Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 31st May 2023

Pressing the good oil

The popular community event ‘Olives to Oil’ will be hosted at the Newport Community Hub, in partnership with the Hobsons Bay Festival of food, this Sunday.

‘Olives to Oil’ encourages people from across Melbourne to harvest their backyard olives and have them pressed into olive oil.

CERES Community food systems manager Merrin Layden said it’s exciting to be taking the ‘Olives to Oil’ project back to where it all began.

“Since our first Olives to Oil event in Hobsons Bay in 2018, the program has grown in popularity and is now a well-loved annual tradition for hundreds of people across Melbourne,” she said.

The event is on June 4 and participants need to register online to book a time to drop off their olives. Ms Layden recommends olives be harvested no earlier than June 2, so the oil doesn’t spoil. The project has collected and pressed nearly 10 tonnes of backyard olives since 2018.

“We collect the fruit, take it to Barfold Olives near Kyneton to be pressed, then deliver the olive oil back to participants later in the year.”

Budget tackles clean air

The health crisis in the west due to excessive truck usage in Maribyrnong will be addressed via a $20 million funding package as part of the 2023-24 state budget.

The budget, which was handed down last week, includes funding to improve air quality for Melbourne’s inner west communities by providing councils in the region with co-contribution grants to seal unsealed roads under council management, reducing airborne dust pollution.

Grants will also be made available for transport operators to modernise the truck fleet travelling through the inner west.

The funding was announced one week after Maribyrnong council declared a health

emergency in the municipality and called on the state government to take proactive measures to reduce pollution.

Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter welcomed the funding. “On the back of the council’s declaration of a health emergency, citing the impacts of air and noise pollution from heavy trucksusinglocalroads,Councilalsowelcomes the $20 million investment in improving air quality in the inner west,” she said.

“Specifically for the development of programs that will help modernise trucks and improve air quality in the region.”

The budget also includes $9.3 million for a new gym at Footscray West Primary School.

“When I started in 2015 it was clear the

gym was not adequate for our students, so we have been advocating for the funding for some time,” principal Brendan Millar said.

“We were aware we were getting the funding , these works have been in talks for some time.”

MrMillarisunsureofwhentheconstruction will begin because of the scale of the project.

“We are a fully built school so there is no room to just build a new gym, that means we have to knock down the old one and cause disruptions for the kids.”

Rosamond Special School will receive $1.69 million, while Footscray City Primary School has been allocated $8.5 million, the Kinnear Street campus of Footscray High School will benefit from $9.64 million and Bayside P-12

College will receive $5.55 million

The budget also included $634.37 million for the new Footscray Hospital, which is already under construction.

Following the October 2022 floods, the government is also planning for future upgrades to the Footscray VICSES facility.

Point Cook Road in Altona Meadows will also be upgraded, according to the budget papers, while a new cemetery has been planned for Altona East. Footscray MP Katie Hall said the budget also included a women’s health clinics at Footscray will provide care and support for conditions like endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), perimenopause and menopause.

Merrin Layden at the Newport Community Hub ahead of the big day of olives.

336623 (Damjan Janevski)

Hear creek restoration update

By Jennifer Pittorino

Melbourne Water will be updating the public about the Stony Creek Rehabilitation Plan 2021-22 on Sunday, June 4 at the Yarraville Guide Hall.

The event will launch the updated report card which will highlight the plans for the restoration of the creek.

The Stony Creek Rehabilitation Plan identifies long-term and sustained actions that span recovery to active rehabilitation of

the creek and its surrounds.

The event will be a chance to hear from researchers and agency partners, share the highlights from the report card and get involved in the ongoing process.

Therewillbearangeofpresentersontheday including, Dr Kathryn Hassell from RMIT University’s Aquatic Pollution Prevention Partnership A3P, who will be speaking on ‘What’s in our water? An investigation of water quality in Stony Creek’. Monash University’s Miao Wang will be

speaking on ‘Discovering the illegal discharge in Stony Creek via innovative sensing devices’.

A3P member Monica Tewman will be speaking on ‘What’s littering Stony Creek?’.

The day will begin at 10.30am with a Bunurong Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony.

Following lunch at 1.30pm there will be several activities in the park, including a walk and talk discovery trail, a frog pond visit, how rain gardens work, a waterwatch and community planting.

Stony Creek is an urban waterway that runs through Melbourne’s western suburbs and flows into the Yarra River beneath the West Gate Bridge.

As reported by StarWeekly , 2018 warehouse fire caused contamination and large-scale devastation of a five kilometre section of the creek across the residential suburbs of West Footscray, Kingsville, Yarraville and Spotswood.

The rehabilitation plan aims to restore the creek to its original state.

Winter Festival

Beaton Reserve will host a free day of Winter Festivities for the whole family on June 4.

Yarraville Community Centre is hosting a Winter Festival at the reserve, between 11am and 3pm on Sunday, June 4, with the support of Maribyrnong council.

Chief executive Chris McCall said the event aims to celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of the local community.

“It’s going to be very family friendly, we are hoping to really bring people together,” she said.

There will be live music performances by local artists and a range of food and beverage vendors on-site, offering free samples and testers of winter treats and warm drinks.

‘The Twins’ are on their way to National Championships, but they need help getting there. (Supplied)

Funding little baseball champions

Junior baseball stars from across Melbourne’s north-west will compete at the Australian Little League Championships on June 7.

The team, known as ‘The Twins’, comprises players from district teams from Williamstown, Sunshine, Essendon, Fitzroy and Preston, respectively forming the ‘ Little League Development Team’ and ‘Little League All Stars’.

The overall cost to go to New South Wales to represent Victoria is substantial, not all families can bear the brunt easily.

Two GoFundMe pages have been started to give the families financial relief, after having to spend almost $4000 per child.

The large sum covers accommodation, air fares, transport to and from the matches, food, uniforms and training and playing equipment.

The Twins president Kirsty Davis said at ages 8-12, this will be the first time most of the boys travel interstate and they are all bundled with nervousness and excitement.

“All the parents are desperate for them to go and to shine and hopefully bring back the trophy,” she said.

“All the money raised goes straight back into the parents’ pockets.

“It’s a really big dream for the kids, we are witnessing the start of their baseball careers

so we really want to facilitate those dreams.”

Mum of 10-year-old Lucas, Natalie, is travelling to Blacktown with her son similarly to most parents, bearing a larger cost.

“We didn’t expect such a huge amount because going to state championships was only $200,” she said.

“We have all been working really hard since finding out we were going on very short notice last week.”

Details: https://shorturl.at/bjkor

https://shorturl.at/alsI9

Jennifer Pittorino

“Wembley Primary School choir will be there on the day giving an amazing performance,” Ms McCall said.

There will also be many activities to keep the children entertained throughout the day, including a petting zoo, Princess on Skates, and face painting.

The Trugo Club will also be offering a chance for festival goers to test their skills at a unique Australian sport.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity to bring our community together and celebrate all that makes Yarraville such a vibrant and welcoming place to live,” Ms McCall said.

Yarraville Community Centre is a not-for-profit organisation that has been providing educational, recreational, and social activities to the Yarraville community for over 47 years. Details: info@ycc.net.au or 9687 1560.

A week of reconciliation events planned for Hobsons Bay

Hobsons Bay will celebrate National Reconciliation Week with events to engage, inform and entertain residents of all ages.

