Six decades of love
A lot has changed in Wyndham and the world since February 27 1965 –the day Alan and Lynette Pascoe tied the knot.
Since then, Alan and Lynette have welcomed four children, eleven grandchildren and a great-grandson, while Wyndham has welcomed over 300,000 new residents.
While Alan and Lynette have called Hoppers Crossing home for 58 years, their love has taken them across the world.
In 1995, the two embarked on a trip across Europe and North America, before touring Australia by caravan, which they said contained some of their fondest memories together.
Sixty years on the job makes Alan and Lynette more qualified than most to give advice on the secrets to a long and happy marriage.
They both agreed that communicating with each other is the best piece of advice they could give to those entering a life-long partnership.
To mark the milestone, Alan and Lynette are going away and then will have a small celebration with family.
Voters are ‘losing trust’
By Cade Lucas
“Our November 2026 campaign started yesterday.”
Paul Hopper doesn’t sound like a two-time loser.
Despite again failing to win the seat of Werribee at Saturday’s by-election, the Wyndham businessman and independent candidate has taken heart from securing nearly 15 per cent of first preference votes to come third behind Labor’s John Lister and the Liberal’s Steve Murphy in the contest to replace former treasurer, Tim Pallas, in the now marginal seat.
While the government is likely to still retain Werribee, the thumping 17 per cent
swing it suffered, combined with much of it going to independents like him rather than the Liberals, has convinced Mr Hopper to not just go again at next year’s state election, but go bigger.
“I will definitely contest in Werribee in 2026 and we’ll aim to run lower house candidates in all 11 western suburbs lower house seats and the upper house as well,” said Mr Hopper of his plans to run candidates under the banner of the West Party, which he and a number of other independent candidates established last year, but weren’t able to register in time for the Werribee by-election.
He said his experience on the campaign trail indicated that voters’ frustration with
the major parties was unlikely to go away.
“They’re losing trust. They’re sick of the party politics and we’ve been reinforced by the result.”
Mr Hopper said another message he took from the campaign was that one issue concerned voters above all others.
“The number one was public safety,” he said.
“Roads and public transport are major issues, but at the end of the day, they’re a pain in the backside.
“But public safety is emotional. If people start feeling unsafe in their homes, that’s something we don’t want in our society,” said Mr Hopper who wants more investment in wrap-around services for at-risk youth and
less tolerance for repeat offenders to help address the problem.
“Everyone’s had a gut full of the catch and release of the serious repeat offenders.”
As for transport, he urged the government to respond to the by-election result by scrapping major projects like Suburban Rail Loop and redirecting the funds to transport needs in the west.
“They’ve dug a big hole with the budget and they’ve got themselves into a corner and the only way out is to pause those projects,” Mr Hopper said.
“But I don’t think that will happen.” The Victorian Electoral Commission expects the final result of the by-election to be announced on Friday.
Lynette and Alan Pascoe with their wedding photo (Ljubica Vrankovic) 452804_03
Mambourin house price slump
By Jaidyn Kennedy
A quarterly dip in median house sale prices in Mambourinisnocauseforconcern,according to a local real estate agent.
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria’s (REIV) latest statistics recorded a 10.7 per cent decrease in the median price to $570,000 in the suburb.
Ray White Werribee agent Jarrod Loughlin said while he has seen some investors pull out of Mambourin, the extent of the trend also depends on the property type.
“I’m very optimistic about the area, it just needs public transport- there’s still no buses,” he said.
“It just needs roads and infrastructure built tomakeMambourinclosertoeverythingelse.”
He said that he witnessed the same growing pains just down the road.
“Compare Mambourin to Harpley. Harpley took a while to get going and now Harpley is thriving.
“We are finding a lot of investors are actually starting to do their research and actually come in here for Mambourin.”
He said many investors in the area came from interstate and comparatively low rental yields in the short term may be a contributing factor to the latest dip.
“In this climate we see a lot of investors jump off.”
The profile of buyers is also changing more towards families with children as more amenities are built, Mr Loughlin said.
“Good News Lutheran College’s new campus is going to be the game changer and I think the town centre will be too.
“I’ve seen a lot of buyers selling from Manor
Stella Maris Family Fun Day returns
Stella Maris Catholic Primary is inviting the community to have fun at the school’s Family Fun Day on Saturday, February 22.
The free event, which raises funds for much-needed improvements to the school grounds and started 13 years ago when the school was little more than red clay, has blossomed into a much anticipated event on the calendar.
Rides and games for kids of all ages, live music and stage shows for entertainment, food trucks, market stalls will be among the attractions.
Adults will also have access to ‘The Stella Lounge,’ a relaxing space to enjoy an Aperol
spritz or a boutique beverage.
Principal Stephen Harrison explained what the day meant to the school and wider community.
“The Family Fun Day is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of the incredible skills, generosity, and teamwork within our school community,” he said.
“Run entirely by volunteers and school staff, this event is a true testament to the Stella Maris culture.”
He said there were two great ways for the community to get involved.
“Join us on the day. Bring your family
and friends to enjoy the positive energy and vibrant atmosphere of our wonderful Point Cook community.
“Support the cause – every dollar spent helps us plant more trees and create more play spaces for our children.”
Aboveall,MrHarrisonsaidthecommunity is what makes the event special.
“Without a doubt, it’s the people. Our school is made up of a wonderfully diverse group of families who come together, share theirtalents,andvolunteertheirtimetocreate something truly special.”
Jaidyn Kennedy
Lakes and moving into Mambourin.
“I am a big believer that in the next couple of years it will take off again.”
Decreases were also seen in Wyndham Vale (-1.4 per cent to $582,000), Manor Lakes (-3.8 per cent to $635,000), Werribee (-4.8 per cent to $600,000) and Point Cook (-1.9 per cent to $760,000).
Median rises were recorded in Hoppers Crossing (5.7 per cent to $635,000), Williams Landing (5.1 per cent to $820,000), Tarneit (1.2 per cent to $655,000) and Truganina (0.2 per cent to $651,000).
Good News opens campus
Good News Lutheran College has welcomed its first students to its new Mambourin campus on Monday, February 3.
The initial cohort comprised 362 students from prep to grade six, with further grades to be added as the school grows.
The school is expected to eventually accommodate 1500 prep to year 12 students on its 6.8-hectare site, which will support the existing Tarneit campus.
Following the maiden school drop off at Mambourin, parents got together for a coffee and muffin morning at Little Growling Cafe at residents’ centre Club Mambourin.
More than 100 parents attended the event, which was designed to help families meet and form connections.
Good News Lutheran College principal Fiona McAuliffe said the opening of the school’s Mambourin campus stemmed from a determination toofferaChristianeducationtofamilies in Melbourne’s growing west.
“We’re so excited to get started and to see these children make this school their own,” she said.
“In years to come they’ll be able to proudly say that they were the very first students at what will be an educational facility of excellence and inclusion.”
Warning to be vigilant about trolls when pets go missing
The administrator of a Facebook group for lost pets is urging people to be vigilant of cruel scams after witnessing pet owners being inundated with prank calls and extortion attempts.
Nas Khan, a community volunteer who helps reunite people with lost pets, recently assisted a Point Cook couple in their search to recover their elderly dog.
During the search, the couple received repeated calls from people pretending to have the dog, asking for payment and threatening harm to the animal.
Ms Khan said trolls prey on grieving pet owners and can cause severe distress. Emotional distress, sleep deprivation,
difficulties concentrating on their other daily tasks and financial strain are among the most common things she has witnessed among grieving pet owners.
“Falling victim to such scams can prolong the emotional trauma of losing a pet, making it even harder for owners to cope with their loss,” Ms Khan said.
“Thesefactorscombinedcreateaparticularly reprehensible form of exploitation.”
However,shesaidtherearewayspetowners and other community members can do to protect themselves.
Verifying information such as unsolicited offers to return pets, looking into the reputation and legitimacy of any organisation
or individual offering help, and reporting suspicious behaviour were some of the protective measures she recommended.
Shohre Mansouri of the Animal Justice Party said the current anti-troll laws might be worth examining, more so than pet-specific protection laws.
“While we already have laws against harassment and fraud, it may be worth considering whether existing protections adequatelycovercaseslikethis,”MsMansouri said.
“Local councils and the state government could play a role in raising awareness and ensuring law enforcement takes these incidents seriously.
“Collaboration with animal welfare organisations could also help educate the public on how to respond to such situations.”
Ms Mansouri said “While these pranks primarily impact pet owners, they also show a disregard for animals as sentient beings.”
“Pets are family members, and using them to manipulate or distress people is unacceptable. Respect for animals should extend to all aspects of society.”
Both Ms Khan and Ms Mansouri said ensuring pets are microchipped is an important preventative action that can make rescue efforts easier.
Jaidyn Kennedy
Good News Lutheran College has welcomed the inaugural cohort to its new Mambourin campus. (Supplied)
Stella Maris Catholic Primary students want everyone to enjoy the upcoming Family Fun Day (Ljubica Vrankovic) 454938_01
A shed for all abilities
The Wyndham Park Community Shed is inviting people of all interests to come along, make some new friends, learn new skills and much more.
Located at the rear of the Wyndham Park Community Centre in Werribee, the group runs a men’s shed, women’s shed, an all-abilities shed and a tool library.
Starting life as a men’s shed, community shed and tool library manager Daniel Schultheis said the community has come a long way.
“Our women’s shed is growing in terms of members, we’re keen to find more skilled volunteers to help run areas of the shed so it’s more led by women as well,” he said Run by skilled woodworker Hayden Cronin on Wednesdays and Fridays, the all-abilities shed helps those who might not know where to start.
“The program really helps people to gain
confidence, through a program that helps people go at their own pace, whether they have experience, or no experience at all,” Mr Schultheis said.
From bike repairs to metal working, communityshedshavesomethingforeveryone.
“It’s really got something for everyone –and people from all backgrounds in the local community and all walks of life – people find the place they best fit in at the shed,” Mr Schultheis said.
“The shed is best when people come along to try,andkindofgettoknowwhat’sonoffer,and find the place they enjoy coming.”
Anyonelookingtobecomea‘shedder’orjust honetheirskills,cangetintouchwiththeshed for a free trial day, literally just drop in, and then look to join if they like what they see.
