Werribee’s Boyd Owen will be starring as the lovestruck poet Rodolfo in Puccini’s La Bohème at The Melbourne Opera.
Puccini’s work offers a refreshing break from traditionally aristocratic compositions, as it aligns with the “Verismo” movement in Italian opera, which focuses on portraying human characters and their experiences.
By Jaidyn Kennedy
SanctuaryLakesresidentshavehadawinafter a commercial development on Greg Norman Drive was rejected by Wyndham council.
Residents attended the September 10 council meeting to voice their concerns about the proposed commercial development. The proposed development included the construction of a medical centre, an adjoined pharmacy, six food and drink premises, a convenience store, a bottle shop, two retail premises, two office tenancies and car parking for the facilities.
Among the key concerns residents spoke
about were increased traffic, insufficient parking, noise disturbances and delinquency caused by the sale of alcohol.
Resident Michael Montague asserted that the development would “reduce the quality [of life] of these families irrevocably.”
“These families will be subject to every disorderly element that the development produces, ruining a lifestyle that they have worked hard to enjoy,” he told the council meeting.
Resident Philip Amore labelled the proposed development “contrary to the general ambience of the area”.
“I purchased a residential property in
Sanctuary Lakes as it is one of the few residential areas available in the suburbs of metropolitan Melbourne that offers quiet and peaceful residential living,” he said.
Mr Amore also stressed the concerns relating to the service of alcohol, citing an alleged increase of crime as a result of alcohol consumption in the estate.
“I don’t want to be confronted by someone who has just purchased alcohol and had a drink,” he said.
Cr Adele Hegedich put forth an alternative motion that council refuse to grant the planning permit on the grounds it is inconsistent with noise regulations, light
Owen explained that his character, Rodolfo, is a young, idealistic poet who embraces life as it comes, without worrying much about the future. However, the character and his free-spirited companions must confront the harsher realities of life, which “produces the tragedy of the rest of the story” as Rodolfo navigates love and making a living.
Owen has learned to manage his stage nerves over his 25-year career. He attributes this to his intellectual interest in the science of the nervous system, and his understanding that while nerves are an inevitable part of performing, the effects they have on a performer are within their control. Owen also highlights the importance of voice type in opera, likening it to the specialisation required in the Olympics. He notes that this particular role would not have been suited to his voice just a few years ago, but is now well within his capabilities.
emittance regulations and does not provide sufficient parking spaces.
Cr Jasmine Hill invoked her knowledge of physics to explain soundwaves and how the noise pollution will disturb residents.
“We must recognise that the noise is subjective and often feels more intrusive when experienced on a daily basis,” she said. She went on to state that “introducing constant commercial traffic will cause congestion and road deterioration” and that theallocatedparkingspaceswouldbe“grossly inadequate”.
Cr Hegedich’s motion was supported by council.
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Mercy Health’s paediatric school outreach clinic (Working Together for Children) has been awarded the 2024 Catholic Health Australia Award for Outreach Health Care.
Announced at Catholic Health Australia’s annual gala dinner on August 27, the award waspresentedtoMercyHealthinrecognition of the program’s work providing specialist paediatric care to vulnerable children in Wyndham.
Mercy director of paediatrics Kathy McMahon discussed said families and children in Wyndham sometimes face barriers to care.
“Vulnerable children from vulnerable families, especially children from
multicultural families, often find it difficult to access paediatric care,” she said.
“We know that the best chance is to get these families and kids engaged in education – that’s the best way out of a lot of this vulnerability.”
She also acknowledged that the award is bigger than recognising the team’s hard work, it is also about bringing attention to an important field of medicine.
“This isn’t sexy medicine, this isn’t your heart transplant – this is really important medicine and can have effects that are lifelong”.
The outreach clinic currently spends one day a week at Truganina South Primary School, Dohertys Creek P-9 College and Wyndham Park Primary School.
Through the program, training paediatricians are able to gain valuable, hands-on experience.
“We’re training the next generation of paediatricians,”” Dr McMahon said.
Mercy Health Group chief executive Angela Nolan praised the continuous efforts of Mercy’s paediatric team.
“This award would not be possible without our dedicated team of practitioners who work together to improve the physical and mental health of children experiencing social, economic or health disadvantage.”
TheWorkingTogetherforChildrenprogram is a collaboration between Community Hubs Australia, the Smith Family, North West PrimaryHealthCare,AnglicareandWerribee Mercy Hospital paediatrics.
Two automated external defibrillators (AED) available for public use have been installed at Wyndham Harbour and Werribee South Caravan Park.
Mayor Jennie Barrera said the installation of the lifesaving devices followed a tragic incident last year when a Werribee South resident lost their life after suffering a cardiac arrest on the Werribee South foreshore.
“This devastating loss highlighted the urgent need for accessible emergency medical equipment, and it’s been great to see the community rally together to raise approximately $6000 through donations,
which funded the purchase of these vital devices,” she said.
“By installing these AEDs, we are not only honouring the memory of a community member we lost but also taking concrete steps to prevent such losses in the future. This is a testament to what we can achieve together as a community.“
The defibrillators have been provided by the deceased resident’s estate, Ambulance Victoria Paramedic Haley Maher, the Coast Guard and the Ambulance Victoria AED Gifting Program, and are in addition to 20 others put in place across council facilities earlier this year.
Ambulance Victoria’s Jason Connell said the AED installations will be crucial in improving the community’s health and response capabilities.
“An AED is a life-saving tool that can significantly improve the survival rate of cardiac arrest victims by administering a controlled electric shock to restore the heart’s normal rhythm,” he said.
“The availability of AEDs at these locations represents a critical step towards improving response times and medical outcomes in emergencies.”
Lara Prust
AHoppersCrossingmotherandherdaughters are $2.5 million richer after claiming one of the four division one winning entries nationally in the TattsLotto draw on Saturday, September 7.
While the winners wish to enjoy their prize in private, the lucky store that sold the ticket is relishing in the fanfare.
Hudsons Lotto & Dry Cleaning on Watton Street, Werribee, had the fortune of selling the winning ticket.
The victory was the store’s 20th recorded
division 1 win , coming about 18 months after the most recent win..
Outlet owner Rahul Kapoor was thrilled when he heard his store had sold the lucky numbers.
“There is nothing more elating than to see our loyal customers being rewarded for their perseverance and patience with a life changing eventandwefeelasifeachmemberofourteam has won the prize.”
When asked about how the store will celebrate, Mr Kapoor made it clear that it was a
Young people called to use their voices
Young people in Wyndham can have their say on important issues by joining next year’s YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament.
Applications for the 2025 program arenowopen,with120spotsavailable for Victorians aged between 16 and 25.
The state government is investing more than $165,000 to support the youth parliament, which gives participants the opportunity to draft, debate,andvoteonbillsinathree-day intensive sitting held in chambers of the Victorian Parliament.
Youth Minister Natalie Suleyman said young people could “use their voices to influence change” by being involved.
“Our support for the Youth Parliament is one of the ways we’re backing young people in Victoria to lead, grow, and reach their full potential,” she said.
Bills that pass in the youth parliament are presented to the government for consideration – they have already helped shape more than 30 Victorian laws, including a new recyclingscheme,mandatorywearing of bike helmets, and banning the sale of soft drinks in government schools.
The program also includes the YMCA Victoria Youth Press Gallery, which provides young people interested in journalism with an opportunity to develop skills in journalism, photography, videography and social media.
ApplicationsareopenuntilOctober 13 and the program will take place in July next year.
Apply: vicyouth.ymca.org.au/ learning-and-leadership.
win for the community.
“Weplantohostasmallcelebrationin-store, completewithballoonsandaspecialpromotion to thank our loyal customers. We’ll also share the excitement on our social media platforms to engage with the community,” he said.
“It’s an incredible honour to be part of someone’s life-changing moment. We take pride in being a trusted outlet in our community, and we look forward to continuing this legacy of joy and hope.”
By Emily Woods, AAP
A wine cellar worker has described finding a driver inside his car looking “like he was wasted“ a minute after a crash killing five patrons outside a pub.
Mount Macedon man William Swale, 66, faced the first day of a committal hearing in Ballarat on Monday over the November 2023 crash that killed two children and three adults in Victoria’s Daylesford.
He allegedly mounted the kerb in his SUV and hit several people seated on the front lawn of the Royal Daylesford Hotel.
PointCookwomanPratibhaSharma,44,her daughter Anvi, 9, and partner Jatin Kumar, 30, and their friend, Tarneit father Vivek Bhatia, 38, and his son Vihaan, 11, all died.
Police allege Swale, who was diagnosed with diabetes in 1994, ignored warnings about his blood glucose levels before he suffered a hypoglycaemic episode while driving on November 5.
Swalesatwithhissupportersinthefrontrow of Ballarat Magistrates Court on Monday as witnesses to the crash took to the stand.
Families of the five victims also attended the committal hearing.
Martin Hinck was working at winespeake cellar + deli, across the other side of the roundabout from the pub, when he said he heard “bang“ followed by screaming.
He ran to where Swale was sitting in his car behindthewheel,andtoldpolicehefoundhim looking “bloody awful“ and it “looked like he was wasted“.
“Myrecollectionisthathewasquiteaflushed colour, his mouth was open and his eyes were closed,“ Mr Hinck told the court on Monday. “Thishappenedwithinthefirstminuteofthe accident so very soon afterwards.“
Paramedic Michael Barker, who treated Swale at the scene of the crash, said his blood glucose measurement was dangerously low. Hegavehimaglucagoninjection,sugarwater and told a nearby police officer he believed Swale had suffered a severe hypoglycaemic attack.
Body-worn camera footage recorded other emergency workers telling Swale to “stay with me“ amid fears he was gravely ill, Swale’s barrister Dermot Dann KC told the court.
“I wasn’t able to get a lot of info out of him because he was still quite confused,“ Mr
Long-time champion of the Werribee River, John Forrester is retiring from the Werribee River Association (WRA) in October after more than 30 years of service.
Spendinghisearlyyearsinthecountrynear Warrnambool, he led an active lifestyle in the outdoors where his love of the environment grew naturally.
John’s journey in Werribee began in 1981, when he moved to the area with his wife for employment opportunities.
JoiningtheWRAin1993,hehasundertaken many duties across advocacy, education,
research and volunteerism.
Since its inception, the WRA’s lifeblood has beenthededicationofitsvolunteers.However, there came a time where they decided it was time to enlist professional support.
