The humble sausage roll has never tasted so sweet for Whittlesea Bakehouse, which snagged the title of Australia’s Best Sausage Roll at the SA Baking Show on May 25.
The small-town bakery beat out some of the nation’s top contenders and now has its sights set on an even bigger stage.
For bakery manager Adrian Caporetto and his team, the win came as both a surprise and a proud affirmation of their hard work.
“It was a shock and an amazing winning feeling all at the same time,” Mr Caporetto said.
“It was great to hear our name be called out as the winner.”
So what makes their sausage roll the best in the country? Mr Caporetto said it all comes down to quality ingredients and a passion for the craft.
“Good quality meat, together with the right amount of seasoning, great team-work, and some love,” Mr Caporetto said.
Suspended Whittlesea mayor mounts.....
Court challenge
Former Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon will seek a Supreme Court review of the decisiontosuspendhimfromcouncilforsix months.
As reported by Star Weekly, Local Government Minister Nick Staikos suspended Mr McLindon from his role as a councillor on April 16 for a period of six months amid allegations of poor conduct andintimidatingbehaviour.
In a statement on Thursday, June 5, Mr McLindon announced that he has sought legaladvicefromanumberofseniorlawyers followinghissuspension.
“That advice is that the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Minister for Local Government,NickStaikos,actedunlawfully
in taking the action which led to my suspension from my position as the elected mayoroftheCityofWhittlesea,“hesaid.
“As a result of that advice, I will be applying to the Supreme Court to judicially reviewtheactionsoftheminister.“
A state government spokesperson said Mr McLindon was suspended following the receiptofareportbythemunicipalmonitors appointed to Whittlesea council and other information provided, under section 229A (1)oftheLocalGovernmentAct2020.
“As the matter is expected to be subject to litigation, it would be inappropriate to comment any further,“ the spokesperson said.
Mr Staikos’ decision to suspended
Mr McLindon followed a decision by Whittlesea council chief executive Craig LlyodtobarMrMcLindonfromthecouncil chambers and place restrictions on his interactions with councillors and council staff to response to alleged “intimidating” and “aggressive“ behaviour. That led to Mr McLindon gathering his supporters outside the council chamber during the March council meeting and calling for Mr Lloyd andthemunicipalmonitorstoresign.
In February, Mr McLindon faced a vote of no confidence and calls for him to resign from the office of mayor from the municipality’sothercouncillors.
The councillors also referred Mr McLindon to an internal arbitration
process over alleged breaches of the Model Councillor Code of Conduct in response to his action during his January campaign for aby-electioninthestateseatofWerribee.
Mr Staikos has also launched a Commission of Inquiry into Whittlesea council to address potentially serious and systemic governance issues within the council and identify necessary improvements to ensure it can function effectively.
The inquiry, which was launched on May 19, is being led by experience public sector leadersPrueDigbyandJimGifford
The council will continue to operate during the inquiry, with findings to be handeddowninSeptember.
Whittlesea Bakehouse owner Adrian Caporetto with staff, Michael Valenti, Patrick Bloodworth and Sarah Baerken. (Damjan Janevski) 480576_01
Lynne’s community focus recognised
moved to a barren patch of Bundoora-Mill Park – new houses, no schools, no shops, and almost nocommunityservices.
Over 40 years later, the long-time director of Mill Park Community House has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community through social welfare organisations.
“I am absolutely overwhelmed by this award,” Ms Harris said. “Receiving the CentenaryMedalwaswonderful,butthisis on another level. I guess it is a recognition of all the work I have done, in conjunction with other valued community members, overtheyears.”
Ms Harris was instrumental in building thecommunityfromthegroundup
“Mill Park was a new area with lots of houses and very little else. There were lots of new mums who basically had nowhere
to go outside of the home,” Ms Harris recalled.
“We looked at starting support groups fromthebeginning.”
Those early steps shaped a career of quiet, determined advocacy for inclusion, accessandcommunityconnection.
“We looked at starting support groups andthisiswheretheMillParkCommunity House began to be developed,” Ms Harris said.“TheMillParkCommunityHousehas growntomeettheseneeds.”
Over time, it has provided countless locals with a sense of purpose, connection andopportunity.
She has served as treasurer of the North East Neighbourhood House Network for morethan20yearsandvolunteerswiththe WhittleseaDisabilityNetwork.
She began working with Janefield ResidentialFacilityinthe1980’s,helpingits residents, many of whom had disabilities,
transition from a closed, institutional environment to independent lives in the broadercommunity.
“We worked very hard assisting these residents to become part of the community,” Ms Harris said. “It was a tough fight and change sometimes is not popular. However, 30 years later, we are stillpushingforabetterdeal.”
Through it all, her motivation has never wavered.
“My motivation is seeing outcomes –schools, roads, support services, people growing and enjoying their lives. I love the communityandthethingsyoucanachieve for individuals and groups if you try hard enough,”MsHarrissaid.
“It is a recognition that inclusion and community means something … I don’t like to hear ‘No it cannot be done’. There are people with needs and it is our job to tryandaddressthem.”
From local pharmacy to global aid volunteer
When Ian Shanks set out to climb Mount Kilimanjaroin2012,heexpectedaphysical challenge–notalife-changingawakening.
But witnessing deep poverty first-hand triggered a shift that would shape the next decadeofhislifeandthelivesofthousands moreacrossAfrica.
Mr Shanks has been made a recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community through charitable organisations –recognition of his work as a pharmacist, charity founder, andcommunityleader.
“It was a real shock to be honest,” Mr Shankssaid.
“But it’s really a reflection of all the great people I’ve had around me, not just at the pharmacy but the great people I’ve had on the board, on the charities, the volunteers that do all the work too. So I guess from my perspective it’s something that is for all of us and the work we have been able to achieve in the last 13 years since we started.”
Mr Shanks co-founded the Fullife Foundation in 2013 and continues to serve aschiefexecutiveanddirector.
The organisation partners with World Vision Australia, the Birthing Kit
‘I just got involved’ says OAM recipient
For Geoffrey Mcllvenna, lending a hand has never been about recognition, it’s just the way life is supposedtobelived,
“It just happens mate, if there’s something to do you just do it,” Mr Mcllvennasaid.
The South Morang resident has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community through a lifetime of volunteerworkspanningyouthclubs, sport,Rotaryandthepoliceforce.
Mr Mcllvenna served as mayor of Whittlesea in 1993-94 and was a councillorfor11years.
He spent over three decades with theWhittleseabasketballassociation, serving as chair, vice-chair, and earninglifemembership.
“Helping young people at youth clubsandtheRotaryClub,thengoing to the police force, then helping out sports teams in basketball, netball, tennis.Younameit,Ijustgotinvolved init,”hesaid.
His most cherished project was sparked by a chance encounter with humanitarianMoiraKellyataRotary luncheon.
“She’s renowned for her work bringing to Australia children with serious health problems that local doctors are unable to treat,” Mr Mcllvennasaid.
“I spoke to her at a luncheon and asked her what she wanted to do whenshegotolder.Shesaidshereally wanted a place on a farm where she couldlookafterthekidsshetreated.
“So I said we would build a Moira one. I got a few blokes together from the Rotary and we built her a farm up at East Kilmore, and started the Children First Foundation. It was suchamagnificentprojectandallthe Kilmorecommunityhelpedout.
“I would go look at that farm and think,geewebuiltthis–notme,we!”
On receiving the OAM, Mr Mcllvenna remained humble insisting it’s not about his achievements.
“This is for all those people who helped me, it’s not just for me. I just happenedtobetheblokeincharge.”
Foundation and others to deliver maternal health and clean water to remote parts of Ethiopiaandbeyond.
“We’ve built a number of health centres and maternal health centres, which mean women can have a safe birth, which has really cut the death rate dramatically,” Mr Shankssaid.
The Fullife Foundation was born out of a momentofreckoning.
“I’ve always had an interest in Africa in particular and I’ve supported that through my local church where I could financially,” MrShankssaid.
“But when I got exposed to serious poverty, it shook me a bit. So I came back and started thinking what we could do aboutit.”
In addition to his charity work, Mr Shanks has been a pharmacist since 1980 and is director of Fullife Pharmacies in MillPark,RivergumandUlverstone.
His pharmacy career has spanned decades but it’s his passion for helping othersthathasdefinedabroadermission.
“We are so blessed in this country, and you don’t know it until you see people that are struggling in real poverty,” Mr Shanks explained.
