of our City, Coolibah Ward is currently experiencing significant growth, so Council is committed to ensuring development and infrastructure delivery is balanced with the preservation of our natural environment.

Upgrades are planned for Exford Road to improve traffic flow and safety. The Greigs Road intersection project is currently in the design phase, with community consultation to follow once designs are finalised. Consultation for upgrades between Wilson Road and Northcott Street are now complete, with works—including roundabouts, pedestrian signals, and improved paths—scheduled to begin in early 2026. Learn more at conversations.melton.vic.gov.au

Our community is home to significant natural assets including Long Forest Nature Conservation Reserve, Melton Weir, and Eynesbury’s Grey Box Forest—one of the largest

– Visit

surviving woodlands of its kind in Victoria. Council wants your feedback on how to better protect these spaces and encourage you to have your say by completing a short survey on conversations.melton.vic.gov.au or attending a drop-in session.

Residents are reminded that waste entitlements for 2024/25 expire on 30June. Households are entitled to two hard waste collections or two trips to the Melton Recycling Facility or one of each, per financial year. If you haven’t used your waste entitlements yet, be sure to book in a hard waste collection online or head to the Melton Recycling Facility where many household items, including cardboard, eWaste, paint and chemicals, can be dropped off at no cost. For more information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/waste

Feel free to contact me regarding Coolibah Ward or Council related issues on 0418 999 577 or email: Brandi.Morris@melton.vic.gov.au

Council has just kicked-off a campaign to tackle illegal rubbish dumping in our City. We have already spent over $3 million this financial year on cleaning up rubbish, money that could have been better spent elsewhere in our community.

A lot of the items that have been dumped could have been taken for free to our new recycling centre or even donated to the resale shop. Residents are eligible for two hard waste pick-ups or two visits to the Melton Recycling Facility each financial year and our disposal fees are lower than other areas across Melbourne’s west –there are really no excuses. You can help by disposing of rubbish responsibly and reporting any illegal rubbish dumping you see to Council. We all play a part in helping to keep our City clean.

The State Budget was handed down last week and it was great to see continued investment in the Melton Hospital and Melton TAFE, two transformational projects for our growing community. It was also pleasing to see investment in transport including continued funding for the upgrade of the Melton rail line and improvements to the bus network, something we have been advocating strongly for.

Finally, I am excited to see the Cobblebank Community Services Hub move to its next stage with the construction contract now awarded. This exciting Council-led project will provide important health, wellbeing and education services for our community and I’m thrilled to see it progressing.

You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Steve.Abboushi@melton.vic.gov. au or on 0437 231 680.

Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi Deputy Mayor Cr Lara Carli Cr Kathy Majdlik Cr Brandi Morris Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon Cr Bob Turner Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

John Verdon

Dr Phillip Zada

Strategy to attract visitors

By Laura Michell

Brimbank residents are being encouraged to have their say on a new plan aimed at attracting tourists to the city.

The draft visitor economy strategy was adopted by councillors during the May 20 council meeting.

Thestrategyaimstoattractmorevisitors to Brimbank, increase the economic impact of the visitor economy, implement co-ordinated destination marketing activities across the city, enhance the visitor experience and improve perceptions and enhance community pride.

It strives to market Brimbank as a ‘place ofplaces’andaimstoharnessthepowerof residents in marketing the area.

A report to the council meeting said that as a collective, Brimbank was not as recognisable as its constituent neighbourhoods.

“The individual character and strength of Sunshine CBD and adjacent hubs requires a ‘place of places’ marketing approach,” the report stated.

“Brimbank’s multicultural residents and business owners are a key asset, providing or supporting experiences such as community events that boost visitor dwell time in Brimbank. The strategy

recommends harnessing and amplifying their role within tourism attractions and marketing.”

Councillor Virginia Tachos said the ‘place of places’ tagline could not be more appropriate.

“We are the meeting of 170 different cultures to come and call home,” she said.

“This will create opportunities for us all to show our biggest assets – our people, as well as our cuisine.

“I would also like to herald the fact that you can still get a bánh mì for under $10 in St Albans which is near impossible.

“At the same time you can visit organ pipes which is over 17 million years old.

Farrar’s world basketball dreams

Caroline Springs’ Matthew Farrar is keen to defend his world title with the Australian Boomerangs, but he needs yourhelp.

Farrar, who was part of the Boomerangs team two years when it won gold, has again been selected to represent Australia at the Virtus World Championships in Kazakhstan later thisyear.

The Boomerangs are the men’s national basketball team for athletes withanintellectualimpairment.

Farrar said it’s a great feeling to be partoftheteam.

“It’s always a privilege to represent your country,” he said. “Now I’ve taken onaleadershiprole.

“It’s exciting. I am confident we can go back-to-back as we have a few new younger players making up for the loss ofsomeexperiencedplayers.”

Farrar said that he was expecting himselfandtheteamtoperformasbest astheycanandleavenothingoutthere.

“We have been trying to be as professionalaswecantoperformatour best.”

Farrar, who is currently playing basketball at Ballarat, said one day he would love the opportunity to play professionallyoverseas.

Farrarhaspreviouslysaidthehardest thing with dealing with his impairment isthatattimesitmaytakehimlongerto process new things if there are multiple instructions.

There is limited funding available for Boomerangs players to travel overseas, so a gofundme page has been set up for Farrar.

Details:https://gofund.me/f7c4ab19

To have that within 10 minutes of each other, you wouldn’t get it anywhere else in Victoria.”

The draft strategy also aims plan for the impactofMelbourneAirportRailLinkand Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) on visitation to Brimbank.

Deputy mayor Victoria Borg said airport rail and SRL would be a “golden opportunity” for Brimbank and its visitor economy.

“Brimbank is quite unique and needs to be considered as a place of places among other things,” she said.

The draft strategy will be open for community feedback for four weeks.

Men’s health a focus of project

Brimbank council is aiming to improve men’s engagement with local services and to challenge the stigma that often prevents themfromspeakingupandseekinghelp.

The council has launched the Brimbank Men’s Health Project which will include a variety of programs, workshops and events focused on men’s health that are held throughouttheyear.

International Men’s Health Week is celebrated every year around the world in themiddleofJune.

It is an opportunity to highlight the importanceofmen’shealth,andtopromote and support the health and wellbeing of menandboysinourcommunities.

From June 9-15, at Brimbank libraries andneighbourhoodhousestherearerange of free and accessible events focused on men’shealth.

Men’s Health Week focuses on not just physical health, but also men’s mental healthandemotionalwellbeing.

Activates include seminars, information sessions.

There will be a men’s health day event on June 12 from 11am with special guest Ben Price, which will emphasise fun, health and wellbeing activities and offer a range services including, health checks, information stalls, hearing check bus, council services, local health services, massage service, barber service, barista service,soupkitchen,sausagesizzle,prizes, men’sshedtourandwoodworkdisplay.

Details:https://tinyurl.com/3ht3utw8

Ex-Lib leader John Pseutto ordered to pay Moira Deeming $2.3m

By Callum Goode, AAP

Ousted state Liberal leader John Pesutto has been ordered to pay $2.3 million in costs after he was found to have defamed first-termMPMoiraDeeming.

Federal Court registrar Alison Legge made the cost ruling on Friday after Mr Pesutto’s lawyers sought details on Mrs Deeming’s crowdfunding efforts and a loanfromapropertydeveloper.

“Itisuncontroversialthatthepurposeofa costorderisnottopunishtheunsuccessful party,“MsLeggesaid.

“The purpose, no more and no less, is to

compensate the successful party for the costshehasreasonablyornotunreasonably incurredintheproceeding.

“I have determined that monies gifted or lent to Ms Deeming to assist her to meet her legal costs of the proceeding are not relevant to my determination and neither displace nor offset the quantum of her entitlementtocosts.“

In December, Federal Court Justice David O’Callaghan found Mr Pesutto had defamed Mrs Deeming by implying she was associated with neo-Nazis who gatecrashed a controversial Melbourne rallysheattended.

He ordered Mr Pesutto pay her $315,000 on top of her legal costs for the case, which MsLeggecalculatedtobe$2,308,873,11.

The scale of the costs ruling raises questionsabouttheHawthornMP’sability to fulfil the order and MPs’ eligibility to sit in Victorian parliament if they declare bankruptcy.

Mr Pesutto’s barrister Daryl Williams KC sought a stay of 21 or 28 days on his clientpayingthelumpsumtoallowhimto considerareviewoftheregistrar’sdecision.

Mrs Deeming’s barrister Sue Chrysanthou SC opposed the move, with the court expected to return on Friday

afternoontodealwiththeissue.

The Herald Sun reports Mr Pesutto has been in discussions with the Cormack Foundation, a multimillion-dollar investment group for the Liberal Party, to coverhislegalcosts.

After losing the defamation trial, Mr Pesutto lost the leadership in a spill and Mrs Deeming was welcomed back to the partyroom. His replacement Brad Battin indicated thepartywasn’tpreparingforaby-election in Hawthorn and said it was up to the secretariattodecidewhethertobailoutMr Pesutto.

Brimbank is marking International Men’s Health week. (Supplied)

Matthew Farrar. (Supplied)

A tough market for renters

Brimbank has among the most affordable properties for people to rent on the minimum wage, but its tough reading for households on income support a new report has revealed.

Anglicare Victoria’s 2025 rental affordability snapshot shows the increasing struggle people with low income sources have to find rental accommodation.

The report looks at available rental properties, which measures their affordability for people receiving minimum wage or relying on income support payments.

In Brimbank, the percentage of listings of affordable and appropriate households on the minimum wage was the third most in Metropolitan.

Of the 968 properties listed during the reportingperiod,394or40.7percentwere deemed affordable.

Thatwasanincreaseof177propertiesin the previous 12 months.

Melton had clearly the most affordable properties, with 1152 properties out of 1602, or 71.9 per cent were seen as affordable.

For households receiving at least one sort of income support or a pension it’s

slim pickings.

Only 0.2 per cent of houses or just two from 968 properties were affordable in Brimbank.

Melton also only had 0.2 per cent properties available..

Anglicare Victoria chief executive Paul McDonald said for people getting by on support payments it was almost impossible to secure a property.

According to this year’s data there are no available rentals in the state that are affordable for singles on Youth Allowance or JobSeeker.

“After decades of under-investment,

Flu shot warning as temperatures chill

As winter approaches, Western Health is warning about a rise in flu and other respiratory illnesses and urging residents in the western suburbs to get vaccinated.

This year, there’s extra concern due to the combined risk of the flu, RSV and whooping cough, with flu cases already on the rise.

According to Western Health, there’s been 3356 flu cases in the western suburbs as of May 10, an 82 per cent increase on the 1849 cases recorded to the same point last year.

Western Health director Dr Finn Romanes said vaccines were the best way to protect yourself and your family.

“Vaccinationisstillthebestdefencewe have against getting seriously sick over the coming months,” said Dr Romanes, adding that getting young children vaccinated was especially important.

“Children under five risk serious illness from the flu. A flu vaccine is the best way to protect your child.”

Thefluvaccineisfreeforchildrenaged six months to under five.

Dr Romanes said pregnant women

were also at higher risk of getting very sick from respiratory illnesses and recommended they get vaccinated for flu, RSV and whooping cough.

“These vaccines help stop serious illness in the mother and give the baby some protection in their first few months.”

