Fight to save Kelly Park
By Jaidyn Kennedy
The fight to save Kelly Park Centre is ramping up, with a former councillor among those to lodge a formal objection to Wyndham council’s decision to demolish the facility.
Kelly Park Hall was damaged by fire in June 2022 and council initially decided to demolish the hall in December 2023, making the decision public in April 2024.
But in August 2024, amid community backlash, councillors decided to defer the demolition and asked council to investigate redeveloping the hall and to report back to councillors by February 2025.
A report to the December council meeting noted that council officers were working on a businesscasefortheredevelopmentbutwould be unable to report back to councillors before April 2025.
The report outlined three potential options for the rebuilding the facility. They were like for like refurbishment that would cost an estimated $3 million-$4 million; demolishing the existing facility and rebuilding a
820sqm facility more in line with modern specifications for approximately $8.5M; or demolishingtheexistingfacilityandreplaceit with a three-story community hub equipped with a library that would cost an estimated $26m.
In response to the report, Cr Josh Gilligan moved that council proceed with the plan to demolishthehallinfavourofreplacingitwith an open space, citing the cost of rebuilding as a prohibitive factor.
“Where’s the money coming from to pay for this? This is not Disney or Wonderland,” he said.
“Wehavetheopportunitytodogreatthings in this city, but it must be informed by the dollars and the evidence.”
Crs Mia Shaw, Preet Singh, Shannon Maguire and Maria King supported Cr Gilligan’s proposal while Crs Peter Maynard, Robert Szatkowski, Susan McIntyre, Jasmine HillandLarryZhaovotedagainstit,resulting in a five-five tie.
Cr Shaw, of whose ward Kelly Park is in, used her mayoral powers to cast the decisive vote.
Dozens of objectors gathered at the hall the next day to protest the council’s decision.
Among those objecting to the hall’s demolition is former councillor Heather Marcus, who said council would be doing “a serious disservice to the Werribee community” if it knocked down the hall.
Ms Marcus has launched a petition calling for the hall to be saved.
“Kelly Park Hall stands as a testament to the spirit of Werribee’s residents, who came together to plan, fund, and construct the facility,” she said.
“Itrepresentsauniquepieceoflocalhistory, anddemolishingitwoulderasethissignificant legacy.
“It’s so different from the new community centres we’re building today.
“[The newer community centres] don’t have a stage where you can do productions and little art shows.
“There’s so much more you can do in that type of hall than you can do in a community centre.”
Ms Marcus said the hall was used by a variety of community groups prior to the fire.
“Werribee lacks other facilities that provide the same accessibility, affordability, and central location as Kelly Park,” she said.
“Its removal would create a significant gap in resources for the community, with no immediate replacement in sight.”
A spokesperson said council was working closely with all community groups that previously used the facility and was trying to find alternative locations for them.
“Prior to the fire, there were 23 groups who were regular users. Council worked to find alternate locations, and all groups were accommodatedinothercouncilfacilities,“the spokesperson said.
“Of the 23 groups, three have indicated a desire to return to Kelly Park Centre. The three groups have been rehomed and receive a Community Facility Subsidy which covers the cost of their room hire in council-owned buildings.”
Ms Marcus said the online and paper petitions to restore Kelly Park have reached over 1470 signatures.
Werribee locals are rallying to save Kelly Park. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 452714_03
Candidates named for Werribee
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Thedeliveryofpublictransportpromises,easing road congestion and tackling crime will be top oftheagendaasvotersgetreadytogotothepolls on February 8 for the Werribee by-election.
Following the resignation of Werribee MP Tim Pallas in December, Labor nominated Werribee teacher and CFA volunteer John Lister as its candidate in a bid to retain the seat.
Among Mr Lister’s first aims is supporting recently opened public schools.
“I want to help those schools work on those connections to the community and use the services we have in the community,” he said.
“To get more kids into tertiary pathways has always been my passion as a teacher.”
He cited new bus routes, rail upgrades and developments to the Ison Road Overpass by the state government as steps he wishes to build on, and that he wanted to target youth crime with education.
“As a teacher, I’m passionate about making sure young people get into good opportunities and make sure they don’t live a life of crime,” he said.
The Liberal Party nominated local real estate agent and former soldier Steve Murphy, who
said Werribee has suffered due to Labor’s neglect and disinterest, to contest the seat.
“The people of Werribee, Wyndham Vale, Manor Lakes and Little River are tired of the rising cost of living issues facing them, the lack of infrastructure, and the alarming rise in crime,” Mr Murphy said.
“My pledge to the people of Werribee is clear,Iwillworkeverydaytolisten,workhard, and deliver the infrastructure and services that are needed.”
Paul Hopper, whose newly formed West Party is yet to be registered, will stand for a second time as an independent.
Describing the road system as a mess and medical services as inadequate, Mr Hopper said Werribee residents are “tired of being
taken for granted”.
Crime – particularly youth crime – public transport connectivity and local jobs were areas Mr Hopper said needed more focus.
“Labor has been in power in Werribee for a long time. Why would anyone think Labor is going to start caring about any of these issues now?”
Union advocate Rifai A. Raheem will stand for The Greens, listing the cost-of-living, more affordable housing and climate action as his three biggest election priorities.
“Our community is diverse and vibrant and we deserve a strong voice outside the two major parties who will stand up for the issues that matter most to us,” Mr Rifai said.
Among his election commitments is
Thunder cause a recycling storm
The Glen Orden Cricket Club has reached a major recycling milestone, collecting 10,000 containers in the last 12 months.
Taking advantage of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS), the club has raised over $1000 which it used on equipment such as scoreboards, umpire counters, bowling markers, training cones and fielding bats.
After becoming acquainted with the program, a call out was put to the club’s networks on social media and the troops were rallied.
Glen Orden’s seven senior and three junior sides got work, initially with the captains
and coaches filling up bags after games and training sessions.
Club admin Vimal Chatrati discussed what drove Glen Orden to start the drive.
“The very idea that there is so much garbage andwastageofthesecontainerswhichisgoing to waste and impact the environment around our grounds,” he said.
“We wanted a proper system in place where we can promote proper usage and disposal of these containers and if possible anything in return would be used for the right causes.”
The kids took a special interest in the drive, turning in their personal collections to
parents and coaches alike.
Someofthekidseventaggedalongtodeposit the containers one by one at the local TOMRA Cleanaway reverse vending machines.
As the operation got bigger, help in the form of the local Recycle4Change depot in Point Cook, who now come and collect the bulk of containers when the club’s bins are full or there is too much to carry for any one person.
Mr Chatrati encourages other clubs to follow suit for the sake of creating a cleaner community and putting money back in the pockets of local clubs.
Jaidyn Kennedy
advocating for capped 50 cent public transport fares.
LegaliseCannabisislookingtobuildongrass roots support in the area, with 29-year-old horticulturist Xavier Menta.
“I’m standing so voters can send the major parties a message – they can tell the big guns that the people of the west won’t be taken for granted anymore,” he said.
Nurse Sue Monroe will run for the Victorian Socialists on the platform of pushing for free healthcare, improved educational resources, more reliable transport and more affordable housing.
Voting information: https://www.vec.vic. gov.au/voting/current-elections/werribeedistrict-by-election
Werribee races a TAC target
Werribee racegoers are among those targeted by a new campaign that is encouraging people to abstain from drink-driving at country races.
The Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) “Ready” campaign, held in conjunction with Country Racing Victoria (CRV), will highlight the risks associated with driving to and from races under the influence of alcohol.
The new content features “everyday heroes” who make race days happen, including a horse handler, an operations manager and a designated driver.
The campaign will feature on social media and in race book advertisements in the run-up to country race events across Victoria– such as the Werribee Cup– to highlight the various transport options available to racegoers, such as taxis, rideshares and shuttle buses.
The TAC will be present at more than 20CountryCups,wherepunterswillhave the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win $500 fuel vouchers and be educated on the dangers of drink-driving.
Country Racing Victoria Chairman Chas Armytage spoke about the importance of collaboration on the matter and the need for racegoers to consider making plans ahead of drinking at the races.
“It is vital for all racegoers to plan ahead not only for the event itself but also for their transportation needs. CRV and country clubs remain committed to working with the TAC to promote this important educational message.”
Acting Transport Accident Commission chief executive Sam Cockfield said the TAC was working to ensure there are enough safe transport options for racegoers.
This year’s campaign follows what the state government labelled “a tragic year” on Victoria’s roads in 2024, with 282 lives lost, over half of which occurred in regional areas.
The campaign will be supported with funding from the state government’s Road Safety Action Plan 2, which is part of broader road safety funding allocated until 2028.
Vyom 13 , Sitara 8, Viraj 15 continue to hit sixes with their recycling efforts. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 452799_04
Werribee Liberal candidate Steve Murphy. Independent Paul Hopper.
Werribee Labor candidate John Lister.
DIAMOND antenatal care offered
By Tara Murray
Finding the right place to give birth and be comfortable is something that is near the top of an expecting mother’s lists.
Thehospitalneedstobeclose,havetheright staff and cater for the varying different needs. For many expectant mothers, having larger bodies complicates things with some smaller hospitals not equipped properly to handle possible medical issues.
At Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Sunshine Hospital, Western Health has set up a DIAMOND Clinic, which is an antenatal clinic dedicated to women living in larger bodies with a higher body mass index.
It’s believed to be one of the most comprehensive services of its kind in Australia.
Established by women’s and children’s clinical services director Associate Professor Glyn Teale in 2016, the clinic brings together a team of experts who specialise in the complications common to this group of patients.
The clinic is a virtual one-stop-shop of specialists, including midwives, obstetricians, nutritionists, psychologists, social workers, fetal monitoring specialists, physiotherapists and endocrinologists.
Diamond stands for diabetes, maternal obesity, nutrition and diet and is held every
Thursday morning.
Access to the clinic is through referral only, with the criteria for admission is a body mass index of more than 50, or more than 45 when women have other comorbidities such as gestationalortype2diabetes,hypertensionor previous complicated pregnancies.
WomenwithahigherBMIareathigherrisk of a range of complications during pregnancy including diabetes, blood pressure problems, blood clots, preeclampsia, miscarriage and pre-term birth. In 2023, the DIAMOND Clinic cared for
more than 200 pregnant women.
Associate midwife unit Manager Kylie Charles, who has been involved in the clinic since its inception, co-ordinates all appointments and is the main liaison between patients and clinicians.
“I love working in this clinic,” she said.
“I have a strong commitment to midwifery practice and I am passionate about ensuring women and their families receive the highest quality best care possible during what is an exciting, but vulnerable time.
“Beingpartofthismultidisciplinaryteamis
so rewarding. It’s a smaller clinic enabling us to provide continual care, as we get to know the women well.
“We have a really dedicated team. I’m so proud that we can provide non-judgmental care that is specific to each woman.”
Obstetrician Dr Nisha Khot is another staff member who has worked at the clinic since the start.
“Theclinicbringsthebestresearchavailable to the day-to-day care of women living in larger bodies. In this clinic, we aim to provide individualised care, free of stigmatisation.”
L-R: DIAMOND Clinic staff Nisha Khot, Sofia Walker, Clara Chan, Kylie Charles and Annabel Jones, Debbie Gordon. (Supplied)
Aquatic debate is heating up
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Wyndham needs more than AquaPulse and the Werribee Outdoor Pool to service its rapidly growing community, according to several politicians in the west.
Currently, Wyndham has one indoor aquaticrecreationcentreandoneoutdoorpool to service its more than 324,000 population.
Mayor Mia Shaw council determined it will need to build another aquatic centre to complement AquaPulse at an estimated cost of $120million and AquaPulse itself will require a major renewal project that may be as high as $15m, in order to meet community
expectations in the next decade.
According to the Social infrastructure in Melbourne’s growth areas report by Infrastructure Victoria in 2021, Wyndham had one aquatic centre for 48,000 young people, compared to one for every 5000 in the City of Melbourne.
Cr Shsw said the rate-capped environment council operates in is one of the greatest challenges in delivering infrastructure projects to the area.
“Councilneedsfundingfrombothstateand federal governments to fund recreational and aquatic infrastructure,” Cr Shaw said.
“The upcoming federal election presents
an opportunity for the council to advocate to the federal government for funding for our second indoor aquatic facility.”
WesternMetropolitanMPDavidEttershank said a generation of youth are being denied the joy of summer due to a scarcity of aquatic centres in the west.
“I know councils do not have the resources tobuildnewpools,soIamcallingonthestate government to deliver desperately needed pools and green spaces, and not to leave the west to bake.”
A state government spokesperson said the government has invested $33 million into building and upgrading sport and recreation
Children learn to care for the coast
The Werribee River Association (WRA) has been busy delivering ‘Summer By The Sea’ activities as part of their school holiday program.
Aspartofthefreeprogram,WRAhavebeen leading coastal discovery walks at Point Cook Coastal Park and Werribee South Foreshore. Through the walks, children acquaint themselves with their local environment, learn what is okay to touch and what to just look at, help remove litter and understand why some marine life cannot go home with them.
WRA education manager Charlotte Williamson said it was important to keep kids learning while the classrooms are closed.
“It’s important to create a fun environment for children where they can enjoy learning and make discoveries about the world around them in a safe and accessible space,” she said.
“Theseareaperfectwaytolearnmoreabout our amazing natural environment, meet like-minded people in your community and have fun.
“We can all help to care for waterways by making sure litter is disposed of properly,
fishing responsibly, keeping dogs on a leash near waterways and cats indoors, growing indigenous plants in our gardens, and learning about the special creatures that live in our local area.”
While kids are often the ones being taught, they may have wisdom of their own.
“Kids remind us to slow down and enjoy the moment, take time to play in the sand and paddle in the ocean, and find wonder in nature all around us,” Ms Williamson said.
Jaidyn Kennedy
facilities for the Wyndham community since 2014. Councils and community groups are encouraged to put forward proposals for new infrastructureandfacilitiesthroughprograms like the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund, which is currently open for applications, the spokesperson said.
Lalor MP Joanne Ryan said the previous federal Labor government made a $9 million contribution to the AquaPulse and that she campaigned with other locals to save the Werribee swimming pool.
“Councils are invited regularly to submit for Commonwealth grant processes and I am always pleased to support them,” she said.
Kite festival set to soar
The Tarneit Kite Festival is returning for 2025, with a day of family fun that promises to exceed high expectations.
Taking place between 4-8pm on Sunday, January 19, at Goddard Street Reserve, you can fly your own kite, buying one on the day or purchasing a DIY one to make.
Thefestivalattractslocalsandvisitors from across the west who come together as a community to celebrate the magic of flight.
An honoured tradition, kite flying is a popular pastime the world over that demonstrates skill, control and finesse, of which has seen become a celebrated cultural event in locations such as China, Japan, India and Brazil.
Mayor Mia Shaw said the event is gaining in popularity in the outer west.
“Our kite festival in Wyndham is growing in popularity as locals and visitors enjoy the beauty of a sky filled with giant soaring and swooping kites,” she said.
Flying a kite is not the only thing visitors to Tarneit can do on the day, as live entertainment and food trucks will be on site and complimenting the colourful objects in flight.
Theeventisfreeanddogsarewelcome on leash, while alcohol and smoking are prohibited.
It may be easy to get carried away by wind or other factors, but all kites must be kept within the designated fly zone.
More: https://www.wyndham. vic.gov.au/whats-on/tarneit-kitefestival-2025
Werribee River Association education manager Charlotte Williamson teaching children about the beach. (Supplied).
Enjoy a sunset safari
Werribee Open Range Zoo’s (WROZ) iconic Sunset Safari event is back by popular demand in 2025 and will feature Jabulani, the southern white rhino calf that has stolen the spotlight on the savannah.
For a limited time, visitors to WROZ will be able to tour the zoo’s African-modelled savannah during the evening.
Zebras, giraffes, antelopes and ostriches will be among those species native to the African continent displaying their power and elegance.
In addition to the tour, visitors will be educated on the behaviours of native African wildlife, the issue of endangered species, how to support Zoos Victoria’s conservation efforts and experience authentic African music.
Visitors will also gain access to the zoo’s walking trail where they will have a chance to spot meerkats, monkeys, wild dogs, a lion pride and hippopotamus roam.
Werribee Open Range Zoo director Dr Mark Pilgrim said “It’s a truly unforgettable experience and such a wonderful opportunity to see these iconic animals up close”.
“Through the stories the guides share, we hope to build a connection with wildlife that inspires future conservation heroes.”
Sunset Safari helps Zoos Victoria support sisterzoosandinternationalpartnersincluding the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) which specialises in wildlife research, animal rescues and community education programs.
Theeventissuitableforpeopleofallagesand is held between 5.30pm to 9pm on Saturdays from January 4 to February 22.
Entry costs $62 for adults and $32 for children.
Tickets: www.zoo.org.au/sunsetsafari.
Briefs
Wyndham Vale stabbing death
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 24-year-old Wyndham Vale man on Friday, January 10. Police were called to reports of a group of men fighting in a park on Haines Drive in Wyndham Vale about 11.30pm, where the man was located with a stab wound and died at the scene. Two 27-year-old Wyndham Vale men were taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries. Three men were arrested at the scene, interviewed and released.
Teens arrested
A crime spree in the west has led to the arrest of eight teenagers aged 14-16 and charges being laid against five of them. Police alleged that the group stole more than $5000 of merchandise from a Maribyrnong shopping centre on January 9 before fleeing in a vehicle. Police stopped the driver and seized the vehicle in Truganina. The driver, a 15-year-old boy, was charged with conduct endangering life and the theft of motor vehicle. A 16-year-old boy was charged with theft of motor vehicle as well as an alleged home invasion in Point Cook, while two boys, aged 15 and 16, and a 16-year-old girl were a charged with theft of motor vehicle.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Sunset Safari is returning in 2025. (Supplied)
Families flock to Summersphere
Scienceworks’ Summersphere initiative has pulled in families from across Melbourne’s west to relish in some bubbly, otherworldly fun.StarWeeklyphotographerAttieMohebali grabbed some memorable snaps of the action.
