Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 18th March 2025
Filling the mental gap
By Tara Murray
A Keilor man is one of the driving forces behindanewfoundationaimingtofillthegaps intheprovisionofmentalhealthandwellbeing support for footballers.
The FIFTHQTR Foundation was created by former VFL and AFL players, industry stakeholders, medical practitioners and members of the grassroots community whose shared experiences identified that more can and should be done to support past players.
Keilor’s Peter Venables said the foundation was there to help those in the sporting community that might fall through the cracks.
“The main thing about FIFTHQTR is starting a conversation,” he said. “We’re here to help.
‘‘ Daniel was playing with the wealthiest club in Australia and if we’re struggling to deal with this and lack of ongoing support, how can a local club handle this ’’ -
Peter Venables
“Wewanttoaddvalueandfillthegaps.From an AFL perspective there are gaps, we want to help the AFL and AFLPA to fill those gaps. “We also want to take it down and help local community clubs as well.”
Former Carlton player Ken Hunter was the first AFL-VFL player to speak out about his battle with severe depression.
He has long advocated for more mental health and wellbeing support for past players and the football community, which started him on the journey of FIFTHQTR along with former teammate Ken Sheldon.
WhileSheldonsteppedawaywhenhemoved fromMelbourne,thefoundationhascontinued to grow.
Venables met Hunter at a function and they wentforcoffeeandfoundtheywereonasimilar path of wanting to provide support.
Venables’ involvement in the foundation stems from him not wanting other parents and families to go through what he did.
HissonDanielVenables,aWestCoastEagles premiership player, was the first player to be medically retired from football with ongoing brain injury symptoms.
“There were seven brain bleeds, he had a car accident live on TV,” Venables said. “Seven brain bleeds is a massive injury, one can kill you.
“It’s been a journey and a half for us as a family. The lack of knowledge and access to knowledge, a lack of understanding and support.
“People didn’t know a lot.
“Daniel was playing with the wealthiest club inAustraliaandifwe’restrugglingtodealwith this and lack of ongoing support, how can a local club handle this?
“The lack of support parents are having at a local level, that was my motivation.”
The foundation isn’t just focused on concussion. It also looks at mental health, alcoholism and gambling, among other things.
It has six focuses: past players, community, advocacy, research, their medical centre and
partners; parents; and families.
Venables said the majority of local clubs are run by volunteers who don’t have all the information available.
As a former president of the Keilor Cricket Club and former junior coach at the Keilor footy club, he understands how difficult it can be for local clubs.
“They are selfless people … they often need information and that is where FIFTHQTR can help, to supply that information and to assist and provide that support and fill in gaps.
“Wearecomingfromtheplayers’perspective, theparents’perspective,we’recomingfromthe people that are living it.”
Last year, the foundation trialled a community day at the Keilor Sporting Club, bringing resources to the club to focus on mental health and well being.
At a recent function, former Essendon player
were
FIFTHQTR is calling on the AFL to support a past players round and would like this to be implemented at a local level.
Venables said interest in the foundation’s work was growing across the country.
The foundation has built relationships with medicalprofessionalsincludingattheEpworth Hospital.
“Our message is there is so much that can be addedtomentalhealthinlocalsportinggroups and that is the gap,” Venables said.
“Everything we learn from a higher level down to a community level and pass it on.
“We are looking at the big picture. We are just starting.
“We are non-paid with the community at its core.”
and coach James Hird and Brian Cousins, the father of troubled former Eagle Ben,
guest speakers.
Media FIFTHQTR advocate Sean McManus, Mark Maclure, Des English and Wayne Harmes. Right: Ken Hunter and Peter Venables. (Pictures: Supplied)
Top: Daniel Venables (with mouthguard) in his junior days at Keilor. Above: Daniel before being drafted. (Damian Visentini) 246483_01
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.
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Sunbury Line 29 to 30 March
Road disruptions: Closed roads, lanes and ramps
North Melbourne to Sunshine
Princes Freeway, Laverton North At times until late MarchCitybound ramp to M80 Ring Road
West Gate Freeway, Spotswood Until late March
Millers Road, Brooklyn
Grieve Parade, Brooklyn
Until late March
Until late March
M80 Ring Road, Laverton North At times until early April
Diggers Rest-Coimadai Road, Diggers Rest
Citybound lane from Millers to Williamstown roads
Citybound exit ramp to Williamstown Road
Citybound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway
Citybound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway
Greensborough-bound between Boundary Road and Western Freeway
Altona-bound between Western Freeway and Boundary Road
Until 6am, 14 AprilBetween Welcome Road and Pepper Close
Tougher bail laws under scrutiny
By Gladys Barreta
Victoria’s new package of bail reforms is being criticised for imposing tougher bail conditions on youth offenders, which are seen as a deterrent rather than a solution to breaking the cycle of reoffending.
The state government is labelling the reforms as the toughest bail laws to be introduced in Australia, making it harder for repeat adult and youth offenders to get bail.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the current laws are not meeting community expectations regarding the repeated pattern of offending.
Ms Allan admitted that the government
“got it wrong” when it introduced previous changes to the bail laws in 2023.
Youthoffendersconvictedofseriouscrimes havebeenplacedonthesamefootingasadults under a new test, which will prevent them from being granted bail after committing an indictable offence while on bail. The “second strike rule” will also introduce breaking bail conditions or failing to meet curfew as an offence.
“Our tough bail laws will jolt the system — putting community safety above all, creating the toughest bail laws ever, and ensuring bail rules are respected,” Ms Allan said.
Westjustice children and young people’s
program legal director Anoushka Jeronimus has raised concerns about whether incarcerating young people is the answer to rehabilitation.
“Bail changes haven’t worked in the past, so weareconcernedthattheselawswillnotmake the community any safer and may actually push young people toward reoffending,” Ms Jeronimus said.
“What needs to happen as a high-priority focus is proper funding for the Youth Justice Act, which was introduced in December 2024, to ensure its full implementation.”
MsJeronimusaddedthatthecostofkeeping a young person in custody is $7775 a day
Scoring goals for half a century
St Albans Dinamo Soccer Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
Founded by a small group of dedicated players and lovers of soccer who had a dream tostartasoccerclubinthewest,theclub’s50th anniversary is not only significant to the St Albans Dinamo soccer community but also to the wider Victorian-Croatian community.
Despite its humble beginnings in the fourth industrial division in 1975, the club quickly secured the championship to rise through the ranks in record time from fourth industrial, to third industrial, to fourth state, to third state
skipping its way into the first state division. Today, St Albans is a successful team competing in the National Premier League and is a regular participant in the Australia-Croatian soccer tournament.
To celebrate its 50th year the club is creating a book to capture and commemorate key milestones from the club’s founding to historic achievements and significant events through its history.
The club will also host a function later this year and GNK Dinamo Zagreb will host a training camp.
President Ilija Dragicevic said the book will be an official keepsake to highlight the club’s milestones over the past half century.
Theclubwouldliketohearfromanyonewho can contribute news clippings, photographs, old trophies, memorabilia, or any other items to help create this official keepsake.
Anyone with information or memorabilia can drop it off at the club or attend a special memorabilia appeal on Sunday, March 23 from 1pm at the club. Details: https://tinyurl. com/4dcem78p
Katya
Ewing
which could be better used for rehabilitation and resources.
Victoria Legal Aid has labelled the tightening of Victoria’s bail laws as a backward step.
Executive director Kate Bundrock said the changes will cause serious harm to people in the community who need the most support.
“We need to look at increasing access to bail support programs and early intervention and prevention programs, which have been showntosignificantlyreducereoffendingand improve other health and wellbeing outcomes for children and families.”
Arrests over stabbing
A Deanside man and a Braybrook man have been released after being interviewed by police in relation to the death of Lino Atem in Wyndham Vale on January 10.
Mr Atem, 24, was fatally stabbed at about 11.30pm on Friday, January 10 when he and two friends were confronted by another group.
Fifteen warrants were executed on the the morning of Tuesday, March 11 in Aintree, Deer Park, Manor Lakes, Sunshine West, Albanvale, Mornington, Werribee, Deanside, Hoppers Crossing, Melton South, Keilor and Braybrook.
Police arrested a 22-year-old and 20-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing, a 18-year-old Werribee man, a 23-year-old Deanside man, 19-year-old Melton South man, a 20-year-old Braybrook man, a 17-year-old boy from the Mornington Peninsula area and six teenage boys from the northern suburbs. All thirteen will be interviewed by police.
Police also seized a number of items from the addresses including two motor vehicles.
While police have said the exact motivation for the fatal attack is yet to be determined, they believe it was a case of mistaken identity.
Detective Acting Inspector Adam Shoesmith said “We are hopeful that today’s arrests and warrants provide investigators with further avenues of inquiry”.
“Lino was simply enjoying a night in the park socialising with friends when he was attacked. While we believe this incident was targeted, there is nothing to indicate why the group was attacked and police believe it is likely a case of mistaken identity.”
Council calls for improved transport services in the west
Brimbank council is calling for extended metropolitan train services and more frequent services in Melbourne’s west as part of Victoria’sdraft30-yearinfrastructurestrategy.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang welcomed the 2025- 2055 Infrastructure Victoria draft as it outlines significant improvements to the public transport network in Melbourne’s west, particularly in Brimbank.
The30-yearplanincludesrecommendations for future infrastructure to help Victorians gain better access to housing, jobs, services, and opportunities.
The draft calls on the state government to extend the metropolitan train network to Melton, Mount Atkinson, and Deer Park.
Italsoprioritisesfivebusrapidtransitroutes to be developed by the early 2030s, including the Melton to Broadmeadows route.
The proposed extension of metropolitan trains and the increase in services in Melbourne’s west are a response to the rapid population growth, which is expected to reach 860,000 people by 2041—an increase of
450,000 since 2018.
Cr Dang said council is preparing a submission to the draft strategy, outlining the improved transportation infrastructure needed to serve the region’s rapidly growing population.
“We are recommending the extension of metropolitan trains and an increase in services in Melbourne’s west by electrifying the Melton line and reallocating those trains to the Wyndham Vale line. This is consistent with our ongoing advocacy,“ she said.
“Brimbank council would also welcome faster bus services that run more often and for longer hours in general, and is open to exploring opportunities for the Victorian Government to deliver a new bus rapid transit network, improved bus services and potentially extend Melbourne’s trams into our municipality.”
The estimated cost for upgrades to the Melton line is between $3.9 billion and $5 billion.
Gladys Barreta
Former captain (1989-2001) Micky Colina with his old jerseys. (Damjan Janevski) 464975_01
Making Brimbank better
By Tara Murray
A new Brimbank community group has been set up to try and make Brimbank better.
The Brimbank Progress Association is the brainchild of former Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire and well-known community membersRichardCarthewandNeilHunichen. ThepairrantheBrimbankBicycleEducation CentreandaremembersoftheFriendsofyaluk barring (formerly Sydenham Park).
The trio believes that good communication between the community and council is essential in making the municipality better.
“This can be achieved by ensuring the community’s issues and ideas can be raised and discussed in the appropriate forums,” they said. “Good democracy and high performing organisations can only be achieved with open and frank communication with the community.”
The group said it felt there had been increaseddifficultyincommunicatingwiththe council which had left residents frustrated.
The association has already raised a number of issues and ideas in consultation with the community and local members of parliament.
The first was requesting to open the boom gate next to the golf course clubrooms so the public can get access to yaluk barring park.
“This is the council’s largest park, yet access to the newly constructed playground at the northern end of this incredible tourism and conservation precinct is restricted,” they said.
“Access through this gate is provided to members of the Model Aircraft Club but not to the general community. This forces park users to walk several hundred metres in the hot sun just to get to the playground.”
The council said at the last meeting, the gate was installed to restrict public access to protect the community from golf balls.
The association is also suggesting that the existing council depots in Sunshine and Tullamarine be sold and a new depot be constructed at Energy Park in Albion to help decrease council debt.
“The federal government has provided $500,000 for Energy Park. This would pay for the necessary design and approvals of the new depot at Energy Park.
“Given that Energy Park, the site of a toxic waste dump, has direct access via a signalised intersection off Ballarat Road this would make an excellent location for a new consolidated depot.”
The group is keen to hear about issues and ideas from the community.
