This is probably not the page you’re looking for Greenvale picked up its first win of the season taking out a five-point nailbiter over Pascoe Vale on Nelson Alexander EDFL Match of the Day Greenvale coach Darren Bewick joined the crew with player of the game Riley Leedham as well as Pascoe Vale assistant coach Daniel Harris Check out EDFL Podcasts in your browser or listen below You can now click/tap WATCH to start the live stream You can now click/tap LISTEN to start the live stream You can now click/tap LATEST NEWS to start the live stream A caller to 3AW Mornings has witnessed two hot air balloons land at Raeburn Reserve in Pascoe Vale this morning with one flipping onto its side with people in it Caller Carmel told Tom Elliott “it was amazing” Press PLAY to hear her eyewitness account  “Very interesting morning,” Carmel said Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time I like to tell myself that we made a very canny investment when we moved to Pascoe Vale South in 2002 buying a liveable period home close to the city and public transport the only reason we ended up here was because we’d been priced out of Coburg (having previously been priced out of Brunswick) we made the trek west down Moreland Road – leaving our beloved Sydney Road far behind but we didn’t just move to any old part of Pascoe Vale South We moved to the prestigious Coonans Hill of Pascoe Vale South For those not well versed in the geography of the area Coonans Hill is a slightly elevated patch that begins at Moreland and Melville roads and the fourth corner – the best one – is Coonans Hill Rising north from Moreland Road and ending around Shore Reserve the Hill is filled mainly with pre- and interwar homes – and the occasional orange or brown brick veneer – like the joints on either side of us labourers from Tipperary who settled around the area in 1867 it’s a remaining tie to the suburb’s colonial/settler history – Wentworth House in Le Cateau Street believed to be Victoria’s oldest private dwelling still standing in its original site one of Victoria’s first prefabricated buildings the Wentworth House property was subdivided into three lots in 2017 to make way for more housing The truth is the Coonans Hill moniker’s main value is to real estate agents who use it to squeeze a few extra bucks out of people who can’t afford Coburg it feels like Pascoe Vale South isn’t even a legitimate suburb It’s got the same postcode as Pascoe Vale proper – 3044 – and our tiny population of about 10,500 is almost half that of our neighbour (about 18,000) I suspect that at some point in the past century a local councillor with substantial land holdings struck a deal to rename the area to distinguish it from the more industrial areas of Pascoe Vale running north of Bell Street and beyond to the badlands around Boundary Road Those northern parts are now more popular than the southern end with their massive blocks allowing developers to squeeze half a dozen units on them Pascoe Vale South turned out to be just like Coburg The local school and kinder were both within walking distance and great We made friends with the parents of our kids’ friends (some of whom we even actually like) The problem with where we had chosen to live was that back then the only nearby place with an espresso machine was the local bakery They did a mean white high tin loaf and neenish tart we spent the first 10 years deeply regretting the move and wishing we had plunged ourselves into a massive mortgage on a fall-down Coburg cottage that was closer to a decent cafe Our growth isn’t the most noteworthy of all the exciting changes in the past two decades Nor is it the demographic change as more young people who can’t afford Preston Footscray or Reservoir – let alone Thornbury or Coburg – move in the most exciting thing – the thing that really captured the imagination of our little suburb – has been the opening of Miinot Gelato When I first saw that someone was building an ice-cream shop in the middle of a windswept largely vacant bend of shops on Melville Road I loudly declared that whoever the f---ing idiots were The constant 20-person-deep queues of ice cream lovers who gather there daily quickly disproved my theory It’s also long rumoured that the occasional helicopter seen landing on Shore Reserve is the Miinot owners making their morning commute to work from Portsea You’re no doubt filled with envy and contemplating how you might manage a move from whatever hole of a suburb you live in to the paradise that is Pascoe Vale South A three-scoop cup of gelato at Miinot costs $12 but if you’re moving in with a couple of kids you’re going to need to factor that weekly expense into your mortgage calculations Houses are still relatively cheap by Melbourne standards David Clements is a songwriter and long-time Pascoe Vale South resident The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up here. I like to tell myself that we made a very canny investment when we moved to Pascoe Vale South in 2002, buying a liveable period home close to the city and public transport, with a nice park at the end of the street. But to be honest, the only reason we ended up here was because we\\u2019d been priced out of Coburg (having previously been priced out of Brunswick). So with two kids about to start school, we made the trek west down Moreland Road \\u2013 leaving our beloved Sydney Road far behind. I don\\u2019t like to brag, but we didn\\u2019t just move to any old part of Pascoe Vale South. We moved to the prestigious Coonans Hill of Pascoe Vale South. The truth is the Coonans Hill moniker\\u2019s main value is to real estate agents, who use it to squeeze a few extra bucks out of people who can\\u2019t afford Coburg. Worked on us. In some ways, it feels like Pascoe Vale South isn\\u2019t even a legitimate suburb. It\\u2019s got the same postcode as Pascoe Vale proper \\u2013 3044 \\u2013 and our tiny population of about 10,500 is almost half that of our neighbour (about 18,000). I suspect that at some point in the past century, a local councillor with substantial land holdings struck a deal to rename the area to distinguish it from the more industrial areas of Pascoe Vale running north of Bell Street and beyond to the badlands around Boundary Road. Those northern parts are now more popular than the southern end, with their massive blocks allowing developers to squeeze half a dozen units on them. Times change. By the time we got here, Pascoe Vale South turned out to be just like Coburg, but boring. Yes, it was close to town. Yes, the tram service was excellent. Yes, it was affordable. The neighbours were nice. The local school and kinder were both within walking distance and great. We made friends with the parents of our kids\\u2019 friends (some of whom we even actually like). Yes, we lived a very nice life. But that stuff is superficial. The problem with where we had chosen to live was that back then the only nearby place with an espresso machine was the local bakery. They did a mean white high tin loaf and neenish tart, but weren\\u2019t so sharp on the lattes. So, we spent the first 10 years deeply regretting the move and wishing we had plunged ourselves into a massive mortgage on a fall-down Coburg cottage that was closer to a decent cafe. Our growth isn\\u2019t the most noteworthy of all the exciting changes in the past two decades, though. Nor is it the demographic change as more young people who can\\u2019t afford Preston, Footscray or Reservoir \\u2013 let alone Thornbury or Coburg \\u2013 move in. No, the most exciting thing \\u2013 the thing that really captured the imagination of our little suburb \\u2013 has been the opening of Miinot Gelato. When I first saw that someone was building an ice-cream shop in the middle of a windswept, godforsaken, rundown, largely vacant bend of shops on Melville Road, I loudly declared that whoever the f---ing idiots were, they would be broke within six months. The constant 20-person-deep queues of ice cream lovers who gather there daily quickly disproved my theory. It\\u2019s also long rumoured that the occasional helicopter seen landing on Shore Reserve is the Miinot owners making their morning commute to work from Portsea. If true, they\\u2019re clearly doing OK. You\\u2019re no doubt filled with envy and contemplating how you might manage a move from whatever hole of a suburb you live in to the paradise that is Pascoe Vale South. But before you do, a word of warning. A three-scoop cup of gelato at Miinot costs $12. It\\u2019s delicious, but if you\\u2019re moving in with a couple of kids, you\\u2019re going to need to factor that weekly expense into your mortgage calculations. Houses are still relatively cheap by Melbourne standards, but the ice-cream is a killer. David Clements is a songwriter and long-time Pascoe Vale South resident. The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. . CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) with administrators called in to work out a rescue plan and there are fears five more clubs across Melbourne could follow Don't miss out on the headlines from Victoria Followed categories will be added to My News An RSL in Melbourne’s north is on the brink of closing its doors due to financial pressures and a rumoured five other branches are also on the verge of collapse which has been supporting returned veterans since 1948 entered voluntary administration last week with the branch unable to pay its mounting debts President Brian McNaughton said the move was “regrettable” but hoped appointing an administrator would give the club “a chance of survival” Sources told the Herald Sun it was not the only Victorian club struggling to keep its doors open with five other branches across the city struggling The key veterans support league warned that subbranches needed the federal and state governments to help cover the costs of commemorations RSL Victoria CEO Sue Cattermole confirmed the voluntary administration of Pascoe Vale this week and said broadly that RSLs were under financial pressure “The State Branch recognises the difficulty of this decision but supports this action and will continue to support the sub-branch as it goes through this process,” she said “The ability to provide services to those veterans along with the welfare of staff and members remains a priority for the sub-branch and RSL Victoria as we await further information from the administrator the increase in demand for veteran services at the same time as the increasing costs of running subbranches is a challenge for the RSL.” She acknowledged that demographic shifts were also a key factor “Some smaller subbranches unite with others simply because the veteran community has moved reflecting change in the general population,” she explained “Our priority will continue to be commemoration of service and the support of veterans and their families.” Labor Member for Pascoe Vale Anthony Ciaflone said the potential closure of the club was concerning for the whole community he remained hopeful that administrators could “find a sustainable pathway forward” The downfall of the Pascoe Vale Branch follows previous warnings that RSL sub branches were suffering Branches have increasingly been forced to chase profits from poker machines to keep their doors open as the number of veteran members has decreased more than 50 sub-branch representatives were told that many clubs across the state were uncertain they could keep their doors open long-term Originally published as Pascoe Vale RSL club enters voluntary administration The Bachelorette star Georgia Love has tearfully spoken for the first time about her heartbreak after the breakdown of her marriage to Lee Elliott revealing she felt like she’d “let down” her followers and fans After taking a break for her wellbeing following a shock sacking from 3AW radio host Dee Dee Dunleavy has returned with a new true crime podcast about the disappearance of 12 year-old Terry Floyd in Avoca The 2025 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One we chat to Pascoe Vale coach Leigh Tudor who provides some insights on their 2025 campaign "The focus this pre-season has been the connection with new players and staff "Kicking efficiency hurt us in the grand final so we are working hard on the fundamentals while also challenging our Under 18s and first-year senior players to get better every session and claim a spot in our early practice matches "We want to stick to the process of how we play for longer in games and have 22 all on the same page." "Our list has a good mix of senior and developing players we deliberately played 10 Under 18s last year to give them a taste of senior football Seb Carta and Carled El Khodr really stood up for us and we expect them to improve again this year." and Sunny Brazier will lead us well again – they get it done every game "I’m looking forward to seeing Ahmed Zahraman and Seb Carta continue to improve and influence games." "Our Under 18 players have joined in the pre-season with the senior group again building connection and learning the way we want to play and Rhys Ritchie have taken an extra session each week and the playing group have embraced the session with great numbers turning up." the players are keen to give themselves a chance again Training has gone up a level in the pre-season which is exciting to be a part of." Teena Hilton does an enormous amount of work for our club We are lucky to have so many volunteers who give their time Max Carta has been smashing personal bests in the gym Player most likely to become a coach one day Ahmed Saad is already coaching and doing a fantastic job Who’s one opposition player you’d love on your side What match are you most looking forward to in 2025 and why It's been a busy offseason for Pascoe Vale following the club's most successful season in recent history where it made the grand final Five players from the grand final side have moved on from the club along with a handful of others with senior experience headlined by 2023 Reynolds Medallist Matty Dennis the Panthers will certainly be looking at September action but how coach Leigh Tudor covers those losses – be it with recruits or developing youth – will be an interesting watch When it comes to football in the North West of Melbourne three teams have dominated recent history in the EDFL Premier Division and Aberfeldie have combined for the last nine premierships and have played in many classic finals recent history would suggest that there is another team snapping at their heels and are starting to continually contend for premierships across every age group Pascoe Vale’s rise to the top of the ladder in Premier Division has put everyone on notice and has culminated with back-to-back top two finishes and a grand final berth in 2024 the club came out of the other side of some difficult times in even better shape than before with the Panthers now boasting one of the strongest junior programs across the league The