Charity walk is heartfelt
By Cade LucasOf the 20,000 runners expected for the Run Melbourne fundraising event on July 16, nearly all will be doing so for a cause close to their heart.
For most, that’s simply a metaphor.
ForTarneit’sJodieAinsworth,themeaning is literal.
“I had fluid all around my heart and my organs were shutting down,” said the 44-year-old mother of the health ordeal that began two years ago and resulted in her spending months at The Alfred hospital fighting for her life.
It’s The Alfred that Ms Ainsworth will be participating for next Sunday, having already raised more $1600 for the hospital where she still receives treatment.
It’s that ongoing treatment and recovery that means Ms Ainsworth will complete the course which begins and ends at Melbourne Park, rather more slowly than most others.
“I won’t be running, I’ll be doing the 5.2km run but I’ll just be walking it,” Ms Ainsworth said.
That she can still walk at all is itself a remarkable feat of endurance.
Since her health began to unravel in September 2021, Ms Ainsworth has not only narrowly escaped death – “I was only given a 2 per cent chance of survival” – but lost almost all the bodily functions most adults take for granted.
Ironically, it was after finally being admitted to hospital in Werribee in May 2022 that the gravity of her situation became clear.
“I went downhill really quickly and they putmeinaninducedcomaandsentmetoThe Alfred two days later,” said Ms Ainsworth, who would remain in a coma for more than a week and in The Alfred ICU for the next two and a half months.
Doctors eventually diagnosed an adverse reaction and with her condition stabilised, shewasabletoleaveICUandbeginarecovery that’s included learning to walk, shower and feed herself again.
Only last month did she return to work at a kindergarten in Tarneit.
As far as she has come, Ms Ainsworth knows some things won’t recover.
“My kidney function is only 50 per cent and it won’t get better.
“It’s gonna be something that I live with for the rest of my life.”
However she retains hope that others will.
After upcoming heart surgery, Ms
Ainsworth hopes to actually be able to run in Run Melbourne next year.
With the renewed outlook the last two years have given her, she’s every chance.
“Don’t take life for granted, live each day like it’s your last because it could be.”
Details: runmelbourne.com.au
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First Serve Tuck Shop Hoppers Crossing
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Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre Hoppers Crossing
Wyndham Library Hoppers Crossing
Werribee Plaza Tavern Hoppers Crossing
Coles Supermarket Hoppers Crossing
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Woodville Park Shopping Centre Hoppers Crossing
IGA Plus Liquor Hoppers Crossing
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Coles Express Hoppers Crossing
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Super Lotto Newsagency Hoppers Crossing
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Tigers Club House Hoppers Crossing
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Manor Lakes News & Lotto Manor Lakes
Manor Lakes Shopping Centre Manor Lakes
Featherbrook Shopping Centre Point Cook
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Point Cook Pharmacy Point Cook
Jamieson Way Community Centre Point Cook
Direct Chemist Outlet Point Cook
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Sanctuary Lakes Resort Sanctuary Lakes
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Club House ( Lifestyle) Tarneit
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Shell Service Station Tarneit
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Werribee South General Store Werribee South
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Councillors split on budget plan
By Cade LucasWyndham council has endorsed its budget for 2023-24, despite opposition over the level of debt.
The budget passed by nine votes to two at a meeting on Wednesday, June 28, with councillors Josh Gilligan and Heather Marcus refusing to support the plan due to projected borrowings of $225 million over the coming decade.
Earlier, an alternative proposal by Cr Gilligan that would have halved the level of debtbyshelvingorreducingmajorprojectsand introducing an efficiency dividend, was voted down, with only Cr Marcus voting in support.
In passing the budget, council locked in an average rate rise of 3.5 per cent, the largest amount allowed under the state government’s rate cap, with inflation, particularly in the cost of building materials and utilities, being blamed.
The budget allocates $432 million for key services, including $20 million for kindergartens and children’s services, $12 million for child immunisations and $11 million for libraries.
The $167 million capital works budget includes $33 million for road construction and upgrades,$11millionfortheimplementationof the Tarneit North Master Plan and $10 million for a new community centre in Truganina.
Charities dance for joy
Aaron Sellick was a little apprehensive when first approached to be part of the Werribee Mazda Dancestars on the Floor fundraiser earlier this year.
“You get asked and your initial reaction is ‘no’,” said Mr Sellick, who didn’t take long to change his mind about tripping the light fantastic in the ballroom dancing event.
“But then you see the money being raised and it helps generate the momentum to stand up in front of hundreds of people and put yourself in an awkward position.”
Mr Sellick wasn’t feeling too awkward last week when the $20,000 he and the six other Dancestars on the Floor contestants raised was given to charity.
Along with being a contestant, Mr Sellick’s positionasasalesconsultantwitheventsponsor Werribee Mazda, meant he was on hand to deliver $10,000 each to literacy charity Story
Dogs and the Wyndham Health Foundation.
“It’s an opportunity that doesn’t come up often,” said Mr Seillck of being able to help two organisations he has great admiration for.
“Story Dogs is a beautiful idea,” he said of the literacy program which helps struggling students by having them read to dogs instead of teachers or other students.
“And the Wyndham Health Foundation means a lot as well because my partner is a midwife and she sees the good work they do in terms of resourcing equipment and educating staff members.”
Now that he’s a convert, Mr Sellick is busy convincing others to put on their dancing shoes for next year’s event.
“I’m trying to get everyone behind it and encouragethosewhoareclosemindedinterms of dancing to put their best foot forward.”
Cade LucasMayor Susan McIntyre said the budget struck the right balance.
“We are all living in a more unpredictable economic environment, yet this budget ensures there is a focus on spending in the right areas and in the delivery of assets and projects residents support,” Cr McIntyre said.
“This budget is both considered and responsible.”
That wasn’t the view of Cr Gilligan, who criticised the increase in council borrowings fromtheircurrentlevelof$15million to$67.5 million by the end of next financial year and a projected $225 million in a decade.
“We’re embarking on the biggest debt spendathon in Wyndham city council’s
history,” said Cr Gilligan, who argued spending and borrowing should be reduced amid economic uncertainty.
“It is not a realistic budget, it is not a budget that accounts for the times.
Speaking in support, deputy mayor Jennie Barrerasaidtheborrowingfiguresrepresented the maximum amount available, not what would be used.
She said using debt to invest in Wyndham’s future was prudent.
“Borrowing funds infrastructure that a growing community needs and might not otherwise get.
“We are, remember, the fast growing municipality in Australia.”
We’re building big near you and there will be transport 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. We’re also building the Metro Tunnel.
