Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 17th May 2023

Mural is very ‘cool’

Footscray High School’s (FHS) “coolest students“ were involved in the painting of a new mural at the school, according to student Harrison.

FHS partnered with Maribyrnong council and local artist, Heesco, to spray paint a giant mural at the school. Nine students from year 7 were involved in the mural. Anthony, Ava , Asha, Harrison, Sienna, Isla, Lachlan, Shaziya and Ravi all expressed their interest to participate in the project.

“We didn’t realise we were going to spray paint, it was very exciting when we found out,” Ava said.

“The best part was spray painting because I had never done that before, it was a new and fun experience,” Isla said.

The mural is located in the back of the school on a wall near the science lab, designed around the school’s four pillars, Unity, Creativity, Respect and Endeavour.

“It’s very cool that we can have an impact on the school for years to come”, Harrison said.

Stink brews over toilets

By Jennifer Pittorino

Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa has refuted claims the council is proposing to convert all public toilets to become gender neutral.

Thecouncilsoughtcommunityfeedbackon itspublictoiletstrategy,whichwasadoptedby the council at last week’s council meeting.

As part of the feedback, a petition was submitted to councillors.

In the petition, which has been seen by Star Weekly , petitioners propose council keep the option of women’s, men’s and gender neutral toilets open.

It claims the council is proposing to change all public toilets to gender neutral.

Cr Briffa said the petition is inaccurate and confusing to residents.

“Council is not proposing to convert all public toilets to become gender neutral, the public toilet strategy isn’t about gender neutral toilets, it’s about where to provide public toilets,” she said.

In its meeting on May 9, the council adopted the new toilet strategy with updated terms responding to feedback from the public exhibition period.

The 10-year plan of public toilet upgrades is designed to issue replacements, new toilets and ensure facilities are fit for purpose, safe and clean while being safe and inclusive.

The updated strategy includes conducting a

review of all existing public toilets.

Much of the feedback council received related to perceived safety issues of having males and females mingling in the same toilet facility.

Council said this recommendation was intended to review single cubicle unisex facilities commonly found within public settings and not facilities marked as male or female only.

Cr Daria Kellander voted against the motion citing feedback she had heard from residents who were concerned about gender neutral toilets.

Council infrastructure and city services director Sanjay Manivasagasivam said

the updated proposal is to only review the 52 unisex toilets across the municipality that have been running for more than a decade.

“There are no proposed changes to any single sex toilets at this stage, we have a number of separate female and male toilets they will stay as they are,” he said.

Cr Jonathon Marsden said the petition and the substance of the public toilet strategy are of one.

“The wording of the petition talks about having an inclusive bathroom policy that allows people of all genders access to toilet facilities and that is in fact what we have,” he said.

Anthony, Ava , Asha, Harrison, Sienna, Isla, Lachlan, Shaziya and Ravi all helped paint the mural. (Jacob Pattison) 333422_03

Union striking against council

By Jennifer Pittorino

Australian Services Union (ASU) members at Maribyrnong council are taking industrial action over wage increases.

The ASU said council’s offer would result in workers’ pay going backwards against rising inflation and cost of living.

ASU Victorian and Tasmanian branch secretary Lisa Darmanin said they have tried for over a year to reach a fair agreement with council but have been left with no choice but to take protected industrial action.

“Employees at Maribyrnong have tried to

reach an agreement on fair pay for almost a year, but council have offered pay rises of just 2 per cent while inflation has spiked to over 7 per cent,” she said. “Clearly this means an effective pay cut of around 5 per cent which is completely unreasonable.”

Ms Darmanin said staff are not looking for unreasonable pay rises, requesting 2.5-3.5 per cent which remains under inflation.

Maribyrnong council chief executive Celia Haddock said, “We are disappointed this is occurring against the backdrop of many months of dialogue and with a realistic settlement offer currently on the table”.

“Council has approached this bargaining round in good faith, and has been working with staff representatives and their unions to negotiate a fair and sustainable outcome.”

Ms Darmanin said indefinite industrial action will include a ban or ‘stoppage’ on clearing street bins, street sweeping, garden maintenance and enforcing parking restrictions. The action will also include a ban on answering external phone calls and emails, which will be diverting or forwarded to management, as well as a pause on collecting library book returns and servicing and maintaining council vehicles.

Photography passion in the west

The Bradmill project in Yarraville hosted a photography competition called‘ Perspectives of the Inner West’, asking all budding photographers to showcase their interpretation of Melbourne’s west.

Judges selected a 12 images which will be displayed in a public art exhibition at Grazeland in Spotswood.

Out of the 12 local winners, six of them are Maribyrnong residents. Jade Wisely has lived in Yarraville for 15 years with her husband and three children and felt a family portrait best described the west.

“I thought the image would be a good reflection of our life in the west , it perfectly sums what life looks like in our community,”

she said.

Ms Wisely described her portrait ‘Soapy Sunday in Sunny Severn Street’ as the most realistic depiction of her family.

“A straight standing family portrait is not us, we’re always in the front yard interacting with our neighbours, the time we spend in our front yard has been instrumental for making friends with locals.

“We can’t imagine living anywhere else, we feel very content at home and part of a community here.”

Bradmill Yarraville development director

Theo Della Bosca said the exhibition recognises the impact the site has had on the community.

“Inthelast15yearsthebuildingsthemselves havebeenalivingartgallerysoweunderstood the significance of this site,” he said.

With over 1000 entries, Mr Della Bosca said there was a huge opportunity to celebrate the crowd of talent in the west with a photography competition.

“There is so much pride in this community, it’s a good reflection of the creative talent we see from people who love their community,” he said.

The exhibition will run across three weekends from May 12-14, May 19-21 and May 26-28.

“Staff are looking down the barrel of mortgage defaults and some are avoiding meals to make ends meet with the cost of everything on the rise,” she said.

Council said the wage offer is fair, while keeping the organisation financially stable amidst a growing community dealing with cost of living increases.

“We recognise the industrial action now being taken may impact residents and ratepayers and we are doing our best to maintain services – but ask for our community’s patience at this time,” Ms Haddock said.

Bella breaks through

The West Gate Tunnel project has reached a new milestone, with Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) ‘Bella’ finishing its journey.

The TBM completing its 15-month journey, marks the beginning of a new stage of the two twin tunnels that will create a highly anticipated alternative to the congested West Gate Bridge.

TBM Bella started its four-kilometre journey from the west side of the Maribyrnong River under Yarraville and completed its path just east of Millers Road near the West Gate Freeway, in South Kingsville.

TBM Bella excavated enough soil to fill the MCG while installing more than 15,000 individual concrete segments to create the tunnel walls.

Crews on the project will continue building the road deck and installing electrical, lighting and safety systems including the beginning of the construction of the ventilation system to prepare both tunnels for completion in 2025.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said this milestonemarkstheendofonethemost time consuming parts of the project.

“This is a significant breakthrough, completing one of the most challenging parts of the West Gate Tunnel Project – in just a few years’ time, thousands of Victorians will travel through this tunnel each day, transforming Melbourne’s west.”

Jennifer Pittorino

Federal funding boost so councils can repair local roads

The federal government is awarding $250 millionforroadprojectsinrural,regionaland outer-urban areas, including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay.

This funding is part of phase four of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, which has already delivered $500 million to Australian councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects in their region, the government said.

The additional $250 million investment is available to councils classified as rural, regional or outer-urban to spend on road

projects.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development Minister Catherine King said the federal government knew many councils across the country are struggling to maintain and improve their local road networks.

“We are supporting them in their vital role in delivering critical infrastructure for their communities,” she said.

Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter said the council was very pleased to have received $357,936 of funding from the grant.

“These grants assist council in addressing priority road and community infrastructure

renewal and improvement projects, which are important for supporting our community now and in the future,” she said.

“Priority projects to be delivered under the phase four funding are currently being considered by the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.”

A Hobsons Bay council spokesperson said the works will include road reconstruction, drainage, and kerb and channel works.

“We have been allocated $477,167 as part of phasefouroftheLocalRoadsandCommunity

Infrastructure Funding program,” the spokesperson said.

“This funding will go towards a road rehabilitation project at The Strand in Newport,fromNorthRoadtotheroundabout where it becomes Nelson Place.”

In March, the government extended project constructiontimelinesfor phasesonetothree of the program, giving councils until June 20, 2024, to complete works.

Jennifer Pittorino

Four of the six Maribyrnong winners: Laine Warwick, Jade Wisely, Clement Chua and Monique Couvee pictured at Bradmill. (Jacob Pattison) 333746_06

Elderly urged to get vaccinated

By Jennifer Pittorino

Western suburbs residents are being urged to doge the upcoming flu and COVID season.

Western Public Health Unit director Dr Finn Romanes said Victorians are currently experiencing another COVID wave.

Evidenced by increased cases, hospitalisations and antiviral medication dispensed, dispensed, in addition, immunity to flu amongst Victorians is likely to be lower than before the COVID pandemic, due to fewer flu infections, Western Health said.

“Most young, healthy people can manage COVID and flu infections at home but we

know that older or immunocompromised people are at greater risk of severe illness,” Dr Romanes said.