success of this program was on full display to the competition when their Under 18s lifted the cup at Windy Hill last year the 2023 season came to a disappointing end for their seniors which finished in a straight sets exit at the hands of neighbours Strathmore the club turned to experienced coach Leigh Tudor to mould its young list into a premiership winning one While his first season at the helm has been a raging success the former Kangaroo and Cat could tell from the very beginning of preseason that this season was shaping up to be a good one “There was a good feel to the club,” Tudor stated “Our Under 18s had just come off a premiership so there was lots of excitement and part of my role was to try and get the next generation of boys coming through from Pacco “The Under 18 guys are a really close group and they were excellent with the vibe of the preseason and the leaders were excellent as well “First day of preseason the boys were up and about and they came with a pretty good growth mindset of trying to get better whenever they come to the club." While Tudor has been the mastermind behind a lot of his sides’ success during 2024 the experienced coach knows that it couldn’t be done without a great team of people that went before him The establishment of a sophisticated junior program has allowed the club to rise up the ladder and contend with the very best sides from across the competition “The club has done a really good job with our junior program," Tudor said they’ve spent an enormous amount of time on making sure our juniors are looked after and they’ve got good facilities “There’s a bit of a brief there for me to try and get a couple of them games this year and in the end I think we’ve played nine or 10 of our Under 18 guys “There’s always just been a good feel to the club of the next generation coming through we’ve got five or six VFL kids on our list so there’s some talent there “My responsibility each week is to pick the best side possible to try and win a game of footy against our opposition “When we’ve had injuries or there’s been times when the Cannons boys can play we try and get them in and give them a feel for what it’s like." Tudor knew the side had to evolve and look for new ways to improve Tudor's appointment as senior coach brought with it with a brand-new game style and an agreement that his players were going to embrace change every coach has got different life experiences and values different things," he said  “The big thing we talked about at the start of the year was embracing change so the big focus at the start of the year was to embrace change and it can be hard for some people but the boys have handled it really well.” While Pascoe Vale is one of the younger sides in the competition in 2024 its success wouldn’t have been possible without their senior players and integral role players have provided Tudor with the tools he has needed to help Pascoe Vale contend for a premiership Lachie Stredwick and Matt Stillman have been fantastic this year they’ve really set the scene for the way we want to play and they’ve been great leaders for a long time at the club “Jayden Ranno and Errol McConnell have just been fantastic role players and are really good team players that just do whatever they can for the team each week it’s been really exciting the mix between youth and our experienced players – they’ve all put their best foot forward all year for us and that’s why we are in the position we are.” One of the remarkable stories of Pascoe Vale’s 2024 season is the journey of superstar forward Ahmed Saad and the impact he is having both on and off the field The sharpshooter’s move to the Panthers has resulted in 51 goals from his 15 games but his season hasn’t been all smooth sailing “The biggest impact Ahmed has with us is our off field stuff," Tudor said “He works with the Bachar Houli foundation he’s got great relationships with a lot of our players he did his ACL in our first practice match and ended up missing six or seven weeks and I’m just astounded by his performance this year I haven’t seen too many guys play this type of footy he’s playing without an ACL “It’s freaky – I don’t even know how he’s doing what he’s doing there have been many highs during 2024 for the men in red and black the finals win against their neighbours Strathmore stands out above the rest as the best moment in Tudor’s first season at the club “The game against Strathmore was the best game we’ve played for the year we’ve had a lot of good games this year but that game we had 22 contributors “It was clearly one of the better games we’ve played for the year they looked really connected with their ball movement they looked really connected with their defence and we were really dominant in the stoppages as well it was a pretty tactical game because there was probably a five or six goal wind “The biggest thing was we had a game plan set for Strathmore and the boys executed the game plan spot on “It was as good a team game as I’ve seen us play and that’s the goal to try and repeat that as many times as we can.” Pascoe Vale have shown that anything is possible for a club daring to dream While there is still 120 more minutes to play to decide if they’ll lift the cup 2024 has already been a resounding success recently sold for $842,000 — but the agent behind the sale thinks there’s plenty of room left for home values in the area to rise yet Affordable Melbourne suburbs written off as boring or with a bad reputation have been tipped as the big winners of the city’s next housing boom From Werribee in the city’s west to Bellfield in the north and Croydon in the east areas that have rarely been near the top of shopping lists are poised for a lift as affordability and surging migration drives buyers their way With typical house prices below or close to Melbourne’s $914,000 median value HockingStuart and Belle Property’s Victorian head Anthony Webb said these were the suburbs people would pick if they did a “blind taste test” RELATED: Huge change to how Aussies do real estate Millions of Aussies face uncertain mortgage future amid rates hold and high inflation ‘Poison chalice’: The Block serial buyer issues stark warning on negative gearing debate “The question we always get is where is the next hot spot and most of the time we go with out gut and an area you know reasonably well,” Mr Webb said “But if you remove the name of the suburbs and their locations and just went based on the key things people are looking for when they buy a home which also include Bundoora and Pascoe Vale South were selected based on features including recreational spaces as well as the quality of surrounding suburbs and local education from schools to universities with Pascoe Vale South the only suburb with a median house price above $1m to make the list What you get for your money: 9 Anglis Court Mr Webb said places like Werribee were already showing signs of demand from new migrant communities who were less likely to have preconceived notions about an area and they were already seeing first-home buyers who couldn’t afford to live where they had grown up and were now buying the best home for their needs that they could afford “We want to move away from the stigmas associated with some of the suburbs,” Mr Webb said “And the cafes and the restaurants and even the quality of neighbouring suburbs will increase as these suburbs go to the next level.” HockingStuart Werribee’s Justin Tong said the suburb’s reputation as the home of a sewerage treatment plant was erroneous with the facility actually located in a neighbouring ‘burb — and the smell some motorists noticed on the freeway actually coming from fertiliser at Werribee South’s market farms The house on a split block at 1/7 Gordon St is for sale with a $770,000 asking price that covers a three-bedroom home and 445sq m of land “Most people have blindly overlooked part of all the western suburbs because they’ve had a negative stigma around them,” Mr Tong said “But it’s becoming more and more gentrified and it’s got affordable price tags.” The agent said while getting a house in most part of Melbourne’s east was impossible for less than $1m two-bathroom house could be bought in Werribee for $750,000 With that affordability luring an increasing number of “upwardly mobile” families to the area Mr Tong said it was poised for price rises and a new image in the near future HockingStuart Preston’s Joe Ledda said while Bellfield had been a key part of Melbourne’s Olympics in 1956 it was easily overlooked as a bit boring and “the poor cousin that nobody really knows” “But it’s affordable and it’s surrounded by infrastructure and shopping centres,” Mr Ledda said has a four-bedroom floorplan and is expected to sell for $1.1m-$1.15m when it goes to auction on October 5 And while Pascoe Vale South was another area many homebuyers wouldn’t know of as distinct from neighbouring Pascoe Vale the agent added that it had good access to CityLink and other handy features that would make it increasingly appealing “That’s going to happen in Bellfield and Pascoe Vale South and it could just be a local school doing well that’s needed to really put them on the map,” Mr Ledda said Old-school charm can also be found in Werribee with 19 Tesron Court recently sold there for $747,500 The price includes a four-bedroom floorplan and a 642sq m block has an $875,000-$925,000 price guide despite a 600sq m block within 2km of a suburb where similarly sized land can be worth more than $1m but in a few years could be in for a lift if Belle Property’s Anthony Webb’s expectations come to pass Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: Thunderbirds-inspired compound smashes Lilydale’s residential price record The Block 2024 episodes 26/27 recap: Teams attack sisters for ‘lying’ about reno experience Millions tied up in old Victorian bikie clubhouses revealed third parties have written and supplied the content and we are not responsible for it completeness or reliability of the information nor do we accept any liability or responsibility arising in any way from omissions or errors contained in the content We do not recommend sponsored lenders or loan products and we cannot introduce you to sponsored lenders We strongly recommend that you obtain independent advice before you act on the content realestate.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd. By accessing or using our platform, you agree to our Terms of Use. A prominent Red Rooster in Melbourne’s north has sold for the first time in 40 years Strathmore – but known as the Pascoe Vale store – the $5.3 million result reflects a low 2.3 per cent yield This pocket of Strathmore is about 11 kilometres from town (story continues below) who marketed 504 Pascoe Vale Rd with Stephen Bolton said the yield is the sharpest for an Australian quick service restaurant for five years It comes 18 months after a KFC in nearby Keilor Rd and a year since one in Thornbury collected $5.65m (a 2.8pc yield) a Hungry Jack’s sold for $4m – a 3.6pc return Subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of this page A former property analyst and print journalist Marc is the publisher of realestatesource.com.au Forgot your password? You will receive mail with link to set new password Back to login A common experience growing up in Pascoe Vale is explaining to people which Vale you’re not from you’re thinking of Wyndham in the west!” Like many other places across Melbourne’s sprawl Perhaps it’s telling that Pascoe Vale Road – the namesake by which many non-locals know of our existence – essentially bypasses the suburb as drivers travel up from Moonee Ponds and through Broadmeadows The thoroughfare only briefly skirts along Pascoe Vale’s western edge road and parkland where Bell Street meets the Tullamarine Freeway There are only two places to grab a drink here – and with due respect to the Pacco Pub and the RSL neither very exciting – Pascoe Vale is undeniably quiet there’s something about Pascoe Vale that elicits passion whether you’re based in the “valley” or “plateau” I’m a case-in-point: the proud owner of a woodcut Pascoe Vale map given to me for my 30th birthday and a cushion cover printed with Melway page 17 my love for “Melways” might’ve been inevitable) A quick look at Facebook community groups or a moment spent eavesdropping at beloved cafes like Ferrovia and Jack & Daisy proves I’m not alone in my strong feelings even if most don’t go so far as a mate and me in developing a secret (tongue-in-cheek) hand gesture signalling our affiliation to PV Pascoe Vale and its postcode-sharing neighbour Pascoe Vale South stretch from Moreland Road in the south to Boundary Road in the north nestled between the aforementioned creek and Melville Road/Sussex Street with some older homes built when this was farmland (mostly canalised) Moonee Ponds Creek and the hidden gem of Westbreen Creek cut deep into the landscape the locale of Coonan’s Hill features older (increasingly expensive) housing stock: stately Californian bungalows and less-stately new builds taking advantage of city views aircraft heading to Essendon Airport cruise low over a much flatter neighbourhood leading towards the industrial areas of Coburg North (which Pascoe Vale is a place with many small supermarkets but neither of the duopoly (albeit with a newish “fancy Coles” just over the eastern border in faux-CoNo) and a Piedimonte’s just across the border in Pascoe Vale South Proud Pascoe Vale resident Joe Comer has a woodcut of the suburb on his wall not-really-anywhere-special – yet still somewhere that readily attracts the use of superlatives See for example what are arguably the steepest streets in suburban Melbourne Pardy and O’Hea streets – where the gradients hit an extreme 30 per cent – have seen countless broken wrists and scraped knees Local dog walkers as well as intrepid cyclists from further afield know the challenge of heading uphill on any of the so-called “Gaffney four” Many who grow up here are familiar with the thrill of fanging their BMX downhill (or on Northumberland Road nearby) concerned Pacco parents: this is not an endorsement of risky behaviour Pacco thrillseekers were also long able to claim they were home to the best diving boards of any Melbourne pool – at least before the top platform was closed by what some locals have called “the fun police” And don’t forget what must surely be the most contentious 320-metre stretch of bike lane in the city The feverish attempts to rip up the Kent Road lane show just how fiercely Pacco’s residents are willing to defend it from changes they consider unwelcome Pascoe Vale’s demographics and density are in a time of transition it was a suburb that exemplified why Bell Street was considered a “hipster-proof fence” and yet the state electorate of Pascoe Vale is now in the Greens’ sights The lingering charm of Pacco beckons at a distant past but this does come at a cost – it has always been less ethnically diverse than its neighbours but jump in the car for good kebabs or baklava locals had Gilmour’s milk delivered from the dairy nearby bought locally made soft drinks from the corner milk bar and – bizarrely perhaps – got potatoes from a man driving his ute slowly from street to street My childhood milk bar has since been demolished Locals decried its inevitable replacement with “identical” the big backyards have been built over and countless construction sites illustrate this story at street-level a post-war home is gone – a large block subdivided Though I want to support higher-density development in a suburb only 10 kilometres from the CBD sometimes it feels like its breakneck pace dominates the conversation as I walk with my mum on these familiar NIMBY-ish qualities simply burrowing under the skin But there’s one thing more constant than change: as much as I spend plenty of time in exciting places far away Joseph Comer is an academic researching language The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up here. A common experience growing up in Pascoe Vale is explaining to people which Vale you\\u2019re not from. \\u201COh, not Ascot, that\\u2019s further south.