Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 26th April 2023

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Tea party for cancer

Williamstown community members with a sweet tooth are encouraged to join the Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand’s Biggest Morning Tea, raising money for the Cancer Council Victoria.

On Thursday, May 25, up to 80 guests will be hosted from 10.15am to noon at the Customs House Hotel in Williamstown.

The event will feature an assortment of sandwiches, scones, slices, savoury items, fruit, tea and coffee, as well as a guest speaker from the Cancer Council, an MC and a super raffle.

So far, there are pledges for seven local businesses to provide donations for the raffle.

Club secretary Pam Barnes said the club members are excited to be involved following last year’s success.

“We raised $2000 last year and are hoping to at least match that price, but we hope to raise more,”she said.

“Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way, so we are happy to be involved.”

Details: www.trybooking.com/CGXVB

Millions for civic precinct

By Jennifer Pittorino

Maribyrnong ratepayers will face an average rate rise below the state government-set rate cap of 3.5 per cent next financial year.

On Tuesday, April 18, Maribyrnong councillors adopted the draft 2023-24 budget, which includes an average rate rise of 2.98 per cent.

Some of the major projects highlighted in the budget include investing $6 million towards the Joseph Road Public Realm in Footscray, $12.7 million towards the Civic

Precinct and Community Hub renovations and $4 million towards the refurbishment of Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre.

Councillor Michael Clarke said council was aware that the community is hurting.

“We are sensitive to the community’s needs,” he said.

“Our commitment to the new Civic Precinct will go a long way in ensuring our staff have facilities that are going to ensure we can do our work and also a space for the community to engage in an environment that are commensurate with their aspirations.”

Cr Simon Crawford voted against the motion saying the 2.98 per cent rate increase might not seem like a big cash difference compared to the recommended 3.5 per cent but it would add up to a loss of millions over time.

“The reality is that’s how the state government has told us to generate our revenue,” he said.

“I think we need to do everything we can within the limits the state gives us to generate that revenue.”

Maribyrnong council also proposed a three

per cent increase to the pensioner rate rebate scheme for all eligible pensioners.

Cr Cuc Lam voted in favour of the budget in hopes of “providing the best service to the community while being cost effective”.

Public consultation closes at 5pm on Sunday, May 7.

Maribyrnongcouncilishostingamoderated Zoom webinar question and answer session on Thursday, April 27 from 7pm to 8pm with Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter and chief executive Celia Haddock. Details: www. yourcityyourvoice.com.au/budget

Gael Meadowcrast, Angela Altair and Pam Barnes, Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand members are excited for Biggest Morning Tea. (Damjan Janevski). 330373_01

Councillors divided on McIvor Reserve rescission

A split decision to vote down a rescission motion against Maribyrnong council’s approval of the McIvor Reserve Master Plan including a six-court sports stadium was met with a mixture of applause and booing from the public gallery.

During its ordinary meeting on Tuesday, April 19, councillors Bernadette Thomas, Jorge Jorquera and Simon Crawford moved a notice of rescission motion.

The vote was lost four votes to three, with Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter and councillors Michael Clarke, Anthony Tran and Cuc Lam voting against the motion.

As part of the original motion passed on Wednesday, March 29, the council

was authorised to start schematic design, necessary site planning and due diligence, as well as to advocate for state and federal funding to support the plan implementation.

As outlined in the plan, the indoor sports facilitywouldcoverabout6500squaremetres, with the approved master plan also outlining a number of changes from the original draft plan, including the number of trees to be removedbeingreducedfrom163to114andan additional 6000 square metres of open space to be redesignated as an off lead dog area.

Cr Thomas said she hoped rescinding the motionwouldgivethecounciltimetoreconsider the placement and size of the proposed sports stadium as part of the master plan.

“In this instance, I think the placement of an indoor stadium is a poor outcome in the position that it’s been proposed,” she said.

Cr Jorquera said there was a generational need for green space.

“I would really like to implore the community to join forces … and put pressure on the state government to provide what we merit, both green space and the grassroots facilities that young people in particular need in the city of Maribyrnong,” he said.

Cr Clarke said that moving the proposed stadium to the southern end of McIvor Reserve would create a “living nightmare” for nearby residents and would be “putting out fire with gasoline”.

Help for flooded renters

Maribyrnong flood victims will be able to access a new tenancy service to support those experiencing rental stress following the October 2022 flood event.

Launching on Monday, May 1, the Tenancy Stress Victoria (TSV) Flood Recovery Clinic will provide renters impacted by the Maribyrnong and Werribee river floods with free access to the services of a lawyer, financial counsellororasocialworkertoassistthemwith legal issues, broader social issues, significant financial hardship and debt matters.

Made possible with the support of Consumer Affairs Victoria, the pilot will be a joint project between WEstjustice providing the in-house legal and social work assistance and Anglicare providing the specialist

financial counselling services.

WEstjustice chief executive Melissa Hardham said a number of compounding factors often leads to experiencing rental stress.

“Being placed in a situation where you are at risk of eviction doesn’t happen in a vacuum,” she said.

“We hope that when a person is able to see the right professionals at the right time, they won’t enter the crisis homelessness space.”

WEstjustice reports show issues from rental providers not carrying out repairs to excessive rent increases can impact renters.

TSV program manager Christopher Carr said the one-stop service will help renters learn about how to ease pressure from a

number of different sources.

“Our intention is to demonstrate the value of a one-stop wrap-around service,” he said.

“Many renters are doing it tough now due to rapid inflation in the rental market and the cost-of-living crisis more generally.

“Preventing an eviction order is one thing, but addressing the underlying cause of rental stress is another.”

Mr Carr said often non-legal solutions are required to solve legal problems.

“Hence, having the services of a financial counsellor and social worker on hand to step in straight away is of huge benefit in these situations.”

Details: 9749 7720 or chrisc@westjustice. org.au

Cr Carter said she believed having the original motion requested to be rescinded had set a “reckless precedent”.

“I think the standing resolution that we have will provide a legacy project and one that we will all be incredibly proud of in the years to come,” she said.

Applause and impassioned cries from the public gallery came from the gallery during the debate, with cries of “what a disgrace” and “shame on you” among the remarks made after the final vote.

Details: www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/ mcivor

Matthew

Sims

Pitching in for progress

From celebrating First Nations art to switching from disposable sanitary, incontinence and nappy products to reusable products, Hobsons Bay council has endorsed a number of programs across the municipality via its Pitch your Project initiative.

Set to be funded through Hobsons Bay’s 2023-2024 budget, which is set to be approved in June, council has approved 16 projects.

Funded projects would include grandparent-led playgroups for extended families at Hobsons Bay Libraries, a creative lighting project at Williamstown’s Nelson Place and a tour bus around key Hobsons Bay landmarks.

Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa said the Pitch your Project initiative has again displayed the passion within the community for ongoing development and activation.

“The Pitch Your Project program has again shown what an incredibly engaged community we have,” she said.

“We received so many fantastic ideas from people who want to make Hobsons Bay a more vibrant, welcoming and exciting place to live, work, study and visit.

Cr Briffa said she was excited to see the 16 approved ideas be realised.

“We have allocated $610,000 for Council to deliver all these wonderful ideas, ranging from community development and sustainability to entertainment and tourism,” she said.

“I can’t wait to see them all come to fruition and I want to thank everyone who submitted an idea.”

Details: participate.hobsonsbay.vic. gov.au/pitch-your-project-2023-24

Maribyrnong council backs cashless gambling reforms

Maribyrnong council has confirmed its support for the introduction of mandatory cashless gambling in Victoria.

During its meeting on Tuesday, April 18, Maribyrnong councillor Bernadette Thomas moved a notice of motion to confirm the council’ssupportfortheAllianceforGambing Reform’s campaign to introduce mandatory cashless gambling in Victoria.

Receiving unanimous support, the motion also detailed that council would write to Footscray MP Katie Hall and all Metropolitan Legislative Council members urging them to help protect the Maribyrnong community from gambling harm.

Cashless gambling systems would allow a usertoplayapokermachinewithoutinserting

any cash, which ordinarily involves the use of a card or a digital wallet.

Enforcing cashless gambling can also limit

how much money can be added and allow for self or third-party exclusion from using machines, as well as the ability to provide gamblers with real-time data about their spending.

As a Leadership Council with the Alliance for Gambling Reform, Maribyrnong council has been working to make Australia a safer society by reducing the level of gambling harm.

The Alliance for Gambling Reform is a registered health promotion charity which collaborates with organisations to combat the harmful effects of gambling in Australia.

CrMichaelClarkesaidanythingthecouncil can do to support the reduction of harm as a result of these gaming machines will be

supported, with Maribyrnong’s history with gambling harm previously among the state’s worst.

“We were at the top of the list,” he said. There was a net loss of $58,205,122 across Maribyrnong’s electronic gaming machines during 2019.

Cr Jorge Jorquera said this motion was particularly important in the context of the cost of living crisis.

“It’s only getting worse and worse,” he said. “Gambling has had a great impact on so many families and individuals.

“Putting support behind initiatives like this is a great step forward.”