Older people are another cohort at increasedriskfromrespiratoryillnesses, with Dr Romanes recommending those aged 65 to 74 get a flu and covid vaccine every year and those aged 75 and older get a covid booster every six months.

Victoria has the lowest proportion of social housing in the country,” he said.

“Over 65,000 Victorians are currently on the public housing waiting list. The number of young people under the age of 25 on the waitlist is growing, as is the number of those waiting for housing that are fleeing family violence.

“The fact is, we need at least 60,000 new social housing properties over the next decade to meet demand. Right now we are seriously lagging and every day more people are being left behind.”

The report also stated there was a high level of homelessness in Brimbank.

superhub

More details have been released about plans to fast track the Sunshine station superhub.

The state government announced in the lead up to the state budget that it would allocate $4 billion towards the Sunshine station redevelopment – bringing forward $2 billion of the government’s investment in Airport Rail – to kickstart works as soon as possible. According to the budget papers the work is expected to begin on the superhub in 2026 and be completed by 2030.

The project will also deliver a new modern Albion station, funded by the state government.

Laverton MP Sarah Connolly said the SunshineStationSuperhubwilluntangle a complex section of the rail network around Sunshine station.

The work will span more than six kilometres of track from West Footscray to Albion, including two new dedicated regional platforms and an extended station concourse.

Three new rail bridges, new and upgraded tracks, new signalling technology, and realigned passenger and freight lines will also be delivered. Once complete, the works will enable more than 40 trains to travel through Sunshine station every hour and will create better connections for people travelling to the city and regional Victoria.

Theseworksareanimportantprecursor totheconstructionofMelbourneAirport Rail.

They will also prepare the station for future upgrades to the rail network in Melbourne’s west, paving the way for more train services for the growing communities of Melton and Wyndham Vale.

Group encourages men to reach out for prostate cancer support

With Australian Men’s Health Week fast approaching, the Victorian Council of Prostate Cancer Support Groups is encouraging those living with prostate cancer to consider joining a support group.

According to the organisation, too few men know that support groups exist and areoftennotmadeawareoftheimportant role support groups can play – with 70 men in Australia diagnosed each day.

One of these groups, the Melmarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group (PCSG), offers men an opportunity to share their experiences with each other, which president and secretary Rhonda Weir said “really does help” members.

“I became involved through my husband being diagnosed with prostate

cancer, and he wouldn’t talk to anybody.

I saw the ad for group in the local paper, I rang up, and I went along too because he wouldn’t have gone by himself,” Ms Weir said.

“If you joined a support group, that is what it is for – for support. It is not just for the men, it is for the partners as well. We have many partners and wives who come to our meetings which is really great,” she said.

MsWeirsaidthatsheisawarethatmany men who do not want to talk about their diagnosis – especially with new people.

She said that once her husband – who later died with prostate cancer, but not from it – began attending meetings with the Melmarsh PCSG, he did begin to talk about his condition with his sons and

The

the first Thursday of each month, and if

friends in another group he belonged to.

group meets at the Melton South Community Centre from 12.30 to 2pm on

you would like to enquire about joining, you can contact Ms Weir on 0411 264 166.

Melmarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group members Wayne Evans, John Gausden, Doug Milne, and president and secretary Rhonda Weir. (Oscar Parry)

Emergency doctor at Footscray Hospital, Dr Rachel Lind, gets a flu vaccine from nurse and immunisation coordinator, Kabita Dhamala. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 477500_01

Top citizens recognised

Dr Ashima Soni has received Brimbank’s highest honour being named Brimbank CitizenoftheYearattheWeAreBrimbank awards.

Held on Thursday night, the annual awards recognise the exceptional contributions, innovation and determination of individuals, organisations,volunteers,andcommunity groups making a positive difference to the communityinBrimbank.

Dr Soni was recognised as Citizen of the Year for her role as a dedicated senior clinical psychologist with more than 14 yearsofexperience,specialisinginanxiety, depression,andstressmanagement.

Passionate about community wellbeing, Dr Soni is committed to empowering

those facing family violence and perinatal challenges, particularly within culturally diversecommunities.

BillyChenwasnamedtheYoungCitizen oftheYear.

ChenisamemberoftheVictorianYouth Congress, the Western Chances STAR committee, and a former Brimbank youth councilchair.

He is described as a dedicated young leader committed to improving outcomes forhislocalcommunity.

“Billy is passionate about ensuring that young people in Brimbank have the same opportunities as their peers across Victoria,”Brimbankcouncilsaid.

Julian Reynolds won the new mayoral appreciationaward.

The award is a special commendation bestowed upon one We Are Brimbank award nominee, hand-picked by the Brimbankmayor,toberecognisedfortheir outstanding contribution to the city and community.

MayorThuyDangexpressedherheartfelt gratitude for Julian’s ongoing work to keep Brimbankbeautiful,cleanandfreeoflitter and rubbish, which has been especially appreciatedascouncilandthecommunity worktogethertotackledumpedrubbish.

Other award winners were Aunty Lee-Anne Clarke, who won the arts, culture or tourism award, Albion Primary School, which won the environment or sustainability award, Dance 4 All which won the sports and wellbeing award and

Helping Hands Mission which won the communitygroupoftheyearaward2025.

StAlbans,StAlbansHeights,Stevensville and Deer Park North primary schools won thecommunityengagementaward.

Cr Dang congratulated all the winners andnominees.

“We celebrate your vision, creativity, hardwork,anddetermination,“shesaid. “Brimbank is a better place to live, work andplay,thankstoyourefforts.

“This year’s We Are Brimbank Award winners have displayed outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to their community, our city and our environment. They have contributed to a stronger, healthier, happier, and more connectedBrimbank.”

Doutta Galla offers permanent residential and respite care across seven convenient locations in Melbourne’s West, with comfortable retirement living in Moonee Ponds.

If you’re looking for quality, affordable aged care close to home, call us on 9680 3300 or visit us at www.dgas.org.au

Left: Brimbank deputy mayor Victoria Borg, Mayoral Appreciation Award winner Julian Reynolds and mayor Thuy Dang.

Right: Award winners Alyshia Clarke, Aunty Lee-Anne Clarke, Dr Ashima Soni, Billy Chen, Jaswinder Kaur, Marta Makkai, Hung Bui, Danielle Tomlinson, Kelly Pudge, and Melanie Gill. (Pictures: Supplied)

Volunteers are the heart of our communities, and their contributions are vital in times of need

- Mark Pearce

Giving thanks to volunteers

National Volunteer Week, from May 19–25, is Australia’s largest volunteering recognition event. It aims to draw attention to the crucial role played by volunteers. Oscar Parry spoke with AMES Australia Footscray Centre volunteer Federico Ferrari about his volunteering experience and what he has enjoyed most about a voluntary role.

According to Volunteering Australia, aboutsixmillionpeopleinAustralia volunteer through an organisation, and there are millions more who do so informallyintheirlocalcommunity.

Thisyear,thethemeofNational Volunteer Week is ‘Connected Communities’ –a theme especially familiar to AMES Australia Footscray Centre Humanitarian Settlement Program volunteer Federico Ferrari.

Mr Ferrari moved to Australia in 2007, firstonaworkingholidayasachefandlater becomingacitizen.

Working as a chef until the beginning of the Covid pandemic, he said that he decided to “reinvent” himself and start a new career in community service, where he discovered and began volunteering withAMES.

Using his experience as a migrant and his experiences travelling, Mr Ferrari volunteers to support newly arrived refugees to learn English and how to navigate public transport, access services and “generally [navigate] a new and unfamiliarcountry”.

“It’s also about helping people deal with the bureaucracy, acquiring language and [identifying] the skills they will require. There’s an emotional side to the support we provide. As a migrant myself, I can sympathise with some of the things our clientsaregoingthrough,”MrFerrarisaid.

“My experience as a migrant helps me, although my circumstances are different in that I chose to leave my homeland. The peopleweworkwithhadnochoice.”

He said the volunteering work is “very rewarding.”

“It is a good feeling to be able to make

a difference in people’s lives, and I get as muchoutofitasIputin,”hesaid.

“The way you are able to connect with people is really rewarding … it’s maybe a few hours … but I’m really recharged by it. I really feel satisfied, I really feel accomplished. The more that I do it, the more that I’m addicted to it. It’s a self-generatinggoodfeeling.”

Born in Italy, Mr Ferrari learnt English, French, Spanish, and some Arabic and Amharic through travelling, which he said hashelpedhimwithhisvolunteering.

He said that his familiarity with other countries and cultures helps him to connect with many of the people he supports.

“If you speak the language … they just become more comfortable … you’re able to develop and maintain a good relationship, the whole process of opening up … will

[lead] to a better service,” he said. “They aremorerelaxed,theyaremoreinclinedto explaintheircircumstances.”

Along with helping him to provide a better service, he said that “amazingly, I’m learning a little more of those languages also.”

Mr Ferrari said that some of the key challenges he helps people with include navigating the complexities of setting up services and accounts – for example, creating accounts, passwords, security questions, phone numbers – and helping them to locate the right services to address theirindividualneeds.

He said that other difficulties for people he works with include having their qualifications formally recognised in Australia – with these qualifications often beingrecognisedhereatalowerlevel.

“For them it’s frustrating, because they need to reengage in school … or study. That’sabigissue,”MrFerrarisaid.

Health is another, with many refugees’ physical and mental health affected by theirpast–forexample,spendingextensive timeinarefugeecamp.

“Housingis[another]bigproblem…they might not be fully eligible for [renting] and there’sashortageofhousing…inthepublic house sector and in the private [sector] … asweknow,thereisarentalcrisis.”

In terms of volunteering more broadly, Mr Ferrari said that there are many roles that require less time commitment, and thereareseveraltypesofvolunteering.

“You will be able to find something in your area that will help you shine, there willbeaspotforyou,”hesaid.

“I would recommend everyone who has some time to get out there and find

some spot to just give back a little back … there are really a lot of services and a lot of organisations that really struggle to just stay alive, so [volunteering] is really a key force for many organisations that wouldn’t …survivewithoutus.”

He said that collaborating with other people is a key part of volunteering, includinginhisrolewithAMES.

“Collaboration is essential, it’s all about networking and collaborating with everyone. Everyone kind of knows each other, so collaboration is very productive here,it’sveryhealthy.”

AccordingtoVolunteeringAustraliachief executive Mark Pearce, “in a year marked by natural disasters, rising cost-of-living pressures, and growing social challenges, the role of volunteers has never been more important.”

“Across Australia, volunteers have stepped up in countless ways – offering critical support during emergencies, helping people access food and essential services, strengthening community connections,andsupportinglocalevents,” MrPearcesaid.

“Volunteers are the heart of our communities, and their contributions are vitalintimesofneed.

“As volunteering continues to evolve, it’s essential that we recognise and support newwaysofgiving,ensuringthateveryone feels welcome and included in shaping a betterfutureforall.”

According to the organisation, research suggests that barriers preventing many from volunteering include lack of time due to work or study, family commitments, health issues, not being asked, and uncertaintyabouthowtogetinvolved.

AMES Australia Footscray Centre Humanitarian Settlement Program volunteer Federico Ferrari. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 478160_04

Meet your local police

Brimbank locals are invited to attend a local police forum to meet local police officers and discuss relevant issues.

The Victorian Police Neighbourhood Policing Forum welcomes local services and community members to talk with police about what issues are important in thelocalcommunity.

The forum will discuss topics such as current crime trends and crime prevention, family violence, young people, road policing; and drugs and drug related crime.