\\u201D \\u201COh, you\\u2019re thinking of Wyndham in the west!\\u201D Like many other places across Melbourne\\u2019s sprawl, Pascoe Vale is kind of ... well ... forgettable. Perhaps it\\u2019s telling that Pascoe Vale Road \\u2013 the namesake by which many non-locals know of our existence \\u2013 essentially bypasses the suburb as drivers travel up from Moonee Ponds and through Broadmeadows. The thoroughfare only briefly skirts along Pascoe Vale\\u2019s western edge, just past the tangle of concrete, road and parkland where Bell Street meets the Tullamarine Freeway, and both race over Moonee Ponds Creek. There are only two places to grab a drink here \\u2013 and with due respect to the Pacco Pub and the RSL, neither very exciting \\u2013 Pascoe Vale is undeniably quiet. Yet despite its boring, \\u201Cfly-over\\u201D status, there\\u2019s something about Pascoe Vale that elicits passion, whether you\\u2019re based in the \\u201Cvalley\\u201D or \\u201Cplateau\\u201D. I\\u2019m a case-in-point: the proud owner of a woodcut Pascoe Vale map given to me for my 30th birthday, and a cushion cover printed with Melway page 17. (Admittedly, as a taxi driver\\u2019s son, my love for \\u201CMelways\\u201D might\\u2019ve been inevitable). A quick look at Facebook community groups or a moment spent eavesdropping at beloved cafes like Ferrovia and Jack & Daisy proves I\\u2019m not alone in my strong feelings, even if most don\\u2019t go so far as a mate and me in developing a secret (tongue-in-cheek) hand gesture signalling our affiliation to PV. (And no, I won\\u2019t reveal it ... unless you\\u2019re true blue 3-0-4-4.) Pascoe Vale and its postcode-sharing neighbour Pascoe Vale South stretch from Moreland Road in the south to Boundary Road in the north, nestled between the aforementioned creek and Melville Road/Sussex Street. The area is geographically diverse, mostly post-war housing, with some older homes built when this was farmland. Pascoe Vale is a place with many small supermarkets but neither of the duopoly (albeit with a newish \\u201Cfancy Coles\\u201D just over the eastern border in faux-CoNo) and a Piedimonte\\u2019s just across the border in Pascoe Vale South. It\\u2019s a place of banal comforts, a bit stubborn, insular, not-really-anywhere-special \\u2013 yet still somewhere that readily attracts the use of superlatives. See for example what are arguably the steepest streets in suburban Melbourne. Gaffney, Bolingbroke, Pardy and O\\u2019Hea streets \\u2013 where the gradients hit an extreme 30 per cent \\u2013 have seen countless broken wrists and scraped knees, as well as occasional tragedies. Local dog walkers as well as intrepid cyclists from further afield know the challenge of heading uphill on any of the so-called \\u201CGaffney four\\u201D. Many who grow up here are familiar with the thrill of fanging their BMX downhill (or on Northumberland Road nearby). Note, concerned Pacco parents: this is not an endorsement of risky behaviour! (Please, kids, at least make sure your helmet is on.) Pacco thrillseekers were also long able to claim they were home to the best diving boards of any Melbourne pool \\u2013 at least before the top platform was closed by what some locals have called \\u201Cthe fun police\\u201D. And don\\u2019t forget what must surely be the most contentious 320-metre stretch of bike lane in the city. The feverish attempts to rip up the Kent Road lane show just how fiercely Pacco\\u2019s residents are willing to defend it from changes they consider unwelcome. Without doubt, Pascoe Vale\\u2019s demographics and density are in a time of transition. Ten years ago, it was a suburb that exemplified why Bell Street was considered a \\u201Chipster-proof fence\\u201D, and yet the state electorate of Pascoe Vale is now in the Greens\\u2019 sights. The lingering charm of Pacco beckons at a distant past, but this does come at a cost \\u2013 it has always been less ethnically diverse than its neighbours. There\\u2019s plenty of outstanding pizza, but jump in the car for good kebabs or baklava. Only a couple of generations ago, locals had Gilmour\\u2019s milk delivered from the dairy nearby, bought locally made soft drinks from the corner milk bar and \\u2013 bizarrely, perhaps \\u2013 got potatoes from a man driving his ute slowly from street to street, hawking them with a megaphone. My childhood milk bar has since been demolished. Locals decried its inevitable replacement with \\u201Cidentical\\u201D, \\u201Cugly\\u201D townhouses. Meanwhile, the big backyards have been built over and countless construction sites illustrate this story at street-level. Anywhere you look, a post-war home is gone \\u2013 a large block subdivided. Though I want to support higher-density development in a suburb only 10 kilometres from the CBD, sometimes it feels like its breakneck pace dominates the conversation as I walk with my mum on these familiar, often-hilly streets. Maybe it\\u2019s just my suburb\\u2019s grumpier, NIMBY-ish qualities simply burrowing under the skin. But there\\u2019s one thing more constant than change: as much as I spend plenty of time in exciting places far away, Pacco always feels the most special. Joseph Comer is an academic researching language, landscapes and communities. The 2025 player transfer window is now open Clubs wasted no time announcing a smattering of new recruits since the end of the season and can now secure those signings following a busy November transfer period While a lot of transfers will be for players clubs have already announced we'll keep you updated on the latest key transfer news below To view every senior transfer in and out of the EDFL, head here. Another Burnside Heights pair are on the move in Lachlan Evans and Nick Gregson. The pair were pivotal in last year's campaign and will head to Mernda in 2025. Burnside Heights pair Josh and Jaydon Stiles are on the way out to Gordon.  Jaydon Stiles kicked 23 goals from 12 games for the Bears in 2024. Keilor's Oskar Smartt is on the move to Colac after one season with the Blues where he featured six times around Essendon VFL and representative commitments. Heading into Keilor is Craigieburn's Maddison Albrecht who brings 33 games of Calder Cannons experience across the last three seasons. Pascoe Vale has moved to secure its offseason recruits including West Coburg livewire Ibby Taha and St Bernards tall Jeremy O'Sullivan. All-Australian ruck Mark Jamar has officially had paperwork lodged to Keilor Park for the 2025 season. Jamar is one of 20 transfers lodged by Keilor Park since March 6 in a big recruiting drive, looking to build depth in the senior squad. Hillside has made a splash in the recruiting space with former AFLW-listed Bulldog and Tiger Jemima Woods calling Shark Park home in 2025. Woods played 15 games across four seasons and was delisted at the conclusion of the 2024 season, but will no doubt make a huge impact with a Sharks outfit looking to go one week further. Premier Division Team of the Year representative Josh Browne is looking to head to Greenvale after a season with Avondale Heights. After securing a spot on Collingwood's VFL list, Browne will remain in Strathmore Community Bank Premier Division when not on VFL duties. Greenvale premiership player Talia Motta is looking to remain in Division One to play for Strathmore in 2025. Motta has played 20 senior games for the Jets and kicked 33 goals, including the sealer to secure Greenvale's spot in the 2023 grand final. It's another one for Oak Park with 26-time Western Jets representative Sasha Nelson crossing over to the reigning premier from Williamstown CYMS. Jordan Madden is back in the EDFL after some time with Kalgoorlie in the Goldfields Football League. Madden last played in the EDFL with East Keilor in 2019 and returns after winning league honours in 2023. Another day, another strong Oak Park recruit. Brittney Gray is looking to transfer to the reigning premiers after right games with Williamstown VFLW in 2024. Matty Dennis is officially a Panther after his clearance to Pascoe Vale was approved. There's more movement at East Sunbury with Wade Lees among a few transfers in for the Thunder. Greenvale's Ray Murphy is looking to land at Corowa Rutherglen after playing four games with the Jets in 2024. One of the most discussed EDFL recruits for 2025 Brendan Fevola has officially had paperwork lodged to East Sunbury. 'Fev' most recently played for Diamond Valley in the Masters, where he kicked five goals in a winning grand final. East Keilor has re-entered transfers after lodging just two transfers since November 10. Hayden Trewick (Kew) and Hudson Moyle (Echuca) had transfers lodged on Thursday and look to top up a depleted Cougars squad. Pascoe Vale has tried again to clear Matty Dennis from East Keilor after being declined the first time around. Williamstown VFLW vice captain for 2024 Emily Eaves has requested a clearance to Strathmore for the 2025 season. Eaves played 17 games for the Liam Cavanagh-led Seagulls in 2024 and represented St Kevins OB four times following the conclusion of the VFLW season. Strathmore continues to make moves in its women's program with experienced pair Elisha Wain (Tullamarine) and Flavia Rajapakse (Westmeadows) lodging transfers. Wain has played 38 top-flight games with Aberfeldie with stints at Roxburgh Park and Tulla either side of that, while Rajapakse has represented the Tigers 53 times in Premier Division. Maribyrnong Park is quickly becoming the Apple Isle with another Tasmanian in Jack Colgrave making the move to Monk Oval. Colgrave is coming off a 61-goal season in the Northern Tasmanian Football Association with Old Scotch Collegians. With a lot of Tasmanians moving into the EDFL, there was due to be some talent heading back and Greenvale's Baker Smith is doing just that. Greenvale became Smith's home club while exploring VFL opportunities and departs to Glenorchy after 11 games with the Jets. Aberfeldie premiership player Victor Carboni is heading to Perth to play with Stirling. Carboni has been an important part of the Aberfeldie setup over a number of years, and departs after 122 senior games. Steph Pontonio is looking for a new challenge, departing East Sunbury for newly promoted Division One club Coburg Districts. St Albans announced the signing of Stawell legend Tom Eckel in November and have now lodged his transfer. Serving as Stawell's playing coach for the last five years, Eckell is a seven-time club best and fairest winner and won the Wimmera FL best and fairest in 2023. Over at Oak Park, the reigning premiers continue to get stronger lodging a transfer for Greenvale's India McNeill-Wren. McNeill-Wren only played the two games in 2024, but was a valuable part of the Jets' two previous grand final runs, and has represented Calder Cannons seven times. Former Docker Tobe Watson is looking to make St Albans his home club for 2025. Looking to come across from Yarraville-Seddon Eagles, Watson didn't feature at local level in 2024 due to Port Melbourne VFL commitments. Coburg Districts has made its next moves in the women's space with Essendon Doutta Stars pair Katherine Jansen and Kirstie Martin looking to move across with veteran Renae Berry. Berry was a 2018 premiership player with Pascoe Vale and represented the club in the VWFL, while Jansen moves across after 15 games in the top flight with Douttas in 2024. Over in the men's side at Coburg Districts, ruck Rusi Komaitai is looking to transfer to the Goldfields Football League. Maribyrnong Park continues to chip away at bringing in new recruits for their return to the top flight. Logan Geddes (Donald) and Harry Summers (South Launceston) are the latest who are talented youngsters already with senior experience. Avondale Heights intercept defender Myles Gollant is on the way out to Sunbury after one season at Canning Reserve. Calder Cannons captain Damon Hollow has had a transfer lodged to Keilor. Hollow was a draft hopeful in 2024 after a strong top-age year which saw him represent Vic Metro, and will be on Williamstown's VFL list in 2025. Also making the move is Liam Hude, who played 10 VFL games with Brisbane in 2024. Elsewhere in Premier Division, Aberfeldie's Darby Scott will be heading to Southport in the VFL. Moonee Valley continues to add youth and depth to its senior squad. The Fog hasn't gone too hard in recruiting big stars, but adding to its bottom line could be looking at sustainability rather than short-term, rapid improvement. Ruby Aitken will be returning to the EDFL after a couple of seasons in Cairns. The 2022 Division Two Team of the Year member will line up with Essendon Doutta Stars in the top flight. Roxburgh Park has unveiled another key recruit in Brad Coulson who comes across from South Australia. Coulson has over 70 games of SANFL experience including three at league level, and also represented South Australia in the 2014 Under 18 National Championships. Two-time Keilor premiership player Jamie Papalia is heading back to Joe Brown Oval after two seasons with Donald in the North Central Football League. The 34-year-old played 17 games and kicked 16 goals with Donald, and will be two games away from 250 club games with Keilor. Reigning back-to-back Strathmore Community Bank Division Two leading goal kicker Khoder Taleb has officially had a transfer lodged to Hadfield. Taleb has previously played 98 games with Hadfield and will head there after kicking 131 goals from his last 34 games with the Northern Saints. Brendan Butler has tried again to transfer to Woodend-Hesket alongside Aberfeldie's Jack Binns who returns after a couple of seasons away from playing. Oak Park lodged transfers for some returning players across its men's and women's programs in Erroll McConnell and Felicity Theodore, as well as Airport