Duo in tune
Hanging out with your dad can be pretty cool, especially when you play music across the world together.
Williamstown’s Caitlin Rizzoli first got on stage with her father Tim, of Point Cook, at her uncle’s wedding in Ballarat when she was nine or 10.
Since then, they have been to far away places and accompanied household names.
The duo claimed victory in the Voice Generations in 2022 and were invited to perform for Hugo Boss in Metzingen, Germany, for their its birthday in July 2024 as the only act to hail from outside of Europe.
In November 2024, they joined Jon StevensandKateCeberanoacrossAustralia on the Superstars Live National Tour.
“The best part about dad and I being from different generations is the fact that we can both bring a different flavour to the music we write and perform,” Caitlin said.
Tim’s musicality has helped Caitlin find her own voice as an artist and performer.
“It definitely influenced my love for music of that generation, not only just to listen to but it definitely had an influence on the way that I write and perform my own music,” she said.
Tim and Caitlin are about to kick off their own tour on Saturday, March 1, at the Memo Hall in St Kilda.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1343329
Jaidyn Kennedy
Footscray crime concerns
By Cade Lucas
A stabbing in the Footscray CBD on Friday night has intensified calls for action to curb violence, crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.
A 24-year-old man is in a serious condition in the Royal Melbourne Hospital after being stabbed and assaulted by a group of people on Albert Street at about 9.20pm on February 21.
The offenders fled the scene and are still at large as police investigate the circumstances surrounding the stabbing, the latest in a long list of incidents in central Footscray.
The latest quarterly crime statistics showed 4033 offences were recorded in Footscray in theyeartoSeptember2024,almostathousand
more than 12 months earlier.
In January, Maribyrnong council removed a playground from the Nicholson Street Mall due to feedback from local traders about the amount of drug taking and anti-social behaviour occurring there.
Now some business owners want private security guards employed to patrol the mall and surrounding streets.
“There are a lot of problems here,” said Johara Mohamed, who has owned a variety store on the corner of Nicholson and Paisley streets for the past three years.
She said safety and security in the area had declined rapidly in the past year.
“It’s getting worse day after day.
“They’re using drugs in front of the shops
and we can see them injecting themselves and smoking. Sometimes they block the door and customers are too scared to come in.”
Ms Mohamed said the offenders would disappear in the time it took for police to arrive.
Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari said community safety was a high priority and that council was working with Victoria Police to address the problem as well as employing measures such as CCTV.
“Footscray is not immune to the challenges otherareasfacewithcost-of-livingandmental health issues for vulnerable people,” Cr Tiwari said.
“Council understands the impact homelessness and addiction can have on
the broader community, including small businesses and social carers. We continue to work closely with the state government and local organisations to improve outreach services in Footscray.”
A spokesperson for Victoria Police pointed to Operation OKAMI as evidence it was tackling crime in Footscray, noting that a recent operation led to three arrests and 20 drug and weapon searches.
Footscray MP Katie Hall said she’d secured funding for co-health’s outreach service and established the Future Footscray Initiative as part of her efforts to address the problem.
”I want to assure you that these are issues I have been actively working on for several years,” she said.
Tim and Caitlin Rizzoli are about to start their own tour. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 459424_03
We’re building an alternative to the West Gate Bridge and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re putting the finishing touches on the new West Gate Tunnel, an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. When the tunnel opens in 2025, you can enter on the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road, and take advantage of new exits to Footscray Road, Dynon Road or CityLink.
Road disruptions: Road, lanes and ramps closed
West Gate Freeway, Spotswood Until late MarchCitybound lane from Millers Road to Williamstown Road
Citybound exit ramp to Williamstown Road
Millers Road, Brooklyn Until late MarchCitybound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway
Grieve Parade, Brooklyn Until late MarchCitybound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway
Princes Freeway, Laverton North At times until mid March
M80 Ring Road, Laverton North At times until mid March
10pm 1 March to 5am 3 March
West Gate Freeway, Laverton North 8am to 10pm, 2 March
Citybound ramp to M80 Ring Road
Greensborough-bound from Boundary Road to the Western Freeway
Altona-bound from Western Freeway to Boundary Road
Greensborough-bound from Boundary Road to the Western Freeway
Greensborough-bound ramp to M80 Ring Road
Council support for injured rider
By Cade Lucas
Maribyrnong council has expressed support and sympathy for Cheryl O’Connor, the cyclist whose legs were broken when hit by a truck in Yarraville last month.
Ms O’Connor was riding back to her Kingsville home on the morning of January 22 when she was struck by a semi-trailer at the intersection of Somerville and Williamstown roads, leaving her with multiple leg and ankle fractures.Sheiscurrentlyrecoveringfromtwo rounds of surgery, while a police investigation into the accident has been closed.
President of cycling safety organisation BikeWest, Pierre Vairo, used public question timetoaskifcouncilwasawareoftheincident involving Ms O’Connor and why protected bike lines were not installed along Somerville Road as part of recent resurfacing works.
Council infrastructure director Patrick Jess said council was aware of the incident and had been liaising the with the transport department about safety issues at the Williamstown Road intersection. Mr Jess said recent resurfacing work involved keeping bike line markings remaining consistent with what came before, but that chevrons had been
added to provide greater separation between cyclists and traffic.
Speakingonbehalfofcouncil,deputymayor Bernadette Thomas wished Ms O’Connor a speedy recovery and said she wasn’t surprised a serious accident had occurred on the corner of Somerville and Williamstown roads.
Brendan Yates from the Maribyrnong Truck Action Group then asked what council was doing to improve safety at the nearby Ballarat Street pedestrian crossing and if it was possible to install speed cameras to deter trucks from travelling too fast in the area.
Mr Jess said while the crossing was a
at
overcome stage fright. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460897_01
Help is here to overcome stage fright
Many people have dreams of performing under the bright lights in front of an adoring audience, but stage fright prevents them from turning those dreams into reality.
Fortunately, Williamstown couple and professional musicians Emma Sidney and Rick Baldi are here to help.
This Saturday night at Kindred Studios in Yarraville, the pair will run Kara-ok, an event where those suffering from stage fright are given a safe space to to get up and perform.
“Everyone will sing with you, and for you, and give you that feeling of welcome applause,” said Sidney of Kara-ok, which as the name
suggests, operates similar to a karaoke event, but with the artist’s original track playing in the background.
A professional recording artist with three jazz and Latin albums under her belt, Sidney cameupwiththeideaofaneventtohelppeople overcome stage fright while running her own karaoke nights.
“I have noticed that people get stopped when they are faced with singing at a karaoke event,” she said.
“Some people are just too shy to join in.”
Havingoncebeeninasimilarpositionherself before overcoming her fear and becoming a
singer, Sidney decided to use her expertise to help others do the same.
“I created a community event to help them to feel free to join in the community spirit and enjoy that feeling of being free to express themselves on stage,” she said. Kara-ok is a one off event supported by an online course on stage fright, basic singing training and microphone technique.
Singers can also bring their own supporters alongtojoininsingwiththem.Kara-okwillbe held from 7-10pm on March 1.
Details: https://bit.ly/kara-okAU Cade Lucas
state responsibility, council would look into whether speed cameras could be installed.
A spokesperson for the transport department said they were continuing to monitor safety at the intersection of Williamstown Road and Somerville Road and had already made changes at the Ballarat Street pedestrian crossing.
“Late last year, we made a number of improvements near the Francis Street and Ballarat Street intersection including improved speed signage to make it easier for drivers to spot the 50km/h speed limit,” the spokesperson said.
Renovations underway
The Workshops Pier in Williamstown is undergoing major works to repair and strengthen the structure, part of a vision to spotlight the area’s historical, recreational and commercial impact and potential.
The pier, constructed in 1942, is located in the Seaworks Precinct and signifies Victoria’s rich maritime history.
To be opened by mid-2026, the renovated pier will include new steel beams and piles to strengthen the entire structure, alongside repairs to the concrete deck and abutment.
“Workshops Pier has been a proud part of Williamstown’s maritime precinct for more than 80 years, and this upgrade will ensure it can continue to be enjoyed for decades more to come,” said Ports and Freight Minister and Williamstown MP Melissa Horne.
“We look forward to reopening Workshops Pier and welcoming back historic vessels which will help boost the local visitor economy in the West,” said Seaworks chief executive Glenn Jones.
The Workshops Pier redevelopment is part of $46 million investment to piers and jetties in Victoria, including updates at Warneet, Dromana and St Leonards. The works aim to help support the industries at these ports and piers which contribute over $900 million a year to economies through jobs, tourism, marine activities and commercial fishing.
The state government have been continuously working to improve piers, with over $150 million invested into their survival since 2019.
This includes the redevelopment of St Kilda Pier, arguably the state’s most famous and popular pier or jetty.
Kaija
Du
Werribee poll indicates a pox on three established parties
With the dust settled on the Werribee by-election, attention has turned to what the result means.
For Emeritus Professor of Politics at Monash University, Paul Strangio, there’s one obvious takeaway.
“Clear disaffection with the Allan Labor government,” Professor Strangio said.
“There’s a powerful ‘it’s time’ factor.”
Yet, voters in Werribee didn’t think it was time for the opposition Liberal Party either, with their candidate, Steve Murphy, attracting just four per cent of the 17 per cent swing away from Labor. Professor Strangio said this indicated that voter anger extended beyond just the Labor government.
“The second big takeaway is disenchantment with all of the established parties and by that I mean Labor, Liberal and the Greens,” he said, noting that while Werribee was not a Greens stronghold, their vote stagnated.
“It was most disappointing for Labor, but it’s not a great result for the Liberals and it was a poor result for the Greens so the voters were saying a pox on all your houses.”
Professor Strangio said this wasn’t a new trend, with the last federal election providing a precursor.
“If you go back to the 2022 federal election and you look at the western suburbs, the outer western and outer northern suburbs,
there was a very similar pattern.
Labor’s primary vote came off in a lot of its safest seats in those suburbs by about 10 per cent or so,” he said, adding that few of those primary votes shifted to the Liberals.
Professor Strangio said population growth and mortgage stress made the political environment in Melbourne’s north-west especially volatile, but that the trend away from the established parties wasn’t unique to Labor heartland.
“We’re seeing these patterns pretty well everywhere,” he said pointing to the success of the Teal movement in winning Liberal heartland seats as an example.
In Werribee, independent Paul Hopper
performed strongly, capturing 15 per cent of the vote and plans to run candidates in all 11 western suburbs seats at the next year’s state election under the banner of the West Party.
Professor Strangio said it was still too early to predict how Mr Hopper’s party or anyone else would go at the November 2026 poll, but that it would ultimately hinge on whether voters had faith in the Liberals to do a better job than Labor.
“Willtheybelievethey’reaviablealternative government,thatremainsabigquestionmark.”
Cade Lucas
Rick Baldi on stage
Kindred Studios in Yarraville where this Saturday night, he and his partner Emma Sidney will run an event to help people
Watts wants Champion Rd pause
By Cade Lucas
Gellibrand MP Tim Watts has voiced his opposition to the closure of Champion Road as part of the removal of level crossings in Newport, in the biggest blow to the project to date.
Mr Watts, whose electorate takes in Champion Road, announced in a social media post on Wednesday, February 19, that he opposed the Newport Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) in its current form and urged the state government to pause work on it.
While not a federal project, Mr Watts is the most senior Labor figure to come out against
the Newport LXRP which has been met with fierce opposition from the local community and Hobsons Bay council.
