Crafty ladies help kids
Werribee Ladies for Kids will set up shop again at Pacific Werribee from November 14-24, selling their craft works to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH).
Located at the Target end of the shopping centre, the stall will have a variety of knitwear, quilts, and other handmade items.
All proceeds will help the RCH afford critical equipment.
Judy Clough, a member for six years, finds personal reward in using her knitting skills to create items that sell and raise funds.
The group’s work not only helps patients, but also provides members a meaningful way to continue their hobby after their children and grandchildren have grown.
While the stall will be open for 10 days, the ladies work throughout the year with regular fundraising initiatives.
Those interested in applying their craft for good can contact president Heather Brett: heather.brett@bigpond.com.au or 0438 280 648
Jaidyn Kennedy
Heather Brett and Judy Clough of Werribee Ladies for Kids showcasing some of the crafts they will be selling to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital. (Damjan Janevski) 441695_01
Marcus out after 19 years
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Heather Marcus has failed in her bid to be re-elected to Wyndham council, bringing to an end her almost two-decade stint as a councillor.
Ms Marcus lost to fellow incumbent councillor Mia Shaw in Werribee Park Ward, with Ms Shaw receiving 59.89 per cent of the vote after preferences.
Ms Marcus had served on council for 19 years.
“It’s a shock, but the book is now closed and we’ve already started plans of where we go
from here,” Ms Marcus said.
“Thepeopleinthiscityhavebeenwonderful to me.”
Ms Marcus congratulated the incoming councillors and stated her desire to continue working closely with council in the coming years.
“I think we’ve got a lot of challenges, and I believe that the biggest issue is the congestion and the condition of the roads,” she said.
Incumbent councillor Josh Gilligan held off challenges from two former mayors in Kim McAliney and Henry Barlow en-route to securing re-election in Wimba Ward.
In Featherbrook Ward, incumbent councillorJasmineHillbeatformercouncillor Tony Hooper. Ms Hill was the subject of a misconduct hearing during the previous term of council.
Incumbent mayor Jennie Barrera was comfortably re-elected in Heathdale Ward, while fellow incumbents Robert Szatkowski and Susan McIntyre were re-elected in Brinbeal Ward and Cheetham Ward respectively.
Adele Hegedich narrowly missed out on re-election in Wyndham’s most populous ward, conceding the Williams Landing Ward
to Larry Zhao. Sahana Ramesh also fall short of re-election.
Incumbent Peter Maynard went relatively unchallenged in Quandong Ward, winning over 58 per cent of first preference votes, well ahead of the next closest at 13 per cent.
Bemin Ward, which was the largest in terms of candidates with a total of 15 and notably contained no incumbents, was won by Preet Singh.
Shannon McGuire defeated nine other candidates, including the incumbent Marcel Mahfoud, to take Grange Ward.
Iramoo Ward was claimed by Maria King.
Postie hell in Hoppers Crossing
Hoppers Crossing is no picnic for posties, according to new data listing the suburb as having the second most dog-related incidents in Victoria.
Australia Post is calling on councils to adopt stricter measures in response to the alarming number of dog-related incidents involving posties.
New data has revealed more than 49 posties a week have fallen victim to dog-related incidents in the past six months - an average of ten per day - with fears these numbers will continue to rise in the lead up to holiday
season.
In the past six months, 1277 dog-related incidents have occurred nationwide, despite Australia Post’s pleas for dog owners to take responsibility for their pets.
The data highlights a clear and consistent trend of aggressive behaviour, with one in three dog-related incidents continuing to occur at the customer’s front door during parcel deliveries, increasing the risk to Posties ahead of the very busy upcoming Black Friday sales and Christmas season.
To help mitigate continued threats, all
posties are equipped with a hazard device to log aggressive dog behaviour, with more serious cases alerted to councils.
AustraliaPostgeneralmanagerofsafetyand wellbeing Rod Maule stressed the importance of councils implementing stronger measures to prevent dog attacks, including increased monitoring and enforcement of animal management laws.
“Dog attacks remain one of the highest safety concerns for our people. As we head into our peak season and delivery volumes increase, there is a serious concern for the
Sign onto app and help saves lives
Werribee firefighter Rohan Rizzoli has been helping save lives through the GoodSAM app, and now he wants to get the word out to the community.
Anyone who is qualified to perform CPR, includingthosewithoutamedicalbackground, can sign up for the program and aid those in a medical emergency- usually within walking distance from their own location.
“I just enjoy helping others in the community,” Mr Rizzoli said.
He estimates that he has attended 15 alerts through the app since signing up in 2018.
Havingaleguponmostwithhisbackground as a first responder, Mr Rizzoli described some traits that make a good volunteer responder.
“Experience comes to mind, having good emotional intelligence and being able to deal withwhat’sathandandthenlateronbeingable to deal with your own emotions,” he said.
One of the more memorable emergencies Mr Rizzoli attended occurred when he was getting dressed for a CFA event.
Responding to a woman who was not breathing less than 100 metres from his home, he performed CPR for 17 minutes, an exhausting feat, much less in firefighting gear.
Witnessing unsettling scenes can be a reality of responding to emergencies, which is why GoodSAM participants receive follow-up calls and various forms of ongoing support.
“You can walk away with your chin up and your head held high knowing that you’ve put your skills to the test and done the best you can for that person,” Mr Rizzoli said.
“It’s a good feeling knowing you’ve done your best for someone in the community.”
More: ambulance.vic.gov.au/goodsam/
Jaidyn Kennedy
CFA firefighter Rohan Rizzoli with the
(Ljubica Vrankovic) 439740_01
physical and mental wellbeing of our Posties, particularly around dogs,” he said.
“Aggressive or dangerous dogs are reported to council and local rangers, however too often we see risks are not properly mitigated. This often leads to multiple instances of the same dog repeating aggressive behaviour, which can result in a severe attack on our postie.
A Wyndham council spokesperson cited the council was committed to increasing the visual presence of rangers patrolling the local area.
Road extension to begin in ‘25
Work on the Ison Road Extension is set to begin in early 2025, with the new extension projected to be opened to drivers by the end of 2026.
The extension will result in a 1.3 kilometre, four-lane road between the Ison Road overpass and the Geelong Road freeway interchange at Werribee, providing a direct link to the Princes Freeway.
According to the state government, the new link will improve connectivity between Melbourne and Geelong for local drivers and reduce congestion particularly in central Werribee.
The state government said the new road will cater for over 29,000 daily journeys by 2036 to help accommodate the growing transportation needs of Wyndham and the western suburbs.
Designated walking and cycling paths to Geelong Road have also been outlined as part of the extension.
Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) will deliver the project on behalf of Wyndham council after joint consultation on the pre-construction phase of the project.
Council is funding the Ison Road Extensionwitha$60millioncontribution fromthestategovernment’sGrowthArea Infrastructure Contribution (GAIC) fund, while contributing an additional $20 million of its own funds.
Mortar and Pestle Project launches to sound of ‘whacka’
The Karen Mortar and Pestle Project launched at the Wyndham Park Community Shed on Thursday, October 24.
The‘whackawhacka’,asthetraditionalKaren mortar and pestle is affectionately known as, is a foot-operated tool used for pounding and mixing spices, grains, and preparing sticky rice, a culinary staple of Karen culture.
The mortar and pestle were crafted by the Karen Men’s woodwork group with the guidance of project leader Eddy Say and volunteer Peter Vaux and was complimented by a mosaic of the Karen flag.
Attendees were treated to a live
demonstration of sticky rice preparation, with theKarenwomen’sgroupcraftingover100rice balls and demonstrating use of the mortar and pestle to make two kilograms of sticky rice.
Wyndham Park Community Centre’s biculturalworkerWaanTardiffsaidtheproject was culturally significant.
“This project not only highlights our culinary traditions but also celebrates our heritage, sparking conversations about the Karen refugee community in Wyndham and the ongoing human rights challenges in Myanmar,” she said.
VictorianMulticulturalCommissiondeputy
chairperson Bwe Thay said about he people of Myanmar, especially ethnic minorities, faced ongoing struggles.
“Human rights are essential to all human beings. Yet as we witness the ongoing crisis, it feels as though the world is watching in silence,” he said.
Visitors are encouraged to visit the mortar and pestle project at the Wyndham Park Community Shed, which is open to the public throughout the week alongside other programs.
Jaidyn Kennedy
The ‘whacka whacka’. (Supplied)
Werribee
GoodSAM app on his phone.
Khan’s deputy mayor bid fails
By Laura Michell
Former Wyndham councillor Intaj Khan has failed in his bid to become deputy lord mayor of the City of Melbourne.
Mr Khan was contesting the City of Melbourne election as part of ‘Team Kouta’ led by former Carlton great Anthony Koutoufides.
The pair polled 12.91 per cent of first preference votes – the fourth highest – but failed to overtake incumbent Lord Mayor Nick Reece and Deputy Lord Mayor candidate and incumbent City of Melbourne councillor Roshena Campbell on preferences.
Mr Khan said he thought Team Kouta was “reallyintheracetowin“,butpreferencesdidn’t
flow the way the team thought they would.
He also said team’s nine-week campaign was not long enough.
“It was not enough time to tell a lot of our good policies. More work was required to meet the community,” he said.
Mr Khan was first elected to Wyndham council in 2012. He stood down from council at the 2020 election.