Details : https://www.wyndhamparkcc.com. au/community-shed/ JaidynKennedy
Briefs
Drink driving
A 29-year-old Weir Views man is expected to be charged with drink driving offences following a collision in Hoppers Crossing on Saturday. Police allege the man got behind the wheel of a silver Mazda while seven times over the legal limit. It is understood a silver Mazda and a utility collided on the Princes Freeway about 11.20pm on February 8. The Mazda then crashed into a pole. The Weir Views man underwent a preliminary breath test at the scene. He was taken to a police station for an evidentiary breath test, returning an alleged reading of .326.
North turns west
North Melbourne went west on Monday, February 10 as the club brought the AFL’s annual community camp program to Wyndham. Through The Huddle, the club’s community arm, several players visited Werribee Primary School to launch GOAL! – a footy-themed STEM lesson. Later on, the Roos hopped on down the road to Hogans Road Reserve in Hoppers Crossing for a footy clinic and autograph signing. Co-vice captain Nick Larkey said “Being out here amongst the community of Wyndham today has been fantastic. Connecting with Roos members in the area and meeting new fans of the future has been a lot of fun.”
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Tomas Havran and Hayden Cronin working with wood.
(Ljubica Vrankovic) 457977_03
Design out for shopping centre
The first images of a new shopping centre at Tarneit have been released.
The renders of The Grove shopping centre show what residents can expect when the complex is completed in early 2027.
The centre includes a 4,000 sqm full-line Woolworths supermarket and 20 retail and speciality stores across the remaining 4,000 sqm section of the complex. Tenants at the Bethany Road shopping centre will include Chemist Warehouse and Anytime Fitness as well as a nail bar, greengrocer, bakery and pizza restaurant.
Facing the shopping centre on the other side of Bethany Road, additional amenity will include Saltwater all-ages learn-to-swim
school with two pools, Hungry Jacks and Red Rooster fast food, a service station and car wash.
There will be 260 car parking spaces for the retail centre, with a further 60 spaces to serve the swim school and adjacent tenants.
Wyndham for Palestine members. (Supplied)
Join summit for first time voters
Wyndham for Palestine (WFP) is inviting first-time voters to its ‘We the People’ community building summit on Saturday, February 22.
Held in preparation for the upcoming federal election, the event will aim to guide first-time voters, such as university students andnewcitizens,throughpreferentialvoting, navigating party politics, and lessons from Indigenous modes of self-determination and leadership.
According to organisers, the event stems from a critical need in Wyndham for civic education, including on democratic rights and the electoral process.
WFP co-founder Alisha Saiyed said the community comes from politically aware cultures and the day was about localising this sense of awareness.
“This day is about translating political literacy to their current context, otherwise it becomes too easy to mistake rhetoric for policy, and misinformation for reality,” she said.
WFP co-founder Fatima Measham said political rights should not be taken for granted.
“The danger is not just in the lack of understanding about how rights work, but in taking them for granted – and assuming
someone else is fighting for them.”
“That creates a huge risk of losing our main protection from abuse, violence and suppression, including by our own governments.”
“Our rights are only as secure as we make them.
The event will take place at the Wunggurrwil Dhurrung Community Centre in Wyndham Vale.
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/ we-the-people
Jaidyn Kennedy
The two precincts will be connected by a pedestrian crossing and reserve, with bus stops on either side linking through to Werribee and Tarneit railway stations.
The Grove retail centre was designed to reflect the community’s location near the meeting point of Davis Creek and the Werribee River.
The qualities and patterns found in the riverbanks and the flowing forms of the waterways are mirrored in the centre’s textures and materials.
Empire Property Builders will begin construction in the second quarter of 2025.
Upgraded bike track finished
The new track at Golden Avenue Reserve in Hoppers Crossing is now complete, Wyndham council has announced.
The track features crafted elements that are designed to enhance the riding experience and caters to all abilities. Corners with berms will feature and strategically placed corners equipped with berms will allow riders to maintain speed and control through turns, adding an element of technical skill to the track.
Smooth rollers positioned before and after berms will provide riders with opportunities for dynamic tricks, creating a more fluid and exciting riding experience.
Single jumps featuring table tops will allow riders to catch air and perform tricks, while the design ensures safety while still offering an adrenaline-pumping jump experience.
Council said the track will benefit the area by providing a space for all to enjoy and promote opportunities for skill development and a fun way to stay physically active.
The upgrades, which were previously estimated to be completed by mid-2024 by council and will build upon other upgrades to the reserve in recent years, included a new playground and walking path in 2021.
Entertainment for all in the west in February and March
February and March will have somecase of the best events Melbourne’s west has to offer.
Lunar new year festivities will continue to dazzle in Williamstown with local artist QiQi on February 15 and in Footscray with theVietnameseTETFestivalacrossFebruary 15-16.
Star-crossed lovers will be able to have a ‘Valentine’s Day Under the Stars’ at the Scienceworks planetarium in Spotswood.
Sunset Safari will continue to be a top do at Werribee Open Range Zoo with its extended
Safari Tour, cocktails, performances and a traditional African Braai barbeque until February 22.
Close by, those wanting to catch a glimpse of nautical excellence can visit the Offshore Superboat Championship’s thrilling races at the Wyndham Harbour marina on February 22-23.
Stickingwiththesea,thereisplentyoftime to see the ‘Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition,’ at Seaworks in WIlliamstownwhich running through to July.
Onthepitch,WesternUnitedwillcontinue itscampaignforgloryasittakesonAuckland on February 15 and Adelaide on February 23 at Ironbark Fields in Tarneit.
Melton Night Market will have an assortment of European cuisine on March 7, as Greek, Italian, Dutch and Scottish dishes promise to excite taste buds.
Experience Wicked Sisters, a play about a witty reunion of old friends that takes a savage turn over laughs, wine, and unexpected truths at the Williamstown Little
Theatre between February 12 and March 1 from 8.15pm, except for Sundays that when the show starts at 5pm.
Every Saturday until April 5, Kindred Studios in Yaraville will have free live music showcasing fresh local talent.
Last but certainly not least, Footscray Community Arts, The Substation in Newport will be contributing exhibitions to Asia TOPA, Australia’s major triennial of Asia-Pacific performance based in Melbourne.
An artist’s impression of the new town centre at The Grove.
Elephants make the journey west
By Jaidyn Kennedy
The first of nine Asian elephants have made the journey from Melbourne Zoo to Werribee Open Range Zoo’s new purpose-built habitat.
Luk Chai, a 15-year-old bull who weighs four tonnes, was the first of the herd to make the move on Thursday, February 6. Witha$88millionpricetag,the21-hectrate sanctuary is equipped with dense vegetation, mud wallows and interconnected waterholes for swimming and socialising, making it a more naturalistic environment.
Weighing a combined 23 tonnes, or the equivalent of one humpback whale, the herd will make the 40-kilometre journey in custom-built, air-conditioned travel crates, speciallydesignedtoensurethecomfortofall, including three mother-calf pairs.
Werribee zoo director Mark Pilgrim said the community at the zoo is excited.
“Werribee Open Range Zoo is thrilled to welcome the entire elephant herd to their new home,” he said.
“This move represents a ground-breaking moment for us, and we cannot wait to see
these magnificent animals thrive in their expansive new habitat.”
The zoo’s expansion will be designed to enhance the experience of visitors while simultaneously prioritising animal welfare.
Guests will be able to observe the elephants in their habitat from a variety of vantage points, including a boardwalk and viewing platforms that provide a more intimate look into the herd’s daily activities.
Five years in the making, elephant keepers have spent months preparing the herd, ensuringeverymemberfeelsateasewiththeir
Give your business a new SPARK
SPARK, Wyndham council’s innovation hub, wants the community to know its is open for business.
Operating since 2022, SPARK has supported 30foundersandentrepreneursfrom28start-up businesses to get off the ground.
Memberbusinessesrangefromsoftwareand hardware developers to those specialising in robotics, data analytics, AI, augmented reality, virtual reality and geospatial mapping. These businesses operate across sectors such as e-commerce, construction, healthcare, renewableenergy,cybersecurityandeducation. Unlike working from home or in smaller
offices, SPARK members can benefit from shared resources, mentoring and a community that can exchange ideas with each other.
Mayor Mia Shaw said the program helps grow Wyndham’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and drive economic growth.
“SPARK fosters a shared culture of collaboration, nurture and enables innovation tolevelupnewearly-stageenterprises,start-ups and businesses,” she said.
“This is a great way to get a feel for the space andthecommunityandseehowitcanworkfor you and your business.”
Council encourages members to plan for
travel arrangements.
The logistics behind the operation were a collective effort that involved a 21-person keeper team, logistics experts with cranes and trucks, veterinarians from both zoos, the DepartmentofTransport,andVictoriaPolice.
Trail of the Elephants life sciences manager Erin Gardiner called the process inspiring.
“This move is the culmination of years of planning and dedication. Watching the elephants become comfortable with their crates and seeing how well they’ve adapted to the process has been inspiring,” she said.
Crossing safety celebration
Friday, February 7 marked ‘School Crossing Supervisor Safety Awareness Day,’ a day devoted to reflecting on the significance of local lollypop men and women.
Other than assisting students and parentscrossingbusyroadsnearschools during peak school times, crossing supervisors play an important part in educating children and the community with use of school crossings.
While the ’Stop, Look, Listen, Think’ mantra to staying safe when crossing the road is usually associated with the safety of children, the community also is being reminded it has a duty of care to crossing supervisors.
A council spokesperson said crossing supervisors were important and urged the community to respect their safety.
“Wyndham City appreciates the important role school crossing supervisors play in keeping children safe,” the spokesperson said.
“We strongly encourage the community to be respectful towards school crossing supervisors and follow their directions to ensure safety for everyone.”
expansions beyond SPARK into commercial office spaces in order to help support growing businesses in Wyndham.
Members have 24-7 access to a selection of 55workstations,privateoffices,meetingrooms and function spaces.
SPARK is open to early-stage businesses, entrepreneurs, and tech start-ups with priority to Wyndham-based enterprises.
It is located at Wyndham City’s Business & Innovation Hub at 600 Sneydes Road in Werribee.
Kennedy
As part of the festivities, school crossing supervisors in Wyndham donned a ribbon to mark the day and highlight the job they do, while honouring a supervisor who died in Wodonga in February 2024.
Wyndham operates over 170 school crossings to support over 70 school campuses and the team employs over 200 staff to maintain the service.
Council regularly collaborates with School Crossings Victoria to ensure supervisors are trained in specific policies and procedures.
SPARK helps entrepreneurs get their small businesses going. (Attie Mohebali) 455553_01
Jaidyn
Call to end tanning trend
By Oscar Parry
This January marked the 10-year anniversary sincethebanningofcommercialsolariumbeds across Australia.