Local Area Commander Inspector Matthew Bui said it was a really good opportunitytogettoknowlocalpolice.

He said the previous forum had been a success.

Inspector Bui said there would be members with significant knowledge from

theBrimbankpolicingareaattheevent.

“We want residents to share information withusandwewelcomeasmanypeopleas possibletocometotheevent.”

“This is an opportunity to strengthen local partnerships by sharing information thatcanassistwithdecision-makinggoing forward,”hesaid.

Inspector Bui, who was appointed to the role in January, said they want to continue to strength local partnerships by sharing information that can assist with decision-making.

He said getting out and meeting the communitywasabigfocus.

The forum will be held on Wednesday, June 11, at Skylight (Club Italia Sunshine) from5.30-8.30pm.

Register: BRIMBANK-LAC.OIC@police. vic.gov.au

Grant application help Brimbank council is hosting a grants drop-in session for those wanting assistance with their grant application. Attendees will have the chance to meet one-on-one with a member of council’s community grants team. The session will be held at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine, in the Merrigan room, on Thursday, May 29, from 10am-noon. Details: brimbank. vic.gov.au

World Environment Day

Join Brimbank council at yaluk barring park, 540 Calder Freeway, Keilor North, on Saturday, May 31, to celebrate World Environment Day – a global call to action to protect our planet. The annual event unites millions of people from all corners of the globe to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. The park is Brimbank’s largest nature reserve and the celebrations will feature a special Wurundjeri On Country Experience. It’s on from 10am-12.30pm. Details: https://events.humanitix.com/worldenvironment-day-9gtmbxc2 FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Join

Local Area Commander Inspector Matthew Bui. (Damjan Janevski) 477625_05

Results revival for Vic Uni

By Cade Lucas

Victoria University’s (VU) finances have gone from red to black in the space of 12 months according to its annual report tabled in state parliament on May 13.

The western suburbs-based university recordedasurplusof$66.1million,an$84 million turnaround from the $18.1 million deficit recorded in 2023.

Of Victorian universities, only Swinburne, which recorded a profit of $71 million, achieved better financial results in 2024, with most others, including

Melbourne, Monash, Deakin, La Trobe and Federation recording significant deficits.

Thedrivingforcebehindtheturnaround wasVU’sitscontinuedgrowthinstudents, with 49,106 enrolled at the university in 2024, its highest number in more than a decade.

VU Chancellor and former Victorian Premier, Steve Bracks AC, attributed the result to the university’s unique teaching model.

“The VU Block Model® has gone from strength to strength and is certainly

one of the most important factors in our success,” said Mr Bracks of the teaching modelwherestudentsstudyonesubjectat a time in four week blocks.

Of VU’s enrolments, 37,000 were Higher Education (HE) students and 12,000 were in Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses.

Almost 70 per cent of VET students were fromthewesternsuburbs,whilejustunder half of HE students came from the area.

Early childhood education proved especiallypopular,withenrolmentsrising 4,000 in 2024, up from just 600 in 2020.

Support rolls in for young people

A busload of support is rolling into St Albanstwiceamonth.

ErringtonReservehoststheMelbourne Youth Bus on the second and fourth Fridayofeachmonth.

Volunteer Jamie Ramsey said the site was“rightintheheartofthecommunity, wherepeopleneeditmost”.

“It’s vital that it’s easily accessible. We havealotofpeoplewhodon’thaveaccess toprivatetransport,”hesaid.

“It provides a central point for people to collect resources and have a friendly chat.

“Six days of the week, people are just walkingstraightpastyou,notseeingyou.

“It’s beneficial to actually engage in conversationthat’snon-judgementaland empatheticandopen-minded.”

Thebusisyouth-focusedbutwelcomes allages.

Melbourne Youth Bus coordinator

Shaun Spiteri said many young homeless people left the city during covid, so the busfollowedthemintothesuburbsabout sixmonthsago.

Reports of drinking and other antisocial behaviour drew them to ErringtonReserve.

“It was a dead zone. There were skaters and a large drinking community,” Mr Spiterisaid.“Overtime,ourpresencehas

helpedwiththat.

“Thosepeoplearestillthere. “Theyjustnowhaveaplacewherethey caneatandhaveaconversation.”

Mr Spiteri said local volunteers had joined.

“That’s when things really changed,” hesaid.

“Weweren’tjust‘peoplefromthecity’. “It’sthecommunityliftingitselfup.

“Weprovidethebarbecueandthebus.

“The community members are the ones who are hanging around, having theconversations,havingthebarbecue.”

Visit melbourneyouthbus.com.au to donateorvolunteer.

Thereportalsohighlighteda$20million joint-commitment between VU and the state government to launch Australia’s first centre of excellence in paramedicine and a landmark partnership with Orygen, the Royal Melbourne Hospital and Parkville Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Service (PYMHWS) to launch anintegratedcaremodelatVU’sWerribee Campus.?

In research, the university climbed to one of its highest ever positions in the Times Higher Education Young University rankings, coming in at number 70.

Air quality grants are now open

Anewseriesofgrantsdesignedtoimprove airqualityinMelbourne’swesthavebeen announced by the state government.

The air quality improvement precinct grants will be drawn from a pool of about $1 million and will aim to support local solutions to reduce emissions from smoke, dust and other sources of air pollution.

It will serve as continuation of two previous grant rounds which focused on supporting local business in the west to reduce pollution output.

The grants are open to public schools, community groups, research institutions and businesses in Melton, Brimbank, Maribyrnong Hobsons Bay and Wyndham.

The grants will run in conjunction with the West Gate Tunnel project which will aim to remove 9000 trucks a day from local roads in the west.

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the program will allow local groups to come up with their own fixes.

“Extending the program means we can now also support schools, local councils and community groups, together with local business and industry to deliver initiatives that support improved air quality in Melbourne’s west,” he said.

“Whether installing dust sensors or planting vegetation barriers to block and capture dust, we encourage all kinds of innovative mitigations to ensure we improve air quality in our pollution hot spots.”

Details: environment.vic.gov.au/ grants/AQIP-grants-2025

American bison, Lakota, enters public life to an ‘epic’ reception

GuestsfromthewestareinvitedtoWerribee OpenRangeZootoseeaspecialmemberof thecrewthiswinter.

Lakota,a1000-kilogramAmericanbison, made the transition into public life last monthwhenhemovedhabitats.

He previously lived in an off public view habitat with his father, who recently died fromanage-relatedcondition.

Since joining 11 female bison at the zoo, he has been warmly accepted by members ofhisspecies.

“Thefemalesbarrelledovertohim–they all came together for the first time, there wasalotofcirclingofeachother,”savannah keeperKylieBawdensaid.

“Being animals that are very driven by smell, Lakota’s nostrils were the size

of tennis balls as he took in his new surroundings.

“This was followed by some really tender moments as their noses came together to greetoneanother.”

He is also quite revered by members of otherspecies.

“It is a beautiful thing to witness the migration of a majestic, one-tonne bison withamassivepresence,”MsBawdensaid, “It’squiteepic!”

Lakota’sintroductiontothefemaleherdis notforbreeding–ashisgeneticsarealready well represented in the region - but to supporthiswelfarethroughsocialisation.

The move mirrors natural bison behaviour, where males and females occasionally travel together in loosely

associatedgroups.

He may have blended in seamlessly, but hestillstandsout.

“Lakota is quite distinguishable because of his size – he is almost double the size of the females. He stands a mile out from the femaleherd,”MsBawdensaid.

OnceroamingNorthAmericainthetens ofmillions,AmericanBisonwerehuntedto thebrinkofextinctioninthe19thcentury.

Conservation efforts have rebounded the population to 31,000 in conservation managedherds,however,thespeciesisstill classified as near threatened in the wild whereonlyabout15,000live.

They face ongoing challenges including habitat destruction, fragmentation, and limitedgeneticdiversity.

The Melbourne Youth Bus team at Errington Reserve in St Albans.

Visitors to Werribee Open Range Zoo can come see Lakota the bison. (Zoos Victoria)

Tai Chi Tuesdays

Tai Chi is an art form known for its slow and gentle movement.

By exercising the mind, body and soul, Tai Chi helps promote overall health and relaxation, leaving participants feeling

Amongthosereapingthebenefitsof this ancient Chinese martial art are participantsinweeklyclassesheldat theBraybrookCommunityHub. ThemorningTaiChiclassescater to a range of experience levels and are free of charge, though bookings areessential.

Those thinking of coming along are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes and to bring a bottle of water withthem.

While it might appear slow and graceful, doing Tai Chi can still be thirstywork.

On the morning of Monday, May 12, Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski went along to the Braybrook Community Hub on Churchill Avenue to capture a Tai Chi class in all its slow moving,gracefulglory.

Sunshine Avenue Intersection Upgrades

Major Road Projects Victoria is upgrading the roundabouts of Sunshine Avenue and Melton Highway, and Sunshine Avenue and Old Calder Highway on behalf of Transport Victoria to improve safety and traffic flow.

The upgrade of the Sunshine Avenue and Melton Highway roundabout will:

–add new dedicated turning lanes

–lengthen current turning lanes

– install a set of traffic lights on Melton Highway to help balance traffic flow.

The upgrade of the Sunshine Avenue and Old Calder Highway roundabout will:

–add an additional right turn lane on Old Calder Highway

–upgrade the pedestrian crossing on Shoppers Lane.

Planning and early works for the intersection upgrades are expected to be complete in 2026. Timelines for major construction will be known once our planning is further progressed.

Sign up for project updates

Sign up for email and SMS updates by scanning the QR code or visiting bigbuild. vic.gov.au/roads-subscribe to keep informed as our planning progresses.

1800 105 105 (call anytime) contact@bigbuild.vic.gov.au

transport.vic.gov.au

Participants Muoi-Kai Lu and Binh stretch out.

Donna Palmer Conti performs a move.

Lily Condello.

Leanne Roberts participates in a tai chi class lead by instructor Mei Ling (below left).

The Russians are here!

Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she writes of the panic that spread through Williamstown and surrounding suburbs in the 1850s when residents thought Russian invaders had arrived to pillage the colony.

In 1854, Melbourne’s main topic of conversation was the Crimean War andthebrutalatrocitiesoftheRussian Army.

When the conflict began in 1853, Melbourne became very wary of Russians. After all, Victoria had vast goldfields that no enemy could resist plundering, so the authorities asked Sydney to spare some troops, and Sydney responded by sending asmallforcetoprotectthesoutherncity.

The continuing hostilities in the Crimea convinced Melbourne that the Russians would soon be on their way to commit wholesalepillageofthecolony.

Companies of eager volunteers were organisedtorepeltheenemy,fortifications were hastily thrown up along the coast, and the population settled down to await theinevitableinvasion.

Shortly after nightfall on 7th September 1854, the unmistakable sound of cannon fire boomed over Hobson’s Bay. It was immediately followed by showers of rockets exploding in the sky, and sharp bursts of artillery fire. All over Melbourne, homes and pubs were rapidly emptied as thecrywentup:“TheRussiansarehere!”

Terror-stricken mobsin Port Melbourne pointedtoasinisterredglowinthesky.

“Look-they’reburningWilliamstown!”

Volunteers scurried to their assembly points while the regulars marched to their posts, determined to defend Melbourne to the last man. Civilians charged around collecting an impressive assortment of muskets, waddies and pitchforks and by the time the news reached Governor Hotham and Captain Lonsdale, the city wasarmedtotheteeth.