Dr Romanes says while everyone over the age of 18 is eligible for the COVID booster it is particularly important that people aged

Dig deep for the Salvos

Lieutenant Star Conliffe has been a Hobsons Bay Salvation Army Corps (HBSAC) officer for over four years and says this year’s Red Shield Appeal is more important than ever.

“We are seeing a lot more people in stress in terms of paying their bills and rent, some pensioners are skipping meals because they cant keep up with rent increases,” she said. EachyeartheRedShieldAppealrunsduring May and June, giving people the opportunity to donate to a much needed cause.

In Hobsons Bay, locals will be able to donate at Central Square Shopping Centre in Altona Meadows and Coles in Williamstown until Sunday, May 21, on Sunday, May 21 at Woolworths in Williamstown and Bunnings inAltonafromSaturday,May27.Thisyearthe HBSAC hopes to raise at least $10,000.

“Donations will primarily go to our Laverton soup bank, the weekly community

lunch and community pantry,” Ms Conliffe said.

The HBSAC works with church and local services but primarily deals in food relief .

“Every dollar we raise will stay local and will be used for our ongoing programs of food relief,” she said.

TheHBSAChostsanumberoffoodoutreach services that are solely run by volunteers, including an outreach barbecue, a weekly community lunch and a community pantry.

“At a local level we are able to provide holistic care because we have people trained on identifying needs that go beyond food services,” Ms Conliffe said.

She encourages people to drop a coin in the bucket and have a chat to find out more. For residentsnotbeabletogettoadonationpoint, there is a website where funds go directly to the HBSAC.

65 and over, those with immune compromise and adults with chronic conditions, disability or complex health needs get vaccinated.

According to recent analysis, Victorians’ chances of being hospitalised or dying with COVID increase dramatically with age and according to how few COVID vaccines you have received.

“As we head into winter, we’re urging people aged 65 and over or people with an illness or disability that puts them at greater risk to prioritise getting their COVID booster and annual flu vaccine,” Dr Romanes said.

Provided it has been at least six months

since their last vaccine or COVID infection, people can book their next free vaccination.

The annual flu vaccine is free through the National Immunisation Program for population groups at higher risk of severe illness and COVID boosters remain free and available through GPs or pharmacies.

“I’d also encourage people aged 65 and over to discuss a COVID treatment plan with their GP now, before they get infected, so that if they do come down with COVID, they can quickly access antiviral medication that will reduce their chances of becoming severely unwell,” Dr Romanes said.

‘‘ Older or immunocompromised people are at greater risk of severe illness ’’ - Finn Romanes

Lieutenant Star Conliffe and volunteer Coral outside the Coles donation point in Central Square Altona Meadows. (Jacob Pattison) 334423_01

Mayor ‘excited’ by new projects

By Hobsons Bay Mayor, Cr Antoinette (Tony) Briffa

Whether it’s big projects or small, it’s always fantastic to see the places that mean so much to our community constantly improving.

In my ward, Cherry Lake, there are some wonderful projects happening – including some big ones that are nearly complete – that will be incredible assets for our community for many years to come. One of huge significance is the redevelopment of Brooklyn Hall. Having seen it take shape over the past few months, I’m so excited for the people of Brooklyn that they’ll soon will have this wonderful, modern facility. The whole project includes the refurbishment of the old hall, a new extension, and landscaped gardens.

When it’s done, it will provide a community kitchen, meeting rooms and flexible spaces for community groups.

ThisisaprojectthattheBrooklyncommunity has played an important role in developing. Their feedback through consultation phases hasmadesurewewilldeliverafacilitythatwill be aligned to their needs.

At Crofts Reserve in Altona North, the final phase of that wonderful redevelopment is underway. The new pavilion was opened last year, along with new cricket practice nets, redeveloped sports fields and floodlighting.

The finishing touch is the new playground which will include new equipment, paths and landscaping. That work has begun and is expected to be finished in July.

The works on Pier St, Altona are finally

nearing completion and Council has also undertaken some works on Paw Paw Road in Brooklyn, between Old Geelong Road and Burgess Street, including the reconstruction of kerb and channel on both sides of the road, additional drainage at the intersection of Pearl Street and a new footpath on the north side of Paw Paw Road.

We’ve also recently adopted the Public Toilet Strategy, which will see the installation of 15 new public toilets over the next 10 years in areas including Borrack Square, The Circle, Den Dulk Reserve (Somers Parade), Langshaw Reserve and Cooper Reserve. I also wanttostresssomerecentclaimsthatCouncil is removing all women’s or men’s only toilets is completely untrue.

In addition to all this we have other exciting projects coming up such as the new pavilion at the Altona City Soccer Club in Seaholme.

As always, please contact me (tbriffa@ hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au or 9932 1044) if you would like to discuss any local issues. I also encourage residents to attend council meetings or view them online.

Briefs

Temporary park closure

Pipemakers Park Playground on Van Ness Avenue in Maribyrnong will be facing a temporary closure to conduct maintenance. The maintenance works will continue until Thursday, May 18. The maintenance will take place on the Pipemakers Park Playground, which during this time will be closed to the public. The works will focus on refreshing the sand and soft fall areas of the playground.

Breast cancer round

Braybrook Sporting Club proudly hosted a full day of matches on Saturday, May 13, for the PLAY4BCNA round, in partnership with the Breast Cancer Network Australia. This round is especially significant for the Braybrook Sporting Club, which has been personally touched by breast cancer. Cheryl John was a member heavily involved at the club for over 25 years, participating in crucial game day duties. Cheryl was a beloved member of the Braybrook community who tragically lost her battle with breast cancer in 2018, leaving behind her loving husband and two children. Her husband Mal Senior spoke about her memory tenderly, recalling fond memories and small details. “She loved the club so she would help out in any way she could and be there for the club,” he said.

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Hobsons Bay Mayor Antoinette (Tony) Briffa.

Council encourages volunteers

By Jennifer Pittorino

In National Volunteer Week, Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay councils are encouraging volunteers to give back to their community.

National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. This year it will be held from May 15-21.

On Tuesday, May 9, Hobsons Bay council encouraged residents to attend its Volunteer Expo on Saturday, May 20, between 11am-2pm.

The free expo will be held at the Hobsons

Bay Civic Centre to commemorate National Volunteer Week. This year’s theme is ‘The Change Makers’. Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa said local groups and organisations are a crucial part of the fabric of the community.

“Many of them would not exist without volunteers giving their valuable time, effort and skills, we want to help these groups attractgreatpeoplebygivingthemachanceto showcase what their organisation is all about to the wider community,” she said. There will be entertainment in the form of music and well being activities, plus food

Lifesaving nomination

Williamstown’s Jesse Coulson has been nominated for the Frank Wilkes Award for Lifesaving, in the upcoming 2022 Victorian Sport Awards.

The awards recognise and celebrate the achievementsofhome-grownsportingheroes at both a grassroots and high-performance level in the year of 2022.

Mr Coulson puts his nomination down to a buildup of many years of hard work which began as a young boy.

“I started lifesaving when I was a little kid , my parents thought it would be a good idea for me to learn how to be safe around water,” he said . “It progressed from there becoming everyaspectofmylife,thesportside,thework side, and the volunteering side.”

Mr Coulson began teaching kids 10 years ago and is now the Head Nipper Coach at Williamstown SLSC.

The teaching then progressed to life guarding at Williamstown Beach where he fell

in love with the beach environment.

Mr Coulson said he has enjoyed taking on more responsibility in teaching others, where he has learnt to foster a training environment for seniors.

“IformedmyowngroupthatItrainedwith, inspiring others has been great to watch,” he said.

Some of his 2022 achievements that led to being nominated were, finishing first in the Open Male Board Race and Open Male Taplin Relay. At the Victorian States, he earned gold medals in the Open Male Taplin, Open Male Rescue, Tube Rescue and Open Male Surf Teams, as well as silver in the Open Male Ski Relay on his way to being crowned Overall Male Point Scorer.

“Lifesaving is pretty small in Victoria so it would be really good for the sport if I won,” he said.

The awards will be held at Marvel Stadium in Docklands on Wednesday, June 7.

and refreshments, there will also be people on hand to help people find local volunteering opportunities.

The Volunteer Expo will bring together more than 30 local organisations, clubs and community group, from a wide range of areas and interests across the municipality.

Maribyrnong council have been seen planting trees in their community with volunteers. On Tuesday, May 9, Friends of Maribyrnong Valley and NAB participated in a community planting day at Burndap Park in Maribyrnong, planting 800 plants in one and

a half hours.

During volunteer week Maribyrnong council is joining local organisations AMCS and Volunteer West in hosting a workshop for individuals and organisations who manage volunteers in and around the City of Maribyrnong.

The workshop aims to re-engage volunteers and drive change through deepening relationships with volunteers and volunteer organisations by identifying the challenges facing volunteering in Maribyrnong.

Jesse Coulson at Williamstown Beach ahead of the Victorian Sport Awards in June. (Damjan Janevski) 333012_05

Bay Trail trees to be relocated

By Jennifer Pittorino

Hobsons Bay council has decided to uproot and relocate 160 trees that were planted in 2022 along a section of the Bay Trail.

In a meeting on Tuesday, May 9, councillors feltitwasthebestoutcomeoutofabadsituation to remove every second tree of the 320 planted as part of the 2022 tree planting program.