Despite this ban, Cancer Council Victoria reports that a large number of Australians are still taking part in dangerous tanning trends –with these trends affecting young Australians, including young women.
According to the Cancer Council, skin cancer has maintained its place as the state’s fifth most common cancer, with more than 3000 Victorians diagnosed with melanoma in 2023.
Cancer Council Victoria SunSmart program head Emma Glassenbury said the organisation is aware of harmful social media trends emerging recently, such as glamorising tan lines.
“We’re seeing harmful beauty norms glamorisingtanningandweknowthisimpacts women,” Ms Glassenbury said.
“We’re deeply concerned to see trends on social media emerging with young people showingofftanlinesandusingtheUVindexas a tanning tool rather than a warning … people should use the UV index to know when they should be using sun protection.
“These trends are really fuelling harmful attitudes towards sun tanning, particularly among young women, and increasing lifetime risk of skin cancer.”
MsGlassenburysaidmostyoungAustralians believe their risk of getting skin cancer is low and almost one in three young Australians believe that it’s safe to sun tan at their age.
“Young people are really susceptible to the social media messages, and it’s irresponsible for these platforms to be hosting misleading and dangerous content glamorising tanning – which is actually increasing skin
cancer risk,” she said.
Cancer Council Australia started a federal government-backed campaign to counteract harmful social media trends around sun tanning behaviours, titled End The Trend.
“This campaign is targeting young Australians and really promoting through social media platforms and … influencers to end tanning trends … highlighting that UV damage can occur just in 15 minutes to your skin,” Ms Glassenbury said.
Along with UV exposure increasing your risk of skin cancer, she said that it is also the cause of 80 per cent of premature ageing, causing wrinkles and sun spots.
Ms Glassenbury said a tan is the result of melanin production after skin is exposed to UV radiation, which is produced by the body as a way of protecting the skin, and is a sign of skin damage.
“Wereallywantpeopletoembracetheirown natural skin tone … and to to use all five forms of sun protection whenever the [UV index rating] is three and above,” she said.
Ms Glassenbury said it is important to use all five forms of sun protection, which are wearing skin-protective clothing, using PF50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing a broad-brimmed hat, seeking shade, and wearing sunglasses.
New virtual health clinic for women
A free virtual health clinic will help to makewomen’shealthmoreaccessiblefor women across Victoria.
On Wednesday, February 5, Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas announced that the service will roll out before the middle of the year.
The aim of the clinic is to prevent delay or absence of medical treatment for women’s health issues which can have damaging impacts on education, employment, and quality of life.
Inpartnershipwithcommunityhealth organisation EACH, the free service will be led by expert medical practitioners to break down financial and geographical barriers of access.
“We know the gender health gap is real, especially for women living in regional or remote areas of Victoria” Ms Thomas said.
The clinic will provide initial health assessments and medical advice for issues like sexual and reproductive health, pelvic and endometriosis pain, breast and menopause health, menstrual concerns, and abortion.
The service will also provide referrals for relevant health professionals and various community services for mental health, drug and alcohol or family violence support.
Clinical services like screenings, examinations, and referrals for medical abortions (MTOP) and contraception will also be available.
Kaija Du
Crafty fidget toy
Eachmonth,StephanieMartinezwillsharean exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity.
Stephanie starred in the first season of MakingItonNetwork10,whereshediscovered and ignited her passion for crafting.
Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary.
This month, Stephanie is creating a paper fidget toy.
Step-by-step guide
Materials: Assorted coloured paper/cardstock Skewer Straw Bead
Equipment: Scissors
Glue stick Hot glue gun
Step 1
Cut ten strips of coloured paper and four circles from cardstock.
Step 2
Arrange the paper strips evenly around one cardstock circle and glue them in place. Then, glue another circle on top to secure them.
Step 3
Repeat the previous step with the other ends of the strips, attaching them to the remaining two circles.
Step 4
Carefully insert a wooden skewer through the centre of both circles. Use a hot glue gun to attach a bead at the top for security.
Step 5
Cut a small piece of straw and make several cuts to create tabs. Thread the straw onto the skewer and glue the tabs to the bottom circle.
Cancer Council Victoria is reminding people to use all five forms of sun protection when the UV index rating is three and above. (Supplied).
Right at Home expands to Bacchus Marsh-Werribee
Experienced registered nurses, Astha Sharma, Rajwinder Kaur (Raj), and Sandeep Kaur (Sandi) are bringing expert, compassionate home care to the Bacchus Marsh-Werribee region with the opening of the newest local Right at Home office.
With 28 years of combined experience in communityandresidentialagedcare,thetrio is eager to bring personalised, professional care to seniors in their community.
The new office, located at Level 1, 160-194 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh, will serve local residents across Altona, Bacchus Marsh, Hoppers Crossing, Laverton, Melton, Werribee, Wyndham Vale, and beyond.
With a commitment to helping seniors live independently, Right at Home Melbourne Werribee provides personalised, professional care that allows people to remain in their own homes.
As Australia’s population continues to age, the demand for quality in-home care is greater than ever. The number of Australians aged 65 and over is growing rapidly, placing increased pressure on aged care facilities, which already face limited resources. For many seniors, moving into a facility is no longer the preferred or most affordable option — home care presents a safe, flexible solution that supports both independence and quality of life.
To meet this growing need, Right at Home Melbourne Werribee offers a wide range of services tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. From companion care and domestic assistance to personal care and skilled nursing, the office provides a full
continuum of in-home support.
As an approved provider of government-funded Home Care Packages (Levels 1-4), Right at Home ensures that those eligible can receive quality care at home. For individuals who prefer to fund their own care or require additional services beyond their package, flexible Private Pay options are available—an offering many not-for-profits are unable to provide.
In addition to providing expert care, Right at Home Melbourne Werribee is also supporting the local economy by creating new jobs and plans further recruitment.
If you or your family need expert home care, visit Right at Home Melbourne Werribee at Level 1, 160-194 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh, or call 03 7300 8804. For more information visit rightathome.com.au.
Experienced registered nurses Astha Sharma, Rajwinder Kaur (Raj), and Sandeep Kaur (Sandi) marking the new Right at Home service in Bacchus Marsh-Werribee. (Supplied)
Right at Home are leaders in quality home care and support, delivering services that allow our clients to remain safe and independent in their own home. Your local Right at Home Melbourne Werribee family is ready to look after your loved ones when you can’t, either via government funded or private pay services. Don’t wait in the funding queue, get care from Right at Home now.
• 24/7 On Call & 24/7 Care Service
• Supervised, Individual Care Plan
• Approved Home Care Package Provider Levels 1-4
• No Home Care Package Management Fees
• Complex Nursing Care
* Check your local Right at
• Disability & NDIS Support
• Flexible, Reliable, Certified Carers
• Post-Operative Care
• Hospital In The Home*
• Personal & Companion Care
• Domestic, Shopping, Transport
Relief as ‘corner store’ shuts
For residents of a West Footscray neighbourhood, the house on the corner might now be gone, but it will never be forgotten. Cade Lucas explains why.
Once a fixture of Australian suburbia, corner stores and milk bars are becoming increasingly rare with each closure invoking a mixture of sadness and nostalgia.
However, when a very busy corner store in West Footscray suddenly shut its doors a few weeks before Christmas, the only sadness among neighbours was that it didn’t close earlier. Any nostalgia was reserved for the time before it opened for business.
As you might’ve guessed, the business on the corner of Somerville Road and Lae Street, West Footscray wasn’t your archetypal neighbourhood shop: it didn’t sell lollies (though it products often came in small bags) and rather than closing late at night and on public holidays, it was open at all hours.
In fact the only resemblance 374 Somerville Road had to a traditional corner store was it was located on an intersection.
That’s because ‘the corner store’ was merely the nickname locals gave to the house, which from January 2023 to December 2024, hosted a drug selling business.
And for the near two years it operated, business was very good indeed.
“It seemingly came up over night,” recalled Marcus Wolfe of when he first noticed something going on at the house he had to pass to get to and from his home in nearby Park Avenue.
“It was an empty house one day and the following week it was a bustling shop with a 24-7 clientele.”
Another local resident, Chris Kennett, said trade at the corner store soon became so brisk that it caused traffic congestion.
Like Mr Wolfe, Mr Kennett also lives in Park Avenue so couldn’t help but notice what was going at the house on the corner.
“I reckon at least half the time I came in and out of the street there was an obvious customer entering or leaving,” he said. Given the new neighbours weren’t exactly running a clandestine operation, what their customers were buying was also pretty obvious.
“By observation of people shooting up and
passing out, I’m fairly confident they were selling heroin along with other stuff too, but couldn’t say for sure what,” said Mr Kennett, adding that similar stories soon began filling neighbourhoodWhatsappgroups,whilepetty crime, previously not a problem, suddenly became a concern.
Mr Wolfe said there were other dead giveaways, such as used needles suddenly turning up in the nearby park, McDonald A Reserve, where local children played.
The area around Somerville Road, Lae Street and Park Avenue is a quiet residential pocket in between gentrified Kingsville and industrial Brooklyn, making it an attractive location for young families.
Unsurprisingly, they weren’t enamoured with the new neighbours and their many, many visitors and began alerting the police.
“We’d report things to the police and if it was an urgent matter, it’d be a triple-0 call so the ambulance would come out,” said Mr Kennett, a single parent to two boys aged 13 and 8.
“Otherwisewe’dlodgeitonCrimeStoppers online as we were encouraged to by police.”
Mr Kennett provided Star Weekly with a list of 25 incidents he and his neighbours had reported to police last year alone, including drug users shooting up in the street, others passed out in parked cars and trucks and an incident on February 3 last year where two men armed with crowbars threatened the owner of the house next door in what’s believed to be a case of mistaken identity.
It wasn’t enough.
“Police said there needed to be a certain weight of evidence to justify a warrant,” said Mr Kennett.
“On the one hand it made sense, but it seemed ridiculous to us that with what we were experiencing every day, that they’d say we needed more (evidence). And what seemed galling was that it was our job to do this, that we had to collect evidence when police knew full well what was happening.”
A spokesperson for Victoria Police said they were aware of a number of complaints made about the Somerville Road property
throughout 2023 and 2024 and that action had been taken.
“Police executed a search warrant on April 9, 2024 and allegedly located two imitation firearms and cannabis,” the spokesperson said.