Train disruptions: Buses/coaches replace trains in both directions
Sunbury Line 8.30pm to last train, until 9 July Flagstaff to Sunshine 8.30pm to last train, 10 to 13 July North Melbourne to Sunshine
At night, 17, 19 and 20 July
At night, 23 to 27 July
Werribee Line 8.30pm to last train, until 9 July Flagstaff to Newport
Williamstown Line 8.30pm to last train, until 9 July Flagstaff to Williamstown
Geelong Line 10 July to 11 AugustPeak weekday Wyndham Vale and Tarneit trains
Road disruptions: Roads and ramps closed
Briefs
Pet census
The nation’s first Pet Census has launched in Victoria to help shape the future of animal welfare and ensure pet owners have the support and services they need. The Pet Census asks a variety of questions to gather crucial information on pet ownership and the attitudes and experiences of owners. Data received through the Pet Census will form a clearer picture of pet companionship of all kinds across Victoria, so the state government can continue supporting pet owners and improving pet welfare.
Intersection upgrade on the way
Aspiring to understand
Kindergartens are normally home to nursery rhymes, sandpits and play dough, but on Monday kids at Aspire Early Education in Truganina got to experience some Indigenous culture too.
The celebrate NAIDOC Week, Aspire hosted an acknowledgement of Country and smokingceremonywiththeassistanceofelder and Bunerong Council member Samantha Bennett.
Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre, councillors Yasmine Hill and Robert Szatkowski and Garrang Willam Primary SchoolassistantprincipalCarlyCorrattended the event, as did many of the 126 children
enrolled at Aspire.
Centre director Soledad Andrade said Indigenouscultureandhistoryisanimportant part of early childhood education.
“Aspire Early Education is committed to embracethehistory,culturalandachievement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by investing in hi high-quality education that welcomes, encourages, and empowers diversity, individuality, equality, and reconciliation,” Ms Andrade said.
“Therefore, our words and actions lead us to respect our Country, learn from elders and practice creative wisdom for future generations.”
A $5.7 million upgrade of the Davis and Dohertys roads intersection in Tarneit will commence in the coming weeks. Council said the project includes a full reconstruction of the Davis and Dohertys roads intersection with traffic lights and sealed shoulders to improve road safety for drivers, make the road smoother and provide a more enjoyable journey. Work also includes the reconstruction of Davis Road south of the intersection up to Twyford Way, and reconstruction of Davis Road north of the intersection up to Tarnala Road. Other improvements include public lighting, a footpath, bicycle lane and drainage works. The Davis and Dohertys roads intersection will be closed to traffic throughout the duration of works. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Hall of Fame honour for Williams
By Tara MurrayFormer Werribee Football Club coach Mark WilliamshasbeeninductedintotheAustralian Football Hall of Fame.
Williams was one of seven inductees who were recognised for their contributions on and off the ground.
Williams has been involved at top-level football since 1976 and, alongside father Fos, becomes just the third father-son pair in the Hall of Fame as a four-time premiership player with Port Adelaide, premiership coach and
two-time Collingwood best and fairest.
Williams coached Werribee for two seasons before returning to the AFL in an assistant coaching role with Melbourne.
Speaking after receiving the honour Williams was filled with emotion.
“As the boys were saying to go in that room beforehand, that was my childhood dream seeing all those players I admired from Adelaide, the South Australian ones and the Victorian ones, to be included in this is unreal,““he said.
Williams said playing was always the dream,
Refugees find freedom
Wyndham marked the end of Refugee Week with a multicultural sports event last week.
Iramoo Community Centre in Wyndham Vale hosted the event, which featured competitions and clinics in sports ranging from the universal appeal of soccer, to the unique east-Asian sport of caneball and Australia’s Indigenous code of Aussie Rules.
Multicultural music, dance and food were also on offer.
Wyndham deputy mayor Jennie Barrera said Refugee Week, which this year had the theme ‘Finding Freedom’, was an especially important time for the municipality.
“Refugee week is the perfect time to recognise and celebrate the many refugees in Wyndham and the wonderful contributions they have made to our community.
Wyndham City welcomes everyone to our municipality, and we value and place great importance on creating an inclusive Wyndham that fosters harmony and
celebrates and promotes the cultural diversity of our city.”
Cr Barrera said along with celebrating refugees and highlighting their experiences, the week also demonstrated the benefits of multiculturalism.
“We recognise how our differences and similarities bring our community together and help strengthen social cohesion and make Wyndham a great place to live.
We all have a different past, but the future is ours to share.”
Cade Lucasbut said coaching came a close second. Having beenborninafootballfamily,Williams,whois a qualified school teacher, hasn’t known much else.
“I wanted to get everything out of playing, playingisthenumberonethinginfootball,”he said. “Coming very close second is coaching. The ability to help people and recognise what they cant do and find a way solution.
“Hold their hand, try and make them better. It’s something that I love doing, having that successalongtheway,beenterrific.It’snoteasy coaching.”
Williamsadmitstherehavebeensometough times, with his family getting bullied and abused on the streets while he was coach of Port Adelaide’s AFL team.
For Williams the sport provides and opportunity for everyone to be involved and he wants that to continue to grow and the sport to be ’be best on ground’.
“The game is everything, I love the fact that thegamebringsmymatestheAboriginalworld and gives them the opportunity, my mates in the multicultural world, opportunity to play and show what they can do.”
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How to talk to parents about their aged care options
No matter how old we get, we are still our parents’ children, and discussing difficult topics can be challenging.
One such topic is making decisions with your parents about their care needs as they age.
Whatever the situation, talking to your parents about aged care can be a tricky topic to navigate.
Here are some tips from TriCare Aged Care Residences on how to start the conversation.
• Raising the topic early is crucial to avoid rushed choices, limited options, and emotional distress. Broaching the subject may be a simple as asking your parents to envision their future needs and preferences.
• Listening to their concerns is vital. Take note of any worries they express and address them honestly. Any fears should be addressed honestly for a future transition to be successful and comfortable.
• Explore all options. Can they remain in their home, or would residential care be best? Do they want to remain in their local community or are they open to a move closer to you? Do they know anyone who has made the move to an aged care residence? What was their experience?
• Have your parents talk to their doctor about what their needs might be in the future. Navigating aged care options can seem overwhelming, so it pays to consult the experts.GPsandspecialistscanrecommend services and even specific providers that they have previously had great experiences with for their other patients.
• Maintain the dignity. While reluctance to have the conversation can be a difficult situation to navigate with your parents, it’s important that you can still inform while not imposing on their boundaries. It might be that you can simply provide
them a brochure or put them in touch with someone you know that has gone through this process.
By initiating early discussions, actively listening, exploring options together, seeking professional guidance, and maintaining
Werribee Jazz Club
is celebrating its 30th Anniversary!