Captain William Lonsdale, formerly of the 4th Regiment, immediately mounted his horse and galloped importantly into Melbourne, which reverberated with rocketsandgunsblastingawayalloverthe port.

Stopping a fear-crazed civilian who brandished a shovel at him, Lonsdale sharplyaskedforthelatestnews.

“Russians,”thefellowbabbled.

“They landed at Williamstown, but the 40th Regiment beat them off. Now they’re cominguptheYarra!”

“They’vesunkmostofourships,”panted apasser-by.

“The boys at the Williamstown breakwaterhavekilledhundredsofthem.”

Everywhere Lonsdale looked, he saw frenzied preparations for war. Innkeepers were handing out free grog to the gallant troopsontheirwaytothefront.

Prepared for a long siege, women were hauling in food supplies, and several elderly gents were practising duelling with enormousenthusiasm.

Believing that it was only a matter of time before the city was overrun by wild Tartars and sword-waving Cossacks, Lonsdale took his horse at full steam to PortMelbourne.

En route, it struck him that despite the terrible bombardment going on, the Russians were very poor shots indeed. For a city that was being sacked and burned, Melbourne appeared to be remarkably intact.

With a grunt, Lonsdale reined in at

the beach of Port Melbourne, where an enormous crowd was demonstrating its willingness to die in defence of the city.

They were joined by the 12th Regiment, who,withasquealoffifes,announcedthat they,too,werereadytosacrificetheirlives.

Drums throbbed, bugles blew, and the lads took up a fighting stance with fixed bayonets.

Screams of rage and terror burst out as morecannonfirerockedthebeach.Ladies wept and bade farewell to their doomed lovers, and one poor young volunteer, findingthesituationintolerable,disgraced himselfbyburstingintotearsandhowling forhismother.

Lonsdale remained on his horse, drumming impatient fingers on the pommel. Straining his eyes in the gloom, he shouted, “Where are the confounded Russians!?”

As the hysteria of the crowd made it clear that no intelligible answer was forthcoming, the captain angrily forced his way through the swarm and ferreted out the habourmaster, who was happily drinkingruminthecomfortofhisoffice.

To Lonsdale’s curt query, the fellow

laughed his head off. “Russians? Bless you sir, it’s only the Great Britain celebrating herarrival.”

The iron-hulled Great Britain, until 1853 holding the crown as the world’s largest passengership,wasthemostreliableofall emigrant vessels. Her principal engineer was the famous Isambard Brunel; his assistanttheaptlynamedThomasGuppy.

The ship wasn’t guaranteed unsinkable, but nervous voyagers felt reassured when toldaboutthesewonderfulmen.

Lonsdale’s enquiries revealed that the Great Britain, on her third voyage to Australiaandwithhundredsofpassengers onboard,hadrecentlyspentthreetiresome weeks in quarantine at Portsea, owing to a smallpoxscareafterapassengerhaddied.

The dread yellow flag had been hoisted and the ship docked at the Sanitary Station where isolation was so strict that passengers and crew were not allowed eventopostletterstotheirlovedones.

Everyone was vaccinated. No sympathy whatsoever was shown to the whingers who grumbled about the inconvenience to seven hundred people that had been created by one passenger’s death. Either

you submitted to the jab, or you were marooned at Portsea for the rest of your days. It is a moot point if any of their descendants were amongst those who groused about the Covid lockdowns in Melbourne...

As soon as it was confirmed that there were no further cases of the terrible disease,theGreatBritainthankfullysailed toMelbourne.

On seeing the friendly lights of Hobson’s Bay, her skipper, the amiable Scotsman, CaptainJohnGrey,feltsohappytobeback in civilisation that he decided, without firstaskinganyone’spermission,tofirehis cannons.

Thecrewsofanchoredships,delightedto relieve the boredom, responded with their own cannons, as well as rifles, rockets and flares.

Blissfully unaware of the terror that reigned on shore, they were enjoying the impromptudisplayimmensely.

Satisfied that no Russians were lurking in Hobsons Bay, Captain Lonsdale rode off to report to Governor Hotham, and the troops packed their rifles and went quietly home.

Barb McNeill in her Williamstown study. (Damjan Janevski) 432421_03

SHOWCASING BRIMBANK

Luba Grigorovitch MP

Luba Grigorovitch MP is a dynamic force in politics, embodying resilience and passion in every endeavour. As a dedicated representative, she channels her energy towards championing the concerns closest toherconstituents’hearts.MsGrigorovitch’s leadership is marked by a unique blend of empathy and tenacity, ensuring that the voices of her community resonate in the corridors of power. Her unwavering commitment to social justice, education, and community empowerment reflects a profound understanding of the issues that matter. Luba Grigorovitch MP stands as a beacon of positive change, inspiring confidence in her ability to navigate the complexities of governance and shape a brighterfutureforthosesheserves.

Braybrook Hotel

Families looking for the perfect school holiday escape need look no further than the Braybrook Hotel — a local institution steeped in history, now transformed into a vibrant, family-friendly destination in Melbourne’s west. Originally established in 1857 as a stopover for gold miners, the Braybrook Hotel has evolved over the decades, once serving as a courthouse and shire meeting hall. Today, it offers a dynamic mix of heritage charm and modern hospitality, making it an ideal venue for locals and visitors alike. This schoolholidayperiod,thehotelwillhostits popular School Holiday Program, featuring live appearances from beloved Disney characters. Children can enjoy magical meet-and-greet moments, while parents take the opportunity to relax in comfort. Complementing the entertainment is the hotel’s expansive indoor play area, a haven for young ones to explore and unwind in a safe, supervised environment. While the kids play, adults can enjoy a quiet drink or a leisurely meal at the international buffet, whichcaterstoawiderangeoftastes.

The venue also features the Blue Stone Bar, where live sports screenings keep fans connected to the action, and a versatile function room ideal for private gatherings and celebrations. Visitors are welcomed by striking bronze statues of local AFL legends Doug Hawkins and Ted Whitten, a proud nod to the community’s sporting heritage. Whether it’s fun for the kids, great food, or simply a relaxed afternoon out, the Braybrook Hotel offers something for every memberofthefamilytheseschoolholidays.

David Ettershank

A BIG thank you to everyone who participated in my recent survey for better buses. The results show that 30.5 per cent of respondents want more direct bus routes, while 30.1 per cent prioritise service reliability. Additionally, 41 per cent don’t have any buses in their area at all. Respondents also raised safety concerns around crowded stops and areas with heavy traffic, indicating a need for safer infrastructure and better design. While we saw some investment in new and improved busservicesinlastweek’sstatebudget,there is still much more to be done. Please visit betterbuses4thewest.com.autosupportour campaign!

ShowcasingBrimbank

Above and left: Buckingham Reserve, Sunshine West. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski)

Green Gully Reserve, Keilor.

A native bird sculpture at Green Gully Reserve.

Old Keilor Highway, Keilor.

Dialling up abortion care

By Tom Ingleton

Women from Melton, Wyndham, Hume and Whittlesea are reaching out in growing numbers to Victoria’s sexual and reproductive health phone line, 1800 My Options, as they navigate the often daunting and inequitable path of unplanned pregnancy and reproductive care.

New data from the service reveals that Melton women made the most calls to the support line in 2023, followed by Wyndham,HumeandWhittlesea.

CarolynMogharbel,managerat1800My Options, said the data is not surprising –butitisdeeplyconcerning.

“There’s a consistent trend where women living in high areas of higher socio-economicdisadvantagearereaching out for support at much higher rates,” Ms Mogharbelsaid.

“As of 2023, there were 70 per cent more calls to 1800 My Options from women in highdisadvantagedlocalgovernmentareas compared to those in low disadvantaged areas.

“These communities often face multiple barriers to healthcare, including limited access to bulk-billed GPs, language and cultural barriers, and in some cases,

restricted access to Medicare. As a centralised service and the only one of its kind,1800MyOptionsfillsacrucialgap.”

From cost and transport to stigma and confusion, women are facing a perfect storm of obstacles when trying to access reproductivehealthcare.

“Cost is a major factor, particularly for thosewithoutMedicareoronlowincomes.

Many clinics offering affordable services areoverstretched,withlongwaittimesand limitedappointments.

Transport is another challenge–public transitoptionscanbelimitedorunreliable, especially when services are located far fromhome,”MsMogharbelsaid.

“There’s still considerable stigma surrounding topics like abortion and contraception, which can prevent women –especially young women or those from culturally diverse backgrounds – from seekinghelpearly.

“A lack of culturally appropriate, in-language health information adds another layer of difficulty, leaving many women unsure of where to turn or what theiroptionsare.”

When it comes to addressing unplanned pregnanciesinthesecommunities,cultural sensitivity and accessible communication

arecrucial,MsMogharbelsaid.

“Language barriers can prevent women from understanding their options or navigating the healthcare system. Our healthcaresystemiscomplex,anddifficult to navigate for people born in Australia –for people unfamiliar with this system this complexitycanmakeservicesinaccessible.

“Without translated materials or interpreters, services can feel intimidating orinaccessible.

This can result in delayed care, misinformation, or reliance on informal networks that may not provide accurate guidance.”

For long-term change, Ms Mogharbel believes sustained investment in targeted solutionsisessential.

“Culturally responsive care, multilingual resources and access to interpreter services should be embedded across all reproductive health services –not as add-ons, but as standard practice. Community outreach and education are also critical to breaking down stigma and improving health literacy, especially in culturallydiversecommunities.

“Access to safe and affordable abortion and contraception shouldn’t be a privilege –it’safundamentalhumanright.”

Sessions to help fight period and pelvic pain stigma

Sexual Health Victoria (SHV) has partnered with the Department of Educationtoofferfreeeducationsessions in 400 Victorian government schools to help reduce stigma about menstruation andpelvicpain.

Thesesessionswillboostknowledgefor youngpeoplewhomenstruatetoseekhelp early to improve their long-term health outcomes, and give students strategies to supportpeerswhomenstruate.

The program aims to help students feel better supported and more comfortable discussing menstrual health and provide education staff with tools to support the health and wellbeing of youngpeople.

The program is being rolled out by SHV in metropolitan and regional schools to ensureequitableaccess.

Sexual Health Victoria head of education Sam Read said the new program supports students experiencing menstrual health issues and pelvic pain to have the skills and confidence to seek timelyandeffectivecare.

“Menstrual and pelvic pain impacts students’ daily lives and can affect their

ability to engage in education at school.

Receiving evidenced based, curriculum aligned education in school will help students who menstruate develop the skillsandconfidencetoseekhelpearlyto accesstreatment.

“By providing students with the knowledge and confidence to manage their health, we are fostering a future where menstruation is understood, supported and is no longer a barrier to education.”

According to a 2024 Australian study, one in five young people experience severepelvicpainduringtheirperiods. SHV is also offering 20 professional development sessions for teachers, delivered in-person and online. The sessions aim to help educators better understand menstrual health and pelvic pain so they can create a supportive learning environment and be confident, along with students, in breaking down thestigmaaboutmenstruation.

With the launch of this new education partnership, SHV is working to create an openandinclusivelearningenvironment where students feel comfortable discussingmenstrualhealth.

Education Minister Ben Carool said, “Schoolyard conversations around menstruation and pelvic pain have historically been seen as taboo. This free education program is ensuring more young Victorians are informed and empoweredtoseekhelpbeforetheirpain impacts their health and their education and so they do not have to suffer in silence”.