Jennifer Pittorino

Anglicare’s Kathryn Swinton, Tenancy Stress Victoria program manager Christopher Carr, and WEstjustice legal director Joe Nunweek are keen to start providing support for Maribyrnong flood victims experiencing rental stress. (Damjan Janevski) 330558_03

Celebrating culture and heritage

By Jennifer Pittorino

For more than 40 years, the National Trust of Australia has honoured the rich culture and heritage displayed in the country with the running of the annual Australian Heritage Festival.

Thisyear,runningfromTuesday,April18to Thursday, May 18, Maribyrnong council will be contributing to the festivities to celebrate the local rich heritage. Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter said the city’s heritage is shaped by the diverse range of multigenerational

influences, environments and cultures.

“Heritage is how we embrace these rich histories and includes things like historical buildings, streetscapes, art collections and archaeological sites, as well as unseen heritage such as cultural practices and traditions,” she said.

This year’s theme is ‘Shared Stories’, with a range of activities available for people of all ages and interests, including an opportunity tohearstoriesoftheSeddonshoppingprecinct from business owners and staff on Friday, May 5 and an author talk with Professor Bain

Help keep van on road

Footscray Community Arts is asking for the community’s help to replace a much loved van.

For more than 20 years, the van has been an essential means of transportation for deaf and disabled artists to connect with the arts industry and the community.

The community van has enabled those who cannot drive themselves to take part in the ArtLife program.

FootscrayCommunityArtshaslaunchedan online fundraising campaign for the purchase of the new van, with more than $7300 raised at the time of publication. On Saturday, May 6, Footscray Community Arts is hosting a Makers Market and ‘giving day’, which will contribute towards the fundraising campaign.

Footscray Community Arts ArtLife manager Louisa Carter said the van is now nearing the end of its life, becoming inaccessible for many artists and becoming increasingly difficult and unreliable to drive.

“We urgently need the support of our

community to replace this vital resource,” she said.

“As one of the only mainstream art organisations registered as a NDIS provider in Australia, we are passionate about access, equity and creativity.”

Every dollar raised up to $50,000 before Wednesday, May 31 will be matched by Creative Partnerships Australia and their Plus1 fundraising program. Designed to boost the fundraising efforts of small to medium not-for-profit arts organisations, the program will allow for a potential of $100,000 to be raised for the campaign.

The new van will include access enhancements, such as a wheelchair lift.

For some, the van is the only means of transportation to the centre and other neighboring art centres, galleries and venues.

Details: chuffed.org/project/ we-need-a-new-van

Attwood on Wednesday, May 3.

In 2022, Maribyrnong council started having conversations with the broader community, with a number of opportunities for change in heritage management highlighted, including the further protection of natural and Indigenous heritage and the need for working with the local community.

Cr Carter said the council is looking at creating a new heritage strategy.

“Just like demographic changes – the way in which our community values heritage shifts over time,” she said

“That’s why we’re creating a new strategy –to pick up where the 2002 Heritage Plan left off – that reflects the values and aspirations of our community, to guide the next ten years of heritage management in our city.”

Council is inviting locals to have their say on the next phase of development of a new HeritageStrategytocontinuetheconservation and promotion of Maribyrnong’s heritage assets.

Feedback closes at midnight on Sunday, May14.Details:www.yourcityyourvoice.com. au/heritage

Lacrosse in running for a Vic sports award

The Victorian Sport Awards has announced Lacrosse Victoria’s program aimed at encouraging increased participation within LGBTQIA+ university students, which culminated in the Lacrosse Victoria Pride Cup in Altona North last October, as a finalist in the Active Recreation of the Year award.

Designed for and by the LGBTIQIA+ community and funded by VicHealth’s Future Healthy Big Connect funding initiative, the Lacrosse Together program co-designed social sport opportunities with LGBTIQIA+ universitystudentsaimedataddressingmental health and wellbeing disparities amongst LGBTIQIA+ youth by reducing social isolation and loneliness by providing safe spaces for young people to meaningfully connect with their peers and allies. Lacrosse Victoria development officer Kristen Hutchinson said the Lacrosse Together team were “so excited” to be named as a finalist.

“It’s been in the making for a year and a bit now,” she said.

More than 65 participants and three partner universities were involved in the initiative.

before the initiative.

With support from Proud 2 Play and Pride Cup Australia, the program culminated in the Lacrosse Together Pride Cup, which featured 22 teams made up of 203 participants from 13 lacrosseclubsaswellasateamfromeachofthe main Lacrosse Together partner universities descending on P.J. Lynch Reserve in Altona North last October.

Ms Hutchinson said the day was a creative, vibrant and fun event featuring every colour of the rainbow flag.

“We actually had some new teams,” she said.

Ms Hutchinson said lacrosse was quickly developing across the western suburbs of Melbourne.

“Lacrosseisalittlebitofaless-knownsport,” she said.

Presented by the state government and Vicsport,theawardswillbeheldonWednesday, June 7 in the Victory Room at Marvel Stadium.

Details: lacrossevictoria.com.au/participate/ diversity-inclusion or vicsport.com.au/events/ view/1469

Matthew Sims

A number of teams from universities across the state competed in last year’s Lacrosse Together Pride Cup. (@sportlaxoz)

Jennifer Pittorino Artists and staff: Pamela (front), Amy, Steven , Diego, Amy, Lucy, Thomas, Ibby, Emily and Louisa. (Damjan Janevski) 330579_03

$3.14m safety upgrade

By Jennifer Pittorino

OneofFootscray’sbusiestintersectionswillbe receiving a $3.14 million makeover to improve safety in the area.

On Friday, April 21, Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne announced plans for the safety improvements on the corner of Moore Street and Hopkins Street.

The project will include the removal of the traffic island at the intersection, as well as new bollards, fencing and tactile paving, asphalt resurfacing and new line marking.

Ms Horne said there was careful planning considering the road space, impacts on traffic flow and the demographic of the area.

“There are many apartments surrounding this intersection, we are seeing many young families move into the area, plus there are a lot of heavy vehicles coming in and out,” she said.

“It is very congested so being able to get the right safety resolution for residents has been really important.

Footscray MP Katie Hall said she began working on the project pre-COVID speaking to residents of the area.

“I first met with residents when I was first elected and it has been an ongoing process since then,” she said.

“Together with Melissa, we have been meeting with residents and have now succeeded in getting the speed limit lowered.”

From Thursday April 27, the current 50 km/h speed limit will be lowered to 40 km/h.

In the interim, safety measures have been placed in the intersection, including flexible bollards and flashing ‘watch for pedestrians’ signs.

Works at the intersection are due to begin at the end of May and are expected to be completed by the end of July.

Bringing arts to the west

A mixture of comedy and live music is on its way to Hobsons Bay, as part of Hobsons Bay council’s Arts At Your Doorstep program.

Events on the program include Sounds of Silent presenting Steamboat Bill Jr on Thursday, May 18 and The General on Thursday, August 3.

The Sounds of Silent is a five-piece band that recreates the experience of the silent movie era when many bands performed in Melbourne theatres to accompany the films. Returning to HobsonsBayafterasell-outperformance in 2022 at the Altona Theatre, ARIA nominated soul-rhythm combo Emma DonovanandThePutbackswilltakethe stage at the Williamstown Town Hall to celebrate their seventh year together on Friday, July 14. Other performances include Goddesses of Jazz on Wednesday, September 13, Whalebone on Wednesday, September 27 and Double Feature by Damian Callinan on Thursday, October 19. Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa said she encourages all residents to take advantage of the diverse program of events on offer.

“Arts at your Doorstep is all about making sure everyone in Hobsons Bay can experience great theatre,” she said.

“We want people in the west to be able to see some of Australia’s best performers without having to travel to the city or beyond. “I encourage our community to make a night of it with dinner or drinks at one of our many fantastic local venues.”

Details: hobsonsbaytickets.com.au

A truck curfew will continue to remain in place on Moore Street between Hopkins Street and Ballarat Road, with the conclusion of the

West Gate Tunnel project set to allow for the introduction of 24-hour truck bans on six local roads, including Moore Street.

Footscray MP Katie Hall and Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne made a joint announcement about the improvement works at the intersection of Moore and Hopkins streets. (Jennifer Pittorino) 330676_01

Budget shapes a bright future

By Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter

As we continue to work together to overcome significant challenges in recent times, council remains committedtoabiggerandbrighter future for our community.

The Proposed Budget 2023/24, endorsedforcommunitycomment this month, supports this by considering the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, last October’s major flood event, and the increasing cost of living.

Itispremisedon2.98percentincreaseintotal ratesrevenue,lessthanthe3.5percentprovided for by state government, and aims to deliver essential services, enhance infrastructure, and maintain our city’s liveability.

With a planned expenditure of $208 million, we intend to continue to invest in areas like roads, laneways, footpaths, public realm upgrades, parks, open spaces, recreation facilities, early years and community centres, and waste management.

Just under a third of the proposed budget would be channelled into capital works.

Beyond the proposed budget, we are also nowseekingfeedbackontheDraftLibraryPlan 2023-2025.

Cherished by our community as places that provide safe spaces to learn, connect, and support vulnerable members, our aim is to ensure Maribyrnong Libraries remain vibrant, accessible, and responsive to residents’ expectations.