“Officers arrested a 53-year-old Footscray West man. He was charged with handling stolengoodsandprohibitedpersonpossessing imitation firearm, and was bailed to Werribee Magistrates’ Court on December 3, 2024.”
Police also executed a search warrant at the Somerville Road property on December 20, 2023, where heroin and suboxone strips were allegedly found, but charges were not laid due to insufficient evidence.
Mr Wolfe said he was left frustrated by the inability of police to shut down the corner store, especially given his job as a corrections officer.
“That was one of my biggest fears that one of their clients would be one of my ex-clients from work.”
Ultimately it wasn’t the authorities, but the
‘‘ It
was an empty house one day and the following week it was a bustling shop with a 24-7 clientele ’’
- Chris Kennett
the occupants themselves who shut down the cornerstore,packingupandleavingsometime between December 7 and December 13.
The reason for the hasty departure remains unclear, but what is undisputed is that the occupants left with their (dark) sense of humour in tact.
“We were stunned to find that they had left behind a sign which is just as flagrant as their business was,” said Mr Kennett of the ‘Shop is shut’ placard placed out the front of the house as a farewell message to the neighbourhood.
“We sort of marvelled at the cheek of it and the irony that we’d spent so long trying to get this acknowledged and dealt with that there was a shop here and then they admitted it.”
After two months sitting empty, 374 Somerville Road was recently torn down.
Where the corner store once stood is now just an empty block with an excavator sitting in the middle and a cardboard sign attached to the cab.
It reads: “Shop now gone.”
West Footscray resident Chris Kennett outside the Somerville Road house where drugs were sold until December last year. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 452941_01
A farewell signs left by the occupants when they vacated the house in December. (Supplied)
Passengers to scientists, take a trip to Antarctica
Travelers planning a trip to Antarctica are encouraged look at the Viking Expedition Cruises to learn first-hand what the Viking Difference means.
For those who yearn for more than a sightseeing tour, they could well be thrilled with the extent of knowledge shared by resident scientists who travel onboard the Viking expedition cruises, offering onboard experiences designed to optimise onshore discovery.
Viking has created the world’s leading scientific enrichment environment in an expedition setting.
A group of scientists selected by Viking’s academic partners, the University of Cambridge’s Scott Polar Research Institute and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, are on board every journey, providing lectures, advice and insight to guests in areas such as biology, botany, geology, glaciology, oceanography, ornithology.
This diverse group of experts lead guests through meaningful scientific work, provide guiding and interpretation during shore excursions and deliver world-class lectures.
Viking and its Viking Expedition Team published the company’s first scientific paper in 2022 following observations of the rarely encountered ‘scyphozoan Stygiomedusa gigantea’, commonly known as the giant phantom jellyfish.
Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen said in creating ‘the thinking person’s expedition,’ it was their intention that every voyage should provide opportunities for scientific discovery,
“At the core of Viking Expeditions is the goal to do meaningful scientific work,“ he said.
“After just one full season in service, our expedition vessels and scientists have already contributed to research that might not have beenpossibleotherwise,andwelookforwardto providing critical research opportunities on future voyages.”
Previousencounterswiththegiantphantom jellyfish have taken place during submersible dives in the coastal waters of the Antarctic Peninsula. Despite reaching up to 30 feet (10 meters) in length, only 126 encounters with these jellyfish have ever been recorded since the species was first described in 1910.
During Viking’s inaugural season in Antarctica in 2022, direct observations of the giantphantomjellyfishweremadethreetimes from submersibles deployed from Viking’s expedition vessel, the Viking Octantis and documented through stills and video photography.
In May 2024, Viking announced its latest scientific advancement on board the company’s expedition fleet with the addition of real-time environmental DNA (eDNA) sequencing of phytoplankton.
The phytoplankton was genetically sequenced at sea for the first time with scientific support from UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography and J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI).
The PCR lab on board the Viking Octantis has been converted into an advanced scientific environment where visiting scientists contributing to the Genomics at Sea Program (GASP) and are able to monitor the environmental impact on phytoplankton without the need to transport samples to a distant shoreside facility.
This marks a significant milestone in marine research and exploration, as Viking becomes the first travel company to support
real-time environmental genetic sequencing capabilities on board its vessels.
In March 2024, Viking announced its expedition team supported the discovery of a new colony of chinstrap penguins not previously known to science on Diaz Rock, near Astrolabe Island, in Antarctica.
The finding took place in January 2024 when Viking Octantis visited Astrolabe, a three-mile-long island, located in the Bransfield Strait of the Trinity Peninsula in Antarctica.
Astrolabe Island is home to a colony of chinstrap penguins that had not been surveyed since 1987. During the visit, Viking’s scientific partner, ‘Oceanites’, the leading field research entity in Antarctic penguin monitoring, conducted a visual and thermal aerial survey.
The fieldwork documented the first survey in nearly forty years of the known chinstrap penguin colony of Astrolabe Island and in the process, discovered the additional colony on Diaz Rock.
Those who wish to discover the wonders of Antarctica can travel on one of Viking’s expedition ships, which have been designed so guests can explore some of the world’s
most pristine destinations in comfort while maximising viewing in these spectacular locations.
Passengers will be able to view the experience from the Aula, a stunning panoramic auditorium inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall. The Aula features a 4k laser-projected screen that retracts to expose floor-to-ceiling windows and 270-degree views.
The Finse Terrace is an outdoor lounge area just above sea level with recessed, heated couches and lava rock ‘firepits,’ designed to allow guests the comforts of the ship while enjoying the dramatic scenery.
While the Bow is an important forward-viewing platform with the option to retreat to the Shelter, even the Nordic Spa has floor-to-ceiling windows so you can relax in the hydrotherapy pool and never miss a thing. Every stateroom features a Nordic Balcony, a first for polar expedition vessels, the sunroom converts into an al fresco viewing platform with an observation shelf at elbow level to stabilize binoculars or a camera.
For more information please visit www. viking.com or call (AU) 138 747)
Viking provide the watercraft and expertise to ensure a trip to Antarctica is a once in a lifetime experience.
LEE MCCARTHY
The Polar Citizen Science Collective aboard Viking
The Polar Citizen Science Collective creates opportunities for research and public education through citizen science, leveraging the reach of polar travellers to enhance understanding and protection of the polar regions.
High costs and the complexity of access to the polar regions are often prohibitive to Arctic and Antarctic research however Viking (cruises) have two purpose-built expedition ships and have partnered with The Polar Collective to support a range of projects that havebeenselectedtofitintotheuniquemodes of tourism operations in the polar regions.
Viking hold a provisional membership with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO).
The team work closely with these leading organizations to ensure they employ best travel practices,promoteawareness,supportscientific research, and protect the fragile ecosystems and environments in which we travel
The Polar Collective actively supports a series of citizen science projects including the Secchi Disk Study, Happywhale, Globe Clouds, Southern Ocean Seabird Surveys, AurorasaurusandAntarcticSnowAlgaeStudy.
The Secchi Disk study is a global citizen science study of marine phytoplankton, launched in 2013 and it has so far, resulted in over3,000observationsfromaroundtheworld.
The project can easily be done from a small Zodiac-style boat or yacht where the clarity of the water is measured by identifying the Secchi Depth. This is an indication of phytoplankton abundance.
The aim is to use the collaborative power of citizen scientists to increase the data collected from the oceans to compare to historical Secchi Disk data. This will help expand the Secchi Disk study’s long-term dataset enabling scientists to better understand changes in the ocean’s phytoplankton.
Happywhale was launched in 2015 and is a platformcollectingphotosofmarinemammals taken by citizen scientists from all over the world for photo-ID purposes.
Sofartheprogramhasrecordedover220,000 whale encounters from over 9,000 participants worldwide, with over 5,300 individual cetaceans identified in the Antarctic and 1,400
in the Arctic.
Photos submitted to Happywhale are shared with a large network of researchers to improve understanding of marine mammals. The images provide valuable information on, for example, whale migration patterns and population status.
The Globe Clouds project was launched in 1994 and compares cloud observations taken by citizen scientists from the ground to information retrieved from satellites.
So far, more than one million cloud observations have been reported from all over the world, yet observations from the polar regions are still limited with only a 1,000 submissions to date.
Clouds are powerful agents of global change andplayalargeroleininfluencinglocalweather as well as controlling the planet’s long-term climate. Even small changes in the abundance, location or type of clouds can impact Earth’s climate and weather.
The Southern Ocean Seabird Surveys were launched in 2015 and are studying the distribution of birds at sea.
So far, hundreds of observations from the Southern Ocean and Antarctica have been gathered to add to the existing collection of bird data from around the world in the eBird database.
The project is building a long-term ecological monitoring program of seabirds in the Southern Ocean and along the Antarctic Peninsula. These recordings help researchers understand how birds use oceanic habitat, to discover new details about the lives of these remote species, and ultimately how their behaviour and populations might be changing as a result of climate change.
Aurorasaurus is an award-winning project tracking auroras around the world via reports on its website and on Twitter. Using aurora-related tweets and reports, it generates a real-time, global map of the Northern Lights.
Citizen scientists can also log in and verify thetweets.Eachverifiedtweetandreportserve as valuable data point for scientists to analyse and incorporate into space weather models.
The Antarctic Snow Algae Study aims to create a baseline database documenting the
temporal and spatial occurrence of snow algae along the Antarctic Peninsula.
Snow algae plays a significant role in the environment by increasing the absorption of sunlight leading to an enhanced melting of snow. There is strong evidence that warming Antarctic temperatures may be intensifying their growth.
Researchers often rely on satellite images to monitorsnowalgae,butcloudsintheAntarctic sky frequently inhibit clear images.
Akvaplan-niva scientists are engaged in cross-disciplinary research programs on water related issues. On the Viking ships, Ferry Boxes are installed to sample sea and lake watertoprovidecontinuousinformationabout oxygen levels, temperature, salinity and other data.
The ships is also equipped with Kongsberg Multibeam sonar which allows us to map the lake/seabed.
To learn more about the exciting opportunities available on Viking and with ThePolarCitizenScienceCollectivevisitwww. viking.com or phone (AU) 138 747.
Viking guests cross country skiing in Antarctica.
LEE MCCARTHY
The special ops and zodiac hanger on Viking Octantis offers guests a much more inclusive holiday in Antarctica.
Scientists on board Viking provide lectures, advice and insight and the Viking Octantis is equipped with an onboard laboratory.
