Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 28th June 2023

College is a smart school

Braybrook College has taken out two accolades at the 2023 ResourceSmart Schools Awards.

The sustainability-savvy school won the Community Leadership School of the Year and teacher Rowena Archer won Teacher of the Year, both in the secondary division.

“Everyone involved is excited we have been recognised and awarded for our efforts in sustainability,” Ms Archer said.

“It feels good to be recognised, it gives people the impetus to do more and makes us really excited to keep going.”

With carbon neutrality ambitions, the school encourages recycling and reuse, with stations for old batteries and mobile phones as well as book exchanges.

With Ms Archer’s vision and dedication, the school has increased its solar panels from three to 100KW, conducted a carbon audit and installed new water tanks and waste and biodiversity facilities.

Sustainability Victoria interim chief executive Matt Genever said the Braybrook school community was a tremendous role model whose work will inspire other schools to take action.

Heritage overlay dropped

By Jennifer Pittorino

The Maribyrnong community has emerged victorious following council’s decision to abandon the West Footscray inter-war and post-war heritage overlay.

The overlay would have resulted in new planning controls being introduced to protect eight heritage precincts in West Footscray and surroundingpartsofFootscrayandMaidstone.

During the June 20 council meeting, councillors explained they support the majority of the community who did not want the overlay.

Cr Jorge Jorquera said the heritage proposition could do the opposite of its intent.

“I oppose this heritage proposition for the Footscray area both for its negative impact on existing homeowners and also because of its potential impact on the future of the area as a whole,” he said “Heritage protection of homes can make repairs, renovations and financing more complicated.”

In September 2021, council endorsed a heritage study for the purpose of community consultation.

Eight precincts were identified to have local

significance with high levels of intactness and authenticity.

A public consultation period occurred from February 28 to April 7, 2022, during which council received 199 submissions.

Only 33 submissions supported the amendment as exhibited, the remaining either requested changes, further information, or not supporting the proposal.

Earlier this month, Rocco Cipriano made a last minute desperate plea to council to listen to him and leave his Tottenham shop off the heritage list.

“I am so excited about the news, I can’t

express how happy I am. It is truly the best news and I’m so happy councillors looked after the interest of the ratepayers,” he said.

Mr Cipriano has no plans to sell his shop any time soon but he is pleased to know when the time comes, there won’t be heritage overlay looming over his head.

“ I am encouraged to keep it for a little while longer, and when the time comes to sell, I will be able to change it and make it appropriate for the area at that time,” he said.

Council will now notify the planning minister in writing of its decision and reasons for abandoning the amendment.

Rowena Archer from Braybrook College won Teacher of the Year at the 2023 Sustainability Awards. (Damjan Janevski) 341736_01

We’re building big in Melbourne’s west and there will be disruptions

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

Widening the West Gate Freeway from 8 to 12 lanes

New 2.8km

citybound tunnel

New 4km

outbound tunnel

To find out more about disruptions in the west scan the QR code or visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au/westworks

Connections to the city and CityLink

Footscray

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

Dryburgh Street

Over 14km of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths including a new 2.5km elevated veloway

new paths existing paths

Train disruptions: Buses/coaches replace trains in both directions

last train, until 9 July Flagstaff to Essendon

Upfield Line 8.30pm to last train, at times until 9 July Flagstaff to Coburg/Upfield

1 to 2 July

Geelong Line 10 July to 13 AugustPeak weekday Wyndham Vale and Tarneit trains

Road disruptions: Closed road and ramp

Dynon Road, West Melbourne Until 5am 31 AugustInbound exit ramp from CityLink to Dryburgh Street

Geelong Road ramp Until 2 AugustGeelong Road to Princes Freeway outbound ramp

Add disruptions directly to your calendar and you’ll always be up to date

1. Visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au/calendar

2. Select your train line

3. Click Subscribe to calendar

4. Select your calendar type

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

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

Waste charges rise to fund bins

Waste collection and disposal charges in Hobsons Bay will rise by 7.7 per cent next financial year to help pay for the four-bin system introduced in 2019-20.

Counciladoptedits2023-24budgetonJune 20, which includes the 7.7 per cent increase to service charges for the collection, disposal and processing of garbage, recycling, glass, garden, and food waste and hard waste.

Council said the increase would help cover the cost of its investment to introduce the

four-bin system.

The budget also includes an average rate rise of 3.5 per cent across all property categories, with council expecting residential rates to rise by an average of 0.83 per cent.

Councillor Matt Tyler said given the cost of living crisis, he is pleased with the way council is progressing.

“The general rates increase is well below inflation, the budget responds to the needs existent in our community,” he said.

Music in sweet motion

Parents no longer have to wonder how their babies’ movements would translate as music, as two artists have created a cutting edge program to do just that.

Artists Matt Kelly and Andrew Callaghan are the brains behind a project called ‘The Composers’ which uses motion tracking software to translate pre-crawling babies’ movements into a musical masterpiece.

On Monday, June 19, the pair ran 10 sessions at the Substation in Newport, which Mr Kelly said was a great success.

“The babies were all so cute and musical. Babies, carers and everyone else involved loved it,” he said.

“The babies came in to lay on a soft plush rug. From there a camera traced the babies’ and carers’ movements.

“Music software then produces those sounds into a musical piece.”

Kelly is one half of the renowned kids comedy duo The Listies, while Callaghan works as a composer and educator at the University of Melbourne.

“We wanted to make a space that takes the attention away from looking and changes it to become listening,” Kelly said.

“We wanted to explore what a music making space looks like between parent and child. It was really fun.”

Each 20-minute session involves only one baby and their carer and focuses on what sounds good, what the carer likes, how much the composers are in charge and more.

The babies ranged from a few months old to one who just learnt to crawl a few days prior.

The Composers is part of The Substation’s in Development Program, which supports artists in the creation and development of new works.

For parents/carers who are interested, the Substation website is where parents can book in to make music with their babies.

Details: https://thesubstation.org.au/ program/the-composers-in-development

Jennifer Pittorino

The budget includes a $65 million capital works program, including $23.1 million for buildings, $11.9 million for sporting and recreational facilities, $4.5 million for environmental sustainability initiatives, $4.6 million for community centres and $2.1 million for building renewal program.

Council has also allocated $16.2 million for recreation and open space, $12.1 million for parks,openspaceandstreetscapes,$2million for recreational, leisure and community

Join the West Gate Tunnel Project Community Liaison Group

facilities, $1.1 million for bridges, $13.7 million for roads, $2.5 million for drains, $2 million for footpaths and cycleways., $1.4 million for waste management, $4.7 million for plant and equipment, $2.9 million for scheduled replacement of council’s vehicle andplantfleets,$820,000forlibraryresources and $980,000 information technology.

Council has also allocated $600,000 in 2023-24 and $900,000 in 2024-25 for stage one of the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre.

We are seeking community representatives from Footscray, Docklands and Spotswood to join the West Gate Tunnel Project Community Liaison Group (CLG).

As part of the CLG, you will have an invaluable opportunity to learn more about the Project, share valuable community insight to the project team and help us keep the community informed of any key developments.

To find out more, including the Terms of Reference and to express your interest, visit the project website westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/clg

Expressions

Artists Matt Kelly and Andrew Callaghan have created a program converting babies movements to music. (Damjan Janevski) 341720_02

Cannabis plan goes up in smoke

Maribyrnong council won’t be entering the medicinal cannabis industry.

As reported by Star Weekly , councillors voted in September 2021 to enter the medicinalcannabisindustryinabidtoreduce household rates.

Community engagement on the decision ran until January 2022, with 600 residents completing a survey about council’s plans.

Of the residents who completed the survey, 74 per cent (445) said they were supportive of council entering the medicinal cannabis

business. Twenty-six per cent (155) of survey respondents did not support the proposal.

In March 2022, council began its feasibility and commercial legal due diligence stage.

A report to the June 20, 2023, council meeting revealed challenges and risks associated with the industry, outweighing the potential benefits for residents.

The report stated it would be “extremely difficult“togeneratestable,short-termreturns andthatcouncilwouldstruggleto“competein the industry due its limited financial capital.

Finding beauty in decay

Urban Threads is an inner-west inspired series of artworks by Newport local Cara Jones.

This exhibition showcases Melbourne’s industrial infrastructure through the lens of Jones, highlighting the beauty in decay and potential in revitalisation.

Jones photographed a number of industrial sites around in the west, including trains at the Newport Railway Workshops, shipping containers, theWestGateBridgeandBradmill.

“I just like the industrial decayed type of environment and I then try to come up with ways the landscape could be regenerated,” she said.

Jones took her photographs and created abstract art pieces, using photo manipulation techniques and digital tools.

“I try to push the photographs past the point of recognition, sometimes they end up more as artwork instead of a photo,” she said.

“I do this with digital painting, take a small elementofthephoto,repeatitandsuperimpose it and stretch it, rotate it, manipulate it.”

The artwork will be displayed at The Outside Gallery until November, made up of 11 light boxes in the Paine Reserve Park, Market Street in Newport.

Jones found her love for the Industrial landscape in university, discovering photography was the best way to creatively express herself.

Her work has since primarily focused on what some people might not find typically beautiful.

“I hope that they get to look at the industrial landscape in Hobsons Bay to see the beauty in it, and not the ugliness,” she said.

“I see it and my heart sores. I love going past the chemical plants, I like the industrial aesthetic and the way they put the buildings together.”

Jennifer Pittorino

Cara Jones’ industrial photography exhibition is being held at The Outside Gallery in Newport.

(Damjan Janevski) 341194_01

The report also stated that high technical expertise and ability to navigate in a complex regulatory market is required and that the industry is still developing and is constrained by a large range of barries.

Mayor Sarah Carter said there are challenges and risks involved with this type of venture that outweighed the potential benefits.