Sunday 9th July 2023
1:30pm - 4:30pm
Cost: $20pp (doors open at 1pm)
Band: Paul Ingle’s Lightning Jazz
Bookings & enquiries: Jenny 0419 558 481
Location: Werribee Bowls Club, 239 Watton St, Werribee
Champagne/Sherry on arrival.
BYO nibbles plate.
Drinks at low bar prices. All welcome!
dignity, you can navigate the aged care conversation with care and understanding.
Still jazzin’ after 30 years
Since its inception in 1993 Werribee Jazz Club has presented live jazz music each month to audiences with a love of various jazz genres.
Werribee Jazz Club was created to bring jazz to the western suburbs and facilitate a growing demand from the local community with an inaugural membership of over 70 patrons. Several inaugural members are still active within the club today.
Now 30 years on, the Werribee Jazz Club, which was rebranded from Werribee Jazz & SwingClubover10yearsago,isstillproviding appealing entertainment with top bands on stage delivering a wide range af jazz from New Orleans Dixieland to Chicago style, including traditional, mainstream and swing.
The club is a not for profit incorporated organisationformembersandvisitorstoenjoy the ambience of live jazz music for dancing and/or easy listening.
Many of the musicians that have played at theclubhaveawealthofexperiencewithsome
bands being together for well over 30 years. Jazz bands such as Syncopators (formerly known as Society Syncopators), Maryborough Traditional Jazz Ensemble, Royal Garden, Hot BHines,RubyPage&JoeRubertoJazztet,have all established a strong following with their distinctive styles. Each have their repertoires encompassing the works of Basie, Ellington, Jelly Roll Morton, Ella Fitzgerald, with the tunes of Cole Porter, Hoagy Carmichael, Johnny Mercer as well as many Australian composers.
For the past 20 years, Werribee Bowls Club located within the Chirnside Park sporting complex has been home to the friendly, vibrant and progressive club and visitors are most welcome.
Further details can be found on the club website and Facebook page.
Come and enjoy the experience, you will be pleasantly surprised.
“Pearls and Champagne”
It’s a team affair at friendly Manor Court in Werribee
An aged care home really is a hum of activity, with many people involved in keeping everything humming along.
Werribee’s Manor Court is a 100-bed home snuggled in a peaceful residential setting and has over 110 staff plus contractors who work hard to provide a vibrant community within a community.
Lifestyle manager Tracey Hanson loves her job.
“I love coming to Manor Court, I get to be creative with my team and working with our beautiful residents to develop and deliver activities that create joy.”
Jeremy and Vince are the handymen, which really means Jack of all trades.
“Every day is different and there is always something new to learn but the satisfaction I have is knowing the difference Vince and I can make in the lives of our residents,” Jeremy said.
The kitchen at Manor Court is always a hive of activity, preparing 300 meals a day and getting through 2000 servings of cakes and biscuits a week.
One of the favourite meals at Manor Court is fish and chips for Friday lunch using fresh fish that is hand crumbed.
“You can’t beat fresh fish,”says Nitin, acting head chef.
“We regularly update our meals and have taste testing with a group of residents to trial new recipes – which is always a fun session.”
With nurses, carers, finance and administration teams there are lots of rewarding roles in aged care.
“Itisallaboutattitude,” sayschiefexecutive Linda Kensington.
“You really have to care about people regardless of your role. A smile goes a long way!”
In
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LifestyleCommunitiesconsistentlyrefinesits approach, communities and homes to not only meet your needs – but exceed them! And with twodecadesofexperience,thefocusatLifestyle Communities is on giving homeowners what they want and what homeowners need has neverbeensharper.
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You can choose to live where the holiday never ends. At Lifestyle Communities, you can spend your days soaking up the serene surroundings or spruce up your daily grind withaccesstostunningamenitiesashortstroll fromyourfrontdoor.
Located at the heart of each community, the clubhouse is architecturally designed with plenty of space for you to relax, recharge or re-energise.
Across all communities, the Lifestyle team has designed, installed and delivered a range of resort style amenities and surrounds for homeownerstocalltheirown.
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Hello! Wiggles wow Werribee
Werribee was ready to Wiggle last Thursday as the superstar children’s entertainers took to the stage at the Wyndham Cultural Centre for not one but three shows throughout the day. The performances were part of the group’s Hello! We’re The Wiggles tour, which features the new eight-Wiggle line-up and is making its way around the country. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski stopped by the Wyndham Cultural Centre to catch all the Wiggly excitement.
Big sport infrastructure boost
A series of sporting infrastructure upgrades in Wyndham, including a resurfaced BMX start hill, lighting upgrades and barrier netting have been recently completed or are under way.
The Wyndham Warriors BMX track in Hoppers Crossing has received a new lease on life following work to resurface the start hill, providing a smoother surface that not only enhances the track’s safety but also ensures it is competition ready.
Over at Williams Landing Reserve, Wyndham council has installed fences
around the soccer pitches as a safety measure to prevent balls from going on roads and people chasing after them.
GalvinParksoccerpitchonehasreceivedan illuminating upgrade with lighting installed, allowing for evening training and matches. Meanwhile, the installation of lighting at Price Reserve in Werribee South is close to completion.
In Point Cook, works are under way on barriernettingatSaltwaterReserve,withgoal netting to follow at Tarneit’s Goddard Street Reserve.
Generations of support
ResidentsatWerribee’sHeathglenRetirement Villageareformingaspecialbondwithpupils from Westgrove Primary School as part of an intergenerational school volunteering program.
TheprogramisrunbyEdConnectAustralia and is likened to the intergenerational experiment, ABC’s OldPeople’sHomeFor
4 Year Olds and Old People’s Home For
Teenagers
EdConnect Australia connects residents of retirement villages with nearby schools to provide classroom support, library assistance, special programs and mentoring for students at risk of disengagement.
Pupils visited the retirement village last monthtoconnectwiththeresidentsandlearn about the differences and similarities of their generations.
Westgrove assistant principal Susan Richardson said the value of bringing young people and older people together cultivates a
senseofpurposeandenrichesallparticipants.
The school hopes to extend the relationship by inviting residents to visit the pupils at school in term three.
Heathglen village manager Gary Baker said residents have shown an interest in volunteering at the school.
“Ïhaveaspecialconnectionwiththisschool because I used to be a student there,” he said.
“It was wonderful to have the children comeintoourvillageandspendtimewiththe residents.”
EdConnect Australia east coast general manager Danie McNeil said the organisation would work to closely match residents who put their hand up to volunteer with students with similar interests and passions.
Westgrove Primary School pupils visited Heathglen Retirement Village last month.
(Supplied)
Councillor Peter Maynard said these important works delivered massive benefits to Wyndham’s host sporting clubs, spectators and visiting teams.
“These upgrades are part of Wyndham City’s ongoing commitment to providing state-of-the-art sporting venues for our community,” Cr Maynard said.