Brimbank residents are being asked to provide their input as part of a public consultation process to shape the future of local waterways.
According to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), a key way to look after the region’s waterways istodevelopnewplanningprotectionsto ensure they are properly cared for. It is proposed that the new planning controls will be implemented across several waterways in Melbourne, including ones that pass through Brimbank:KororoitCreek,Maribyrnong River, and Stony Creek.
The proposed planning protections will help protect the landscape across different areas, including private and public land.
New planning protections will require landowners to get a permit before doing certaintypesofclearingorbuildingwork on their property, like removing native plants, significant earthworks, building tall structures, or putting up fences.
The department is encouraging locals to complete a survey to help develop these protections.
Through the consultation process, DTP wants to understand the importance of Brimbank’s waterways to the community, the level of support for increased waterway protections, and local issues and concerns related to waterway protection.
DTP will make a recommendation to the Planning minister to finalise the planning protections in June 2025. The survey is open until March 16.
Neil Hunichen and Bruce Lancashire. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 463509_01
Machetes to be banned in Vic
By Willliam Ton, AAP
An Australian-first machete ban may be ineffective in stemming the tide of knife crime, with thugs likely to ignore it or turn to substitute weapons.
The Victorian government will move laws in parliament to ban the sale and possession of machetes from September 1 to combat their rising use.
There were 265 aggravated burglaries in the state over the past 12 months involving machetes.
The wide-bladed weapons were also part of three homicides in the past six months.
Victorian police confiscated more than 15,000 edged-weapons in 2024, a 10-year high, acting Chief Commissioner Rick Nugent said. Machetes were increasingly being used by youth gangs in street fights, assaults, carjackings, aggravated burglaries and home invasions. Under the legislation to hit the upper house this week, those caught carrying a machete would face up to two years in prison or fines of more than $47,000.
The state government hasn’t settled on what constitutes a machete but said they can be broadly defined as a knife with a blade of more than 20cm.
Braybrook Gift returns
Professional running returns to Maribyrnong on Saturday, March 29 with the Braybrook Gift back after a one year hiatus.
The $3000 120m sprint wasn’t held in 2024 due to a scheduling conflict at Pennell Reserve with cricket finals.
But with organisers pushing this year’s race back a few weeks until the cricket season is over, the time honoured event returns with a fullline-upofracesandplentyofattractionsoff the track too.
“We’ve organised to have a market and food vendors at the event to try and create a community,familyfuntypeofdayaswellasthe gift,” said Emily Dunlop from the Braybrook Sporting Club who helped organise the event.
While there will also be jumping castles and face painting on offer too, the main attractions will still be on field where the Braybrook Gift
has traditionally served as good form guide for the famed Stawell Gift on Easter Monday.
“Traditionally the winner of the Braybrook Gift does well in the Stawell Gift and often wins it,” said Ms Dunlop’s husband and fellow organiser, Anthony Dunlop.
Along with the men’s and women’s gifts, there are also 300 and 400m sprints and a mile race, as well as junior boys and girls and masters races at distances ranging from 120m through to 800m.
Athlete entries are still open for all races, while some still require sponsors too.
“If anyone’s interested in supporting a community event, reach out,” Mr Dunlop said.
Anyone interested in sponsoring a race can email event organisers at: braybrooksportingclub@hotmail.com. Racing begins at 12pm on and spectator entry is free.
A three-month amnesty from September 1 to November 30 allows people to dispose of machetes in secure bins at sites such as police stations without facing penalties.
Exemptions after the ban will only be provided in limited circumstances, including for hunting and agriculture.
Natalia Antolak-Saper, a senior lecturer in law at Monash University, said the proposed ban might reduce visibility but was unlikely to significantly deter determined offenders.
“This proposal feels more like a response to political optics (i.e. visible weapons, media-fuelled crime anxiety) than a comprehensive crime prevention strategy,” Dr Antolak-Saper told AAP.
She pointed out people carrying machetes with the intent to commit crimes are likely already disregarding existing weapons laws.
“Offenders may simply substitute machetes with other weapons, such as knives, bats, or tools,whichraisesconcernsaboutdisplacement, not deterrence,” Dr Antolak-Saper said.
Machetes were made a controlled weapon in March 2024, meaning they could not be possessed, carried, or used without a lawful excuse or sold to anyone under 18.
The premier wants major retailers to stop ordering machetes ahead of the ban, and Victoriawillwritetothefederalgovernmentto take action on imports and explore a national ban.
The Victorian Athletic League’s Terry McGarity and the Braybrook Sporting Club’s Ebony Dunlop at Pennell Reserve where the 2025 Braybrook Gift will be held on March 29. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 463739_01
Wander in for great food
The west’s reputation as a foodie destination willbefurtherenhancedbybeingonthemenu for this month’s Melbourne Food and Wine Festival.
The Westside Wanders tours through St Albans and Sunshine offers locals and visitors a chance to appreciate and celebrate food from different parts of the globe and hear stories about how hospitality brings people together.
Brimbank offers a rich tapestry of cuisines and flavours thanks to the waves of migration that have shaped it. As one of the most multicultural neighbourhoods in Australia, foodie hot spots like Sunshine and St Albans boast an abundance of restaurants and businesses that reflect this rich mix of nationalities.
The St Albans tour showcases the St Albans Market, Iraqi restaurant Hartna, European deli NextMart, and the flavours of Vietnam at The Runaway Pancake.
The Sunshine tour, which is sold out, will introduce participants to Chingu Korean BBQ, Afghan Shaheen Restaurant and Thai dessert café Homm Desserts.
OwnersofHommDessertsHannaTranand JustinNisperossaytheyarelookingforwardto showcasing their high-end sweets.
“The benefits of being part of the Westside Wanders is the perfect opportunity to showcase our high-end desserts and what we offer in Sunshine to a wider audience,“ said Hanna.
“Sunshine has a different vibe and
atmosphere now, and this event is helping to makeitadestinationforfoodies,“addedJustin.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said Brimbank Council “is thrilled to partner with the Melbourne Food Wine Festival – to welcome people to Brimbank and showcase our incredible cuisine and hospitality”.
“Our town centres of St Albans and Sunshine offer a huge variety of cuisines reflecting the diversity of our community. It’s no wonder Brimbank is a foodie destination, with people travelling from across Melbourne and Australia to enjoy everything on offer.”
While tickets are sold out for the Sunshine guided tour there are a limited number still available for the St Albans Street Eats event taking place on the 29 March.
Grants to help community
Greater Western Water (GWW) is encouraging community groups to apply for a grant or sponsorship through its Thriving Communities program. Applications are now open for not-for-profit organisations to apply for a grantofupto$20,000forprojectsandup to $5000 for community activities that help local communities, environment and industry to thrive.
Greater Western Water strategy and partnerships general manager Kessia Thompson said GWW is proud to support projects that make a meaningful difference in the community.
“Through Thriving Communities, we’re investing in local projects that strengthen community ties, promote sustainability and enhance wellbeing.”
Since 2022 GWW has supported over 60 community-led initiatives including Albion Football Club which received $5000 to increase girls’ participation in its junior teams. The club used the grant to deliver a development program featuring AFLW footballers to inspire the next generation of footballers to participate, and also purchase uniforms and equipment to support the introduction of a new under- 14 girls’ team planned for 2025.
Fellow grant recipient, Western Health Foundation, received $5000 for its annual WalkWest event which raises funds for much-needed Western Health equipment, research and other projects. Applications can be made for projects thatoccurbetweenJuly1,2025,andJune 30, 2026.
Applications are open until April 9, with successful recipients announced in June.
What’s your connection to Brimbank? I lived in Delahey for 21 years before I had to move due to my parents’ divorce. I’ve moved around four times around the area but have been in St Albans for 10 years.
What is your occupation or vocation and why are you passionate about it?
My day job is in warehousing, making school uniforms located in Derrimut, but my passion is being a podcaster and a voice-over artist. The reason I am passionate about the creative side because with my show I interview creative people, such as musicians, youtubers, streamers and entrepreneurs to get a deeper understanding on how the creative mind works, because I believe the best stories come from the most creative people. That’s why im passionate about my podcast.
What do you like about where you live?
What I like about were I live, is that it is close to everything I need. There is the legendary Brimbank Park which I go to every Saturday morning for my walk after gym and it feels like home.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I’m not really sure what I could change, but I will say whatever changes in the near future, I willwelcomeitasthingsarealwaysimproving and changing for the citizens. Some will agree or disagree to the changes but from stories I’ve heared from the international guests on my show, I’m proud to call Melbourne my home.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time and why?
MY PLACE
Self-styled digital creator
Martin ‘Labzy’ Labbad describes himself as a conversationalist, not an interviewer. He is the host of realtalkwithlabzy.
As I mentioned before Brimbank Park is my favourite place, because it’s around nature, perfect walks and hikes and a great place to watch the sunrise on a cold frosty morning and see the animals roam around the park and center myself mentally from a busy week at work.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I do watch a lot of youtube videos as I like to learn about anything that catches my attention. I like to constantly learn new things and understand the world I live in. Then to create life goals or add things to my bucket
list for traveling. Also video games would be my spare time go to aswell.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you... I know how to read paintings. Don’t take me to art gallery or I will be there forever.
Homm Desserts owners Hanna Tran and Justin Nisperos. (Damjan Janevski) 465091_06
Hi dad, nice to meet you!
Werribee Open Range Zoo (WROZ) wants families to know it is the place to be in autumn, and rhinos are in season.
The new twist to this family affair began when seven-month-old southern white rhino calf Jabulani met his father Kifaru last month.
Jabulani would have been forgiven for being nervous when he saw his father, who weighs two tonnes and is five times his size, come bounding across the savannah.
Never one to shy away from the moment, Jabulani, who has been making headlines since his birth in August, stood his ground and handled the meeting with a nonchalant touching of horns.
A real chip off the old block, he did all this while casually enjoying his lunch.
Savannah keeper Lance Weldhagen said the young calf had plenty of backup.
“Jabulani is a curious young rhino, but it certainly helps when there are eight tonnes of ‘rhino bodyguards’ between him and Kifaru – Jabulani’s mother Kipenzi, grandma Sisi, great grandma Make and herd member Letaba,” he said.
The duo’s meeting a few months after Jabulani’s birth is part of a planned approach by keepers to replicate the wild herd cohesion of rhinos at the zoo.
In the wild, male southern white rhinos lead mostly solitary lives and have minimal involvement with their calves, which is why caution had to be exercised.
The mother and female herd members take on the responsibility of protecting and nurturing their young, while males accept females and their calves passing through and living in their territory.
“We are all super proud of the entire rhino herd. It’s incredibly exciting to see the group dynamics the herd together,” Mr Weldhagen said.
But the threats of poaching for the illegal trade of rhino horn and habitat destruction by human expansion makes bonds like these all the more important.
The zoo participates in The Australasian SouthernWhite Rhino zoobreedingprogram that supports the conservation of wild rhino populations through nurturing genetically diverse groups fundraising to conserve the species in their native home.
Visitors can see Jabulani, Kifaru and the rhino crash on a savannah bus tour that runs throughout the day and is included with entry.
More: www.zoo.org.au
Animal cruelty reminder
After a 57-year-old St Albans woman pleaded guilty to breaching her animal ownership disqualification conditions at the Sunshine Magistrates Court late last year, RSPCA is reinforcing its stand against animal cruelty in the area.
The incident has prompted a “timely reminder” for locals to act responsibly.
“While this case was resolved… it’s a timely reminder that animal cruelty won’t be tolerated,” RSPCA Victoria chief inspector Michelle Green said.
Thewomanhadpreviouslybeenfound guilty of two counts of animal cruelty, including two charges of keeping an animal for fighting or luring purposes in 2021.
RSPCA Victoria inspectors attended a property in St Albans after receiving a tip-off and found 35 chickens, including seven hens. While the animals were found to be in good condition, she was stilldisqualifiedfromowningorbeingin charge of any roosters or more than five hens for ten years.
The woman agreed to surrender all 35 animals to RSPCA Victoria.
Magistrate Mykytowycz convicted and fined the woman, warning of higher penalties for additional breaches.
Ms Green said the initial disqualification order was fair and needed to be adhered to.