113 Hummingbird Boulevard Tarneit
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1 Kardak Street Tarneit
The growing suburb of Tarneit offers a range of amenities and facilities, with easy access to beaches and waterways, lovely lifestyle perks, fantastic opportunities for professionals and students, as well as not being located too far from Melbourne City itself. This block is quite close to everything this welcoming suburb and surrounding areas have to offer, providing a peaceful and convenient lifestyle for potential residents.
The Bubblemania show left kids and adults in awe. (452132)
There was no shortage of activities for visitors.
Elliot with his father making a Pipe Tower at the Air Playground.
New chair’s infrastructure push
By Cade Lucas
Securing infrastructure funding for the western suburbs is the main election year priority for the new chair of LeadWest.
Melton councillor Phillip Zada has taken the helm of the advocacy group that represents the five councils of Melbourne’s west; Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Brimbank, Wyndham and Melton.
Cr Zada said Melbourne’s west had long been short-changed when it comes to government funding and with a federal election due by May, the time had come for the issue to be addressed.
“Theupcomingelectionoffersanimportant
opportunity to redress this funding imbalance, and to invest in Melbourne’s west to benefit Victoria and Australia as a whole,” he said, highlighting infrastructure investment as an area of particular need.
“We want to unlock investment to provide our residents with transport connectivity, equity in health care, education, access to jobs and improved wellbeing.”
Cr Zada said national infrastructure targets couldn’t be reached without significant investment in the west.
“The federal government has a target to build 1.2 million new homes by 2029, and Melbourne’s west is critical to meeting these objectives. As one of the fastest-growing
regions in the country, we have a critical need for infrastructure investment. Our residents cannot afford to wait. We must build the infrastructure now to support this unprecedented growth and ensure the west continues to thrive.”
Among the specific projects Cr Zada wants to see funded are the development of the Sunshine Precinct and the construction of the Melbourne Airport Rail; the electrification of the Melton and Wyndham train lines; upgrades of the Western Highway and Calder Freeway and funding a detailed business case for Creative West, a new large-scale performance venue, library, and cultural hub.
Women’s
writing club to relaunch
A Werribee local is trying to help women across Wyndham hone their writing skills and harness the power of the written word.
The Wyndham Vale Women’s Writers Group will commence on Tuesday, February 4 and will meet every second Tuesday between 10am and noon.
Western Union Writers member Jo Saunders first started the group in 2017 and ran it for two years. Acknowledging that there are already several face-to-face and online writing groups in Wyndham, Ms Saunders said there are none specifically for women.
“I want to give women the chance to
express themselves in writing which they may not be able to do otherwise,” she said.
Sessions will begin with a 10-minute writing exercise called ‘Stream of Consciousness,’ which allows participants to write freely without stopping to edit their thoughts.
A subject is always given to prompt the writer’simagination,andoptionalhomework tasks are available to those who want to practise outside of meetings.
Women will be encouraged to enter their works into competitions or attempt to have them published, if that is something they are interested in.
“It is rewarding to see people begin to gain confidence through writing,” Ms Saunders said.
Open to women of any age, affiliation or writing experience, the group will endeavour to create a safe space for women to reap the benefits of putting pen to paper.
“Youcanworkthroughproblemsbywriting about them in story form, or discussion with other women,” Ms Saunders said.
“Everyone has a story to tell.”
Those interested can reach Ms Saunders on 0435 569 477.
Jaidyn Kennedy
The proposed Western Intermodal Freight Terminal (WIFT) in Truganina, new aquatics and environmental wetlands centres in Hobsons Bay and increasing the amount shade and green spaces across the region are some of the other projects Cr Zada hopes to raise with both federal leaders prior to the election.
He said the benefits of infrastructure investment went beyond just the building of new facilities.
“Investment is vital to supporting sustainable growth, easing the cost-of-living pressures, and breaking the cycle of high unemployment, traffic congestion and poor public transport options.”
Affordable swim safety
The state government has announced the return of an affordable swimming lesson program that will run throughout this month, with classes offered at several swimming centres across Melbourne.
With an opening at the Werribee Outdoor Pool on Monday, January 6, the VICSWIM Learn to Swim program will provide five 30-minute lessons to participating children aged four to 12, with a choice between three weeks this month.
The lessons will be offered at 170 swimming centres across Victoria, including locations in the west such as Keilor East Leisure Centre, Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre, Melton Waves Leisure Centre, Sunshine Leisure Centre, Werribee Outdoor Pool, Whittlesea Swim Centre, and Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre.
The cost for five lessons will be $35 per child plus booking fees, and if eligible, families can use Get Active Kidsvoucherstoreducethelessoncost to zero.
In this year’s program, there are 400 extra spots for children with disability and from multicultural backgrounds, with the same skills provided by specialised teachers.
Lessons for kids with disability will be offered through dedicated programsandchildrenfromculturally and linguistically diverse families can attend lessons in Broadmeadows, Craigieburn, Sunshine, Werribee, Dandenong and more.
Details: vicswim.com.au
Jo Saunders is launching a writing club for women. (Attie Mohebali) 452780_05
Behind the vibrant and resilient spirits of African communities, a hidden epidemic of trauma has taken its toll. Today a courageous young voice is seeking to confront the past and create a brighter future, as Afraa Kori reports.
The hidden depths of trauma
If you ask Kerma Axume* about violence and trauma he would tell you it hits close to home. Raised in the western suburbs, he has been deeply impacted by the trauma of premature death, having lost loved ones to knife crime, suicide and gun and gang violence.
“Theemotionalimpactsincludethedisunity it creates in the family and community. We are always worried when our children go out even for sports or other activities which are supposed to be safe,” Kerma said.
“Parents, guardians, brothers and sisters are always worried about the situations which may be happening at these events and activities which our children attend. We have been trying to get some counselling, we have been trying to channel our energy into efforts that will hopefully save another child in the similar situation.”
Kerman says external factors, including racismandnegativemediacoverage,contribute to violence in African communities. Lack of job opportunities and discrimination in the workplace push some individuals into illegal activities like drug dealing and substance abuse, perpetuating a harmful cycle.
A lack of identity and belonging leads some to glorify gangs and turn to drugs.
The cycle of revenge can be devastating.
“Just the loss of life and the impact on the family, losing someone so young and with theirwholelifeaheadofthem.Thewholegrief of the family, community and their friends, some who may be wanting to do revenge and cause more harm,” Kerma said.
“The community is impacted in many ways, especially those areas where people are not seen or heard, such as in workplaces, and social settings, where we are not often seen as victims of the violence, but rather the people allowing it to happen. We are being disrespected in the media, we are being disrespected in the political arena.
“There is also an increase in racism towards the South Sudanese people because of the standpoint of the media on how they report these incidents and stories about the African youths, using alarming language and tactics, it creates ’us vs them’ sentiment in the Australian community, even impacting the way other Africans see us.”
Mental health experts say there is a lack of African mental health and support services which make some African people feel uncomfortable accessing the resources. There is also a stigma surrounding mental health and counselling in African communities.
Mental health advocate, youth worker and alcohol and other drugs (AOD) support worker Rose Deng is calling for more funding for mental health and AOD services tailored to Sudanese/South Sudanese communities that are youth-focused and family inclusive.
“It is important to understand the holistic needs of the Sudanese/South Sudanese
youth, families and community at large, and services should be deeply rooted in cultural competency, community engagement and the ability to address specific needs within subgroups such as children, youth, women, men and people with a disability,“ Ms Deng said.
“I believe this is a collective response and process that may take some time based on the different cultural traditions and bridging gaps that exist, but with effort from both youth and parents/elders there is hope in dialoguetopromotehealing,especiallyforthe generations to come. I would suggest, having a professional mediator present, creating safe and non-judgmental spaces or environments where youth and parents/elders can engage in open discussions around mental health/ AOD to promote education, learning, healing and mutual understanding between the two generations.
“Also, I think it would benefit a balance with youth having their own dialogue to share common experiences, along with parent/elders, to promote a sense of belonging and connection, and collectively coming together to tackle the barriers of conflicting perspectives whilst validating everyone’s experience, and recognising that both generations have encountered unaddressed trauma, so working together in solidarity is essential.”
Founder and chief executive of Nas Recovery Centre Nyachan Nyak said his team offersinnovativeandculturallyawaresupport
to Australian youth, adults and families for which there is a growing need in the west.
“NAS Recovery Centre provides support to young people dealing with various forms of trauma including grief and loss from losing a loved one or friends to knife crime, suicide, and other mental health challenges. We currently operate in Melbourne’s south east without catchment restrictions and are also expanding our services to Melbourne’s west. Our focus is to ensure no one is left without the support they need”.
Kerma believes change is not solely the responsibility of government or health services and communities must play their part.
“We are very reactive, not proactive, and we tend to stop everything that could help prevent future crises when we lose a young person, hence we are in a cycle of violence and suffering without addressing them because we’re too busy consoling ourselves and not doing the necessary work needed,” he said.
“Weneedtoactuallybeunited.Notjusttalk about it, we need to also put it on ourselves, not on the government or the white people to solve our communal issues. The family structure needs to be strengthened like when we first came here. We are a very family oriented society.
