Inflatable art is ‘magnifico’
Footscray Primary School has been a bilingual Italian school since 2021, with students doing half their classes in Italian. To enhance their art program, the school secured a grant from Creative Victoria’s Creative Learning Partnerships program, allowing them to work with an artist-inresidence.
The school chose Italian-Australian artist Daniele Poidomani, known as Memetica, to lead a four-week residency. Memetica helped students create inflatable artworks on topics of their choosing, such as Minecraft, gendered beauty standards, littering, and veganism. The inflatables served as “speech bubbles“ attached to the top of inflated tents, prompting discussions. The recent exhibition showcased the students’ cross-curricular work, including art, writing, and scientific exploration.
Art teacher Anna Zobel said the residency brought the entire school community together.
“Our bilingual students were thrilled to work with a real Italian artist,” said Ms Zobel. “When the students exhibited their work, the whole school came through, including the parents. It brought our community together.”
Grassland threat
By Cade Lucas
There are fears that a small pocket of rare grassland in Altona could suffocate under an avalanche of illegally dumped rubbish.
The 37-hectare pocket Burns Road Grassland in Altona is home to rare native grassesandflowersandendangeredspecies suchastheStripedLeglessLizard.
But increasingly it’s also home to old kitchens, mattresses, cardboard, concrete, artificial stone and all manner of other waste that Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank believes is being dumped there onacommercialscale.
“Burns Road Grassland is the largest
remaining patch of grassland on private land in Hobsons Bay and it’s being buried alivebyrubbish–around100cubic–metres of trash has been dumped there,” said Mr Ettershank, who believes illegal dumping beganthereinearly2015.
The Legalise Cannabis Party MP has teamed up with local conservation group, the Grassy Plains Network, to try and save theBurnsRoadsite,whichhesaidshouldbe atouristattractionnotafreetip.
“Victoria’s grasslands should be as renowned and beautiful as the wildflowers that lure tourists to Western Australia, instead these rare volcanic grasslands are fast becoming a neglected waste land,” Mr
Ettershanksaid.
“Only 0.5 per cent of Victoria’s rare volcanic grasslands are left, so it’s tragic to seethemeatenupbyrubbish.”
Grassy Plains Network facilitator Adrian Marshall said while Hobsons Bay council owned the local roads, most of the site was private land and that Environment Protection Authority (EPA) needed to get involved,buthadsofarfailedtorespond.
“Hobsons Bay council just doesn’t have the resources to clear up this volume of rubbish and the Environment Protection Authority hasn’t responded to our appeals foraclean-up.”
Inastatement,theEPAsaiditwasworking
with Hobsons Bay council on the issue, but thatitwaslargelynotitsresponsibility.
“Wheretheoffendercannotbeidentified, the responsibility for the clean up often falls to the owner or land manager, and in the case of the Burns Road grasslands at AltonathatwouldinvolveHobsonsBayCity Council and other owners of land in the estate.”
A Hobsons Bay spokesperson indicated that councils needed more help to fix the problem.
“With limited support coming from other agencies, council are investigating options for the removal of rubbish from the site and the prevention of furtherdumping,”thespokespersonsaid.
Footscray Primary School artist in residence Daniele Poidomani, aka, Memetica, with students (from left) Grace, Gabriel, Grace, Bonnie, Louis and Charlie. (Damjan Janevski) 476838_03
Citynews MARIBYRNONG
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
May in Maribyrnong was a vibrant celebration of our City – a time when creativity, culture, and community came together in powerful and joyful ways.
Throughout the month, Footscray came alive with the Sleepless Footscray Festival – a bold, imaginative celebration of public art, performance, and community. Across two and a half weeks, we saw dormant shopfronts and overlooked spaces transformed into galleries, stages, and creative playgrounds, filled with music, film, performance, and interactive installations.
The festival offered more than entertainment – it was a powerful reminder of how art can unite us, transforming familiar spaces into sites of wonder, conversation, and collective joy. It breathed new life into our C ity, showcasing the creative spirit at the heart of Footscray.
We also welcomed the return of the biennial Blacksmiths Festival, which lit up the banks of the Maribyrnong River with the heat, sound, and spectacle of live forging. A highlight was the Collaborative Forging Masterclass, where 13 blacksmiths came together to create a sculptural contemplative seat in tribute to the late Councillor Sarah Carter.
As part of the Footscray Town Hall redevelopment, a community park has been established on the Hyde Street frontage of the Civic Precinct and Community Hub, creating a space for the community to gather and relax.
To reflect the City of Maribyrnong’s indigenous history, we have been working in partnership with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrong Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation about a proposal for the park’s name. The proposed name is ‘balit bargoongagat banhul’ –balit bargoongagat translates to strong people linked together (community) and banhul translates to park in the Woi-wurrung language. To learn more about the proposed name, and to share your feedback, please visit y yourcityyourvoice com au/communityp
Cr Pradeep Tiwari
UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS
Tue 17 June: 6.30pm Council Meeting
Wed 18 June: 6.30pm City Development Delegated Committee
These meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at Footscray Town Hall, 61 Napier Street, Footscray and live-streamed on the Council website. Community members can submit questions for public question time online on or before the day of the meeting. Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.
Maribyrnong City Council
Civic Precinct and Community Hub
61 Napier Street, Footscray
PO Box 58, West Footscray, VIC 3012
P: (03) 9688 0200
F: (03) 9687 7793
OUT AND ABOUT
MEN’S HEALTH WEEK
Maribyrnong City Council is proud to support Men’s Health Week from 10-16 June, encouraging men of all ages to take positive steps toward improving their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. From fitness sessions and mental health workshops to social catch-ups, there’s something for everyone – and it’s all about starting conversations, reducing stigma, and promoting long-term health and wellbeing. Further information can be found at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/menshealthweek
COMMUNITY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS DAY
Residents are invited to participate in the upcoming Community Emergency Preparedness Day, an event designed to empower the community with essential knowledge and tools for emergency preparedness. This event will take place on Sunday 22 June 2025, 10am–1pm at Maribyrnong Community Centre and aims to provide local residents with the opportunity to learn vital flood and storm preparedness strategies, while also offering a chance to connect with key organisations involved in preparedness, flood and storm planning. More information on this can be found at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ f lood
email@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Mayor
1. Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, and Cr Cuc Lam took part in a traditional forging demonstration at the Blacksmiths Festival.
2. Deputy Mayor, Cr Bernadette Thomas, alongside c ouncillors Samantha Meredith and Elena Pereyra, proudly celebrated IDAHOBIT Day together. Photo credit: Kit Edwards
3. Footscray Park Bowling Club came alive for the Pride Cup Tournament, with Mayor, Cr Pradeep
Tiwari rallying alongside players and supporters.
4. Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari , marked the beginning of the Footscray Trugo Pavilion redevelopment.
5. Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, joined councillors Elena Pereyra and Samantha Meredith at the Yarraville Community Garden’s Art in the Park.
6. Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari , at the reopening of the newly renovated 2nd Footscray Scout Group hall with Scout Leader, Michelle Wightwick.
Support for machete ban
By Cade Lucas
The Les Twentyman Foundation has welcomedthestategovernment’sdecision tofast-trackabanonthesaleofmachetes, arguing it’s something the late youth worker would’ve wanted.
The state government brought forward the ban after a brawl between machete-wielding teens forced the evacuation of Northland shopping centre in Preston on Sunday, May 25.
The interim ban on the sale of machetes and dangerous knives came into effect at midnight on May 28 in an effort to dry up
the market ahead of a legislated ban on machete possession coming into effect on September 1.
“The incident at Northland is terrifying, families should be able to go about their Sunday shopping without fear that they may find themselves in the middle of youth violence,” said Les Twentyman Foundation chief executive Paul Burke.
“The late great Les Twentyman campaigned for over 30 years for the sale ofdangerousedgedweaponstobebanned and whilst we are pleased that such a ban is now finally being enacted, it is only a small step in the right direction.”
Mr Burke said preventing young people from arming themselves with machetes and other weapons required more than simply banning them.
“Most of the kids carrying weapons see them as a shield not a sword, and they are arming themselves as they think everybody else is carrying. Incidents such as Northland only further entrenches that belief – that is the mindset we need to tackle,” he said.
“We need to approach this problem from two-sides – one being preventative, through reaching kids ‘at risk’ of sliding into a negative pathway as early as
Young councillor’s life comes full circle
As a western suburbs councillor, Mohamed Semra gets invited to plenty of functions.
But one he attended earlier this year for the Les Twentyman Foundation provided the first-term councillor with much more than just a free meal.
“I attended their fundraising gala earlier this year and I saw (footage of) myself training when I was a kid,” recalled Cr Semra.
“When I saw it it was definitely a full circle moment.”
The footage showed a young Mohamed Semra playing basketball for the Braybrook 96ers, a youth basketball club established by the Les Twentyman Foundationtoprovideaccesstosportfor disadvantaged youth in the inner-west.
Born in Sudan and arriving in Australia as a refugee in the early 2000s, Cr Semra certainly qualified as that.
Growing up in Braybrook, the now 26-year-old began playing basketball withthe96ersinunder-10’sandboththe game and the program soon became an obsession.
“When I think of my childhood I think of basketball at Rec West in Brayrook and the 96ers,’ he said Basketball not only gave Cr Semra something to do, but friendships, connections,confidenceandself-worth.
It also helped him avoid the pitfalls many of his contemporaries fell into.
“I have people that I grew up with that unfortunately have been in contact with the justice system,” said Cr Semra who believes that without the Les Twentyman Foundation’s basketball program, he could easily have joined them.
“I only saw the impact of basketball
on my journey because of seeing (what happened to) others who didn’t attend the programs.”
Cr Semra’s journey took him onto Maribyrnong council at last October’s municipal elections and now gets him invites to gala dinners held by youth foundations and featured in promotional material as a success story. Through his day job running his own
Worksafe investigates fall risks
WorkSafe Victoria inspectors recently blitzed construction sites across the western suburbs in an effort to curb the amount of serious workplace falls suffered byemployees.
Alreadyin2025,18mattersrelatedtofall risks are being investigated with a view to potential criminal charges, while another 21businesseshavereceivedformalwritten warningletters.
Thisisontopofmorethan1,400workers, an average of four people a day, being injuredduetofallsfromheightsinVictoria lastyear,withtwofatalities.
A total of $1.65 million in court fines, undertakings and costs were issued against 36 employers over fall related risks inVictoriain2024.
Of those employers, 26 were from the construction industry, which experiences more serious injuries due to falls than
any other. Recent blitzes in Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham resulted in WorkSafe inspectors visiting 56 construction sites and issuing 73 notices, including 10 for fall hazards such as incomplete scaffolding or working at heightwithoutguardrails.
WorkSafe health and safety executive director Sam Jenkin said construction inspectors were referring employers for legal action, regardless of whether an incidenthadtakenplace.
foundation, Endeavour Youth Australia, Cr Semra helps today’s youth forge their own journeys, doing for them what Les Twentyman did for him.
“The support I got when I was younger (from the Les Twentyman Foundation) has acted as a catalyst for me to identify and invest in the potential of other young people,” he said.
Full circle indeed.
possible – which will help ensure that they do not pick a weapon up in the first place – this is best done through placing an outreach youth worker in schools.
“The other is through intensive and direct intervention by a youth worker when kids are engaged with police or the courts – 80 per cent of young people we work with in that setting do not engage further with the judicial system.”
Mr Twentyman, who died in March last year aged 76, spent decades working with troubled youth in the western suburbs using this same approach.
Police seize illegal drugs and firearms
Police have laid 40 charges after seizing illicit firearms and $500,000 worth of illegal drugs in a series of raids across the western suburbs and other parts of Melbourne earlier this week.
Six people, including men from Spotswood and Hoppers Crossing, were arrested during search warrants at properties in Footscray, Footscray West, Spotswood, Sunshine North, Balwyn, CaliforniaGully,RowvilleandWarburton on Tuesday May 27.
During the raids, police also seized two kilograms of illicit drugs, including significant amounts of methylamphetamine, GHB, cannabis and steroids as well as prescription medication and more than $150,000 cash. Two firearms, firearm parts and ammunition and multiple alleged stolen vehicles were also found.