“DisqualificationordersinVictoriaare designedtoprotectanimalsfromfurther cruelty. Any breach of a disqualification order is a serious offence, and we take these incidents seriously and will take appropriate action.”
Home is where
IN-HOME CARE
Jabulani with his parents, Kipenzi and Kifaru. (Supplied)
Brimbank resident Todd Truong is a UNICEF young ambassador. (Supplied)
UN mission for Todd
A young ambitious Brimbank local will represent and advocate for the interests of people his age, as he prepares himself to step into the role of young ambassador for a global humanitarian organisation.
Nineteen-year-old Todd Truong is among the two young ambassadors selected by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Australia to represent Victoria in an 18-month program for aspiring young advocates.
Todd and Melbourne local Lincoln Ingravalle, are part of the new UNICEF Australia Young Ambassadors group.
The 11 successful candidates were selected from 350 applicants around the country, through a lengthy application process that includedbothindividualandgroupinterviews.
As a university student pursuing his passion for environmental law and human rights,
Todd’s ultimate goal is to become the first-ever Vietnamese judge in Australia.
Todd said climate-change action was also among the things he is really passionate about.
“Wehaveknownaboutclimatechangeforso long, yet there is so little being done to combat this and even more concerning is that climate change is accelerating every year,” he said.
“This is why I have chosen to study this, because we must make a change now — through policy, advocacy and youth initiatives — to see the future.
“I want to be part of the solution and implement positive change so our planet can prosper for generations to come.”
Over the course of the 18-month program, Todd and the rest of the group will develop their skills in leadership and communication, while taking part in advocacy at the highest levels of government.
Briefs
Brooklyn crash
Police are investigating a car crash in Brooklyn on Tuesday, March 11, which left three people seriously injured. Emergency services responded to reports of a white Volkswagen Polo crashing into a pole at the intersection of McDonald and Somerville roads about 10.45pm The driver and two passengers from the Volkswagen were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Sunshine North assault Police are investigating after a man was left with serious facial injuries following an assault in Sunshine North on February 1. It is believed a delivery driver was at a fast-food restaurant on Ballarat Road when he was pushed by an unknown offender about 1.45am. The pair got into a physical altercation where the offender punched and kicked the victim, before tackling him to the ground. The victim, a 31-year-old Springvale man, sustained facial injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment. The unknown offender fled the scene, last spotted running along Ballarat Road. He is perceived to be Middle Eastern or Indian, in his 30’s, about 175cm tall, with a solid build.
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BANCHORY GROVE
Research into ‘neglected’ issue
Researchers are investigating causes and potential treatments for perinatal intrusions —intenseandvividthoughtsthatimpactmost people during and after pregnancy.
Intrusive and distressing thoughts affect virtually all mothers during pregnancy and beyond, but little is known about their causes andwaystotreatthem,duetoalackofevidence in what a UNSW scientist calls a “completely neglected” field of research.
Now researchers from UNSW Sydney and the George Institute will redress this knowledge gap by embarking on a five year study into ‘perinatal intrusions’, which they outline in a focus article published in the journal Science Advances.
“Intrusions are thoughts of infant-related harm that women can have during the pregnancy,ormorecommonly,inthefirstyear after childbirth, or postpartum,” says Scientia Associate Professor Susanne Schweizer, who is leading the research in UNSW Science.
“So the type of thoughts that most women will have are thoughts of accidental harm –like imagining the baby falling off a changing table, or a pram rolling away – and these are quite vivid images that seem to come out of nowhere.”
Butperhapsmoredistressing,nottomention isolating, are thoughts of causing intentional harm to the infants.
“Half of all women who give birth will additionally have thoughts of intentionally harming their baby. Again, these thoughts
come out of nowhere and it’s one of the worst things you can think of as a human being.”
Associate Professor Schweizer stresses that these thoughts are very common and are not linked to behaviour that goes beyond these thoughts and is acted upon. She compares it to the fleeting thought about stepping off the ledge of a high cliff when in close proximity to a lethal drop that many people experience.
“It makes sense from an evolutionary perspective that women are extremely sensitized to threats in the caregiving environment, because their infant is entirely dependent on them being alert to those threats,” she says.
But knowing that it may have evolutionary roots and may be designed to keep mothers andinfantssafedoesn’tstopthethoughtsfrom causingdistress.AssociateProfessorSchweizer says some women will be particularly vulnerable to these perinatal intrusions
developing into an anxiety disorder that could negatively affect both mother and infant.
“There is barely a handful of people worldwide looking into this at the moment, mainly because the perinatal period is a completely neglected area of research.
“So we’re trying to redress that and understand why women are vulnerable to these thoughts. We know that more intense, more distressing, more frequent, intrusive thoughts are associated with worse perinatal outcomes, not just in the mental health for the mother, but also in terms of the baby’s emotional wellbeing.”
Hormones
The research that the UNSW team and collaborators in India and Canada are embarking on will focus on the social, biologicalandcognitivefactorsthatcontribute to the heightened vulnerability for mental
health problems women experience in the perinatal period. One part of the study will look at the role hormones play on a mother’s cognition and mood during the perinatal period.
“We already know from menstrual cycle researchthatsomewomenareverysusceptible tothehormonalchangesthatoccurduringthe cycle,” Associate Professor Schweizer says.
“For some, it’s so extreme that it can lead to actual symptoms of depression, complete hopelessness and an inability to be motivated to do anything, and a lack of pleasure.”
The researchers are planning to map hormone fluctuations across the perinatal period to see if any patterns emerge.
“Identifying who is susceptible to hormone sensitivity,andwhy,iscrucialtoimplementing early intervention, and even prevention, strategies to bolster women’s mental health during the peripartum,” the researchers say in the article.
Looking ahead
The research team is currently working with women with lived experience of perinatal mental health problems to design the research materialsforafirststudyfromthisprojectthat is launching in the next few weeks. This study will track women across the perinatal period and measure intrusive thoughts and how they are associated with mothers’ mental health through a range of possible factors such as women’s thinking styles, hormone sensitivity and social connectedness.
Associate Professor Schweizer says this work is much needed, and she hopes that the knowledge this research advances will ensure expectant parents as well as their healthcare providers are better prepared and informed about the range of experiences women may have in this unique period of life.
STAY INFORMED
Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial
Cultural Diversity Week Festival
Council will host a free event for all ages and abilities to come together and celebrate Cultural Diversity Week 2025.
The event will include First Nations performances, Indian sari trials, Henna, face painting, hair braiding, a silent disco and more. There will also be a range of delicious multicultural food on offer.
DATE: Saturday 22 March
TIME: 11am – 3pm
LOCATION: Melton Community Hall, 238 High Street, Melton
For information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/cdwf
City of Melton aquatic survey
Council is seeking community feedback to guide the future provision of aquatic facilities and services in the City of Melton.
We would like to hear from residents on how they are currently using
aquatic facilities and what they would like to see provided in the future. This will help inform our Aquatic and Leisure Strategy.
The survey is open until 24 March 2025.
To have your say on this and other consultations open for feedback, visit conversations.melton.vic.gov.au
New recycling centre open
The new Front End Resource Recovery centre at the Melton Recycling Facility is now open, allowing residents to drive up to a convenient drop-off zone and dispose of recyclable and reusable items such as paint, batteries, engine oil, cardboard and more, free of charge.
A revamped Resale Shop is also open, with pre-loved furniture, clothing, bric-a-brac, books, toys and more at
Jackwood Ward with Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg
At the 24 February 2025 Ordinary Meeting of Council, I put forward a Notice of Motion asking that officers develop a report, including costings, for the establishment of a youth bus to deliver mobile youth services within the City of Melton.
This Notice of Motion was carried unanimously and paves the way for the development of a service that would support young people to lead healthy, active and fulfilling lives.
The bus would be a place where young people can not only engage in recreational and educational activities
but would also act as a safe space to access information, advice, support and referrals after hours and on weekends.
As a proud youth advocate, I believe it’s important for Council to nurture our young people. Our City is home to two youth facilities, and we offer a variety of programs ranging from self-development, cooking, and arts, to youth outreach, LGBTIQA+ support, youth forums, and holiday activities.
A youth bus would enhance this service provision and help set our young people up for success.
affordable prices. Items can be donated to the shop via the recycling drop-off zone.
Opening hours are 7 days a week from 8am-4.30pm (Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day.
For information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/MRF
For information about these and the other Council youth services visit melton.vic.gov.au/youth
I’d also like to thank the Australian Government for their $1 billion budget commitment for critical upgrades to the Western Highway, between Melton and Caroline Springs, which will have a lasting, positive impact on travel times and safety for residents and businesses alike.
Feel free to contact me regarding Jackwood Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 183; email: ashleigh.vandenberg@melton.vic. gov.au or like my Facebook page @crvandenberg
It was fantastic to receive the news that the Australian Labor Government has committed $1 billion to Western Highway upgrades between Melton and Caroline Springs.
Subsequently, the Federal Opposition announced that they would support the commitment, if elected.
This is something we have been advocating for strongly over a number of years and means we will receive much-needed upgrades to one of our City’s busiest roads.
Earlier this month, we also celebrated International Women’s Day across the City of Melton with film screenings and workshops at our libraries. I was honoured to host an event where we welcomed guest speaker, Jade Hameister OAM, the youngest person in history to complete the ‘Polar Hat Trick’, to share her incredible story of resilience and bravery with some amazing women in our community and student representatives from local schools.
Our City is home to many inspiring women who make such a positive contribution to our community and it was fantastic to take the time to recognise this.
Finally, I look forward to attending the Youth Forum on 25 March where young people from across our community will come together to share ideas and have a say on what they’d like to see for our wonderful City. It is a great opportunity for our young people to have a voice and I’m excited to hear about their ideas and vision for the future.
You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Steve.Abboushi@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0437 231 680.
Abboushi
Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi Deputy Mayor Cr Lara Carli Cr Kathy Majdlik Cr Brandi Morris Cr Sophie Ramsey
Julie Shannon
Bob Turner
Ashleigh Vandenberg
John Verdon
Dr Phillip Zada
Global Village Learning celebrates culture, connection
Young people at Global Village Learning (GVL) are embracing the spirit of Harmony Day, exploring cultures, traditions, and languages as part of their Summer Session learning.
TheExploration&DiscoveryDevelopmental Learning Hub (8-12 years of age) has been researching different countries, uncovering the meaning behind world flags, and creating art inspired by global traditions. They have also been investigating how different people celebrate events around the world, mapping cultural celebrations on a calendar, and reflecting on their own identities through creativestorytellingandpersonalflagdesigns.
A key focus of the program has been encouraging learners to reflect on the ways diversity strengthens communities. By sharing stories, traditions, and personal connections to culture, young people are developing a deeper understanding of the world and each other. Families have also been invited to send in an item from home that represents their cultural heritage, sparking meaningful conversations about identity and belonging.
Learners at GVL have embraced the values that underpin Harmony Day, recognising the importance of inclusion and belonging in their community.
“It’salwaysbesttoincludethandis-include,” said Olivia, 8, reflecting on the importance of welcoming others.
Holly, 10, shared a similar sentiment, saying, “Everyone is a part of our community, and it doesn’t matter if you’re a boy or girl or what religion you are.”
For Alice, 10, the experience has reinforced her sense of belonging.
“I am a part of this community, and I feel like I am a part of this,” she said.
This focus on inclusivity and connection
is at the heart of GVL’s approach to learning.
As a Montessori-inspired, learner-led community, GVL encourages young people
to explore the world with curiosity, empathy, and a strong sense of social responsibility. Through hands-on projects and real-world
learning experiences, learners are empowered to build communities that embrace diversity and make a positive impact.
The benefits of serviced apartment living
Serviced apartments within a retirement village are ideally suited to older individuals who are mobile, and able to live independently and who would enjoy some additional support to make daily life easier.
Typically located within the village community centre, serviced apartments foster a relaxed atmosphere where residents can enjoy social interactions, participate in various activities, and receive assistance when needed. The serviced apartments at Keilor Retirement Village offer an array of benefits that enhance the quality of life of residents.
Live Independently with extra support
Serviced apartments are designed to provide the best of both worlds - the independence of havingyourownspacewiththeconvenienceof additional services. Key benefits include:
• Access to visiting health professionals and alliedhealthservicesformedicalandwellness needs.