Mr Mcllvenna credits the Rotary’s ethos–serviceaboveself–asthetrue driver behind his decades of tireless andselflesswork
Geoffery Mcllvenna, awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community. (Supplied)
Ian Shanks. (Damjan Janevski) 482087_01
Lynne Harris has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). (Damjan Janevski) 481712_01
In the late 1970’s, Lynne Harris
We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building North East Link. We’re also upgrading the Eastern Freeway and completing the M80 Ring Road in Greensborough, making travelling around Melbourne quicker and safer.
What we’re doing:
Tunnelling continues all year on North East Link, while entry and exit ramps are excavated in Yallambie and Bulleen.
Building the new ramps that will connect the Eastern Freeway to North East Link in 2028.
Making changes to Manningham and Bulleen roads in Bulleen to keep traffic moving as we work.
Constructing the new freeflowing interchanges at the M80 Ring Road and Grimshaw Street.
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Hurstbridge Line 1 to 24 JulyHeidelberg to Eltham
Road disruptions: Closed roads and ramp
Plenty Road, Watsonia North 9pm 13 June to 5am 16 June
M80 Ring Road, Watsonia North 11pm 13 June to 4am 14 June 10pm 15 June to 5am 16 June
10pm to 5am each night, 17 to 18 June
Lower Plenty Road, Yallambie
8pm 11 July to 5am 14 July
Bulleen Road, Bulleen 10pm 13 July to 6am 21 July
Greensborough-bound entry ramp to the M80 Ring Road
Greenborough-bound between Plenty Road and Greensborough Bypass
Altona-bound between Greensborough Bypass and Plenty Road
Between Greensborough Highway and Rosanna Road
Rosanna-bound between Manningham and Thompsons roads
Prioritise infrastructure: Crs
A plan for hundreds of new homes along Somerton Road has been met with fierce opposition from some Hume councillors, who have said the north is already struggling under the weight of over development without matching infrastructure.
Council approved a planning scheme amendment tied to the Somerton Road precinct structure plan (PSP) during its May 26. The PSP will pave the way for 250-300 houses on land at 800-870 Somerton Road, Greenvale.
Council received 23 submissions about theamendmentduringapublicconsultation
period last year, of which 18 objected to the amendment and could not be resolved.
An independent planning panel reviewed all submissions before issuing a report in support of the amendment.
Speaking at the May 26 council meeting, Cr Jim Overend said he could not support the plan until there was more infrastructure.
“It’s an ongoing issue out in the north where infrastructure is just never there for our community. We’ve seen it with the Craigieburn West PSP, we’ve seen it in Kalkallo. We keep putting houses out there and just not enough roads … thus creating traffic jams,” he said.
Bold colours, bright memories
Growing up in Westmeadows, artist Callum Preston remembers days filled with motion, skateboarding with friends, catching buses to school, and painting the world in his mind with big, bold colours.
That restless, joyful energy has now taken shape in his new exhibition Back and Forth, showing at Town Hall Broadmeadows as part of the Hume Winter Lights Festival.
The artist’s memories of travelling to school in Essendon –constantly in transit –shaped the concept.
“I would be getting trains and buses, so the show is called Back and Forth.
“Through the paintings I just try to expressalotofenergywithbigboldcolours.”
Preston describes the exhibition as “a mix of almost road traffic signs and motivational words,” infused with “big bold streaks of that movement and energy” from his youth.
Far from a static gallery experience, Preston is embracing the liveliness of the winter lights event.
“There’s going to be so much action going on outside of the building and there’s music, food. I’m inside but there will be lots of colour and I will also have some lighting and UV black light as well happening in my space,” he said.
With a background in graphic design and sign painting, Preston blends fine art with a vibrant visual language.
“My pieces aren’t necessarily nostalgic in the way they look but the root cause of them is thinking back on when you were a kid and the day seemed so long,” he said.
Preston’s exhibition will be at Town Hall Broadmeadows on Saturday, June 21.
Callum Preston. (Damjan Janevski) 482275_01
“I can’t support anything until we see infrastructure come into place. Once we have infrastructure, let’s build the houses –that’s fantastic. But until then I can’t see us continuing to build more and more homes in confined areas with no access for our community to get around in.”
Cr Ally Watson said council had made “similar mistakes before” by allowing growth without proper planning.
“A few hundred houses doesn’t sound like much, but unfortunately we live in a very car-dependent world. We have 250 houses, which is more than 250 people – so I’ll be against this planning scheme amendment
tonight.”
Cr Naim Kurt said the community’s objections were being ignored.
“When you look at the submissions, almost 90 per cent of the community are against it,” he said.
“And what are their concerns? The lack of shops, the lack of services, the congestion, the high-density housing.”
Cr Kurt said the absence of funding commitments for critical upgrades to Somerton Road was “a real kick in the guts for the community”.
Theamendmentwillnowbesubmittedto the planning minister for approval.
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Councillors’ ESVF conflict
By Tom Ingleton
A notice of motion at Hume council ended with nearly half the chamber declaring a conflict of interest in the controversial Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).
Cr Daniel English, Cr Carly Moore, Cr Ally Watson, and mayor Jarrod Bell were all forced to excuse themselves ahead of a motion on the levy, each citing close ties to organisations that stand to benefit from the funding.
“And here ends the weirdest declaration
of a conflict of interest in Hume council history,” Cr Jarrod Bell quipped once the motion had been carried, underscoring the unusualmoment.
Despite the exodus, Cr Kate Hamley’s notice of motion was passed unanimously bytheremainingcouncillors.
The motion put forward by Cr Hamley asked for council receive a briefing on the anticipated impact that the Emergency ServicesandVolunteersFundlevywillhave onthecommunityandanyoptionsithasto opposethelevyincreases.
“The loss of almost half of our chamber
Paw-sitive impact at school
Mernda Central College has found its most unlikely wellbeing champion, not in a textbook or policy, but in the soft golden fur ofSonny,a10-year-oldgoldenretrieverwith aheartasbigashispaws.
Through a partnership with the Dogs Connect program, Sonny joined the college asitsofficialwellbeingdog,bringinga“calm and trusted presence” that has quickly made him a cherished part of the school community.
With experience in another school and therapy dog mum, Sonny was more than readyforhisnewrole.
“Sonny’spresenceispurposeful,safe,and supportive across our college community,” Sonny’s primary carer and a passionate advocate for the program, Tennille Blake said. “He’s helping students struggling with emotional regulation, engagement, and buildingconnectionatschool.”
Sonny’sdaystartswithwarmgreetingsat the school gate before settling into his role acrosstheprepandwellbeingprograms.
From being a reading buddy to offering quiet companionship during tough moments, Sonny’s calming effect reaches allcornersofthecollege.
Onestudentwhoregularlystruggledwith emotional regulation now visits Sonny as partofapersonalisedsupportplan.
“It’s a meaningful incentive to complete classroom tasks and reach learning goals,” MsBlakesaid.
Another student, who previously avoided routines, now lines up after recess just to spendtimewithSonny.
The ripple effect of Sonny’s presence goes beyondthestudents.
“During busy afternoons or end-of-day staff meetings, his quiet, gentle presence providesamomentofcalmandconnection.”
What’s on
Planning Ahead - Money, Ageing and Family
Come along to a free session presented by Seniors Rights Victoria in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Learn how to:
Plan for the future with confidence
Understand key information about ageing, finances and family
Access support in a simple, interactive and friendly setting
All welcome. No cost to attend.
For more information and to book, visit: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events or call 9217 2170 and select option 4
justgoestoshowyouhowconnectedHume council are with emergency services,” Cr Hamley said. “Our community deeply values and appreciates the work that they do. We want to see our emergency services fundedwellandsupported,butthewaythis newlevyhaspushedtheresponsibilityonto ourcommunityisnotfair.”
Cr Misho added that council should call on the state government to urgently review thecollectionmechanism.
“The state government used to collect this levy from insurance companies,” Cr Misho said. “But now they’ve significantly
increased it and shifted the burden to councilsandratepayers.”
CrSteveGagensaid,“Weneedtoactually sayit’sabadtime.Thegovernmentisshortof money and they’re trying to get councillors todothedirtyworktocollectitforthem“.
The state government was contacted for comment.
As reported by Star Weekly, Whittlesea council has also raised concerns about the government asking councils to collect the levy through its rates notices and has written to the government to oppose the levy.
Are you a member of the LGBTIQA+ community or a service provider supporting LGBTIQA+ people?
Help shape a more inclusive, healthy, safe and welcoming community - one where all identities are celebrated and supported.