MrWattssaidhe’dcometohisdecisionafter listening to community concerns about the impact the closure of Champion Road would have on safety, the environment and amenity in the area, as well as conversations with colleagues in the state government, including Williamstown MP Melissa Horne.
“As a result of these conversations, I’ve reached the view that the Champion Road Level Crossing Removal should not proceed in its current form,” he wrote on Facebook, adding that he’d already written to Premier Jacinta Allen and Transport Infrastructure
Minister Danny Pearson asking them to pause the project.
“As construction work on the project seems set to commence, I’m now making my position public.”
Mr Watt’s decision was welcomed by Keep ChampionRoadOpencampaignspokesperson Gill Gannon, who said the state government was now isolated on the issue.
“It’s interesting that the local community, Hobsons Bay council, state member and federal member all oppose this closure, yet the Allan Government is not taking any of it into account,” Ms Gannon said.
“Absolutely mind boggling.”
Whilenotcallingfortheprojecttobepaused,
Mohebali) 459287_02
Check it out:
Maribyrnong council is expanding its Library of Things program to include a range of everyday items for library members.
Maribyrnong mayor, Pradeep Tiwari, said the community-focused service reimagined borrowing beyond books.
“The Library of Things not only encourages a culture of sharing, which helps to reduce waste, but also provides a more affordable way to try out new pastimes,” Cr Tiwari said.
“Given sustainability and the rising cost of living are key concerns for our community at the moment, it is more important than ever that people have access to resources
Borrow beyond books
that enable creativity and leisure without the financial strain or environmental impact,” he said.
Based on feedback from council’s 2024 collections survey, the expanded catalogue of ‘things’ has been selected to best reflect the genuine needs and interests of the community beyond the smaller collection of introductory items initially released.
Currently the collection includes board games, a home efficiency test kit and an induction cooktop and will soon be expanded to include a wellness kit (blood pressure monitor, forehead thermometer,
and oximeter), party speaker, and scanner to digitise photos and documents. There are also plans to add more kitchenware, small appliances and power tools in the near future.
To celebrate the official launch of Maribyrnong’s Library of Things, Braybrook Library is hosting an event with Dr Kate Luckins, author of Live More with Less, on Thursday, February 27.
For more information on the launch event and to register, visit: https://www. maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/library/Events/ Library-of-Things-launch-with-Dr-KateLuckinsand
Ms Horne last week told state parliament that her constituents didn’t want the project and that she’d been working with Mr Pearson about ways to address their concerns.
Mr Pearson was contacted for comment. HobsonsBaymayorDariaKellandersaidshe was pleased to see Mr Watts call for the project to be paused.
“While it is very late in the day, the community appreciates this support,“ Cr Kellander said.
An LXRP spokesperson said level crossings were dangerous and getting rid of them would make Newport safer.
“There have been six near misses at these level crossings,“ the spokesperson said.
Trail dream to be realised
After 25 years trying, Geoff Mitchelmore’s dream of a path connecting Hobsons Bay to the Melbourne CBD and the rest of the city’s shared path network, looks about to be fulfilled.
Last week the federal government committed $5 million from its active transport fund towards the completion of stages four and five of the Kororoit Creek Trail, the missing link in Mr Mitchelmore’s shared path dream.
“It’s a fantastic result for the community,” he said of the funding, which will allow for the construction of a trail from the Barnes Road Bridge in Altona North through to Cherry Lake in Altona.“It will go through an already prepared urban forest area and then on an elevated board walk between Koroit Creek Road and Cherry Lake,” said Mr Mitchelmore of stages four and five of which are expected to be finished by the end of the year.
Itrepresentsaremarkableturnaround for Mr Mitchelmore and the Friends of Lower Koroit Creek organisation he is president of. “Twenty-five years ago our vision was this trail to be complete, but by 2017. Friends of Lower Kororiot Creek had given up all hope of it ever happening, But in 2017 Toyota gave $42 million to do a section of the path and that stimulated the West Gate Tunnel to do a stage of the path and now the federal government through the active transport fund are allowing us to complete the trail,” said Mr Mitchelmore who thanked Gelibrand MP Tim Watts for helping secure the funding needed to finish the project. Mr Mitchelmore, 84, said: “I wanna live long enough to take my wheelchair out there.”
$1 million offered to find woman who went missing in ‘95
Police are offering a $1 million reward for information on missing Footcray woman Shari Davison who disappeared 30 years ago this week.
The then-27-year-old mother has not been heard from since making two phone calls from a payphone on Ballarat Road on the afternoon of February 18, 1995.
One of the calls Ms Davison made was to heremployerconfirmingshewouldbeatwork that evening.
The second was to her boyfriend, arranging tomeethimtocollectpersonalitemsincluding her mobile phone charger.
She never made it to work that evening or
picked up her phone charger.
Detectives have pieced together Ms Davison’s movements on the night before her disappearance, beginning with her leaving a Dandenong strip club with a female colleague about 10.50pm on February 17.
The pair travelled to Croydon, then onto the Mentone Hotel where they met two male friends and remained until 1am.
Ms Davison and one of the men, her boyfriend at the time, left the hotel and went to a nearby residence in Hampton before taking a taxi to Crown Casino at 2am.
About 7am Ms Davison’s boyfriend left her on her own at the casino and it’s believed she
caughtataxihometoFootscrayabout7.40am.
Ms Davison later left her Footscray home to make calls from the payphone near a Ballarat Road service station between noon and 2pm.
Missing Persons Squad Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper said police believe Ms Davison was murdered.
He said by offering a $1 million reward (up from $50,000 offered in 2012), police hope someone will come forward with information to help them solve the case and bring closure to Ms Davison’s family.
“It is unimaginable to try and understand what Shari’s family have had to live through overtheseyears,”DetectiveInspectorStamper said.
“At the time of her death, Shari had a loving family and a young son who misses her very much and still deserves answers. I can absolutely assure Shari’s loved ones – along with the person or persons responsible for her death – that detectives from the Missing Person Squad remain committed to this investigation.”
AnyonewithinformationcancontactCrime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://www. crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime
Cade Lucas
Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari at Braybrook Library with some of
Cade Lucas
Art, politics on display
Victoria’s Parliament House has welcomed art from the Dax Centre, a gallery in Parkville exhibiting works that reduce the stigmas of mental health and emotional traumas.
Theart,selectedbyparliamentrepresentatives andtheDaxCentre,includepiecesbyYarraville artist Patricia Stewart which were created to work through her traumatic upbringing with a mother suffering from Munchausen.
Patricia’s work is among that of three others exhibited in the President of the Legislative Council’s office as part of a loan bringing together art and politics.
Patricia’s mother suffered from Factitious Disorder or Munchausen, a disorder which causes the patient to fabricate illnesses, often for attention. She fictionalised Patricia’s illnesses, claiming that her daughter was dying to garner attention from those caring for her.
This led to Patricia’s neglect through a lack of education, clothes, toys and a general lack
of care that has strongly impacted her artistic work and mental health.
“My art has been strongly tempered by [the emotional abuse], I don’t see myself as a victim, I just knew I had to get through it and art has helped do that,” Patricia said.
Her art has been a tool to process her past, witnessed through the swirling of faces, bodies and intricate patterns with vibrant hues.
“Ithasbeennicethat[theartisticcommunity] acceptsmecreatively,Ihaveneverfeltpitiedfor my experience.”
Later this year the centre will hold another exhibition in Parliament, showing various other artworks from its Cunningham collection. The collection is the only one of its typeandsizeinAustralia,displayingworkthat fights mental health stigmas and that connects with traumatic events.
Briefs
New pavilion
Construction work is are now underway on a new pavilion for the Altona Hockey Club. The new pavilion is a modular building that is currently being constructed off site. Once complete, the new pavilion will feature four change rooms, umpire facilities, a social gathering space and storage room. It’s anticipated the stage government-funded project will be finished by the end of May.
Road closures
Inner-west motorists are again experiencing delays due to works on the West Gate Tunnel project. Inbound ramps between Grieve Parade and the West Gate Bridge closed last week and will remain closed until late March with inbound traffic reduced to three lanes. The inbound entry ramps on Millers Road and Grieve Parade, as well as the Williamstown Road exit ramp, are also closed. Outbound traffic will soon be affected too, with work beginning next month to remove the huge tower crane used to build the outbound tunnel portal. Some outbound lane and ramp closures are scheduled for for two weekends between March and April. Works will also take place on the M80 freeway across weekends in March to integrate the West Gate Tunnel into the existing freeway network. Details: http:// bigbuild.vic.gov.au/disruptions FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Kaija Du
Patricia Stewart with president of the Legislative Council Shaun Leane
Splendour through the lens
The Milky Way set behind Hanging Rock and the enchanting fungi of Sanatorium Lake are just some of the subjects that have been captured by members of the Macedon Ranges Photographic Society. Oscar Parry goes behind the lens to talk those passionate about capturing the world as they see it.
Founded in 1983, the Macedon Ranges Photographic Society has provided competitions, photography skills, and a sense of community for local photographers for over 40 years.
Now with about 67 members – varied in age and gender – society president Jeni Marinier said that local photographers join for myriad reasons.
“In the rural areas, we’re more spread out. And a lot of us are on large properties so you don’t really have your neighbours to chat to … it is really nice to have that opportunity to get together with people and share the experience,” Ms Marinier said.
“I think a lot of people who join are looking for that social aspect but also learning with something that they enjoy,” she said.
“It’s just rewarding. Seeing your images in print … up on a wall or up on display is very fulfilling.”
Members enter their photography into the society’s judged competitions and are given the opportunity to enter external competitions – with a major one being the annualVictorianAssociationofPhotographic Societies Interclub Competition.
‘‘ It was interesting to see what [members] came back with ... everyone sees things differently through their lens ’’ - Jeni Marinier
The society hosts four themed competitions each year with an accompanying open category, with this year’s topics being water, macro, double exposure, and flora or fauna.
Ms Marinier said that the association provides members technical and practical sessions relating to the upcoming competitions, along with general meetings covering photography tips and image critiquing.
Outside of this, members have the opportunity to attend weekend photography getaways – with past trips including Lake Tyrrell and Mungo National Park.
As a hobby, Ms Marinier said that photography can serve both as a way of recording moments and creating art.
“I think capturing a moment in time or an expression on someone’s face is priceless and very rewarding,” she said.
“Your holiday snaps can become beautiful works of art that you’re proud to hang on your wall … they’re not just happy snaps on your phone anymore. And then you can turn your work into gifts … like calendars or cards.”
She said that part of the joy is not realising how good your photo is until you see the colours and details on a larger screen.
“You can surprise yourself. My [husband] and I went to the [Halls Gap Zoo] back in October, and I was walking around with my camera, and there was a peacock with his tail up – absolutely beautiful. I just snapped away, didn’t really think much of it, until I came home and put one shot up on the computer and went ‘oh my God,’” she said.
“I was absolutely amazed at what I’d caught … you really don’t know what you’ve got until you get home. It can be quite a surprise, or it can be disappointing – I’ve had that before!”
Fortunately for the photographers of the group, the Macedon Ranges and Sunbury is full of photogenic locations.
Ms Marinier said attractive Macedon Ranges sites include the historic buildings of Malmsbury and Kyneton and local gardens in bloom during spring, and Sunbury highlights include Spavin Lake and The Nook.
“Goldenhourinsummerwouldbebeautiful
on a lot of those buildings … it’s getting the lighting right, [the] time of day,” she said.