“We need to have a place run professionally by people with cultural competence to chair conversations with the parents and families who have lost young people, like healing community groups for grieving mothers,
families, friends and community. With psychologists, youth workers, therapists and community competency awareness and empathy. And bring people who have overcome these challenges to share their experiences and strategies, also counselling servicesforhealingandgrievingfamilies,free of charge.”
Melton resident, artist and mental health advocate Nanchok Santino Chol has also witnessed the tragic rise in knife crime and horrific acts of violence among young people, many of whom she had the privilege of crossing paths with or growing up alongside in the same neighbourhood.
“The dangers of normalisation when it comes to premature death and violence in the community is it can be a trigger topic for people and that we need to be mindful that there are stages to grief and that particular conversations need time and space,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Nanchok finds hope in reflecting on what the community has overcome and the openness of the younger generation to listen, understand the struggles their parents have faced, and make better choicesforthemselvesandfuturegenerations.
“I believe that how we can support and amplify the resilience and strength of community members who have experienced trauma is showing up in whatever capacity that looks like being a listening ear, allowing them to feel their emotions and more than anything making them feel seen and heard.”
* Not his real name
Young Africans are experiencing trauma in relation to premature deaths and violent deaths. (Damjan Janevski.) 449575_02
Nanchok Santino Chol (Damjan Janevski).342306_01
Rose Deng.
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-12pm 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
Wyndham Combined Probus
A social club for retired or semi-retired people. There is a broad range of social activities to suit all interests such as lunches and brunches each month, day trips, theatre outings and longer trips away. Hear interesting speakers and make new friendships. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Iramoo Community Centre, Honour Ave, Wyndham Vale. Meetings commence at 1pm. Judy Marsh 0411 034 311 wcpc1306@ gmail.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 a.m. at The Brook Point Cook, 215 Sneydes Road, Point Cook. Cathy Guiterrez 0421 188 129 or emai:cathyguiterrez@tpg.com.au
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-12pm. 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.
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
Seniors House of Fun
The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@ grangecommunity.org.au
Seniors club
The Werribee Senior Citizens Club meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea. 0403 041 499
Diabetes Support Group
The Werribee Diabetes support provides an opportunity to hear from experts on how to manage your diabetes, to share information on diabetes and to engage with other diabetics Meetings are at the old council shire buildings at 10am every second Friday of the month. Bob, 0409 252872.
Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus
The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips. 0408 123 669
U3A Werribee
The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes-activities specifically designed
for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres. Rick, 0402 299 220.
Bingo for all
The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm. 9741 5525
Western Budgerigar Club
The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars.
Don, 0414 975 862
Beekeeping group
Werribeeks is a group for beekeepers in and around Werribee and surrounding suburbs that meet every third Monday of the month at the Wyndham Park Community Centre to share information, tips and ideas on beekeeping.. https://www.facebook.com/ WerriBeeksClub
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
Baha’is of Wyndham
Baha’is Children’s Classes are held 11.30am every Saturday at the Point Cook
Community & Learning Centre (Room 1). Children’s classes nurture the tender hearts and minds of children through stories, games, arts and music. Walk-ins welcome Raksha 0437 999 920
Baha’is of Wyndham Soul Food at the Point Cook Community & Learning Centre (Room 1). Held every Saturday between 10.30-11.30am, Soul Food provides a space for people of all backgrounds to share ideas and promote intellectual growth and development.
Raksha 0437 999 920
Wyndham Vale Women’s Writers Group
Meets every second Tuesday of the month during term time between 10am-12pm. Bring a notebook, pen and enthusiasm and hone your writing skills. From Nobel laureates to novices, all are welcome. Johanna jstails@hotmail.com
Employment Support Program for Women
A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Wyndham Shelly 03 9655 2131
The Mighty West Heart Foundation Community Walking Walk at your own pace for up to 60 minutes while discovering the many health benefits of walking in a group throughout the best historical, coastal and inland spots in Hobsons Bay. All welcome: Meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am. Helen 0411 566 862
This week’s photographer’s choice is Australian Heath Davidson in action at Hume Tennis and Community Centre. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Sea cruise destination guide
BY LEE MCCARTHY
CruiselinescalltheperiodbetweenNovember andMarchthequietseasonforMediterranean voyages sailing which allows guests to evade the challenge of mass tourism at popular European destinations, and shrewd travelers have moved away from overcrowded global hotspots in favour of quieter, lesser-known destinations with fewer tourists.
To coincide with the start of the 2024/2025 Mediterranean quiet season Viking launched a Viking Quiet Season Mediterranean DestinationGuidefullofexcitingdestinations and intriguing experiences.
In their twenty two page digital guide they share their top ten Quiet Season Mediterranean highlights, a selection of classicMediterraneanrecipes,andpastViking guests share their love of the Mediterranean in the quiet season. Jessica Rowe also shares her travel discoveries and reconnecting with family during a multi-generational travel
voyage around Italy’s boot.
The guide outlines what travel is like in the Mediterranean without crowds and long queues. Travelers can access iconic landmarks and attractions with ease, linger
longer and freely inside museums and art galleries, and enjoy a relaxed ambience and meaningful interactions with locals. Moderate temperatures make for more comfortable exploration on foot, and booking a table at a popular restaurant can be done with ease. There is also the advantage of great value through low-season airfares and cruise fares with the opportunity to upgrade your stateroom at an excellent value.
Viking’s Quiet Season Mediterranean offers all of this plus more, with an included excursion in every port, visits to UNESCO sites, onboard enrichment lectures and destinationperformances,beerandwinewith lunchanddinner,freewifiandcomplimentary access to the Nordic Spa.
Vikings diverse range of Mediterranean itineraries takes guests closer to the heart of these great cities’ unique art, heritage, traditions and people in a more relaxed and leisurely state.
Quiet Season Mediterranean Highlights:
ExploreFrance’sRivieraandTuscanyonthe eight-dayIconicWesternMediterraneanfrom Barcelona to Rome (or Rome to Barcelona), pricedfrom$5,495ppinaVerandaStateroom.
Explore the lands of ancient empires on the eight-day Journey to Antiquities from Rome to Athens (or Athens to Rome) Priced from $5,495 pp in a Veranda Stateroom.
Trace the shores of history on the eight -day Ancient Mediterranean Treasures from Istanbul to Athens Priced from $5,495 pp in a Veranda Stateroom.
To view the full list of Quiet Season Mediterranean itineraries available to book with Viking, visit www.viking.com
For additional information on Viking’s Quiet Season Mediterranean offers, contact your Viking Commercial Manager or Viking, at138747(AU)or0800447913(NewZealand) or visit viking.com.
Amazing Athens, a must see Mediterranean wonder.
Fabulous Florence, one of the stunning locations you can visit on a Viking Mediterranean cruise.
Mediterranean gastronomy
BY LEE MCCARTHY
The pride and loyalty the Hagen family and staff have for Viking is apparent as soon after stepping over the gangplank.
It is this point of difference and one of Viking’s obvious talents, which brings customers back time and again to enjoy the ship and the five star hospitality.
With the inclusion of high-quality food, icy cold beer options and a stunning wine collection, all included in the fare, food lovers seek out Viking cruises for their destination focused dining and organised on shore excursions
As you set course for an unforgettable exploration to some of the Mediterranean’s mosthistoricportsyourtastebudswillflourish offering the most enriching discoveries on board and on shore.
You will enjoy the wine, food, culture and superb architecture in the fabled towns of Tuscany, ancient Rome and canal-laced Venice. Enjoy ample time to savor Barcelona’s easy-going spirit with an overnight stay. Discover the French Riviera’s seaside pleasures in Marseille and Monte Carlo. Visit Dubrovnik, a hidden medieval jewel and alongtheway,gracioushostsandfineregional cuisineconnectyoutothisremarkableregion.
Shore excursions can be organised by the ship’screwandofferadeepimmersioninlocal culture, food and people. or guests can select and book their excursions prior to departure in the My Viking Journey account.
A guest favourite is the Interactive Cooking
Class where you can enjoy the experience of a hands-on lesson in gastronomic Greek culture and the heritage of Santorini.
You will love the chance to explore the delightsofTuscany,fromitslegendarycuisine and delicious wines to the Renaissance treasures of Florence, where the breathtaking works of Michelangelo, da Vinci and Brunelleschitookgloriousshapeandchanged the world.
Visit a Tuscan winery, where you can tour the cellar and taste local wines before sitting down to a typical Tuscan dinner.
Explore the historically important and culturallyrefinedcitiesofParmaandBologna andlearnmoreabouttwooftheregion’siconic exports—cured meats and Ferrari sports cars.
If your taste buds have quickly fallen in love with Italy, then you could embark on a scenic drive into the rolling hills of the Italian countryside as you head to a local farm to learn about the production of cured ham and culatello (salami). Sample the finished product, along with local cheeses, before returning to Parma.
A Hands-On Taste of Italy will delight you if you take up the opportunity to engage in the Conversano Cooking Class where you will learn the art of homemade pasta-making during this hands-on culinary experience. You will have the opportunity to try the techniques yourself, transforming fresh ingredients into traditional pasta with your own hands, and, of course, to enjoy the final
Mamsens Waffles secret recipe
BY LEE MCCARTHY
Mamsen’s,thepopularNorwegian-styledeli on board Viking ships, is well-loved for its traditional Scandinavian fare.