Expressions of interest are now open
Closing date: 14 June
For more information and to apply, visit: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/rainbow-advisory-EOI or call 9217 2170
Mernda Central College’s therapy dog ’Sonny’ with students Macey, Willow, Sawyer, Lily and Daisy. (Damjan Janevski) 476707_04
Epping
Help animals stay warm
With winter upon us, Lort Smith Animal Hospital is asking locals to rally together in support of their furry friends that need to staywarmthiswinter.
The not-for-profit animal hospital, which runs in Campbellfield and North Melbourne, has launched Operation Snugglebug, the hospital’s inaugural winter blanket,towelandtreatsdrive.
LortSmithspokespersonSuzanaTalevski said more than 20,000 animals at the animal hospital depend on the kindness of strangerseveryyear.
‘’Sadly it looks like winter has come early in Victoria this year so the need has hit earlierthanusual,’’MsTalevskisaid.
‘’We know much Victorians love their
pets, so we are hoping the community gets onboardandhelpsustohelpthoseinneed.
“Victorian’s love their pets so much so the thought of other dogs and cats being in need is something that really does resonate with so many people in our communities. Sothisyearweareaskingeveryonetothink of us when putting together their winter shoppinglist.’’
Lort Smith is in need of towels, pet toys, pet treats, blankets (except if knitted with largeholes)andunopenedpetfood.
Donations can be dropped off or couriered to Campbellfield Clinic and Adoption Centre, 25-35 Berwick Road, Campbellfield. Details: https://lortsmith. com/support-our-work/in-kind-donations/
Briefs
Copper theft charges
Two Doreen men have been charged after allegedly stealing copper piping and wiring from a Broadmeadows warehouse in a pre-dawn heist on June 1. Police tracked the getaway Kia Carnival using Air Wing surveillance and deployed stop sticks in Mernda. The Dog Squad arrested the pair without incident. Both men will face Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on September 30.
Hoon blitz nets offenders
Fawkner Highway Patrol shut down planned hoon gatherings across Melbourne’s north during a targeted operation on May 31. Police issued 30 traffic fines, impounded two vehicles, and flagged five cars with defects. Three drivers will be charged with unlicensed or disqualified driving.
AI supercomputer goes live Australia’s first AI supercomputer dedicated to medical research has gone live in Tullamarine. Operated by La Trobe University’s ACAMI and funded with $10 million from the state government, the NVIDIA DGX H200 will accelerate disease diagnosis and treatment development. It’s capable of processing vast medical data sets in hours.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Campbellfield adoption centre manager Amanda Doolan with Ned. (Damjan Janevski) 481510_01
Shaped by the north
By Tom Ingleton
From the aisles of Hungry Jack’s at Melbourne Airport to the halls of Federal Parliament, Basem Abdo’s journey reflects thegritandhopeofMelbourne’snorthand now, as Labor’s newly elected Member for Calwell.
With the final Calwell result delayed by tight preferences and scrutiny over declarations, Mr Abdo now steps into federal parliament with a promise to deliver for the people who shaped him.
“IgrewupinMelbourne’snorth,andI’m raising my family locally,” Mr Abdo said.
“So, I understand both what makes our community strong, and the challenges people face every day because that’s what shaped me.”
Mr Abdo said he’s committed to fighting for better education, secure jobs and more affordable essentials for local families.
“I know what it’s like for families to work hard just to make ends meet and I want to use my voice to back in what’s great about our community, while also tackling the things that hold people back.”
At the heart of his plan is education and employment.
Mr Abdo said Labor’s Free TAFE initiative is already opening doors.
“It’s not just for young people finishing school. It’s also for people re-skilling or returning to the workforce,” he said.
He is also backing a University Study Hub to lift local participation in higher education and a local employment hub to align training with real jobs.
“Calwell used to be the manufacturing heart of Australia and we saw what secure jobs meant for families.”
Mr Abdo said being part of the community keeps him grounded.
“Everyone deserves the chance to live, study, and earn a decent living wage right here in Melbourne’s north.”
He also emphasised the need for wraparound support from mental health care to cheaper medicines and childcare.
“Thatmeanssmartinvestment,inclusive
planning, and policies that respond to the real needs of local people.
“I started working at Hungry Jack’s at Melbourne Airport as soon as I hit the minimum working age,” Mr Abdo said.
“That early work gave me a deep respect for the dignity of work and the importance of having local opportunities.”
Eagle view soars
A stretch of Whittlesea parkland has officially received a new name that honoursthousandsofyearsofcultural history.
The site formally known as Quarry Hills Parkland has been renamed bunjil nganga Parkland, meaning eagle view, following formal approval byGeographicNamesVictoria.
The name change, announced by Whittlesea council on May 28, was developed in partnership with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and reflects the Traditional Owners’ deep spiritualconnectiontotheland.
Mayor Martin Taylor said the change was both meaningful and warmlywelcomed.
“We are proud to adopt the name bunjil nganga Parkland in honour of the Traditional Owners’ of this land,” Cr Taylor said. “This name invites us all to connect more deeply with the landscape recognising its beauty, respecting its cultural history, and embracing its future significance for generationstocome.”
Thenewnamewillbeusedalongside Quarry Hills for the next five years to supportthetransition.
The parkland will soon host two major additions– Aboriginal Gathering Place opening later this year, and the Granite Hills Major Community Park in 2025, which will includeaflyingfox,lawnmaze,nature playarea,andaccessiblefacilities.
“The name bunjil nganga reflects the enduring connection between the Woi-wurrung people and this significantlandscape,”CrTaylorsaid,
New 2 and 3-bedroom homes are now selling from $475,000** at Ingenia Lifestyle Springside, Beveridge. Secure your home before 30 June and receive $20,000 off the purchase price when you settle by 23 December 2025*.
Visit our sales office at Craigieburn Central (opposite Australia Post) or call 03 8723 0136 to book an appointment.
Image is indicative only
Newly elected Labor member for Calwell, Basem Abdo. (Damjan Janevski) 482194_02
Glass recycling slammed
By Tom Ingleton
Hume council has pushed back against a looming state-mandated glass recycling program, branding the reform inefficient, costly, and out of touch with community needs despite potential fines for non-compliance.
At council’s Monday, May 26 meeting, Cr Sam Misho moved a motion rejecting the compulsory roll out of glass bins to households, calling instead for a locally-tailored approach to waste management.
The state government requires councils
to roll out glass recycling bins by July 1, 2027.
“Thecoststoourcommunityareexcessive andunjustified.Theroll-outof80-litreglass bins, warehouse leases, delivery costs and educationprogramsisexpectedtocost$5.7 million upfront. Ratepayers will eventually pay for this with an additional $2.6 million peryear.Again,ratepayerswillpayforthis,“ hesaid.
“This is a state government initiative, not council’s, but our council will be expected to bear the backlash for a levy we did not design, set or choose. The public already believes this is a council-imposed cost
Exhibition heals old sorrow
When Wardah Alam lost her father as a teenager, the world became a quiet, uncertainplace.
Years later, that silence has taken form in The Times, a deeply personal printmaking exhibition that explores memory, loss, and healing through the architectural language ofherMughalheritage.
“This was a very difficult time for me,” Alamsaid.“Notfinanciallybutemotionally, and you have to search for your soul. Being 15 at the time, just being a teen is a very difficulttime.”
Through traditional techniques like etching and aquatint, The Times captures intricate images of carved doorways, latticed windows, and archways, all drawn fromAlam’sancestors’Mughalhome.
“Everyprintismonotone,soit’ssoothing. You want to see into the images and the
motifs, and you can concentrate easier on these when you don’t have colour,“ Alam said.
Alam’s journey to creating this body of workwasn’teasy.
Living in Craigieburn, she lacked access tonearbyprintmakingstudios.
“I had to go too far to get to a studio. All these techniques I use are traditional like aqua-tinting and I needed the space to be abletodothat,“shesaid.
In one standout piece, Tower of Silence, Alamcapturesthetensionofgrief.
“It’s like a Rapunzel, it makes you want to holdontothoseemotionswithinyourself… but still there is a window, there is a door, thereishope.”
The Times is at the Gee Lee-Wik Doleen Gallery, Hume Global Learning Centre Craigieburn,untilSunday,September21.
becauseitappearsonourratesnotices.”
Cr Misho’s motion also included writing other councils to propose a united front against the roll-out, and to explore alternatives through a sector-wide campaign.
Cr Naim Kurt said he was “in two minds” butultimatelysidedwiththemotion.
“Why can’t we use crates instead of glass bins?Whynotofferdrop-offhubs?Orbetter yet, why can’t we just expand the container depositscheme?
“It will cost our council $10 million to roll out alone and this is happening during a cost-of-living crisis. I can’t in good conscience support a service that will charge struggling families more for somethingtheymightnotuseorhavespace forintheirhouseholds.