“It became obvious that we just can’t do this on our own- there’s not enough of us,” he said.
“That’s all you can do if you’re a volunteer organisation.Ittakesalotofhardwork,alotof time and a lot of support from partnerships.”
This saw the WRA affiliate with the New York-based Waterkeeper Alliance, an international network of environmental
organisations that work to protect bodies of water across the globe, in 2015.
The new direction saw John become the first ever Werribee Riverkeeper, a position in which he was allocated funding in a professional capacity.
The WRA not only brought him closer to the river, but the community.
“Probably the highlight was the people and the linking together and giving me a sense of belonging to the community,” he said.
Jaidyn Kennedy
Barker said.
“Eventually I left Mr Swale with the police officer to try and get some information out of him while I went to other patients.“
Earlier, three men who were at a shooting event with Swale the weekend of the crash gave evidence.
Christopher Street, who was part of Swale’s shooting squad, said he had a “very unconventional“ way of shooting.
“He was hunched over,“ he said.
Mr Dann questioned the relevance of the mens’ evidence considering Swale was facing charges including five counts of culpable driving causing death and negligently causing serious injury.
The hearing before Magistrate Guillaume Bailin continues.
Pat and Jeans Place will host two textile workshops during the upcoming school holidays.
The workshops will take place at The Bridge Hotel in Watton Street, Werribee on September 25 and October 2 from 8am-10.30am.
Designed to help parents encourage children or grandchildren to put down electronic devices, the workshops will teach new textiling skills, weaving in the opportunity to meet others.
Founder Sarah Grin opened Pat and Jeans Place in May, but has previously worked in the fashion industry for over 25 years as a designer and in quality assurance and compliance.
Named after her late mother and aunt, who were both “crafty people”, the workshops set out to tackle waste and the contamination of microplastics.
Sustainability is central to her vision.
“For the environment, we are better to first use what we have, then look at recycling clothing,” she said.
“If we need to buy new clothing or things for the home, where possible, we should use natural fibres such as cotton, linen, wool, linen, hemp and jute.
“Within big companies, these issues have been addressed but it is unfortunately a long and slow process.
“Over time I was feeling more dissatisfied and uncomfortable in my roles and asking myself what I wanted to stand for and for my children and the environment. It’s a journey that I am taking step by step and making changes as I learn. I’m always learning and adapting.”
Ticketsare$25andmustbepurchased by Wednesday, September 18.
Email Sarah for more information: hello@patandjeansplace.co.site
Werribee Open Range Zoo’s southern white rhino calf has been named amid much anticipation.
Jabulani, a word from the Zulu language of Southern Africa, means rejoice and was voted for by members and donors from Zoos Victoria in an online competition.
WerribeeOpenRangeZoosavannahkeeper Sophie Gray said the name was the perfect fit.
“It’s meaningful because it reflects the immense amount of joy he has brought to his mother, Kipenzi, zoo staff and everyone around the country who has followed the
wonderful news of his birth,“ she said.
Jabulani was born on August 18 to 15-year-old father Kifaru and 11-year-old mother Kipenzi following a 16-month pregnancy.
The successful birth and flourishing bond between mother and calf have been a joy for zoo staff.
Jabulani won’t be little for long, as the calf has a healthy appetite.
“Incredibly, Jabulani is drinking a whopping eight to litres of Kipenzi’s milk every day, which is translating to a growth of
a very healthy five to 10 kilograms per week,”
Ms Gray said.
Jabulani’scharismahasbeenonfulldisplay, according to Ms Gray.
“He’s so confident and inquisitive.
“We’re also seeing him participate in some mock charges, which is a natural behaviour that is his way of telling us that he’s the boss. He puts his head down and nose towards the ground and charges forwards, then jumps on the spot and turns around quickly. It is very cute!”
Jabulani and Kipenzi are both currently
homed in a keeper-only area to allow them some time to develop their bond. He will soon be introduced to the wider rhino crash and then in the coming months to the zoo’s savannah, where the public will be able to meet him.
Native to Southern Africa, southern white rhinos are classified as Near Threatened and it is estimated as few as 10,080 remain in the wild. Poaching, habitat destruction and fragmentation due to human activity.
By Oscar Parry
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition among women, with symptoms beginning shortly after puberty,duringlaterteenyears,orwithinearly adulthood.
Theexactcauseoftheconditionisunknown, and symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and hirsutism.
Despite affecting up to 13 per cent of women inAustralia,alackofawarenessanddismissive attitudes are just some of the factors that create barrierstoaccessingcare,saidPolycysticOvary Syndrome Association of Australia (POSAA) consumer representative Lorna Berry.
Ms Berry said she experienced significant barriers herself to accessing effective care for PCOS, with her diagnosis taking “years”.
“I often struggled to have doctors take my concerns seriously. Many healthcare providers were unaware of PCOS,” Ms Berry said.
She said many women are told that they will never have children and are advised to “only return when they want to start a family.”
“Women with PCOS are often told to simply go away and lose weight, which can be particularly challenging due to the insulin resistance commonly associated with PCOS. Unfortunately, many women living with PCOS have had similar experiences and are often unaware that they have the condition at all, leading to delays in receiving appropriate care and support,” Ms Berry said.
She said there are a broad range of factors that contribute to these barriers.
These include a lack of awareness, dismissive attitudes, a focus on weight, inconsistent information, limited access to specialists, stigma, and mental health.
“Accesstospecialists,suchasendocrinologists or reproductive health experts, can be limited – especially in rural or underserved areas, further delaying appropriate care,” she said.
“The physical symptoms of PCOS, such as weight gain, acne, and hirsutism, can lead to stigma and impact mental health, making it even harder for women to seek care and advocate for themselves.”
To address these barriers, Ms Berry said
she would like to see several changes to the approach of health professionals, public understanding, and attitudes towards women’s health concerns.
“There needs to be greater awareness and education about PCOS among both healthcare professionals and the general public. This includes understanding the complexity of the condition and recognising the varied symptoms women may experience,” Ms Berry said. “Women should be empowered to take charge of their health, with healthcare professionals listening to their concerns and taking them seriously. Women need to feel confident in advocating for themselves and seeking the care they deserve.”
She said a multidisciplinary approach from health professionals is crucial for managing PCOS effectively.
“This would involve a team of specialists, including endocrinologists, dietitians, mental health professionals, and gynaecologists, working together to provide comprehensive care tailored to each woman’s needs.”
Increased funding and research towards treatments, accessible and consistent care, and more holistic and inclusive treatment options are other changes Ms Berry said she would like to see.
As the consumer representative for POSAA, which aims to raise global awareness of PCOS and assist those diagnosed with it, Ms Berry said that the support association has been involved in the development of evidence-based guidelines – including those published by Monash University.
According to Monash University, this guideline“istheculminationoftheengagement of over 3000 health professionals and the work of 10-plus multidisciplinary clinical and lived experience experts from six continents and 71 countries internationally.”
Ms Berry was a lived experience expert on the guideline.
“The information in these guidelines is grounded in the latest evidence, ensuring that all care and recommendations are both scientifically sound and practically relevant,” Ms Berry said. “[The goal of POSAA] is to bridge the gap between lived experiences and medical expertise, ensuring a future where every woman with PCOS receives holistic, compassionate, and effective care.” She said that an evidence-based approach is crucial for accessing effective care and helping women to make informed choices about their health.
“When guidance is rooted in scientific evidence, it provides a reliable foundation for understanding the condition, exploring treatment options, and managing symptoms effectively. This is especially important because misinformation or outdated advice can lead to ineffective treatments, frustration, and even worsening of the condition,” she said.
As it is a lifelong condition, she said that a multi-phase approach is crucial.
“Understanding that PCOS is a lifelong condition also highlights the importance of a comprehensive and dynamic approach to care. Women need resources that address the different phases of PCOS – whether it’s managing irregular cycles in their teens, addressing fertility concerns in their 20s and 30s, or mitigating metabolic risks later in life.”
Ms Berry said that as research advances, evidence-based guidelines help ensure that women with PCOS receive the best possible care, improving their quality of life and long-term health outcomes.
POSAA has a Facebook page where it shares PCOS news, resources, and information.
Details: https://www.facebook.com/ PCOSAustralia
By Cade Lucas
Lifeline Western Melbourne recognised World Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday, September 10 by holding its first Out of the Shadows Walk in Footscray.
Walkers were met with appropriately sunny weather at Footscray Park for the event which raised money for suicide prevention.
About 50 participants took part in the walk around Footscray Park Oval, behind the Footscray campus of Victoria University, who along with Lifeline, helped organise the event.
From 7.30am to 8.45am walkers did nine laps of the oval, which, as Lifeline’s head of corporate and community partnerships in Victoria, Mike Parker, explained, had a grim significance.
“Unfortunately in Australia there’s about
3000 suicides in Australia a year which equals about nine a day,” Mr Parker said, adding that raising the awareness and understanding of suicide with events like Out of the Shadows, would help bring those numbers down.
“Whether it is those in crisis experiencing suicidal thoughts, those with lived and living experience of suicide or those bereaved, talking through things can help to bring suicide out of the shadows so we can shine a light on this important issue,” he said.
One participant well aware of the importance of the issue was Lifeline crisis support worker, Ian Palmer.
Mr Palmer spends four hours per week answeringcallsfrompeopleindistress,aswell as volunteering at a Lifeline store in Geelong.
After completing his walk, he explained how his work in suicide prevention came about.
“My daughter was a volunteer with Lifeline many years ago when she was a student and I’ve come across several people who’ve lost loved ones to suicide who have volunteered for Lifeline as well and in retirement I thought, yep, that’s a good idea,” Mr Palmer said.
Fouryearson,hehashelpedscoresofpeople calling into Lifeline and said just listening to them is often enough.
“Suicide is not something that comes out of the blue for most people,” Mr Palmer said.
“It begins with not being able to talk to anybody and not having any resources so it’s really important that we’re there for people in their loneliness.”
To donate: https://www. outoftheshadowswalk.org.au/fundraisers/ lifelinewesternmelbourne
If this story raises issues for you, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 13 Yarn on 13 92 76.
Decktektive, also known as Stefan Cusack away from the table, represented Victoria at the Australian DMC DJ Championships on Saturday, September 14.
While falling short in the six-minute battle, his mission in advancing his local area in Melbourne’s hip hop scene goes well beyond one night.
