To continue our vital work of safeguarding our waterways
Melbourne Water is set to begin work to enhance the Mill Park Wetlands
located in The Lakes Reserve in South Morang
A constructed wetland is a series of shallow
man-made ponds that help filter stormwater
filtering out pollutants that wash into stormwater from roads
This project will make sure that the Mill Park Lakes and Wetlands keep working the way they were meant to
filtering out nitrogen and harmful pollutants and keeping our rivers and creeks healthy
Upgrade works will ensure that the Mill Park lakes and wetlands function effectively and provide high quality stormwater treatment
We will make every effort to minimise the impact of these essential works on the local community and the environment
We anticipate that the majority of the works will be completed during standard construction hours of Monday to Friday
We do not anticipate any impact on your water or sewerage services during these works
STAGE ONE - Reshaping the bed of the wetland will commence in late 2024 and take approximately 18 months to complete
Over 120,000 wetland plants are expected to be planted by late 2026
They have a specific function in removing pollutants from stormwater
pollutants would flow directly into Darebin Creek and the Yarra River
and eventually into Port Phillip and Westernport bays
where they can be more harmful to the community and environment
which provide open spaces for the community
They also play an important role in stormwater treatment
wetlands remove pollutants from stormwater before it reaches rivers
Healthy wetlands are good for the environment and the community in many ways
Where vegetation is creating a bottleneck and preventing water from flowing
We are working with the council to obtain a planning permit.
replacement vegetation will be planted on the embankment as close to its original position as possible
We are committed to keeping the community updated as the project progresses
we will communicate with residents and businesses about the works through door knocks
please do not hesitate to contact the project team:
1800 931 140
[email protected]
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Melbourne Water respectfully acknowledges the Bunurong
Wadawurrung and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land and water on which we rely and operate
We pay our deepest respects to their Elders past
South Morang’s move into the Northern Football League division 1 competition has received a boost with former Richmond player Noah Cumberland signing with the club
The Lions announced on Monday night that it had secured the services of Cumberland
was set to play in his home state of Queensland this year before deciding to stay in Victoria
South Morang coach Gary Hall said it was massive for the club to get him on board
“It’s pretty exciting for the club,” he said
“We got talking and he lives not too far from the ground and work is close
Hall said Cumberland still had his best football ahead of him and at 23 fitted the right age bracket of the group
Cumberland kicked 33 goals for the Tigers after being drafted in the 2019 draft
“He’ll play different roles for us,” Hall said
“We’ll discuss it a bit more when training starts
“He’s a good size and super fit and we can play him all over the ground
Most of our players are pretty adaptable.”
Hall said that the reaction since the announcement had been really positive
He said many of their senior players get down to help with Auskick and the juniors and Cumberland at stage some would be part of that so it will benefit everyone
He’s one of the first new signing announced by the division 2 premiers
The Lions will play top flight football for the first time in 45 years
Hall said they had added a couple of players here and there and speaking to a couple more recruits
He said they hadn’t added many players and those they did add had to fit with the family environment the club has
“The recruits we’ve had the last few years are good fellows and Noah is no exception,” he said
“It is going to be a challenge but exciting at the same time
I don’t know what we can do and we will have to be at our best every week
Get ready for a free community event packed with fun
friends and pets and make lasting memories
A delightful and humorous reimagination of the beloved 100-year-old book The Velveteen Rabbit
Don't forget to bring your favourite snuggly toy to the show
A fun-filled spectacle for the whole family
and the biggest bubbles you’ll ever see
There is so much to see and do for the whole family at the festival
View the festival program here
Australian World Music Star Mitch Tambo is a ‘new voice for a generation,’ producing music that bridges culture and resonates globally
His rendition of You’re the Voice surpassed 1 million streams
marking the first time a song in the Gamilaraay language has reached this milestone
Fronted by the hypnotic soul vocals of Noongar musician Bumpy and backed by a band that includes members from Quality Used Cars
Squid Nebula have made their way from regular residencies for Cherry Bar’s Soul Night on AC/DC lane in 2015 to sets at Loch Hart
There are so many performances and local talents to see
View the full program for all the details
Cooking demonstration by Emelia Jackson at 11.15am in the Local Food Discovery Zone
MasterChef Australia winner Emelia Jackson will transform the finest produce grown in the City of Whittlesea into delicious dishes.
Emelia first wowed audiences as a Season 6 finalist before claiming the MasterChef title in 2020
More cooking demonstrations throughout the day
Discover a world of pet information at our Pet expo including:
Full program now available
Download the full program details for the Community Festival(PDF, 507KB)
Watch the video from last year’s event to see all the exciting activities and community spirit you can expect this year
and feel free to bring your own picnic food and snacks if you have specific dietary needs
You may also like to bring some money for market and food vendors on site
Remember to bring your water bottle as water stations are available
you can bring your dog if your dog is well behaved in a crowded environment and is on a leash
Please remember to bring bags to dispose of droppings.
Remember to check out the Pet Expo which has dog obedience and training displays
information on pet registration and much more
Most vendors will have methods of cashless payments available
however we recommend bringing cash for food and drink purchases just in case
A cancellation procedure will be in effect in the event of adverse weather conditions.
Announcements regarding any event cancellations will be made in advance of the event’s commencement on our website and after hours and social media channels.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates
First Aid is available on site throughout the course of the event
A first aid tent is located next to the lawn stage on the Civic lawns
Our City of Whittlesea information tent is the central point for anything you need to know about the event or other services at the City of Whittlesea
It’s also the place if you are lost or have lost someone or something
please bring it to the information tent. The information tent is situated on the lawns
Toilets and accessible toilets will be located onsite at the event and in the foyer of the Plenty Ranges Arts and Conference Centre (PRACC)
Baby change facilities located in the accessible toilets in the PRACC foyer
A dedicated chill-out and breastfeeding space is also available in the Family Zone
designed for high needs accessibility is located near the Civic Centre
This facility requires a MLAK key to unlock the facility
The event will be held on Council’s Civic lawns where there are some concrete paths
There are some concrete paths at the Civic lawn
however some areas will not be appropriate for wheelchair and mobility depending on the individual’s access requirements
and accessible toilets throughout the venue
bathrooms and wheelchair access provisions will be available at the event.
This facility requires a MLAK key to unlock the facility.
Auslan Interpreters will be present on the Lawn Stage and Youth Stage
A quiet room will be available for those who need a low-sensory space
Smoking and vaping must occur outside the event area in carparks or adjacent to streets
We are committed to improving sustainability across all our events and festivals
reusing and rewashing crockery and cups to reduce waste going to landfill
please place your reusable plate in the pink bin provided
While water will be available for purchase
we kindly ask you to be mindful of the environment and bring a water bottle to refill at our many water stations which also saves you money
The event site is well-serviced by trains and buses
including the South Morang train station on the Mernda line and buses 556
Plan your journey at Public Transport Victoria’s website
use public transport or ride to the event.