• A wide range of social activities tailored to different interests and abilities.
• A supportive living environment that is not aged care but provides an extra helping hand when needed.
Fresh daily meals
Nutrition and dining experiences are essential foroverallwell-being,andservicedapartments ensure that residents have access to delicious and nutritious meals.
At Keilor Retirement Village, every meal is freshly prepared by professionals, ensuring a high standard of quality and taste.
Residents can enjoy their meals in the communal dining area, fostering social interactions and friendships. For those who prefer privacy, meals can be delivered to the room.
A variety of social activities
Staying active and socially engaged is an important aspect of a fulfilling lifestyle, and serviced apartments provide numerous opportunities for recreation and leisure.
Residents are free to join in morning teas, live music performances, and various forms of entertainment.The village offers a wide range of hobby and craft groups, board games, and movies. Additional facilities include a bowling green, swimming pool, and regular outings such as shopping trips and excursions on the village bus.
Safety and security for peace of mind
Ensuring the safety and well-being of residents is a top priority in serviced apartments. Emergency call buttons are installed in every unit, providing immediate access to assistance if needed.
Be freed up from cleaning & laundry
One of the biggest advantages of serviced apartment living is the reduction in household chores, allowing residents to enjoy more leisure time. Weekly cleaning services ensure a well-maintained and comfortable living space. Bed linen and towels are also laundered regularly,takingthehassleoutoflaundrytasks.
Affordable pricing
Serviced apartments at Centennial Living’s Keilor Village offer an affordable and value-packed option for senior living. The entrypricerangesfrom$160,000to$330,000.A monthly service fee also applies, covering the cost of meals, cleaning, and other essential services.
Visit www.centennialliving.com.au and fill in the contact form. Or call 1300 098 000 to speak with a friendly representative. (Please note; village visits are strictly by appointment only).
Celebrating harmony and diversity in Grigorovitch’s office
In the heart of Melbourne’s western suburbs, Luba Grigorovitch’s electorate office stands as a testament to the strength found in diversity. The team comprises individuals from Indian, African, Italian, and Russian backgrounds, working collaboratively toserve the community. This rich tapestry of cultures not only enhances the office’s operations but also fosters a sense of inclusiveness that resonates throughout the community.
Luba Grigorovitch’s journey reflects a deep commitment to representing and empowering diverse communities. Growing up in Melbourne’s west and completing her education at Mount St Joseph Girls College in Altona West and Victoria University, Luba’s roots are firmly planted in the local community. Her tenure as the first woman and youngest state secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) in 2014 showcases her dedication to advocating for all, irrespective of their background.
The office’s staff diversity mirrors the multicultural fabric of Kororoit District. Each team member brings unique perspectives and experiences:
• Indian-Australian staff: Their rich cultural heritage offers insights into community events, festivals, and issues pertinent to the Indian diaspora, fostering stronger community ties.
• African-Australian staff: With backgrounds from various African nations, they provide invaluable perspectives on community challenges and contribute to culturally relevant initiatives.
• Italian-Australian staff: Their deep-rooted traditions and community connections enrich the office’s understanding of local history and community dynamics.
• Russian-Australian staff: Their diverse experiences add a unique viewpoint,
enhancing the team’s ability to address a wide range of community concerns.
The harmonious collaboration among staff from varied backgrounds exemplifies the benefits of workplace diversity. Such an environment leads to a team that mirrors the community’s diversity ensures that all voices are heard and considered in
decision-making processes. The office’s commitment to inclusiveness extends beyond its walls. Regular community events, cultural celebrations, and forums provideplatformsforallcommunitymembers to voice their concerns and suggestions. This approach not only strengthens community bonds but also ensures that the office’s initiatives align with the diverse needs
Luba Grigorovitch MP
In Kororoit District this Harmony Week, let’s celebrate Australia’s vibrant multiculturalism, and foster a sense of belonging and respect for everyone, regardless of their background, and remember that “Everyone Belongs”!
of its constituents.
Luba Grigorovitch’s electorate office serves as a beacon of inclusiveness, demonstrating that diversity is not just a value but a strength that drives positive change. By embracing and celebrating cultural differences, the office fosters a community where everyone feels valued and heard, setting a standard for others to follow.
Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch with some of her diverse staff. (Supplied)
FEDERALELECTIONSURVEY
What issues matter most this Federal Election in suburban Australia?
As one of the largest publishers of independent community news in Victoria, Star News Group is conducting this simple survey to gauge community sentiment around the forthcoming federal election.
Please take 5 minutes to have your say and be part of this important conversation. The results of the survey will help us gauge the appetite of readers toward the forthcoming Federal Election and we will share results with our readers.
You can either fill in the survey below and email in or complete the survey online (Simply scan the QR code below)
1. What do you see as the single most important issue in the upcoming federal election?
8. Regarding immigration policy, do you believe the next government should:
Increase immigration
Reduce Immigration
Keep it about the same
9. At this point are you more likely to vote for:
2. Please select the top 5 of the following issues that are "Extremely Important" to you:
Electricity Prices
Climate Change Policies
Inflation (Cost of Living)
Health Services
Immigration and border control
National roads and rail infrastructure
Water infrastructure
Broadband interenet access
Please specify:
3. Please select the top 5 of the following issues that are "Least Important" to you:
Electricity Prices
Climate Change Policies
Inflation (Cost of Living)
Health Services
Immigration and border control
National roads and rail infrastructure
Water infrastructure
Broadband interenet access
Please specify:
4. Which is more important to you?
Cheapest electricity possible
Reducing carbon emissions
5. Do you support nuclear energy in Australia?
Yes No
6. Would you support a nuclear plant in your local area?
Yes No
7. Where would you most like to see a local increase in federal funding, and why?
Local hospitals
Local national highways
Local infrastructure project Defence
Other
Once completed, please scan or photograph your completed survey and email to:
A major party (Labor or Coalition)
A minor party
An independent
10. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how significant do you think the influence of social media is on public discourse and political decisionmaking in Australia?
1 2 3 4 5 Why?
11. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how concerned are you about global security currently?
1 2 3 4 5 Why?
12. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how concerned are you about housing affordability in your region?
1 2 3 4 5
13. In your opinion, how important is improved national road and transport infrastructure in your region?
1 2 3 4 5
14. What specific infrastructure projects do you believe should be prioritised in your region?
15. Are there any other local or regional issues that you feel are not getting enough attention in the federal election campaign? Please share your thoughts.
16. What age group do you fall into? 0-25 26-40 41-60 61-75 Over 76
First Name: Last Name: Daytime Contact Phone No:
Thank you for completing the survey. We really appreciate your support and value your opinion - Star Weekly Team
The new Viking Vest launches
IN exciting news for travellers, Viking have announced the launch of their twelfth ocean vessel, the stunning Viking Vesta where guests are offered a superb inclusive experience.
Viking ocean ships are designed as upscale hotels, with identical sister ships engineered at a scale that allows direct access into most ports where larger ships cannot dock.
Thestate-of-the-artshipsfeatureunderstated elegance, modern Scandinavian design, are 227.2 metres long with 465 verandah staterooms and carry only 998 guests.
The fleet is known for their award-winning service with more than 450 Swiss-trained, English-speaking crew onboard to look after passenger’s needs.
The smaller guest numbers allow for a much easier embarkation and debarkation process, less and quicker tendering and access to more ports with the ability to dock in the heart of small towns.
Guests enjoy an included excursion in every port and onboard port talks, lectures, demonstrations and performances.
Each ship has one hundred per cent balcony staterooms,fullpromenadedeck,largeoutdoor deck space, two level explorers lounge with two-hundred-and-seventy-degree viewing, eight dining venues and more al fresco options than any other ship.
Viking ships boast delightful light design with use of natural materials offering minimalist, modern and elegant features and all include Nordic spa facilities which must be seen to be believed.
Thecruiseitinerariesaredesignedtoprovide everything guests need without opening their wallet including on board meals and beverages includingwine,beerandsoftdrinkswithlunch and dinner; specialty coffee, tea and bottled water; unlimited wi-fi; all onboard gratuities, port charges and taxes, use of the LivNordic Spa, self-serve laundries and twenty-four-hour room service.
Viking ships traverse the world’s oceans from Scandinavia and Northern Europe to the Mediterranean, the Americas and the Caribbean, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
The ships destinations are in high demand and with Viking ships originating from Scandinavia, the Vesta offers a genuine insight into the origins and hidden corners of this spectacular region.
The Viking Vesta sails guests through the stunning Viking Homelands and through Iceland’s Majestic Landscapes; it explores ancient Adriatic treasures and the Amalfi Coast, Africa and Iberia; Iconic Mediterranean treasures; and a Greek Odyssey
to name just a few.
Why not embark on a twenty-nine-day Scandinavia and the British Isles cruise from London to Stockholm which includes twenty-two tours, eleven countries $500 shipboard credit and free companion flights (conditions apply) sound?
Or a sixteen-day Iconic Western Mediterranean round trip from Barcelona sailing to Malta, Morocco and the Mediterranean with nine included tours, visiting seven countries for only $12,695?
Guests will jump at the chance to experience thenewJewelsoftheMediterraneancruisewith a roundtrip from Rome visiting five countries over fifteen days with ten tours included for only $10,995!
For Iceland lovers, take a fifteen-day Iceland, British Isles and Iberia cruise from Reykjavik toBarcelonavisitingfivecountriesandoffering eight tours for only $10,195 per person. What an extraordinarily perfect way to explore cities such as Liverpool, Lisbon and Granada with time to immerse in their distinctive cultures.
Stopping at Dublin, Ireland’s UNESCO City of Literature and famed as the birthplace of many of Ireland’s finest writers as well as most famous landmarks and historic buildings.
Australians have a kinship with Ireland and this cruise offers guests a chance to
taste Ireland’s famous ruby-black nectar and discover its origin on a visit to Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse.
Also visit Dublin’s oldest university, renowned for its notable alumni, and see the BookofKellsinitslibrary;Enjoyaperformance of Irish folk music with a brief introduction to theintricaciesofIrishdancing;beimmersedin a cooking demonstration by Catherine Fulvio, a highly acclaimed TV chef and food writer at Ballyknocken House and Cookery School and discover how flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, butter, cream and eggs can create the perfect teatime delicacy, scones.
Discover the ‘water of life’ at Jameson Distillery where guests can savour the smooth aroma of John Jameson’s Irish whiskey and compare selected Irish whiskeys against varieties of Scotch and Bourbon.
For architecture fans admire the natural splendour of the ‘Garden of Ireland’ with a panoramic excursion through the manicured beauty of Powerscourt House and Gardens, a lavish estate set against the backdrop of the Wicklow Mountains
For history buffs, travel to Glendalough, nestled in a tranquil mountain valley for a tour of the surviving ruins of a 6th-century monastic settlement.
It is all there, on every cruise with Viking,
there is something for everyone and guests can enjoy as little or as much as they desire. Viking’s purpose-built ships offer a wide variety of staterooms for selection from Veranda Staterooms to the abundance of extra perks and amenities in the Explorer Suites; all beautifully designed and spacious and all offering superb comfort and privacy.
Each Viking cruise is destination focused, culturallyenriching,carefullycuratedandthat is why people choose to travel with Viking over other cruise lines again and again.
CruisingwithVikingisadifferentexperience, everything the company do is focused on making guests time aboard and onshore truly memorable and they have reinvented cruising.
Don’t hesitate to book a trip before 31 March to receive free companion flight offers and $500 shipboard credit per stateroom, saving even more money on your dream holiday. (conditions apply)
For further information please visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
Viking Vesta
Only 998 guests
• Length: 784 feet
Beam: 101 feet
• Class: small ships
Year built: 2025
LEE MCCARTHY
Viking welcome new ocean cruise ship Viking Vesta to its fleet.
With more than 450 Swiss-trained, English-speaking staff on each ocean ship, guests can relax and enjoy their holiday.
With eight eating venues and the stunning Explorers Lounge guests can relax between shore excursions in style.