One of the star attractions on the menu which commands a mention is Mamsen’s Waffles served with jam or Norwegian browngoat’scheesecalledgjetostandguests savour the flavour of authentic Norway.
The waffles are featured in cookbook ’The Kitchen Table’ produced by Karine Hagen, daughter of Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking.
Karine included Mamsen’s famous recipe along with her favourite recipes from across theglobefromhertravelsonVikingCruises.
Karine and her aunty in her grandmother’s kitchen. They served the family meals for decades and the design was replicated to honour Mamsen’s homely fare onboard.
The secret is out – here for you is the recipe for Mamsen’s Waffles.
Breakfast Serves 4 – 6 people (Norway)
INGREDIENTS:
8.8 oz (250g) all-purpose (plain) flour
2 tbsp sugar
2 eggs
• 10 fl oz (300ml) milk
• 3 oz (90g) butter
The waffles are based on Karine’s grandmother’s recipes and are served on special Norwegian plates designed by the Hagen family. The plates were found by
• Pinch ground cardamom
½ tsp vanilla extract
Step 1
In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, eggs
prepared dishes, paired with local wines and servedwithanaperitivoofolives,caciocavallo and tarallini.
Then, enjoy orecchiette alla crudaiola (fresh tomato, basil, ricotta dura and olive oil) and cavatelli and chickpeas with rosemary oil.
Of course, the fun fare isn’t limited to tours; there is ample opportunity to enjoy the flavoursoftheMediterraneanonboardwhere destination enrichment is continued with performances, lectures, port talks and cooking demonstrations.
AspartofthedelightsofcruisingonViking through the Mediterranean you can’t go past the special delights of The Chefs Table and Manfredi’s.
Alternatively, you may choose to enjoy The Restaurant, World Cafe, the revolutionary Aquavit Terrace, the Pool Grill or perhaps afternoon tea at the Wintergarden with relaxing classical music from the Viking Resident Musicians.
Mamsen’swilltantaliseyouwithNorwegian specialties for breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack or an evening treat including the world famous Mamsen’s Waffles.
For some guests, the pièce de resistance is the very popular and exciting onboard cooking school, The Kitchen Table. Your adventure on Viking will allow you to immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine with interactive culinary adventures.
For more information, please visit www. viking.com or phone Reservations on (AU) 138 74.
and milk to make a smooth batter.
Step 2
In a small saucepan, gently melt the butter, then whisk into the batter along with the cardamom and vanilla.
Step 3
• Cook with a Norwegian waffle iron or lightly oil a grill pan, heat to medium and cook 4-5 tablespoons of the mixture per waffle. Cook the waffle until bubbles start to form on the surface, then flip over and cook until both sides have turned golden brown.
FormoreinformationonVikingpleasevisit www.viking.com or call Reservations (AU) 138 747
Karine Hagen gathers fresh ingredients in the Budapest Great Market Hall and prepares the traditional Hungarian dish of hearty goulash for The Kitchen Table.
The much recognised blue and white colours of beautiful Santorini provide the backdrop for an unforgettable gastronomic experience
"Exploration is really the essence of the human spirit."
FRANK B.
EXPL RER
Discovering another culture is a wondrous awakening. Sail with us to extraordinary shores where you can immerse yourself in new destinations and unique experiences.
Whether by river or ocean, we have crafted unforgettable journeys across all seven continents so you can explore more of the world.
Enjoy free flight offers with selected river, ocean or expedition voyages, valued up to AU$2,400 per person. Plus AU$500 shipboard credit with any ocean and expedition booking. Available for a limited time only, offers end 31 March 2025.
Springs and Coober Pedy including Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise
ï Station to hotel transfers included in Darwin and Adelaide
Hotel Stays
ï 3 night four-star stay in Darwin at the Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront
ï 3 night four-star stay in Adelaide at the Vibe Hotel Adelaide
ï All hotel stays include breakfast
Tours
ï Charles Darwin Harbour Dinner Cruise
ï Barossa and Hahndorf highlights tour
All Flights and Taxes
Your holiday includes
All-Inclusive Rail Journey
ï 3 night all-inclusive rail journey on board the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth with all meals, fine wines, and beverages
ï Off Train Experience and short stop in Broken Hill, Adelaide, Cook and Rawlinna
Hotel Stay
ï 5 night four-star stay in Perth at the Crowne Plaza Perth, an IHG Hotel with breakfast
Tours
ï Discover Rottnest Island tour including ferry transfer and Swan River Cruise
ï Half Day Perth & Fremantle Tour
ï 48 hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Pass
All Flights, Taxes and Transfers+
Free Australia Day entertainment in Tarneit
Wyndham’s free Australia Day program is back and it is Tarneit’s turn to celebrate.
On Sunday, January 26, Penrose Place will light up for four hours of fun, with live music and activities for kids set to keep everyone entertained between 10am and 2pm.
Headline acts will herald from near in far, as The Mik Maks will rock, The Soul Movers will send you back to the 60s (if you can’t
rememberthem),NBDancewillbringbravado of Bollywood, One Spirit Africa will arrive in just in time with their beats and Woody’s World will show that anywhere is a good place for Ukulele.
On the lawn, free craft activities, face painting, hula hooping fun with Circus Lab, DreamytheDreamBear,theincredibleBubble Brothers, fantastical aeronauts, stilt walkers and the brass band Ballahornication might
help with the age-old challenge of getting kids to go outside.
Revellerscanfeastatthefoodtrucksorbring along their own lunches and make a day of it with a picnic.
Some of the area’s most altruistic members will be recognised during the presentation of the2025WyndhamCitizenandYoungCitizen of the Year Awards.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to
Ultimate girls weekend
Camping is one of the best activities to do in the summer for everyone, but what if you just want an all-girls camping experience?
Glampingisthewaytogo,andtheBohemian Summer Festival is the perfect event to join in.
Started last year by siblings Julz Taylor and Kerri MacPherson, the Bohemian Summer Festival hosts about 1000 women at Phoenix Park in Ballan.
“We went to a lot of women’s festivals, and we wanted to do something that was not so much about the wellness,” Ms Taylor said.
“We love all the wellness, but we want to
really make it an ultimate girls’ weekend.
“Think cocktails, movie nights, all the things that you love on girls’ weekend but on a massive scale.”
The event welcomes women aged 15 and up.
Ms Taylor said the festival is an opportunity and space for women to put themselves first.
“You are important too, you’re not just someone’s mother or sister or daughter or caretaker,” she said.
“We always seem to burn ourselves out.
“At Bohemian Summer Festival, we say ditch the routine, put yourself first, and it’s
three days dedicated to doing exactly what you want to do.”
The festival is a three-day, two-night event happeningfromFriday,February14toSunday, February 16, where guests can have the option ofcamping,glamping,bringingtheircaravans, or just enjoy the day with a daily pass.
The event features 120 activities, women-ownedstalls,livemusic,danceparties, outdoor cinema, and many more activities tailored to women’s wants and needs.
Details: bohemiansummerfest.com.au/
Faith Macale
acknowledgeandappreciatetheircontribution in front of their family, friends and the wider community,” Cr Mia Shaw said.
Tarneit’s first Australia Day rodeo, the event will follow on a tradition that has seen the fun travel through Werribee, Point Cook, HoppersCrossing,ManorLakesandWerribee South.
Hobsons Bay’s Billy brothers
Hobson’s Bay brothers, Sebastian, 12, and Luka Serro, 10, are set to take audiences by storm in the regional Victorian premiere of the musical Billy Elliot, taking on a role they describe as “a dream come true.”
Sharing the role of Billy, the brothers will bring their impressive vocal, tap, ballet and acting skills to the stage to tell the story of a young boy’s struggle against the odds as he swaps his boxing gloves for ballet shoes.
“There’s no role like Billy,” said older brother Sebastian, who also played Billy in Cheltenham Light Opera Company’s (CLOC) production of Billy Elliot.
“Iwasonlysevenwhenthelasttouring production came to Australia and too young to audition – I cried in my room for a week when I found out, so playing the role twice now has been the best thing ever,” he said.
Luka played the role of Small Boy in the CLOC production and said he was envious of his older brother.
“I watched Seb rehearse and perform the role for months and part of me wished I could be up there on stage with him, performing the songs Electricity and Angry Dance too, which are my favourite numbers,” he said.
“Performing the role of Billy now though is just so special – I don’t even have the words!”
Audiences will be able to see them at the Geelong Arts Centre for 13 performances from January 17 to February 2. Details: https://geelongartscentre.org. au/
Don your best up-do, dust off your dancing shoes and head on over to the Bowery Theatre next week to experience a cult-classic musical like never before.
Audiences have the opportunity to devour the popular 1988 film Hairspray in a whole new interactive and sensory way –with a scented screening planned for January 24.
Presented by Brimbank council in collaboration with Snivure and Scented Storytelling, the evening is expected to leave your noses and eyes satisfied.
“The screenings are set to be a treat for the senses, with the sound and vision of these movie classics elevated by the release of scents across the theatre,” mayor Thuy Dang said.