Details:shvic.org.au

1800 my options manage Carolyn Mogharbel. (Supplied)

Talent overload at Lassau

For those seeking an exhilarating night on the ‘wildest ride in the universe’ grab your tickets to LASSÚ, which launched its Queensland season in Maroochydore this month.

Lassu is on the Sunshine Coast until 14 June and well worth a look if you are on holidays in the region. It offers guests the chance to witness the next generation of circus excellence as the debut production for Merrik Ashton, a seventh-generation circus performer born into Australia’s renownedAshtonfamily.

Lassu is a carefully curated blend of modern and traditional circus, dance, and burlesque, woven together with a captivatingnarrativeandisveryappealing.

Guests who attended the opening night called the show sexy, sensuous and burstingwithtalent.

One guest said, “Merrik Ashton’s cosmic cabaretisspectacularandit’samustsee.”

Anothersaid,“Itwastrulyanhonourtobe amongst such an engaged and committed audience watching true talent with perfect interactionwiththecaptivatedguests.”

The Cosmic Cabaret is a bold, risque circus like no other with the stars leading the show with energy, pride and a huge amountoftalent.

With meticulously rehearsed acrobatics, fire eating and sassy risque dancing, the performers showed their incredible strength and discipline while performing forasuitablyengagedaudience.

The precision and dedication the acts demanded to appear composed and relaxed allowed guests to sit back and admire the stars recognizing the many yearsbehindtheroutines.

The high quality of the production and the passion put into the show by accomplished creative director Mitchell Woodcockwasevident.

“Mitchell is amazing and already so accomplished as a creative director. He had just finished choreography for Annie, and we are so grateful to even have him on board and be so into it,” producer Merrik said.

“He always had the show’s best interests at heart and really is a genius and it will be interesting to watch his career as he has so muchaheadofhim.”

“Ourguestswon’tbelievetheproduction quality and talent in the show; it really is incredible.”

“I am so proud of this show – it’s a world class production and everyone who sees it

willagree,I’msure.”

While the show is only open to people over eighteen due to the perhaps risque content and the service of alcohol, Merrik said the show appeals to the younger demographic eighteen plus for the themes and the older demographic will enjoy the much higher level of production involved whichmakestheshowastandout.

“They appreciate that, and there is somethingforeveryone,“hesaid.

For Merrik, LASSÙ represents the next evolution of live performance, one that embraces spectacle, storytelling, and raw talent in a way that is both thrilling and unforgettable.”

The show is performed at the LASSÙ Chapiteau, a 30m round big top structure with white and black trim with wooden flooringandcabaret-styleseating,creating anintimateandimmersiveatmosphere.

The rousing show will remain in its DaltonDrive,Maroochydorelocationuntil 14 June before it moves to North Lakes on 20 June, Mackay on 18 July and Townsville on1August.

Lassu is now on at Dalton Drive, Maroochydore. For tickets and more information please email go to www. lassutheshow.com.au.

The strength and agility of the Lassu performers including Merrik Ashton is breathtaking.

Old fashioned acrobatics mixed with a little risqué dancing enhanced the performance of LASSU.

The sound, lighting and layout of the LASSÙ Chapiteau, ensured guests comfort.

The skill by performers including 7th generation performer and the show’s producer Merrik Ashton were a highlight.

LEE MCCARTHY

China beckons with a deal

Experience culture, cuisine and natural beautyonViking’s15-dayCoastalJewelsof ChinavoyagefromBeijingtoHongKongor viceversa.

Unbelievably priced from $5,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,800 per couple on selectSeptembertoOctober2025sailings.

With Viking’s deep understanding of Chinese culture, why not join this stunning cruise and immerse yourself in this distinctive country’s cuisines and landscapes.

Explore Shanghai’s Bund and seldom-visited ports for a rare glimpse into Chinese life, revealing a rich tapestry of traditions, flavours and natural beauty on this fully guided voyage along China’s southeasterncoast.

Beginning in the bustling port city of Tianjin, the gateway to the Chinese capital of Beijing, the city shows off its strategic location along the Grand Canal which has attracted traders from across the globe for centuries.

Visit Dalian which enjoys a privileged stature as one of China’s most liveable cities. Whether you enjoy the traditional art of Chinese paper cutting, art with dough, the martial arts-themed museum, ride a tram or a visit to the traditional local food market and a delicious meal at the residence of a local family, Dalian will excite.

Qingdao enjoys clear air, sweeping sea views and European influences and many love a trip to the Tsingtao Beer Museum or the Taoist Taiquing Palace and Laoshan Mountain, one of the birthplaces of the ChinesephilosophyofTao

Shanghai is China’s largest city and one oftheworld’smostimportantports.Guests can witness a spectacular acrobatic show, strolltheiconicwaterfrontdistrictofBund, takeatripuptoShanghaiTowerorindulge in a feast for the senses in the city’s French quarter.

Explore Dongsh with privileged access for Viking customers, enjoy a Zhoushan stylefeastordiscovertheartofcalligraphy on Zhoushan on the largest island of the 1400islandand3000reefsintheisles.

Whether on land or sea guests of SLSC will enjoy a holiday like never before with supreme luxury while sailing and privileged access and many organised guidedtourstomanypreviouslyunseen

The district of Dongtou has a strong fishing tradition and is renowned for its

peculiar rock formations. Here visitors can delve into the history and culture and enjoy the sweeping views from Wanghai Tower or learn the techniques of making sea mud pottery or the ancient art of shell carving

Admire the natural beauty of Pingtan’s north shore and learn about the significance of the 68 Nautical Mile site or immerse in the deep-rooted and rich practices of Taoism during a visit to the bustlingNineImmortalsTaoistTemple.

Delve into China’s revered tea culture in

Xiamen, one of China’s most fascinating cities. Here those lucky enough to be on this cruise can join an expert guide on a Privileged Access tour to view the historic architectureofGulangyuIsland.

Unwind sailing the South China Sea where one third of the world’s maritime shipping pass, in the sauna, Snow Grotton or the Thermal pool. Sail into Shenzhen nicknamed China’s ‘Silicon Valley’ and experience a mesmerizing drone experience, an oil painting class or discoverthefascinatingSeaWorld.

Viking’s award-winning state-of-the-art oceanvesselsareintimateyetsophisticated. Custom-designed with fewer than 1,000 guests and all veranda staterooms, they take you as close as possible to each destination, sailing right into the heart of someoftheworld’sgreatestcities. Withnokids,nocasinos,andeverything you need to be included, they focus on delivering meaningful experiences tailored to you. Please visit www.viking. comorcall138747tolearnmoreaboutthis trulyone-of-a-kindtriptotheFarEast.

LEE MCCARTHY

Skyline of The Bund in Lujiazui, Shanghai.

Viking’s Yi-Dun with the stunning Shanghai-Tower in the background, Shanghai. (Supplied)

Lion Statue at the Forbidden-City in Beijing. Wong Tai Sin Temple Bridge in Hong-Kong.

Discover the magic of a Viking river voyage in 2025 – for less. For a limited time, you can enjoy incredible savings of up to $9,600* per couple on a range of 2025 river voyages. Explore the enchanting towns along the rivers of Central Europe, France, Portugal, Egypt or Southeast Asia in unparalleled comfort and style. Uncover centuries of history and culture, indulging in authentic regional cuisine and enjoy everything you need included. Hurry, these offers are only available on new bookings from 8 May 2025 until sold out.

Full-Board River Cruise

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

Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat

Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Hotel Stays

3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

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

Fully Escorted

Barossa Valley Tours

Full day Barossa Valley tour with

lunch and wine tastings including:

Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout and Vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre

Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours

2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park and Flinders Chase National Park

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

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

ACROSS

1 Football (6)

4 Careful (8)

9 Reprimand (5)

10 Intercede (9)

11 Fluid injection (5)

12 Clumsy (9)

13 Plan of action (8)

15 Obedient (6)

16 Uproar (6)

18 Scary things (8)

23 Reflects upon (9)

24 Brings up (5)

26 Making loud and confused noise (10)

27 Bring forth (5)

28 Removes (8)

29 Water-surrounded land (6) DOWN

1 Triumph (7)

2 Legal offence (5)

3 Handsome (7)

5 Representative song (6)

6 Underwater missile (7)

7 Spy (9)

8 Ghost (7)

10 Cake decoration (5)

14 Superfluous (9)

16 Means of transport (7)

17 Southwestern US state (7)

19 Fertile spot (5)

20 Waitstaff (7)

21 Hang by attachment (7)

22 Holiday accommodation (6)

25 Fragrance (5)

1 Which of the following is not a noble gas: helium, krypton, hydrogen or neon?

2 GirlwithaPearlEarring is an oil painting by which Dutch Golden Age painter?

3 Freetown Christiania is an intentional community and commune located in which city?

4 ThePrimeofMissJeanBrodie is

7 And who authored that book?

8 ‘Go ahead, make my day’ is a catchphrase used by Clint Eastwood’s (pictured) character in which 1983 film?

9 True or false: Canada was the first nation to grant universal suffrage for women?

10 Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for what condition?

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT

Little long walk

As part of Reconciliation Week, The Little Long Walk will be taking place in Brimbank on Tuesday, May 27, from noon-2pm at Sunvale Park, 20 Neil Street, Sunshine. This community event, inspired by Michael Long’s historic journey, promotes reconciliation, respect, and unity. A Traditional Owner will deliver a Welcome to Country before we begin the walk and undertake cultural activities. Barbecue provided.

 creative@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Reconciliation Week Storytime

Come together for a special preschool reconciliation week story time at St Albans, Sunshine, Keilor, Deer Park and Sydenham libraries. The story time will be held in St Albans on Monday, May 26, at 10.30am; Sunshine on May 26 at 2pm; Keilor and Deer Park on Wednesday, May 28 at 10.30am; and Sydenham on Friday, May 30 at 10.30am.

 brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au/

Documentary screening

The Returning Our Ancestors documentary, produced by the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council, will screen at the Bowery Theatre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans, on Tuesday, June 3, from 6-7.30pm, as part of National Reconciliation Week. The screening will be followed by a discussion with Uncle Shane Charles.

 creativebrimbank.com.au/

Disability, Seniors and Carers Expo

The Brimbank Disability, Seniors and Carers Expo is the perfect opportunity for people with a disability, older residents, carers, and their families to connect with service providers and explore a wide range of supports available in Brimbank. It’s on Friday, May 30, from 10am-2pm, at Keilor Basketball & Netball Stadium, Keilor Park Recreation Reserve, Stadium Drive, Keilor Park.

 communitysupport@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Winter cello concert

A winter cello concert will be held at Keilor Libary, 704b Old Calder Highway, Keilor, on Thursday, June 5, from 1-2pm.

 brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au/

Philately exhibition

Larissa MacFarlane’s exhibition of multi-layered linocuts is dedicated to all things Philatelic, as well as honouring the of Covid-times through a queer disability justice lens. It features stamped postcards, inspired by the patterns found within envelopes that have travelled the world via the Mail-Art tradition. With an installation of 100 origami cranes, the exhibition features postage stamps with reinvented postmarks to highlight contemporary socio-political issues. It is on display at Sunshine Art Spaces Window Gallery, 2 City Place, Sunshine, from June 12-August 7.

 creativebrimbank.com.au/

Keilor Park Tennis Club social night

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

 keilorparktennis@gmail.com

Brimbank Book Group

Be inspired by thought-provoking books with a group of like-minded, literary fans with our Brimbank Book Group. All welcomed. This group, for adults, meets on the first Monday of the month, from

by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

2-3 pm, at Deer Park Library. Bookings are not essential, but please feel free to register your interest if you’d like to receive a reminder email.

 library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Create & Chat

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

 library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Women working together

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

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

Over 50’s club

The Keilor Over 50’s Recreation Club meets at Kealba Hall, 24 McShane Drive, Kealba, on Tuesdays, from 10am-3pm, and Wednesdays, from 7-10pm. Have a coffee and a chat, play social table tennis, pool and card games, go on organised outings and enjoy barbecues. First two visits are free then annual membership fees apply.