Additional parking is adjacent to South Morang train station.
There will be various food trucks and market stalls available but if you have specific dietary requirements
Remember to visit the Local Food Discovery Zone where many local food producers come together to celebrate fresh
Please note that picnic facilities are not available at the event site
We recognise the rich Aboriginal heritage of this country and acknowledge the Wurundjeri Willum Clan and Taungurung People as the Traditional Owners of lands within the City of Whittlesea
More ways to contact us
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Thumbprint artwork by Mandy Nicholson
Record ANZAC crowds
New Mayor appointed
Remembering ANZAC
Residents invited for budget feedback
Mobile pledge towards Whittlesea
Where to vote: Whittlesea
CCTV promise for Whittlesea
2026 Prep enrolments now open
Magpies record first win
Eagles back on track
Laurimar powers past Demons
Kilmore stay perfect
Wallan treks to the coast
Kilmore clips Hawks’ wings
Len Baker’s Sulky Snippets: April 29, 2025
From the Boundary with Ray Carroll: April 29, 2025
Whittlesea Mental Health and Wellbeing Local is now fully operational
with a dedicated hub for Victorians aged 26 and above to access essential mental health and wellbeing services
As one of the inaugural Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals established under the State Government’s mental health initiative
the hub began as an outreach service operated by mental health organisation Neami National
Lived Experience Service Manager Alana Istanto said the hub was a welcoming space for many activities—whether that be taking a break and having a hot drink
“The first year was obviously to set the space up and provide outreach support
and knowing that there is a space for people to come to is a real privilege and feels great,” she said
“We’ve had a really good response to people who come into the space … it’s not waiting in a General Practitioner (GP) clinic or hospital
because a lot of the time the option would be to go to emergency if you are experiencing a mental health crisis
we get people who still come and think this is a really calm space
they’re greeted by our peer support workers.”
The service partners with Drummond Street Services and Victorian Aboriginal Health Services to connect lived experience workers and family practitioners with individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+
to provide support over a period of six to 12 months
For those facing challenges related to alcohol and other drugs (AOD) use
clinicians from Uniting Vic Tas are available to address the intersection of mental health and other underlying issues
Clinical Service Manager Kirsty Constable said the services available were not restricted to people’s visa status or access to a referral
“Anyone can walk in over the age of 26—anybody that wants mental health or wellbeing support,” she said
“They can either come in via the walk-in centre to get support during opening hours
we don’t make assumptions about what they want to focus on
so it’s very much based around what they want to prioritise.”
The hub will continue to offer outreach and phone support services
ensuring that individuals have access to the help they need
The new hub is located at 7/1 Danaher Drive
and Saturdays and public holidays 10.30am–6pm
For more information, call 1800 571 145 or visit www.neaminational.org.au/services/whittlesea-mental-health-and-wellbeing-local
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A man has detailed a frightening encounter on the roads
Caller John told Tom Elliott after tooting his horn on a road in South Morang
a machete was waved by a young man out the window
Click PLAY to hear more about John’s encounter
“There was a machete out the window being waved at me,” he explained on 3AW Mornings
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A woman found dead in Melbourne’s north-east has been remembered as “a gentle soul” who would help anyone
Nikkita Azzopardi’s body was discovered in a home on Reid Street
Victoria Police said a 33-year-old man – whom the Azzopardi family identified as Nikkita’s partner Joel Micallef – was arrested over her death
Azzopardi’s brother Shaun said his family grew concerned about his 35-year-old sister after she didn’t attend a family barbecue on Sunday
She then failed to respond to phone calls and text messages
went to Azzopardi’s home in South Morang on Monday morning
The brothers then went upstairs to find a door barricaded with chairs
a 35-year-old woman found dead in a South Morang home on Monday
had been in a relationship with Micallef for about 2½ years
The distraught Azzopardi family stayed at the scene sobbing for much of Monday afternoon
She was always a good listener,” Shaun said
She always saw the good … It just feels like a dream
Shaun Azzopardi on Monday.Credit: Justin McManus
Shaun described his sister’s partner as “an introverted guy”
Detective acting Senior Sergeant Shaun O’Connell
said the 33-year-old man arrested would be interviewed late on Monday
He said the cause of the woman’s death was still under investigation
The arrested man was not previously known to police
“Any scene that we go to where there’s a deceased person takes its toll on the emergency services,” O’Connell said
confirming some police officers were in tears
“In relation to the officers that are upset
Anyone who has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. Get it here.
This story has been updated after Shaun Azzopardi clarified he was with his brother Darren when they discovered their sister’s body
A woman found dead in Melbourne\\u2019s north-east has been remembered as \\u201Ca gentle soul\\u201D who would help anyone
Nikkita Azzopardi\\u2019s body was discovered in a home on Reid Street
Victoria Police said a 33-year-old man \\u2013 whom the Azzopardi family identified as Nikkita\\u2019s partner Joel Micallef \\u2013 was arrested over her death
Azzopardi\\u2019s brother Shaun said his family grew concerned about his 35-year-old sister after she didn\\u2019t attend a family barbecue on Sunday
went to Azzopardi\\u2019s home in South Morang on Monday morning
\\u201CI went through the door \\u2026 \\u201D he said
\\u201CI can\\u2019t get that image out of my head.\\u201D
had been in a relationship with Micallef for about 2\\u00BD years
She was always a good listener,\\u201D Shaun said
\\u201CShe just didn\\u2019t see the bad in people
She always saw the good \\u2026 It just feels like a dream
Shaun described his sister\\u2019s partner as \\u201Can introverted guy\\u201D
Detective acting Senior Sergeant Shaun O\\u2019Connell
from the Victoria Police\\u2019s homicide squad
He said the cause of the woman\\u2019s death was still under investigation
\\u201CAny scene that we go to where there\\u2019s a deceased person takes its toll on the emergency services,\\u201D O\\u2019Connell said
\\u201CIn relation to the officers that are upset
we\\u2019ll be giving our support to them.\\u201D
Anyone who has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at
Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens
This story has been updated after Shaun Azzopardi clarified he was with his brother Darren when they discovered their sister\\u2019s body
At the dinner seven members received long service awards including Life Member Adrian Backx who received a 40-year award
“The night was an extremely successful event
It provided the perfect mix of past and current members and allowed the brigade to reconnect with its history,” Captain Brent Sandlant said
The brigade has 50 members and 47 of those are operational
The brigade is co-located with Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV)
and turns out to about 130 incidents each year
“Recruitment has been fantastic recently,” Brent said
Almost 30 community members have joined in the past 24 months and having so many new members has brought a number of new skill sets into the brigade
Also the excitement of the newer members has helped reignite the passion of the older members
“The new members just want to serve the community
South Morang has a predominantly young demographic
with many people in their 30s and 40s who now have children leaving high school or university
“We are targeting young people with passion and we want to be in the position to challenge our new members to be the best they can be
the young people exceed all expectations,” Brent said
The area has seen dramatic population growth in the past few years
growing by 19 per cent between 2011 and 2021
South Morang brigade’s management team flagged this as an issue and in 2015 the brigade gained CFA career firefighters
the station was redeveloped to include sleeping facilities
“The brigade has prided itself in adapting to the changing needs of the community of South Morang
This is why the brigade made the decision in 2009 to be part of the Emergency Medical Response pilot program and we are still providing the service today
“Our EMR-trained members maintain their skills and are ready to respond throughout our area in order to support Fire Rescue Victoria in any means necessary.”