EUROPEAN SOJOURN
Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa
23 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 19 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: OCT 2025; APR-OCT 2026; 2027
From $13,995pp in Standard Stateroom
From $19,295pp in Veranda Stateroom
GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR
Amsterdam to Budapest or vice versa
15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 12 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: APR-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; APR-NOV 2027
From $9,295pp in Standard Stateroom
From $13,795pp in Veranda Stateroom
EXPL RER
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.
PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE
Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa
11 DAYS | 5 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAY-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; 2027
From $7,895pp in Standard Stateroom
From $9,395pp in Veranda Stateroom
BAMBERG, GERMANY
Rottnest Island offers many unique and diverse experiences. A 90-minute tour around the island takes you to some of Rottnest’s most spectacular locations including the Wadjemup Lighthouse and the rugged West End.
Enjoy an unforgettable Australian adventure on board the mighty Indian Pacific as it travels the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world. This is a truly remarkable journey that will leave you with memories to cherish forever.
Tours
Your holiday includes
All-Inclusive Rail Journey
3 night all-inclusive rail journey on board the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth with all meals, fine wines, and beverages
8 Nights | August - December 2025 | Prices fr $5,399pp^
Embark on an epic transcontinental adventure in regal style on board the Indian Pacific train before spending five nights in Perth.
In Sydney, you’ll board the magnificent Indian Pacific for your all-inclusive transcontinental voyage. Encased in luxury, you’ll savour all-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant, relax in your private cabin with en-suite and Off Train Experiences as you steam across the country along the world’s longest straight stretch of railway. You’ll pass through the Blue Mountains and the Nullarbor Plain before disembarking in Perth.
During your five-night hotel stay you’ll relish the opportunity to explore this fabulous city through a series of included tours. Enjoy a 48hr Hop-On-Hop-Off bus pass, and journey around the sights of the Central Business District. Discover Fremantle, and explore Rottnest Island, a province of natural beauty and wildlife including the famous quokkas.
Off Train Experience and short stop in Broken Hill, Adelaide, Cook and Rawlinna
Hotel Stay
5 night four-star stay in Perth at the Crowne Plaza Perth, an IHG Hotel with breakfast
Discover Rottnest Island tour including ferry transfer and Swan River Cruise
Half Day Perth & Fremantle Tour
48 hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Pass
All Flights, Taxes and Transfers+
Sydney, Perth Your itinerary
MY PLACE
Adam Scullin, a Wyndham local for a majority of his life, has returned to the west, and his passion for the screen and writing still remains strong. He spoke Jack Sutton about where his ambition for screenwriting and film came from and how he continues to stay motivated.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
My name is Adam Scullin and I’m a writer, screenwriter, filmmaker, and Brisbane Lions member - not necessarily in that order. I write short stories and, at the moment, a novel, as well as spec screenplays for TV and film. Like anyone, I’ve got a wide variety of interests - but I often find my writing tends to gravitate back towards masculinity and the way it functions in a world that doesn’t know what to do with it.
What’s your connection to Wyndham? I grew up here! I’m a Wyndham Vale boy and lived here until I was 21, but have recently moved back. I went to MacKillop College in Werribee, played basketball for Woodville over at Eagle Stadium for 13 years (I even briefly had the club record for games played) and I played for the Wyndham Devils back when they were the Werribee Devils. All my roots are here.
What do you like about where you live?
A funny thing about the place you’re from is that you can’t change it. I’ll always be from here, and that can be a strange relationship. The things I like most about Wyndham are the things I most dislike because they’re all so, so personal to me. I love the Plaza because it was a social hub growing up and I’ve spent so many days goofing off with friends there andgoneonsomanyfirstdatestothecinema, but it’s also a place I’ve had my heart broken. When you’ve spent the bulk of your life somewhere, every corner has a story - and if you’ve really lived your life somewhere, those stories are a mixed bag. But for a shorter answer, I like that the people are genuine. What you see is very much what you get, which is becoming a rarer and rarer trait elsewhere.
Do you have a genre you like to stick to when writing?
I’d love to say that I’ve got a broad range of talents and I like to dip my toes into all the genres, but I’m the last person you’d wanna read a comedy from. No matter how hard I try, my screenplays always seem to float back towards the darker genres; thriller, horror, crime, mystery, etc. As for my short stories and my novel, they pretty much always fall into ‘literary fiction’, which is a fancy word for “absolutely nothing happens in this story”.
Where are some places you find motivation for your writing?
Being back home in Wyndham always puts me in a very creative mindset. My life has
spread out into and beyond the city, and so coming back home gives me a chance to step out of that skin and back into a more familiar place, where I can look back on my experiences with a bit of clarity. At the end of the day, that’s what artists are doing - rendering their experiences and feelings in a way their audience can understand or, at least, to feel. It’s impossible to do that if you can’t get a clear look at those experiences, and coming back here always does that for me.
Do you have an ultimate goal you would like to achieve?
They chop and change every day. Would I love to win an Oscar or the Booker Prize? You betcha. But those are grand things that feel less like the ultimate goal and more like a cherry on top. When I think about what I want to have achieved by the time I’m on my death bed, it’s often very simple; I’d love to have a novel published. Whether it’s a big hit or only my parents read it, that’s semantics. I just want to get my art into the world and be able to pay the bills with it. The rest - whether it connects with people and brightens their day - is out of my hands.
What sparked this passion for the screen and how has writing become so important to you?
My passion for movies comes from a place I thinkmanyyoungmen’spassionscomefrom; my father. My childhood was a smorgasboard of films I absolutely should not have been allowed to watch, but they were always watched with the safety of my Dad sitting next to me. It stoked my imagination and was my first real love. When that imagination led me to writing, I discovered something integral to my day-to-day life; honesty. Ironically, I think we are often the least qualified people to truly know ourselves. We’re a little too close to the storm that is our wacky brains to get a clear read. But when I write, my subconscious kicks into overdrive and gives to my characters pieces of me I wasn’t aware of. Quite often I read over something a few years later and think my soul is quite transparent on the pages, even though I had no idea at the time. So what has writing given me? Honesty and clarity - and I’m forever grateful for it.
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
Wyndham National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets atthe Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more. 0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@outlook. com
Wyndham Rotary
If you have an hour or two to volunteer in a local project Wyndham Rotary would love to hear from you. If you have an idea and you want some help taking the idea to action, contact us. If you want to connect with friendly, like-minded people, come and chat to us. Meeting locally each week, you will be made welcome. Julie, 0406 196 630.
Women Working Together
Are you 50-plus and want assistance from someone who understands? Employment Support strives to connect mentors and mentees to make this happen. Reach out to learn more 9655 2131, or EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au
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, or 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 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 7.30 pm. The club is seeking to grow the Lions free vision screening in schools team. Volunteers needed to work with the region’s schools in combating undiagnosed children’s vision issues. You do not have to be a Lions member but must obtain a working with children check.
Robert Eyton, 0417 549 684, or robeyton@bigpond.com
Wyndham Ladies Probus
Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am. Pat 0411 316 795
Point Cook VIEW
The Point Cook Day VIEW Club (for ladies) meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Point Cook Library, 1-21
Cheetham Street, Point Cook. Members enjoy afternoon teas and outings. New members welcome. VIEW Is part of the Smith Family. Catherine, 0407 726 852.
Watton Group
A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at the Eco-Living Centre at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month. Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com.
All Abilities Netball
All Abilities Netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2. Phil, 0437 078 739
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
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
Adult community garden group
The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11am, 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
Lions Club
Lions Club of Werribee meets at the RSL
Club, 2a Synnot Street, Werribee on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm.
Jorge, 0433 566 575
Dementia Carers Group
IPC Health Dementia Carers Group is held on the first Tuesday of the month, from 12.30-2.30pm. The group is for people who care for someone with dementia or a similar condition associated with memory loss. It empowers carers through education, social connectedness and emotional support while socialising and meeting people in similar situations. Registration is essential.
Leah Hewitt or Joyce Chan, 1300 472 432 or https://bit.ly/48QFwBa
Werribee River Association
New volunteers to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace.
Lisa Field, 0433 559 530, admin@ werribeeriver.org.au, or www. werribeeriver.org.au
Wyndham Park Community Shed
A place to connect, share skills, get hands on, and have fun. New members and volunteers welcome. Mens Shed open Tuesdays and Thursdays, Womens Shed open Monday and Shed for All Abilities open Wednesdays ans Fridays. Tool Library open on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. 0437270791 shed@wyndhamparkcc. com.au
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Karen Ingram, Zoe Jones and Matthew Phoenix ahead of the Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre’s Be Our Valentine event, which will put an artistic spin on the day of love. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 457889_01
Temple hosts a festival of colour
By Faith Macale
Get ready for a colourful day mixed with culture, music, and food at Sri Durga Temple’s HoliFestivalonSunday,March16inDeanside.
SriDurgaTemplevicepresidentGaryVerma said this year’s celebration is a modern version, but with a religious touch.
“It’saneventfulloffun,fullofcolours,fullof food and festivities,” he said.
“Many community members from all walks of life are welcome.
“Thebiggest,andfunpartiswhereyouthrow colours (powder) on each other, and celebrate
with your friends and family.”
Known as the Festival of Colours, Holi is a celebration in the Indian calendar to celebrate the eternal love of deities Radha and Krishna, and also the celebration of triumph of good over evil.
The event will also observe Holika Dahan, a practice where a person burns his evil deeds and pledges to make a new beginning from the next day.
The temple is expecting about 7000 to 8000 visitors on the day to celebrate the festival.
“There is beauty in living in a multicultural city,” Mr Verma said.
“Yougettoenjoyotherculturalfestivals,and in turn, they celebrate your festivals.
“Each and every person from the greater Victorian community is welcome.”
Different activities like dance performances, culturalprograms,marketstalls,andprayersat the temple will also be available on the day.
“There will be a DJ for you to enjoy if you are a person of music,” Mr Verma said.
“There will be folk dances, and singing on stage. We are also arranging kids rides, as well.
“We will be having four to five different cuisines from different parts of India to celebrate.”
Vintage vehicles to roll into Altona
Altona’s Apex Park will be home of horse-power on Sunday, February 23, when the Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed hold its annual car show there.
Supported by Hobsons Bay council, the car show is the men’s shed’s largest fundraising eventwithallproceedsgoingtolocalcharities.
“This has been going now for 14 years,” Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed president David Berner of the event.
“We normally get up to 300 vehicles there.”
As for what type of vehicles, Mr Berner said it was more a matter of what cars wouldn’t be
there, with being aged 25 years or older and paying a $15 entry fee, the only requirements.