RHINE CASTLES & SWISS ALPS
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
7-night river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel 2 nights Amsterdam pre cruise 2 nights Zurich post cruise 22 November - 3 December 2025 | AmaVenita
From $8495 per person
Book and deposit of $1000 per person by Friday 28 March
Nov 22AmsterdamArrival in Amsterdam and hotel check in
Nov 23AmsterdamVisit to Christmas market
Nov 24AmsterdamZaanse Schans Visit EMBARKATION
Nov 25AmsterdamCanal cruise Scenic cruising
Nov 26Cologne
Nov 27Rhine Gorge
Cologne walking tour and Kölsch beer tasting OR Cologne Cathedral Architecture tour OR Cologne bike tour
Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising Gondola ride with Christmas market OR Vineyard hike OR Guided bike tour of the Rheingau
Rudesheim Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet OR Rüdesheimer Coffee
Nov 28Ludwigshafen
Nov 29Strasbourg
Nov 30Basel
Romantic Heidelberg tour and Christmas markets OR Medieval Speyer and Christmas markets
The Gem of Alsace tour with Christmas markets OR Strasbourg bike tour
City of Art tour with Christmas market OR Lucerne Full-Day Tour with Christmas market OR Three Countries bike tour
Half-day Lucerne excursion with Christmas markets
Dec 1Basel DISEMBARKATION Transfer to Zurich
Dec 2ZurichVisit Christmas market
Dec 3ZurichFarewell and departure
ONBOARD CRUISE INCLUSIONS:
» 7-night river cruise in elegantly appointed accommodations
» Fine dining on board in multiple venues
» Unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
» Smallgroupguidedshoreexcursionswithavarietyofchoices,including exclusive Special Interest, hiking and biking tours
» Professionally trained Wellness Host leading wellness activities
» Live local entertainment
» Unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi access
BOOK EARLY AND SAVE
To make your reservation contact: The Departure Lounge Travel and Cruise 03 9769 5722 | enquiries@tdlb.com.au terms and conditions apply
YOUR HOST, LAUREN
Join us on our exclusive, fully hosted 2025 European Christmas market tour for an immersive, worry-free experience. As your personal hosts, we’ll be with you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth trip and offering personalised attention. Enjoy a welcome reception, a farewell dinner, and a close-knit, friendly atmosphere. The tour features a twonight stay in vibrant Amsterdam before the Christmas markets cruise, and two nights in picturesque Zurich afterward. With experienced hosts, you can relax and savour Europe’s festive markets,knowingeverydetailishandled.
Rhine Gorge, Germany
EXPL RER
ENDS 31 MARCH 2025
Don’t miss out—this
MALTA, MOROCCO & THE MEDITERRANEAN
Roundtrip Barcelona, Spain
16 DAYS | 7 COUNTRIES | 9 GUIDED TOURS
2025; MAR-NOV 2026; FEB-MAY, JUL 2027
From $23,095pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $27,595pp in Penthouse Veranda
SET SAIL: NOV-DEC 2025; JAN-FEB, OCT, DEC 2026; JAN-FEB, APR-MAY, JUN, AUG 2027
From $12,695pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $15,895pp in Penthouse Veranda
Barcelona to Venice or vice versa
13 DAYS | 6 COUNTRIES | 10 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: JUN-AUG, OCT 2025; JAN, MAR-OCT 2026; FEB-AUG 2027
From $8,995pp in Deluxe Veranda
From $10,395pp in Penthouse Veranda
ATHENS, GREECE
SEVILLE, SPAIN
Christmas & New Year New Zealand & South Australia Discovery Voyage.
Sydney, Fiordland National Park (scenic cruising), Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Napier, Gisborne, Tauranga, Auckland, Bay of Islands, Sydney, Phillip Island, Burnie, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Hobart, Port Arthur, Melbourne, Eden, Sydney
29 Nights | 6 December 2025 | Prices fr $5,999pp
Celebrate the festive season on board Holland America Line’s illustrious Noordam as she navigates the coasts of New Zealand and southern Australia.
Encounter untamed natural beauty, tranquil coastal towns and bustling metropolises during a 28-night roundtrip voyage that begins with a one-night Sydney hotel stay. Marvel at the landscapes of Fiordland National Park and the glistening Bay of Islands. Experience a slower pace of life in Napier and Gisborne, and explore the cosmopolitan allure of Wellington and Auckland.
In Australia, embrace the island communities of Philip Island and Tasmania before sailing out to celebrate Christmas at sea, when Noordam puts on a feast for all the senses. Native wildlife awaits on Kangaroo Island ahead of a New Year’s Eve extravaganza as your ship cruises to Melbourne and finally Sydney, where your voyage concludes.
Your holiday includes
Full-Board Cruise
28 night full-board cruise on board Noordam
Visiting: Sydney, Fiordland National Park (scenic cruising), Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Napier, Gisborne, Tauranga, Auckland, Bay of Islands, Sydney, Phillip Island, Burnie, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Hobart, Port Arthur, Melbourne, Eden, Sydney
Noordam is an awardwinning ship offering excellent hospitality, luxurious amenities, and world-class restaurants. With ultra-modern entertainment and extensive spa treatments, you won’t be short of luxuries on board.
Complimentary Hotel Stay
1 night four-star hotel stay in Sydney at the Rydges World Square with breakfast
Complimentary Flights & Taxes
Saver Fare
Enjoy the same exceptional value with our holiday packages featuring hotel stays, memorable tours, and iconic rail journeys around the world, all without transfers* included – travel your way with Imagine Holidays.
Preserving important memories
In an Australian-first, a Vietnamese museum and cultural centre will be built in Sunshine, sharing the stories of migration and refugee settlement. As Prealene Khera discovers, the museum will act as a “memory palace” for the Vietnamese community.
In December 1981, Thanh Tran found himself desperately clinging to the side of a boat with half his body fighting the pull of an unforgiving sea, and a machine gun aimed at the back of his head.
Between the palpable heat of the bullet whizzing past him, and the wet splintered woodgratinghisfingers–hecouldonlythink of escape.
That day, six years after the South Vietnam capital Saigon fell and the bloody protracted war concluded, Thanh was caught attempting to flee from the clutches of a country deeply engulfed in economic and political turmoil.
He was jailed for nearly four months and was only released after his father bribed authorities.
Between 1981 and 1984, Thanh tried to escape 21 times, resulting in two additional prison sentences.
Towards the end of 1984, he finally got away. He left the shores of Vietnam, shoulder to back, with 90 passengers corralled in a narrow damp boat slightly longer than a regular city bus.’
The salt in the wind was made sweeter by the promise of emancipation in the horizon.
‘‘ If we don’t know where we’ve come from, we can’t really think through where we’re going ’’ - Paul Bowers
Duringthatturbulentjourney,theengine of the not-fit-for-sea vessel malfunctioned, leaving the refugees stranded in foreign waters, roughly 500 kilometres from Malaysia.
They drifted helplessly for 19 days, enduring dehydration, grief, and the harrowing death of four young men.
Eventually, Thanh and his fellow passengers were rescued by a French ship and taken to Hong Kong where they were placed into refugee camps.
Seven months later, Thanh was on a plane to Australia.
“When I landed, I felt like a caged bird being released,” he said.
From 1975 to 1995, more than 1.4 million Vietnamese refugees, like Thanh, sought freedom by undertaking a perilous journey on overcrowded and crippled boats, hoping for a better future in other countries.
In those 20 years, Australia took in more than 110,000 asylum seekers from Vietnam.
Their arrival on safer soil translates to hundreds of thousands of stories that have for the past five decades been restricted to oral retellings – until now.
The country’s first Vietnamese museum and cultural centre was recently given the green light to be developed in Sunshine.
Once complete, it will preserve the stories of migration and refugee settlement.
The $20 million Vietnamese Museum Australia (VMA) will record, exhibit and educate citizens through living artefacts, preservation and interpretation.
It will also inspire the future generations of Vietnamese-Australians, ensuring the refugee history isn’t lost to the passing of time, according to VMA president Tammy Nguyen.
“IreallybelievethattheVietnameserefugee story is a significant part of Australian history,” Tammy said.
“When the White Australia policy was abolished, the Vietnamese community were among the first beneficiaries of that, and their migration has really shaped multicultural Australia today.
“The one thing the Vietnamese people can carry with pride is our indomitable spirit and this museum will create a space where we can honour the stories reflecting that resilience.”
generation of Vietnamese people, who arrived in the 1970s, are now aging rapidly, so it’s critical to collect their stories,” museum advisor Paul Bowers said.
formidable accounts for succeeding generations, the promise of a Vietnamese-centred cultural space in Sunshine is already making waves within young people in the community.
While the landmark institution will house incredible stories of the Vietnamese “boat people”, the centre’s facade is equally symbolic.
The museum’s design includes tall, red panels resembling bamboo, uniquely arranged to reflect towering waves.
This distinctive exterior represents the fusion of Vietnamese culture, the arduous refugee journey by sea, and the iron-rich red soil of Australia.
“There’s been a lot of thought that’s gone into the design,” Tammy said.
“We wanted to have ties to our new homeland as well, so the reddish colour is very important.
“The Vietnamese community is so grateful for the opportunity to have been accepted into the country – we wanted to incorporate that and honour that too.”
The VMA team has also put in extensive work to connect with a large number of community members to create the museum’s exhibitions.
“There’s a great urgency in gathering those oral histories as the first
“We’ve also put in a lot of time bringing together artifacts such as photographs, diaries, records of the journey, the arrival and of people’s subsequent lives and successes in Australia.
“Creating a museum isn’t just about what exhibits are shown in the galleries, it’s also about what collections are built for the future of ongoing research and study.”
The museum will not only tell the stories of how the community has grown from refugees needing a home to becoming a vibrant part of Australian culture, but it will also point to where their future might lie.
“If we don’t know where we’ve come from, we can’t really think through where we’re going,” Paul said.
So, he added, this museum is a “memory palace” for the Vietnamese community, and a bedrock for posterity.
While it may be a critical reservoir of
As a daughter of displaced refugee parents, for 25-year-old Liên Ta, the development of the museum has come as a pleasant surprise.
“Growing up there wasn’t a lot of acknowledgement of the Vietnamese community, so it feels like the museum lends us more legitimacy,” she said.
“Even though I was never a refugee, it is a part of my identity, because it is a big part of my parents’ identity, but it wasn’t something I could really explain to others.
“With this museum, people will be able to understand a part of me that even I couldn’t adequately put into words.”
Liên said, as someone who grew up feeling unseen, there was never the expectation to be understood.
No longer side-lined, the community’s stories will never again be out-of-sight or masked.
“To archive something is to see it as worthy of being remembered,” Liên said. The ground-breaking ceremony on March 16 will mark the start of construction on the significant VMA centre, which is expected to open late next year.
A model of the museum. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460726_03
Above: Vietnamese Museum Australia president Tammy Nguyen with the model of the museum, at the location where the centre will be built. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460726_01
Left: Liên Ta is proud to have her community’s stories highlighted at the museum. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 461348_04
St Albans expanded kinder open
A new children’s centre with a rebuilt two-room kindergarten and three maternal and child health consult rooms has opened its doors in St Albans.
As part of the project, the Epalock Crescent Kindergarten has been expanded to provide additional sessional places for local children.
The modular kinder, located near several primary schools, now has the capacity for an extra 33 kindergarten places for three and four-year-olds.
This is the first local two-room modular facility delivered under the Victorian government’s Building Block grants scheme — with $2 million provided by the state, and
$524,000 contributed by council to complete the project.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said the delivery of this co-funded facility means more local families have access to a high-quality education program closer to home.
“We are proud to be delivering more local kinder places for families in St Albans, ensuring young children get access to early education and childhood development,” she said.
“The construction of the new Epalock Children’s Centre is an important project for the municipality and reflects the increasing needs of this fast-growing community.”
Modular kindergartens like the Epalock centre are constructed off site in a factory, in sections known as modules, to take advantage of faster construction times which minimise disruptions.
Builders then assemble the modules on site before connecting utilities, completing outdoor play areas and landscaping grounds.
St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman, said positioning kindergartens on or close to schools supports children to get the most out of their early learning, makes drop-off more convenient for busy parents and carers, and helps with a smoother transition to primary school.
Unwanted goods finding new homes
Brimbank residents can give away unwanted household items and help others during the municipality’s reusable goods drop-off day later this month.
Residents can conveniently drop-off their unwanted belongings (in good condition) for reuse. These items will be donated to charities helping local people.