He said he put his hand up to be deputy lord mayor because he believed Melbourne was not the city it used to be.
“It’s not the same city it was three to four yearsago,”hesaid.“Therearealotofvacancies, a lot of empty leases.
“It needs x-factor.
“You need a business progressive lord mayor and deputy lord mayor to run Town Hall.
“If you were looking for change, you haven’t achieved it.”
He said the city, which is home to his business, is “such a great place”, adding that he had thoroughly enjoyed the election.
“Wyndham is totally different to the City of Melbourne,” he said. “There is a diversity of voters with different issues across the city.
“People were more engaged with the election.”
And, he hasn’t ruled out running again in four years’ time.
“A lot of people out their trust in us,” he said.
“You only lose when you quit.”
Little River CFA brigade captain Greg Archer and firefighter Michael Dekreek. (Damjan Janevski) 442140_01
Little River brigade ready to respond
Little River Fire Brigade has received $24,000 towards a new engine bay door, which will be a great asset according to brigade captain Greg Archer.
Coming as part of the state government’s Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) grants, the announcement hascomeasLittleRiverentersitsbusiestseason for bushfires.
While the brigade’s manpower and equipment are sufficient for the time being, the
demand for resources is ever increasing.
MuchoftheseverityoffireriskinLittleRiver can be attributed to the town’s geography, a landscape that is dominated by grasslands and especially the tussock weed.
“Fire water struggles to get through the canopy of the plant – a lot of times you are putting it out and you see it flaring up behind you,” Mr Archer said.
The brigade stressed that residents and visitors should take a moment to think about
fire risks and exercise restraint, especially if they are used to suburban environments.
“There are some genuine accidents, but a lot of times when you go back on it you think you couldn’thavejustheldofflightingthatfire,”Mr Archer said. “People just need to be sensible.”
The community is encouraged to come along to the final fire safety information session at 6.30pm on Thursday, November 14 ,at Possy Newland Reserve.
Jaidyn
Kennedy
Unit, house go up in flames
Wyndham firefighters were kept busy on Sunday battling house fires in both Hoppers Crossing and Truganina.
A single-storey unit in Sheahan Crescent, Hoppers Crossing, was well alightwhenFireRescueVictoria(FRV) with assistance from CFA personnel arrived shortly after midnight.
Firefighters donned breathing apparatus and with hoselines attacked the fire in the brick home in a block of two units.
Crews were able to stop the fire from spreading to the second unit.
All occupants had evacuated safely to the front of the premises and no injuries were reported.
The residence sustained significant damage in the fire. Investigators will now work to determine the cause of the blaze.
Fire Rescue Victoria crews responded to another house on fire in Botanical Drive, Truganina, on Sunday evening.
Crews arrived to find thick smoke and flames coming from the front of a single-storey brick house.
The fire, which was contained to the front room and roof space, was declared under control at 11.21pm.
All occupants had safely evacuated the house.
The cause of the fire is not yet known but it will be investigated by FRV specialist investigators.
Intaj Khan at his mansion which is under construction in Tarneit. (Damjan Janevski) 330591_04
SESSION
WRA cleans up award
The Werribee River Association (WRA) was named the ‘2024 Cities Winner’ in the litter category in the Tidy Towns & Cities Awards on Monday, October 28.
The WRA were presented the award by Keep AustraliaBeautifulforitsWerribeeRiverLitter Blitz Program, an initiative designed to combat litter in the Werribee River and its catchment waterways.
Operating as a multifaceted campaign, the program utilises education, advocacy and direct clean up missions to tackle pollution and keep community awareness high.
The group has been involved in clean ups since its formation in 1981, but has rapidly scaled up measures in the last decade.
Five permanent clean up groups have been established and conduct monthly cleans, while individuals also perform cleans and report their work in the Litter Stopper App, a database
which is shared with the government.
The WRA estimates it removes between five to six tonnes of litter from the environment annually through the program.
The group’s education work extends to schools, supporting students with their own litter audits and actions, and giving presentations to community groups.
TheWRAcarriesouttheLitterBlitzprogram in collaboration with Wyndham council and support from Melbourne Water and other key partners such as the Environment Protection Authority.
Through partnerships with other agencies, the WRA has also joined multiple campaigns, to reduce litter at source, and to improve the amenities to contain litter.
To get involved: Lisa Field at 0433 559 530 or admin@werribeeriver.org.au.
Jaidyn Kennedy
Briefs
Learn to swim as an adult WynActive is proving that you are never too old to learn how to swim through the WynSwim program. Following a recommendation from Life Saving Victoria, Bendigo Bank expressed interest in funding swimming lessons for multicultural adults as part of their community service initiative to save lives. The initiative will run for 10 weeks at AquaPulse as a pilot program.
Police raid A Point Cook residential address was among five properties raided by police in an operation against the National Socialist Network. Police executed five search warrants across North Melbourne, Point Cook, Baxter, Ashwood and Wantirna South on Thursday, November 7. Police interviewed a 25-year-old North Melbourne man, a 23-year-old Baxter man and a 21-year-old Ashwood man in relation to the offences of serious racial vilification and grossly offensive public conduct. The men were released but police expect to charge them on summons. Police said the arrests were related to an incident that occurred in Port Melbourne about 7.30pm on Thursday, October 31, in which police allege a number of men dressed in offensive clothing verbally harassed two female members of the public.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
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Lisa Field, Julie Connell, June Sykes, Colin Styles and Arthur Harris of the The Werribee River Association celebrate their award. (Damjan Janevski) 440754_01
West MP calls for a free bus trial
By Gerald Lynch
Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank is urging the state government to overhaul Melbourne’s struggling public transport system with a focus on buses.
Arguing that the western suburbs’ bus networks are in desperate need of rerouting, more frequent services, and a trial of free fares, Mr Ettershank has tabled a motion in Parliament seeking immediate reform.
He emphasised that while Victoria’s public transport usage has declined 42 per cent from its 2018 peak, buses hold the potential to turn the system around without the hefty
costs associated with new rail infrastructure.
“Buses are cost-effective and don’t require the construction of infrastructure like platforms or tram tracks,” he said.
“The main problem is outdated routes that no longer meet the needs of our growing suburbs.”
Highlighting the inefficiency in current routes, Mr Ettershank notes that nearly half of Melbourne’s 400 bus lines serve fewer than 20 passengers per hour, with many routes “snaking around suburbia” rather than providing direct service to major destinations.
He is advocating for a network that
prioritises limited-stop buses along main roads to serve critical locations such as universities, industrial areas, and entertainment hubs.
The proposal includes a 12-month free bus trial to ease the cost of living and gather data on usage.
According to Infrastructure Victoria, each dollar reduction in bus fares increases ridership by almost 20 per cent, and a full bus could potentially replace 50 cars, alleviating traffic congestion and emissions.
More than 3000 locals have signed a Friends of the Earth petition for at least $100 million in additional operational and capital
funding to reform the bus network by 2026. Mr Ettershank also highlighted that new electric buses are already on order for Victoria, aligning with environmental goals.
In addition to cost savings, he believes improved buses would benefit people who are less likely to own cars, like students and the elderly, and enhance connections for communities currently underserved by infrequent or non-existent services.
“Better bus routes and free, frequent services would take Victoria back to being a public transport powerhouse with a network that services the people who need it,” he said.
“It’s time we get back on buses.”
Werribee veterans pay their respects to the fallen
Hundreds gathered at the Werribee War Memorial in Watton Street on Monday, November 11 to pay their respects at the annual Remembrance Day service.
The service began with a welcome by Werribee RSL president Darryl Ryan and included prayers and hymns and a commemorativeaddress,asheacknowledged the tough situation of the current world.
“It has been 106 years since the First World War, the war to end all wars … but as we look around and read our newspapers, there’s conflicts everywhere, we are not in a happy world,” he said.
“We only have to look at the 60 crosses placed here this morning … each of them represents one of the fellas from the original Shire of Werribee back in 1915 that went off for peace.
“Thank you to everyone for coming today … It’s a warm day and a wonderful turnout. It’s great to see so many people here paying respects.”
This was followed by Wyndham council chief executive Stephen Wall reciting the Ode of Remembrance, then the Last Post, a minute of silence, the Reveille, and the national anthem.
The service was capped off by a large showing of wreaths laid onto the cenotaph, with representatives from the Werribee RSL, the local New Zealand RSL, Thomas Carr College, Tarneit Rise Primary School, as well as Lalor MP Joanne Ryan and Tarneit MP Dylan Wight.
The morning concluded back at the Werribee RSL, where guests enjoyed light refreshments and discussion.
Gerald Lynch
Free expo for businesses
The Proudly Wyndham Business Expo is comingtotheEncoreEventsCentreinHoppers Crossing on Thursday, November 28.
From9amto4pm,Wyndhambusinesseswill have the opportunity to share ideas, showcase their products and services, and expand their local supply networks.
More than 50 local businesses will be exhibitinganarrayofproductsandservicesthat range from IT consultancies to merchandise specialists and manufacturers.
The free event will have industry experts from all fields on hand to provide attendees advice and guide them through practical workshops.
Eight 45-minute workshops will run across the day and help business owners navigate the world of artificial intelligence, social media advertising, cybersecurity and mental health maintenance.
The combination of full-day and individual workshops will allow event-goers to tailor their own itinerary according to their needs.
Free headshots will be available for those seeking to sharpen up their Linkedin profile and take control of their social media presence.