Held between Saturday, May 27 and Saturday, June 3, National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

This year’s theme, ‘Be a Voice for Generations,’ urges everyone to use their power, their words and their vote to create a

better, more just Australia.

Mayor Tony Briffa said everyone has a part to play in working towards reconciliation.

“This is a significant year for reconciliation as we head towards the Voice to Parliament referendum,” she said.

“This week of events is an important reminder of the issues facing our Indigenous community and what we can all do to forge a path towards reconciliation.

Across the week several events will be held in Hobsons Bay from film exhibitions to question and answer sessions.

Showcasing of film and exhibition of The Colour & Sound of My Totem will be held at the Hobsons Bay Civic Centre, until June 6, 8.30am to 5pm.

A question and answer session with author Paul Callaghan will be available online on the HobsonsBayLibrariesEnviroCentreYouTube channel, where Callaghan discusses his book The Dreaming Path.

Story Time at Hobsons Bay Libraries across various times and locations will be catered for children up to five years old.

“There are events for all ages, particularly

for kids, who can learn more about our wonderfulFirstNationshistoryatourpopular Story Time sessions,” Cr Briffa said.

Jennifer Pittorino

Belle Hadiwidjajal with organisers Patricia Saca and MIyoko Wheeler, on Sunday, June 4. (Damjan Janevski) 337059_07

Ideas flow for old hospital site

Four community members, Angela AshleyChiew, Pierre Vairo, Kate Breen and Ena Ninkovic have formulated a plan for the site of the former Footscray Hospital. The four locals have a spirit to keep the site in favour of the community and ask that the state government and council keep their plans in mind.

“We are trying to be realistic , but we hope that if developments progress we can be included in some capacity,” said

architect Ms Ninkovic.

Beginning in December last year, the group hosted three community sessions at which 150 locals give their input to the plans.

“We tried to incorporate as much as we could, obviously everyone has their own ideas so we tried to stick to the median,” she said.

They then formulated the plan which is being used as a visual to get people talking and generate ideas.

The plan includes an outdoor swimming pool, mixed use commercial and community spaces, medium density housing, a public lawn, a recreation lake , a community garden, a playground, sporting courts and more.

“This is just a draft vision , it is not a set proposal that we are trying to get built in the design it is currently arranged as,” Ms Ninkovic said.

“We really took the themes that the

Community has a say on old site

community had voted on and brought them together in a holistic view for the site.”

On May 9, the group presented the final plan to council in a private meeting, following an official release to the public, in which they received a positive response.

The group is preparing a meeting which will be open to the public for anyone who wants to get involved, the date is TBC.

Jennifer Pittorino

Kate Breen, Augustus, Pierre Vairo and Angela Ashley-Chiew with the draft plans for the area at the old hospital site. (Jacob Pattison) 336035_01

Top left: The proposed plan for the old Footscray Hospital Site. (Supplied) Above: One of the three community consultations hosted by Angela Ashley-Chiew, Pierre Vairo, Kate Breen and Ena Ninkovic. Across the three sessions from December to January, 150 community members gave their input on the draft plan. Top right: A voting system was put in place so locals could have their say.

Residents were invited to take part in three community engagement sessions to gain insight into what locals want from the soon to be empty Footscray Hospital site.

Stellar student speaking effort

Two Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay students will be competing in the finals of the Wynspeak public speaking competition on Friday, June 2.

Mount St Joseph Girls’ College’s Natasha Stanley and Footscray High School’s Leila Todd have advanced onto the finals, which will be held at Thomas Carr College in Tarneit.

Junior and senior students from Altona College, Bayside P-12 College, Emmanuel College, Footscray High School, Mount St Joseph Girls’ College and Williamstown High School competed in the Hobsons Bay heat on Thursday, May 4, at the Altona Theatre.

The Hobsons Bay heat involved competitors

presenting five-minute prepared speeches on a variety of topics followed by two-minute unprepared presentations.

The topics discussed included, learning in lockdown, misinformation and the media, effect of war on children, artificial intelligence, formula one racing, Australia Day and advocating for peace rather than war.

The Wynspeak public speaking competition is an annual event, testing the skills of secondary school students in Melbourne’s west. It involves eight heats and a final, with approximately 100 students from 40 secondary schools in the western suburbs of Melbourne competing.

Objectives of the competition are to provide a vehicle for young people to grow their self-confidence, build their creativity, critical thinking, and leadership skills via public speaking opportunities, as well as improve poise and professionalism.

It also succeeds in assisting students in developing and growing both personally and professionally by developing traits which are invaluable in everyday life.

The event is hosted by the Altona City Rotary Club and supported by a grant from the state government’sWestGateNeighbourhoodFund.

Business lunch to help support the community

The Hobsons Bay Community Fund (HBCF) business lunch will be held at Seaworks in Williamstown in June.

The (HBCF) lunch raises funds to give back to local community groups.

The event includes a three-course lunch by Sebastian Beach Grill, drinks by Two Birds Brewing, a live auction of bespoke items and inspirational guest speakers.

Since its inception in 2006, HBCF has grown its fund from $40,000 to over $1 million, from which interest is used to award grants to grassroots organisations working for the benefit of the community in Hobsons Bay.

HBCF chair Adrian Butera said the annual lunch attracted hundreds of business leaders, professionals and philanthropists who were keen to make a difference.

“Through fundraising events like this and the generous donations from our supporters, the fund has provided over $300,000 in grants to 150 grassroots groups

and clubs supporting our local community,“ he said.

“Our fund enables individuals, families, community groups and businesses to invest

a

in their community and directly see the benefits.

“The grant program focuses on four key areas, being the mental health of our young people, family violence and its impact on women and children, digital literacy for senior residents and helping job seekers find work.

“We’re run by a voluntary incorporated committee with no overhead costs, meaning that every dollar raised goes back into the fund and into the community.“ The Hobsons Bay Community Fund Business Lunch will be held at 82 Nelson Place, Williamstown, from 11.30am-3pm, on June 16.

Tickets are $165 per person or $1650 for a table of 10.

Jennifer Pittorino

Point Cook Village was not something I had planned for myself, but it is the best move I have ever made.” Point Cook Resident

Hobsons Bay Community Fund chair Adrian Butera at Seaworks where the fundraising lunch will be hosted on Friday, June 16. (Damjan Janevski) 336349_01

Jennifer Pittorino

Students from a range of schools in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay competed in the Hobsons Bay Wynspeak ahead of the final on Friday, June 2. (Supplied)

The Dragon Lady’s colourful life

When Fran Bowden decided to try her hand at tattooing in 1979, female tattoo artists were few and far between in Australia. Over the years Fran has fine-tuned her craft and worked around the country, leading her to a female-owned shop in Brooklyn. She chats to Jennifer Pittorino about her colourful journey and why she loves being a tattoo artist.

Fran Bowden, also known as ‘Dragon Lady’, always knew she was going to use her passion for creativity and her fine art skills in her career.

Forty-three talent-filled years later, she has one of the most recognisable tattoo careers in the country.

When an optimistic 20-year-old Fran started looking for work in 1979, she hadn’t settled on anything concrete, so she decided to stumble into some tattoo shops to try her luck.

“I always knew my job would involve something creative and artsy, I just didn’t know what,” she says.

“I had always been drawing so tattooing seemed like a good next step, people were something new to draw on.”

In the ‘70s there were only three or four other female tattoo artists in Australia, so getting work in a tattoo parlour was no easy feat for Fran.

