Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 21st June 2023

War horse

One month on from the unveiling of a statue of Sandy the warhorse, Elaine Brogan from Sunbury has released a book commemorating the only horse to come home from World War I. Donated to the war effort by the O’Donnell family, Sandy caught the eye of major general William Bridges who chose Sandy as his favourite horse. It was the major general’s dying wish to be reunited with his horse.

Sandy returned to Melbourne and became ill in 1923. A pair of taxidermists decided that only his head would be saved. In May that year, Sandy was euthanized and the taxidermists got to work. Sandy’s skeleton was buried at the Maribyrnong Army Depot.

On Saturday, May 20, 100 years on from his death, a life-sized bronze statue of Sandy was unveiled in Tallangatta where he was born. Ms Brogan has written a book to honour Sanday called ‘Minus His Head and Hooves’.

“I have a deep love for animals and horses and I want to be their voice and tell their stories,” she said.

“The men and women in the war did it hard but so did the horses, Sandy came back and represents all of those horses.”

Moon Dog permit denied

By Jennifer Pittorino

Franco Cozzo’s iconic Footscray store will remain vacant following Maribyrnong council’sdecisiontodenyMoonDogBrewery a planning permit.

On Thursday, June 15, Maribyrnong council chief executive Celia Haddock said safety concerns were the primary reason for the application being refused.

“As the existing building is built to the boundary/footpath line, with approximately 2.5 metres between the building and the edge of Hopkins Street – an arterial road that carries significant volumes of traffic … the narrow width of the footpath coupled with the high volume of traffic, presented an

unacceptable safety risk for future patrons,” she said.

“This was highlighted in an independent road safety audit, commissioned by Moon Dog,withtheauditfindinganumberofrisks which could not be mitigated.”

Moon Dog Brewery proposed to transform the Hopkins Street building into a brewery with a DJ booth and rooftop bar, while paying tribute to the furniture king.

As reported by StarWeekly , after half a century selling furniture in Footscray, Mr Cozzo sold the 1088-square-metre Hopkins Road premises for well over $6 million in 2018.

Moon Dog Brewing lodged a planning permitapplicationwithcouncilinNovember

2022, and the application was advertised in December 2022. The proposal outlined that the brewery and bar would trade from 11am to 1am for seven days a week, with no more than 900 patrons permitted on site and no more than 850 patrons after midnight.

“While council took into account the concerns of nearby residents regarding the impact the venue may have in terms of noise and amenity impacts, this was not a factor in the issuing of the refusal,” Ms Haddock said.

Maribyrnong council documents seen by StarWeekly , the grounds of refusal included the sale and consumption of liquor would result in unacceptable amenity impacts in the area; the proposed hours of operation would have adverse amenity impacts

on the surrounding area; the proposed number of patrons would have detrimental impacts on the amenity of the immediate and surrounding area; the proposed sale and consumption of liquor would cause unreasonable amenity impacts by way of cumulative impacts resulting from existing and permitted licensed premises/uses in the immediate and surrounding area; and the proposal fails to provide the number of car parking spaces as required by the Maribyrnong Planning Scheme.

Moon Dog has 60 days to lodge an appeal against this decision at the Victorian Civil andAdministrativeTribunaloritcansubmit another application to council with a revised proposal for consideration.

Elaine Brogan with her book, at the place where warhorse Sandy is partly buried (Damjan Janevski) 341622_02

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’ve removed 15 level crossings in Melbourne’s west and finished tunnelling for the West Gate Tunnel. As works continue to build better connections across our city there will be road and rail disruptions.

West Gate Tunnel Project

Nearly nine hectares of new parks and wetlands and 17,000 new trees

Works progress in the west

Major works are progressing on the West Gate Tunnel Project. The vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge will give drivers a choice – the tunnel or the bridge – and provide direct port access for the freight industry, taking thousands of trucks off local roads.

Footscray Road has reopened on 16 June after more than 400 massive concrete segments, each weighing 100 tonnes, were lifted into place to build the new elevated road.

To make it easier to get to and from the west, the bridge over the rail lines at Dynon Road will be widened and strengthened to join a new exit ramp from the West Gate Tunnel. To get this done safely, Dynon Road will be closed over the rail lines near CityLink from 16 June for 11 weeks. The bridge is above major train lines meaning some trains will be disrupted during these works.

Dynon Road closed

CityLink

Dynon Road

Major train lines run underneath the Dynon Road Bridge, so to complete works safely trains will be disrupted.

Train disruptions: Buses/coaches replace trains in both directions Sunbury

to last train, 20 to 22 JuneFlagstaff to Newport 8.30pm 23 June to last train 9 July

Williamstown Line 8.30pm to last train, 20 to 22 JuneFlagstaff to Williamstown

Road disruptions: Closed road and ramp

Dynon Road, West Melbourne 8pm 16 June to 5am 31

While we work, road and rail disruptions could affect your travel

Large spike in family violence

Familyviolenceincidenceshaveincreasedby22

per cent in Maribyrnong in the year ending in March 2023, according to new Crime Statistics Agency [CSA] data released on Thursday.

Thedatareflected1211totalfamilyincidences reported in the 12 months to March, compared to the 993 reported in the previous 12 months.

Of the offences, 906 of those affected were women family members, while 304 were men family members, the most common age group affected being 25-34 years old.

Maribyrnong Inspector Paul Morgan said the issue of family violence will continue to be a major priority for Maribyrnong police.

“No one should ever have to feel unsafe in their own home,” he said.

“This is why our local police, including detectivesfromthefamilyviolenceinvestigation unit are out every day and knocking on doors of offenders to ensure they know they are being monitored and reassuring victims that they are supported across the Maribyrnong area.

“Victoria Police has come a long way in developing our response to family violence and theincreaseinthenumberofincidentscanalso be linked to the fact the community has more confidence in reporting these crimes to us.”

The Crime Statistics Agency said family

incidentsincreasedby2.5percentinthelast12 months, with 93,091 incidents recorded across the state.

In Maribyrnong there was a 0.2 per cent decrease in the overall number of offences in the municipality in the 12 months to March.

In Footscray, there were 2860 offences in the period, which increased from 2790 on the previous 12 months.

In Braybrook, the data reflected a decrease in offences, 1323 were recorded in the 12 months toMarchincomparisonto1509intheprevious year.

Recorded criminal offences have decreased

by 0.8 per cent across Hobsons Bay in the year ending March.

The data showed there were 5838 recorded offences during the March 2022 to March 2023 period in Hobsons Bay, which was a slight decrease compared to the 5883 recorded offences recorded in the previous year.

CriminaloffencesrecordedinWilliamstown, Altona North, Laverton, and Newport all increased in the recording period.

Crime in Altona Meadows decreased with 827 offences recorded in the period, in comparison to 991 the previous 12 months.

Play with a message close to playwright’s heart

WIT Incorporated Theatre has announced its next show, called Bleached, written by Laura Collins, debuting on Thursday, June 22, at the Bluestone.

Bleached speculates on a future where the climate crisis has become so catastrophic that nations are closing their borders one by one, which Collins said is absurd and comedic.

“It is speculated on a future crisis that has becomesocatastrophicandfeaturesAustralian tourists trying to travel the world before the entire world closes,” Collins said.

“It is comedic and uplifting at the same time, it is a human story featuring the human relationship with the earth.”

Collins said she drew her inspiration for the script during 2020 and the COVID lockdowns.

“I was fascinated and horrified by the hugely positive impacts the lock downs were having on the planet,” she said.

“Horrible things were happening while good

things were happening simultaneously.

“Animals were returning to their habitats, Co2 emissions were reducing, the planet was

healing.”

Collins has been familiar with the climate change topic for some time now, often working

with her climate scientist friends and partner as sources to better understand the topic.

“Climate change has always been something close to my heart,” she said.

“I would like to have children one day, but the climate crisis is impeding that decision in a major way,I often think about what future generations will have to death with.”

Ruby Rees will direct the play and six actors Lansy Feng, Madeleine Magee-Carr, Megan Mitchell, Sass Pinci, Anthony Pontonio and Eva Rees.

The set will be created using recycled materials with lighting and set headed up by Oliver Ross and Moya Lucy.