“Summer can be very harsh, I’m looking outside now and it’s bright, bright sunshine. People say ‘you’ve got a good day for photography’ – it’s actually the opposite. You’ve got to pick and choose your times in summer.”
Along with the joys of creating appealing photographs, Ms Marinier said that another key aspect of being a society member is the
opportunity to present your work.
“In 2022, we did an exhibition called Magnificent Macedon Ranges, and then in 2023–24 … we did another one called Ranges in Focus, and the members had to photograph the area,” she said.
“It was interesting to see what [members] came back with … just how they view the Ranges … everyone sees things differently through their lens.”
With the rise in quality of phone cameras,
MsMariniersaidthatitis“encouraging”tosee a continued interest in DSLR and traditional cameras – but keen phone photographers are still welcome to join as members.
“It’s the image, not the camera.”
After recently relocating to Jubilee Hall in Macedon, the society has expanded its capacity for members and has more space to present works.
Details: macedon-ranges-photography.org. au
Macedon Ranges Photographic Society president Jeni Marinier at the Jubilee Hall in Macedon. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460067_03
‘The Heartland’ by society member Colleen Mahoney.
‘Landing’ by society member Nicola Donald.
‘Venice Canal’ by society member Greg McMillan.
Parents urged to pack heart-smart lunches for children
The Heart Foundation is urging parents to watch out for misleading marketing tactics as they strive to pack heart smart lunchboxes.
Australia’s leading heart health charity, the Heart Foundation, is advising parents to read nutrition information on food labels and not be fooled by misleading marketing tactics which take advantage of their healthy intentions.
It comes as the Heart Foundation calls for action to make it easier for people in Australia to choose healthy options, with the recommendation of the Health Star Rating system to be mandatory on all food products.
Heart Foundation senior food and nutrition advisor Jemma O’Hanlon said many parents havegoodintentionswhenitcomestopacking a nutritious lunchbox for their kids, but with products labelled as ‘lunchbox friendly’, a lack of regulation means the products aren’t necessarily heart smart.
“Parents no doubt read ‘lunchbox friendly’ food options as being healthy, allergy friendly or good options for children, yet there’s no clear definition of what lunchbox friendly means,” Ms O’Hanlon said.
“What does ‘lunchbox friendly’ mean? Who knows what it is referring to—it could just be thesizeofthefoodthatwillfitintoalunchbox.
“The trap is that many parents think these marketable terms such as ‘lunchbox friendly’ means the product has been vetted to meet a strict health criteria, but the truth is they don’t.”
The Heart Foundation recommends parents looking to create healthy lunches for their children should aim to pack a lunchbox filled with wholefoods for optimal heart health.
Parents are being urged to be mindful of marketing tricks when selecting lunchbox foods.
“Try to make food a fun experience for your kids. You could consider different ways to cut and serve food. Kids are more likely to eat fruit when it’s chopped up, so little bite-sized pieces that they can pick up with their fingers and put in their mouths are more likely to be eaten,” Ms O’Hanlon said.
stages in their lives including fussy eating.
“Don’tbetoodisheartenedifthefoodcomes home in the lunchbox. It’s normal and part of the journey of exposing your child to different foods. Kids naturally go through different
“Studies have shown it can take over 10 times of offering a food before a child may accept it, so keep offering gently, without pressuring.”
Heart healthy lunchbox additions Ms O’Hanlon recommends are: fresh sandwiches
made with wholemeal bread, lean protein fillings such as chicken, fish, egg or falafel, ‘pick me platter’ style lunches with finger foods such as avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, carrot or celery sticks with cheese cubes, a tub of yoghurt as a source of calcium, fruit salad, and a frozen water bottle.
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
Altona North Combined Probus
The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.
Lesley, 0414 481 442
IPC Health Cooks Network
Join the new and free IPC Health Cooks Network. The network is open to chefs, cooks, managers and childcare staff who prepare meals onsite at long daycare services located in Brimbank, Hobsons Bay and Wyndham Vale. Learn to adapt menus for allergens and fussy eaters, share knowledge and experiences, find ways to add variety to meal planning and boost nutritional expertise. The first session will be held on Tuesday, February 25 at 4pm online via Microsoft Teams. Sessions will run once per term and may be in person as well as online.
Contact Saira from our Health Promotion team on 0490 759 270 or saira.karim@ ipchealth.com.au by 21 February. Registration is required to attend.
Thrive in 2025 for 60s+
Stay strong, steady, and social with health expert Dr Liz Cyarto! Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay residents can join a free, 10-week program to improve balance, strength, and confidence. Sign up Thursday, February 27 at10 AM at the Seniors Exercise Park, Donald McLean Reserve, Spotswood. Classes are on Thursdays and Saturdays. (Funded by the Victorian Government’s West Gate Neighbourhood Fund, auspiced by Outlets Co-operative Neighbourhood House).
thehealthysenior@gmail.com, or 0481 977 970
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the 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
Walking group
The Mighty West Heart Foundation Community Walking Group meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am. Walk at your own pace for up to 60 minutes. Discover the many health benefits (physical and psychological) of walking together. All welcome.
0411 566 862
Willin Wimmin choir
Join the wonderful women at Willin Wimmin choir in Williamstown for some singing fun! Term 1 begins on Wednesday January 29 and goes through to April 2. Try us out for free for two weeks to see if it’s your thing. The group is all about the joy of group singing, and we welcome new members. There are no auditions required. Members sing a mix of contemporary, folk, choral, and world music in acapella style. The choir meets on Wednesday evenings during school terms from 7.30-9.30pm at The Dennis Reserve, 109 Ferguson Street, corner Melbourne Road, Williamstown.
willinwimmin.org.au or willin.wimmin@gmail.com
Women Working Together
A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay.
9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@
cotavic.org.au, or https://cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/
Musicians Wanted Westgate Concert Band, Established in 1979 is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am to 12noon at Braybrook College.
westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Williamstown Bridge Club.
The club has bridge sessions each week on Wednesdays at 7.25pm, Fridays at 1.25pm for experienced players, and a supervised session on Fridays at 9.50am at Hobsons Bay Sport & Game Fishing Club, 17 Altona Road, Altona. Beginners lessons begin in May. All levels welcome and partners can be provided.
Sandi, 0417 315 760, Alan, 0430 309 255, or www.bridgewebs.com/williamstown
Charity golf day
Hobsons Bay Community Fund will be having a special “10th birthday“ Annual Golf Day on Wednesday March 12 at Kooringal Golf Club. Sponsors, players and supporters are welcome to join the fun and support the local community
https://events.humanitix.com/ hbcf-golf-2025
Walking football (soccer)
For anyone aged 50 & over, any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay Council and Football Victoria, this is a free activity each Wednesday, from 10am to 11am, indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive, Altona.
Mike, 0423 291 708
Laverton Bowls Club
Experience the fun and skill of lawn bowls, a game which is suitable for all ages. Laverton Bowls Club is recruiting new members, so if you are looking for a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to bowl both socially or at pennant level Laverton is the place to be. Come to the club on Tuesday or Thursday mornings for practise
beginning at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows. 9369 1034 or secretary@lavertonbowls.com.au
Musicians welcome
Do you play any percussion, brass or woodwind instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band. Please note that rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden OAM every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Spotswood South Kingsville RSL, 59 The Avenue, Spotswood.
Hannah Prouse, hbcityband@gmail.com or check URL www.hbcb.org.au
Fiddle group
The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.
https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong
Intro to computers course
For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Everyday English language course
For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends. Fridays, 10am-noon. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Gardening workshops
Composting made simple, Tuesday, March 11, 1-2pm.Discover how to set up a tumbler compost system and explore creative ways to compost at home. Transform waste into valuable garden gold. Resilient summer gardens: Tuesday, March 25, 1-2pm.Get tips on maintaining a vibrant communal space during the summer heat and learn techniques to build a resilient garden that thrives through the seasons. All workshops held at Spotswood Community House, 598 Melbourne Road, Spotswood.
Almari van der Merwe, Cultivating Community, 0466 406 510, or www.cultivatingcommunity.org.au
Computer classes
Scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email, whatever. We all need to keep up with the internet, IT, computers, and changing technology. Classes every day of the week , mornings and afternoons, in Williamstown and Altona North.
Lynne, 9397 6168
Mouth Organ Band
Yarraville Mouth Organ Band is looking for new members. Band practice is held on Friday evenings at 8pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. For great music in a friendly atmosphere feel free to call in one Friday evening.
Heather 9399 2190 or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au
Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon-2.30pm.
Woodcarving Workshop
Held weekly at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, but women are welcome too. Aimed at all levels of ability in the ancient, international crafts of carving, whittling and chipping. Starter gouges and timber are available, but participants are advised to bring their own tools and projects if possible. Held on Tuesdays, 9.30am to noon, 280 Queens Street, Altona.
John, jah2802rot@gmail.com
This week’s photographer’s choice picture of Steve Scott, the owner of Woodend’s The Back Shed Gallery. Steve is pictured with one of his wooden puppet creations. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460857_01
Catch up with Big Ted and friends
Beloved Play School presenters Rachael Coopes, Alex Papps, and Teo Gebert are hitting the road to bring joy, laughter and learning to little ones through fun-filled dance, nursery rhymes and storytelling. The Play School LIVE 2025 National Tour kicks off in March. The tour schedule includes Williamstown on 29 March, South Morang on 31 March and Bacchus Marsh on 4 April. This year’s live production, Once Upon a Time,invitesfamiliestoexperiencethemagic of classic nursery rhymes as each page of the storybook is turned. Featuring Australia’s favourite Play School presenters and toys, including Big Ted, Little Ted, Jemima,
Humpty and Kiya, the show promises exciting adventure filled with stories, songs, and dance.
Audienceswillenjoyallthenurseryrhymes and songs they know and love like Little Miss Muffet, Incy Wincy Spider, Humpty Dumpty, Der Glumph, and Heads and Shoulders, performed live for young fans.
Rachael Coopes is an accomplished Australian television presenter, writer, and yoga teacher. Best known for her role as a presenter on the beloved children’s program Play School, Rachael brings joy and education to countless young viewers.
Alex Papps is well known as being a
much-loved host on the ABC’s children’s show Play School. An accomplished actor, he graduated from the prestigious Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) and became hugely popular as original foster child ‘Frank Morgan’ on Home and Away, having previously also starred in The Henderson Kids.
Play School LIVE: Once Upon a Time is a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting memories while celebrating the joy and imagination that Play School has brought to generations of Australian children.
For tickets and venue details, visit: www. kidspromotions.com.au
Exploring a fresh queer perspective
As visitors step into the Bowery Gallery in St Albans, they will be welcomed to a tender exploration of identity, intimacy, and vulnerability as part of a fresh, and playful exhibition.
Created by local artist and educator Nathan McGlynn, ‘Darling Boy’ is a familiar and intimate collection of works centred around its primary protagonist.
“DarlingBoyisthemainrecurringcharacter in my work … [the] figure often reinterprets traditional heterosexual imagery from a queer perspective, with a focus on celebrating human connection,” McGlynn said.
“‘Darling” implies warmth and closeness, while “Boy“ both nods to traditional gender roles and invites a space to challenge and expand upon them.
“Through Darling Boy, I aim to create a figure who embodies the subtleties of queerness, offering a space to reflect on both personal and shared experiences of identity.”
McGlynn said the exhibition is retrospective, showcasing both his own pieces and large collaborative paintings.
“Many of the works feature people from my community – my friends often serve as the muses in these paintings,” he said.
