West Footscray Arts are proud to present a brand new festival set to transform Barkly Street into a vibrant hub of writers and readers from 28-30 March 2025.  From poetry in a wine bar and bookshop ramblings to library workshops and performances at a pizza restaurant immersive and entirely original celebration of storytelling in the west Participating authors include: Maxine Beneba Clarke For the full festival program and to book tickets visit: Footscray West Writers Fest The festival is proudly supported by Council's Signature Festivals and Activations Grants Program.  We acknowledge that we are on the traditional lands of the Kulin Nation We offer our respect to the Elders of these traditional lands and through them to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples past Footscray is as multifaceted and complex as a White Lotus storyline Six kilometres from the city at its nearest end the broader `burb has been mandated as an essential inclusion in any list of Melbourne’s conspicuously hip addresses since the late 1990s It hasn’t been a purely upward story – partly thanks to the pandemic and some interesting development decisions in central Footscray – but the latest chapter in its ongoing tale has seen West Footscray break out of the blocks to seize a starring role as it’s known to locals and real estate agents keen on buzzy contractions is the suburban riposte to the main Barkly Street bustle It’s where you’ll find the family homes and their supportive ecosystem of primary schools Browse Domain’s property and lifestyle magazines a classic Footscray pub with a smart modern reno and a people-pleasing menu “A real point of difference in Footscray is that it has a diverse cross-section of people,” says venue manager Pete Evans “West Footscray is where a lot of our guests come from and they want a night out that won’t kill the budget Footscray’s geography also plays a part in The Plough’s destination venue status “A lot of regional people from Ballarat or Geelong will come in for meet-ups with their Melbourne family Being in the inner west makes it really convenient; it’s not unusual to get three tables of 20 on a Saturday afternoon.” Want the locals’ lowdown on West Footscray? The Instagram account @west-footscray-life has all the goss on the area’s good With Taylor Romao from Jas Stephens Real Estate  I have two go-to spots for a caffeine injection: Dumbo Cafe on Argyle Street, which also makes a fantastic egg and halloumi roll, and Migrant Coffee on Barkly Street, which also has an incredible line up of bagels. Crossing the hipster line: why Thornbury is overtaking neighbouring Northcote as the place to be Brunswick East: From daggy neighbourhood to downright cool Sought-after Victorian tree-change towns where house prices are on discount Only eight kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD, West Footscray is quickly becoming one of our city’s hotspots. This part of Footscray is known for its mix of period homes and modern townhouses, good transport links and its vibrant and welcoming community atmosphere.  With its mix of residential appeal in modern construction and period-style homes, excellent transport links, and its growing amenities and gentrification, West Footscray is capturing the attention of first-home buyers, investors and young professionals alike. 3 Baths1 ParkingView listing The rooftop gracing this smart new townhouse is a stunner – a full-sized, second floor eyrie featuring a built-in outdoor kitchen, a covered seating area and plenty of space to soak up the rays or get your garden started. There’s also a decent sized balcony enhancing the first floor open-plan kitchen and living area. 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Program.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe proposal is for a 2.72ha site at 1 McArthur Street and 63 Sunshine Road West Footscray.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe developer confirmed the project had a development cost of $800 million and an expected end value of $1 billion.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA subdivision permit has already been granted by the City of Maribyrnong Council.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn the site that fronts Sunshine Road and McArthur Street is a four-storey warehouse the Goldsbrough Mort and Co Ltd Woolstore building.\u0026nbsp; To the south of that warehouse is a single-storey annexed building and 9720sq m of vacant land that fronts McArthur Street to the west and Indwe Street to the south.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site is within the West Footscray Core Employment area and Tottenham Railway Station is 600m away.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGreenbox Architects has designed the plans for the four-storey data centre vehicle entry along the north side of the building administration and plant services space as well as two substation areas and a data hall.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTwo more data halls plant service and administration rooms are planned for the first floor plant service and administration space on the second floor.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCentral Godown Pty Ltd is listed as the applicant Melbourne.\",\"alt\":\"Greenbox Architects' render of Perri Projects' data centre project at 63 Sunshine Road in West Footscray Melbourne.\",\"imageDesc\":\"Greenbox Architects' render of Perri Projects' data centre project at 63 Sunshine Road in West Footscray Lendlease’s third residential building in the Collins Wharf precinct of Victoria Harbour.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 28-storey building at 971 Collins Street in Melbourne’s Docklands will deliver 312 homes in a mix of one two and three-bedroom apartments as well as townhouses and penthouses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to Lendlease the project has already secured more than 50 per cent in presales.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHickory is the construction contractor—it completed the precinct’s first development in 2019 and is also working on LendLease’s second tower Regatta.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor Ancora Hickory is implementing several technical construction methods including various piling techniques and precast concrete solutions that enable a parallel-track construction program.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe building’s facade designed by architect Warren and Mahoney uses a three-stage design incorporating double-glazed glass and textured precast concrete with Reckli and brick finishes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe structural design transitions from a solid podium base to lighter upper levels “reflecting a maritime theme” aligned with the Collins Wharf design objectives.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAncora will connect to the neighbouring Regatta development via a podium allowing resident access to shared amenities.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned as an all-electric building that includes electric vehicle infrastructure the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star certification Completion is expected in 2027.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRegatta including build-to-rent and build-to-sell units.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtensive wharf works including remediation of pre-existing wharf piles installation of raker piles and construction of the extension to Australia Walk are also part of the project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTechnical challenges include constructing on the finger wharf and co-ordinating extensive above-wharf road reserve and public parkland works.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Collins Wharf precinct will ultimately comprise six residential buildings of more than 1800 homes surrounded by over 5000sq m of parks and community space.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease is developing the parkland concurrently with the residential components including the extension of Australian Walk that forms part of the City of Melbourne’s Greenline project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease executive director of development Adam Williams said Collins Wharf “is fast becoming a sought-after address .. which took just a handful of hours to emerge on Saturday night the Coalition’s failure to sway voters has come under intense scrutiny.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIts lack of policies around property that resonated with voters has been a large part of that criticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong those policies was a $5-billion infrastructure program to unlock up to 500,000 new homes was greeted with no small amount of scepticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Coalition also campaigned on its previously revealed plan to allow first home buyers to draw down on their superannuation giving access to up to $50,000 to help fund mortgage deposits.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile that proposal had won some support it got the thumbs down from many of Australia’s top economists who said the measure could prove highly inflationary among other issues.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimilarly its plan to allow mortgage interest for first home buyers to be tax-deductible was roundly criticised for its likely inflationary and regressive effects.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt has also been pointed out that the Coalition’s rejection of the Green’s policies around housing supply affordable housing and help for renters did it no favours.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe ALP went to the polls spruiking an extension of schemes introduced during its previous term including a $10-billion promise for its first-home buyers’ scheme to encourage 100,000 more homes.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt also had its Help to Buy shared equity scheme under which the Government pays up to 40 per cent of the house price to point to.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf it was these policies per se or the lack of detail and depth to the Coalition’s the nation's ready for the Albanese government to act.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is clear been endorsed to follow through on its policies and fix the crisis that is crippling the Australian property sector.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs Urban Taskforce Australia chief executive\u0026nbsp;Tom\u0026nbsp;Forrest has pointed out it is time for the Federal Government to get back to work.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Housing affordability and housing supply featured large during the campaign,” Forrest said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“The key now is for the Government to strike while the iron’s hot.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“If legislation is needed to support the delivery of Labor’s $10-billion 100,000 new homes commitment—then pass it through the parliament now and get on with it.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe states have made many changes to how they enable home development The Federal Government’s support of that is crucial to its success material supply assistance or any other factor that affects getting homes out of the ground.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis has been a pivotal election Then Cities for Total Fan Immersion\",\"slug\":\"billionaire-arsenal-rams-denver-nuggets-sports-anchored-precincts\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-04-30T00:00+10:00\",\"tags\":[],\"summary\":\"Why your next home might be stadium-adjacent; sports are the hook The plans for the PMDC data centre are now before the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning through its fasttrack option The proposal is for a 2.72ha site at 1 McArthur Street and 63 Sunshine Road The developer confirmed the project had a development cost of $800 million and an expected end value of $1 billion A subdivision permit has already been granted by the City of Maribyrnong Council On the site that fronts Sunshine Road and McArthur Street is a four-storey warehouse the Goldsbrough Mort and Co Ltd Woolstore building To the south of that warehouse is a single-storey annexed building and 9720sq m of vacant land that fronts McArthur Street to the west and Indwe Street to the south The site is within the West Footscray Core Employment area and Tottenham Railway Station is 600m away Greenbox Architects has designed the plans for the four-storey data centre two fuel storage rooms and an administration room would be on the lower ground floor There would also be parking for 49 cars and 15 motorbikes accessed via McArthur Street The ground floor would have a loading dock administration and plant services space as well as two substation areas and a data hall plant service and administration space on the second floor Central Godown Pty Ltd is listed as the applicant which has joint ownership of the site with Albert Kennedy Pty Ltd according to the title deed Perri Projects director David Scalzo is listed in ASIC records as the director of Central Godown Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time Maribyrnong City Council and gas giant BOC are being sued over a West Footscray chemical blaze that was the worst industrial fire in Melbourne in more than two decades The lawsuit has been brought by Danbol Pty Ltd the company that owns the sprawling rented warehouse that had allegedly been illegally packed with hundreds of drums of chemical waste and acetylene gas cylinders before it caught fire and burnt for nearly two weeks in August 2018 A 2018 industrial fire in West Footscray sent a toxic plume over the city.Credit: MFB who rented the property through a company called Delacor Pty Ltd is set to face criminal trial over the circumstances of the fire early next year White is also due to stand trial over allegedly illegal stockpiles of chemical and industrial waste found at numerous sites around Melbourne and near the town of Kaniva in western Victoria as the landlord of the property in Somerville Road claims in its lawsuit that the local council and the alleged source