A culling operation to deal with an “infestation” of pigeons at Meadow Heights Shopping Centre has exploded into accusations of cruelty, cultural insensitivityandthreatsofviolence.
According to centre management, the messyproblemhasbeenescalatingfortwo years, exacerbated by people feeding the pigeons which congregate at the front of thebusyshoppingstrip.
Meadow Heights centre management spokesperson Fiona Scott said the birds “posed a significant health and safety risk to customers and tenants” and “a genuine public health hazard to the primary school and daycare children adjacent to the centre, due to the bacteria and disease associatedwithbirdwaste.”
Ms Scott said non-lethal deterrents such as bird spikes, visual and audio repellents, signage,andregularcleaninghadallfailed tocontaintheproblem.
When a professional pest controller applied a treatment, a group of people confrontedhimon-siteand“compromised theprocedure,”accordingtoMsScott.
“The pest controller was forced to cease operations and leave the site due to concerns for his personal safety. He has since received hundreds of abusive messages online, including threats to his life.”
Images of distressed birds dying outside the shopping centre have triggered outrageamonganimalwelfaregroupsand communitymembers.
Pigeon Rescue Support Inc volunteer EmilyPowersaidthescenewas“disturbing andcruel”.
“A good Samaritan had seen the birds displayed like trophies up against the door,”MsPowersaid.
“She rushed some to the vet, but many couldn’tbesaved.”
She said poisoning birds was not an approved method of control, rather “they are supposed to be humanely trapped and euthanised”.
“There is a large Muslim population in Meadow Heights, and pigeons have religioussignificance—they’reconnected to the Prophet and seen as peaceful, protective animals. Imagine how distressing it was to see them convulsing anddyinginfrontoffamilies.”
Meadow Heights resident Liam Shaw, who spoke to StarWeekly while shopping at the centre last Wednesday, said he had seen dead pigeons and was concerned aboutthehealthimplications.
“It’s a public health issue too, I would imagine. You’ve got dead birds near food outlets, people walking by not knowing what they’re stepping in, it’s pretty disgusting to be honest and I hope somethingisdoneaboutit.”
Northern Metropolitan Liberal MP Evan Mulholland, whose electorate office is located at the shopping centre, said he did notsupportcentremanagement’sdecision topoisonthepigeons.
“As a tenant of the shopping centre, my office, through the Department of Parliamentary Services, have made this veryclearinwritingtothecentre’sowners.” hesaid.
“I have asked the department to put theseobjectionsonceagaininwriting totheowner.”
Meadow Heights Shopping Centre has confirmed it would revert to non-lethal deterrence methods in future.
“We are committed to being responsible and responsive to our community’sconcerns,”MsScottsaid.
Pigeon Rescue Support and Emily Power are calling for greater regulation of pest control practices and accountability for those involved.
“We want a bigger inquest into holding pest companies accountable and centre management as well, because they’ve hired these pest companies and haveclearlytakentheirwordforitthatthey knowwhattheyaredoing,”MsPower said.
Main: Pigeon Rescue Support Inc volunteer, Emily Power, at the field where dying pigeons were seen by the community. (Damjan Janevski) 479336_03 Above: Pigeons have become a messy problem at Meadow Heights. (Supplied)
Whittlesea council has called for the state government to rescind the emergency services and volunteer fund (ESVF) levy and opposed collecting it on behalf of the government.
The levy was passed by state parliament intheearlyhoursofMay16andwillbeused to fund emergency services and replaces thefireserviceslevy.Itwillbecollectedvia councilratesnotices.
AreporttotheMay20Whittleseacouncil meeting stated that the levy would result
in a payment increase of 98.9 per cent for residential properties, 64-100 per cent for commercial and industrial properties and 150percentforprimaryproducers.
The government said there would exemptions and payment reductions for emergencyservicesvolunteersandfarmers affectedbydrought.
Cr Blair Colwell labelled the levy as “manifestly unfair to residents” during a costoflivingcrisis.
“Itisconfusingandunjustthatcouncilis required to essentially collect this levy on behalf of the state government and leaves
the community under the false impression that it is a council levy when it is not, it’s a stategovernmentlevy,”hesaid.
Cr Lawrie Cox said he did not support the government “attaching an increase for service”throughcouncil’sratesnotices.
“In fact, I would go as far as I think we should entertain creating a separate invoice as part of the rates notice to be collected by Fines Victoria, which is also another state government body, rather thanbeingdonethroughlocalgovernment, wherebasicallytheblamewillbelaidatour feet for something that we have absolutely
Whittlesea Men’s Shed president Eric Gunstone and members Prakash Dhana and Phil Berchdolt with the
spectator benches at Whittlesea Eagles Football Club. (Damjan Janevski) 479210_01
Showground seating restored to glory
Inaheartwarmingdisplayofcommunity spirit, the Whittlesea Men’s Shed has completed a major renovation of the spectator benches at the Whittlesea Showgrounds, breathing new life into a vitalpartoftheWhittleseaEagles’home.
The project focused on reusing and recycling the existing timber and metal structures.
The result? A refreshed seating area that saved the Eagles thousands and preservedasliceofclubhistory.
“WMS was very pleased to work
alongside the Whittlesea Eagles and the WhittleseaShowgroundsandRecreation Reserves Committee of Management,” WMS presidentEricGunstonesaid.
“Under the leadership of Prakash Dhana,ourmembersworkedtirelesslyto refurbish the old benches, ensuring cost savings while maintaining the integrity oftheshowgrounds.
The payment received for this work further supports our social initiatives andongoingsustainability.”
Whittlesea Eagles President Luke
Fraumonopraisedtheshed’swork.
“Theiradviceledustorefurbishrather than replace the benches, saving us a significantamountofmoney.Thequality of work is outstanding, and the benches will continue to serve our spectators for manyyearswhilepreservingapartofour club’shistory,”MrFraumonosaid.
Committee chair Graeme Hunter added “This project strengthens our relationships and enhances the Showgrounds…preserving the history andamenityofthisspaceiscrucial.”
Cr Christine Stow said the levy was coming at time when so many ratepayers werealreadystruggling.
“I can’t support imposing this extra tax onourresidents,”CrStowsaid.
“They’re already paying too much. They’realreadybroken.
“We speak often about the cost of living crisisandhowtoughitisoutthere,butthen we’re asked to enforce a levy that makes it worse.Wesimplycan’tdothat.”
Temple plan sparks backlash
A wave of concern has swept through Woodstock and Eden Park as locals band together to oppose a proposed yoga and meditation studio and Hindu temple at 330 Grants Road.
A petition with 159 signatories was tabled at the Whittlesea council meeting on Tuesday, May 20.
The proposed development has become a flashpoint for residents worried about rural over-development.
Residents also have concerns about traffic and fire safety.
A community meeting was recently held to give locals a chance to learn more about the proposal and voice their objections.
Speakingatlastweek’scouncilmeeting, Cr Stow noted the petition’s official role in the planning process.
“The petition will be submitted as an objection to the application with issues raised in the petition,“ she said.
The project proposes weekend operations from 8am to 7pm, accommodating up to 20 people.
Petition author and Whittlesea local Kerry Stewart believes Grants-Selkrik Road will have an extra 50-60 cars each day to accommodate the visitors.
With a final decision not expected until July, Cr Stow emphasised the community’s unity.
“I’m really proud to be a part of the community and the cohesion that they showed.”
Mixed-use development plan gets green light near Funfields on Plenty Road
A development plan near Funfields has been given the greenlight by Whittlesea council.
During last week’s meeting council endorsed arevisedproposalfor2388Plenty Road following community consultation andDepartmentofTransportfeedback.
The plan, situated at the southern entry to Whittlesea township, includes two commercial sites, a multi-storey aged care facility, medical centre and retirement living.
Council received 29 submissions about the development plan, including 17 opposingit.
Speaking at last week’s council meeting, Cr Laurie Cox acknowledged community concerns about traffic, especially during peakperiods.
“A couple of things worth noting – there is a planned new roundabout and access point to the site and we have taken into account the closeness of that roundabout tothenorthaswell,”CrCoxsaid.
“My understanding is that there are furtherdiscussionsgoingonwithFunfields in terms of access to their site and the proposedroundaboutonPlentyRoad.”
CrCoxsaidtheDepartmentofTransport had also reviewed the plan and prompted
changes.
“They did not agree with a number of access points to the south side of the proposedroundabout,”CrCoxsaid.