South Morang members are also specially trained to make LPG gas cylinders safe at incidents and cover a large response area well beyond the urban sprawl in order to carry out LPG flare-offs
Brent has been the captain of South Morang since last year
after a 12-month handover from the previous captain
“This was a really good mentoring process as the previous captain
had decades of experience which enabled me to hit the ground running,” Brent said
Brent is a fourth-generation firefighter and he has the passion to succeed
This was essential during the recent Fire Services Reform when once again South Morang Fire Brigade adapted to the changing needs of the community
“Following Fire Services Reform and then COVID-19
we reassessed the brigade’s role within the community and how we could support FRV effectively
We thought about what we wanted the brigade to be and one word kept being mentioned – we wanted passion.”
South Morang brigade members have attended many significant fires
including responses to Queensland and Beaufort and as part of CFA’s response to the Rochester and Echuca flood emergency
Brent is keen for his members to pass on their passion to others
“At South Morang we pride ourselves on being able to pass on knowledge and provide training opportunities to all our members with the expectation that in turn they help add their experience to the knowledge pool and pass it onto the next generation.”
This passing on of knowledge underpinned a number of brigade service awards on the night
including Firefighter of the Year Mitchell Ferris (who also won the Peer Award) and Captain’s Award winners Hayden Marshall
which is the first time the brigade has issued the award to three people in the same year
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A remarkable few years for South Morang has continued with the club winning the Northern Football League division 2 premiership on Saturday
the club was celebrating finally breaking through in division 3 after a number of near misses
before the club added just its third premiership to the cabinet and the first at this level
It means they will be in division 1 next season
Speaking the morning after the grand final
Lions coach Gary Hall said it still hadn’t sunk in what they had done
“All the efforts by a lot of people to get to this point
“The hardest thing about division 3 is getting out of it
Then those years of Covid held us back a little bit
“It gave the boys time to mature and grow as a footy club
“We’ll probably get a reality check when we line up against Heidelberg in round one or something next year.”
the match went down to the wire like the Lions previous two finals
The first final between South Morang and Diamond Creek went to extra time
Hall said the game was played in tough conditions
“It was fairly windy to one end of the ground and it was so slippery,” he said
“You go back to the three games that we’ve played during the year
I think we had a 10 minute patch in the third quarter when we kicked a few and that’s probably what won us the game really.”
The Lions led by seven points at quarter time and six points at the main break with it anyone’s game
Neither team kicked a goal for the first 22 minutes of the third quarter before the Lions kicked four quick ones to lead by 31 points at the final change
Hall said the message at the last break was to make sure that they held their nerves and don’t panic
“Don’t do things that you don’t need to do and if you hang on you have just created history
“They were all geed up with the reserves winning again as well
the boys to their credit held their nerve and hung on again.”
Hall said the grand final experience of the past few years had also helped them late
The Lions kicked the first goal of the last quarter before Diamond Creek kicked the next five to get within a goal
It would be too late and the Lions held on to create history
Nathan Stefanile was awarded the best on ground medal
It was special for the big man who missed the Lions division 3 premiership in 2022 through suspension
Hall said he was rapt to Stefanile and said it was perfect conditions for him
Tye Hall and Joshua D’Intinosante were other standouts
D’Intinosante finished with four goals and Tye Hall with two goals
Gary Hall said those guys can play well in any conditions and they lead by example
Hall said that the Sunday would likely involve watching the replays of both the seniors and reserves wins amongst the celebrations
He said they would have a weeks break before starting thinking about next year and being in division 1 for the first time
James Traianou and Mitchell Kalpakis were named in the division 2 team of the year
Xavier Dimasi and Taidgh Bland were also named in the team of the year along with Thomastown’s Youseph Dib and James Lucente and Laurimar’s Joel Lawson
The Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC) has an entertaining line-up for 2025 that will cater for all ages and families
PRACC is the City of Whittlesea’s cultural venue
providing a space for diverse programs of performance and events
offering the community to express themselves
The comedy line-up will have some household and up-and-coming comedians with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
or attendees can take in the majesty of ballet with Swan Lake from the Victorian State Ballet
Young people will also be enchanted with the antics of the Trash Test Dummies and Fritz children’s theatre
There will also be two nights of extraordinary performance by the local community with CAPOW: Moments of Magic and Crescendo
Deputy mayor councillor Daniela Zinni said the event was aimed at uniting people in the community
“PRACC’s 2025 Performance Season is all about bringing people together through the arts
and make lasting memories with friends and family,” she said
“The City of Whittlesea is proud to support a season that fosters creativity and strengthens community connections
Whether you’re a long-time arts lover or just looking for a great night out
Details: www.pracc.com.au/
This pre-loved clothing market offers a unique shopping experience that combines affordability
Get your shopping fix while helping reduce the environmental effects of fast fashion.
there will also be an area where you can donate baby clothes and textiles
Bring your own reusable coffee cup to get a free coffee
Apply for a stall
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The City of Whittlesea is getting ready to light up the night at Carols by Candlelight with festive music and holiday cheer on Friday 13 December
from 6pm to 9pm at the Civic Centre Lawns in South Morang
The night kicks off with an energetic performance by local stars Team Dream
Santa will make his way over from the North Pole to sprinkle some festive magic and spread cheer all round
And don’t miss the special performances by the talented Diamond Valley Brass Band and our 65-member Carols Community Choir
Thomastown resident Luke Condick joined the Community Choir when he was just nine years old
he is still part of the choir and loves being part of this annual event
“What I love most is the connection with everyone and just being together,” Luke said
Councillor Aidan McLindon said the event is a great opportunity for families and the community to get together to embrace the holiday season.