Developed with community and staff input,

Briefs

Search for baseball owner

the draft plan focuses on staff development and engagement with the community to provide necessary programs, collections, and services.

It also paves the way for longer-termthinkingaboutlibrary infrastructure and services, with every dollar invested generating $4.30oflocalcommunitybenefits.

Additionally, we are progressing with the McIvor Reserve Master Plan, including an indoor sports facility after an extended period of community engagement which has involved a lot of listening by and discussion amongst councillors, and two votes before a resolution.

While this has not been a process that has come about quickly, we will now see a legacy project delivered that represents a significant investment in our community’s health, well-being,andsportinglife,providingmodern, accessible, high-quality sports facilities.

It will also be a project that, despite divergent views now, we will all be incredibly proud of in the years to come.

Please share their thoughts on the Draft Library Plan 2023-2025 and the Proposed Budget 2023/2024 at yourcityyourvoice.com. au.

There will also be a live-streamed budget Q&A session on Thursday, April 27 from 7pm to 8pm.

With your feedback, we can continue invest in our community’s future, ensuring a safe, healthy, and vibrant Maribyrnong.

Join us on this important journey.

Detectives from Maribyrnong Crime Investigation Unit are covering all bases as they try to track down the owners of a signed baseball. Police had undertaken a number of inquiries as part of their investigation into the theft of a vehicle from a property on Commercial Road, Footscray, in June last year. It was subsequently located approximately one month later in the car park of the Epping plaza shopping centre. During a search of the car, a number of items of allegedly stolen property were recovered including a signed baseball. Detectives spoke to the vehicle owner, however the ball was not his. Despite a number of inquiries, police have not been able to link the ball to any existing crime reports and are unable to ascertain who the owner is. The ball, which is white with red stitching and appears to be match-used, is covered in a number of signatures with playing numbers beside them. One of the clearest signatures appears to be that of Scott Dawes, who represented Australia in baseball between 1993-1998 including at the Atlanta Olympics. Details: 8398 9822 or email MARIBYRNONG-CIU-OIC@ police.vic.gov.au

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Reclaiming the balance when you feel exhausted

Whether it’s responsibilities piling up, the housework never getting done, or people in your life who need your attention, it can feel like you never have enough time.

When you’re putting the needs of others before your own it can be challenging to take time for yourself, or even realise that you need to.

Those who help out a family member or friend with disability, mental illness, age or health issues can sometimes struggle to look after their own care needs. If this sounds like you, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and exhausted. Finding enough time to keep on top of the housework can be tough, let alone finding any time for your own self-care or social needs.

young carer

But it can be different – Carer Gateway can help. It’s a free support service especially for

Where carers can find support

Do you care for a family member or friend with disability, mental illness, age or health issues? Contact Carer Gateway for support.

needs back in the picture? Don’t wait until you break – call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 for help with information, advice, peer support,

‘‘ If I don’t look after myself who is going to look after the people I care for? ’’ -

Life-saving grant rescues ASRC

By Jennifer Pittorino

Asylum seekers in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay will continue to receive vital support at the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) thanks to a $500,000 state government grant.

On Friday, April 21, Multicultural Affairs Minister Colin Brooks announced the one-off grant with the support of Footscray MP Katie Hall, Preston MP Nathan Lambert and Albert Park MP Nina Taylor.

ThegrantwillallowfortheASRCtocontinue its support by providing essential services including delivering food bank support, as well as funding the many roles of frontline legal services, bicultural and social workers.

Mr Brooks said he is proud of the important work being done at the ASRC.

Women kicking goals

Women are encouraged to start their football journeys at the two new programs introduced at the Parkside Spurs Women’s Football Club in Footscray.

Spurs player Amanda Butcher and other playershavedesignedtheprogramstoincrease women’s participation in the game.

“We have been trying to increase women’s participation in sport, primarily in the AFL and we found since COVID getting people to play has been really challenging”, she said. Thefirstofthenewprogramsisacompetition called non contact, which is essentially football combined with netball. Differences are in the non-contact games, the ground is smaller than a regular football ground.

Butcher said the second program is QuickKick, which is a clinic being run to teach women 35 and older the basic skills of the

game.

Butcher said many women haven’t had exposure to sport so they tend to be nervous about getting started.

“Wearetryingtocomeupwithanewconcept to introduce them to the sport by giving them a chance to get into the game without the intensity of the professional league,” she said.

“The game is designed for learning as you go, theumpirescoachyouratherthantellyouoff.”

Unlike regular football, players stay in their own section and keep to their positions similarly to those of netball.

Butcher said they have had amazing responses to the QuickKick program so far.

There will be a non-contact game run every second Saturday at alternating grounds at 10.30am, followed by a masters game at noon and again at 2pm.

“We know there have been some tough times financially for so many organisations making things very challenging at the moment,” he said. “We know this money will be put to such good use.”

ASRC chief executive Kon Karapanagiotidis said the ongoing support from the state government has led them through challenging times.

“We are an organisation that relies on the kindness and the goodwill of a community, we are so honoured to have a state government that continues to stand for the marginalised refugees, and who understands their role is about looking after local Victorians,” he said.

“The people that walk through these

doors are not asylum seekers, they are local Victorians and future Australian citizens, and you’re setting them up for a life where they can thrive and not simply survive.”

Founded in 2001, the ASRC is Australia’s largest human rights organisation providing support to over 7000 people.

Morethan80percentofthepeoplesupported by the ASRC are living with no form of income and rely solely on the ASRC.

Mr Karapanagiotidis said without the grant, the ASRC would not be able to continue operating.

“Wewouldnotbeabletokeephousingpeople, and be their supermarket, their pharmacy and the roof over their heads,” he said.

Spurs QuickKick co-ordinator Amanda Butcher,(front) with Cass Hoult, Jodie Koudmani, Tee Manunui, Michele Lewis, Brigid Ryan, Sarah Carnovale and Kate Balme. (Damjan Janevski). 330498_04

Asylum Seeker Resource Centre chief executive Kon Karapanagiotidis (second from right) celebrated the funding with parliamentary members. (Jennifer Pittorino) 330713_01

Family fun in full flight

Yarraville youngsters got up close and encounter with live butterflies during the ‘Butterfly Kidz’ event at Yarraville library on Tuesday, April 18.

Kids were invited into a custom built butterfly enclosure and were able to feed, admire and interact with the butterflies.

The kids were also in the company of friendly butterfly expert staff and Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter.

Star Weekly photographer Jacob Pattison visited the special event to capture the fun.

Main: Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter with Pasquale, 9, Scarlett, 6, and Vivienne, 6. (Pictures: Jacob Pattison) 329723

Great news for the country that won’t cost a cent

An open letter to Treasurer Jim Chalmers regarding the Budget

Dear Dr Chalmers,

There’s a crisis in our country you can fix in your first budget, at no extra cost. With the stroke of a pen you could help secure the future of critical regional news services, using money already allocated in the budget.

All you need to do is allocate a fairer percentage of the federal government’s advertising budget to local and regional news services, rather than spending almost all of it with corporate capital city media and foreign-owned digital platforms (which don’t produce any content or employ any journalists).

This can be achieved by simply adopting the Victorian Govt policy that mandates a weekly full page government advertisement in every regional and community paper.

Local and regional newspapers connect more than 80% of the country, but they get almost 0% of the government advertising spend. In an era where false news spreads faster on social media than the truth does, trusted local news services reach more regional Australians than any other medium. And unlike other media, every government dollar spent with a local newspaper is also an investment in regional journalism jobs. This shouldn’t be controversial.

A recent parliamentary inquiry recommended that a minimum of 20% of government print advertising should be placed with regional news services. A recent study conducted by Deakin University recommended the same thing. In fact, the Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, has been advocating for more regional newspaper advertising for many years.

We know there may be bigger budget issues, but this small policy change would be a simple and fair solution to a growing problem for regional Australia. A policy that ensures weekly federal government advertising is placed in regional newspapers would be great news for the country.

And it won’t cost you a cent.

Yours sincerely,

You TonyKendall

Andrew Manuel

Authorised by A Manuel, 9 Howe Street Balaklava SA 5461

Bugs, books and council services

Young and curious minds received a peek into the miniature world of bugs on Tuesday, April 18, as part of Altona Library’s launch of its Council+ services.

Altona Library hosted a bug day where visitors could meet and learn about a range of spiders and insects that live above and below the ground. Visitors of all ages enjoyed a number of activities, including face painting, story time and a scavenger hunt.

Altona Library has joined Laverton CommunityHub,SeabrookCommunityCentre, AltonaNorthCommunityLibrary,HobsonsBay Civic Centre and the Williamstown and Altona Meadows libraries in becoming a Council+ site, allowing visitors to access a number of council services from applying for permits to paying rates, upsizing their bins and more. StarWeekly photographer Jacob Pattison visited the Altona Library to capture the fun.

YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

PRINT AND PRINT AND PRINT AND ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

Raph, 7, and Valerie, 9.