The show will run from Thursday, June 22 to Saturday, July 1.

Details: https://www.witinc.com.au/shows/ bleached

Jennifer Pittorino

Cast members of Bleached, Megan Mitchell, Lansy Feng, Madeleine Magee-Carr, Sass Pinci, Anthony Pontinio and Eva Rees rehearsing before the debut. (Jacob Pattison) 341046_01

Never Stop Learning

Degrees, Diplomas, Certificates

Active citizens

By Cr Bernadette Thomas

As a councillor, I’m often invited to events that celebrate the great work volunteers from our community put in day after day.

This week I attended two community-led events,whichgotmethinkingaboutcitizenship and the act of taking up active citizenship.

One of the events celebrated participants of a community leadership program, showcasing community programs initiated by those seeking to be more active in their community.

The other launched a new community-focused environment group, celebrating the Maribyrnong River and the manygroupsthathaveworkedhardovermany decades to restore biodiversity along the river and through its catchment.

Not everyone wants or is able to be a community leader, but that doesn’t mean we can’t all be active citizens.

There are many wonderful opportunities to becomeinvolved-butwithsomuchhappening in our community, where to start?

Joining an established community group or campaign is a great way to start your journey to active citizenry and Maribyrnong has an abundanceofopportunitiestojoinwithothers.

Nomatterwhatyourinterests–environment, music, sport, social justice, active transport, open space, food, art and culture, First Nations issues, waste and recycling – our community will have something you can get involved in (and if not, there’s an opportunity for you to fill the gap!).

Online platforms are awash with neighbourhood groups, where you can connect with your friends and neighbours, plan neighbourhood events, coordinate a community garage sale, and keep up to date on changes to how our neighbourhoods look.

This week I’ll be joining others to talk about climatechange,bikeriding,andhousingissues, and heading outdoors to plant some trees.

Being an active citizen is a lot of fun – you’ll make new friends, help bring about positive change, and make Maribyrnong an even better place to live!

Briefs

Operation Regal

Victoria police detected 20 traffic offences in Maribyrnong and Hobsons over the King’s Birthday long weekend as part of Operation Regal. The four-day road policing operation involved an increased police presence across the state from 12.01am on Friday, June 9 to 11.59pm on Monday, June 10, in an effort to drive down road trauma. In Maribyrnong, police detected one drink driving offence, one disqualified driver and one seatbelt offence. In Hobsons Bay, there were three speeding offences, four drink driving offences, one drug driving offence, three disqualified drivers, one seatbelt offence, two offences of disobeying signs/signals, and three impoundments. Across the state more than 6500 traffic offences were detected, increasing 15 per cent since the last year.

Election officials needed

Would-be election managers keen to work at the 2024 local government elections can apply now to join the Victorian Electoral Commission’s (VEC’s) pool of senior election officials. Senior election officials are responsible for coordinating elections for entire council areas and will work for almost four months during the council election period leading into and following October 2024. Applications are open until July 14. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Cr Bernadette Thomas with fellow volunteers.

Warm up at winter fest

By Jennifer Pittorino

Seaworks Williamstown will be hosting the highly anticipated Winter Solstice Festival: Celebrating Maritime Heritage on Friday, June 23.

Thefestivalisdescribedasanextraordinary celebration of maritime heritage, captivating art installations,giant puppets, mesmerising circus performances, and a delightful array of food and mulled wine.

The Winter Solstice Festival offers a platform to immerse oneself in the enchanting history and traditions of the maritime roots deeply embedded in the local community.

From the mesmerising craftsmanship of traditional wooden boat building to the awe-inspiring presence of giant puppets, circus performers, and magnificent inflatable sculptures, the festival highlights the vibrant and diverse talents of Seaworks’ esteemed tenants.

This unique event provides an opportunity for attendees to embrace the spirit of the season in the dynamic atmosphere of our maritime venue.

By blending creativity, culture, and community, the Winter Solstice Festival promises to create a memorable and engaging experience for all who join.

Seaworks chief executive Glenn Jones said the team at Seaworks are delighted to bring the Winter Solstice Festival to the venue.

“It serves as a fantastic platform to showcase the incredible talents of our tenants and to celebrate the rich maritime heritage that defines our community,” he said.

Seaworks welcomes individuals of all ages to partake in the festivities, made possible by the Make It Happen Program through Hobsons Bay council.

Seaworks is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting the maritime heritage of Williamstown and the wider Melbourne community. Through a range of engaging events and

Copper theft in Altona North

Hobsons Bay Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance after copper worth about $300,000 was stolen from Altona North on Thursday, June 8.

It is understood four people forced entry into a business just off Kororoit Creek Road about 1.30am.

They stole four pallets of copper coil, worth approximately $300,000, then fled the scene in a white and green Hino Curtainsider truck and a silver BMW coupe.

Police were told the truck was stolen from outside a property on Botero Place in Truganina between 6.30pm on Tuesday, June 6, and 6.30am on Wednesday, June 7.

Investigators have released an image of the stolen copper, which they believe the offenders will be trying to sell, as well as CCTV footage of two vehicles. Information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

initiatives, Seaworks brings together artists, performers, and maritime enthusiasts to celebrate and honour the region’s unique heritage.

Details: www.seaworks.com.au

Seaworks Chief Executive Glen Jones with one of the new art installations.

Offering a positive impact for those needing support

First Support Australia’s mission is to inspire positive change and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those needing support.

The registered NDIS provider operates in Victoria and certain rural areas with a team ofover100dedicatedprofessionals,including registered nurses, case managers, support coordinators and other specialists. Together, the team provides over 3,000

hours of service each week to valued participants.

First Support Australia’s wide range of services include accommodation support services, and specialist care including high intensity 24 hour care.

Theteamiscommittedtomakingapositive impact on the lives of those they support, and staff pride themselves on their ability to

discharge and commence services within 72 hours, ensuring participants receive the care and support they need, regardless of their location.

First Support Australia specialises in providing a comfortable and safe living environmentforparticipantswhorequire24/7 care, including those who require complex support, such as those with behavioural,

mental, and high-intensity needs.

First Support Australia also offers NDIS accommodationservicesconvenientlylocated close to local amenities such as hospitals, local shops, schools public transport, and other useful facilities to meet clients’ needs.

Call 1800 008 989 or email info@firstsupport.com.au

Support from Carer Gateway helps Jess find ‘me time’

Jess and Blake are proud parents to two young daughters. Their oldest, Sadie, has GNB1 syndrome, epilepsy and autism. Jess is Sadie’s main carer and has been inspired to launch a range of planners and stationery for carers.

GNB1 Syndrome is a rare genetic mutation that was discovered in 2016. In four-year-old Sadie’s case, having GNB1 syndrome means global developmental delay, and hundreds of epilepsy seizures a day.

As a full-time mum to Sadie and almost two-year-oldPacie(whoisneurotypical)anda full-time disability carer to Sadie, Jess doesn’t get much time out. Life is full of the busyness of primary parenting two preschoolers and Sadie’s additional care needs and medical appointments.

Finding ways to get a bit of “me time” is one of the outcomes Jess values from her experience of Carer Gateway (carergateway. gov.au) after learning about the free support service especially for carers.

“I’ve really grown into my role of mum and carer. I’ve learned to let go of the pressure of the high standards I set myself as a mum and relaxed into utilising things like television, snacks and easy meals so that I can get a little break – things that previously would’ve had me feeling guilty,” Jess explained.

Jess has also found purpose in creating her own small business, At Sadie’s Pace

(atsadiespace.com.au), that she hopes will help other carers and people with disability to stay on top of the admin of caring.

“I had so much paperwork and so many different planners, and I just wanted it all in one place. It’s come from my experience but

hopefully it helps others. I’ll definitely use it myself!” said Jess.

Jess had the idea for the planners in March 2022 and works on them whenever she can. Having the time to be a mum, carer and entrepreneur has been supported by Jess

reaching out to Carer Gateway for help.

If you would like support and you care for a family member or friend with disability, mental illness, age or health issues, contact Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737.