 Graeme, 0404 809 640, keilorover50@ gmail.com, www.keilorover50.com.au

Bowery exhibition

As part of Pride 2025, St Albans Community Centre will present a special display celebrating local queer icon Leigh Bowery. Featuring photographs and memorabilia on loan from the Bowery family, the exhibition offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of the Sunshine-born artist who transformed fashion, performance, and queer culture. On show from June 1-30, at 33 Princess Street, St Albans, from 9am-5pm daily. Free entry.  creativebrimbank.com.au/

National seniors meeting

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

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

Card games

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

 Leisa, 0425 768 808

Learn to Relax Group

IPC Health’s Living Well team is running a free Learn to Relax Group at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road,

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Melton South darts player Andrew who been selected for Australia’s darts world cup team in September. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 479596_01

every Tuesday at 11am. This group is for people over 18 years who are interested in learning how to relax and finding ways to effectively manage their stress. Registration is required to attend this group.

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

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.

 Robyn, 0425 387 880

St Albans senior citizens

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

 Roma, 0435 991 064

Caroline Springs Rotary

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

 rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Callinan after hall stories

Yarraville based comedian and performer

Damian Callinan is coming to the Williamstown Town Hall next month to performhisnewshowontheWilliamstown TownHall.

Callinan is currently doing a statewide tour of 27 town halls where they serve as boththevenueandsubjectofhisshow.

“It’s an immersive project where I interview locals about their connection to the halls,” said Callinan who first trialled theprojectlastyear.

“Mostly it’s in small towns, but this will be the first time I’ve done it in a big city

municipal hall,” he said of the show which takeplaceonJune19.

But in order to get enough material, Callinan will first have a meet and greet sessionatthehallonJune3.

“The meet and greet’s just me sussing thingsoutanddoinginterviewsbecauseI’m also doing a podcast about halls down the track,”hesaid.

As well as material about the Williamstown Town Hall, the show will also feature stories and anecdotes from the dozens of other civic venues dotted around the state, though Callinan is keen to stress,

thefocusisonlaughsnothistory.

“The show is foremost a comedy,” he said, adding that the podcast will feature a bit more history, though still through a comediclens.

The meet and greet is on June 3 from 6pm to 7.30pm, but is aimed at those with information or a historical connection to theWilliamstownTownHall.

The main event on June 19 is open to the public. Tickets and information: https:// www.eventbrite.com.au/e/hall-storiesmeet-greet-with-damian-callinantickets-1311242584869

Suganya Kannan is the latest artist to take over Sunbury’s Global Learning Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 479330_01

There’s layers to this Craigieburn artist

Craigieburn artist Suganya Kannan has unveiledherfirstexhibition.

Layers of Perception is currently on display at the Sunbury Hume Global LearningCentre,witheachpieceshifting perception through depth, movement andsensoryexploration.

Kannan said this exhibition has been something she’s wanted to do since childhood.

“I’ve been dreaming of this day for a verylongtime,”shesaid.

“ThefirsttimeIsawmyartondisplay,it felt very surreal because I never thought thedaywouldreallycome.

Kannan has always loved art, however she recently reconnected with it during thelockdowns.

“It was a huge relief from what was happeningoutside,”shesaid.

“I found myself gravitating back towards art which gave me a lot of supportinmyearlyyears…itwashelpful toreconnectwithcreativity.”

Kannan spent a month, working everyday after her full-time job in IT to createthe24artworksondisplay.

“I tried to do one painting a day or sometimesitusedtomovebetweenafew days for it to dry but every day there was something happening in the studio,” she said.

In her exhibition, Kannan used acrylics, high-flow mediums and

textured elements to capture the beauty of coastlines, organic forms and natural landscapes. Using fluid blues and earthy tones, alongside bold contrasts with gold accents, the paintings balance tranquillity with energy, in an exhibition that invites viewers to feel, connect and experienceart.

“Iwantviewerstofindtheirownstories in the texture, colour and the different forms,”MsKannansaid.

“Ifsomeonewalksawayfeelingmoved, or curious or even simply connected that meansthejobwaswelldone.”

Layers of Perception is on display now, at the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre,untilSunday,July20.

Cafe event smells like philosophy

The next rendition of Café Philosophique in Werribee will tackle another of the five senses,andonethatistoooftenneglected. Whilesmellmightnotbethefirstthinga philosopherwillusetofurthertheircosmic inquiries, it is the only sense that goes directly to the limbic system, the region of thebrainrelatedtoemotionandmemory.

The session will explore how smell influences our lives, why it’s important to paymoreattentiontoit,andhowculturally werespondtoit.

ProducedbyTheLittleTheatreCompany (LTC) and tracing its inspiration from a Parisienne intellectual tradition, Café Philosophique is about exploring the hiddenforcesshapingourlives.

One of the western suburbs’ biggest advocates for olfactory awareness, Smell Art founder Erin Adams, will kick off the eveningwithasmellworkshop.

She also runs guided smell meditations, smells walks and designs scents for performances, installations and events, so if you want to continue your smell journey, thereisanoracleofwisdomtohelp.

A feature poet will then assist guests in unlocking their own creativity through a reflectionandwritingexercise.

After some sharing, the event will finish with some delicious deserts and deep conversationsthroughthecafe.

The monthly event is all about bringing the arts into our everyday life, through creating a space where people can be reflectiveandcreativewithoutjudgement. If you want to make sense of what makes a scent, The Bridge Hotel in Werribee on Wednesday, June 11 at 6.30pm is the place tobe.

Melbourne’s glorious ’ghost signs’ captured in words and pictures

Do you ever see an old faded sign that catches your eye? A new photographic booktitledMelbourneGhostSignsfeatures those signs and other half-hidden logos acrossMelbourne,andthephotographeris headingtoMeltonLibrarythisweektotalk aboutthestoriesbehindthem.

Originally from Illinois in the United States,SeanReynoldshasbeennominated

twice for an Emmy through his work on Ellen and TMZ and now works for the RoyalHistoricalSocietyofVictoria.

After moving to Melbourne, Reynolds became fascinated with faded signs and half-hidden logos in Melbourne through taking daily walks in Yarraville and FootscrayduringtheCOVIDlockdowns.

He enjoyed seeing hand-painted letters,

intricate glasswork, and names he’d never heard of before – such as Uncle Toby’s and Four’n Twenty, and the St Kilda Coffee Palace.

The book of captivating photos will provide a window into the history of the city – including the Gold Rush era and the SwingingSixties.

Join Reynolds for a tour of his new

photography book and hear the stories behind each of these ghostly signs found onMelbourne’sstreets.

The free event will be hosted from 6.30–7.30pmonThursday,May29atMelton Library and Learning Hub, 31 McKenzie Street,Melton.

Details:libraryevents.melton.vic.gov.au/ event?id=131518

Cafe Philosophique will explore smell in June. Jess Fairfax and Kaarin Fairfax. (Attie Mohebali) 454987_06

Comedian Damian Callinan will tell stories of the Williamstown Town Hall at the Williamstown Town Hall on June 19. (Supplied)

CLASSIFIEDS EARLY DEADLINES KING’S BIRTHDAY

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO LEASE

Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).

GPT PLATFORM PTY LTD (ABN 164 839 061), as trustee of the Deer Park Industrial Trust, is proposing to develop the 75-hectare subject land at 179 Tilburn Road, Deer Park, Victoria. The proposal is for a Commercial and Industrial development including the construction of roads, stormwater treatment basins, warehouses, data centers, restricted retail outlets, offices, ancillary food and beverage tenancies. The development will be a staged development in three stages and a split referral under the EPBC Act has been submitted to the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water for Stage 1&2 combined and Stage 3. This Notice and associated Preliminary Documentation relate to Stage 1&2 of the development. Stage 3 is submitted as a separate (split) referral under the EPBC Act. Stage 1&2 works involve the filling of the site with fill to mitigate the risk of exposure to residual chemical contamination that is currently on the site associated with historic land use and to assist with the proposed stormwater management on the site.

The Matter of National Environmental Significance (MNES) protected by a provision of Part 3 of the EPBC Act is: - Listed threatened species and communities (Sections 18 and 18A) – Growling Grass Frog.

The proposed action was determined to be a Controlled Action under the EPBC Act on 21 October 2024 due to the potential for a significant impact on a threatened fauna species - Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis.

On Tuesday 18 February 2025, the draft Preliminary Documentation was placed on display for public comment until COB Monday 04 March 2025 (10 business days). All comments received were summarised and a response was prepared. The final Preliminary Documentation has been completed and will be on display.

On Tuesday 27 May 2025 this notice for the second display has been published in a national daily newspaper (The Age) and a regional newspaper (Brimbank Star Weekly). This Preliminary Documentation has been published for information purposes only.

A digital copy of the Preliminary Documentation is also available to view and download from the project website located here: https://deerparkestate.com.au/compliance/

Hard copies of the Preliminary Documentation are available for public viewing at the four Victorian locations listed below for 10 business days from Tuesday 27 May until COB Tuesday 10 June 2025.

State Library of Victoria

328 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action

8 Nicholson St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Brimbank Community and Civic Centre

301 Hampshire Rd, Sunshine VIC 3020

Deer Park Library

4 Neale Road, Deer Park VIC 3023

Information published in hard copy and digital format includes the Preliminary Documentation package received by the department on 16 May 2025. The package consists of the EPBC Act Preliminary Documentation Report No. 22173.11 (1.3) and appendices. 12773767-RV22-25

The MG3 Hybrid is a keeper

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Itwasjustsixmonthsagothatwetestedthe ‘new’MG3hatch.

Itwasyellowofcourse.Forawhilethere, they all seemed to be finished in yellow whichitturnsoutcomesatnoextracost.

That was the petrol model, but we looked forward to driving the hybrid version with its promise of more power and better fuel economy.

Here it is and it’s blue not yellow, but it was certainly worth the wait - whether the extra $4000 they’re asking for the hybrid is worthitremainstobeseen?

Styling Thestylingiscontemporary;larger,sharper andmoreaggressive.

But MG3 remains a small hatch and as such rear legroom and boot space are limited. At least those in the back get their ownairoutlets.

Instead of the usual 60:40 split fold arrangement, the rear seat folds as a single unit, which means if you need to accommodate longer items, there’s no roomleftforathirdperson.

Now in its third generation, the MG3 has come a long way from its cheap and cheerful roots. In fact, apart from a disappointing safety rating, the latest versionisaquantumleapforwardbyitself.

Pricedfrom$26,567,theMG3isavailable in two grades, Excite and Essence, with a choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains. The hybrid adds $4168 to the price of either grade, bringing the cost of the top spec Essence Hybrid to $32,189 plus on-road costs-ourtestvehicle.