“I walked into many tattoo shops with some of my drawings prepared, and all I wanted to do was learn how to tattoo people,” she says.

“I received many negative remarks because at that time having a woman tattooing was very different, it was a fairly male-orientated industry.”

Fran’s obstination and ‘won’t take no for an answer’ attitude, eventually got her her first job in a little shop on Elizabeth Street in Sydney.

“Eventually I walked into a shop and showed the manager my work, he said alright let’s see what you can do.

“I think I was very lucky to have been given that opportunity, I got on very well with people and my career escalated from there.”

Fast forward 40-odd years and Fran now lives in Geelong with her husband of 18 years.

Fran has continued her love affair with tattooing at Rogue Ink, a small tattoo shop in Brooklyn, owned by Jessica Gronow.

Jess herself has been tattooing for 11 years, facing similar struggles to Fran when trying to break into the industry.

“There weren’t very many females around tattooing when she started and even when I started the industry was still primarily run by men.

“There were a lot of sexist remarks and a lot of sexual harassment when I started, now we see more young people and even more females running the show.”

Before making the move to Victoria to care for her late mother, Fran had opened three shops, married three times and had three children – all boys.

“I got to travel around doing work in New South Wales, some in Western Australia and eventually in South Australia where I opened my shops,” Frans says.

“South Australia was my favourite state to work in, I met so many nice people and had a great time there.”

Fran worked and worked, getting better jobs, leading her to better shops, eventually allowing her to open her own businesses which she said was hard work.

“It is very difficult working for yourself, having your own tattoo shop is especially really difficult,” she says.

“I was fortunate my husband was the shop manager at one, which helped me with a lot of things.”

Like being a hairdresser, Fran said people

tend to open up to tattoo artists when getting inked, which happens to be her favourite part of the job.

“One of the highlights is definitely meeting lots of new people, you meet all sorts of people, some even famous,” she says coyly.

Fran has been working at Rogue for more than two years working on her colourful, fantasy pieces.

“She has mastered her work with colour over the last 40 years, she is extremely well known for her colour work and her fantasy art,” Jess says.

Fantasy art, day of the dead, Neo-Japanese, Celtic and knotwork, tribal, black and grey, traditional Americana, dragons and fairies are some of Fran’s specialities that she has mastered.

Jess speaks of Fran with great fondness,

describing her as a great asset to their team and a mentor for the seven who work at Rogue.

“Her main skill is her quickness, she is one of the quickest tattoo artists I’ve ever seen,” she says.

“It is very insightful working with Fran, she is extremely friendly and all she wants to do is put her head down and work, it’s very refreshing.”

Fran is a life member of the Professional Tattoo Association of Australia (PTAA), which has been running for more than 40 years, winning several awards for her tattoos.

“I have tattooed people just about all over the body, there is a trophy for just about every body part,” she says.

In addition to working at Rogue, Fran happily spends her spare time painting and drawing, she is also in the middle of a graphic

novel which she is compiling.

After 63 years, Fran is entirely covered in tattoos including two full arms, two full legs , her back, chest and some on her face.

Her advice to younger generations is to think really hard before getting any tattoos.

“It might be fun now but 20 years down the track it might affect you more than you think,” she says.

“It’s been really difficult for me to get a normal job because I am heavily tattooed, tattooing has truly been my whole life.”

Following the advice she imparted on to young readers, her advice to her younger self was on par with her outlook on life.

“I would tell myself, you have to take life as it comes , do your best and you will get there in the end. “Look out Fran, it’s going to be a bumpy ride.”

‘‘ I have tattooed people just about all over the body, there is a trophy for just about every body part ’’

- Fran Bowden

Fran Bowden, a.k.a. ‘Dragon Lady’, has been tattooing for more than 43 years. She is well known for her colourful fantasy pieces, and has been working at Rogue Ink in Brooklyn for the last two years. Left: Fran with Rogue Ink owner Jessica Gronow.

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 335917

Asthma ‘hot spot’ help

By Jennifer Pittorino

The National Asthma Council Australia has launched two online clinical education packages to tackle the burden of asthma in Melbourne’s inner west.

The first is designed to be implemented in schools, the ‘Childhood Asthma Guide for Inner West Melbourne (Schools and Sports Clubs)’, is tailored for teachers to help with formulating asthma action plans, asthma first aid training and more dedicated health care such as school nursing.

Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong and Brimbank suffer from high levels of air pollution, ranking highest in the state for emergency department presentations for asthma and wheeze in child and adolescent patients.

Inparticular,YarravilleandBrooklynhave been named as two of Victoria’s air pollution ‘hot spots’.

They rank seventh and eighth in Australia for air pollution concentrations, mainly from transport, industry, shipping, localised urban issues, waste fires and wood heaters.

National Asthma Council Australia senior clinical consultant Narelle Williamson said the most immediate childhood health consequences of air pollution are wheezing and asthma, along with allergy.

“Children are especially vulnerable because their lungs are still developing and they spend a lot of time outdoors and yet the knowledge and capacity of staff to manage asthma in local school and sports clubs varies significantly,” she said.

The Schools and Sports Club education packagefocusesonidentifyingandmanaging asthma in children within a school or sports setting for children and adolescents five -19 years old.

The package can help in identifying

signs and symptoms of asthma, identifying asthma triggers and those triggers specific to the west.

As well as how to utilise written asthma action plans and provide effective asthma management , identifying the signs of an asthma emergency and how to provide first aid treatment for an asthma attack.

A complementary clinical package Improving Childhood Asthma Management

Wattle planting along creek

Hobsons Bay rangers invite local residents to a series of tree planting sessions starting in June.

Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek (FOLKC) are hosting three planting sessionsalongKororoitCreekonSunday, June 4, Sunday, July 9 and Sunday, August 6.

The first planting on June 4, will begin atthecarparkoutsidetheKororoitCreek Reserve in Dohertys Road at 10am.

On the day planters will be planting Acacias (wattles) to replace the ones planted in late 90’s that have reached the end of their lives.

The new wattles will supply a habitat forthemorethan140speciesofbirdsthat visit the Kororoit Creek environmental corridor.

All will be supplied on the day including the plants, equipment and a cuppa at the end of planting at noon.

Stage one of the Kororoit Creek shared path is nearing completion and will be opened later this year.

Itiscurrentlyunderconstructionfrom Hosken Reserve to Geelong Road by the West Gate Tunnel Project.

in Inner West Melbourne (Primary Health Care) has also been developed for general practitioners (GPs), practice nurses, pharmacists and allied health providers based in the inner western suburbs.

Both packages were developed by the National Asthma Council Australia as their projects for the Improving Childhood Asthma Management (ICAM) – Inner West Program; funded by the state government.

The section of path that will link to Cherry Lake in Altona and the Bay has been designed by Hobsons Bay council.

FOLKC are advocating to the government to assist in funding for the last section of trail.

Future plantings will be along the shared trail between the new Hosken Reserve play area and Barnes Road.

Details : FOLKC.com.au

Jennifer Pittorino

ICAM Sporting Club is one of the programs set to benefit from the two online locally tailored education packages, designed to aid in asthma management in the west. (Supplied)

Sport projects leap forward

By Councillor Peter Hemphill

I recently had the pleasure of attending the opening of the redevelopment at JT Gray Reserve in Williamstown.