Wyndham council’s business support hub will be on hand to interact with attendees and show them ways that council can help their businesses, as well as how to get involved in the Love Your Local campaign
Utilisingdigitalresources,afreerecruitment toolkit, obtaining small business permits and bill reduction tips are among the other useful aids businesses can gain from the support hub.
An end of year networking event will follow the expo from 5-7pm, allowing the local business community to connect, reflect and discuss2025.Details:https://events.humanitix. com/proudly-wyndham-business-expo
Werribee RSL president Darryl Ryan laying a wreath onto the cenotaph. (Gerald Lynch)
Veteran Craig Shaw proudly wore his medals on Remembrace Day. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 439589
Vietnam veteran Bruce Hicks a the RSL.
Veteran Gery Williamson.
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In his father’s footsteps
Mawien Ariik is striving to follow in his father’s selfless footsteps. His father was killed in the war in Sudan and he was separated from his widowed mother, living in refugee camps before arriving in Australia. Now the Deer Park resident is working to improve healthcare in his family’s village, as Afraa Kori reports.
Deer Park’s Mawien Ariik is one of many war orphans alive today thanks to his father’s selfless sacrifice.
Born in war-torn Sudan and raised by his widowed mother, Mr Ariik was eventually separated from his family and spent many years in refugee camps in Uganda and Kenya before arriving in Australia in 2005.
“Ever since my father was killed in the war, I took it positively and didn’t cry at that time. He fought for my freedom, now I’m free, safe, and living in a great country,“ he said.
“Given the opportunities I have in Australia, hissacrificeinspiresmetogivebacktothosehe fought for and make a difference in his honour. I’m also inspired to pass forward the help that I received from people who helped me during my disruptive childhood and helped me come to Australia as a young refugee boy. I want to leave a legacy as someone who was helped and continues to help others.”
When Mr Ariik returned to his home village as an adult, he was devastated to see people still suffering after his father had fought and died for them to be free.
“I went back to Sudan in 2017 and saw that nothing has changed since I left as a little kid,” he said. “When the war was happening, it stopped people from providing basic health care services, and I thought after Sudan’s independence, these services would be delivered to people. There’s still nothing in the village where I was born and where my family lives, even in the capital city [Juba] people are sick on the floor when they go to a public hospital.
“The health conditions affected my family members and I lost one of my nephews because
‘‘ If you see something wrong and you don’t say or do anything, then you are the same or equal to the person committing those atrocities ... it’s a collective responsibility, if we join hands that will make a difference ’’
- Mawien Ariik
oftheoutbreakofdiseaseinthevillage.Mysick grandfather was hand-carried by 10 villagers for over 10-hours to get him to medical care. Young girls are also missing a lot of days of school due to having no access to menstrual products.”
After noticing the need for sustainable healthcare initiatives and health education programmes, Mr Ariik and his friends launched South Sudanese Health Matters Incorporated (SSHMI), a non-government and non-profit organisation to improve the health and life chances of people living in Sudan.
Over the course of 12 months, SSHMI supplied over 1000 sanitary hygiene kits to girls and women in Lou-Ariik village, as well as employing and training community health workers to educate the community about hygiene practices.
SSHMIisnowprogressingwithitslong-term projectstobuildandmaintainaprimaryhealth
care clinic and school within Lou Ariik.
“Before my father passed, he said he’s a chief of the orphans and the needy and that’s exactly what he did for 55 years in his village,” Mr Ariik said. “So we put a memorial clinic in his honour and hopefully expand this vision to other villages. I might not be able to impact the whole village but I’ve got to start somewhere and there might be other people later on in that impact journey that will join me.”
For the Dhour Ariik memorial clinic, SSHMI raised $25,756 with the support of diverse communities at its first fundraiser in Braybrook.
It featured diverse speakers, including Western Health junior medical doctor Anei Ochan-Thou, Melbourne University postdoctoral research fellow, Dr Mark Deng, Shepparton registered nurse Akuot Wundit and Geelong author Kgshak Akec.
“The fundraiser’s theme was resilience and we carefully selected a young group of panellists, to discuss their experiences and their journeys, whether it’s schooling, work or life. So we were raising funds for the good cause and at the same time, motivating and mobilising the community,” Mr Ariik said.
“The goal was to leverage this to champion and advocate for basic services like healthcare, schools and menstrual products for the people in the village. If you see something wrong and you don’t say or do anything, then you are the same or equal to the person committing those atrocities or denying basic health services to the people. It’s a collective responsibility, if we join hands that will make a difference.“
Melton resident and SUDD foundation founder Ambrose Mareng is another South
Sudanese who recently visited his country of birth. He said many Sudanese-Australians will depend on SSHMI as a lifeline to bring health careservicestotheirextendedfamilyinSudan.
“South Sudanese Australians are directly affected, as they have family in South Sudan. The dire situation there – a maternal mortality rate of 1 in 10, for example – weighs heavily on them,” he said.
“To my knowledge, Mawien is the first member of the South Sudanese diaspora in Australia to initiate building a hospital back in South Sudan ... Sudanese Australians want to helpbutmaynotknowhow.Theyneedsystems in place, motivation, and encouragement. Seeing progress like this would spur them on.
“Existing healthcare facilities are primitive and far from the neediest areas. The area where the proposed hospital would be built is 200 miles from town and conditions deteriorate every rainy season. Heavy rains and flooding cut people off from towns; makeshift roads wash away. In emergencies, people die because there’s no way to transport patients to hospitals, even the hospitals themselves are poorly equipped.
“If the Australian community, both Sudanese and otherwise, support this effort, it could make a massive difference in the Tonj NorthAreaofWarrapState.WhiteAustralians visiting or contributing to South Sudan would make a profound impact, changing lives with their skills, knowledge, and resources. By building the hospital, we send a message that Australians care about South Sudan and want to improve their lives there.”
Details: https://southsudanesehealth.org/ donate/
Mawien Ariik. (Damjan Janevski) 431600_02
Boost for Vic maternity services
care as close to home as possible.
The taskforce will identify opportunities and address known complex challenges that can have an effect on the service delivery of Victoria’sworld-classmaternitycare,including workforce recruitment and retention.
A taskforce will be set up to help improve maternity services across Victoria.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said thetaskforcewouldfocusonensuringhospitals have the best workforce and models of care in place – so families have access to safe, reliable
It will be made up of nursing and midwifery experts–includingtheAustralianNursingand Midwifery Federation (ANMF) Vic Branch and representatives from regional and rural health services.
A targeted expression of interest process to join the taskforce is underway, with work to review Victoria’s maternity system to identify
strategies for improvement commencing shortly.
The taskforce will work with health services, community and experts to consider models of care that support women to have choice in their pregnancy and birth experiences, while strengthening rural and regional maternity workforces.
“Victoria has some of the world’s best and safest maternity and newborn services in the world – this taskforce is an opportunity to continue improving these services, so women receive the best support during pregnancy and birth,“ Ms Thomas said.
“It’s so important to ensure all of our maternity health service providers whether they are in the city or the most remote areas of Victoria – the taskforce experts will help to implement the changes we need to see.”
ANMF (Victorian branch) assistant secretary Madeleine Harradence said the ANMF was looking forward to contributing to the taskforce’s work.
“Weknowtherearemultiplewaysofworking that result in sustainable and professionally satisfying workforce outcomes and enable womentoaccessmaternitycareclosetohome,“ she said.
Supportive abortion care at Northern Health
For the past six years, the abortion service at BroadmeadowsHospitalhasbeenprovidingan essential service to the community.
The service offers both early medication and surgical abortion in a pro-choice, safe, and supportive environment. Operating on Thursdays and Fridays, the clinic is staffed by a multidisciplinary team including clinical midwives, doctors, a counsellor-social worker, and a research midwife. Together they ensure that patients receive the highest level of care and support throughout their journey.
NorthernHealthclinicalmidwifeconsultant and clinic co-ordination Kate Chaouki said the abortion service at Broadmeadows Hospital is an integral part of Northern Health’s ongoing efforts to provide accessible reproductive healthcare services for women in the region.
“Access to safe abortion is an essential part of reproductive health care. We are proud to offer this service at Northern Health and enjoy
working collaboratively with primary health care providers and other major health services to ensure ongoing provision of high-quality abortion care to our community,” she said. Counsellor- social worker Sarah
Wotherspoon joined the abortion service in June 2023. The addition of social work has broadened the scope of the clinic and allows access to non-directive pregnancy counselling, family violence support and other vital
assistance to patients who need it.
“We knew that social work was important in thisspace,buthadnotquiteanticipatedthehigh level of demand for Sarah’s skills in the clinic. We recently celebrated Sarah’s 200th referral for abortion counselling-social work and could not provide this level of comprehensive care without her,” Ms Chaouki said.
Ms Wotherspoon said she enjoyed working in this space and consistently receives positive feedback from patients whose experience of abortion care is enhanced by her support.
“I am proud to work with this highly skilled, supportive and kind team, providing an essential health service to our patients,” she said.
Those who are pregnant and seeking pregnancy options counselling can contact 1800 My Options which is available Monday to Friday, 9 am-5 pm, via www.1800myoptions. org.au or 1800 696 784.