“Everything from vintage, hot rods and all classics. Old Australia, old European, old American, it’s open to all types of vehicles,” he said.
Those that do enter a vehicle will out themselves in the running for a number of prizes across a wide range of categories, with all winners chosen by public vote.
They go by years,” said Mr Berner of the different categories.
“Best vintage, best original, things like that.
There’s a wide range.”
There will also be food vendors, music performances as well as a showcase of other men’s shed activities such as making model trains, planes and, of course, cars.
Patrons can enter by gold coin donation with proceedings kicking off at 9am.
Asforhowmanypeoplehewasexpectingto come through the gates, Mr Berner wouldn’t choose a number.
“As many as we can,” he said.
“It’s a big area Apex Park.”
Details: https://www.hobsonsnet.com/
Cafe Philosophique returns to Bridge Hotel
Cafe Philosophique is returning to the Bridge HotelinWerribeeasamonthlyfixturestarting Wednesday, February 12.
DrawingrootsfromaParisienneintellectual tradition, philosophy cafes provide grassroot forums for people to discuss ideas.
Each night will include a feature poet and musician, alongside three open mic spots for those wanting to share a poem, story or song relevant to the nightly theme.
Jessica Fairfax, who will produce the event with the Little Theatre Company, started the series in 2017 at the Alex Theatre in St Kilda. She said inspiration can come from anywhere.
“For this first iteration our nightly themes were inspired by “philosophical“ quotes we found on public toilet walls.”
“In subsequent series we have since looked into death and dying, relationships, love and empowerment.”
A way to venture into philosophical parts unknown, the first session will be centred around the notion of purpose.
Sing-along spectacular
Broomsticks will descend on Taylors Lakes as a Macedon Ranges-based practice theatre group hosts its sing-along screening of the musical fantasy Wicked this month.
TheeventwasbrewedupbyFriendsof Safe Spaces Performances – a non-profit performancegroupthataimstoincrease performers’ confidence and provide an opportunity to practise their skills in a respectful and non-judgemental environment.
Group member Tracey Thiele said that attendees of past events have gone on to perform in local music theater and create their own solo performances.
“I think everybody knows someone [where you think] ‘they’re an amazing musician – why haven’t they ever pursued that as a career?’ I think the real answer is performance anxiety,” Ms Thiele said.
Shesaidthatthegroupchosetoscreen Wicked for both its musical appeal and its themes relevant to those looking to increase their confidence as performers.
“Wicked’s theme of overcoming adversity and defying what people think of you is the general theme of the movie … it’s just spot on with what safe spaces is trying to promote … believing in yourself, overcoming adversity, and singing.”
The sing-along screening will begin at 6pm on Wednesday, February 12 atHoytsWatergardensinTaylorsLakes. Tickets must be purchased through the TryBooking link, with thepriceincludingpopcornandadrink.
The event will raise funds for the organisation’s future activities. Details: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1342332
Gracing the mic will feature poet Sean M WhelanandaPasifikasongstresswillaugment the auditory experience.
While learning and self-discovery is integral to a philosophy cafe, the exchange between other thinkers is not to be underestimated.
“We hope to foster understanding between each other through respectful conversation and through discovering the different and similarwaysweexperiencethings,”MsFairfax said.
“Finally, we hope the event brings some awe into the lives of our attendees through stimulating ah-ha moments, and curating great stories and beautiful music.”
Each night’s theme will be announced a month in advance, so artists and attendees will have plenty of time to prepare.
Jaidyn Kennedy
Oscar Parry
Kate Kennedy, Tracey Thiele, Tasha Luke, and Willow, 10. (Supplied)
Jess Fairfax and Kaarin Fairfax are relaunching Cafe Philosophique. (Attie Mohebali)
Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed president David Berner, Ray Mancer and motoring group secretary Joe Said with some of the cars that will be on display at their annual car show on February 23. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 454392_05
Sri Durga Temple vice president Gary Verma and priest Sikandar Sharma invites everyone to their Holi Festival. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 457543_01
SPORTS QUIZ
1. How many deliveries did Mitch Owen face during his 108-run innings in the 2024–25 Big Bash League final?
2. Which baseball team did Canberra Cavalry defeat to win the 2024–25 ABL Championship?
3. An NHL team from which US state asked fans to choose its name
4. Australian cricketer Steve Smith scored his 10,000th Test run while playing against which national team?
5. Which ladies’ singles medal did US figure skater Nancy Kerrigan win at the 1994 Winter Olympics?
6. Which national team defeated Australia in the semifinals of the 2025 Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup?
Who recently became the first women’s cricketer to score centuries in all three formats of the game for Australia?
Slovenian-born basketballer Luka Doncic was recently traded to which NBA team?
What year is Australia set to host the Men’s Rugby World Cup?
Who is the Melbourne-based creator selling merchandise for his non-existent Queensland Football Club?
11. What substance do gymnasts use to help their grip?
12. What is the nickname for the Australian national swim team?
13. Cricket bats are usually made from what kind of wood?
14. What is a perfect score in a surfing heat?
15. What recent feat did Sri Lankan cricketer Maheesh Theekshana achieve?
16. Name the 2025 Netflix sports comedy series starring Kate Hudson.
17. Which NBA team is called the Thunder?
18. The Big Bash saw a record-setting 2024–25 season for Foxtel, with viewership jumping by what percentage?
19. Disruptive fans at which recent sporting event were described as ‘yobbo’ by a former player?
20. Which Australian golfer scored seven-under par in the opening round of the Pebble Beach Pro-Am?
21. Which WWE wrestler made history when she became the first ever Women’s United States Champion?
22. And which country is she from?
23. How many players with the last name Pettersson play hockey for the Vancouver Canucks?
24. The WBSC governs which sports?
25. Gina Rodriguez stars as a sportswriter in which 2024 Netflix romcom?
26. In a traditional set of pool balls, what colour is the number 4?
27. The playing time of a standard handball match is how long?
28. The Pelicans play which sport out of New Orleans?
29. Nat Fyfe has won how many Brownlow medals?
30. Which Australian cricketer took her first five-wicket haul in a recent Test?
Gina Rodriguez Gina
PUZZLES
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 Liquid part of blood (6)
4 Roma is its capital (6)
10 Part of flower’s calyx (5)
11 Banishment (9)
12 Fine ceramic material (9)
13 Designer, Calvin – (5)
14 Give up (6)
15 Immediate (4)
19 Mode of travel (4)
20 Reduce to very low temperature (6)
24 Handling (5)
25 Books of memoranda (9)
27 Area of England, historically the ‘Middle Saxons’ (9)
28 Perch (5)
29 Teutonic (6)
30 Essay on a theme (6)
DOWN
1 Document for travel (8)
2 Seeming (8)
3 People of Malta (7)
5 Detective (7)
6 Wait around idly (6)
7 Intending (6)
8 Scottish island (4)
9 Filmmaker, – Kubrick (7)
16 Testimony (7)
17 Poisonous (8)
18 Internet pages (7)
19 Insignia of royalty (7)
21 Comeback (7)
22 A spice (6)
23 Auction participant (6)
26 Written words (4)
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 What colour is the five-pointed star and the crescent of the Algerian flag?
2 Kristin Chenoweth (pictured) played Annabeth Schott in the final two seasons of which US TV series?
3 The 2022 film Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is an adaptation of which author's work?
4 In which country would you find the Trevi Fountain?
5 Which artist wrote and performed the songs You OughtaKnow and Ironic?
6 How many countries are the Alps in?
7 In what year did the Summer of Love occur?
8 The Russian Imperial State Duma was introduced by who?
9 Sofia is the capital of which European country?
10 Raven-Symoné's first TV acting role was on which US sitcom?
No. 256
No. 224
D-Max is at home among winners
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
With utes accounting for more than one fifth of the 1.2 million vehicles sold in Australia last year, Isuzu has jumped on the Ford Ranger/ Toyota HiLux bandwagon with a seriously upgraded D-Max pick-up truck.
Thepick-upfinishedasthefourthbest-selling vehicle overall, as well as scoring third in the dominant one-tonne ute LCV segment With major updates to technology, safety, interior and exterior design, 25 models cater for owners across the board from families to tradies and the odd tourist, the 2024 D-Max offers a choice of body styles, tray configurations and power trains.
The Japanese manufacturer says pricing remains competitive, with the D-Max SX single cab chassis 4×2 1.9 litre turbo-diesel manual at $32,990 drive away rising to the D-Max X-Terrain 3 litre turbo 4×4 at $67,990. Inbetweenisaselectionofvariantsincluding cab chassis/ute, manual or auto 4×2 or 4×4. Newly added is an X-Rider crew cab ute 3 litre auto 4×4 for $59,400. On test was the flagship 3 litre 4×4 auto at $67,990.
AllarecoveredbyIsuzu’ssix-year/150,000km warranty and up to seven years roadside assistance. A revised five-year/75,000km flat price servicing warranty has been introduced in response to customer and media feedback.
Styling
The D-Max X-Terrain weighs with a mix of muscle and contemporary design. Up front, theprofilehastakenonnewbi-LEDheadlights and sharp body lines evolved from Isuzu’s signature horizontal bar grille.
Tying in with this redesigned grille, are a set ofnewtail-lights,whichwithhorizontalcreases expand the width of the tailgate. The grey metallic aero sports bar has been redesigned, there are dark grey metallic sidesteps, mirrors, door and tailgate handles, roof rails, plus front and rear underbody spoilers and fender flares.
The X-Terrain is topped off with a matte black roller tonneau cover and the whole unit rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels in matte grey shod with 265/60R18 Bridgestone 68411 HT tyres.
Aerodynamics are taken up by a pair of air curtains within the fog lamps, channelling airflow round the front wheels, together with deflectors, sleek bodylines and reworked tailgate spoiler.
Interior
Forget the rough stuff, the crew cabin design, we are told, has more than a touch of the aestheticsoftheJapaneseartofMiuraOrigami paperfoldingintheperforatedleather-accented upholstery while melding creature comforts with occupant ergonomics and wireless connectivity.
The flagship X-Terrain adds signature red stitching throughout the cabin with dark grey and piano black appointments. Spokes of the steering wheel are trimmed in either matte silver, satin chrome or piano black, depending on grade.
The dual cab X-Terrain offers adequate leg-, head-, shoulder- and toe room for rear seat occupants. There are centre console-mounted air vents and USB-C ports, as well as a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders.