Having his work on display for Brimbank residents to enjoy, has left McGlynn feeling “absolutely thrilled and honoured”.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my art will be seen by such a diverse audience,” he said.
“It’s also exciting to bring queer art into public spaces, where it can challenge perceptions and spark important conversations about identity.”
Darling Boy will be up on display at the gallery until April 5.
Prealene Khera
Get creative and help make Penrose pretty
Your creativity can help make Penrose Place in Tarneit even prettier by coming along to the Penrose Repurposed - Sustainable Art Experiences! project.
Three hour workshops will run on February 28, March 1, March 14 and March 15 between 10am-1pm, and will give participants the opportunity to weave and paint their hearts out.
Sally Walshe, also known as Lady Mohawk, will lead the event in collaboration with Wyndham council.
“I believe that when people come together to create, something truly special happens,” she said.
“One of my biggest passions is sustainability in the arts, and this project is a perfect example of how we can give new life to discarded materials.
“By using recycled and excess paint, we’re not only reducing waste but also encouraging artistic expression and a deeper sense of community connection.”
The first three sessions will involve painting large artworks with the help of expert artist and muralist Justine McCallister.
On March 15, Master Weaver Aunty Vicki Kinai will teach weaving techniques to integrate between the paintings, further beautifying the fence.
Author talk on researching the Shrine
Melbourne writer and visual artist Laura J Carroll, will be discussing her debut bookMakingtheShrineatWilliamstown Library on February 27.
A collection of 25 compelling stories about Melbourne’s iconic Shrine of Remembrance, Making the Shrine brings the war memorial to life and traces its journey from it’s early 1930’s construction through to becoming the cherished landmark it is today.
“It’llbeaboutwhytheshrinecontinues to matter deeply in Victoria and why I think that young people especially have a right to feel like it’s a place that belongs to them,” said Carroll of her presentation which will also explore her experience researching the shrine and its history and include a special connection it has to Williamstown.
She said the rich backstory of the shrine was partly why she chose to lean on her artistic background and make it a graphic novel rather than just a written history.
“The format allows for deep imaginative engagement and I hope it will help readers get absorbed in the shrine’s changing story - which in many ways reflects the story of Australia since the end of the First World War,” said Carroll, adding that the project also allowed her to indulge in her love of history and researching archives.
“I found much archival material about the shrine which hadn’t really been explored before, and it was a fun challengetoworkthebestofthismaterial into my book.”
Thefreeeventwilltakeplacefrom6pm to 7.15pm and signed copies of Making the Shrine will be available for purchase.
Bookings: https://shorturl.at/irOjo
Once completed, the artworks will be displayed on fencing around Penrose, turning the space into a vibrant outdoor gallery and connecting the local community to the space with their own artworks for all to enjoy.
People of ages are welcomed and encouraged to join in on the fun.
Anyvolunteersorbusinesseswhowouldlike to contribute supplies to the project can get in touch with Sally at Sally@ladymohawk.com.au
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/ penrose-repurposed-a-creative-communitycollaboration
Jaidyn Kennedy
Lady Mohawk, also known as Sally Walshe. (Sally Walshe)
Alex with Jemima and Rachael with Big Ted. (Supplied)
Nathan McGlynn with this new Darling Boy exhibition. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 457579_14
‘Gamechanger’ for breast cancer
By Prealene Khera
More than 100 people with breast cancer across Melbourne’s west are among the first public patients in Australia to benefit from an innovativetechnologythathasbeenlaudedasa “gamechanger” for breast cancer surgery.
Sunshine Hospital is first public hospital in the state to use Scout, a small insertable device that streamlines the surgical removal of hard-to-feel tumours.
In late 2023, the hospital introduced it using ultrasound and mammogram, in a joint initiative between its breast surgery and medical imaging teams.
A year later, it became the first public hospital in the country to offer MRI-guided Scout placement, further enhancing accuracy.
Scout is a tiny reflector that can be directly inserted into small, hard-to-feel breast tumours.
Once inserted, the device emits a radar signal that is easily detectable by a hand-held device during surgery.
In pinpointing the precise location of the tumour for the surgeon, it improves accuracy of the procedure, and therefore outcomes for patients.
According to Breast Imaging director and radiologist Dr Joseph Paiva, the device’s introduction has been ground-breaking for patients and surgeons alike.
“Many of these cancers, they’re very small so they can’t be felt by the surgeon. We detect
BUSINESS PROFILE
themthroughultrasoundsorMRIandweneed to be able to precisely allow them to be located during surgery but there needs to be a way of guiding surgeons to it,” he said.
“Previously, that was done with a metallic wire which was put in before surgery.
“It wasn’t very nice. We didn’t like doing it and the patients generally didn’t like it either.”
Inserting the hook wire requires multiple procedures on the day of surgery and can be uncomfortable for patients, with part of the wire remaining outside of the breast.
“It’s not a great experience, but that was pretty much the gold standard all over the world up until recently,” Dr Paiva said.
He said Scout had huge benefits on multiple fronts.
“The patient has less anxiety on the day of surgery, and it’s just a better patient experience overall,”hesaid.“We’rejustexcitedthatwecan
offer this in the public sector to the women of the west because it’s a great technology.”
Breast surgeon Dr Sophie Nightingale, who led the introduction of Scout to Western Health, agreed with her colleague.
ShesaidScoutwasofparticularbenefitwhen pre-surgery chemotherapy had been successful in reducing the size of tumours.
“Many patients now have chemotherapy before surgery, because there is better survival, socancersareshrinking,orevendisappearing, with treatment so Scout is more useful than ever,” Dr Nightingale said. “It can be placed before chemotherapy starts, so no extra procedures are required before surgery.
“So far, the patients have all been very happy with the new technology, and we haven’t had anyinstanceswherethelocalisationhasfailed.”
Since Scout was introduced at Sunshine Hospital in October 2023, more than 110
Charming
procedures have been performed.
Among the patients to benefit from this technology is 71-year-old Marie Considine, who had her breast cancer removal surgery in November.
“I’mverygladIdidn’thavetohaveawireput in, that sounds so scary,” she said.
“I am so grateful that Scout was used instead because it was a really good experience, it didn’t hurt – you don’t really feel like it’s inside you.
“It was a smooth, seamless and quick procedure, all in all my surgery went quite well.”
Sunshine Radiology nurse unit manager Warren Gooch said this is a common response among patients.
“It’s so much better for our patients. It’s a greatstepforward.Scouthassimplifiedtheday of surgery for all parties,” he said.
Victorian home on a spacious 4,429m² block
Located in picturesque Gisborne South, just 44km from Melbourne’s CBD, this stunning Victorian-stylefarmhouse,datingbacktocirca 1840, offers the rare opportunity to enjoy the best of rural living without compromising on convenience.
Set on a generous 4,429m² block (approx.), this home has been thoughtfully renovated and extended over time, seamlessly blending its historical charm with modern updates for today’s lifestyle.
Stepping inside, the home welcomes you with its grandeur, featuring soaring 11-foot ceilings, beautiful fireplaces, and original timber windows. The polished timber floors,
decorative ceiling roses, and high skirtings add timeless sophistication to the spacious living areas, creating the perfect environment for both relaxed family life and formal gatherings.
The home offers four generously sized bedrooms, all with built-in robes, including a master suite with a private ensuite.
A large fifth bedroom, ideal as a rumpus room or guest retreat, plus a versatile study, ensuresthere’sroomforeveryfamilymember’s needs. The formal lounge and dining area, highlighted by back-to-back cast iron fireplaces, creates a cozy and inviting space, while the expansive open-plan kitchen, meals,
and living area is perfect for modern living and entertaining. The chef-inspired kitchen includes granite benchtops, an ILVE electric oven, Bosch dishwasher, and a walk-in pantry, while a wood heater and reverse cycle air conditioning ensure year-round comfort. Outside, a wraparound timber-decked veranda enhances the home’s charm.
The large backyard is a haven for outdoor living with established fruit trees, a veggie garden, and a tree house for the kids. The fully fenceddogrun,alongwitha12mx7.6m*shed/ workshop with mezzanine storage, adds even more value. With a 40-foot shipping container andbothboreandtankwater,thispropertyhas
everything you need.
Positioned in a tranquil yet accessible location, this home provides a perfect rural retreat, close to Gisborne’s amenities and excellent schools, making it an ideal choice for families and professionals seeking a “tree change”lifestylewitheasyaccesstoMelbourne and Tullamarine Airport.
To enquire about 10 Namnan Way, Gisborne South, contact Anthony Stevens Real Estate. Anthony Stevens – 0459 924 164 or anthony@anthony-stevens.com Julie Ryan – 0438 060 382 or julie@anthony-stevens.com
Left: Marie Considine was one of the patients who benefited from Scout. 459001 Right: Dr Joseph Paiva and Dr Sophie Nightingale holding the device in its casing. ( Ljubica Vrankovic) 459346
The ultimate adventure awaits
BY LEE MCCARTHY
IF you are one of those fortunate travellers who havecoveredtheglobe,seenasmuchofEurope, Africa and Asia as you desire and are seeking a new experience, this one is for you.
It’s time to explore the final frontier, Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic.
The diversity and ruggedness of the terrain in the Arctic and Alaska will grip you as you celebrate life on a voyage of extremes.
Viking started sailing in the high Arctic in 2025 offering passengers the chance to be one of the first to pass through the scenic Canadian Maritimes and along the famed St Lawrence Seaway with time to visit historical cities along the East Coast.
Viking’s Australian and New Zealand managing director Michelle Black said this was a unique journey allowing passengers to witness stunning vista’s, unique wildlife and diverse cultures and enjoy a truly memorable voyage to the Earth’s far north by sea.
“Wearepleasedtobeabletooffersuchawide range of new and exciting expedition voyages sailing between the polar regions of the Arctic to Antarctica and the Great Lakes,” she said.
“These destinations offer encounters with wildlife like nowhere else in the world,”
“Guests will sail glassy inlets with whales and penguins between dramatic landscapes, glacier-carved fjords and rugged mountain ranges while immersing in the culture and traditions of the traditional Inuit peoples of the Arctic.”
“Our polar voyages offer an unbelievable opportunity to experience the remote wilderness and excite every type of traveller.”
The journey begins in cosmopolitan Nuuk, Greenland’s capital city and one of the smallest in the world, with just 16,000 residents.
Located on the southwest coast, the city is home to one of the world’s largest fjords, the Nuup Kangerlua Fjord, whose waters are brimming with marine life and where whale sightings are commonplace.
VisitorstoNuukcometoenjoynature,hiking along the dramatic coastline or exploring the fjord by boat or kayak. Its rugged landscape is dotted with colourful houses, set amid a beautifulbackdropoftheSermitsiaqmountain.
Passengers will have the chance to cruise these waters on the Viking’s Special Operations Boat and witness Greenland’s west coast, one of the Arctic regions spectacularly scenic highways and a favoured transportation route for Greenlanders. Iceberg-filled waters drift past changing landscapes, evoking experiences that were once followed by intrepid explorers for centuries.
among Icebergs In Illulissat, Greenland paddling along the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Floating icebergs glisten under the midnight sun as they drift by.
The Pond Inlet in Nunavut, Canada which sits on the northern shores of Baffin Island at the eastern entrance to the famed Northwest Passage is home to a small but vibrant Inuit community, and nicknamed the ‘Jewel of the North.’
The surrounding Arctic landscape a panoramic mix of glaciers, icebergs and rugged mountains. Pond Inlet is also a gateway to SirmilikNationalPark,‘theplaceoftheglaciers’ in the local language.