Toyota Division Two Best & Fairest Emily Taylor. There is plenty of activity at Keilor, particularly in its women's program, with plenty of talent looking to push the Blues back up the ladder after a tough 2024 season. The highly decorated ruck Liv Woods is looking for a challenge in Premier Division, 2024 AGA Rising Star Tegan Matthews is heading back after a year at Marby, and Cannons-experienced pair Ava Gerada (Westmeadows) and Chelsea McDermott (Collegians) add more class. Over in the men's program, former Vic Metro representative Brock Jacobsen is heading back after a year with Keilor Park, while former GWS Giants Academy player Jackson Moen has had a transfer lodged as well. Elsewhere in the top flight, Strathmore's Sean Callander is looking to get to Therry Penola, while Justin van Unen is already looking to leave East Keilor to head to Corio. Burnside Heights has lodged its first transfers after another year of keeping quiet with announcing recruits on socials. Keilor Park women's remain busy with a number of transfers in, but have had no luck with the players coming from Airport West. Talent is going the other way in the Aberfeldie women's program with five players on the move to Whitefriars. Ilaria Akers and Amber Wescombe are among the five who both missed the 2024 season but were vital players when they featured previously. Meanwhile, Jessica Moloney is another who played six senior games in 2024. Greenvale has re-entered the transfer fold with some youth in Riley Leedham and Brodie Tohara. Leedham has earned an Essendon VFL contract for 2025 following a strong season with the Cannons, while Tohara brings senior experience from the VAFA and Gippsland League. Essendon VFLW MVP and VFLW Team of the Year Maddison Ford has lodged a transfer to reigning premier Oak Park. While Ford will be firming for the AFLW Draft this year, the Kangaroos will be happy to see whatever they can of the defender. There is some movement in Strathmore Community Bank Division Two with Coburg Districts and Hadfield each lodging four clearances. With just one day left to respond to the transfer, East Keilor has declined Matty Dennis' clearance to Pascoe Vale. Matthew Allison is heading back to Strathmore after four seasons on St Kilda's list. Injuries unfortunately never saw him debut, but he represented Sandringham 45 times in the VFL and will play at the level again with Coburg in 2025. Team of the Year and two-time Oak Park premiership player Mia Briedis is heading north to Wilston Grange in the QAFLW. Roxburgh Park is still making moves announcing 2024 Westmeadows Best and Fairest and former junior Luke Smith is returning to the club. The 18-year-old was only just announced on socials and shows the Magpies' recruiting may have some gas left in the tank. Keilor Park has made its first moves in the men's department with East Keilor's Nick Nesci looking to get across alongside some players looking for senior opportunities. A sixth Airport West player has had a transfer lodged to the Devils' women's side with 2023 Team of the Year representative Georgia O'Donovan the latest. Strathmore continues to bolster its women's stocks lodging transfers for Pascoe Vale/Hadfield Under 18.5 premiership players Milla Murphy and Tacita Siliato. Murphy played 10 games for the Calder Cannons in 2024, while Siliato was named best on ground in the grand final with a three-goal effort. Aberfeldie has again hit recruiting hard as it looks to get back to the top of the Airport Toyota Premier Division. Bringing in an array of experienced talent including 2019 premiership player Kurtis Shine, Darebin VFLW's Simone Ruedin, and inaugural Melbourne AFLW forward Alyssa Mifsud, it's been another fruitful offseason so far for Aberfeldie. Over at Essendon Doutta Stars, gun forward and 2023 premiership player Jessie Hulett is heading back to Greensborough after two strong seasons with Douttas, kicking 55 goals from 31 games. Keilor Park continues to add talent to its women's program with a quintet of Airport West players having transfers lodged throughout February so far, with Rhiarn Daley, Jennipher Wilson, and Kristen Baldassaro today joining Talisa Bartolo and Tiana Jackson as those making the move. It's unsurprising with former Eagles premiership coach Marcus Barclay now heading the Devils' program. Strathmore young gun Carlos Egan has had paperwork lodged for a move to Boort in the North Central Football League. Keilor made its first transfer for the 2025 season with Brisbane Lions Academy player Nathan Jensen making the move from Maroochydore. Jensen, standing at over 200cm, has played nine Coates Talent League games across three seasons and was on Brisbane's VFL list in 2024. He will be on Williamstown's list for season 2025. Coburg Districts is preparing for life in Airport Toyota Division One bringing back 2018 Pascoe Vale premiership players Sarah Theuma and Bridgette Aparo. Theuma kicked 21 goals from nine games during that season, while Aparo was named in the best in 11 of 14 games. The pair most recently played for West London in 2022. Oak Park 2023 premiership players Hirsi Twomey and Jack Kennedy have sought transfers to Lalor for the 2025 season. Kennedy didn't play during the 2024 season, while Twomey shared the ruck load with Josh Ksiazek. The Kangaroos brought in Aberfeldie and former-VFL ruck Josh Hotchkin during the November transfer period, a club junior to bolster its ruck stocks with the departing Twomey. It was moving day for the Abdul-Wahed's on Tuesday with Saeed, El-Amir, and Ahmed seeking transfers to Glenroy, and Marwan to West Coburg. Meanwhile, Maribyrnong Park have officially lodged a transfer for Tasmanian State League legend Jaye Bowden after announcing his signing in January. There was some Premier Division action to kick Monday off with Keilor young gun Massimo Raso looking to head to former junior club Deer Park. Raso played 31 games for the Lions before heading to Keilor where he would go on to play 31 games for the Western Jets and represent Vic Metro. Strathmore tends to keep quiet with new recruits and have done so again, lodging a transfer for Point Cook Centrals' Haidyn Shade. Shade is a WFNL Division One Team of the Year representative and finished runner up in the club Best & Fairest in 2024. Moonee Valley continues to bring players back to the club and have lodged transfers for a trio of Premier Division players looking for more opportunities at senior level. James Kefalas (Strathmore), Marcus Currenti, and Tom Clark (both Avondale Heights) played majority of their seasons in Premier Division Reserves and will be looking to break into Andrew Horne's best 22. A key forward slot at Ormond Park has opened up with Sunday's departure of Ben Ryan. Ryan kicked 98 goals across two seasons with Moonee Valley and will head to his home club Cobram. Multiple-time Team of the Year representative and premiership player Jacinta Brew is looking to depart from Coburg Districts, having a transfer lodged to Reservoir. There is plenty of movement at Rupertswood with experienced Tullamarine pair Adam Bartrop and Joel Flanigan (returning) calling Salesian College home in 2025, as well as some youth in Ethan Davis (returning from Riddell) and Beau Stain (Alexandra Hills). Ben Borg and Todd Podolczak are both on the way out, but neither represented the club in 2024. The big news to finish the day was the transfer of one of the top players in the competition, Matty Dennis to grand finalist Pascoe Vale. Rumoured since pre-Christmas, the East Keilor big man will seek a move to Raeburn Reserve in a bid to help the Panthers go one step further in 2025. Current ruck Tom Hofert hasn't been announced as a re-signing, nor has he transferred out, so it's unclear if Dennis and Hofert will form a lethal ruck pairing or if Dennis is replacing Hofert. Whatever the situation is, the 2023 Reynolds Medallist will be a huge coup if cleared. Essendon Doutta Stars kicked off day two lodging six transfers for some young players within the league as it continues to build its depth. Aberfeldie continues to add to its talent pool for 2025 with West Coast WAFL big man Nic Watson looking to make the move across to Clifton Park. Watson played just the one game in 2024 after playing 17 the year prior, but at 197cm, he could provide more headaches for opposition clubs. Meanwhile, Jack Arceri is wanting to return to the club after a few seasons of senior footy in the RDFNL and MPFNL. Burnside Heights would be in the premiership conversation for most people in Airport Toyota Division One, but seem poised to be without club stalwarts Brodie and Ebony Stevens. The sisters have been staples in Teams of the Year and have polled well on Best and Fairest night and will be tough to replace. Taylors Lakes kicked off the February transfers period lodging clearances for key additions to its women's and men's programs in Taylah Egan and Jake Hobbs. Egan played 14 games for Maribyrnong Park in the top flight, while the VFL-experienced Hobbs returns to the club following time with Bundoora and Deniliquin. Avondale Heights has made its first transfers moving to secure Corey Griffin (University Blues), Nathan Foster (East Brighton), Scott Polycarpou (Moonee Valley), and Mark Polycarpou (Point Cook Centrals). The Heights haven't been active in the way of announcing new recruits in the offseason, with three of the four listed above the only announcements. With some senior players out the door, it'll be an interesting watch at Canning Reserve to see the shape of their list come Round One. Maribyrnong Park has also been somewhat quiet on the recruit announcements front as it returns to Premier Division, but got busy on Saturday with the returning Kyle Baker and TSL recruit Blade Sulzberger the headliners. Craigieburn continues to move to secure its offseason signings on Saturday with the returning Cody Ball (Avenel) the latest, alongside a third attempt to clear Nathan Stewart (Euroa). Sunbury Kangaroos star Natalie Dunne is looking to head to Coburg following a stellar season where she kicked 21 goals and finished third in the EDFL Best & Fairest. The former Bulldog and Eagle is looking to land at Point Cook, but has had his transfer declined by the Saints. Pascoe Vale have made up for last year’s disappointing preliminary final loss after defeating Strathmore by 64 points at Section Road. Saturday’s win is Pascoe Vale’s first finals victory since their 2022 elimination final victory against Keilor and makes amends for a straight sets exit in 2023. After a relatively even first half which saw the Panthers take an 11-point lead into half time, Leigh Tudor’s side blew the game wide open with six third-quarter goals before piling on four more in the final term to cruise to victory. Adam Figliola starred once again kicking three goals to help set up the victory, while Ben Allan and Carled El Khoder contributed strongly with two goals each. Despite being well beaten, Athan Tsialtas’ fine form continued with another two goals while Ryan Brodie and Trent Dumont fought hard all day. Saturday’s result now sets up a blockbuster clash between Keilor and Pascoe Vale at Piranha Park next Saturday with a place in the grand final up for grabs. Strathmore’s season will go on the line against Greenvale at Piranha Park on Sunday. Greenvale have punched their ticket to the semi finals, defeating Aberfeldie by 74 points at Piranha Park. Sunday’s win is the Jets' first finals victory since the 2017 preliminary final against Marby. The victory is also Greenvale’s first finals win against Abers since the 2013 grand final which breaks a run of five straight finals losses in 10 years against their arch rivals including two grand final losses in 2015 and 2017. In difficult conditions, it was the Jets who had the better looks at goal in the first half which helped them open up a 23-point half time lead before storming home with six goals in the third term and four in the last. After a quiet game in Round 18, Josh Porter starred for the Jets kicking three goals to take his season tally to 37 from just 14 games, while Hayden Fraser made the most of his opportunities with two goals each. Despite going down, Josh Kemp, Brodie Newman, and Ben Ronke finished the season well and were all able to hit the scoreboard in their final outing for 2024. The Jets will be hoping to keep their run going when they return to Coburg City Oval to face Strathmore in a do or die semi final next Sunday. Maribyrnong Park has booked the first spot in the decider after a hard fought victory over West Coburg by 24 points. Marby’s victory was largely due to their better accuracy in front of goals as they adjusted to the tumultuous wind better than their opponents. Lachie Plowman, James Kayrooz, and Josh Cole led the way up front for the Lions kicking two goals each with Scott Clarke among the best. West Coburg will be rueing their inaccurate kicking in front of goal that undoubtedly hurt them. They would be particularly disappointed with their first quarter that saw them score 12 behinds and no goals. West Coburg will take on St Albans in next weekend's preliminary final for a spot in the grand final. St Albans are through to the preliminary final after knocking Hillside out in straight sets with a 52-point victory. The Saints were clinical in the first quarter, booting seven unanswered goals to set up the victory before holding off any Hillside counter attacks throughout the match to run out comfortable winners. Josh Carter was important for the Saints up forward as he slotted five majors in the victory, while Jake Galea and late inclusion Alex Tsia were also among the best, scoring two goals each and using the ball well by hand and foot. It will be a bitterly disappointing end to the season for Hillside who exit the finals in straight sets after finishing the home and away season in third place. The Sharks were thoroughly outclassed by St Albans across the four quarters and despite a few fightbacks, the Sharks never really looked like winning or getting close. St Albans will play West Coburg in the preliminary final for a spot in the decider. Westmeadows have booked their spot in the grand final defeating Burnside Heights by 20 points at Salesian College. The win now gives the Tigers a chance to win their first grand final since 1984 and return to Division One, while Burnside’s wait for promotion will continue after a straight sets finals exit. The Bears opened up an early advantage with two first-quarter goals to take an 11-point lead into quarter time before the margin was reduced to four points at the main break. The Tigers turned the game on its head with four third-quarter goals which saw them take a 17-point lead into the final term. After missing three shots early in final term, the Bears reduced the margin to nine points 16 minutes into the last quarter before Westmeadows sealed the victory with two goals later in the fourth quarter. Rex Hickman starred for the Tigers with three goals to help set up the victory while Ryan Capron, Jake Hatton, and Luke Smith stood up when it mattered. Daniel Hovey continued his strong 2024 season with another three goals while Luke Bonello and Mason Bawden fought hard all day. The Tigers will be hoping to continue their run and make it three from three in a blockbuster grand final against Taylors Lakes next Saturday at Windy Hill. The EDFL would like to congratulate the 59 EDFL players who have made VFL lists for the 2025 season EDFL talent is spread across 11 VFL clubs with 11 EDFL clubs represented Williamstown features 11 EDFL players followed by Northern Bullants with 10 It's no surprise that Keilor is the most prominent EDFL club represented with nine VFL-aligned players closely followed by Greenvale and Pascoe Vale Airport West and Strathmore are both well represented boasting six players each and Maribyrnong Park each have four listed players while Division One clubs St Albans and West Coburg have one each Below is a breakdown of each VFL club and its EDFL-aligned players Brunswick Voice Review to consider lower speed limits and other safety measures LOWER speed limits in Melville Road could soon be on the way after the State Government began work on a “holistic review” of the corridor between Bell Street and Dawson Street.  