Jess and her daughter Sadie. (Supplied)

‘‘ I’ve really grown into my role of mum and carer. I’ve learned to let go of the pressure of the high standards ’’ - Jess

A food crisis for working families

By Jennifer Pittorino

The Yarraville-based Foodbank Victoria is receiving 57,000 requests for food assistance every single day.

Foodbank’s Matthew Tilley said the extreme numbers are purely due to the increasing cost of living crisis.

“They are working families, a lot of them have donated to us before and now they are the ones needing help,” he said.

“We see the number of people bounce and jump directly with interest rate heights.

“At the start of the year we were feeding 50,000 a day; the most recent counts are showing significant jumps.”

Foodbank Victoria has been in operation for nine years, but Mr Tilley has seen a 50 per cent growth in the last two years.

“Usually we spent $50,000 a year on supplementary foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables,thisyearwehavespent$5.2million” he said.

“Fresh fruit and vegetable inflation has increased immensely.”

An Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

A touching goodbye

One month after losing long time friend Chris Miles on May 5, Miles Blair speaks about the lasting impact his friend had on the lacrosse community and the touching way he chose to honour his legacy.

“Chris joined Footscray Lacrosse Club in 2000 and made an immediate impact to the State League defence, amassing a total of 297 senior games,” Miles said.

“Chris was a great teammate, the ultimate club man, workhorse around the club, always first to arrive and last to leave, caring, charismatic and generous.

“He always had your back.”

Chris was known to financially support players of the league, particularly those coming to play from international countries.

Since 2017, Chris had been the club’s driving force behind primary school programs, junior recruitment and social lax programs, as well as coaching the junior boys teams.

He also served on the FLC Committee

and was acknowledged a Best Club Person multiple times for his dedication, passion and commitment to FLC and the growth of lacrosse.

Miles started a GoFundMe to give back to Chris’ wife Ange and their two children, to comfort the family during this time.

To continue to honour their friendship and Chris’ memory, Miles ran a 65 kilometre long trail race marathon called the Galicica Ultra.

The marathon set through the North Macedonian mountains, saying this is his way of saying goodbye.

“Chris and I had the same mentality, hard headed and a will to win at all costs,” he said.

“It was my way of saying goodbye, 12 hours with my own thoughts, reminding myself that no matter how hard life gets be grateful for what you have in the present.”

Details: https://shorturl.at/ahsA8

Jennifer Pittorino

report released in April showed prices rose for all food categories in the past quarter, with the strongest rises for non-alcoholic beverages, food products and fruit and vegetables. The report also found the annual rise in gas prices of 26.2 per cent is the largest on record, reflecting this past quarter’s rise.

“We think it will get worse for people with the winter period, we know power bills and heatingbillsincreaseandbecomearealtipping point for people,” Mr Tilley said. “Peopleallofasuddencan’tpayonebill,they tip over once and they can’t catch up.”

Mr Tilley said Foodbank Victoria is seeing such huge numbers because food is the one and only bill you can compromise on.

“You can come to us for food but you can’t go to a petrol bank, every other bill you have to pay,” he said.

“There is also a rental crisis, people are having to move further away from their jobs meaning they have to spend more on petrol, something needs to change.”

Details: https://www.foodbank.org. au/support-us/make-a-donation/donatefunds/?state=vic

Chris Miles with his wife Ange Miles.

Seek help to fix foot, leg pain

Foot pain is extremely common, affecting more than 80 per cent of people at some point in their lives, with heel pain being the most common of all human foot complaints.

Despite their frequency, these conditions are often mismanaged and incorrectly treated. This leaves many sufferers spending time and money on treatments without long-term solutions or relief.

But why are such common problems seemingly so hard to treat effectively?

One of Australia’s leading foot, knee and leg pain experts and practitioner to some of the world’s best athletes, Dr Paul Dowie, from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics explains.

“Besides the fact that the feet are one of the body’s most complex structures and we are on them all the time, there are two major reasons foot pain and particularly heel pain treatment is often ineffective, especially long-term. Either only the symptoms are being addressed and not the underlying cause or the exact nature of the condition is not being identified or understood,” Dr Downie said.

“For example, most heel pain is incorrectly assumed to be an inflammatory condition when it is nearly always a result of nerve impingement or tissue degeneration. Tissue thickening is often mistaken for inflammation, contributing to incorrect diagnoses and treatment. This is a big problem becausetreatingadegenerativeconditionwith anti-inflammatory treatments can actually cause further tissue damage, making your condition worse.

“This is why it is so important to get

New stroke campaign

They are usually bringing you Melbourne’s news updates, representing Victorians in parliament, directing orchestras, being good sports in the AFL, entertaining audiences with cabaret, or provoking dynamic talkback conversations, but this month famous Melbourne faces are asking Victorians to share a different message.

And it’s all in support of Stroke Foundation’s public health education campaign Bloke Beside You - a grassroots social media campaign encouraging Australians to share the F.A.S.T. message and to educate blokes about stroke.

Men’s recognition of stroke currently lags 15 per cent behind women, putting their lives and the lives of others at huge risk. F.A.S.T. highlights three common stroke indicators: facial droop, arms not working, and slurred speech. The T is a reminder that treatment for stroke is time critical, and an ambulance must be called immediately.

Dr Lisa Murphy hopes fans of the campaign participants will see and share the message widely, and she is grateful for the authentic way the stars have conveyed the messaging.

“These are people we see on our TVs and hear on the radio, but they are also just good people who want to help educate fellow Aussies, and that shines through. We are so grateful for their willingness to help us spread this message to all the Aussie blokes out there.”

Sharing the message that can help reduce those terrible statistics are AFL star Jack Lever, ABC television presenter Michael Rowland, the Lord Mayor of Melbourne Sally Capp, Supercars superstar Jack Perkins, country music singers Andrew Swift and Amber Lawrence and racing royalty, Gai Waterhouse.

advice from an experienced lower limb, musculoskeletal expert for your foot and leg pain, injury and degenerative concerns.” If you have any foot, heel, knee or leg pain you can see Dr Dowie at Foot and Leg Pain Clinics in Williamstown, call 1300 328 300.

Every year 2,200 Victorians die from stroke, and thousands of others are left with permanent disabilities, and Stroke Foundation wants to see those numbers come down.

Stroke Foundation chief executive officer

MON-THURS:

Videos of all participants will be posted on Stroke Foundation social media channels, and Dr Murphy invites people to share widely and tag more blokes into their own posts to help spread the word.

“The more blokes we can educate, the more likely it is that stroke will be recognised quickly, an ambulance will be called, and fewer critical minutes are lost.”

Feet are one of the body’s most complex structures. (supplied)

Helping survivors pack a punch

By Jennifer Pittorino

Donna Lyon is the founder of charity ‘Left Write Hook’, a research informed program designed to empower adult survivors of child sexual abuse to take back their power through expressive writing and non-contact trauma informed boxing.

Ms Lyon began her journey in 2019 based on her lived experience and background as an arts educator.

“I wanted to connect with other survivors, I did some research at The University of

Melbourne and things kicked off from there,” she explained.

“I worked with a group of people who produced a book and a documentary, currently in post production. From there in order to prepare for the widespread interest that will emerge from the documentary, I set up a charity to run workshops and train with people to begin to build the community.”

The workshops will run at Mischa’s Boxing Central in Footscray over eight weeks, and started on Sunday, July 16, combining expressive writing with non-contact trauma

Afilm designed to heal

Aspecialfilmscreeningof‘TheLastDaughter’, will be showing on Thursday, June 22, at the Sun Theatre in Yarraville.

SNAICC, the National Voice for Aboriginal Children and Justice for Action Maribyrnong (JAM) are coming together to hold the screening, which will also feature a book signing from Brenda Matthews.

Matthews wrote ‘The Last Daughter’, which has since been turned into a documentary, about her real life journey to unearth the truth about her past, and to reconcile the two sides of her family.

Matthews said it has been a hard journey but all the positive responses had made it worth it.

“All of the responses have been wonderful, a lot of people have thanked me for sharing the story , and sharing their story back,” she said, “It’s a powerful story, we were all children once and we all have a mother and a father and some of us know what it’s like to be

disconnected from that loss, it brings healing to the individual who hears the story.”

The documentary details Brenda’s first memories of growing up in a loving white foster family before she was suddenly taken away and returned to her aboriginal family.