“[It’s] a ‘smell-o-vision’ experience that will make you feel like you were really there.”
The upcoming screening is part of the
Midsumma Festival’s Go West program, supported by council.
“These events are a great way for the LGBTQIA+ community to connect in a safe and supported environment, and they are part of the council’s LGBTQIA+ Action Plan 2024-2028,” Cr Dang said.
Under the same initiative, the Bowery Theatre will also screen the New Zealand and Tongan LGBTQIA+ film, Inky Pinky Ponky on February 7.
The Hairspray screening will start at 6 pm Friday, January 24, at the Bowery Theatre and St Albans Community Centre.
This screening is free but registrations are required.
Details: tickets.midsumma.org.au/ event/396:448/396:1133/
Keen local movie goers are looking forward to attending the Hairspray screening. (Supplied)
Altona brothers Sebastian and Luka Sero will share the role of Billy Elliot in a production in Geelong from January 17 to February 2. (Supplied)
Jaidyn Kennedy
Jessica Brugaletta, Bianca Vaszolyi, and Katie Gould at the first Bohemian Summer Festival with co-founder Kerri Macpherson. (Supplied) 453024_02
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
The land affected by the application is located at: 2B Synnot Street WERRIBEE
The application is for a permit to: Demolition of the existing building. The area is to be replaced with open space.
A permit is required under the following clauses of the Planning Scheme:
Planning Scheme Clause: Matter for which a permit is required 43.01-1
Demolish or remove a building
The application number is: WYP14907/24
The applicant for the application is: Wyndham City Council
Responsible Authority: Wyndham City Council Telephone: 8376 5503
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at;
- The Council website https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/advertising
- By Contacting the Town Planning Unit on the contact number above
Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority by post or in person or;
- Online: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/planningobjection
- Email: statplanning@wyndham.vic.gov.au
An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected. If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its decision.
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 5 Feb 2025
The applicant for the application is:
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at; - The Council website https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/advertising - By Contacting the Town Planning Unit on the contact number above
Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority by post or in person or; - Online: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/planningobjection - Email: statplanning@wyndham.vic.gov.au
An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected. If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its decision.
Dangol Responsible Authority: Wyndham City Council Telephone: 8376 5503 The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 15th January, 2025
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Fish appendage (3)
3 Persistent (10) 10 Differing (7)
11 Of rocks, derived from magma or lava (7)
12 Harmful (9) 13 Squish (4) 15 Formal university attire (10)
17 Vaulted recess (4)
19 Old stringed instrument (4)
20 Chemical processes in the body (10)
23 Continent (4) 25 Conceptual (9)
27 Biased (7)
28 Everlasting (7)
29 Ordinariness (10)
30 School subject (abbr) (3)
DOWN
1 Approvingly (10)
2 Compass direction (9) 4 Evening entertainment (9) 5 Parishioners (5) 6 Set of chromosomes in a gamete (6) 7 Gods (5) 8 Huff (4) 9 An illusion (6) 14 Thin noodle (10) 16 Mitigation (9) 18 Artworks (9)
21 Common Irish surname (1’5) 22 Gambling house (6) 24 Piece cut off (5)
25 Flooring tradesman (5)
26 Unsolicited email (4)
1 What is the atomic number of hydrogen?
2 Bob Marley’s Redemption Song originally appeared on which of his albums?
3 Name Allison Janney’s (pictured) character in the 2011 film TheHelp
4 In which Australian state would you find Ozenkadnook?
5 What is the official language of Suriname?
6 A person with cathisophobia has a fear of what?
7 What are the statues of Easter Island known as?
8 How many keys does a piano usually have: a) 92, b) 68 or c) 88?
9 In the TV series Entourage, what is Johnny Chase’s nickname?
10 The three-toed sloth is mainly found on which continent?
Civic service into the future
With a heritage of more than half a century, there is lots that can be said about the Honda Civic.
No navel gazing here, though.
Far from dreamy reminiscences about its-once popular product, the maker says the company is looking strictly to the future with the updated model as a bridge to total electrification of its vehicles.
The entry-level petrol engine has been given the shove, with the new Civic e:HEV L hybrid filling the position, while the e:HEV LX variant is still available. Performance buyers have not been left behind, with the Civic Type R turbo, sans hybrid assistance, still ‘on the grid’.
The e:HEV system combines a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine mated with two electric motors, one that drives the front wheels and the second acting as a generator to charge the high-voltage battery.
Advanced in-car technology updates –including Honda Sensing and next generation Honda Connect with Google built-in – have been added across the range. Prices start at $49,900, plus on-road costs, for the entry-level e:HEV L and top out at $55,900 for the e:HEV LX. As with all Hondas, these prices are non-negotiable.
Every Civic comes standard with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year Premium Roadside Assist, five $199 services and three-year Honda Connect subscription.
STYLING
Back in the day the Civic – as a two-door fast-back sedan and later as a three-door hatchback – was to become one of the all-time best-selling automobiles in the world, with more than 28 million units sold since 1972. While the MY25 version looks like a sedan in profile, the Civic is a lift-back with a low-profilerooflinethatmakesitlooklesslike an upright hatch. Enhanced sportiness is the theme here, with a redesigned front bumper and body-coloured headlamp garnishes combining to present a more powerful front. New 18-inch alloy wheels suggest advanced athleticism.
INTERIOR
Space inside is abundant. Headroom up front is good and heated seats and dual-zone climate control are joined by a heated steering wheel. Storage is not so good, with a pair of cupholders and a small wireless charge tray. A lidded console offers more storage, and front doors have bottle holders.
The leg room out back is generous, and seats include a fold-down armrest, a pair of USB-C ports and air vents.
Boot space of 409 litres with rear seat backs up rear seatbacks up is accessed by a manual liftback which can be awkward to operate. A space under the floor is enough to hide small items, while missing are a full-size or space-saver spare.
The Civic hybrid comes with a tyre repair kit.
INFOTAINMENT
The 9.0-inch infotainment screen now adds Google built-in services. allowing access to Google Assistant, navigation via Google Maps, link to compatible smart home devices and add apps from the Google Play store.
Honda Connect services also provide a link between smartphone and the car, remotely adjusting the climate control air-con, lock or unlock the car, check the vehicle location, and receive car status checks.
A three-year subscription is included.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, AM/FM/DAB radio, or Bluetooth are on tap, while a 12-speaker Bose audio system punches above its weight with sound reproduction across all genres.
ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS
Powering the Civic e:HEV pair is a 2-litre direct injection petrol engine plus a two-motor hybrid system putting out 135kW
According to Honda the new Civic is the harbinger of sustainable-energy driving. (Pictures: Supplied)
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 6/10
Thirst: 5/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 6/10
Tech: 7/10
Value: 6/10
of power and 315Nm of torque, engineered for ‘engaging levels’ of performance, response and feedback.
SAFETY
The Civic comes with new and advanced activeandpassivesafetytechnology,including Honda Sensing, driver assistance made possible by better front camera software, while Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure is designed to better protect occupants and pedestrians in an accident.
New-generation Honda Connect features a new user-friendly Connected App interface, improved response time and other new features.
All models come with 11 airbags (with rear-seat side and centre airbags previously not part of the hybrid equipment list).
DRIVING
Get in, press the start/stop button and leave theresttotheCivic.Thepowertrainprioritises electric running, with the ICE chipping in from cold starts, or when battery charge is running low.
The E-CVT automatic is very un-CVT, with smooth running like an EV at low speeds, using the petrol engine to drive the wheels at higher speeds.
The regenerative braking that feeds power back to the battery when coasting can be adjusted via steering wheel paddles.
The Civic e:HEV features more than one selectabledrivemodelettingthedriverchoose
throttle response and fuel efficiency according to preference or driving conditions.
On offer are Normal or Econ, which reduce throttle and transmission sensitivity as well as air-conditioning to help optimise fuel use and Sport which enhances throttle response, steering feel and engine sound.
Finally, Individual mode enables the driver to select preferred settings including engine responsiveness, steering feel and gauges.
While all this was going on the test Civic recorded average fuel consumption of 4,6 litres per 100 kilometres during a week
of family-style motoring. Honda claims a combined urban/highway cycle figure of 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres. Recommended fuel is regular 91-octane unleaded petrol.
SUMMARY
According to Honda the new Civic is the harbinger of sustainable-energy driving, with the sporty Prelude the next cab off the petrol/ electric rank being launched next year before coming Down Under in 2026. Something to look forward to.
Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Sport is back after festive break
It was full steam ahead as the summer sports returned to action after the Christmas and New Year’s break. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out capturing some of the action.
Footscray United’s James Deasy. 452929_03
Footscray’s Mitchell Jamieson. 452928_02
Sunbury United’s Upul Fernando. 452933_01
It was a tough day in the field for East Sunbury. 452935_11
Hoppers Crossing’s Abbas Faiyaz. 452930_01
Harkness’ Gurinder Singh Grewal. 452932_05
Footscray’s Dylan Brasher. 452928_05
Melton’s Dylan Jobson. 452930_08
The Druids’ Subhan Ramzan. 452929_01
Harkness’s Baljinder Singh. 452932_01
Diggers Rest Bulla’s Darren Quarrell. 452935_01
Woodend’s Warren Else. 452933_02
Dates revealed for the VFL and VFLW seasons
Werribee will kick off its Victorian Football League title defence in late March.