Thirty-threecouncilshavealreadycalled forthemandatoryrolloutofglassrecycling bins to be abandoned by the government, Humesaid.
Whittlesea City Council, Lalor Ward by-election My council, my vote
Vote by post by Friday 1 August
Voting
Ballot packs will be mailed to voters enrolled in the Whittlesea City Council, Lalor Ward by-election from Monday 14 July 2025. Return your completed ballot material by mail ASAP or hand deliver it to the election manager by the close of voting at 6 pm on Friday 1 August 2025
If you will be away
If you will be away during the voting period (Monday 14 July 2025 to Friday 1 August 2025), or your address has changed since Wednesday 21 May 2025, you can request your ballot pack to be redirected by completing an online redirection form at vec.vic.gov.au/redirections, or call 131 832
Please include the address for redirection. Each voter requesting redirection must sign their request. Requests for redirection must be received by Monday 16 June 2025
Alternatively, you can go to the election office to vote in person, from 10 am on Wednesday 25 June 2025
The Whittlesea City Council election office is at: Unit 12
63 Ricky Way
Epping
Large print and braille ballot papers
Large print or braille ballot papers are available for voters who are blind or have low vision – please register by 5 pm on Friday 20 June 2025. To register, call 131 832 during business hours.
How to nominate as a candidate
To nominate as a candidate, you must:
• be an Australian citizen and enrolled on the voters roll for Whittlesea City Council and
• be eligible to become a councillor should you be elected and
• have completed the mandatory candidate training before lodging your nomination with the election manager.
To nominate, complete the nomination form and lodge it with the election manager together with the $250 nomination fee. Nomination forms can be lodged by appointment during business hours from Monday 16 June 2025 until 12 noon on Tuesday 24 June 2025 at the election office. Visit vec.vic.gov.au for more information and to pre-complete your nomination form using the online Candidate Helper.
If you use the online Candidate Helper, print your pre-completed form and make an appointment to lodge it with the election manager along with the nomination fee.
To make a nomination appointment, call 8620 1316 from Monday 2 June 2025
Candidate information session
A candidate information session will be hosted online using Microsoft Teams at 6 pm on Wednesday 11 June 2025
The VEC will publish the link to register for the live stream from Friday 6 June 2025 on vec.vic.gov.au
Candidate information kits containing nomination forms and other electoral information will be available online and from the election manager.
Nominations close 12 noon on Tuesday 24 June 2025.
State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
Wardah Alam with a piece from The Times exhibition. (Damjan Janevski) 482036_01
Loud cry for better buses
New estates are filling fast in Melbourne’s northern corridor – but the buses aren’t following.
A push from Hume councillor Ally Watson is calling for urgent action on the region’s under-serviced public transport, with families, students, and elderly residents left walking up to 40 minutes to reach the nearest stop.
At the May 26 council meeting, Cr Watson raised a notice of motion to shine a spotlight on the growing public transport gaps in Kalkallo and Mickleham, as demand far outpaces current services.
“We also have a lot of people who don’t drive, they may be relatively new to the area, new to the country, they may be mums with prams, or parents with prams, some of our elderly residents and they really rely on the public bus service,” Cr Watson said.
While some routes do exist, Cr Watson said they fall short, especially during peak school travel times.
“The public bus service in and around Kalkallo and Mickleham, there is some thereI’mnotgoingtosaythere’snot,butit’s not quite meeting the needs of our growing
Life membership for couple
For Paul and Emily Ledwich, the State Emergency Service isn’t just a volunteer organisation – it’s family.
Honoured with unit life membership medals at the Craigieburn SES, the couple reflected on decades of service, sacrifice, and satisfaction.
“ItmeansIwillalwaysbeamemberofthe Craigieburn SES Unit,” Paul said.
“Knowing I have lifelong friends and can call on the unit for help if ever I need it. It is an honour to be a lifelong member.”
Paul’s time with the SES is marked by moments of grit, teamwork and quiet heroism.
He recalls one rescue where a woman had injured her ankle on the top floor of an unfinished two-storey home.
“As the stairs had not been built yet, we had to place the lady in a stretcher and rig it up with a rope from each corner and
lower it down to the ground floor through the opening where the stairs were to be constructed.”
Paul said safety has evolved dramatically since he first joined. “When I joined, safety was not emphasised as much as it is today… today we have better uniforms including gloves, helmets, boots, safety harness and equipment for rooftop work.”
Emily,whosupportedtheteaminwelfare roles, said, “My fondest memories are when Iwasabletoprovidewelfaretothemembers when they had long and trying jobs…It was most satisfying for me knowing both my husbandandsonwerepartoftheteamIwas helping“.
She urged others to get involved.
“Do give the SES a try…although hard at times, it is very satisfying to know you are helping others.”
community now, let alone into the future,“ she said.
“For our folk living up in Kalkallo North, for some of the people who are living right at the top of that estate at the moment it’s about a 40-minute walk to the closest bus stop.”
Her motion seeks answers from state authorities, a review of current services, and a timeline for the long-awaited 525 route extension.
Northern Metropolitan Liberal MP Evan Mulholland is also calling on the government to get on board with better
buses for Kalkallo and Mickleham.
“I am contacted constantly by local residents, families and parents of school kids who are fed up with living in a public transport wasteland,“ he said.
Mr Mulholland also wants the 535 route extended, service frequencies increased and for bus shelters to be built.
“As we head in to winter, I call on Labor to stop leaving Mickleham and Kalkallo out in the cold and to boost services and build shelters,“ he said.
The state government was contacted for comment.
Emily and Paul Ledwich with their Unit Life Member Awards. (Damjan Janevski) 480354_01
Ovarian cancer tool hope
and cervical screening tests that help detect breast and cervical cancer at an early stage, there are no public screening programs for picking up ovarian cancer early.
Facts about ovarian cancer:
A woman’s chances of surviving ovarian cancer at least five years after diagnosis come down to the toss of a coin – just 49 percentwillreachthatmilestone,making it one of the most lethal reproductive cancersworldwide.
Oneofthereasonsforthehighmortality rate is late-stage diagnosis and delayed treatment due to non-specific symptoms that are often missed by healthcare professionalsandwomenthemselves.
University of South Australia postdoctoral researcher Dr Amanda Lumsden, with a transdisciplinary team, is hoping to rectify this by co-designing a user-friendly symptom assessment tool for ovarian cancer, funded by a $45,087 catalyst grant from Health Translation SA (HTSA).
Through an online ovarian cancer symptomscopingsurvey,researcherswill gather feedback from people with lived experience of ovarian cancer, as well as clinicians, to help develop a prototype symptomassessmenttool.
The tool will detail potential symptoms and risk factors for ovarian cancer and will lay the groundwork for a larger study totesthowwelltheprototypeperforms.
Dr Lumsden, a Research Fellow based in UniSA’s Australian Centre for Precision Health, says that unlike mammograms
“Women with ovarian cancer may experience non-specific symptoms for up to two or more years before the tumour becomesclinicallyapparent,andoftendo notconnectthesesymptomswithcancer,” DrLumsdensaid.
“By then, the tumour has usually progressedtoanadvancedstage.
“Abdominal issues, including bloating, pain and loss of appetite are red flags. If thereisafamilyhistoryofovariancancer, this should also be considered. Some otherfactorsarelinkedtolowerrisk,such as having children, and having ever used oralcontraceptives.“
Dr Lumsden said that the team is “hoping to identify common symptoms, patterns and themes experienced by people who have experienced an ovarian cancerdiagnosisandusethesefindingsto informthedevelopmentofthetool“.
Group lead and professor Elina Hyppönensaidthatthisis“averyexciting avenueofresearch,andanimportantfirst stepinalargerprogramofwork.“
“If we can find a way to identify high risk women at an earlier stage, this can increase the available treatment options, and hopefully help to ensure better treatmentoutcomes,“MsHyppönensaid.
The ovarian cancer symptom scoping survey is open until June 20, with the surveyavailableonline.