John Chadderton of JAM said they have decided to run this fundraiser with SNAICC because the nature of the film is very related to their work.

“It was an idea put forth to support first nations children through SNAICC who do this amazing work, all ticket sales act as the fundraiser and go directly to support them,” he said.

Matthews said is it important to keep telling these stories despite how hard it might be.

“It was hard going back through the story, the pain kept coming back up but I had a great support system to help me.”

informed boxing.

The workshops are specifically targeted at adults who suffered childhood sexual abuse and trauma, particularly those who are women and gender diverse.

The first hour will be focused on writing and sharing, and the second hour will be boxing.

Ms Lyon has found writing and boxing to be beneficial when practised together.

“It addresses the mind-body connection rather than separating these two things,” she said.

“Research shows dealing with trauma is best done through creative and body based practices which helps when survivors want to go to professional counseling.”

The workshops are designed by Ms Lyon to help survivors realise they are not alone.

“I want people to get a sense of connection through writing, boxing and follow my active commitment to my healing.

“I have definitely transformed in the process and have found a new strength and confidence.”

Details: https://www.leftwritehook.com/

Jennifer Pittorino Sarah Tartakover, Bernadette Thomas, John Chadderton, Cr Jorge Jorquera, David Jones, Clare Green ,Terri .S and Havana at the Sun Theatre. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 338510_04

Kids welcome colourful cubbies

Altona College has acquired new cubby houses for the prep to year 6 play space. Teacher Michael Sperling said the project was supported through Sweeney Real Estate in Altona and Crosier Scott Architects, as well as Bunnings Altona North and the structures wereprocuredfromtheWhittleseaSecondary College Trade Training Centre.

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Altona College welcomed new cubby houses for the prep to grade 6 area with the help of the school community, local businesses, and generous donors. (Pictures: Supplied)

Bunnings Altona North supplied all the materials to paint the cubby houses as well as sent over some helping hands.

The cubby houses are powerful tools for children’s development, fostering imaginative play.

The vibrant colours chosen for the cubby’s represent the businesses that contributed to the project.

Some of the Altona College kids helped out with the painting on Friday, June 16.

Let’s talk about incontinence

One in four Australians aged over 15 suffer from incontinence. This statistic may come as a surprise to many as incontinence is one of Australia’s great taboos. But as Hannah Hammoud discovered, the team at the National Continence Foundation is on a mission to change that.

Affecting over five million Australians, incontinence can range in severity from asmallleaktocompletelossofbladderor bowel control.

Celebrations for World Continence Week have kicked off, running from June 19 to June 25, with an aim to raise awareness of incontinence related issues.

Programs and projects manager at the Continence Foundation of Australia Daniyela Rob said one of the biggest challenges surrounding incontinence is simply having the conversation.

“It’s something that people don’t want to talk about,butthemorepeoplethatdotalkaboutit, themoretheywillrealisejusthowmanypeople it affects,” she said.

“Because people don’t talk about it, often someone who is experiencing incontinence is thinking, ‘oh it’s only happening to me, and I don’t want to share that’.”

Data from the Continence Foundation reveals that 46 per cent of people who experience incontinence are under the age of 50. Ms Rob said a common misconception surrounding incontinence is that it is a natural part of ageing.

“People might think that their incontinence is an inevitable part of ageing, or after giving birth assume that it is bound to happen,” she said. “It becomes normal for them and so they don’t seek help, but there is help available. The Continence Foundation champions people finding the right assistance, and speaking to a health professional about what the right way to manage their continence might be.”

Ms Rob said that for many Aussies suffering from incontinence their quality of life is significantly impacted. For those living with incontinence, leaving their home for everyday activities can be a difficult task due to the fear

of not having access to appropriate facilities.

This year, the Continence Foundation ran the Great Dunny Hunt campaign encouraging Australians to take pictures of their favourite public toilet and upload them to the National Public Toilet Map (NPTM) website or app. Submissions to the hunt closed on the first day of World Continence Week on Monday, June 19 with more than 600 photos uploaded across the nation.

Ms Rob said the Continence Foundation continues to garner huge support and gratitude from people with lived experience of incontinence.

“It helps raise awareness and opens up the conversation about bladder and bowel incontinence” she said.

“It also means more people know where to seek support and that’s always a good thing.

“It is really important that people seek help and talk to their GP or ring our National Continence Helpline because there is help available for people.”

The continence services offered at Western Health include help to treat, better manage and even cure incontinence related issues.

Sunshine Hospital continence clinic manager Susan Cronin said it is important that people living with incontinence understand that there are many treatments and strategies available to them.

“Partofourserviceoncepeopledoreachout, is to say that it’s okay to talk about it and it’s okat that you’ve sought assistance,” she said.

“We’re here to help you and you’re not alone in this.”

The Western Continence Service offers assessment and management of urinary and faecal continence issues, with a goal of promoting self-management whenever possible.

Forthosewishingtoseekhelp,itisimportant to have a referral from a medical doctor, which includes GPs, specialists and hospital departments.

Ms Cronin said Western Health offers a multidisciplinary service to assess and treat adults experiencing both bowel and bladder continence issues.

“Often we will contact people by phone to ascertain what their challenges or issues are and also plan how we can help them achieve their goals. We then make a clinical decision withthemastowhatpathwaythey’lltake,such asseeinganurseorphysioorhavingdiagnostic testing,“ she said. v“Once we gather everything we need, we put a plan in place to help them, and we then work with patients on how we can achieve their continence aims.”

MsCroninsaiditisimportanttoopenupthe continence conversation and remove the taboo that has long accompanied it.

“Where I think the shift needs to occur is people not feeling embarrassed to say that they have continence issues,” she said.

As part of World Continence Week, the Continence Foundation will be hosting a lived

experience panel webinar on Wednesday, June 21. The webinar will feature a group of panellists discussing their lived experience of incontinence, barriers to seeking help, common misconceptions about incontinence and how to change the narratives around this common condition.

Australians can reach the National Continence Helpline for free, confidential advice from Nurse Continence Specialists on 1800 33 00 66, from Monday to Friday from 8am-8pm.

Sunshine Hospital continence clinic manager Susan Cronin. (Damjan Janevski) 341459_01

Continence Foundation of Australia programs and projects manager Daniyela Rob. (Supplied)

‘‘ Where I think the shift needs to occur is people not feeling embarrassed to say that they have continence issues ’’

- Susan Cronin

1 in 4 Australians are incontinent

Fine for Altona steel frame firm

By Jennifer Pittorino

An Altona North steel frame manufacturer has been fined $40,000 after a worker was struck by a 200 kilogram load of steel beams.

Spartan Steel Industries Pty Ltd was sentenced in the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday, June 7, after earlier pleading guilty to a single charge of failing to provide and maintain a safe workplace.

The company was fined without conviction and ordered to pay $12,213 in costs.

In July 2020, a worker was operating a remotely controlled overhead travelling crane to lift and load steel beams onto a truck when the load shifted, hitting the worker and trapping her underneath.

The injured worker was taken to hospital and required surgery.

A WorkSafe investigation found the worker didnotholdthehigh-riskworklicencerequired for work and was therefore not trained in the slinging techniques she was applying during the lift.

A special debut play

‘When you wore braces’ is Rachel Edmonds’ taut, thrilling debut play coming to the Bluestone Church Arts Space at the end of July. Writer and performer, Edmonds, will be joined on stage by long-time friend, Indie performeranddisabilityactivistSoniaMarcon, who Edmonds wrote the play for.

“Sonia was there from the start, I said to her I want this character to have MS, I’m writing her for you.”

Marcon was diagnosed with MS in 2002 but is currently doing very well allowing her to do the work she loves.

“The way the play has been put together is very inclusive, Rachel wants me to make it my own,” she said.

Given both Edmonds and Marcon have a disability, this play resonates on a deeply personal level with them both.

“My character happens to have a disability but it’s not centred around the fact she is disabled which is important for normalising it, Marcon said.

The play follows sisters exploring the raw intimacy of sibling relationships and the ways they expose a person’s capacity for intense love and cruelty.