The removal of the trees is in response to a petition put forward by Hobsons Bay, Brimbank, Maribyrnong and Wyndham

residents that complained the trees were put in without community consultation.

Council conducted a consultation between January and March 2023, where a total of 743 submissions were received.

Of those submissions, 94 per cent (697 respondents) requested for all trees to be retained.

Of the properties immediately adjacent to the trail, the officers were able to speak directly with 34 properties: 19wanted all trees to be removed, nine wanted to keep all the

Learn about new centre

Open House Melbourne is kicking off Melbourne Design Week with the Open Nature program, hosting six events across May 18- 26. Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay residents will have the opportunity to take a guidedwalkandtouroftheproposedHobsons

Bay Wetlands Centre on Sunday, May 21.

Lead architect Eduard Ross will be taking participants on an hour-long walk and talk at HD Graham Reserve in Altona Meadows, near the proposed site for the centre. Mr Ross said participants will hear about the plans for the centre and what can be expected next.

“The walk will inform people about what exists on the site in terms of natural assets as well as the purpose of the project from a nature perspective,” he said.

Mr Ross worked with a team of architects including Indigenous architect Jefa Greenaway, who looked at the integration of indigenous design into the project.

“Mr Greenaway has brought in the Indigenous story and made us aware of

sensitive issues,” he said.

The centre is designed to be a community space for education and gathering, equipped with gathering spaces, research areas and a cafe.

“The centre’s purpose is to be a community asset that connects people closer to nature, while protecting the area and connecting people with the landscape,”he said.

The project is currently in the ‘funding advocacy stage’ which means Hobsons Bay council is seeking funding from sponsors and other interested parties.

“The project has been in this stage for this year but council is optimistic on getting the project moving forward, we have seen a lot of support from council and the greater community,” he said.

There will be two tours at 1pm-2.30pm and 3.30pm-5pm, and bookings are required.

Details: https://events.humanitix.com/avision-for-hobsons-bay-wetlands-centre

Jennifer Pittorino

trees and six wanted the numbers reduced.

Councillor Matt Tyler said council has learnt from the consultation and if they had their time over they would do it differently.

“There are no winners from this but we have to find a way through, it’s a compromised solution,” he said.

Council officers said that after looking at the feedback, removing every second tree is the best compromise. Prior to the planting council officers undertook a consultation installing signage at multiple locations along

Footscray Road closed citybound

the section of the trail being planted. Councilsaiditreceivednonegativefeedback regarding the plantings so proceeded with the planting.

Cr Daria Kellander voted against the decision saying it is a drastic measure and a waste of money.

“This is a terrible outcome for everyone involved , for the residents impacted because they don’t want the trees there and also for the greater Hobsons Bay because they support tree planting,” she said.

Traffic changes in the area

Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre founder and chair Marilyn Olliff with Eduard Ross at the proposed site for the centre (Damjan Janevski) 333654_01

College creates a culture of inclusion and support

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College believes that diversity is a strength and is dedicated to providing an inclusive environment where every student, and their family, feels valued and respected.

The college offers a range of resources and programs to support students from different cultural backgrounds, including language support, interpretation services and sessions,

as well as cultural events.

The college also has a dedicated pastoral care team that focuses on a positive and holisticapproach,supportingthemspiritually, emotionally, physically, intellectually, socially and culturally.

The family partnership team also works closely with families to provide support and resources that can help students succeed.

The college’s commitment to inclusion extendsbeyondtheclassroom,reachingoutto our parents through information sessions and language interpretation where possible.

The college believes that parents are essential partners in creating a positive learning environment, and it works closely with families to ensure they are provided with adequatecommunicationandassistancewhen

needed. Experience the college for yourself. Join in the open day on Sunday, May 21, from 11am – 2pm.

Allthreecampuseswillbeopenandstudent ledtourswilloccurthroughoutthedaytogive youtheopportunitytoseewhatthewonderful community can offer your child. Register your interest today by visiting : www.cccc.vic.edu.au

The college offers a range of resources and programs to support students from different cultural backgrounds. (Supplied)

Making education meaningful at Newmark Primary

Hello! We are Newmark Primary, a mainstream school, doing it differently.

Like all great schools, we make sure our children have basic skills under their belt so they can participate in and access the world around them. This is important to us and it connects us with mainstream education. How are we different?

Our point of difference comes with the synthesis and application of these skills. Working through a design process, our children use their newly acquired knowledge and skills to create real products and services for real people in the world around them.

We create authentic learning experiences for our children, connecting them to the community and showing them they can have an impact today.

We believe children should be taught to live with their eyes wide open, and to understand the world around them so that they can make a positive social and environmental impact. Thisauthenticrealworldapplicationhelpsour children understand the purpose of learning, and how to positively contribute to the world. Understanding why learning matters, leads to genuine engagement and self-motivation. If you’re interested in coming to see us in action, shoot us an email at hello@newmark. vic.edu.

By Newmark Primary School

Foundation and year 1 children with the emotional regulation toys they created for Teeth On Wheels, to be used by children who feel nervous at the dentist. (Supplied)

Laverton P-12 focuses on excellent student outcomes

Laverton P-12 College has a strong academic focus and believes that every student can achieve success with the support of teachers who work very hard to adapt their teaching and learning strategies to ensure excellent student outcomes are achieved by all students.

Recently appointed principal, Lisa Robinson, along with the college’s three assistant principals, strategically lead the college with a relentless focus on high levels of achievement for all students and teachers.

Diversity and interculturalism are celebrated at the college with the core values of learning, belonging, and succeeding underpinning everything the college does as a community.

College facilities and resources ensure that students are provided with an optimal learning environment and include a performing arts centre, a fully equipped VET hospitality centre, an engineering workshop, gymnasium,landscaped gardens, primary and secondary ovals, multiple netball and basketball courts, an undercover synthetic area for play and a beach volleyball area. Each classroom has TV technology, and students have access to a notebook and/or iPads.

Ms Robinson is proud to be the principal of a college that challenges the boundaries and expectations of what students can achieve and where all students are encouraged to act with initiative, integrity, and self-discipline so they can contribute to a safe and caring learning environment.

The college website, lavertonp12college.vic. edu.au, is a great introduction to the college educational community.

Prospective families are encouraged to contact the college and book a tour to see the college at work. Staff look forward to meeting you and showing you all that Laverton P-12 College offers the community. Recently

appointed principal, Lisa Robinson. (Supplied)

Help with foot pain is available for young and old. (Supplied)

Pain help for all ages

Foot and leg pain is extremely common in people of all ages. Children often suffer from growth and development conditions, seniorsoftenpresentwithjointdegeneration such as knee arthritis, and for the rest of us who are somewhere in between, foot, heel and knee pain or injuries are very common. The good news is that all of these conditions are extremely treatable, if you have a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Dr Paul Dowie, founder of Foot & Leg Pain Clinics and one of Australia’s most experienced musculoskeletal and sports podiatrists, has been successfully assisting foot, ankle, knee, leg and hip pain, injuries and degenerative conditions for 25 years. His Foot & Leg Pain Clinics have helped thousands of men, women, children, seniors and professional athletes to alleviate pain, heal injuries, improve function and mobility and even assist tissue regeneration for arthritic joints.

Dr Dowie’s Foot & Leg Pain Clinics have expertise in correct diagnosis and individualized treatment plans to improve

proper foot and leg function, correct faulty biomechanics, assist strengthening and conditioning of joints and tissues, assist weight bearing activity and increase mobility, alleviate stress patterns, manage overuse syndromes, support musculoskeletal structure and posture, heal injuries, manage growth and development conditions,facilitatetissueregenerationand improve arthritic concerns.

Utilising the latest medical research and treatments including regenerative treatments like Prolotherapy and PRP, Foot and Leg Pain Clinics is a leader in its field providing medically sound advice and proven treatment solutions. Dr Dowie has even assisted many to avoid or delay surgery and reduce or eliminate long-term medications.

You can see Dr Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinic in Williamstown if you have any foot, knee or leg pain, injuries or degenerative concerns by calling 1300 328 300.

Hundreds of airport jobs

Airlines, ground handlers, retailers and other providers at Melbourne Airport are on a hiring blitz and are hoping to fill hundreds of roles at a jobs fair on Thursday, May 18.

The airport is Victoria’s largest employment precinct outside of the Melbourne CBD, and the positions on offer range from cabin crew, frontofhousehospitalityandretail,throughto law enforcement, transport, and security.

More than 40 airport-based businesses are on the lookout for staff, welcoming resumes from entry-level applicants through to senior management.

Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said it’s the perfect time to start a career in aviation, with passenger numbers on the rise.

“Not only are we seeing more people travelling,butwe’realsorenovatingpartsofthe

terminal, such as adding 11 new restaurants in terminal 1, creating new retail and hospitality opportunities,“ she said.

“Qantas, Jetstar, Rex, Bonza and Virgin all have vacancies to fill, and a couple of our international carriers are also recruiting.

“Thisisthefirsttimewe’veheldacareersfair on-airport, and it’s a great opportunity to get a feel for the environment and speak directly with employers.”

Melbourne Airport’s jobs fair will be held in front of terminal 4 and will operate over two separate sessions from 2-4pm and 4-6pm.

Complimentary terminal car parking in the terminal 4 car park will be available to guests at the event.