Peeking into the miniature world of bugs at Altona Library. Pictured top row: Akali, 3, Hinata, 6, Sam, 4 and, Max, 5. Above: Jenn and Enzo, 2. (Pictures: Jacob Pattison) 329054

House prices settle across the state according to REIV

The Victorian property market is showing signs of stabilisation this quarter, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.

The Metropolitan Melbourne median house price recorded a marginal drop of 1 per cent to $955,500 in the March quarter while units recorded a 1.8 per cent drop to $611,000.

Houses in regional Victoria once again held strong, nudging down to $602,000 (from $603,000) this quarter, but growing 2.2 per cent to $608,000 annually. While units and apartments grew 3.7 per cent to $425,000.

Morwell took first place for annual growth in the regional suburbs, with a 21.5 per cent jump to $371,250, followed by the border town of West Wodonga (up 21.1 per cent) ringing in at $539,000. The beachside Barwon Heads demonstrated its desirability once again, with a 15 per cent increase over the year to $1,955,000.

For those seeking a tree change for under $400k, houses in Stawell are going for a median of $380,000 (up 18.8 per cent) while Churchill sits at $378,500 (up 12.3 per cent) – both grew while remaining within the top five most affordable suburbs for Regional Victoria.

For the hopeful homebuyers closer to the city, good news comes from Melbourne’s outer suburbs as house prices in Wyndham Vale dropped 4.7 per cent to settle at a median of $552,500 this quarter – but, recorded 9 per cent growth over 12 months, taking the spot as Melbourne’s top suburb for annual growth.

Other outer suburbs showing strong growth, but well within reach for house

hunters, were Tarneit with 3.4 per cent annual growth (to $650,000) and Pakenham recording a 4 per cent jump to $645,500.

Moving into middle Melbourne, Brighton was a standout suburb and dominated as Melbourne’s most expensive for the March 2023 report. As one of the few to bolster its median price both quarterly (up 23.2 per cent) to $3,951,000 and annually with a 0.3 per cent increase on houses. Brighton also took the lead in the most expensive for units and apartments recording a 11.8 per cent quarterly spike (to $1,398,000) and 8.5 per cent increase annually.

Contrast to the bay, the leafy suburb of Templestowe rivalled Brighton’s quarterly growth showing a 23.2 per cent increase to median house price of $1,810,944. While units and apartments in culture-rich Glen Waverley saw a 22 per cent increase in quarterly medians to $1,220,000.

REIV president Andrew Meehan noted that the property market is still stabilising after the price boom the pandemic instigated, and while there’s still uncertainty around the future impact of interest rate rises in the market, there is positive activity.

The REIV Residential Market Index (RMX) which measures the price movement on weekly basis, has rebounded by 8.9 per cent since the start of this year. Currently the RMX sits at 154.9, close to levels recorded in mid-2022. “Despite pressures from the interest rate increases, the market remains robust, particularly in outer ring suburbs, strong demand for housing is likely to continue throughout the rest of the year,” said Mr Meehan.

Buyers will be pleased with news house prices are stabilising.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free

Weekly

Calendar,

Carers’ walk and talk Pathways for Carers is running free walking events in Footscray. A collaboration between the state government, Interchange Outer East and Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL), the Pathways for Carers program is launching a monthly walk in Footscray on the third Thursday of each month. Participants are encouraged to arrive at 9.15am for a 9.30am start, with a complimentary morning tea available at Myrtle Wine Cafe in Footscray from 10.15am. The goal of each group is to provide carers with peer-based support, information, services and resources, opportunities to be active and connect with other carers, connect with nature and connect with their local community.

■ lauren.mcalpine@bsl.org.au, or www.pathwaysforcarers.com.au

Biggest Morning Tea

The Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand is hosting its Biggest Morning Tea on Thursday, May 25 from 10.15am to noon at the Customs House Hotel in Williamstown. Lots of yummy food, coffee/ tea with a guest speaker and a super raffle. Come and support cancer council research and have a great time while donating to a good cause.

■ www.trybooking.com/CGXVB

Altona North Combined Probus

The Altona North Combined Probus Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.

■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Choir leader needed

The Laverton Community Choir is seeking a relaxed, fun and community minded musical director volunteer to guide the choir in song. The not for profit, non-audition all-abilities choir has been singing for many years and enjoy a handful of performances a year within the local and surrounding community areas. With full support from the committee and members, the successful applicant will have sound musical experience (competent pianist, ability to read, interpret and arrange music), an inclusive and open leadership style, with a commitment to having a positive relationship with all members and a desire to work with the committee to develop and implement a long-term plan for the choir. The choir rehearses on Thursday evenings from 7pm to 9pm (with a 15-minute supper break at 8pm) during the school terms. The position will be effective from term 3, 2023. However, earlier involvement from June with the outgoing musical director would be encouraged.

■ samgerc@bigpond.net.au

New choir launch

A new community choir in Melbourne’s west will launch on Friday, April 28. With One Voice – Hobsons Bay will meet at the Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre at 5 Sargood Street in Altona each Friday afternoon from 1.30pm to 2.30pm, followed by tea and coffee and a chat. The choir is open to people of all abilities, cultures, backgrounds, vocal ranges, ages and genders. No auditions and no sheet music.

■ www.withonevoice.org.au/choirs/ hobsonsbay

Food relief markets

Yarraville Community Centre will be hosting a food relief market for those in need of assistance with food and

essentials. The market will be held in the car park located at 59 Francis Street in Yarraville between 10am and 12.30pm on Wednesday, May 17. Visitors can select their own food including fresh fruit and vegetables as well as pantry staples, use family and individual support services, select clothing, toys and homewares from West Welcome Wagon, access health advice. Children’s activities are also on offer.

■ Bettina, 0411 954 774 or btwyman@ ycc.net.au

Flower workshops

Want to learn how to do professional flower arrangements in a fun and relaxed program? Flowers, vase and snacks included. Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson St, Williamstown.

■ Liza, 0416 268 959

Point Gellibrand Rotary Club

Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. The club has some great speakers and need new, energetic, enthusiastic members who want to make a difference in their community.

■ www.rotarypointgellibrand.com.au, Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@ gmail.com

Newport folk and fiddle

Have you thought of taking up an instrument or dusting off that guitar or ukulele or other instrument recently? Then join the Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group. Absolute beginners or those with some experience are welcome to come along and play in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy and appreciate music. Children are also welcome. The group is

led by Danny, who creates a welcoming and casual environment. Saturday, April 22. 6.30pm to 8.30pm. 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.

■ www.nffc.org.au/beginner-playalong

Seeking stories

Award-winning local author Dr Dominique Hes is writing a book on Newport Lakes, tracing its history, its impact and its contribution. The book will outline the story of its development, highlighting the role of consensus, courage, vision and working with nature to create a beautiful ecological and social place. Weaving in theories of biophilia, regenerative development and placemaking with local stories, it aims to provide inspiration for other communities looking at what they can do in their neighbourhoods. Locals are asked to come forward with any stories, photos, memories to be included in the book.

■ NPLbook22@gmail.com

Williamstown book sale

Friends of Williamstown and Newport Libraries hold a book sale every second Saturday of each month 9.30am to 12.30pm. The book sale is held in Friends’ Room – entrance from deck on Ferguson Street. Cash only sales.

■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Walking group

The Altona Meadows and Newport Heart Foundation Walking Group is a local community of men and women committed to walking together, socialising together with a post-walk coffee and chat and enjoying the natural beauty and birdlife that is to be found throughout Hobsons Bay together. Anyone is welcome to join the group on Mondays 10am at Altona Beach, Wednesdays 10am at Altona Meadows (Jolly Miller Cafe) or on Fridays 10am, at Newport Lakes. The group walks for 60 minutes and enjoys the physical and psychological benefits of walking together in clean, fresh air

rain, hail or shine, at its own pace and according to individual abilities. Members are required to register with the Heart Foundation in order to join. Hobsons Bay resident Ian Watson established the walking group four years ago under the Heart Foundation’s umbrella, and, in 2021, was awarded the Heart Foundation’s Australia wide Golden Shoe Award for Courage and Commitment.

■ Ian Watson, 0411 566 862 or www. hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Altona-Meadows-and-NewportHeart-Foundation-Walking-Groups

Free English conversation class

Is English your second language? Do you want to improve your English skills and meet new people? Practise English conversation in informal interactive group sessions. Light refreshments provided. Mondays during school terms from 1pm to 3pm at the Altona Library meeting room at Queen Street, Altona.

■ Joe Pellone, 0431 915 970, or joepellone@gmail.com, or Jill Mackenzie, 0439 994 705, or jill.mackenzie111@ gmail.com

Friendship group

Altona Day Voice Interest and Education of Women (VIEW) Club meets at 11am on the third Wednesday of the month at Altona RSL. Funds raised for the Smith Family Learning for life program.

■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club

Would you like to develop confidence in communicating, competence with language and clarity in writing?

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club would like to invite any and all residents to join them on the first and third Thursday of every month to help develop public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets at the Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton from 7-9.30pm.