Edmonds has been working on the script since 2017 , only now after a few COVID push backs and script redevelopments , is it finally ready to be seen.

“I’m relieved and excited to be finally preparing to perform, it feels surreal and scary,” she said.

While the piece is not autobiographical, Edmonds said there are elements in the character monologues and experiences that do refer to her and to Marcon.

“I had a friendship breakup with a friend which led to me to thinking about sibling vs friendship dynamics,” she said.

The play will preview on Tuesday, July 25, with shows also running from July 27-29.

Details: https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1049454

Jennifer Pittorino

The company had also failed to keep records of workers who held high risk work licences.

ItwasreasonablypracticableforSpartanSteel Industries to have provided and maintained a safe system of work that ensured lifts were only conducted by trained and qualified workers.

Requiring employees to create a plan for lifting and moving loads, including identifying the appropriate technique, prior to each lift being undertaken, and have an up-to-date list of licenced workers available at the workplace.

The court found it was also reasonably practicableforthecompanytoprovidetraining for its workers to obtain a high-risk work licence.

WorkSafe health and safety executive director Narelle Beer said neglecting to adequately train workers for the job they were expected to do was setting them up to fail.

“It shouldn’t take a life-changing injury like theonesufferedbythisworkerforemployersto sit up and take notice of their responsibilities,” she said.

Rachel Edmonds at the Bluestone Church Arts space ahead of her debut play premiering late July. (Damjan Janevski) 337275_04

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Book sale

Friends of Altona Library hold a monthly book sale on the first Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each month at the rear of Altona Library 123 Queen Street Altona, access via Coles carpark, from 10am to 1pm.

■ https://libraries.hobsonsbay.

Yarraville Mouth Organ Band.

Practice is held on Fridays at 8.10pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. The band plays a wide range of songs from waltzes to lively tangos or polkas. Beginners or experienced players are welcome.

■ Heather, 9399 2190, or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au

Altona Girl Guides

Altona Girl Guides currently have vacancies for girls aged 5-plus who would like to learn new skills, gain confidence,and expand their friendship circle while having fun.

■ hobsonsbay@guidesvic.org.au

Computers, crafts, conversation

Whatever your learning interests and needs, Outlets Newport Community Education Centre has hands-on, face-to-face classes for you or a friend. Contact the centre today to find something for you!

■ 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Carers’ walk and talk

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. 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 usually end at a café 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. 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.

■ 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

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

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

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

Altona book sale

Friends of Altona Library hold a monthly book sale on the first Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each month at the rear of Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona, access via Coles car park, 10am-1pm.

■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ community/friends-of-the-libraries

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Dean Formosa celebrating his 500th WRFL match. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

PUZZLES QUICK CROSSWORD

No. 138

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

1 Swallows liquid (6)

4 Extreme anger (8)

10 Row of columns and arches (9)

11 Female name (5)

12 Falsehoods (4)

DECODER WORDFIT

3

Today’s Aim:

16 words: Good

24 words: Very good

32 words: Excellent

A U A

S O E

A E

B

G E E K R

brake, break, breaker, broke, broker, BROKERAGE, garb, grab, grebe, kerb, robe

beaker, bear, bearer, beer, berg, boar, borage, bore, borer, brae, brag,

aerobe, bake, baker, bare, barer, barge, bargee, bark, barker, beak,

No. 138

D E S C L A P S A U R A L S N O R E E A S E D D R E S S

QUICK QUIZ

1 What is the capital of Tahiti?

2 Is a mansard a type of roof, bug or soil?

3 Whose first novel was AnOpen Swimmer, published in 1981?

4 The vibraphone belongs to which family of musical instruments?

5 Suryavarman II was a 12thcentury king of what empire?

6 And in what country is the empire now located?

7 In what year did the Sydney Harbour Bridge open?

8 Independent senator Lidia Thorpe (pictured) won which electoral district in the 2017 by-election?

9 In a game of marbles, what is it to phernudge?

10 Molochhorridus is the Latin name for which Australian lizard?

ALE AMP ATE BOA CAP DUD EGO EKE EVE EWE FEE GOO IRE KEG KEN MEN NEE NOD NOR PAT PEA PEG SAC TIE 4 LETTERS ANEW ARTS DABS DADS ERAS GAPS INTO NEST PEAR SCAB SEWN SUBS TREK WEAR 5 LETTERS ACUTE AFTOS AGAIN ALIEN ALIVE ALTAR APING APRIL AROMA AWAIT BAGEL BELLY CARGO CHINA CIRCA CREPT DEEDS DIRGE DOING DUNGS EAGER EATEN HOVER IMAGE INEPT MANIA METRO NANAS NEARS NOSES OCCUR PACES PASSE PEACE PENCE PERCH POUCH RODEO SAGER SANER SCENT SEDAN SHEDS SNIDE SONGS STONY STOOL STREW TRADE TRUED 6 LETTERS APPEAR DAMNED KENNEL MAKERS 7 LETTERS ATONING CONTAIN DUSTMEN EVASION IMITATE TORPEDO 8 LETTERS CHAIRING CREDENCE ECONOMIC ROMANTIC 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 W V S A L K Z T J Y R P B I M G X E U F D N O H C Q 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 23-06-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 895432617 469173528 582347196 326719854 253864971 971286345 147658239 718925463 634591782 easy medium hard 842791356 316875924 634958271 593246817 478329165 187632549 761583492 259164783 925417638 198426573 419652837 987263145 632875419 853197624 364519782 745931268 276348951 521784396 1 14 7 20 2 15 8 21 3 16 9 22 4 17 10 23 5 18 11 24 6 19 12 25 13 26 HQ ANSWERS: 1. Papeete 2. Roof 3. Tim Winton 4. Percussion 5. The Khmer Empire 6. Cambodia 7. 1932 8. Northcote 9. To play one's shot improperly by edging one's shooter over the line 10. Thorny dragon

No. 138

No. 138

No. 138

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which Hollywood star jokingly volunteered on social media to be Nick Kyrgios’ new coach?

2. Phil Waugh was recently appointed the chief executive of which sports association?

3. Marc-André Leclerc stars in which documentary about his life as a solo climber?

4. To date, how many AFL games has Adelaide Crows won this season?

5. Will Smith won the Academy Award for Best Actor for which tennis film?

6. Which team did former netball star Caitlin Bassett play for?

7. Which two AFL teams have defeated Collingwood this season? Which NBA star recently became the first NBA player to record at least 10 triple doubles in a single playoff run?

And which team do they play for?

At which event did Ariarne Titmus win gold in the the 200m, 400m and 800m Women’s freestyle?

In which sport do teams compete to win the Bledisloe Cup?

Arnis is the national martial art of which country?

13. Who served as captain of the Melbourne Demons AFLW team from 2017 to 2022?

14. Which of the following countries has never won an Olympic medal: Belgium, Bolivia or Brazil?

15. Bukayo Saka plays for which Premier League football team?

16. How many points is a drop goal worth in rugby league when kicked outside 40m?

17. James Brian Hellwig was the birth name of which US professional wrestler?

18. Who did Iga Swiatek beat to win the 2023 French Open women’s singles title?

19. Games of which sport are divided into four ‘chukkas’?

20. NBA player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar filmed a fight scene against which famous martial artist and actor

21. Which country won the first World Test Championship in 2021?

22.And who did they beat?

23. How many nonMelbourne based teams compete in the VFL?

24. The Australian men’s national under-23 soccer team is nicknamed what?

25. True or false: netball goalkeepers are allowed in the centre third of the court?

26. In what year was the first season of the Women’s Super League?

27. Leati Anoa’i is the birth name of which US wrestler?

28. 3x3 basketball debuted at the Olympics in which year?

29. How many shots are made by one team when a soccer match must be decided by a penalty shootout?

30.Which AFL club did Neale Daniher play for?

assistancewithentryof orders,including organisingdispatchof completedorders.

fulltimeifcandidateis interested&shows positiveworkethic. Musthavegood computerskills(Excel, Word&Outlook).

0411693429 www.bodyline.com.au

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

Genesis GV60 ‘goes like crazy’

By Ewan Kennedy and Julie Saville

TheGenesisGV60isthesmallestofthreeSUVs from Hyundai’s luxury sub-brand behind the mid-sized GV70 and large GV80.