• Ovarian cancer is a disease that can occur in one or both ovaries, the fallopian tube or peritoneum, where cells grow or divide in an abnormal way
• The three most common types of the disease are the common epithelial type – 90 per cent of cases, arising from the cells on the outside of the ovary; the germ cell type – around four per cent of cases, arising from the cells which produce eggs; and the rare stromal type, which arises from supporting tissues within the ovary
• According to Cancer Council, it is estimated that 1805 people were diagnosed with ovarian cancer and serous carcinomas of the fallopian tube last year
• There are often no obvious signs of ovarian cancer, but those with it may have one or more of the symptoms of abdominal bloating; difficulty eating or feeling full quickly; frequent or urgent urination; back, abdominal or pelvic pain; constipation or diarrhoea; menstrual irregularities; tiredness; indigestion; pain during intercourse; or unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Tests to diagnose ovarian cancer include physical examination, where the doctor will check your abdomen for
any lumps and do an internal vaginal examination; blood tests; a pelvic ultrasound; a CT scan; a PET scan; or a colonoscopy
• After visiting a GP and if they have concerns, you could be referred to a specialist (gynaecological oncologist) at a public hospital or private practice for further tests. Other support resources include Ovarian Cancer Australia and the Cancer Council
Centre revamp discussed
By Tom Ingleton
The future of Gladstone Park’s ageing senior citizens centre could soon be brighter, after Hume council unanimously backed a motion to investigate upgrade options for the facility.
Councillor Naim Kurt moved a notice of motion at the latest council meeting, calling for a report into the condition and compliance of the Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Centre, as well as an estimate of costs for potential improvements.
The 35-year-old building currently supports 600 to 1000 older residents weekly
and is home to about 12 seniors’ groups.
Cr Kurt said the centre had served the Gladstone Park community since it opened in 1990, delivering a “wide range of aged services and programs.”
“The centre does have an outdoor barbecue area, an ageing and dilapidated forecourt, some seniors exercise equipment and is located adjacent to the Gladstone Park Bowls Club and vacant on Hurst Reserve,” Cr Kurt said.
As younger families are now moving into Gladstone Park as well as the community ages, Cr Kurt was forthright in suggesting that their needs had to be accounted for to
Basketball for all abilities
From the sidelines to the centre court, a ground-breaking local initiative is transforming how women and genderdiverse people engage with basketball –not just as players, but as leaders.
Broadmeadows Basketball Association’s ‘B-ALL-IN’and‘Beyondthe Arc’ programs are creating real change, fostering confidence, connection and community from the ground up.
Launched by Broadmeadows Basketball in partnership with Basketball Victoria, the B-ALL-IN program is a social, non-competitive entry point into the sport designed specifically for women and gender-diverse people new to basketball
“B-ALL-IN is a Basketball Victoria initiative that provides a non-competitive, social and flexible entry-point to
missing ad: 12776064
basketball for women and gender-diverse people who may not have participated in the sport before,” program manager Sharin Miller said.
The program’s success has been strengthened by the Community Grant Activation Program, which has supported the new Beyond the Arc initiative – a deeper push to help women stay in the game and grow within it.
“We’ve seen benefits around physical health, but also in the social connections, comfort and confidence women have gained in our basketball stadium a community space,” Miller said.
Long-term, the goal is clear: more women in leadership, coaching, and visible roles across basketball, especially from culturally diverse backgrounds.
see if any other social infrastructure could be provided on that site to “ensure suburbs inthesouthofourcityaren’tmissingout,as the north and west grows”.
Population forecasts show a sharp increase in residents aged 65 and over, with Cr Kurt noting that unlike other areas, Gladstone Park’s seniors’ groups are not in decline.
“Not only does the centre have a very strong weekly attendance, the centre is also seeing an increase in the membership of alternative community activities, culturally specific activity groups from Probus, the UniversityoftheThirdAgeandMen’sSheds
just to name a few,” Cr Kurt said.
“This motion really just seeks to engage with the user groups there, seek to get their feedback, and seeks to look at what can be done to bring the facility into the 21st century.”
Cr Karen Sherry supported the motion and suggested that the Lynda Blundell Seniors Centre in Dallas should also be considered.
“I’m just wondering if the requirement for the 2025-26 budget could take into consideration the Lynda Blundell, because that is also an ageing centre,” Cr Sherry suggested.
Celebrate ’Finding Freedom: Diversity in Community’ with cultural performances, art, music, dance and food on Saturday, June 14, 1-5pm, at Town Hall Broadmeadows, 10 Dimboola Road, Broadmeadows. This event is proudly organised by people from refugee backgrounds.
communitydevelopment@hume.vic.gov.
au
Community planting
Join the Hume Interfaith Network for a community planting to celebrate Refugee Week and welcome new migrants on Saturday, June 21 at Sustainable Park, 91 Sustainable Drive, Craigieburn, from 9.30am-1pm.
Melissa Doherty, 0409 702 086 or Eric Stone, 0477 719 109
Craft market
Join the fun at Bridgewater Retirement Village’s craft market and Devonshire Tea on Saturday, July 19, 8.30am-2pm. Enjoy handmade crafts, local stalls, and a delicious morning tea. The market will be held at 9 Wedgewood Road, Roxburgh Park.
Liz Munro, 0409 712 613
Bundoora Probus Club
Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10am at St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Alma Road, Bundoora. Enjoy guest speakers, excursions, coffee mornings, lunches, walks and craft sessions.
Leanne, 0419 004 997
Community singing group
Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing.
Sonja, 0429 587 285
Chatty Cafe
Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park.
https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/
Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club
The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker and on the third Saturday, and a dance from 7-11 pm. All are welcome.
Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, or lizmunro7@gmail.com
TAC L2P Program
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Emmanuel Pace AKA ‘Manny the Clown’. (Damjan Janevski) 481609
The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.
Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371
Adult education
Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.
9309 8531
Senior citizens meet
The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the
Craze COSTUME DEALS
Bluey Bandit Adult
coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.
Beulah, 0411 422 398
Homestead Walking Group
Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk.
https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x
Craft and Conversation
Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.
humelibraries.vic.gov.au
Community lunch in Roxburgh Park
Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park.
https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x
Craigieburn Toastmasters-
Craigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. It meets the first and third Thursday, from 7-9pm, at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton Street, Craigieburn.
To
Sudoku
ACROSS
1 Ensnare (6)
4 Amorous (8)
9 Elegance (7)
11 Non-professional (7)
12 Fruitless (11)
13 Large flightless bird (3)
14 Authenticity (8)
16 Alloy (5)
19 Liquid part of blood (5)
20 Love song (8)
22 Mischievous devil (3)
24 Fake (money) (11)
26 Give life to (7)
27 Leader of an Indigenous group (7)
29 Commonplace (8)
30 Globe (6) DOWN
1 Goad, – on (3)
2 Explorer (9)
3 Distant (5)
5 Unclear (6)
6 Handy (9)
7 Subject (5)
8 Wary (11)
10 Repeat (6)
12 Inquire into (11)
15 System of government (9)
17 Ballet position (9)
18 Full of frantic activity (6)
21 Archimedes shouted it when making a discovery (6)
23 Group of lions (5)
25 Summary (5)
28 Day before (3)
the nine letters in the grid, how many words of 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 In 2010, Scarlett Johansson (pictured) performed in which play by Arthur Miller?
2 Red Pontiac and Désirée are varieties of which vegetable?
3 French author Gustave Flaubert is best known for writing which novel?
4 True or false: there is no collective noun for a group of koalas?
5 At which tournament did Lleyton Hewitt win his first Grand Slam title?
6 If you are tatting, what are you making?
7 In TheSimpsons, what is Selma’s relation to Bart?
8 What is the capital of Canada?
9 Who played Jareth the Goblin King in the 1986 movie Labyrinth?
10 In which Australian city is the Moonee Valley Racecourse?
It’s a completely safe environment–no judgement, just support - Joy O’Callaghan
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.
“That growth showed us there really was 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.
“As we are a new club with two Learning For Life students, and have just applied 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.”
Whittlesea VIEW Women’s club, Judy Bayliss, Judy Acott, Helen Binion, Joy O’Callaghan, MArilyn McQualter (OAM), Maggie Bell and president Julie Burcess (Damjan Janevski) 481316_01
Enjoy free yoga sessions
For those looking to improve their health and better deal with the stresses of modern life, a series of free yoga classes and mindfulness workshops for adults and childrenmightbeaplacetostart.
In recognition of International Yoga Day onJune21,localyogacommunitiesinPoint Cook,TarneitandTruganinaarejoiningthe global celebration of unity, wellness and innerpeace.
Kids will get first dibs on the fun, with theirclassrunningonbetween4.30-5.30pm on Tuesday, 17 June at the Saltwater CommunityCentreinPointCook.
The adults won’t have to wait long to get
in on the action, because they will get their chance to learn about the benefits of yoga between 6.30-7.30pm on Thursday, June 19 attheTarneitCommunityLearningCentre.
Last but certainly not least, the art of keeping your cool will be studied at the mindfulness workshop taking place from 3-5pmattheTruganinaCommunityCentre onSaturday,June21.
OrganisedbyStillIRiseYogaAcademyin collaboration with SoulSpace, the initiative aims to make the transformative power of yoga more accessible to families and individualsinthelocalarea.