“We are very conscious of Plenty Road and the congestion that appears there at different stages during the summer period with both Funfields and also the WhittleseaShowperiod,”
“IwanttoassurepeopleintheWhittlesea township that we have taken into account the congestion on Plenty Road and the planningofthesitegenerally.”
A report to the council meeting said residents also felt the development was an
overdevelopment and did not align with the existing neighbourhood character of thearea.
The report said that as result, council hadrequestedchangestobuildingheights, setbacksandfencingforthesite.
The report said that council officers felt the proposal sought to provide a balanced outcomethatdeliversacommunitybenefit including more diverse housing options and additional employment opportunities to the Whittlesea township through the provision of the residential aged care facility, complementary medical uses and retirementliving.
Fundinghasfinallybeenallocatedtoopen and operate Craigieburn Community Hospital – but the state budget papers showitmightnotbeuntillate2026.
Treasurer Jaclyn Syme’s handed down her first state budget on May 20, which included $172 million to open the state’s community hospitals, including at Craigieburn.
Construction of the hospital appeared to have been finalised months ago, prompting questions about when it would open from Hume council and
Northern Metropolitan Liberal MP Evan Mulholland.
Thestategovernmentpromisedtobuild thehospitalintheleaduptotheNovember 2018 state election and the hospital was meanttoopenin2024.
The 2025-26 budget papers state that the estimate completion date for the community hospital has been revised to quartertwoofthe2026-27financialyear.
The community hospital will be run by Northern Health and will provide urgent care,daysurgeryandpublicdental.
The budget also included $1 million for a feasibility study into a future maths and
Netball legend visits Epping
EppingFootballNetballClubhadanextra spring in its step this week as Australian Diamonds great Catherine Cox visited to celebrate the club’s remarkable community impact– and to inspire the nextgenerationofnetballstars.
The club was crowned People’s Choice winner in the 2024 Woolworth’s Netball Grants program, securing $20,000 in funding. And the impact has been real. The club used the grant to buy new equipment, portable lighting for winter training, and fresh food to keep young athletesenergised.
“They’ve upgraded equipment, they have been able to buy some portable lights for outside so the kids can train for longer when it gets dark in the winter monthsandthey’vealsobeenabletobuy somefreshfruitandfoodforthekidstobe
able to have at training sessions as well,” Coxsaid.
Cox is also thrilled to see how young players are now learning about health andnutritionearlyintheirjourneys.
“Ididn’tlearntoomuchaboutnutrition until I was about midway through my netballjourney,”Coxsaid.
“So the fact that it is now something that is instilled in the kids in their very early years I think is just so important to set them up for life– not only on the netballcourtsbutingeneral.”
And as for the sport itself? Cox is proud ofitsgrowthandseesnosignofitslowing.
“Itcontinuestogrowwhichisfantastic,” Coxsaid.“Ithasthehighestparticipation numbers in the country and I don’t see that changing anytime soon– because netball’ssuchagreatproduct.”
Say cheese! Gold medal win
Alba Cheese Co has something to smile about – and it’s not just the rich, creamy tasteofitsaward-winningcheese.
The family-run business has scooped an impressive nine medals at the prestigious Royal Queensland Dairy Awards, cementing its place as one of Australia’s mostcelebratedcheeseproducers.
The tally includes four gold, four silver, andonebronze–ahaulthatreflectsdecades ofdedication,tradition,andinnovation.
Judged by leading dairy experts and industry connoisseurs, the awards highlight excellence in flavour, texture, and technique –all qualities that Alba Cheese Co said are at the heart of every wheelitproduces.
“This award is more than a recognition –it’s a reflection of our dedication to traditional cheese-making, sustainable sourcing, and bold flavour,” national marketing manager Margaret McLelland said.“Inanindustryfilledwithremarkable
scienceschoolinMelbourne’snorth-west, while Hazel Glen College in Doreen will receive$800,000formodernisationworks, and Meadow Heights Primary School will benefitfroma$362,000investment.
Planningfundshavealsobeenallocated for Greenvale Primary and The Grange P–12College.
Kalkallo MP Ros Spence said the budget also included $400,000 to build a community pavilion at Dwyer Street ReserveinKalkallo.
Transport infrastructure has also received a lift, with the budget allocating funding to upgrade the intersection of
Donnybrook Road and Mitchell Street, stagetwooftheMicklehamRoadupgrade and for extra train services on the CraigieburnandUpfieldlines. Ms Spence said the extra services would mean trains would run at least every 20 minutes on the Craigieburn line, includingonweekendsandlateatnight. Other budget announcements include $162 million to improve the bus network in the north, including a new service connecting Mystique Estate in Wollert’s north to Epping Station. Beveridge and Broadmeadows will also get new or improvedservices.
“Getting payment help was simple. Now I don’t worry about our water bill.”
talent, standing out is an achievement we don’ttakelightly.Itinspiresustocontinue pushing boundaries while honouring the artofcheese.”
What sets Alba Cheese apart is its commitmenttoqualityfromfarmtoplate.
Using milk sourced from Gippsland’s dairy region, the company combines old-world methods with modern flair–thanks to the expert hands of master cheese-makers Gaetano and Mario Bongiorno.
With more than 40 years of heritage behind them, the latest accolades reaffirm Alba’s mission: to create cheese that not only delights the palate but represents the pinnacleofAustralianDairyexcellence.
And for cheese lovers everywhere, it’s justanotherreasontoindulge.
“Our cheese tells a story,” Ms McLelland said. “It’s about the land, our people, and our passion for crafting something truly special.”
Former Diamond Catherine Cox speaks with the next generation of players. (Supplied)
Alba Cheese won 4 gold medals at the national dairy awards, Husband and Wife Gaetano and Lena Bongiorno. (Damjan Janevski) 478170_01
Whittlesea council inquiry
By Tom Ingleton
Whittlesea council will be scrutinised over the next four months, with the state government launching a Commission of Inquiry.
The inquiry was announced by Local Government Minister Nick Staikos on April 16 when he suspended former mayor Aidan McLindon for six months amid allegations of poor conduct and intimidating behaviour, and was launched bytheministeronMay19.
It followed a vote of confidence in Mr McLindon by the city’s other councillors and his subsequent ban from council premises for occupational health and safetyreasons.
According to the government, a
Commission of Inquiry is held when seriousgovernancefailuresareidentified.
Mr Staikos determined that an inquiry into Whittlesea council with broad powers was necessary to address potentially serious and systemic governance issues within the council and identify necessary improvements to ensure it can function effectively.
The inquiry will be led by experience public sector leaders Prue Digby and Jim Gifford.
“We are taking immediate action to ensure the Whittlesea community can have confidence in their council,” Mr Staikos said. “I welcome Prue Digby and Jim Gifford, who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in leading this Commissionofinquiry.”
Ms Digby has over 40 years’ experience across state and local government, while Mr Gifford has guided councils through complexreformprocesses,thegovernment said.
The council will continue to operate during the inquiry, with findings to be handeddowninSeptember.
“Victorians deserve a council that represents their best interests and serves themwithrespect,”MrStaikossaid.
“We are ensuring our councils uphold thesevalues.”
Whittlesea council has previously said it welcomedtheCommissionofInquiry.
Mr McLindon said he was pleased the inquiry had been launch but was disappointed it would be “a cost borne by ratepayers”.
Free skin cancer checks in Whittlesea
Whittlesea locals will have access to free skin cancer checks when a mobile Skin Check and Awareness Unit visits the townshipnextmonth.
The Lions V Districts Cancer Foundation van will be stationed at 74 Laurel Street on Saturday 14 and Sunday June 15, providing skin checks and sun safetyinformationtothecommunity.
Operatedbyfullytrained,certified,and professionally supervised volunteers, the unit aims to detect early signs of skin cancer and raise awareness about prevention.
Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, and early detectioncansavelives.
The initiative is supported by Lions Clubs in Victoria and southern NSW, alongside generous public and private donors.
President of the Lions Club of Whittlesea, Eric Gordon, said the service will be a major help to people who might otherwisedelayacheck.
The van includes three fully equipped checking rooms, a waiting foyer, and a disabledliftattherear.
“A skin check at the doctor will cost $130, so the skin check bus is a way of helping those who might have spots and think that going to the GP is a pain and probably not necessary,” Mr Gordon said.
While it’s not a medical clinic, any suspiciousspotsfoundwillbereferredto aGPforfollow-up.
To book, call Teresa on 0413 739 757 or emailmail@treeservices.com.au
“As previously stated, the accusations against me are baseless. In time, and in the correct forum, the motivation for this character assassination will be made plain,”hesaid.