Each of the three models get different powertrain choices, the GV80 comes with turbo-petrol or diesel, as does the GV70 but with an EV option added. Our test vehicle, the GV60, is electric only.

Genesis GV60 sits on the same platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 with potential buyers sure to line up the three siblings alongside each other.

Firstly, while the Ioniq 5 and EV6 comes with the option of front-wheel drive, that is with single motor on the front axle, the GV60 is AWD only with a second motor on the rear axle.

Power and torque when comparing the GV60 with the AWD Ioniq 5 and EV6, is almost identical at around 234 kW and 605 Nm with the GV60’s range of 454 km slightly less than the Hyundai (470 km) and Kia (484 km). The GV60 EV Performance variant lifts power to 320 kW but with no change in torque.

The most noticeable difference is price, with the GV60 EV selling for $107,700 compared with the Ioniq 5 AWD Techniq ($77,500) and the EV6 GT-Line ($87,590). All are before on-road costs.

Styling

Though it’s called an SUV by Genesis, the GV60 is very coupe-like in its appearance. It’s streamlined from the bonnet to the rear spoiler, has a short front overhang and sits on a long wheelbase at 2900 mm.

The Genesis signature Crest Grille is in a lower position than in other GV models that have internal combustion engines. This is to make for the different cooling requirements specific to the dedicated high-performance EV platform.

Julie says, “This is a beautiful car. It has this gorgeous feminine rounded shape with a beautiful bottom. It is sort of half way between SUV and sedan.

“By far the most beautiful thing about the GV60 EV we road tested is the colour aqua green sea glass. It is beautiful and light and jewel-like. Almost like an opal.”

Interior

The interior design of the GV60 has what Genesis says “the ethos of the Beauty of White Space’ while seeking to create a spacious and comfortable interior.”

Julie says, “Combine this gorgeous exterior withacreamandseagreenleatherinteriorand this vehicle is just a delight to be in. It brings a smile to your face. With the super sleek remote you are set to drive off into the wild blue yonder.”

Passengers in the rear seat have plenty of legroom although the floor is slightly higher because the battery pack is under the floor. Also, the sloping rear window may make it a little tight for those travelling there. We suggest you take anyone who will be travelling in the back seats to come along when you’re considering a GV60 and see how they find the seats.

To make the GV60 more sustainable, various parts are created with eco-friendly and recycled materials. The seats, door armrests, console armrests, and crash pads are made with plant-based leather.

The seat covers and door centre trims have fabrics made with yarns extracted from recycled PET bottles and fishing nets.

Infotainment

TheGV60isthefirstGenesismodeltocombine the instrument clusters and navigation into a panoramic display where the content is connected throughout in clusters, navigation and head up display.

Sound is through a premium 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen with a sound control interface to provide a choice different sound mixes including Relax, Energetic, Bright and Warm.

Powertrain

GV60 has combined power of 234 kW, 74 kW from the front motor and 160 kW from the rear. The GV60 Performance steps that up to 360 kW, 180W at both front and rear.

Both variants feature a 77.4kWh battery which provide a driving range of 470km (WLTP) per charge for the base model and 466km (WLTP) per charge for the Performance variant.

Transmission in our test car is to all four wheels through what you could call a single-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

Standard safety features start with 10 airbags including a rollover-resistant curtain ‘bags and advanced ABS brakes.

Other features include Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Advance Rear Occupant Alert, and Multi-Collision Braking System.

Driving

Julie says, “The GV60 has space. It feels very comfortable getting into the driver’s seat. There is plenty of leg space and the seat is not too low. I have sat in all the seats in the car and

theyareallverycomfortablewithsufficientleg room. In the driver’s seat the feeling of space is increased by the sweep of the dashboard and the uncluttered instrument panel. Wait until you see the gear control at night!”

The door mirrors aren’t mirrors! Rather the view to the side-rear of the GV60 is provided by cameras that take a picture of the what is happening and transmits it to small TV screens inside the doors.

While this works well, we found it distracting at times because the screen on the driver’s door is too close. On motorways things are flashing past very quickly, particularly when in the fast lane.

Perhaps if I owned and drove a GV60 driving the car all the time I would learn to tune out from this. Maybe we should borrow a test car for at least a month and find out…

Anyhowlet’sgetawayfromthedoormirrors and talk about driving this fascinating car. This is a fascinating car in many ways, the door handles pop up when the driver approaches the car with their smart key.

The GV60 can recognise two faces, then adjust the settings for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and door mirrors.

There are three drive modes to choose from, Eco, Normal and Sport. The Eco setting makes the GV60 accelerate relatively gently. The Normal mode is the one we used for most our driving as we feel that’s what most

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

owners would do.

The Sport mode makes it go like a rocket and provide instant grunt to help you overtake in a short space when you see a chance to get past a slower car during country driving. Or you can simply use it just for the fun it provides!

The i-PEDAL regenerative braking mode enables a single-pedal driving strategy that allowsacceleration,decelerationandstopping of the vehicle using only the accelerator

Step into the back seats and the car’s nearly 2950 mm wheelbase affords rear passengers a huge amount of legroom, but as I noted above, the higher floor (due to the battery pack) and sloping rear window line may make the back seat a little less pleasant for taller occupant. Try before you buy…

Summing up

The Genesis GV60 EV is a most impressive piece of automotive engineering. It goes like crazy when you give it a boot full yet is happy to run quietly and gently around town. Would I buy one? Not at this time, it’s very expensive and while the range is pretty good it still takes time to charge it up and that can be a pain at times.

It has a five-year unlimited distance warranty on everything with the exception of the high-voltage battery which is warranted for eight years and 160,000 kilometres.

The Genesis GV60 is a stylish and efficient electric vehicle. (Pictures: Supplied)

Glory’s run over but the underdogs put up a fight

Yarraville Glory’s Australia Cup run came to an end on Tuesday night but it wasn’t without a fight.

Facing the Melbourne Knights, which plays three divisions higher, the Glory were the underdogs going into the match.

Despite this, it was the Glory which opened the scoring in the 26th minute through Dominic Yuel.

The Glory maintained that lead at the main break.

The Knights finally found the back of the net in the 60th minute through Luka Kolic, who headed one into the back of the net.

The Knights took the lead in the 75th minute through Mitch Hore, before sealing the win when Ciaran Branwell scored in the 81st to give his side a 3-1 lead.

Whiledisappointedwiththeloss,theseventh round is the furthest the club has progressed in the competition.

On social media, the club said the whole community was proud of the side that never gave up.

The Knights head into the final 32 of the

competition, which includes A-League clubs and clubs from interstate.

They are joined by the Goulburn Valley Suns, Heidelberg United, Northcote City and the Oakleigh Cannons.

The Glory were back in action on Friday night in the FV state league 1 north-west competition against Upfield at Gibb Reserve.

The Glory had to settle for a draw after going a man down in the second half.

Spurs enjoying success

Tara Murray

Things are tracking along nicely for the ParksideSpursintheWesternRegionFootball League women’s division 1 competition.

Having joined the competition from the Northern Football League in the off season, this season was always going to be an unknown.

Spurs president Ash Block said the things had been going well for the side.

“It’s going really well and we’re back in the top four after the weekend,” she said.

“It has been really good and really positive. The merger [with Parkside] is working out really nicely.

“We’re really happy in the WRFL.”

On Saturday, the Spurs faced bottom side Point Cook Centrals.

TheSpursstartedthebetterofthetwoteams and led by 13 points at quarter time before it was reduced to nine points at the main break.

The margin remained steady in the third

quarter, before the Spurs kicked the only goal of the final quarter to seal a 5.5 (35)-3.1 (19) win.

Block said coach Tara Morgan was really happy with the performance.

“It was really windy down one end,” she said. “It was hard to start and then we were able to run away with it.

“We were in control for most of it.”

Rita Ceravolo and Kayla Peake kicked two goals each for the Spurs. Chloe Harman and Ceravolo were named the Spurs best.

Now sitting in fourth spot, the Spurs are keen to retain their spot in the top four in the back half of the season.

It starts on Friday night against Werribee Centrals.