Jennifer Tang, who will be involved in
running the sessions as a yoga teacher and mindfulness coach, said there was more to yogathanposes.
“This is more than just about yoga poses — it’s about helping our community connect,ground,andgrowemotionallyand spiritually,”shesaid.
Ms Tang also said learning how to slow downisvital.
“Especially for those navigating stress, burnout, or anxiety, these sessions offer a chance to slow down and reconnect—with ourselvesandwithothers.”
The power of nature and the lessons we canlearnbyreconnectingwiththenatural environment will be the focus of a free talk byauthorSimonMustoe.
Mustoewilllaunchhislatestbook, ’How to Survive the Next 100 Years: Lessons from Nature’, with a talk and question and answer session at the Williamstown Bowling Club on Saturday, June 21, from 7-8.20pm.
TheeventispartoftheWillyLitFest.
Mustoe said his latest book reveals “how we can consume a more balanced variety of knowledge to become healthier and happierbyreconnectingwithnature”.
“From chimps to mini-cars, brain parasites to whale personhood, farming
with bandicoots and stressed-out grasshoppers: the key to avoiding disaster istoworkwithinthenaturalbalanceofour beautifulworld,”hesaid.
“Contained within our minds and everything around us is the solution to our anxiety.”
After the talk, Mustoe will joined by Josie Gibson (The Catalyst Network) and acclaimed community conservation and rewildingexpertsAnissaLawrence(Ocean Earth Foundation) and Donalea Patman (FLOWildlife) for the question and answer session.
“The audience will hear talk about innovative work being done to unlock the power of nature through community
co-design in Port Phillip Bay. And they will learn how such community-led conservation unlocks the power of nature to restore local economies and ecosystems,”Mustoesaid.
“This promises to be a positive, lively and informative event giving you a whole new appreciation of the natural world and how you can make a real difference.”
Places are limited and bookings can be madevia:https://simonmustoe.blog/willylit-festival-book-launch-how-to-survivethe-next-100-years/
To view the full Willy Lit Fest program, visit: https://www.willylitfest.org. au/2025-program
Hume’s after-dark winter festival returns to dazzle
Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 212025,astheHumeWinterLightsFestival transforms the Town Hall Broadmeadows precinct into a glowing wonderland of art, music,foodandimmersivefunfrom6pmto 10pm.
This free, family-friendly festival is Melbourne’snorthernstarofwinterevents, and it’s ready to enchant locals and visitors alike.
Knownforitsaward-winningatmosphere, the festival will once again feature live music, interactive light projections,
immersive art installations, and roving performerslightingupthestreets.
An interactive art exhibition, delicious food trucks, and hands-on activities for all agesroundoutthenight.
Although registration isn’t required, it’s encouragedviaEventbritetostayuptodate witheventannouncements.
Entry is subject to venue capacity and childrenunder18mustbeaccompaniedby aguardian.
To find out more and register your interest, visit hume.vic.gov.au/hwlf– and getreadytostepintoafestivalthatlightsup thesoul.
Celebrating Refugee Week, Melton Library will host a special film screening with the Aspiring Young AfricansFoundation(ASPYA).
The documentary Reclaimed Voices, produced by the Melton-based ASPYA foundation last year, will be screened from 5.30pm at the Melton Library and Learning HubonThursday,June12.
The documentary follows the transformative journey of Sabir Banek, a young man with lived experience of the youth justice system.
MrBanek’sstoryisoneofprofound change – finding employment, embracing his faith, and redefining hisfuture.
Challenging the often negative media portrayal of the South Sudanese community, the documentary aims to inspire by showcasing real-life examples of loss,redemptionandpositivechange
This unmissable event will feature a screening of the documentary, followed by a panel discussion with Mr Banek and ASPYA Foundation co-founderRobielAbraham.
They will share their insights on the making of the documentary and answeranyquestions.
ASPYA Foundation is a not-for-profit youth-led organisation basedinMelton.
Their mission is to reconnect African youth with their communities and empower them to bepositivecontributorstosociety.
Refugee Week is an annual event that aims to raise awareness of the challenges facing refugees, and the contributions they make to the community.
Attendance is free and bookings can be made on Melton’s website, in-person at one of the council’s libraries,byemail,oroverthephone. Details: libraryevents.melton.vic. gov.au/event?id=145003
Sabir Banek. (Supplied).
Hume Winter Lights will return to Broadmeadows later this month. (Supplied)
Jennifer Tang (front); with Nancy Evans, Neeta Patel and Ramoncito Abella. (Damjan Janevski) 479565_06
Simon Mustoe. (Supplied)
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Sports journalist and commentator Kane Cornes played 300 games with which AFL club?
2. Which two teams are competing in the 2025 NBA Finals series?
3. Senator David Pocock played what position for the Wallabies?
4. Lachlan Galvin recently left the Wests Tigers to play with which other NRL club?
5. Which 2023 film has the Von Erich family of professional wrestlers at its centre?
6. Which team did Melbourne City defeat to win the 2025 A-League Men Grand Final?
Which current NBA player recently announced the death of his beloved bulldog Rocco?
Australian punter Mitchell Wishnowsky last played for which California-based NFL team?
Bulgarian-born swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev represented which country at the 2012, 2016, 2020 and 2024 Summer Olympics?
10. Australian basketballer Alex Ducas last played for which NBA team?
11. What is the northernmost AFL team?
12. Which Spanish team did Arsenal defeat 1-0 to win the 2025 UEFA Women’s Champions League final?
13. What sport is Eileen Gu known for?
14. What surface is the Wimbledon tennis tournament held on?
15. Which cricketing nation recently played England in a Test Match for the first time since 2003?
16. What is the nickname of Minnesota’s NHL team?
17. What are the real first names of WWE’s Uso twins?
18. What name is the Supercars Championship event held in Darwin known by?
19. In which year was the Norm Smith Medal first awarded?
20. And to who was it awarded?
21. The Matildas played which South American nation in two recent home friendlies?
22. Who is set to be Port Adelaide’s senior AFL coach in 2026?
23. Who won the 2025 NRL Women’s State of Origin series?
24. Including the 2026 Olympic Winter Games, how many times has Italy hosted the event?
25. And true or false: Russia is banned from competing at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games?
26. In fishing, what is a spoon?
27. What is the name of the fictional soccer team in Ted Lasso?
28. Which Super Netball team was known by the name Tarntanya Karntu during the league’s First Nations round?
29. Minjee Lee is the sister of which fellow golf star?
30. AFLW teams Essendon and Richmond will play a Dreamtime Clash in which city this year?
Minjee Lee
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 7/10
Thirst: 7/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 8/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 6/10
Luxury journey in the SQ7
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Ah! That takes me back. Almost two decades ago I was a member of the media that helped launch the new Audi Q7 in Australia in a transcontinental relay from easttowest.
An assortment of ‘scribblers’, me included, had scaled Big Red, the iconic Simpson Desert sand dune west of Birdsville(becausewecould),inastringof Q7s,thepremiumseven-seaterwhichwent on to become the mainstay of the brand’s SUV lineup, before setting off down the Birdsville Track, on to the Oodnadatta Track, Coober Pedy and up the Stuart HighwaytotheRock.
Like the luxury Audi SUVs did then, this brings me nicely to the theme of this piece – the new SQ7, which, with its high-performance heart wrapped in a luxury skin, has recently undergone upgradesaspartofQ7design,comfortand technologyupdates.
Designated by the MY25 tag, the car comes to market for a base $174,815, plus on-road costs. Standard equipment includes 22-inch Sport wheels with red brake callipers, and Sport steering wheel, leather seat upholstery with embossed S logoanddiamondpatternstitching.
Audi drive select enables access to six driving modes – Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Individual, Efficiency, Off-Road – Adaptive drive assist includes Stop & Go, distance indicator, traffic jam assist and lane guidance. Cost options include a Dynamic Package ($10,900) consisting of roll stabilisation system and quattro sport differential.
Furthermore, a Sensory package, for $14,400,addsBang&Olufsen3DAdvanced Sound System, front seat massager, rear sunshades and air quality package. This, plus other odds and bobs, took the total priceofthetestcarto$209,215.Thevehicle
is subject to Audi’s five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, plus five years roadsideassist.
Styling Naturally, to justify the premium price over the Q7 ($66k), the SQ7 has a unique character on the outside, starting with the single frame octagon grille with vertical inlays.Airinletshavebeenupdated,which together with new headlamp graphics, engender a more modern and assertive stance.