Brimbank council said the drop-off day was a chance for the community to lend a helping hand as more people turn to charities
for help amid a rising cost of living crisis.
Donated items will be given to local charity Helping Hands Mission and social enterprises Community Bike Hub and Green Connect
Residents can donate televisions, computers, small household appliances like vacuums, rice cookers, toasters and kettles, furniture such as coffee tables, bikes, homewares and clothing.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang encouraged
the community to support reusable goods drop-off day
“The rising cost of living is affecting many people, and this is a great way to support our localcharitieswhoarehelpingsomanypeople in need. It is also great for the environment to keep these things out of landfill,” she said. Donations can be made on Saturday, March 29, between 9am and 2pm, at Delahey Community Centre, 70 Copperfield Drive, Delahey.
“This upgraded kinder in St Albans will give children the opportunity to attend a great local kindergarten, so our littlest learners get the best start in life,” she said.
According to the council, there is an increasing demand for sessional kindergarten in the municipality, with the Registration & Enrolment team having registered 2500 children for kindergarten in 2025 across Brimbank.
As part of Kindergarten Readiness Month, Epalock Crescent Kindergarten will be open on Wednesday, March 19 for families to exploreandlearnmoreaboutthekindergarten program.
Walking, bike path boost
Shared bicycle and walking paths will be built in Burnside and Caroline Springs to provide alternative travel options for locals.
The federal government will provide $2.1 million for the paths from its active transport fund.
Threekilometresofsharedpathswillbe built along the eastern side of Westwood Drive, from Rockbank Middle Road to Quinn Street in Burnside, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to travel safely through to Ballarat Road
The project is anticipated to cost just under $2 million, with $969,527 covered by the federal government and the remainder to be funded by Melton council.
Shared use crossings will be installed along both sides of the Caroline Springs Boulevard and Gourlay Road corridor and existing zebra crossings will be modify to become shared use crossings, at a cost of $2.3 million.
The government will provide $1.15 million for the project, with council to provide the rest.
This work will pedestrians and cyclists to safely travel along the 8.5-kilometre stretch and connect to Caroline Springs station, schools, shops, and sport and community facilities.
The designs for both projects will be undertaken in 2025-26, with construction expected to commence in 2026-27. Mayor Steve Abboushi said the funding would help reduce reliance on carsandgiveresidentstheoptiontowalk or cycle to schools, shops or work dnd improvetheirhealthandwellbeingwhile doing so.
Helping Hands chief executive Melanie Gill and Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang (Supplied)
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
ACROSS
1 Even-tempered (7)
5 Herbaceous plant (7)
9 Dividing screen (9)
10 Wanderer (5)
11 Contributes (6)
12 Heavenly (8)
14 Soldiers (6)
15 Average (4)
19 Sporting side (4)
20 Oral (6)
24 Rapturous (8)
25 Limited (6)
27 Size (5)
28 Conglomeration of fabric scraps (9)
29 Stableman (7)
30 Depict (7)
DOWN
1 Verve (6)
2 Unready, green (6)
3 Irritated skin bubbles (8)
4 Arrange (4)
5 Mild cranial trauma (10)
6 Custodian (6)
7 Plant yielding fragrant oil (8)
8 Having impaired vision (arch) (8)
13 Devotee (10)
16 Intensity (8)
17 Masters of music (8)
18 Decode (8)
21 Friends character, – Green (6)
22 Diligence (6)
23 Every seven days (6)
26 Pace (4)
1 Diamonds are made up of what chemical element?
2 Name the famous English poem in which a bird says 'Nevermore'.
3 Do piranhas live in freshwater or saltwater?
4 Which 2003 film starring Tobey Maguire (pictured) is loosely based on the life of a champion racehorse?
5 The Wrath of Cortex is a video game in which franchise?
6 What is a zither?
7 As of 2025, which country most recently gained independence?
8 What type of art is Banksy best known for?
9 In which US state was the fast food chain Taco Bell founded?
10 The Limousin is a breed of which farm animal?
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
Community day
The Taylors Lakes Lions Community Music and Picnic Day is a day of music, food, and fun for all ages, bringing our local community together. The event will showcase live music throughout the day in a relaxed and comfortable setting, with food stalls and a Lions Club barbecue serving up delicious food and drink. On Sunday, March 23, 10.30am-3.30pm, at Taylors Lakes Linear Park, Chichester Road, Taylors Lakes.
https://lionstaylorslakes.org.au/
Easter egg hunt
Get ready for or an egg-citing Easter Hunt in St Albans Town Centre. After the hunt, enjoy free art and craft activities, face painting, and don’t forget to snap a photo with the Easter Bunny. On Tuesday, April 15, 10am-1pm, St Albans Library, 71a Alfrieda Street, St Albans.
Join the club on Monday nights for a free social hit and get to know other club members. All levels are welcome. Female players are also required for Thursday competition, 10am-2pm, also for the B grade mixed team on Wednesday, 7- 9pm.
keilorparktennis@gmail.com.
Brimbank Book Group
Be inspired by thought-provoking books with a group of like-minded, literary fans with our Brimbank Book Group. All welcomed. This group, for adults, meets on the first Monday of the month, from 2-3pm at Deer Park Library. Bookings are not essential, but please feel free to register your interest if you’d like to receive a reminder email.
library@brimbank.vic.gov.au
Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning
Join Popcorn Musical Fun and Learning, a free, evidence-based early education program that combines music, play, and connection for families with children aged 0-5 years. Running for eight weeks, on Tuesdays, 10.30am to 12.30pm, this program is designed to incorporate singing, stories, and fun activities to support your child’s development. Running from February 11 onwards at the Sunshine Heights Playgroup Centre, 105 Glengala Road.
9663 6733, or events@ds.org.au
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 Brimbank.
9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au, or cotavic.org.au/ our-programs/employment-support/
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
Learn to Relax Group
IPC Health’s Living Well team is running a free Learn to Relax Group at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road, every Tuesday at 11am. This group is for people over 18 years who are interested in learning how to relax and finding ways to effectively manage their stress. Registration is required to
attend this group.
livingwell@ipchealth.com.au, or 1300 472 432
Women’s only conversation English
Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Crafternoons
Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Sunshine Repair Cafe
Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.
sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082
Al-Anon Family Groups
Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Delahey Community Centre, 70 Copperfield Drive, Delahey (next to Copperfield College - senior campus) every Wednesday, from 1-2.30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.
Musicians Wanted Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Do you play Woodwind, Brass or Percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music? Rehearsals are held Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am to noon, at Braybrook College.
westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Card games
Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from 7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine.
Leisa, 0425 768 808
Keilor Day View Club
The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a
meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.
Robyn, 0425 387 880
Deer Park Lions Club
Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.
Michael, 0417 307 572
Sunshine Community Brass
Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm.
Andrew, 0419 444 620
St Albans senior citizens
St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.
Roma, 0435 991 064
Caroline Springs Rotary
The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall, from 7pm.
rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club member Stanton Halik. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 465239_01
The beginning of a new chapter
Tarneit’s Ciang Ajeic decided it was time to perform his first solo show as a stand-up comedian, and that is the only reason he needed to take the leap.
The 26-year-old is about to unleash ‘IN THE BENINGING’ and himself in the process.
The show, which will take place at Kindred Studios in Yarraville on April 4 at 6pm and April 6 at 4pm, will be an unapologetic portrayal of his thoughts, fears, opinions and life experiences.
“It’s a play on my whole journey, starting
comedy as well as my life and upbringing,” he said.
Arriving in Australia as a refugee in 2004 and starting his comedy journey in the middle of the pandemic, Ajeic knows there is no point in waiting for the right moment.
“It’s the beginning of me pursuing comedy as a full time career, and I am trying to find my style and my audience,” he said.
“I feel like I am at that level where I want to make the next transition into show business.”
In a world where trepidation stops many, the message is clear - do it anyway.
“The fear I am feeling right now is what stops people doing what they want to do,” he said.
“I’m going to get vulnerable about my life because we are all flawed in our own ways.
“I’ll talk about it for everyone else and make it funny.”
They say laughter is the best medicine, so book your appointment with Dr Ajeic: https://linktr.ee/ciangajeic
The Brimbank colour festival returns for its second year, bringing colour, activity, and fun for all members of the family.
The event run by the Women of Brimbank is open to everyone, it is a cultural event and every age group is welcome.
The Women of Brimbank, established in 2013, runs a number of events and programs related to female empowerment, community gathering and support.
Women of Brimbank president Poonam Singh said there will be a lot of performances from different cultures, food, music and kids
activities to get involved with at the festival.
Whether it be dancing to Bollywood beats or savouring festive treats, this event is the perfect way to come together as a community to celebrate the spirit of Holi, she said.
“There will be kid performances as well… we are giving them the space to perform to encourage them to participate in our cultural event and to share our culture,” Ms Singh said.
In addition, to this there will be live performances from singers and Bangla dancing.
Organised by the Women of Brimbank, this is an entirely female-run event. More than 300 people are expected to attend this year.
Brimbank women encourage any small businesses who wish to sell their products at the event to get in contact.
The event is on Saturday, April 5 at Cyril Clements Reserve.
Tickets are free and can be booked online at: https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1359205
Katya Ewing
Country music will come to the banks of the Maribyrnong on Sunday, March 30 whenSummerSoundsontheRivertakes place.
Held on the Maribyrnong River Reserve Landings between the Joseph Road apartments and the Heavenly Queen Temple, the second annual concert is supported through Maribyrnong council’s Love Your West grants program and is organised by local resident, Sue Kirk.
“We put on an afternoon of jazz last year with a couple of food trucks, a stage and some sound equipment,” said Ms Kirk of 2024’s inaugural concert.
“This year we’re running it again featuring country music as our live entertainment.”
Ms Kirk said she chose country music for no other reason than to offer something different.
“Next year it could even be heavy metal,” she laughed.
Rather than a full line-up, Melbourne country music supergroup, The Silver Saddles,featuringStKildamusicidentity Freg Negro, will play a number of sets from 4pm to 7pm.
“I just want to provide some entertainment in a fun and healthy environment,“ she said of her motivation for organising the low-key event, which is free of charge, free of alcohol and has a capacity for about 300 people.
“There’s plenty of space down there,” Ms Kirk said of the Reserve Landings venue.
“I wouldn’t want it so packed that people were crawling over each other.
“Come down, enjoy a picnic or the small number of food trucks and enjoy and meet your local community.”
Make a beeline for The 25th Putnam County Spelling Bee
There’s something special about watching a story unfold on stage — especially when that story is packed with humor, heart and a little friendly competition.
FromApril10–12attheMeltonCommunity Centre, audiences will have the chance to step into the world of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, a musical that celebrates the awkward, hilarious, and surprisingly moving journey of six young spellers chasing their moment of glory.
What makes this Melton Performing Arts production truly shine is its cast — a group of talented performers who bring these quirky characters to life with warmth and energy. Each contestant has their own story,
their own dreams, and their own way of handling the pressure of the bee. Whether it’s through song, sharp comedic timing, or the raw emotion that sneaks up in unexpected moments, they make it easy to see a little of ourselves in them.
But it’s not just the spellers who get in on the fun — audience participation keeps every performance fresh, making each show a unique experience. Under the direction of Derek Bendall, with musical director Carla Bendall, producer Josh Tooth, and producer/ choreographer Rachel Chetcuti guiding the way, this production promises a night filled with laughter, heartwarming surprises, and maybeevenafewunexpectedspellinglessons.
Spelling Bee marks the second successful musical and fourth successful production overall for Melton Performing Arts, a non-profit community performing arts organisation dedicated to creating and maintaining performing arts opportunities in the Melton area.
For those who love theatre, Spelling Bee is a reminder of why live performance is so special—it’s unpredictable, it’s electric, and it brings people together in the most wonderful way.
Catch the show from Thursday April 10 until Saturday April 12 at the Melton Community Hall. Tickets at https://www. trybooking.com/CYMED
Cade Lucas
The cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. (Supplied)
Tarneit comedian is ready to take it to the next level. (Kuti Kalo)
Dr. Tony Stubbs Eye Surgeon
Dr. Tony Stubbs, Eye Surgeon, says that just about anyone can have their vision restored and be rid of their glasses for most of the time. And this is without the use of laser surgery. Dr Stubbs formerly at the Royal Victorian Eye Hospital who has worked with the Fred Hollows eye department at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, says he began his career through the inspiration of his father, Dr Maxwell Stubbs.