A DJ for over 14 years, Deckteckitve is proud to hail from Werribee and is intent onputtingtheareathathehaslivedinfor 27 years on his shoulders.
While the hip hop scene in Wyndham isprimarilyundergroundatthemoment, Decktektive always has his ears open and on the search for local talent.
“I like to see new, up-and-comers freestyle and people getting better at their craft,” he said.
“It always keeps you on the cusp of new talent.” While describing himself as warm and friendly, Decktektive is also out there to win. “It’s all a show, we’re all friends,butit’salsolikeI’mgoingtotown on my competitors, too.”
For more Decktektive work, find @ djdecktektive on Instagram.
Here’s a rare opportunity to buy into one of the happiest villages in the West!
Your new villa is only just the beginning. As an extension of your new home, our residents share beautiful community facilities — from the Clubhouse to the pool, to the Bowling Green — there’s enough space to entertain and enjoy yourself.
Properties at Point Cook Village rarely come up for sale and don’t stay on the market for long, so be quick!
To book a tour of the village, call 9394 6799
Health promotion organisation Women’s Health in the North is working to address economic equality for women. Cade Lucas reports.
When Manasi Wagh told me her official title, I had to ask for clarification, thinking I may have misheard or made a mistake.
“I’m manager of economic equality at Women’s Health in the North,” she repeated confidently, as though there was nothing unusual about economic equality being a focus of a women’s health organisation.
That’s because as far as Ms Wagh, Women’s Health in the North (WHIN) and other like-minded organisations are concerned, there isn’t.
“They’re interconnected,” she explained of the relationship between economics and health before adding the obvious rejoinder: “money and finances underpin everything in our lives.”
As far as statements go, they don’t get much harder to argue with than that, though just in case I wanted to, Ms Wagh wasn’t done.
“People experiencing financial distress are twice as likely to experience mental distress at the same time,” she told me, before reeling off a stream of statistics showing women were far more likely to experience financial distress than men.
“Currentlythegenderpaygapis21.7percent which means that every dollar a man earns, a woman earns 78 cents,” Ms Wagh said, adding thatthegapinsuperannuationuponretirement balloonsto47percent,withwomenleavingthe workforce to have babies and being more likely to work part-time, the biggest factors.
‘‘ There’s a shame attached to it ‘oh I cannot manage my money. If you put that together with family violence and financial control, it’s a deadly cocktail ’’ - Manasi Wagh
That’sassumingwomenreachretirementage with a job at all.
“In Australia the statistics for women over 50 are pretty grim,” she said.
“Forty per cent of women over that live in poverty or will retire in poverty, with rates of homelessness high as well.”
For all of these factors, migrant women and those from non-English speaking backgrounds are worse off again, with cultural factors often adding another degree of difficulty on top.
“Our work is focussed on reducing these inequities,” said Ms Wagh of WHIN, one of 12 such health promotion agencies set up across Victoria.
Whileoriginallyestablishedtoservethelarge migrant communities of Melbourne’s northern suburbs, Ms Wagh explained that as with the word health, the title should be taken too literally.
“Even though the organisation is situated in the north, the economic equality work we do goes across Victoria.”
As migrant herself, who moved to Australia fromIndiain2006,MsWaghknowsintimately how important that work is, particularly in regards to money and finance.
“I came here as an educated person, but still struggled to know which bank to go to and what accounts to open because the names were different, the terminologies were different,” she recalled.
“I did not know what my financial rights were, what my responsibilities were, so these things are all taken into account in designing the program.”
That program is Let’s Talk Money, which WHIN have been offering since 2017.
Let’s Talk Money (LTM) provides tailored financial education to multicultural women through a peer education model where migrant women are recruited and trained in financial literacy, to then educate others from similar backgrounds.
“This approach has proved very successful because not only do the educators have the language skills and cultural understanding but the lived experience of migrating to this country,” said Ms Wagh.
One of them is Maria Zygourakis, the daughter of Greek migrants, who while born in Australia, grew up witnessing her parents struggling to understand the financial realities of their adopted home.
“Many, many times they’ve talked about the language barriers, or the cultural barriers they faced, yeah, when they first arrived,” said Ms Zygourakis who has been teaching financial capability classes for more than two years.
She said given the broad nature of the topic and the even broader range of clients, a needs analysis was conducted before each session to identify the issues to be focussed on.
“For example, recently, I had a group that were elderly Greek migrants, so they wanted somebody to come from Centrelink to talk to them about pensions and assets and property,” she said.
“And then there’s other groups that have recently arrived, and might want to know the simple information such as, how do you open a bank account in Australia and what identification is needed? What are the different types of cards?”
Translatingdocuments,explainingeconomic jargon and ensuring bills or fines are paid on time are other simple tasks participants are helped with, but which can cause serious problems if not understood.
Ms Wagh said cultural issues around women and money and the social stigma associated with financial difficulties are also addressed.
“There’s a shame attached to it ‘oh I cannot manage my money,” she said.
“If you put that together with family violence and financial control, it’s a deadly cocktail.”
As in all other sections of society, family and domestic violence is a huge problem in multicultural communities.
But according to national prevention of violence against women not-for-profit, Our Watch,thefinancialdependencemanymigrant
women have on violent partners, makes them especially vulnerable.
“Asylum seeker women living in the community on temporary visas, as well as migrant women on student and working visas, are not entitled to social security payments. Migrant women also experience other kinds of financial insecurity, including discrimination and racism in the labour market.”
Socialisolationduetoalackoffamilysupport, language barriers and even being more likely to liveinoutersuburbsorregionally,whereaccess to transport is difficult, are other barriers to migrant women escaping violent relationships.
ForMsWagh,it’sthisissuewheretheoverlap between women’s financial and physical health is most important.
“I worked in the health sector and have worked in the family violence sector and the prevention of gender based violence and economic equality kind of sits alongside it.All this work WHIM, LTM) is to prevent gender based financial abuse. It’s my passion in life,” she said.
Saint Mary of the Cross Primary School embraced book week with a series of celebrations.
Local author Rita Bordin made a special appearance, reading to preps and year 1 students.
Rita’s journey to becoming a children’s author was an interesting one, coming about from humorous Christmas letters.
“Statements from friends who found my Christmas letter funny and something to look forward to, they suggested I should consider writingbooks.AthoughtIhadbeentooafraid to follow or simply seemed far too far fetched to entertain, but as the years went by and the suggestions kept coming I thought why not,” she said.
Along with her already published and
expected titles, Rita has eight more stories waiting to be edited, illustrated, formatted and then published.
The week concluded with a book week parade, with students dressing up as their favourite book characters.
Students then engaged in activities such as presenting their favourite book from home, writing their own magical stories and various crafts around the ‘Reading is Magic’ Book week theme.
Deputy principal Vivian Lau praised the community’s creativity.
“Our staff, parents and students were innovative with their costume designs and showcased their love of books and their characters,” she said.
Jaidyn Kennedy
The RSPCA is calling on Victorians to head to the kitchen and bake some dog-friendly cupcakes for the organisation’s Cupcake Day. The charity is encouraging baking enthusiasts, workplaces, and schools across the state to host their own Cupcake Day fundraiser in September to support the RSPCA. The day can be hosted by an individual or group on any date this month. RSPCA Victoria events manager Kate Kasby said community support for Cupcake Day provides a boost to the charity’s operations. Details: rspcacupcakeday. com.au
Metro Trains has launched a new SMS service to notify the public of upcoming works in a more efficient manner. Travellers can opt in by subscribing to SMS updates and texting the name of their closest station to 0475 109 470. People can sign up for multiple locations. Metro corporate affairs executive director Clare Abbot said the alerts offer a convenient and sustainable alternative to paper letters. “Successful trials in December 2023 and March 2024 have demonstrated that this is the way that residents prefer to be notified,” she said. Details: http://metrotrains. com.au/sms-disruption-alerts
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Founded by Mark Emmins, a seasoned recycling industry professional with over 20 years of experience, Rubber Recycling is making a significant impact in the tyre recycling industry.
Mark’s journey began in his late teens in the topsoil industry, followed by a transition into demolition,wherehefocusedonrecycling materials from demolished structures.
It was during this time that Mark noticed a critical gap in the tyre recycling industry: a lackofservicestoaddressthegrowingproblem of tyre dumping in parklands waterways and rented factories.
This realisation led to the creation of Rubber Recycling in 2023, a family-run business dedicated to supporting local businesses and the environment.
Mark’s extensive knowledge of machinery and recycling, along with insights gained from international trips to countries like Germany, has enabled him to custom build a state-of-the-art tyre recycling facility in Laverton North.
Rubber Recycling’s mission is to provide comprehensive waste management solutions that prioritise sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Accredited by Tyre StewardshipAustralia(TSA),RubberRecycling works closely with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to comply with strict waste tracking requirements, ensuring transparency and peace of mind for its clients.
In 2024, Rubber Recycling completed a significant clean-up within four months in Albury, NSW, removing over 3000 tonnes of dumpedtyresfromonesiteandrecyclingthem in Laverton North.
It has also completed many clean-ups locally in the Wyndham community, further showcasing its commitment to environmental protection.
Rubber Recylcing is proud to service a diverserangeofvaluedclients,includingmajor automotive dealerships, tyre retailers,local mechanics, service centres,waste management companies and local councils across Victoria. Its customers span a variety of industries,
from high-end luxury brands to family-owned businesses, all of whom trust us for their scrap tyre collection and environmentally responsible recycling.
Detailed EPA waste tracking records are provided with each collection. Rubber Recycling also provides a
Being rejected by Kmart might be the greatest thing to ever happen to Shawn Read, because when his year 10 job application was turned down, he took his position teaching at a local swim school instead and never looked back.
By the time he completed his bachelor of commerce degree at Melbourne University in 1992 Shawn had realised that he did not want to be an accountant or economist, rather he had found his passion in the swim school industry.
At 23 , with the support of his parents, Shawnbuilta17mx6mpoolinavacantblock of an industrial estate in Hoppers Crossing. In April 1994 Shawn’s Swim School opened with two staff and 40 students.
By the end of 1994, Shawn had 12 staff and 750 students. In 2004 , when student numbers had grown to 1300 and a long wait list, Shawn built a 25m x 8m pool next door and the whole facility now has 45 staff and 2500 students per week.
Shawn credits his enormous success to his amazing team and the collaborative culture within his business.
In an industry that often struggles with staff retention, he is proud to have several staff members who have been with him for between 12 and 28 years.