“It is my intention to focus the light on corrupt practices coupled with unsound governance to enact change for the benefit of not just the residents of the City of Whittlesea but to protect the foundations ofdemocracyforalVictorians,”
Mr Staikos thanked outgoing municipal monitors Peita Duncan and Jude Munro who were appointed in Novembers to oversee the council and help prevent the recurrenceofissuesthatledtothecouncil’s dismissalin2020.
Mr McLindon is eligible to resume his roleasacouncilloronOctober17.
Big
fine for illegal townhouse work
A builder has been fined $25,000 after illegally constructing two townhouses in Attwood without proper permits, prompting strong condemnation from Victoria’sbuildingwatchdog.
Buildqa Pty Ltd and its sole director Nicolas Artusa pleaded guilty in the Melbourne’sMagistrates’Courttocarrying outconstructionwithoutabuildingpermit and failing to comply with a stop work orderissuedinDecember2024.
The offending occurred on Tattenham Court, where two three-storey homes and garages were built far beyond the scope of astagedpermitgrantedinMay2023.
Thepermitonlyallowedworktoprogress to “stage one- slab steel” and included five mandatoryinspections.
But when Hume council inspected the site, it found the building had advanced to include significant structural framework and brickwork, breaching the $650,000 project’spermitconditions.
Despite taking Artusa’s family and financial hardship into account and not recording a conviction, the Magistrate labelled the conduct “very serious”, noting the Victorian Building Authority’s (VBA) casewas“overwhelming.”
More than 130 defects and non-compliance have since been uncovered, with authorities still assessing if the structure can be salvaged or must be demolished.
VBA commissioner and chief executive Anna Cronin said the case highlighted the importance of compliance in the building sector.
“Building permits exist to protect consumersandensurehomesaresafeand compliant,”MsCroninsaid.
“Conduct like this undermines confidence in the building industry and those who engage in it should expect seriousconsequencesfromtheregulator.”
Hume suburb funding revealed in budget transparency measure
Equality and equity is in the spotlight in theproposedHumecouncilbudget.
Councillor Sam Misho successfully put forward a motion at the May 12 council meeting that will make public a detailed report outlining the funds allocated to eachsuburbinthenewbudget.
The purpose is to illustrate the distribution of rates revenue and other applicable funding across suburbs, to provide insights into the equity and rationale behind current and future investmentplanning.
“There’s a lot of funding that is already injected into population growth corridors,
but at the same time I feel that the way in which our ratepayer contributions have not been evenly distributed,” Cr Misho said.
Cr Kate Hamley said the budget process tends to focus on equity rather than equality.
“While I understand the sentiment of it and appreciate that this could improve transparency… I’d also have to say to have a little bit of caution that we’re not reinforcing the whole feeling of its suburb versussuburborwardversuswardbecause weareallonecityandoneHume,”shesaid.
Alongside Cr Misho’s motion, a public
question also revealed the exact money being spent in capital works in all Hume suburbs in the proposed budget, as well as theratespersuburb.
In terms of capital rates expenditure for the 2025-26 proposed budget, Sunbury will receive the highest amount with $24.2 million,16percentoftheprogram.
This is followed by Craigieburn, who will receive $17.4 million (12 per cent), Broadmeadows with $7.3 million (five per cent), and Greenvale with $6.2 million (four per cent). Forty-eight per cent of the capital works budget, or $70.5 million will bespentoncitywideprojects.
In rates, Craigieburn residents will contribute the most with $36.2 million, followed by Sunbury with $31.7 million and Greenvale with $18.6 million, with the total citywide rates contribution being $186million.
Council chief financial officer Fadi Srour saidbudgetfundingisn’tdividedbysuburb or ward, but instead chosen on a range of factors.
“Thisbalancedandresponsibleapproach means we invest where it’s needed most –based on evidence and community need –notjusttomakesureeverysuburbgetsthe sameamount,”hesaid.
Whittlesea Lions Club, President Eric Gordon, Lynn Mitchell, Georgina Stewart and Trish Hayward. (Damjan Janevski) 476986_01
Kangan students shine
Three Kangan Institute graduates have been celebrated among Victoria’s most extraordinaryyoungpeople,withKalkallo’s Maryam Safdari taking top honours at the 20257NewsYoungAchieverAwards.
Held on May 9, the awards recognised over40youngVictorians.
But it was the Inspirational TAFE Student Award –sponsored by Kangan Institute –that shone a light on the incredible stories, includingstudentsfromMelbourne’snorth.
Maryam, an Afghan Hazara refugee who arrived in Australia with limited English, was named the overall winner for her perseverance and success through vocationaleducation.
“Kangan was my very first step to today’s success,”MsSadfarisaid.
“I had to do English classes there, get better at speaking English so I could join certificate and diploma courses at RMIT. Kangan is so close to my heart, that’s where everythingstarted.”
Now a diploma-qualified photographer
What’s on
Council Recycling Stations – Free and Local
We have installed 12 drop-off points across the City of Whittlesea to help you safely recycle items that don’t belong in your kerbside bin
Batteries, e-waste and gas bottles are recyclable
Drop them off for free at a local recycling station
We also accept small household items like blister packs, light globes, vapes, DVDs, x-rays and mobiles.
No commercial waste will be accepted
Find your nearest station: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/recycle-stations
running her own freelance event photography business, Maryam said educationchangedeverything.
“Always, always get an education. Study something, learn something new– just believe in yourself and do what you want,”
Ms Safdari said. “It’s never too early, but it’s alwaystoolate.”
Also recognised were fellow Broadmeadows Campus alumni Joshua Pyke, from Stawell, and Feona Magtanum, ofFraserRise.
Mr Pyke, Kangan Institute’s 2025 Outstanding Student in Supply Chain Operations, overcame mental health challenges while working full-time as a truckdriver.
She was named Kangan Institute’s 2024 StudentoftheYear.
Briefs
Hume awards
Nominations are open now for the 2025 Hume Young Leaders Awards. There are multiple categories including Young Advocacy Leader, Young Environmental Leader, Young Creative Leader, Young Entrepreneurial Leader, Young Sport Leader, Young Refugee/Newly Arrived Leader, Young Aboriginal Leader and Young Group of the Year. Young people new to their leadership journey will also be selected as an Emerging Young Leader and one Young Leader of the Year, both of which will be chosen by an assessment panel. Nominations close July 7. Details: hume.vic.gov.au
Teens charged
Four teenagers have been arrested following a series of alleged incidents, including attempted carjackings and an affray, in a shopping centre car park in Epping on Sunday, May 18. Police were called to the car park off High Street about 11am, with multiple victims allegedly threatened with knives. A 15-year-old boy from Ballarat has been charged with offences including aggravated carjacking, affray and assault with a weapon. A 15-year-old girl from Darebin was also charged with similar offences. Two others, a 13-year-old girl from Yarra and a 16-year-old boy from Melton, were also arrested and are expected to be charged on summons.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
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Let’s Celebrate Finding Freedom: Diversity in Community
Join us for a special Refugee Week event as we come together to recognise the strength, resilience and contributions of refugees in our community.
Featuring:
Guest speaker
Performances
Delicious food
Let’s learn, connect and celebrate together. Everyone is welcome. For more information and to book, visit: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/refugeeweek or call 9217 2170
Kangan Institute Inspirational TAFE student award winner, Maryam Safdari, and CP Achieve ambassador, Feona Magtanum. (Pictures: Supplied)
Sport wins in draft budget
Hume’s sporting community is the bigger winner in council’s proposed 2025-26 budget, with money set aside for pavilions, soccer and hockey pitches, reserve upgrades and stadium carparking.
Councillors endorsed the draft budget during a council meeting on May 12.
Council is proposing an average rate rise of 3 per cent in line with the state government rates cap, while the draft budget also includes a $148.28 million capital works program.
Council is proposing to spend close to $13.5 million on pavilions at sporting reserves, with $4.7 million set aside to expand the pavilion at Westmeadows’ Willowbrook Recreation Reserve, $3.45
million proposed to upgrade the pavilion at Craigieburn’s Vic Foster Reserve, $2.66 million budgeted to extend the Hume Hockey Centre pavilion and $2.66 million allocated to construct a pavilion at Greenvale Tennis Club.
The draft budget also aims to address ongoing parking shortages at Craigieburn Sports Stadium, with $2.69 million allocated for the construction of a car park and access road.