The search warrants and arrests were part of an investigation into an alleged criminal syndicate responsible for trafficking drugs and firearms.
A 35-year-old Hoppers Crossing man and a 36-year-old Rowville man will face multiple chargers for possessing illicit firearms and trafficking a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine, while a 40-year-old Doreen man will also face drug trafficking charges, as well as possessing of a prescribed precursor chemical and possessing a drug of dependence.
EasternRegionCrimeAdvisorDetective Inspector Luke Kirton said anyone trafficking firearms or drugs in Victoria should expect a knock on the door.
“These firearms are not toys. They are deadly weapons, and in the wrong hands they are a serious threat to public safety.”
“It’s too late to act once someone has fallen, that’s why inspectors are cracking down on all observed fall risks, including considering more serious action on issues that might previously have first prompted an improvement notice. Fall prevention isn’tanoptionalextra,it’sthestandardand WorkSafe will take the strongest possible actionagainstthosewhofailtoupholdit.”
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Les Twentyman Foundation chief executive Paul Burke and Maribyrnong councillor Mohamed Semra. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 480371_04
United in betting scandal
By Anna Harrington, Melissa Meehan AAP
Two men, including a Western United player,willfacecourtfortheirinvolvement in an alleged betting scandal surrounding theA-Leaguemen’ssoccerseason.
Detectives from the Victoria Police Sporting Integrity Intelligence Unit charged a 24-year-old West Melbourne man and a 27-year-old Kingsville man on Sundaywithnumerousoffences,including useofcorruptconductforbettingpurposes.
Both were bailed to appear at the MelbourneMagistratesCourtonJuly31.
While the individuals are yet to be publicly named, it is confirmed one is a player at Western United, which finished
third in the A-League Men competition this season, while the other man is a state leaguesplayer.
“TheclubisawarethatoneWesternUnited player has been charged in relation to an allegedbreachofsportsbettingguidelines,“ aUnitedclubspokespersonsaid.
“We take this matter seriously, condemn any actions that compromise the integrity of the game, and are cooperating fully with all relevant authorities. “Given the nature of the investigation, we are unable tocommentanyfurtheronthematter.“
Police allege four matches in April and May 2025 were the subject of ’player to be carded’wageringmanipulation.
The Australian Professional Leagues,
who run the A-League competitions, confirmedaplayerhadbeencharged.
“The Australian Professional Leagues is aware that one A-League player has been charged by Victorian Police with offences relatedtogambling,“aspokespersonsaid.
“The integrity of our sport is something that has to be protected without compromise, and we are engaging with all relevant authorities to assist with this matter.“
In a statement, a Football Australia spokesperson said it took the integrity of thegameextremelyseriouslyandwasfully cooperatingwithexternalauthorities.
“Football Australia has taken swift action today to impose ’no fault interim suspensions’tothetwoindividualscharged, and those suspensions will remain in place untilfurthernotice,“thestatementsaid. The charges come a year after the former captain of Sydney club Macarthur FC was accusedofpayingtwoyoungerteammates up to $10,000 to deliberately receive yellow cardsinaschemeallegedlymasterminded byaSouthAmericanconnection. CelebratedteamleaderUlisesDavilaand fellow players Kearyn Baccus and Clayton Lewis have been charged over a betting fix police say led to hundreds of thousands of dollarsbeingpaidoutinwinnings.
Funding for historic Footscray institute
The Footscray Mechanics Institute on Nicholson Street will share in more than $100,000 in state government funding for mechanics institutes across Victoria.
Local Government Minister Nick Staikos announced the recipients of the 2024-25 Mechanics’ Institutes Grants Programat the Melbourne Athenaeum on Collins Street, Victoria’s first mechanics institute.
“Mechanics’Instituteswereoneofthe most important social innovations of the 19th century,” said Mr Staikos of the institutes which began in the UK in the
Victorian-era when formal education and public libraries were not available to working people.
“These grants will help their invaluable library collections remain for future generations to enjoy.”
While the $9000 grant awarded to the Footcray Mechanics Institute is primarily for preserving and updating its library, secretary Liz Balfour said it would be used elsewhere as well.
“It’ll go towards several things,” Ms Balfour said.
“New books, some marketing and funding of our newsletters and a
digitisation station where members will be able to digitise historic negatives, slides and moving images and save them to USB’s.
“Andsomerepairstothehistorictiling ontheflooroftheportico,”sheadded.
In all, eleven mechanics institutes across the state were awarded grants to upgrade their libraries and facilities.
The peak body, Mechanics’ Institutes of Victoria, will also receive funding of $10,000 to build, print and bind its collection, review its workshop, digitise its records and upgrade its website and accounting software.
Action against tyre waste in the west
Aseriesofsnapinspectionshaveoccurred at vehicle wreckers, mechanics and tyre retailers in the western suburbs as part of a campaign to combat illegal tyre dumping in the region.
Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria officers conducted the snap inspections at businesses in Brooklyn, Altona North, Laverton North and Derrimut on Wednesday May 21.
From the nine inspections, advice was required on 14 identified issues and two notices were issued, including a prohibition notice to cease accepting waste until the business can demonstrate they are managing their fire risks appropriately.
“Wehaveincreasingcommunityreports of illegal waste dumping including many involving waste tyres dumped on public streets, parks and farmland,” said acting EPA west metropolitan regional manager Julia Gaitan.
“They pose major environmental and human health risks as dumpers choose to shift the cost of disposal onto the community rather than pay it themselves.
We inspected businesses that often store waste tyres then hire contractors to disposeofthemandformany,thedeciding factor on who they use is the cost.
Theyhavealegalrequirementtoestablish that when those tyres are taken, they’re going somewhere that is appropriate to receivethem,”hesaid.
Mr Gaitan warned businesses that they must use the EPA Waste Tracker system when disposing of tyres and that they could face penalties if they or their contractor fails to do so.
Three men charged as part of Vehicle Crime Squad investigation
Three men have been charged and a range of stolen property seized yesterday as part ofaVehicleCrimeSquadinvestigationinto acarrebirthingsyndicate.
On Wednesday, police executed warrantsattwofactoriesinLavertonNorth and Brooklyn and residential properties in Caroline Springs, Meadow Heights and NarreWarrenSouth.
Police seized a range of allegedly stolen items from across the five addresses, including two stolen cars; range of false, cloned, stolen and home made number plates; false VicRoads transfer papers and false identification documents; Log books from rebirthed vehicles, vehicle parts, a largequantityofcash,drugsandelectronic equipment.
The vehicles will all be forensically assessed and police are hoping to return them to their rightful owners as soon as possible.
A 31-year-old Caroline Springs man, a 24-year-old Meadow Heights man and a 25-year-old Narre Warren South man were allarrestedandinterviewedbypolice.
The Caroline Springs man has been charged with 39 offences including handle stolen goods, deal property suspected of being proceeds of crime, obtain property by deception, theft of motor vehicle, theft, use false document and use identification information.
The Meadow Heights man has been charged with 15 offences including handle stolen goods, deal property suspected of
being proceeds of crime, obtain property by deception, use false document and use identificationinformation, Allthreemenhavebeenbailed.
The arrests are part of a Vehicle Crime Squad investigation that commenced in May looking into rebirthed vehicles then being sold online via Facebook marketplace, primarily in Melbourne’s northandnorth-westsuburbs.
Policewillallegethesyndicatewasselling stolen vehicles with cloned identifiers taken from online advertisements for legitimate vehicles, as well as placing trackers in stolen vehicles and re-stealing them in order to fraudulently sell them again.
Detective Inspector Julie MacDonald
said vehicle theft can have an enormous impact on people’s lives, not only the financial losses associated with having your car stolen but also losing the freedom of movement for things such as employmentorfamilyresponsibilities.
“Weknowthatwiththecostoflivingthat people are looking to get a great deal, but it’s important that deal doesn’t result in people losing their hard earned money,” shesaid.
“The Vehicle Crime Squad will continue to target those contributing to organised motor vehicle crime in Victoria and shut downanyillegalactivityofthisnature. Anyone with information can contact CrimeStopperson1800333000oratwww. crimestoppersvic.com.au
Neil Farren, Cameron Borg and Duncan Parhes from the Footscray Mechanics Institute which has received funding from the state government to upgrade its library. (Damjan Janevski) 480843_01
Monitor for Hobsons Bay
By Cade Lucas
The state government has appointed a municipalmonitortooverseeHobsonsBay counciluntiltheendoftheyear.
LocalGovernmentMinisterNickStaikos announced on Thursday, May 29 that he had appointed John Tanner AM to work withthecounciluntilDecember31.
Mr Tanner, a former administrator of Brimbank and Moira Shire councils, will be working with Hobsons Bay council for two to three days a week, starting on Monday,June2.
The appointment comes after a period of turmoil for Hobsons Bay council which in
Januarysuspendeditsthenchiefexecutive
Aaron van Egmond and corporate services director Andrew McLeod while workplace safety concerns at the council were investigated.
Mr van Egmond resigned as chief executive on April 1, and former chief executive of Maribyrnong and Wyndham councils,KerryThompson,hasbeenacting intherolesince.
The workplace safety investigation into HobsonsBaycouncilisstillongoing.
In announcing his appointment as municipal monitor, Mr Staikos said Mr Tannerwasanexpertinlocalgovernment, leadership, and governance and would
Paisley Park in the zone
Paisley Park in Altona North is home to numerous sports and recreation facilities, but thanks to funding from both the state government and Hobsons Bay council, it willsoonbehometoanotherone.
The Zone is a new, youth-focused, active recreation project that will be located next totheAltonaBadmintonCentre.
Incorporating a pump track, basketball half court, solar lighting, shelter, park seatingandlandscaping,TheZonewillcost about $561,235 to construct, with $250,000 coming from the state government through itsLocalSportsInfrastructureFundandthe restfromHobsonsBaycouncil.
“Thissitewillbeonethewholecommunity can enjoy but will particularly be a great space for young people to get out and about and have fun in a safe environment,” said
Hobsons Bay councillor Michael Disbury who thanked the state government for helpingmakeproposedfacilitypossible.
“We welcome the state government’s fundingcommitmentforTheZoneatPaisley Park.ThisfundingisinadditiontoCouncil’s substantial investment of $350,000 in the 2025-26proposedbudget.”
WilliamstownMP MelissaHorneechoed thesesentimentssaying“It’sfantastictosee this investment for our community by the state government with a co-contribtion by Hobsons Bay City Council. The investment by the state government into the entire Paisley Park precinct has been significant from sealing the car parks at Altona East and Altona Magic soccer clubs, the sealing of Ross Road to now investing in a new activitycentrecalledTheZone.”
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“Mr Tanner will work to ensure good governance is restored so that council servicesaredeliveredeffectively,thehealth andwellbeingofcouncilstaffisprioritised, and the community is better involved and represented,”hesaid.
Mr Tanner will write a report to the minister upon completing his term as monitor.
In a statement, a council spokesperson said the appointment of Mr Tanner as municipal monitor would complement workalreadyundertakenbycouncil.
“His main function will be to advise and
provide relevant assistance to council to improve its governance, processes and practices following the appointment of a new executive team,” said the spokesperson.
“Thiscounciliscommittedtocontinuing to deliver excellent services to its community, and to ensuring the health andwellbeingofitsstaff.
“Council acknowledges it is undergoing a period of transformation, and all staff, executive and councillors will provide Mr Tanner any support and assistance he requires during his time as municipal monitortohelpitonthatjourney.”
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Hobsons Bay councillor Michael Disbury at Paisley Park, the site of the proposed new youth recreation facility, The Zone. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 480509_04
Truck-free zones coming
By Cade Lucas
The announcement of new no-truck zones in the inner west has been cautiously welcomed by local traffic campaigners whostillwantmoredonetoimprovesafety andair-qualityinthearea.
The state government announced the location of six 24-hour no-truck zones that will come into effect when the West Gate Tunnel opens later this year. Francis Street and Somerville Road in Yarraville, Buckley Street and Moore Street in Footscray, Blackshaws Road in Altona North and HudsonsRoadinSpotswoodwillallbecome truck-free zones, with state-of-the-art
camerasusedtoenforcethem.