Register: https://www.eventbrite. com.au/e/melbourne-airport-jobs-fairtickets-623371921197

Melbourne Airport will have hundreds of jobs on offer at next week’s jobs fair. Pictured are Kerrod Owens, Parrah Kounadis, Simone Kirby, Ashley Cooper, Matthew Dick and Dan Cooper. (Damjan Janevski) 332669_04

New plans to reduce gambling

By Jennifer Pittorino

Hobsons Bay council has endorsed its Draft GamblingHarmPreventionPolicyStatement to be placed on public exhibition to receive community feedback.

In its meeting on Tuesday, May 5, council unanimously agreed to put the policy to the public for four weeks from May 12- June 9.

The Draft Policy Statement has been developed to guide council’s ongoing efforts to prevent harm from gambling in Hobsons Bay.

Followingtheperiodofpublicconsultation, feedback will be reviewed, and an updated Policy Statement will be presented to council for consideration for adoption.

Councillor Matt Tyler said there are three venues in Hobsons Bay that generate more than half the losses from pokies machines in the municipality, being Millers Inn, Seagulls Nest and Club Laverton

“Hobsons Bay has the equal third highest number of pokie machines per population in greater Melbourne, and there is research being done there are certain types of

Night blaze guts house

In the early hours of Wednesday, May 10, a house in Altona Meadows caught fire.

Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) was alerted at 5.15am to 4 Brown Avenue, when multiple triple-0callsweremadetothefiredepartment.

There was one person in the house at the time of the fire, who evacuated the property and was checked over by paramedics on the scene.

The calls detailed a house fire with flames issuing, additional firefighting trucks were immediately responded to assist, with 11 FRV units responding in total.

Within minutes, approximately 30 FRV firefighters arrived at the residential property, confirming the house was engulfed in flames.

First responders reported the flames were billowing through the tiled roof of the single story brick house, which later collapsed on the property.

Given the magnitude of the fire, the

Advertising feature

properties surrounding the house were threatened and firefighters actively focused on preserving the rest of the street.

The fire took 45 minutes to bring under control however thick black smoke continues to cover the surrounding area.

A community advice message was issued due to the smoke advising the public to avoid the area where possible.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, FRVfirefightersremainedonscenethroughout the morning to finish extinguishing the fire.

Jennifer Pittorino

On Thursday, April 27, Tarin and Hannah McManus lost their home to a fire for reasons still unknown. (Supplied)

FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

gambling that’s more harmful than others , particularly pokies and online gambling,” he said “I am pleased to see council doing its bit to prevent gambling harm, there are strong links between gambling harm and financial loss, family violence, health and wellbeing, relationships,” he said.

Within the last financial year Hobsons Bay has faced a 5.1 per cent growth in losses , despite the many harm prevention measures that have come to light.

Cr Pamela Sutton-Legaud said council

needs to work with the community to move into the next phase of harm reduction.

“This is an issue about protection as well as prevention, it’s important we help those people that are often the most vulnerable in our community affected by these types of entertainment,” she said.

In the last two financial years , the city of Hobsons Bay lost 18 million through Electrical Gaming Machines Opportunities to provide feedback will be promoted through the council’s social media platforms.

Hands-on treatments and management are tailored to each individual.

Help overcoming pain

At Axis the team strives to achieve the best outcomes by working with, educating and guiding patients on how best to manage pain and injuries.

The Axis team believes that a healthy and active lifestyle is important in keeping on top of pain, so aim to provide patients with the guidance they need to achieve their goals.

Hands-on treatments and management are tailored to each individual.

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy

that takes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. It focuses on the importance of the musculoskeletal system in a person’s health and aims to support the body’s self healing capacity by considering how the skeleton, muscles, joints, bones, connective tissue, nerves, circulation and organs of the body function together as a unit.

Axis treats people of all ages and also accept clients through WorkCover, TAC, DVA & Enhanced Primary Care Plans.

Sharing a cuppa to cure cancer

Australians have been sharing a cuppa and cake to help fight cancer for 30 years thanks to Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. Hannah Hammoud spoke to two hosts determined to do their bit for a cancer-free future.

Last year, Bethany Riebl was sat on her couchplanningherfirstBiggestMorning Tea with her husband Max who she was caring for during the final stages of his illness.

Inthebusinessoforganisingtheevent,Max took a quiet moment to share with Bethany that he hoped her first morning tea would be a good one.

“Yes of course, it’s going to be really great. Whatareyoutalkingabout?”Bethanyreplied.

“Well,” Max said, “I don’t think I’m going to be here and I really hope that doesn’t overshadow the morning tea.”

Bethany’s husband, Max was in palliative care at home with a rare form of brain cancer. He had an incurable brain tumour called diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.

“As always, he was right,” Bethany said. “He wasn’t there for the morning tea. He passed away about a week and a half before, and so our first morning tea ended up being in his memory.

“It was bittersweet.”

This year, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea (ABMT) will mark 30 years of the initiative across Australia. During the months of May or June, Australians are encouraged to make a cup of tea to support the Cancer Council’s missionofacancer-freefuture.Researchfrom the Cancer Council reveals that one in two Australian men and women will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.

Bethany said she was proud to fulfil her husband’s wishes to be cared for at their home in Brooklyn during his palliative care.

“The decision to do that and to be with him every step of the way was the easiest decision I’ve ever made. In saying that, it was also the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” she said.

“Emotionallyitwasextraordinarilydifficult during the time period of caring for him and looking after him. Seeing the person that you love and the father of your children die was extraordinarily emotionally difficult.

“ … I was just doing everything I could to really try and save him. I still held onto hope until the very last second.

“At the time I had been so busy, I was

looking after two kids. I was still working, I was caring for him full-time, I was up around the clock looking after him.

“It wasn’t until after he passed away and looking back on that time period that I realised how emotionally hard that was.

and prevention. This year the national fundraising goal is $13 million.

“It’s just been amazing to see the number of hosts getting behind Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea each year. We’ve had over 500,000 hosts in those 30 years,” she said.

other little kids at home that were all under five,” she said.

Ahead of their first morning tea, Danielle said that she and her husband hope to host every year for as long as they are able to.

“

… However, in saying that, I would go through that time a million times over if I could just to have time with him again.”

Last year Bethany raised $20,000 for ABMT. She said that she will continue to host a fundraiser every year as a tribute to her late husband.

“As soon as Max died the most important thing for me was to keep going with his legacy,” she said.

While the day rehashes difficult memories, Bethany hopes that by sharing their story she can help others experiencing something similar know that they’re not alone.

“The reality is that I think about him every second of every day,” she said,

“If I can use the pain that we’ve been through as a family, whether it be raising vital funds for cancer research or just letting another family know … that they will be OK in a different way of being OK than what they’re used to, then it’s worth it for me.”

Cancer Council Victoria fundraising manager Natalie Gibbs said that ABMT fundraising goes toward supporting people with cancer as well as research

“What we do know sadly is that all of us will be affected by cancer at some point in our lives, and as a result of that I think hosts and guests really do feel that personal reason to get involved and be part of it.

“We get to celebrate those that have managed to fight off cancer, we also get to remember those that sadly haven’t at this event, whilst at the same time bringing everyone together.

Danielle Calvi and her husband Robert will be hosting their first morning tea this May at their work place in Keilor Downs, to givebacktotheCancerCouncilandcelebrate Robert’s recovery from cancer.

In 2021, a routine colonoscopy discovered that Robert had a large tumour in his colon. Within a month he was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer.

Danielle, who at the time was five months pregnant, said that on the way to the appointment she and Robert joked that everything would be fine as long as it wasn’t stage 4.

“Then just hearing that he had stage 4, we were very scared. At the time we had three

“Every day is a celebration for us now,” she said.

Danielle said that for families dealing with cancer, the information available to them from the Cancer Council is a vital resource in their journey.

“When you go into this you’re completely blind, it’s not something that you deal with day to day.

“Being told that you have cancer is gut wrenching, you don’t know what to ask when you go in for your oncology appointments, you go blank at the doctors, they throw words at you that you don’t understand.

“When you get to go home and reassess everything and you’re still sitting there with questions you’re able to get that extra bit of information. You can call or visit the [Cancer Council] website.

“The website is very informative especially considering my husband was given a 16 per cent chance of living. We were thinking, well, where do we go? What do we do?”

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea will officially be held on Thursday, May 25 however, people can register to host an event any time throughout May or June.

Bethany and Max Riebl with their children. (Supplied)

‘‘ To be with him every step of the way was the easiest decision I’ve ever made ... it was also the hardest thing I’ve ever done ’’ - Bethany Riebl

Left: Cancer Council Victoria fundraising manager Natalie Gibbs. Centre and right: Danielle and Robert Calvi with their four children, and Robert during his treatment. (Pictures: Supplied)

Celebrating those volunteers who make a difference

Meet three Melbourne volunteers who may think they’re leading ordinary retirements but are making an extra-ordinary difference to the lives of older people. And at the same time adding a new level of joy to their own.

Graeme and Joy Thompson love spending their days ladling out hot shared meals and happiness as they help staff organise exercise and activities for older people at one of the many Uniting AgeWell social connections centres in Melbourne.

“I feel I’m really contributing and I get so much personal satisfaction from it,” says Joy.