■ Vimi Gaoneadry, 0411 530 944

of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star

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by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of kids having fun at Albanvale primary school’s cultural diversity day. (Damjan Janevski) 329177_01

PUZZLES

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Region of South Africa (9)

6 Just (4)

10 Atmosphere (3)

11 Donated (11)

341 872 169 3 43 6

DOWN 1

easy 658 9387 975

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20 From Stockholm, say (7)

21 List of dishes served (4)

25 The person who controls the game in certain sports (6)

26 Entered (8)

28 Open area of commercial dealings (11)

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25 26 8 76 2

43 9 61 4 89

9 1785 48

medium 531 7 67 8 569

27 9713 5

hard

9-LETTER

No. 130 SUDOKU

R E C C R O O R E R D T E T R Y C A R G O H O A R D E R R E D S T E E L T A R D Y E O N C

words: Good

cere, cheer, chore, coerce, cohere, COHERENCE, cone, core, creche, crone, echo, encore, erne, hence, here, hereon, hero, heron, hone, ochre, once

WORD 5x5 QUICK QUIZ

1 Which footballer famously scored off an unpenalised handling foul that became known as the 'Hand of God’ in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal?

2 The Río de la Plata forms the border between which two South American countries?

4 Which country gifted the Statue of Liberty to the US?

5 And in what style is the statue?

6 In which region of Italy is the city of Naples?

7 In which country is the endangered eastern lowland gorilla (pictured) found?

8 Which African capital city is found on the opposite shore of the Congo River from Kinshasa?

9 What is the primary ingredient of the Iranian dish pilaf?

10 Who directed the 2012 film Argo?

words: Very good 21 words: Excellent Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS AIM ALE AMP ASH ATE AYE BAR BET CUE DIP EAT EVE GAB GUT HEM ICE IDS KEN MRS ODE OUR THE TNT 4 LETTERS AMID BAUD BELT BEST BIDE BRAY CAPS GARB HEAL HOOT MOOT MOPS TEST TOMB USES 5 LETTERS ABUSE ACUTE ADAPT ALPHA AMASS ASIDE ASSET AURAL BAKER BASIN BROTH DEVIL DOGMA EAGLE EASEL ELOPE ERECT GRACE ISLES ISSUE ITCHY MARES MENUS METRE MOUTH NESTS ODOUR OLIVE OUSTS PAPAL RINSE RIOTS RIPEN ROMPS SCENT SLEPT SNAGS STEER STOKE TERSE THERE TIRES TONNE UPPER USUAL WAGER 6 LETTERS CUTEST HANGAR OUTWIT SERIAL 7 LETTERS DREAMER EROSION IMPLORE NOTICED ORPHANS PREPAYS 8 LETTERS DRAMATIC NURTURED PARAKEET THEATRES 11 LETTERS COPPERHEADS PREROGATIVE 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 B Y M O A J E L I N Q S H F W U D T C K P R Z X G V Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible 28-04-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 937465821 591348672 319752468 154287396 768129534 825634917 682913745 243576189 476891253 easy medium hard 672139458 524683791 197542836 859264173 983471562 265318947 341857629 716925384 438796215 845319672 638591247 783156924 192647385 529764138 254983716 376825491 417238569 961472853 1 14 7 20 2 15 8 21 3 16 9 22 4 17 10 23 5 18 11 24 6 19 12 25 13 26 XV ANSWERS: 1. Diego Maradona 2. Argentina and Uraguay 3. Simón Bolívar 4. France 5. Neoclassical 6. Campania 7. Democratic Republic of the Congo 8. Brazzaville 9. Rice 10. Ben Affleck

No. 130

No. 130

No. 130

63 The Circle

• Braybook Central West Plaza Management 65-67

Ashley Street

• Braybook West Central Properties Shop D2, 67

Ashley Street

• Braybook Braybook Hotel 353 Ballarat Road

Division over sports plan

• Braybook Braybook Library 107-139 Churchill Avenue

• Deep Park Deep Park Newsagency 823 Ballarat Road

• Footscray Trimson & Partner Real Estate 169 Barkly Street

• Footscray French Baguette Cafe 181 Barkly Street

• Footscray Whitten Oval 417 Barkly Street

• Footscray Footscray Community Arts Centre 45 Moreland Street

• Footscray Phoenix Youth Centre 72 Barkly Street

• Footscray Di Natale Real Estate 225 Barkly Street

• Footscray Mig Real Estate 329 Barkly Street

• Footscray Nguyen Real Estate 11/158 Barkly Street

• Footscray Greg Hocking Real Estate 145-147 Geelong Road

• Footscray Footscray Hospital 160 Gordon Street

• Footscray Caltex Petrol Station 62-68 Gordon Street

• Footscray Maribyrnong City Council 61 Napier Street (Cnr Napier & Hyde Streets)

• Footscray TattsLotto 81 Nicholson Street

• Footscray Victoria University at MetroWest 138 Nicholson Street

• Footscray Wards Newsagency 100 Nicholson Street

• Footscray Health Works 215 Nicholson Street

• Footscray Footscray Library 56 Paisley Street

• Footscray Paisley Clinic Pharmacy 85 Paisley Street

• Footscray National Hearing Care 123-125

• Paisley Street

• Footscray Coles Supermarket Albert Street (Footscray Plaza Shopping Centre)

• Footscray West IGA West Footscray 511 Barkly Street

• Footscray West Neighbourhood House Level 1, 539 Barkly Street

• Footscray West Compton Green Real Estate 1/240 Geelong Road

• Footscray West Kingsville Newsagency 339 Somerville Road

• Keilor Park Star Weekly Office Unit 6/1-9 Thomson Road (Cnr Keilor Park Drive)

• Kingsville BP Petrol 88 Williamstown Road

• Laverton Laverton Newsagency Shop 12-14 Aviation Road

• Laverton Bendigo Bank Shop 3/28 Aviation Road

• Laverton Ace Real Estate Shop 4/4 Neville Avenue

• Laverton Laverton Community Hub 95-105 Railway Street

• Maidstone MJs Café Unit 9/72 Hampstead Road

• Maidstone Fix at Mick’s Motors Petrol Station 95 Rosamond Road

• Maidstone Maidstone Milk Bar 154 Ballarat Road

• Maribyrnong Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre 1 Aquatic Drive

• Maribyrnong Maribyrnong Community Centre 9 Randall Street

• Maribyrnong Supanews Lotto Shop 2138/120-200 Rosamond Road (Highpoint Shopping Centre)

• Maribyrnong Gloria Jeans Shop 3/120-200 Rosamond Road (Highpoint Shopping Centre)

• Maribyrnong Plush Think Sofas Shop 3 / 179

Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Forty Winks Shop 4 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Focus On Furniture Shop 5 / 179

Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Adriatic Furniture Shop 6 / 179

Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Snooze Shop 7 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Suave Furniture Shop 8 / 179

Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Spotlight Shop 9-10 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Alex’s Furniture Shop 11 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Koala Living Shop 12 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Bev Marks Shop 13 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Bedshed Shop 14 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong James Lane Shop 15 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Pet Barn Shop 16A / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Barbecues Galore Shop 16A/B / 179

Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Beds N Dreams Shop 16A/C / 179

Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Maribyrnong Carpet Call Shop 17 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Homemaker Centre

• Newport Newport Newsagency 48 Challis Street

• Newport The Substation 1 Market Street

• Newport Newport Library 13 Mason Street

• Newport Seagulls Nest Club 1 Mason Street

• Newport IGA Newport Plus Liquor 2 Mason Street

• Newport Cellarbrations 25 Mason Street

• Newport Newport Community Centre 43 Mason Street

• Newport Newport Newsagency 6 Hall Street

• Newport Newport General Store 10 Hall Street

• Newport Barlow McEwan Tribe 344-346 Melbourne Road

• Seddon Seddon Newsagency 74 Charles Street

• Seddon ALFA Café 97 Victoria Street

• Seddon The Happy Apple Supermarket 176-178 Victoria Street

• Seddon The Vin

•All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.

•After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.

• The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item.

• Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.

• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.

General Classifieds

NOTICE ofanApplicationtoVCATAnapplicationhasbeenmadeto VCATaboutthisland.If youwishtocontestthis applicationorbeheard inrelationtothisapplication,youmustgivea

StatementofGrounds toVCATandservea copyontheApplication andResponsible Authoritybynolater thanthedatespecified below.TheStatement ofGrounds(Planning) forisavailableon VCAT'swebsite.Please visitvcat.vic.gov.au

Iftheapplicationconcernsapermitapplication,thepermitapplication,plansandother supportingdocuments canbeinspectedatthe officeoftheResponsibleAuthority.Ifthe applicationistoamend orcancelapermit,you mayneedtocontact theapplicanttoobtain thismaterial.