Coveringmorethan8,400sqmi,theparkisa declaredmigratorybirdsanctuaryandsupports an array of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, wolves, narwhals and beluga whales.
The Canadian High Arctic is a region of raw natural beauty and is characterized by extremely cold temperatures and extended periods of darkness.
The spectacular natural beauty is dominated by rugged terrain, snowcapped mountains, drifting icebergs and vast ice fields that stretch to the horizon.
During the journey enjoy enriching days of exploration with the use of expedition equipment,includingwalkingpoles,binoculars and dry suits for kayaking which is all included in the fare.
Greenland enjoys a diverse food scene and the country’s capital encourages visitors to fully embrace the gourmet dining experiences on offer.
These are just a few of the highlights of Artic cruisewithViking-achancetomakememories to cherish forever.
To enjoy the itinerary and find out more please visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
With most of the country covered in ice, traditional Greenlandic cuisine heavily features seafood, fish and meat. In restaurants serving traditional fare, Suaasat will commonly be found on the menu—a tasty stew of potatoes, onion, rice or barley and meat. A selection of cafes and eateries offer tasting plates or tapas-style dishes, providing a sampler of local delicacies to enjoy, alongside international favourites.
Kayak
Viking Orion in the Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska.
Viking guests will sail glassy inlets with whales and penguins between dramatic landscapes, glaciercarved fjords and rugged mountain ranges
Why ‘Coolcations’
TAKEN a Coolcation recently? All the ‘cool kids’ are taking ’coolcations’ where they explore vivid and exciting destinations like Canada, Alaska, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland.
‘Coolcationing’ is one of the top travel trends of 2025 and is so called as many travellers are tired of travelling in the intense heat so are choosing destinations like Scandinavia, Alaska and Canada.
As this is the very region Viking calls home, they are without question the best placed to show travellers around these spectacular regions and share their homelands with them.
Viking introduces their passengers to the history, culture, architecture and art of the region and offer them the chance to explore their culinary uniqueness all while travelling in understated luxury.
TravellingthefarseasofCanada,Greenland, Iceland and the Arctic is a chance to discover distantshoresandvisitvillagesandscenerynot overrun by tourists.
From quaint fishing villages to snowcapped mountaintops, witness majestic landscapes, and learn about Inuit traditions, revelling in the history of Viking exploration.
Visit vibrant Bergen in Norway, home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence.
Join shrimp-peeling experts as they demonstrate their different preferred methods. Try both and see which techniques works best before savouring a hard-earned meal with white bread and a glass of chilled white wine.
Meet some of the four-footed locals and learn about the classic Norwegian brown goat cheese called Gjetost.
Norwegians love their coffee, and a trip behind closed doors to discover the process that brings Friele, Norwegians favourite coffee to life and learn about the fascinating art of ‘cupping’ will entice the senses.
Explore the stunning beauty of the Svalbard archipelago, hundreds of Norwegian islands halfway between Norway and the North Pole. Stunning panoramas unfold here with dramatic fjords leading into glimmering bays surrounded by massive glaciers and rugged peaks cloaked in snow.
The austere tundra unfolds to an Arctic desertwherepolarbear,Arcticfoxandreindeer roam. Many regions have been designated ImportantBirdAreasbyBirdLifeInternational for the countless winged creatures that breed and hunt along the coast.
Theregion’sendlesswonderscanbeexplored by zodiac, kayak and by land. Discover what life in the Arctic is like during a drive through
Longyearbyen and a visit to the Svalbard Museum.
Journey to Camp Barentz in the remote Advent Valley and meet its lovable husky dogs and their musher.
Fossil hunting, sled ride, and a thrilling ride totheadventValleybyATVarejustafewofthe adventures to experience.
Discover the area’s natural beauty by kayak against a stunning backdrop of sweeping mountains or ascend into hard-to-reach places andadmirepanoramicviewsaroundÍsafjördur on an exhilarating ATV excursion.
Get to know a local Greenlander and share a traditional snack during a home-hosted visit.
Learn about the local culture, their traditional clothing and fabric, and gain insight into village life. Cap the visit by sharing a kaffemik, a Greenlandic tradition used to celebrate special events or milestones, such as birthdays or births. Enjoy this cultural exchange while tasting homemade Greenlandic cake and pastries
Viking travellers Jenny and Phil Morup were full of praise for their recent trips.
“AllofourVikingcruiseshavebeenenjoyable
and adventurous. We particularly enjoy scenic cruises in cooler climates,“ they explained.
“It is for this reason we enjoy sailing around Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Alaska and Canada. Cruises we have completed in these regions are Viking Empire (49 days), In the Wake of the Vikings (15 days), North Pacific Passage (22 days) and Iceland and Norway’s Arctic Explorer (15 days).“
Back onboard recharge and renew body, mind and spirit in Viking’s Scandinavianinspired Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of holistic wellness, today while at sea.
Whether choosing to unwind in the sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the Thermal Pool, it’s hard not to feel recharged and revitalized.
Viking’s inclusive value includes everything needed for a fabulous trip, such as a guided excursion in every port, all onboard meals including alternative dining venues, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty tea, coffee, and bottled water, access to the state-of-the-art Nordic spa, self-service laundry and all tipping. With no kids,nocasinos,fewerthan1,000guests,andall veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take their passengers as close as possible to each destination.
To learn more about Viking’s Coolcations visit www.viking.com or call and speak to member of the team on Reservations (AU) 138 747.
Viking guests Jenny and Phil Morup dressed for kayaking in Canada on the Great Lakes.
Jenny and Phil Morup, guests on Viking’s Arctic Explorer cruise with the sign which signifies the end of the Svalbard City limit and the risk of roaming polar bears. (Supplied)
LEE MCCARTHY
EUROPEAN SOJOURN
Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa
23 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 19 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: JUN-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: MAY-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; APR-NOV 2027
From $9,495pp in Standard Stateroom
From $13,795pp in Veranda Stateroom
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
Hong Kong seamlessly blends Eastern traditions and Western modernity. The city’s iconic skyline, studded with futuristic skyscrapers, forms a stunning contrast to ancient temples and vibrant markets.
Your holiday includes
Full-Board Cruise
23 night full-board cruise on board the BRAND-NEW Queen Anne
25 Nights | 20 February 2026 | Prices fr $7,299pp
Enjoy a two-night stay in Singapore before embarking the newest addition to Cunard’s fleet, Queen Anne, for the voyage to Sydney.
From the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay to the cultural intrigue of Chinatown, Singapore remains one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. Discover the island-state’s beautiful botanical gardens and colonial landmarks during a two-night hotel stay ahead of a 23-night voyage on board Queen Anne as she sails to Sydney.
The newest member of the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne promises everything that makes a Cunard cruise so special, from Gala Evenings to a ernoon teas and enriching guest lectures. Enjoy a night in port in Hong Kong before sailing to Manila and onwards to Darwin. The sunshine of Queensland beckons next, from Airlie Beach to Brisbane, before your cruise culminates with a night in port in Sydney.
Visiting: Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)
The brand-new Queen Anne is a luxurious cruise liner offering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and exquisite service, promising an unforgettable voyage of elegance and indulgence on the high seas.
Complimentary Hotel Stay
2 night four-star hotel stay in Singapore at the PARKROYAL on Beach Road with breakfast
Complimentary Outbound Flight, Taxes & Transfers
Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)
Stocktake finds contrasting concerns in inner-west
Residents in the inner-west electorates of Fraser and Gellibrand have provided contrasting answers to the Salvation Army’s Social Justice Stocktake.
Respondents from Fraser, which stretches from Spotswood to St Albans, taking in much of Maribyrnong and Brimbank, nominated housing and homeless and mental as their top issues of concern, while those in Gellibrand, which occupies Hobsons Bay and parts of Maribyrnong and Wyndham chose access to health and climate change.
The results from the nationwide study of the issues affecting both communities and individuals in each federal electorate, were released by the Salvation Army on Thursday
and showed that those living Fraser shared similar concerns to the rest of the country.
Just as it was nationally, housing and homeless was the top community concern for Fraser with 59 per cent, ahead of mental health on 56 and financial hardship on 52 per cent.
The top issues of individual or self concern in Fraser was also the same as the nationwide result, with 48 per cent of nominating mental health, ahead of financial hardship on 39 per cent and housing and homelessness on 34 per cent.
Salvation Army spokesperson Warren Elliot said while Fraser’s results were in line with a majority of electorates nationwide, Gelibrand’s bucked the trend.
“In Gellibrand we noticed that access to health care is the top issue that people have raised for the community and climate change for themselves.”
Access to healthcare was nominated by 63 per cent of Gellibrand respondents, ahead of financial hardship and housing and homelessness which both recorded 61 per cent.
Climate change was the top issue for 46 percent of individuals in Gellibrand, ahead of mental health, and housing and homelessness.
Neither of the top issues in Gellibrand were ranked in the top three nationally and only access to healthcare came in the top five of both community and individual categories.
Warren Elliot said healthcare was more
Rally to fight for filters
By Cade Lucas
The mayors of Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay councils will speak at a rally demanding emissions filters be installed on the West Gate Tunnel project to reduce the risk of pollution.
Organised by the Maribyrnong Truck Action Group (MTAG) the ‘Clean our air – filter the stacks’ rally will take place at Yarraville Gardens on Sunday, March 2, in a last ditch attempt to have filtration devices installed in the tunnel’s ventilation stacks which are currently under construction. Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari and his Hobsons Bay counterpart Daria Kellander will speak at the rally, as will Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank and GP, medical educator and writer, Associate Professor Vicki Kotsirilos.
In 2023 Maribyrnong council declared
a health emergency due to air pollution in the inner-west, while Hobsons Bay council called for filters to be added to the tunnel in its submission to the project’s Environment Effects Statement (EES) in 2017.
MTAG president Martin Wurt said that time was running out to have filters installed.
“Transurban ( tunnel operator) needs to applyforanoperatinglicenseofthestacksand we’re expecting them to lodge that application with the EPA (Environmental Protection Authority Victoria) any week now,” Mr Wurt said.
“We’ve been working with Environmental Justice Australia and their lawyers have identified that this application process is the last chance to get filtration before the tunnel opens.”
Mr Ettershank said it was hard to fathom how a tunnel expected to be used by about
70,000 vehicles a day could not have emissions filters.
“The tunnel is supposed to reduce air pollution by moving vehicles underground, but if vehicle emissions are simply pumped back via unfiltered stacks, it will do nothing but pollute,” Mr Ettershank said.
Despite an inquiry recommending the filers, the state government and EPA decided against mandating filters in the tunnel during the project’s EES process in 2017.
A state government spokesperson said filtration technology was not proven and that the West Gate Tunnel would improve air quality in the west by getting trucks off the road.
“The new tunnels will use effective and proven ventilation technology and are being built to strict environmental standards,” the spokesperson said.
of concern in remote communities than inner-city electorates like Gellibrand, indicating a particular local problem in the electorate.
He said the electorate’s close proximity to the water and concern over rising sea-levels could have played a role in the climate change result.
However, Mr Elliot said the stocktake was more about presenting data than analysing and explaining reasons behind it.
“The aim of the document is to encourage community discussion about these issues.” The results can be found at: https://www. salvationarmy.org.au/socialjusticestocktake/ Cade Lucas
You win some, you lose more
Maribyrnong council will write to the federal government demanding it implement the recommendations from the 2023 “You Win Some You Lose More” inquiry into problem gambling.