“We are helping older people really enjoy themselves.”

Franca Goodwin spends one-on-one time with residents at one of Uniting AgeWell’s 12 aged care facilities in Victoria; chatting with residents, listening to stories of their lives and sharing her own.

“I know they look forward to my visits,” she says.

“This makes me feel valued and appreciated and so happy to be brightening up their days.”

AndduringNationalVolunteerWeek,(May 15-21) it’s time to give a huge shout out to all those volunteers, like Franca, Graeme and Joy, for their endless work and tireless energy in enriching the lives of older people in our community.

The theme for this year is The Change Makers which celebrates the power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian community.

Uniting AgeWell CEO Andrew Kinnersly says, “This theme rings true for us, where inclusion is a core value underpinning everything we do. With a long history of volunteer support, Uniting AgeWell’s services

havegrownandflourished;avitalcontribution we recognise and appreciate each and every day”.

There are a wide range of volunteering opportunities available at Uniting AgeWell. You can visit the website at unitingagewell.

org or call 13 93 75 to see how you too can enrich the lives of older people – and your own!

Volunteers Graeme and Joy Thompson. (Supplied)

Industrial land plans on display

By Jennifer Pittorino

Hobsons Bay council has voted to place the Draft Industrial Land Management Strategy (ILMS) and Draft Industrial Design Guidelines on public exhibition.

In its meeting on Tuesday, May 9, council voted unanimously to put the policy out to the public for feedback for a period of six weeks from May 22-July 2.

The current ILMS was adopted in 2008 and is now being updated with a draft prepared focussing on the protection of industrial land

in Hobsons Bay.

Objectives of the ILMS include increasing local jobs, attracting sustainable and green industries with minimal offsite impacts and balancing growth with impacts on community.

Ensuring the right industrial outcomes are delivered to the benefit of the Hobsons Bay community and the local economy.

Consultation and feedback opportunities will include drop-in sessions open to the broader community.

Councillor Matt Tyler said this is the

residents time to have an input in their community.

“We know there is expertise in the communityontheseissuesandsowewelcome that input,” he said “Thedraftstartswithastatementofpurpose, it is really a way of building or retaining our Industrial Heritage and reimagining the futurebutdoingitinsuchawaythatresidents, nature is respected and improved.”

Followingtheconsultationperiod,theDraft ILMS will be updated in response to feedback and brought back to council for consideration

and adoption.

Cr Pamela Sutton-Legaud said she encourages the community to pay close attention to this strategy and give their input given the opportunity has been provided.

“We are an historic city and have a great heritage story to tell, this draft talks about a positive, sustainable future for the municipality,” she said.

“We need workers, we need business, we need jobs as well as housing and forests and all the things that make this place so great, we have a great start with this strategy.”

Celebrating what goes on in the neighbourhood

To mark Neighbourhood House Week 2023, Maribyrnong council hosted a event at the Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday, May 11.

This year Neighbourhood House Week fell from May 8-14, giving locals the chance to come together and celebrate community.

This year’s theme was ‘Locals connecting Locals’, which Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter said is relevant now more than ever.

“This year’s theme is particularly poignant given the recent challenges our community has faced over the last few years including extensive lockdowns and last year’s major Maribyrnong River flood event,” she said.

Those in attendance were treated with food and refreshments and had a day of activities.

“Attendees shared a multicultural meal, participated in fun activities and games, and, most importantly, made meaningful connectionswiththeircommunitymembers,” she said.

“We also distributed a booklet that provides information about various neighbourhood activities in Maribyrnong.”

Neighbourhood houses and community centres work for the community offering activities, programs and services.

These providers help combat loneliness and provide the human connection that is so vital to health and wellbeing, which Cr Carter said is the essence of Neighbourhood House Week.

“Neighbourhood House Week not only celebrates the numerous Neighbourhood Houses across Australia that have supported communities through thick and thin but also acknowledges the invaluable role of neighbours as first responders in times of need,” she said.

“It’s a time to honour the strength and sense of community that our residents foster and who make our local neighbourhoods safe and harmonious,” she said.

Neighbourhood House Week is an annual national celebration and nationwide initiative run by the Australian Neighbourhood Houses & Centres Association.

Jennifer Pittorino

A few of the Maribyrnong locals who attended the Neighbourhood House Week event at Maribyrnong Community Centre on Thursday, May 11. (Supplied)

There is a well known saying about how it takes a village to raise a child.

We could suggest that it also takes a village to properly care for people affected by dementia, but while everyone is happy to talk about looking after the young, the realities of taking care of older people are all too often spoken of, if at all, in a whisper.

Dementia is a progressively devastating condition that affects more than 400,000 Australians.LatestfiguresfromtheAustralian Institute of Health and Welfare reveal that it is the leading cause of death for women and the second leading cause for men (after heart disease).

As the condition develops, people with dementia need many different types of care and support to ensure that their lives continue to be comfortable and dignified.

Only about one-third of people with the condition are looked after in an aged care facility, or by professional carers in their own home. The remainder rely almost totally on the support and help of family members and friends.

These are acts of love – of course they are – but they can also be exhausting, frustrating and saddening, extracting a huge toll on the carers as well as the cared.

Help, for people with dementia and those who love them, is available from many different organisations, in many different ways – but finding it, even knowing where to look, is often difficult.

Recognising this, North Western Melbourne PrimaryHealthNetworkhasbuiltMelbourne’s first Dementia Directory – an easy-to-use online resource with which carers can find all

Dementia Directory is an online resource where carers cna find help and local community support. (iStock)

sorts of help and local community support.

The directory is designed to complement information available through My Aged Care and the NDIS.

This might be social groups or outings for people with dementia, support groups from particular faiths or among communities united by common languages. It contains information translated into Italian, Greek, Vietnamese and Simplified Chinese.

Importantly too the Dementia Directory

lists organisations that provide help, respite and support for carers – so the people who spend so much time looking after people they love can get a short break, find some help or even just swap stories with others doing the same thing.

The Dementia Directory covers almost all of Melbourne. It is a joint venture between us and our colleagues over at Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network. Over the next while, we hope to see it grow to cover services

and supports in even more areas.

The directory can be found at dementiadirectory.org.au

Andmoreresourcesandinformationcanbe foundonPreciousTime,ourwebsitededicated to people with life-limiting conditions, their families, friends, and carers. You can find it at precioustime.org.au

Because, indeed, it takes a village to care for people with dementia – and now it’s just a bit easier to find some of those villagers.

EXECUTIVE YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

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

New help for dementia patients

Reconnecting for Mother’s Day

By Jennifer Pittorino

GenWest’s Let’s Reconnect” event was held at Maribyrnong community centre on Saturday, May 6, bringing together families living in Maribyrnong to celebrate Mother’s Day.

Throughout the day, over 30 parents and children dropped in to participate in the activities arranged for the day.

These included making paper flowers, face painting and creating special Mother’s Day cards. While the children had their fun, their parents had the opportunity to reconnect with their neighbours.

Falcons are enjoying home court advantage

The City West Falcons made the most of their second match at the Altona Sports Centre last Wednesday. All three Falcons sides had big wins to cement their spot in the top four. Robbab Photography was on hand to catch the action.

Zoe Davies

Maddy Gray Sophie Hanrahan

Maribyrnong Community Centre hosted Gen West and their mothers day celebration on Saturday, May 6. (Supplied)

There were lots of activities on the day to celebrate Mothers Day.

The day was filled with snacks and music to honour the hardworking mums.

There was a great turnout on the day with over 30 visitors.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

May 18, 1983

A $1.4 million grant to improve parkland andpublicreservesinthewesternsuburbs, was announced last week.

30 years ago

May 19, 1993

Three men who chased and caught a payroll thief in Footscray are recognised for their bravery.

20 years ago

May 14, 2003

Maribyrnong Council is backing the Western Bulldogs in an attempt to boost membership of the financially embattled club.

10 years ago

May 15, 2013

TheSeekerslookbackontheirphenomenal fame.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED?

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, 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

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 three, 2023. However, earlier involvement from June with the outgoing musical director would be encouraged.

■ samgerc@bigpond.net.au

New choir

With One Voice – Hobsons Bay meets 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 Street, Williamstown.

■ Liza, 0416 268 959

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 Café) 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 walking group

Every Wednesday (during term dates) at 10.15am from Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.

■ Tahlia, 9397 6168

Free community morning tea

Every Wednesday at 11am in Joan Kirner House foyer, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.

■ Tahlia, 9397 6168

Computer classes for beginners

A wide range of times and days, at both Altona North Community Centre, and Joan Kirner House in Williamstown.

■ Lynne, 9397 6168

Palliative volunteers needed Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Musicians Wanted

Established in 1979, the Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Do you play woodwind, brass or percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music? Rehearsals are held Saturdays during school terms, 9am to noon at Braybrook College.

■ westgateconcertband@gmail.com

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

Willin Wimmin choir

Williamstown-based women’s community choir Willin Wimmin is currently welcoming

new members to take part in a free no-obligation try out session. The group meets each Wednesday evening in school terms in the Church of Christ hall at the corner of John Street and Douglas Parade in Williamstown from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music.

■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

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

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

Diabetes support group

The Westgate Diabetes Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am.