Midwife Kylie Johnston, counsellor-social worker Sarah Wotherspoon, Dr Eliza Robinson, clinical midwife consultant Kate Chaouki and research midwife Eleanor Johnson. (Supplied)
MY PLACE
Garry Cowley is a pastor at the Werribee Church of Christ. He speaks with Jaidyn Kennedy.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I have been a Church of Christ pastor for over 25yearsandlhavebeenattheWerribeeChurch of Christ since 2015. Before l became a pastor, l was a chef by trade. I have an amazing wife Cynthia of whom l met in the Philippines, and this year we celebrated 31 years of marriage. Being a pastor is not a 9am-5pm job per se, but it is a calling. I really enjoy doing what l do and am passionate about being a local pastor.
What’s your connection to Wyndham?
WeareoriginallyfromWesternAustraliabefore we were approached to come to Werribee. As a church we are community-focused. We run a foodbank, conduct let’s talk English conversational classes for migrants on Saturday mornings for people to practice their English. We do a men’s breakfast every few months. We have two Bible study groups during the week in addition to our Sunday morning worship service. We are looking at how we can be effective in ministering to our community.
What do you like about where you live?
Wyndham is a great multicultural place to live. People are friendly and the council is very community-oriented. We often thought about coming to Melbourne over the years to pastor a church and l always said l would like to be in a church that’s halfway between Melbourne and Geelong. We have the best of both worldsa bit of country and city. Coming to Werribee is a dream come true for my wife and I. This is a wonderful place to live and be part of.
Where is your favourite place to spend time?
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?
I may have the title as a pastor but l am your
When l’m not in the office or on the road, I love my coffee and enjoy going to local coffee shops and catching up with people. I’m an avid reader and enjoy going to bookshops. My wife and l like to go out to different restaurants in the area and have a meal and spend time together.
average Aussie bloke at heart. I am a Hawthorn supporter. When the AFL season is on, l enjoy going to the MCG and cheering for my Hawks. l enjoy English history and this has been one of my great loves and passions for years. I keep myself fit. l walk for about 90 minutes in the morning and go for a bike ride for about 20 minutes in the evening.
Christmas craft
Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity. Stephanie starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10, where she discoveredandignitedherpassionforcrafting. Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary. This month, Stephanie is getting into the festive spirit with a crafty reindeer.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
My wife and l enjoy living here. It’s a great place to be. However, my heart goes out to the social issues that face us as a community and how they can be solved and make this community a better place to live.
Christmas cheer reindeer
Materials: 16 mini craft sticks 2 googly eyes
Brown and gold foam paper Twine 1 red gem
Equipment: Glue gun / glue stick
Scissors Craft knife Craft mat
Step 1
Body: Glue 2 craft sticks side by side for one side of the body and repeat this with 2 more sticks for the other side of the body. Glue them together to form one body.
Step 2
Legs: Glue 2 craft sticks at an angle on one side of the body for the legs. Glue 2 more craft sticks on the other side, lining them up with the first set of legs.
Step 3
Tail: Take 1 craft stick, cut it in half, and glue one of the halves to the back of the body to form the tail.
sticks for the back of the head.
Step 5
Antlers and ears: Cut out 2 antler shapes from brown glitter foam. Glue the antlers and the ears (half craft sticks) to the back of the head.
Step 6
Hanging string: Attach a piece of twine between the antlers. Glue the face to the head.
Step 7
Eyes and nose: Glue 2 googly eyes to the face. Cut an oval shape from the gold glitter foam for the nose base and glue in place. Glue the red gem for the nose.
Step 8
Attach the head to the body.
Stephanie Martinez.
$100m refunded back to the community in CDS first year
Victorians have saved one billion drink containers from landfill in the first 12 months of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic). That’s $100 million back in the community’s pockets, making it Australia’s most successful container deposit scheme in its first year of operation.
The scheme allows Victorians to return eligible drink containers for a 10-cent refund at more than 640 return points across the state. Containers are then processed to make new products, working towards a
circular economy.
Before CDS Vic launched a year ago, drink containers were the second most littered item in Victoria. In just 12 months, the scheme is returning containers at a rate of one in three via CDS Vic refund collection points.
Charities and community groups have become involved in the scheme to raise more than $950,000 for grassroots activities across the state. Alexandra Football Netball Club raised more than $14,000 towards club supplies, while Hamilton Bowling Club’s
Every drink container returned helps the planet, your community and your pocket.
$5,300 funded a new green.
CDSVicispartoftheVictoriangovernment’s $515 million investment to transform the state’s waste and recycling sector. CDS Vic is a product stewardship scheme, funded by contributions from the beverage industry.
Jim Round, CEO of scheme coordinator VicReturn, is proud of the community’s enthusiasm for recycling in the first year.
“We are committed to seeing the scheme go from strength to strength over the next 12 months and the years ahead. We are working
with community groups like Scouts and major sporting organisations like AFL Victoria and Tennis Victoria to reach as many Victorians as possible,” he said.
ZoneoperatorsVisy,Return-ItandTOMRA Cleanaway, play a crucial role in making recycling accessible, efficient, and rewarding for all Victorians.
To find out more about CDS Vic and locate your nearest refund collection point, visit cdsvic.org.au
VICTORIA’S CONTAINER DEPOSIT SCHEME
SpringFest pops up in Point Cook
SpringFest at Point Cook’s pop-up park is back for another year offering more than a month of entertainment for the whole community.
The festival runs through until Saturday December 14, with free events each week.
On Saturday November 16 from 12pm until 4pm, there will be focus on STEM and sustainability at a free family fun day. Explore science, technology, engineering and mathematic activities. There will also be educational talks with experts and
sustainable living inspiration.
Kids are encouraged to dress in their favourite costume during a kids’ fun day on Saturday November 23 from noon until 4pm. There will be activities for children of all ages, a DJ, roaming characters and food stalls.
On the last Saturday in November, the pop-up park will host a Christmas dance party with DJs, local entertainment and food.
Get your Christmas presents sorted with a visit to the Christmas Twilight Market on Friday December 6 from 6pm.The market will
A day to catch a carp
Catch a Carp Day will be returning to Manor Lakes Reserve on Saturday, November 30, in a bid to tackle an invasive species.
Hosted by the Werribee River Association (WRA), the free event will also serve as a way for locals to learn a few things about fishing and hone their skills.
WRA programs manager Jess Fairfax said there was a need to combat carp in Wyndham’s waterways.
“I’m sure that anybody who fishes knows how awful carp are, they can very quickly take over waterways,” Ms Fairfax said. “They are just detrimental to native aquatic plants and animals, they’ll eat the juveniles of the native fish that are already quite endangered.”
In addition to the damage caused to native flora and fauna, carp also significantly contribute to geological destruction, which is onlyexacerbatedbythespecieshighrobustness, highrateofreproductionandabilitytomigrate across waterways.
With competitions, prizes to win and a free
barbeque with vegan and vegetarian options, boredom and hunger will not be an issue.
Among the competitions will be biggest by weight, biggest by length, most fish caught and best catch that is not a carp. To be eligible for prizes,entrantsmustregisterattheregistration tent between 10am-12.30pm.
Bait, tackle and rod hire will be provided to eageranglersatnocharge,butwillbesubjectto availability on the day.
Anyone fishing for carp are recommended to use corn as bait, as to avoid catching other wildlife such as turtles.
Some shade will be available, but guests are encouraged to bring their own tents and umbrellas, and to stay sun smart by wearing sunscreen and hats.
Jaidyn Kennedy
Werribee River Association’s Jess Fairfax, Charlote Williamson and Cliff Meddings are ready for ‘Catch a Carp’ day. (Damjan Janevski) 441350_03
MAKEBUSES
offer handmade jewellery, knitwear, crafts, candles and much more.
The final event is Carols in the Park on Saturday December 14 from 6pm to 9pm. Join Lightpoint Church and CrossCulture Church for all your favourite carols. There will also be roving entertainment, food stalls and kids’ activities.
The Point Cook Pop Up Park is supported by CoLocal, Stockland, Wyndham City Council and the state government’s Living Local program.
A cultural display at last year’s SpringFest.
Eagle Gym has a fresh look and equipment upgrades
WynActive proudly announces the reopening of Eagle Gym after a short period of renovations, during which it has received a revitalised appearance and significant upgrades to its cardio equipment, including new dumbbells and barbells.
The refurbishment project commenced on October 23, and the gym is now ready to welcome back its members with a fresh look designed to enhance their fitness experience.
Katherine Ewert, health and fitness coordinator at WynActive, shared her excitement, stating, “I’m thrilled for the gym to have a fresh look, enhancing our members’ experience. Personally, I can’t wait to see the new spin bikes in the cycle studio”.
WynActive invites everyone to visit and explore Eagle Gym, where members can enjoy the upgraded equipment and invigorating atmosphere.
While the current improvements at Eagle GymarecompleteWynActive,incollaboration withWyndhamCity,hascommencedthenext phase of the enhancement plan. The Health Club at AquaPulse is currently undergoing significant upgrades and is scheduled to reopen on December 4.
WynActive is grateful for the ongoing support from Wyndham City to enable this project to be implemented for the benefit of the Wyndham community.