“While the medicinal cannabis industry in Australia has experienced rapid growth since its legalisation in 2016, it faces numerous

obstacles, including strict regulations, technical expertise requirements, and capital intensity,” she said.

Cr Michael Clarke said it was a remarkably sad outcome for the community.

“We had almost 75 per cent support of the community to investigate this venture, which we did,” he said.

“We went through a due diligence process, it was only after going through the study we came to the understanding that as a business venture we should not proceed.”

PHONE

Budget adopted

By Mayor Tony Briffa

As we all know, the cost of living is a major issue for so many of us right now.

Briefs

Beach petition.

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Whether it’s families, businesses or governments, our dollars are simply not going as far as they were before inflation started increasing. That’s why it’s so important we make decisions about our finances that provide for what we need now while also keeping the long-term in mind.

Last week, Hobsons Bay City Council adopted the 2023-24 annual budget, which includes $65 million for infrastructure, as well as funding for more than 100 services our community relies on.

It is a budget that gets the balance right between providing these great community assets and services, while recognising that ratepayers might be doing it tough financially. For residential properties, the average rate increase will be less than one per cent, much lower than the inflation rate.

It’s important to remember that unlike the taxes collected by other levels of government, rate revenue raised by councils usually stays within the community.

It goes to building the new pavilion at your sports club, upgrading the road you drive down every day to work, and creating and maintaining the parks and open spaces you enjoy with family and friends.

It delivers the maternal and child health services that are vital for new parents in the early weeks, months and years of a child’s life. It helps our older residents maintain their independence and remain an active physical and social part of our community.

It delivers library services, which are so much more than just lending books. Our libraries are educational facilities and social hubs,andakeywaytoaccessCouncilservices.

Itdeliversartandcultureprojectsthatmake Hobsons Bay a more vibrant place to live and helps keep our community more informed and engaged. I can’t wait to see some of the fantastic projects that will come to life thanks to this budget.

The Centre of Excellence at the new Altona Meadows Library, the redevelopment of the southern area of Bruce Comben Reserve, a multipurpose facility at Dennis Reserve, the McCormack Park bridge, and road and cycling upgrades on Railway Avenue. These are just a few of the wonderful community assets that will be developed because of this budget.

Council has also allocated $600,000 in 2023-24 and $900,000 in 2024-25 for stage 1 of the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre – one of Council’s key advocacy priorities.

The budget is more than a financial document – it’s our vision for the next year and how we will serve and provide for our community.

You can find out more at: www.hobsonsbay. vic.gov.au/budget2023-24

As always, please contact me (tbriffa@ hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au or 9932 1044) if you would like to discuss any local issues.

A petition requesting Hobsons Bay council upgrade the public facilities in the Williamstown beach precinct has been lodged. The Williamstown beach precinct is being redeveloped by council at a cost of more than $14 million. The petition states that hundreds of swimmers use the beach and the public facilities every day and despite being one of Melbourne’s most popular swimming beaches, the showers, the toilets and the areas where swimmers meet are sub-standard, crowded and no longer fit for purpose. The petition asks for upgraded showers, toilets, changerooms and public facilities for swimmers that are well away from the outdoor dining area of the kiosk.

Braybook teen dies

Police are investigating the death of a 14-year-old Braybrook boy in St Albans on Monday, June 26. Emergency services were called to Bailey Street following reports an injured male had been found on the road just after 11pm. Another report was received advising a number of people had been seen in the vicinity of where the injured male was found, and they appeared to be armed with a knife, police said. The teenager died on the way to hospital.

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Mayor Tony Briffa.

Entertainment Baked in

Visual storytellers ‘Baked’ are bringing their online filmed session experience to life at the SunTheatre,withthelaunchoftheirbrand-new series ‘Live Music at the Sun’.

The event taking place on Thursday, June 29, will mark the first time a live music experience has been held at the Sun.

Sun Theatre owner Michael Smith said the theatre is all about platforming original, quality film making and storytelling.

“Musicandfilmhavealwaysbeenintrinsically connected, and it is vital we support the next generation to value hard work that goes into thoughtful creative undertakings,” he said.

“ … We are delighted to hold space for new Australian talent.”

Baked is co-owned and led by proud Wamba Wamba and Dhudhuroa woman and creative professional, Larissa Jane Hume (née Ryan) and photographer and producer James Morris.

BehindBakedisateamofcreativevisionaries including ARIA Nominated Music Director and multi-platinum songwriter/artist Peter

Elisha Hume (Evermore).

The night’s line-up features stellar homegrown contemporary artists and songwriters including Josh Cashman, who will be hitting the stage off the back of multiple internationaltoursthroughoutNorthAmerica.

Along with proud Yorta Yorta songwriter Madi Colville-Walker, and 2022 triple j Unearthed High entrant dubbed ‘Pop Prince’ Keanu Jai.

All while musician Jess Hitchcock plays host for the evening.

MsHumesaidtheyarethrilledtobebringing the emergence of this experience to life.

“We live and breathe music culture, and a lot of heart goes into baked to create a warm environment,” she said.

“...We are really looking forward to seeing you offline we’re so much of the magic is.”

ThiseventismadepossiblethankstotheCity ofMaribyrnong’s‘LoveYourWest’eventseries.

Jennifer Pittorino

Keeping kids active at VU

The VU Sport School Holiday Program is a great opportunity for kids to stay active whilst developing new, or improving on their current skills while making new friends and, of course, having fun!

VU Sport offers both sports and swimming programs during each school holidays, making sure there is something for everyone!

The sports programs include a range of streams such as multisport, where you can try a range of different sports and activities, as well as AFL, basketball, netball and soccer programs. The programs are great to participate in a current sports you play, or try out something completely new! Experienced coaches ensure kids have a fun-filled day.

The swimming program is run by

qualified instructors who all have an immense knowledge of swimming and water safety. During the school holidays VU offers both intensive lessons and private lessons. During an intensive lessons, each child takes part in a 30-minute class daily Monday to Friday. Continual learning is promoted at VU Sport as it is extremely beneficial to ensure your child is building and expanding on their swimming and water safety skills. Private lessons are available as a one off, or a series of lessons. Also on offer is a highly sort after Learn to Swim Program that runs during the school terms, Monday to Friday, from 4pm and on weekends.

For more information please visit https://www.vu.edu.au/school-holidaysports-programs or call 9919 4460.

Selin Kaya and Larissa Jane Hume (née Ryan) from Baked, are hosting the first live music experience at the Sun Theatre. (Damjan Janevski) 337735_01

Call to join air monitoring effort

By Jennifer Pittorino

Glen Yates, who has lived in Yarraville for 13 years, developed adult-onset asthma two years ago after always living a fit and healthy lifestyle.

For years Mr Yates walked his children to school every day along Sommerville Road without checking the air quality.

Now he feels he has paid the price.

ThreeyearsagoMrYatesinstalledPurpleAir monitors, which monitor real air time quality allowing the user to monitor whichever values they wish.

Mr Yates has been monitoring PM 2.5, the major particulate in diesel exhaust.

“I initially started setting them up out of interest to see what was happening in the area. I put one outside my house and now I am slowly building a network to help the community understand toxins better,” he said.

“In the local area there will be six set up by the end of the month, three from me, three from other parties.”

Mr Yates said the air quality outside varies from day to day, some days it meets health standards, other days it does not.

The current global guidelines for PM2.5 as set down by the World Health Organisation (WHO) is five micrograms per cubic meter

averaged over a year.

The Australian guideline for PM2.5 is eight micrograms per cubic meter averaged over a year. LastweekendtheairqualityinYarraville,as

recordedbyMrYates,satat34-40micrograms for the entire weekend.

This is called an inversion layer where air quality was up to six times the Australian standard, posing a risk to asthma sufferers.

“That’s where people with asthma start to play up. Asthma is directly correlated and attributed to the air quality,” Mr Yates explained. “It can exacerbate asthma symptoms.Asthma sufferers need to have their Ventolin handy.

“Ioftenexperiencechesttightness,coughing and wheezing, it can feel like extreme hay fever with no relief.”

Mr Yates recommends Yarraville residents, especially asthma sufferers, set up air purifiers in their homes.

Air purifiers can be set to detect PM2.5 changes outside, so the house air can then be filtered and purified.

“When PM2.5 levels are high outside doors and windows should be closed, anything that draws external air should be closed off, if you have air purifiers turn them on.

“Every state school in the inner west has air purifiers, and any schools that have children with high risk asthma should be monitored.”

Locals can access the real time PurpleAir data though the website by selecting real time maps.

“Anyone who wants to set up their own PurpleAir monitoring system can order it online. The more people that add these to the network the more visibility we all have.”

Mr Yates is a member of the Maribyrnong Truck Action Group (MTAG) which is actively striving for low emission zones to be implemented.

“We are not anti-truck, we just want to remove older dirtier trucks off the street with the support of the state government,” he said. MTAGwouldlikecounciltofollowsuitwith other councils who have installed PurpleAir networks in their communities.

“There is an issue and it needs to be sorted. Council declared a health emergency and we haven’t heard anything

Glen Yates has set up several PurpleAir monitors around Maribyrnong to monitor the worsening air quality. (Jacob Pattison) 340271_01

‘‘ I often experience chest tightness, coughing and wheezing, it can feel like extreme hay fever with no relief ’’

- Glen Yates

A hidden Chinese gem

Discover a hidden gem of Williamstown at 5 Ferguson Street – Lion Dance, a family-owned Chinese restaurant serving culinarydelightssince1978.

Lion Dance invites patrons on a remarkable journey through China’s rich gastronomic heritage in a cosy and elegant setting.