“Previously completed works include the installation of an electronic scoreboard and new player shelters at the Grange Reserve in Hoppers Crossing, new park bench seats at Truganina’s Arndell Park Reserve and
synthetic matting at the Victoria University Sporting Complex in Werribee.
“And there’s more to come, with constructiontocommenceshortlyonlighting renewal at Galvin Park oval one and new lighting for Williams Landing Reserve oval one and Saltwater Reserve tennis courts (courts five-eight).
“These kinds of upgrades can significantly enhance the player and spectator experience at our sporting venues.”
Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ capitalworksdashboard
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How to celebrate NAIDOC Week
Special story times, art exhibition and craft exhibitions are being held in Wyndham to mark NAIDOC (National Aboriginals and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week.
NAIDOC Week is celebrated annually, and this year is being marked across the nation from Sunday, July 2 until Sunday, July 9.
To celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history, Wyndham Libraries will be hosting a range of NAIDOC activities for children.
NAIDOC story times will be held on Wednesday, July 5, from 10.30am to 11.15am, and Point Cook Town centre from 1pm to 1.30pm.
Council is also hosting the NAIDOC Running Festival, partnering with
organisations, at Presidents Park on Sunday, July 9, from 10.30am to 4pm.
The Wyndham Art Gallery will showcase twopowerfulfirstnationsexhibitions,IWARA and Enduring until July 30 to celebrate the significant role First Nations artists play within our gallery and community.
IWARA is a solo exhibition by Robert Fielding, a contemporary artist of Yankunytjatjara, Western Arrente, Pakistani and Afghan descent.
Enduring is Wyndham City’s First Nations Visual Art acquisitions from the past three years and features significant works that centre around history, place and identity.
Wyndham Cultural Centre is hosting Naynertgotoke Bunurong Weaving and
Act to catch if you can
After four months of preparation, final rehearsals are under way for Westbourne Grammar’s senior year musical Catch me if youcan
A musical adaption of the film starring Leonardo Di Caprio and Tom Hanks which tells the true story of conman Frank Abignale Jr, Catchmeifyoucan opens at Wyndham Cultural Centre in less than two weeks.
In what is billed as a ‘larger than life story’, year 12 student Josh Condon plays the lead role of Abignale Jr, who despite no formal training or qualifications, bluffs his way into being a pilot, doctor and lawyer.
Tasked with tracking the conman down is FBI agent Carl Hanratty, who is played by year 11 student Billie Carolin-Vandenberg, while year 12 student Charlotte Johnson plays
Abignale Jr’s love interest, Brenda Strong as she tries to lead him away from a life of deception.
More than 80 students from years seven to 12 are involved in the production, including the cast, band members and backstage staff.
Assisting them are a team of awarding winning costume, hair, make-up, sound and lighting designers who will also provide students with professional-level experience. With a swinging 60’s soundtrack and choreography to match, Catchmeifyoucan runs from July 13 to 15 at the Wyndham Cultural Centre.
For bookings email: boxoffice@wyndham. vic.gov.au
Nature Crafts workshop for children from on Wednesday, July 5, from 11am to 1pm.
Mayor Susan McIntyre said: “NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and is celebrated by all Australians.
“The NAIDOC Week events across Wyndham City are a great opportunity for residents to participate in a range of activities to support and acknowledge the many and varied contributions that Aboriginal Australians make to the community.
“We are inviting residents from all backgrounds to come along and join in a range of activities and events to celebrate NAIDOC Week.”
Wyndham welcoming city portfolio holder, councillor Jennie Barrera said: “The theme for NAIDOC Week 2023 is For our Elders. Across every generation, Elders play an important role and hold a prominent place in our communities and families.
“Wyndham City is extremely proud of its indigenous heritage, with over 2,511 residents identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and many of our suburbs and facilities named after Aboriginal words or people.”
Bookings are required.
Details: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ naidoc-week-2023v
Tyre & Auto Service
Winter craft fun keeps kids busy
Wyndham kids have been getting crafty these school holidays.
The Artists for Kids Culture artsbus visited Hoppers Junction on June 24 and June 30 for a winter-inspired free arts workshop.
Participants made winter-themed sculpture during the sessions.
StarWeeklyphotographerDamjanJanevski visited the June 30 session to check out the crafty fun.
The bus will return to Hoppers Junction on July 7, from 10.30am-noon.
Wyndhamcouncil’spop-uplibraryvanwill also visit Hoppers Junction on Friday from 10am-1pm.
Bookings: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov. au/whats-on/play-parklet-lets-make-snowsculptures-hoppers-junction
Arts centre giveaway
The Geelong Arts Centre is celebrating its grand opening with a golden ticket giveaway – the biggest giveaway in the centre’s history.
One lucky winner will receive premium double passes to eight performances during its four-week grand opening festival, valued at $4000.
The grand opening festival will feature performances by Jessica Mauboy, Missy Higgins, Ross Noble and more.
Plus, prepare to don your finest attire because you and your lucky plus-one will be graced with a coveted invitation to the black tie VIP grand opening gala event.
Also on offer is a spot on the very first backstage tour at the centre, taking you behind the curtain to witness the magic that brings performances to life.
The centre will also provide two $500 gift vouchers to spend at its cafes and bars, allowing you to treat yourself and a friend to an unforgettable night out filled with applause, laughter, and memories that will be etched in your minds forever.
And the icing on this spectacular cake?
An ultimate subscription to Geelong Arts Centre’s ‘Our Season 2024’ for you and your equally artsy accomplice! That’s a whole year of shows, events, and cultural delights.
To be in the running, you must sign up to the Geelong Arts Centre’s What’s On e-newsletter before July 11.
All will be revealed on how to find the golden ticket entry in an email sent on July 12.
Details: www.geelongartscentre.org.au
Mini medics scrub up for caring
Little ones stepped into a set of scrubs and became mini medics last week, thanks to a partnership between Werribee Mercy Hospital and Pacific Werribee.
The interactive and educational Werribee Ward event, running until July 9, transformed part of Pacific Werribee into a neonatal hospital ward, where children aged five to 12 could get hands-on experience caring for life-like newborns.
For a gold coin donation, youngsters could learn how to feed, swaddle and care for a baby in the play ward.
Wyndham has one of Victoria’s highest birth rates, with almost 100 babies born each week – enough to fill four classrooms. The immersive sessions use STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and maths) to teach the children how to care for the babies using some of the world’s most advanced baby simulators.
AllfundsraisedbytheWerribeeWardevent go towards the hospital’s paediatric ward.
StarWeeklyphotographer Damjan Janevski captured these pictures last Friday.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED?
Wyndham Rotary
Wyndham Rotary welcomes people interested in helping people in need in the community. Interested in finding out more, come to the Italian Sports Club each Wednesday at 6.30pm for a meal, to share ideas and to work for a common cause.