Shawn’s Swim School turned 30 this year and was also named the 2024 ASSA National Swim School of the Year.
Shawn was named the Wyndham Business Person of the Year.
The swim school team is proud that the residents of Wyndham have access to a swim school that is regarded as the best in Australia. learn to swim school for everyone from babies to squad level swimmers. Our expert
a safe, fun, and supportive environment, helping swimmers of all ages and skill levels achieve their goals. We have been around
for 30 years and hope to keep serving our local community and saving lives for at least another 30,” Shawn said.
Bullying is a well-documented phenomenon affecting students worldwide. However, an often overlooked aspect is ‘persistent bullying’—a form of bullying that persists despite prevention and intervention efforts.
While research indicates that typical bullying behaviours often decrease over time - potentially due to maturity or effective bullying prevention strategies - individuals whopersistentlybullyothersmaycontinuethis behaviour well into adulthood.
Exploring and providing a meaning to the term‘PersistentBullying’,ateamofresearchers fromtheUniversityofSouthAustraliaexplores this issue, aiming to shed light on persistent bullying, its causes, and potential solutions.
In their book chapter titled ‘Reforming Approaches to Persistent Bullying in Schools’ Dr Deborah Green, Professor Barbara Spears (AM), and Dr Deborah Price explore the behaviour of ‘persistent bullies’.
Dr Deborah Green highlights that literature shows those who engage in bullying and do not alter their behaviours often follow a negative life trajectory into adulthood. This trajectory can result in significant relational, social, and economic costs, impacting society at large.
“Those who are persistent are most at risk and need specific, targeted approaches to help them change their behaviours and their negative life trajectory,” Dr Green said.
“While interventions are successful with some children and young people, there remains around 5 per cent who continue bullying regardless of the measures taken.”
For some children and young people, bullying is adaptive, providing them with a reputationwithintheirpeergroupaspowerful and strong. The status of being perceived as ‘powerful’ is crucial to them.
“Ifthebullyingbehaviourmeetstheirsocial
goals and needs – such as the need to belong or to have a reputation – then from a bully’s perspective, there may be no reason to stop,”
Dr Green said.
Prevention and intervention strategies are most effective when implemented at a young age. However, signs of bullying can emerge at any age, particularly during transitions to primary and secondary school, and if an individual has experienced bullying themselves.
“Some children and young people who are repeatedly victimised may eventually engage
in bullying others, becoming known as bully-victims,” Dr Green said.
“Bully-victims are those who are at the highest risk of negative outcomes and impacts of both being a bully and being a victim.
“It’s those who continue to bully which we’re quite concerned about.”
Though extensive research has been done to prevent and intervene with typical bullying, DrGreenarguesmoreresearchandfundingis required to develop tactics which are effective at putting a stop to persistent bullying.
“With more funding from government
sources, we would be able to explore the long-term effects of persistent bullying, and develop specific programs aimed at targeting persistent bullying at the root cause.
“In the meantime, I’d like to encourage schools to address bullying behaviours in educative ways.
“Prevention and Intervention tactics could take the form of a multi-tiered system of support applied to absolutely everybody within a school, with persistent bullies at the top of the scale requiring a targeted intervention for individual children.”
For educators in early education and care, family day care offers both personal and professional benefits. This home-based model with small group settings allows educators towork from home, set their own hours and fees, and have one-on-one interactions with children.
Windermere Child & Family Services, an accredited family day care provider with nearly 100 educators across Victoria, offers ongoing support, including 24/7 emergency assistance, to help educators run a successful and sustainable business.
When educators partner with Windermere, they can rest assured that all checks and balances are in place and financial aspects are covered.
Aimee Keays who joined hands with Windermere three years ago appreciates the collaborative nature of the partnership.
“Windermerehandlesalltheadministrative tasks, immunisations and helps with risk assessments related to allergies and health conditions.
Having families enrol through them is an easy process,” she said.
Notably, educators receive payment for the hours worked even if families haven’t paid. This allows educators to focus on delivering personalised care and build positive relationships with families.
EducatorJoPierce,RegionalEducatorofthe Year at the 2023 Family Day Care Australia awards, relies on the support she receives from Windermere to run her family day care seamlessly.
“Not only do I have the confidence to tell families to reach out to Windermere with any questions, I also appreciate they handle all the financial aspects,” she said.
Want to become a family day care educator? Call 1300 946 337 or visit
If you are searching for high-quality childcare and early education in Melbourne’s west look no further than Sparrow Early Learning.
With five beautiful centres located in Alamanda, Manor Lakes, Tarneit, Tarneit Central and Wyndham Waters they offer the perfect environment for your little ones to thrive.
Sparrow Early Learning provides comprehensive services designed to support busyfamilies,includingnutritionallybalanced meals, nappies and wipes, and sunscreen—all included.TheethosofSparrowEarlyLearning Centre revolves around ‘Inspire, Nurture, Grow’, qualities that all staff members express in their various roles. Their highly
experienced, degree- and diploma-qualified educators ensure your child receives the best possible care and education throughout their learning journey.
Sparrow Early Learning’s programs are tailored to suit the developmental stages of different age groups, ensuring that every child’s creative potential is nurtured and celebrated. They pride themselves on meeting National Quality Standards and offer a fully accredited Government Kindergarten Program.
Empathy, kindness, and understanding form the foundation of all their activities, creating a nurturing learning environment for all children.
Each centre features beautiful, natural
outdoor play spaces, including water play areas, veggie patches, sand play areas, and well shaded outdoor playscapesfor children to explore and grow. Studios are filled with natural light and stimulating resources, allowing children to learn through play. They can explore, experiment, discover, and solve problems in imaginative and playful ways.
Sharleen Lancaster, Victoria state manager, has been with Sparrow Early Learning since 2019 and brings 25 years of experience in the early childhood care and education industry.
“Creativityisattheheartofourcurriculum. We believe in providing children with opportunities to express themselves and
explore their world in innovative ways, laying the foundation for lifelong learning,” Sharleen said.
For parents wanting to know more about staff, Sharleen said, “Our team comprises highly qualified and dedicated professionals who are committed to providing the best care and education for your child. Their expertise andpassionensurethateachchildreceivesthe individual attention and support they need to thrive.“
With rare opportunities for enrolment for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years, now is the ideal time to join the Sparrow family. Visit a Sparrow Early Learning centre today and discover the Sparrow way. Or visit www. sparrow.edu.au to book a tour.
FlyingOfficerKimSimLeehasn’tlookedback sinceswappinghisinternationaltechcareerin Malaysia for a life in Australia.
Migrating with his family to Australia in 2015, Flying Officer Lee jumped at the opportunity to embark on a new career in the military and is now a logistics officer at RAAF Base Williams.
Flying Officer Lee believes diverse thinking steers the course of many of the projects he works on.
“Diversity helps us think and act with more perspective, shape our approaches to resolve issues and deliver better outcomes,” he said.
“Working with colleagues from different backgrounds and cultures allows us to discover our shared interests, beliefs and different approaches or experiences to solve a problem, as well as sharing stories along the
way.”
A key part of Flying Officer Lee’s role is liaising with business and defence stakeholders on future technological improvements, something that allows him to draw on experience form his previous career.
“Our team has military and non-military personnel with more than 40 years of military or commercial experience and knowledge, workingalongsideotherswithlessexperience, allgatheringaroundthesametabletoworkon the same goal or project,” Flying Officer Lee said.
“As an immigrant from Malaysia growing up in a multicultural environment, diversity is where every voice can be heard, every experience can be learnt and every problem can be solved openly and creatively.”
Flying Officer Lee reflects that cultural
diversity was a driving force behind his family’s decision to migrate to Australia.
“Australia has a mature society that encourages and accepts diversity,” he said.
Along with his logistics role, Flying Officer Lee also enjoys the social opportunities afforded at RAAF Base Williams, which regularly hosts international visitors.
“I regularly meet foreign force personnel at the mess or the sporting complex on our base and speak with them in their language,” he said.
“I particularly enjoy sharing the unique story about RAAF Base Point Cook being the birthplace of the Air Force.”
To learn more about cultural and linguistic diversity in the Air Force, contact Air Force’s diversity and inclusion team: persbr-afdobc. diversityinclusion@defence.gov.au
WesternUnited’sNoahBoticisurgingpeople to pull on their team’s colours this month to help raise money to fight children’s cancers. Botic has joined fellow A-League players Ryan Teague (Melbourne Victory), Miguel Di Pizio (Central Coast Mariners) and Mark Natta (Newcastle Jets) in supporting the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.
Western suburbs residents are being encouraged to proudly wear their footy team colours – AFL, NRL or soccer – and organise a fundraising event during September.
Botic said everyone should get behind this
all-important cause.
“Footy Colours Day is about coming together as a community to raise vital funds to help kids fight cancer,” he said.
Donations received from this year’s Footy ColoursDayeventswillgotowardsproviding accommodation for the families of children undergoing cancer treatment, to ensure they can stay together, as well as life-saving research.
A child diagnosed with cancer will on average spend more than six months undergoing cancer treatment – a process that canleavethemfeelingisolatedandleftbehind
socially, emotionally, and academically.
Fight Cancer Foundation chief executive Cara Davey said Footy Colours Day helped the foundation to better support children affected by cancer and their families..
“By wearing our team colours and rallying together, we can ensure that these kids and their families have the care and support they need when it matters most,” she said .
Footy Colours Day events can be held any day in September. Details: www. footycoloursday.com.au/
Wyndham council is gearing up to celebrate the Wyndham Seniors’ Festival next month, with a series of free and low-cost activities and events for seniors across our community centres. The seniors’ festival is an annual statewide festival for Victorians that focuses on providing events and activities designed to bring seniors together to enjoy themselves, learn new skills and make new friends.
In Wyndham, the festival’s signature event will be a special Morning Melodies performance by Australian radio presenter and media personality Denis Walter at Encore Events Centre on October 8, which includes a delicious morning tea.
Over at The Grange Community Centre, it will be all about big hair, leg warmers and shoulder pads for an 80s Dance Party on October 23.
For those looking for a little more conversation, head to the Mechanics Institute Hall in Little River on October 26 for a community dinner, where you can speak with some of Wyndham’s senior Human Library Books.
Other highlights include a week-long art festival at Featherbrook Community Centre, tai chi, chair yoga, line dancing, paint and sip, bingo, and a green thumbs workshop for grandparents and grandchildren.
Wyndham’s seniors will also enjoy eight days of free public transport state-wide from October 6-13.