“These regulations and the smart cameras will help us take thousands of trucks a day off local streets right across the inner west, improving safety and air quality for the community,” Ports and FreightMinisterMelissaHornesaid.
The new regulations will feature exemptions, including for two-axle trucks that aren’t transporting shipping containers, ensuring the delivery of groceries, parcels and other services. Motor homes, emergency service and police heavy vehicles, trucks garaged withinno-truckzonesaswellasbuses,tow trucks, concrete trucks and waste disposal
truckswillalsobeexempt.
Despite these exemptions, the truck-free zones still represent a victory for the The Maribyrnong Truck Action Group (MTG) which has been campaigning for the removal of trucks and heavy vehicles from inner-westroadssince2005.
“To see those roads moved to no-truck zones will be really positive for the local community,” MTAG spokesperson Glen Yatessaid.
However,hesaidadownsidewouldbean increase in truck traffic on Williamstown Road.
“We know that Williamstown Road will see a 1750 truck increase per day,” said Mr
Showcasing 60 years through the lens
The Williamstown Camera Club will mark its 60th anniversary this month with an exhibition displaying some of the best images captured by its members.
The exhibition “Hobsons Bay Through the Lens: Celebrating 60 Years of the Williamstown Camera Club” will run from June 7-25 at the Louis Joel Arts & CommunityCentre,inAltona.
Founded in 1965 by former naval dockyard worker, Trevor Young, the Williamstown Camera Club is the oldest continually operating photography club inthewesternsuburbs.
Trevor Young’s son, Alan Young, said
hisfatherestablishedtheclubafterbeing a member of a similar club at the HMA Naval dockyards in Williamstown from 1962untilitsclosurein1965.
“On its (HMA Naval dockyards) closure in 1965, Trevor advertised in Williamstown for people to write to PO Box 1 if they were interested in forming Williamstown camera club and a number of Williamstown locals responded and formed the club,” said Mr Young of his father who was later awarded life membership and lived to see the club celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2015.
The club meets twice a month
and provides a place for novice and experienced photographers to meet, socialiseanddeveloptheirskills.
The meetings include presentations, workshops and competitions covering a wide variety of photographic genres. Each year the club also organises two weekends away and seven to eight single-dayphotoshootoutings.
This 60th anniversary exhibition is supported by Hobsons Bay City Council through its Make it Happen grants program.
For more information aboutthe exhibition and the club, go to: https:// www.williamstowncameraclub.com.au
Yates,addingtherealfigurecouldbemuch higher.
He said the ultimate solution was to have air filters added to the new tunnel’s ventilationstacks.
“Exhaust fumes that would’ve been dispersed over a wider area will now be concentrated out of the two non-filtered stacks,” said Mr Yates, adding that MTAG were continuing to campaign for their addition.
The state government has continually argued that tunnel filters are not needed, with the height of the ventilation stacks and hi-velocity fans sufficient to prevent anyreductioninairquality.
The state government is investing a further $600,000 to expand the Energy Assistance Program which has saved 13,000 Victorians almost $2.5 million on their energy bills.
The Energy Assistance Program offers free one-on-one assistance for customers having trouble paying their energy bills. Customers can contact the program via phone or at an in-person event and talk with a trained energy advocate who can help them access the support they are entitled to.
The Energy Assistance Program helps customers access Victoria’s energy concessions. They include a 17.5 per cent discount off annual electricity and winter gas bills for concession card holders or Utility Relief Grants of up to $650 per utility every two years to Victorians unable to pay their bills.
TheprogramalsoreinforcesthePayment Difficulty Framework, which requires energy retailers to provide payment assistancetohouseholdswhoarebehindon their bills, including fair payment plans.
The budget also invests $50 million to deliver a $100 Power Saving Bonus for households with a concession card. All Victorians are encouraged to visit the free and independent Victorian Energy Compare website to shop around for a better deal on their energy – last year, users typically saved $240 per year on their energy bills by switching.
The program is delivered by Anglicare Victoria. To access the program you must hold a Commonwealth Government Concession card or be struggling or expecting to struggle to pay your energy bill.
If you need assistance with your energy bills, you can call an EAP energy advocate on 1800 161 215. To make sure you are on the cheapest energy bill offer visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au or call 1800 000 832.
Altona Village traders welcome the permanent closure of Pier Street
Altona traders have hailed the decision to permanentlyclosePierStreettotraffic.
Last week, Hobsons Bay council voted unanimously in favour of a proposal to permanently close a section of the shopping strip between Queen Street and BlythStreettotraffic.
The lower end of Pier Street was temporarily closed during the Covid pandemic as a way to support local businesses, with the space used for outdoor dining, trading and community activationssince.
Altona Village Traders Association president Ilch Michovski said the decision by council to make the temporary closure
of Pier Street permanent, was clearly the rightone.
“I think it’s a great win for community, traders and tourism within Altona,” Mr Michovskisaid.
“It’s really been embraced by the local community. Out of something that was doom and gloom through the pandemic, it’sturnedintoapositiveforAltona.”
Mr Michovski’s view was reflected in communityfeedbackontheproposal.
Ofthe469submissionscouncilreceived, 78 per cent supported the permanent closure of Pier Street compared to just 15 percentagainst.
Another7percentprovidedinconclusive submissions.
In moving the motion to permanently close Pier Street at the council meeting on May 27, Cr Rayene Hawli said the section between Queen and Blyth had been closed for a long time now and had clearly made a difference.
“Anyone who has visited Pier Street in Altona will know that this closure has really brought Altona to life,” Cr Hawli said.
Speaking after the motion was carried, mayor Daria Kellander said the closure wouldpleaselocalbusinessowners.
“Altona traders have fought for this for a long time and I know they’re gonna
be happy to hear of this outcome,” Cr Kellandersaid.
Mr Michovski confirmed that was the case, but said the next challenge was finding the money to develop the precinct.
“The achilles heel at the moment is that Hobsons Bay council don’t have money to complete the street to its full potential,” he said. It’s understood that Hobsons Bay councilhasnotallocatedfundingtowards making the Pier Street closure permanent andthatthecurrenttemporarystructures would remain in place for the foreseeable future.
Williamstown Camera Club members (L-R) Cas Bukor, Alan Young, Gayle Tout and Kathryn Hocking with some of the images that will feature in its 60th anniversary exhibition from June 7-25. (Damjan Janevski) 479959_02
What a bloody good idea
By Cade Lucas
Free period products should be made mandatory at all community sporting facilitiestosupportpeoplewhomenstruate and play sport, according to new Victoria University(VU)research.
A collaboration between VU’s Women in Sport team and Share the Dignity, an Australian charity working to end period poverty, surveyed 330 women across the country finding 68 per cent skipped sport due to their period, 90 per cent worried about leaking, and 72 per cent felt anxious abouttheirperiodwhenplayingsport.
To encourage participation in sport, the final report ’Bloody good idea: Free period products at sports and leisure facilities’ released late last month, recommends free access to period products at all sports facilities.
“This is not a big ask but the impact is huge,” said project lead and VU’s Susan Alberti Women in Sport chair, Professor ClareHanlonoftherecommendation
“Providing free period products at sport facilities could remove a barrier to play sportandhelpdrivemembership.
“Wemustmakesportsafeandaccessible, so everyone is given a fair go to be active andengaged.”
Themajority(87percent)ofrespondents to the survey agreed that sport facility
policies need to recognise menstrual health as a fundamental right and provide free period products. Respondents also felt less confident managing their period in a
sportsfacilitythantheydidatschool,their workplaceorathome.
Professor Hanlon said the vast majority those who did have access to period
products used them because they had to, nottostockup.
“Over 90 per cent used them because their period arrived unexpectedly,” she said, adding that the impact on female athletes who didn’t have access to period productsinsuchsituations,wassevere.
“What we’ve found is that a number of thesegirlsandwomenweresoembarrassed that they had to leave the grounds and go homeandtheyhaven’tgoneback.”
To further reduce the potential for embarrassment and shame, Professor Hanlon said free period products such as tampons and pads, should be made available through dispensing machines so womenaren’tforcedtoaskothersforthem. Easy access to disposal bins should also be provided.
But the fact such basic products and facilities, which cater for half the population, are still not freely available in 2025,begstheobviousquestion:why?
Afterall, while women’s sport has exploded in popularity in recent years and football codes like Aussie Rules and Rugby League that were once off limits to female athletes, now run high profile competitions, other sports such as netball, basketball, soccer and cricket have had femaleparticipationfordecades.
Professor Hanlon said sheer ignorance wasmostlytoblame.
“It just hasn’t been considered as a need,”shesaidoftheimportanceofperiod productstofemaleathletes.
“Whatwe’reshowingistheopposite.
“If sports want more members in their clubs, this evidence shows that providing period products will help attract girls and women.”
Victoria University Susan Alberti Women in Sport chair, Professor Clare Hanlon. (Supplied)
A new VIEW on friendship
When Joy O’Callaghan moved to Whittlesea, she was seeking connection and purpose. What she found at the VIEW club was strength in numbers and an avenue to help others. With clubs in Whittlesea, Sunbury, Taylors Lakes, Keilor, Craigieburn, and Melton, VIEW is creating safe spaces for women to give back and be heard. Tom Ingleton spoke with Joy about friendship, community and the momentous power of women supporting women.
For many women, community isn’t something they stumble across. They seek it out – sometimes in the quiet moments after a big life change, sometimes in the wake of a growing sense of isolation.
When Joy O’Callaghan walked into her first meeting at VIEW Whittlesea, she was nervous – not because she was new to the organisation, but because she didn’t know a soul.
“AlthoughIhadbeenamemberofVIEW previously, I still felt a little nervous but excitedtobejoininganotherclubknowing that I would not know anyone in the club,” Joy recalled.
“It certainly didn’t take long to make friends – the members were all extremely welcoming and so friendly.”
Joy had recently moved to the area, and after many years as a VIEW member elsewhere, she craved the connection she had once known.
“I missed the friendship and the interactionwithotherlike-mindedwomen, to make a difference to underprivileged children by raising funds for the Smith Family Learning for Life program.”
VIEW– an acronym for Voice, Interests andEducationofWomen–isn’tjustaclub.
It’s a lifeline, a safe space, and a purposeful movement that’s quietly empowering women across Australia, one meeting at a time.
And in Whittlesea, it’s truly blossoming.
The local branch began with just 25 members. One year on, numbers have doubled.
“Thatgrowthshowedustherereallywas a need,” Ms O’Callaghan said.
“Womenwantedtocometogether,enjoy each other’s company, and share in the VIEWmotto.Wehaveinterestingspeakers, outings, coffee mornings – it gives our members food for thought and the opportunity to access education. Without that, many students wouldn’t have the tools they need to become well-educated youngpeopleinthisever-changingworld.”
The Smith Family Learning for Life program provides long-term educational support for children in need.
VIEW clubs like Whittlesea’s, fund-raise to sponsor students through their schooling and the results speak for themselves.
“Asweareanewclubwith two Learning For Life students, and have just applied
It’s
a completely safe environment–no judgement, just support
for two more, we haven’t yet seen direct impactfromthosewesponsor.Butwehear from the Smith Family about students reachingYear12,gainingapprenticeships, and even going on to university to become engineers and doctors. That’s the reward of being part of VIEW.”
It’snotjustthestudentswhobenefit. Joy has found her own sense of purpose and recognition.
“During our first year of operation, I was asked to be vice president, which was a real honour for me. This is now my second year in the role, and I have the pleasure and privilege of communicating with our Learning for Life students.”
But beyond the titles and fundraising, Joy speaks passionately about the unspoken role VIEW plays in women’s emotional support and mental well-being.
This support is vital, especially considering the broader mental health challenges facing women and girls in Australia.
AccordingtotheNationalMentalHealth Commission, around one in six women in Australia will experience depression, and one in three will experience anxiety during their lifetime.
Postpartum depression impacts one in six women during their first year after birth.
Women also experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders at higher rates than men.
In this context, clubs like VIEW are not just about charity or companionship –they’re an essential social lifeline.
“Mental health support is incredibly important,” Joy said.
“While we don’t run formal sessions on it, we do sometimes have guest speakers who bring up the topic. And any member who wants to talk is encouraged to find someone they’re comfortable with. It’s a completely safe environment– no judgement, just support.”