For more information on the Eagle Gym project, please visit: https://wynactive.com. au/health-club-refresh/
WynActive’s Eagle Gym
Reopens with a Fresh Look and Equipment
Kat and Josh welcome patrons back to Eagle Gym. (Supplied)
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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
Walking Football 4 Health Victoria
A modified version of soccer suitable for all regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or ability played in a safe environment with no running or contact. All ages: 10.30am-noon on Thursdays at Featherbrook Reserve, Point Cook and 12.30-1.30pm on Fridays at Eagle Stadium, Werribee. All abilities: 2-3pm on Fridays at Eagle Stadium, Werribee. $5 per person or $4 for senior citizens and carers card holders.
Mick, 0430 163 550 or m.trim@wf4hvic.onmicrosoft.com
Walking Football 4 Health Victoria
Two free sessions running for women of all ages during This Girl Can Week. 4.30-5.30pm on Thursday, November 14, at Eagle Stadium, Werribee and 2-4pm on Sunday, November 17 at Ironbark Fields, Tarneit.
Mick, 0430 163 550 or m.trim@wf4hvic.onmicrosoft.com
Point Cook Combined Probus Club
Retired or semi-retired people are invited to join this active social group. Enjoy an impressive and interesting monthly guest speaker. Interesting monthly outings, and fortnightly lunches where the development of friendships are encouraged. The Point Cook Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook.
Cathy Guiterrez, 0421 188 129 or cathyguiterrez@tpg.com.au
Lions Club
The Lions Club of Point Cook meets at the Featherbrook Community Centre on the third Monday of the month at 7.30pm. 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
Adult drumming classes
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, 7.30-8.30pm, during school terms, at Saltwater 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
Vegetarian cooking classes
The Vegetarian and Cultural Association is a non-profit organisation that promotes vegetarianism and principles of a humanitarian way of life.They run cooking classes at Manor Lakes Community Learning Center every first Saturday of the month from 9.30am-noon.
info@nurtureland.com.au
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
Walking Netball
Walking Netball is a low impact, no running, no jumping version for those that love the
fun, friendship and activity of a weekly game of netball. Sessions are run every Thursday during school terms, from 8pm, at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. 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
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
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
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
With One Voice Wyndham 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
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
This week’s photographer’s choice is of Amedeo Gallicchio and his Halloween display. (Damjan Janevski) 441340_01
Get creative with ‘Lady Mohawk’
Local legend Sally ‘Lady Mohawk’ Walshe is heading to Brimbank to develop and inspire budding artists of any skill or experience level with three art courses.
The sessions are free and open to all community members of all abilities, providing a fun way for individuals, families and groups to work for a common purpose.
Starting at the Sunshine library on Monday, November18,MsWalshewillrunalinoprinting workshop from 10.30am to 1.30pm. She has been printmaking for more than 15 years and will teach people to make their own linoprints.
This three-hour course covers design techniques,transferringandcarvingdesignsas well as inking and printing original art pieces.
Participants will walk away with their own carved linocut. This class is great for individuals, friends and couples as well as a team building activity.
Later in the week, Ms Walshe will head to the St Albans Community Centre, offering a chance for day time workers to join in, on Wednesday, November 20 from 4.30pm to 7.30pm for a repurposing art workshop.
Participants will use recycled materials to create works of art, encouraging sustainability and creativity, whilst teaching people how to make art resourcefully. All art will be crafted entirely from reusable and recycled material.
Finally, she will be out at Sydenham Library on Saturday, November 23 from 11am to 2pm
for another linoprinting session.
Ms Walshe said the classes are a great blend of creativity and sustainability.
“I love to be environmental in my art classes and artwork. For the linoprinting classes, I use sustainable inks, paper and linocut and for the repurpose workshops everything is made entirely from recycled or disused materials,” she said.
“These are great ways to explore creativity as afamily,withafriend,orjustbyyourself,whilst also being considerate of the environment.”
Although classes are free, registrations are essential: creativebrimbank.com.au/whats-on
Revolution, rock and rubber gloves
“It’s a funny, feisty cabaret,” is how Newport performer Donna Jackson described her new show premiering at Kindered Bandroom in Yarraville on Friday, November 15. With a name like ‘Art Accidents and Underpants’ it seems a pretty apt description and even more so given the content.
“It’s me telling a story about all girl bands in the 1980’s and it’s about an incident where I got caught driving around with lots of girls in a car and got taken to the police station and wouldn’t tell them my name so there was a strip search involving rubber gloves,” said Jackson of the show which fortunately focuses
less on all rubber gloves and more on all girl bands.
“If we don’t tell our stories how will the next generation know there was a time in the 1980’s when women picked up guitars and set up dance parties all over Melbourne and across Australia,” she said of her motivation for writing the show.
Jackson’s band, Nice Girls Don’t Spit, were so popular at the time they were able to fly around Australia performing to huge crowds of dancing women.
However, rather than a nostalgia trip, Jackson said the show was a celebration of
a feminist movement which she recalled as ‘trying to change the world’ while dancing, singing and driving fast at the same time.
EachsceneofArtAccidentsandUnderpants covers one of these themes in what Jackosn described as a “fast moving storytelling musical slam.”
After three performances in Yarraville on November 15, 23 and 30, Jackson hopes to go back to her rock band roots and take the show around Australia.
Bookings: kinderedbanroom.com.au
Cade Lucas
Carols by Candlelight will light up mansion
Wyndham Carols by Candlelight is returning to the great lawn of Werribee Mansion on Saturday, December 7, in what is poised to be a magical celebration of the holiday spirit.
The event, which has grown into Victoria’s largest Christmas celebration outside of Melbourne’s Christmas Eve concert over its more than 30 years of running, sold out last year with over 5000 attendees.
Renowned Australian soprano Silvie Paladino will headline the occasion, sharing the stage with Salvation Army Melbourne Staff Band who will be conducted by Ken Waterworth as his 30 plus year tenure as bandleader comes to a close.
Gates will open earlier this year at 5pm, givingfamiliesmoretimetoenjoythepre-show fanfare that includes an expanded food truck
selectionandextendedkid’sactivities,aheadof the 7pm start time. The Nativity Procession, a unique mainstay of Wyndham Carols, will be on full display down the middle of the great lawn during the evening, with real camels and a donkey to
Games for the young at heart
Whittlesea’s senior residents will be taking centre stage over the next month for the municipality’s Seniors’ Festival. The festivities will be launched on Tuesday, November 12 with the Young at Heart Games at Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC), 35 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang. The games for over-55s will begin with a community torch walk and opening ceremonyfrom9am,withthecompetition starting at 11am.
Epping’s The Y Leisure City will host seniors’ tennis sessions on November 14 and walking football on November 21.
Whittlesea’s first Silver Rainbows Café will be held at Laurimar Community Activity Centre on November 19, while Oz Ten Pin Bowling in Epping will host the festival on November 22.
Piano accordionist Phil Carroll will entertain the crowd at Kirrip Community Centre in Wollert on November 26.
Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre will hold a carpet bowls session on November28andtherewillbeacity-wide bus tour on November 29.
Seniors can give pickleball a try at Mill Park Basketball Stadium on December 4 or social golf at the Growling Frog Golf Course in Donnybrook on December 10.
Whittlesea council said the seniors’ festival recognises and celebrates the contributions of seniors in the community.
There is something for everyone, including tennis, walking football, 10-pin bowling,carpetbowls,golf,pickleballand more.
Mernda resident, Bob Rampling, 76. is a golf enthusiast and is excited to be participating in the torch walk and golf competition.
accompany the show.
Those interested in contributing more to the festivities beyond the attendance are encouraged to reach out to Wyndham Carols via their website, while updates can be found at facebook.com/wyndhamcarols and @ wyndhamcarols on Instagram.
The Wyndham Carols by Candlelight is a non-profit event organised by the Wyndham Ministers Network that represents 17 local churches in Wyndham with support of Wyndham City Council.
All money raised will go back into maintaining the event for years to come.
Children under 12 can attend for free, while adult tickets are $18.90 and concession $13.
Tickets and information: https:// wyndhamcarols.org.au/
“The games bring people from all walks of life together, and it’s great to see everyone enjoying themselves. They provide an opportunity to try out new and different things,” he said. “It’s always good fun, good exercise, and a chance to getoutinthefreshair,talkingandmixing with like-minded people.”
Bookings are needed and spectators are welcome at all events.
Donna Jackson’s new cabaret show premiering in Yarraville on November 15. (Damjan Janevski) 441277_01
Werribee Park Mansion lights up for Wyndham Carols by Candlelight. (Supplied)
Bob Rampling is excited to be participating in the Young at Heart Games. (Supplied)
Gerald Lynch
Sally Walshe at Sunshine Library, where she will lead a linoprint class. (Damjan Janevski) 442011_06
Bond Cleaning Brize
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which 25-year-old North Melbourne Kangaroos forward shockingly announced his retirement in October?
2. Name the NRL team that wears blue and gold.
3. Which Spaniard won the 2024 Ballon d’Or?
4. Which Spaniard won the 2024 Ballon d'Or
5. In 2019, former Yankee Mariano Rivera became the only man to achieve what post-career feat?
6. Giants, thunderbirds and crows are some of the sports teams of which Australian city?
7. Which regional Victorian city has a team debuting in the WNBL this season?
What do the Olympic rings represent?
Which three US horse races make up the Triple Crown?
What is the maximum number of greyhounds competing in any one
Which Australian wicketkeeper-batsman has officially announced his retirement from international cricket?
The AFL has launched an investigation into which coach’s prominent new role with a finance firm?
Legendary horse trainer Bart Cummings won how many Melbourne Cups?