■ Julie, 0406 196 630
CWA Werribee branch
The Country Women’s Association
Werribee branch meets on the third Wednesday of every month at the Wyndham Park Community Centre at 1pm. Afternoon tea is provided. The branch also has various social outings and fundraising events. Visitors who would like to learn a little of what the CWA do are welcome. You do not have to be a keen cook or crafty person, just someone looking for friendship.
■ Michelle, 0407 207 801
Friends of Presidents Park
The Friends of Presidents Park meets from 10am to noon on the first Thursday of the month, to undertake Landcare activities along the Werribee River through the park and surrounding areas. Bring your own gloves and water. Morning tea provided. Meeting at the carpark near the Shaws Road Bridge, Heaths Road, near the fenced dog park.
■ admin@werribeeriver.org.au
Seniors House of Fun
The Grange Community Centre would like to invite the seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing.
■ Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@grangecommunity.org.au
Seniors club
The Werribee Senior Citizens Club Inc meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus, and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am- noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea.
■ 0403 041 499
Diabetes Support Group
The Werribee Diabetes support group has been active in our community for over 18 years providing advice, information and support for members of the group. The support group provides an opportunity to hear from experts on how to manage your diabetes, to share information on diabetes and to engage with other diabetics. It meets at the old council shire buildings at 10 am every second Friday of the month.
■ Bob, 0409 252872.
Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus
The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips.
■ 0407 856 519
Sunrise Social Groups
GenWest Sunrise Social Groups are currently seeking new members for their Melton, Brimbank and Wyndham programs. The free groups are organised by Genwest and provide a social space for women, gender diverse and nonbinary people, who have a disability, chronic health issues and/or mental health challenges.
■ https://genwest.org.au/what-we-do/ health-wellbeing-programs/
U3A Werribee
The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes/activities specifically designed for Seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes/activities are held at Wyndham Community Centres.
■ Rick, 0402 299 220.
Lions Club
Lions Club of Werribee meets at the RSL Club 2a Synnot Street Werribee on the first and third Wednesday of the month 6.30pm for a 7pm dinner meeting.
■ Lou, 0409 331 271
Bingo for all
The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday, except public holidays. Eyes down from 12.30-2.30pm.
■ 9741 5525
Western Budgerigar Club
The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars.
■ Don, 0414 975 862
Wyndham Ladies Probus
Are you recently retired or semi-retired? Looking for fun, fellowship and to increase your social networks. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, and normally has an outing or event on the third Wednesday of each month.
■ Rosa Sanderson, 0410 303 046
Wyn FM
Wyn FM is Wyndham’s community radio station, broadcasting on 88.9 and online from its studios at the Victoria University
campus in Werribee. It offers a wide range of programming including music, sport, news and lifestyle shows as well as broadcasts in languages other than English. New broadcasters, volunteers, members and sponsors are always welcome.
■ 9919 8089, or, wynfm@wynfm.org.au
Book sale
Friends of Altona Library hold a monthly book sale on the first Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each month at the rear of Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona, access via Coles carpark, from 10am to 1pm.
■ https://libraries.hobsonsbay.
Yarraville Mouth Organ Band
Practice is held on Fridays at 8.10pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. The band plays a wide range of songs from waltzes to lively tangos or polkas. Beginners or experienced players are welcome.
■ Heather, 9399 2190, or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au
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
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
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
PUZZLES
SUDOKU
No.
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
QUICK CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1 Ancient Mexican (5)
4 One of the two major US political parties (9)
9 Indigenous language (NZ) (5)
10 Citrus preserve (9)
11 Playground equipment (6)
12 Document for travel (8)
14 Dictatorial (10)
15 The solver (3)
17 Ovum (3)
19 City in South Carolina, US (10)
23 Fearless (8)
24 Indian deity (6)
26 Ancient Greek goddess (9)
27 River in Russia (5)
28 Trite (9)
29 Sierra – (5)
DOWN
1 Nearly (6)
2 US writer (1817-62), Henry David – (7)
3 US city known as ‘The Windy City’ (7)
4 Titled woman (4)
5 Related to money and trade (10)
6 Of the finest type or standard (7)
7 Body-structure science (7)
8 Scale of colour (8)
13 Imaginative quality (10)
16 Leave by will to another (8)
18 Vivid (7)
19 Simple humorous drawing (7)
20 Wither (7)
21 Shakespeare character (7)
22 Leave empty (6)
25 Fast-growing plant (4)
DECODER WORDFIT
9-LETTER WORD
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.
19 words: Good
29 words: Very good 39
train, tram, trim, trio
No. 140
QUICK QUIZ
1 Which Looney Tunes character has the trademark catchphrase 'you’re despicable'?
2 Who was dubbed the 'Mother of the modern-day civil rights movement' by the US Congress?
3 What drink’s secret ingredient is code-named ‘7X’?
4 In 2004, Angelina Jolie (pictured) had an image of which animal tattooed onto her lower back?
5 Who played the nefarious J.R. Ewing in the television series
?
6 How many squares are there on a Scrabble board?
7 What is the only word in the English language that ends in ‘mt’?
8 Do cars travel on the left or right side of the road in Japan?
9 Diverticulitis is a disease that affects which part of the body?
10 What is the highest point in Portugal?
RELIGIOUS NOTICE PRAYERtotheVirginMary -(Neverknowntofail). O mostbeautifulflowerof MountCarmel,fruitvine splendorousofheaven, blessedmotheroftheson ofGod,immaculatevirgin, assistmeinthismynecessity.Astarofthesea,help meandshowmeherein youaremyMother. O HolyMarymotherofGod, Queenofheavenand earth,Ihumblybeseech youfromthebottomof myhearttosuccourmein mynecessity.Thereare nonethatcanwithstand yourpower.Oshowme hereyouarenowmother. OMaryconceivedwithout sinprayforuswhohave recoursetothee(3times). Thankyouforyourmercy towardsmeandmine.
AMEN Thisprayermustbesaid forthreedaysandafter thattherequestwillbe grantedandtheprayer mustbepublished.
Network
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.
Giulia is designed to turn heads
By Alistair Kennedy, Marque MotoringAlfa Romeo Giulia is a stylish Italian sports sedan built on a rear-drive platform and designedtotacklethemarketsegmentcurrently dominated by the premium European brands.
Although the name Giulia (pronounced Julia)wasaroundinthe1960sandearly1970sit didn’tre-emergeuntil2015when,tothedelight of Alfistis everywhere, the company broke away from using the bland numeric names 156 and 159 and returned to such a distinctively Italian one.
There are five models in the Giulia range: Ti, Veloce, Quadrifoglio, GTA and GTAm.