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Wyndham council has endorsed two development plans for the Wyndham A-League stadium project.
Identified as the location of a 15,000 seat soccer stadium, the multipurpose precinct will host amenities that include sports training facilities, residential and commercial spaces.
The land, which is owned by council, is at 1160 Sayers Road, Tarneit, and will be the site of A-League club Western United FC’s home
ground.
The submitted plans, residential precinct lot 2 and lot 3 propose a walkable residential neighbourhood and a variation in lot sizes to accommodate a variety of housing types.
The lots have been planned to be within walking distance to the proposed stadium, Riverdale town centre and Riverdale train station, while a local park and green spaces are set to satisfy the open space requirements of the plan.
The project’s development has been brought along by changes to the Wyndham planning
Wyndham Track and Field Club (WTFC) hosted its inaugural junior school relay carnival on Tuesday, September 10, the first of its kind in Wyndham.
The event, which was open to all schools in the area, was a long-time in the making with the Covid-19 pandemic delaying its debut by nearly three years.
HeathdaleChristianCollegetookhomefirst place, while Manor Lakes Primary School and Werribee Secondary College finished second and third respectively.
Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera made an appearance, presenting the participants with their trophies.
More than 35 children took part in different relays and activities, with 16 volunteers helping bring the event together.
“There was happiness, joy and excitement – and feedback already has been very good,” said WTFC club secretary Alyson Hart.
“The idea was created and born out of a
vision to give back to the community.”
WTFC is aiming to consolidate the event as an annual feature in Wyndham, intending to include as many schools as possible.
The club also intends to present the trophy in perpetuity, engraving each year’s winner into the trophy.
“We believe this builds real social cohesionstudentsgettomixwitheachotherfromother schools,” Ms Hart said.
Ms Hart made a special thank you to the schools, students and volunteers that made the event possible.
Details: https://wyndhamtf.com.au/
Jaidyn
Kennedy
scheme, of which does not require a permit subject to complying with the Wyndham A-League Stadium Project Incorporated Document’s conditions.
Councillor Heather Marcus raised the perennial concern of adequate car parking spaces in the precinct.
“I will vote for it, but when will we ever put more car parking into all of these areas?” she said.
“These cars will be parked everywhere in the streets and we’ve got to look at how we do these planning issues now because everybody
in the city has to have cars – they can’t ride their bikes to these places.”
The project is set to be delivered in stages, which started with the construction of Ironbark Fields and Ironbark Pavilion that serves as the match-day venue for A-League men’s and women’s matches, pending the stadium’s completion.
TheWyndhamA-LeagueStadiumProjectis a $150 million development and is the subject of a public-private partnership agreement with Western Melbourne Group.
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Lions Club
The Lions Club of Point Cook meets at the Featherbrook Community Centre on the third Monday of the month at 7.30 pm. The club is seeking to grow the Lions free vision screening in schools team. Volunteers needed to work with the region’s schools in combating undiagnosed children’s vision issues. You do not have to be a Lions member but must obtain a working with children check.
Robert Eyton, 0417 549 684 or robeyton@bigpond.com
Werribee Jazz Club
Join the Werribee Jazz Club on the second Sunday of the month from 2pm to 5pm, for three hours of great music, dancing or relaxed listening. You can enjoy live bands featuring some of Australia’s best jazz musicians playing traditional, dixieland, swing, R’n’B and mainstream jazz. BYO nibbles, drinks available at moderate bar prices with complimentary tea and coffee. We are located at the Werribee Bowls Club, Watton Street, Werribee. Entry: $22.
Jenny, 0419 558 481
Drumming classes
Community adult drumming class. If you ever wanted to try out your rhythmic skills, the first class is free and concessions apply for other classes. All hand drums supplied or BYO. No experience required, just bring an open heart and mind and enjoy making some great rhythms together. The class is friendly and welcoming to everyone. Thursdays, 7.30pm to 8.30pm, during school terms, at Saltwarter Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Parade, Point Cook.
0411 028 077 or bfmusic15@gmail.com
Wyndham Ladies Probus
Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am.
Pat 0411 316 795
Point Cook VIEW
The Point Cook Day VIEW Club (for ladies) meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Point Cook Library, 1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook. Members enjoy afternoon teas and outings. New members welcome. VIEW Is part of the Smith Family.
Catherine, 0407 726 852.
Watton Group
A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at the Eco-Living Centre at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month.
Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com.
All Abilities Netball
All Abilities Netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2.
Phil, 0437 078 739
Wyndham Rotary
Wyndham Rotary welcomes people
interested in helping people in need in the community. Interested in finding out more, come to the Italian Sports Club each Wednesday at 6.30pm for a meal, to share ideas and to work for a common cause.
Julie, 0406 196 630
With One Voice choir
With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee.
wyndham@withonevoice.org.au
Adult community garden group
The group meets on the first Tuesday of the month, 10-11.30am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow.
8742 3688
Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus
The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips.
0408 123 669
U3A Werribee
The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety
of classes-activities specifically designed for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres.
Rick, 0402 299 220.
Lions Club
Lions Club of Werribee meets at the RSL Club, 2a Synnot Street, Werribee on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm.
Jorge, 0433 566 575
Bingo for all
The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm.
9741 5525
Western Budgerigar Club
The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars.
Don, 0414 975 862
Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus
Do you like to sing? The Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus wants you! Be part of a rewarding fraternity of fellow amateur musicians serving the community, sharing comradery and having fun. Rehearsals at 7:00PM Tuesday evenings at St. James Church, Hoppers Crossing.
Chris, 0400 414 215
Dementia Carers Group
IPC Health Dementia Carers Group is held on the first Tuesday of the month, from 12.30-2.30pm. The group si for people who care for someone with dementia or a similar
This week’s photographer’s choice pictured is of Western Health registered midwife/ nurse Amber Borg, holding two newborns, Bailey and Avleen. (Damjan Janevski) 430304_01
condition associated with memory loss. It empowers carers through education, social connectedness and emotional support while socialising and meeting people in similar situations. Registration is essential.
Leah Hewitt or Joyce Chan, 1300 472 432 or https://bit.ly/48QFwBa
Werribee River Association
New volunteers to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace.
Lisa Field, 0433 559 530, admin@ werribeeriver.org.au, or www. werribeeriver.org.au
Seniors House of Fun
The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing.
Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@ grangecommunity.org.au
Seniors club
The Werribee Senior Citizens Club meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea.
0403 041 499
Diabetes Support Group
The Werribee Diabetes support provides an opportunity to hear from experts on how to manage your diabetes, to share information on diabetes and to engage with other diabetics. Meetings are at the old council shire buildings at 10am every second Friday of the month.
Bob, 0409 252872.
As the Brimbank Comedy Festival gets underway this weekend, one comedian who has been all across the country and world performing is set to give local’s stitches this Saturday night.
Tim ‘Caveman’ Barrot, who some have said is the oldest upcoming comedian in Australia will light up the Footscray Hotel with laughter at 6.30pm on Saturday, September 21.
Wedged into a weekend of finals football, he plays at the perfect time for football fans looking for a break from the stressful scenes of their teams battling it out on the big screens at the pub.
Join him on a wild journey that spans
continents and defies expectations.
From near-death experiences in Antarctica togettinggoatsstonedinTurkey,he’sseenitall and lived to tell the tale.
As a tour guide in countries he never knew existed, Barrot invites you to experience the excitement of each moment, while secretly being grateful you weren’t actually there.
His comedy is a unique blend of adventure, honesty, and relatability, drawing audiences in with his engaging storytelling style.
Giventhenatureoftheworldatthemoment, withcost-of-livingstrugglesrifeinMelbourne’s west, Barrot has waived the costs for his show, and encourages everyone to “just show up and
have a good time.”
Hehaspreviouslybeenapartofopenmicsin thearea,butSaturdaywillbeasolodebutinthe west for Barrot.
“Iamsuperexcited,asaworkingclassmiddle aged man, I fit in perfectly with the west,” he said. “It is a melting pot of multiculturalism down there, so my experiences of travelling hold me in good stead to be able to connect with the whole audience.”
Gerald Lynch
Visitors to the Craigieburn Art Group’s annual art expo in October will enjoy works in a variety of mediums from embroidery, woodwork and printmaking to traditional painting, drawing and pastels.
A highlight of the Hume artistic calendar, the show traditionally took place as part of the Craigieburn Festival in March.
However, in recent years the group has staged its expo, Art & Beyond, later in the year at the Global Learning Centre above the Craigieburn Library.
This year the show falls on the weekend of October 11 to 13.
President of the Craigieburn Art Group Vicki Catchpole will be among those displaying work.
Vickidescribedherartas“representational” and “realistic”.
“I’ve previously done a lot of acrylic painting, but this year I decided to focus on printmaking,“ she said.
The show, which is free to view, will feature artworksby20individualartistsandcreatives from the Hume area.
“There will be a variety of exhibitors from established artists to beginners,“ said Vicki. Visitors will have the chance to win a piece of art by purchasing a ticket in the raffle, proceeds of which will be donated to local Scouts.
Outgoing Hume mayor Naim Kurt has agreed to open the show in an unofficial capacity.
Art group members will stage demonstrations at 11am and 1pm on Saturday and 1pm Sunday.
Vicki encouraged anyone interested in art to join the group on Mondays at Selwyn House. Pariticipants meet at 3pm and 7pm. “Wehavepeopleofallartisticabilities,ages, physical ability and from different cultures. Everyone is welcome,” she said.
Vicki Catchpole
As the sun sets behind Werribee Gorge on the evening of Thursday September 19, young entrepreneurs will take over Bacchus Marsh. From 5–7pm at the Village Green on 197 Main Street, the Youth Twilight Market will be open to people of all ages to enjoy activities, food and stalls run by locals aged 12 to 25. The event was designed by year 12 students from Indie School Bacchus Marsh in conjunction with Moorabool council.
A wide range of products will be on offer including pet bandanas, gemstone jewellery, artwork, pencil cases, and more.
If you fancy items made from clay, crochet, 3D printing, or upcycled materials, there will be something for you.
Grace Green teaches the students who came up with the event.
She said that the cohort wanted to focus on “celebrating youth empowerment” —
something they determined was best achieved by working with young business people.
“They have been to involved in all of the planning and execution of the event. We are very excited to see it all come together,” she said.
Community members can immerse themselves in the extraordinary talents of First Nations artists at Footscray Community Arts during the Deadly Fringe program, part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.