14. In the closely-fought F1 championship, which team finished first in the Mexican Grand Prix?
15. The Constellation Cup is a Test series fought between rivals Australia and New Zealand in which sport?
16. Which famous Premier League soccer club has had its worst start to a season in 35 years?
17. The top-ranked horse in the world, Via Sistina, won which major race in October?
18. Which cricket team handed India a rare home defeat in a recent Test series?
19. And which Kiwi spinner unexpectedly took 13 wickets in the second match?
20. In which year did Michelle Payne win the Melbourne Cup on Prince of Penzance?
21. How many meetings was jockey Jamie Kah banned for due to careless riding on 2024's Derby Day?
22. Which AFL team won the 2024 McClelland Trophy for the best combined record across the AFL and AFLW seasons?
23. Which Australian city was the most recent to become part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series?
24. Josh Addo-Carr was recently sacked by which NRL club?
25. Which Australian track and field athlete was recently inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame?
27. And at what spot is the Australian men’s basketball team currently ranked?
28. Australia played which team in the 2024 Pacific Championships Men’s Bowl Final?
29. How many metres is the Melbourne Cup run over?
30. And which outsider was the Cup winner this year?
YOUR NEW CAREER
Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part Time sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.
Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.
Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
26. Which nation is ranked second on the Men’s FIBA Basketball World Rankings, behind the US?
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every
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 Sweet sauce made with milk and eggs (7)
5 Tableland (7)
9 Gloomy (9)
10 Distort (5)
11 SleepingBeauty protagonist (6)
12 Elegant (8)
14 Mother or father (6)
15 Fur (4)
19 Web auction site (4)
20 To present (6)
24 Small blade (8)
25 Marketplace (6)
27 Town famed for witchcraft trials (5)
28 Largeness (9)
29 Ocean creature (3,4)
30 Region (7)
DOWN
1 Occasional (6)
2 A planet (6)
3 Relating to cultivated land (8)
4 Speaker’s platform (4)
5 Showing something to a group (10)
6 Movement (6)
7 Main action of a play (8)
8 Inverted (8)
13 Horrific (10)
16 Fierce storms (8)
17 Flowering shrub (8)
18 Initial service fee (8)
21 Cloisonné (6)
22 Female Arabic name meaning captivating (6)
23 Stick of wax used for writing (6)
26 Neglect (4)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 TheDictionaryofLostWords and TheBookbinderof Jericho are novels by which Australian author?
2 Avatar, ClashoftheTitans and HacksawRidge are all movies starring which actor?
3 What is the name of Australia’s famous portraiture art prize?
4 From which language are ballet terms derived?
5 Calcium carbonate is more commonly known as what? 6 Sauerkraut primarily consists of what?
7 What ocean lies to the west of Australia?
8 Campari, Gin and Red vermouth make up what popular cocktail?
9 What does an anemometer measure?
10 Musician Nick Cave (pictured) most often performs as part of which band?
Reviewing the Subaru WRX AWD
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
I remember the first time I took my father-in-law for a blast in a WRX.
It was the Club Spec Evo IV and it was the year 2000, or thereabouts.
“Are you ready?” I asked, preparing to floor it on a long straight. He nodded.
Wooshda!
“Geez!” he managed, holding tightly to the armrest as he was forced back in his seat.
Tony’s dead now but nothing much has changed since those days 25 years ago.
TheWRX–it’sjusttheWRXthesedays–is still one of the most exciting cars money can buy.
Competitors such as the EVO have come and gone, but the REX soldiers on. Its days must be numbered however as society moves away from the internal combustion engine.
Styling
The fifth and latest generation WRX was released in 2022.
Subaruhasstruggledtokeepthepricebelow $40K since launch in 1994, but somewhere along the line that battle was lost.
These days prices start from $44,990 for the manual or $48,990 for the auto – still very competitive.
I guess some people buy the auto, but those who fancy themselves as real drivers will be drawn to the manual, now with six gears and lockout reverse.
For $54,490 you can have the RS Manual, the subject of our review, while the top of the line tS Sport Lineartronic is $56,990 – that’s an auto.
Prices for the Sportswagon, known briefly as the Levorg, start from $49,990. All wagons are auto only.
Standard equipment is extensive across the grades. There’s cloth upholstery and two-zone climate air, 18-inch alloys, keyless entry and start, leather-wrapped tilt and reach adjust wheel, split-fold rear seats, auto lights and wipers (the LED headlights follow the wheels), electric parking brake, power-folding exterior mirrors and tyre pressure monitoring.
Our RS test vehicle ups the ante with Ultrasuede trim, power-adjust driver and front passenger seats, electric driver lumbar support, heated seats for front and outer rear seats, electric sunroof, ambient lighting, LED puddle lights, driver monitoring system, plus additional Vision Assist features including front and side view monitors.
WRX is covered by a five-year warranty, with five-year/75,000km capped price servicing and 12 months roadside assistance.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of an 11.6-inch portrait-style touchscreen, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth with voice control and audio streaming, along with six-speaker audio.
The latter consists of 4 x 160mm full-range speakers, in the front and rear doors, plus two dash-mounted tweeters that we’re told not only deliver better sound than before, but bring a 15 per cent weight reduction.
RS and tS sedans feature a premium Harman Kardon 10-speaker audio system witha265mmsubwoofermountedontherear parcel shelf.
It incorporates ‘Clari-Fi’ and ‘GreenEdge’ digital technologies designed to restore audio quality lost during compression.
The entry grade misses out on satellite navigation, but it’s standard across the rest of the range.
All score AUX, USB-A and USB-C ports in the front, while RS and tS sedans and all Sportswagons, get a second set in the rear.
Physical buttons are provided for such things as the aircon, volume and tuning as well as the demister.
And, believe it or not, our RS has a single
CD player hidden in the centre console.
But you won’t find wireless phone charging in any version of the WRX.
Safety
Oops. The safety rating for WRX expired in 2022 and it needs to be re-tested.
That said it does come with eight airbags, a reversing camera and Subaru Vision Assist which has finally been added to manual versions.
This includes Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning and lead vehicle start alert.
There’s also Emergency Lane Keep Assist, Lane Centring Function, Lane Departure Prevention,LaneSwayWarning,Pre-Collision Braking System, Pre-Collision Brake Assist, AutonomousEmergencySteering,BrakeLight Recognition and Speed Sign Recognition. Also fitted are Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), EyeSight Assist Monitor (RS), Front View Monitor (FVM) (RS), High Beam Assist (HBA), Lane Change Assist (LCA), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
However, the manual still misses out on Reverse Automatic Braking.
There are dual outboard ISOFix points, and three top-tether points for child seats.
Engines/transmissions
Under the bonnet is a larger, 2.4-litre turbocharged, horizontally-opposed fourcylinder engine (up from 2.0-litres).
Surprisingly, though, it produces just 5kW more than its predecessor, with 202kW of power at 5600 rpm and 350Nm of torque from 2000-5200 rpm.
The torque output is the same as before, but it’sproducedlowerintherevrange,generating high torque from lower engine speeds.
Drive is to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission (our test vehicle), or a
CVT style auto with eight steps or gears.
But don’t be confused by all this talk of ‘symmetrical’ all-wheel drive, because it doesn’t mean full-time four-wheel drive.
Mostofthetimetheoperatesinfront-wheel drive – the back wheels only come into play when needed.
Driving
It’s been said before but it bears saying again thattheWRXstillrepresentsthebestbangfor your driver buck that money can buy.
It’s difficult to imagine anyone being disappointed with the performance of this car.
If you like driving, especially along leafy winding roads, and you enjoy the sensation of braking, down-changing and getting the timing just right as the car fires out of the corner again – then you’ll want the manual.
Just be aware however that it is a commitment in traffic and sitting on hills, balancing the clutch and throttle, waiting for the lights to go green, one that becomes tiring very quickly.
And although the WRX is pretty quick off the line, it takes some practice to achieve this feat in the manual.
Our best advice is to give it a squirt and get out of first as soon as you can. After that, it’s all go, go go – but be sure to keep an eye on the tacho!
Suspension is fully independent with MacPherson struts at the front and double rear wishbones.
The ride is pretty firm, even harsh depending on the surface, but it works a treat, particularly threading corners at a rate of knots. Overtaking is a breeze.
RS rides on black 18-inch wheels with 245/40 profile rubber, producing impressive grip.
The brakes are excellent.
Fuel consumption for the manual is rated
RATINGS
Looks: 7/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 5/10
Thirst: 5/10
Practicality: 6.5/10
Comfort: 6.5/10
Tech: 7.5/10
Value: 8/10
Overall: 6.7/10
at 9.9L/100km on the combined cycle and it takes premium 95 unleaded.
We were getting 13.2L/100km after more than 400km of mixed driving including 60 minutes of getting up it.
One of the big changes with the latest Rex has been the move to Subaru’s new global platform and the improvements that brings. Stronger with less flex, it offers sharper handling and more comfort by reducing unpleasant road vibrations and shaking.
It features full inner-frame construction for high body and chassis rigidity and gives all-new WRX some 14 per cent more front lateral flexing rigidity and 28 per cent more torsional stiffness.
The sedan also incorporates a number of performance-inspired exterior design influences, including air outlets located on the trailing edges of the front wheel openings, side garnishes and a lip-style boot spoiler.