CaseDetails

DatethattheStatement ofGroundsmustbe receivedbyVCAT11 May2023

VCATReference

NumberP360/2023

SiteAddress62The Strand,NEWPORTVIC, 3015

ApplicationType Reviewfailuretogrant apermitundersection 79PlanningandEnvironmentAct1987

ApplicationDetails

NameofApplicant DuvouxPtyLtd ContactDetailsfor ApplicantRoryO'Connor C/-Hall&Wilcox Rory.OConnor@halland wilcox.com.au 0400436175

NameofResponsible AuthorityHobsonsBay CityCouncil

PermitApplication NumberPA220447

Want

Call

Motoring General Notices

BriefDescriptionofProposal Subdivision DemolitionofSeaGates dwellingandgarageat rear,removaloflandscaping Buildingsandworksfor thedeconstruction, relocationandreconstructionofDachet dwellingandconstructionofadditions

HearingDetails PracticeDayHearingN/ A PreliminaryHearingN/A CompulsoryConference 6June202310.00am1.00pm

Hearing(ifcasenotfully settledbyconsentorat anyCompulsoryConference)2,3&4October 202310.00am-4.30pm

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which city hosted the AFL Gather Round?

2. What nationality was Formula 1 racer Niki Lauda?

3. How many coaches in the English Premier League have been sacked, at a

4. Which AFL team debuted their No.1 pick at the Gather Round?

5. In golf, what is an eagle?

6. Which country hosted the last FIFA Womens World Cup in 2019?

7. Which decorated AFLW player moved from Adelaide to Port Adelaide to follow her father’s legacy?

What type of tennis court is Wimbledon played on: grass, clay or hard?

In Round 7, how many Sydney NRL teams sat outside the top 8 ladder?

Which Premier League player is set to break the record for most goals in the season?

Which Australian golfer won the LPGA's 2023 Lotte Championship?

Which team won their way into the 202223 A-League Women's Grand Final, in their debut season?

13. How many more seasons has South Australia been locked in as host for the AFL's Gather Round?

14. Set to host a LIV Golf League event, in which Australian state is The Grange Golf Club?

15. What US state is home to Major League Baseball teams known as the Astros and Rangers?

16. Japanese basketballer Rui Hachimura plays for which NBA team?

17. Who is the current coach of the Australia Wallabies team?

18. Sponsorship from which country was recently cancelled by the FIFA Women's World Cup?

19. The son of which Indian cricketing legend recently made his debut in the Indian Premier League?

20. Mike Powell and Galina Chistyakova hold the men's and women's world records for which track and field event?

21. Brisbane Lightning beat the Central Coast Rhinos by how many goals in the opening round of the AIHL?

22. Which three teams has AFL player Jesse Hogan played for in his career?

23. How many points in front does a team need to be to win a set in volleyball?

24. The Bucks play out of which US city in the NBA?

25. Which English Premier League team currently sits on top of the ladder?

26. Australian men’s cricketer Mitchell Starc’s brother Brandon is a professional in which sport?

27. Which two NHL teams were announced to be playing two pre-season games in Melbourne in September?

28. True or false: a nonVictorian AFL team currently sits in the top 4 on the ladder after five rounds?

29. In what year did the Melbourne Storm last win the NRL premiership?

30. Which country currently holds the BorderGavaskar Trophy?

Niki Lauda

Doin’ the Triton utility two-step

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

The Triton tapped danced up and down the concrete ‘boards’ of the motorway, leaving occupantsshakin’allover.Thankfully,thiswas no polka: ‘three-sixties’ here would have been well out of order.

On minor-road bitumen the terpsichorean bobbing up and down stepped aside for the GSR dual cab ute to settle for the odd bounce when encountering surface blemishes. Let’s face it, most utes exhibit some degree of rodeoriding.However,thereisworktobedone here.

The new Triton is a relative late comer to the dual cab ute segment dominated by the Toyota HiLuxandFordRanger,theMitsubishirelying onvalueformoneyinitsappeal.Unfortunately, this has resulted in Triton being seriously challenged by the likes of the Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max, not to mention Chinese and Korean offerings.

Mitsubishi Australia offers the MY22 Triton in six variants, with the GLX from a bargain basement $44,240 drive away. The range is rounded out by the GSR from $65,740 drive away. The latter was on test.

Accessories across the range are designed to suit most needs. Select from a Work Pack, Tradie Essential Pack, Starter Pack, Polished Pack or Black Pack.

Out in front with its 10-year 200,000-kilometre Diamond Advantage warranty, the maker offers Triton cover, provided all scheduled servicing is done on time and by an authorised Mitsubishi dealer.

Styling

The all-over black GSR test vehicle sported 18-inch alloy wheels and blacked-out grille. clamshell-style doors, platform side steps and grab handles made for easy access.

Efficient LED headlamps and daytime runninglightsareinlinewiththelatestlookin pick-up truck design.

On the smaller side of the segment, the ‘tucked in’ Triton’s less than 12 metre turning circle does make for easier parking than many of its segment rivals.

Interior

The cabin décor certainly makes a statement with orange leather appointed seats, black leather door trims with orange stitching, the latter repeated on the steering wheel, gear shift knob and park brake lever.

The luxe look is let down somewhat by black plastic surrounds, which are present in abundance.

Front seats are heated, while two rear seat passengers are well catered for with generous legroomandareclinedseatbackangleallowing ample, head and shoulder room - three across not so.

The bench seat back folds to expose a slim storage space across the width of the cabin. Storage, in general, is well covered with cup holdersallround,acubbyupfront,deepcentre console and big-bottle door slots.

Out back, the tub dimensions - 1520 mm long, 1470 mm wide, 475 mm deep – are some of the smallest in the segment, while four integrated cargo hooks can safely secure a variety of loads.

Infotainment

In these days of tablet-style technology, a small(ish)touchscreen,coveringAppleCarPlay, Android Auto and DAB+ digital radio, dwells in the past, while a head-up display on the windscreen, covering speed and legal speed limits, catches up with present-day standards.

Analogue instruments literally dial up memories of the old workhorse, the layout relating to modern times only by a digital display between the two gauges.

Engines / transmissions

The MY22 Triton relies on the tried and tested (ageing) 2.4-litre Mitsubishi MIVEC common-rail, intercooled turbodiesel engine putting out 133 kW of power at 3500 rpm and 430 Nm of torque at 2500 revs.

Safety

The five-star ANCAP safety grade won in 2015 would not be up to today’s five-star standards.

However, Mitsubishi Intuitive Technology (MITEC) does incorporate such technical advantages as antilock braking with electronic brakeforce distribution; forward collision mitigation; ultrasonic misacceleration mitigation; blind spot and lane departure warning; lane change assist; hill descent control; all-round monitor; hill start assist; reverse parking camera and sensors; and rear cross-traffic alert.

Passivesafetyiscoveredbysevenairbagsand an audible warning to pedestrians when the vehicle is reversing.

Driving

Constructed in lightweight materials, including an aluminium block, it’s fuel efficiency over performance with the Triton 2.4-litre turbodiesel powerplant. Ponderous off the mark but relaxed and co-operative at cruising speeds.

Note: leave the steering wheel-mounted metal shift paddles alone. They add little to

the driving experience. It’s definitely a case of engine management knows best.

Mitsubishi puts fuel consumption in the combined urban / highway cycle at 8.6 litres per 100 kilometres. On test the GSR recorded 11 litres per 100 kilometres city commuting and 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road.

As mentioned above, a rigid ladder chassis; up front, double wishbones with coil springs and stabiliser bar; and above-axle leaf spring rear suspension had their moments.

Super Select II 4x4 system incorporates four modes - 2H, rear-wheel drive; 4H, full-time power to all wheels; 4HLC, 4WD high range with locked centre differential, minimises wheel spin with low grip; 4LCC, 4WD low range with locked centre diff, maximum traction at low speed. The switch between two andfour-wheeldrivecanbemadesafelyonthe fly at speeds up to 100 km/h.

Tow rating is 3100 kg braked and 750 kg unbraked. The test vehicle tonneau cover provided a test of strength to clip it down until it finally surrendered to perseverance. The high-set lined tub (aren’t they all, these days) also offered up a few loading challenges during the test.

Rear seat occupants commented on the efficiencyoftheclimatecontrolbacktherewith its dual air vents in the roof.

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

Mitsubishi Triton GLX from $44,240 (Drive away)

Mitsubishi Triton GLX-R from $47,490 (Drive away)

Mitsubishi Triton GLX+ from $48,490 (Drive away)

Mitsubishi Triton GLS from $53,240 (Drive away)

Mitsubishi Triton Sport Edition from $60,926 (Drive away)

Mitsubishi Triton GSR from $65,740 (Drive away)

SPECIFICATIONS

Triton GSR 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, sixspeed automatic, selectable 4x4 dual cab ute

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mitsubishi dealer for drive-away prices.

Summary

While lacking in some of the niceties of the modern pick-up truck work-and-play combination, the Triton GSR does not carry the load of premium pricing of some of its opposition.

A six-speed automatic transmission and Super Select II 4x4 system cover the spectrum of on- and off-road capability.

The latest generation Triton GSR is no wallflower when it comes to the practicalities of a dual cab ute. (PIctures: Supplied)

Falcons continue on despite a player shortage

The City West Falcons overcame being short onnumberstocomeawaywithanotherwinin the Victorian Netball League championship division.

With two players on national duty and Soli Ropati still recovering from injury, the Falcons had just seven of their regular squad to choose from.

With that the Falcons gave a couple of players their championship debuts and they both played their roles.

The Falcons took some time to get going but eventually beat the Boroondara Express, 76-56.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said it was a good result considering. As well as missing three players in the program with national duties, a number of players had just returned for the under-17 and under-19 national championships.