Standard equipment includes cloth trim andsingle-zoneairconditioning,withrear air vents, manual-adjust seats, 16-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, adaptive cruise control, auto halogen headlights, LED daytime running lights, rear parking sensors, electric auto fold side mirrors and followmehomelights.

The upmarket Essence adds a sunroof, LEDheadlights,keylessentry,rain-sensing wipers, leather-clad steering wheel, combination cloth and artificial leather trimandafrontcentrearmrest.

In the hybrid, the space saver spare is replacedbyapuncturerepairkit.

MG3 is covered by an industry leading 10-year, 250,000km warranty, with service due every 12 months or 10,000kmwhichevercomesfirst.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth with limited voice control,AM/FMradio,wiredAppleCarPlay andAndroidAutoandsix-speakeraudio.

Stepping up to the Essence adds DAB+ digitalradioandsatellitenavigation.

There’s a USB A and C ports in the front, along with a 12-volt outlet, plus another USB-A port in the rear as well as another located near the base of the rear vision mirror, presumably for powering dash camsandthelike.

iSmart provides remote access to the car and allows owners to unlock the doors and turnontheairconditioning.

Safety MG3 scores a disappointing three stars fromANCAP.

Six airbags and a reverse camera are standard.

Also,standardisAutonomousemergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction Assist) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW)

and emergency lane keeping (ELK), are standard, together with Traffic jam assist, Steering, acceleration, braking assistance,blind-spotmonitoringandRear cross-trafficalert.

An advanced speed assistance system (SAS) with speed sign recognition is also standard.

Essence ups the ante with a 360 degree surround-viewcamerasystem.

Engines/transmissions

Petrol models produce 81kW of power and 142Nm of torque, with drive to the front wheels via a continuously variable automatictransmission(CVT).

With a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated Atkinson style four, plus a 1.83kW battery, 100kW electric motor and generator, the system produces an impressive combined outputof155kWat6000rpm.

It’s front-wheel drive too, with a bespoke three-speed hybrid transmission this time - all managed by the Intelligent Control Unit.

Driving

Thefrontseatsarereasonablycomfortable, at least over shorter runs, but the steering wheel lacks reach adjustment, so finding theidealdrivingpositioncouldbeachore.

The design of the steering wheel itself, with a flat top and bottom, is different and canbeabitawkwardattimes.

This time around the touchscreen and instrumentpanelshavebeenreplacedwith moreresponsive,free-standingunits.

Although there’s a row of quick access buttons below the main screen, none providecontrolofcabintemperature.

Some controls are not labelled either, and it took some time to work out which buttons on the steering wheel activated cruise control (it’s the little steering wheel icononthesteeringwheel).

The engine and electric motor are able to work in both series and parallel hybrid modes, in fact in eight different modes all told.

However, if the car is driven too hard for too long, the battery could be depleted and the power available to the driver reduced drastically.

The problem has been acknowledged by the company but at this stage has not been addressed as it has been with the similarly-poweredZSSUV.

With a 36-litre fuel tank, the hybrid version takes premium 95 unleaded and usesaclaimed4.3L/100km.

Three-stage regenerative braking reclaims energy normally lost during braking and is adjustable via the touchscreen.

Thisisfarfromidealifyouwanttoadjust braking on the fly and it reverts to the middle setting which can be annoying in some situations. However, you can set it as a favourite with a button on the steering wheel.

Drivingthecarforthefirsttime,theMG3 Hybrid+ it feels lively and is super quiet inside,makingforeasyconversation.

In electric mode, like many EVs, it emits a buzzing noise to warn pedestrians of its approach. It’s overkill but probably a statutoryrequirement.

Ride and handling are competent, but the Kumho tyres are apt to produce a bit of noiseoncoarsebitumen.

Inthehybridthetraditionaltransmission lever has been replaced by a space-saving rotarycontrol.

It saves space but in practice it feels plasticky and usually takes a couple of attemptstoachievethedesiredresult.

Switching between forward and reverse quicklycanbetricky.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 8.0 seconds and the hybrid feels as quick as it sounds, with punchy performance off the lineorwhenovertaking.

With Eco, Sport and Standard drive modes, Sport sharpens up things slightly, but not sufficiently to go to the trouble of reactivating it each time the car is re-started.

Although it comes with CarPlay and Android Auto, both require a cable and wirelesschargingisconspicuouslyabsent. Our phone took a couple of goes to hook up, but after that it reconnected without anydramas.

Voice activation is limited to apps, or so the message said, and the built-in navigation in our test vehicle would not respondtocommands.

Wecovered377kmatarateof4.9L/100km in a mix of city and motorway driving, includingtheSydneyafternoonexodus.

Summing up

TheMG3hybridisakeeper.

Atthesametime,itprobablywon’tattract return buyers looking for a rock bottom price. We just wish MG would do something about the poor safety rating and the transmission issue, both of which could andperhapsshouldbedealbreakers.

Driving the car for the first time, the MG3 Hybrid+ it feels lively and is super quiet inside. (Pictures: Supplied)

The sun was out but so was the wind on Saturday as local sports stars took to the field. Star Weekly’s Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action.

Warm weekend sporting action

St Albans’ Adem Asani. 478999_08

St Albans’ Jake Galea. 478999_24

Albanvale’s David Ranno and Western Rams’ Tyler Lewis. 479000_16

Caroline Springs’ Joshua Whiteley North Sunshine’s and Yusuf Karadag. 479746_08

Albanvale’s Joshua Green. 479000_22

Kyle O’Connor tries to get hand on ball. 478995_12

Keilor’s Blair Wyllie and Greenvale’s Adem Yavuzcan. 478995_16

Mason Thomas tackles Jonathan Keratianos. 478995_08

Melton Phoenix’s Kieren Farrugia and Point Cook’s Marcus Sherif. 479748_02 Point Cook’s Jackson Curcija. 479748_01 North Sunshine’s Ryohei Miyazaki. 479746_15

Markovski returns to coach Melbourne Knights

Melbourne Knights have turned to a former championship winning player to take on the coaching role for the rest of the NationalPremierLeagueseason.

The Knights announced that John Markovski has been appointed coach for therestoftheseason.

WithNPLcoachingexperienceasAltona Magic and Port Melbourne, Markovski joins at a challenging time, tasked with leadingtheKnightsbacktowinningways.

He replaces Knights legend Ivan Franjic who stood down from his role a couple of weeksbeforehand.

Markovski said you are always wanting to coach and this job popped up at

therighttime.

“I know the road ahead won’t be easy, but I want to return the club to where it belongs, and that starts this week against Hellas[SouthMelbourne],”hesaid.

“It’s great to be back there, like a big club likeMelbourneKnights.

“The opportunity came and I spoke with theclubandknowthatit’sabigchallenge.

“Melbourne Knights is one of the biggest namesinAustralianfootball.Ihaveplayed inachampionshipthere.”

Markovski said he was hoping that he could get the best out of the side for the restoftheseasonandhelpthemriseupthe ladder.

The Knights currently sit bottom after 14 roundswiththreewinsand11losses.

On Friday night, the Knights lost to HeidelbergUnited,2-1.

“We’ll see what we can do,” he said. “Every game will be difficult but anyone canbeatanyoneontheday.

“I took over yesterday [Sunday] and my first game is Friday, the derby against SouthMelbourne.”

Markovskisaidwouldseewhathehadto workwithandgofromthere.

“I’ll look to change the way that they are playinginasignificantway,”hesaid.

It was a big week for the Knights who were in action on Tuesday night against

Boyd tackles dual sports

By Peter Howe

DonDeebleSpotsstarnomineeKiaraBoyd isn’tonetositstillanddonothing.

Boyd is a state level dual athlete who has had to shed her burgeoning athletics and swimming careers to concentrate on netballandfootball.

“Iloveteamsportsbecauseyou’repartof something bigger, people rely on you, and you can rely on others,” she said. “Not to mentionIlovethesocialaspect.

“I started playing netball in a NetSetGo program as a seven-year-old and began playing competitively with Victoria Universityasaneight-year-old.

“In my early netball journey I played in many positions except goal attack because I could never get the ball through that hoop.

“I started playing under-9 football with Burnside Heights and then moved to Aberfeldie in the Essendon District FootballLeague.”

Boyd quickly found her feet on the football field, winning the club best and fairest in her first full season and the only girltofinishinthetop10intheleague.

Boyd has always been someone who wantedtotestherskillsagainstthebestand never stopped competing and improving onthenetballcourt.

“I often got selected in representative and state teams as a bottom age player, but there were also times where I was only selected as a training partner,” she

saidofnetball.

“You learn different things from being in bothpositions.”

Boyd said some of her memorable achievementsincludemakingtheunder-15 School Sport Victoria netball team in 2023, whichwongold.

She also made the under-17 state netball team this year and has been part of the Western Warriors 23 and under Victorian NetballLeaguesquadthepasttwoyears.

Boydlistsherstrengthsasherathleticism and her vertical leap, which she then takes into her football with the Western Jets under-18teamintheCoatesTalentLeague.

Shereadilyacknowledgesshelovesfooty becauseshelovestotackle.

Her representative football journey has seen her in train-on squads as a bottom ageplayerintheunder-16futuresprogram before making an impact in an under-16 Western Jets game against the Northern Territory where she finished with three goals to establish her credentials in football.

Boyd’s selection in the under-16 Vic Metro side at the nationals in 2024 also underlinedherqualityasafootballplayer.

“I play in a range of positions including centre half forward, mid field and centre halfback,”shesaid.

“At 173 centimetres, I’m not the tallest player but again my vertical leap and athleticismenablemetogetthejobdone.”

A typical training and playing week leaves Boyd with a significant

Northcote City in the sixth round of Australia Cup, Markosvki’s first official gameincharge.

The young Knights line up had led 1-0 at half time after opening the scoring in the thirdminutethroughJosephLettieri.

Lettieri made it 2-0 in the 57th minute afterconvertingaheaderafteracrossfrom AlexHird.

Northcote City scored in the 61st and 71st to level the scores before Alun Webb against his former side scorer the winner in the 78th minute to end the Knights’ cup run.

Tara Murray

Cricket Victoria and AFL Victoria, in partnership with the Victorian government, have renewed the division of seasons agreement addressing shared use of sporting facilitiesacrossthestate.

This new agreement, which came into effect April 1 and runs until March 31, 2028, is designed to provide guidance to local government, community leagues, associations and clubs regarding change of season fixturing and usage at local level. As part of the new agreement, Cricket Victoria and AFL Victoria have also agreed to a new resolution process where scheduling challenges impact the ability to prepare grounds for the respectivecodes.

The overwhelming majority of grounds used by community footballandcricketclubsareshared by both sports who generally play across the respective traditional six-month windows: April to September(football)andOctoberto March(cricket).

rehabilitationprogram.

As a student at Maribyrnong Sports Academy, she can complete her strength and conditioning program, her running technique session, and flexibility sessions inherschoolprogram.

She also has access to a dietician and a sportspsychologist.

It’s not surprising that Boyd’s sporting heroes are successful dual sport athletes. Monique Conti, who plays AFLW and WNBL, and former Australian Diamond and current Fremantle player Ashleigh Brazill, top the list along with Melbourne VixenscaptainKateMoloney.

“I am currently in a leadership role with theWesternJetsascaptainoftheirforward line,”shesaid.

“I love being there for the other players, they are my football family and they have myfullsupport.”