There’s a huge difference in price, starting fromaround$70,000fortheTiandVeloce,then doubling once to the $143,000 Quadrifoglio anddoublingagaintothetrack-readyGTAand GTAm.
Our test car was the Quadrifoglio, which is Italian for four-leaf clover and has been the symbol for Alfa racing cars for close to 100 years. In modern times Quadrifoglio, often abbreviated to QV, indicates high-performance road cars.
Styling
Giulia Quadrifoglio is a real stunner. It’s very svelte and Italian in its shape and drew plenty of attention wherever we went due in no small partbytherichMontrealGreenversionthatwe tested.
Indeed, one Irish colleague was so smitten by the combination of the colour and the shamrock/clover badges (there is a difference apparently) on the sides that only my mention of the price tag stopped him from rushing off to buy one.
The exterior is highlighted by the traditional triangular shield grille flanked by two lower-mountedgrillesintheapron.Thebonnet has two cooling outlets for the engine bay
There’s a carbon-fibre splitter and large air intakes for the intercoolers as well as the brakes. The side skirts also feature carbon-fibre inserts and there are gill-style outlets either side at the front to allow air to escape from the wheel housings.
The “angry-eyes” headlights, narrow on the inside and swept-back over the front fenders, add to its striking appearance.
Unlike some of its competitors, there is no wagon variant for the Giulia although the recently-released Stelvio SUV Quadrifoglio is there if a more functional interior is needed.
Interior
Giuliaisbuiltclosetothegroundmakingentry and exit difficult for less supple occupants. Consequently, the driving position is lower than we normally like but Giulia is a sports sedan so that’s to be expected.
The dashboard tilts slightly towards the driver.
Our test QV came with optional black leather with Alcantara inserts and green/ white stitching. The front seats have tall rigid bolsters which will challenge ample-buttocked occupants but do provide excellent support.
Cabin storage is adequate, with dual cup holdersandasizeablesmartphone-sizedalcove at the base of the dashboard and an adjacent USB socket. There are two more USB ports in a smallcentreconsolestorageboxwithawireless phone charging pad next to them.
There’s also a useful small slot in the centre console to fit the keyfob.
The rear does have three seatbelts but the centre seat is not only narrow but it sits on top of a very high transmission tunnel that makes seating, even for children, all but impossible. Perhaps a child seat might just be squeezed in but not much else. Otherwise the fold down armrest, with twin cupholders, will be in place all the time.
On the plus-side the two useable rear seats are large and supportive as well as heated. As with the front seats they are finished in leather and Alcantara. Head and legroom are reasonable and there are twin air vents and a pair of USB ports.
Boot size is a decent 480 litres although access through the narrow opening can be a squeeze. The latest upgrade added a powered tailgate.
Engines / transmissions
Both the Ti and Veloce are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine with outputs of 206 kW and 400 Nm at 2250 rpm.
The 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 in the Giulia Quadrifoglio Verde (QV) is something special with its Ferrari-inspired 500 horsepower (375 kW) twin-turbocharged engine. That peak power comes in at 6500 rpm with the redline set at 7000 revs. There’s an impressive 600 Nm all the way from 2500 to 5500 rpm.
All engines are mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox with large aluminium manual gearshift paddles.
Safety
Although the Quadrifoglio hasn’t been tested by ANCAP the lower spec Veloce achieved a five-star rating including an adult occupation protection rating of 98 per cent.
Standard safety features in the Giulia QV include six airbags, active cruise control, rear cross traffic alert, intelligent speed control, driverinattentionalert,trafficsignrecognition, automatic high beam system, lane departure warning and lane keep assist and, forward collision warning.
There’s also active blind spot assist, autonomous emergency braking, tyre pressure monitoring, reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors and rear-view mirror auto-dimming, and Isofix child seat anchors in the outer rear seats.
Infotainment
Displayisthroughasmall8.8-inchtouchscreen embedded in the top centre of the dashboard that can, and should be, operated by a new rotary dial on the centre console.
Traditionalists will be happy with the two large analogue instrument dials for the driver with a digital speedometer in between.
As is the norm nowadays there’s a lot of learning needed to operate what is quite a complex infotainment system including a triplesplitscreen.Asalways,giventhatweonly have most vehicles for a week, we try to avoid being too critical of features that owners will
quickly adapt to.
There’s built-in satellite navigation, DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay but wired Android Auto as well as an impressive 14-speaker Harman/Kardon system called Sound Theatre.
Driving
As good as the Giulia Quadrifoglio looks it’s also a brilliant car to drive. It’s a true sports model, with an all-new rear-wheel drive
architecturegivingit50:50weightdistribution. It’s the first Alfa sedan to be driven by its rear wheels since the early 1990s. Weight is kept down through the use of lightweight steel and composite materials such as carbon fibre.
Like an increasing number of new vehicles Giulia comes with a start/stop button, many of which are annoyingly tucked away out of sight behind the steering wheel. Determined to be different, the Alfa designers have cleverly positioned the button at the bottom of the steering wheel itself. At least it’s at the bottom oncethedrivergetsintothehabitofparking,as weallshould,withthewheelspointingstraight ahead.
Once pressed the fun starts with the 2.9-litre twin-turbo engine sending out a lovely V6 burble through the four tailpipes.
Around town the Giulia QV is a little awkwardwithgroundclearanceofjust100mm needing a fair bit of caution and angled approach around driveways and the like.
The Alfa DNA Driving Mode Selector offers four main drive modes: Advanced Efficiency (for poor traction conditions), Normal, Dynamic and Race. Each of these changes the settings for the dampers, torque limiter, steering, gear shifts, all-wheel drive system, exhaust valve, throttle sensitivity and torque vectoring.
Most drivers, as we did, will spend most of thetimeinDynamicratherthanNormalmode as it provided everything we required.
Extra-large piece aluminium paddle shifters are fixed to the steering column encouraging their use – just for the fun of it.
Fuel consumption is listed at 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres kept down by the combination of auto engine stop-start and cylinder deactivation which shutting down three of the six cylinders when not required. We averaged a touch over 10 L/100km during our test, still pretty good for such a sporty car.
Summing up
Alfa Romeo Giulia QV is a car with the character that you expect from Italy in that combines stunning looks with outstanding performance.
Anyone who is in the market for a mid-sized sports sedan should forget all their pre-conceptions about Alfa and at least take it for a test drive before rushing in and buying one of its mostly German competitors.
Confidence and belief grows among Centurions
Werribee Centrals now believe that they can contend in the Western Region Football League women’s division 1 competition.
Having slowly built the last six seasons, the Centurions sit second on the ladder only percentage behind Spotswood after nine rounds.
Centurions coach Glenn Ballard said all the workthey’vedoneovertheyearshasstartedto come together.