■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

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

Art workshops

The Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre presents MonArt. Workshops for people of all abilities facilitated by community art specialist Amanda Neville, Mondays 10am-11.30am. Cost: $5 casual fee each week.

■ admin@ljac.com.au, or 9398 2511

Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Nick Athanasiou from ‘Studio Skunk Control’. (Damjan Janevski) 333472_01

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 133

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Melodious (7)

5 From Stockholm, say (7)

9 Herald (9)

10 Donated (5)

11 Amazement (6)

12 Oral doctors (8)

14 Creations (6)

15 Scottish island (4)

19 Idly lounge (4)

20 – scholar (6)

24 Clouded eye (8)

25 Immune system organ (6)

27 Get to (5)

28 Incapable of being seen (9)

29 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)

30 Settle (7)

DOWN

1 Native American hairstyle (6)

2 Thread (6)

3 Yardsticks (8)

4 Records (4)

5 Image taken of an electronic display (10)

6 Octave (6)

7 Backer (8)

8 Large Australian spider (8)

13 Alluring (10)

16 From the menu (1,2,5)

17 Seasoned smoked beef (8)

18 Fierce storms (8)

21 Chicken breed (6)

22 Small rodent (6)

23 Sternutation (6)

26 Confirm (4)

DECODER WORDFIT

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 345678910111213

12 25

183694527

957182463

378421695 215367849

649758132 736849251

462573918

894215376

659781342

436897125

521364798

783452961 397528614

142639587 265143879

easy medium hard

978215436

814976253

B Today’s Aim:

216738495

427913586

361584927

521936784 679851243

893145672 532479168

G O O E N A 3 LETTERS ADO AND ARE AVO DOE DON EKE ELF ERR FAT ICE NEE NOR PAP RIP ROE RUE SEA SUE THE TIN USE WHO 4 LETTERS AYES DENT DESK DROP GETS ICON MEAL ODES PAYS SEES STEP STEW VICE YENS YOUS 5 LETTERS ACHES

958627314

745296831 184362759

1415 1617181920212223242526 Y J E I C N R S M O P F V U B T A Z W G D X L H Q K 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

ADORE ALIKE ALPHA ARISE CASTE CAWED COLON CRAVE DOLLS DONOR DROSS EDGES ELECT ELUDE ENROL EVENS FONTS GOUGE GREEK HEAPS

HORSE HOTEL INANE IVORY MATHS MATTE NOTES OPERA PANEL REVEL RIVET RULED SEEDS SLEEP SPREE STAVE STREW TRILL TRITE TROUT

TWEET TYING VENUE WIRES YELLS 6 LETTERS DEATHS DEEPER EASIER GENTRY 7 LETTERS CAPSULE COMFORT CREMATE

OVERATE SAUSAGE VIEWING 8 LETTERS ARMOURED DISALLOW SERENEST TETHERED 11 LETTERS COMMISERATE VACATIONING

gore, grab, gram, groan, groom, mange, manger, mango, monger, moorage, ogre, omega, orange, oregano, organ, rage, ragmen, rang, range

BOOMERANG,

No. 133

germ,

among,

19-05-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1 How many teeth does a crocodile typically have: 66, 77 or 88?

2 An Aussiedor is a hybrid of what two dog breeds?

3 By what names are Saudi Arabia’s Makkah and al-Madinah better known in Australia?

4 In which ocean would you find the Mariana Trench, the deepest place on Earth?

5 In 1935, cane toads (pictured) were introduced to Australia to control what insect?

6 Traditionally, on which day during Easter would pancakes be made?

7 According to the song My FavouriteThings, what comes next: 'Cream coloured ponies and crisp apple strudels, Door bells and sleigh bells and ...'?

8 Beefsteak, cherry and dwarf are all varieties of what?

9 What name is given to someone who studies reptiles and amphibians?

10 Who wrote TheShockDoctrine: TheRiseofDisasterCapitalism?

13 26 HK ANSWERS: 1. 66 2. Labrador and Australian Shepherd 3. Mecca and Medina 4. Pacific Ocean 5. Scarab beetles 6. Shrove Tuesday 7. Schnitzel with noodles 8. Tomatoes 9. Herpetologist 10. Naomi Klein

No. 133

No. 133

No. 133

anger, argon, bagmen, bang, barge, began, berg, bongo,

borage, brag, brogan, embargo, ergo, game, garb, gear,

german, gnome, gone, goober,

TRADES & SERVICES

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

“We advertise in our local Star Weekly to let our customers know of the special deals we have going and to reach the broader community”

- Aaron

North Altona East Newsagency 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

Isuzu genie delivers to the Max

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

It seems that like the Genie of the Lamp a customer’s wish is Isuzu Ute’s command, for a new model has elbowed its way into the top echelons of its rugged pick-up truck ranks.

The Japanese manufacturer has slotted the D-Max LS-U+ in between the well-presented LS-Udouble cab lifestyle ute and flagshipof the updated third generation for those who want a touch of luxury without the ‘shouty’ styling of the X-Terrain.

The new D-Max LS-U+ Crew Cab 4x4 Ute features similar equipment to the MY22 LS-U variant,butwiththeadditionofpremiumblack leather-accented upholstery and interior trims.

Convenience is also enhanced by the addition of a Smart Key, providing keyless entry, push button start, welcome light, and walk away door lock. Similar to the system in theX-Terrain,thewelcomelightilluminatesthe cabin when it detects the key is within 2 metres of the vehicle and the latter automatically locks thevehiclewhenthesmartkeyisdetectedmore than 3m away.

Also available is a genuine canopy, which adds a combination of convenient lockable pop-outorslidingwindows,makingtheLS-U+ a versatile load carrier.

Pricing reflects the added creature comforts and convenience, with the LS-U+ priced at $61,900 plus on-road costs, $2500 more than the regular LS-U, but considerably $4000 cheaper than the range-topping X-Terrain.

Warranty is six years or 150,000 kilometres; seven years roadside assistance, provided servicing is with an Isuzu Ute dealer, and seven years capped price servicing.

Styling

The LS-U+ comes exclusively with a double cab and style-side high tensile steel body on a ladder-frame chassis.

The front is lifted from X-Terrain extremes with a dark coloured grille broken up by dual chrome cross pieces, the latter considered a badgeofpremiumquality,especiallyinEurope.

Flanking this are automatic bi-LED headlights, incorporating LED daytime running lights, with auto-levelling and automatic high beam control. Below are LED fog lights.

LEDs sign off the rear with combination taillights. On a sad note, large heated door mirrors are poorly positioned up front to produce a niggling blind spot.

A versatile factory-fitted tub liner is installed inside the 1570 mm long, 1530 mm wide, 490 mm deep tray. A selection of tonneaus and canopies is available from the Isuzu Ute GenuineAccessoriescatalogue.Thetestvehicle was fitted with a manually operated lockable roller tonneau cover (see Summary below).

The D-Max LS-U+ rolls on 18 inch machined-face alloy wheels with 265/60R18 Bridgestone 684II HT tyres. There’s a full-size spare.

Interior

The cabin is modern and comfortable, with black leather-accented upholstery, eight-way power assisted driver’s seat with power lumbar support and a premium-leather bound steering wheel with reach and rake adjustment. Dual zone air-conditioning allows driver and front passenger singly to control the temperature. Rearpassengersalsobenefitfromrearairvents.

Infotainment

High on the central dash is a 9-inch high-definition infotainment system, featuring voice recognition, in-built satellite navigation, DAB+ radio, and the latest in smartphone mirroring, with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. Occupants can take advantage of a premium eight-speaker surround sound system.

Engines / transmissions

The LS-U+ is powered by Isuzu’s 3.0-litre, turbo-diesel engine, developing 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

InlinewithallMY22D-Maxmodels,theLS-U+ takes up a five-star ANCAP safety rating and comes standard with Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System, a suite of advanced driver safety and assistance technologies, including a state-of-the-art 3-D stereo camera that detects other motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. .

Standard with IDAS are autonomous emergency braking with turn assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, plus eight airbags including a knee and centre-airbag.

Driving

Sharing its engine and chassis with the Mazda BT-50, there is considerable clatter from under the D-Max LSU+ bonnet. There’s little excuse these days for this amount of diesel rattle and here the motor shows its age.

The six-speed transmission handles most situations but can be a tad tardy in dropping down a cog under hard acceleration.

Isuzuclaimsacombinedurban/highwayfuel consumption of 8.0 litres per 100 kilometres. The test LS-U+ used as much as 10 litres per 100 kilometres of diesel in city working and 6.6 litresper100kilometresonmotorwaycruising, so there’s little to complain about here.

I am not alone in having a love-hate relationship with vehicle lane intervention. As part of the IDAS suite, the LS-U+ features the new Lane Support System switch, located

on the steering wheel, allowing the driver to toggle all Lane Support Systems on or off, by a single push of the button for two seconds.

Going off road? Switch to Isuzu’s Terrain Command 4x4 with 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low drive modes, an electromagnetic rear differential lock and ground clearance of 240 mm.

Measuring up among the best in the range, approach, departure and ramp-over angles weigh in at 30.5 deg, 19.0 deg and 23.8 deg, respectively. A water wading depth of up to 800 mm is also up there with the best in class. With customer surveys detailing that close to half of all Isuzu owners tow with their vehicle, the D-Max LS-U+ has a 3.5 tonne braked towing capacity and is equipped with a factory-fitted tow bar receiver as standard.