Maribyrnong council voted unanimously in favour of a motion that it write to the PM and two federal ministers, to urge them to implement in full the recommendations from the inquiry report released in June 2023.
As part of the motion, Maribyrnong will also write to the body representing all western suburbs councils, LeadWest, to convene a Western Alliance for Gambling Reform, as well as calling on the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) and the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) to also lobby the federal government to adopt the recommendations.
Deputy mayor Bernadette Thomas told the chamber that the federal government had not given any reason for its failure to implement the 31 recommendations.
A spokesperson for federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the need for taking “meaningful action” was clear.
“We continue to work through the 31 recommendations of the parliamentary inquiry into online gambling, including in relation to advertisements,” the spokesperson said.
“We recognise this is taking longer than hoped, but it’s critical that we get this right to ensure future reforms are effective and comprehensive.”
LeadWest, MAV and ALGA were contacted for comment.
Cade Lucas
Rebekah Lautman, Glen Yates and Martin Wurt from the Maribyrnong Truck Action Group with placards they’ve prepared for the ‘Clean Our Air- Filter the Stacks’ rally on Sunday. (Attie Mohebali) 460913_05
Public Notice Proposed Closure of Council Road
In accordance with section 223 of Act, any person wishing to make a submission on the Proposal must do so in writing to the Manager Engineering Services before the expiration of the submission period below.
How to Make a Written Submission
Persons making submissions may request to be heard in support of their submissions. Any request to be heard must be clearly stated within the written submission. Any person requesting to be heard is entitled to appear in person or by a person acting on their behalf before a committee appointed consisting of the whole of Council. Hearing of any submissions is to occur on 8 April 2025 at 6:30pm. All submissions will be considered in accordance with section 223 of the Act. Following the consideration of any submissions, Council will decide whether or not to proceed with the Proposal. Submissions must be addressed to the Manager Engineering Services and emailed to governance@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au or posted to City of Maribyrnong, P.O. Box 58 West Footscray 3012 or delivered to the Municipal Offices, Cnr of Hyde and Napier Street, Footscray.
Submissions received will be included within the official Council Agendas and Minutes, including personal information about the submitter’s identity and location. Agendas and Minutes are made available to the public and on Council’s website. If you do not wish to be identified in Agendas and Minutes, please indicate this in your submission.
Submission Period: 26 February 2025 to 26 March 2025.
If further information is required, please contact Council’s Coordinator Transport, Tom Lay on 9688 0200 or tom.lay@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au.
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which Chilean golf professional won the 2025 LIV Golf tournament held in Australia?
2. And which Australian state capital hosted the 2025 LIV Golf tournament?
3. Which cricketer was accused of a suspect bowling action after the recent Test series versus
4. Which current AFL/VFL club was once better known as the Pivotonians?
5. Which cricketer reportedly had tinned spaghetti and baked beans flown in from Australia during the 1998 tour of India?
6. How long was the suspension given to Italian tennis professional Jannik Sinner by the World AntiDoping Agency?
Which US basketballer recently won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest for the third consecutive time?
Keanu Reeves’ character in the 1991 film Point had played football at which US college?
Which two San Antonio Spurs teammates were disqualified from the 2025 NBA All-Star Game skills challenge?
Prince Harry founded which annual sporting
Which Phoenix Suns player became the eighth NBA player ever to achieve 30,000 career points?
12. In which year did Hannah Green win the Women’s PGA Championship?
13. Who was the last Australian man to win a golf major?
14. Name the team coached by Ange Postecoglou from 2018–2021 in the J1 League, Japan’s top soccer league.
15. Who defeated Alex de Minaur in the 2025 Rotterdam Open final?
16. According to Sportico, how many of the top 100 highest-paid athletes of 2024 were women?
17. In which decade was the governing body Football Australia founded?
18. Which basketballer for the San Antonio Spurs is nicknamed ‘CP3’ and ‘the Point God’?
19. True or false: a badminton court is sized differently for singles and doubles games?
20. Sydney Swans player Caiden Cleary has been suspended for how many matches following his arrest by police?
21. Forward, back, inward, reverse, twist and armstand are the six classification groups of which sport?
22. Kirsten Stevens is the name of Lucy Liu’s sports journalist character in which film?
23. How many premierships have the Parramatta Eels won?
24. And in what year did they last win one?
25. Francesca Williams is the current captain of which national netball team?
26. Harry Perryman previously played for which AFL club?
countries?
28. Name the sports podcast hosted by Jason and Travis Kelce.
29. The Melbourne Aces play which sport?
30. Swimming has featured at every modern Olympic Games since what year?
Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.
Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.
Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au
27. The 2025 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey event features which four
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 Fugitive (7)
5 Fierce wind (7)
9 Creator’s protection (9)
10 Shoals (5)
11 Verse (6)
12 Advantageously (8)
14 Instrumental work (6)
15 Area on the body consisting of pelvis and upper thigh bones (4)
19 Merit (4)
20 Surpass (6)
24 Pseudonyms (3-5)
25 Very small pool of rainwater (6)
27 Woody plants (5)
28 Everlasting (9)
29 Stableman (7)
30 Show (7)
DOWN
1 Formula (6)
2 City and port in Italy (6)
3 Studio (8)
4 Physical and mental discipline (4)
5 Online metropolitan guide (10)
6 Bottle for the table (6)
7 Superimposed (8)
8 Writer of essays (8)
13 Warden of wildlife on an estate (10)
16 Discharge (6)
17 Royal family member (8)
18 Leave by will to another (8)
21 Hanging tuft of threads (6)
22 Meaning modifier (6)
23 Michael Jackson song (4,2)
26 Impel (4)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words
four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or
1 How many 'Arabian Nights’ are there in the Middle Eastern folk tales?
2 Which singer-songwriter wrote and recorded the theme song for the hit series Orangeisthe New Black?
3 What ingredient makes a latte a mocha?
4 True or false: spruce trees are evergreen?
5 Papillon is a breed of what type of animal?
6 In which country are the Cliffs of Moher located?
7 What type of exercise relies on the continual use of oxygen?
8 Annie Lennox (pictured) partnered with Dave Stewart to form which '80s British pop duo?
9 Name the narrator of Herman Melville's 1851 novel Moby-Dick
10 What device helps musicians keep a steady tempo?
Summing up Ford Transit Custom
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
The van section of the market is totally dominated by the Toyota HiAce, with 47.7 per cent of the market.
Behind it trails the Hyundai Staria Load, with a 13.8 per cent share followed closely by the Ford Transit Custom, with 13.5 per cent.
The only other significant player is the Chinese LDV G10+, with 11.2 per cent.
Transit Custom is not to be confused with Transit (no Custom) which applies to a range of larger vans.
Sitting on an all-new platform, the latest version of Ford’s mid-sized van arrived here in the first half of 2024.
While it was awarded International Van of the Year, it remains one of the more expensive options in a highly competitive section of the market where operators are keen to cut costs to a minimum.
To put this in perspective, HiAce prices start from $48,886, Staria from $46,740 and the Chinese G10+ from a low $37,358. Transit is priced from $55,990.
Due later this year, the new VW Transporter will be a rejigged Transit Custom, in the same way that Amarok is a rebadged Ford Ranger.
A plug-in hybrid will swell the ranks of Transit Custom towards the middle of the year.
Styling
Transit Custom is one of the more stylish vans available, particularly the Sport model with its stripes and alloy wheels.
Prices start from $56,590 plus on-road costs for the short wheelbase, front-wheel drive Trend 320S.
Our test vehicle, the 320L long wheelbase version, is priced from $57,590, or $64,214 driveaway by the time you put it on the road. It has seating for three with cloth-trimmed front seats, a separate, manual-adjust driver seat and two-seater pew for passengers, together with driver armrest, fold down tray table, barn-style rear doors and kerb-side slide entry.
The two outer seats are heated, the middle seat folds down to reveal a tray table for paperwork, and the passenger seat hides under seat storage. The faux leather steering wheel is both height and reach adjustable.
Standard kit includes push-button start, single-zone climate air, auto lights and wipers, auto high beam, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, plus front and rear parking sensors.
Transit Custom is covered by a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, with 12 months roadside assistance.
Service intervals are 12 months/30,000km.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of a 13.0-inch touchscreen with Ford’s Sync4 operating system, with voice-activated controls and an embedded modem compatible with FordPass.
Other features include FM and DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth with audio streaming, built-in satellite navigation (12 month subscription to Connected Navigation Services), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus four-speaker audio.
There’s also wireless phone charging, USB-A and USB-C ports plus a 12 volt outlet in the front.
Safety
Transit Custom is by far and away the safest van available to buy today.
Not only was it awarded five stars from ANCAP, but recorded an overall score of 96 per cent.
It performed exceptionally well across all scenarios, solidifying it as one of the safest options in its segment.
Six airbags are standard along with a rear view camera with a 180 degree split view
and Pre-Collision Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).
There’s also Intersection Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Keeping Aid with Lane Departure Warning. Add to this Roll over Mitigation,ReverseBrakeAssist,ExitWarning and Hill Launch Assist.
Emergency Call Assist will trigger your mobile to dial 000 in the event of an accident. Note, however, there is no provision for a children’s car seat.
Engines/transmissions
Power comes from a 2.0-litre, four cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 125kW of power and 390Nm of torque between 1750 and 2500 revs.
Drive is to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission with a steering column-mounted gear selector. You don’t see many of them these days.
Driving
Ford engineers have worked hard to improve useability of this new generation Transit Custom.
The floor has been lowered to improve ease of loading and unloading, and the overall height has been reduced to under two metres to help access height-restricted areas such as multi-storey car parks, garages, and underground loading bays.
A new access step makes climbing into the load compartment easier and a rear camera with180-degreewideviewingcapabilityassists rear visibility.
At 5450mm in length, the long wheelbase version is 40cm longer than its sibling, with a 40mm longer wheelbase, and stands 1980mm high.
It has a 12.1 metre turning circle.
A full width metal bulkhead is fitted, separating the cabin and cargo area, with a window and load-through hatch.
Our test vehicle was fitted with a moulded vinyl cargo floor liner, with eight tie-down pointsandLEDlighting,butlackedanywallor roof panels to protect the bodywork.
The load area is 1425mm high and 3002mm long, extending to 3450mm with the load-throughhatch,with1392mmbetweenthe wheel arches.
Maximum load capacity is 6.8 cubic metres and it has a 2500kg tow capacity.
Unless you make use of the tie downs anything placed in the back is going to slide around and could possibly be damaged if you are forced to make an emergency stop. A combined alarm and immobiliser are fitted.
There’s auto stop-start and four drive modes from which to choose: Normal, Eco, Slippery, Tow/Haul.
With a 70-litre tank, fuel consumption is a claimed 8.0L/100km. It also has a 20-litre AdBlue reservoir that helps clean exhaust emissions and that needs to be topped up occasionally.
There’s disc brakes front and back, independent rear suspension and an electric parking brake.
Trend rolls on 16-inch steel wheels with 215/65 rubber and plastic wheel covers finished in ‘Sparkle’ silver.
A full size steel spare is provided which is located under the rear.
Now I used to work as a courier with Australia Post and the fleet consisted mainly of rear-drive LDV G10s, rear-drive Hyundai iLoads and front-drive VW Transporters.
Some people might think rear wheel drive is an advantage, but without anything in the back, which occurs as the day wears on — traction or lack of it can be a problem.
Ioncehadtobepulledoffagrassnaturestrip because the rear wheels simply could not find traction on the slick grass.