“We’re in a strong position to make finals,” Block said. “We want to make finals and win a final as a minimum.

“It will be nice to play on a Friday night for once.”

Meanwhile, Spotswood came out on top

against Caroline Springs.

It was a topsy turvy game throughout between last season’s two grand finalists, trading the lead at the breaks.

In the end, it was the Wolves that came out on top, winning 3.12 (30)-3.4 (22).

Yarraville Seddon Eagles had a tough run against Werribee Centrals on Friday night.

Centrals controlled the game throughout on the way to a 12.10 (82)-1.2 (8).

Centrals sit second on the ladder.

In division 2, West Footscray had a big win against North Sunshine on Friday night, winning 20.16 (136)-0.1 (1).

Emily Gillespie kicked six goals in the win, while Eliza Terry was named their best.

Laverton made it four on the trot with victory against Braybrook, winning 10.18 (78)-0.0 (0). Spotswood beat Caroline Springs in the battle of the second sides, while Wyndhamvale was too strong for Point Cook.

Upfield led 1-0 at half time, before Glory scored two goals in five minutes to take the lead.

A second red card for Abdoul Aziz Gueye saw him send from the field. Upfield scored from a late penalty to level the scores.

The Glory sit eighth on the table with three wins and six draws from its 13 matches.

Meanwhile, Altona City maintained its lead at the top of the table.

Facing Sydenham Park in a top of the table clash, Altona had a 1-1 draw.

Altona sits five points clear on top with 10 wins from its 12 games and still with a game in hand.

In state league 2 north-west, Altona North had a 4-3 win against Westvale, while Altona EastPhoenixhada3-1lossagainsttheWestern Suburbs.

Altona North sits in 10th spot, while the Phoenixslipsfromsecondtothirdwithitsloss.

In state league 3 north-west, Williamstown had a 0-0 draw with the Sebastopol Vikings.

New coach for Dragons

Barkly Street Uniting has locked in a new coach as it aims to progress up the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5 ladder.

The Dragons had a tough 2022-23 with not many wins on the board and were impacted by the flooding on both their groundandrooms.TheclubonThursday announced that Lou Raffaele had been appointed coach for next season.

“Lou has coached in the VTCA for over 20 years with successful stints at East Coburg, Moonee Valley and Willy Congs, winning premierships or achieving promotion at each club,” the club said.

“Lou is super excited to join the club and is already planning for pre-season.

“A huge Dragon welcome to the club to Lou and his family. We look forward to the coming season.”

The Dragons have also been busy locking in some new signings Isira Silva is an opening batsmen who has crossed from Victoria n Sub-District Cricket Association club Melton.

He is described as a patient batsman and excellent fielder and will add a lot to the top order Julian Powell has been appointed captain for next season.

He is a hard-hitting top order batsman who joins the club from Aberfeldie St Johns Cricket Club in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association.

“The club has been impressed by Julian’s leadership and we look forward to what he brings to the club both on and off the field,” the club said on social media.

Puneesh Sharma, who had been captaining the side in recent seasons will continue to play for the club.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Shehan HirudikaalsojoinstheclubfromMelton.

Tara Murray

Chloe Harman was named the Spurs best on Saturday. (Jacob Pattison)331337_07

Wyndhmvale sits on top of the ladder ahead of Spotswood and West Footscray.

Yarraville Glory’s team that face Melbourne Knights. (Supplied)

Lou Raffaele (Supplied)

United locks in keepers for next men’s season

Western United has locked in its goalkeepers for the next A-League Men’s season.

United has gone with youth, with Tom Heward-Belle and Matt Sutton joining the green and black.

Both keepers have signed for the club after theirteamshadparticipatedinthefinalsseries this year, with Heward-Belle arriving from Sydney FC and Sutton departing defeated grand finalists Melbourne City.

Ahead of their arrival in the west, Heward-Belle and Sutton each expressed their excitement ahead of a new challenge in the A-League.

Heward-Belle said, “I’m super excited to join Western United and I am honoured to be given an opportunity at the club.

“I’m keen to start pre-season, hit the ground running, apply myself and get to know my new teammates.

“I’mlookingforwardtothechallengeahead

and I’m proud to be adding to an already successful team culture.”

Sutton added,” “I’m absolutely stoked to be joining Western United, it’s a fantastic club with so much potential – I can’t wait to be part of it.

“I’m as keen to be involved on the pitch as I am off it, helping to grow the club in the west – I want to contribute in every way possible to help the club achieve greatness.”

United coach John Aloisi spoke of his delight at securing the signatures of two top goalkeepers for the upcoming campaign.

“We are extremely pleased to have Tom and Matt joining our club,” he said. “Both are top quality goalkeepers and people who will fit perfectly into our group.

“Both players have experience in top environments, being part of championshipwinning teams and knowing what it takes to be successful even at such an early stage in

their careers.

“Tom and Matt have a mixture of exciting qualities in goal and are eager to continue to learn and develop. We are looking forward to seeing them compete with each other throughout the season.”

Meanwhile, young star Kahli Johnson will return to Western United for the 2023-24 A-League Women’s season after putting pen to paper on a new deal for the upcoming campaign.

The19-year-oldjoinedtheclubfromSydney FC and became a key part of Mark Torcaso’s inaugural United side, featuring in 17 matches and winning the team’s young player of the season award alongside Alana Cerne.

Johnson has just completed a camp with the Young Matildas where she played a starring role, scoring three goals in two starts to help the side qualify for the 2024 AFC under-20 Women’s Asian Cup.

Morris shows versatility

By Jonty Ralphsmith

He takes big marks, kicks straight, and runs his defender around.

They’re the traits to look for in key forwards and Western Jet Logan Morris fits that to a tee.

The sole Jet to represent Vic Metro in their first game of the under-18 national championships on Sunday, the 192cm draft prospect played in an unfamiliar backline role.

Morris held his own, though, winning his share of the footy and nullifying his direct opponent, who at one stage was the highly-regarded Ashton Moir, to contribute to a big win over South Australia.

It’s a position he might play again in the second half of 2023, either in the national championships or Coates Talent League.

His read of the ball in the air allows him to get to the right spots and impact, highlighting his versatility – a sure way to enhance his prospects.

But it’s inside 50 where the Werribee Districts junior’s stocks are known.

Morris has 48 goals across 19 Talent League games in the past 15 months, including three bags of at least four this year.

In the Jets most recent game, he kicked 4.1 and took nine marks, with his first half in particular laying the foundation for an upset

win over the Eastern Ranges.

When he gets a clear run and jump at the footy, there’s no stopping him. He has a clear understanding of his leading lanes and he’s the man his teammates look for inside 50.

“How he identifies the ball in the air separates him from the rest, which is what the game is all about now,” said Jets forward coach Ali Hamad.

“He’s worked hard since he has come into the club – he’s got to work in the gym with Melbourne Athletic, and with the club on his smarts on-field, and his off-field habits have improved, so it’s all clicked together.

“He has got his body ready to play AFL and he has full belief in his ability.”

Speaking before the weekend’s game, Morris said his five games last year taught him about the required fitness to stamp authority on a game, something particularly pertinent to a player of his height.

That has been on show this season as he has hit up further afield to provide an outlet down the line.

“Emptying out quickly, getting goal side of my opponent and then when we win the ball, if I’m on the fat side, lengthening back to goals and beating my opponent there with my running ability, that defensive side has improved definitely.

“Getting my GPS back after the games

last year, I was probably a bit poor, so I have used that as a benchmark this year which has shown with my results after fitness was a focus of preseason.”

After kicking 13.3 in the first month of the season, he kicked just one goal from five shots in the Vic Metro trial game, with the Jets coaching staff noting how hard he’s worked on it off the back of that performance, as well as in preseason.

It showed against the Ranges.

“I have selected a set shot routine that I go to every time, so I’ve stuck to that all year and I’ll keep doing that going forward and hopefully kick a few more snags,” Morris said.

“It’s step right first, then six steps, then one slowoneonmyright,thenanothersixandkick away.Ifeellikeitwasanall-roundperformance on the weekend [against the Ranges].

“My marking, I thought, dropped off a bit at the start of the year, but then I felt it was back (last) weekend so it was good.