The review follows a campaign to reduce the speed limit to 50kmh after several serious collisions in the past two years.  In recent correspondence with Pascoe Vale MP Anthony Cianflone said she had been advised that the review would look at safety issues along the full length of Melville Road.  It will include remote school zone speed limits near St Joseph’s School and Brunswick North West Primary School and will take into consideration the Victorian Speed Zoning Guidelines and pedestrian movements through the area.  “These investigations are complex and require careful consideration,” Horne wrote in the letter dated October 16.  “The findings of the investigations will used to identify the need for any improvements along Melville Road.”  Horne acknowledged concerns of the Brunswick West and Pascoe Vale South communities that had been brought to her by Cianflone whose electorate is on the west side of Melville Road (the electorate of Brunswick is on the east side).  Melville Road is the only north-south link between Dawson Street and Bell Street that currently has an uninterrupted 60kmh speed limit and is heavily used by motorists seeking to avoid CityLink tolls It is part of a road network that also includes Grantham Street along which one-in-eight of Merri-bek’s pedestrian injuries take place an elderly man was killed when he was struck by a car crossing Melville Road at Hope Street and earlier this year a female driver was seriously injured in a two-car collision at the Albion Street intersection Many students attending Brunswick North West Primary and St Joseph’s School must cross Melville Road each day to and from school.  The pedestrian group Walk On Merri-bek has also been advocating for a lower speed limit for the full length of the #58 tram.  Cianflone has publicly called for both a 50kmh speed limit for Melville Road augmented by a lower 40kmh limit around built up shopping areas and school zones.  He raised the issue again in the state Legislative Assembly in late-October.  and particularly following the Covid-19 pandemic locals have continued to raise concerns with me about the increasing congestion and dangerous and hazardous road behaviours along Melville Road that are compromising the safety of vulnerable road users,” Cianflone said.  No timeline has been specified for completion of the review nor has Horne or the Department of Transport and Planning given any firm commitment to lowering speed limits.  We are an independent hyperlocal news organisation owned and run by the people in your community. With your support we can continue to produce unique and valuable local journalism for Brunswick and the inner north of Melbourne.  Become a supporter About Us Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Advertising Brunswick Voice acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as the traditional custodians of the lands and waterways in the area now known as Brunswick and pays respect to their Elders past and present and to all First Nations people and communities Brunswick Voice embraces their traditional and contemporary cultural and creative expression and significant contribution to life in the area Get our latest articles and current events around Brunswick straight to your inbox SUBSCRIBE → Watch today's top stories and most popular videos which provide you with features like past/future radar and customizable layers Trust us to help you plan the best day possible with the most accurate weather forecast available We recognize our responsibility to use data and technology for good We may use or share your data with our data vendors The Weather Channel is the world's most accurate forecaster according to ForecastWatch, Global and Regional Weather Forecast Accuracy Overview Opened earlier this year by brothers John and George El-Khoury, Emil’s Cafe occupies the site of their former childhood home and family milkbar. The social media imprimatur of Recipe TinEats’ Nagi Maehashi, reported in Good Food, has seen their Turkish and Middle Eastern brunch menu bound out of the gates. Browse Domain’s property and lifestyle magazines. Maehashi noted in her Instagram post that Pascoe Vale is en route to the city from the airport, making it a far better proposition in our book for a post-flight feed than the Maccas at Tullamarine. Traffic is an issue in the ’hood, including arterial hotspot Pascoe Vale Road, which has residents campaigning for enhanced pedestrian safety. But the area’s understated post-war gems and large house blocks (some of them big enough for a pony, if such a thing were allowed) aren’t difficult to love, especially with kids factored into the real estate equation. At only eight kilometres from the CBD, Pascoe Vale South has significantly higher house prices than Pascoe Vale proper, with a median of $1.12 million compared to $756,250 in its northern sibling. With Bell Street acting as a de facto boundary between the two (the official line of demarcation is a few residential streets to the north), the power of Melbourne’s “hipster-proof fence” might still be a thing. It’s not only the arrival of Emil’s Cafe that is making Pascoe Vale roar in the hospo stakes. A new breed of resident has landed, demanding good coffee, which you’ll find at cafes such as George Jones and Bagels Baby. For after-dark fun, Bar Tobala in Pascoe Vale South is a hip hangout fuelled by real-deal Mexican, including tacos and mezcal-heavy cocktails, while a strong gelato game can be found a few hundred metres away at the artisanally-minded Miinot Gelato. Pascoe Vale is a good ’burb for biking thanks to its linear parks – hit the trail along the Moonee Ponds Creek, and you can go all the way to the city through Brunswick, Parkville and Docklands. A short drive to the east, Coburg’s Pentridge Prison has been extravagantly upcycled into an entertainment precinct for the broader area, with attractions including a Palace cinema complex, a brew bar with an enormous beer garden, and excellent kids’ play areas. Castlemaine: Woolworths is set to challenge IGA in this gold-rush town St Kilda: The bayside suburb attracting a large investor market East Melbourne: Why you ‘you can’t go wrong’ in this affluent pocket The information on this website is intended to be of a general nature only and doesn't consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. where we are privileged to live and operate Aberfeldie took home the four points in a low-scoring affair on Nena and Pasadena EDFL Match of the Day Aberfeldie coach Clay Illman joined the crew with player of the game Daniel Thompson Check out EDFL Podcasts in your browser or listen below Airport West hosts Greenvale at Hansen Reserve in a match that could have big implications on the finals series A Greenvale win could see them move 10 points clear in the top five and set a task for the chasing Eagles who could potentially move two points behind the Jets in fifth The two sides last met back in Round 6 where Greenvale came out on top by 22 points with Josh Porter – who has been out since Round 9 – starring with five goals Both teams have only got better since that match and as such this week's clash looms as an epic encounter This week's match will be Airport West’s most important of the season so far with a win crucial while a loss will put a significant dent into their finals hopes The undefeated Keilor will take on the last-placed Avondale Heights at Joe Brown Oval in what looks set to be a very one-sided game Keilor are still yet to drop a game this season having won all 14 of their matches so far the mortality of Keilor has been somewhat displayed with a narrow victory over Strathmore last week which could've easily gone the other way A loss for Avondale Heights will keep them at least three games clear in the relegation zone with three games left to play These two sides previously met back in Round 8 in a game that Keilor easily won by 126 points Third placed Strathmore will battle it out with the fourth placed Aberfeldie at Lebanon Reserve in what should be the match of the round as well as a game that will play a part in setting up how the finals will look Strathmore fell agonisingly short of defeating Keilor last weekend but were let down by their bad kicking They will be looking to make amends this week against another strong side in Aberfeldie and last week's close loss will no doubt give them confidence that they can win the premiership The two sides last played back in Round 8 in a match that was won by Strathmore with a margin of 10 points This weekend's encounter looms as another thrilling instalment to the two teams' rivalry losing to two teams outside the top five in their last four games Essendon Doutta Stars will face off against Deer Park at Nipper Jordan Oval in a match that could have big implications for both sides A Doutta Stars win could see them sit just four points outside the top five while a Deer Park win will see them avoid relegation this season Any hopes the Stars had of finals looked gone a few weeks ago but a shock upset last week over Aberfeldie sees them back in with a chance albeit a small and mostly mathematical one of qualifying for finals Deer Park’s win over East Keilor last week saw them move 12 points clear of relegation meaning they are likely safe but a win this weekend will make sure of it In the two sides' previous meeting back in Round 8 it was Deer Park that came out on top by 19 points and based on recent form East Keilor plays Pascoe Vale at Overland Reserve in what is another high stakes game for the visitors with a win all but securing their spot in the top three The last time the sides met it was a 111-point victory for Pascoe Vale with the Panthers kicking an astonishing 26 goals in the match Pascoe Vale will be confident of a repeat of their last encounter as their form seems to be just as good going into this week’s match They easily defeated Greenvale last week only letting them score a single goal for the entirety of the game with a final margin of 72 points Top of the ladder West Coburg hosts bottom of the ladder Keilor Park at Coburg City Oval in what looms as a potentially one-sided encounter West Coburg’s 11-game unbeaten run leaves them as the big favourite to take out this year's premiership While this weekend’s match shouldn’t be much of a challenge the Burgers won’t be taking any team lightly as they will want to avoid any hiccups going into the pointy end of the season The two sides last played back in Round 10 when West Coburg were victorious by 115 points Keilor Park are already confirmed to be relegated as they have just two matches left for the year As a result they will be playing for nothing but pride although they would still no doubt love to finish a disappointing year off with some wins St Albans takes on a rampant Maribyrnong Park at Kings Park Reserve in a finals showdown that will shape how the finals play out A win for the Saints would see them become equal on points with Marby Park and while they wouldn't overtake them it would give them a huge opportunity to finish top three and get the double chance if results went their way across the last few rounds The Saints do have the advantage of having beaten Marby Park previously this year by two points Marby Park have hit the best form of their season so far in recent weeks and it’ll take a monumental effort to slow them down Marby Park appear to be peaking at the right time of the year as their last three games have all been 100-plus point wins this week's match will be a real test to see just how much they’ve improved over the course of the season as St Albans are one of the sides that beat them early on Tullamarine will battle it out against Oak Park at Leo Dineen Reserve in a match that could prove decisive in the race for fifth spot Tullamarine will know this match is a must win if they are to qualify for the finals A win over Oak Park would see Tulla sit just four points behind the Oakers who are in fifth position and due to Tulla’s run home they would have a really strong chance of snatching that last spot up for grabs in the finals The last time the two sides met was back in Round 2 in a match that Oak Park won by 17 points With plenty on the line this weekend’s encounter looms as an even closer affair Oak Park will know that a win this weekend will all but confirm their participation in the finals series while a loss will leave the door ajar for Tulla to qualify in their place The Kangaroos will be desperate for the victory treating the match as an early elimination final Moonee Valley plays Hillside at Ormond Park with both sides fighting their own battles The Valley wants to ensure they stay out of the relegation zone while the Sharks want to maintain their spot in the top three The last time these sides met it was Hillside who came out on top by 83 points and another result like that one is likely this time around Josh Covelli is one to watch against his former side with the star forward 18 goals away from triple figures with just two games to play he has put huge numbers up this season and will need to go big here to give himself a chance Craigieburn will face off against Rupertswood in what is a massive match in the relegation battle The Eagles looked destined for finals after the first five to six rounds of the season but are currently enduring an eight-game losing streak which despite their decent percentage The two sides met back in Round 5 when Craigieburn defeated them by 82 points this week's match will likely be much closer due to Craigieburn’s bad form over the last month or so Rupertswood will see this week's game as a must win if they are to avoid