Theairoutletsattherearofeachfrontwheel enhance the car’s aerodynamic performance by drawing air from inside the guards. Inside, the cabin features stylish black and grey upholstery on the sedan and black upholstery on the Sportswagon, with red stitching and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The instrument gauges are old school, not digital — but that’s all you need.
Summing up
Like so many petrol-powered performance cars, the chances of getting your hands on a WRX are rapidly diminishing with the increasing take up of electric vehicles. They’ve already dropped the STI to concentrate on the next generation EV performance variant.
The Rex is sure to follow sooner than later, so if you’re sitting on the fence, waiting for the right moment – the time might be nigh. There’s nothing worse than missing out.
Like so many petrol-powered performance cars, the chances of getting your hands on a WRX are rapidly diminishing with the increasing take up of electric vehicles. (Pictures: Supplied)
A perfect day for a hit of cricket
Saturday was the perfect day for cricket and many teams made the most of it and were able to get some wins on the board. Star Weekly’s Ljubica Vrankovic was there to capture some of the action.
Spotswood’s Jackson Wadden. (442424_03)
Left: The Deer Park cheer squad. (442420_01) Above: Sunbury in the field. (442427_01)
Craigieburn’s Joshua Rasu. (442420_20) Right: Williamstown Imperials’ Will Metcalfe. (442427_07)
Left: Melton’s Stephen Shields. (442424_26) Centre: Keilor’s Robert Clements. (442422_04) Right: Kyle Lampery, Liam Hemkel, Todd Hughes, Akash Cheema and Dushantha Ranatunga cheer on their Epping teammates. (442418_09)
Above: Lachlan Fitzgerald celebrates a wicket. (442420_11) Below left: Westmeadows’ Rhys Gleisner. (442422_01) Below right: Epping’s Shanyn Kearney. (442418_02)
EDFL and WFNL form new football partnership
The Essendon District Football League and Western Football Netball League have announced a co-operation agreement to strengthencommunityfootball,whichincludes the pausing of transfer of clubs between the leagues.
The two leagues said the strategic agreement, which was announced last week, aimed at fostering the growth and development of community football across both leagues.
This collaboration is set to bring increased stability and opportunity to member clubs, with a focus on enhancing the experience and success of players, coaches and supporters alike.
The agreement outlines key measures designed to strengthen the structure and sustainability of the competitions.
The agreement is set to provide stability and a stable framework regarding the composition of their major men’s competitions, helping clubs,players,andfansenjoygreatercontinuity
in their local football experience.
As part of the agreement, applications from clubs to join either league will be temporarily paused.
Deer Park and St Albans both made the switch across from the Western league to the EDFL in 2023, while there had been rumors about other clubs seeking to move.
“This will allow both leagues to monitor and assess the ongoing changes to competition structures and better support the evolution of local football,” said a joint release from the leagues.
“Post this initial two-year period, the leagues have committed to continued upfront dialogue about potential club movement applications.“
Women’s football development is also a key part of the agreement.
The leagues will collaborate on initiatives focused on increasing participation, improving facilities, and providing pathways for female players to advance in the sport.
“By pooling resources and expertise, both leagues aim to create robust infrastructure that will sustain the long-term growth of women’s football across affiliated clubs,” the leagues said.
EDFL chair Bernie Shinners said the agreement reflects the league’s commitment to supporting the long-term stability of the EDFL competition.
Sharks make good start
By Tara Murray
Point Cook Centrals aren’t feeling out of their league in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield this season.
Playing in division 3 for the first time, the Sharks have one win on the board after a rain interrupted start to the season, in which only one match has been completed.
Sharks vice-president Brett Talbot said the group was finding its feet at this level.
“We had a good win, which was a 50-50 game at the end of day one,” he said. “The bowlers did the job and it was nice to show that we could get it down.
“We had a really good pre-season before we went up [divisions] later in the pre-season so it was going to be interesting to see how we fit. “We’ve got some more confidence from that result.”
On Saturday, the Sharks were in action on day one of their clash with Moonee Valley in a two-day clash.
The Sharks were bowled out for 149 after winning the toss and deciding to bat.
Rasanjana Jayarathna top scored with 43 at the top of the order.
Talbot said they fell short of the total they were hoping for.
“We were aiming for 200-plus,” he said. “We got a lot of starts which was positive, but then the majority went out at the wrong moment.
“We were about 50-60 runs short.”
Moonee Valley started well with the bat and will resume at 3-85.
Talbot said Moonee Valley’s bats put them under pressure and they have two good batters at the crease.
“We played them once last year and they toweled us up in the first innings,” he said.
“We showed a little bit in the second innings. We sort of knew what to expect.
“Luke Brock took a five fa two matches in a row. We need to counteract him.”
Talbot said early wickets were the key on daytwoofthematchtogetbackintothegame.
“By working closely with the WFNL, we’re ensuring that the clubs and communities involved can continue to grow, thrive, and experience a high standard of football,” he said.
WFNL president Meredith Angwin said this wouldbenefittheleagueinafewdifferentways.
“This allows the WFNL to strengthen our competition structure in the new 12-and-12 team competition format, providing a solid foundation for future development,” she said.
“Working with the EDFL to grow female football participation is a positive step for our competitions.”
AFL Victoria supports the agreement.
AFL Victoria head Greg Madigan this would enable continued growth of community football in Melbourne’s north-west.
“The leagues are to be congratulated on taking this step to enhance interleague co-operation, for the betterment of local footy.”
Tara Murray
Sports shorts
Western FL
Werribee Districts has reappointed Chris Gilham as coach for next year’s Western Football League division 1 season. Gilham will enter his ninth season in the role, having taken the side to the past three grand finals. The Tigers in their announcement said that his dedication to developing talent and fostering a winning culture has been instrumental in the team’s ongoing success. The club also announced the re-signing of star player Dillon Viojo-Rainbow.
Western FL
The Suns have announced the signing of Roger Hand as their coach for next year’s Western Football League division 2 season. As a player, Hand played with Werribee and has coached at various levels, from under-16s through to senior level. He has led Westbourne to success, including a premiership in 2016 and preliminary final in 2017. Hand has been a football manager at various clubs since 2018 and was most recently the football director at Point Cook Centrals.
Baseball
Werribee Giants were on the end of a big loss to the Sunshine Eagles on Saturday in the Baseball Victoria premier 1st nine competition. The inform Eagles came away with a 14-4 win Jonathon Lowe scored two runs for the Giants in the loss. After six rounds, the Giants are the only team without a win. The midweek games start this week, with the Giants back in action on Tuesday night against Geelong, after deadline.
He said they were hoping to get a few more wins on the board before Christmas to set their season up.
“It will determine what post Christmas will look like,” he said.
The club on Monday said farewell to one of its past presidents Paul Pritchard, who died after a battle with illness.
Talbot said he had a massive impact on the club.
In other results in division 3, information online said that Point Cook’s game with Keilor Park was abandoned after less than eight overs.
Point Cook was 2-5 at that stage.
In the Evans-Clark Shield, Werribee Centrals was bowled out for 200 against the Melton South Royals.
The Royals will resume at 0-1.
Bellbridge will need 202 against Seabrook.
In the Russell Pollock Shield, Melton Centrals is 4-59 in reply to Wyndham Vale’s 132.
A-League
Zach Clough has secured a come-from-behind victory for Adelaide United after scoring the match-winner in its 2-1 triumph over Western United in the A-League men’s competition. Western scored in the 10th minute through Kane Vidmar before Adelaide levelled scores before half time. Clough hit the scoreboard in the 71st minute when he received a clever pass from Jonny Yull deep in the box to give Adelaide the win. Western is without a win after three matches. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web:
The EDFL and WFNL have signed an agreement. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_432959_05
Dimantha Fernando. (Jacob Pattison) 392482_02
Bryant excited by Wyndham women’s challenge
New Wyndham women’s coach Jason Bryant feels at home at the Big V club.
Having spent most of his coaching career at the club, Bryant spent the past few seasons coaching the Altona Gators youth league boys side.
He returned to Wyndham to coach in the Victorian Junior Basketball League this season andjumpedatthechancetostepintothesenior coaching role as well.
“They asked me the question and it took me 30 seconds to say yes,” he said. “I’ve come back to Wyndham after three years away.
“The opportunity came up and I was asked about it.
“I went through the process and here we go.”
Bryant has previously been an assistant coach in both Wyndham’s men’s and women’s programs.
He also runs the state development program
for juniors in wheelchair basketball. Bryantsaidhehadalwayswantedtostepinto a senior coaching Big V role, it was a matter of timing.
Being at Wyndham makes it more special.
“I’ve done most of my coaching in the last 10 years apart from those couple of years,“ he said.
“My kids have played rep there. I feel like I’m at home.”
Bryant steps into coaching a side that has made the past three championship grand finals,winningtwoofthemincludingthisyear.
He said it was definitely a challenge coming into a program that had been successful.
“I’ll basically have a new squad,” he said.
“We’ll put an emphasis on a good culture and giving female athletes from the VJBL and youth league an obvious pathway.
“The bar has been set high and if we can get the right people in place, we should be a
good side.”
Bryant said there had been many players in recent seasons that had been able to step up into the senior side.
He said that he was already talking to other players who had played at the club before heading away for college and were now back in Australia.
“Hopefully they’ll be great role models for those coming through.“
Wyndham will be without two-time most valuable player Amanda Paschal who has finished her time at the association.