As Australia reckons with a national crisis of violence against women, safe community spaces like VIEW are more crucial than ever.
“It is extremely important that clubs such as VIEW make it known that they are safe spaces,” Joy stated firmly.
“We will always be here to listen, value them, and protect them. And if needed, we can assist them in finding the right avenues to feel safe and supported.”
Therehavebeenmomentswherewomen have opened up in confidence, sharing personal experiences they might never have voiced elsewhere.
It’s not at meetings, Joy notes, but in those quieter conversations, over coffee, during a walk, or after an event, that trust is built and hearts are heard.
“There’s a real power in volunteering,” Joy reflected.
“‘Pay it forward’, as they say. If you can give back or belong to a group that helps the community, that’s a remarkable achievement– and it can be so vital for a woman’s well-being.”
For Joy O’Callaghan, that first step into the room wasn’t just the start of another clubmeeting–itwasthestartofsomething life-changing.
AndformanymorewomeninWhittlesea and the wider north-west, it might just be too.
Asked what she’d say to another woman feeling isolated, uncertain whether to reach out, Joy doesn’t hesitate.
“We would just emphasise how safe the VIEW club environment is, and how non-judgemental.Womenwithdoubtscan justcomealong–therearenoexpectations. Don’t struggle and feel isolated. Join with other women who may have felt like you and have now found a new purpose.”
Top: Joy O’Callaghan and other members cook up a storm to help support underprivileged students. Left: The VIEW ladies on a social outing. Right: Whittlesea VIEW president Julie, vice president Joy, secretary Judy, fund-raising Helen, delegate Maggie, treasurer Fay, program officer Sue and welfare Marilyn. (Pictures: Supplied)
Police out in force over the King’s Birthday long weekend
Victoria Police is launching a major road safetyoperationfortheKing’sBirthdaylong weekend.
Operation Regal will run from Friday 6 June to Monday 10 June. It aims to increase driver awareness and journey planning, whilereducingroadtrauma.
FocusonRoadSafety
Police will target high risk driving that has been identified as the main causes of lives lost and serious injuries in crashes, including:
•Excessivespeed
•Driverdistraction
•Vulnerable road users (cyclists, solos and pedestrians)
•Restraintandseatbeltnon-compliance
•Fatigue
•Impaireddriving(alcoholand/ordrug)
“We’ll be out in force to educate drivers and enforce the rules,with a view to preventing lives lost and serious injuries”
said Road Policing Advisor Senior Sergeant Fletcher Pearson. “Our goal is to prevent tragediesandkeepeveryonesafe.”
Senior Sergeant Pearson said the operation will be conducted throughout all operational Police Regions and Police ServiceAreasduringthefourdays,usingall availablepersonnel..
Speedsters and other drivers flouting the roadruleshavebeenputonnoticeaheadof theroadpolicingblitz.
“The King’s Birthday holiday period provides an opportunity for families to free themselves from their usual commitments and it is anticipated that large numbers of people will use Victorian roads, often drivinglongdistancesinunfamiliardriving conditions,”hesays.
Police will be out in force both to educate
drivers and to enforce road rules, with a view to preventing lives lost and serious injuries.
We’rewatchingyourspeed.Areyou?
Motorists are requested to stay within the speed limit, don’t drink alcohol or take drugs and drive, leave your mobile phone out of reach, wear your seatbelt, and make sureyouarewellrested.
SpeedCameraswillberosteredinknown highcollisionlocations.
Fatigueisoneofthemajorcausesoflossof livesonVictorianroadsaccordingtoSenior Sergeant Fletcher Pearson. Drivers are requested to plan their trip, be patient and ensure that you take at least a 15-minute break at least every two hours and don’t driveifyouaretired.
Drivers planning to travel during this period can expect to see an increase in
vehicles on major freeways and highways throughoutthestate.
Roadtraumaisn’tjustaboutthelivesthat arelost–it’sabouttheenormousimpacton the community from the family members to the emergency services workers who must deal with these tragedies daily, and thepolicewhomustdeliverthedevastating newstolovedones.
All the community has a responsibility andaroletoplayinreducingroadtrauma.
RoadSafeWestgateCommunityRoadSafety Council Chairman Jim Giddings said it has been demonstrated time after time that speed is a contributing factor in most road crashes. Therefore, stay within the speed limit and drive to suit the conditions you face.
Speeding affects both the risk of a crash happening and the severity of injuries
sustainedwhenacrashdoeshappen. Mr Giddings said the work of his group along with initiatives like Operation Regal would hopefully reduce the number of seriousroadcrashes.
Road safety is not everyone else’s responsibility.Itisyours!
Heaskedthecommunitytoreportspeeding driverstoCrimestopperson1800333000. Here are some key tips for a safe long weekend:
•Plan your trip: Check traffic conditions andplanreststopstoavoidfatigue.
•Stick to the speed limit: Every km/h over thelimitincreasesyourcrashrisk.
•Don’tdrinkanddrive:Ifyouplantodrink, arrangealternativetransport.
•Put down your phone: Distracted driving isdangerous.
•Wear your seatbelt: It’s the law and could saveyourlife.
•Get enough sleep: Fatigue impairs your drivingability.
•Check your vehicle: Ensure tyres, brakes, lights, and windscreen washers are in goodcondition
Holiday driving has its challenges and drivers should drive in the hours they are normally awake, take regular breaks to reducefatigue.
Drivers need to adapt to the conditions of theroad,theonusisalwaysonthedriverto suit the conditions they are facing, and that includesthequalityoftheroad.
If you plan to have a drink, then plan not to drive. Taking a big risk like drinking and driving is just not worth endangering your lifeorthelivesofotherroadusers. Remember, travel so that you arrive at your destination safely and enjoy your King’sBirthdaylongweekend.
DRIVING IS NOT A GAME!
SPEED KILLS!
SPEEDING DRIVERS
First Constable Bobby Dzodzadinov and Road Policing Advisor Senior Sergeant Fletcher Pearson. (Ljubica Vankovic) 476674_07
An Australia Day ‘basho’
Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the rollicking tale of a fight that took place in 1925 outside a pub in Yarraville between locals and visiting Filipiino sailors on Australia Day.
Over the years, we have become accustomed to the various controversies leading up to Australia Day. Statues are routinely disfigured, decapitated and tastefully doused in paint. Graffiti proclaims the end of a colony whose name is never specified. Thousands of disgruntled marchersshoutslogans,and vote-seeking politicians bleat about the date. Millions more anticipate fighting off the blowies whilst enjoying sun, sand and barbecues.
One hundred years ago, on 25 January, 1925, the lead- up to Australia Day was far more straightforward for the working men, mostly ex-Diggers, who were quenching their thirsts in a Hyde Street pub in Yarraville.
None was concerned with dates, coloniesorpoliticians.EvenCaptainCook didn’t enter their thoughts. Their sole focus was on slurping the turps before the dreaded 6 o’clock closing.
This they did with practised abandon, watched admiringly by half a dozen Filipino sailors on shore leave. So it was true, after all. The fabled drinking of Australian males was no exaggeration. They themselves, though no wowsers, were more refined, preferring gentle sips to the crazed guzzling of the natives.
The Aussie was in no mood to forgive ... he reared up and indiscriminately flattened two of his helpers
And so, when “Time, gentlemen!” was bellowedto signaltheendofthebooze-up, theAustralians,though stillvertical,were visibly affected by their many glasses. The visitors were comparatively sober. The doors shut and the patrons spilled out onto Hyde Street.
And that’s when the trouble began. One of the Aussies took a drunken dislike to a sailor and shirt fronted him. The Filipino, intending to push him away, pushed too hard, and sent the man flying to the ground, smashing the bottle he had in his pocket.
The seamen all rushed to his aid and helped him to his feet with profuse apologies for the accident. But the Aussie wasinnomoodtoforgivethesmashingof his bottle. With a howl of rage, he reared up and indiscriminately flattened two of his helpers.
Within seconds, six Filipinos were battling against 15 Australians. The visitorshadtheadvantageofclearerheads; the locals had the assets of numbers and beer-fuelledbrawn.Byallaccounts,itwas a first class blue and greatly entertained the crowds which gathered to watch and yell encouragement.
Dong! Several men went down with unpleasantscalpwoundsinflictedwithan iron bar. As tempers flared, all available weapons were pressed into servicebroken bottles, fists, rocks, and, urged on by the crowd’s screams of “Garn, ‘ave a lash!” several brawlers became locked in wrestling holds and were rolling up and
down Hyde Street, biting and kicking. They were soon joined by a dozen of the spectators hopping in to help with more fists and rocks. The Filipinos appeared to be getting the worst of the struggle until the noise of the affray alerted their brethren on board their ship anchored nearby in Hobsons Bay.
Up Hyde Street 20 of them charged like knights of old to the assistance of their crew mates. The situation was desperate enough to warrant the use of dire measures, to wit, slings, which they whirled and launched with devastating efficiency. The Aussies yelped about the lumps now appearing on their heads, as well as the unfairness of this dirty tactic, and then the familiar sound of a firearm, andasubsequentcryofpain alertedthem that things were getting completely out of hand.
Albert Marr, of nearby Seddon, displayed forpublicinspectionabloodied elbow that some seaman had used as target practise. Remembering the Anzacs of Gallipoli and Pozieres, the Australians screamed their outrage and redoubled efforts to beat back the foe, while Albert toddled off to find a bandaid.
The uproar in Hyde Street had not only reached the ears of the sailors at anchor, but also the ears of the police, who, naturally, had to butt in and ruin the fun with busy batons.
Being greatly outnumbered, and knowing from experience that bitter enemies often joined forces against the common foe, the police employed a cunningtacticoftheirown. Ignoringtheir fellow-countrymen, they concentrated on the Filipinos, confiscating all the slings, plus a loaded revolver. A rapid inspection
showedthatithadnotbeenrecentlyfired. They then dragged four sailors off to the Yarraville lock-up as the Australians, normally not overly enamoured with the boysinblue,delightedlycheeredthemon.
The crowd gradually dispersed to relax and enjoy a gloating chat.
The Filipino sailors were hauled before the Footscray Court a few days later, charged only with offensive behaviour. They were released and thankfully returned to their ship, vowing never, under any circumstances, to enter any Australian pub again.
The Aussies resumed their drinking in the Hyde Street pub, reminiscing over the great basho and what fun it had been. The police were mentioned with special fondness.
But the mystery remains to this day: who shot Albert Marr?
Barb McNeill. (Damjan Janevski) 432421_03
We’re with you for quality aged care services
For over 30 years, Doutta Galla has been a trusted provider of aged care services across Melbourne’s west. We recognise that every older person is unique, with their own life story, and we tailor our care to meet their individual needs.
• 7 residential care homes offering permanent and respite options
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Thoughtfully designed to provide both elegance and comfort, these premium living spaces offer everything you need to feel at home while enjoying the highest level of care.
Step into our bright, spacious living spaces, benefit from our dedicated 24-hour nursing care, and savour the delicious, home-style meals lovingly prepared on-site by our chef. Call 9680 3300 for more details or to book a private tour.
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•
We won’t keep you hanging – we’ll call you back the same day to get started sooner, you can also self-fund to beat the waitlist - email us now on hcp@dgw.org.au
Sensory play at Seaholme
Students at Seaholme Primary School can now enjoy its new sensory playground.
Funded by a $300,000 grant from the state government, the sensory playground isaanareadesignedtostimulatechildren’s senses through various textured materials, structures, and natural elements.
On Friday, May 2, Williamstown MP Melissa Horne visited Seaholme Primary School to experience the sensory outdoor learning space for herself.
“It was wonderful to see the new sensory playground and talk to students about how this is a great place to play,” Ms Horne said.
“It’s a major addition to a great primary
school that will benefit students for generations to come.”
The sensory playground at Seaholme Primary was funded through the Inclusive Schools Fund (ISF), which was established to provide schools with new facilities such as outdoor sensory gardens and learning areas, specialist play and recreation equipment and adapting indoor learning spaces to be more inclusive.
Starting in 2015, the ISF allocated $80 milliontomorethan420projectsatschools across the state.
The ISF has since been replaced by the Capital Works Fund.