relegation They are currently four points behind the three teams above them but a win would see them draw level on points with those teams and put them in with a real chance of avoiding dropping down a division First placed Burnside Heights will play Glenroy at Burnside Heights Recreation Reserve in what is a rather low stakes game despite being in first place due to having played an extra game will be determined to win this weekend’s match before a showdown in the final round against Taylors Lakes that will determine who is to be the minor premiers it was Burnside who defeated Glenroy by just the three points in what was nearly the upset of the season While Glenroy’s season is almost certain to not end with a finals berth they will no doubt be out to stuff up other teams runs as they've proved they're capable of Northern Saints will host East Sunbury at Charles Mutton Reserve in a match that should see the Northern Saints enter the top four The Saints were beaten easily last weekend by Taylors Lakes but this week they take on the winless East Sunbury in a match that should put them back into a strong position for finals The Northern Saints defeated East Sunbury the last time the two sides met by 62 points and it should be another similar result this weekend East Sunbury will go into the match as firm underdogs still looking for a first win of the year Sunbury Kangaroos will take on Hadfield at Eric Boardman Reserve in a must win game for both sides The Kangaroos will need to win their remaining two games and hope results go their way if they are to make finals The last time the two sides met was back in Round 3 when the Kangaroos came out victorious by 22 points and this week’s match looms to be an even closer affair Hadfield will also know that winning their remaining games will put them in with a decent chance of making finals if results go their way The Hawks will back themselves in to win all three as well after a big win over the fourth placed Coburg Districts last weekend Taylors Lakes will battle it out against Westmeadows at Lionheart Reserve in a top-three encounter that will shape how the finals series looks like A victory for Taylors Lakes would see them remain in touch with taking back top spot as they have a game in hand on Burnside who are currently first A loss would make finishing first a harder task but shouldn't hinder their ability to secure the double chance Taylors Lakes prevailed by 100 points in a strong win but if the Lakers find a similar groove to last time you never know Westmeadows are guaranteed to make finals and almost guaranteed to finish top three will just be focusing on finishing off the regular season as best they can before heading into finals The Harry Winbush designed ex-Glenroy Library will be retained in its existing form after selling to an interstate investor following a campaign also targeting developers Merri-Bek City Council banked $4 million for the vacant Brutalist-inspired Modernist property In a move to boost value ahead of the campaign council rezoned the bulk of the 1831 square metre parcel Commercial 1 – allowing residential Also with frontage to Gladstone Parade and Grandview Street at the edge of a local activity centre near the train station several additional levels could be considered Library functions relocated two years ago to the Glenroy Community Hub which replaced the Glenroy Primary School at the bottom of the Wheatsheaf Rd retail strip a couple of hundred metres from 737 Pascoe Vale Rd Five suitors contested for the 1060 sqm Glenroy property with 13 car parks – the first purpose-built library in what is now the Merri-bek municipality Mr Winbush’ professional career started in the 1930s with fire stations at Box Hill theatres and a pavilion at Essendon’s Windy Hill near his former family home at the corner of Fletcher and Nicholson streets and which stands now as a commercial investment (story continues below) the designer headed the Art and Architecture department at Melbourne Technical College now the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology “The [737 Pascoe Vale Rd] buyer is an interstate investor looking to value-add and repurpose the asset with a suitable tenant,” Fitzroys’ Ervin Niyaz The largely open-plan building could suit offices hospitality – including fast food – and essential services related businesses like childcare or a medical centre Community focused and religious groups were also targeted and the purchaser had an occupant in mind which the site could suit,” according to the executive “There was a clear confidence from occupiers despite the current high cost of debt “It could be another 50 years until another sizeable asset in this tightly held ‘activity centre’ is made available” Glenroy is about 12 kilometres from town; its pocket of Oak Park abuts Strathmore SaveLog in, register or subscribe to save recipes for later.You have reached your maximum number of saved items Remove items from your saved list to add more Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime Venetian blinds shade this teal-toned hangout, which faces the 58 tram terminus on the cusp of Coburg. From the ranchera and Latin pop playlist to the black-and-white framed linocut prints of agave plants, Bar Tobala nods to Mexican culture while avoiding tired cliches. Salsas are a standout. They add extra oomph to dishes such as scallop aguachile, its green broth mingling with punchy salsa negra and pickled Lebanese turnips. Fideo frito is a universal comfort food: crumbed, fried slabs of tightly packed pasta atop bechamel thickened with toasted tortillas, the whole thing showered with cheese. Cocktails are worth a visit in their own right. The Green Telephone balances tomatillo, cracked black pepper, lime and gin; the sour-savoury flavours are echoed in the salsa verde surrounding a superb chicken and black bean tamale. In both instances, it’s a don’t-waste-a-drop scenario. ReviewOne of Melbourne’s best bars is on a busy corner in the ’burbsContinue this series BekkaFamily favourite where abundance abounds. Benyue KitchenReminder of how good the classics can be. Bar ThymeQuintessential wine bar that could be decanted to any high street. SaveLog in, register or subscribe to save recipes for later.You have reached your maximum number of saved items Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon The best of Melbourne straight to your inbox We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy Melbourne without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Melbourne here are the best things to do around Pascoe Vale Pascoe Vale is a sleepy suburb slowly waking up Mostly residential and dotted with numerous small parks the Pascoe Vale and Pascoe Vale South community are fiercely proud of their suburb and its vicinity to the likes of Essendon Airport DFO Essendon and the Tullamarine Freeway.  Pascoe Vale station is on the Craigieburn train line and the 58 tram finishes right at Bell Street which separates Pascoe Vale and Pascoe Vale South it's also very close to the Tullamarine Freeway exit and entry.  while Coburg and Coburg North surround the suburb on the east Keep heading south and you’ll get to Brunswick West Photograph: Chevanon Photography/PexelsYour first stop should be Shop225 (225 Melville Rd) After co-owner Lorenzo Tron’s partner was advised to follow a gluten-free diet Tron swiftly learned how difficult it was to scout suitable dining options a venue that specialises in gluten-free and vegan wood-fired pizzas that don’t compromise on taste More bragging rights: Shop225 was the first accredited gluten-free pizza shop in Australia to be certified by Coeliac Australia.  If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, you have to head to Augustus Gelatery (15A Pascoe St) This gelateria takes its name pretty seriously offering an (almost overwhelming) selection of flavours including classics like chocolate and salted caramel but also OTT ones like popcorn and peanut butter We’d also suggest trying the gelato cakes – the chocolate raspberry is a winner Shop for your booze over at District Bottle Store (88 Cumberland Rd) Craft beers take up most of the shelf space but there’s also an impressive wine and spirits selection to browse Ask the staff for recommendations – they’re all very knowledgeable.  Pascoe Tales (248 Sussex St) is a great shop for all things gifts. There’s a number of locally made wares including candles, soaps, cards, pottery and art to browse. The store also runs a number of workshops – check the website for more information.  If you’re in the market for indoor plants, head to Flowerbaby (30 Devon Rd) This boutique store sells all manner of plants Pots are also available as well as gift hampers.  Want to stretch your legs? The Moonee Ponds Creek Trail is like a squiggly line that follows the Tullamarine Freeway, starting in Docklands on Footscray Road and passing along the eastern side of Essendon Airport through a series of parks, including Boeing Reserve. It’s a pleasant track to walk or ride your bike but it gets particularly busy on weekends. If the kids want somewhere to play, head over to Austin Crescent Reserve (29 Northumberland Rd) and its play space. Photograph: Time OutSupport your local neighbourhood with our selection of area guides around Melbourne Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! twitterinstagrampinterestAbout us Contact us Goulburn Valley Suns have one last hurdle to hop relegation-ridden cloud has hung heavy over the Orangemen for months but another win in the Victorian Premier League Two at the weekend has prised another pocket of breathing room open for them in the fight for survival The Suns fought hammer and tong to emerge with a backs-to-the-wall 2-1 victory over Pascoe Vale at McEwen Reserve on Saturday pushed the Suns ahead in the first half with his first goal in more than three seasons Rest assured; the towering centre-half celebrated with heavy shades of vim after nodding home from a free kick as he reminded his former club what he had to offer Adam Gatcum was given a second yellow card before half-time in a dubious manner with the referee waving away two fouls in the lead up before sending the Suns full back off the Suns were pegged back further as Pascoe Vale’s Maxx Green broke through and caressed the ball into the bottom corner as the clock ticked past 60 minutes who did the Suns turn to in the hour of need The classy English midfielder finished off a stylish move by Russell Currie with the big man making mannequins out of Pascoe Vale defenders before crossing for Schorah to convert for his 13th goal of the season Mayhem became madness as the travellers hit the post with the final kick of the match Victorious coach Craig Carley was jubilant in the game’s aftermath showering praise on the Orangemen’s pluck in a must-win game against a slick-moving opposition They’re probably the best team I believe we’ve played against over both games,” he said really set up in their moves and what they do but again took their chances when they presented and defended really but also played some really good football too we’ve given ourselves an opportunity of survival and I’ve got full belief that we can do it now.” News photographer Rechelle Zammit captured some footage from the game below they want to get a little better every day – an approach that has helped propel this school in Melbourne’s north-west onto the official list of standout performers in this year’s NAPLAN testing There are 30 cultural groups represented among the school’s 500-plus students many of whom come from non-English-speaking backgrounds but the literacy program is so strong that other schools are seeking to learn from its success Pascoe Vale Primary School principal Anne Naughton with (from left): Oliver Josef Violet Gleeson and Mahith Fernando.Credit: Jason South and we’ve focused on maintaining that high level,” principal Anne Naughton said Naughton said the school had been identified by the Education Department four years ago as high performing but the school’s leaders continue to scour pupils’ results for improvement opportunities “It’s continuously looking at what our kids are doing and where we can add value to progress them to achieve their highest possible potential,” she said Assessment and Reporting Authority’s list of 2024 high performers in Victoria includes 15 government schools and five independent schools which features schools that have consistently scored NAPLAN test results in reading grammar and numeracy that are above or well above schools with similar socioeconomic profiles Schools that performed well compared with others in their area were also singled out by the assessment authority to ensure remote areas were represented NAPLAN results for 2024 were published on the My School website on Wednesday along with information on each school’s profile Students sit the NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy) in years 3 and their results and progress in the standardised tests are compared against similar students around the country This year’s tests included higher benchmarks in line with international testing for the second time meaning results are not comparable to before 2023 All Victorian government schools will be required to use a phonics approach to teaching reading from 2025 should be able to take the change in its stride “We’ve actually had a very strong comprehensive phonics or word work program running for years,” Naughton said Another factor in Pascoe Vale’s success has been a staff mentoring program that helps teachers continue learning on the job the school has been able to retain and attract new staff while the government system across the state battles a chronic teacher shortage which has also made this year’s list of “schools making a difference” teachers have turned the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic to students’ advantage Students from year 4 onwards at the private Wantirna South school have flexible learning sessions allowing them to decide what they work on for several periods each week “We’ve been committed for the last couple of years to our approach of personalised learning,” principal Nikki Kirkup said The Knox School principal Nikki Kirkup with students.Credit: Eddie Jim “That means really knowing our students and knowing how they learn but giving them really engaging learning experiences.” The school’s learning model has three components: academics; skills-based learning (including critical thinking communication and creativity; and the “character journey” “When we talk about a focus on great academic results it’s not to the detriment of the other two The approach involves inquiry-based learning in the junior school and project-based learning in the senior school underpinned by the foundations of literacy and numeracy Students experience real-world learning through “Knox-peditions” in which they identify a problem in the community and an individual who