“We had the starting line up, but that was it,” she said.

“Molly Kennedy, who is a scholarship player, came into the side as cover, while Lani Fauonuku came up from the under-19s as

cover if we needed a goaler.

“Everyone played their part.”

Lind said Jane Cook had a good solid game in goals, providing them with a good target in the goals.

She said the combination of Maggie Lind, Maddy Gray and Montana Holmes in the attacking end was really steady.

Lindsaidtheirdefensivelineupwasstarting to find their feet.

“We’ve got a real good team bond this season,” she said. “While the side isn’t too different to last year, there has been a shift.

“Sienna [Allen] has brought in her determination and commitment and is giving the defensive end more inspiration.

“Sophie [Hanrahan] has settled into the group. She played well in wing defence on Friday, we need her to be able to play all three defensive positions.”

Withtheresultblowingoutandashortterm around with the next match on Wednesday, Lind then gave the others she had brought up some court time.

“Molly took an intercept in the first 30

seconds when she came on both times to give the others a break,” she said.

“Wewantedtoseewhatshecoulddo.She’sa talented footballer too, she has a dip.

“Lani was better in the championship than she was in the 19s.”

Both are set for another opportunity on Wednesday night. The Falcons sit on top of theladderafterfiverounds,oneofthreeteams with a 4-1 record.

It was a good night for the Falcons with both the under-19s and division 1 sides also getting good wins.

Lind said the younger age group were really adapting to a lot of rotations with the side averaging 27 rolling subs per game.

The Falcons will be at home at Altona on Wednesday night for the first time this season against the Ariels.

Lind said they were hopeful that a big crowd would be there to watch all three teams in action. Meanwhile, Charlie Nicol and Charlotte Sexton have been named in the Australian under-19 team following the national championships.’

United is ready to strike

By Tara Murray

It’s business as usual for Sydney Cummings andherWesternUnitedteammatesinthelead up to the A-League Women’s grand final.

In what has been an incredible season so far, the United girls are just now one win away from the fairy tale of a championship in their first season.

ForCummings,it’saprettyexcitingplaceto be in ahead of Sunday’s grand final.

“It’s everything that the team is fighting for,” she said.

“You want to be rewarded for the sacrifices that you have made as a team and as individuals.

“We were all really excited and there was a bit relief as soon as the whistle blew.

“We are stoked to achieve what we set out to do. It’s nice to be there.”

Cummings, one of four internationals at United this season, said from hearing about the stories of the core group of players, who have played together previously, she said they’re not shocked how far they’ve come from.

She said many had played against talented

A-League players in the National Premier Leaguepreviouslyandweremorethancapable of holding their own.

For Cummings, the opportunity to come to Australia was one that was too good to refuse. She said it was her first time having the chance and didn’t hesitate.

“I thought it was a great opportunity,” she said.

“Australia had been a league before COVID that players would flip flop from the NWSL [National Women’s Soccer League] and the A-League.

“It was a reputable league back home. I was excited for the opportunity to come and play and the idea of a new team and the expansion really excited me.

“It’s one of the best leagues and anyone can beat anyone.”

Cummings said playing for a new team meant they could help form things and build from the beginning.

She said while nothing surprised her about the league, having done her research, but she was pleasantly surprised about how United went about things.

“People want to make things work,” she

said. “You can have an opinion or problem even when things are going well and the likes of Mark [Torcaso] Amanda [Stella], Chris [Pehlivanis] and Mal [Impiombato] are listening to you.

“They’re treating us like people which can get lost in the transition. At the end of the day we are still people.”

Cummings said the other thing that stood about United was the culture that had been set up. She said that it was intimidating coming into the club at first.

“This group of girls is like a family,” she said “The way they accepted me with open arms, not only the internationals but the girls from interstate.... We were accepted from the start.

“It’s a privilege to be part of.”

Cummings said for the group they had no choice to continue to take things as normal with the majority of the group having never played in an A-League grand final.

She said they were just preparing for another game.

“There is a good vibe there,” she said. “It’s a privilege to still be training and playing. We’ve raised the intensity at price, the vice is still the same.”

Sports shorts

A-League

Angie Beard has been ruled out for the A-League Women’s grand final. Beard was substituted in the 78th minute of United’s 1-0 win in Sunday’s Semi-Final against Sydney FC after hunting her foot. Scans have revealed that Beard has sustained an injury to her foot, which will unfortunately rule her out for the grand final on April 30.

VAFA

Williamstown CYMS had a tough day out against Fitzroy in the Victorian Amatuer Football Association premier B competition on Saturday. Fitzroy gained an early lead and was able to build throughout on the way to an 18.17 (125)-6.8 (44) win. Rohan Diwell and Hamish Tambourine were the CYs best in the loss. The CYs are without a win after the first two rounds. The CYs this week face St Bedes-Mentone Tigers.

NPL

Altona Magic was brought back down to earth in the National Premier League. Coming off one of their best wins in a long time, the Magic faced powerhouse Oakleigh Cannons on Friday night. It was a night to forget with the Cannons winning 5-1. Josh Markovski continued his good season, with his eighth goal. The Magic this week face South Melbourne on Sunday afternoon.

WRFL

ParksideSpurs got their first win the Western Region Football League women’s division 1 competition on Saturday. After a close loss in round one, the Spurs were too good for the Yarraville Seddon Eagles, winning 8.6 (54)-2.3 (15). Rita Ceravolo was named the Spurs best in the win. Spotswood made it two from two, beating Werribee Centrals on Friday night, 6.7 (43)-4.4 (28). Caroline Springs was the other winner. In division 2, Spotswood, Laverton and West Footscray all got wins.

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Jane Cook (Shawn Smits)

Sydney Cummings (GAZiPHOTO)

Positive start for both Altona men and women

It has been a solid start for Altona in the Hockey Victoria premier league for both its men’s and women’s sides.

Both senior Seagulls sides have a win and a draw apiece after the first two rounds, which ispleasingaccordingtopresidentAlexTyrrell.

“Our women’s side and men’s sides both have the same results,” he said. “One draw and one win.

“Our men had a big win in round one and then a draw in round two, but it was the other way round for the women who had a draw and then a big win at home.

“We’re doing pretty well so far.”

Tyrrell said they were expecting a strong season from their men’s side again after making a preliminary final last season.

The women’s side’s first focus is ensuring

theystayinthetopgrade,withthecompetition to be cut from 16 teams to 12 teams next year.

He said the start for the women’s side had been unexpected.

One of the key reasons for the strong start has been the performance of recruit Carly James.

The Australian development player scored three goals in the side’s 5-0 win against Southern United on Saturday.

Tyrrell said for James it was just about enjoying her hockey.

“She’s been huge in the first couple of rounds,” he said. “She was looking for a fresh start and enjoying her hockey at this level.

“A lot of club’s have been trying to get overseas players and heaps of club’s have, but getting Carly is better than getting them.”

The women’s side is also benefiting from a new coaching set up with Danielle Schubach appointed coach with Stephanie Young as her assistant coach.

Schubach and Young are great mates and they had played the majority of their hockey together throughout the years.

“The team they played in round one just missed finals and the team they beat in round two made a preliminary final last year,” Tyrell said of the women’s side.

With the competition also reducing the number of games, so that every team plays each other once, making every match even more important.

This week the Seagulls face Waverley in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

Tyrrell said he was expecting a couple of

Emily runs on ambition

By Peter Howe

A love for long distance running sets the April Don Deeble Sports Star, Emily Mifsud apart from her peers.

“From a very early age I just loved to run around, run everywhere, whenever I got a chance to get outside, I ran,” said an effervescent Mifsud.

Mifsud has turned that love into a blossoming career having started when she wasyoungfollowinginhermother’sfootsteps.

She started at Little Athletics, where she found her love of running.

“I competed in every event when I was in little aths including the discus and shot put, but running was all I really wanted to do,” reflected Mifsud with some satisfaction.

“I was never a winner of championships, I just loved to compete.”

Mifsud graduated to running at Aberfeldie with Athletics Essendon.

She started running 1500 metre events and graduated to 3000m as she got older and developed more strength. Mifsud puts her success to joining the Maribyrnong Sports Academy and training under Gregor Gojrzewski, and combining her athletic ambitions with her studies.

A typical week for Mifsud involves a training and competing program of six days a week with only Friday away from any athletic pursuit.

A typical Monday is a slow, eight kilometre run, Tuesday’s work is a threshold session including four six-minute repetition runs.

There’s another eight to 10 kilometre easy run on a Wednesday, followed by a speed endurance session on Thursday, that caps off her week.

Add three gym sessions early morning with a focus on core and leg strength and you can see she is a driven young person.

Misfud results resulted in her representing Victoria at the 2022 Australian Cross Country Championships and competing at the 2022 Australian Track and Field Championships.

Mifsud was then selected to represent Australia at the annual Simplot Games held in Salt Lake City in February.

Athletes from the USA, Canada, New Zealand and Australia competed in the largest indoor high school track and field event of more than 2000 athletes competing in the carnival.