Customers can thus tailor their vehicle to specific towing needs, with an optional seven or 12 pin plug, electronic brake controller, tow tongue insert with 50 mm ball and a weight distribution hitch. All are available through Isuzu Ute’s Genuine Accessories catalogue.

Summary

Isuzu’s third-generation D-Max range has successfully muscled in on the highly competitive pick-up truck range in Australia with close to 22,000 examples sold in 2021. Proving popular among families, however, it’s worthrememberingtubcapacityandversatility are seriously limited by the solid roller cover - a bit like comparing a briefcase to a travel trunk.

($62,990 driveaway)

SPECIFICATIONS

Isuzu LS-U+ 3.0L 4-cylinder turbodiesel, 6sp automatic, 4x4 Utility

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

The D-Max LS-U+ . . . Isuzu slips in a spot of luxury. (Pictures: Supplied)

In form Altona City sitting on top of the ladder

Altona City continues to lead the way in the FV state league 1 north-west competition.

City sit on top of the ladder after eight rounds with six wins from its opening eight matches of the season.

On Friday night, City made it six wins in a row with victory against Whittlesea United.

Cityscoredinthe27minutethroughJordan Lam.

Neither side was able to hit the back of the net, with City winning 1-0.

City now sits a point clear of second placed Westgate, despite playing one less match.

Yarraville backed up a strong midweek performance in the Australia Cup with a 1-1 draw with Corio,

The Glory scored first through Takumi Hiruma before Corio levelled the scores just

after the break.

Neither side could find a winner. The Glory sits in sixth spot.

In state league 2 north-west, Altona East Phoenix continued its good form, beating Hoppers Crossing 2-0.

Sam O’Halleron scored just before half time to give the Phoenix a 1-0 win, before Joshua Kelic scored in the dying minutes to give Phoenix a 2-0 win.

Phoenix sits in second spot, one point behind ladder leaders Clifton Hill Altona North got a much needed win as it tries to rise up the ladder.

Facing Epping City, which has struggled this season, Altona North hit the lead in the 19th minute through Zoran Petrevski. Altona North went a man down just before

half time due to a red card. Altona North maintained its lead despite that.

Koce Delev scored a second in injury time to give Altona North a 2-0 win.

Altona North sits in eighth spot.

In state league 3 north-west, Williamstown had a 2-1 loss to Point Cook.

The Jets scored twice in the first half to take the lead, before Williamstown got one back through Ethan Babic just before half time.

Williamstown wasn’t able to get another goal and had to settle for the loss.

Williamstown sits fourth on the table.

Laverton sits on top of the state league 4 west ladder after a solid win against Bell Park.

Laverton scored through Alejandro Martinez in the first half, before an own goal

Seagulls tough it out

By Tara Murray

Williamstown turned the tables on Sydney in the Victorian Football League on Saturday.

After suffering a big loss to the Swans last year, it was the Seagulls that had the last laugh on Saturday.

Despite being without a win this season, the Swans pushed the Seagulls all the way.

The Seagulls were able to kick away late, winning 9.12 (67)-4.10 (34).

Seagulls director of coaching Jeff Andrews said it was nice to head to Sydney and come away with the points.

“I think last year we were beaten by a big score, so it was good to get the win,” he said.

“It was really tough for our boys, it was up and back and really taxing from a running point of view.

“From a ladder position, they still had 13 AFL-listed players and they still challenged us. They will win some games this year and they’re starting to get players back, their running players.”

Andrews said while the scoreboard showed a tight contest they thought they had played some pretty good football.

He said while the scoreboard suggested it might have been a windy day, there wasn’t much wind and nothing like what they get at Williamstown.

“It wasn’t high scoring but it was highly contested,” he said.

“We felt like we were in control for most of the day and we kicked away to a reasonable score late in the piece.

“There was a breeze to one end… Both sides missed some easy set shots, it was more inaccurate kicking than a windy day.”

Finbar O’Dwyer led the way with 28 disposals while Ben Jolley, Marty Hore and Mitch Cox had 26 possessions each.

Corey Ellison and Nick Ebinger kicked two goals each for the Seagulls.

Andrews said they were the four standouts in the win.

There was a good news story in the Seagulls win and that was the debut of Zac Pritchard.

Pritchard, who had seven possessions, has had to do it the hard way.

“Heacquittedhimselfprettywell,”Andrews said.

“He came in before the 2022 season and did a knee at the start of the pre-season.

“We kept him around and he had a long recovery from an ACL injury.

“He wasn’t guaranteed to make the list and he made the list and has now got a game.

“It’s a good story for a local Western Jets player.”

The win came despite missing Mace Cousins and Harry Jones. Andrews said they were hoping would be back this week, if not they would be back after the bye.

The Seagulls sit fifth on the ladder with five wins from their seven games.

sealed a 2-0 win.

Melbourne City is keeping the pressure on the top sides, having a draw against the Moonee Valley Knights.

The Knights entered the round on top of the ladder, but had to settle for a 0-0 draw with City.

City sits fifth on the ladder.

Barnstoneworth United had a 3-1 loss to Barwon. Chris Duncan scored a consolation goal for United in extra time in the second half.

Meanwhile,intheNationalPremierLeague, Altona Magic had a tough night against Port Melbourne Sharks on Saturday night.

The Sharks scored one in each half to get the win.

The Magic sit seventh on the table.

Davies back with Altona

Altona’s batting line up has received a boost with Ben Davies returning to his junior club.

The A’s announced last week that Davies had signed a two-year deal to return to the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association club.

Davies started his career at Altona before moving through the ranks to Victorian Premier Cricket.

“Ben has represented St Kilda Cricket ClubinPremierCricketwithdistinction over the past 11 seasons,” the club said on social media.

“He played 214 games and is a 6 time Premiership player. During his time at St Kilda Ben made 4,729 runs and an average of 28.15. This included four 100’s and 22 x 50’s with a highest score of 140.

“He also took 87 wickets at an average of 28 with best bowling figures of 5-28.

“Ben will significantly boost our playing stocks and is also looking forward to passing on his knowledge to the playing group as an assistant coach.”

The A’s have also reappointed Aaron Whear as coach for next season. Whear led the side to eighth in his first season as coach.

“We are looking forward to Aaron building on his great work in season 22-23,” the club said on social media.

“He was instrumental in raising standards and professionalism across the whole club.

“ACC has greatly benefited from Aaron’s cricket experience, his communication skills, and his ability to educate players across the whole club, both senior and junior.”

Ben Davies and Aaron Whear (Supplied)

This week they face Carlton, which sits in 13th position. Meanwhile, the Seagulls women’s side suffered another close loss to the

Casey Scorpions. The Scorpions led at every break in the 6.6 (42)-5.6 (36). The Seagulls sit in 10th spot.

Marty Hore continued his good form on Saturday. (Martin Keep/Williamstown FC)

Panthers get important win against Sunshine

Newport is getting closer to putting together a full four quarter performance and its reflecting on the results in the Western Region Football League division 2.

After getting their first win the previous round against Braybrook, the Panthers backed it up on Saturday with a solid win against Sunshine.

Panthers coach Josh Russo said they were starting to head in the right direction.

“It was super important,” he said. “Everyone wants to be ahead of the ledger and we’re now back to even.

“The most positive thing is we didn’t go the other way. The boys played well to get the win.”

The win against the Kangaroos shows that the Panthers have closed the gap on the top teams.

Russo said it would help instil belief in the playing group.

“It’s a really even competition,” he said. “Sunshine is a side that has come down from division 1 and by all reports one of the

stronger teams in the competition.

“The game means a lot. We’ve now got that belief that we can mix it and win games against a good side.”

After an even first quarter, the Panthers were able to get out to a four goal margin at the break.

It was a margin they were able to hold throughout the second half, winning 14.10 (94)-10.11 (71).

Russo said it was a really good game of football.

“It was tough across the day,” he said. “We got a couple of goals in the second quarter and that gave us the lead.

“It was a really good contest and we were really persistent and we didn’t go away from what we wanted to do.

“It’s the first time we’ve been close to a full four quarter effort together. We’re playing good football for longer.”

Russo said they had made some adjustments the last few weeks and it showed on Saturday

what happened when they delivered.

Hussien Kadour kicked six goals for the Panthers in the win.

Russo said Kadour, ruck Nathan Dowdy, Belal Mesto, Bilal Chehade were the best in the win.

The Panthers this week face North Footscray.Russosaiditwouldbeanothergood game with the Devils in a similar position on the ladder.

The Devils enter the match off the back of a win against Braybrook.

The Devils were never headed in the 17.13 (115)-4.5 (29) win.

Albion got another win on the board, beating Wyndhamvale, 10.12 (72)-4.10 (34).

In division 3, Albanvale smashed North Sunshine, the Suns were too good for West Footscray and Tarneit beat Laverton.

Tara Murray

Brasher earns rookie contract

Footscray star Dylan Brasher’s form the last 12 months has been recognised with the batterearning his first state contract.

Brasher has earned a Cricket Victoria rookie contract for the 2022-23 season on the back of strong form for the Bulldogs and up in Darwin.