The draft budget also includes $1.79 million to redevelop the Johnstone Street Reserve in Jacana, $1.27 million for the renewal of the synthetic soccer pitch at John Ilhan Memorial Reserve in Meadow Heights, $1.21 million for the sports
ground upgrade at Bradford Avenue in Greenvale and$3.29 million for continuing construction of the second pitch at the Hume Hockey Centre.
Mayor Jarrod Bell said the budget takes the council back to basics.
“The message has been consistent across our community and from our colleagues around the table. Let’s focus on what matters, deliver on the essentials, let’s not overcomplicate things and get the job done,” he said.
“We are investing heavily in what people expect of their council; local roads, waste services, essential infrastructure, and the facilities that support everyday life across our suburbs.
Arab cinema’s forgotten art on show
A vibrant and thought-provoking celebration of Arab cinema’s visual history is drawing strong interest at a local Melbourne gallery, where over 100 people packed the launch night of Brushstrokes of Arab Cinema: A Century Unveiled.
The exhibition by designer and artist Kalid Hosni runs until June 6, and coincides with the release of his companion book of the same name.
Endorsed by Omar Sharif Jr and acclaimed Egyptian actress Naglaa Fathi, the book sold over 50 copies in its firstweekandisnowstockedatReadings and Metropolis Bookshop.
The project began as a deeply personal passion for Hosni, who has spent over 15 years collecting and digitally restoring film posters.
“I’ve always been especially interested in the painted posters from the Arab world,” Mr Hosni said.
“Many of these works were created by unknown artists and never properly archived or preserved…this is my way of reconnectingthosememoriesandgiving this overlooked art form the recognition it deserves.”
The exhibition showcases 40 restored posters capturing pivotal moments in Arab cinema– from Egypt’s golden age to thevibrantcontributionsofLebanonand Syria.
“It wasn’t about simply picking famous films,” Mr Hosni explained.
“Some posters are iconic, especially those featuring legendary singers like Umm Kulthum and Fairuz. Others highlightlesser-knownfilmsthatdeserve more recognition.”
While the films remain accessible, Mr Hosni believes the posters hold unique cultural significance.
Brushstrokes of Arab Cinema: A Century Unveiled exhibition curator, Kalid Hosni. (Damjan Janevski) 476696_02
“This city deserves to see their rates returned in real practical improvements.”
Councillors debated whether the budget was equal for all Hume suburbs, as per community requests.
“I think it is very fair to say that we need to focus on ensuring that we apply even investment across suburbs,” Cr Sam Misho said. “We should balance our focus on investment on all the suburbs that feel and look extremely underserviced with those of high growth areas, like Sunbury and Craigieburn.”
The proposed budget is available for community feedback until Tuesday, May 27. Have your say at participate.hume.vic. gov.au/draft-council-plan-and-budge
Boobook soars
YarraPlentyRegionalLibraryiscelebrating a digital milestone, notching up more than one million eBook, audiobook and magazine loans since launching its cutting-edge digital library platform, Boobook, in October 2024.
The industry-first initiative has quickly taken flight, offering more than 110,000 titles and over 400,000 individual copies throughthelibbyapp–allfreetoborrowon phones, tablets, e-readers and computers.
A collaboration between Yarra Plenty Regional Library, Whitehorse Manningham Libraries, and Your Library, Boobook is now Victoria’s largest digital collection,offeringlibrarymembersaccess to a virtual library anytime, anywhere.
YPRL chief executive Jane Cowell said the milestone shows just how powerful collaboration can be.
“Bycombiningthebuyingpowerofthree major library networks we have provided a much bigger and better digital library collection for Victorian library users,” Ms Cowell said.
Arab cinema, he added, played a powerful role in his upbringing and hopes the exhibition inspires deeper curiosity.
“For my family, watching old Egyptian or Lebanese films wasn’t just entertainment– it was connection.”
“Thepostersaremorethanpromotional materials– they’re cultural artefacts,” Mr Hosni said.
“I want to break the stereotype that Arab cinema is somehow limited or conservative. During its golden years, it was incredibly progressive–bold, glamorous and globally competitive,”
“More audiences are discovering the diversity and depth of Arab storytelling, beyond what’s been shown in mainstream Western media.”
“We’ve seen huge growth in digital collections use since we launched Boobook and that tells us this is a resource the community wants, uses and enjoys.”
YPRL board chair , Cr Grant Booker, said the milestone highlights how loved libraries are in the community.
“Our digital collections mean that the library is available 24 hours a day seven days a week. That’s ideas, information and inspiration for everyone and a more literate,bettereducatedandwellinformed society.”
The mystery face that has plagued Victoria police for three decades
By Melissa Meehan, AAP
He was dumped on a cold dirty road thirty years ago, but still police still don’t know his name.
Detectiveshopethereleaseofahigh-tech images will finally reveal who is behind the face that has been haunting them all these years.
The body of the man, believed to be aged between 25 and 35 was found dumped in long grass at North Point Business Park, on themorningofMay1,1995.
Oneofthoseledtoamemberofthepublic coming forward to say they had seen a man ofthesamedescriptionhoursearlieroutside a home on Sorbonne Drive in Sunbury, 17km away, with a bloody head wound and facialinjuries.
The resident opened their door to the man, before closing it and calling the police.
They opened their door again once police wereontheirway,butthemanwasgone.
Over the past 30 years, an exhaustive investigation has been conducted by the
Homicide Squad in an effort to identify the man and determine who was responsible forhisdeath.
Asfaraspolicehavebeenabletoestablish, he has never been reported as a missing person.
His fingerprints and dental records have also been checked over the years in Australiaandinternationally,tonoavail.
Homicide Squad Detective Inspector Dean Thomas said investigators hoped the newimagewouldfinallysolvethemystery.
“For the past 30 years, this man has only beenknowntousas1238/95.Wedon’tknow hisname,wherehewasfrom,whoisfamily was,howhelivedhislife,”DetInspThomas said.
“It is incredibly rare to have these circumstances where we have been unable to identify someone for such a long period oftime.
“It has been a genuine mystery and one thatweareexceptionallykeentosolve.”
Police images of man found dead in Roxburgh Park in 1995.
Heroes in the frame
By Tom Ingleton
Under blue skies and the backdrop of a spectacular football ground, Yesterday’s Hero began shooting at Lalor Football club this week – but the real story goes deeper than lights, camera, action.
For director Cameron Miller, this isn’t just a movie shoot. It’s a return to his roots.
“The inspiration behind Yesterday’s Hero came from my own dreams about becoming a famous actor as a young teen,” Millersaid.“Ihadbeendoingworkasextras on multiple movies and always aspired to become an actor. I wanted to deliver a relatable comedy about a struggling young man trying to make his way in the world while still dreaming of bigger and better things to come and one day having my 15 minutes of fame.”
Filming at Lalor was no coincidence. “LalorFootballClubwasanideallocation as Lalor was my home town,” Miller said. “I grew up in Lalor attending primary schoolandLalorTech.Iplayedafewgames when I was younger and became a trainer for the club for a year. It was my home town and it felt like the right place to bring the movie to life.”
The film features footy icon Warwick Capper, cast as a flamboyant, ego-driven local football star.
“Warwick Capper was chosen to play the role of one of the best players in the local football team … with fame coming to him through his local club,” Miller said. “It shows that fame and celebrity status can come in many forms – from the local footballer best and fairest to Scott Burke, a stand-up wannabe actor going to Hollywood.”
At its core, Yesterday’s Hero is about ambition, setbacks, and unexpected joy.
“Current themes are about learning to become the best version of yourself. Understanding that following your dreams comes with highs and lows … happiness can be found where you least expect it.”
Miller, who grew up on Curtin Avenue,
started at Lalor Football Club as a teenage trainer.
“I wasn’t much of a football player – I was a very bad asthmatic,” Miller recalled.
“At 14, I was picked up to be a trainer at Carlton for a book club and did that for five years, looking after another Lalor boy, Anthony Koutoufides.”
A colourful committee
Whittlesea council is calling on passionate community members and local organisations to help shape a more inclusive future by joining its newly launched Rainbow Advisory Committee.
Expressions of interest (EOIs) are now open until June 14 for the committee,whichaimstostrengthen representation and support for the LGBTIQA+ community across the municipality.
EndorsedattheFebruary18council meeting, the committee will include up to nine community members and atleasttworepresentativesfromlocal organisations or service providers working closely with the LGBTQA+ community.
Councillor David Lenberg will serve as council’s representative, with Cr Blair Colwell acting as proxy.
Cr Lenburg said the initiative reflected a deepened commitment to equity and inclusion.