Infotainment
Addressing customer demands, a new 9-inch information touchscreen is the basis of new technologyintheX-TerrainsupportingUSB-C connectivity, voice recognition, DAB+ digital radio, and wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Also on hand in a new 7-inch muti-information display are more info on sat nav, ADAS setting controls and an additional 3AmP USB-C connection as well as tyre pressure and temperature figures.
Off-road enthusiasts can make use of an inclinometer and Terrain Command 4×4 modes now integrated in the system enabling the driver to access essential systems at a simple tap and swipe of the screen.
Engines/transmissions
There are two turbo-diesel engines, 4 2 and part-time 4 4, as well as six-speed manual and automatic transmission options. On test was the flagship 3 litre turbo-diesel 4×4 six-speed automatic.
Safety
D-MAX is already in possession of a five-star ANCAP safety rating under 2022 testing, the pick-up is waiting in the wings for a latest upgrade, which Isuzu is confident of passing with its extensive additions to driver assistance.
These include a new Gen4 stereo camera, plus upgrades to intelligent adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic braking, welcome headlight and welcome light functions which improve visibility and safety around the vehicle at night.
Eight airbags include dual front, dual rear seat side, dual full length curtain, front knee and centre (far side).
Driving
Not a fan of sidesteps for their tendency to damage in hard going off road. However, together with sturdy grab handles, they do make climbing into a big off-roader more acceptable, especially if the D-Max owner
is met with an exalted view from the driver’s seat.
Settling in some of the most comfortable seats in its class, D-Max passengers can have little to complain about. Font-seat padding is supportive and the X-Terrain’s eight-way power adjustment is easy to operate.
Whenthe3.0-litrefour-cylinderturbo-diesel of the test vehicle fired up there was more than a distant sound of the past from under the bonnet – for what the term ‘agricultural’ was coined.
Tap the accelerator and the D-Max has a particularly perky take-off – it’s easy to startle onlookers with a tyre squeal or two. The six-speed automatic transmission handled shifts smoothly, giving the driver an added layer of confidence. This is not the same for the lane-keeping, with systems varying in response. The system can be switched off manually.
Isuzuputsthecombinedurban/highwayfuel consumption at eight litres per 100 kilometres. The test X-Terrain recorded 10.4 litres per 100 kilometres in town and 6.4 litres per 100 kilometresontheopenroad.Towingislimited to 2800kg to 3500kg.
An optional suspension tuning unique to Australian roads, would not go a miss with those craving classy comfort, while off road is just the beginning for the D-Max X-Terrain, with impressive ground clearance of 240mm, and wading depth of up to 800mm, plus vital underbody protection.
Selectable dual-range 4WD, a rear differential lock and generous approach and departure angles make the D-Max one of the most capable units on the market.
Then, for the more adventurous, there are new improvements to Isuzu’s Rough Terrain Mode, an electronic off-road traction control aid that maximises torque transfer and driveability in slippery or rugged conditions.
Summary
The Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain Crew Cab, helped byacornerfullofthelatesttechnicalandsafety know-how, continues to duke it out with some of the best in the heavyweight ute division.
The Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain Crew Cab continues to duke it out with some of the best.
(Pictures: Supplied)
Finals spots are on the line as several women’s cricket competitions near the end of the season. Star Weekly’s Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action on Sunday.
Cricket season is heating up
Bacchus Marsh celebrates some runs. 457629_11
Bacchus Marsh’s Ashley Gillard. 457629_07
Caroline Springs claimed victory. 457633_10
Caroline Springs’ Shelley Carton. 457633_04
Darley’s Tameeka Morrissey. 457629_01Gisborne’s Zoe Kays. 457630_02
Macedon cheers on its team. 457630_28
Macedon’s Eliza Patterson Lade. 457630_11
Melton’s Candace Hulett. 458108_06
Point Cook Centrals cheer a boundary. 458110_04
Point Cook Centrals’ Illeana Crowe. 458110_01
Werribee’s April Chaudhary. 458108_01
Stagliano appointed new Western Jets coach
New Western Jets boys coach Christian Stagliano is looking forward to putting his passion for teaching and coaching together at the same time.
Staglianohasbeenappointedtheboyscoach for the Coates Talent League club, replacing Trent Dennis-Lane who has returned to the AFL system.
He was a development coach at both Collingwood and the Gold Coast Suns and has coached Northern Football League sides, Banyule and Macleod.
Stagliano said the role was something he was looking forward to.
“Last night [Tuesday] night was the first night,” he said. “It was a really good start to get out of some old habits and get back into it.
“I really enjoyed it.”
Stagliano said there were a few things that attractedhimtotherole.Combiningcoaching and teaching was the main one.
“I’m a qualified teacher and I’ve worked in schools between full time football.
“In a work environment I’ve worked with schoolagekidswhoareaspiringtogetfurther.
At the same time I have a passion for footy, it was a no brainer.
“I’vehadacoupleofmatesatotherclubsand they’ve spoken highly about the program.”
Stagliano said he had several football connections in Melbourne’s west already including at Werribee Football Club. He said one of his main focuses was to help
Saturday. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 448422_02
Sharks take the honours
By Tara Murray
Point Cook Centrals and Gellibrand got to know each other pretty well last week, with the Sharks taking the honours not once but twice.
The two sides faced each other the past two Saturdays in their Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield.
Thrown in the middle was the knockout round of 16 T20 clash, having also been drawn to face each other.
Sharks vice-president Brett Talbot said it was a weird situation.
“It’s been tough the last couple of times that we’ve played them, so it was nice to get the win,” he said.
“To play the same side in the midweek game as well. It was nice to get over them there as well.”
In their Roy Picone Shield match, the Sharks made 290 on day one of the match.
Talbot said the boys executed their plans really well and didn’t force it.
He said it was a nice score to have on the board.
Talbot said they were wary of what Gellibrand could do.
“They are one of only a handful of sides
that could chase it down,” he said. “For the first time in a while we were able to get early wickets.
“We were in control at all the breaks and we managed to finish it off in the 80 overs.”
Gellibrand was restricted to 215, bowled out in the 74th over.
Owen Doolan took four wickets, while Krishan Alang took three wickets.
With two rounds remaining, the Sharks sit in third spot, only a game off top spot.
Talbot said they set some goals when they were prompted into division 3 and they were on track at this stage.
He said they would love to finish top two and get a home final.
“We wanted to make finals, but we are not there yet,” he said. “We have two tough games left.
“It’s great recognition for the club and we’re very proud of that. We would love to play a home final.
“We still have a couple of games to win and whatever happens, we’ll take a positive mindset.”
In the T20 match on Thursday night, Gellibrand made 9-119 from its overs with Callum Doyle top scoring with 64.
Max Pritchard took three wickets for the
the players want to improve and want to get better.
WhiletraininggotunderwayonWednesday night, the Jets are yet to finalise their squad. That is likely to come closer to the start of the season.
Between now and then Stagliano will be busy learning the playing group.
“The next three to four weeks I’ll get across everybody and assess their performance,” he said. “In terms of expectations, I’ve only just started and getting to know each other.
“There’s some standards I’ll look to set, but I don’t want to rush into anything. We need to get to know each other.”
Stagliano said one of the biggest things for him early on was making sure they set an environment where everyone will thrive.
He’ll then look at other things.
“I want an environment where they want to behere,”hesaid.“Iwanttomakesureeveryone enjoys being there and being comfortable.
“That they want to improve and be in the best position to grow.”
Tara Murray
Sutton extends with United
Matt Sutton has signed a two year extension for Western United amid his standout season in goal in the A-League Men.
He has contributed immensely to the recent run for Western United, starting in all fourteen of United’s matches this season. His performance has excelled with the opportunity of being a regular first-team player.
Notably, his stop against Macarthur and his man-of-the-match, nine save performance against Sydney placed him in a good position to extend the contract.
Sutton said he is looking to repay the club and take his playing to a whole new level in the next two years.
“To see the fans here in Tarneit leaving with a smile on their face –that’s the biggest thing and that’s what football’s about,” he said. “I’m really stoked, and hopefully let the good times keep rolling.”
Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato said Sutton had been a success story of the season, creating a meaningful impact on and off the field.
Sharks.
After losing a wicket without a run on the board, the Sharks did it with ease, finishing 2-120.
Mayank Sharma made 62 not out off 41 balls.
The Sharks will be in action on Tuesday night in the T20 competition against Deer Park.
Talbot said it was a bit crazy to be facing the side that won last year’s senior division.
All the other teams left in the last eight are in senior division and division 1.
“Its been a great achievement so far,” he said. “We’ll go out and have fun.
“They are a wonderful team. We go out there with a shot.”
In other Roy Picone Shield matches, Point Cook suffered a big loss to Moonee Valley. Point Cook was bowled out for 98 in reply to 154.
In the Evans-Clark Shield, Bellbridge upset Melton South Royals to cement a spot in the top four, while Werribee Centrals lost to Footscray Angliss.
In the Russell Pollock Shield, Wyndham Vale lost outright to Burnside Springs United.
“We have no doubt that influence will continue to grow positively in the coming years,” he said.
“Since joining us at the beginning of last season, Matt has bought into our club culture and values and worked tirelessly to earn his opportunities.”
Sutton’s contract extension comes as Western United signed 18-year-old and fellow goalkeeper Alex Nassiep for his first professional contract with the club.
Alongside 19-year-old Michael Vonja the pair make up United’s goalkeeping ranks for the rest of the season.
Kaija Du
Owen Doolan led the wicket takers on
The Western Jets have a new coach. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410527_02
Matt Sutton. (Western United/Getty Images)
Tigers secure victory in the last over
Werribee is hoping to get one back against Melton later in the season in the Cricket Victoria Women’s Community Cricket Competition shield 2 competition.
The Lions got home against the Tigers on Sunday with just four balls remaining.
Tigersfemalecricketcoordinatorandplayer
Ruby Ruby said they are the sorts of games that you want to play in.
“It was pretty exciting going to the last over,” she said. “You love those sorts of games and you don’t want any game to be one-sided.
“It keeps you on your toes and it helps you understand pressure situations more. You learn a lot from sport.”
The Tigers batted first and made 8-163 from their overs at Macpherson Park.
April Chaudhary was the star of the show with 82 at the top of the order.
The Lions finished 5-164 in reply to claim the win.
Chaudhary took two wickets for the Tigers.
Ruby said that the Lions had a bit more composure in the later stages and had batted a bit better than them.
She said overall it had been a really good season.