could benefit from a solution year 9 students worked with experts to produce portraits for patients at a nearby residential care home The students have maintained their connections with the residents and are continuing to visit them weeks after the project was completed “What we see is a heightened level of engagement and motivation because their outcomes are real and tangible,” Kirkup said “You then see that transfer across into things like NAPLAN results because we see improved numeracy and literacy as a result of that immersive learning experience.” The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here they want to get a little better every day \\u2013 an approach that has helped propel this school in Melbourne\\u2019s north-west onto the official list of standout performers in this year\\u2019s NAPLAN testing There are 30 cultural groups represented among the school\\u2019s 500-plus students and we\\u2019ve focused on maintaining that high level,\\u201D principal Anne Naughton said but the school\\u2019s leaders continue to scour pupils\\u2019 results for improvement opportunities \\u201CIt\\u2019s continuously looking at what our kids are doing and where we can add value to progress them to achieve their highest possible potential,\\u201D she said Assessment and Reporting Authority\\u2019s list of 2024 high performers in Victoria No Catholic schools made this year\\u2019s list NAPLAN results for 2024 were published on the on Wednesday along with information on each school\\u2019s profile Students sit the NAPLAN (National Assessment Program \\u2013 Literacy and Numeracy) in years 3 This year\\u2019s tests included higher benchmarks in line with international testing for the second time All Victorian government schools will be required to use a approach to teaching reading from 2025 \\u201CWe\\u2019ve actually had a very strong comprehensive phonics or word work program running for years,\\u201D Naughton said Another factor in Pascoe Vale\\u2019s success has been a staff mentoring program that helps teachers continue learning on the job which has also made this year\\u2019s list of \\u201Cschools making a difference\\u201D teachers have turned the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic to students\\u2019 advantage \\u201CWe\\u2019ve been committed for the last couple of years to our approach of personalised learning,\\u201D principal Nikki Kirkup said \\u201CThat means really knowing our students and knowing how they learn but giving them really engaging learning experiences.\\u201D The school\\u2019s learning model has three components: academics; skills-based learning (including critical thinking communication and creativity; and the \\u201Ccharacter journey\\u201D \\u201CWhen we talk about a focus on great academic results it\\u2019s not to the detriment of the other two Students experience real-world learning through \\u201CKnox-peditions\\u201D \\u201CWhat we see is a heightened level of engagement and motivation because their outcomes are real and tangible,\\u201D Kirkup said \\u201CYou then see that transfer across into things like NAPLAN results because we see improved numeracy and literacy as a result of that immersive learning experience.\\u201D The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories The 2024 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One we chat to new Pascoe Vale coach Leigh Tudor who provides some insights on their 2024 campaign "For me the focus has been around getting to know all the players "The club has added some quality people who are willing to work hard and play for the team We have a good mix of experience and youth and we'll have many Under 18s that will push for selection this year." and Ahmad Saad have all been exceptional on and off field with their leadership and team care "We have many Under 18s pushing for Round 1 selection so the club has done a great job developing our juniors we come to training to get better every session and I love the growth mindset of our group they work hard and are willing to learn and challenge themselves." You’ve spent a lot of time at higher levels over your career what has impressed you with the playing group since assuming the head coaching role at Pascoe Vale The players want to get better – I think they play the right way with hard The senior group has made back-to-back prelims do you consider much of their past success from a coaching perspective or do you come in with a blank slate for all the players My belief is making a preliminary final in a very good competition is a successful year but not the ultimate success Digby Morrell has done a great job with the group and we need to continue to improve and work hard for each other every session and game to match it with the best clubs in the EDFL One opposition player you’d love on your side Muhammad Said (West Coburg) & Christian Scarpino (Oak Park) Maclayn Hallows (Lavington) & Jibril Yamak (Hillside) It was a second consecutive preliminary final exit for the Panthers who provided Keilor one of their few scares early in the 2023 season Leigh Tudor has replaced Digby Morrell and will relish having Ahmed Saad at his disposal alongside a suite of players with VFL experience Pascoe Vale should expect to find themselves in the top end of the ladder as they look to go one week further than last season Ladder Prediction: Double-chance territory Keilor completed one of the more prolific performances in an undefeated top-of-the-table clash winning by 133 points and restricting Pascoe Vale to just one goal in the process The Panthers missed some chances in the first quarter to gain the advantage at the first break and trailed by just three points They kicked 21 unanswered goals and didn’t let through another goal in a remarkable display keeping Pascoe Vale scoreless in the second half until a behind was scored late in the final term Keilor boasted 13 goal scorers with eight kicking multiples as 14.11 was scored through turnover Leigh Tudor stated post game he thought they weren’t taking care of the ball the way they have been throughout the season and they were made to pay The Blues have now defeated the current top five sides with Pascoe Vale the big challenger based on their offseason and early form Essendon Doutta Stars move a game clear of East Keilor after taming the Cougars with a 19-point victory at Overland Reserve The Cougars were coming off two strong victories while Douttas were keen to bounce back after two narrow defeats and did so with a strong second half Douttas outscored East Keilor by 29 points in the second half with Bailey Ryan finishing with five goals supported by Lewis Downie (three goals) – who has been impressive since debuting in Round 4 – as well as Oscar Sasalu and Ray Eid (two goals each) Julian Callegari was named their best and has compiled a strong first season for Douttas averaging over 20 disposals while Peter Ntalianis put yet another captain’s performance forward with a goal to boot Matthew Dennis continues yet another strong season as East Keilor’s best on the weekend while the pairing of Lachie Smart (four goals) and Frank Campisi (three goals) continues to provide headaches for opposition defences They didn’t have enough support in the end as Douttas move to 3-3 East Keilor will need to bounce back strong as Keilor awaits them next week Airport West’s winless streak continues for another week with a 22-point loss to Greenvale at Section Road The Jets led at each break and although the margin was drawn back to nine points at the main change Inaccuracy cost Greenvale having managed 12 more scoring shots but Darren Bewick would be happy with the four points as they keep in touch with the top five with a game up their sleeve Josh Porter kicked a bag of five goals for the second week in a row with Ben Speight (two goals) his only teammate with multiple goals Speight has kicked two goals or more in four of his six games and is enjoying a strong partnership with Werribee VFL and Wangaratta premiership teammate Porter Luca Muratore kicked three goals for the Eagles with Mick Edwards and Jack Keogh named their best Greenvale will look to make it three wins in a row next week against Strathmore It was a forgettable day for Deer Park who suffered a 122-point defeat to an Aberfeldie side keen to respond Abers didn’t finish their last game the way they would’ve liked and they made sure to bounce back with a strong start kicking seven goals to one in the opening quarter with a strong finish in the final term that would’ve pleased Clay Illman pushing the margin into triple figures Karl Brown has certainly been enjoying continuity with his body that was lacking in 2023 creating a five-goal gap atop the league leading goal kicking leaderboard following a bag of seven Josh Kemp mirrored his effort with seven of his own backing up a four-goal performance last week while Sam Medland and Ben Ronke each kicked three Deer Park struggled to get their hands on the footy and control it down 164 in disposals and 92 in marks They’ll be keen to move on and look for their second win of the season against Avondale Heights while Aberfeldie will prepare for Essendon Doutta Stars Strathmore moved to four wins on the season with a 103-point win over Avondale Heights at Canning Reserve The Mores shot out of the gates to lead by 21 points at the first change before extending the margin to eight goals at the main break restricting Avondale Heights to just one goal for the half An incredibly accurate final term (9.2) caused the deficit to eclipse triple figures with Athan Tsialtas kicking five goals in a best-on-ground performance one of 12 individual goal scorers for the Mores and Harry Jones returned which is an ominous sign for future opponents They’ll play Greenvale at Sewell Reserve next week while Avondale Heights will face Deer Park Oak Park stormed home to almost pull off a major upset against the undefeated Hillside The Sharks created separation through the second and third quarters to lead by 35 points at the final change The Kangaroos kicked the first four goals of the final term to bring the margin back to 11 points 14 minutes in before a Jackson McMenamin goal steadied momentarily for the Sharks Two goals either side of time on for Oak Park suddenly brought the game to within a kick with time enough for a stirring upset Josh Covelli stepped up for the Sharks two minutes later to kick his eighth goal of the afternoon and ultimately the last goal of the game Lucas Failli and veterans Robbie Castello and Fort and Nat Caruso chipped in with a goal each while Tristan Rudic and Zak Wunhym were important through the engine room The Kangaroos enjoyed a greater spread in front of goals with Anthony DeLorenzi and Lachlan Ronaldson leading the way with two goals each Although it’s their fourth loss of the season Todd Clark would be impressed with the way they were able to force themselves back into the contest with yet another competitive performance They’ll prepare for Craigieburn next week while Hillside will take on Keilor Park high-scoring win for Craigieburn defeating Keilor Park by 112 points at Greenvale’s second oval The Eagles started strong and would power through the four quarters kicking 20 goals while restricting the Devils to just three John Bellino was the main man up forward kicking eight goals in a best-on-ground performance with Jake Carlisle (three goals) and Mitch Wilson (two goals each) all among the action up forward Daylan Kempster was named their best alongside Joshua Bawden who played his first senior game since 2019 The Devils will face Hillside next week as Craigieburn take on Oak Park Returning stars for Tullamarine propelled the Dee’s to a 54-point victory over Moonee Valley at Leo Dineen Reserve on Saturday afternoon The Fog took a three-point lead into the first change but it’d be Tulla in control from there and captain Daniel Devine (two goals) all returned to the side with James Vistarini Ben Ryan kicked four goals for Moonee Valley the third time this season he has reached that mark while Harry Fry was named their best in his second game in black and white It won’t get any easier for Moonee Valley who face West Coburg next as Tullamarine will look to carry this momentum into their clash with St Albans to ensure they remain in touch with the finals race Maribyrnong Park scored north of 150 points for the third time this season during their 118-point victory over Roxburgh Park The Lions were always well in control of the contest and added nine goals in the final term to blow the margin out Lachie Plowman and Brodie Romensky continue to dominate for Marby kicking five and four goals respectively with four players kicking multiples and a further four kicking singles One of those was senior debutant Zach Coughlan who was hitting the scoreboard in Marby’s Under 18.5 side before his promotion Cooper McPharlane made his return to Roxy with two goals  with Andrew Capuana and Adam Smrdelj hitting the scoreboard as well Roxy will look to bounce back against Rupertswood while Marby will enjoy a bye West Coburg scored a huge 148-point win over Rupertswood at Salesian College to round out the weekend's Division One action The Burgers were incredibly accurate in the first half kicking 17.1 keeping Rupo to just two goals in the process They would end up with 27.13 with 10 individual goal scorers Daniel Barnes would be pleased with consecutive weeks being deadly accurate in front of goal following an inaccurate Round 3 as they prepare to face a struggling Moonee Valley outfit will face Roxburgh Park at Lakeside Reserve Glenroy came agonisingly close to pulling off an upset win falling short to Burnside Heights by just three points at Sewell Reserve The lead changed at each break with the margin never exceeding eight points with the game hanging in the balance through the early stages of the final quarter Each side kicked two minor scores before Mark Sabatino pushed Glenroy out to an 11-point lead with his fourth major 10 minutes through the final term The Bears responded with the next three goals at the 12 and 19-minute mark to give them an eight-point lead approaching time on A Jake Young goal would draw the margin back to three points 29 minutes into the final quarter and that is where the scores would stay Young ended with three goals to join Sabatino’s four with Reid and Tanner Nilsson putting in strong performances Jaydon Stiles led the way for the Bears with three goals while young gun Cade Anset kicked two goals alongside two from Dion Lawson Cole Harvey and his Bears remain undefeated and will face another test against Sunbury Kangaroos this week while Glenroy will face Coburg Districts after stringing together some good performances Westmeadows bounced back after a disappointing result last week to defeat 2023 grand finalists Sunbury Kangaroos by 27 points The Tigers kicked four unanswered goals to shellshock the Kangaroos and never looked back stretching the