“The launch of the Rainbow Advisory Committee marks a meaningful step towards inclusivity, allowing us to listen to and work alongside our LGBTIQA+ community to address challenges and remove barriers to participation,” he said.
“This committee is an important platform for LGBTIQA+ voices to be heard and represented in local decision-making. It will help us shape a city where everyone feels safe, supported and celebrated.”
New 2 and 3-bedroom homes are now selling from $475,000** at Ingenia Lifestyle Springside, Beveridge.
Secure your home before 30 June and receive $20,000 off the purchase price when you settle by 23 December 2025*.
Visit our sales office at Craigieburn Central (opposite Australia Post) or call 03 8723 0136 to book an appointment. Thinking about downsizing? Now’s the time to save.
Ingenia Lifestyle Springside
Image is indicative only
’Yesterdays Hero’ shoot with Warwick Capper and Director Cameron Miller (Damjan Janevski) 479263_05
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
What are the benefits of serviced apartment living?
Serviced apartments within a retirement village are ideally suited to older individuals who are mobile, and able to live independentlyand whowould enjoy some additional support to make daily life easier.
Typically located within the village community centre, serviced apartments fosterarelaxedatmospherewhereresidents canenjoysocialinteractions,participatein various activities, and receive assistance when needed. The serviced apartments at Latrobe Retirement Village in Reservoir offer an array of benefits that enhance the qualityoflifeofresidents.
Live Independently with Extra Support
Serviced apartments are designed to provide the best of both worlds: the independence of having your own space with the convenience of additional services.Keybenefitsinclude:
•Access to visiting health professionals andalliedhealthservicesformedicaland wellnessneeds.
•A wide range of social activities tailored todifferentinterestsandabilities.
•A supportive living environment that is not aged care but provides an extra helpinghandwhenneeded.
Fresh
Daily Meals
Delicious dining experiences are essential for enhanced well-being, and serviced apartments ensure that residents have accesstodeliciousandnutritiousmeals.
At Latrobe Retirement Village, every meal is freshly prepared by professionals, ensuring a high quality and taste. Residents can enjoy their meals in the communal dining area, fostering social interactions and friendships. For those
whopreferprivacy,mealscanbedelivered totheroom.
A Variety of Social Activities
Staying active and socially engaged is an importantaspectofafulfillinglifestyle,and serviced apartments provide numerous opportunitiesforrecreationandleisure.
Residents are free to join in morning teas,livemusicperformances,andvarious forms of entertainment.The village offers a widerangeofhobbyandcraftgroups,board games, and movies.Additional facilities include a bowling green, swimming pool, andregularoutingssuchasshoppingtrips andexcursionsonthevillagebus.
Safety and Security for Peace of Mind
Ensuring the safety and well-being of residents is a top priority in serviced apartments.
Emergency call buttons are installed in every unit, providing immediate access to assistanceifneeded.
Be Freed up from Cleaning and Laundry
One of the biggest advantages of serviced apartment living is the reduction in household chores, allowing residents to enjoy more leisure time.Weekly cleaning services ensure a well-maintained and comfortable living space.Bed linen and towelsarealsolaunderedregularly,taking
thehassleoutoflaundrytasks.
Very Affordable Pricing
At Latrobe Retirement Village, serviced apartments have an entry price ranging from $160,000 to $230,000.A monthly service fee also applies, covering the cost of meals, cleaning, and other essential services.
Latrobe Village is part of Centennial Living – see the website: www. centennialliving.com.au. Or call 1300 098 000 to speak with a friendly representative. (Please note: village visits are strictly by appointment only).
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
MY PLACE
Zoe Brown, originally from Thomastown, was recently awarded Whittlesea’s Access and Inclusion Citizen of the Year. She spoke with Tom Ingleton about what it means to win the award and her journey working in the early childhood space.
What’syourconnectiontoWhittlesea?
IhavelivedmostofmylifeintheWhittlesea council community, I was brought home from hospital at birth to a home in ThomastownandasIgrewup,livedinMill Park, Epping, Wollert and now Mernda
Whatdoyoulikeaboutwhereyoulive?
I’m very lucky to have my close family all within the Whittlesea council district making it easy to visit and spend time together
What, if anything, would you change aboutwhereyoulive?
I would love to see more inclusive playgrounds and spaces for children and adults with additional needs and their families and carers, but if I could really change anything it would be peoples mindsets, to break the stigma around individualswithadditionalneedsandhave all areas in the Whittlesea council district considered safe spaces as it should be.
Where is your favourite local place to spendtime?
I love the Mill Park All Abilities Play Space and Splash Park. At the end of each term the ‘Free to be Me’ families and facilitators attend the park to celebrate a term of learning and growing together.
Tell us something people would be surprisedtoknowaboutyou...
I once won the members draw and ran through the banner out on to the ground with the Collingwood football club when I was younger
What does winning Access and Inclusion Citizen of the Year mean to you personally?
It is such an honour, to have such heartfelt nominations sent in by families I’ve supported both past and current, and then be chosen as the winner by the judges panel was really special.
To me the award is a platform and an opportunity to be able to further advocate for children with additional needs and their families.
What inspired you to start your work in accessandinclusion,andwhatkeepsyou motivated?
In 2019 I was working in the early years space as an educator and was the main educator for a three-year-old child called Danny who had recently been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. At that pointIhadneverworkedwithachildonthe Autism Spectrum ; but from the moment I beganitstartedapassioninmycareerthat Ihadneverhadbefore,itwasthesparktoa
fire that burns so strongly to this day. Together I worked collaboratively with Danny’s family and allied health supportsformanyyearstillhesuccessfully completed kindergarten and transitioned to Northern School of Autism.
Danny, his family and I went through many ups and downs on his early years journey, there were tears, breakdowns, heartache and the uncertainty of the unknown.......but that was all outshone by the wins and successes, what others would consider as something menial was everything and as it should be.
As time went on, I met many other families within the early years that were just beginning their journey of having a child with additional needs and besides having a child with additional needs they all shared one main common factor, they felt alone. It was from that moment I knew something had to be done, there needed to be a local space where families could feel safe, supported, connected and most importantly seen, heard, validated and understood.
In 2021 with support from Jindi Goodstart Kindergarten and Brotherhood of St Laurence I began the ‘Free to be Me’ program, an inclusive parent support/play group, free from judgment for parents, carers and their children aged 18 months - 6 years that require additional support.. I have always said my work is a double edged sword, it can be so mentally and physicallydrainingbutwhenyougettosee thetruebeautyofthechildrenandfamilies thriving and flourishing, that is the biggest reward of them all.
Zoe Brown, Whittlesea Access and Inclusion Citizen of the Year. (Damjan Janevski) 476740_05
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Refugee Week
Celebrate “Finding Freedom: Diversity in Community” with cultural performances, art, music, dance and food on Saturday, June 14, 1-5pm, at Town Hall Broadmeadows, 10 Dimboola Road, Broadmeadows. This event is proudly organised by people from refugee backgrounds.
communitydevelopment@hume.vic.gov.
au
Community planting
Join the Hume Interfaith Network for a community planting to celebrate Refugee Week and welcome new migrants on Saturday, June 21 at Sustainable Park, 91 Sustainable Drive, Craigieburn, from 9.30am-1pm.
Melissa Doherty, 0409 702 086 or Eric Stone, 0477 719 109
Craft market
Join the fun at Bridgewater Retirement Village’s craft market and Devonshire Tea on Saturday, July 19, from 8.30am to 2pm. Enjoy handmade crafts, local stalls, and a delicious morning tea. The market will be held at 9 Wedgewood Road, Roxburgh Park.
Liz Munro, 0409 712 613
Bundoora Probus Club
Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10am at St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Alma Road, Bundoora. Enjoy guest speakers, excursions, coffee mornings, lunches, walks and craft sessions.
Leanne, 0419 004 997
Young parents group
DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young parents every Thursday, from 10.30am –noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 McDonalds Road, Mill Park.
Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819
Community singing group
Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing.
Sonja, 0429 587 285
Chatty Cafe
Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park.
https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/
TAC L2P Program
The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.
Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371
Adult education
Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.
9309 8531
Senior citizens meet
The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club
regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.
Beulah, 0411 422 398
Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club
The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker and on the third Saturday, and a dance from 7-11 pm. All are welcome.
Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, or lizmunro7@gmail.com
Craft and Conversation
Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.
humelibraries.vic.gov.au
Community lunch in Roxburgh Park
Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park.
https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x
Homestead Walking Group
Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk.
https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x
Craigieburn ToastmastersCraigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. It meets the first and third Thursday, from 7-9pm, at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton Street, Craigieburn.