Briefs
Maribyrnong burglary
Police are investigating an aggravated burglary in Maribyrnong on January 27. Police allege the offenders entered the Rosamond Road residence about 5:45am and assaulted one of the two residents before searching their pockets and fleeing through the back door of the address. The first offender is described as Caucasian, in his early 20’s, approximately 170-180cm tall, with short dark hair. The second offender is described as of Middle Eastern appearance, in his early 20’s, approximately 170-180cm tall, with short black hair. Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at: www. crimestoppersvic.com.au
Slow down
Crime Stoppers, Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and Victoria Police have launched ‘Brake the Habit’ to encourage drivers to slow down. Speeding, even at low levels, continues to play a significant role in road trauma across Victoria, contributing to at least 25 per cent of serious injury crashes and 30 per cent of fatal crashes. The campaign follows the TAC’s latest Community Engagement and Social Acceptability Research (CESAR) survey which found 1 in 3 Victorian drivers aged 21-25 routinely sped 5km/h or more over the limit - more than double the average of all drivers.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Seaholme Primary School principal James Barger. (Damjan Janevski: 378114)
Discover UK, Ireland, Europe
WITH 10 new ocean itineraries in the Mediterranean, United Kingdom, Ireland and Northern Europe now available for 2026 and 2027, Viking have something for everyone, whetherit’safirstor50thvoyage.
The holidays range from eight to 22 days and feature 12 additional recurring ports new for Viking Ocean voyages including stops in Fowey, England; Bordeaux, France; Limerick (Foynes), Ireland; Riga, Latvia; Klaipeda, Lithuania; Londonderry, Northern Ireland; Haugesund, Norway; Palma de Mallorca and Bilbao, Spain; Fort William and Tobermory, Scotland; and Karlskrona,Sweden.
With a fleet of small sister ships, the elegant cruise line offers more than 100 differentitinerariesacrossallfiveoceans.
Viking’s new ocean voyages visit iconic cities,aswellaslesser-knowndestinations, with additional combination voyages also available.
Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen said as their award-winning fleet of small ocean ships continues to grow, the cruise line was pleased to introduce new voyages that have been thoughtfully plannedforcurioustravellers.
“Every Viking itinerary is focused on the destination, and our state-of-the-art ships, with no children and no casinos, allowgueststoexploretheworldinelegant Vikingcomfort,”theChairmansaid.
One of the new itineraries for 2027 is the British Isles and Ireland 15-day cruise from London to Belfast where guests will traverse the coast of the British Isles and the stunning shores of Cornwall and Scotland.
Thisvoyageisbookendedwithovernight stays in London and Belfast, allowing guests to explore more of these stunning cities.
As guests discover Ireland’s rugged coastline and visit the ancient city of Limerick,thereistimetoexploretheiconic King John Castle on the banks of the River Shannon.
Explore the quaint town of Fowey and visitancestorsinCountyCork,therichand vibrant cultural centre where Irish cuisine hasreachednewcreativeheights.
Witness the preparation of a traditional Irish lunch and visit a family-owned guesthouse or discover the craftsmanship involvedintheproductionofIrishwhiskey at the home of Jameson Whiskey, the MidletonDistillery.
Walk among the captivating gardens of Ballymaloe Cookery School and savour
a delectable lunch before moving on to Londonderry,whichhasbecomeariverside hub for creative culture and where an up-and-coming food scene thrives and traditionalmusicfillsthestreetsfromcozy pubs.
Visit historic Glasgow in Scotland and savourtheworld-famousseafoodandcraft beers of lovely Loch Fyne or journey to the Burns National Heritage Park for a unique encounter with Scotland’s favourite son, world-renownedpoetRobertBurns.
Take in the highlights of Northern Ireland’s capital Belfast and explore two conflicting neighbourhoods separated by a series of Peace Walls, and view brightly paintedpoliticalmuralsorvisittheTitanic BelfastMuseum,thebirthplaceoftheRMS Titanic.
Also new for 2026 and 2027 is the
twelve-day Iberia, France and England Explorer cruise between Lisbon and London.
The cruise offers a wide-ranging sojourn tohistoriccitiesinEurope.Fromthevibrant streets of Lisbon to the wine-rich region of Bordeaux,guestsvisitdestinationsthatare richinhistory,cultureandgastronomy.
Explore Bilbao with its majestic Guggenheim Museum, quaint old town and delicious pintxos, displays of which aretrulyworksofart.
Admire A Coruna’s attractions from the ancient Tower of Hercules to idyllic Orzan Beach.
Sample the cherished brandy on a “Privileged Access” visit to the historic Camus distillery in Bordeaux or sample oysters plucked fresh from the sea in Arcachon.
Drive into one of France’s most celebratedwineregionstoenjoyatourand lunch at a family-owned vineyard within the largest estate in the appellation of Lalande-de-Pomerol.
WalkinthefootstepsofMonetwithatrip from Giverny to Rouen and witness all that inspiredthisbrilliantimpressionist.
Learntoprepareathree-courseNorman menu, then share a meal at your chef’s lovely rural home. In the heart of the Auge region.
Catch the first glimpse of Dover, the doorway into England and experience regal London as the ship sails the iconic Thames River, the beating heart of the capital,London.
For additional information, contact Viking on 138 747 (AU) / 0800 447 913 (NZ) orvisitwww.viking.com
The town of Cobh is the gateway to Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city and home to nearby Blarney Castle.
LEE MCCARTHY
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Tobermory built as a fishing port during the late 18th century.
Visit the picturesque town of Fort Augustus and sail across the tranquil waters of Loch Ness.
Explore the highlights of Tobermory from the sea and learn about life below the ocean waves.
Visit the humble cottage where poet Robert Burns was born. Fully restored, it depicts what life was like throughout his childhood.
Visit a family-owned guesthouse to learn about Ireland and witness the preparation of a traditional Irish lunch at Lynnwood House, a beautiful Victorian home nestled in the heart of Cobh.
Viking named best of best
THIS year marks the 26th anniversary of the Reader’s Digest 2025 Trusted Brands Awards of Australia, making it one of the oldest and most respected consumer awards initiatives in the local market, celebrating the brands Australians trust most.
The awards, compiled by an independent survey of more than 4000 Australians, represent a snapshot of the Australian population, capturing their opinions on which brands of products and services are most important to them, making it the ‘people’schoice’survey.
This year, a new category was introduced - the River Cruise Operators Category, which Viking Australia and New Zealand Managing director Michelle Black said the groupwasthrilledtowin.
“We are incredibly honoured that the Reader’s Digest community has recognised Viking as ‘Australia’s Most Trusted Brand’ in the highly competitive category of River CruiseOperators,”shesaid.
“This recognition is a testament to the trustwe’veearnedbyconsistentlydelivering culturally immersive river voyages that resonatewithourguests.
“This recognition as a ‘Trusted Brand’ in Australia underscores the strong connection we’ve built with our local community and the unwavering trust our guestsplaceinus.”
Reader’s Digest magazine Asia Pacific Editor-in-Chief Louise Waterson was full of praiseforthecruiseline.
“With its extensive and fascinating range of destinations for The Thinking Person, Viking has built a reputation over 28 years ofsharingtheworldwithitscuriousguests,” Watersonsaid.
“As the first winner in the new River Cruise Operators category of the 2025 Most Trusted Brands survey, the team at Viking are to be congratulated for setting such a highbenchmarkintheindustry.
“This endorsement is proof that Viking’s efforts to ensure their guests have only the bestchoicesinriverjourneys,visitingsome oftheworld’smostculturallycharmingand captivating locations, have been well worth it.”
Viking has many points of difference, including world-class guest lecturers, resident historians, destination performances, an onboard cooking school, port talks, destination insights, resident musicians,andcuratedlibraries.
What the cruise line doesn’t have is children under 18, casinos, charges for
can choose between five categories of spacious rooms, and all come with king-sizebeds, large showers, heated bathroom floors, LCD TVs, multiple US/EU outlets and USB ports, private verandas, and 24-hour room service.
Wi-Fi, spa, laundry, beer and wine with lunch or dinner, formal or themed nights, inside staterooms, smoking and there is no chargeforalternaterestaurants.
Guests can choose between five categories of spacious rooms, and all come with king-size beds, large showers, heated bathroom floors, LCD TVs, multiple US/ EUoutletsandUSBports,privateverandas, and24-hourroomservice.
Cruises include River Cruises to Europe, Asia, Egypt and Mississippi; Ocean Cruises include Scandinavia, British Isles and Ireland, North America, Caribbean and Central America, South America, Mediterranean, Quiet Season Mediterranean, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, World Cruises, Grand Journeys; Viking Expeditions include trips to Antarctica, The Arctic, the Great
Lakes, North America, South America, LongitudinalWorldCruises.
Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. The cruise line was designed for curious travellers with interests in science, history, cultureandcuisine.
Foradditionalinformation,pleasecontact Vikingon138747orvisitwww.viking.com
Guests
Each Viking ship features a curated library for travellers to research upcoming destinations.
The main pool with open roof and jacuzzi treats guests while at sea or after onshore excursions.
The spacious and luxurious theatre on board Viking’s ocean cruise lines.
Viking ships feature a stunning atrium complete with the piano centrepiece.
With the Viking inclusive value, there is no additional charge to dine-in Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant (pictured) and The Chef’s Table.
LEE MCCARTHY
GRAND MEDITERRANEAN EXPLORER
Istanbul to Lisbon or vice versa
36 DAYS | 10 COUNTRIES | 29 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAR-APR 2027
From $31,795pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $38,295pp in Penthouse Veranda
MEDITERRANEAN EXPLORER
Athens to Lisbon or vice versa
30 DAYS | 9 COUNTRIES | 24 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: OCT 2026; FEB-JUN, AUG 2027
From $22,395pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $27,795pp in Penthouse Veranda
Discover More FOR LESS
All-inclusive river, ocean and expedition voyages
Uncover the history, culture and traditions of the world’s most captivating destinations – for less.
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ADRIATIC & MEDITERRANEAN DISCOVERY
Lisbon to Venice or vice versa
22 DAYS | 7 COUNTRIES | 18 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: OCT-NOV 2026; FEB-JUN, AUG 2027
From $16,395pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $20,495pp in Penthouse Veranda
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Peppy (4)
3 Thin spaghetti (10)
10 Firm in purpose (7)
11 Sellers (7)
12 Very small amount (8)
13 Greek letter (5)
14 Beaten track (4)
15 Jarring (10)
18 Event (10)
20 Hideous (4)
21 Those entertaining (5)
23 Mark left by walking (8)
26 US writer (1817–62), Henry David – (7)
27 Emit (7)
28 Restriction (10)
29 Burden (4)
DOWN
1 Male deer (4)
2 Believable (9)
4 Substantial (9)
5 Film (5) 6 Frankness (7) 7 Dissolute (5)
8 There and then (9)
9 Absurd (4)
14 Predictive (9)
16 Particle accelerator (9) 17 Total (9) 19 Esteem (7) 22 Faint (5) 23 Wildlife (5) 24 Flank (4) 25 Tidy (4)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how
four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman co-starred in which 1942 film?
2 Which country is the flattest on Earth?
3 What was the name of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s wife?
4 In a 2022 biopic, Austin Butler (pictured) portrayed which musical legend?
5 Name the three zodiac signs associated with the element earth.
6 TheSecretHistory, The Little Friend and TheGoldfinch are works by which US novelist?
7 Which World War I battle was responsible for the most deaths?
8 In which part of the body is the cuboid bone located?
9 Which athlete became the most decorated Australian Olympian after competing in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics?
10 What is the westernmost county of Ireland?
No. 272
No. 240
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT
Tree planting
Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek (FOLKC) are to hold a tree planting and celebration of the development of an urban forest on a section of Pipeline Reserve, Old Geelong Road, Brooklyn 9am-1pm on Friday, June 6. If possible, bring a trowel and hammer and wear suitable clothing. A barbeque and brewed coffee will be provided.