“We’ve got a few new players that have joined and some others that have stepped up and are now playing in a turf competition,” she said.
For them they are getting that challenge. I think that it’s still really social and a less competitive environment.
“It’s good for the juniors as well. We all have that passion for sport and for many it’s a day off from doing their everyday things.”
The club has played on turf the past few years and Ruby said it was vital for their next generation.
She said with many going to premier clubs at a young age, they need to know how to play on turf.
Chaudhary is one of those youngsters. She recently captained Geelong’s under-15s girls team to the Victorian Premier Cricket Marg Jennings Cup.
“It’s a really good experience,” she said of playingonturf.“Itgetsthemreadyforpremier cricket, so it’s a no-brainer.”
The Tigers sit in seventh spot, 13 points outside of the top four with three rounds remaining.
Ruby said they have big aims for the rest of the season.
“We are aiming to win all three games,” she said. “The next three we are really confident of getting across the line.
“One of them is against Melton again.”
In other matches, Point Cook Centrals lost to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh made 5-136 from its overs with the Sharks finishing 7-113 in reply.
Tara Murray
Tigers’ finals hopes alive
By Tara Murray
Werribee’s finals hopes remain alive in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west.
The Tigers know the equation is simple for them, they need to keep winning and hope results go their way. With three rounds remaining,theTigerssitin10thspot.Theyare nine points outside the top six.
Captain Tim O’Brien said they know what they need to do for the rest of the season.
“We’re still in the same position, we have to win every game,” he said.”Every game is a mini final at the moment.
“The guys are doing really well.”
The Tigers on Saturday accounted for Port Melbourne.
Werribee had made 9-265 on day one of the match with Jack Waugh top scoring with 61.
O’Brien said to get the score past 200 was massive considering they were in trouble at 4-30.
“Even the last wicket partnership put on 45 to get us over 250 which can be a bit of a barrier for opposition sides.
“We were really pleased to get that score.”
Werribee’s bowlers then did the job on Saturday to bowl Port Melbourne out for 170 in the 72nd over.
O’Brien said it was a really good bowling performance.
“We started really well with Jono Burton bowling fantastic,” he said. “All the bowlers did a really good job.”
Burton finished with three wickets, while O’Brien and Adam Alifraco took two wickets each for the Tigers.
The result makes it three wins in a row for the Tigers, with only one loss after the Christmas break.
O’Brien said the group was starting to get consistency and it was showing in the results.
“We’ve played with each other a bit more,” he said. “We’re in a bit better position.
“Our seconds and thirds are both on top and our fourths had an outright win and moved into finals contention.
“What is the most pleasing thing is the twos are so strong that those guys who are coming up this year... There’s pressure on for spots.”
The Tigers face Spotswood in a Saturday-Sunday clash this weekend.
The Woodsmen sit in seventh, also just outside the top six.
O’Brien said they were just focused on keeping on winning and keeping their finals hopes alive.
Meanwhile, Hoppers Crossing cemented its spot in the top six with victory against Taylors Lakes.
The Lions resumed at 2-4 in reply to the Cats’ 172.
The Cats bowlers were on top all day on
Cats go into the T20 final
Hoppers Crossing is through to its first Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 grand final.
Having set themselves for a strong T20 campaign, the Cats continued their good form to win through to the grand final.
The Cats were away against Bayswater in its semi final on Tuesday night, setting the win up with the ball.
Bayswater decided to bat and were soon in trouble at 4-22.
Bayswater had one small partnership before the wickets started to fall and it was all out for 83 with two balls remaining.
Jordan Ludgater top scored with 23 at the top of the order.
Shijit Chandran Poovathingal continued his good form taking 4-11 off his overs.
The Cats were in trouble early in their run chase after falling to 3-17, but Yuvraj Singh and Brett Smith settled the side.
The pair batted through and got their side over the line in the 17th over, finishing 3-84.
Singh finished 40 not out off 35 balls, while Smith made 26 not out.
The Cats will face Elsternwick in the grand final, after it produced a stunning performance with the ball to beat Ivanhoe.
Ivanhoe was bowled out for just 43 in 11.4 overs .
Just two players reached double figures, with Roshan Livera taking five wickets.
Elsternwick needed just 6.4 overs to get the runs, finishing 1-45.
ThegrandfinalwasbeheldonTuesday night at Elsternwick, after deadline.
Simon Lambert. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Saturday and bowled the Lions out for 89.
Brett Smith and Harshit Takkar took five wickets each for the Cats.
The Cats now sit in second spot, three
points off top. They are also 12 points clear of 12th spot.
Hoppers Crossing faces Port Melbourne in a two-dayer this weekend.
Jonathan Burton. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
April Chaudhary. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 458108_01
Point Cook draws Wyndham rival in Aust Cup
Point Cook couldn’t have hoped for a much better draw to start the Australia Cup competition.
The Jets were drawn to host a home match in the opening round of the competition against local Wyndham rival, West Point.
The match takes on more significance with new Jets coach Tome Petreski, having crossed from West Point in the off season, having coached them to promotion in 2023.
Petreski said he doesn’t think the two teams have played in an official match before.
“It was surprising, I was initially shocked,” he said. “There are 130 teams in the draw and we get drawn against the team I’ve just come from.
“To draw a local rival for the first game of the cup, you never know what to expect. I don’t think we’ve ever been in the same league and we now play them three times this year.”
TheJetswillhostthematchthisFridaynight, with the club hoping to attract a big crowd at Saltwater Reserve.
Petreski said it doesn’t get much better than Fridaynightgames.ForPetreski,hesaidthings werestartingtocometogetherwiththeirsquad and how they wanted to play.
“We have recruited heavily,” he said. “We are in a better spot than we were early in the off season.
“We’vebeenreallybusyintheoffseason.We think we have a team that will be competitive for this fixture.
“We’vemadealotofprogressbutthereisstill work to do in these six weeks before the season starts.
“We’ll look at things as they come and we’ll hopefully have the team ready for round one.
We’re in a pretty good spot.”
Among the signings announced for the Jets
are Akos Surjan, Hope Mirindi, , Sean Connor , Ruben Manyang, Luca De Amicis, Dewit Melesse, Kyle Borg and Marcus Sherif Petreski said the Australia Cup match would be unknown being the first game of the season.
He said they were hoping to use the cup as a good warm up for the season proper.
“We will go in to try and win every game we play in,” he said. “West Point will put some good players on the park.
“We know it will be pretty tough, but if we beat them we will face a team in a higher division away.
“Hopefully we can get through a few rounds and have some competitive games.”
Inotherfirstroundmatches,Truganinaison theroadagainstOldIvanhoeGrammariansand Tarneit United will play Monash University.
Tullio joins Werribee
By Tara Murray
Players looking to take their Victorian Football League opportunities travel all over the state and some even interstate to get their opportunities.
For new Werribee recruit, Noah Tullio he just needs to make the five minute journey up the road.
A Werribee local, Tullio signed with the Tigers after a three week trial period where he impressed the club.
Tullio said being able to play at the club that is right around the corner is pretty special. He said it was something he had thought about growing up.
“It’s pretty surreal to be honest,” he said. “It’s pretty cool.
“IwastrainingatPortMelbourneatthetime and it was just an opportunity to train closer to home.
“Toplayherewasano-brainer.Iwastraining around the corner. Some of the boys are travelling for two hours and I’m five minutes down the road.
“From the first training onwards, the boys were pretty welcoming and they wanted to get to know you.”
Tullio joins the Tigers after playing with the Geelong Falcons in the Coates Talent League, where he made the Vic Country squad.
He played his juniors at Werribee Districts before joining Geelong Football League side Newton and Chilwell since 2015.
TulliosaidgoingtoschoolinGeelongitmade sense for him to join a local club down there. He said he loved his time with the Falcons.
“It’s where I enjoyed my football the most I have,” he said. “I made lots of friends and enjoyed playing footy.”
Tullio knows it won’t be easy to break into a Werribee side that won the premiership last year.
At just 169 centimetres tall, Tullio has found other ways to have an impact on games.
“I’ve got to find what will take me to the next level,” he said. “I use my speed and game awareness.
“I don’t really let my height bother me.”
Tullio is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Bior Malual and Jack Riding, who have been signed after the three week trial period previously.
Both are premiership players with the Tigers and Riding named in the team of the year last year in just his first season at the club.
Western FL
AFL Brownlow medallist Dane Swan is headed to Point Cook for a one off game during the Western Football League division 1 season. The Bulldogs announced last week the Swan, who played 258 games including winning the 2010 premiership and the Brownlow the following year, would play for the side in their round seven clash with Altona. The day will also include a sports panel and pre-game luncheon with auctions, raffles and other guests.
VPL
Tullio said seeing what they had done was inspiring and it was now cool to be training with those players.
The 18-year-old, who still dreams of an AFL career,saidpre-seasontraininghadbeenreally good.
Hesaidhewouldtakethingsastheycomein the lead up to the season.
“Theseniorboysareencouragingtheyounger boys and taking the time to give feedback and make sure we are benefiting,” he said.
“I think training will take care of itself [in terms of playing]. I’m coming into a premiership team, I’m not getting my hopes up of playing in round one.”
JoiningTullioontheTigerslistishisGeelong Falcons teammate Cooper Ward. Ward had a standout season with the Falcons, where he finished fourth in their best-and-fairest and booted 27 goals in 16 games.
Tullio said it was cool to continue their journey together.
Rounding out the club’s new signings is another Falcon, Liam Kershaw, who continues the Kershaw name at the club. Matt, his father, was assistant coach for five seasons under both John Lamont and Mark Williams.
Werribee City started the Victorian Premier League division 2 season with a loss to Whittlesea United on Friday night. Whittlesea, which was playing its first VPL match ever, scored two second half goals to get the 2-0 win. The Bees face Springvale White Eagles on Friday night in round two.
FV
Hoppers Crossing has revealed its first signings for the FV state league 3 north-west season. Ivan Silic, Kosta Paganis, Luke Barisic, Mathieu Mahindo, Paul Tiktikakis, Aleks Petkoski and Andrew Van Berkel have all joined the club in the off season. Harry and Alister Kilpatrick, Antonio Veljanoski and Chris Widmar have re-signed. The side will this year will coached by Reardo Luka with Vito Cichello as assistant coach. Luka was a player for the Reds last season and has now stepped into coaching.
Sports shorts
Dane Swan. (Supplied)
Tara Murray Ivan Pavlekam and Tome Petreski. (Supplied)
Noah Tullio. (Supplied)