Education and community centre
Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner English and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.
9308 1477 or www.craigieburn.org.au
Craigieburn Residents Association
Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening re-roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so it can be addressed? Go along to the
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
Craigieburn Residents Association and tell them about it. The association liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. They also give annual donations to a local charity each year. They meet on the last Wednesday of the month at Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn, 7.30pm.
craigieburnresidents@gmail,com, or 0401 369 311
Whittlesea Historical Society
The Whittlesea Historical Society welcomes anyone interested in the history of the City of Whittlesea area. A meeting schedule is available on the society’s website.
www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au
Indigenous Community Gardens
Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month, 11am-noon, to showcase the gardens at the corner Toora Drive and Redan Court. All are welcome.
Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com
Menergise men’s walk and talk Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House. A nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze.
0475 454 133
Callinan after hall stories
Yarraville based comedian and performer
Damian Callinan is coming to the Williamstown Town Hall next month to perform his new show on……the WilliamstownTownHall.
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.
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)
the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 10 June 2025. If you object,
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which team has the first overall selection in the 2025 NBA draft?
2. Which American golf professional won the 2025 PGA Championship?
3. Which team did Central Coast Mariners defeat to win the 2025 A-League Women Grand Final after a penalty shootout?
4. The left field wall at Fenway Park, home baseball field of the Boston Red Sox, is better known by what nickname?
5. Which two teams are competing in the 2025 NBA Western Conference finals?
6. Which two teams are competing in the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference
Which Australian-born Washington Wizards assistant coach is also head coach of the Boomers?
Which Australian-born New York Liberty head coach is also head coach of the Opals?
Which team secured a domestic treble (FA Cup, Women’s Super League, League Cup) with a recent 3-0 win over Manchester United?
10. Which horse won the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes, held in Baltimore, Maryland?
11. In which sport would you use the O’Brien technique?
12. Whose silhouette is used in the NBA logo?
13. Who captained South Africa in back-to-back Rugby World Cup wins in 2019 and 2023?
14. Starring Michael B. Jordan, the 2015 sports drama film Creed revolves around which sport?
15. What is the small white target ball in lawn bowls known as?
16. Which AFL team predominantly wears purple?
17. Which athlete played the titular genie in the film Kazaam?
18. How many NRL premiership titles were the Melbourne Storm stripped of after a salary cap breach?
19. World No.1 Jannik Sinner has recently returned to tennis from a how many months-long ban?
20. Is it possible to score more than six runs off a single ball in cricket?
21. Which provider has secured the rights to live-stream the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?
22. Late VFL/AFL legend Robert Walls won premierships as a player and coach for which club?
23. In what year was a Women’s NRL State of Origin match first held?
24. How many stages make up the 2025 Giro D’Italia bike race?
25. NRL hooker Jayden Brailey will play for which rival team in 2026?
26. Which national cricket team has asked the ICC to be given the chance to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games?
27. The official colours of racing team McLaren are black and what other colour?
28. Which singer recently had a concert postponed in Denver because of an NBA playoffs game?
29. The Cavalry, Cosmos and Cannons are former professional sporting teams that were based in which Australian city?
30. Macquarie Point Stadium is the proposed name for a new sports venue to be built in what state capital?
PUBLIC NOTICE HUME CITY COUNCIL NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL LAND
Hume City Council (Council) acting under clause 3 of schedule 10 to the Local Government Act 1989 (Act), proposes to do the following (Proposal):
•discontinue the road abutting 50, 60 and 70 Kinloch Court, Craigieburn, shown hatched on the plan below, being part of the land in contained in certificate of title volume 9769 folio 560 (Road); and
•sell the land comprising the Road by private treaty to the owner of the property at 50, 60 and 70 Kinloch Court, Craigieburn (Purchaser)
The Proposal is subject to the following:
•the purchase price for the Road is the current market value;
•the Purchaser must consolidate the title to the Road with the titles to the adjoining land at 50, 60 and 70 Kinloch Court, Craigieburn; and
•the Purchaser will be required to pay Council’s costs and disbursements associated with the Proposal.
Any person may make a submission on the Proposal. Any person proposing to make a submission under section 223 of the Act must do so by 24 June 2025.
All submissions will be considered in accordance with section 223 of the Act. Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, and can be hand delivered to Council’s Municipal Office at 1079 Pascoe Value Road, Broadmeadows or posted to the following address:
Sheena Frost Chief Executive Officer
Hume City Council PO Box 119 DALLAS VIC 3047
Any person requesting to be heard in support of their submission is entitled to be heard before Council or be represented by a person acting on their behalf, at a Council meeting to be held (if required) on 28 July 2025 at the Broadmeadows Council Chamber, Hume Global Learning Centre, 1093-1097 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows. A person must clearly state in their submission whether they, or their representatives wishes to speak at this meeting. For more information on the proposal, please contact the Property team via email propertyleasing@hume.vic.gov.au or telephone (03) 9205 2200.
SHEENA FROST
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
PUBLIC NOTICE
PROPOSED DISCONTINUANCE OF PART OF ROAD RESERVE ADJACENT TO 70W REGENT STREET AND 2W BRICKWELL LANE, MERNDA
Whittlesea City Council (Council) gives notice under section 206 and clause 3 of Schedule 10 of the Local Government Act 1989 and section 114 of the Local Government Act 2020 that it proposes to discontinue a section of the Regent Street road reserve immediately adjacent to 70W Regent Street and 2W Brickwell Lane, which is shown as the hatched area and referred to as the ‘Subject Land’ on the plan below.
If discontinued, Council proposes to include the Subject Land (or any part of the Subject Land) into the associated title plan/s for 70W Regent Street and 2W Brickwell Lane. The purpose of the discontinuance is to correct the Regent Street road alignment so that it matches the current Regent Street alignment at 46 Regent Street, Mernda.
As part of its community engagement process, Council is inviting submissions on this proposal. Any person wishing to make a submission must do so in writing to the undersigned by no later than Monday 30 June 2025
A person making a submission is entitled to request in the submission that they wish to appear in person, or to be represented by a person specified in the submission, in support of the submission at a meeting of the Council or its Committee on a date, time and place to be determined by the Council.
All submissions will be considered in accordance with section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989. Following the consideration of any submissions, Council may decide to discontinue the road reserve, part of the road reserve or not to discontinue and the road reserve.
All enquiries should be directed to the George Vassiliadis, Unit Manager Strategic Property on 9217 2170 or propmgmt@whittlesea.vic.gov.au
Submissions referencing ‘Regent Street, Mernda’ should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer and can be emailed to propmgmt@whittlesea.vic.gov.au,
Jannik Sinner
Michael B Jordan 3005
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)
more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
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
4
5
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?
No. 271 No. 239
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
AFL Open headed to Bundoora at the end of October
Theflagshipnationaleventforfootballerswith an intellectual impairment and wheelchair players will be held in Bundoora.
The AFL announced that the 2025 AFL Open will be held at La Trobe University Sports Precinct in Bundoora from October 27-30.
The sports precinct boasts world-class facilities, including an elite AFL oval and sixmulti-purposeindoorcourtswhichwill betransformedforwheelchairfooty.
Theflagshipnationaleventforfootballers with an intellectual impairment and wheelchair players will see each state and territory represented, going head-to-head andbattlingitouttobecrownedchampions in,wheelchairandinclusionevents.
This year marks the second instalment of the AFL Open after the inaugural event was hosted in Queensland last year, with Tasmania taking home the Inclusion title and Vic Metro claiming the silverware for theWheelchairdivision.
Previously held across two events known as the AFL National Inclusion
CarnivalandtheWheelchairAFLNational Championships, the AFL Open was designed to elevate and strengthen the competitions by combining both into one majortournament.
Building on the success of last year by increasing accessibility and participation for people with disability from grassroots toelite,afulltimetableofmatchesforboth divisions will run concurrently over the courseofthefour-dayOpen.
Around Australia in 2024, there were more than 18,000 disability inclusion participantsacrossNABAFLAuskick,NAB AFL Superkick, AFL Nines, junior, youth andseniordivisions.
The national number for AFL Auskick was up nearly seven per cent from 2022, along with a 15 per cent boost in players within the modified football competitions overthesametimeperiod.
As participation continues to rise and more people connect with the game, the AFL Open will also have a focus on building inclusion pathways for women and girls, as well as introducing a blind/ low vision exhibition match to showcase andhighlightmodifiedversionsoffooty.