It’s always fantastic to see a major project such as this come to fruition and to see the sportsclubsandcommunityinthenewspace.

Having worked with the tenant sports clubs when the idea of the redevelopment was first floated several years ago, it is so rewarding to see this project completed.

The new pavilion has 10 change rooms, a first aid room, umpire facilities, social areas, kitchens, public amenities, and storage.

The broader redevelopment also includes a new car park with 170 spaces, a four-wicket cricket practice facility, and behind-goal netting spanning 40 meters across the building. These sorts of facilities are the heart ofourcommunity.Theybringpeopletogether, they are a place where people can socialise, be active and create great memories.

So, it’s important we get them right. And I’m sure all the tenant clubs and the community will get a lot of enjoyment out of this redevelopment for many years to come.

There’s also some great work happening at the Newport Park Athletics Track to replace two throwing cages on the infield.

As part of the project, five shade sails along the main straight that have reached the end of their life are being replaced with new UV protective sails. Works on track are to be finished by the end of June.

My ward has a long and proud history of being an important part of the growth

of Melbourne. Industry has always been a big part of the identity of Hobsons Bay, and industrial land makes up a third of all land in our city. Council has updated its strategy on how this industrial land should be used and developed, and we’re looking for community feedback on it. You can review the updated strategy and have your say at participate. hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Finally,thisweekisNationalReconciliation

Week – a time for us all to reflect on the role wecanplayinworkingtowardsreconciliation, particularly in the lead up to the Voice to Parliament referendum. I have been a strong advocate for building the relationship with Indigenous Australians and encourage residents to support the Yes vote at the referendum. Please check hobsonsbay.vic.gov. au for details on our National Reconciliation Week events.

Footscray Laughs are back

After a sell out show in March, Footscray Laughs returns on Friday, June 16, with a new, all-star line-up at Footscray Community Arts. Programmer Urvi Majumdar said she has worked really hard to make the line-up as inclusive and diverse as possible. “I wanted to include as many artists of colour, LGBTQI+, and those with disabilities,” she said. Maddy Weeks, Lizzy Hoo, Aurelia St Clair, Rowan Thambar , Woah Alyssa! and more, will be there to provide the laughs.

Sniff and learn workshop

Erin Adams from Smell Art, is hosting a Sniff and Learn workshop on Sunday, June 18, for a fast and fun exploration into the world of smell. The two hour workshop will be held at the Handmakers Factory at 579 Barkly Street, West Footscray, for a cost of $45. Ms Adams said the workshop will consist of an afternoon tea party , mixed in scent games and a little bit of science. Details: https://www. smellart.com.au/sniff-learn

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Councillor Peter Hemphill.

From concept to reality, create a dream outdoor space

As the warm weather falls behind us, now is a great time to get started on your dream outdoor space and Outside Concepts are the perfect choice to make those dreams a reality.

Building their reputation on creating quality outdoor living and storage spaces, including their signature high standard carports, they also specialise in pergolas, decks, verandas and outdoor entertaining areas for the family to enjoy.

They’ll work with you from concept and completion, to clean up, so you can just sit back while the hard work gets under way and then enjoy your new space.

Established in 1991 by Brian Rohan and originally called Mr Carports, they have 30 plus years in the business and over 18,000 finished projects has created thousands of satisfied customers Australia-wide.

They’ve established themselves as highly reliable and abundantly experienced with a customer centric focus the whole way through, Outside Concepts take care of the entire process, taking the pressure off you.

The team will work on developing your ideas, starting with design, everything is done in house, from the engineering, to plans and building permits, you’ll only need to contact Outside Concepts for your outdoor upgrades.

Whether it be pergolas, carports, or a new deck, they work with both timber and steel materialsandonlyusequalityAustralianmade products.

They can employ a range of designs to suit your home, with both flat and gable roofing options available, their decks also include timber or composite options, it’s up to the customer’s preference.

For a stunning natural look, timber decking is the way to go, but if you want minimal upkeep and a more environmentally conscious solution, their supplied composite decking is

made with recycled plastic and the team can talk through what’s best suited to your needs. With great experience with pergolas, carports and verandas, Outside Concepts can work through different design ideas with you. Polycarbonate and laser light roofing options

will ensure the sun’s warmth can make it through, whereas insulated panel ceilings will give a cleaner modern touch and can be finished up with in-ceiling lights and fans to pull everything together. Welcomingprojectsbigandsmall,ascustom

Dynon Road closed in both directions

builders they ensure to always be upfront with designpossibilitiesandcosts,there’snoneedto go anywhere else.

For an obligation free quote contact 1800 601 647 or visit www.outsideconcepts. net.au

Dynon Road between Dryburgh St and the CityLink inbound exit ramp will be closed in both directions from 8pm Friday 16 June to 5am Thursday 31 August so we can continue strengthening the Dynon Road Bridge. Buses will also replace trains on the Werribee, Williamstown and Sunbury lines from 8pm Friday 23 June to last service Sunday 9 July. Delays are expected.

Thanks for your patience

We’re widening the bridge at Dynon Road over the rail lines to build new connections to the city as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project. Visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au for more information, including detour routes and closure times. Please note that dates and times are subject to change.

Get started on creating the perfect outdoor space for your family and contact Outside Concepts for an obligation free quote today. (Shutterstock)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? 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

Newport Folk and Fiddle

The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group invites people of all instruments and levels of expertise to join the group on Saturday,June 17, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts 6 Market Street, Newport.

■ https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong

Carers’ walk and talk

A collaboration between the state government, Interchange Outer East and Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL), the Pathways for Carers program is launching a monthly walk in Footscray on the third Thursday of each month. 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

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 the Friends’ Room – entrance from deck on Ferguson Street. Cash only sales.

■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Heritage walks

Enjoy a leisurely one-and-a-half hour walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20 am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. Each week is a different week and a printed sheet with the route and points of interest provided each week. Walks are leisurely and we usually end at a cafe for a tea/ coffee.

■ John,

0418 377 336

Walking group

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

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

Heart-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 11.00am 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

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

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, joepellone@gmail.com, or Jill Mackenzie, 0439 994 705, jill.mackenzie111@gmail.com

Friendship group

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

■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176

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

West Footscray Rotary

The Rotary Club of West Footscray meets at the Medway Golf Club in Maidstone for lunch, fellowship and guest speakers each Wednesday from 12.30 until 2pm.

■ David, 0416 497 398

Cherry Lake Market

Set between Millers Road and the stunning Cherry Lake in Altona, this market has something for everyone. The market hosts more than 60 stalls selling plants, bric-a-brac, handcrafts, hot jam donuts, tools, clothing and much more. There is live music every month from the Cherry Lake Cultural Series, showcasing local musicians from across Hobsons Bay. From 9am-1pm on the first Sunday of every month.

■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Altona Lions Club Cherry Lake Market or cherrylakemarket@gmail.com

Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble

If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon to 2.30pm.

Woodcarving workshop

Aimed at all levels of ability in the ancient and international craft of woodcarving. Women are welcome. Bring your own tools and projects if possible. Or do you have Grandpa’s old gouges to donate? On Tuesdays, 9.30am- noon, at 280 Queen Street, Altona.

■ jah2802rot@gmail.com

Alcoholics Anonymous

Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesday at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursday 6.30pm and Saturday 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems.

■ 1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.au

Wednesday walking group

The Williamstown Community Centre offers a regular Wednesday walking group that walks the local area, 10.15am-11am. New members are welcome. This activity is free and includes morning tea.