Brasher, who was named in the Victorian Premier Cricket team of the year, making 614 runs at an average of 51.17 after spending the off season in Darwin, where he was also in the runs where he won the Ralph Wiese Medal.

He was given the responsibility of captaining the Bulldogs T20 side this season, and captained up in Darwin.

Brasher made his Victorian second XI debut earlier this year, making a century on his home deck at Footscray.

Speaking to Star Weekly before last season, he said that had been his aim for the summer.

Brasher’s Footscray teammate Travis Dean is again on the contract list. Dean was named join Sheffield Shield player of the season last year, alongside Henry Hunt.

Roosters’ narrow loss

By Tara Murray

It was a case of deja vu for West Footscray in the Western Region Football League women’s division 2 competition.

After losing to Spotswood by one point earlier in the season, the Roosters again fell short by the same margin to the Wolves on Saturday.

The Roosters came from behind after trailing by 19 points at the main break. The margin was reduced to six points heading into the final quarter.

Two goals to one in the final quarter wasn’t enough with the Wolves winning, 5.9 (39)-5.8 (38).

Jemma Hay kicked three goals for the Roosters, while Eliza Terry and Baileigh Skinner were named their best.

Speaking before the game, Roosters coach Shane Windridge said they had been happy with the season so far.

“We’re looking good so far,” he said. “We’re pretty happy with how the season has gone to this point.

“Last year we lost the preliminary final by

three points, so we’re looking at making finals again and going one step further and making the grand final.

“Youneverknowinthiscompetition,there’s ups and downs with numbers, so you’re never sure, but we’ll be in the mix for the top four.”

Windridgesaidtheyhadmanagedtokeep90 per cent of last season’s playing group, with a couple of players deciding to pull the pin.

He said while they had added players like Hay and Roxana Sefton, their biggest focus was developing their own players.

“Roxy and Jemma add a lot to the team,” he said. “They’ve both played a bit of footy elsewhere.

“We’ve had a lot of players come the last few years who we’ve given a bit of experience too.

“We’veneverhadissueswithnumbers.We’ve had a fair few new players every year, we’re a close group and people see that and want to come and join us.”

Windridge said one of their successes had been how they had been able to develop their own players.

The loss on Saturday leaves the Roosters in third spot after the first half of the split round.

The Roosters only two losses have come to the Wolves, who sit on top of the ladder.

In the other match on Saturday, Point Cook was way too strong for Braybrook.

The Bulldogs beat Braybrook for the second time this season, winning 16.11 (107)-0.1 (1).

ZarinjayStowersandPaigeBorjarowskiwere named the Brookers best.

Laverton Magpies will host Caroline Springs andNorthSunshinewillplayWyndhamvalein the second half of the split round.

In division 1, Parkside Spurs won the only game played on the weekend, beating Point Cook Centrals.

TheSpursledby12pointsatquartertime,but failed to make the most of their opportunities.

The margin increased the second quarter with the lead out to 20 points at half time.

The second half was closer, but the Spurs were able to do enough, winning 5.9 (39)-2.4 (16).

Rita Ceravolo and Taquila Angel were the Spurs best.

This Saturday, Spotswood plays Caroline Springs and Yarraville Seddon Eagles host Werribee Centrals.

Cricket Victoria’s head of male cricket David Hussey said it was nice to recognise some new faces as part of the program.

“It’s really pleasing to recognise some of premier cricket’s best performers over the past couple of seasons with contracts and upgrade four of our rookies from last year,” he said.

“We’re focussed on continuous improvement and it’s great to see those younger players starting to impact our match results positively.”

Dylan Brasher fielding. (Joe Mastroianni). 309719_04

Newport’s Hamzah Ali. (Jacob Pattison)331332_08

West Footscray’s Jemma Hay 333197_09

City West Falcons survive a tough challenge

The City West Falcons got a much needed test in the Victorian Netball League championship division on Wednesday night.

Back in front of their home crowd at Altona, the Falcons were pushed all the way by the Southern Saints.

The Falcons were able to hold on to win 61-54.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said they had been expecting a tough match from the Saints.

“They were playing to get back into the top four,” she said.

“They had a really hard loss the week before.

I saw them at the end of the game and they were massively disappointed and knew they would play fired up.”

Lind said after a number of big wins, having a match that was a lot closer was what they needed.

She said they were pleased to have gotten

over the line and seeing who would stand up under pressure.

“We didn’t connect well defensively,” she said. “We weren’t as connected as we have been and were caught at times doing a couple of different strategies.

“We kept getting out to 10 goal leads and had lapses of concentration, our passing was all over the court.”

She said it gave them a number of things to work on as they approach the second half of the season.

Lind said the biggest difference for then was the game of Jane Cook back in shooter. Cook, who shot 44 goals, has returned to form in recent weeks. The Falcons welcomed back Uneeq Palavi, who had missed the last few games with national duties.

Lucia Fauonuku, who had also been on national duties, missed another match.

“Lucia has a bit of a niggling injury,” Lind said. “We could have tried to force her to come back, but we had Molly Kennedy available.

“She would have been handy as the Saints had some small aggressive midcourters, but it will be good for her in the long run.

“Uneeq’s last quarter was quite solid.”

The Falcons remain in top spot, with a 7-1 record. Their division 1 and under-19 sides both had wins and sit second and third respectively on the ladder.

Lindsaidtheywerehappyatthispointofthe season as they wanted to try and get success in all grades in the final season of the current format.

The Falcons this week face Casey.

“They are a good side on paper,” Lind said.

“It’ll be the halfway mark of the competition and it’ll be good sign of where we’re at.”

Tara

Vikings still undefeated

By Tara Murray

Altona coach Corey McCall has been slightly surprised by his side’s start to the Western Region Football League division 1 season.

While the Vikings entered the season as the reigning premiers, a number of off season departures meant a very different looking side is taking to the field.

Despite this, the Vikings are one of two teams to be undefeated after five rounds.

“Wecannotcomplain,”McCallsaid.“We’re really happy considering the draw that we have.

“We play Point Cook, Werribee Districts and Caroline Springs three times each.

“That’s nine games out of your 18, it means a lot for us to get early wins if we’re going to make finals.

McCall said he had been expecting the team to take some time to gel, considering how young they are this season.

He said they are still to hit their straps but their had been some good signs.

“It’s going to take some time to get things going,” he said. “The guys have been really professionalintheirapproachtothegameplan.

“We still have some up and down moments, like in the third quarter on Saturday against Caroline Springs, but we’ve played some good footy.”

McCall said the win against the Lakers on Saturday had been their most complete performance so far.

The Vikings jumped out of the blocks and led by 21 points quarter time and the same margin at the main break.

That margin was reduced to just eight points at the last break.

Four goals to one sealed a 12.12 (84)-8.6 (54) win.

“We started really well and were able to execute in the second quarter,” McCall said.

“Unfortunatelyinthethirdwedidn’texecute what we wanted to be able to. We reassessed and were able to get it back on our terms.”

Mitchell Vandenberg and Ethan Taylor kicked two goals each for the Vikings.

McCall said Josh Bench and Taylor were their best two.

He also made mention of the games of a couple of the younger players.

“Cooper Atchison and Colby Redpath are a coupleofyoungguysintheruck,”McCallsaid.

“They battled it out against Liam Read and were a bit out of their depth in terms of size.”

It’s a second big win for the Vikings in two weeks after beating Point Cook last week.

The tests continue this week as the Vikings now face the other undefeated team in the competition, Werribee Districts in a rematch

Sports shorts

Big V

The Altona Gators snuck home against the Mornington Breakers in the Big V men’s division 2 on Saturday night. There was nothing much between the two teams all night, with three points the biggest margin at any of the breaks. The Gators led by one point at the last break and were able to hold on, winning 95-92. Samson Rocker top scored for the Gators with 22 points. The Gators sit second on the ladder.

VTCA

The Druids have announced the signing of Charith Mendis for the next Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season. Mendis joins the Wizards from Haig Fawkner where he has proven himself as a strong all-rounder the past two seasons. He took five wickets in a semi final this season, while also scoring a century last season.

VTCA

Altona North has announced the signing of James Wild for the the next Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1 season. Wild joins the club from Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association club Ormond, where he leaves a legend, after a decade long stint. Prior to his time at Ormond, Wild was also an influential player at the Prahran Cricket Club in Victorian Premier Cricket.

Australia Cup

Yarraville Glory is through to the next stage of the Australia Cup after beating Skye United on Wednesday night in round five. Syke hit the lead early, but it was soon cancelled out by Glory. The Glory found its range late in the first half, to score three goals to take a 4-1 lead into half time. Skye scored one early in the second half, but it wasn’t enough with Yarraville Glory scoring 4-2. The Glory face the North Geelong Warriors in the next round.

of last season’s grand final.

McCall said they were looking forward to the challenge.

“We have great respect for them,” he said.

“We’ve had some good battles and we face them again after the grand final.

“It should be a cracking game of football.”

In other matches, Spotswood made it two in a row, beating Yarraville Seddon Eagles 14.10 (94)-9.13 (67).

Point

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Murray Zoe Davies is focused in defence. (Robbab Photography)

Mitchell Vandenberg. (Joe Mastroianni). 299309_42

Cook Centrals got its first win of the season against Hoppers Crossing, while Werribee Districts snuck home against Point Cook.

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