of the cylinders were negligent by failing to stop the stockpiling that contributed to the fire’s outbreak Lawyers for Danbol are claiming council inspection officers found gas cylinders at the site three weeks before the fire broke out but failed to notify authorities about the presence of the potentially flammable waste at the unlicensed location “At all relevant times the council knew that such gas cylinders were potentially hazardous and/or flammable and knew or ought to have known that storing the gas cylinders was itself hazardous and further that even if empty could represent a potential fire hazard,” the lawsuit filed in the Supreme Court says The aftermath of the fire at the West Footscray factory.Credit: Joe Armao “The council breached its duty of care in that it failed to make appropriate enquiries as to whether or not the gas cylinders contained flammable or hazardous gas; and/or inform all relevant regulatory authorities that the gas cylinders were present at the warehouse.” Maribyrnong City Council declined to comment because the matter is the subject of legal proceedings along with containers of flammable liquid waste were inside the West Footscray property when it caught fire The address is also frequently referred to as the suburb of Tottenham At a separate site owned by White near the town of Kaniva, Environment Protection Authority clean-up crews have allegedly recovered more than 52,000 gas cylinders The lawsuit from Danbol also names BOC Ltd as a party claiming the company should have been aware that its product was being stored at an allegedly illegal site and potentially unsafely BOC also declined to comment on the case because the matter is before the courts “BOC remains committed to complying with all applicable laws wherever we operate,” a spokesperson said Danbol is registered to Shepparton accountant Christopher James Baldwin who has business links to the Hells Angels motorcycle club The Age does not suggest Baldwin has done anything illegal Baldwin was once a partner in a now-defunct accountancy firm with Melbourne Hells Angels East County chapter bosses Peter “Skitzo” Hewat and Stephen “Stiffy” Rogers Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter were negligent by failing to stop the stockpiling that contributed to the fire\\u2019s outbreak \\u201CAt all relevant times the council knew that such gas cylinders were potentially hazardous and/or flammable and knew or ought to have known that storing the gas cylinders was itself hazardous and further that even if empty could represent a potential fire hazard,\\u201D the lawsuit filed in the Supreme Court says \\u201CThe council breached its duty of care in that it failed to make appropriate enquiries as to whether or not the gas cylinders contained flammable or hazardous gas; and/or inform all relevant regulatory authorities that the gas cylinders were present at the warehouse.\\u201D At a separate site owned by White near the town of Kaniva Environment Protection Authority clean-up crews have allegedly \\u201CBOC remains committed to complying with all applicable laws wherever we operate,\\u201D a spokesperson said Baldwin was once a partner in a now-defunct accountancy firm with Melbourne Hells Angels East County chapter bosses Peter \\u201CSkitzo\\u201D Hewat and Stephen \\u201CStiffy\\u201D Rogers Start the day with a summary of the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories Perri Projects redeveloping 2.72 hectare site in Maribyrnong Another data center is being planned in Melbourne As reported by the Urban Developer investment firm and property developer Perri Projects has filed plans for a data center in West Footscray The proposal is for a new four-story data center on a 2.72-hectare site at 1 McArthur Street and 63 Sunshine Road The site is currently home to a four-story warehouse known as the Goldsbrough Mort and Co Ltd Woolstore building which would be located close to NextDC’s M3 facility The plans for the Perri Melbourne Data Centre are now before the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning through its fast-track option which has joint ownership of the site with Albert Kennedy Pty Ltd Greenbox Architects has designed the plans for the project “Sited adjacent to the heritage-listed Goldsbrough Mort & Co Woolstore warehouse in West Footscray, the Perri Melbourne Data Centre was designed as a modern interpretation of the heritage facade to the rear,” Greenbox said on its project page “A rhythm of brick bands and glazed panels intersected with strong vertical columns gives the data center a strong presence on Sunshine Road The Goldsborough Mort Woolstore is listed as of regional historical and architectural significance “This and the adjoining Australian Estates wool stores represent the height of the development of the wool and pastoral industries in Victoria,” according to the Victorian Heritage Database “The scale of the architecture of these buildings reflects the prosperity of the firms and the great contribution of the wool industry to Australia's trade and growth in the post-war period.” Goldsbrough Mort & Co was an Australian agricultural business that dates back to the 1840s; after a series of mergers Part of the wool store site was previously approved for redevelopment by Perri for a project that would include warehouses Perri Projects is a Melbourne-based private investment and property development group; the company is involved in industrial and residential developments across the city Data Centre Dynamics Ltd (DCD), 32-38 Saffron Hill, London, EC1N 8FH Email. [email protected]DCD is a subsidiary of InfraXmedia Aangan in Footscray is a true success story in the Indian culinary scene With an interior reminiscent of Indian culture the goal at Aangan is to transport one back to India not just through the ambience but the skilfully and artfully prepared dishes tossed in a wok and flavoured with mustard seeds and curry leaves garnished with cashews and served on a sizzling platter while vegetarians can enjoy onion rings coated in batter and fried and highlights dishes from all across India we recommend you try the chilli gobhi — a batter-fried cauliflower tossed in chilli sauce with a side of egg chowmein including favourites such as butter chicken and lamb korma These range from a hot vindaloo to a cool coconut with ground spices The dessert menu is not to be missed either with local favourites amongst the classics Aangan prides itself on its excellent service and attention to detail while the ambience of the room itself embraces the elegance of a time-gone-by India With space for large bookings and an excellent catering service Aangan is a top fixture in the Footscray culinary scene Be sure to book for weekends as they regularly pack out View more events Please log in or subscribe to access all of Books+Publishing's premium content Purchase a subscription to access Books+Publishing‘s premium content We now offer a pay-by-the-month subscription Click here to see our range of subscription options Subscribe By clicking LOGIN, you are accepting terms and conditions and allowing cookies to identify your browser and keep you logged in. (See the privacy policy.) please click the button below to activate your service Check IP access Category: Festivals Local news We can't find the page you are looking for Please try again using the search feature at the top of our website or contact us for assistance Return to our home page or why not visit one of our other sites: Where to Find Australia’s Best Inner-City Bakeries By Katya Wachtel By Katya Wachtel By Matheus but few are as nerdy and obsessive about drinks as this two-storey bar and bottle shop in bustling Nicholson Street Mall Want to drink local skin-contact wine or something by one of Europe’s most revered natural labels an obscure mezcal or creative house-made non-alcoholic option The venue’s main attraction is a set of 24 taps pouring not just beer but cider you don’t have to be a drinks aficionado to have a good time here this quality has made it a popular hangout for local students and families who favour the picnic tables out front to sip easy-drinking beers and watch the action on the mall Inside there are comfy booth seats and an upstairs courtyard that catches good afternoon sun and a ploughman’s board generous enough for a small crew Mr West is also walking distance to Footscray’s longstanding banh mi shops Website: mrwest.com.au We do not seek or accept payment from the cafes bars and shops listed in the Directory – inclusion is at our discretion Venue profiles are written by independent freelancers paid by Broadsheet Bakeries and Restaurants That Opened or Closed in April 32 of the Hottest Dishes and Drinks in Melbourne Right Now Menu Reveal: Five Things To Order at Junda Khoo’s Ho Liao First Look: Filipino Pop-Up Palay Moves to Fitzroy for Good 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 shops and events with this local's guide to the cool westside 'burb When they came up with the phrase ‘west is best’ they must have been thinking about Footscray This inner-city suburb is the brightest jewel of Melbourne’s west primarily thanks to the migrant communities that have come to call Footscray home A melting pot (or wok pan) of cultures spanning from Vietnam to Ethiopia have given the suburb touches of their home countries which means you can scoop up a goat curry with fresh injera slurp up pho and hunt down the best cannoli in town all in the same street When Footscray was voted the coolest neighbourhood in Melbourne in 2019 one Time Out reader put it best: “It’s multicultural and it’s cheap(er) and has fewer annoying wanker bros than other parts of the city.”  We asked the staff at Footscray Community Arts Centre (FCAC) for their top picks of Footscray so look out for them in the below sections The suburb is well served by train – Footscray station is planted right in the thick of things you can go further west towards Middle Footscray and West Footscray stations The 82 tram also runs toward Barkly Street via Gordon Street.  Seddon and Yarraville are further south and Ascot Vale and Kensington are to the northeast Maidstone and Highpoint Shopping Centre are close by as well Grab a bánh mì from Nhu Lan and a cannoli from T Cavallaro and Sons and hop down to the sloping patch of grass near Footscray Community Arts Centre to enjoy the sunset It’s one of the best views of the CBD skyline in all of Melbourne.  Photograph: Graham DenholmArguably one of Melbourne’s finest bánh mìs can be found at Nhu Lan Bakery (116 Hopkins St) resulting in an impossibly crusty exterior (that will inevitably end up in shattered pieces all over your shirt) and a soft internal cushion for house-made butter Bernadette Fitzgerald, senior producer at FCAC says it’s the best bánh mì in the business Tan Thanh Loi (73 Nicholson St) has a menu as long as an encyclopedia in favour of the easy-to-eat but hard-to-master com tam (broken rice) lemongrass marinated pork chops and chicken marylands are grilled and sliced before crowning a mound of broken rice accompanied by pickles meatloaf and fresh slices of cucumber and tomato served alongside a piquant bowl of nuoc mam cham sauce which ties together every element of this generous plate of rice One of the most popular Ethiopian restaurants in the area, Ras Dashen (247 Barkly St) is the top pick from Vyshnavee Wijekumar marketing manager at FCAC. It specialises in “delicious authentic food with a down-to-earth community vibe" Vietnamese food is the most popular cuisine found in Footscray, but the Chinese influence is not to be overlooked. Roti Road (189/193 Barkly St) is run by a Malaysian-Chinese family who love to insert a bit of theatrics to the dining experience spin and throw tissue-thin sheets of roti around the room before running back into the kitchen to cook it for you Each serving of roti canai comes with sambal Late-night eat? The no-frills Amasya Kebab House (134 Nicholson St) has delicious kebabs and other Turkish eats Pho Tam (Shop 1 7-9 Leeds St) isn't the most modern restaurant in Footscray with its wear and tear unashamedly on display But that just means it is one of the most loved Vietnamese joints in the suburb with beef and chicken broths built on a mix of sweet spices and adorned with your choice of sliced or poached meats but it is by no means the only dish that it produces well Co Thu Quan (Shop 11 & 12/10 Droop St) serves more familiar Vietnamese dishes like pho and rice paper rolls but it specialises in northern dishes that are less visible in Melbourne Vietnamese restaurants Try the signature rice paper salad – sheets of rice paper are moistened kumquat and a hard-boiled quail egg.  Photograph: Arianna Harry PhotographySlice Girls and Back Alley Sally’s (4 Yewers St) are where you want to be on a Friday night for drinks and pizza Part bar, part bottleshop Mr West (106 Nicholson St) has been a Footscray fave since it popped up in 2017. In lockdown, the team won a Time In Award for its takeaway booze offering which includes 1.5L bags of Espresso Martini.  Hop Nation (6/107-109 Whitehall St) is an independently owned brewery by former winemakers Sam Harbour and Duncan Gibson They have no shortage of barrel-aged brews in the works – a call back to their winemaking background with their small-batch beers made using natural ingredients with no fining or pasteurisation and minimal filtration.  As we mentioned early, the old Franco Cozzo building (54 Hopkins St) has recently transformed into a Wild West-themed saloon complete with a bucking bull more than 100 taps and enough room for 800 cowboy hat-wearing patrons For a touch of British nostalgia and natty wines, head to Bar Thyme (227 Barkly St). As is the case with all great locals the bar’s philosophy is that everyone and anyone’s welcome to drop by for an interesting bevvie.   Photograph: Kristoffer PaulsenOn the Irving Street strip, you'll find Konjo Café (89 Irving St) serving up large platters of pulse-based curries on large plates of spongy cabbage and beetroot are cooked down individually with spices and are scooped up onto a platter of Ethiopia's traditional bread for $25 But it’s the coffee you really need to try It’s served traditionally out of a clay pot and poured at the table to accompany the rib-sticking meal.  