Boyd hopes to one day be also in a leadershiprolefornetball.

Sowhatdoesthefuturehold?

“My sporting goals are simple, I want to domybestandtryandgetasfarasIcanon both sports, and I don’t want to let people down,”shesaid.

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 TrophiesandStarWeeklyNewspapers.

If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.comor0408556631.

The broad principle of the agreement is that cricket clubs are afforded priority use rights of shared facilities during the traditionalcricketwindow(October to March) and community AFL football clubs having priority rights to shared facilities during the traditional football window (April toSeptember).

Cricket Victoria chief executive Nick Cummins said the agreement was a key document for local stakeholderstouse.

“There has never been more pressure on grounds across the state to be ready for the summer and winter codes,” he said. “This agreement reaffirms the commitment from cricket and football and the Victorian government on what that access needstolooklike,”hesaid.

“Being ready to play means exactly that. We understand that footballcan’twaituntilMaytobegin and likewise cricket can’t wait until November to start. Every ground willhaveitsowncharacteristics,but each code needs to be able to play onscheduleattheturnofseason.”

“Our new triage process gives clear direction on how issues are identified and escalated where required. No one knows their grounds and circumstances better than the local community and we want to support those clubs to a successfuloutcome.”

Kiara Boyd. (Grant Treeby/Netball Victoria)

Season over for Western United women after finals loss

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 semi final with a hard fought 1-0 elimination win against Western.

Western United unleashed 22 shots to six in Sunday’s match at Coopers Stadium, but it 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.

It is the second season in a row that Western United bombed out in an elimination final.

“It was just one of those days pretty much,” 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,Westernhada1-0winagainst 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

Young star shines

By Tara Murray

It may have been a big few weeks personally for Western United young gun Dylan Leonard but he’s more focused on team success.

At just 17, Leonard became the youngest player to start an A-League Men’s semi final in the first leg of the two game series against Melbourne City.

Leonard said it wasn’t something he had even realised until he was in the moment.

“I didn’t realise until just before the game,” he said. “It doesn’t really bother me, I’mmorefocusedontryingandgoingtowin it.

“Being the youngest player is nice, a good little achievement but I’m more focused on going into the final.”

Leonard said this season had exceeded his expectations personally.

He said as a team, with a lot of young players, they had proven a lot of people wrong.

“I thought at the start of the season was to try and break into the squad and I did that second week in,” he said.

“Just been about working hard and trying to be a better player every day. To see how we’ve done as a team, lots of the boys have stepped up.

“A lot of people have written us off before the season even started. People were saying thatwewouldfinishlast,maybesecondlast.

“To have gone out and done as well as we have, it’s exceeded a lot of people’s expectations.”

Leonard said it makes it a lot easier for him coming in with so many young players around him.

The semi final start was followed by Leonard being named in the Australian under-18 team to play in the UEFA Friendship Cup last week.

Leonard said that came as a surprise.

“I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “To be honest I didn’t even know there would be an under-18s tournament just before it was announced.

“I was not thinking about it at all. I didn’t know what to expect.

“I haven’t really thought about it. I’m focused on going out and winning this game.

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.

“Itwasatoughgame.Weknewitwouldn’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).”

Sports shorts

VTCA

Grand United has announced the signing of Hamza Ali for the upcoming season. Ali will be an assistant coach at the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield side . A proven performer and respected leader, Ali captained Coburg in the Victorian Sub-District Association competition last season, after six strong years with Greenvale in Victorian Premier Cricket and time in the VTCA senior division. “Hamza’s not just a gun cricketer—he’s a top bloke who lives and breathes the values that make Grand United special,“ Grand United said.

Basketball

Keilor Thunder’s Issie Bourne received another call up to the Australian Gangurrus squad. Having played earlier this season when they won bronze at the Asian Cup, Bourne was part of the team as the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series launches into its sixth season. The second series was held Marseille last week.

VTCA

Theweekwascappedoffashewasnamed Western’s young player of the year at the club’s gala night on Tuesday.

Leonard was quick to say while it was nice, he was more focused on team success.

“I want to achieve something, achieve something with this team.”

Western had a big task ahead of them on Saturday, after deadline, as it tried to keep their grand finals hopes alive.

Western found itself in a less than ideal situation after game one against Melbourne City, down 3-0.

Speaking before game two, which was after deadline, Leonard said they still had faith they could do it.

“Obviously it wasn’t ideal going out and getting beat 3-0, but it wasn’t probably a reflectionofthegameandhowwefeltonthe night,“ he said.

“We felt like it was a very equal game actually and they put away their chances and we didn’t.

“We could have been better defensively but I feel like we’re all very confident going into this game and that we’re good enough to go out and beat them and by enough.”

Daniel Raniolo returns to Sunshine United for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Isaacs Howarth Shield season. Raniolo brings reliability and run-scoring ability to the top order, with more than 2800 runs in Victorian Premier Cricket, including a highest score of 131. Last season he also took 24 wickets in Premier Cricket second XI for Footscray. He is a first XI premiership player with Sunshine United and is returning to his home club. “I’m really happy to have signed back with Sunshine United. It feels great to return to a club where I’ve shared so many great memories, and I’m excited to be back with friends both on and off the field. Looking forward to what will hopefully be a successful season ahead,“ he said.

A-League

Catherine Zimmerman has been named Western United’s women’s player of the season. The club hosted its awards night on Tuesday night, with Zimmerman claiming the award ahead of Isabel Dehakiz and Sasha Grove.

Melissa Taranto. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Dylan Leonard in action during the A-League semi final match between Western United and Melbourne City.

(AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Lions starting to find their groove

Deer Park is where it wanted to be at this point of the Essendon District Football Leaguepremierdivisionseason.

In what is proving to be a close competition between second and ninth, gettingonarollhasbeenhardtocomeby.

With a tough start and several games on the road early in the season, Lions coach Jamie Madigan said they wanted to be in frontoftheledgeratthispartoftheseason.

“We had four games away and only two at home,” he said. “We knew we had a toughdrawandwantedtobeinfrontofthe win-loss,sobeing4-3wasimportanttous.

“Wehavethreeofournextfourathome.”

On Saturday, the Lions won two games in a row for the first time for the year as it accountedforPascoeVale.

Madigan said the Panthers record doesn’t really show how good that side is comingoffagrandfinallastseason.

“Wehadtofighttogettheresult,”hesaid. “Wegotoutoftheblocksstrongly.

“There was a strong breeze to the club rooms end and we were kicking with it in thefirstquarter.

“Jackson Barling kicked three first quartergoalsandwasstrongoverhead.

“We knew kicking against the wind we had to make it into a stoppage fest and we putonebehindthefooty

“In the third quarter they kicked two goals against the wind, we had to do the sameinthelastquarter.”

The Lions kicked three final quarter goalstosealan11.5(85)-11.13(79).

Barling finished with four goals, as did LachieSmart.

Madigan said Hayden Gill was sensational in the ruck against Matthew Dennis, while Ling Jong and the two key forwardswereotherstandouts.

Hesaidtheyhadspokenbeforethegame about the importance of getting a bit more consistency.

“Wehadgoneloss-win-loss-win-lossand win,” he said. “We knew this week was a goodchancetomakeittwoinarow.

“We have not been able to do that in a closecompetition.Anyoneontheirdaycan beateachother.

“It’ssoclosebetweensecondandninth.”

TheLionshaveanotherbigtestthisweek, facingAberfeldiewhichbeatEastKeilorby 314points.

Ladder leaders Keilor had another big win, this time accounting for Greenvale, 19.18(132)-3.2(20).

Cody Brand kicked three goals for the Blues, while Darcy Weeks and Corey Ellis werenamedtheirbest.

Thunder’s tough break

By Tara Murray

Keilor Thunder is rolling with the punches in the National Basketball League 1 South women’scompetition.

The Thunder always knew it would have some challenges with availability, but it has been tested even more in recent weeks.

The Thunder suffered a blow with guard Tayah Burrows requiring surgery for a broken leg, which will rule her out for the restoftheseason.

Issie Bourne was also away with the Australian3x3sideonSaturday.

On Saturday night, it had to find everything and a little bit extra to get over thelineagainsttheKilsythCobrasinextra time.

Thunder coach Kristi Harrower said while they didn’t play their best, it was one that was much needed as they entered the gameunderstrength.

“Itwasagreatwinforus,”shesaid.“They areabetterteamthanlastyear.

“I don’t know if we played that well defensivelyorwewerewherewewantedto be. [Maddy] Rocci had a huge game for us andhadanothertripledouble.”

“Itwasgoodtocomeawaywiththewin.” Rocci had 42 points while pulling down 12 rebounds and having 10 assists and five steals.

Harrowersaidherpointguardhadtaken hergametothenextlevel.

“She has done a mountain of work,” she said. “I’ve been working with her about releasingtheballabitmore.

“She carried us last night. With about a minute to go, her legs were taken out and she landed on her chin. She had stitches on her chin which is another thing we’re dealingwith.”

Harrower said they had a lot of depth in their side, outside of the point guard position.

She said they were looking at their options with Burrows out for the season and Rocci to miss games when she’s away with the Australian Opals squad at the AsianCup.

Bourne has also been named in that team, with Harrower said she was excited tobepartofherfirstOpalsteam.

Harrower will again be an assistant coachfortheOpals.

While losing some of their stars, Harrower said it opens up opportunities forotherplayers.

“Isobelle Wightman has had a really

Maddy Rocci. (@sarahprettycreative)

good season,” she said. “I don’t think she expected to have played as much this seasonandsheisourthirdleadingscorer.

“It gives others who might be down on confidencetheopportunitytostepup.”

The Thunder, which sit in second position, will receive a much needed boost with Penina Davidson arriving in the country this week and set to suit up this week.

Cobras

and Dragons get home

Albanvale and Sunshine Heights both snuck home for wins in the Western Football League division 2 competition on Saturday.

The two thrillers highlighted the results in the division 2 competition.

Albanvale was at home to the Western Rams, who were searching for their second win of the season.

The Cobras used the wind well in thefirstquartertoleadby29points at quarter time.

The margin was still 26 points at the main break.

It was the Rams that did a lot of the attacking in the third quarter as they kicked six goals to three to reduce the margin to just six points at the last break.

The Cobras got the first goal of the final quarter before the Rams kicked the next two and managed to get in front.

A goal in the 12th minute from Reece Field put the Cobras back in front. Neither side was able to find another goal with the Cobras winning, 12.10 (82)-11.9 (75).

Field finished with four goals for the Cobras.

JoshGreenandJacobMaschewski were named their best.

The Cobras are now third on the ladder, with the Rams sitting in ninth.

Sunshine Heights only just got home against Braybrook in its match, winning 13.13 (91)-14.6 (90).

The Brookers led at each of the breaks, including having a 25 point lead heading into the final quarter.

“She brings a lot of leadership into our group,” Harrower said. “She’s a smart playerandit’sabigpositiveforthegroup.”

Harrower said the next few weeks about getting everyone into the line up and jugglingtheirrotations.

The Thunder men’s side had a 94-78 loss totheCobrasonSaturdaynight.

Daniel Poelsma top scored with 21 points.

The Dragons kicked five goals to one in the final quarter to come over the top for the win.

Jackson Viola kicked three goals for the Dragons, while four other players had two each.

Matt Malual and Elliot Rosado were named the Dragons best.

Tara Murray Lachlan Smart. (Jacob Pattison) 360908_05

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