Crafted with passion and deep-rooted culinary expertise, the menu tells a tale of tradition and innovation, offering a tantalisingexplorationofauthenticChinese

Top shelf hospitality

Yarraville Club has the high-quality facilities patrons deserve – a menu of dining,drinks,entertainment,andsports related fun that keeps patrons coming back for more.

The club is proud to be a progressive hospitality venue that offers exceptional customer service and is committed to supporting the local community. Staff work hard to make members and visitors

feel welcome.

The bistro has an extensive menu of fresh tasty food at affordable prices catering for bookings for all sizes. For a more casual dining experience, the sports lounge offers a more casual dining experience.

The club also offers great private function and event spaces that can cater for up to 400 guests.

flavours. Each visit to Lion Dance is not just a meal – it’s a passage through a rich culinary history that is both memorable andgratifying.

LionDanceperfectlyblendscasualfamily diningandintimatespecialoccasionmeals.

Whether you’re a resident or a first-time visitor, the team at Lion Dance promise an experience that you will treasure as you partake in a celebration of China’s vibrant culinary tradition and the host family’s dedicatedhistoryofqualityservice.

Aaron, Matt, Chay, Helen, Sean, Will, Ricky and James enjoy a drink and meal at the Yarraville Club. (Supplied)

Brewery plan still on the table

By Jennifer Pittorino

Moon Dog’s Karl van Buuren has labelled Maribyrnong council’s decision to reject the brewery’s planning permit as a big surprise.

As reported by StarWeekly , Moon Dog had been planning to open a brewery with a DJ booth and rooftop bar on the site of Franco Cozzo’s iconic Footscray store.

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.

Councilknockedbacktheplanningperomit on July 14 amid safety concerns.

“The decision came as a surprise because we had been working with the planning department for the last nine months, and thought we were working well together,” he said.

Following the decision, Mr van Buuren sat down with councillors and the mayor to discuss the future of the building.

“We have straightened out some of the concerns that were detailed in the refusal

documents, council is open to working with us now,” he said.

“We went over all of the safety concerns and we are confident we can all come to an agreement.

“The overarching message to come from the meeting was that council is supportive but we need to do it in a safe manner.”

Mr van Buuren is confident Moon Dog will be the party to bring new life into the historic building.

“Ever since this project was announced we have continued to receive a positive response

from the community,” he said.

“We are looking forward to bringing this venue to Footscray and we think we are the right people to do so.”

At this stage Mr van Buuren said there are no time frames for completion but they will be hard at work working through the refusal reasons.

“We will be able to provide a safe space, we are confident that we will be able to achieve an outcome beneficial to the community,” he said.

Mental health support call

Maribyrnongcouncilhasacknowledged the mental health crisis developing across the municipality, as revealed in the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2021 census.

At a meeting on Tuesday, June 20, councillors voted to acknowledge the current and emerging mental health crisis, particularly amongst younger and vulnerable Victorians.

Council noted that the impacts of COVID-19, along with cost of living pressure, has caused significant psychological distress to some members of the community.

Council recognised the current and planned investments in mental health support and services by the Victorian Government as a result of the Royal Commission into mental health. Councillors resolved to call on the Victorian Government to conduct an enquiry into the psycho social impacts of COVID-19, and in particular, the effects that lockdown measures have had on the community.

Volunteers gathered at Cherry Lake on the weekend to plant more than 1,000 tree saplings. (Supplied)

Many hands get trees in the ground

A tree plantation drive was held at the Cherry Lake Buffer Mound and Wetlands on Saturday by not-for-profit organisation Dr Shri Nanasaheb Dharmadhikari Pratishthan. The event aimed to promote environmental awareness and encourage the community to contribute towards a greener future.

Organiser Tanmay Kolhatkar said the event was a remarkable success.

“The event was great, fostering a stronger sense of environmental responsibility within the community,” he said.

“It not only increased awareness about the importance of tree planting and conservation

butalsobroughtpeopletogetherforacommon cause.

“The event will have a lasting impact on the local ecosystem and inspire continued efforts towards a sustainable and greener future.”

The tree planting drive ran with the support of the Hobsons Bay council who be provided the trees.

Ninety-seven people attended the event, which Mr Kolhatkar said was more than expected.

“We received great participation from local community and volunteers from different states of Australia,” he said.

“The event created a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere as participants eagerly dug holes, planted saplings, and installed tree cover for each newly planted sapling.

“Weather was sunny and favourable and people of all ages actively participated, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.”

The event had aimed to plant 1250 saplings, but by the end exceeded all expectations with the result being 1685 saplings planted.

Jennifer Pittorino

Council will also ask the Victorian Government to consider additional measures and funding to invest in community resilience as well as psychological and material support to mitigate identified impacts.

The 2021 census found that 13,259 peoplehavelongtermhealthconditions in the city.

VicHealth found that 82 per cent of young people had experienced mental health issues during COVID-19, including anxiety, depression and eating disorder symptoms such as binge eating.

Councillor Anthony Tran said he has been speaking with psychologists from schoolsintheareaincludingBraybrook College, Maribyrnong College and Footscray High.

“Each of which is struggling to support their kids in providing services,” he said.

Jennifer Pittorino

Maribyrnong councillors vote to adopt ‘remarkably responsible’ budget

Maribyrnong councillor Michael Clarke has labelled council’s 2023-24 budget as being “remarkably responsible”.

Council adopted the budget during its meeting on Tuesday, June 20.

The budget includes $223.5 million to fund the delivery of essential services, facilities, and infrastructure to their community.

“Last year we asked our community what their priorities were for the spend of our council,” Cr Clarke said.

“Open space, cycling, pedestrian infrastructure, sustainability, city amenity,

community centres and libraries were some of the priorities, we saw to reflect these.”

Of the allocated $223.5 million, $87.63 million is dedicated to capital works, while $135.9 million is allocated to ensure the continued delivery of essential services and programs across the municipality.

This includes support for maternal and child health programs, maternal and child health, immunisation services, arts and cultural experiences, library and community centre events across Maribyrnong.

Capital works funding for the 2023- 24

budget includes $32.90 million for public realm and streetscapes upgrade; $21.78 million for roads and footpaths; $14.48 million for sport and recreation facilities; $6.27 million for aquatic and leisure centres; $3.12millionforearlyyearsandyoungpeople; $2.76 million for community centres, arts and libraries; $2.47 million for parks and gardens; $1.03 million for drainage; $1.02 million for bike infrastructure; and $375,000 for waste management

Other prior commitments previously allocated were the new Splash Park at

Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre, with $6 million allocated to support its completion, as well as $4.5 million to the Western Lawn at Footscray Park.

“Our budget this year acknowledges the post COVID environment, this council has elected to increase its rates at 2.98 per cent while many other councils have adopted the full rate increase of 3.5 per cent,” Cr Clarke said.

Jennifer Pittorino

MEET YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT

Recognised over the past decade for his exceptional sales record and reputation for going over and above for clients, local real estate expert Julian Montebello is proud to announce the opening of his new agency Hockingstuart Altona in July.

A third generation local Julian’s passion for his area shines through, and you may know him as an active community member and regular supporter of sports or local initiatives, or seen him out selling property or enjoying the local lifestyle.

Hockingstuart has been a trusted name in Australian real estate for over 35 years, earning a well-deserved reputation as the industry’s hardest working agents while delivering unmatched outcomes and client care.

Together with a familiar face Hockingstuart is now painting Altona red, so if you’re looking to buy, sell, rent or invest contact Julian and his team today and discover how our hard work delivers results.

Julian Montebello

1/101 Pier Street, Altona VIC 3018 0406 883 980 julian.montobello@hockingstuart.com

With over two decades of local experience and a stellar reputation as a results-driven auctioneer, Vince Caramia returns to the Hockingstuart family with a passion for delivering a best in class sales experience and outcome for clients.

With an extensive database of contacts and a history of record-breaking sale prices, Vince is ready to take Altona’s real estate market to new heights in conjunction with Principal Julian Montebello and Hockingstuart’s extensive network resources.

Whether you’re buying or selling in the area, Vince and Hockingstuart Altona are the team to trust for exceptional service and results – contact us today to learn more.

Vince Caramia

1/101 Pier Street, Altona VIC 3018 0405 122 925

Vince.caramia@hockingstuart.com

With vast experience that belies his age, Anthony Christakakis is a trusted real estate leader and licensed estate agent in Melbourne’s inner west. His energy and service set him apart and quickly demonstrate his commitment to achieve clients’ goals.

Having grown up locally and still very involved in the Willliamstown community, Anthony brings unrivalled local knowledge and passion to his property campaigns.

A common theme runs through Anthony’s countless 5-star reviews online: customer service and market knowledge.

Rather than listing a high volume of properties, Anthony takes a more personal approach to sales. “Each campaign is unique, and I give it the attention it deserves. When I partner with an owner to sell their home, I offer a highly personalised service from start to finish,” Anthony explains.

A calm and respectful negotiator, Anthony is always available to his clients and prospective buyers.

Anthony Christakakis

84 Ferguson Street, Williamstown, VIC, 3016 0433 353 402

AnthonyChristakakis@jelliscraig.com.au

A property buyer’s track record says a lot about how they operate. Our mission at Walsh-Brown Property Buyers is to provide the highest quality service while maintaining integrity. Trust is essential to building positive relations with current and potential clients and colleagues. Holding to our company’s values and committing to profitable outcomes for our clients has helped us build a positive reputation in the industry.

Walsh-Brown Property Buyers has been active in Melbourne’s residential property market since 2009, assisting homebuyers and investors. During the pandemic, we facilitated over 200 property purchases over three years. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality service, which means having the ability to adapt to the market climate and even more challenging circumstances.

Melbourne’s Inner West is our primary district of operation; we have a vast knowledge of the area and its property market. Walsh Brown Property Buyers is willing and committed to assisting you in all stages of your purchase, from start to settlement, saving you time, money, and stress.