It’s always busy, but according to Urvi Majumdar, creative workshops producer at FCAC, the coffee at Footscray Milking Station (35 Bunbury St) is tops but efficient – and it’s a lovely place for brunch too,” says Majumdar.  Cheralyn from FCAC says that some of the best Vietnamese coffee can be found at Scarlet Corner (157/81 Hopkins St) in Footscray Market Photograph: Jody HaineFootscray Community Arts Centre (45 Moreland St) has well and truly earned its stripes as an institution – not just in Footscray from the curious to the established artist and has a day program for people with disabilities to get involved in artistic experiences The centre is a perpetual buzz of activity – there are often exhibitions dedicated to West Melbourne where you can view the area through the eyes of artists that call Footscray home as well as exhibitions curated from the broader global community.  Laze about on the FCAC lawn and check out those primo city views then take a walk north along the Maribyrnong River the port and the Quang Minh Buddist Temple.  Another great place to hang out in Footscray is Maddern Square (2 Chambers St) Vy from FCAC says it’s a great quiet spot with cool public art – and it’s within walking distance of all the eateries Photograph: Graham DenholmIn the centre of Footscray lies cavernous fresh food market Footscray Market (18 Irving St) You’ll have to have your wits about you when you’re picking out your sawtooth coriander or fresh globe artichokes because if you’re dawdling you will most likely be run over by an old woman and her trolley stocked with fish heads while the seafood hall is a riotous fight over South Australian scallops still in the shell T Cavallaro and Sons (98 Hopkins St) is a 65-year-old pasticceria that proudly claims to make the best cannoli in Melbourne fried shells are displayed in the window and filled to order with pastry cream or ricotta so each cannolo avoids being moisture logged you will get mowed over on the weekends by families picking up their cannoli towers built specially for birthdays christenings or any celebration that requires a cannoli tower Wholesale vegetarian food supplier Vincent Vegetarian Food (353 Barkly St) is also a must-visit Cheralyn from FCAC recommends it for the groceries but also the plant-based alternatives to popular Asian dishes and mock meat Mesnoy Injera Bakery (77 Irving Pl) is Melbourne's first Ethiopian grocery store Not only does it stock a wide range of spices but Mesnoy also makes injera – the fermented spongy bread synonymous with Ethiopian cuisine – with teff Packets of these platter-sized breads sit behind the counter; just request them from Karim Degal and his mother who run this community-driven grocery store Photograph: SuppliedSleepless Footscray Festival this month-long festival of public art music and unexpected activations brings dormant laneways and forgotten indoor spaces to life transforming them into inviting nightscapes Expect a mammoth program of surprising events showcasing local talent 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 The transformation of Council’s former nursery site in West Footscray is well underway with Stage one of the Lae Street Nursery reconstruction now complete The project aims to convert the site into a vibrant community park catering to expressed community needs for a space that is both playful and contemplative Council approved the Concept Plan at the end of 2023 The new parkland was co-designed with community members who shared their ideas and developed a vision to bring the former nursery site to life Key elements of the stage one works include: A recent planting day marked a milestone in the stage one works enhancing the transformation process through the addition of greenery in the space for our community to enjoy for years to come The 2024/25 Budget includes funding for stage two works which includes the construction of a shelter over the gathering circle as well as a nature trail and garden bed planting behind the gathering circle These works are due to commence in early 2025 this area has been mulched until the permanent treatment is undertaken For more information and updates on the Lae Street Nursery project Concept Plan, visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/LaeStreetNurseryStage1 As scenes of angry locals and Liberal MPs protesting outside a Brighton hotel against state government plans to build high density housing in their suburb went viral last Sunday night social media was quick to lampoon the protesters as ‘NIMBY’s’ it’s a label often applied to those who support housing and infrastructure development except when it’s in their neighbourhood While concerns have been expressed in some of the 50 other suburbs earmarked as housing ‘activity centres’ in the government’s plans the opposite response of welcoming high density housing or saying ‘Yes In My Backyard’ (YIMBY) “I suppose I’d describe myself as in the YIMBY camp,” said West Footscray resident Alex Di Giorgio who lives with his wife and two children about a kilometer from the train station where high rise apartments could be built West Footscray station is one of three locations in Maribyrnong identified as housing activity centres where high density housing developments will be encouraged Rather than being concerned about the prospect of thousands of new residents moving to West Footscray In the name of equity people have the right to live near services and where they work,” he said adding that a bigger population could actually enhance the area “My opinion is that if anything it’s going to increase the livability if there’s more people there’s going to be more services and it’s going to be a more exciting place to live.” Like others broadly supportive of the plans though they really need to avoid a repeat of that.” The Footscray apartment precinct was recently described by Maribyrnong council as an example of what not to do when it comes to high density sealed roads and other essential infrastructure a decade after it was first first built “I take that route (cycling) to work and it’s really dangerous,” said Mr Di Giorgio of Joseph Road adding “I’d hope the state government had learnt its lesson.” so the page you are looking for may have changed location  Please try the search bar at the top of the site or contact us for support The West Footscray resident tells Cade Lucas about his life in Maribyrnong I was born in England and came to Australia as a child became a primary teacher and taught mainly in the bush until I decided I needed a promotion and needed to move to Melbourne My school was Middle Park Primary School and it was too dear to buy a high house there so I looked around and bought a house in West Footscray It’s cosmopolitan and there’s everything here you need People are friendly and in no way standoffish After the quietness of the country I kind of preferred city life I’d like to see our team win more games (The Western Bulldogs) I don’t like so much the high rise (towers) that are going up now What was part of our local identity was all the small houses and close togetherness of people and we’re losing a bit of that I understand people need somewhere to live though and high rise is what some people want Where is your favourite local place to spend time I just got back from a walk along the Maribyrnong River I have a carer that comes once a week and we go for a walk along the river or sometimes Cruikshank Park (in Yarraville) Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you In my career as a marriage celebrant I’ve solemnised over 5000 weddings and also with funeral services I’m still writing poetry and just published my fifth book of verse I sent some copies of my poems over to England to the Royal Society of Literature in London and they sent back a letter saying my poetry was fascinating Council has welcomed a $5 million commitment from the Federal Government to support the design phase of Creative West – a proposed new vibrant cultural precinct in Footscray – with funding to be matched by Council The funding was announced this morning by the Hon Council has been advocating for some time for the Creative West project – which is premised around a contemporary library and learning hub large-scale flexible performance/events venue and open space to support creatives and inspiring audiences that will also stimulate and drive economic employment and business activation well into the future has thanked the Commonwealth support for the visionary project which will create much needed improved infrastructure in Footscray to ensure our creative industries and community continues to thrive “Maribyrnong boasts a rich and diverse arts scene and is home to arts organisations of state is recognised as a creative hub within the Western Metropolitan Region,” Mayor Tiwari said “Creative West is about improving access to a range of cultural and community spaces and supporting our growing community in experiencing all of Victoria’s cultural offerings This funding is another step towards realising this important project,” Mayor Tiwari continued The $5 million funding from the Federal Government will be complemented by a $5 million contribution from Council and will support the establishment of an advisory steering group – made up of community stakeholders including representatives from Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and local traders – along with design initiation and schematic and detailed design in preparation for future construction The Commonwealth commitment for the Metropolitan Activity Centre in Footscray is part of an $8.8 million investment in projects across Victoria under the Federal Government’s urban Precincts and Partnership program designed to transform urban spaces to meet the needs of growing community Stay up-to-date with the latest news by subscribing to our eNews Below you will find a list of major planning works and projects that are taking place across the City of Maribyrnong The availability and opening hours of some Council services and facilities will change over the Christmas and New Year’s period Read more below to see how these changes may impact you Kerbside bin collections from Wednesday 25 December to Friday 27 December will take place one day later than usual There will be no bin deliveries or repairs on Christmas Day There will be no hard waste collections from Monday 23 December to Friday 27 December The regular service will resume from Monday 30 December with the exception of Wednesday 1 January when there will be no collection There will be no Cleanaway (illegally dumped waste and scheduled hard waste collections) collections from Monday 23 December to Sunday 29 December The service will resume from Monday 30 December For more information, download our Bins and Recycling app to find you bin collection schedule, or visit the website We will be closed from midday Christmas Eve Tuesday 24 December We will also be closed New Year’s Day Wednesday 1 January regular business hours apply – 8.30am-5pm via phone and 8:30am-5pm in-person at the Civic Precinct + Community Hub If you have an urgent matter on any of the public holidays that cannot wait until the next business day contact our after-hours service on 9688 0200 The after-hours service can only assist where Council is the responsible provider Email: email@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au Online: MyMaribyrnong MyMaribyrnong is an online portal where residents can self-manage transactions and interactions with Council at the click of a mouse checking bin collection schedules or logging service requests library services will have adjusted hours and some closures Regular hours will resume on Thursday 2 January 2025 and all loans are extended until Thursday 2 January For more information, visit the Library website For more information, visit Community Centres page Phoenix Youth Hub will close at 12pm on Tuesday 24 December and reopen on Thursday 2 January Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre will remain open with modified hours over the festive season except for closures on Christmas Day and Boxing Day Childcare will be closed on from Friday 23 December Want to read a popular book without sitting on a long holds list Visit Braybrook, West Footscray or Yarraville Library and check out our Speedy Reads shelf This collection is packed with in-demand titles refreshed regularly so there’s always something new to discover We keep copies of the most sought-after books at these branches – if it’s on the Speedy Reads shelf Ring in the New Year with family and friends at Footscray Park on Tuesday 31 December Our annual New Year’s Eve event delivers the perfect opportunity for families and visitors from all over Melbourne’s west to enjoy the festivities away from the late-night city bustle where the night will commence with a traditional Welcome to Country The festivities will kick off with the smooth sounds of the six-piece reggae band to captivate the crowd with an enchanting blend of R&B and neo-soul melodies This year’s show is headlined by The Ferguson Rogers Process – a new project from two of Australia’s most beloved musical minds Tim Rogers (You Am I) and Lance Ferguson (The Bamboos) prepare to be dazzled by a spectacular fireworks display followed by a performance from the Discovery Daft Punk Show where you can expect cutting-edge remixes The evening will be guided by Footscray local Sarah Ward – an award-winning cabaret artist there will be roving performances from Empress Stiltdance and activities leading up to the grand fireworks finale at 9:30pm or indulge in delicious offerings from a suite of food trucks Help reduce our environmental footprint by bringing refillable water bottles and reusable containers to support this single-use plastic-free event We also suggest bringing mosquito repellent as they will likely be out enjoying the music and fireworks too fireworks can be distressing for your pets It is also important to note this is an alcohol-free event To get to and from the event why not also consider using public transport and connecting with the free shuttle buses operating between Footscray Train Station and Footscray Park (Western Lawn) Accessible parking is available on-site via Maribyrnong Boulevard For more information, visit: festivalcity.com.au Stay up-to-date with the latest news by subscribing to our eNews They didn’t hit the streets in a flash protest like Brighton locals residents of Melbourne’s