The Carols by Candlelight event is a free event for our community with entertainment
and of course a chance to join in with the traditional carol singing
“We had a fabulous turnout last year and this year looks set to be even bigger
Some of my greatest memories are of my first Christmas carols I went to as a five-year-old,” Cr McLindon said
you can also enjoy a twilight market full of handmade and local goodies to stock up on for all your Christmas gifts. Food trucks will be onsite for dinner and snacks
For more information and updates visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/carols
car collision sparks massive fireball in VictoriaMatt ShrivellThe Nightly1 Min Read25 Feb 2025Updated25 Feb 2025There are fears for the driver of a car after a fiery crash involving a truck at South Morang
Credit: 7NEWSEmergency services have been confronted with a horrific scene after a car collided with a truck sparking a fireball which killed a female driver
Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the fatal collision in South Morang in Victoria which occurred on Tuesday morning
It is believed a female driver was travelling along Gorge Road when she collided with a truck at about 9.30am
Get the first look at the digital newspaper
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Get the NewsletterBy continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The impact of the collision caused the car to burst into flames
but sadly she died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified
was arrested at the scene and is currently being interviewed by detectives
The exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing
Anyone who witnessed the collision or with footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Latest EditionEdition Edition 5 May 20255 May 2025All-powerful Anthony Albanese says give me some R.E.S.P.E.C.T
This is probably not the page you’re looking for
The boyfriend of a Melbourne woman has been arrested after she was found dead in her home by her brother who went searching for her when he couldn't get in contact
The family of accountant Nikkita Azzopardi
had been unable to reach her on Sunday night after she failed to show up for a family barbecue
Her brother Shaun said his dad went to the home in Reid Street at South Morang in the city's north last night to check on Ms Azzopardi
After several unsuccessful attempts to contact Ms Azzopardi by phone on Monday
her brother drove to the house and confronted her boyfriend
who allegedly said she was unwell and asleep
'I barged in there and my father and my brother tried to look for her,' Mr Azzopardi told reporters on Monday
'He barricaded the doors with chairs but I went upstairs and I went through the door and just saw my sister
who had been in a relationship for at least two years
she didn't see the bad in people and always saw the good,' he said
'You think it's not going to happen to you
but I'm not going to see my sister again.'
The last time Mr Azzopardi saw his sister alive was at his son's 15th birthday 10 days earlier
which she had arranged at a go-karting venue
my brother's state - how do you move past this
Homicide detectives are still piecing together what happened
who will be interviewed in relation to the death
Victoria Police Acting Senior Sergeant Shaun O'Connell expects investigators will be on scene well into the night
'They both spent time at this house but in relation to their living arrangements
investigations are still ongoing,' Sgt O'Connell said
'The exact nature of their relationship is still under investigation
'What I can confirm is that the parties are known to each other and that we aren't searching for anybody else in relation to this incident.'
Police confirmed the man was not known to them
A neighbour said a detective was brought to tears by the confronting scene
'He was crying … other police officers went around him and hugged him,' Tony Naggiar, 66, told the Herald Sun
Ms Azzopardi's relatives arrived at the scene on Monday afternoon and the street remains cordoned off
At least 70 Australian women and 14 children have allegedly been killed as a result of murder
according to the Red Heart Campaign which tracks and memorialises the deaths across the country
Police respond to reports of family violence every five minutes in Victoria - totalling more than 98,000 incidents in the 12 months to June - according to crime statistics
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Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC) is the largest theatre venue in Melbourne’s north
This famous arts and entertainment venue also offers its two theatres and multiple conference rooms for public hire
PRACC is ideal for a wide range of events including:
ground-breaking tool called Business Opportunities Explorer (BOE)
Whether you’re a start-up or an established business
These include noise filtering for the research stage
a single source of consolidated area information from VICPlan and the council
Situated close to Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) with excellent transport links and infrastructure
the City of Whittlesea provides great advantages for businesses seeking growth and expansion
This new tool shows the City of Whittlesea's position as a top destination for business investment
If your business is considering relocation
or if you work with businesses looking for new options
Use the Business Opportunities Explorer now
Watch the Business Opportunities Explorer video
The City of Whittlesea is the ideal location for businesses to trade locally
Prime industrial and commercial locations are ready for your business to leverage competitive advantages
Businesses considering their location can arrange a confidential discussion with the City of Whittlesea’s Investment Attraction team
Email: invest@whittlesea.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 9217 2170
Our municipality has state significant commercial
state and regionally significant industrial areas
as well as major activity centres to accommodate and support forecast population growth
Find out more about some of these precincts by hitting the Next button
Epping is one of nine Metropolitan Activity Centres in Victoria and is part of the Northern State Significant Industrial Area
Discover why Epping provides prime investment opportunities for your business
Set at Epping Metropolitan Activity Centre's heart
Epping Central is strategically placed between our southern established suburbs of Thomastown
and the growth areas corridor to the north
The area also has easy access to industrial land to the west
Epping Central will continue to create jobs and business opportunities in retail
The Cooper Street and O’Herns Road Employment Precinct is a significant employment area expected to generate more than 25,000 jobs at completion.
The precinct is a high-amenity location providing both industrial and commercial options
Both turnkey facilities and a range of lot sizes to design and build are available
Cooper Street and O'Herns Road Employment Precinct
The Cooper Street West and Cooper Street South West precincts present significant opportunities for future investment
Cooper Street’s role as a state-significant waste and resource recovery hub has been identified in the Statewide Waste and Resource Recovery Infrastructure Plan
This precinct will continue to service the local community and support initiatives to increase recovery and improved management of waste
Industrial opportunities are also available
Cooper Street South West offers a range of state-of-the-art warehousing and logistics facilities
with design and construction opportunities still available
These precincts provide opportunities for further employment growth and industry diversity with more than 200 hectares of industrially zoned greenfield land coming to market
These are expected to generate more than 6,000 jobs
Council is currently looking to attract effective
innovative and forward-thinking initiatives that will create a world-leading hub
New Epping will include a community of residential neighbourhoods
wellness and knowledge precinct all supported by a civic heart
The precinct spans 51 hectares of regenerated land adjacent to the Northern Hospital and the proposed Melbourne Food Innovation and Export Hubi
It is also home to the new Northern Private Hospital (currently under construction)
Set on 140 hectares of zoned land and located near the O’Herns Road diamond interchange
O’Herns Logistics Park is master-planned industrial employment precinct
Flexible land and building options are available
with purpose-built buildings designed and delivered to your specifications with a focus on sustainable design
Stage 1 includes land and construction packages with pre-leases and turnkey buildings
Artist Impression of Vearings Road Employment Precinct
Visit our Place Snapshot: Epping
The Thomastown Industrial Precinct is part of the Northern State Significant Industrial Area
It emerged as a major industrial location during the 1970s and has progressively developed in response to market demand
New businesses continue to relocate and expand, capitalising on the local development and rejuvenation.
Bundoora's University Hill is an award-winning mixed-use development
Designed to provide high amenity for workers and clients
Visit our Place Snapshot: Bundoora
The Victorian Government has identified Plenty Valley Town Centre as a major activity centre supporting a vibrant mix of uses and activities
Watch our Suburb Spotlight on South Morang
Visit our Place Snapshot: South Morang
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Kindergartens host information events each year
This gives you the chance to speak with kindergarten teachers and learn about the quality programs on offer throughout the municipality
please contact your local kindergartens directly.