Geoff Mitchelmore, president Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek, Inc. 0411 274 718, or www.folkc.com.au
Newport Lake walk
Inner West Friendship and Social Group is a social group for everyone based in the inner west of Melbourne. The group are hosting a Newport Lake walk to welcome new members to its Facebook group. Meet at the Newport Lake car park at 10.30am on Sunday June 8.
https://www.facebook.com/events/s/ newport-lake-walk/1234432848260682/
Williamstown Seniors
The group meets every Tuesday at 1pm-3pm at Denis Reserve. It is a small group looking for more seniors both male and female. Members enjoy two hours of singing as well as afternoon tea. Cost is $5 for the afternoon.
Marlene, president/secretary, 0402 769 204
Royal Yacht Club of Victoria lunch
Enjoy midweek lunch specials each Wednesday: $10 entrée, $20 main course. RYCV 120 Nelson Place, Williamstown.
Reservations: www.rycv.com.au
Altona North Combined Probus
The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.
Lesley, 0414 481 442
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.
0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@outlook.com
AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club
The AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club would like to invite people who want to develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills, to join them on the first and third Thursday of every month at Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton, 7-9pm.
Vimi 0411 530 944 or aerospeakerstm@gmail.com
Footscray CWA
Meet on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9pm at Footscray Scout Hall next door to Footscray Police Station, 4a Hyde Street.
cwaofvicfootscray@gmail.com, https:// www.facebook.com/CWAofVicFootscray/
Social square dancing for beginners. Come along to the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday nights 7.30-10.30pm to learn social square dancing for beginners in a safe and friendly environment. The teaching is in a group but is self paced so there is no pressure to maintain a rate of learning.
Janine 0421 371 883 or contact@essendonsquares.com
Free English conversation classes
If English is your second language and you
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Whittlesea Men’s Shed members Eric Gunstone, Prakash Dhana and Phil Berchdolt who helped renovate the spectator benches at Whittlesea Eagles Football Club. (Damjan Janevski)
want to improve your English language skills, practice speaking with friendly volunteer tutors in informal and interactive group sessions held every Monday at 1-3pm in the meeting room at Altona Library, 123 Queen St Altona. Light refreshments provided. Come along and make new friends!
Jill MacKenzie 0439 994 705 or jill.mackenzie111@gmail.com
Walking group
The Braybrook and Maidstone Neighbourhood House are holding a walking group from 9-10am every second Wednesday. The walking group is open to everyone and starts from the neighbourhood house at 113 Melon Street, Braybrook.
9317 5610 or jodie@bmnh.org.au
Williamstown Bridge Club
The Williamstown Bridge Club has bridge sessions each week on Wednesday 7.25pm and Friday 1.25pm for experienced players and a supervised session Friday 10am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Road. All levels welcome and partners can be provided.
Sandi, 0417 315 760, Alan, 0430 309 255 or www.bridgewebs.com/williamstown
Everyday English language course
For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends. Fridays, 10am-noon. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Laverton Community Choir
The choir is welcoming new members, especially male voices. If you love singing and would like to be part of a choir, come along and try out your vocal cords with this fun and welcoming group of singers. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. The group meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street,
Laverton, from 7-9pm.
Sue, 0418 386 147, or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com
Mouth Organ Band
Yarraville Mouth Organ Band is looking for new members. Band practice is held on Friday evenings at 8pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. For great music in a friendly atmosphere feel free to call in one Friday evening.
Heather 9399 2190 or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au
Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble
If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon-2.30pm.
Woodcarving Workshop
Held weekly at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, but women are welcome too. Aimed at all levels of ability in the ancient, international crafts of carving, whittling and chipping. Starter gouges and timber are available, but participants are advised to bring their own tools and projects if possible. Held on Tuesdays, 9.30am-noon, 280 Queens Street, Altona.
John, jah2802rot@gmail.com.
Walking football (soccer)
For anyone aged 50 & over, any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay Council and Football Victoria, this is a free activity each Wednesday, from 10am to 11am, indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive, Altona.
Mike, 0423 291 708
Computer classes
Scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email, Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels
of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, 6.30-8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.
https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong
Musicians Wanted Westgate Concert Band, Established in 1979 is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am-12noon at Braybrook College.
westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Prep for employment course
Seeking a change in career or how to improve your employability? Receive face-to-face help with job searches, resumes, interviews, upskilling and more in a prep for employment course. Register today. At 43 Mason Street, Newport. 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Intro to computers course
For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers support for anyone who wants to stop drinking. Regular in-person AA meetings are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown –Wednesdays at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport – Thursdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 8.30am. If you think you have a drinking problem, you are welcome to attend. Friends and family members supporting a loved one are also encouraged to come along.
https://williamstown.aagroup.org.au/, aawilliamstown@gmail.com or 1300 222 222
Comedy shakes things up
By Georgia Tacey
Overthreeweekends,abelovedAustralian playwillbemakingitswaytoMacedon.
The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race, an uplifting and big-hearted comedy about equality, community and shaking things up in the country will be showing over threeweeksattheMountviewTheatre.
Written by Melanie Tait, the play follows Penny Anderson, the town’s new GP who returnstoherchildhoodhomeofAppleton and is shocked to find the local potato race prize still sits at $1000 for men and just $200forwomen.
Determined to change this outdated
tradition, she sets out on a mission to even the playing field, but not everyone is quite onboard.
Director Mark Constable said the show promisesanall-starcastwithamixoflocal andnationaltalent.
“It’s a wonderful cast, all at the top of their games with years and years of experience and all doing it because they love the play,” he said. “Rehearsals are a scream and we are having a ball. We can’t waitforeveryonetoseeit.”
Macedon Ranges locals Sophie Cleary and Sharni Page have joined renowned Australian actors Shayne Francis, Sheila KumarandindustrylegendMargotKnight.
“The show has been a smash hit across Australia and it’s such a coup to be able to bring it to our home town up here in the MacedonRanges,”Constablesaid.
“It’s also the debut for our wee local company Constable Productions, so it’s a veryexcitingtime.”
The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race will be showing on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with a matinee performance at 2pm, and an evening performance at 8pm fromJune13untilJune29.
TheshowswillbeheldatTheMountview Theatre, 56 Smith Street, Macedon, with ticketsgoingfast.Details:trybooking.com/ events/landing/1378319
No horsing around at Werribee Park
Every King’s Birthday long weekend, the finesthorseridersinAustraliatrot,canter andgallopovertoWerribeePark.
Why do they do that? To participate in the Melbourne International Three Day Event.
Running from June 5-9, the event will showcase the best men and women on horseback.
First held in 1957, the Melbourne International Three Day Event has become an anticipated feature on the equestriancalendar.
The cross country course winds its way past the Werribee Park, Werribee
Open Range Zoo, the beautiful Werribee Mansion,throughthestunningStateRose Garden, across the Werribee Park Polo fieldsandtheNationalEquestrianCentre.
Complemented by a large, undercover, winter trade village and with evening entertainment, there is something for everyone,youngandold.
Event director Janet Houghton explained why the event is such a hot ticket.
“It is the biggest event of its kind in Victoria– riders come from all over Australiatocompete,”shesaid.
“We have trade stands, everything
equestrian including Olympic riders, fun events like hobby horse as well as the Olympic disciplines of dressage, cross countryandshowjumping.”
Giddy-up for plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, including pony rides, guided cross country course walks, equestrian education and entertainment aswellasatradeexhibition.
There will be a range of items going under the hammer to raise money in support of building the cross country course. So get back in the saddle, and get downtothemainevent.
More:https://m3de.com.au/
Birdwatching bliss in Melton
Looking for an interesting way to spend your Saturday morning? Grab your best pair of binoculars and head to Hannah Watts Park on Saturday, June 21, as the Eynesbury Environment Group hosts its nextbirdwalk.
This two-hour avian expedition will takeattendeesthroughthisMeltonparkto watch and count bird species, enjoy some fresh air, and appreciate the local area’s floraandfauna.
Long pants, walking shoes, water, binoculars, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended.
Youcouldalsobringacameraalongand capture a few wildlife shots to share with friends.
At the group’s last bird walk in Melton Botanic Garden on May 17, 10 attendees from Melton, Staughton Vale, Eynesbury and Bacchus Marsh spotted 15 species, including a brown goshawk flying above the trees, a flock of red-rumped parrots, andthreerainbowlorikeets.
According to the Eynesbury Environment Group, it was formed to allow like-minded flora and fauna lovers a placetocometogether,hostingbi-monthly birdwalksandsellinglocalnativeplants. The group is also looking for volunteers, with those interested encouraged to email eynesbury.environment.group@gmail. com.
Come and enjoy nature and company at theJune21birdwalk,runningfrom9amto 11am at Hannah Watts Park, 183-225 High Street,Melton.
Contact:jenniferkayakers@outlook.com
A New Holland honeyeater spotted at the group’s last bird walk in May.
(Supplied)
Icon of Australian comedy offers lots of laughs at Newport show
His comedy career might’ve taken him from Scotland, to Singapore and from Hong Kong to Hobart, but next week Chris Franklin will be performing in Newport forthefirsttime.
Described as a true icon of Australian comedy, Franklin will bring his laid back ocker persona, complete with flanny and thongs, from his home in Tasmania to the inner-west on Friday, June 6 for a performance at the Newport Comedy Room.
During his illustrious career, Franklin as performed with Australian stand-up
luminaries such as Jimeoin, Dave Hughes and Carl Barron and shared stages with SantanaandElvisCostello.
He’s also been on five ‘Tours of Duty’ to entertain Australian troops in places like AfghanistanandEastTimor.
It’s the comedy fans of Hobsons Bay and the western suburbs he’ll be entertaining nextweekthoughaspartofatripthatalso involvesashowinBarwonHeadsthenight before.
Supporting Franklin will be Luke Benson,describedasasharp,shrewd,take noprisonerscomedian.
Also on the bill is the ever reliable, ever fresh, evergreen Evan Hocking and the man regarded as the comedian’s comedian,BillyStiles.
The show runs from 8pm to 10pm at the Newport Comedy Room at the Newport Bowls Club and is presented by Stellavision.
Tickets are on sale now and bookings can be made at: https://www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1373379
For more information on other shows coming up at the Newport Comedy Club, visit:https://stellavision23.com.au/
Comedian Chris Franklin will bring his quintessential Aussie humour to Newport for the first time on June 6. (Supplied)
The cast of The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race.
Edward Darby riding Somerset Day. (Supplied)
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which team defeated Manchester United 1–0 to win the 2025 UEFA Europa League final?
2. Former Perth Wildcat Bryce Cotton has signed a three-year deal with which NBL team?
3. Which two teams competed in the 2025 A-League Men Grand Final?
4. What was Jelena Dokic's highest world ranking in women's singles?
5. Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins famously competed in what kind of WWE match in 2022?
6. Which country is set to host the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup?
7. In what year did Super Netball introduce the two-point Super Shot to the competition?
Which AFL club was recently referred to by a rival coach as the AFL's 'nepo baby'?
Which NHL team won the 2024 Stanley Cup?
Brazil-born Airton Andrioli is head coach of which A-League Men team?
11. Which former AFL player and coach has emerged as a frontrunner in the search for Tasmania’s first AFL coach?
12. Nick ‘Honey Badger’ Cummins played for which Super Rugby team from 2008–2015?
& Services
13. Who won the 2025 EmiliaRomagna Grand Prix, ending Oscar Piastri’s three-race winning streak?
14. Which two-time Paralympic gold medallist broke three swimming world records at the 2025 Sydney Open?
15. Winning the US Open in 2021, which British tennis player holds the Open Era record for fewest Majors played before winning a title?
16. Australian swimmer Ariarne Titmus publicly criticised which controversial sporting event after a world record was broken using an unapproved suit and undisclosed substances?
17. Which actor stars in the upcoming racing film F1, which was previewed to Formula One drivers ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix?
18. What term is commonly used to describe the frontrow seating area at events like NBA games, where famous and high-profile guests are often spotted?
19. Which AFL coach had a boundary-line exchange with commentator Kane Cornes ahead of the Round 11 match at GMHBA Stadium?
20. In a brutal rematch at London's Copper Box Arena, which British boxer produced a Knockout of the Year contender with a fifth-round finish to avenge his previous loss to Johnny Fisher?