Front-drive vehicles with the weight of the engineoverthewheelsdon’thavethisproblem. I kid you not.
The entry model comes with a single, kerb-side sliding door and barn-style rear doors.
A second slider and/or a lift-style tailgate are optional, but must be specified at the time of order.
Most of the vans we drove were kitted out in this way and the liftgate was great in the rain because it provided some shelter.
Getting into the van for the first time, I was disappointed to find a grab handle is not provided. It should be standard.
The driver seat has eight-way manual adjustment including lumbar and the steering wheel is tilt and reach adjustable.
But the seating feels short and minimalist, and a long way from what we’d describe as comfortable. Check out the seat in the G10+.
Double-decker exterior mirrors are fitted, with a wide angle section at the bottom, a
RATINGS Looks: 7/10 Performance: 7/10 Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 7.5/10 Practicality: 7.5/10
Comfort: 6/10
Tech: 7/10
Value: 6/10
Overall: 7/10
driver’s footrest is provided and the floor covering is rubber.
The driver faces a 12.0-inch display which incorporates a 7.0-inch digital colour instrument cluster that is configurable.
Astartbuttonislocatednearthetoplefthand corner of the display from where it is a step up to the infotainment unit rather than flowing seamlessly from one to the other. Shrug. Alas, there are no physical controls for the climate system which is controlled from the touchscreen.
Like most diesel vans it gets along fairly briskly. You change gears manually with the shifter, but who’s going to bother?
The steering and brakes are excellent, while handling one way or the other is not really a consideration.
What’s not so good is the adaptive cruise/ autonomous braking system. Travelling through one of Sydney’s many underground tunnels generated numerous false alarms. It saw the speed drop from a nominated 90km/h to 60 or 70km/h for no discernible reason, unless perhaps it was picking up the exit limits.
With daylight dead ahead, it false-alarmed again as we exited the tunnel, this time dropping to a low as 37km/h, much to the consternation of those around us.
What the hell?
The system also seems to have a problem reading electronic speed signs. All in all, it needs some work and in this context, it is difficult to understand how the judges missed this one?
Intermsoffuelconsumption,weweregetting a long-term fuel average of 7.8L/100km after 2124km, a little better than the manufacturer’s claim.
Summing up
Ford Transit Custom is as safe as it gets for this type of vehicle, with a near perfect score of 96 per cent in crash tests.
But, and it’s a big BUT, bosses generally put price before the safety of their employees, although they would never admit to it – and this is Ford’s Achilles heel. It’s just too damned expensive compared with its competitors, all of which are several thousand dollars cheaper and as such much more boss friendly. Given the choice we would, however, spend the extra $1000 for the long wheel base version as tested – you’d be silly not to.
Transit Custom is by far and away the safest van available to buy today. (Supplied)
Last week it was the rain and this week it was the heat that greeted players as they took to the greens, pitches and diamonds. While some games were called off due to the heat, many others went ahead. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic captured some of the action.
Weekend heat causes havoc
Sunshine Eagles’ Scott Maore. 460954_14
Sydenham Hillside’s Jack Harding. 460944_01
Taylors Lakes’ Chalitha Chamoda. 460947_01 Westmeadows’ Donovan Pell. 460944_04
Westmeadows’ Stephen Mihelakos-james. 460944_03
North Western Titans’ Blair Murphy. 460940_26
North Western Titans’ Nyssa Boath. 460940_03
Sunshine Eagles’ Jaimie Young. 460954_03
Sunshine Eagles’ Josh Byrne. 460954_01
Sunshine Eagles’ Susan Thomas. 460940_01
Taylors Lakes’ Nilan Fernando. 460947_09
Hoping to finish disappointing season on a high
Williamstown will put down Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west season as a failure after failing to make finals for a second straight season.
The Seagulls have struggled to consistently put the scores on the board and sit in 13th heading into the final two rounds.
Seagulls secretary Jordan Doyle said the season had been disappointing.
“It has not worked out the way we wanted it to,” he said. “It’s been a failure for sure.
“We set out to make finals every time and contend for a premiership, which isn’t what we’ve done.”
Doyle said there had been an inconsistency in the group with not enough contributors stepping up each week
He said captain Sean Sturrock had been outstanding, while Matt Derwan had also had a good season.
“We’ve been underwhelming as a team,” he said. “We lost a couple of close matches as well which has been disappointing.”
One highlight has been getting some games into young players.
Antone Harb has made a couple of scores in the past few rounds, while George Pinkey has also played a number of games.
The Seagulls are hoping to finish the season on a high with wins against local rivals, Werribee and Hoppers Crossing.
The Tigers will also miss finals, while HoppersCrossingisaimingforatoptwofinish.
Doyle said they still set out to win every game.
Williamstown is in a solid position after day one of its match with the Tigers.
After winning the toss, the Seagulls made 8-232 from their 80 overs. Dervan was the standout with 118.
Doyle said it was a competitive total.
“Willy is a good wicket and a good outfield,” he said. “We will still have to bowl well.
“We would take 230 every day of the week.
Adepu rises to challenge
By Peter Howe
At just 14, this month’s Don Deeble nominee, Smrithi Adepu, is already a force to be reckoned with in the badminton world.
Last year alone, she became the Australian under-15 champion as she claimed gold in singles and mixed doubles, earned the Australian national under-17 silver medal in singles, and secured the prestigious Victorian Open women’s singles title.
Adepu’s journey in badminton began at seven when she was encouraged by her father Preyatham to pick up a racquet. What started as a casual activity soon blossomed into that deep passion.
“It challenges and pushes me every time I step onto the court,” she said. “I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
“I was drawn to badminton because it’s fast-paced with lots of long and exciting rallies. Although it’s not one of the typical sports you think of, it really challenges you in every way possible.”
Adepu didn’t see results right away. Her passion and determination drove her to push herself harder, training five days a week, with her coach Krishna Neelam.
“My dad didn’t think I’d last doing this for morethanamonthortwo.But12monthslater, I was thriving,” she recalls.
Not getting the results she was after, Adepu questioned whether she truly wanted to continue in 2019.
She soon won her first title, the under-11 state championship at the Western Suburbs Badminton Association. The trophy was big and her name was written on it. It reignited her passion.
Covid stopped many people’s dreams, but it only drove Adepu to push harder.
Sheturnedthedowntimeintoanopportunity to improve.
After online school each day, Adepu and her dadwoulddoworkoutsorskillstraining,using a makeshift net to refine her technique and on weekends they would run.
By mid-2021, she began doing physical sessions in the mornings and in the afternoons and continued her training with new coach Nelson Oon on video call.
Whencompetitionsresumedin2022,Adepu returned with even more drive.
At her first interstate tournament, she won the City of Adelaide Open where she won the A-grade women’s singles.
She also claimed gold as part of the Victorian team at the under-15 nationals team championships and earned two bronze medals at the under-15 individual national championships.
In addition, Adepu also secured gold in singles and silver in doubles at the under-13 national championships.
Her weekly training regimen consists of four mornings a week on the Maribyrnong Sports
Academy courts. On top of that, she dedicates six hours to strength and conditioning in the college gym, trains three nights on weekdays and attends a state training session every alternate week.
To assist with this training load, MSA has helped with her approach to games and has provided plenty of support.
“My training adjusts, especially towards the end of the week if I have a tournament,” she said. “Sunday is my main rest day, which I use to recover and catch up on schoolwork and family time.”
Her training group is mainly older boys, which pushes her speed and endurance although it has her challenges.
Shedescribesthatsomeofhermainstrengths are her strong mindset while playing, and the ability to stay quick and consistent to endure long rallies and games.
So committed to her sport, Adepu spent nearly three months from November through January training in Thailand. She competed in a Junior International tournament at the under-19levelandremainedtheretotrainwith some of the best junior players in girls’ singles.
We had a two-dayer last weekend and while it was rain affected, both teams got over 200.”
The Seagulls second and third XIs are still in finals contention with Doyle hoping they can have some success in the coming weeks.
Doyle said in the off season they would look to try and find some more batting depth.
“There’s still a lot of play out before next year,” he said. “Hopefully we can bounce back next year.”
In other matches, Spotswood did its hopes of keeping its finals hopes alive on day one of its clash with Hoppers Crossing.
The Woodsmen made 5-326 from their overs with Lachie McKenna scoring 114. It was his third 100 of the season.
Yarraville is 3-47 in reply to Melton’s 172, while Altona is 5-70 in reply to Port Melbourne’s 157.
Robertson steps away
Brad Robertson will step down as WilliamstownCYMScoachattheendof the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield season.
The CY’s announced last week that Robertson had made the call after six years at the helm.
Coming to CY’s at the start of the 2019-20 season following a tumultuous few years for the club, Robbo was instrumental in rebuilding the club’s culture, instilling strong core values among the playing group, and creating an environment where players felt welcomed, valued, and genuinely wanted to be a part of what was being built,” the club said.
“Although a first XI premiership ultimately eluded him, Robbo’s time here was extremely successfulleading the first XI to three semi-finals in 2019-20, 2021-22 and 2023-24, overseeing back-to-back second XI premierships in 2021-22 and 2022-23, a third XI premiership in 2021-22, and a women’s XI premiership in 2020-21, with the chance of more to come this season with the third and women’s XI taking part in finals action from this weekend.
“OnbehalfoftheentireWilliamstown CYMS family - players past and present, supporters, and the committee, we give sincere thanks to Robbo for his time here, and wish him the best of luck in his future coaching endeavours.”
“The heat was tough,” she said. “The Asian players train full-time, and their precision, skill, and attacking strength are on another level, and seeing them train puts a lot of things into perspective and motivates me to keep pushing harder to keep up with them.”
So, what does the future hold for Adepu?
She is already part of the Badminton Australia pathways squad, the Junior Falcons, and is focused on making the senior squad and competing in the Oceania Championships.
“Myultimategoalistobecomeaprofessional badminton player, represent Australia internationally and at the Olympics, prove myself on the World Stage and become one of the top players in the world.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and The Star Weekly Newspapers.
To nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or sms 0408 556 631.
Theclubisnowseekingexpressionsof interest for the senior coaching role for next season.
“This is an exciting opportunity to lead a young and motivated senior playing group, most of whom have progressed to senior circlet through our junior program.”
Details: Bill Millar on 0412 713 250 or president.wcymscc@gmail.com.au
Smrithi Adepu. (Adamcyf Photography)
Tara Murray
Matthew Dervan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 436967_07
Botic bags another as Western United secures win
Noah Botic has underlined his case for a Socceroos call-up, scoring as Western United rocketed to third on the A-League Men ladder with a 3-0 win over Adelaide United.
Botic, 23, joined Sydney FC star Joe Lolley (nine goals) at the top of the golden boot standings with a clean finish in the 26th minute at Ironbark Fields on Sunday.
Hiroshi Ibusuki added a second from the penalty spot in the 59th minute before Riku Danzaki sealed all three points in the 88th.
Western coach John Aloisi was delighted with an “angry” Botic’s response to going goalless against Auckland FC, but stopped short of saying he should be in contention for March’s World Cup qualifiers.
“In terms of the way he’s performing, I would love Noah to get selected for this window,” he said.
“But if he doesn’t, it doesn’t mean that he’s not going to be a future Socceroo.
“I really do feel that there’s so much left in him. This is by no means a finished product of Noah. He’s still got a lot to learn, a lot to improve on.
“Then physically he’s just starting to get better and better, but he’s still, I think, a little bit off in terms of where we think his ceiling
can be.