MEET YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT

Taylor came to Jas Stephens in 2016 after a successful career in music event management, and he brings the same dynamic, creative, and results-focused approach that brought those events to life to real estate. He lives locally with his dog, Morty the Groodle, and is on a mission to sample all the incredible multicultural cuisines the Inner West has on offer.

As an agent, Taylor is known for his patience, his proactive approach to selling homes, and his never-give-up work ethic. Outside of real estate, he loves music and traveling, and is a keen photographer.

‘The best part of real estate is meeting different people from all walks of lifecreating friendships, partnerships, and making new connections…’

What Taylor’s clients are saying:

‘We had a fantastic experience with Taylor. He brought a very high degree of professionalism to the sale process and his communication throughout was exceptional. In a tense final week leading up to the sale (for us), Taylor remained calm, clear-headed, and gave us great advice which ultimately delivered an excellent outcome’

Taylor Romao

104 Somerville Road, Yarraville 0428 888 754

tromao@jasstephens.com.au

Not every real estate agency can say they’ve got a tennis pro on the books, but we can!

Before turning to real estate, Alex played tennis at a professional level and competed internationally, travelling to Europe, Asia and across Australia to tear up the court. But no matter how far and wide his tennis career took him, the Williamstown and Newport areas have always been home – and with beaches, cafes, and the city all so close, why would he move?!

These days he’s replaced his tennis racket with a golf club, and loves getting out for a day on the green with mates.

‘Constantly learning and adapting to market conditions is exciting, and helping people buy or sell their home is a privilege.’

Alex Tsimiklis

104 Somerville Road, Yarraville 0404 681 418

Having started at Jas Stephens in 1999, it’s fair to say that the Inner West has been a massive part of George’s life and career.

Getting to know his clients and ensuring they have a positive experience is at the core of everything he does - and many of them come straight back to him when it’s time to make their next big real estate decision. He knows this side of Melbourne like the back of his hand, and his positivity, integrity, and honest, evidence-based approach are the foundations of his success.

George lives locally with his wife and kids in Yarraville, and loves nothing more than a scenic weekend drive with a few pit stops to check out the local eateries and any open days and auctions he spies along the way. When it comes to real estate, he just can’t resist!

‘I love achieving a price for the sale of a property which allows the owner to be able to move onto the next phase of their lives with as much financial security as possible’

George Alexander

104 Somerville Road, Yarraville 0412 057 151

galexander@jasstephens.com.au

Jade knows the west! She is a local from way back and has seen the western corridor of Melbourne transform and develop into what it is today. She loves the west and spending time sampling the area’s restaurants and cafes and all the west has to offer. She also frequents our local outdoor icons like the Yarraville Gardens keeping her family busy and active. She’s a proud Mum with many ties to the local area and local community.

Jade is motivated, driven and a go getter, this has been reflected in Jade’s previous sales experience. Her professionalism is always attuned to assisting both the vendors and buyers as they navigate their way through purchasing or selling a home. She values the opportunity that her role provides to contribute to the success people seek and always provides her positive and fun flare to the sales process. Both parties certainly appreciate Jade’s involvement, passion, and proficiency. The constant energy and un-predictability of the property market motivates Jade to always keep working on finding and implementing strategies that will maximize the rewards for her clients –it’s what she loves, it’s what she does!

‘I love walking into a house for the first time and imagining the perfect buyer’

MEET YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT

Experienced in selling all types of property, John has a thorough understanding of client’s needs and specialises in new developments and construction. He is also involved in property development and construction and is able to provide valuable advice to clients in the same industry.

With over 32 years experience in selling real estates and fully licensed since 2002, John gives nothing less than 100%, whether it is a small one-bedroom flat in Sunshine or a three-storey office building in Footscray.

Cross cultural links are vital for business in such an ethnically diverse area. John believes the values he has from his Italian background are similar to those of many other cultures. From them he understands the need for confidentiality, respect and trust as the basis for business and friendships.

Results and experience aren’t only measured in dollars, but it’s hard to go past the $140 million worth of property John has brought to the business since starting his career back in 1991.

John Verduci

145 - 147 Geelong Road, Footscray VIC 3011 0411 660 844 jverduci@trimson.com.au

With over fifty years in the real estate game, Terry Cooper’s level of knowledge and experience is almost unmatched in Melbourne. A lifelong “people person”, Terry has the gift of the gab and considers it an honour to meet and assist people from all backgrounds and walks of life.

As much as he loves a good chat, Terry is also an excellent listener, something he says is indispensable when it comes to looking after clients. “You can’t sell people’s property if you don’t listen,” says Terry, and his clients come to him knowing that he’s going to keep their needs and wants front of mind.

His local knowledge is another distinct advantage. Terry has worked in Footscray for his entire career, so it’s safe to say he knows the area like the back of his hand.

Some of the many awards he’s received during his career include Top Constructional Referrer (four times), Top Volume Seller (three times), and the Agent of the Year award in 2018. A mad sports fan, Terry has been a player and is a committee member of a number of different local sporting clubs such as the Footscray West & Albion football clubs (past president of both), Footscray City cricket club and Cobden football, netball and cricket club.

Terry Cooper

145 - 147 Geelong Road, Footscray VIC 3011 0411 852 508

tcooper@trimson.com.au

Bianca gets a genuine kick out of achieving results for her clients, especially when telling renters they’ve been approved for a property. Witnessing her clients’ sheer joy and gratitude is her greatest reward, she says.

An established star at a young age, Bianca has already collected a number of awards including “Most Outstanding New Recruit” in 2013. This depth and breadth of experience has familiarised Bianca with all aspects of running a real estate agency, enabling her to serve clients with a broad range of needs.

Bianca describes her team as “her backbone”, but she equally provides her colleagues and community with energetic leadership, passion and plenty of industry savvy. She credits her tight-knit Italian family and especially her mother and father for making her the person she is today. “My parents always taught me how to work hard,” says Bianca, who is an expecting mother to be.

145 - 147 Geelong Road, Footscray VIC 3011

9689 6011

Friendly, approachable and quick thinking, Lily Friend supports the Trimson Partners property management team to provide outstanding service to owners and tenants.

Lily’s service style is centred on building positive relationships with both owners and renters. She is both highly professional and a natural at making people feel at ease. Lily’s energy and enthusiasm impresses both clients and colleagues. She is an excellent communicator, making sure all queries and requests receive a prompt response.

Professional and easy to deal with, Lily is also a quick thinker and clever problem solver. She identifies potential issues before they escalate and uses her warm personality and optimistic attitude to help her successfully resolve leasing challenges. If you ever need renting advice, feel free to call Lily on 0432 662 966

Ameristralia: Melton’s micronation

As part of Melbourne’s sprawling growth corridor, Harkness in the outer west is home to an increasing number of new dwellings – and as Cade Lucas discovers, the micronation of Ameristralia.

Parentscangotogreatlengthsandexpense to advance their child’s education. Some pay thousands in private schools fees and tutors,whileothersinvestinsportsequipment and musical instruments.

Or, if you’re Melton father David Brooke, you start your own country and appoint your kids to run it.

Yes, you read that correctly.

“We were having a conversation about how thingswereintheworldandhowgovernments go about their policies and treating their citizens and we thought ‘why don’t we make a country,” Mr Brooke said.

“My children are home-schooled and this was just a way to help teach them about government, civics and community engagement.”

SoonFriday,August13,2021(acoincidence according to Mr Brooks), the family’s 650 square home in Harkness near Melton was declared the Sovereign Municipality of Ameristralia. Mr Brooke became His Sovereign Highness Prince David, his wife Her Sovereign Highness the Duchess of Brookfield and each of his five children assumed ministries of state.

A flag, constitution, coat of arms and currency were also established as a suburban street in Melbourne’s outer-west became home to the country’s newest micronation.

DefinedbyEncyclopaediaBritannicaas:“an entity that claims to be an independent state butwhosesovereigntyisnotrecognisedbythe international community,” micronations are something of an Australian specialty.

“Australia really is micronation central,” said professor George Williams, a constitutional lawyer and academic at the University of New South Wales, .

“We’ve got maybe a third of these being calculated worldwide, so more than any other nation that we can see,” said professor Williams who co-authored the book ‘How to Rule Your Own Country: The weird and wonderful world of micronations’, late last year.

“And you know, we tolerate them and I think it’s sort of part of the Australian spirit, thumbing your nose at authority.”

Rather than thumbing their nose at authority,someofAustralia’smoreprominent micronations have shook their first at it.

The most famous of all, Western Australia’s Hutt River Principality, was formed in 1970 out of a dispute with the WA government over wheat quotas and lasted for half a century before closing in 2020.

In Victoria, the Independent State of Rainbow Creek was created in 1979 by farmers seeking compensation from the state government for a bridge damaged during a flood in the state’s alpine region.

At one point Rainbow Creek issued its own currency and stamps and even declared war on Victoria, before its leader Thomas Barnes retired to Queensland due to ill-health.

But for every separatist movement there are dozens more that are far less serious .

“Look, most of these do have an element of humour,” said professor Williams

Some, such as Jimland, the April Fools joke made earlier this year by Jim Penman, owner of the franchise empire of the same name, are outright parodies.

While more serious than that, Professor Williams suspects a bit of fun is being had with Ameristralia.

“I mean, even the idea of setting up your owncountrywiththesymbols,givingyourself

the title, in this case, the Sovereign Prince, it’s clearly tongue in cheek and good on them.”

Even the name, an unsubtle reference to MichiganbornBrooke’sduel(oristhattriple?) nationality, suggests that His Sovereign Highness might be having us on.