21. US rugby union player Ilona Maher finished runner-up in which 2024 reality TV show?
22. The Bandits is the nickname of which Australian baseball team?
23. In which year was the first Brownlow Medal awarded?
24. Robert Toia plays for which NRL club?
25. FIVB is the governing body of which sport?
26. The two purple balls in a standard pool set are which numbers?
27. In July, Netflix are set to release a sequel to which 1996 golf comedy film?
28. An eagle holding a ball is the logo of which Premier League soccer club?
29. The US men’s hockey team recently won their first world title in how many years?
30. And which country did they beat to secure the championship?
RECEPTIONIST / BOOKKEEPER / EXTRA HAND
We
(construction)
Hours:
from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM Start Date: Immediate About the Role:
to
This position is perfect for someone who has experience in a reception or administrative role, preferably with a background in retail or similar fields. We are looking for a reliable team player to help manage our front desk, assist with bookkeeping, and handle basic administrative tasks.
Key Responsibilities:
-Greeting clients and visitors
-Managing phone calls and emails
-Going through monthly income, bills, concrete reports, and other relevant documentation
-Assisting with basic bookkeeping and data entry
-Supporting the team with miscellaneous tasks as needed
Ideal Candidate:
-Previous experience in a reception or administrative role
-Good organizational and communication skills
-Comfortable working with financial documents and reports
-Preferably an ex-retail worker looking for part-time work while kids are at school
-Reliable, friendly, and detail-oriented
This is a great position for the right candidate who wants to earn some extra funds while enjoying a flexible schedule.
To Apply:
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to admin@jawpiling.com.au
We look forward to hearing from you!
Please contact
'Honey Cody Rhodes Rhodes
Pathfinder squeezes value
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
There I was doing a stint of push-mower Pilates (grass cutting) in the back yard when it struck me how clever the people at Nissanhadbeencomingupwithacut-price largewagonatthistime.
With large SUV prices pushing through six figures the new ST-L Pathfinder has lopped more than $12,000 off the previous entry-level model – this trip down the road less travelled all the more prescient at a time when tariff tyrant Donald Trump is upping the ante on the cost of motoring aroundtheworld.
In close to 40 years Down Under, the Pathfinder has never gone away but has taken a back seat to the smaller X-Trail and bigger Patrol. Now, with room for eight occupants, the ST-L has squeezed in between the pair available in two- or four-wheel drive. It is joined by another returnee,theTi2WD.
Althoughcreatinganewentry-level,ST-L is far from wanting, with seating for up to eight in three rows, generous equipment and safety systems, plus powerful and efficientV6petrolengine.
And so, back to pricing. The two ST-L modelskickoffat$59,670forthetwo-wheel drive version and rise to $64,170 for the 4WD.TheTithencomesinat$67,990forthe 2WD, the range topping Ti-L tips the scales at$82,490.Allpricesarebeforegovernment anddealerdeliverychargesareadded.
All are covered by Nissan’s five-year unlimitedkilometrewarrantyandroadside assistforthesameperiod.
Styling
At a tad more than five metres in length, just under two metres wide and 1.8 metres high, the Pathfinder has every right to flex its muscle, but it doesn’t, While the latest generation Pathfinder boasts a bold,
truck-like grille with a squared-off profile like the original model, there’s nothing old schoolaboutit.
Take 18-inch alloy wheels, dusk-sensing LED headlights with High Beam Assist and daytime running lights, LED front fog lights, a powered tailgate and roof rails for thelatestthinking.
Interior
Heated front seats and tri-zone air-conditioning ensure comfort in every seat of which there is an eight-way power driver’s seat and six-way manual passenger’sposition.
The electric park brake works well, and an intelligent key has an inbuilt vehicle alarmsystem.
Getting into the third row is made easy withwide-openingreardoorsandasystem that allows a single button to fold the outboard seat and slide forward in a single movement.
Once in, leg room is limited without sliding the middle row forward, encroachingonlegroomthere.
With room out back for only a temporary spare, cargo space is limited to 205 litres when all three row seatbacks are in place, 554 litres when the third row is folded, and up to 782 litres with the second and third rowsfolded.
Infotainment
The Pathfinder ST-L is equipped with a 7-inch TFT Advanced Drive-Assist Display, 10.8-inch head-up display and 9-inch touchscreen with navigation, inbuilt Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, together with four USB ports.
The sound is limited to a six-speaker audio, a Bose eight-speaker jobby is reserved for Ti toffs. A crisp rear-view camera and parking assistants are exemplary, as is intelligent cruise control.
Engines/transmissions
Like the rest of the Pathfinder range, the ST-L is equipped with Nissan’s powerful direct-injection 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, putting out 202kW at 6400rpm and 340Nm at 4800rpm, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
The Pathfinder gained a five-star ANCAP rating on 2022 testing. With nine airbags, including new far-side position, plus extensive safety upgrades from Nissan
Intelligent Mobility Safety Suite there’s little to reason this will have changed.
The latter includes predictive forward collision warning with junction assist and emergency braking, including for pedestrians and cyclists, driver attention alert, blind spot warning and intervention, lane departure warning plus prevention. Also on offer are lane departure warning and prevention, rear cross traffic alert and back-up collision intervention, intelligent cruise control with speed limiter, traffic signrecognitionwithoverspeedprevention and rear seat alert.
Driving
Withalmosttwotonnestocartaround,the 3.5litreV6engineandninespeedautomatic transmission have their work cut out and the Pathfinder is no twinkle toes. Steady as shegoes.Nissanputsthecombinedurban/ highway fuel consumption at 14.7 litres per 100 kilometres. The test vehicle topped 16 litres per 100 kilometres at one stage. All Pathfinder grades can tow up to 750kg unbraked, or up to 2700kg braked, the latter more than some key rivals, with most large SUVs capped at 2500kg. With a close to 12 metre turning circle, parking can take some care.
Driving capability in almost all conditions is assured with ground clearance of 317mm, Drive and Terrain Mode Selector shifting between Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow and Tow modes in 2WD models, while 4WD models add Mud and Sand modes.
Summary
Born almost a half century ago as a small SUV, the well-equipped Nissan Pathfinder has continued to grow to fit in between siblings, the neat Nissan X-Trail and big brother Patrol. The bargain-basement ST-L only adds to the appeal.
Born almost a half century ago as a small SUV, the well-equipped Nissan Pathfinder has continued to grow to fit in between the Nissan X-Trail and Patrol. (Pictures: Supplied)
As temperatures start to drop, the action on the fields and courts is starting to heat up. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
Seasons are hotting up
West Footscray’s Laura Littlepage. 481362_10 Werribee Centrals’ Larissa Renaut. 481362_01
Werribee Centrals’ Lauren Basto and West Footscray’s Layla Dawkins. 481362_15
Lancefield’s Stephanie Hammond. 481365_04 Caroline Springs’ Ryan Allan and Newport’s Joshua Smith. 481369_01
Parkside Spurs’ Sheridan Casley. 481360_01
Point Cook Centrals’ Charli Sette. 481360_19
Lancefield’s Bella Collodetti and Diggers Rest’s Leona Hristovska. 481365_15
Melton supporters. 481368_23
Melton’s Blake Souter and Sunbury Lions’ Jake Sutton. 481368_07
Newport. 481369_11
William thriving in new Western Jets talent lead role
New Western Jets talent lead Reuben William was always destined to work in football.
Having had an AFL career himself, William was keen to stay in the industry once his playing days were over the highest level.
Having worked with the AFL’s National Multicultural Academy, William has now steppedintotheJetstalentleadrole.
William said he was excited by the opportunity.
“I’m originally from Brisbane but I’ve been in Melbourne for about seven years now,” he said. “I’ve lived pretty much in the westandplayedinthenorth-west.
“It’s very exciting for me and I’m really looking forward to what I can build the programinto.”
William, who played three games for the BrisbaneLions,knowsthatatjust27thishas comealotearlierthanhethoughtitwould.
Hebringsauniquepathwaytotherole.
“I’ve always been a bit of a footy head even when I was playing AFL and VFL [Victorian Football League], always been very interested in pathways and talent, id talentaswellandidentifyingtalent.
“It was going to be this or coaching to be honest.
“I feel like I’m in good stead, having had somegoodexperienceatAFLclubsandVFL clubsandAFLHousethelastfouryears.
“I’m not too far removed from some of them,onlynineyearsoldsomeofthem
“The pathway that I’ve been through the majorityarestrivingtogettoaswell.”
William has already come across a
number of familiar faces in his new role, havingworkedandplayedwithmanyinthe north-west.
He currently plays with Keilor in the Essendon District Football League and has playedwithWerribeeintheVFL.
William said the familiarity was one of the best bits of the role and made it more interpersonal.
“It has been good so far, there’s always a little bit of challenges when you first start when you come into the role, at the quarter waymarkoftheseasontoo,”hesaid.
“Getting to know staff, players processes was the first step I took into the role. First couple of weeks looked to really build out theprogramtowhatwewantittobe.
“We want to make sure all clubs feel the loveequallyandwehaveagoodrelationship
Falcons get it done
By Tara Murray
It was a matter of just getting the job done for the City West Falcons on Wednesday night in the Victorian Netball League.
While it was a battle between top and bottom against the Peninsula Waves, the Falcons had their challenges.
Illness had gone through the side with Sussu Liai missing the game and Maggie Lind again played limited minutes for a third straight week.
It mattered little as the Falcons won, 75-51.
Falcons coach Marg Lind was pretty happy with the result.
“We had a youngster from our 19s program make her debut, we rested a few, rolled a few,” she said.
“Wehadafewsickandabitofabuggoing through the club, hopefully we’re at the end of that.”
The Falcons led by eight goals early on withtheWavespushingtheminthesecond quarter.
Lind said they got a bit sloppy in the second quarter.
“We didn’t have any run in attack,” she said. “We made a few changes and got it back out again.
“Their tall shooter Emmalia Blake made it really hard. When you’ve got people of that size, they are going to score.
“We didn’t have Sussu tonight [Wednesday] either. We were low on defence changes.”
The Falcons were able to run away with it and continue on their unbeaten run.
Lind again used the match as an opportunity to work through some different combinations.
“We got through it and tried a few things and flipped a couple of changes,” she said.
“We had a look at people who haven’t been in positions for a while, see what they can do.”
Jane Cook finished with 47 goals for the Falcons and was again rested at times during the match.
Lind said it was exciting to get Manon Muir on the court for her VNL debut. She is part of the club’s under-19 program.
“That is three now, Ella Leith, Imogen Sexton and Manon Muir,” Lind said. “We have big hopes for the three of them.
“We’ve been able to introduce them without having to overload them. It’s been really good, I thought she did really well.”
Lind said they were conscious of not overloading the younger players and felt all three would be in consideration for the Victorian under-17 team.
The Falcons 23 and under side also got the win, beating the Waves 59-48.
Lindsaidtheywerestartingtomakesome inroads and they had looked to change the plan up to better suit the players they had.
with all of them too, at the end of the day they are pretty much the starting point for a lotofourstufftoo.“
William said he first big focus was on refining the processes and making sure that it’s same from under-15s through to under-18s.
He said they want to be a place where community clubs aspire to send their kids sayingtherewasalotoftalentintheregion.
“We always talk about its not about winning for us in the Coates Talent League, it’saboutplayerdevelopment.
“If we can get a few more players drafted thatwouldbereallygoodtoanditwouldset a really clear pathway for all our players in ourregioninnerwestouttoouterwest.“
Thurgate finishes second at count
Western United’s Angus Thurgate fell just short of his first Johnny Warren Medal days after claiming his club’s top honour.
Former Western star Nicholas Milanovic won the Johnny Warren Medal on 31 votes, three clear of Thurgate who finished second.
The Johnny Warren Medallist is determined every season by a voting process which occurs after each regular-season fixture in an A-League campaign.
Votes are awarded to players after each game by an individual from three separate panels; the panels contain technical members, former players, media representatives and match officials.
The three panels collate their votes to determine the best three players from each regular-season game. Three votes are awarded to the best afield, two votes to the second best and one vote to the third best.
These votes are then tallied up to award the Johnny Warren Medal at the end of the season.
Emerging as one of the best midfielders and best players in the A-League Men this season, Thurgate was ever so close to claiming the competition’s top honour.
It comes after he claimed Western United’s player of the season and fans’ player of the season at the club’s gala night.