■ 9397 6168

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of the kids at Christ the Priest Primary School, Caroline Springs, who won a state-wide competition for designing their own mural (Damjan Janevski) 336159_01

PUZZLES

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.

ACROSS

7 Forced labour camp (5)

8 Outlay (11)

1 Constructs (6)

Outlay (11) Collections of songs

91011 1

4 Rant and rave (8)

4 Rant and rave (8) 9

9 Traditional English sponge cake (7)

11 Imbricate (7)

12 Knick-knacks and souvenirs (11)

13 Firearm (3)

14 Arduous (8)

16 Capital territory of India (5)

19 Regal (5)

20 Influenza strain (5,3)

22 Phone program (3)

24 Reciprocal (11)

26 Annoying (7)

27 Deviate (7)

29 Accurate shooters (7)

30 Stylish (6)

DOWN

1 Cadge (3)

2 Compensation (9)

3 Less wet (5)

5 Greek god of music, poetry, etc (6)

6 Girls’ name (9)

10 Collections of songs or photos (6)

12 Prioritising material possessions (11)

15 Rocks containing silica (9)

17 Exaggerated self importance (9)

18 Mount (6)

21 In ancient architecture, a horizontal design (6)

23 Metal rod for stirring a fire (5)

25 Celestial being (5)

28 Speak (3)

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

678312954

593684271

719468523 481275639

836521497 365849712

142957368

927136845

246851973

752618394

918543627

189327465 897135246

375964182 461279538

easy medium hard

634792851

523486719

P Today’s Aim:

Y 18 words: Good 27 words: Very good 37 words: Excellent

361297485

157926834

639814572

254793186 516389247

945638721 293745618

872451963 784162359

428573196

R S R B E 3 LETTERS ADO APE ATE BEE ERA FEW FOE GAL ICE IFS IRE IRK KEN MOP NEE NIT OLD ORE PRO ROW SUE TIP VIA 4 LETTERS ABLE ALSO ARTS CAST CENT DANK EVIL ICON JETS OFFS PERT SANG SOLE WEPT WOOD 5 LETTERS ACORN

repay, repays, spar, spare, sparer, spay, spear, spray, sprayer, spry, spryer, yaps

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

AHEAD ALLOT AORTA ARISE ASHEN BALDS BASIC BUFFS CLASS COSTS COVES CRANE CRASH EATEN ENSUE FAIRY FINAL FLEES GREAT HALES HARSH

HERDS IDEAL JAUNT NAVEL OPENS OUSTS OVENS ROAST ROTOR SCENT SELLS SLEET SLYER SMART SMELT STAKE STEER STRUT SWIRL TIGER TREAT

ULTRA USUAL VIRAL 6 LETTERS CASINO ERECTS IRONIC STRINE 7 LETTERS COASTER ENIGMAS FOCUSED POSTAGE

ROOSTER ROWBOAT 8 LETTERS FRESHEST NARRATOR ROMANTIC TIRESOME 11 LETTERS DIFFERENCES NECESSITATE

02-06-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1 Do peanuts grow on trees, on bushes or below ground?

2 The archer is the symbol of what zodiac sign?

3 Stenography is the process of what?

4 Wynton Marsalis is known for playing which instrument?

5 The three Margin brothers (Zaac, Sam and Elliott) are members of which Australian rock band?

6 Who was the only Ptolemaic ruler to learn the Egyptian language?

7 Jessica Walsh is a graphic designer and creative director based in which US city?

8 Which 2020 sci-fi thriller stars John David Washington and Robert Pattinson?

9 The rusty-spotted cat (pictured) is notable for being what?

10 Robin Nicholas and Patricia Saunders designed which typeface in 1982?

13 26 FL ANSWERS: 1. Below ground 2. Sagittarius 3. Writing shorthand 4. Trumpet 5. The Rubens 6. Cleopatra 7. New York 8. Tenet 9. The world’s smallest cat 10. Arial

No. 135

No. 135

Trades & Services

Placing

SPORTS QUIZ

1. How many teams will compete in the inaugural 2023 Major League Cricket season in America?

2. Where will next year’s Summer Olympics be held?

3. Collingwood captain Darcy Moore is the latest AFL player to finish on which statistic

4. The Netflix show Drive to Survive is about which sport?

5. In what year did Chelsea last win a men’s Premier League title?

6. Walyalup is the Indigenous name of which AFL team during the Sir Doug Nicholls Round?

7. In which country is the final of the ICC World Test Championship

And which two teams are competing for the title? The outer green ring of the bullseye on a dartboard is worth how

Which decorated Aussie snowboarder recently married F1 heiress Chloe Stroll in Venice? The NRLW Women’s Premiership competition began in what year?

12. What NBA team does basketball legend Michael Jordan own?

13. Woody Harrelson stars in the feel-good 2023 basketball film titled what?

14. What is the surface of the court at the Italian Open tournament?

15. What do the bows in karate signify?

16. What sport is former athlete Mary Kom best known for?

17. What is the official name for the AFL Indigenous Round?

18. And in which rounds does it take place annually?

19. Which sporting event in Italy was cancelled, after there were severe weather warnings?

20. Which former St Kilda coach has been moved to caretaker of North Melbourne after Alastair Clarkson took an indefinite break from the role?

21. Which AFL team changed their name to Narrm during the AFL’s annual Sir Doug Nicholls Round?

22. Which South American team will the Socceroos play against in Japan in June?

23. Which Australian allrounder recently scored his first century in the Indian Premier League?

24. Which English fast bowler has played 161 tests and taken 576 wickets for England in test matches?

25. Paolo Banchero plays for which NBA team?

26. The 2023 Netball World Cup will be played in which country?

27. How many French Open singles titles has Rafael Nadal won?

28. What Super Netball team recently announced it may not be part of the competition in 2024?

29. What is the fictional team featured in the TV series Ted Lasso?

30. How many players are there on the ice for a team in an ice hockey match?

Address: Monopole - Premier Fruits, 360-374 Whitehall St., Yarraville 3013 (CP108039)

Reference: 38346 Coode Island-O

1. The proposed works include the addition of new 4G & 5G equipment and associated works including the replacement of 3 panel antennas (less than 2.8m long); the installation of 3 new 5G active antenna units (AAU) (less than 1m long) with the provision of 3 future AAUs; the replacement of 6 existing remote radio units (RRUs) with 12 new RRUs with the provision of 3 future RRUs; and ancillary equipment including but not limited to GPS antenna, mast head amplifiers, deplixers, combiners, antenna mounts, cable trays, fibre and electrical cabling necessary for the operation or proper functioning of the low-impact facility.

2. Vodafone regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

3. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements. An EME Report and further information can be obtained at www.rfnsa.com.au/3013001.

4. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Reinier Hanekom (Plan Consult Town Planning), 07 5430 6632, Suit 6-10, 28 Eenie Crk Road, Noosaville, 4566 or info@planconsult.com.au by 5 pm on 16/06/23.

Commission.

Fremantle Dockers

England, at The Oval in London

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 Ute MU-X is big and bold

By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Isuzu MU-X LS-T is a large 4WD from a Japanese company that has a long history of producing hard working vehicles. Indeed, Isuzu has a history dating back for over 100 years in light commercial vehicles.