“A lot of people kinda laugh ‘oh so you started a country haha,” said Mr Brooke of the initial reaction he gets, before noticing a change when explaining it more.

“When I tell people why they say that’s a pretty nifty idea man.”

Given that idea was to teach his kids about theworkingsofgovernment,MrBrookeleaves the running of Ameristralia to them while he maintains his day job as a mobile technician to pay his family’s and country’s bills.

“You would compare to me to the monarch, I’m the head of state” said Mr Brooke of his largely ceremonial role.

“All of my children are the cabinet.

“We have a minister of immigration and citizenship, minister of education, we have a minister of environment and natural resources, a minister of treasury and investment, health and human services and then foreign affairs and trade, but I am actually acting in foreign affairs in trade.”

And the Prime Minister?

“So instead of a prime minister we have a chief minister and a cabinet and my 14-year-old son Kyson is chief minister.”

A teenage boy as a national leader?

“He does alright,” said his father. “I try to get him to be as formal as I can, but they’re kids.”

Along with gaining hands on experience in civics, Mr Brooke hoped his kids would benefit from Ameristralia’s politics

“We’re very socially progressive country, we don’t believe in war.

“People solve problems by sitting down and having a discussion.

“Maybe this is a good way for them to learn about that so when they grow up they can take that outlook into the world.”

This more left-wing worldview explains another feature of Ameristralia that separates it from many other micronations.

“We pay taxes to the Australian government,” declared Mr Brooke, a contrast to many other micronations that have a secessionist, anti-authoritarian bent.

Professor George Williams said this just reflects the reality that there’s no way for micronations to secede from Australia, even if they really wanted to.

“None of this affects Australian law, none of this affects the fundamentals so it’s performative.”

Professor Williams said this was why governments usually ignore micronations as they are largely harmless and only crave attention.

Neither the Victorian government or Melton council would comment on this story.

However, Professor Williams said micronations can still play a role in drawing attention to certain issues, such as the Gay and Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Islands which promoted LGBTQI rights and various Indigenous groups who have declared themselves sovereign, a hot topic in the lead up to the Voice referendum coming.

In the case of Ameristralia, having almost 50 registered citizens worldwide means it is effectively a social club.

According to Mr Brooke, it’s a club that continues to grow.

“Some people just kinda go ‘oh really” and theygotothewebsiteandnextthingyouknow a citizenship application comes through.”

‘‘ I think it’s sort of part of the Australian spirit, thumbing your nose at authority ’’ - George Williams

Constitutional and micronation expert, professor George Williams from the University of New South Wales.

Above: Sovereign Prince David Brooke, Ameristralia Head of State. Right: Ameristralia’s flag and coat of arms. (Pictures: Supplied)

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

June 29, 1983

The acute shortage of public housing is forcing hundreds of families in the west to live in caravan parks under appalling conditions, a housing report claimed this week.

30 years ago

June 30, 1993

The chance of holding Olympic trials at a 50-metre indoor pool with seating for 2000 at the Victoria University of Technology has been sunk by the Kennett Government.

20 years ago

June 25, 2003

Maribyrnong council ratepayers will pay, on average, an extra 6.8 per cent in 2003-04 if the draft budget adopted by the councilonMondayisrationedafterpublic submissions are considered.

10 years ago

June 26, 2013

Volunteers in fear at high-rise flats.

YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

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

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

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

Musicians welcome

Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport.

■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au

Williamstown Craft Market

Commonwealth Reserve comes alive on the third Sunday of the month for the Williamstown Craft Market. The market boasts more than 50 stalls showcasing everything from handmade craft, homegrown produce and food vendors. There will also be live music. From 10am4pm.

■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Williamstown-Craft-Market

Point Gellibrand Rotary Club

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

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

Altona Day View Club

The Altona Day View Club meets on the third Wednesday each Month at 11am , at the Altona RSL 31 Sargood StREET, Altona VIC. Funds raised for Learning for Life program. New Members Welcome.

■ Julie,9394 6710, or 0421 315 846

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

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.vic.gov.au

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

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

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

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

Walking group

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

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

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

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

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

Free English conversation class

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

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

Willin Wimmin choir

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

■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

Altona North Combined Probus

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

■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Friendship group

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

■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176

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

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

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 Xavier, 3, looking at the mirror at Melton Library which marked 10 years with face painting and other activities. (Damjan Janevski) 341946_01

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 75 9 2 3176 4958

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Feudal workers (5)

4 Assumes the worst (9)

9 Awe-inspiring (7)

10 Progress (7)

11 Yellowish-green colour (4,5)

5 Reading or copying machine (7)

6 Insulting (9)

7 Central (5)

8 Bursar (9)

13 Particle accelerator (9)

8573 4167 3 47 9

12 Body of troops (5)

13 Film special effects (acronym) (3)

14 Insect before butterfly

16 Agreement (11)

19 Type of fish (3)

20 Former US president (5)

22 Man-made (9)

25 Refractory (7)

26 Visuals (7)

27 Named for office (9)

28 Support (5)

DOWN

1 Actress, – Sarandon (5)

2 Armed resistance to authority (9)

3 Throw (5)

4 Ostensible reason (7)

easy 38 52 18

92 14 4 836 46

71 692 7 27 53

hard

5 839 79 92

medium 265 7 61 9 625

84 58 258 3

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easy medium hard

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DECODER WORDFIT 9-LETTER

14 words: Good 21 words: Very good 29 words: Excellent Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS ADD ALL ASH ATE COD CUP DEN EGO ERA ERR EVE EYE HUM MEN MOP ONE OVA SEA SKI SPY TOO TOT USE WAD

1415 1617181920212223242526 I

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I B N R G UDDER VISIT WAVES WEAVE WORST WROTE YESES 6 LETTERS EDDIES ODDEST SENSES TETHER

E S

begun, bruin, brume, burg, burin, burn, burning, ennui, enuring, erbium, grub, gunmen, gunner, imbrue, imbue, inure, menu, numb, number, NUMBERING, numbing, ruin, ruing, rumen, rune, rung, umber, urge, urine

W 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

No. 139

H F S L A S O E R E Y R S H U F F S A L L A H S T O K E T R U E D Y A R D S

4 7 LETTERS BAGGAGE GUESTED MOTTOES NURTURE ORDAINS PRESENT 8 LETTERS GIGANTIC OVERLONG OVERSTEP PATIENCE

30-06-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

7 How many member states currently comprise the European Union?

2 Which superhero disguises himself as a reporter for the fictional DailyPlanet newspaper?

3 Which Australian author released their debut novel, MonkeyGrip, in 1977?

4 What genus of primate has the scientific name papa?

5 The de facto head of the Eastern Orthodox Church is the archbishop and ecumenical patriarch of where?

6 In what year was the Republic of Türkiye established?

8 What is the majority language of the city of Brussels, Belgium?

9 What does the dutch word ‘handschoenen’ mean?

10 What is the musical stage name of US actor Donald Glover (pictured)?

13 26 KW ANSWERS: 1. The Danube (10 countries) 2. Superman 3. Helen Garner 4. Baboons 5. Constantinople 6. 1923 7. 27 8. French 9. Gloves (hand shoes) 10. Childish Gambino Wednesday, 28 June, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 19

No.

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Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre Altona