“My father was a pioneer in cataract implant surgery from 1963! He has now passed away but some of his patients still come in for a check-up. Not only is this inspirational, it also demonstrates that good surgery outlasts the surgeon,” Dr Stubbs says.
A specialist who helps people who have been advised they are unsuitable for laser surgery, Dr Stubbs is also committed to demonstrating that age, corneal distortion or astigmatism are no barriers to eliminating the need for glasses.
One of my best moments was treating a 12-year-old girl who was struggling at school because of poor vision due to congenital cataracts even with the use of thick glasses. Now 10 years later, she still has 20/20 vision without glasses. That inspires me.
“Seeing my patients’ bright smiles after surgery, as they stop squinting and can read without glasses, is definitely the best part of my job.”
No referral is needed and no out-of-pocket expenses are incurred for an assessment to enable all options available to be considered.
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
The Suzuki Vitara has run its race
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
The Suzuki Vitara occupies a special place in Australian off-road folklore.
It used to be able to go anywhere the big 4x4s like Patrol and Land Cruiser could go – it laughed in the face of danger.
But this all changed with the arrival of the fourth and current generation of Vitara that no longer sits on a ladder chassis and is no longer a real off-roader.
In fact, it shares a chassis with the S-Cross model which is about as soft as they come, with front or all-wheel drive variants.
Still, Vitara remains the third best-selling model in a five model range of vehicles.
Styling
There’s three grades from which to choose:
Vitara 1.6 2WD, priced from $29,990, Vitara Turbo 1.4 2WD from $36,490 and Vitara Turbo ALLGRIP, from $40,490 – all plus on-road costs.
As you can see ALLGRIP adds a hefty $4000 premium to the price of the car.
Metallic paint is an extra $695 and two-tone with a different coloured roof is another $1295.
If you had struck while the iron was hot, you could have got 10 per cent off the driveway price before the end of January.
It doesn’t hurt to ask.
The entry grade is powered by a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated four cylinder petrol engine, while the turbo gets a punchier, 1.4-litre turbocharged unit that produces 20 percent more power and 40 percent more torque.
The latter is the more significant of these numbers.
The cabin is decked out in a leather and suede combo trim stitched in an interesting tyre tread pattern, along with a leather-clad steering wheel and single zone climate control air.
Standard kit includes keyless entry and start, tilt and reach adjust steering wheel, 17-inch alloys, rear view camera, LED DRLs, auto LED headlights, auto wipers, adaptive cruise control and a panoramic sunroof.
Vitara is covered by a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty with capped-price servicing and roadside assistance for the first five years.
Service is due every 12 months or 10,000km.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of an aftermarket 9.0-inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, AM/FM radio and six-speaker audio.
Missing is DAB+ digital radio.
Safety
Vitara remains unrated by ANCAP, but comes with seven airbags including a driver’s knee bag plus a rear-view camera.
The turbo adds Adaptive cruise control, Autonomous emergency braking (AEB), Blind-spot monitoring, Lane departure warning, Rear cross-traffic alert and Weaving Alert.
Two Isofix and three tether style child seat anchor points are provided.
Engines/transmissions
The 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine in the entry model produces 86kW at 6000 revs and 156Nm of torque from 4400 revs.
The turbocharged 1.4-litre engine in our test vehicle, however, produces 103kW of power at 5500 revs and 220Nm of torque from 1500-4000 revs.
Drive is through a six-speed auto to all four wheels when required.
Driving
Vitara is starting to show its age.
Although it sits in the budget buy category, the cabin and instrumentation looks and feels dated.
But older drivers may well be drawn to the dated dash layout with its buttons and gauges, althoughtheywon’tfindthecheaphardplastics attractive.
Rear legroom is okay thanks to scooped out seatbacks in front, but that’s not saying much.
It’s still pretty tight and lacks air outlets, or really anything for back seat passengers.
Cargo capacity with the rear set in use is 375 litres, with a hidden area under the floor which in turn hides a space saver spare.
Vitara is 4175mm long, with just 185mm of ground clearance and this model weighs in at 1260kg.
It’s a no brainer. We’d take the turbo every time.
Fuel consumption is a claimed 6.2L/100km and it takes standard 91 RON unleaded.
Small engines aren’t necessarily bad, or even relatively low power output, depending on what they are being asked to push or pull.
The turbo addresses this problem.
It’s an easy, fun car to drive, but lacks refinement.
The six-speed auto sometimes feels like an old four-speed the way it carries on, changing down and roaring dramatically to life if you punch the accelerator.
Also, and this has been well documented, reefing the transmission selector back for drive will see manual mode selected and the engine max out before you’ve figured out what is going on. It becomes tiresome.
Suspension is Mac strut at the front with a basic, torsion beam rear setup, and it rides on 17 inch alloys with 215/55 profile rubber.
The car sits flat, feels taught and has a firmish ride, and can be driven enthusiastically with confidence. In fact, the suspension is excellent on backroads.
Steering is sharp and accurate and the brakes are confident.
But the Continental tyres are a bit of a disappointment as they lack grip.
The analogue clock between the air vents is a classy touch, but we’d swap it for a digital speedo.
Why do so many car companies regard this as not necessary?
You do however get some other totally irrelevant information cycling through the trip computer, including graphs for power and torque.
The infotainment system is well laid out and easy to use, but lacks digital radio and the navigation could do with speed camera warnings.
There’s one USB and one 12 volt socket in the lower centre console, with another 12 volt socket in the luggage area.
Ratedat6.2L/100km,witha47-litrefueltank, we were getting 7.0L/100km after 507km of mixed driving.It takes 95 premium unleaded.
Summing up
It’s not surprising to learn Vitara is in runout. It’s even older than the Mitsubishi ASX and that’s saying something.
Time has caught up with the Vitara which simply no longer offers enough of anything for the price.
Time has caught up with the Vitara which simply no longer offers enough of anything for the price. (Pictures: Supplied)
It was Melbourne at its finest on the weekend as finals fever took over. Players were greeted by heat on Saturday and then rain on Sunday, putting grand final plans into disarray for many teams. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out on Saturday shooting some of the action.
Weather challenges finals play
Sunshine’s Charith Fernando. 465515_01
Sunshine Eagles’ Darryl George. 465514_17
Sunshine Eagles fans cheering. 465514_24
Dennis Neal. Ljubica Vrankovic_465514_03
Melton South Royals’ Blake Ivory. 465585_05
Melton South Royals bench. 465585_18
Deer Park takes a catch. 465587_29
Hoppers Crossing’s Haseeb Qureshi. 65584_09
Deer Park’s Ricky Suvada. 465587_05
Nathan Patrick. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 465515_13
Sunshine Eagles. 465514_35
Spring Hills ready for new premier challenge
Spring Hills is excited for the new challenge that awaits in the National Premier League Women’s competition.
After progressing through the ranks, Spring Hills will play in the state’s top flight for the first time this year. They are the top western suburbs team this year.
Coach Tom Markovski said the club was excited ahead of its first game on Friday night against Preston Lions, after deadline.
“We’re excited and nervous,” he said. “We’re lookingatitasastepupandmakesurethegirls are up to it
“We’re looking forward to it.”
Markovski said they had strengthened their squad, adding about seven players to the mix.
Hesaidtheyneededtoaddsomemoredepth to the squad as they progressed up the ranks.
“There’s no really big names,” he said. “All players that will play a role.
“We almost got in a big name but she has moved off to Norway to play.”
Julia Budiongo, Cristina Sousa, Bella Stringfellow, Olivia De La Plaza-Sanchez, Sophie Papalia, Olivia Anderson and Rachel
Gillies are among the signings.
Markovski has continued to press through the youth at the club, which has been a focus since day one.
“Wehavegotafewyoungstersplayingthere,” he said. “We want to blend in the experience and hopefully it does well into the season.”
Despite being their first season in the top flight, Markovski said they still had high expectations on what they could achieve.
“In the first three rounds we play teams that were top four teams last season,” he said. “It’ll be good to see where we are at.
“We can set things up. We will try and win every game and ideally aiming for the top four and see what happens.
“If you make the top four, you play finals and that is where we want to be.”
Across the female program, Markovski said things were going well.
The club was one of six clubs in August awarded junior girls NPL licenses for 2025.
The club was selected for its outstanding commitmenttodevelopingyoungfemaletalent and its ability to provide a clear pathway for
players to progress within the sport.
“It’s really good to have the girls in the NPL as well,” Markovski said. “The under-15s have played six games and had just one loss.
“We’ve got under-17s and under-13s as well. They’recomingupfromacommunitycluband it is a challenge to get the girls to this stage. It has been good.”
Parkers final heartbreak
By Tara Murray
Deer Park was out performed on the final day oftheBowlsVictoriaweekendpennantpremier division season, falling short of a third straight premier division title.
The Parkers were seeking to make history on the long weekend, becoming the first club to win three successive premierships in the top grade. Yarraville Footscray was going for its first premier division premiership.
The minor premiers faced Yarraville Footscray in the grand final, having lost to the Bulldogs in the semi finals before beating Melbourne to win through to the decider.
Deer Park started the better of the teams in the grand final, but the the Bulldogs were able to stick with them.
The two teams then traded the lead before the Bulldogs managed to hold a 12 to 14 shot lead for the dying ends. The Bulldogs were able to hold on to that lead.
With the margin 14 shots heading into the final end, the match was called with Deer Park no chance of winning.
The Bulldogs claimed the win 79 (14)-65 (2).
Head of bowls operations Mark Casey said it was a disappointing result.
‘Full credit to Yarraville-Footscray, they performedatahighlevelandweretoogoodfor us on the day,” he said.
“Clearly, we had some players not quite at their best and that was probably the difference in the end.
“There are no excuses from our end, we were beaten by the better side and we need to wear that.”
Casey’srink,whichendedoneendearly,won 17-15, while Lee Schraner’s rink won 21-17 for Deer Park.
Kevin Anderson’s rink lost 23-13 and
Matthew Baus’ rink lost 24-14.
Casey said overall the side had a strong season despite the way the season ended.
“We had a great year, we were able to give some experience to a lot of our youth academy playerswhichwillonlyholdthemingoodstead for the future,” he said.
The grand final was the Parkers fourth straight in the top grade.
Casey said they were proud of that achievement.
“However, a lot of work and effort went into getting the result this year so to fall short really hurts at the moment, but there is no doubt we will come back bigger and better next year.
“Our planning for the next season has already started, we need to be better, it’s as simple as that.”
Casey said overall the club had a fantastic season with the club winning the midweek division 1 title, while its division 3 and 5 weekend sides have been promoted for next season.
“Havingallteamsplayingfinalsissomething we are very proud of,” he said.
Markovski said they had more teams again this season and had outgrown their current facilities.
He said he knew seven to 10 years ago that they would continue to grow and get to that stage.
“We’ve come a long way.”
Sports shorts
Basketball
Keilor Thunder’s Isabelle Bourne has been named in Australia’s 3x3 women’s Champions Cup squad. It’s the first time Bourne has been named in the Gangurru squad. The squad was in action on the weekend in Thailand in the Champions Cup, which featured the world’s best 16 teams. Bourne’s selection comes after she was recently named in her first Opals squad.
EDFL
Former Richmond and Western Bulldogs player Jemima Woods has signed for Hillside in the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division competition. Woods was delisted by the Tigers at the end of the 2024 season. It’s unclear whether Woods will also play in the Victorian Football League women’s competition. Woods played her junior football at Bacchus Marsh and the Western Jets.
VPL1
Keilor Park has announced three internationals for the Victorian Premier League Women’s season. Jen Lum is a Hawaiian-American who has been playing in Melbourne since 2019 and has played for three clubs including Calder United. Lum had a collegiate career in America with Sacramento State. Sisters Jasmine and Jada Colbert are joining the Eagles from America. The twins have played together professionally in Iceland for Grindavík. The VPLW competition got underway on Friday night with the Eagles in action against Bundoora United, after deadline. Calder United, which dropped a division, was set to start its season against Geelong Galaxy United on Sunday, also after deadline.