With research showing 50 per cent of Aussie owners tow something behind their Isuzu MU-X this latest model has a stronger body-on-frame chassis and re-engineered coil-sprung five-link independent rear suspension has delivered what the company says is best-in-class braked towing capacity of 3500 kg.

MU-X comes with three equipment levels: LS-M, LS-U and LS-T, each with the choice of two- or four-wheel drive. All are powered by Isuzu’s new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, putting out 140 kW and 450 Nm, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The MU-X has a six-year / 150,000 km warranty (some rivals have unlimited kays) with up to seven years roadside assistance and seven years capped-price servicing available.

Styling

This is a good-looking vehicle that’s aimed at those looking for an attractive vehicle that’s going to appeal to family buyers looking for something that’s more than an upmarket station wagon.

The front grille is large and stretches all the waytotheheadlights,indeeditslightlyoverlaps the headlights. There’s a huge “Isuzu” badge in the top centre of the grille.

The headlights have an interesting look in that they are in two sections, making them styling feature not merely a way of letting the driver see better in the dark.

The bonnet is tall and slopes down at the outer edges. The windscreen has a practical, relatively upright slope in that it doesn’t reach too far back and therefore keeps the sun off the driver and front passenger.

The roof stretches back so that it provides a tall load area, again adding to the practical nature of this vehicle.

Interior

Again, the MU-X has an upmarket look as it’s aimed at those who want a quality family vehicle not simply an off-road machine.

It has quilted leather-accented seven-seat

upholstery with white stitching and quilted leatherette across interior door trims and centre console.

The LS-T has heated front seats, with improved eight-way power adjustment on the driver’s side with under-thigh adjustment, power adjustable lumbar support and four-way power adjustment for the passenger.

This model has dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, which covers all three-rows.

The instrument cluster has analogue dials for tacho and speedo, with a 4.2-inch Multi-Information Display in between them. This includes a digital speedometer, turn-by-turn navigation instructions, drive modes, fuel usage and vehicle range information.

Infotainment

A new nine-inch centrally mounted screen displays high-definition infotainment with crisp images. Connectivity is by way of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Eight JVC Kenwood speakers give the occupants excellent quality sound.

Engines / transmissions

Power comes from a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder, common-rail turbo-diesel engine. It drives all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. High- and low-ranges give it good traction on-road or off-.

Safety

The Isuzu MU-X gained a five-star safety when tested in August 2021.

Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System

combines active and passive safety with driver assistance technology.

It has eight airbags which includes a front centre airbag between the driver and the front passenger.

Other safety features across the range include Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Roll-Over Mitigation, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Post-Collision Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Misacceleration Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop andGoFunctionality,TrafficSignRecognition, Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Inattention Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Thetop-specLS-Tgetsfrontandrearparking sensors, the other only have rear sensors.

The outer centre-row seats come with ISO FIX compatible anchor points.

Driving Engine response off the line is pretty good, thought as is often the way in turbo-diesels it’s a bit slow to respond off the mark. Once it up andrunningitdoeswhatyouaskofitpromptly and is enjoyable to sit behind.

It’s not quite car like in the way it drives, but the Isuzu MU-X is pleasant to drive in the way that it provides good feel from the steering wheel as what vehicle is doing.

It turns in nicely and holds the path chosen bythedriverwithouttheneedforsmallchanges to keep it on the chosen path.

Keep in mind that you’re driving a 4WD not apassengercarandit’sexcellentinthewaythat it responds to road conditions.

Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x2 $48,900

Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x2 $55,400

Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x2 $61,400

Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x4 $54,900

Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x4 $61,400

Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x4 $65,990

SPECIFICATIONS

Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0-litre turbo-diesel AWD five-door wagon SUV

Note: The price of the LS-T 4x4 is driveaway. All other prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Isuzu Ute dealer for drive-away prices.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have the opportunity to drive the MU-X in off-road conditions, but we are confident the it will handle them well. Perhaps in the future we will find time to borrow one for a further week and be able to spend time in the tough stuff.

Fuel consumption is listed at 8.3 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged 9.3 L/100 km during our test.

Summing up

Isuzu MU-X LS-T is a well-built Japanese vehicle that looks good, handle well for its type and is offered in a number of variants. Would I buy one if this is the type of vehicle I’m shopping around for? Certainly, as it’s one that would sit very high on the list of vehicles I would shop around for.

Big and bold, Isuzu Ute MU-X is a versatile family SUV. (Pictures: Supplied)

Braybrook sets sights on building for the future

Braybrook is hoping to lay the foundations for the future this year in the Western Region Football League division 2.

The Brookers, who won the division 3 premiership last season, have struggled so far in the higher grade, after a number of off season departures.

After six rounds, the Brookers sit in seventh spot without a win.

Coach Geoff Maddern said it had been tough so far.

“The goal for us is to improve and set ourselves up to go forward next year and do better,” he said.

“We’ve been in games for patches and for lengths of time we have been competitive, which hasn’t necessarily reflected on the score line.

“Injuries have hurt us a little bit too.

For Maddern, who only took on the role weeks out from the season, he has been learning as he goes. He replaced premiership winning coach John Mangos.

He said there’s a good base to build from.

“It’s a long process and it will take some

time to fully understand everyone,” he said.

“They’re a fantastic group as well as administration. They’ve been great from the start and we’ve got a good foundation.”

The Brookers had the bye on the weekend. Maddern said while unsure if it had come at a good time, it would hopefully allow them to get a few players back from injury this Saturday.

Having played everyone else, the Brookers now have a measuring stick of their improvement. He said consistency was a big key for them.

“We can see where we need to improve,” he said.

“We need to play better for longer. We’ve fiddled with a few things and played some players out of position to see what other things people can do.

“It’s a great foundation. We go through again, with different conditions, different grounds.

“We can now measure things.”

The Brookers this Saturday face Parkside.

Meanwhile in other WRFL games on

Saturday, Parkside beat Albion, Newport was too good for Wyndhamvale and Sunshine beat North Footscray.

Indivision1,YarravilleSeddonEaglesmade it two in a row with a strong performance against Hoppers Crossing, Spotswood fell just short against Point Cook in a low scoring affair, while Altona returned to the winners list against Point Cook Centrals.

In division 3, Albanvale was way too good for Laverton, West Footscray accounted for North Sunshine and Sunshine Heights upset the Suns.

Tara Murray

Magpies show strength

By Tara Murray

Parkside set the tone in the pre-season and it’s reflected in its early Western Region Football League division 2 season form.

The Magpies are undefeated after six rounds and having played every team once, showing some good form along the way.

Coach Chris Muratore said it was nice to have a perfect record at this time of the season,

“It’s been good so far and I definitely can’t fault anything that they’ve done so far,” he said.

“It’s been a good two to three months from the beginning of the pre-season through to now.

“We keep throwing things at them and they keep taking the challenges.”

Muratore said one of the keys early for the group was having kept the majority of last season’s list together.

He said they wanted to take what they had done the last couple of years and raise that level.

“We didn’t want to go too far away from what we’ve been working on the last 18 months,” he said.

“We have to take the game to the next level and keep growing together. Having 90 per cent of the group together means more games together and more structure and you’re seeing that now.

“You know what the next person will do and sometimes it feels like a two to three goal advantage to us.”

On Saturday the Magpies faced Albion in a top of the table clash.

Albion started the better of the two teams, before the Magpies hit the lead in the second quarter.

The Magpies were able to extend the margin in the second half, winning 13.10 (88)-8.7 (55).