Kooringal Golf Club Altona

Convenience Store Altona

City of Hobsons Bay Altona

Chemcare Wellness Pharmacy Altona

Altona West Newsagency Altona

Borgs Cakes Altona

Bendigo Bank Altona

Altona IGA plus Liquor Altona

Altona Newsagency Altona

Chemist Discount Centre Altona

Central Lotto Altona Meadows

Benetas St George's Altona Meadows

Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre

Altona Meadows

Westgate Health and Fitness Club Altona

North

Altona Fresh Altona North

The Circle Pharmacy Altona North

Borrack Square News & Lotto Altona North

Altona North Community Library Altona North

Altona Gate Shopping Centre Altona North

Altona North Community Centre Altona North

Gifts & Lotto Altona North

Jolly Miller Cafe & Patisserie Altona North

Woolworths - Miller Junction Altona North

Altona East Newsagency Altona North

Coles - Avondale Heights Avondale Heights

Central West Plaza Braybrook

Braybrook Hotel Braybrook

Braybrook Library Braybrook

Deer Park Newsagency Deer Park

French Baguette Cafe Footscray

Footscray Community Arts Centre Footscray

Pheonix Youth Centre Footscray

Jim Wong's Restaurant Footscray

Footscray Hospital Footscray

Caltex Petrol Station Footscray

Maribyrnong City Council Footscray

Tatts Lotto Footscray

Wards Newsagency Footscray

Footscray Mechanics Institute Library

Footscray

Health Works Footscray

Footscray Library Footscray

Paisley Clinic Pharmacy Footscray

Coles Footscray Footscray

IGA West Footscray Footscray West

Neighbourhood House Footscray West

Kingsville Newsagency Footscray West

BP Petrol Kingsville

Laverton Newsagency Laverton

Bendigo Bank Laverton

Laverton Community Hub Laverton

MJs Café Maidstone

Fix at Mick's Motors Petrol Station Maidstone

Maidstone Milk Bar Maidstone

Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre Maribyrnong

Maribyrnong Community Centre

Maribyrnong

Supanews Lotto Maribyrnong

Gloria Jeans Maribyrnong

Plush Think Sofas Maribyrnong

Forty Winks Maribyrnong

Focus On Furniture Maribyrnong

Adriatic Furniture Maribyrnong

Snooze Maribyrnong

Suave Furniture Maribyrnong

Spotlight Maribyrnong

Alex's Furniture Maribyrnong

Koala Living Maribyrnong

Bev Marks Maribyrnong

Bedshed Maribyrnong

James Lane Maribyrnong

Pet Barn Maribyrnong

Barbecues Galore Maribyrnong

Beds N Dreams Maribyrnong

Carpet Call Maribyrnong

Newport Newsagency Newport

The Substation Newport

Newport Library Newport

Seagulls Nest Club Newport

IGA Newport Plus Liquor Newport

Cellarbrations Newport

Newport Newsagency Newport

Newport General Store Newport

Seddon Newsagency Seddon

ALFA Café Seddon

The Happy Apple Supermarket Seddon

The Vin Wine & Spirits Seddon

South Kingsville Community Centre South

Kingsville

Westgate Golf Club Spotswood

Spotswood Newsagency Spotswood

Spotswood Kingsville RSL Spotswood

Scouns Pharmacy Spotswood

Milk Bar Tottenham

Tottenham Central LPO and Newsagency

Tottenham

Steam Packet Hotel Williamstown

Newsagency Riffle Range S/Centre

Williamstown

Rifle Club Hotel Williamstown

Smooth Curves Williamstown

Coles Supermarket Williamstown

Williamstown News and Lotto Williamstown

Freechoice Williamstown Tobacco

Williamstown

Get the News Williamstown

Hobsons Bay Visitors Centre Williamstown

Woolworths Yarraville Metro Yarraville

IGA Yarraville

Yarraville Newsagency Yarraville

Coracle Cafe Restaurant Yarraville

Pizza d'Asporto Yarraville

Yarraville Community Centre Yarraville

Coles Supermarket Yarraville

Rocco's Delicatessent Yarraville

Yarraville Club Yarraville

Liquor Legends Yarraville

Wembley Convenience Store Yarraville

Real Estate Agents Everywhere

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL LAND

Hobsons Bay City Council (Council) gives notice of its intention to transfer the proposed land located at 7 – 45 Epsom Street Laverton 3028, that currently forms part of the Curlew Community Park, to Housing Choices Australia Ltd as the Trustee of the Hobsons Bay Affordable Housing Trust for non-monetary consideration under Section 114(2)(b)) of the Local Government Act 2020 and the Council’s Community Engagement Policy.

The land is contained within six (6) Certificates of Title to the north and south of the Curlew Community Park being land at

7 – 43 Epsom Street, Laverton

Lot 2 on Plan of Subdivision 405697Y, Certificate of Title Volume 11356 Folio 752

45 Epsom Street, Laverton

Lot 1 on Title Plan 968351G,Certificate of Title Volume 2243 Folio 590

Lot 1 on Title Plan 812794S,Certificate of Title Volume 9000 Folio 434

Lot 1 on Title Plan 812799G,Certificate of Title Volume 9549 Folio 406

Lot 1 on Title Plan 968350J, Certificate of Title Volume 2090 Folio 949

Lot 1 & 2 on Title Plan 812797L,Certificate of Title Volume 2243 Folio 590

There is also additional land in the form of a footway and former road.

Council has a long-standing commitment to encouraging and supporting increased supply of social and affordable housing in Hobsons Bay.

Council created the Hobsons Bay Affordable Housing Trust as the vehicle to deliver affordable housing dwellings within the municipality. Council has appointed Housing Choices Australia Ltd as the Trustee. Housing Choices Australia Ltd is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. The land would only be transferred if project funding is secured.

Curlew Park is not being transferred.

Affordable housing on the subject site will enable future residents to live in safe and secure housing which provides enhanced capacity to pursue employment and educational opportunities, leading to improved social and economic outcomes.

Any person has a right to make a written submission on the proposed transfer of land and may request in writing that they, or a person acting on their behalf, be heard in support of their written submission before a committee of Council established for this purpose at a hearing scheduled for week beginning 8 August with times to be advised.

Submissions must be received by the close of business on Friday 4 August 2023 and should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Hobsons Bay City Council, P O Box 21, Altona VIC 3015 or via email to property@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Submissions received will form part of the public record of the relevant Council and Committee meetings.

Queries can be directed to the Property Department on 9932 1000 or via email to property@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Public Notice

Intention to Enter into a Lease

Pursuant to section 115 of the Local Government Act 2020 (the Act), Maribyrnong City Council (Council) gives notice of its intention to enter into a Lease with Try Australia Children’s Services trading as Sparkways Early Learning for part of the Council premises at 9 Randall Street, Maribyrnong (Proposal).

The Council premises at 9 Randall Street is currently under construction and the kindergarten is expected to commence operating from term one of 2024.

The principal terms of the Lease will be:

1. Tenant: Try Australia Children’s Services trading as Sparkways Early Learning;

2. Premises: Randall Street Kindergarten, part of Maribyrnong Community Centre, 9 Randall Street, Maribyrnong;

3. Term: 5 years;

4. Rent: $199 per annum plus GST;

5. Rental Increases: fixed 3% increase per annum; and

6. Permitted Use: Three (3) and four (4) year old Kindergarten, and any other early years services or community activities approved in writing by Council and in accordance with the Service Agreement and any applicable town planning permit.

Any person wishing to make a submission on the Proposal must do so in writing to the Manager Governance and Commercial Services within the submission period identified below.

How to Make a Written Submission

Persons making submissions may request to be heard in support of their submissions. Any request to be heard must be clearly stated within the written submission. Any person requesting to be heard is entitled to appear in person or by a person acting on their behalf before a committee appointed consisting of the whole of Council. Hearing of any submissions is to occur on Tuesday 29 August 2023 at 6:30pm. Following the consideration of any submissions, Council will decide whether or not to proceed with the Proposal.

Submissions must be addressed to the Manager Governance and Commercial Services, City of Maribyrnong. P.O. Box 58 West Footscray 3012 or via governance@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au.

Submissions received will be included within the official Council Agendas and Minutes, including personal information about the submitter’s identity and location. Agendas and Minutes are made available to the public and on Council’s website. If you do not wish to be identified in the Agendas and Minutes, please indicate this in your submission. Submission Period: 28 June 2023 to 26 July 2023.

If further information is required, please contact Council’s Acting Manager Community Services and Social Infrastructure Planning, Lisa Bzovy on 9688 0155 or Lisa.Bzovy@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au.

Trades & Services

Deadline for all classifications is 2:30pm Tuesday.

DEAR heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you, this very special one (mentioned favour). Take it, the dear heart of Jesus, and place it with your own broken heart, where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour,notmine.Amen.Say for three days, promise publication, and your favourwillbegranted.

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

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

$

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

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

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

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

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

Honda adds third SUV to range

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Unlike most of its competitors, that have up to five SUVs in their range, Honda currently has just two, the small HR-V and mid-sized CR-V. That’s about to change with a third variant, ZR-V, due for release in a few weeks and which will slot into the space between the other two. This week we’re reviewing the HR-V. When it arrived here in 1999 it was one of the first compact SUVs around and at once set the standard for what has since become one of the fastest growing segments of the automobile market.

Unfortunately, with its bland styling and three-door body, that original HR-V never really took off and it was subsequently discontinued in 2003. It remained off the Australian market until 2015 when the much more attractive five-door second-generation model arrived.

The third generation of the HR-V arrived here in 2022 with sleeker styling, advanced safety and driver-assist features.

It comes in two equipment levels with two different powertrains starting with the Vi X that’s powered by a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, and the e:HEV L hybrid powertrain. Our test was the petrol-only model.

Styling

The distinctive new HR-V grille design blends the intakes with the bumper and when combined with the sleek headlights, gives the HR-V a futuristic look. The grille is body-coloured (there’s a choice of five) rather than the more common contrasting chrome or black in-fill.

As is a growing trend the rear of the HR-V is a cross between an SUV and a hatchback in its lines but with embedded rear door handles suggesting that it’s a two-door coupe.

The lower-side panels are painted in black which makes them harder to see and therefore adds to the apparent ground clearance and SUV look.

Interior

The dashboard has the instruments in a binnacle with a curved top. The nine-inch

central screen is landscape in shape and therefore doesn’t give you a view ahead as is offered in a portrait screen.

Potential buyers need to be aware that the HR-V only comes with two rear seats. This isn’t necessarily a problem for two-plus-two families because the rear has comfortable and supportive bucket seats with a large padded armrest between them and a couple of cup holders.

Rearpassengersalsogetadjustableairvents, two USB-A ports and another drink holder in each door.

The rear seatbacks fold completely flat and the bases can be folded up to allow for taller objects to be carried.

Infotainment

The centre screen is a nine-inch touch unit but rather too shallow to give a long view ahead when using the satellite navigation. The problem for the interior designers is that there simply wasn’t isn’t enough room in the lower dash area for a better screen.

It has wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.

Engines / transmissions

The four-cylinder engine isn’t turbocharged and has capacity of 1.5 litres with 89kW of power and 145Nm of torque. It is happy to run on standard unleaded petrol which can make a real difference given some of the crazy prices being asked for petrol at the moment.

It drives the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission.

Safety

The Australian ANCAP safety rating gives the HR-V five stars. The Honda suite of driver-assist and safety technologies includes forward collision warning, collision, mitigation braking system, lane keep assist system and lane departure warning.

Driving

The engine is relatively small and doesn’t produce as much power as we would like. It’s a typically Honda unit in that it likes to have plenty of revs on board before it really takes off. Keen drivers won’t mind this because once it’s given its head it’s a really pleasing unit to drive.

HRV 1.5 Vi X: $36,700

HRV e-HEV L: $47,000

SPECIFICATIONS

Honda HRV Vi X 1.5-litre petrol five-door wagon

Note: These are drive-away prices.

Handling is pretty good, with plenty of feel through the steering wheel. It’s able to easily take corners at speeds far higher than those who would be done by the typical family driver.

Ride comfort is a little on the firm side but after a couple of hours on our extended-drive part of our road test review the Honda HR-V westillfeltcomfortableso,again,thedesigners have done an excellent job.