inner west were still wary After the state government announced plans on Sunday to speed up apartment development in Footscray and West Footscray the suburbs’ locals said they felt cautious after seeing the disaster of the high-rise Joseph Road precinct Cameron Tait at West Footscray Station.Credit: Joe Armao Premier Jacinta Allan said 50 new activity centres near transport hubs would be zoned for fast-tracked apartments with the neighbourhoods surrounding Middle Footscray West Footscray and Tottenham train stations among the first 25 to be named The reaction in the inner west is of a vastly different temperature to what was seen in Brighton, where about 100 people joined a protest led by local state member there is some acceptance of the need for more housing Most residents don’t want buildings to be taller than about six storeys But 10 activity centres that were announced in August mostly have height limits of up to 12 storeys Every inner-west resident spoken to by The Age on Monday mentioned the Joseph Road precinct, where high-rises of up to 30 storeys were built on a riverside brownfield site in Footscray without supporting infrastructure who lives in a house opposite West Footscray station in a modern residential development Tait said he left Brunswick in 2018 to get away from over-development and is eager to understand where new apartments would be built in West Footscray “If you’re building high-rises next to the train lines Tait agreed more housing was needed but wanted to avoid a scenario where the state government was dictating decisions about local matters West Footscray Station is at the centre of the state government’s development plans for the neighbourhood.Credit: Joe Armao “I think generally the population here is more open to development [than Brighton] … but there’s a very strong community here As soon as there’s any kind of maps or zoning or detail there will be a well-coordinated community response “We don’t want planning minister signatures overriding the character of the area.” BikeWest president John Symons called on the government to embed a thorough active transport network into its plans to help reduce car reliance as the population gets denser There are about 1.5 cars for every dwelling in metropolitan Melbourne “Not everyone is going to be using the train because they don’t need to necessarily go where the train goes,” Symons said “The only way you can reduce road congestion is to provide viable otherwise you will make livability worse and worse.” Symons added that while the inner-west was usually quite progressive and accepting of development resistance to change was growing as the area gentrified Footscray resident and affordable housing advocate Kate Breen said she understood that more people needed to be able to live close to the city and she wanted a significant proportion of new higher-density housing to be set aside for low-income Victorians Breen also called on the government to invest in infrastructure and services such as childcare and street upgrades for cyclists and pedestrians “There’s a need for the government to engage with the community on the next level of detail and dive deeper into what the potential heights has lived in West Footscray all her life and is appalled by the development that has occurred in the past decade She is particularly critical of high-rises and is baffled as to where apartment buildings would squeeze into her neighbourhood believing there should be more focus on building homes and infrastructure in outer suburbs There has been immense criticism of the government’s community engagement for the 10 activity centres unveiled in August apartment buildings will vary between three and 20 storeys with high-rises immediately around the transport hub “core” and then low-rise and townhouse developments within 800 metres of train stations It is not yet known what the height limits will be for the new tranche of centres but the government has insisted that these would be decided following consultation Middle Footscray and Toorak Village will be classified as smaller “neighbourhood activity centres” with more modest growth compared to other zones Councils are in caretaker mode due to local government elections limiting their ability to object to the government’s plan to seize planning controls Boroondara City Council will have three further activity centres surrounding Hawthorn on top of the previously announced Camberwell centre incumbent deputy mayor and council candidate said the council was “frustrated and astonished that they would make such sweeping generational changes intentionally during caretaker mode” said she was worried about tall buildings ruining low-rise residential streets Glen Eira City Council will take in activity centres around Murrumbeena and Carnegie stations Glen Eira chief executive Rebecca McKenzie released a stinging statement on Thursday saying she was concerned that the plans would significantly change neighbourhoods “This is the latest in a series of announcements with inadequate or rushed consultation that together stand to disempower local councils and devalue the interests of local communities,” she said “Announcing a major planning decision with long-term local impacts during the election caretaker period — and less than a week until election day — raises questions about transparency and due process.” Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny said the government would undertake in-depth consultation to determine the building heights and other planning controls of each activity centre They didn\\u2019t hit the streets in a flash protest like Brighton locals residents of Melbourne\\u2019s inner west were still wary the suburbs\\u2019 locals said they felt cautious after seeing the disaster of the high-rise Joseph Road precinct Premier Jacinta Allan said near transport hubs would be zoned for fast-tracked apartments The reaction in the inner west is of a vastly different temperature to what was seen in Brighton Most residents don\\u2019t want buildings to be taller than about six storeys Every inner-west resident spoken to by The Age on Monday mentioned were built on a riverside brownfield site in Footscray without supporting infrastructure \\u201CNobody wants that,\\u201D said Cameron Tait \\u201CIf you\\u2019re building high-rises next to the train lines \\u201CI think generally the population here is more open to development [than Brighton] \\u2026 but there\\u2019s a very strong community here As soon as there\\u2019s any kind of maps or zoning or detail \\u201CWe don\\u2019t want planning minister signatures overriding the character of the area.\\u201D \\u201CNot everyone is going to be using the train because they don\\u2019t need to necessarily go where the train goes,\\u201D Symons said \\u201CThe only way you can reduce road congestion is to provide viable otherwise you will make livability worse and worse.\\u201D \\u201CThere\\u2019s a need for the government to engage with the community on the next level of detail and dive deeper into what the potential heights controls and benefits might be,\\u201D she said \\u201CIt looks like rubbish,\\u201D Giarrusso said There has been immense criticism of for the 10 activity centres with high-rises immediately around the transport hub \\u201Ccore\\u201D and then low-rise and townhouse developments within 800 metres of train stations Middle Footscray and Toorak Village will be classified as smaller \\u201Cneighbourhood activity centres\\u201D limiting their ability to object to the government\\u2019s plan to seize planning controls said the council was \\u201Cfrustrated and astonished that they would make such sweeping generational changes intentionally during caretaker mode\\u201D \\u201CThis is the latest in a series of announcements with inadequate or rushed consultation that together stand to disempower local councils and devalue the interests of local communities,\\u201D she said \\u201CAnnouncing a major planning decision with long-term local impacts during the election caretaker period \\u2014 and less than a week until election day \\u2014 raises questions about transparency and due process.\\u201D Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Melbourne’s west is getting lit – literally – as the inaugural Footscray West Writers Fest prepares to take over the streets at the end of the month the festival will see poetry readings spilling out of wine bars and panel discussions brewing in pizzerias as West Footscray transforms into a celebration of stories Check out our gig guide, our arts guide, our festival guide, our live music venue guide and our nightclub guide. Follow us on Instagram here. A post shared by @westfootscrayarts Born from the minds behind West Footscray Arts a non-profit dedicated to injecting the west with cultural swagger FWWF promises to showcase the rich diversity of the area through a mix of storytelling With support from Maribyrnong City Council the festival offers a stack of free and ticketed events across Footscray’s most beloved haunts Festival co-curators Jess Lilley and Donita Richards are pumped about creating something that’s truly “for the west by the west” – giving locals the chance to experience familiar spots in fresh ways Ever fancied hearing your favourite author read while demolishing a pizza or hammering out your own story on a typewriter in a local art studio The fest has pulled together an impressive lineup of wordsmiths including Alice Pung From the Westgate Bridge to Cheaper by Miles and Savers iconic west side locations will become the backdrop for original site-specific stories creating a literary map of the neighbourhood that celebrates its unique character and the voices that call it home The brainchild of local writers and storytellers who sprouted from the Chestnut Tree Bookshop in West Footscray this fresh addition to Melbourne’s literary calendar is backed by some solid local support Harley & Rose and West Footscray Wines all throwing their weight behind the festival Tickets and full program details available here When the Metro Tunnel opens in 2025 the Sunbury Cranbourne and Pakenham lines will run through new tunnels under Melbourne’s CBD It will give passengers direct train access to new destinations Melbourne’s major health and education precinct (Parkville Station) and North Melbourne (Arden Station) Passengers will be able to travel all the way from Sunbury to Cranbourne or Pakenham without changing trains A single change will connect people to the Ballarat Warrnambool and Gippsland regional rail lines Receive project updates and notifications for works and disruptions delivered to your inbox An eye-catching bridge section of Melbourne’s so-called cycling super-highway has finally opened in the city’s west and one of the first riders to use it described it as like “riding through a disco” vice-president of cyclist advocacy group BikeWest was also struck by the architectural beauty of the Footscray Road crossing during his first ride along it on Tuesday as sunlight shone through the holes of its cocoon-like shell vice-president of cycling advocacy group BikeWest on the new bridge over Footscray Road.Credit: Jason South The bright green elevated crossing in Docklands is part of more than 14 kilometres of new and upgraded bike paths funded through the $10.1 billion West Gate Tunnel project The state government announced on Tuesday that the 220-metre cable-suspended bridge near the old Melbourne Star ferris wheel was now open to pedestrians and bike riders connecting the Capital City and Moonee Ponds Creek cycling trails construction of a 2.5-kilometre “veloway” (an express route for bike riders) between Footscray and Docklands remains ongoing which has been dubbed the rainbow bridge thanks to its multicoloured panelling The tunnel project has disrupted western Melbourne’s transport network for three years longer than planned, while the cost has blown out to almost double the initial $5.5 billion budget In February, The Age reported that cyclists were stuck riding on dangerous truck-laden roads in Melbourne’s inner west as key bridges remained blocked off This is despite the government spruiking the bridges, as if they were complete was among the first to cycle across the Footscray Road bridge with the Banyule Bicycle User Group on Tuesday “It was like riding through a disco,” he said “At the [traffic] lights [before the crossing was built] However, critics of the project, including the BikeWest group, have previously accused the government of “playing politics” by delaying opening infrastructure they say is vital for public safety While Vairo enjoyed his cycle along the Footscray Road crossing he said the section had always been one of the better parts of his ride into the city before the West Gate Tunnel construction He said truck-filled suburban streets further west remained a big safety problem for cyclists but it’s not what we would have done,” Vairo said of the new bridge Ned Watson rides his child across the bridge on Tuesday morning.Credit: Jason South “Our advocacy now is: we’ve got this thing So people from the suburbs – from Yarraville West Footscray and further afield – can get to this bit of infrastructure safely.” Vairo said he was more excited about the Dynon Road crossing opening soon as it created a new corridor over rail lines “That is a brand-new bit of infrastructure that gives people new ways to go to the city safely,” he said Vairo remained critical of the West Gate Tunnel’s impact on cyclist safety in Melbourne west, and blames construction works for creating a dangerous Footscray Road intersection where 22-year-old cyclist Angus Collins died in February 2024 a 41-year-old from Brunswick who was cycling with his child on Tuesday said the new bridge had made his trip to a school holiday show safer “I think normally we’d have to go through all those traffic crossings down there [on Footscray Road].” Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the new bridge was “a big step towards transforming the corridor into an elevated cycling super-highway between the city and the west” Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter An eye-catching bridge section of Melbourne\\u2019s so-called cycling super-highway has finally opened in the city\\u2019s west and one of the first riders to use it described it as like \\u201Criding through a disco\\u201D The state government announced on Tuesday that the 220-metre cable-suspended bridge near was now open to pedestrians and bike riders construction of a 2.5-kilometre \\u201Cveloway\\u201D (an express route for bike riders) between Footscray and Docklands remains ongoing The tunnel project has disrupted western Melbourne\\u2019s transport network for three years longer than planned while to almost double the initial $5.5 billion budget that cyclists were stuck riding on dangerous truck-laden roads in Melbourne\\u2019s inner west as key bridges remained blocked off \\u201CIt was like riding through a disco,\\u201D he said \\u201CAt the [traffic] lights [before the crossing was built] so it\\u2019s an improvement on that.\\u201D by delaying opening infrastructure they say is vital for public safety \\u201CIt is a postcard for incredible photos but it\\u2019s not what we would have done,\\u201D Vairo said of the new bridge \\u201COur advocacy now is: we\\u2019ve got this thing So people from the suburbs \\u2013 from Yarraville West Footscray and further afield \\u2013 can get to this bit of infrastructure safely.\\u201D \\u201CThat is a brand-new bit of infrastructure that gives people new ways to go to the city safely,\\u201D he said Vairo remained critical of the West Gate Tunnel\\u2019s impact on cyclist safety in Melbourne west and blames construction works for creating a dangerous Footscray Road intersection where in February 2024 \\u201CIt was pretty awesome,\\u201D he said \\u201CI think normally we\\u2019d have to go through all those traffic crossings down there [on Footscray Road].\\u201D Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the new bridge was \\u201Ca big step towards transforming the corridor into an elevated cycling super-highway between the city and the west\\u201D A real battle over fake grass has emerged on western suburbs soil West Footscray resident Fadh Yusof is fighting an order from Maribyrnong City Council to tear up a patch of artificial grass in his front yard and replace it with real lawn Fadh Yusof is fighting an order from the council to rip up his fake grass.Credit: Jason South said the synthetic lawn was professionally installed in April last year at a cost of around $5000 after he settled on a townhouse that he purchased soon after it was built in 2022 he didn’t think it was in good condition and decided to remove it because he wanted an option that didn’t need regular mowing or upkeep but still looked nice “I live a busy lifestyle – the grass was dying,” the doctor said “I feel it’s going to be a bit more stylish looking for the house with the low maintenance I can do medical procedures but I’m not much of a handyman.” Yusof was unaware he had breached any regulations until he received a remedial letter in February this year from a Maribyrnong City Council planning enforcement officer demanding that he replace the plastic lawn The council said Yusof had fallen foul of the planning permit issued for the property in 2020 which included a landscape plan that specified the area must be covered with “lawn areas” Yusof was given a little over a month to carry out the necessary works but he has challenged the decision in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal arguing that he should be allowed to keep the artificial grass He said he was not given a copy of the planning permit and landscape plan as part of the section 32 that discloses information about a property at sale “How can I maintain a plan that I didn’t know the details of?” he said “I can understand if I did it on the nature strip But it’s not mentioned anywhere that artificial grass is not allowed any written policy that forbids the homeowner to install it.” Among the arguments put forward by Yusof was that the word “lawn” in the landscape plan was broad enough to include artificial turf as it did not specify the grass must be natural citing a dictionary definition that lawn is “a stretch of grass-covered land The council also wrote a letter to Yusof’s lawyer saying it was committed to sustainable design and did not support synthetic grass as it comes with a “big environmental price tag” Critics of fake grass say it contributes to the urban heat island effect harms biodiversity and can leach microplastics into waterways But Yusof said the new generation of synthetic grass was better for the environment as it doesn’t need watering or any fertilisers or pesticides “During heavy rain everything is still being absorbed properly because of the way the grass was installed,” he said Yusof also argued that his actions could be considered gardening which is included in the Maribyrnong planning scheme as work that doesn’t need a permit “It’s a small area within my own property,” he said because I don’t have to worry about mowing the lawn every month.” Council told VCAT that it had been monitoring the site for a year after a resident complained about a lack of landscaping on the property The artificial grass was identified in June last year but the enforcement notice was not issued for another eight months due to staffing issues VCAT struck out Yusof’s appeal because it was filed too late after the remedial letter was sent The tribunal did not rule on the merits of his argument about the grass Yusof plans to file another application for review within the correct timeframe when council seeks an enforcement order forcing him to replace his lawn Maribyrnong CEO Celia Haddock said several pieces of council regulation – including its urban forest and climate emergency strategies – stipulated that artificial grass was not permitted in publicly visible areas of a development increases the urban heat island in the warmer months and lacks the biodiversity requirements of real planting,” she said Haddock said Yusof could seek an amendment to the permit for an alternative landscape arrangement such as a drought tolerant native and indigenous plantings Get to the heart of what’s happening with climate change and the environment. Sign up for our fortnightly Environment newsletter. he didn\\u2019t think it was in good condition and decided to remove it because he wanted an option that didn\\u2019t need regular mowing or upkeep but still looked nice \\u201CI live a busy lifestyle \\u2013 the grass was dying,\\u201D the doctor said \\u201CI feel it\\u2019s going to be a bit more stylish looking for the house with the low maintenance I can do medical procedures but I\\u2019m not much of a handyman.\\u201D which included a landscape plan that specified the area must be covered with \\u201Clawn areas\\u201D \\u201CHow can I maintain a plan that I didn\\u2019t know the details of?\\u201D he said \\u201CI can understand if I did it on the nature strip But it\\u2019s not mentioned anywhere that artificial grass is not allowed any written policy that forbids the homeowner to install it.\\u201D Among the arguments put forward by Yusof was that the word \\u201Clawn\\u201D in the landscape plan was broad enough to include artificial turf as it did not specify the grass must be natural citing a dictionary definition that lawn is \\u201Ca stretch of grass-covered land The council also wrote a letter to Yusof\\u2019s lawyer saying it was committed to sustainable design and did not support synthetic grass as it comes with a \\u201Cbig environmental price tag\\u201D But Yusof said the new generation of synthetic grass was better for the environment as it doesn\\u2019t need watering or any fertilisers or pesticides \\u201CDuring heavy rain everything is still being absorbed properly because of the way the grass was installed,\\u201D he said which is included in the Maribyrnong planning scheme as work that doesn\\u2019t need a permit \\u201CIt\\u2019s a small area within my own property,\\u201D he said because I don\\u2019t have to worry about mowing the lawn every month.\\u201D VCAT struck out Yusof\\u2019s appeal because it was filed too late after the remedial letter was sent but I\\u2019m not going to give up,\\u201D he said Maribyrnong CEO Celia Haddock said several pieces of council regulation \\u2013 including its urban forest and climate emergency strategies \\u2013 stipulated that artificial grass was not permitted in publicly visible areas of a development and lacks the biodiversity requirements of real planting,\\u201D she said Get to the heart of what\\u2019s happening with climate change and the environment these 10 suburbs offer the perfect combination of affordability and high capital gain for both houses and units The latest PropTrack Home Price Index showed that dwelling prices across the country rose by 0.40 per cent in February representing a 3.49 per cent increase year-on-year If you check the box above before you log in you won’t have to log back into the website next time you return even if you close your browser and come back later with Melbourne and Sydney seeing the largest price increase of 0.67 and 0.5 per cent Adelaide and Brisbane recorded the highest growth over the past 12 months with a dwelling price increase between 10 per cent and 13 per cent While home prices have been growing slowly REA Group senior economist Eleanor Creagh said they have remained steady Creagh said the Reserve Bank of Australia’s rate cut had boosted borrowing capacity and buyers’ confidence and interest rates are expected to fall further,” she said PropTrack identified which suburbs in each capital city have the best value for money recording between 10 per cent and 55 per cent growth over the past 12 months Here are the top 10 suburbs that combine affordability and high capital gain: Located 32 kilometres south-west of Sydney’s CBD Fairfield boasts a range of amenities such as parks and shopping centres while being close to essential transport links it blends suburban charm and proximity to the city making it an attractive option for first-time investors about 20 kilometres south-west of Sydney’s CBD provides affordable housing options and a family-friendly environment with transport links and local amenities like parks located 45 kilometres south-east of Melbourne’s CBD is a rapidly growing suburb offering affordable housing options for families The area has a mix of modern homes and rural land appealing to investors seeking a property that balances peaceful living and easy access to urban amenities West Footscray is a vibrant and up-and-coming suburb known for its diverse community and mix of residential and industrial areas The suburb has easy access to public transport Tivoli is a peaceful residential suburb offering a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience Located 40 kilometres west of Brisbane’s CBD and near Ipswich Tivoli is a great choice for investors seeking to attract renters with a relaxed lifestyle and easy access to urban conveniences Situated 30 kilometres north of Brisbane’s CBD Dakabin is a growing suburb known for its family-friendly atmosphere and affordable housing options With convenient access to the Bruce Highway Dakabin offers residents easy commuting options to Brisbane and surrounding areas located approximately 26 kilometres north of the city centre in the Playford region The area benefits from nearby shopping precincts recreational spaces and good transport connections With plans for urban renewal and infrastructure improvements Elizabeth South is gaining interest as a suburban area with strong potential for future growth located 22 kilometres north of Adelaide’s CBD is a suburban area known for its family-friendly atmosphere and green spaces and easy access to major roads and public transport Salisbury East is an attractive location for first home buyers and investors looking for long-term value and a balanced lifestyle is an affordable suburb offering great potential for investors family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to parks and local amenities The area is also well-connected with public transport options and is close to the Kwinana Freeway making it a convenient location for commuting to the city Orelia shares proximity to local amenities With its affordable housing options and growing community amenities Orelia is an appealing choice for investors and those seeking a quieter more affordable alternative to central Perth living Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here It's been almost eight years since Mr West swung open its doors to astonished Footscray locals feared the young bar marked the beginning of the 'cray's dangerous edging into hipster territory The latter camp welcomed a new casual drinking home for excellent craft beer cocktails and locally produced wines – a friendly place where staff could talk tipples with anybody and everybody curious enough to step in for a drink Has it seamlessly woven its offering into the colourful patchwork of Footscray's spirit What started as a humble watering hole has transformed beautifully into a jack-of-all-trades: an indie bottle-o (if you're a lover of low-intervention drops and crafty brews a cocktail bar shaking up more interesting spirits than most and a BYO dinner joint. Importantly this venue supports local restaurants and eateries around Footscray by allowing visitors to order takeaway directly to their tables And maybe that's part of the reason why it's fit in so well My partner and I have swanned in on a warm January weeknight, ready for a bite to eat and a refreshing journey across Mr West's taps It feels like a modern saloon, though less dusty and wild Leafy growths and winding vines spill out of the planters and fresh sunshine filters in through skylights on the second floor there's still an old-school moodiness to Mr West that makes you feel as if you'll be accepted and served in all of life's big moments: the promotion (or the resignation) the falling in love (or the falling out of it) the celebration pint (or the commiseration one) And there are packs of locals engaging in just that; couples with their dogs have dropped in to grab a bottle of vino tradies sit out the front with their froffs and big groups of families and friends chill together in each of the venue's numerous comfy alcoves It's warm and convivial – the idyllic local hangout for every type of drinker.  