This year’s program, which will run from October 1 to 20, promises a diverse and thought-provoking array of performances that reinforce First Nations voices and perspectives on stage.
For this year’s festival, Na Djinang CircuswillcollaboratewithCircaCairns to present In Place.
In Place is the culmination of a year-long journey where local participants tended to a native plant, fostering a deep connection with the land, their work and themselves.
This journey will be interwoven into the performance, merging artistic expression with nature to examine society’s impact on the environment and its profound resonance within us all.
Audiences can expect a stunning displayofacrobaticskillandsophisticated storytelling.
NaDjinangCircus-aMelbourne-based contemporary circus company and a First Nations-led company - explores fundamental human characteristics from an Indigenous perspective. Its art and ethos reflect traditional and contemporary values.
Circa Cairns, supported by the Queensland Government and the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation, is dedicated to creating bold art from the nexus of place and culture.
Details at: https://melbournefringe. com.au/event/in-place/.
Anne Parisianne
“Theygotheapsofbusinessesthatarerunby youthtogetherandcreatedstallsforthingslike face painting, games, popcorn and fairy floss.”
Entry is a gold coin donation, with all proceeds going to the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Ms Green said the charity was specifically selected by students, who feel a close affinity with Starlight’s work.
“They did a lot of research into who they wanted to donate funds to and Starlight was chosen because… they are able to do a lot for the people that they work with,” she said.
“The students are excited to contribute and help the foundation.”
Ms Green said she was most excited for the “lucky” person who will win a hamper featuring a globe skateboard, macpac jacket, and handmade terrariums.
Eddie Russell
1. Which Carlton player returned to play finals just 180 days after he suffered a third ACL injury?
2. Which is larger: a squash racquet or a pickleball racquet?
3. Which English cricketer will join Melbourne Stars this summer, having been chosen as the No.1 pick in the BBL Draft?
5. To achieve the highestpossible score in darts, all three of your darts must land in which segment?
6. The Packers, the Zephyrs and the Bullets are all previous nicknames of which NBA team?
7. Which three AFL clubs are captained by players who wear the number 9?
8. Brisbane Stadium is also known by what witchy nickname?
What unusual punishment for arriving late to training was allegedly the catalyst for former Canterbury Bulldog Jackson Topine leaving NRL in 2023?
Taylor Gosens was Australia’s only 2024 Paralympic athlete to compete in which sport?
Which Australian batsman scored 80 from 25 balls in the first match of the Twenty20 international series against Scotland?
Lauren Parker became Australia’s first dual-sport Paralympic medallist in how many years, after winning triathlon and cycling medals?
13. Which rising British tennis star defeated Australian Alex de Minaur in the US Open men’s quarterfinals?
14. Italian racing driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli will debut in 2025 with which front-running Formula One team?
15. In which year was the AFL’s Brownlow Medal first awarded?
16. The son of which wellknown sports presenter made his debut recently in American college football?
17. Which country was recently bowled out for a total of 10 in a Twenty20 international against Singapore?
18. Australians Kaden Groves and Ben O’Connor won stages of which major annual cycling event?
19. Prolific goalscorer Erling Haaland, who plays for Manchester City, represents which national soccer team?
20. The so-called ‘Spoon Bowl’ was played by which two bottom NRL teams in round 27?
21. How many gold medals did Australia win at the 2024 Paralympic Games?
22. Which Sydney AFLW co-captain recently suffered a season-ending ACL rupture?
23. Which tennis player won the 2024 US Open Men’s singles title?
24. Australia recently swept which team 3-0 in a Twenty20 International series?
25. Which team finished top of the 2024 NRL ladder at the conclusion of the season?
26. ENGIE Stadium is the home ground of which AFL team?
27. Which Major League Baseball team is on course to finish season 2024 with one of the worst records in the league’s history?
28. The 2024 biographical sports movie Young Woman and the Sea tells the story of the first woman to swim what body of water?
29. Kate Roffey recently stepped down as the president of which AFL club?
30. The NBL Blitz pre-season tournament was held in which location in 2024?
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 Annoyers (5)
4 Settler (9)
9 Formula (7)
10 People who speak (7)
11 One who evens the score (7)
12 Greek conception of afterlife (7)
13 Arrived at a judgement (9)
15 Relating to audio equipment (2-2)
17 Declare to be true (4)
19 Not here (9)
22 Type of paint (7)
25 Wed (7)
26 Paraguayan monetary unit (7)
27 Whenever you like (7)
28 Conglomeration of fabric scraps (9)
29 Hankerings (5)
DOWN
1 Very small amount (8)
2 Irish speakeasy (7)
3 One who makes less progress than others (9)
4 One half of Oxbridge (9)
5 Supple (5)
6 ‘Not on your –!’ (5)
7 Local law enforcer (7)
8 Recommence (6)
14 Go ashore (9)
15 Common greeting question (3,3,3)
16 Indecency (8)
18 Green (7)
20 Preparing writing for publication (7)
21 End a phone call (4,2)
23 Indisposed (5)
24 Egyptian capital (5)
No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 What is the capital of Guyana?
2 Paul Mescal (pictured) co-starred with Olivia Colman and Dakota Johnson in which 2021 film?
3 Which of the big cat species is typically the largest?
4 What protein is the main substance that makes up fingernails?
5 The Costume Institute Benefit is the formal name for which annual fashion event? 6 Name the 2018 novel by Trent Dalton that was adapted into a 2024 Netflix limited
7 Canon, Nikon and Olympus are well-known brands of what?
8 Which actor do the films MorningGlory, DoctorStrange and The Time Traveler’s Wife have in common?
9 Who painted the famous fresco The Creation of Adam?
10 Which Central American country is often referred to as ‘the
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
With hybrid buyers lighting up the EV market, great things are expected of the recent addition to the Sportage SUV range.
Driven by the surge in hybrid sales, the Toyota RAV4 has overtaken the Ranger and HiLux to become the best-selling vehicle in Australia.
So, it’s not before time that Kia has introduced a hybrid variant to its popular Sportage medium SUV range, which the company confidently anticipates, at 300 units per month, will contribute 20 per cent to total Sportage sales.
“TheSportagerangewasalreadyanexcellent medium SUV package in a very popular and competitive segment and the addition of the Hybrid variant strengthens our offering considerably,” says Damien Meredith, Kia Australia chief executive officer.
The Sportage HEV is available in two trims – SX FWD and top-of-the-range GT-Line –with power coming from the same 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol/electric hybrid system as the larger Sorento Hybrid.
This is mated with an electric motor and lithium-ion polymer battery delivering a combined petrol/electric output of 169kW and 350Nm.Pairedwiththepowerplantisadial-up, shift-by-wire six-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels.
Based on the fifth generation Sportage, both hybrids feature 18-inch machined alloy wheels with temporary spare, while the GT-Line Hybrid (the test vehicle) adds a heated steering wheel.
The SX HEV FWD goes on the market for $45,950, while the flagship Kia Sportage GTLine HEV FWD sells for $55,420, both plus on-roadcosts.EachiscoveredbyKia’sgenerous seven years/unlimited kilometre warranty, the battery seven years/150,000 kilometres.
Styling
The body is defined by Kia’s Opposites United design language characterised by sharp lines amplified by bold surfaces with unique graphics. Up front the Kia signature Tiger Nose black grille links with distinctive curved
LED daytime running lights and headlamps.
In a nod to marketing, the polished metal Kia badge is hard to ignore.
From the side the Sportage HEV stands its groundinthemid-sizeSUVsegmentwithbold blackplasticwheelarchcladdingandcleanlines linkingthefuturisticfrontwithasleekfastback and taillights cut into the body. A broad back supports an impressive width.
Interior
The heart of the top-shelf GT-Line is a curved touchscreen flanked by air vents giving the impression of width to the cabin. The 12.3-inch screenactsasacentreofconnectivityfordriver and front passenger, while the similar-size instrument cluster incorporates the latest display with clear and precise graphics.
A Blind-Spot View Monitor ‘sees’ what is potentially in the driver’s blind spot.
Unlike the ICE models, the HEV centre console features a dial-style gearshift knob as well as electronic parking brake with Auto hold. Storage includes cup holders and a large open space under the padded armrest.
Leather appointed seats include eight-way power driver’s seat, with two-way lumbar support. Front seats also are heated and ventilated.Boot,accessedbyasmarthands-free power tailgate, is a usable 586 litres with the seat backs up, expanding to a generous 1872 litres with them folded. A rare EV bonus is a
kit.
Infotainment
Smartphone wireless capability sadly is absent but there is a wireless phone charger as well as USB-A and USB-C ports. As is the case with other top-line Sportages, the GT-Line HEV is fitted with a premium eight-speaker Harman/ Kardon sound system as well as DAB+ digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity.
Engines/transmissions
Power in the Sportage Hybrid comes from the same 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid system as the larger Sorento Hybrid, which mates a 132kW/265Nm four-cylinder petrol engine with a 44kW/264Nm electric motor and a 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery (combined petrol + electric output is 169kW and 350Nm). A six-speed automatic transmission puts power to ground via the front wheels, ensuring a smooth transition between gear changes.
Safety
The Sportage GT-Line HEV carries a top five-star ANCAP rating on 2022 testing. Included are autonomous emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, rear cross traffic alert, active cruise control, lane keeping assist with steering intervention, blind
spot monitoring, 360-degree surround view cameras, front and rear parking sensors, trailer sway control and hill descent control. Front, front-sideandcurtainairbags,plusfrontcentre airbag complete the picture.
Driving
Refined is the only way to describe the GT-Line HEV manners. The engine and electric motor work together in conjunction with the conventional six-speed automatic transmission for a reasonably enjoyable driving experience. However, the lack of all-wheel drive does cause some chaos via the front under heavy acceleration.
Transitionbetweenengineandelectricmotor was done with quiet efficiency and is matched by a mostly unperturbed ride. Braking is good too and the regenerative system is consistent and pulls up the car well.
Fuel consumption is claimed by the maker to be 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the ADR 81/02 combined urban/highway cycle. The test vehicle came up with, I feel, an honest 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres.
Summary
It remains to be seen whether the Sportage Hybrid can hang on to the coat-tails of the runaway Toyota RAV4 petrol-electric and make it all the way to the top. Only time will tell.
Hume City’s title hopes were ended by South Melbourne for a third time this season on Wednesday night in the Australia Cup.