AFL game development executive general manager Rob Auld said this year’s event aimed to build on the success of the inaugural2024AFLOpen.
“On behalf of the AFL, I’m delighted to lock in the dates and venue for the 2025 Toyota AFL Open, which is our flagship nationaleventforinclusionandwheelchair
Tigers starting to fire
By Tara Murray
Westmeadows is starting to purr in the Essendon District Football League division 2 competition.
It’s been a mixed start to the season for last season’s runners up, who have been made to pay for some bad patches on play.
On Saturday though, the Tigers were able to make it two in a row for the first time this season as they accounted for Burnside Heights.
Tigers coach Ash Flavel said they were starting to see some of the signs they saw last year on their grand final run.
“We’re happy to get the win and we’re starting to hum,” he said. “We’re starting to get soldiers back and after the bye we should get everyone back on the park.
“We’re starting to find the good side we had from last year.
“There’s a really good buzz around the boys.”
On Saturday, the Tigers were able to do the damage in the second half.
Just four points separated the two sides at half time before the Tigers kicked 11 goalstofiveinthesecondhalftowin,17.10 (112)-11.3 (69).
“It was a really good win,” he said. “We werealittlebitdisappointedinthesecond quarter and they come back at us to their credit.
“Inthethirdquarterwewereabletokick nine goals and give us a buffer. The last quarter was then stoppage after stoppage before they kicked a couple late in chunk time.”
Aaron Evans kicked five goals for the Warriorstocontinuehisgoodrunofform.
Flavel said he thought Evans would be up the top in the league best and fairest at this point of the season.
Michael Portelli and Riley Hearne were other standouts for the Tigers.
Flavel said after feeling the pressure early on as being one of the teams to beat aftercomingoffagrandfinal,thesidewas now playing with more freedom.
“The pressure is now on Glenroy as the
players,”hesaid.
“This year we are pleased to host the eventatLaTrobeUniversitySportsPrecinct in Victoria at the end of October, with the venueandsurroundinglocationsproviding exceptional facilities and exceeding our accessibilityrequirementsforparticipants, theirfamiliesandspectators.
“Having recently been redeveloped over the last few years the venue is world-class, andourteamislookingforwardtoworking with La Trobe to ensure the second Toyota AFLOpenbuildsonthesuccessof2024.
“After last year’s event we received clear feedback that all states and territories valued the opportunity to bring both inclusion and wheelchair divisions together, with strong connections forming amongplayersandteams.
“AstheToyotaAFLOpenlookstoimprove and grow our game, this year’s event will also have a focus on inclusion pathways for women and girls, as well as showcasing opportunities for blind and low vision footballersthroughanexhibitionmatch.
Briefs
EDFL
Greenvale had a tough day out against Essendon Doutta Stars in the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division on Saturday. The Jets, who were looking for their third win of the season, lost 16.16 (112)-0.0 (0). Kayla Peake and Jii Williams were named the Jets best.
Football
Five Calder Cannons and Northern Knights’ Tyson Gresham have been named in the Vic Metro under-18 squad for the national championships. T Cooper Duff-Tytler leads the way for the Cannons. He will be joined by Jackson Barber, Hussien El Achkar, Adam Sweid and Felix Kneipp in the squad. Knights’ Lewis Houndsome, Mitchell Moate and Harry Van Hattum have beennamed trainonplayers.
Northern FL
team to beat and we’ve happy for it to maintain that way,” he said.
“You have to come to play and you can’t take your foot off the pedal. The three games we have lost, it has been bad football that has cost us.
“We’re more than confident that our best footy can beat anyone.”
After seven rounds, the Tigers sit in fourth spot with a 4-3 record.
The Tigers now face Hadfield as it goes for three in a row for the first time this season.
A win would also be their first win on the road.
Meanwhileinpremierdivision,Greenvale had a tough day as it lost to Keilor, 19.18 (132)-3.2(20).
In division 1, Tullamarine got another win on the board as it beat Craigieburn, 8.7 (55)-7.4(46).
Roxburgh Park remains without a win after losing to Avondale Heights, 17.11 (113)-9.12(66).
The Northern Football League has voted to deny Thomastown’s request to register troubled former AFL player Tarryn Thomas. Thomas was hoping to restart his football career, after he received an 18-game suspension from the AFL for inappropriate behaviour towards a woman at the start of 2024. North Melbourne then decided to serve ties with him. Northern Football League chief executive Martin Stillman confirmed its league had made the call to prevent Thomas playing. “After considering all aspects related to this application the board unanimously decided to decline Thomastown’s request for registration of Tarryn Thomas for the 2025 season.”
Northern FL
Laurimar got its first win of the Northern Football League women’s division 3 season, while Whittlesea and Thomastown were also on the winners list on Sunday. The Power were at home to Darebin women’s 2 and led at every break on the way to a 6.7 (43)-0.2 (2) win. Naomi Hocking and Stephanie Crook were named their best. Whittlesea came away with an 8.10 (58)-1.0 (6), while Thomastown beat Reservoir, 3.1 (19)-2.6 (18).
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Aaron Evans. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 422890_16
Hume City through in Australia Cup after close victory
It wouldn’t be an Australia Cup without some magic and drama from Hume City.
The perennial finalist on Tuesday night needed nearly the whole 90 minutes to get on top on the scoreboard against the OakleighCannons.
Facing the Cannons in round six, Hume Citytrailedathalftime.
Godfrey Debele scored just his second goal for Hume this season in the 83rd minute to give his side the lead for the first timeforthenight.
It would be enough, with Hume winning 3-2.
Speaking to Hume City media after the game, Debele said that is what cup nights areabout.
“To be honest a great reaction from last week,wewereworkingaway,workingaway evenwhenwewentdown,”hesaid.
“I think we were still confident enough thatwewouldgettheresult.”
Debelesaiditfeltlikehisgoaltookforever togoin.
“BoyI’mgladthatitwentintothebackofthe net,” he said. “I think it gives us a huge boost and picks up the morale in the team leading intotheweekend’sgameagainstDandy.”
HumejoinsNorthcoteCityandHeidelberg Unitedasthefirstteamsthroughtothenext round, after they also had wins on Tuesday night.
Winners in the next round will progress intothenationalstageofthecompetition.
Whittlesea United will face Dandenong Thunderinitsroundsixmatchnextweek.
Hume was back in National Premier LeagueactiononSaturdaynightagainstthe DandenongThunder.
The Thunder took a lead in the 63rd minutethroughDanielClark.
Hume needed the whole 90 minutes to ensure it came away with a point, with substituteRobertHarkerscoringinthe90th
Flying return for Sweid
By Tara Murray
Twelve months ago making the Vic Metro squad was only a dream for Calder Cannons’ Adam Sweid.
An ACL injury meant he spent much of last season on the sidelines before being part of Pascoe Vale’s under-18.5 Essendon District Football League grand final side.
A brilliant start to the Coates Talent League season has seen Sweid named as one of five Cannons’ named in the Vic Metro under-18 squad.
“It is really good,” he said. “I’m happy with how I’ve trained over the last two to three months.
“It has been a good experience, learning a lot. It has been good.”
Sweid said he knew his potential on the football field and had trained pretty hard, but thought that making Vic Metro was a stretch from how far back he was coming from.
He said it wasn’t easy to get to this point.
“I put in my mind that if I could have a good month before Metro starts, I can give myself a chance and Cannons will provide that for me.
“Cannons have looked after me. I’ve trained hard and had great teammates around me, they have been extremely positive towards my comeback.
“I had a lot of mental thoughts. They looked after me and treated me well.”
Sweid said while he was confident that he would have a good start to the season, he has exceeded his own expectations.
He said the first practice match and round one and having a great start, he knew that he would be able to show his skills for day dot.
Sweid said he was keen to continue to showcase his talent for Vic Metro.
“Obviouslyeveryonewantstogetdrafted and get to the highest level,” he said. “My goal is to showcase my talent, show what I’m good for and show my traits.
“Learn things with new mates. Everyone is different and all come from different backgrounds and different cultures.”
Sweid said a few years ago he was dreaming of being drafted, now it could be a reality.
Hesaidtheprocessgoesprettyquickand he thinks that he is ready for it.
“I trust the work I’ve done, I’ve worked hard,” he said. “I have to stay consistent and hopefully get on a list.”
Sweid started football when he was just six when his mum wanted him to get out and get active and he has never stopped. He played at Hadfield before moving to Pascoe Vale to play at a higher level.