It's easy to while away the hours here, and so my partner and I go the whole hog and order an entire NY-style pizza from Slice Shop across the street Might as well line our bellies for all the bevvies we're eager to try The Crispy Wizard is up first and it's a highlight – a clean Hop Nation collab lager made from organic malt Our bartender doesn't skip a beat in recounting the (sadly almost finished) brew's backstory they're genuinely having a good time. Each member of staff is informative its focus is far from myopic; we discover the cocktails to be very worthy of exploration My Sake and Hibiscus (Kitajima Brewery's 'the Octopus of Shiga Bay' Junmai Daiginjo sake housemade hibiscus soda and mandarin) is a dream while my partner has only good things to say about his Madeira and Ginger Beer (Barbeito 'Rainwater' madeira With a smorgasbord of Footscray's exciting and diverse dining options at your fingertips and one of the most cleverly curated booze selections in town Mr West may not be the newest and shiniest hybrid bar to hit the scene but its ever-evolving offerings remain fresh 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) An uber-prominent showroom/warehouse in Melbourne’s inner west has traded off-market The $15.5 million achieved for 79 Sunshine Road and 4 McArthur Street It also values the (1.32 hectares) of Industrial 1 zoned land at $1169 per square metre The property is walking distance to Tottenham station – at the top of one of the closest industrial estates to town and Port of Melbourne (story continues below) West Footscray is seven kilometres to the CBD’s west edge Aston Commercial’s Fred Nucara was the agent 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 The state government will expand its activity centre housing program and has identified another 25 precincts for denser development around railway stations These new compact communities will result in a switch towards more public and active transport use and will deliver convenient and stress-free bike networks in and through the redeveloped neighbourhoods The centres are along what the government describes as “train and tram zones” Another 25 zones will be announced later this year These are in addition to the first 10 activity centres previously announced and the parallel developments to emerge around the new suburban rail loop station precincts The government says that consultation on the first 10 centres has revealed strong support for the clustering of the developments around public transport nodes Although some local councils have expressed shock at the pace of the move and focus on increased density around stations the thrust of the policy dates back to Plan Melbourne in 2013 These plans have been updated and revised five times since including the explicit 2017 Plan Melbourne update and subsequent heavy investment in rail and tram upgrades Seven centres are connected to the new Metro Tunnel – Carnegie There are six centres along the Belgrave/Lilydale line (and the existing Camberwell and Ringwood activity centres): Hawthorn On the Frankston line four centres are located at Toorak On the Sandringham line four centres are located at North Brighton On the Glen Waverley line centres are at Tooronga Station and Darling Station plus a combined centre covering both Gardiner and Glen Iris stations Toorak Village is a built-up area along the Route 58 tram are classified as smaller “neighbourhood activity centres” to plan for more modest growth The statement by Premier Jacinta Allen says that overall the vision for train and tram zones is for taller buildings in the immediate station cores scaled height limits and more low-rise apartments and townhouses alongside existing houses in the surrounding walkable catchments the rights of residents to have their say and appeal will not change through this program Heritage and landscape overlays will remain and design will be undertaken in consultation with locals Media coverage of the proposals have overlooked some of the key issues that will be well known to active and public transport advocates Because the new housing will be built where public transport is highly attractive it will require few car spaces (and more bike parking) and will be appreciably cheaper to build The neighbourhoods will be built according to movement and place policies with attractive low-traffic streets and plenty of opportunities for taking a bike trip or walking Residents will not have to drive hours every day for work and congestion will be reduced for those who must drive And with all the extra physical activity opportunities combined with much less sedentary time spent driving And while some councils might resent having their precious power to block denser living curtailed they are none-the-less licking their lips at the prospect of the increased rate revenue from all these new properties that will be springing up in their municipalities Become a Member and help fund our advocacy work Or become our friend and subscribe to receive our fortnightly newsletter The Great Victorian Bike Ride is set to return in 2025 on 24–28 November offering an exciting new format while keeping the spirit of this beloved event alive Bicycle Network Memberships offer benefits to all kinds of riders The Peaks Challenge Ride2School fundraiser is on again for this year's epic event on Sunday 9 March The City of Adelaide will undertake a speed limit review to understand the need for reducing speeds to support business and residents and create a safer city environment Work on the much-anticipated $38.9 million Sydney Harbour Bridge ramp upgrade has begun the bike lane will link the country's most famous bridge to the bike network in Milsons Point we launched our Affiliate Membership program specially designed for cycling groups and clubs Orange in New South Wales is in line for a nice new stretch of bike path one that will expand the off-road network and improve access to schools Work has kicked off on a key Canberra bike route setting the wheels in motion for safer and more pleasant journeys through the city’s northern suburbs In a submission to the federal government’s draft National Urban Policy Bicycle Network and seven other Australian bicycle organisations have called for active transport infrastructure funding to be increased to 10% of federal transport investment Many of our best bike journeys are along coastlines or up and down the creeks and rivers that meet the sea But with rising sea levels some of this vital infrastructure is at threat of inundation erosion and from changes in groundwater chemistry Four draftees will get their first taste of Western Bulldogs football in tomorrow’s sold-out pre-season match simulation against Essendon all of which were picked up in the most recent draft have been added to the Dogs’ 35-player squad Recruit Matt Kennedy has also been named; set to run out in the red white and blue against opposition for the first time Pre-season supplemental selection period hopefuls Dom Brew and Brayden Crossley will also feature James Harmes and Tom Liberatore are among some of the more experienced players to be included The AFL match simulation will begin at 2pm at Mission Whitten Oval and consist of four 30-minute quarters The VFL Dogs and Dons will also take part in a practice match from 5pm, which will be live-streamed via the Club website. Western Bulldogs v EssendonSaturday 15 February West Footscray • Wurundjeri/Boon WurrungBroadcast: Kayo Defender Liam Jones will be sidelined for a number of weeks The Bulldogs have enjoyed another clean sweep of the coaches’ votes Keep your radios dialled into Nova all week to hear from your favourite Bulldogs players A deeper dive into the stats from our win over Port Adelaide Watch Footscray take on Essendon VFL in their first practice match of 2025 Chris Bell provides an update on Liam Jones and Jordan Croft Lou Stephenson reflects on the day of activity with Fire Rescue Victoria The Magpies and Bulldogs clash in round six Backline coach Daniel Pratt reviews the round 8 victory over Port Adelaide in Ballarat The Western Bulldogs Official App is your one stop shop for all your latest team News Scores and Stats delivered LIVE to your smartphone or tablet train and play on the traditional lands of the Kulin Nation We offer our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today aiming to bring more buzz to the inner west The feeling of a good haircut is hard to replicate in any other way – you’re instantly fresher and overcome with the sudden urge to fill your camera roll with selfies.  Hair salon owner Sheridan Shaw knows the importance of this feeling very well, as she’s been witnessing it in action for the last 18 years that she's spent in the hairdressing industry. Shaw is known as the hair aficionado behind Footscray’s much-loved Because she understands the impact a good haircut can have she lends her expertise to help people in need for whom a fresh cut means much more than an added spring in their step –  it can mean a new lease on life.  Shaw offers free haircuts to those experiencing homelessness and hardship because she  knows what it’s like to need a helping hand after she lost her high-end salon job to a battle with addiction and alcoholism years ago.  Shaw says she really loves being able to give haircuts to these people and the impact it has is indescribable.  [because] I've been able to recover from that kind of lifestyle… [and now I’m] able to give back and show compassion and empathy for people that are going through issues like addiction and alcoholism,” she says Shaw donates haircuts through the charity Reaching Out in the Inner West an organisation that invites anyone in need to gather in Footscray to receive food This isn’t the only way Shaw strives to give back to her community through the power of hair She’s a fierce advocate for the inner west passionate about the unique spirit that makes its neighbourhoods special and hopes other new businesses will open in the area to create further opportunities for its residents.  “We're just trying to bring more to the west… there's still such a gap on this side of town and I think I'm really inspired to bridge that gap,” Shaw says.  She can pinpoint the exact moment she became determined to start her own business in the inner west when she drove past a café that had a line of people out the front and it was buzzing with the energy of a connected community trying its best to band together in a tough time.  “It was that community spirit and that uplifting energy that [made me think] and it's going to be nowhere else’.” So I decided to create a space on this side of town where you can get the best haircut and colour you've ever had.” But opening her own business wasn’t always her dream When she was struggling in the grip of addiction she says she wasn’t able to think ahead.  “I wasn't really thinking about my future… I was in a lot of denial so I wasn't even able to see that I had an issue Mama West was partially born out of the desire to direct her energy into something positive and productive Her journey taught her about the importance of community and is an inspiration for the community-focused ethos that’s at the core of her business.  “It was the community that eventually saved my life going to meetings… that sense of sharing and people helping me get through my problems,” Shaw says.  “[Now] I think I’ve learned how to live a principled life and a principled life for me is giving back being of service and being community-centred.”  Mama West has made a huge splash on Melbourne’s hairdressing industry It won the Best Australian Newcomer Salon in 2022 and Victorian Salon of the Year in 2023 at the Australian Hair Industry Awards Shaw was a finalist for the Victorian Hairdresser of the Year.  “I'm the underdog that has come out of nowhere and has been able to build a platform and a profile in the industry in a really short amount of time “And I can't explain that other than living a principled life and trying to give back and help.” Shaw has taken her business to the next level It’s still in her beloved Footscray locale but the salon has been reimagined as an exciting beauty destination.  The 336-square-metre space is sleek and modern with bold red accents and heart-shaped mirrors also housing Miss Jay’s Nails and Beauty You Be You café and a creative studio for hire Shaw says she wanted to create a place for people to gather to foster that community spirit she holds dear.  “It is so much more than a hair salon… It was really important to me to create something special here.” Find out more about Mama West on the website.  Sheridan Shaw’s inner west recs:  West Footscray: “They do a great bagel that is part of my ritual to get one a week.”  Kingsville: “I feel a part of their community and I really believe their coffee is the best in the west.”  