“The core group of the team has been together for six years,” he said. “They’re starting to click and understand structures.
“We had a lot of new players join us who had never played football before. They’ve now played 30,40 or 50 games and are starting to click and understand what football is about.
“The logistics of what we need to do and where we need to be. I’ve never had a bigger smile on my face.
Ballard said they had recruited well before the season as well to increase the depth in the squad.
He said they added five new players plus
another two former players returned to the club.
With eight wins from their nine matches, the Centurions are tracking along nicely.
Ballard said that the pin has dropped about what they can achieve.
“We had a strong hard long pre-season and we are getting results for the effort they have
put in,” he said.
“It’s taken six years, but we’ve now beaten everyone in the competition. We had never beaten Spotswood, but we got over the line against them three weeks ago.
“There’s a new belief in the group. It’s not just that we can do it, it’s that we can do it.”
Ballard said the group had set expectations
Tough result for Titans
By Tara MurrayTarneit was left disappointed as little went right in its loss to West Footscray on Saturday in the Western Region Football League division 3.
With the chance to close the gap on the fourth placed Roosters, the Titans failed to deliver in the manner they would have liked.
The Roosters got on top late in the first quarter and while it was even after that, the Titans weren’t able to get back in the game.
The Roosters won, 14.4 (88)-6.12 (48).
Titans coach Brett Sheean said it was a pretty disappointing performance.
“We were really hoping that we could come away with the points on a pretty important weekend for the club,” he said.
“Thesecondhalfofthefirstquartertheyran over the top of us and the rest of the game was even.
“Their pressure was far better than ours and they executed their skills a lot better than we did.”
Ryan Delekta kicked three goals for the Titans, while Zach Thornton was named the
Titans best.
Sheehan said Thornton was outstanding but had little support.
The win makes the Titans chance of playing finals a lot harder. While it’s still in their own hands, they need to create some upsets.
“We have to win some games that people don’t expect us to,” he said. “Every game is do or die and we have to beat sides like Sunny [Sunshine] Heights and challenge the Suns and Albanvale.
“We have to play out of our skins.”
Sheean said that there would need to be a turnaround in form to match those top sides, having not played that well in recent weeks.
“We have had a lot of injuries and unavailability,” he said. “We’ve found it hard to gel properly as on the weekend showed.
“We are a close club and they’re all good mates off the field, we now need to share it on the field.”
The club wore an indigenous jersey for the first time, which was designed by Kirra Grimes, who is the partner of player Michael Naawi.
Sheean said it was special for the club and
they had been working on doing more in that space.
The Titans this week face Laverton, which had a bye on the weekend.
Sheean said it would be no easy task with the Magpies coming off their best win in a number of year.
Meanwhile, the Suns cemented their spot at the top of the table beating Albanvale.
Both sides entered the game with one loss of the year and it was the Suns that would come out on top.
The Cobras failed to make the most of their opportunities and were made to pay, with the Suns winning 12.3 (75)-8.13 (61).
Sunshine Heights beat North Sunshine in the other game.
In division 1, Point Cook beat Caroline Springs, Point Cook Centrals lost to Spotswood and Hoppers Crossing remained without a win after losing to Altona.
WerribeeDistrictscontinuestobeunbeaten after beating Yarraville Seddon Eagles.
In division 2, Parkside was too strong for Wyndhamvale, while Albion beat North Footscray and Newport beat Braybrook.
on what they want to achieve this season and said a premiership would be a dream come true for everyone.
He said their first focus was to lock up a top two spot.
The Centurions had a bye on the weekend, with all women’s teams having the weekend off.
This week they face Point Cook Centrals, who sit bottom, but Ballard said it would be no easy match.
“They are a good tackling side and the scoreboard doesn’t always reflect the games,” he said.
“When we play them we learn a lot with their pressure and that’s why they won the division 2 premiership.
“They apply the pressure for all four quarters. We know we are coming up against a disciplined team.”
In other matches, Caroline Springs hosts Parkside Spurs, while Spotswood plays Yarraville Seddon.
Tara MurraySports shorts
Football
Several Western Jets players from Indigenous and multicultural backgrounds featured in a Victorian Diversity All-Stars game on Wednesday. Werribee Centrals’ Giselle Lambley, Maribyrnong Park’s Jade Cilla and Caroline Springs Mira Diab represented the Western Jets in the girls match.
Sam Esokni (Altona) Alex Tsia (Hillside), Noah Eldebs (Keilor), Edwin Nyembo (Werribee Centrals), Isaac Abbay (Hillside) were the boys Jets representatives.
GDFL
Werribee Centrals weren’t able to continue their good form in the Geelong and District Football League on Saturday. Facing Winchelsea, the Centurions were on the back foot all day after trailing 34-8 at quarter time. A goalless third quarter ended their chances with Winchelsea winning, 13.12 (90)-6.11 (47). The loss leaves the Centurions in sixth spot after 11 rounds. This week they face Bannockburn.
FV
Hoppers Crossing had to share the points with Westvale in FV state league 2 north-west on Saturday.
Kevin Smart opened the scoring in the 17th minute for the Reds and they still led at half time. Westvale levelled the scores in the 61st minute, with neither team able to find a winner, with the match finishing 1-1. The Reds remain in ninth spot. In state league 3 north-west, Point Cook drew 1-1 with Sunbury United.
GDNL
Werribee Centrals managed to sneak home against Winchelsea in the Geelong and District Netball League on Saturday. Nothing separated the two teams all day, with the Centurions winning, 37-34. Ellie Tubbs shot 23 goals for the Centurions in the win. The Centurions sit in third spot, now only a game behind Winchelsea, which is in second place. The Centurions this week face Bannockburn which is in eight spot.
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City West Falcons building nicely
The City West Falcons built nicely to come away with another win in the Victorian Netball League championship division.
Having played on Sunday, the Falcons had a shortturnaroundtoWednesdaynight’smatch against the North East Blaze.
The short break didn’t do anything to hold the Falcons momentum, winning 71-54.
Falcons coach Marg Lind walked away pretty happy with the win against the fourth placed Blaze, which has a couple of teams in hot pursuit.
“We built across the course of the game,” she said.” We had a few errors here and there and gave them the opportunity to stay in the game longer.
“It as a pretty good performance over all.”
Lind said the short break meant they didn’t have the opportunity to work on anything that they wanted to in between games.”
The Falcons looked to use their options again with all 10 players getting on court.
Jane Cook was again the star in goals
with 47 goals.
The match up of the night was the battle between sisters, Sienna and Nyah Allen.
Lind said they weren’t anticipating that match up.
“I think Sienna would have got on top, it was a really good game by her,” she said.
“We didn’t expect that we thought they would go with their other goaling option or Nyah in goal attack, we were a bit worried and didn’t think it was ideal.