Fuel consumption is rated at 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the hybrid variant and 5.8 L/100km in the petrol model. We averaged 6.6 in our petrol test car.

Standard warranty is five years and unlimited distance with the option of a two-year extension.

Summing up

Honda HR-V VI X is an interesting machine that, while it doesn’t have the straight-line performance that we like, it does have handling that we really enjoy. However, the lack of three seats in the back could make it difficult to sell when the time comes to do so.

HR-V gets a new body-coloured grille. (Pictures: Supplied)

Magpies stun Dragons swooping on upset win

Laverton caused the upset of the Western Region Football League division 3 season so far, holding off Sunshine Heights in a thriller on Saturday.

The Dragons have had the wood over the Magpies for a number of years and are pushing for a top two spot, while the Magpies have been slowly building.

On Saturday, the Magpies got a glimpse of what the future might entail, with an 11.7 (73)-9.14 (68) win.

The win was the first time since 2018 the Magpies have beaten a team other than North Sunshine.

MagpiescoachTonyJofresaiditwasareally big win for the club.

“We’ve been making changes at the club and the rewards are now starting to pay off,” he said.

“It’s a reward for effort. The club has been struggling for so many years, but this game shows that we are heading in the right direction.

“To win against a team other than North Sunshineisreallyrewarding.Wegotmessages from other clubs and the WRFL, it’s the first time since 2002 that we have beaten Sunshine Heights.”

Jofre said the playing group stuck to the

game plan and the structures all day. He said they’ve been learning the game plan the last couple of seasons and it’s now showing.

“The boys were up all day,” he said.

“We spoke with the boys at three quarter

time. We have not been in a position like this for a long time.

“We were the underdogs and we had to pride ourselves on working hard.”

Jofre said the whole playing group showed

what they were made of in the dying minutes to hold on.

The Dragons had reduced the margin to less than a goal and were attacking hard.

“The boys had to really fight,” he said.

“The ball was 10 metres from the Sunshine Heightsgoalforthelastsixminutes,Wedidn’t allow them to score, we were really proud, they did well.”

Jordan Viojo kicked three goals for the Magpies while Richard Mulroy and Matthew Grigg kicked two goals apiece.

Jofre said everyone played their role in the win. Online, the Magpies name Nathan Gannon, Anthony Pasqua and Viojo as their best.

The win was the Magpies third for the season. While they still sit in seventh spot, the Magpies are now equal with Tarneit.

Jofre said they were hoping this was the confidence booster the group needed for the rest of the season.

“We have three wins for the year, that’s more than last year,” he said.

“We were confident before the season that we could match it with the other teams. It was about the process and growing as a group, which we’re doing.”

Tara Murray

Sports shorts

WRFL

Werribee Centrals’ good form in the Western Region Football League women’s division 1 competition continued on Friday night against the Parkside Spurs. The Centurions jumped out to an early lead and had no issues at all on the way to a 7.14 (56)-0.1 (1) win. In other matches, Point Cook Centrals lost to Spotswood, 10.13 (73)-0.1 (1). Werribee Centrals are second on the ladder, with Point Cook Centrals in last.

NPL

Coster marks milestone

By Tara Murray

No one could have blamed Neil Coster for being on the side lines and watching the Footscray Masters over-60s hockey team play on Wednesday.

At 74, Coster’s best years on the field are behind him, but each week he still turns up to play for his beloved Bulldogs.

Wednesday night’s match was game 1100 for Coster in the red, white and blue.

“I’ve just turned 74,” he said. “It’s about the only sport you can play from cradle to the grave.

“I have a few problems with my knees and shoulders, but I keep coming back I enjoy the game, the people I play with and the people I play against.”

Coster first started playing hockey in 1959 when he was 10 when Footscray Hockey Club was based on grass at Footscray Park.

The club would eventually move a couple of times, with Coster the chairman when the club moved to McIvor Reserve where they are based today.

Coster was chairman at the club for more than 20 years and vice president for another three. He’s held multiple director roles at the club and is a Hockey Victoria life member and coached the men’s top side for one season.

On field, he was a two time men’s club champion.

HehasrepresentedVictorianMastersteams since 1987 and first played for Australian masters team in 2006.

Coster is currently the goalkeeper for the over-70 Australian team.

“I’ve been in the Vic Masters team which I enjoy being part of and the Australian team, I’ve spent a lot of my life playing hockey.

“We’ve just come back from New Zealand from a trans-Tasman competition. The wife is happy as she gets to travel a lot of hockey.”

Coster has spent all his hockey in the goal net except for his first season.

“The first year I was in the back line and I got hit in the middle of the eyes,” he said. “I’ve

been in goals ever since, I thought it was safer.

“They are bringing the ball to me.”

Coster said a lot had changed since he startedplaying,especiallyalotofrulechanges.

He said the game is a lot faster than when he started playing.

“It’s a good family sport.”

While 1100 games of hockey seems a lot, it’s only the start when it comes to working out how many games Coster has played.

He played 180 for MCC when Footscray didn’thaveamastersteam.Costerthenstarted a masters team at Footscray so he could play at his home club and since played in over-35s, over-40s, over-50s and over-60s competitions.

The games for Footscray only count the winter season games, so Coster said there’s a lot more to the list.

“I’d say I’ve played 1600 for Footscray [including summer games]. Then there’s the MCC games, state games, Australian games, I would have played well over 2000 games.”

Coster said he would continue to play as long as he could as he just loved the sport.

It was more a matter if his body could hold out.

“It depends on the knees and the hips,” he said. I have one cartlidge left.

“As long as I keep enjoying it, I will keep going.”

Altona Magic caused an upset win against the Melbourne Knights in the National Premier League on Saturday night. The Magic trailed at half time 2-1, but quickly levelled the scores just after the break. Tommy Semmy shortly after converted a penalty to get his second and the Magic’s third to give them back the lead. The Magic were able to hold on, winning 3-2. The Magic remain in seventh on the ladder, just one point outside the top six.

VAFA

Williamstown CYMS continued its good form in the Victorian Amartuer Football Association premier B, winning its third game in a row. It was a case of making the most of their opportunities for the CYs who got the points in an 11.6 (72)-6.15 (51) win. Nick Ebinger kicked three goals for the CYs with Bradley Tucker named their best. The CYs are now seventh on the ladder, with four wins for the year.

WRFL

West Footscray made light work of Braybrook in the Western Region Football League women’s division 2 competition. The Roosters were in control all game, winning 14.14 (98)-0.0 (0). Jemma Hay kicked five goals while Kelly Rowe got four goals. The Roosters sit in third spot. Spotswood and Point Cook were the other winners.

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Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly

@starweeklynews

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Laverton pulled off an upset win. (Supplied)

Neil Coster with his teammates (Supplied)

Neil Coster runs through a guard of honour (Supplied)

Falcons work hard to keep winning streak intact

The City West Falcons were made to work hard for victory on Sunday in the Victorian Netball League championship.

Instead of the normal Wednesday night fixture, the Falcons hit the road and travelled down to face the Peninsula Waves on Sunday afternoon.

The Waves pushed the Falcons early, but the Falcons were able to break away late to seal a 76-60 win.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said while they normally train on a Sunday, it was a bit different having to play on the other side of the city.

“It took a little while and it wasn’t our best performance,” she said.

“There was a little bit of disruption to the normal venue. Some of the players who live in Werribee had to travel a couple of hours.

“The travel, different time slots, it was a bit tricky but we got the wins.”

Lind said Peninsula was really good at attacking the first ball, which they slowly got on top of.

She said they were trying some things in

their defence end to give them more tricks up their sleeves.

“They were some things that the defenders weren’t comfortable with,” she said. “It took a while to completely invest in it, once we did we were able to get away.”

Jane Cook shot 57 goals for the Falcons, while Tharjini Sivalingam came up from division 1 and shot 12 goals in a short period of time.

Lind said ideally Sivalingam was better suited to the championship side and had a good game in the short period of time she was on court.

She said they wanted to qualify her for the top side just in case she’s not picked for the world cup.

Lind said they didn’t have any standouts on Sunday as they looked to try and switch players around.

She said Soli Ropati played several different positions, while Maggie Lind took a while to settle in her return from a calf injury.

Maddy Gray also got another chance at wing attack at the end.

The Falcons remain two games clear on top of the ladder.

With players to miss games late in the season, Lind said they need to ensure they get that double chance.

In a positive for the Falcons, Kim Borger should be available for the rest of the season after the Melbourne Vixens were knocked out of the Super Netball competition

The Falcons other two sides had wins on Sunday, with Lind saying it was the worst the under-19s had played in a long time.

The Falcons face the North East Blaze on Wednesday night.

Tara Murray

Jacob finesses his craft

By Peter Howe

Jacob Cassar is a boxing devotee.

The sixteen-year-old son is the Victorian captain and part of a 36-member team about to head to South Australia for the National Boxing Championships in Adelaide.

“I spend three to four hours a week watching boxers from around the world box with my coach,” he said.

“I took up boxing after being bullied at school. I am passionate about anti bullying and helping young people to gain confidence through boxing the same way I have.

“I take different things from many boxers to improve my craft.”

Cassar has had 22 fights with a 22-0 record. He said his strength is in my ability to change my tactics mid fight.

“I can fight with a normal stance or quickly change to southpaw if my coach thinks that will give me an advantage,” he said.

“My coach, Igor Pocev is like a second father to me, we spend many many hours together and I am very grateful to him.”

Cassar played football as a junior with the Hillside but fell in love with boxing when one of his footy coaches got the players to put the pads on to improve their fitness

“What I love about boxing is the dedication it demands of you if you are going to succeed. It’s not easy to get up every day and train three times.”

Seagulls’

fate

is in their own hands

The equation is simple for Williamstown in the final round of the Victorian Football League Women’s season.