Muratore said the game played out the way they expected it too.

“With their ground being really small, they like that really strong one-on-one game,” he said.

“We had to be patient and keep running and do what we do on the big grounds.

“We were patient knowing that their physical pressure wouldn’t last for the whole 120 minutes. We wanted to go in at quarter time a goal or two down and get to work after that knowing our fitness levels were better.”

Muratore said they got better and better as the game went on.

Shaun Campbell and Lachlan Langwell kicked three goals each for the Magpies.

Maxwell Naughton, Jackson Barrett

Jennings appointed WRFL CEO

TheWesternRegionFootballLeaguehas finally locked in a new chief executive. The league announced on Wednesday night it had appointed David Jennings to fill the role which has been vacant since the start of March, when Ritchie Hinton and the league mutually agreed he should depart the league after four months in the job.

Jennings comes to the WRFL with a wealth of experience in community sports management.

For the past six years, he has served as the Southern Football Netball League operations general manager, having previously worked as NRL Touch Football in Victoria general manager, AFL Northern Territory club development manager, St Mary’s Football, Sporting and Social Club chief executive and sport and recreation managementroleswithYMCAVictoria.

Jennings said he was excited for the opportunity.

The league announcement said that Jennings has a wide understanding of the Melbourne metro community football and netball landscape and the challenges that go with the development and management of those sports.

“I am honoured to be appointed to the role of CEO at the Western Region Football League,” he said.

“The WRFL has a strong brand and proud history with great clubs. The competition is very strong with 34 member clubs and the growth of women’s football and netball is exciting.

“Ithanktheboardfortheopportunity and look forward to working with staff, member clubs and all the stakeholders in the western region.

“I am excited by the challenge of continuing to grow, develop and evolve the league”.

and John Atar were named the best for the Magpies.

The most pleasing thing for Muratore was the performances of the guys that came into the side, with several key names out.

Jackson Lesko, Jy Lambley and Edward all missed the game.

“We played a couple of kids,” he said. “It’s a big situation against Albion and Albion and the most pleasing thing was how they played.

“Isaac Dukic played his second game at centre half back, we gave him a role. He’s played two games and both have been past player days, so he has seen how senior footy is.”

The Magpies this week face a win less Braybrook side this Saturday. Muratore said they would assess a few sore players during the weekandnottakeanyrisks,beforecontinuing to focus on what they’ve been doing.

WRFL president Meredith Angwin said that Jennings stood out in the interview process.

“I am pleased to announce that David Jennings has accepted our offer of the WRFL CEO position,” he said.

“Heisexcitedaboutjoiningourleague and will start officially on Monday, June 26th after he finishes his tenure with the Southern Football Netball League.”

Tara Murray

Geoff Maddern (Supplied)

Parkside’s Shaun Campbell kicked three goals on Saturday. (Joe Mastroianni). 297229_12

Seagulls stay focused notching up another win

Williamstown isn’t focusing too far ahead despite a fifth win in seven weeks really putting it in the Victorian Football League Women’s finals conversation.

The Seagulls have got better as the season has progressed and now with four rounds remaining, sit just a game outside the top six.

The closeness of the competition means that the Seagulls, who are in eighth, are just two games behind top side Geelong.

Seagulls coach Liam Cavanagh said while it’s natural to start thinking about finals that isn’t their focus.

“We’ve got four games left, we would like to get a few more wins on the board,” he said.

“We need to be focused on what needs to be done. If we crack into the top six that’s a good thing, but the focus needs to be on this week.

“If we put our heads down and focus on winning every week, the percentage and points will add up to us being a top six side.”

On Saturday, the Seagulls got their second win against Carlton this season.

After winning the last encounter with their highest score of the season, the Seagulls bettered it on Sunday in the 7.8 (50)-2.0 (12) win.

Cavanagh said it was a really good performance from the group.

“We are two really different styles and it was going to be whichever team on the day could open the other team up,” he said.

“Fortunately for us, we were able to make it a contested game. In women’s footy with it being a little bit lower scoring, you can have dominance and they kick two or three and it’s a tight game again.”

Cavanagh said the weather helped with their game style and made it a really contested game.

He said they were able to control the contest early in each quarter, which helped the

coaches box relax a bit more.

“We had 60 per cent of the possession for the day and we had just under 90 tackles,” he said.

“That was really good. The most impressive thing for us was to score 50 points against a quality opposition in the wet.”

Sarah Cameron kicked four goals for the Seagulls, while Emily Eaves led the way with 17 possessions.

Cavanagh highlighted both as being amongst the side’s best players, along with Ellie Cleland, Megan Williamson and Eliza Straford.

The Seagulls this week face the Box Hill, Hawks which sit third on the ladder.

Cavanagh said they were looking forward to the challenge against a side they rate highly.

The Seagulls men’s side had a bye.

Tara Murray

Gators secure two wins

By Tara Murray

The Altona Gators got two much needed wins in the Big V women’s division 1 competition at the weekend to keep the side’s finals hopes alive.

It had been tough going for the Gators in recent weeks facing some of the top teams in the competition.

Coach Randy Shanklin said the group was still trying to find their feet in the division 1 competition.

“It has been a rough last few weeks trying to find our feet in the new league,” he said.

“We played some of the top teams in a row and it made it a little more difficult the last couple of weeks without some of our top players.

“Most of the girls played in division 2 and youthleaguelastseason,thisisamorephysical division and the players have a different IQ.

“It’s been a different challenge navigating the new division.”

Shanklin said not for the first time in recent years, had the girls responded when their backs were to the wall.

On Saturday night they beat Melbourne University, 63-59. It was a game of ups and downs, with the Gators leading by 10 points at half time, before trailing by 10 points at the final break.

A 22-8 final quarter sealed the win for the Gators.

Kayla Salmons top scored with 16 points for the Gators.

Shanklin said they just had to get the job done.

“It was necessary to win if we wanted to continue to push for finals,” he said. “We got some performances out of some players that we thought they could do.

“They beat us last time in a tough match up.

“We had to win the game twice in a way. We played with heart which we wouldn’t have done a couple of weeks ago.

The Gators backed it up on Sunday against the Warrandyte Venom, winning 76-53. The Gators won every quarter in the big win. Monique Marcetic-Vaotangi top scored with 14 points.

Shanklin was thrilled that they were able to back it up against a side that likes to use the inside of the key.

“They were a physical side,” he said. “They have two great inside players, we looked to hurt them in different ways.

“Their import had a good game and Emmie O’Nial had 22 rebounds. The heart the girls played with all weekend was incredible.”

The Gators now have five wins for the season, sitting in eighth spot. They’ve got the next two rounds off due to a bye and the King’s Birthday weekend. Shanklin said they had to stay motivated during that time.

The Gators men were also on the winners list on Sunday, beating the Maccabi Warriors

The Gators led at every break on the way to a 93-83 win.

Sports shorts

VTCA

Altona North has announced Murray Ring as its new coach in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1. Ring brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the club, having coached and played at the club in 2017-18 and then at Ormond for half a decade. Ian Denny, who coached the side last season, has been named chairman of selectors.

NPL

Altona Magic’s tough run in the National Premier League competition continued on Saturday night. Facing ladder leaders Avondale, the Magic’s chances were ended early in the second half. Avondale controlled the game and ended up winning 5-2. The loss was the Magic’s third in a row, with the side sitting in ninth spot with five wins. The Magic this week face the North Geelong Warriors.