Having been knocked out of the Dockerty Cup finals and National Premier League finals by South Melbourne, Hume faced South Melbourne in the Australia Cup quarter finals.
For the third time in its past four games, Hume had to face extra time in the quest for a win.
Hume took the lead early on through skipper Josh Bingham before a penalty to Harrison Sawyer just after half time levelled the scores.
Maximilian Mikkola put South Melbourne infrontinthe73thminutewithLachlanWeier bringingscoresbacktoleveltwominuteslater.
Scores were locked at 2-2 at the end of regular time before South Melbourne scored in extra time, in the 116th minute through Jordan Lampard to come away with a 3-2 win.
Speaking before the game on Hume City’s social media, Hume president Ersan Gulum spoke about the season and making it to the quarter finals of the Australia Cup.
“It’s been an incredible season for Hume City, where do we start,” he said on the video.
“Dockerty Cup semi final, unfortunately we couldn’t get that over the line.
“If you look at the season competition itself overall, the highest ever points tally in a single season… What an achievement by the club and players.
“You can see now it’s benefiting through the club itself and it’s attracted a lot more fans now.
“Full credit to everyone involved at Hume City.”
Gulum, who has both played and coached Hume previously, stepped up as president during the season.
He said one of their big targets was to bring back that community to the club and with it
the supporters who had gone away from them the past couple of years.
“We can see now that they’re on the bandwagon and they haven’t stopped,” he said. “They’ve been absolutely amazing for us and the players are feeling it and us as a committee we’re feeling it too,
“We don’t want it to stop, we don’t want this season to end.”
Meanwhile, Hume’s Aamir Abdallah was one of the big winners at the Victorian Football gala night on Friday night.
The winger was crowned the NPLM Gold Medallist, the competition’s top honour, finishing with 32 votes.
He scored nine goals and had six assists across 20 games.
He also claimed the players’ players award andtheBillFlemingMedalforthebestNPLM player voted by the commentary team.
Tara Murray
By Tara Murray
Westmeadows is thinking what might have been after falling short in the Essendon DistrictFootballLeaguedivision2grandfinal on Saturday.
The Tigers were the fairytale story heading into the game after two come from behind wins to win through to the grand final. Itwastheclub’sfirstseniorgrandfinalsince 2000 and the club was going for its first senior premiership since their only one in 1984.
Standing in the Tigers way was Taylors Lakes, the minor premiers and the best side all season.
For most of the game, the Tigers were in the contest.
A patch in the second quarter proved the difference, before the Tigers ran out of legs in the 8.14 (62)-5.13 (43) loss.
After two slow starts in their other finals, it was a better start this time round.
They led by two points at quarter time. It was a real arm wrestle in the second quarter before three goals in 90 seconds to
Rachrache turned it in the favour of the Lions.
Tigers coach Ash Flavel said they had thought they had stuck with the Lions for long enough but couldn’t get it done.
“It was a tale of two ends,” he said. “They got a couple of junk goals in the end and that was it.”
Outside of that 90 seconds in the second quarter, the Tigers were left to rue the third quarter when they had complete control.
They kicked 1.5 for the quarter to one point, to still trail at three quarter time.
Goalkicking had proven to be an issue all finals for the Tigers, kicking more points than goals in all three matches.
“We probably should have kicked three or four and I thought it probably would have put us probably two or three goals off at three quarter time to get that momentum,” Flavel
“We didn’t put them away and then we just couldn’t get going in the last quarter.
“It was the story of our lives. We kick those four really give mes, we are right in it. That is the game.”
Craigieburn has added some much needed experience with the signing of Bundoora captain Luke Collins.
The Eagles announced the signings of Collins and his younger brother Josh Collins on Wednesday, their first new signings for next year’s Essendon District Football League division 1 season.
Eagles coach Shane Jacobs was thrilled to get the pair across.
He said he’d worked on trying to get Luke, who has also played in the Victorian Football League, across for a while having known him from when they were both at Bundoora.
“I’ve worked on him for a year and half now,” he said. “He let us know the good news a couple of weeks ago.
“He lives just outside of Craigieburn. Josh is only 20, so a bit younger than Luke who is 28.
“He’s [Josh] played regular division 1 football this year.
Jacobs said they had a couple of focuses with their recruiting, which is behind the decision to bring across Luke.
He said the first one was wanting to bring in people that lived locally as it’s hard to bring in players due to the location.
The other was adding a bit more experience.
Flaveladmitsthetollofcomingfrombehind thelasttwoweekshadalsoshownthroughlate in the game with the Lions looking fresher.
A hamstring injury to Korey Flavel-Wood, who tried to play through it, also didn’t help their cause.
Jarrod Petersen, Riley Hearne and Rex Hickman were named the Tigers best.
While disappointed, Flavel knows how far the club has come in 12 months.
Theygotrelegatedfromdivision1lastseason.
Flavel said he is proud of what they’ve been able to achieve.
“Watching Taylors Lakes get their medals, I just hope that just sticks in their memory heading into next year,” he said.
“It’s not gonna be a guarantee we’re going to be here next year, it’s going to a lot of hard work.
“I think the side that we got I think a lot of blokes are going to stay on and we’re already speaking to half a dozen guys already to build our list.
“We’ve actually put the club back on the map now making the grand final.”
“We were a very young side at times this year,” he said. “Sometimes we were playing four to five under-18s at once.
“Playing against the better teams you can’t do that. We’ve looked for players who are 27-28 and still have a lot of football left.
“Luke’s leadership will be great for us.”
Jacobs said they would look to announce some more signings in the next few weeks once finals action has finished.
He said they were excited by who they were bringing in.
“It’s always good to get in new faces but we’re not going away from our plan,” he said. “We want to develop what we have got but we need to add some more experienced players to support them.”
Tara Murray
New Point Cook coach Saade Ghazi was itching to get back to coaching after a year off from football.
Still a keen follower of local football, Ghazi jumpedatthefromopportunityattheBulldogs toleadthemintothenexttwoWesternFootball League division seasons.
Ghazi said it was an exciting opportunity.
“I had a year off for the first time in 40 years as a player and coach,” he said. “It was good to have a year off.
“I’m pretty excited to control the footy part of the Point Cook club. They said to me what they were looking for in a coach and I told them what I thought I could deliver.”
Ghazi brings an extensive resume to the club.
He played more than 200 games with Williamstown and won the J.J Liston Medal for the now Victorian Football League competition.
He has coached at two VFL clubs before coaching at a number of clubs including Altona
between 2016-19 and taking it to the grand final in 2019.
Ghazi said living and working the western suburbs, it made sense for him to look at roles locally.
“We’re already on our third meeting tonight [Thursday],” he said. “Í’m 100 per cent committed after a year off. It has helped.”
Ghazi said while he had kept an eye on the Western league he hadn’t looked too closely at Point Cook.
He said the club’s culture was something that really attracted him to the role.
“The group has a lot of young talent that got a lot of opportunities this year,” he said.
“There’s a bit of work to do to get back up the ladder
“It’s a bit of a reset and what the club wants and what is needed. We won’t throw everything out the door and hopefully we have some more luck with injuries.”
The Bulldogs finished last this year with
just three wins for the season after making the grand final last year.
With changes to the competition, no team is relegated. Three teams will be promoted and there will be no relegation again next year.
Ghazi said he believes they had the base of the side for next year at the club and the growth will come from within.
“We can take heart from Hoppers Crossing which was bottom last year and now playing in a preliminary final,”he said.
“We want to keep developing the group and add a couple more players. With three new teams it will be an even competition and early wins will be important.
“We haven’t set expectations, but we know success won’t come overnight, it could take a couple of years.
“We have to do it right and have sustained success.Wewanttobeplayingfinalsregularly.”
Tara Murray
Truganina’s Innocent Tuimavave-mau. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 430082_12
By Tara Murray
Truganina Rabbitohs walked away with one premiership and two runners-up trophies in the NRL Victoria Storm premiership senior grand finals.
The Rabbitohs senior men’s won the first grade title, while their women’s and third grade side just fell short of premiership glory.
President Molly Niuula said it had been a really good season for the club.
“All three senior teams made the grand final,” she said. “Our under-13 boys team made it as well which was very exciting. It was the first time they’ve made it.
“It was touch and go and we weren’t sure if we would get all three senior teams there. It’s the first time all three have made the grand final.”
The first grade men’s side was able to come away with the premiership with a 36-14 win against the Sunbury Tigers on September 7.
The Rabbitohs finished the regular season in second spot, with nine wins for the season.
After winning two premierships, the side lost last year’s decider to the Waverley Panthers.
The senior men’s grand final was the final match of the day and Niuula said it was a good way to end the day.
“The last time we played Sunbury we lost by quite a bit,” she said. ”At times during the season we struggled with injuries and work commitments.
“We had a lot of players back for the game.”
The Rabbitohs had seven different try scorers in the win.
Western United’s biggest name is back for another A-League women’s season.
United announced that Chloe Logarzo had agreed to sign on for a third straight season.
The Matildas ace was irrepressible last season with nine goals and three assists in 17 matches.
Her form earned her Western United player of the season and fans’ player of the season honours, second place in the JulieDolanMedalstandingsandareturn to the Matildas squad in 2024. Offthepitch,Logarzohasfoundherself at home in the west, embracing the club and its vision in Tarneit, becoming a Werribee resident and serving as a key leader in the team and in the community.
Logarzohasn’thadthechancetoplayat Ironbark Fields but upon confirming her return for next season, she is struggling to contain her enthusiasm at the prospect of a Tarneit debut.
“It’s like coming home – it is home. I’m finally back, I’m really looking forward to the start of the season,” she said.
“Coming back was not a hard decision at all, I love the club, I love the people who are here, I love my teammates – so it was easy for me to come back.
The senior women finished the regular season in second before winning a semi final against minor premiers Werribee Bears to win through to the grand final.
The Rabbitohs faced the Casey Warriors in the grand final, losing 16-12. The Warriors claimed back-to-back titles.
“The senior women did really well, but you can’t always win,” Niuula said. It was a really good match and it was close all day.
“We are quite happy with how they played.”
The third grade men lost to Werribee Bears, 24-12, while the under-13 division 1 boys lost to the Warriors, 32-6.
Niuula said the club continues to see massive growth.
“We had 20 teams this season,” he said. “That is the highest number of memberships that we’ve had.
“We had seven extra teams and had three senior teams, the growth is there. We had five female teams as well.