Below is a list of kindergartens by suburb holding their Open Day on Thursday
Kool Kidz Mill Park – 49 Oleander Drive
Below is a list of kindergartens by suburb holding their Open Day on Saturday
The new Aboriginal Gathering Place is taking shape at the Quarry Hills Parkland in South Morang
Construction on the site began in July with spaces thoughtfully designed to honour and reflect the site’s deep cultural significance
The Aboriginal Gathering Place is fully funded by the City of Whittlesea and will feature indoor and outdoor multi-purpose spaces
including a large community events space for up to 100 people
consulting suites and meeting and quiet rooms
It is a part of Council’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation
which has recently been outlined in City of Whittlesea’s Aboriginal Action Plan 2024–2029
City of Whittlesea CEO Craig Lloyd said the plan provided a blueprint for supporting cultural
education and employment outcomes for Aboriginal residents in the local community
The Aboriginal Gathering Place’s building and landscape designs on Wurundjeri Country honour the ongoing cultural and spiritual connection the local Aboriginal community has to Country
"We are proud to have one of the largest Aboriginal populations in metropolitan Melbourne and we will work closely with Aboriginal residents
the Whittlesea Reconciliation Group and the community to ensure we achieve the plan’s goals.” – City of Whittlesea CEO Craig Lloyd
Whittlesea Aboriginal Gathering Place Advisory Group [WAGPAG] co-chair Karen Bryant said the site would serve as a centre for cultural learning
where both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people could gain knowledge about local Aboriginal history
Construction is expected to finish in mid-2025.
For more information visit Aboriginal Gathering Place
A man is being questioned by police after the body of his girlfriend was found by her brother who broke into a north-east Melbourne home following a concern for welfare on Monday
A heartbroken brother has struggled to hold back tears saying he "can't get that image" of his sister out of his head after finding her body in a north-east Melbourne home
Shaun Azzopardi was concerned about his sister Nikkita Azzopardi after she failed to turn up to a family BBQ on the weekend and had not answered his texts or calls
He turned up to his sibling's South Morang home on Monday morning
repeatedly knocking on the door of the property she shared with her partner Joel Micallef
Mr Azzopardi took matters into his own hands and smashed a window of the house and started looking around the home
He claimed to have found one of the doors of a room barricaded
and made his way inside where he made the grim discovery of his 33-year-old sister's body
"I went upstairs and went through the door and I just saw my sister
Mr Azzopardi also claimed Mr Micallef was home at the time when they searched
with the boyfriend telling the brother that his partner was "sleeping"
Mr Micallef was arrested by police and is being questioned over his partner's death
It is reported they had been dating for about two years
The father of Ms Azzopardi told the Herald Sun he had called Triple-0 hours earlier requesting police conduct a welfare check on his daughter after she did not respond
Family members of the hardworking accountant were seen in tears at the scene throughout Monday and were comforted by loved ones and the police
Victoria Police Acting Senior Sergeant Shaun O'Connell said investigations into the death continue
with forensic officers spending most of the day at the home
“They both spent time at this house but in relation to their living arrangements
investigations are still ongoing,” Sgt O’Connell told the media
“What I can confirm is that the parties are known to each other and that we aren’t searching for anybody else in relation to this incident.”
Anyone with information or may have witnessed an incident is being urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report it to crimestoppersvic.com.au
A fiery crash between a car and truck in Melbourne's north-east has left one woman dead and a man in police custody
A woman has tragically died after her car went up in flames following a collision with a truck in Melbourne's north-east
The fatal collision occurred at about 9.30am on Tuesday
as both vehicles traveled along Gorge Road in South Morang
Emergency services rushed to the scene and arrived to find the woman's care aflame
Despite the best efforts of first responders
she could not be saved and died at the scene
The woman is yet to be formally identified and Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are now investigating the crash
was arrested at the scene and is currently being interviewed by detectives," Victoria Police said in a statement
Victoria Police are urging anyone with relevant footage of the collision to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppers.com.au
The Lakes South Morang College has received a state award and is being considered for a national award for its Wakakirri performance
Wakakirri is Australia’s largest performing arts event for schools with more than 200 taking part this year
Participating schools are inspired by the Wakakirri ethos ‘great stories inspire change’ to create and perform story-dances that reflect students’ thoughts
The Wakakirri Festival Director Adam Loxley praised The Lakes South Morang College’s The Fabric of You performance as a standout
“The standard of performance and the stories being told by schools this year was exceptional and The Lakes South Morang College should be very proud of their award,” he said
The Lakes South Morang College performance coordinator Aimee Freind
said the event had a huge impact on the performing arts program
“The performing arts program and the chance to create a piece for Wakakirri have been transformative for our students,” she said
“The lockdowns took a toll on their self-esteem and confidence in performing
but these opportunities have allowed them to rediscover their passion and talent for dance and drama
We have witnessed our students shine in new ways
forging strong connections across all secondary year levels and demonstrating impressive commitment and determination
We are incredibly proud of their achievements and the meaningful work they have created.”
Wakakirri Ambassador Christopher Politis described the performance as “A powerful performance with a relevant message!”