United’s number 32 played in every game bar one, scoring two goals and laying five assists while leading the team with his energy and class in the middle of the pitch.
Angus Thurgate. (Supplied)
The Falcons 23s not sit sixth on the ladder. The Falcons face the Hawks this Wednesday.
In other results, the Western Warriors championship side beat Geelong, 60-57. The win moves the Warriors to eighth on the ladder.
Jane Cook. (Grant Treeby/Netball Victoria)
Chandima and Nadeera sign with Yarraville Club
Yarraville Club has strengthened its top order batting as it seeks to go one better in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.
Coming off a second grand final appearance in three seasons, the Clubbers have two players who bring plenty of experience in Australia and overseas.
Former Sri Lankan first-class cricketer Dilan Chandima has spent the past 10 years playing in Australia in the Gisborne and District and Ballarat cricket associations, with Sunbury United and most recently Darley.
He won competition best player medals at both competitions.
The Clubbers have also announced the signing of Thuppahi Nadeera for next season.
A left-handed top order batsman, Nadeera played 68 first class, list A and T20 games in Sri Lanka from 2010 to 2015. Hehassincespentthelast10yearsplaying in various divisions of the VTCA.
Nadeera is coming off a stellar 2024-25 season, where he won the VTCA division 1competitionmedalwithAltonaRoosters and leading run-scorer and a team of the year representative.
Clubbers captain-coach Mitch Johnstone said they had identified the need for more batting strength.
“We’vetriedtoaddresspointsofneeds,” he said. “We thought our bowling was lacking and we bought in Matt Doric and Josh Eaton.
“We now found our top order was an area that we wanted to address and two guys that we’ve bought in bat in the top order.”
Johnstone said they both bring substantial first class experience in Sri Lanka but were keen to test themselves in what is one of the strongest competitions in the state.
HesaidNadeerahadplayedthemajority of his VTCA in the lower grades and was super excited to be playing in the senior division.
JohnstonesaidChandimawasalsokeen to test himself.
Chandima also has coaching experience.
“On match day we have a lot of experience,”hesaid.“Itreallyhelpsmeon Tuesday and Thursday.
“It’s another guy that can help the kids and strengthen the club wide program.”
Johnstone said they would also have some of the younger players looking to break into the first XI or stamp their spots in the second XI.
The club’s third, fourth and 18s all won premierships last season.
WhiletheClubbershaveaddedacouple of players, they are also set to lose a couple.
James Damjanovski and Ash Sweet are set to retire, but Johnstone said he wouldn’tbesurprisedtoseethemplayon.
Thilina Masmulla, who joined the club midway through last season, is also not returning.
Bokkers impress
By Tara Murray
West Footscray was thinking what might have been after almost pulling off an upset winagainstWerribeeCentralsintheWestern Football League women’s competition on Saturday.
The Bokkers produced their best performance of the season and for three quarterslookedtobethebettersideagainst the reigning premiers.
The Centurions’ experience shone throughinthekeymomentsastheykicked four final quarter goals to level the scores and come away with a 4.6 (30) draw. Bokkers coach Shane Windridge said it was a match they probably should have won.
“They went in with a couple of injuries and we wanted to put on a good show with a strong side,” he said.
“We dominated the first three quarters and were three goals up at three quarter time. We were a bit disappointed in the end.”
Windridge said their ball movement in the first three quarters was the best it had been and they looked really dangerous when they went forward.
He said the Centurions were able to capitalise on a poor 10 minutes from them to allow them back in the game.
“There were two players that we really wanted to stop and when it got tight they kicked two goals each,” he said.
“Their stronger players didn’t panic like we did in the last 10 minutes.”
Windridge said while they didn’t get the result it would give them plenty of confidence.
“There’sthetopfourandthenagaptothe next four or five,” he said. “For the girls it will give them confidence they can match it with one of the stronger teams in the competition.
“The girls will get a lot out of it. It was two of the Bokkers’ newer players in Laura Littlepage and Janelle Sammut that impressed him the most in the draw.
Briefs
NPL
Altona Magic was no match for the Preston Lions on Saturday night in the National Premier League competition. Coming off a good string of results, the Magic was hoping to continue that on Saturday. Scores were locked at 0-0 at half time before the Lions scored twice in the second half to come away with a 2-0 win. The Magic sits ninth on the ladder with four wins, five draws and seven losses. In the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, Altona City had a 2-1 win against Whittlesea United.
Soccer
Former Western United star Kahli Johnson scored on debut for the Matildas last week. Johnson, who left Western United during last season to try her luck overseas, was named in her first Matildas squad for two games in Australia against Argentina. Johnson started in the first game and scored the opening goal in Australia’s 2-0 win. Game two was played on Monday night after deadline.
FV
HesaidLittlepage,whowasinhersecond game, had a really strong pre-season but had been hampered by injury early on.
Sammut was a key goalkicker down forward and now has 10 goals in her four games for the season.
The Bokkers sit in seventh spot with one win and two draws at the long weekend bye.
Windridge said they were hoping to be better in the second part of the season.
“We’ve had two really close losses and two draws,” he said. “We let them slip and could have won all of them.
“We are an inexperienced group. We got quite a few junior players back to the club this season and are still learning to play together.
“We need to turn some of those close losses into wins.”
Inotherresults,ParksideSpursbeatPoint Cook Centrals, 8.14 (62)-5.2 (32). Samara ArenakickedthreegoalsfortheSpurs. YarravilleSeddonwasalsoonthewinners list,beatingtheSuns,10.6(66)-2.4(16).
Altona East Phoenix had a big win against local rival Williamstown in the FV state league 2 north-west competition on Saturday. The Phoenix, which is on top of the ladder, scored the points with a 4-2 win. In FV state league 3 north-west, Laverton lost to Heidelberg Eagles, 2-0, and Altona North beat Sunbury United 2-0. Altona North sits atop the table.
Big V
The Altona Gators had a night to forget against Gippsland United in the Big V men’s division 1 competition on Saturday night. The Gators headed down to Gippsland were slow out of the blocks. United continued to build a lead through the next two quarters. It finished strongly with a 41-26 final quarter to come away with a 122-78 win. Jalen Salon top scored with 27 points for the Gators.
Tara Murray Matt Brundell. (Supplied)
Layla Dawkins. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 481362_08
Furphy living the dream as Pacers go into NBA finals
Former Maribyrnong Sports Academy student Johnny Furphy is hoping to join a rarebasketballclubinthecomingweeks.
In just his first NBA season, Furphy will get to experience what every player sets out to do in being part of a championship series.
Furphy’s Indiana Pacers won through to the deciding series against Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Pacers won game six of its eastern conference final series against the New YorkKnicksonSunday,Australiantime, to wintheseries4-2.
With the game in control, the Pacers cleared their bench in the final minute of thegame.
Furphy played 47 seconds in game six without registering a stat as the Pacers ran outtheclock.
He also played 1:28 in the Pacers game fiveloss.
Just seven Australians, Luc Longley, Andrew Gaze, Patty Mills, Aron Baynes, Andrew Bogut, Matthew Dellavedova and JackWhitehavewonNBAchampionships.
Furphy played minutes in 50 regular season games in his first NBA season and thenplayedinsevenfinalsgames.
Speaking on the ESPN NBA coverage afterthegame,Furphysaiditwasunreal.
“I’m trying to soak this in, trying to understandhowsignificantthisisandhow rare it is,” he said. “I’m trying to enjoy it as muchaspossible.
“I love being part such a great team, this is something I’m going to learn so much from.”
Furphy said being on the court in the final moments of the conference final didn’tfeelreal.
He said he was getting goosebumps
Eagles well placed
By Tara Murray
Yarraville Seddon has put itself in a good position to attack the second half of the Western Football League division 1 season
The Eagles sit in third spot behind last year’s two grand finalists heading into the long weekend break.
Eagles coach Brad Julier said they were pretty happy with how it was tracking so far.
Both the sides losses have come to the sides above them on the ladder.
“We have set ourselves up,” he said. “We’re happy with where we’re sitting. We had chances in both games we lost and we’ve got work to be better in the back end.
“Hopefully we’ll get another crack at them again and get them.”
Julier said they had lapses in both those games when the opposition was able to capitalise and score on them during those periods.
He said they can’t afford to give up those periods where sides have run ons with good sides making them pay.
On Saturday, the Eagles were able to account for Point Cook Centrals.
The game was all but over at quarter time with the Eagles leading by 42 points.
With the lead in hand, the Eagles were tested more after quarter time but were still able to get the job done and win, 18.15 (123)-11.10 (76).
Julier said they got off to a flier before the Sharks made it a really good contest for the next three quarters.
He said it was good to get through unscathed on the injury front ahead of the bye.
TysonBrazelkickedsevengoalsforthe Eagles and was one of their best along with Akol Deng and Riley Anderson according to Julier.
There is now a competition wide bye this week for the long weekend.
Julier said it would be a good chance for them to freshen up before they face an improving Point Cook.
“They’ve been very competitive under
Saade [Ghazi],” he said. “It’s taken a little while to gel.
“They will be tough to beat.”
Julier said things were tracking nicely with their reserves and under-18s having a strong season.”
In other results, Spotswood got anotherwinontheboardasitaccounted for Sunshine.
The Kangaroos led at the first two breaks before the Woodsmen led by 11 points at three quarter time.
The Woodsmen finished with seven last quarter goals to come away with a 15.9 (99)-11.7 (7).
Kyle Blake kicked four goals for the Woodsmen.
James Cleaver and David Iaccarino were named the Woodsmen best.
Altona,NewportandParksidesuffered losses to Point Cook, Caroline Springs and Werribee Districts respectively.
Dane Swan kicked three goals as the Bulldogs beat Altona, 9.11 (65)-5.12 (42).
The Lakers were too strong for Newport, winning 21.14 (140)-10.5 (65), while Parkside lost 22.15 (147)-9.15 (69) to the Tigers.
North Footscray and West Footscray both had wins in division 2.
thinkingaboutgoingtotheNBAfinals.
One of his good mates has been in America, along with his sister and her boyfriendwatchingitplayout.
“Everyone knows how good of a team they are,” he said of OKC. “I’m excited and we match up well against them, and who knowswhatwillhappen.”
Furphy was taken at pick 35 by the San Antonio Spurs, before being traded to the Pacerslastyear.
He was a late bloomer having made his first Victorian state team in 2022 in the under-20s, before earning a scholarship at CentreofExcellenceattheAIS.
Before he headed to the AIS, he attended the Maribyrnong Sports Academy having long dreamed of attending the college. He finished year 12 at the academy while he wasattheAIS.
In his one college season with Kansas, Furphy worked his way into the starting lineup,averagingninepoints,4.9rebounds andoneassistpergame.
He was voted into the Big 12 freshman’s allstarteam.
Tara Murray
Williamstown continued its strong run offormintheVictorianFootballLeague asitsaccountedforGeelongonSunday.
The Seagulls were at home in a big doubleheaderwithboththeirwomen’s andmen’ssidesclaimingwins.
In the afternoon game, the Seagulls were too strong for the Cats, 10.14 ()74)-6.12(48).
TheSeagullsjumpedouttoa26point lead at the first break before the Cats reduced the margin to 15 points at half timeafterusingthewind.
The margin stayed fairly steady in thethirdquarterwiththeSeagullsable to grow it to 18 points heading into the finalquarter.
Nathan Colenso kicked the first goal of the quarter to give his side a bit of space10minutesintothefinalquarter.
The Cats got one back, but the Seagullshadtheanswersastheyscored anothergoaltoensurethewin.
Colenso finished with three goals for the Seagulls and was their only multiplegoalkicker.
Joel Fitzgerald had 32 disposals for theSeagulls,whileJakeGreiserhad31.
The Seagulls are now 12th on the ladderwithfivewinsfortheyear.
The Seagulls women had a hard fought win against the Western Bulldogsintheearlygame.
Scoringwashardtocomebywiththe Seagullswinning2.1(13)-1.0(6).
Megan Williamson and Emily Eaves had19disposalseachfortheSeagulls.
The Seagulls sit fourth on the ladder withfivewinsfromsevengames.
Hugo Hall-Kahan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 475540_11
Johnny Furphy. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Riley Anderson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 475545_07
Seagulls on a roll
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