“We have strong ties in the community. The biggest challenge we have is the growth.”
As well as having success with their teams, several players are part of the new Melbourne Storm female academy.
“I’m finally going to be able to lace up and get on the field at Ironbark Fields. I’m really looking forward to this year and hopefully we can bring home some silverware.”
Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato said the competition would be put on notice again with Logarzo bringing an ongoing hunger to succeed next season.
“Chloe was just about unstoppable last season and her return is another big statement of our ambition for next term,” he said.
“We are immensely proud of what Chloe has done to get back to the top of her game and we know that her passion and desire is unwavering as she strives to push the boundaries each year.
“Not only has her quality on the pitch been immeasurable, she has made a lasting impact on our club and our community in Tarneit and having a leader and personality of her stature within our ranks is invaluable.
“We can’t wait to watch her out at Ironbark Fields for the first time next season, and no doubt our fans will be equally excited to see our Matilda back in action.”
Hoppers Crossing is daring to dream after winning through to the Western Football League division 1 grand final.
ThistimelastyeartheWarriorsfinishedlast andwonthewoodenspoonwithjusttwowins for the season.
Now, they are preparing for a grand final against local rival Werribee Districts.
Warriors president John Semertzidis said it was an awesome win.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet,” he said. “It’s like keep rolling on, one more week.
“We’re the form team of the finals by the mile. Definitely a lot of belief there that we deserve to be there.”
On Saturday, the Warriors were able to account for Caroline Springs in the preliminary final.
The Warriors led by four points at quarter time and by 13 points at the main break.
It was still anyone’s game heading into the final quarter with the margin just 18 points.
Six goals to two in the final quarter blew the game open to give the Warriors an 11.9
(75)-4.7 (31) win.
Semertzidis said it was awesome to see his boys dominate from the first bounce.
It was trying conditions all day with rain, wind and even some hail.
“We were able to hold them at bay early in the piece,” he said. “And then we exploded when we needed to.
“One thing that has been big in the finals series has been our fitness levels being exemplary and the guys are running games well.
“Really taking advantage of teams at the moment.”
Semertzidis said the last quarter helped easeafewofthenervesoffansaftertheLakers kicked the first goal of the quarter.
He said the three quarter time message was just to attack in the last quarter.
Ryan Kitchen and Harry Maguire kicked three goals each for the Warriors.
Jed Anderson, Kitchen and Chase Guy were named their best.
Semertzidis said Anderson brings that level
of professionalism to the side and he does a lot of things clean.
He said it was a really good team performance.
“Our good players stood up again and all our players rallied around them,” he said. “We hada reallygoodcrackanddefinitelyscareda couple of teams which is awesome.”
The win sets up a grand final with Werribee Districts this Saturday at Avalon Airport Oval.
Semertzidis said they were definitely looking forward to it.
“They’ve beaten us twice this year but to be fair, we are definitely looking and excited for the challenge.
“Definitely wanting to prove them wrong. There’s no expectation on our team, we go in as the underdogs and that is fine and we prefer that.”
In the division 2 grand final, Sunshine was too good for Albion, winning 8.8 (56)-6.13 (49).
By Tara Murray
Dom Brew told incoming coach Jimmy Allan was that he was going to win the J.J Liston Medal this year.
Allan just thought it was tongue in cheek and had a smile but on Monday night that prediction came true with Brew being named the Victorian Football League’s best player. Brew dominated the count, so much so they declared the winner with four rounds remaining and they stopped counting votes. He finished on 31 votes to finish nine votes clear. He had earlier in the night won the coaches best player award too.
Brew said the bold statement he made to Allan showed where his mindset was from the start of the year.
Hesaidcomingintothenighthethoughthe would be around the mark but didn’t think he would take it out.
“My belief never waivered,” he said. “Obviously a bold statement but you can say that I backed it up.
“To win by that much is a bit of a shock really,Ithinkjustwinningitisenough.Idon’t
look at the count.
“Idoholdsuchahighregardforsomeofthe other boys, especially those Southport boys. To get the chocolates are pretty good.”
The journey to be the best player in the competition has been a long one.
Brew couldn’t get a senior game at his home club, so he switched to North Albury.
He then played in the VFL development league and came into the senior side more as a tagger.
Brew said it comes down to working hard.
“I said something to Jimmy at the start of the year it’s always about proving people wrong and he said it’s about proving yourself right, that’s pretty true,” he said.
Brew said if the opportunity presents itself he would love to still play AFL, but understands that he is 27.
He said he feels like he is starting to get into his prime.
Brew was also named captain of the team of the year. Allan was named coach of the year, while Nathan Cooper, Jack Henderson and Riley Bice were also named in the team.
Brew, who was co-captain a couple of years ago, has stepped back into the captaincy role
Five
Glen Orden claimed another two premierships to make it five in the space of eight days in the Western Netball League.
Having had all six of their teams this season make grand finals, the Hawks won three out of four in the first week of grand finals.
On Friday night, the Hawks claimed the division 1 and division 2 titles to cap off the season.
The first match of the night was the division 2 grand final against Yarraville Seddon.
The match was a thriller with it going down to the final shot of the game.
Scores were level heading into the last 30 seconds of the game.
The Eagles had the ball and took a shot to take the lead, which missed.
The ball quickly went down the other end, with the Hawks being awarded a penalty. The shot was converted after the siren to give the Hawks a 35-34 win.
The division 1 season then finished off the season in the grand final against Spotswood.
this season with Nick Coughlan missing most of the year with injury.
“It is pretty special,” Brew said to step back into the captainancy. “I’m obviously close with Nick. We started our footy together.
“To step back into the leadership position again, didn’t really have a choice, but when it’s your turn to go, you’ve got to go.
“I’m incredibly humbled... To even be a role modeltobesomethingforthemtolookupto.”
While the medal is special, Brew said it won’t settle in for a little bit.
For now he is more focused on Sunday’s grand final against Southport.
The Tigers are in a second straight grand final with a different playing group to 12 months ago.
Brew said they have a pretty good program and everyone has to play their roles.
“I would trade it all in for a premiership this weekend,” he said. “To get the ultimate award, ultimate success for this great club.
“There’s so many great people at the club. To bring some silverware to the Werribee Football Club and Werribee community would mean the absolute world to me and I would be a very happy man.”
TheHawkswereabletogetouttoalead which they held for much of the match.
It would be a match winning one, taking the premiership 37-32.
Manawa Aranui was named best on court.
Speaking after the win, Hawks coach Rebecca Hicks said the competition had continued to grow each year.
“To Spotty, it’s been a hard fought contest every game that we’ve played you guys and you guys just get better and better every time.
“Tomygirls,welldone.It’sbeenahard season, we didn’t start very well, so to get to where we are now.”
By Tara Murray
ThedreamisaliveforWerribeeasitisthrough toasecondstraightVictorianFootballLeague grand final.
Afterclaimingtheirfirstminorpremiership since 2005, the Tigers made it back-to-back grand finals with a hard fought win against the Brisbane Lions in a preliminary final on Saturday.
The Tigers will this Sunday go for their second VFL premiership, with the only other one back in 1993.
For the Tigers, it’s a different group to 12 months ago but it’s ended in the same result of another grand final.
Coach Jimmy Allan said it was pretty pleasing to be back in the final game of the year.
Allan, who spent two years at the club in the early 2000s, returned to the club in the off season after Michael Barlow joined North Melbourne.
“Tobehonest,Ihadreallyhighexpectations coming in, never so much as result driven,” he said. “It was all about process and if we could get things right there was no limit on how far we could go.
“You don’t set those lofty goals, but as the season progresses you win a few games and you find yourself on top of the ladder and beating sides that are highly fancied.
“The expectations grow and we’re at a point wherehalfwaythroughtheseasonwethought we might be able to get to, it’s really exciting.”
The Tigers and Lions were met with tough conditions at Avalon Airport Oval on Saturday.
There was wind, hail and even a bit of sun at times as they faced off in a preliminary final for a second straight year.
Allan said while many people thought the conditions would have suited them, he didn’t think it was the case.
The conditions meant the game was an arm wrestle for a half. The Tigers were then able to find a way in the second half to win, 10.6 (66)-6.10 (46).
The Tigers kicked the last three goals of the game to seal the result.
“It was a tough game, but to come out on top was very pleasing,” Allan said. “We did everything in our power to just hang in there in the third quarter.
“I feel like if they had have kicked another goal or two it would have put a bit more scoreboard pressure on us with the wind.
“Some panic may have set in, but to our guys’ credit, we stayed within two goals and therewasareallystrongbeliefatthreequarter time that we would come home strongly.
“Our last quarter was probably as good as footy as we had played.”
While the Lions couldn’t convert in the third quarter with the wind, the Tigers kicked 6.1 in the final quarter with the wind.
Allan said they didn’t allow the Lions to have easy shots in the third quarter, but then they were able to get some looks in the final quarter from really dangerous spots.
He said that was the difference in the end.
For the Tigers, it was the leaders that really led the way.
Acting skipper Dom Brew, had 28 disposals while also laying 15 tackles. Jack Henderson and Louis Pinnuck also had plenty of the ball.
Allan said the leaders had stood up when they’ve needed them the most this season.
“I grabbed the leaders after the game,” he said. “For at least the last three weeks, they’ve been outstanding every week.
“The guys who were playing, Dom Brew, Jack Henderson, Louis Pinnuck, Jesse Clark and Nick Hayes have been outstanding.
“They were all great today [Saturday] but they’ve been great the last three weeks when we’ve really needed them to stand up.
“They are dragging the other guys along with them.”
Aidan Johnson and Hudson Garoni up forward were also outstanding in tricky conditions, while Jalen Pavlidis, who came back into the side, found his feet late.
Allan said they would look to enjoy the week heading into the grand final.
He said grand finals weeks are the best weeks in football.
TheTigersnowfaceanotherstandaloneside in Southport in the grand final.
The last time they played the Sharks got the win in a thriller against the Tigers, who won the first game this season between the teams.
“It’s a great opportunity to have a crack at a good side,” Allan said. “Having Southport through, the beauty with a standalone club you have a fair idea of who is playing.”
“In the end it will be who can execute better.”
Allan said they would have some selection headaches heading into the game.
Kobe Annand is available for selection after missing the preliminary final through suspension. Angus Hicks was available for selection on Saturday, but missed out.
Allan said apart from captain Nick Coughlan, they’re probably as healthy as they have been all season.