The Wakakirri Story-Dance Festival is a national program that helps schools develop student engagement and wellbeing through participation in the performing arts
Schools participate by creating story-dances which they perform in live theatres in capital cities and selected regional areas around Australia
The Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) grand final was a test of the best
and when South Morang challenged Diamond Creek at the Preston City Oval on Saturday
the crowd were treated to an inspirational match
The metropolitan oval seemed sheltered from the extreme hail and wind sweeping across Victoria
but in Preston the conditions were favourable
Three South Morang teams made it into the 2024 grand final
The South Morang U19.5 team were defeated by St Mary’s by 31 points
while the Reserves defeated Diamond Creek by five points with Cayden Failla
and Ben Power named among the best players
The much anticipated opening bounce of the Seniors match between South Morang and Diamond Creek was contested by each team
South Morang’s Liam Jolly scored the opening goal
Tom Baird for Diamond Creek kicked the next
before South Morang’s Joshua D’Intinosante kicked another goal
It was a low scoring quarter but with plenty of action
Diamond Creek scored the first goal of the second quarter on the four-minute mark
and South Morang’s Bailey Brown replied with a goal
Diamond Creek players forced the ball to their end and Jett Mclaughlan rewarded them with a goal
South Morang’s D’Intinosante kicked two goals
and when the siren sounded to end the first term
South Morang finished in front by six points
Diamond Creek scored first with a behind after an intense three minutes
but the Lions exploded onto the scoreboard with four back-to-back goals
leaving Diamond Creek with a 31-point deficit to make up in the final quarter
the sun shone and D’Intinosante scored the opening goal for South Morang
Diamond Creek’s Ben Major scored their first goal
The Creekers had three back-to-back goals and were making a comeback
but they had no one in their forward 50 to pass it to
so Diamond Creek rushed it back to the country end and scored a point
To win the game Diamond Creek needed 11 points
Major was tucked away neatly in the forward 50 and he took a mark
making it his second for the day and reducing the Lion’s advantage to five points
The clock was ticking down and the shadows of the evening were creeping in
When Diamond Creek’s ruckman Robby Noble won the next tap
their side’s ball carriers created a much-needed point
Jesse John Christidis for the Lions had possession of the ball when the siren sounded
and every South Morang player rushed to pat their captain on the back
and the mob quickly attracted their families and faithful supporters
with South Morang defeating Diamond Creek 10.5 (65) to 8.11 (59)
Around 800 people viewed the game via the NFNL’s live stream on Facebook
Diamond Creek Coach Andrew Tranquilli congratulated the Lions
South Morang Coach Garry Hall said he felt for Diamond Creek and also thanked his players
The Best on Ground medal was awarded to Nathan Stefanile
Goal kickers were Joshua D’Intinosante with four
South Morang have won their first ever MC Labour Division 2 premiership in club history
outlasting Diamond Creek in a dramatic six-point triumph at Preston City Oval
Despite a contest filled with everchanging conditions
the final game of the 2024 Division 2 campaign lived up to the hype
and saw great moments of individualism from players of both sides
A four-goal burst in time on during the third term saw the Lions lead by 31 points at three quarter time
and after booting the opening major of the last quarter
South Morang looked well on their way to securing a comfortable premiership triumph
But the Creekers slowly reduced the deficit throughout the final term
kicking the final five goals of the match to suddenly reduce the margin to under a goal
before the Lions held their nerve in the closing moments to prevail 10.5 (65) to 8.11 (59)
With the final siren sparking pandemonium for fans at Preston City Oval
South Morang confirmed their place in the top flight for the first time since 1980
They did so by creating their status as ‘Kings of the close finish’
having won all three of their finals matches in 2024 by single digits
Nathan Stefanile put in a brilliant performance on the big stage
with his dominance in the ruck and even at ground level
proving pivotal to his side’s premiership success
He earnt a second Division 2 premiership medallion
as well as the best on ground medallion for his efforts on Saturday
Joshua D’Intinosante was just as impressive
He ends his finals series with 12 majors in just three games
Lions captain Tye Hall had some inspirational moments and kicked two crucial goals in the third term
while brother Kain was a consistent contributor across all four quarters
The pair are two of nine members of the senior squad who are now dual senior premiership players at the club
with his two last quarter goals seeing him be one of three multiple goalkickers for his side in the defeat
Northern Knights listed player Jett McLaughlan was lively and always involved in the action
while Robby Noble played multiple roles around the ground and was serviceable
Diamond Creek have now gone down in their last three Division 2 Grand Finals and have fell short in back-to-back deciders
Despite a heavy wind favouring the Market End of the ground in the lead up to the start of the game
the Creekers won the toss and opted to kick to the City End
Liam Jolly would kick off a hard-fought first term at the five-minute mark
creating something out of nothing in the ruck to slot the opening goal in just his sixth senior game of the season
With the Lions having all the early running
they would soon find a second through D’Intinosante and build a 13-point lead
however the Creekers were the better of the two sides later in the term
and were rewarded through a Tom Baird goal to help create a seven-point gap at quarter time
Andrew Tranquilli’s men were eager to capitalise in the second term and looked to do so early with Ryan Pingree marking and goaling just three minutes into the quarter
But the term would be another hard-fought slog in wet conditions
with neither side able to gain any great ascendancy
Bailey Brown and Jett McLaughlan would exchange goals courtesy of free kicks to see the scores level at the eight-minute mark
before Diamond Creek made another attempt to get on top of the contest
however they could only manage behinds from their flurry of inside 50 entries and would finish the term with 2.7
first against the run of play at the 12-minute mark
before he would boot his third of the game just moments before half time
when he pounced on a loose ball and snapped truly from congestion to set up a six-point half time lead for his side
After some more rain in the initial stages of the third term
With neither side having registered a goal inside the first 20 minutes of the third quarter
South Morang would turn the game on its head with a scintillating five-minute burst
scoring from long range to stretch the margin out to double digits for the first time since the opening stages of the first quarter
before Adam De Propertis then snapped through a brilliant goal barely two minutes later
with a move to the forward line after a quiet opening half paying dividends as he kicked back-to-back majors
The skipper’s moments of excellence helped establish what looked to be a game-winning 31-point lead at three quarter time for Gary Hall’s side
The result looked all but certain when D’Intinosante ran into the open goal and nailed his fourth major of the Grand Final just minutes into the last term
cueing some big celebrations from the Lions faithful
But South Morang would have to encounter a surge from Diamond Creek thereafter
as Andrew Tranquilli’s men were careful with possession and lethal on transition to kick three goals in 12 minutes and trim the margin to just 19 points
Having played a big role in wrestling momentum for his team late into the quarter
Barnes would get the Creekers to within two kicks following a clever snap from the pocket
would sail home the long-range set shot in between the big sticks to suddenly make it a five-point ball game
but it was the Lions who won an important clearance and held their nerve to keep the ball in their forward half in the last minute of the contest to finish the decider as six-point winners
capping off one of the most memorable Grand Finals in recent NFNL history
Only four teams remain undefeated in the NFNL Women’s Competition as the grading period came to an end on Sunday
reserves and under-19.5 game this weekend in the NFNL
The selected teams are in for this week’s NFNL senior football matches
was found by her family in South Morang on Monday
Police are questioning a man after the body of a woman was found by her family inside a Melbourne home
Emergency services were called to a home in South Morang
about 10am on Monday where they found the woman’s body inside
identified as 35-year-old Nikkita Azzopardi by her family
was found dead by her brothers and father after they could not contact her
Azzopardi’s brother Shaun said his father came by the Reid Street home on Sunday night to check on his daughter
After multiple unsuccessful attempts to contact Azzopardi by phone on Monday
“I barged in there and my father and my brother tried to look for her,” Azzopardi told reporters on Monday
He said he “went through the door and just saw my sister [dead]”
Azzopardi described his younger sister as a gentle soul who would help anyone
View image in fullscreenForensic investigators at the crime scene in South Morang on Monday
Photograph: James Ross/AAP“She’ll do anything for anyone … she didn’t see the bad in people and always saw the good,” he said
“You think it’s not going to happen to you
but I’m not going to see my sister again.”
The last time Azzopardi saw his sister alive was at his son’s 15th birthday which she had arranged at a go-karting venue
my brother’s state – how do you move past this
Victoria police acting senior sergeant Shaun O’Connell said he expected investigators to be on scene well into the night
“They both spent time at this house but in relation to their living arrangements
investigations are still ongoing,” Sgt O’Connell told reporters on Monday
“The exact nature of their relationship is still under investigation
“What I can confirm is that the parties are known to each other and that we aren’t searching for anybody else in relation to this incident.”