S-specific bumpers and quad tailpipes andredbrakecallipersdoubledownonthe car’sperformancecredentials.Ownerscan opt for digital OLED rear lights, allowing taillight signatures to be customised throughtheMMIsystem.
Interior
In keeping with the athletic exterior, the cabinofferssport-styleleatherseatingwith contrasting stitching, plus quality inlays in matt brushed aluminium with linear embossing.
Up to seven occupants can be carried in comfort and safety thanks to a versatile seating system, the result of the SQ7’s three-metre-pluswheelbase.
A three-spoke sport leather steering wheelsportsshiftpaddles,plusamultitude ofbuttonsforvehiclesystems.
Cargo (up to 793 litres), carried in the area behind the third row of seats, can be expanded to 1921 litres with second and thirdrowsfolded.
Infotainment
Also included is the latest MMI touch response with its dual displays – Audi virtual cockpit with 12.3-inch colour display and MMI navigation plus with 10.1-inch touchscreen. A Bang & Olufsen Advanced 3D Sound System with 23 speakersservesup1920Wofcrispsound.
In the case of the SQ7 it’s not the destination, but the journey. (Pictures: Supplied)
function up front, heated seats in the back and manual sunshades for rear side windowsandrearwindow.
Air quality is taken care of by four-zone climate control air-conditioning, ioniser and two quality perfumes in four intensities. Audi Connect plus dishes up navigationandinfotainment,plussecurity and assistance services. Smartphone interfaces are wireless for Apple CarPlay andAndroidAuto.
Engines/transmissions
The impressive powertrain is at the service of a 4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine stumping up 373kW of peak power and 770Nm of maximum torque, enabling the SQ7totop100km/hinjust4.1seconds.
Safety
Audi pre-sense front with autonomous emergency braking, with pedestrian and cyclist detection, plus pre-sense features head up the advanced safety systems
followedbyAudisideassistwithblindspot warningandlaneguidanceassist. Park assist features parking system plus, while traffic sign recognition is making a firstappearanceonthismodel.
Driving
In these days of electric vehicles quietly takingoverthestreetsthere’snaryasound but the honeyed hum of the motors. Enter the SQ7. Drop into the premium leather driver’s seat of this Audi high performance seven-seater SUV, press the start/stop buttonandthecabinisfilledwiththegrowl of an engine just itching to do something that’shardtoignore.
And this one does not disappoint: try 100km/h from rest in 4.1 seconds to the rasp of a donk let loose. Press the accelerator pedal and there’s a solid shove inthebacktoo,asthewagontakesoff.Talk aboutaflyingstart.
In what Audi calls its upper-large SUV family, the five-metre-plus SQ7 is streets ahead of much of the segment in powertrain performance alone. However, fuelconsumptionisintheupperreachesof the‘pipeline’at9.2litresper100kilometres inhighwaytrafficandupto18litresper100 kilometresinstop-startcitystuff.
Advanced driving dynamics get in on the act with the standard mix of adaptive suspension and all-wheel steering, while an even more exhilarating driving experience is provided by the addition of the Dynamic package of quattro sport differential and active roll stabilisation, the latter electromechanically reducing the side tilt of the body during cornering. Itworks!
Summary
People ask: Why buy a vehicle – especially one that tips the scales at $200k-plus – that can go at twice the legal speed limit. In the case of the SQ7 it’s not the destination, but the journey. I’m sure the wagon would not bewantingontheBirdsvilleTracktoo.
The soggy King’s Birthday long weekend failed to deter teams who took to the fields and courts in competitions across the north-west on Saturday. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
A sporting long weekend
Yuriko Filitonga takes off with the ball. 481973_06
Tanya Yabaki wins the ball. 481973_13
Sian MacCreadie makes a run. 481973_15
Rhys Saunders in action for Keilor Park. 481978_02
Paula Nailovolovo. 481972_18 Nicholas Bavcar takes control of the ball for Keilor Park. 481978_06
Neru Sheck in action for Footscray. 481972_05 Kanta Kumazawa. 481978_09
Jake Armitage flies for Keilor Park. 481978_11
Footscray faces off against Melbourne University. 481973_11
George Noa shows his skills. 481972_14
Graig Semisi llines up the ball. 481972_07
Montemurro’s journey from Hume City to the Matildas
Former Coburg United (now Hume City) manager Joe Montemurro’s football journey has taken him to Port Moresby, London, Turin, Lyon and now back to MelbournewiththeMatildas.
“I took the positives out of it and continued the journey to grow as a coach and that journey took me to some of the biggestclubsintheworld.”
When Gustavsson departed last August, Montemurrowasthetopcandidate.
After a protracted 10-month recruiting process,FootballAustraliagottheirman.
“HumeCityFCwouldliketocongratulate JoeMontemurro,whowasrecentlyofficially named head coach of the Matildas,” Hume CityFCsaidinastatement.
“Before taking charge of giants like Arsenal, Juventus and Lyon, Joe was right here in our backyard, leading Hume City
FC (then North Coburg United) to their first-ever promotion to the Victorian PremierLeaguebackin2008-09.
“From State League 1 to the world stage, whatajourney.”
The 55-year-old started his involvement in football at Brunswick Juventus, rising throughthejunior,thenseniorranks.
His playing career involved stints in Switzerland and Italy before returning to Victoria to play while kicking off his coachingcareer.
Montemurro found a home in the lower tiers of the Victorian football pyramid, with several of the Italian backed clubs that amalgamated to form what is now Essendon Royals, ultimately concluding his playing career at the Furlan Club with ThornburyUnited.
Montemurro’s early foray into coaching was a constant work in progress. He held assistant and youth team positions with Green Gully, Melbourne Knights and South Melbourne before he landed the head coach role at Sunshine George Cross in 2006, relieving Chris Taylor of his
position after the club sat at the bottom of the Premier League table. While he helped the Georgies avoid relegation, he resigned justninegamesintothe2007season.
Second tier Coburg United (now Hume City) pounced and he took the fledgling club to promotion, finishing second to Frankston Pines but he departed midway through the club’s maiden Premier League campaign. A return to South Melbourne as youthandassistantseniorcoachsuggested a career in the Victorian Leagues was on theoffingoncemore,beforeamoveabroad toPortMoresbyin2013.
“I understood that not having an illustriousplayingcareeroragoodplaying career, the journey was going to be a little bitdifferent,”hesaid.
“So I basically went out and educated myself as much as possible. It was just to develop as many tools as possible, both as a coach and as a leader - and that journey neverends.”
A new living legend
By Tim O’Connor
Just Believe gained an army of harness racing fans with his incredible deeds on the track and the champion squaregaiter will win new ones in retirement when he takes up residence at the popular Living Legends property in Greenvale.
“Harry”asheisaffectionatelyknownwas announced as the second standardbred induction into Living Legends moments after being revealed as the 2024 Victorian Horse of the Year during the industry awards function at Melton Entertainment Park on Monday night.
JustBelievewilljoinfellowtrottinggreat SundonsGiftandaround40thoroughbred stars at the facility in the coming weeks.
The two-time Inter Dominion winner’s place at Living Legends is thanks to a significant financial contribution from his breeder-owner Pat Driscoll of Yabby Dam Farms and through a partnership between Harness Racing Victoria and Living Legends.
“I’m absolutely rapt that he’s been acknowledged as an outstanding horse
and ambassador for the sport,” Driscoll said.“TobewelcomedintoLivingLegends is unbelievable – it’s just a wonderful achievement for the horse.
“He’s done a great job in Australia, New Zealand and Sweden, and the fact that peoplewillbeabletogoandseehimwhen they want is great. It just puts the spotlight on harness racing because he’s current and a lot of people know who he is.”
Just Believe was retired early this year after a wonderful career that included 38 wins and 23 placings from 83 starts for $1,929,253 in earnings. This left him as Australia’s richest ever trotter and second only to the mighty Lyell Creek on the all-time Australasian list.
Originally trained by Michael Hughes, it was Just Believe’s move to the Jess Tubbs stable in mid-2022 that ultimately saw him reach stardom. In 42 starts for Tubbs, the son of Orlando Vici would win 30 of them while taking his connections on a whirlwind journey around Australia, to Sweden for Elitloppet and back and forth to New Zealand.
He won 10 Group 1 races, highlighted by
New cup for SL teams
The inaugural Cecil Earley Shield Competition has been launched as part of the Dockerty and Australia Cupcompetitions.
For the first time in 2025, the best performed state league men’s club in those two competitions will be awardedtheCecilEarleyShield A Football Victoria life member and Geelong region footballing legend, Cecil Earley played a pivotal role in the inaugural Federation Cup in 1962, scoring a hat-trick for Coburg United in the Cup final replayagainstSunshineCity.