The VFL and VFLW season dates for this yearwerereleasedlatelastyear,withthemen’s season to start on the weekend of March 22. It will align with round two of the AFL season.
As introduced in 2024, the seven VFL standalone clubs including Werribee and Williamstown, will play 10 home games from their 18 matches.
The top-ten teams on the ladder at the conclusion of the home and away season will qualifyforthefinals,withawildcardroundto start proceedings.
Finals will commence with the wildcard finalsontheweekendofAugust23,whichwill see the team that finishes in seventh position on the ladder play against the team that finishes 10th, while eighth will take on ninth.
Qualifying and elimination finals will be played the weekend of August 30, followed by semi finals on September 6 and preliminary
finals on September 13. The grand final is scheduled for September 21.
The VFLW competition will be played in a new season window, with the 2025 campaign to be played from April to August.
The opening round of the season will begin the weekend of April 19, with the final round played the weekend of August 2.
The competition will consist of a 16-round
consultation with clubs and key stakeholders in deciding the dates.
“The decision to shift the rebel VFLW season dates followed a review of the women’s football calendar and creates more alignment with the updated NAB AFLW season timing,” she said.
“The new rebel VFLW season dates will provide great benefits for clubs and players, with more opportunities now available for AFLW-listed players to compete in rebel VFLW matches as they prepare for the upcoming AFLW season.
home-and-away season, where all teams will play 14 matches and have two byes.
The finals structure remains unchanged with six teams to play finals, with the finals series to be played across four weeks.
Thegrandfinalisscheduledtobeplayedthe weekend of August 30.
AFL state league competitions head Jennie Loughnan said there had been extensive
Cats come away with win
By Tara Murray
An inconsistent Hoppers Crossing again did enough to come away with the points in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west on Saturday.
The Cats headed out to Melton to face the bottom of the table Melton in the first game back after the break and while it wasn’t the Cats best performance they still had a big win.
Cats captain-coach Simon Lambert said they were happy with the win considering where they were early in the day.
“At 6-80 we were staring down at it a bit,” he said. “It was good to see our lower order fight really hard for the last four wickets.
“It was really pleasing to push to 220 as it was a really slow outfield.
Daryl Sunder Ferrario top scored with 72 in the middle order, before Harshit Takkar, Abbas Faiyaz, Justin Goegan and Wajh e Ali Bangash all made contributions including 50 for the final wicket.
Lambert said they had confidence in their whole batting line up to do the job when they were needed to.
He said the form of the lower order bodes well for the side heading into the back part of the season.
Lambert said despite this, it was disappointing to find themselves in trouble early.
“It’s frustrating to see the top order come and go and be 6-80,” he said. “Either myself or Darryl having to step up and we spoke about it again.
“We weren’t at our best and we still made 220 which was about the highest score on the day without our top six firing.
“It was good signs.”
Lambert said they thought anything above 180 was a good score against the struggling Lions and that 220 was something they weren’t going to chase down.
The bowlers again stood up and were able to bowl Melton out for 97 in the 37th over.
Takkar was the pick of the bowlers for the
Cats, taking three wickets.
The win and other results moves the Cats up to second on the ladder.
The closeness of the competition means they are just two games clear of fifth.
Lambert said they had a favourable draw in the back half of the season with only one match against a top eight side.
They will have to get past Altona first which has beaten them the past two seasons. Altona currently sits in ninth spot.
The Cats were also set to be in action on Tuesday night against Yarraville in the T20 competition, after deadline.
Lambert said they were pretty optimistic entering the shortest format and were expecting to have a full strength side.
Meanwhile, Werribee suffered a loss to Altona on Saturday.
The Tigers made 9-188 from their overs with Ryan Alifraco top scoring with 44.
Altona hit the winning runs with five balls remaining, finishing 6-190.
Werribee was set to face Melton in the T20 competition, after deadline.
“This will further elevate the standard of the rebel VFLW and help to continue the development of the women’s football talent pool.
“The Smithy’s VFL has enjoyed stability in recent years and we are pleased to have the same 21 teams who have featured in the competition for the past three seasons again competing in 2025.”
Sports shorts
FV
Point Cook Jets have announced Stav Hitas as their new women’s coach for the 2025 FV state league season. Hitas brings 20 years of coaching experience, with a strong focus on girls and women’s soccer the past nine years. He has previously coached at Yarraville Glory, North Sunshine Eagles and Clifton Hill and is a championshipwinning coach in both girls and women’s football, most recently with the women’s team at Yarraville Glory.
Baseball Werribee Giants will put the first game back in the books and forget about it in the Baseball Victoria summer league premier 1st nine competition. Facing Geelong, the Giants lost 29-0 with several of their normal squad missing the game. The Giants were set to be back in action on Tuesday night against the Sunshine Eagles, after deadline.
Netball
Several netballers from Melbourne’s west have been named in the Victorian squads for the under-17 and under-19 National Championships in Sydney. City West Falcons Holly Adams-Alock has been named in the under-19 for a second straight year. Sahara Ball, who was part of Riddell’s A-grade grand final team in the Riddell District Netball League, is also part of the team. Western Warriors’ Kiara Boyd and Haleina Tanoi have both been named in the under-17 team along with Sunbury Lions premiership player and City West Falcon Amalani Fauonuku. City West Falcons coach Jacinta Todd will coach the under-17 team.
Western United Western United trio Besian Kutleshi, Anthony Didulica and William Kengni each earned call-ups to a domestic training camp with the Joeys last week. Held at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra, the camp comes three months out of the Joeys’ AFC under-17 Asian Cup campaign in Saudi Arabia. The week-long camp put the players in front of Brad Moloney and his coaching staff ahead of the tournament which also serves as qualification for the FIFA under-17 World Cup in Qatar.
FOR MORE SPORT VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Werribee will start its season in March. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
432956_02
Daryl Sunder Ferrario. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 452930_03
Point Cook on the hunt for new coach, wickets
Point Cook coach Carmine Conte will stand down at the end of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone season.
Conte, a life member at the club, returned to coach the side last season as the club started a new era.
The club announced on social media that Conte had advised that this season would be his last coaching the club.
The Warriors on Monday released advertisement for the role for 2025-26.
“This is an exciting opportunity to lead the men’s program at a cricket club with a proud history in our local community, and with the supportofadedicatedandunitedcommittee,” the club said.
“We are the fastest growing cricket club in the western suburbs area and aim to be the number one destination for cricketers of all levels who live in our region.
“With a goal to continually strengthen and develop our player list and culture as we strive for a program that produces sustained success.”
Conte said when he was first appointed coach it was about developing an exciting and talented group of players throughout all the grades.
In round one this season, the Warriors had four players 16 and under.
“We’re looking at a little bit of the now and a little bit for the future,” he said at the time.
“The juniors are really coming on and we have that mixture of experience and juniors.
“This year we’re trying to win it while developing a system. We have a good philosophy to build within ourselves.”
The Warriors returned to the field after the Christmas break on Saturday against Gellibrand in a two-day clash.
The Warriors were bowled out for 177 in the 66th over after winning the toss and deciding to bat.
Captain David Hicks rescued the innings for the Warriors, who were in trouble at 6-101.
Hicks finished 61 not out.
Gellibrand had to face 11 overs at the end of day one.
It finished the day at 1-22. Max Rouvray was the wicket taker for the Warriors.
In other matches, Point Cook Centrals is in trouble against Caroline Springs.
The Sharks were bowled out for just 110 in the 54th over. Krishan Alang top scored with 30.
Caroline Springs finished the day at 4-55.
Mayank Sharma has two wickets for the Sharks.
Both Point Cook sides were set to be in action on Tuesday night, after deadline, in the T20 competition.
The Warriors were set to face Newport-Digman and the Sharks were set to face Wyndham Vale.
After three rounds of the competition, the Sharks were on top undefeated with the Warriors in third spot with two wins.
Meanwhile, the Warriors women’s side’s match with Aberfeldie was washed out after storms hit on Sunday.
Centurions hunt for wins
By Tara Murray
Werribee Centrals is hoping luck turns its way inthesecondpartoftheVictorianTurfCricket Association Evans-Clark Shield season.
The Centurions have one win for the season, but have been unlucky in a couple of other matches that have been washed out.
Having been more competitive this season, presidentLukeAllistersaidithadbeenslightly frustrating not to see some more successful results.
He felt they had improved with both the bat and ball.
“We had two games that were washed out and we were in really good positions,” he said.
“We’ve felt like nothing has gone our way. We’ve only been outplayed in one game. We’re trending in the right direction with a fairly new team that is learning how to play together.”
Allister said it was a really tight competition with not much between the teams.
Despite winning just one game, the Centurions are still in finals contention.
Allister, who has missed most of the season with injury, said they were starting to see the rewards from a number of years of hard work.
He said the group and coach Tarique Jeffrey were starting to gel together. He said the side wanted to continue to set the platform for seasons to come.
“We had a couple of guys out and we bought a couple of guys up from the seconds,” he said.