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city The final weekend of the 2024 Junior Finals saw 11 teams achieve premiership success Albion – 3.4 (22) def Werribee Districts – 0.2 (2) Best on ground medal (umpires): Milla Roach (Albion) Yarraville Seddon – 2.9 (21) def Caroline Springs – 2.1 (13) Best on ground medal (umpires): Lucy Cracknell (Yarraville Seddon) Yarraville Seddon – 6.5 (41) def West Footscray – 2.6 (18) Best on ground (umpires): Tyler Tram (Yarraville Seddon) Sunshine Heights – 7.8 (50) def Point Cook Centrals – 5.3 (33) Best on ground (umpires): Carter Rangi (Sunshine Heights) Williamstown Juniors – 9.6 (60) def West Footscray 3.5 (23) Best on ground (umpires): Saxon Gorman (Williamstown Juniors) Werribee Districts- 3.4 (22) def Werribee Centrals – 3.1 (19) Best on ground (umpires): Laney Wadsworth (Werribee Centrals) Williamstown Juniors – 7.10 (52) def Newport Power – 2.3 (15) Best on ground (umpires): Zoe Briffa (Williamstown Juniors) Werribee Districts – 5.6 (36) def Williamstown Juniors – 5.4 (34) Best on ground (umpires): Brayden Jewell (Werribee Districts) Williamstown Juniors – 6.13 (49) def Caroline Springs – 2.9 (21) Best on ground (umpires): Addison West (Williamstown Juniors) Tarneit – 14.10 (94) def Manor Lakes – 10.9 (69) Best on ground (umpires): Brodie Lestrange (Tarneit) Yarraville Seddon – 9.8 (62) def Williamstown Juniors – 6.8 (44) The clash is on track to break the Bulldogs’ home-and-away season attendance record with more than 80,000 expected. The promotion, which includes a commemorative guernsey, leverages the triumphs and struggles of a club once believed close to folding. Read moreIt will be the second time in less than a year the Bulldogs have revived their traditional moniker after celebrations last year during Retro Round to mark the 70th anniversary of the 1954 VFL premiership Chief executive Ameet Bains said he is committed to the Western Bulldogs name but that use of the Footscray title could become an annual marketing exercise “That’s something that we’ll talk about doing,” he said “I think one of the things the club has done well – and real kudos for our brand and marketing team – is the retro throwback even going back to 2019 when we had the 30th anniversary of ‘the Fightback’ the way that that game was brought to life.” The club was in a perilous state in 1989 and faced a merger with Fitzroy until fans rallied to secure its survival in a response that has been celebrated as “the Fightback” and the club reported a $14.9m profit in 2024 and completed upgrades to its headquarters and training base at Whitten Oval The one-off Western Bulldogs guernsey. Photograph: Western BulldogsFormer captain Bob Murphy said it was an achievement for the Bulldogs to reach this milestone. “I keep using the word ‘proud’ deliberately because of the the trials and how difficult it’s been in various parts of the last 30 years, let alone 100 years,” he said. The club adopted the Western Bulldogs title in 1996 to became more attractive to potential fans in the growing western suburbs, although its constitution still refers to it as Footscray Football Club. Bains said the change has been successful, as reflected in the club’s record membership count of more than 60,000 and growing support in Ballarat, but he understands some fans would prefer a return to the old name. “It’s taking moments like this week to really honour the past and the tradition, but also being balanced with what’s important for the future strategy and growth of the club,” he said. Read moreMurphy said although there were differences of opinion on the name Bulldogs supporters are united behind the club and its identity “I don’t think division is the right way to look at it “I know that sounds a little bit sort of existential whatever – it’s about the colours that these guys run out in every week and it’s a spiritual place of our footy club.” Murphy joked there were some things were off limits from marketers “Change the colours and that will cause division,” he said This article was amended on 19 March 2025 An earlier version stated that 2025 would be the Western Bulldogs’ centenary it will be 100 years since the club’s first VFL game A woman accused of murdering her neighbour in West Footscray and dumping the body in the Maribyrnong River had allegedly broken into the elderly woman’s home to steal cash and jewellery is charged with murdering 85-year-old Lolene Joy Whitehand on July 12 as well as breaking into the victim’s Glamis Road home with an intent to steal A court sketch of Milena Bogojevska.Credit: Paul Tyquin The third charge alleges Bogojevska stole jewellery including identification documents belonging to Whitehand Fishermen found Whitehand’s body floating in the Maribyrnong River A plastic bag had been tied over her head and her body was covered in bruises Other neighbours have since remembered the 85-year-old as “the kindest lady you could meet” and said she was well known in West Footscray for her kind and friendly demeanour Bogojevska faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday via videolink from Dame Phyllis Frost Centre women’s prison The court heard police were seeking more time to comb through CCTV footage that would be critical to the prosecution’s case Bogojevska’s lawyer also attempted to have her name and image withheld from the public Magistrate Stephen Ballek rejected the defence application and removed a previous interim order that had suppressed her identity He also granted the prosecution’s request for 12 weeks to prepare its case – double the usual time Whitehand had been missing since 4pm on July 12 homicide squad detectives arrested Bogojevska as part of the investigation The discovery of Whitehand’s body came about 90 minutes after the body of a 20-year-old Colombian man was found in the Maribyrnong River near Saltriver Place in Footscray Police say the man’s death is not being treated as suspicious and that the two deaths are not linked The case is expected to return to court in November Officers still want to speak to anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage from the areas around Glamis Road Police also wish to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious activity during that time Witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage or other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. Get it here. A woman accused of murdering her neighbour in West Footscray and dumping the body in the Maribyrnong River had allegedly broken into the elderly woman\\u2019s home to steal cash and jewellery. Court documents show Milena Bogojevska, 49, is charged with murdering 85-year-old Lolene Joy Whitehand on July 12, as well as breaking into the victim\\u2019s Glamis Road home with an intent to steal. The third charge alleges Bogojevska stole jewellery, cash, a wallet and personal items, including identification documents belonging to Whitehand, valued at $2000. Fishermen found Whitehand\\u2019s body floating in the Maribyrnong River, near Smithfield Road in Flemington, about 10.30am on July 14. A plastic bag had been tied over her head and her body was covered in bruises. Other neighbours have since remembered the 85-year-old as \\u201Cthe kindest lady you could meet\\u201D and said she was well known in West Footscray for her kind and friendly demeanour. Bogojevska faced Melbourne Magistrates\\u2019 Court on Tuesday via videolink from Dame Phyllis Frost Centre women\\u2019s prison, where she is being held on remand. The court heard police were seeking more time to comb through CCTV footage that would be critical to the prosecution\\u2019s case. Bogojevska\\u2019s lawyer also attempted to have her name and image withheld from the public, a move which was opposed by The Age. Magistrate Stephen Ballek rejected the defence application and removed a previous interim order that had suppressed her identity. He also granted the prosecution\\u2019s request for 12 weeks to prepare its case \\u2013 double the usual time. Whitehand had been missing since 4pm on July 12, sparking concerns among loved ones. Days later, homicide squad detectives arrested Bogojevska as part of the investigation. The discovery of Whitehand\\u2019s body came about 90 minutes after the body of a 20-year-old Colombian man was found in the Maribyrnong River near Saltriver Place in Footscray. Police say the man\\u2019s death is not being treated as suspicious and that the two deaths are not linked. The case is expected to return to court in November. Officers still want to speak to anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage from the areas around Glamis Road, West Footscray, or Smithfield Road, Flemington, near Lynch\\u2019s Bridge, between 12pm on Friday, July 12, and 10.30am on Sunday, July 14. Police also wish to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious activity during that time. Witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage or other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit . Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. . The body of a woman was found in the Maribyrnong River near Flemington Racecourse on Sunday morning. (ABC News: Mikaela Ortolan) Police have charged a 49-year-old West Footscray woman with murder after a woman's body was found in the Maribyrnong River on Sunday. A 15-year-old boy was interviewed by police and released without charge. Police have asked for anyone with information or CCTV footage to come forward. Link copiedShareShare articleA woman has been charged with murder over the death of a woman whose body was found in a river in Melbourne's inner west on Sunday. The body of the woman, who is yet to be formally identified, was found by a passer-by near Smithfield Road, Flemington, about 10:30am on July 14. Homicide detectives yesterday arrested a 49-year-old woman and a 15-year-old boy, both from West Footscray. The woman has been charged with murder and the boy has been released without charge. She has been remanded to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates' Court today. Police believe the woman and boy were both known to the dead woman. Police have asked anyone with CCTV or dash-cam footage from the areas around Glamis Road, West Footscray or Smithfield Road, Flemington, near Lynch's Bridge between 12pm on Friday and 10:30am on Sunday to come forward. Detectives also want to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious activity during that time. Police are continuing to investigate the death of a West Footscray man whose body was also found in the Maribyrnong River on Sunday morning. Police said the matter was not linked to the death of the woman. The man is yet to be formally identified and police are not treating his death as suspicious. Anyone with information has been urged to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000. One surprise upset and a consistent rise through the ranks has seen a new ladder leader emerge late in the season following Round 14 of the St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee Senior Women’s competition On Saturday morning Suns continued their strong run towards finals beating West Footscray by 77-points at Goddard Street Reserve Lyndal Ridder was damaging in the middle for the Suns whilst teammate Jaime Nankiville was rewarded with three majors for her efforts inside 50 Bo Crabtree and Julia McPhee worked hard defensively for the Roosters Wyndhamvale hosted North Sunshine and claimed a comprehensive 119-point win over the Roadrunners Falcon sisters’ Mariah and Rachael Burton each kicked four goals and were named in the best for their respective performances The match also marked teammate Harmoni Fonua’s 50th game milestone Zoe Doherty and Lea Pugh were the top performers for North Sunshine Parkside Spurs took on Caroline Springs in a tight contest that saw the Lakers edge away to record a 17-point win at the final siren Stephanie Holland and Mary Sandral (one goal) were amongst the best for the Spurs however the Lakers were superbly led by Hannah Herring and Dijana Vasilevska Yarraville Seddon went head-to-head with the Werribee Centals stunning their visitors in a 14-point upset Rosie Ronan-Yates celebrated her 100th game milestone with a best on ground performance and was well-supported by teammate Madeleine Patterson Meghann Basto and Paige Cook performed well for the visitors while Larissa Renaut could only add another major to take her tally to 53 goals for the season so far The Centurions loss has seen the Suns jump to the top of the ladder with just two rounds to go of the home and away season The competition’s top two teams meet for the second time this Friday night each looking to secure their double-chance heading into finals SEE FULL SCORES & BEST PLAYERS HERE Officer South has recorded Melbourne’s biggest reduction in median house prices Victorian homebuyers are set to cash in this spring with median property values tens of thousands of dollars cheaper than they were a year ago in hundreds of suburbs PropTrack’s September quarterly values data shows house values are down in 311 suburbs around Melbourne across the past year See how your suburb has gone over the past year here RELATED: Melbourne home pain hits grim six-month milestone Melbourne’s median home price falls below Adelaide and Perth Home-saving hacks could score Gen Z $500,000 in 10 years and save great Australian dream They also dropped in 219 of the 287 metropolitan suburbs covered in the analysis of unit values In regional Victoria there were 215 towns and suburbs with enough sales to generate median house value data And regional units posted gains in 15 areas Melbourne suburbs with multimillion-dollar typical house values were among those to record the biggest drops with the more than $100,000 declines in median values for Elsternwick But there have also been affordability improvements in less well-heeled neighbourhoods with houses in Officer South falling 8.8 per cent ($74,224) where the median value has fallen 5.8 per cent to $739,200 PropTrack’s quarterly medians are calculated with an algorithm that contrasts home sale prices with variables including bedroom numbers and land size to generate automated values for all homes in a suburb — not just those that have changed hands Affordability-conscious buyers are $27,477 better if buying a median-valued unit in West Footscray this spring compared to last Prominent buyer’s advocate Cate Bakos said this spring was fantastic for those hoping to purchase with significant numbers of homes to choose from including good quality offerings available — and most home sellers having to be “realistic” The professional homebuyer said there were more homes passing in at auction and selling within their advertised range than she could remember in a very long time — but there were clear trends in what was selling well “Homes that are really beautifully renovated with no compromises and in a good spot they can still expect competition,” Ms Bakos said “But something that is unrenovated with a bad floorplan bad neighbours or on a busy road will really struggle PropTrack economist Anne Flaherty said while the cost-of-living and reduced borrowing capacity would also be influencing Melbourne’s housing market Ms Flaherty said stronger results interstate suggested it was the volume of homes for sale giving buyers better odds the median house value is down $55,000 compared to a year ago “We know that there have definitely been a lot of homes for sale on the market in Melbourne and a lot of homes are being listed by investors that are just getting out of the market,” Ms Flaherty said The economist noted that the clearance rate for the city’s auction market was also dropping off down to around the 60 per cent mark at the moment — and below the 65-70 per cent it started the year at which is more in keeping with the historical average Many of the suburbs where median prices have fallen are in Melbourne’s south east but local agents have warned buyers should be aware not all homes had lost value Gary Peer director Gary Peer said this year wasn’t “the spring we would have dreamed of” as the quality of homes