VAFA

Williamstown CYMS just fell short against De La Salle in the Victorian Amatuer Football League premier C competition on Saturday. Having shown some good signs in recent weeks, the CYs were slow out of the blocks against De La Salle, trailing 43-7 at the first break. The CYs continued to work into the game and despite kicking five goals in the final, fell short, 14.13 (97)-13.8 (86). Archie Manton was the CYs best, having kicked six goals.

WRFL

Yarraville Seddon Eagles pulled off one of their biggest ever wins, beating the Parkside Spurs in the Western Region Football League women’s competition on Saturday. The Eagles had to to it the hard way, trailing by 14 points at the last break. Three goals to none in the final quarter was enough to get a 5.11 (41)-5.4 (34) win. Ann-Marie Geary was the Eagles best, while Taquila Angel was the Spurs best. Caroline Springs and Werribee Centrals were the other winners.

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Williamstown’s women’s side had a good win against Carlton. (Williamstown FC)

Cassie Dodemaide (Basketball Victoria)

Falcons avenge early season loss to Cougars

City West Falcons were able to avenge an early Victorian Netball League championship loss to the Geelong Cougars on Wednesday.

The Falcons only loss this season came back in round one to the Cougars, in the first of the grand final rematches.

On Wednesday night in the second of those rematches, the Falcons were able to turn the tables and come away with a 67-58 win.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said it wasn’t either team’s best performance, but it was good to still come away with the win.

“We chipped away at it,” she said. “We had a game plan and stuck to the strategy against them and it played out nicely.

“It wasn’t our best game, they are different to a lot of other teams.”

Lind and the coaches made a number of changes throughout the game to get the right connections.

With the Cougars having a small shooting circle, the Falcons looked to match them.

“We started Sienna [Allen] at goalkeeper, but we were too tall and their smalls were too quick.

“We then had Zoe [Davies] back and Sophie [Hanrahan] out the front, we ended up reversing that and were more settled.

“When Daisy O’Kane came on in the last quarter we brought Sienna back on and she took and intercept straight away.”

Jane Cook shot 57 goals from 58 attempts in another strong game under the ring.

Lind said Cook, who was a question mark going into the game due to illness, started slowly before building into the game

She said it was a big step forward for her against Brooke Allan, who has had some good performances on her in the past.

Lind said overall it was a really good team

performance for a second straight week.

One of the most pleasing things for Lind was the way that the players who were on the bench stayed ready for when they got their chance.

“Lucia Fauonuku did a really good job in delaying the midcourt,” she said.

“She took a crucial intercept after coming from nowhere in the third quarter and it really lifted the spirit of the team, it was the turning point for us.

“Uneeq [Palavi] was heaps better when she came back on in the last quarter. She was sick as well.”

The win means the Falcons have beaten every team this season. Lind said they needed to keep pressing and wouldn’t die wondering as they push for three premierships, in the last year of the current VNL format.

This week the Falcons face second-placed

BoroondaraExpress,inatopofthetableclash. Meanwhile, Collingwood’s Suncorp Super Netball team has made the decision to withdraw its licence at the end of this year.

Before the announcement, the Geelong Cougars denied speculation that they would replace the Magpies if they made that call.

Lind said the Falcons, who have been one of the most successful teams in the VNL and have a strong junior set up with the Altona Netball Association, said they would love to have a team.

“If we had the backers supporting us, we would love to do it,” she said.

“We would love to have the red, white and blue in SSN.”

Tara Murray

Mixed return for the Jets

It was a mixed return to the field for the Western Jets in the Coates Talent League competition.

After several weeks off with players back at their local clubs, the Jets were back in action on Sunday on the road.

The Jets boys headed up to Bendigo to face the Bendigo Pioneers and came home with the points.

After an even first quarter on the scoreboard, the Jets hit the front in the second quarter with three goals to none.

They were able to maintain that lead in the third quarter.

The Pioneers came hard in the final quarter but weren’t able to make the most of their opportunities.

The Jets were able to hold on, winning 9.11 (65)-7.15 (57).

Michael Cilmi kicked three goals for the Jets.

Jake Smith had 24 possessions and kickedtwogoalsfortheJetstobenamed their best.

Lucca Grego, Cilmi and Lucas Impey were the other standouts.

Yarraville Glory’s Joshua Low. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 335900_11

Glory wins on shoot out

By Tara Murray

Yarraville Glory has nothing to lose after winning through into the last round of the Victorian stage of the Australia Cup on Tuesday night.

The state league 1 north-west team is the second lowest ranked team left of the 10 teams in the competition, after upsetting the North Sunshine Eagles.

Scores were locked at 1-1 at the end of regular time and the score remained the same after extra time.

The match went down to penalties, with the Glory winning 5-4.

Glory coach Paul Agathouli was ecstatic.

“It’s not good for the heart, but it was good,” he said.

“Getting to the last 10 in Victoria is a big thing for us. We put together a squad for the cup and the regular season.

“We recruited a few boys who have stood up and playing a great season.”

The Glory scored in the 15th minute to take an early lead before the Eagles hit back in

the 67th minute.

With neither team able to find a winner, the match went to extra time.

Agathouli said they just wanted to make the most of the opportunity. He said with the work their strength and conditioning team had done, they were confident they could run out the match.

“I think we took it to them at stages in the game,” he said. “Especially in extra time.

“We pulled in everyone and spoke about getting to where we have in the cup and to just go for it.

“We’re proud to win the game, but we should have won in extra time.”

Agathouli was still confident in his side when the match went to penalties.

“I didn’t move and showed no emotions,” he said of the shoot out.

“We had belief that once it went to penalties we would win the game.

“With our goalkeeper Joshua Low, who signed in round four or five, he is a quality goalkeeper, who has played NPL [National Premier League] in Newcastle

“We knew we were going to win it.”

Agathouli said it was the biggest win for the club in recent years and its biggest ever in such a big tournament.

A win in the next round will result in the club getting through to the national stage for the first time.

The Glory will face NPL side Melbourne Knights in the next round.

Agathouli knows they will be underdogs in the next round.

“With the belief and the magic of the cup, anything can happen,” he said.

“We want a favourable draw, but with the last 10, whoever we draw we’ve got nothing to lose.

“We’re a small club from the west.”

On Saturday, the Glory fell short against Westgate in the FV state league 1 north-west competition losing 4-0.

Top side Altona City had a 2-0 win against the Brimbank Stallions.

In state league 2 north-west, Altona North lost 2-0 to Mill Park and Altona East Phoenix had a 2-2 draw with Hume United

The win was the Jets second for the season. They sit in 14th spot.

The Jets this week host the Eastern Ranges on Saturday at Williamstown.

It was a much tougher day for the Jets’ girls who headed up to Queensland to face the Gold Coast Suns Academy.

The Suns led by 19 points at quarter time, before kicking eight to none in the second quarter to break the game open.

That continued in the third quarter, with the Suns leading by 90 points at the last break.

The Jets hit the scoreboard in the last quarter, but weren’t able to close the gap as the Suns won, 21.3 (129)-3.2 (20).

It was all single goal kickers for the Jets. Sierra Grieves had 19 possessions, while Ella Tyson and Kiera Whiley had 15 possessions apiece.

The Jets sit 17th on the ladder without a win after four games.

The Jets this week host the Eastern Ranges on Saturday at Williamstown Football Ground.