“Brad [Davies] I don’t think has played first XI cricket before. We have a good squad and the seconds are going along really well.
“We still have a fairly young team. It’s been a work in progress. When I get fit I might not start back in the ones, which means we have some depth which is fantastic.”
The Centurions have set themselves a good platform in the first game back after the break against ladder leaders Sunshine YCW.
The Centurions made 249 as they were bowled out in the 75th over on Saturday.
Carter joins the Dogs
Point Cook has added some valuable experience to its line up with former AFL player Josh Carter joining the club.
The Western Football League division 1 club announced the signing of Carter, who had a successful AFL career.
“Josh is an exciting forward who played 178 games in the AFL, representing both the Western Bulldogs and West Coast Eagles, and kicking 224 goals,” the club said. “A key figure in the 2015 AFL grand final, Josh’s career has been nothing short of impressive.
“As a proud Indigenous man, Josh’s contributions extend beyond the field. Playing representative football with the Indigenous All-Stars is a career highlight, and he is eager to take on a leadership role within the club, particularly in promoting NAIDOC Week activities in 2025. “His passion for education and cultural awareness is sure to leave a lasting impact on the club and the community.
“Josh’s experience, mentorship, and dedication will be invaluable to our young playing group.”
Carter has been playing with St Albans most recently, firstly in the WFL and then in the Essendon District Football League.
He kicked five second half goals in a division 1 semi final last year, kicking more than 30 goals for the season.
Carter is the first new signing for the Bulldogs under new coach Saade Ghazi Speaking after his appointment it would be a bit of a reset this year.
Usman Ashraf top scored with 65.
Allister said they thought that was a good score. He said the pleasing thing was that didn’t have to rely on one batter to get the job done.
“We would take that every week,” he said.
“We still have to bowl the other team out.
“It means nothing if they make 251.
“We feel like we’re trending in the right direction. Hopefully we can get the win and results go our way and we’re just outside the top four.”
In other matches, Bellbridge made 231 against Laverton.
Skipper Dillon Hinge top scored with 98.
In the Russell Pollock Shield, Wyndham Vale has already conceded first innings points to Barkly St United.
The Vales were bowled out for 77, with Barkly St Uniting 3-176 at stumps.
Only three batters reached double figures for the Vales, with Jay Dolliver top scoring with 23.
“The group has a lot of young talent that got a lot of opportunities,” he said. “There’s a bit of work to do to get back up the ladder
“We won’t throw everything out the door and hopefully we have some more luck with injuries.”
Josh Carter. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Max Rouvray. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 448422_08
Usman Ashraf. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 436966_07
WFNL names interleague coaches for May clash
The Western Football Netball League has revealed its interleague coaches for its clashes with the Southern Football Netball League in May.
The league will play in senior interleague for the first time since 2019, with women’s football and netball interleague games to be played for the first time. The WFNL is seeking to host the match-up on May 17 with football and netball venues still to be confirmed.
Parkside premiership co-coach Chris Muratore will coach the senior men’s football side. He is also currently the backline coach for Richmond’s Victorian Football League team andadevelopmentcoachwiththeclub’sAFLW program.
Caroline Springs’ women’s coach Alex O’Shea will lead the league’s first women’s interleague side.
One of the Lakers original players, O’Shea won four club best and fairest awards before movingintocoachingandtakingtheLakersto the past two grand finals.
Glen Orden coach Rebecca Hicks will coach the netball interleague side.
Hicks oversaw the Hawks netball program this season, with every side making the grand final, with five teams taking home premierships.
Kirk Heberle will coach the under-19 men’s football side. He is a former premiership player withPointCookandisnostrangertotheleague’s interleague programs having coached under-13, under-14andunder-15interleaguesides.
WFNL operations general manager Luke Henry, said the league was thrilled to secure the services of four excellent coaches.
“Chris is an outstanding appointment with many strong connections with current coaches and players across the league,” he said. “With his knowledge of the league as a player and coach as well as having represented the league previously we’re really excited for what he can provide for the senior men’s interleague program,” Henry said.
“With 2025 being the first year of senior women’sinterleaguewe’rethrilledtohaveAlex onboardhavingbeeninvolvedinanextremely successful women’s program at Caroline Springs as both a player and now as coach.
“Bec is excited for the challenge of coaching our interleague netball team alongside
Noah Botic. (Supplied)
United’s stunning victory
By Oliver Caffrey, AAP
Western United have come from behind three times and scored two stoppage time goals to pinch a stunning 4-3 win over Melbourne Victory in a classic A-League Men derby at AAMI Park.
SevendaysafterJordanLauton’sspectacular goal gave United an epic win over Glory in Perth,JohnAloisi’steamcementedthemselves as the comeback kings of the league on Friday night.
Japanese striker Hiroshi Ibusuki was the match-winner, slotting his second goal of the night in the 94th minute to break the 3-3 deadlock and silence the parochial Victory crowd.
“If it was the first time we did it, we’ll say maybe it was a little bit of luck, but it’s not the first time this season that we’ve done that,” Aloisi said.
“It’s the belief that the boys have, and to keep going. They show such resilience, such character.
“We had a big schedule, four games in 12 days, but we were outstanding in that second half.”
It was a brutal way for Socceroo Jason Geria
to end his time at Victory, with the defender on the move to Japanese second division club Albirex Niigata.
“He’s everything this club’s about,” interim Victory coach Arthur Diles said of Geria.
“He’s someone that’s a special human being andabigcharacterofthisclubandtheleague.
“I’m devastated for him tonight that we don’tsendhimoutawinnerinhisfinalmatch at Melbourne Victory.”
Victory surrendered a one-goal advantage in both halves, and then in the 91th minute through a stunning header from United’s Noah Botic.
In a nod to Lauton after he celebrated nhis matchwinner against Perth by pulling off his shirt and earning himself a one-game suspension, Botic also showed off some skin and was given a yellow card.
Botic celebrated hard before a section of Victory supporters, who were further devastated when Ibusuki - who’d equalised 1-1 in the 17th minute - netted a second, match-winning goal three minutes later.
It was a fifth-straight winless appearance for Victory, who last took all three points on December 8 against lowly Perth.
Diles took over as interim Victory boss
three specialist coaches. With the WFNL competition continuing to build year on year Bec is eager to prove a point against a league withawell-establishedcompetitionandstrong reputation on the netball court.”
WFNL chief executive David Jennings said they were excited to bring back senior interleague to the league. “Being a part of a representativeprogramisatremendoushonour for players and coaches and is one of the most rewarding experiences in sport,” he said.
“The program will be integral to strengthening our brand in metropolitan football and netball and will no doubt create a sense of pride within the WFNL when we take on Southern next year.
“We are delighted to have received the commitment from our highly respected and capable coaches which is a testament to how important senior Interleague is to the league and the pathways in our region.”
Tara Murray
New look state league
The FV state league competition division structure will expand from 2026 for both the men’s and women’s competitions.
The same structures as 2024 will be in place for this year, before from 2026 the state leagues will expand from the current five-division structure to seven divisions for the men’s competition and eight divisions for the women’s competition.
Football Victoria said the decision follows extensive consultation with clubs over recent seasons, and introduces a more streamlined and consistent framework for competition.
Under the new model, all leagues within each division will be zoned geographically into north-west and south-east regions.
Currently the top state league competitions for men’s and women’s are split into north-west and south-east regions, while the lower state league grades are single regions.
Football operations executive manager Dan Birrell said the move is designedtoenhancethecompetitiveness and growth opportunities within the leagues.
after Patrick Kisnorbo shocked the club by taking up an assistant coaching job in Japan on December 17, only days before their derby against Melbourne City.
Veteran Victory striker Bruno Fornaroli scored for the first time since returning to the starting line-up, tapping in a nice pass from Daniel Arzani in the 39th minute.
It came after centre back Brendan Hamill opened the scoring with a superb hit when Victory started hot.
VictoryconsistentlybrokethroughUnited’s defence in the first half while creating far more chances, and should have been further in front than 2-1 at the break.
United emerged after halftime an inspired unit with Abel Walatee equalising in the 69th minute.
Victory could have gone up 3-1, but a goal was disallowed in the 59th minute after Fornaroli was deemed to have pulled Tate Russell’s shirt.
Brazilian attacker Santos looked to have found the winner in the 79th minute, celebrating his first goal for Victory with a backflip just three minutes after coming off the bench to replace Arzani, before United rebounded.
“These changes will align the entire seniorcommunityfootballpyramid,”he said. “The shift in structure will provide clubs with a streamlined competition format, while the introduction of a two-up, two-down promotion and relegation process ensures increased competitiveness and fairness across all levels.”
The changes will include a standardised promotion and relegation system across all divisions will provide clubs with a clear pathway for progression.
Unclearpromotionandrelegationhas been something a number of clubs have previously complained about. Some divisions have had one side promoted and others have had two sides promoted and it has changed from year to year.
In 2026, the new state league 6 men’s competition will contain teams from this year’s state league 4 and five, while state league 7 will contain teams from the state league 5 competitions.
Further information will be shared oncethe2025finalleaguestructuresare confirmed late in January.
The Western Football Netball League has announced its senior interleague coaches. (Western FNL)