Mifsud made the final of the 3200 metres, an event she had never run before.

Following a third place in her heat, she finished fourth in the final only 0.6 seconds behind third.

“It was the best thing I have ever done,” reflected a very excited Mifsud, “I had never run on an indoor track before, it is steep and only 200 metres long.

“I improved 20 seconds from my heat to the final. It was an amazing experience.”

Misfud said her hero is Australian

champion, Jessica Hull. Hullfinished11thinthe1500mattheTokyo Olympics and more recently finished third at the World Cross Country Championships at Bathurst in February.

Mifsud is hoping to emulate her career.

So what does the future hold for Mifsud?

“I am currently completing my VCE this year,” she said. “Post year 12, I’m considering going to college in America, my schoolwork is very important to me.

“I want a high ATAR to get into a physiotherapy course. Naturally I’d love to represent Australia at the Olympics.”

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and StarWeekly

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good matches.

“The men’s team is really strong,” he said. “ They were top of the table last year.

“The women’s side didn’t make the finals. The women’s competition has tightened up and there have been a few other odd results.”

Things have been going well off field as well, with the club securing a new major sponsor, while they’re set to receive funding in the Hobsons Bay council budget.

Meanwhile, Footscray’s women’s side had a big win against the Geelong Sharks, winning 6-1.

Carla Bond scored two goals for Footscray.

Footscray’s men’s side also had a big win, beating the Sharks 8-3. Euan Gilmour scored two goals in the win.

Tara Murray

Footscray United after new coach

Footscray United is after a new coach with two-time premiership winning coach Shafraz Mohamed departing the club.

The Victorian Turf Cricket Association club announced on social media that the club and Mohamed had mutually decided to part company as we both seek a new direction into the future

“After three seasons as captain-coach of Footscray United Cricket Club, we are today announcing that Shafraz Mohamed has decided to step down from his position,” the post said.

“Shaf has achieved enormous success in the first XI over the last three seasons, making three consecutive grand finals and divisional promotions, along with back-to-back premierships for the first time in the club’s history.

“He has recruited tirelessly and brought a culture of success to the team during his tenure. Shaf has also been heavily involved in event planning and helped make this season’s Brian Lara event a great success.

“ He has significantly assisted to promote the club and get our name out into the community in new and unique ways. Seeing Brian Lara, Darren Ganga, and Fawad Ahmed in the rooms of our small community club was a highlight that few of us will soon forget.”

The club said that Mohamed would also be welcomed back at the club as a club legend.

The club thanked him for all the work that he had done the past three years. The club has already advertised to fill the role with the club to be in VTCA division 1 password.

They are seeking a coach for all the sides with a preference of someone with a level two qualification, with the club open to a captain-coach or non-playing coach.

“Welookforwardtobuildingastrong, cohesiveandinclusivecricketingculture throughout all grades in the future,” the club said.

“If anyone would like to put some names forward then we encourage you to reach out to anyone on the committee.”

Tara Murray

Emily Misfud and her coach Gregor Gojrzewski. (Supplied)

Seagulls’ dark day, soundly beaten by Werribee

It was a day to forget for Williamstown in the Victorian Football League with its greatest loss to Werribee in the VFL-era.

Coming in on the back of three matches, the Seagulls were keen to tick off another win against a Victorian standalone club.

Instead,Werribeeputonashowinthe24.10 (154)-9.7 (61) win.

Seagulls director of coaching Jeff Andrews said it just wasn’t their day.

“We were just so far off everything,” he said.

“They were super good yesterday and we were super bad. Just two sides that were at polar opposite ends.

“Their form had been good in their two wins but they would have been disappointed against Geelong.

“We had been pretty good for four weeks in a row. A few softer games didn’t prepare us for a wound up side.”

Andrews said winners were few and far between for them on the day.

Joel Ottavi and Corey Ellison kicked two

goals each in the match.

Jake Greiser had 22 possessions and Marty Hore had 21.

“There weren’t too many good players,” he said. “Marty Hore was good and he is one of the best players in the competition.

“He had his work cut out for him with plenty of ball in the backline.

“Cam Polson had his first game back and was thrown in midfield. Having Cam, our captain,outthereshouldhavebeenafeelgood story.”

The result leaves the Seagulls sitting at 3-2 heading into the bye. The Seagulls sit sixth on the table.

Andrews said for the most part this season they had been pretty good.

“That was our first down game for the season,” he said.

“We’ve been pretty happy with the three wins and the Gold Coast performance.

“We have some tough games coming up. We’re still a new side and there will be hiccups along the way.”

Andrews said the bye comes at a good time for them, allowing the coaches to reassess performances as individuals and as a team.”

Meanwhile, the Seagulls women’s side made it two in a row, beating Carlton 7.3 (45)-1.4 (10).

Sarah Cameron kicked three goals in the win, with Lori Stepnell leading the way with 19 disposals.

Aliesha Newman had 18 disposals.

Coach Liam Cavanagh had said before the game that the Blues were one of the benchmarks of the competition.

The Seagulls sit 10th on the ladder. This week they host Essendon.

Jets stars test themselves

Several Western Jets players had the chance to test themselves against the best players in the state last week.

Having named 50 player squads for both the under-18s and under-16s, Victoria Metro and Victoria Country held trial games against each other last week.

The under-16s played two games on Friday, while the under-18s played two games on Saturday.

The trial games will assist with selection for the final Victoria Metro and Victoria Country squads that will compete at the under-18 AFL National Championships and the under-16 AFL National Development Championships.

Players who aren’t named to play in the trial matches are eligible for selection in the final squads to compete at each of the championships. The Jets had five players in the under-18 games.

Diesel Moloney, Jake Smith, Logan Morris, Lucas Grego and Darcy Weeks also tested themselves against the best in the state. Thomas Burton, Kobe Williams and Finnegan Davis were all part of the under-16 teams.

Laverton snares big win

Lavertongotitsfirstsignitisontherighttrack

with a big win in the Western Region Football League division 3.

After a strong pre-season, Magpies coach Tony Jofre was confident they had made inroads on the rest of the competition. They were competitive in round one against West Footscray, the side that had come down from division 2, so the side was unsure how much improvement they had made.

On Saturday, the Magpies faced North Sunshine.

It was one way traffic from the start with the Magpies kicking 10 goals in the first quarter They continued to build the lead on the way to a 25.23 (173)-5.9 (39) win.

Jofre said for the club it was a massive moment in showing that what they’ve been doing is working. The club won just three games last season.

“I don’t think the club has had a win that big in 30-40 years probably,” he said.

“Last time we played them, we won by four points. This was the first gauge of how we have improved on field.”

Matt Vorbach kicked five goals in the win, while Ubil Chol kicked four goals.

Jorfe said Jordan Viojo-Rainbow, Vorbach, Antony Pasqua, Jack Burgess and Chol were their best players.

Jofre said the biggest thing for him on the day was not necessarily what was going on in the match. For him it, was seeing how many supporters made the trip to watch the game, something they don’t usually have a lot of.

He said big difference is the culture had changed at the club and there was now a lot of belief in what they were doing.

The weekend was made even better with the club’s women’s side recording their biggest ever win, beating the Roadrunners, 16.18 (114)-0.0 (0).

The men’s side this week faces Sunshine Heights, which Jofre said would be a much harder affair. He said the club was heading in the right direction in both the senior and junior programs.

“We are a work in progress,” he said.

“Each time we played them last season they beat us by 200-plus points. We’re aiming to reduce that by 25 to 50 per cent.

“We’re looking week by week and see where it takes us.” In other results, Sunshine Heights accounted for West Footscray, 19.23 (137)-10.4 (64).

Nicholas Howard was the Roosters best.

The Suns beat Tarneit in the other division 3 match,16.14(110)-2.4(16).Indivision1,Altona was too good Spotswood in the second half.

After leading by 11 points at half time, Altona kicked five goals to one in the second half to come away with a 12.6 (78)-6.10 (46).

Yarraville Seddon Eagles lost to Point Cook, 12.11 (83)-7.9 (51).

Several Northern Knights and Calder Cannons players were named in the squads as well.

Nate Caddy leads the Knights players named in the under-18 squad.

Caddy, who is expected to go high in the draft, was joined by Jesse Dattoli, Zak Johnson, Flynn Riley, Aleksander D’Arro, Charlie Naish, Christian Mardini and Will Green in the under-18 matches.

TysonGresham,SebMurphy,Nicholas Driscoll, Roman Moxon, Isaac Dugdale, Mitchell Moate, Duncan McKie, Nick Canavan and Sean Tyrell are the Knights players in the under-16 squad.

For the Cannons, they’ve had nine players named in the under-18 squad.

Isaac Kako, Amin Naim, Rye Penny, Ryan Eyre, Jordan Croft , Nash King, Mahmoud Taha, Hugo Garcia and HarryO’Farrellparticipatedinmatches.

There were a further six Cannons in theunder-16squad,FelixKneipp,Oliver Watt, Arden Stevens, Hamish Bird, Hamish Pearce and Cooper Duff-Tytler.

Cam Polson returned on Sunday. (Supplied)

Tara Murray

Laverton this season (Supplied)

Tara Murray

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