Win and play finals for the first time. Lose and the Seagulls have to rely on other results to ensure they finish in the top six.

The Seagulls did their finals hopes any harm with victory against the Southern Saints on Saturday.

The Saints entered the game a win ahead of the Seagulls, with both keen on securing finals spots.

The Seagulls started the better of the two sides leading by 16 points at quarter time.

They still led by eight points at half time as the Saints had the wind in the second quarter and were able to slightly close the gap.

One in the third quarter opened the lead back to 17 points as they headed into the final quarter.

“My role as Victorian captain is to get around all my team to ensure they are ready to train.”

The team ranges in age from twelve to eighteen and they train for two hours at a time.

It’s a skill-based session where all of us are matched in ability and weight.

“Wesparforthreetosixminutesandchange opponents,” he said. “It’s a tough two-hour session.

“I train three times a day, six days a week. A morning 90-minute walk with my dog starts my day, I then switch between swimming, pilates which is a strength and conditioning circuit and running around mid-day and then it’s off to Lionsden Boxing Academy every night for boxing.

“I am currently 60kgs and fight in the lightweight division. At 180cm tall I have a height advantage now, I can see myself getting to 67kgs as I get into my adult years.”

Cassar has won two Australian titles.

The first as a twelve-year-old and the second at 15, in 2022. As a featherweight he is ranked number one in Australia and the Commonwealth in his age group and 16th in the world.

In 2022 Cassar was selected as the best male boxer of the tournament in the under-19 Australian Championships.

Cassar was selected in the 2019-2023 Victorian Futures team by state coach Marcos Amado and was subsequently selected into

the AIS under-19s and emerging squad by the current Australian coach, Jamie Pittman.

Cassar has attended camps in Canberra at the AIS, which he is extremely grateful for the opportunity. There are only 12 boxers in that squad.

Cassar’s first overseas opportunity was with an AIS team that went to Thailand.

“It was an amazing experience; I have never hadtocopewiththeheatandhumiditythatwe had to box in,” he said.

“Thailand’s boxers are trained so differently to us in Australia. They also box so differently. It was an eye opener, that’s for sure.”

So, what does the future hold? With his parent’s support Cassar has left school to focus on his sport.

“My aim is to represent Australia this year in Germany and at the Youth World Championships in Croatia in 2024.

“Longer term is to medal for Australia at the 2026 Commonwealth Games to be held in Melbourne and the 2028 Las Angeles Olympics.”.

“I took up boxing after being bullied at school. I am passionate about anti bullying and helping young people to gain confidence through boxing the same way I have.”

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

The Saints came hard in the final quarter outscoring the Seagulls, but the Seagulls were able to do enough to seal a 3.7 (25)-3.3 (21) win.

Jasmine Kawa led the way for the Seagulls with 23 possessions, while Megan Williamson had 15 and Sharnie Whiting had 14 disposals.

Teagan Brett kicked two goals for the Seagulls, their only multiple goal kicker.

The win and other results has the Seagulls in third spot heading into the final round.

The Seagulls this week face Geelong, which enters the round in sixth spot and needing a win to guarantee a finals spot.

The match is the first of the final round at 10am on Saturday morning at DSV Stadium.

Essendon, Carlton and North Melbourne sit outside the top six with a game of second place and hoping to push sides out to play finals.

Williamstown’s men’s side had the bye on the weekend.

This week the Seagulls face North Melbourne on Sunday.

Tara Murray

Jacob Cassar. (Archivist Media)

Maddy Gray (Robabb Photography)

Hussain steps forward to coach Footscray United

Footscray United has searched within to find its new coach for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1.

After premiership winning coach Shafraz Mohamed made the call to stand down and depart the club, the Bulldogs sought applications from both within the club and out.

In the end it was one of their own, that will step up to take on the role.

“We are pleased to announce the signing of our new coach [Syed] Ali Hussain,” the club said on social media.

“A familiar face to all at the club Ali has helped us win three promotions as a player and has been recognised for his talents as a coach with his new position.

“Ali has a wealth of experience in coaching and knowledge of the game which he will utilise to help the club move into a new era.

“We look forward to starting pre-season and working hard with Ali to develop the players we have at the club to the next level.”

An opening batter, Hussain made 213 runs at an average of 17.75 last season and has previously played at several clubs including Williamstown CYMS and Keilor.

TheBulldogswillbeindivision1forthefirst time this season, having won back-to-back premierships.

The season before they also earned promotion with both grand finalists getting promoted.

Hussain said he was pretty excited to step up to the coaching seat at the Bulldogs.

“It is good to take on the coaching role,” he said. “I am committed to putting in the hard work, dedication, and passion needed to achieve our goals as a team.

“I’ve been coach before at Sunshine YCW

and Chelsea, a south-east club. They’re the only two times I’ve coached in Australia and I won flags both times.

“It’sachallengeformewiththelegacyofthe club after winning back-to-back premierships and I’m hoping I can do it again.”

Hussain said for him and whether he was to coach again, had always depended on the needs of the club and what they were looking forward.

Hesaidhehadalwaystakenaleadershiprole whether he was coaching or not and enjoyed helping the younger players at the club.

The Bulldogs have lost Mohamed, who has been appointed St Albans coach, and Ashen Abeykoon, who has followed Mohamed to St Albans, but has announced a number of new signings.

Daniel and James Deasy have joined the club from Essendon and will provide some

City keeps a clear focus

By Tara Murray

It’s the old cliche, but Altona City continues to take it one week at a time in the FV state league 1 north-west competition.

City sits five points clear at the top of the ladder after 14 rounds with a game in hand on the chasing pack.

City coach Michael Calandrella said despite the good first half of the season, they weren’t getting complacent.

“The season is going really well so far,” he said.

“It has been tough, but the boys are doing well.

“They are working hard and we’ve got a great group of guys this season.

“It’s a tight knit group and we’ve got some favourable results so far.”

Calandrella said the hardest thing this season had been the level of competition with no easy matches.

He said they needed to be switched on every game and they know that other teams are chasing them.

“We need to make sure we are working hard week in, week out or we will drop games,” he said.

“We’ve been on top for five or six weeks and teams want to knock us off.

“We chatted to the boys a couple of weeks ago and they are used to it now. It is what it is.”

On Saturday night, City accounted for Upfield with a 4-1 win.

“The boys were really good in the first half when we managed to get a 3-0 lead,” Calandrella said.

“We closed it out in the second half and won 4-1. It was a really good performance and I’m proud of them.”

It was all single goal scorers for City with Adam Oddo, Luis Covarrubias, Jayson Ziro and Yudai Kumasaka finding the back of the net.

Calandrella said they didn’t really focus on the ladder position and the points despite what may be ahead.

This season backs up a strong 2022 when the side finished in sixth place.

“It’s week by week,” he said. “It might sound boring and cliche.

“We look at the next game and that is about as far as it goes.”

City this week faces Whittlesea Ranges who have won their last two games. The Ranges appointed a new coach last week, Kevin Theuma.

Calandrella said they were expecting another really tough game against a side that is growing in confidence.

In other matches, Yarraville Glory slipped further away from the top teams, losing to Whittlesea Ranges on Friday night.

The Ranges scored twice in the first half to get the win

The Glory now sits in ninth spot with just three wins.

The Glory this week face Strathmore.

In state league 2 north-west, Altona North suffered an 8-2 loss to Albion Rovers, while Altona East Phoenix had a 3-1 win against Mill Park.

The Phoenix sit in third spot and Altona North in 10th spot.

Victorian Premier Cricket experience. Sanju Jayasekara is a wicketkeeper-batter who has joined the club, while Nimesh Kariyawasam, has joined the club from North Dandenong.

Hussain said he was excited to see what the new players could do.

Four Cannons in Vic squad

Six Western Jets feature in the Victoria Metro squad for the under-18 girls AFL National Championships.

A 30-player squad was released last week following trial games with the side to play three matches against the best players from across the country.

The championships began in April, with South Australia claiming a 35-point win over Western Australia at PentanetStadiumintheopeningmatch. All remaining games will be played throughout July and August.

Victoria Metro will commence its campaign on Sunday, July 2 when it takes on the Allies in the first game of a double-header at Brighton Homes Arena, with an under-18 boys match between the respect boys sides to follow.

Victoria Metro’s squad features players from the six Coates Talent League metropolitan talent programs, the Calder Cannons, Eastern Ranges, Northern Knights, Oakleigh Chargers, Sandringham Dragons and Western Jets.

Five players from the AFL Academy Girls program have been named in the metro squad, Western Jets duo Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner and Kiera Whiley, Alyssia Pisano, Laura Stone and Jess Vukic.

There are six Jets in the squad. Western-Turner and Whiley are joined by Yarraville Seddon Eagles Sierra Grieves and Krystal Russell, Flemington Juniors’ Lou-Lou Field and Darley’s Tamara Henry in the squad. Keilor’sSarahGrunden,Strathmore’s Kayley Kavanagh, Aberfeldie’s Kyla Forbes and Brunswick’s Ellie Sbeghen make up the Cannons contingent in the side.

Amy Gaylor, who is part of the AFL Academy Girls program, was ruled out after an ACL injury early this season. Western-Turner and Whiley are joined by Yarraville Seddon Eagles Sierra Grieves and Krystal Russell, Flemington Juniors’ Lou-Lou Field and Darley’s Tamara Henry in the squad Northern Knights pair Ava Jordan and Zoe Hargreaves are also part of the squad, with their Knights coach Allana Dickie also coaching the Vic Metro squad this year.

Tara Murray

Syed Hussain has been appointed Footscray United coach. (Ivan Kemp) 323442_10

Jayson Ziro celebrates a goal

(Jacob Pattison)343154_03

Peace Newport RSL