lead to 48 points at the final break Five Sunbury Kangaroos goals in the final quarter brought the margin back but it was too late for Shanon Carrol’s men Shaun O’Grady booted four goals for Westmeadows with Aaron Evans kicking three and Korey Flavel-Wood kicking two Nathan Sparks and Ryan Capron were named their best while Jake Olivieri was named the best for the Kangaroos in his senior debut The Tigers will have the week off as the Kangaroos prepare for Burnside Heights Northern Saints picked up their first win with a 62-point triumph over East Sunbury at John McMahon Recreation Reserve Six unanswered goals in the second quarter broke the game open for Northern Saints with reigning Division Two league leading goalkicker Khoder Taleb kicking a bag of seven goals Eliot Kako and Joseph Mansoor kicked two goals each with Riley Houston and Mahmoud Taleb named their best Tamer Abdallah will be hoping this is the spark his side needs to push them back into the finals conversation and do what Sunbury Kangaroos did last year but it won’t be easy with Taylors Lakes on the horizon East Sunbury continues to battle and will face Hadfield next week A superb second half provided Taylors Lakes with a 92-point win over Hadfield at Martin Reserve The Lions kicked 13 goals to two in quarters three and four to skip out to a dominant win proving they can still kick large scores without Ben Weightman who was incredible to start the season Seven players kicked multiple goals with Lachie Rayner Chris Vulic flies under the radar according to his teammates but put forward another best-on-ground performance Sam Godden and Josh Trembearth were again among Hadfield’s best with Jack Wallace proving a difficult matchup for all defences with another three goals Aberfeldie have recorded their best win for season 2024 beating Essendon Doutta Stars by 31 points at Aberfeldie Park West on Saturday Saturday's win was their third for the season and now leaves them equal on points with Douttas five games into the season Despite Aberfeldie being down by one point at quarter time Doutta Stars failed to fire a shot in the second quarter which left them trailing by 14 points at the main break The deficit was too big to overcome with Aberfeldie kicking four goals to two after half time to run away with a comfortable victory Vice captain Emily Smith made the most of her opportunities up forward kicking two goals in game 200 while Olivia Madden and Emma Tatti contributed strongly in the victory Douttas’ captain Meg Runting put in one of her best performances of the year while Jessie Hulett and Marie Napoli were all able to hit the scoreboard on a day where goals were hard to come by Next up Essendon Doutta Stars will host Moonee Valley while Aberfeldie will travel up the highway to take on Westmeadows Keilor have recorded their first victory for season 2024 beating Westmeadows by 31 points at Joe Brown Oval The loss means Westmeadows are now a game clear on the bottom of the ladder and still searching for their first victory of the season it was Keilor who responded better kicking seven goals to two after quarter time to seal a much-needed victory Madeline Barton did her best to try and claim the three votes while teammates Amelia Grech and Olivia Lacy all played their part in their team’s victory Mikayla Plant had a solid game for the Tigers along with Taylor Jones and Courtney Bligh It doesn’t get any easier for Westmeadows when they take on Aberfeldie at home while Keilor will be looking to take some confidence into a clash with Oak Park Hillside have strengthened their grip on top spot of the ladder beating Moonee Valley by 79 points at Ormond Park The win leaves Hillside a game and percentage clear on top of the ladder while the loss gives Moonee Valley a 2-3 record five games into the 2024 season The Sharks were on from the first bounce kicking the opening 12 goals for the game before the Valley restored some pride late in the game with a goal through Siena Rumoro Emma Picone stood up in one of her best games for the year kicking four goals while star forward Caitlin Sargent kicked two each to take her season tally to 18 and increase her lead at the top of the leading goal kickers tally Hillside will be hoping to keep up their perfect record when they travel to Maribyrnong Park to take on the Lions while Moonee Valley will take on Essendon Doutta Stars Oak Park have moved into outright second on the ladder defeating Maribyrnong Park by 55 points at Walsh Oval Saturday’s win keeps the pressure on the undefeated Hillside while Marby sits a game and percentage outside the top four Oak Park had eight different goal kickers with Alex Quigley and Leah Spargo kicking two goals each while Mia Briedis and Chloe Bell were prolific all day for the Roos Tegan Matthews continued her strong season for the Lions kicking one goal while Caitlin O’Reilly and Amy Horan put in strong performances on a difficult day It doesn’t get any easier for Marby when they host top of the ladder Hillside next week while Oak Park will play at home against Keilor Burnside Heights have gone down to Greenvale in a highly anticipated top of the ladder clash by 17 points Both sides struggled in front of the big stick all day however it was Greenvale’s two goals in both the first and third terms that proved to be the difference on the day however the Bears still sit in first spot due to the stronger percentage out of the two sides Greenvale’s four goals all came from different goal kickers however it was Terira Fry and Grace Matser who were the standouts for the Jets on the day Olivia Munro was one of the Bears’ best while Holly McGregor registered the only major for Burnside The Jets will next take on Keilor Park at home while Burnside will travel to Tullamarine to take on the Demons Airport West have recorded their fourth win of season 2024 beating Keilor Park by 33 points at Keilor Park Recreation Reserve Keilor Park failed to score after quarter time and went goalless for the first time this season The win leaves Airport West two games clear in third spot on the ladder however they are still a game behind league leaders Burnside and Greenvale Two goals in both the first and second quarter were enough for the Eagles to set up a second comfortable victory against the Devils for the season Krystal Lilomaiava was one of the Eagles' best kicking two goals along with Natasha Campbell and Georgia O’Donovan who each kicked one goal Airport West will host Strathmore / Pascoe Vale next Saturday at home while Keilor Park will travel to Section Road to take on the Jets Strathmore / Pascoe Vale have recorded a dramatic first victory of the year defeating Tullamarine by four points at Boeing Reserve Despite trailing by 10 points at three quarter time the Mores kicked the final two goals of the game to snatch victory The win is a much-needed one as the Mores had been winless up until the weekend and sitting in last place on the ladder Georgie Richard was the hero for Strathmore / Pascoe Vale kicking two goals while Alexsis Ryan kicked a much-needed goal for Strathmore to help them secure the victory Stacey McDonnell and Kiara Talbot both showed positive signs kicking one goal each for the Demons Next up Strathmore / Pascoe Vale will travel to Etzel Street to take on Airport West while Tullamarine host top of the ladder Burnside Heights Roxburgh Park have recorded their best win of the season defeating Glenroy by 85 points at Sewell Reserve The Magpies got the jump on the Roys right out of the gate kicking seven unanswered goals in the first half to put the result beyond doubt before the main break Roxburgh Park piled on another seven goals in the second half to give them a much-needed percentage boost that will help them come the pointy end of the season Captain Megan Allan had a day out in front of the big sticks kicking four goals while Danira Fuamatu kicked three and Jameson Best kicked two Glenroy failed to do any significant damage in front of goal however Gaun Choi and Terri Speirs did show some promise despite the loss Next week Roxburgh Park take on bottom of the ladder East Sunbury while Glenroy will take on the Sunbury Kangaroos Sunbury Kangaroos have continued their impressive start to 2024 thrashing neighbours East Sunbury by 130 points at John McMahon Recreation Reserve The Kangaroos kicked eight unanswered goals in the first quarter to blow the hosts away before kicking 21 goals for the match The Kangaroos had plenty of contributors with Nat Dunne kicking five goals to take her season tally to 13 while Bailee Said also cashed in kicking four goals Chantelle Harding fought hard all day for the Thunder along with Paris Latimer who did her best The Thunder will be hoping to put up a better fight when they travel to Roxburgh Park to take on the Magpies while the Kangaroos will face Glenroy at home Sunbury Lions remain undefeated after beating Taylors Lakes by 29 points at Lionheart Reserve Sunbury dominated the opening half kicking the first five goals and were able to withstand a Taylors Lakes fightback in the third quarter to record a comfortable victory Emily Taylor played one of her best games for the year kicking three goals and Jamie Lee Wilson put in an impressive display kicking two to help set up victory for Sunbury Charlie Goodwin was Taylors Lakes' only goal kicker kicking two goals while Hannah Sullivan and Mia Bondar showed plenty of promise despite the loss Next up Sunbury will take on Coburg Districts at home who are fresh off the break while Taylors Lakes will put their feet up before taking on East Sunbury at home in two weeks time And it’s proving a hit with visitors from near and far But it’s rare to find one run by the same family that once sold newspapers and bags of lollies there Emil’s in Pascoe Vale South is the exception Brothers John and George El-Khoury have renovated the northern suburbs milk bar their parents ran for 34 years and the adjoining house where they grew up transforming them into a cafe for 100 people that’s a vintage-lover’s dream The cafe is a blend of vintage milk bar touches and contemporary design.SuppliedOriginal leadlight windows picture rails and flooring have been united with new timber cabinetry banquettes and a blue-and-white exterior that evokes the building’s history “Now people are dining in our old lounge room and our old bedrooms,” says George And not just anyone, either. Best-selling cookbook author and Good Food columnist Nagi Maehashi (aka RecipeTin Eats) visited at the weekend and was impressed enough to tell her 1.3 million Instagram followers all about it with an emphasis on Lebanese dishes that were common on the El-Khoury table decades ago Lamb kofta tacos are a spin on a DIY dinner that the children’s mother arranging homemade muhammara (capsicum-walnut dip) pickles and salad on the table for people to assemble their own Houda El-Khoury is still in the kitchen every day making items such as knafeh (a sweet filo pastry and cheese dish) and sauces including toum Her fattoush salad and falafel wraps are among a full cabinet of choices that change each day “Every meal in our cafe has an aspect of our background pretty much,” says John Turkish eggs is one of several Middle Eastern dishes on the menu.SuppliedThose come scattered with dukkah and zaatar while labne is folded through the smashed avocado for extra richness also features Turkish eggs made with the spicy sausage sujuk and a decadent eggs Benedict served with slow-cooked beef rib you can also get poached salmon on spiced pilaf The name of the cafe is another family tribute: it’s that of George and John’s father SuppliedJohn and George say they have some customers coming to the cafe who recognise them from their after-school shifts in the milk bar where they started helping out at the age of eight “It’s great to be back where it all started,” George says Plans are under way to add a night menu from Thursday to Saturday 347 Reynard Street, Pascoe Vale South, emils.com.au The milk bar is back – complete with Chiko Rolls – but not as you may remember itThere’s a growing trend of bars and cafes setting up shop in former milk bars and corners stores, and Gippsland’s East Handy Store is leading the charge. The new Torquay restaurant where printed menus and cling film are bannedProfits are donated, food waste becomes clever plates, menus aren’t printed and cling film is banned. The new Samesyn is trying a radical new model for fine-dining. This new St Kilda wine bar isn’t afraid to break the rulesDark timbers and an inky palette are banished. Cocktails don’t come with names. And Sunday is the most indulgent day of the week. news and the hottest openings served to your inbox With the 2023 season just around the corner EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One we chat to Pascoe Vale coach Digby Morrell who provides some insights on their 2023 campaign Increasing our running ability has been a focus too we identified a greater need for spread and defensive pressure through the arcs Hence our focus on improving our mid group and running ability." "We've been lucky enough to bring in Sunny Brazier and the returning Daman Aujla to improve our midfield balance Also bringing in Adam Del Busso from Glenroy brings some more support for the forward group and some great on-field leadership "We also identified that our list is still developing and we are excited to see the continued improvement of our 18-22 year old bracket of players "We’ve got an exciting group of Under 18s kids who we think will influence our senior group and also play some good footy as a group." "Our short term goal is to win the first two rounds We play Keilor and Aberfeldie first up and that can help us push towards a top two spot As a club we want the reserves and 18s to make and play finals we have been working hard as a club to build our juniors and we have had some great results over the past couple of years We want to continue to develop our juniors to play at the highest level they can." Rhys Ritchie (Wodonga) & Arthur Armstrong (North London) Ben Murdoch (Echuca) & Lachlan Eilers (Therry Penola) The Panthers worked their way into the preliminary final in 2022 after finishing fifth in the shortened 2021 season and will be hoping to go one better this season Announcing a smattering of signings in which the transfers haven't yet transpired the club has succeeded in adding to that midfield depth as Morrell outlined while retaining many of their star players Corey Wagner and Nick Hayes will done the red and black when not on VFL duties new recruit Josh Iacobaccio will be available full time after 48 games with Coburg and EDFL Team of the Year representative Jayden Ranno will be switching the yellow sash for the red Paul Ahern will almost be a new recruit for the club after injuring his ACL in the first game of 2022 They'll be tested in the first two rounds with Aberfeldie and Keilor but two wins could set them up for a deep run into 2023