Sweid has also been part of Essendon’s Next Generation Academy, which means the Bombers can bid on him at draft time.
“My dad is originally from Lebanon and moved here when he got married to my mum,” he said.
“Extremelygratefulfor.Theopportunities
Adam Sweid. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 471376_01
IgetwithEssendonisamazing,Igettotrain with the Essendon squad once a week.
“To be in that environment with AFL culture and get to be involved with an AFL organisation which is nice.
“My parents as well, they are the reason I’m at Essendon.”
Sweid is joined in the squad by Hussien El Achkar, who is also part of the Vic Metro squad.
Former Cannons Isaac Kako and Jayden Nguyen were picked by the Bombers through the NGA last year
Sweid said they were very close with the pair and talk about how the process feels.
Hesaidafterthenationalchampionships, he wants to help the Cannons win a premiership.
minutetoensurea1-1draw. Humesitssixthonthetable. This week it faces Green Gully on Friday nightathome. In the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, Whittlesea United won a high scoring affair with the Boroondara-Carey Eagles. ItwasagoalscoringfeastwithWhittlesea winning5-4aftertrailing2-0. Whittlesea now sits ninth on the table withfivewins,twodrawsandeightlosses. It faces Altona City in round 16 on Friday night.
Tara Murray
Paradians and Heat join forces
Old Paradians Football Club and Heat Netball Club have announced a new partnership between their respective clubs.
The Northern Football Netball League announced that the partnership will initially be a social one that aims to strengthen and diversify their respective communities for many years.
Heat president Renee Fitzgerald says she’s thrilled about the new partnership with the Old Paradians.
“This collaboration between the two clubs will help unify two traditionally distinct sporting codes and bring fresh energy to both sporting communities,” Fitzgerald said on the Northern FNL website.
“By working together we will be able to more effectively share resources, attract a more diverse player and supporter base, and help drive joint club initiatives.”
Fitzgerald says she’s particularly excited about the introduction of new initiatives that will benefit both clubs such as social events, training opportunities and community programs.
“Overall, we see this partnership expanding the potential of both clubs and creating lasting social and community connections that goes well beyond the game.”
Old Paradians president Simon Vincent says the Raiders community is equally as excited about the new partnership.
“When we made the bold move to join the NFNL one of our objectives was to regain our relevance and become a destination club for players and their families,” Vincent said.
“Thisannouncementisasignificant step in that direction and we look forward to building upon it in the future.”
League chief executive Martin Stillman says the league is proud to support the exciting partnership.
“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in line with theNFNL’sstrategicvision–bringing together football and netball clubs to form unified, community-focused entities wherever possible,” he said.
“The league has been working closely with both clubs to facilitate this alignment, and we are thrilled to see it come to fruition.”
“TheNFNLfirmlybelievesthatthis partnership will be both strong and mutually beneficial, fostering a sense ofunity,sharedvalues,andlong-term success for both the Old Paradians and Heat communities”.
Craigieburn Eagles starting to get going
Craigieburn Eagles are starting to get on the right track in the Big V men’s division 1 competition.
TheEagleshavehadamixedstarttotheir first season back in the higher division, with five wins from their first 10 matches.
Coach Tim Annett said things were starting to fall into place now.
“It turned the last two weeks,” he said before the weekend’s match. “Hopefully it is onwards and upwards.
“We had an interrupted start to the year with injury. We are yet to have a full team in any game.
“We were waiting for Tyler Best to get back from America and he joined us the last two weeks.
“We now have a full complement to pick from and can have that continuity at training.
Annett said the arrival of Best had been massiveforthemonbothendsofthecourt.
In his second match, he finished with a team high 26 points having scored 21 of them in the first half.
“We were good, he makes a great team,” Annett said.
Sitting in fifth spot, Annett said they weren’tdisappointedwithhowtheystarted the season as they adjust to being back in the division 1 competition after winning division 2 last season.
“Some results haven’t gone our way, but we haven’t panicked,” he said.
“With a complement of players in the second time we play teams we will put in a better performance.
“Theaimisstilltomakefinalsandweare confident that we can do that. Hopefully we can be in the top five and play finals.”
Annett said they face a couple of sides down towards the bottom the next few weeks, before facing second placed Gippsland United.
The Eagles faced the Chelsea Gulls on Sunday and came away with a big win.
It was an even first half, with the Eagles takinginafivepointleadtothemainbreak.
A 31-20 third quarter broke the game open in the favour of the Eagles and they were able to finish it off to win, 100-81.
Lachlan Keho top scored with 21 points for the Eagles, while also having eight rebounds.
Elsewhere in division 1, the Whittlesea Pacers beat Bullen, 111-77.
After trailing by two points at quarter time the Pacers then dominated the rest of the game.
Raheem Anthony top scored with 27 points.
In women’s division 1, Craigieburn continued its unbeaten run with another two wins, beating Camberwell and Chelsea, while Whittlesea beat Mildura.
Demons finding form
By Tara Murray
ThemomentumisstartingtogrowforMernda in the Northern Football League division 3 competition.
After a slow start, the Demons have now won three straight games including beating Kilmore on Saturday.
Coach Robert Fletcher said they knew it wasn’t going to happen overnight for them.
“Three in a row now, which has been nice,”hesaid.“We’vehadafewnewplayers and we’ve been trying to gel.
“Wehadafewplayersouttostarttheyear like a lot of clubs. We’ve started to get some players back and we thought we would be slow starting.
“As the season goes along we will start to find our best form. At the end of the day we were realistic where we would be.”
Fletcher said Saturday’s game against Kilmore was a hard fought one in tough conditions at Mernda.
The Demons led at quarter time by 22 points before scores were level at half time.
The Demons managed to get the lead back out and were able to do enough in the final quarter to win, 9.14 (68)-7.8 (50).
Fletcher said there was a three to four goal breeze towards round one.
“We did well in the first quarter but kicked 3.9 in the third quarter, so not so well,” he said.
“It was bad kicking and they aren’t a bad side and I think they will play finals.”
Fletcher said they thought the 21 point lead at three quarter was enough, but they were focused on making sure of the win.
“The message was to make sure that we could not go defensive,” he said. “They kicked the first goal and then we kicked the next to settle it.”
Matthew Bawden and Christian Evans kicked two goals for the Demons.
Fletcher said Billy Morrison was clearly best on ground.
Second rising star nomination
Young Essendon forward Nate Caddy has been rewarded with his second AFL rising star nomination in the Bombers win against Sydney.
After receiving a nomination in round 22 last year, Caddy has played every game this season for the Bombers and been a key cog as the side has won five out of its last six games.
The emerging key forward was one of the most influential players in the tight contest on Saturday, kicking a match-high three goals.
It was the third week in a row that Caddy has scored multiple goals, alongside his 16 disposals and seven marks.
Caddy was drafted from the Northern Knights with pick 10 in the 2023 AFL draft and he played community football with the Yarrambat.
“To get a second nomination and recognition for your work is obviously something really cool and I’m very grateful for it,” Caddy said.
“We’ve got a really good group of youngsters who’ve shown they can come in, start to take a hold of games and really drive us into the future.
‘Reidy’ [Zac Reid] on the weekend was unbelievable, ‘Robbo’s [Archie Roberts] getting really consistent and among the best every weekend.
He said it was so nice to see Morrison back out on the field after a couple of tough years with injury.
“He was back to his best,” he said. “He tookninemarksinthefinalquarterandset the game and tempo.
“Icoachedhimatotherclubsandhaven’t seen him like that. He’s now under 100 kilograms and lost 35-36 kilograms.
“He’s getting used to his body and seeing what he can do.”
Jake Mazzarella and Christian Evans wereotherstandoutsaccordingtoFletcher.
The win moves the Demons to 3-3 and in eighth spot, percentage behind Kilmore in fourth.
The Demons face Reservoir which had the bye on the weekend.
Fletcher said it would be a good contest.
InothermatchesonSaturday,Lalorgotits first win of the season as it beat Old Eltham Collegians,LaurimarbeatHeidelbergWest and Epping was too strong for Ivanhoe.
“It’s xciting what we’re going to be able to bring over the next few years.”
Caddy and the Bombers now look ahead to two exciting clashes for Sir Doug Nicholls Round, beginning with the Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night before the marquee Dreamtime at the ‘G clash against Richmond the following Friday.
“Having some huge games coming up is really exciting,” Caddy said.
“Dreamtime’s where I debuted last year, so to potentially play in that again is a real honour but it’s going to be good to see where we stack up in the next few weeks.”