The Federation Cup was introducedasatournamentforclubs not involved in Victoria’s top-flight competition, as the Dockerty Cup was essentially only open to the premierclubsduringthatperiod.
The inauguration of the Cecil Earley Shield draws direct parallels to that cup tournament first run 63 years ago, and ensures the best performing state league clubs have a chance of claiming another piece of silverware in a packed football calendar.
two Inter Dominion grand finals, a Great Southern Star, and the National Trot, Rowe Cup and Dominion Trot across the Tasman. He also claimed the inaugural TAB Trot slot race at Cambridge, which proved the most lucrative success of his career.
The late Greg Sugars partnered his great mate to 29 wins as a driver.
Harness Racing Victoria chief executive MattIsaacssaiditwasfantastictohaveJust Believe become the second standardbred retired to Living Legends.
“It’s a fitting celebration of a brilliant horse who changed how harness racing in Victoria is perceived internationally,” Isaacs said.
“This is a great credit to his breeder Pat Driscoll and the amazing connection he had with trainer Jess Tubbs and driver Greg Sugars. Just Believe won fans worldwide, and it’s appropriate that the greater public will be able to celebrate him,aswellasSundonsGift,atthisterrific establishment.”
Just Believe is expected to arrive at Living Legends in July.
The 2025 Cecil Earley Shield will comprise of the final eight state leagueclubsleftintheAustraliaCup competition.
Clifton Hill was the only state league side to make the sixth round of the competition, knocked out by Heidelberg United. The other seven finalists were knocked out in the fifthround.
State league 4 west club Balmoral is the lowest ranked club of the the eightclubsleft.
There are four state league 2 clubs, including Mill Park and Whittlesea Ranges, while there’s three state league1sidesintheshield.
Thefirstroundoftheshieldwillbe playedonJune14.
Balmoral has been drawn to play Clifton Hill, Whittlesea Ranges are at home against Chisholm United, Hampton East Brighton will face Banyule City and Mill Park will take onStrathmore.
The grand final will be played as a curtain raiser to the Dockerty Cup ontheweekendofAugust10.
Just Believe. (Stuart McCormick)
Newly appointed Matilda’s head coach Joe Montemurro. (AAP Image/Dean Lewins)
Barber makes the cut for the national championships
As co-captain of the Calder Cannons boys team in the Coates Talent League, Jackson Barber was already one of Victoria’s elite junior footballers.
ButafterrecentlybeingnamedintheVic Metro squad for this year’s National Under 18 Championships, Barber could soon becomeanelitefootballerregardlessofthe age group.
The 197cm key defender from EDFL club Aberfeldie, is one of five Cannons selected for the Vic Metro team which will take on Vic Country, South Australia, Western Australia and the Allies at the championships held throughout June and July.
“It’s unreal,” said Barber of his selection which was an early birthday present, coming just days before he turned 18 on June 1.
“It’s really good to get the opportunity.”
That opportunity is to test himself against the best under 18 players in the
country and to do so in front of recruiters from all AFL clubs.
The vast majority of players drafted to the AFL play at the National Under 18 Championships and with tall defenders hard to come by, a strong performance
could result in Barber’s name being called at the National Draft in November..
Fortunately, performing well in front of selectors is something Barber is already used to, with his invite to the Vic Metro training squad based on his performances for the Cannons in the first three rounds of this season.
“I don’t think it was my best three rounds but I clearly did enough to get an invite,” said Barber, who then played in trial matches against Vic Country and the Young Guns in order to gain selection for the final team.
Barber had just arrived home after a training session last week when Cannons boys coach Sam Willat and talent lead Sebastian Spagnulo called with the good news.
“Sam and Seb gave me a ring after and said‘haveyoucheckedyouremails,’butI‘d already seen it,” recalled Barber of how he found out about his selection.
Kneipp’s AFL dream
By Tara Murray
Calder Cannons’ Felix Kneipp is hoping an injury setback won’t hold him back too much as he chases his AFL dream Kneipp was one of five Cannons named in the Vic Metro squad but is set to spend most if not all the national championships on the side lines.
A back injury means he’s currently limited to just 30 minutes a day on the spin bike as he de-loads his back.
“I’ve experienced a bit of a setback unfortunately,” Kneipp said in the lead up to the championships.
“I’ve done a stress response in my back sidelined for 8-12 weeks which definitely puts a spanner in the works in terms of Metro, Cannons and school.
“I have such a good group around me supporting me, helping me through this period, come out the other side hungrier, “I’m ready to show off what I’m capable ofandI’ll stillbearoundallofthedifferent programs and different groups.” Kneipp said his focus at the moment
was getting bit and healthy having been underdone in the off season.
He was hoping to maybe play some Vic Metro later in the championships and be able to show what he is capable of.
Kneipp said making Vic Metro was a massive achievement.
“I’m really grateful, looking forward to what is to come,” he said. “It’s always a big piece of the draft process.
“It’s a really good pathway let your talent shine through and give yourself an opportunity to show what you are capable of, so it was definitely a goal going into the year
“Proud of being able to tick it off.”
HavingbeenpartofVicMetroatunder-16 level and been part of the pathway system, Kneipp said it had made the process a lot easier.
“I know a lot of the guys that were part of the summer hub as well,” he said. “It definitely provides valuable insight into the standard you have to uphold and the level you need to reach.
“It’s certainly been a helpful part of my journey.”
Metrocapsoffabig12monthsforKneipp. HewaspartoftheVicMetrohuboverthe summer and had the chance to talk to AFL clubs.
Kneipp also had the opportunity to play on the MCG on grand final day as part the young gun games.
“That was awesome,” he said. “It was a late call up and I was very disappointed initially and then to get the call up, it was super thrilling.
“To play on the MCG around the best guysinAustraliaandIthoughtIwaspretty happy with how I played,
“Just to have that experience and play on the ground that I’ve watched so many games on with the best guys in Australia.”
Kneipp said he was focusing on what he could control for ahead of what hopefully ends up with him being drafted at the end of the year.
“Everyone is aspiring to be on an AFL list come November. I’m taking it week by week, and not looking too far into the future.”
“I was stoked.”
Barber will join Cannons teammates Cooper Duff-Tyler, Hussein El Achkar, Felix Kneipp and Adam Swied in the Vic Metro side which will begin its campaign againstSouthAustraliaatAlbertonOvalin Adelaide on Sunday, June 8.
This year’s championships is spread out across the country, with Vic Metro playing in Adelaide, Perth and Brisbane before finally returning home for their last game against Vic Country at RSEA Park in Moorabbin on July 20.
Barber said the travel was one of the things he was most looking forward to about playing in the championships, along with the chance to showcase his talents against the nation’s best.
As for whether that could land him on an AFL list, the young defender responded like a seasoned veteran.
“AtthemomentI’mjustfocusingoneach game at a time.”
Two
new teams for the DVCA
The Diamond Valley Cricket Associationwillcontinuetogrowwith two clubs joining the association for theupcomingseason.
Theassociationannouncedrecently that Old Ivanhoe Grammarians and Keon Park would join the competition after clubs voted in favour of them joining the competition this season at arecentspecialgeneralmeeting.
Both sides are crossing from the NorthMetroCricketAssociation.
Last season, both teams played in the top flight, the Jika Shield, with Keon Park claiming the minor premiership before losing the grand final, and Old Ivanhoe Grammarians finishinginthird.
Diamond Valley Cricket Association’sSurajShettysaidthetwo sides would start in the third grade as other clubs which had come across in recenttimeshavedone.
“The two new clubs will be joining the Mash Shield teams this season,” he said. “There won’t be a restructure of the division this year, but DVCA is looking to review and potentially restructure the shield grades in the upcomingseason.”
There are now 32 senior clubs in the shield competition. Last season each shieldcompetitionhad10teams.
The two new sides are the latest from the NMCA to join the DVCA in recent times, further strengthening theDVCA.
Rivergum and Dennis joined the competition last season and played in theMashShieldinthe2024-25season.
The Kookas made the finals with both the regular Mash Shield competition and Mash summer smash,beforelosingboth.
Dennis finished in eighth spot in the Mash Shield with three wins, while beating the Kookas in the Mash summersmashgrandfinal.
North Rosebank joined the competitionin2020-21.
It will play in the top flight next season after winning the Money ShieldgrandfinalinMarch.
Bundoora Park coming across the seasonbeforeandhaswonpromotion inthattime.
Calder Cannons co-captain Jackson Barber (right) has been selected to play for Vic Metro in the National Under 18 Championships. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 471376_03