Bryant said they would look to fill all the roles, but you couldn’t replace Paschal, who is a once in a lifetime player.
Open tryouts are being held this week for the women’s side on Tuesday and Thursday.
Tara Murray
Cats finding a way to win
By Tara Murray
Hoppers Crossing continues to rack up the wins without really firing in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west.
The Cats have now won their last three games to get their season back on track after a disastrous start to the season.
On Saturday, it was their bowlers that got the job down against Yarraville.
After winning the toss, the Cats bowled the Eagles out for 97.
Cats captain-coach Simon Lambert said they were able to make the most of the conditions early on.
“It was an important toss to win,” he said. “It wasn’t the greatest pitch and it had a bit of moisture in it early on.
“Weputthemundersomegoodpressureand had a fair bit of momentum early on. To keep them under 100 was great.
“We gave ourselves a pretty chasable score.”
Harshit Takkar took three wickets for the Cats while Brett Smith, Daryl Sunder Ferrario and Lambert took two wickets each.
Like that has become the norm for the Cats, they made harder work of the run chase than it needed to be.
TheCatswereintroubleat3-9andthen5-52. SunderFerrario(53notout)andShadiSideek (19 not out) got the job done as the Cats made the winning runs in 24 overs, finishing 5-98. Lambert said the run chase was similar to the week before.
“Last time we got off to a flier and were 0-90 off 10 or 11 overs,” he said. “This time we were 0-1 after one over.
“Thefirstfewoverscansetupyourrunchase and we didn’t set up how we would have liked.
“The middle order stood up and Darryl got us home.”
Lambert said in the past that was a match that they might have dropped.
He said it was a pleasing sign that they were yet to hit their straps with the bat and were still getting wins on the board.
“Ifeellikewe’vebeenOK,”hesaid.“Withthe ballwe’vebeenprettygood,butourtoporderis not quite firing yet.
“I’ve had a couple of 50s and Darryl made 30 odd last week and then 50 this week, but no one in the top six has fired yet.
“It’s a good thing for us that we can win without the top order firing.”
The Cats are one of five teams with a 3-1 record after four rounds, with Brighton sitting undefeated.
Lambert said he hoped the two-day format would allow their batters more chance to shine.
The Cats face Caulfield in a two-dayer this weekend.
Meanwhile, Werribee wasn’t able to make it two in a row, losing to Caulfield.
Caulfield made 5-177 with the Tigers falling well short, bowled out for 107.
Hoppers turn things around
Hoppers is starting its turn around of form in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant competition.
After a few tough seasons, which has seen the side drop from division 2 to division 4, Hoppers is starting to get some more wins on the board.
After the first four rounds, Hoppers is undefeated and on top of the ladder.
Coach Mark Coleman said it had been a really good start for them.
“We won one game last year, we’ve already won three this year,” he said. “It is going well on Saturdays, we’re undefeated,
“We recruited well for Saturdays and it’s come together, You don’t have to have the best team, you have to have the right combinations.”
Coleman said since he started in January playing numbers had increased from 71 to 96.
He said they had really been trying to get the club out there and show they were doing something different.
“We got six or seven players back from Deer Park,” he said. “I spoke to friends in the area and they wanted to come on board.”
Coleman said the early success was pleasing for the players that had been at the club for a long time.
He said they just wanted what was best for the whole club.
“The ones that stuck around, they are the ones that did the hard work,” he said. “They’re happy to get the higher recruits and go down to the second side.
“The second side is undefeated as well.”
Hoppers faced Yarraville Footscray on Saturday in round four of division 4, section 2.
Hoppers recorded another win, 92 (18)-44 (0).
Andrew Doyle and Coleman both had 20 shot wins in their rinks.
Coleman said the focus for the club the next few seasons is pretty clear.
“Wewanttogetbackintodivision2,” he said. “If we do that, we can recruit even better and push for division 1.
“I’ve got a three year contract and I want to try and get promoted every year. We’ll see what happens with that.”
In other results, Palm Lake beat Bacchus Marsh 2 and Point Cook lost to Sunshine RSL.
Tara Murray
Abbas Faiyaz. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Jason Bryant. (Supplied)
Abdul Qader ready for a big summer of cricket
It’llbeabigfewmonthsforNouraAbdulQader as she represents not one, but two Vic Metro teams at national cricket championships.
Noura, who is just 14, was named in the under-19 team for the Vic Metro for the national championships next month.
Then she was named in a second straight under-16 Vic Metro team for the national championships early next year.
Noura said she was pretty lucky to be selected in both teams.
“It’s a really good opportunity to play all grades and all formats,” she said. “Getting a lot of experience from all ages.
“I’m really young, I didn’t expect much [in terms of the under-19s] but I was really confident in that age group too.
“I was so excited I couldn’t believe it. It was a shock.”
While she’s the youngest in the under-19 team, Noura said her experiences in the
under-16 team earlier this year helped with her cricket.
She said she was hoping to be named in that team as well for a second time. Noura said she would notice a difference between the two age groups.
“They’re like better [the under-19s],” she said. “There’s a lot of difference in under-16s and under-19, more intensity in training. It’s really fun.”
Noura said she was hoping to play a few games in the under-19s before then thinking about the under-16s.
She said she’s really excited but is always nervous heading into championships like this.
Noura said her opportunities at the state level helped her when she came back to her local cricket.
She opens the batting for Greenvale Kangaroos in Victorian Premier Cricket seconds, while plays in an under-15 mixed
team for Truganina having previously played girls cricket with Point Cook Centrals.
Noura said she’s enjoying opening the batting for the Kangaroos.
“I have been training with the under-19s so when I go to premier, it’s easier,” she said.
“It’s a really good experience, opening the batting. I’ve been happy with my season.”
Noura, whose favourite player is Virat Kohli, said the travel doesn’t worry her and said that she would travel anywhere for her cricket.
Having got her love of cricket from her father, Noura said she one day wants to play for Australia.
“My dad has played really good cricket, always went to his matches when he was six, I was like let’s try cricket and I just started loving cricket.”
United welcomes Roach
By Tara Murray
The move to Melbourne has paid off for new Western United midfielder Emily Roach as she relishes another opportunity in the A-League women’s competition.
Having played seven games with Canberra and Newcastle, Roach missed out on a contract for last season.
Having graduated, she made the move to Melbourne and joined South Melbourne in the National Premier League women’s competition where she had a really strong season.
From there it led to a phone call from Western coach Kat Smith.
“Kat reached out and I come here,” she said. “I was hoping to get back into the A-League. “It was something that I had been working towards and I’m happy at Western United.”
Roach, who grew up on the Sunshine Coast, said Melbourne had become her second home. Theloveofsportandthelevelofsoccerdown here were two things that attracted her to make the move.
Roach said having been in A-League environments before had helped her transition into Western United.
She previously played with vice-captain Grace Maher which had also helped.
Roach said the environment at Western United was different from anything she had experienced before.
“I’ve been getting to know the girls and get back into intensive training, it’s a step up from the NPLW,“ she said. “There’s a real sense of togetherness with the club and the support in the team has been amazing.
“You don’t get that at other clubs and there’s a lot of quality girls.“
Roach started in the opening game of the season, where Western beat Wellington Phoenix 4-2.
She said it was an unbelievable experience.
“It was unreal and it was very exciting,” she said. “That atmosphere was unreal.
“I’d heard a little bit about it through the girls but experiencing it was really cool.
“The facilities and field were unreal.”
Roach said that she had wanted to try and get a start early on and thought she had a good pre-season.
She said getting the start was one thing that she could tick off.
“It’s a long season and I just want to be available whenever.”
Like the rest of the group,there’s plenty of high expectations after two straight finals series.
Roach said they felt like they were trending in the right trajectory.
Personally, she has a couple that she would like to tick off.
“I would like to score soon,” she said. “I wanted to break into the team and get as many minutes as possible and grow as a player.”
Western was in action on Friday night in
Andrews back for the Tigers
Daly Andrews has signed on for a second season with Werribee in the Victorian Football League.
A local product Andrews spent three seasons with westside rivals WilliamstownasaWesternJetsgraduate, before he returned to his hometown club Werribee for the 2024 season.
He reached his 50th VFL game milestone during the year and has now put pen to paper for a second season with the Tigers in 2025.
Andrews called his move to Werribee pretty seamless sand said it was something that was always in the back of his mind.
He played round one and averaged more than 21 disposals in his first five games.
A foot injury sustained against his former side, Williamstown, in round five sidelined him for more than a month.
Upon his return, Andrews played for his local side, Werribee Centrals, where he showed he was a class above local level to earn his spot back in the team for the round 11 clash against Frankston,.
In his second game back from injury, Andrews faced off against his former side for the second time and had an unforgettable moment, kicking the game-sealing goal in the final quarter as Werribee ran out with the John Pyne Memorial Trophy.
The midfielder strung together seven games, showing great form, with two games being selected in the best players, before a season-ending injury against Southportinround19,requiringsurgery, sidelined him for finals.
He finished the year with 12 games, averaging18disposalsandfiveclearances per game.
Daly Andrews. (Supplied)
Tara Murray Noura Abdul Qader. (Supplied)
round two against the Central Coast Mariners. Roach starte don the bench and was unused in the 0-0 draw.
Roach said she was expecting a tough challenge and that the Mariners came in with some good form after beating Sydney.
Emily Roach. (Supplied)
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