The victim’s relatives arrived at the scene on Monday afternoon and the street remains cordoned off
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Police are investigating a fatal collision in South Morang on Tuesday
It is believed a female driver was travelling along Gorge Road when she the car she was driving collided with a truck about 9.30am
The impact of the collision caused the car to burst into flames
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
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The 2024 MC Labour Division 2 Grand Final is set to be a magnificent contest at Preston City Oval
as South Morang look to make history with a second flag in three years and Diamond Creek aim to redeem themselves from their shortcomings 12 months prior
It’s been a finals series to remember so far for the Lions
who have defeated the top two sides in the previous three weeks by a combined total of 11 points to reach Saturday’s decider
Only two years ago was the club coming off a Division 3 premiership
and following a semi-final appearance last season
South Morang have established themselves as a true premiership contender in the last 12 months
Their run bares various similarities to Banyule
who prevailed in the 2017 Division 3 decider
before making a Division 2 preliminary final the following year
South Morang’s star players have come from all areas of the ground this season
but there has been few better in the entire competition than Tye Hall
His continuous ability to find the football in stoppages
while also being able to hit the scoreboard
has seen him been a real difference maker for this side
Joshua D’Intinosante and Joshua Lansfield have been exceptional in the club’s two finals matches so far and will be key players in their side’s premiership chances again on Saturday
D’Intinosante has kicked 22 goals in his five games for the Lions this year
He kicked five majors in a best on ground performance against the Creekers in the qualifying final and three majors in the second semi
Lansfield meanwhile has elevated his status as a match winner in the post-season
kicking the winning goal in extra time over Diamond Creek three weeks ago
while booting five in their triumph over Whittlesea the following Saturday
Having combined for 15 goals in the Lions’ finals outings this year
they’ll need to stretch the Creekers’ impressive defensive again if they’re to come away with a premiership
Gary Hall has his own talented defenders he can rely upon to shut down a Diamond Creek side who have won their previous two matches by 70 points or greater
The unit will be led by Coburg VFL listed star Deacon Kalpakis
who has been a superb interceptor again in 2024
The pair capability of shutting down their opposition’s firepower up forward will also go a long way towards their chances of a flag
South Morang have not been in the top flight since the DVFL’s last year playing as one division in 1980
and could create some incredible history if they can go all the way this weekend
But Diamond Creek are coming into this game with a vengeance
having fallen short in last year’s Grand Final despite a 17-1 home and away record
Their massive preliminary final triumph over top of the ladder Whittlesea would no doubt had sent a message to the Lions that they mean business
Their two most recent finals wins have seen them kick 80 points or more in consecutive weeks for the first time since May
meanwhile they have kicked more goals than points in their previous four encounters
In their 93-point preliminary final victory over Whittlesea last weekend
the most they’ve ever had in a game in 2024
It includes Toim Baird and Andrew Elward who have booted eight and six goals (from two games) respectively in the finals campaign
while goalkicking midfielders Tyler Barnes and Jacob Booth have also proven they can hurt teams on the scoreboard
Although the Creekers’ forward line has impressed in recent weeks
it hasn’t come close to their incredible defensive ability
which has played a large part in the club reaching the final match of the season
they have conceded just 46 total points and only five goals against
an extraordinary effort to go along with the fact that they averaged just under 46 points against throughout the home and away season
A host of players have made the Creekers the most disciplined defensive unit in the league
Matthew Lewis finished as his side’s best in the preliminary final over Whittlesea and has now been named in his side’s best in four of his last five matches
Full back Brenton Keating has done so in his previous four games
while captain Nathan Searl returned from injury last week and had a major influence in the defensive end also
The highest score Diamond Creek have conceded in 2024 is 10.13 (73)
which came from South Morang in their last match up in the qualifying final
all four of the Lions’ defeats this season have come when they have failed to score more than 70 points
which appears to be the magic number that the Creekers will be aiming to avoid South Morang reaching in order to prevent the number one attacking side in the competition from kicking a winning score
it will be their first senior men’s premiership since 2005
This will be their third decider since that day and will be more determined than ever to avoid another Grand Final defeat
both of whom have full squads to select from
all roads are leading towards this being one of the great MC Labour Division 2 Grand Finals this Saturday afternoon
man now in custody after ‘suspicious’ deathMax CorstorphanThe Nightly1 Min Read28 Oct 2024Updated28 Oct 2024Police have arrested a man after the body of a woman was located in an outer suburb early on Monday
Credit: 7NEWSA man has been arrested after the body of a woman was found in an outer suburb of Melbourne
with police treating the death as “suspicious”
Emergency services were called to a property on Reid Street in South Morang at around 10am on Monday
the located the body of a woman and confirmed her deceased
Get the NewsletterBy continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The woman has not yet been formally identified
Homicide squad detectives remained at the scene through the morning and early afternoon
Images from 7NEWS show a heavy police presence on the quiet suburban street
“The death is being treated as suspicious,” a spokesperson said
“The exact circumstances surrounding her death are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.”
A 33-year-old man from South Morang was arrested and will soon be interviewed by police
Police believe the two parties are known to each other
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
The Quarry Hills Connecting Trails project will allow residents and visitors to enjoy the landscape and views of the City of Whittlesea’s premier open space
The Quarry Hills Connecting Trails project will see a series of trails built to provide connections to the parkland precinct
Construction on the trails network started in early-to-mid 2024 and will deliver about 3.6 kilometres of walking and cycling paths through the parkland's natural environment
The trails range in length from about 300 metres to 1.5 kilometres and have estimated walking times of between 10 and 40 minutes
Watch the Quarry Hills Connecting Trails video:
The trails showcase the natural beauty of the parkland
as well as highlight its significance to the traditional owners of the land
The trails will also help break down some of the barriers preventing people from being physically active by being accessible to people of all ages
City of Whittlesea Chief Executive Officer Craig Lloyd and Member for Mill Park Lily D'Ambrosio MP officially turned the first sod on the project
The trails project allows visitors to access new lookout points and enjoy different perspectives of the views across the city and mountain ranges
The Quarry Hills Connecting Trails project is funded by the City of Whittlesea with support from the Victorian Government
including $1 million from the Suburban Parks Program and $322,000 from the Growing Suburbs Fund
The Quarry Hills Connecting Trails project is one of the three major projects – together with the Aboriginal Gathering Place and Granite Hills Major Community Park that will transform the parkland
quarry-hills-connecting-trails-map-2024.png
South Morang have pulled off a remarkable victory over Whittlesea in the MC Labour Division 2 second semi-final
holding on to win by six points at Epping Recreational Reserve to book a place in their first ever Division 2 senior men’s Grand Final
The Eagles were chasing for most of the afternoon despite leading by six points at quarter time and by 10 points halfway through the third quarter
South Morang would be 17 points to the good approaching time on in the last term
before the minor premiers would push a final time with back-to-back majors to reduce the deficit to under a goal