“So if he doesn’t get selected, I don’t think he should be too upset. He should just keep going and keep moving and keep improving and keep doing well for us and then the other things will fall into place.”
In the process, United (29 points) bounced back from a 2-0 loss to leaders Auckland (39) and jumped to within two points of the second-placed Reds.
“Today, we performed really well. It was a great performance from start to finish,” Aloisi said.
United were celebrating Aloisi’s 100th game at the helm and dominated from the outset, withtalentedwingerAbelWalateeimpressing.
It paid off when Matt Grimaldi launched a wonderful crossfield ball to Walatee on the left.
The winger cut the ball back to Ben Garuccio, who cleverly lifted it into the path
Falcons ready to reload
By Tara Murray
Defending champions City West Falcons are relying on some familiar faces to get the job done in this year’s Victorian Netball League championship division.
Having won the past three titles, the Falcons havebeentheteamtobeatandwillremainthat way this year.
The Falcons have just two additions to their side from last season.
Maddie Romios, nee Gray, returns after havinglastseasonoffafterhavingherfirstbaby.
Charity Nasalio is the other new member having come from New Zealand.
Falcons coach Marg Lind said having the same squad was good, but it would also have some challenges.
“I think it’s a bit challenging having done so well last year and keeping that determination,” she said.
“I think having Maddie and Charity around will help with that and help keep the pressure on.”
Romios will give the Falcons another attacking option, while Olivia Cameron, who joinedtheteamasafillin,isbackthisseasonas another goal option.
Lind said that Romios has been working hard since before pre-season.
“She has been good,” she said. “It’s been a slow burn.
“She joined me at boxing a month before the season started which has been good.
“She fits in seamlessly and she has been captain before. She adds a bit more maturity to the group and has that commitment.”
Nasalio is a defender with Lind saying she was similar to fellow defender Mel Oloamanu. Lind said they had been working on some differentthingsduringthepre-seasonthatthey were looking to put into place,
She said not having Uneeq Palavi and Montana Holmes train, due to Melbourne Mavericks commitments, meant they would have to fast track things when they come back.
The Falcons under-23 squad has had a bit of a freshen up.
They kept a number of players from the squad that made finals last season, but have changed up the midcourt.
LindsaidtheyhadretainedVictorianplayers Lani Fauonuku and Holly Adams-Alcock will leadtheattackend,whiledefendersAchelYout, Maddison Mckiernan and MIkaela Minns will head up defence.
“We’re reinvigorated the midcourt,” Lind said. “Olivia Powell and Amelia Holland, had both come through our junior program.
“They can run all day and not stop. We were good for five minutes and unable to continue that.
“They’ve got that commitment and determination and bring a bit more grunt through the middle.”
Lind said she was excited to see what Minns could do after a big off season.
Minns has been playing in the Malaysian league. “She has done really well over there,” Lind said. “I think missing out on the state team threw her a little bit and she’s taken that opportunity at a higher level.
“It’s brave for her to go over there.”
WIth a top six this year, finals will look different.
Lindsaidtheywerefocusedonmakingfinals again and going from there.
“A lot of clubs have picked up players, some that have not played for a whale and played at national level.”
The Falcons season gets underway on March 12 against the Western Warriors
of Botic to tap home.
Western earned their penalty when Isaias legged Ibusuki in the area and the former Adelaide striker made no mistake from the spot.
The home side sealed victory when Danzaki turned onto his left and fired a shot that slipped through Cox’s fingers.
“We weren’t good enough, as simple as that,” Adelaide coach Carl Veart said.
WesternnexttakeonCentralCoastawayon Friday while Adelaide, who have won just one of their past five and battled injuries, illness and losing players to Young Socceroos duties, travel to Auckland on Saturday.
“It’s a little bit of a tough time at the moment, but we have to bounce back, and we have to push forward,” Veart added.
“We can’t just feel sorry for ourselves. We have to work harder and be better.”
Anna Harrington, AAP
Grand final teams set
Deer Park and Altona North will play off intheVictorianTurfCricketAssociation T20 grand final.
TheLions,whowerethehighestranked team left in the semi finals, accounted for the Druids, while Altona North beat fellow division 1 side Sunshine in the semi finals.
The Lions continued their strong batting against the Druids at Kevin Shorten Reserve on Tuesday night. Deer Park was the only senior division side in the semi finals.
After losing an early wicket, having promoted Fawad Ahmed to opener, the Lions made 7-159 off their 20 overs.
Daniel Sartori top scored with 66. Jared Andrews took three wickets for the Wizards.
The Wizards were in trouble early in the run chase at 3-11 with star Michael Hay out for a duck.
While the Wizards had some small contributions in the middle, they were never close as they finished 8-113.
Tom Hazell-Evans top scored with 45 at the top of the order.
Ahmed took three wickets for the Lions.
It was Altona North’s bowlers that set up the win against Sunshine in the other semi final.
Sent in, the Crows were bowled out for 94 with three balls remaining. Dilip Tharaka top scored with 23 at number three but there was little support after that with only one double figure score lower in the order.
Jinang Shah took 3-16 for Altona North.
Altona North was comfortable in its run chase and never seemed in trouble.
Asela Aluthge guided his side with 55 off 39 balls to 3-95. Altona North had nearly four overs remaining to get the runs.
ThegrandfinalwillbeheldonTuesday night at Crofts Reserve.
Maddie Romios is back for the Falcons. (Robbab Photography)
Altona North will play Deer Park in the T20 grand final. (Ljubica Vrankovic/Jacob Pattison)
John Aloisi coached his 100th A-League win on Sunday. (Supplied)
Kingsville keeps finals door ajar
Kingsville has kept its slight Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield finals hopes alive.
After a tough few seasons, Kingsville has kept its finals hopes alive heading into the final round this Saturday.
Kingsville sits in fifth spot a game and percentage outside the top four. Gellibrand, which sits in fourth, faces top side Caroline Springs in the final round.
Kingsville coach Nawab Khwaja said they had done a lot of hard work over the last few years to get to this position.
“We have a lot of young kids, who don’t know how to play turf or two-day cricket,” he said. “The boys have done really well.
“They have made it hard for me to just sit back and watch. It’s very exciting.”
Khwaja, who has been at the club for 20 years,saidatthestartoftheseasontheywould love to have three sides play in finals and they have three sides in finals contention.
He said this season there hadn’t been much
between all the sides in the competition and they had to be at their best each game.
He said that there were a number of surprising results each week.
On Saturday, Kingsville won a thriller against Keilor Park.
Kingsville made 9-158 from its overs.
Khwaja said they thought the score was below par.
“It was a lot short,” he said. “In the last 10 overs we made 24.
“It was a 180-200 wicket. It wasn’t as many on the board as we would have liked to give ourselves.”
Khwaja top scored with 43 as he came in at numbernine,whileHaroonSikandermade19 not out at 10.
Kingsville wasn’t as clean in the field as it wanted to be with the match coming down to the final over.
Khwaja was thrown a curveball.
“I was going to our main man and he said I have a side strain and I can’t do it,” he said. “I
put in our opening bowler [Haroon Sikandar].
“He made runs earlier in the day but had been down on form.
“He did what he needed to do and hopefully he can take the confidence into the next few weeks.”
Keilor Park finished 9-151.
Khwaja took three wickets for Kingsville.
The captain-coach said they hadn’t won a game like that before, it was a learning experience.
Kingsville faces Point Cook Centrals in the final round in a one-dayer.
“We should have beaten them the first time,” Khwaja said. “The boys know what is on the line.
“Hopefully we can win and the other result fallsourwayandhopefullywecanmakefinals and then anything can happen.”
In other matches, Gellibrand beat Moonee Valley in a one-dayer.
Rams into the decider
By Tara Murray
Newport Rams are full of confidence heading into the Baseball Victoria women’s premier 1 grand final this Saturday.
Having finished runners up last season, the Rams became the first team through to the grand final, upsetting minor premiers Springvale.
The Rams were eager onlookers on Saturday’s preliminary final as they waited to see who their opponent would be.
CoachDeanAnglinsaiditwasabigmoment for the club to win through to a second straight premier division grand final.
“It was amazing,” he said. “It’s the first time we’ve even beaten Springvale. Since the establishmentoftheteamwehavebeatenevery team and hopefully it’s not a one off.
“To qualify for the grand final is awesome.”
Anglin said the difference this time round against Springvale was their defence.
He said in the past they’d had some lapses of judgementwhichtheLionswouldcapitaliseon,
but not this round.
Anglin said it was a really strong team performance.
In a surprise, the Rams will face Doncaster not Springvale in the grand final this Saturday.
In the preliminary final, Doncaster also upset Springvale, winning 5-2.
Anglin said they take plenty of confidence into the match.
“We know the pressure will be on the whole time and we’re playing a really good team,” he said. “It gives the girls the confidence they can achievethewin.Hopefullywecangetthewin.”
For the Rams, it’s a fourth straight grand final appearance.
They lost a division 2 grand final and then won one the following season.
Last season they made the premier division grand final in their first year in the top flight.
“Hopefully that trend keeps going this year,” Anglin said.
It’ll be a big day for the Rams with their reservessidealsoplayingoffinthegrandfinal.
They will face the Springvale Lions.
The side will be going for a third straight premiership.
Anglin said while they are excited to have both teams in the grand final, it’s still about the long term future of the program.
“We are trying to develop players to stay at the club for a long time,” he said. “The club has been really good and it sets us up for the future.
“It’s not about one win, we are looking forward to success as well 20 years after the program started up.”
Thereserveswillbeinactionat1pmwiththe premier final at 4pm, both at the Melbourne Ballpark on Saturday.
Meanwhile in the men’s premier 1st nine competition, Newport beat Fitzroy in the final round of the regular season on Saturday.
Newport finished the season in 11th.
Williamstown made sure of a finals berth with a 5-3 win against the Werribee Giants.
The Wolves finished in sixth spot.
Finals start this weekend with the Wolves to face Upwey Ftg in an elimination final/
Sports shorts
Western
FL
Braybrook has announced the signings of Jack Vivian and Jarrod Garth for the Western Football League division 2 season. Vivian joins the Bookers from the Sunbury Kangaroos where he has spent the past two seasons. Vivian is a highly mobile, dynamic forward with a keen eye for a goal. Garth joins the Bookers from Simpson in the Colac and District Football League. He is a 190 centimetre forward with more than 900 career goals to his name.
Premier Cricket
It was a long day in the field for Footscray in Victorian Premier Cricket on Saturday. The Bulldogs are at home to Dandenong, which decided to bat in hot conditions. Dandenong batted all day and made 5-363 from its overs. Jay Vine and Dylan Brasher took two wickets each for the Bulldogs. It’s the Bulldogs last game of the season.
VFL
An historic new chapter in the famous rivalry between the Victorian Football League and South Australian National Football League will be written in April with men’s and women’s representative sides to clash during Gather Round. In an exciting development, the best players from the rebel VFLW will represent the Big V when they take on the SANFL women’s state team at Alberton Oval on Friday, April 11. It will be the first time since the rebel VFLW was established in 2017 that a women’s representative team will take the field.
VTCA
Barkly Street Uniting’s hold on a top two spot has gone in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock Shield, The Dragons lost to ladder leaders Pascoe Vale Central to sit third heading into the last round. The Dragons can finish as high as second or as low as fourth.
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web:
Tara Murray Nawab Khwaja. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 456806_03
Tayla Wilmot. (Jacob Pattison) 395269_06