Western NL
Sunshine has announced its coaching panel for the Western Netball League season. Manaaki Tai will coach the Linton team, Linton Ro Paulo the Waring team, Melanie Kelly the Toomey team and Roi Naicovi will coach team Connor. Jessica Lenehan has been named an assistant coach.
Tara Murray
Spring Hills is hoping to continue to build. (Supplied)
Deer Park bowls grand final team. (Bowls Victoria)
Sri Lankan star Karunaratne signs with Keilor
ThecurrentVictorianTurfCricketAssociation senior division season isn’t even finished and Keilor has already locked in one of the biggest signings, if not the biggest for next season.
The Blues announced on Tuesday night that it had signed recently retired Sri Lankan captainDimuthKarunaratneforthenextthree years.
The club on social media that it prides itself as being one of the leading community based cricket clubs in Melbourne’s north-west and this further helps that.
Karunaratne played 100 tests for Sri Lanka, amassing 7222 runs at 39.25 with 16 test centuries.
Throughout his 100 tests, Dimuth was selected in the ICC test team of the year on three occasions.
In 50 one-day internationals he has scored
1316 runs at 31.33 with one century and 11 half centuries.
Blues coach Duncan Harrison said what started out as a bit of hope had become a massive signing for the club.
“It has been a good few weeks in the
background,” he said. “It was nice in the last 24 hours to announce it.
“It had been a work in progress for three to four weeks. It started from a bit of a long shot, to what it is now.”
Karunaratne is no stranger to playing local cricket in Melbourne. He previously played for Endeavour Hills, while also playing some games with Caroline Springs in the 2023-24 season.
Harrison said the signing of Karunaratne would be amazing for the group. He was likely to arrive in Australia in the next few weeks.
“We have quite a young group that we’ve been building over the last few years,” he said. “We’ve been building some local talent and to bring in someone with his experience and ability is enormous for the club all the way through the grades.
Metcalfe joins Thunder
By Tara Murray
New Keilor Thunder recruit Nikki Metcalfe knew she was going to say yes to playing with the side even before the question was asked.
Metcalfe joins the Thunder from the Diamond Valley Eagles and it was a special connection with coach Kristi Harrower that got her across.
Metcalfe was a flower girl in Harrower’s wedding and her mum, Jo Metcalfe, is a former teammate of Harrower’s in the WNBL.
“I’m super excited for it,” she said. “I’ve known Kristi for a long time, she played with my mum.
“When she reached out wondering what I was doing for the next season, I couldn’t help but jump at it.
“The moment she reached out, I pretty much knew straight away that I was going to sign even before speaking to her.
“Itwasareallysurrealmoment,someonecan see that potential in you.”
Metcalfe said that Harrower was an amazing coach and person and it was an opportunity that she couldn’t give up.
She said her mum was excited for her new opportunity as well.
“She is excited knowing how Krisiti is one of the smartest point guards she had played with as well,” she said.
‘Just knowing her knowledge of the game and all that is super exciting to see where my development goes this season.”
Metcalfe has also played at the Melbourne Tigers so is no stranger to the league and what to expect.
Shesaidthatwillhelphermakethetransition to the Thunder a bit easier with training underway.
“It was good to get on the court with the team, start with the team, all the girls are super lovely, such a smooth transition coming in.”
Metcalfe said Thunder fans should expect a hardworking player who is pretty consistent.
“I love a good mid range shot, my bread and butter,” she said.
Metcalfe said for her this season was about trying to enjoy her basketball again.
“Coming back from college, after the first season back in the NBL1 after college, I kind of decided that I would be done and step away from basketball for a bit,” she said. “I took three months kind of getting my life set up a bit more back home and then realised I missed basketball too much and got back into it.
“I’ve done a lot of work mentally. I’m really looking forward to just getting out there and having fun and really taking that next step and making a little bit more of a name for myself.”
Metcalfe said the motivation remained high in the group as they seek to go one step further.
TheThunderkicksoffitsseasononMarch29 against the Diamond Valley Eagles.
“It’s good for everyone.”
Harrison said signing Karunaratne for three seasons locks in some certainty for the group and help them progress.
Theysaidhewouldtakeonsomecoachingat the club as well.
“Hopefully he will impart his knowledge across the playing group and push us up the ladder finally,“ Harrison said.
The Blues finished this season in eighth, two games outside the top four.
Harrison said the top two teams were playing off in the grand final and the top four was reflected with the best four teams.
“It’s really tight,” he said. “You can lose here and there and you don’t make finals.
“You’ve got to turn up every week and do your best.”
Tara Murray
Falcons off to a flying start
City West Falcons coach Marg Lind was left pleasantly surprised by her side’s opening round win against the Western Warriors in the Victorian Netball League.
The Falcons haven’t been the best starters in recent seasons, having not won the past three seasons in round one beforegoingontowinthechampionship.
On Wednesday night, they made a winning start against the Warriors despite missing four players from their squad.
It was a dominant performance with the Falcons winning, 85-41.
“I’m pretty happy,” Lind said. “It was a nice win and a little bit surprising as we were pretty low on numbers with no Soli [Ropati], Mel [Oloamanu], Uneeq [Palavi] and Mon [Holmes].
“We couldn’t cover them all.”
In a blow for the Falcons, Ropati will misstheseasonaftertearingherACLand fracturing her leg at the Pacific Games. Oloamanuisbeingmanagedfollowing the games, while Holmes and Palavi were both out with Super Netball commitments.
The Falcons led by seven at the first break and the margin blew out to 20 at half time.
The Falcons continued to put the foot downinthesecondhalftorunawaywith a big win.
Lind said they had a strong game across the court.
“I thought we had a good attack end and were a bit more organised,” she said. “Charity [Nasalio], Sophie [Hanrahan], Lucia [Fauonuku] and Sussu [Liai] were solid defensively and put the pressure on the Warriors.”
Jane Cook finished with 76 goals for the Falcons.
Maddie Romios made a successful returnafterhavingherfirstchild,playing half a game at goal attack, rotating with Olivia Cameron.
LindsaidNasaliolookedgoodondebut for the Falcons and said the decision to take an extra defender into the season was now crucial with Ropati out.
The other debutant for the Falcons was Ella Leith.
Leith is an under-19s player with the Falcons.
“We didn’t want to take anyone out of theunder-23s,theyneedtogetthatgame time together,“ Lind said.
“I’m not going to lie, it was a risk with her being so young and it shocked everyone. She did a pretty good job and gave us fresh legs.”
Tara Murray
Dimuth Karunaratne has joined Keilor. (AAP Image/David Gray)
Nikki Metcalfe. (NBL1/Keilor Thunder)
Lions on top after first weekend of grand final
Deer Park took a risk on day one of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division grand final and it paid off.
Despite warm conditions above 30 degrees, the Lions decided to bowl and send in minor premiers Yarraville Club.
It worked with the Lions on top after day one of the match. Day two on Sunday was washed out.
Lions coach Mick Andriadis said they were happy with the spot they were in after the first weekend of play.
“It was great,” he said. “It was a great start to win the toss and bowl.
“It was a bit risky but it worked out well. We wantedtoget10wicketsandwecannowfocus on making as many as they have and a little bit more.
“We’ve got that first part out of the way.”
AndriadissaidthepredictedrainonSunday
had also played into their calculations. They were spot on, with no play.
Day one was a day of momentum swings.
The Lions started well and had the Clubbers in trouble early, after losing three quick wickets.
Viraj Lakshitha and Nandhalal Sangaran
provided a Clubbers fight back to get them back on top.
There was one more spin in the tall for the day, with the Lions bowling the Clubbers out for 184 in the 73rd over.
Andriadis said they would have taken that score at the start of the day.
“On a hot day and 30 odd degrees to get threeearlywicketsandMichaelHillbeingone of them was good,” he said.
“We then looked in a bit of trouble. The partnership they had for the fourth wicket had them on top.”
“Fitzy [Lachlan Fitzgerald] bowled well early, Fawad [Ahmed] at the end and Ange [Angelo Emmanuel] in the middle.
“We’re rapt to start that well in those conditions.”
Fitzgerald took three early wickets, while Ahmed took 5-39.
‘Really special’ victory
By Tara Murray
It’s been 37 years between top flight premiershipsbuttheSunshineEaglesarenow back on top in the Baseball Victoria summer league premier 1st nine competition.
The Eagles, who have been one of the teams to beat all season, were able to find that little bit extra in Saturday’s grand final to beat the Williamstown Wolves, 2-1.
Eagles coach Stuart Clayton said it was a pretty special feeling.
“We’re ecstatic,” he said. “It was an amazing result in the end and it’s something you can not imagine after 37 years between premierships.
“We’ve won multiple division 2 and 3 premierships and won different grades but it’s been 37 years in the top level.
“It’s really special and the club is ecstatic. The feeling around the club was amazing.”
The Eagles entered the grand final after a week off, while the Wolves had to win two midweek clashes to make the decider.
A win on Saturday would give the Eagles
the title, a loss and the two sides would have been back on Sunday with the winner to claim the championship.
There was no high scoring affair, with both sides playing some really good baseball.
“It was a great game and a lot of credit has to go to Willy,” Clayton said. “They did it the tough way playing Saturday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
“Their pitchers were amazing yesterday [Saturday].”
Clayton said they had a big advantage after having the week off with a few players struggling with a few niggles.
On Saturday, a Darryl George home run late was what was needed to get the Eagles home, with one of his teammates also on base to take give the Eagles their two runs.
Jamie Young pitched well early on, before brother Jeremy Young finished it off.
Clayton said all their leaders had stood strong in the whole finals series to get them over the line.
Jamie Young was named the most valuable player of the finals series.
While the Lions have bought in a number of playersinrecentseasons,Fitzgeraldisonethat has gone under the radar.
Andriadis said he’s improved so much since coming back to the club and is one of their strike bowlers.
With day two washed out, the grand final becomes a three-day match with the remaining two days this weekend.
Andriadis said they were confident they could get the runs this weekend and secure back-to-back tiles.
“We’re always confident,” he said. “At the end of the day, we respect Yarraville and they finish on top of the ladder.
“They’ll try and get into our middle order and I think it’ll be a good game. I’m looking forward to next week, and so are the players.”
Tara Murray
Sunshine has work to do if it is to claim the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Isaac Howarth Shield premiership.
The Crows had a day to forget on Saturday on day one against Altona North with the bat, which left them on the back foot.
Day two on Sunday was called off and will now be played on the reserve day this Saturday.
Facing Altona North, the Crows took plenty of confidence into the match having been the only team to beat them this season.
On Saturday, Altona North won the toss and decided to bat in warm conditions.
It was in trouble early as it lost three early wickets, while Asela Aluthge retired hurt on just four.
Altona North lower order responded and managed to get it to 9-177 from 60 overs.
Joe Harrison, who came in at number eight, finished with 59.
Charitha Jayampathi took 3-30 off 8.4 overs for the Crows.
With a solid total to chase, the Crows were hoping to get off to a good start with the bat.
It became a nightmare as their top order collapsed.
The Crows slipped to 5-35, with none oftheirtopfourreachingdoublefigures. They finished the day at 5-45.
“He has been with us for seven to eight years now,” Clayton said. “He had four or five years at college and then came back.
“The whole family has been fantastic and been a big part of this and where we are now.”
Just one member of the premiership side from 37 years ago is still involved at the Eagles now.
A young Clayton was part of that side.
“I was a 20-year-old on the bench,” he said.
“I’ve been the only one to stick around all these years.
“It’s a relief and amazing. I love baseball and I’ve been involved for 42 years. I can not even put into words what it means.”
Celebrations continued into Sunday, with some of the group partying through the night.
Nowwiththatmuchwantedchampionship, Clayton said they hope this is only the beginning.
“We think we have a core group of players that will hopefully keep coming back,” he said. “We want to keep pushing for the next few years.”
Pramud Hettiwatte will resume at 18 off 25 balls, while Charitha Jayampathi will resume on zero after surviving 21 balls.
Day two was called off about 2pm with rain continuing to fall throughout the day, allowing the reserve day to come into play.
Nathan Patrick. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Fawad Ahmed. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 465587_12
Sunshine celebrates their win. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 465514_26