But no matter what challenges were thrown their way
the Lions had all the answers to finish 12.11 (83) to 11.11 (77) victors
Joshua D’Intinosante turned it on in the second half
putting in an impressive performance to help get his side over the line having rotated throughout the midfield and forward line
Having had a small spread of goalkickers against Diamond Creek last weekend
it’d be more of the in the second semi-final
with just five Lions hitting the scoreboard
but was outdone inside 50 by Joshua Lansfield
who finished as his side’s best after a massive three-goal final term to end the game with an equal senior career high five goals
Another to impress for the winning side was James Traianou
who’s run and carry proved to be invaluable on the wing
His ability to break the lines generated multiple scores for his teammates
Nathan Stefanile put together another dominant display in the ruck against his former side and would often drifting back to fill a hole in defence when called upon
Amassing plenty of inside 50s throughout the day
the Eagles did their best to keep their opponents at bay but would eventually come undone as the game wore on
Matthew Coen and Steven Dempsey were named in the best for Whittlesea
all of whom were impressive in the losing effort
Murphy in particular had one of his best performances of the season and was damaging in the middle of the ground
Gary Hall’s men got off to a far from ideal start
but managed to steady late and only trail by six points at the first change
Their ability to stay in the contest initially would put South Morang in good stead to respond in the second term
where they piled on four unanswered goals in the quarter
Whittlesea meanwhile would be kept goalless for the term
the first time in 2024 they would produce a quarter without a major
as they went into the main break down by 20 points
the game would break open in the third term
both sides opted to break the shackles and go for broke
Garry Ramsay’s men in particular would make a stand and boot the first five majors of the second half
But before Whittlesea could threaten to escape with a bigger lead
South Morang would again respond to the challenge coming their way and would regain their advantage after three quick goals
to take a five-point lead into the last term
Having kicked two majors earlier in the game
Lansfield would turn the game on its head in the fourth term
kicking his side’s next three majors helping maintain the Lions’ lead despite goals also being produced by the Eagles
After D’Intinosante extended the margin to 17-points at the midway point of the final term
the Lions looked to have one foot in the door of a Grand Final spot but would face one last scare from Whittlesea
Jack Morley would weave his wave out of congestion from close range to get his side within two kicks before Clancy Bland marked and goaled from inside the goal square in what would illustrate a major shift in momentum
On the defensive inside the final stages of the game
the Lions back six kept their nerve amidst a flurry of entries from their opponents
Deacon and Mitchell Kalpakis would put in some impressive defensive efforts late in the piece to ensure their side came away victorious
having now knocked off the top two sides in consecutive weeks to win their way to the final game of the 2024 season and a shot at a top flight berth
South Morang have prevailed in an all-time classic in the MC Labour Division 2 qualifying final
overcoming Diamond Creek by six-points in extra time at Epping Recreational Reserve
After the Lions led by four straight majors in the second quarter
a stunning Creekers comeback saw them hit the front in the last term
before the two sides traded blows in the dying moments of regular time
With scores level at the beginning of time-on
a Koby Davies set-shot goal beckoned to be the deciding goal
until Ben Major roosted the ball from outside 50 metres which went right in the middle of the big sticks
but no team could manage a score before the siren confirmed the anxiety of extra-time across the field of 36 exhausted players
Chances were fleeting in the two three-minute halves that followed
with Joshua Lansfield’s set-shot goal proving to be the knockout blow which clinched a dramatic 10.13 (73) to 10.7 (67) victory for the Lions
The result snaps a 10-game winning streak for Diamond Creek and sees them face the winner of tomorrow’s elimination final between Lower Plenty and Thomastown
while South Morang await a mouthwatering second-semi final clash with Whittlesea for a place in the Grand Final
It was the Lions’ inclusions which made the difference
with Joshua D’Intinosante enjoying a five-goal haul in his return from the Coburg VFL side
utilising his party-tricks to dazzle the Creekers defence
playing a key-role against Jacob Booth in midfield while also making numerous contributions in defence and attack
Kobe van Zwienen created immense tackling pressure and proved to be a vital cog in the transition ball-movement for the Lions
working tirelessly alongside James Traianou and Bailey Brown
Booth finished as his side’s best player and kicked two massive second half goals to help Diamond Creek force extra time
while Jack Empey and Joel Randall were excellent in defence
taking multiple intercept marks throughout the afternoon
After Tom Baird kicked the game’s first major
the Lions soon asserted their dominance over the contest
as Joshua Lansfield and Joshua D’Intinosante slotted back-to-back goals
Daniel Jarvis would soon respond with a set-shot
The star forward threatened the goals with every possession and by the quarter’s end had secured another two majors to bring his tally to three
the Lions looked to strengthen their foothold on the match as they kicked with the wind
18-year-old Jett McLaughlan emerged as one of the Creekers’ best performers
competing fiercely throughout the middle and forward-line
but a swarm of intensity from South Morang hamstrung Andrew Tranquilli’s men
Matthew Robinson bagged the first of the term
before D’Intinosante again surfaced to claim his fourth of the match
The Lions pummeled Diamond Creek to within their defensive half
but three consecutive behinds failed to distance the lead beyond a four-goal margin
when Baird kicked his second of the match in time-on
the Creekers headed into their rooms with belief and just a three-goal deficit to chase
After a textbook opening centre clearance and kick to the leading chest of Tyler Barnes
Diamond Creek would find themselves back within two goals
South Morang would again wrestle back control
but their wayward goalkicking proved costly
as a further four consecutive behinds left the door open for the opponents
Koby Davies ended the Lion’s hoodoo of seven behinds without a goal
but Jacob Booth’s brilliantly launched kick from outside 50 again kept the Creekers breathing down their neck
and the comeback began to look increasingly likely as Daniel Jarvis slotted his second
before Jack Empey claimed another to reduce the margin to just two points
The Creekers would continue their third quarter form to start the final term
as Ben Major launched a kick on the run from just inside 50
remarkably sending his side back into the lead for the first time since the opening moments of the match
South Morang regained dominance in the territory battle
but the Lions fans would have to wait through another string of consecutive behinds before Joshua D’Intinosante calmly slotted a set-shot from 30-metres to give his team the advantage again
before Koby Davies converted his set-shot to again give South Morang the lead
Ben Major would then mark on the pain of the 50-metre arc
he faced a monumental task to keep his side in the hunt
Major easily cleared the line of players on the goal-line and drew the game level once again
The ball dabbled in the forward-line of both sides
but chaotic last ditch defending saved the day each time
and an unsettling hush fell upon the ground as the final siren sounded
Both sides had only a brief moment to pick themselves up after 120-minutes of bone-crunching football
because with extra-time allocated at just two three-minutes halves
the roar was electric when Joshua Lansfield freed himself from his opponent and marked 30 metres from goal directly in front
The 23-year-old took his moment to put his side ahead and the Lions ended the first period of extra-time up by a goal
Knowing they only had to defend for a few minutes
South Morang put hoards of players behind the ball and slowed play at every opportunity
Diamond Creek committed their whole team forward
but in the congestion and panic of the closing moments
With the ball rattling along the outskirts of the Creekers forward 50
marking an astonishing victory for South Morang and ending one of the most memorable NFNL finals matches in recent memory