Having spent some sessions at the Werribee in the Victorian Football League, Morris made his VFL debut during the Coates Talent League community break, kicking two goals and impressing coach Michael Barlow.

Morris will next be in action for the Jets on June 24 in Wangaratta against the Murray Bushrangers, with Vic Metro’s next game is July 1 against the Allies in Queensland.

Upon confirming her place in next season’s squad, Johnson said she was pleased to remain in green and black and take the next step in her career.

“I’m very happy to be re-signing with Western United for the upcoming season,” she said. “This past season was such a great opportunity for me to get some game time and really develop as a player, and I’m excited to continue to do that next season.

“I’mverykeentokeepbeingsuccessfulhere. I think last season was an awesome starting point for us and I can’t wait to keep growing and achieving more with the team.”

Sports shorts

Soccer

Western United duo Jaclyn Sawicki and Angala Beard have been named in the Philippine squad for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Sawicki has long been a member of the team, while Beard has been selected for the first time having previously played for the Matildas. She is eligible to represent the Philippines through her mother, who is from Cebu.The squad will be cut to 23 players for the tournament.

NPL

It was a tough night on Friday night for the Altona Magic against Green Gully in the National Premier League competition. A massive match for both sides with the Magic wanting the Cavaliers spot in the top six, it was the Cavaliers that were left smiling at the end of the game, coming away with a 5-2 win. The Magic drop to eighth with the loss, now four points behind the sixth placed Cavaliers.

WRFL

Yarraville Seddon Eagles upset Altona in the Western Region Football League division 1 on Saturday. After coming close against Point Cook the previous round, the Eagles accurate kicking got them across the line, 10.9 (69)-8.14 (62). In other results, Caroline Springs was good good for Hoppers Crossing, Werribee Districts was too strong for Spotswood and for the second time this season Point Cook snuck home against Point Cook Centrals.

VAFA

Williamstown CYMS made it two wins in a row in the Victorian Amateur Football Association premier B competition on Saturday. Facing AJAX, there was only a goal in it at half time. After the break, the CYs kicked six goals to three to seal an 11.11 (77)-9.9 (63) win. Jack Noonan was named the CYs best. The CYs are now up to seventh on the ladder.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT

Logan Morris (Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos)

Ladder leading Falcons pressed by the Hawks

The City West Falcons were put to the test on Wednesday night in the Victorian Netball League championship.

The ladder leading Falcons struggled to break away from a determined Hawks side but eventually came away with a 64-52 win.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said the Hawks were a side that always really tested them.

“It took a while until the last quarter to get a bit of a difference,” she said.

“The Hawks are really aggressive and give us a good run. We have always struggled against them in the past.

“You get under pressure and be challenged.

Lind said they took a while to settle without Maggie Lind, who missed the game with a calf strain.

She said it took Maddy Gray and Soli Ropati a couple of quarters to settle without Lind playing.

Marg Lind said it was good though to show a bit more versatility and to get some more minutes into Ropati, who is returning from injury.

Jane Cook shot 60 of the Falcons goals,

continuing her good solid form of the last month.

Lind was also happy with the performance of Sienna Allen on Kaylia Stanton.

“Kaylia is really experienced,” Lind said.

“It was an awesome battle and Sienna really settled into the role.”

Lind kept her circle defenders the same all game for one of the first times this season, wanting some height in the circle.

Attheotherend,itwasasmallfastattacking outfit that worked better.

“We played pretty much similar down the ends,” she said.

“We didn’t play Uneeq [Palavi] as much as we felt like the smaller attacking end with Jane at the back was working.

“It was hard to change things with the game being close.”

Lind said they needed a game like that having had a number of big wins in recent weeks

The Falcons under-19s had a big win after a 17-3 first quarter, while the division 1 side had a draw.

Lind said all three teams were in a really good position.

In the championship division, the Falcons now sit two games clear on top after the Boroondara Express suffered a loss.

“We have a bit of breathing space, but Melbourne University is making a huge challenge, Casey is making a huge challenge and the Blaze is coming hard,” Lind said.

“We have to play all three in the run home.”

The Falcons next game is against the Peninsula Waves on June 25. Lind said that Maggie Lind would likely return for that game.

Meanwhile, three Falcons players have been named in the Tongan squad for the upcoming World cup.

Uneeq and Beyonce Palavi, and Lucia Fauonuku have been named in a 15 player squad.

Wins for the Altona Gators

The Altona Gators got an important win in their quest for a finals spot in Big V women’s division 1 on Saturday.

After two weekends off with byes, the Gators were back in action at Patterson River Stadium against the Chelsea Gulls.

The Gators jumped out of the blocks with a 25-10 first quarter and then extended the margin to 21 points at the main break.

TheGullsstartedtoreducethemargin in the third quarter and brought it back to 15 points at the final break.

While the Gulls won the final quarter, the damage had already been done with the Gators winning 69-57.

Jordan Wilson top scored with 15 points as four players scored double figures.

TheGatorssitinsixthspot,twogames outside the top four.

Williamstown celebrate its win against the Western Bulldogs. (Supplied)

Seagulls in finals race

By Tara Murray

Williamstown’s Victorian Football League women’s finals hopes are in its own hands with the side inside the top six with two rounds remaining.

The Seagulls made it four wins in a row, as they handled both the weather and the Western Bulldogs to come away with a 5.5 (35)-1.4 (10) win.

Seagulls coach Liam Cavanagh said it was a match they were worried about heading into the game, but were thrilled with the result.

“Four in a row now which is nice, it’s an unfamiliar feeling for the girls,” he said.

“It was the game I was most worried about in the last month. We’re confident we’re going to get up against the big teams, the big games, but against a lower side you can get that false sense of security.

“Last time we beat them by a goal, we’ve built on how we played last time, there’s good growth.”

Cavanagh said that DSV Stadium lived up to its reputation as a windy place to play.

He said while there was a slight scoring end, the wind was going towards one wing.

“Playing through the middle of the ground was a challenge,” he said. “With the lasso rule you don’t want to be pushing the boundary.”

The Seagulls led by five points at quarter time but didn’t make the most of their opportunities with several scoring shots not scoring.

The Bulldogs kicked the only goal of the second quarter to lead by a point at quarter time. Cavanagh said they were happy with the scores being even at half time.

After the break it was all the Seagulls.

“In the third quarter we learned from our mistakes from the first quarter,” Cavanagh said.

“We won the disposals and had 20 tackles which is a KPI. We upped the tackle pressure and kicked three goals in the second half.

“We got one against the flow in the final

quarter which was a good reward and we run out the game.”

Sharnie Whiting kicked two goals for the Seagulls to be their only multiple goal kicker.

Cavanagh said she was in really good form and had formed a good partnership with Sarah Cameron up forward.

Maddy Edwards had a good all round game in the middle with 19 touches and 10 tackles, while Jasmine Kawa was strong in ruck.

Danica Pedersen was another with a strong game with several early intercept marks at centre half back and also kicked a goal.

The Seagulls now sit fifth on the ladder with two rounds remaining. The top six play finals.

Cavanagh said it would be a tough run home, but one they were looking forward to.

“The exciting part of for us is we play first and second to finish the season.

“If we get to finals, we’ll show that we have deserved to be there and it will give us confidence we aren’t just making up the numbers.

Meanwhile, the Gators men had a good weekend with two big wins against the Craigieburn Eagles and the Sherbooke Suns.

On Saturday night, the Gators accounted for the Eagles, 105-85.

The Gators opened up a 25 point lead in the first half, before rotating through their bench in the second half.

While the Gators lost the second half, they were still in control of the game.

Adam Anderson top scored with 38 points as four players scored double figures.

On Sunday, the Gators backed it up with an 107-69 win against the Suns.

The Gators led by 12 points at half time before exploding in the second half.

An 18-6 quarter increased the lead, before they finished off with a 33-19 quarter to seal an 107-69 win.

Anderson top scored with 23 points as the Gators again shared the points and minutes, with everyone getting on the court.

The Gators sit second on the ladder.

This week the Gators face the Whittlesea Pacers on Saturday night in a top of the table clash.

Tara Murray

Tara Murray

Sienna Allen. (Robbab Photography)