for sale was down compared to 2023 and that was probably a big part of why median prices had dropped “The fact that quality stock is drifting away means that the types of property selling always would have been of lower value,” Mr Peer said Gary Peer said while the median price was down in some of Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs it was likely due to a rise in lower quality home sales with standout residences typically still selling well He said while the figures more likely showed a lack of quality stock there were some homes that were struggling – predominantly newer units originally bought off the plan and being sold for the first time since they had been completed Investment properties were also less popular and properties in need of structural work or that were basically just land value were not appealing to buyers a lot of properties are selling for the same prices very similar homes were getting last year,” Mr Peer said “And good quality homes have always gone up people are now fighting to buy these homes again so there’s no reason to think the properties have become less desirable.” Ms Bakos said poor buyer sentiment was a key reason why buyer numbers were down and there were more people selling than willing to purchase and that might remain the case for some time yet “Until we have confidence that there’s a rate cut on the horizon In Eaglemont the median unit price has fallen 5 per cent The buyer’s advocate said she recommended those with the budget to do so make a move on houses within 10km of the CBD as soon as they could as these were most likely to rise quickly when the market turned a corner she said pursuing a house as close to the city as they could afford would also likely help them reap rewards — but to be aware they would likely face increasing competition the closer to town they got Officer South: $768,637 — down $74,224 (-8.8%) Box Hill South: $1,450,278 — down $80,809 (-5.3%) Heathmont: $1,024,591 — down $55,876 (-5.2%) Bayswater: $864,621 — down $46,822 (-5.1%) This is what $1.11m buys you in Collingwood today Collingwood: $1,133,279 — down $58,253 (-4.9%) Elsternwick: $2,044,038 — down $103,937 (-4.8%) *Most challenged suburbs for annual house values by percentage to September 30 Caulfield East: $302,145 — down $26,391 (-8%) Caulfield: $712,440 — down $60,696 (-7.9%) Kingsville: $483,585 — down $34,535 (-6.75%) Caulfield South: $744,100 — down $51,823 (-6.5%) This two-bedroom unit recently sold in Caulfield for $545,000 Gardenvale: $380,956 — down $23,448 (-5.8%) Williams Landing: $447,231 — down $23,470 (-5.2%) West Footscray: $540,089 — down $27,477 (-4.8%) Sunshine West: $552,017 — down $27,990 (-4.8%) *Most challenged suburbs for annual unit values by percentage to September 30 Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. 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A car has slammed into a newly opened brewpub in Footscray’s former Franco Cozzo store with its driver stealing a neon sign from the venue before fleeing the scene A Mazda SUV ram-raided the Moon Dog Wild West venue in Hopkins Road about 1.20am on Tuesday Moon Dog co-owner Karl van Buuren told ABC Radio Melbourne that cleaners were inside the venue when the car smashed through “The person then got out of the car and took one of our … western-themed neon signs and hightailed it out of there,” he said Police at the scene where a car crashed into the former Franco Cozzo store.Credit: Nine News The brewers operate two other venues – Moon Dog OG in Abbotsford and Moon Dog World in Preston – but the Footscray pub caused controversy when it was announced The triple-storey themed venue fits 800 people and has a mechanical bucking bull, faux western shopfronts and horseshoe-shaped booths. Residents feared it would exacerbate problems with parking, traffic and noise pollution in the inner western suburb, but Maribyrnong Council ultimately gave the venue the green light in late 2023 When asked if the burglary could be an act of retaliation by residents who previously protested against Wild West Firefighters at the scene after a car slammed into Moon Dog Wild West.Credit: Nine News “That’s not the kind of thing that they would do We’ve worked with the residents from day one to provide an amazing place to provide an amazing bar for the community and to increase the amenity of that area,” he said [Maybe] they wanted a piece of nostalgia from the venue.” The venue confirmed it would open as normal at 3pm on Tuesday The ram-raid is another blow to Moon Dog Wild West after its opening was beset with delays The brewer’s first venue in the western suburbs was meant to launch on April 17 but was forced to turn away hundreds of guests just 10 minutes before opening due to a dispute with the council over a fire hydrant The first beers were finally poured at Wild West more than a week later when it opened on April 26 Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au A car has slammed into a newly opened brewpub in Footscray\\u2019s former Franco Cozzo store \\u201CThe person then got out of the car and took one of our \\u2026 western-themed neon signs and hightailed it out of there,\\u201D he said The brewers operate two other venues \\u2013 Moon Dog OG in Abbotsford and Moon Dog World in Preston \\u2013 but the Footscray pub caused controversy when it was announced The fits 800 people and has a mechanical bucking bull faux western shopfronts and horseshoe-shaped booths Residents feared it would exacerbate problems with in the inner western suburb but Maribyrnong Council ultimately gave the venue in late 2023 van Buuren said: \\u201CAbsolutely not.\\u201D \\u201CThat\\u2019s not the kind of thing that they would do We\\u2019ve worked with the residents from day one to provide an amazing place to provide an amazing bar for the community and to increase the amenity of that area,\\u201D he said [Maybe] they wanted a piece of nostalgia from the venue.\\u201D The ram-raid is another blow to Moon Dog Wild West after its opening was The brewer\\u2019s first venue in the western suburbs was meant to launch on April 17 but was forced to turn away hundreds of guests just 10 minutes before opening due to a dispute with the council over a fire hydrant The first beers were finally poured at more than a week later when it Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit The Coats for Kindness winter coat donation drive is here for 2024 to provide free coats and warm garments Help make someone’s winter a bit warmer by donating warm garments you no longer need Donate clean clothing at any of our five library branches throughout winter: Visit Footscray Library or Braybrook Community Hub to browse our clothing rack if you can use a warm garment Maribyrnong residents can now attend the new sensory library at West Footscray Neighbourhood House offers families a unique opportunity to borrow and try sensory toys and resources before deciding to purchase them The sensory library is a community initiative to support families with children with special needs West Footscray Neighbourhood House manager Marianne Wangira said the sensory library addresses a significant community need by allowing families to try before they buy various sensory items ensuring they invest in products that truly benefit their child The neighbourhood house received a $6000 state government grant earlier this year to purchase the toys “We want to provide an opportunity for families to come and try out different kinds of toys and learn about the types of toys that respond to their child’s individual needs.” Ms Wangira said The sensory library also provides families with invaluable information on sensory regulation and the types of behaviours different toys can help manage the community was invited to explore the array of toys and resources available register as members and provide feedback on how the house can improve the program to meet the needs of local families The sensory library will operate on Wednesdays from 10am-noon Details: wfnh.org.au/about Police have charged a man with manslaughter following a fatal collision in Footscray earlier this week The 40-year-old Deer Park man has also been charged with culpable driving possessing the proceeds of crime and various other traffic offences He will appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court later today The charges follow a fatal collision between an allegedly stolen truck and a car at the intersection of Ballarat Road and Moore Street Footscray at about 4.30am on Monday January 6 Detectives believe the white Nissan truck truck was travelling west on Ballarat Road when it allegedly ran a red light and collided with a 2011 Toyota Corolla which was turning right from Ballarat Road into Moore Street The driver of the truck was arrested at the scene and was taken to hospital under police guard Police were in pursuit of the truck when the collision occurred and Professional Standards Command will have oversight of the investigation The white Nissan truck first came to police attention about 3am on January 6 following reports a stolen truck was seen in Beveridge about 2.30am The truck was seen in Truganina where police attempted to intercept it in the vicinity of Peterpaul Way and Schembri Drive Despite deploying stop sticks on several occasions police were unable to stop the truck as it continued on at high speed driving on the wrong side of the road and running through several red lights but the truck and car collided before they could arrive Police believe the truck was initially stolen on January 3 from the Kalkallo area before it was found in Derrimut and the owner contacted on January 5 It’s understood the truck was then re-stolen from Derrimut Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au 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 ReviewFans of fast food, shots and bucking bulls, this problem-plagued Footscray brewpub is for youContinue this series West-side bar and bottle-o with a sun-drenched courtyard. One or TwoOne or Two is a petite cocktail bar specialising in cocktails and hard-to-find whiskies. MisfitsCocktails are a cut above at this always-jumping bar in Footscray. SaveLog in, register or subscribe to save recipes for later.You have reached your maximum number of saved items 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 Click PLAY to hear Emilia’s full review a staple pizzeria with charm and a proper pizza oven neon Harley & Rose arch attracts swarms of trendy locals with their earthy fit out canvas green blinds and of course the open pizza oven that warms the whole joint As you’re handed the menu you’ll realise it’s much more than just your local pizzeria it’s modest but with dishes like warm Sicilian spiced pistachios or fried olives with nduja in their starters you quickly get the idea that there’s prestige in their offering It’s owned by Josh Murphy and Rory Cowcher former head chefs at the Builders Arms and Cutler and Co and that exceptional quality is reflected in all corners of the menu I love finding these little slices of local personality that are the perfect illustration of the suburb they reside what did Harley & Rose tell me about West Footscray I watched as swarths of trendy groups filled the restaurant; families groups of mates and the cheeky takeaway order in his pyjamas flew in and out mulled wine on the menu and you can order their pizza half and half It feels contemporary and they clearly are rocking but they don’t take themselves too seriously it’s laid-back and homey; it’s West Footscray mirrored I may have underestimated how loved it may be because I rocked up without a booking thinking we’d be fine and there was only outside tables free or a 30 minute wait The staff were super accommodating sitting us up on the bar for what was only a 5 minute wait before finding a table for us We ordered the cheapest wine on the menu at the recommendation of our waitress and was pleasantly surprised that it was an Italian Babo Soave from Veneto it was a nice balance against all the rich flavours So you can pick up your takeaway and wine in one place For strategising in fitting everything in I wouldn’t recommend getting the Rosemary & Smoked Garlic Flatbread (and we added stretched curds) first but for a delicious starting course As soon as I tasted the flatbread I knew the pizza bases were going to be a winner You have to try the warm Sicilian spiced pistachios; salty and a little bit crispy start I was told I had to try the Fried Olives Stuffed With Nduja and I have to advise you eat it topped with the fresh pineapple provided all in one bite perhaps one of my favourite dishes of the meal the Parmesan Croquettes doused in Pecorino & with warm dipping honey on the side I loved the bitey-ness of the parmesan paired with the sweetness I absolutely loved that we could half / half the pizza to be able to try more options One pizza we tried the Margherita and the broccoli pizza and the other was a special ‘smashed’ pepperoni with smoked bacon and topped with hot honey and the diavola; hot or mild salami the meat-based half and half pizza definitely won this round but out of left field I had to try the spiced lamb meatballs with soft polenta parsley & currant salad and the wood oven roast carrots with rose harissa feta & mint out of sheer curiosity despite the rapidly tightening space in my belly for any more food I loved that they weren’t afraid to use Middle Eastern flavours and experiment with particularly side dishes the roasted carrots were a great example of this Their signature tiramisu was the last thing to try and I couldn’t leave without trying it Before cutting into it I was already excited because it looked like a sculptural piece of Italian art topped with cocoa powder The mascarpone layer was so smooth and had a hint of butterscotch flavour to it Many locals go to Harley & Rose just for their tiramisu and I understand now The pizza starts at $20 and the most expensive pizza is $25 which is virtually unheard of in hospitality at the moment is really well priced for where we’re at currently The pastas and mains are the only thing on the menu that go above $30 but with ingredients like squid ink linguine that’s still very reasonable If I was from West Footscray I would wear Harley & Rose proudly as a representation of where the suburb is at A suburb staple that is trendy but still knows their locals well