“It was played in such good spirit and Sienna was awesome and had the upper hand as the older sister.”
Lind said the pleasing thing it was another strong cross court performance from the group, which has had just one loss for the season.
She said they again tried to get plenty of court time into Soli Ropati in her return from injury as they make sure she is qualified for finals.
“Soli fits like a glove,” she said. “The
defensive end really consolidated while the offensive end is high scoring and are working really hard on the centre pass and overall linking up really nicely.”
Lind said now with a full week between gamestheywouldlooktoworkonmorethings to have more tricks up their bags for finals.
She said they would also be working hard to make sure Ropati and Kim Borger in championship division and Olivia Cameron, in division 1, got qualified for finals.
The Falcons division 1 team suffered a two goal loss to the Blaze after a poor shooting performance, which will harm the side’s chance of a top two spot.
The under-19s won by the same margin and are now in the box seat for a top two spot.
The Falcons this week face Melbourne University, with the club’s championships side coming off four straight wins.
Lind said it would be a challenging game.
Hoppers lock in key signings
Hoppers Crossing has strengthened its bowling unit with the addition of Kaushik Jagannathan for the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season.
The Cats announced the signing of Jagannathan late last month, with him to take on a big role on and off the field.
“Kaushik is a level two coach and will be joining us as our new bowling coach as well as a player,” the club said on social media.
“Kaushik spent last season as a bowling coach at Greenvale CC. Prior tothat,KaushikspenttimeatFootscray CC as a bowling coach.
“Kaushik recently played for South Barwon CC. He is also a former first class cricketer in India.
“Kaushik will be an incredibly valuable asset to our club.”
The new signing comes after the Cats announced three key re-signings as they hope to go further this season and make finals.
Wyndham holds strong
By Tara MurrayWyndham kept its unbeaten run alive, but only just in the Big V women’s championship division on the weekend.
Last season’s champions have been the team to beat this season, but were put to the test on Saturday night and again on Sunday.
Wyndham hosted the Sunbury Jets on Saturday night, in the first match of a double header with the men’s sides.
It was the Jets that jumped out of the blocks and led by six points at quarter time, before a strong second quarter had Wyndham leading by four points at the half.
There was nothing in it in the third quarter with Wyndham leading by five points at the final break.
The Jets came hard early in the last quarter and took the lead with 5.48 left on the clock.
Wyndham levelled the scores not long afterwards before regaining the lead with 4.48 on the clock.
The Jets didn’t hit the lead again with the score going between being level and
Wyndham in front.
Sarah Bennett gave Wyndham the lead back for the last time with 49 seconds to go, hitting one of two free throws.
Afterascrappyfewsecondswhichincluded turnovers from both sides, Wyndham increased the lead to two points with two seconds to go.
A Jets turnover ended their hopes with Wyndham winning, 88-86.
Amanda Paschal had 28 points in playing all 40 minutes while also having 13 rebounds and six assists.
Wyndham was back in action on Sunday against the third placed Sherbrooke Suns. Again it was a match that would go down to the wire.
The Suns started the better of the two teams before Wyndham controlled the middle two quarters to lead by seven points at three quarter time.
The two teams went goal for goal in the final quarter, with Wyndham doing enough to win, 78-72.
Paschal top scored with 31 points while
also having 14 rebounds, seven assists and eight steals.
Wyndham remains on top of the ladder, three games clear of the Bulleen Boomers but has played one more match.
Wyndham has a bye this weekend.
In the men’s championship, Wyndham came out on top against the Sunbury Jets in a thriller.
The undermanned Jets started well and led at both quarter time and half time.
Wyndham came out firing in the third quarter to turn an eight point deficit into a two point lead heading into the final quarter.
Wyndham did enough in the final quarter to get the win, 94-89.
Maurice Howard top scored with 27 points while also having eight rounds and seven assists. Manel Ayol and Kavione Green also scored in double figures.
Wyndham remains on top of the table percentage ahead of the Hume City Broncos.
Wyndham this week hosts the Bellarine Storm on Sunday.
After being in the top six for much of last season, the Cats fell out of it at the wrong time of the year.
Sanka Abeyruwan returns to the club after jointly winning the club’s Max Mitchell medal for the first time.
He hit 397 runs at an average of 44.11 last season and took 26 wickets at an average of 20.77.
Brett Smith is also back for another season.
“It was never in doubt really,” the club said on social media. “Brett’s loyalty to HCCC is unmatched
“In season 2022-23 Brett hit 513 runs @ 46.64 including three 50s and a top score of 80 against Werribee.”
Shijit Chandran is back for a second season at the club.
“After a strong first season our first player announcement for season 2023-24isthereturnofarunmachine,” the club said on social media.
“Inhisfirstseasonwithusin2022-23, Shijit hit 417 runs @ 59.57 including a huge 131* on debut.”
Tara MurrayWERRIBEE FOOTBALL CLUB
YOUR FOOTBALL CLUB
Werribee finds top gear against Sandringham
By Tara MurrayWerribee produced one of its best four quarter performances of the Victorian Football League season to make it nine wins in a row.
Coming off the bye, the Werribee coaching staff were wary of the performance that the group might put out against the Sandringham Dragons, having seen the affect of the bye in the AFL.
They shouldn’t have worried, as the group played four quarters of solid football, winning 22.9 (141)-9.11 (65).
Werribee coach Michael Barlow said they had put a fair amount of focus on the start of the game.
“Then being lethargic was front of mind,” he said. “We put on the group to start well and put the game in our hands.
“We did exactly that and the performance was elevated on how we had played recently. It was closer to a four quarter performance than in recent weeks.”
Barlow said they had made a real focus with the group not to look at the scoreboard and final results, but more about how they were going about things.
He said the attitude of the group had been really good and they were understanding what they were trying to do.
“There’s 120 minutes to play per week,” he said. “There’s a lot of effort and mechanisms that go into each game.
“We don’t want to waste many minutes.”
Having got off to a good start and leading by 34 points at half time, the next focus for Werribee was to continue that in the second half.
To Barlow’s delight they were able to do that.
“At half time we wanted them to put the game away,” he said. “At three quarter time we were challenging them to hit some KPIS in the last quarter.
“We are learning lessons the whole way through. Against Coburg we were disappointed how we regressed in the final quarter
“We didn’t handle that well and the players were in agreeance. We didn’t have to look too far back to focus on certain situations.
“We pushed on with the game. I didn’t look at the scoreboard until right at the end and in a blink it was 80 points.”
Barlow said they were really pleased with the effort of the group and that it never waived, leaving them fairly happy with the performance.
Another area which was an improvement for Werribee was the conversion in front of goal.
While Barlow was thrilled to have finally kicked straight, he knows they won’t often have days in front of goal like that.
“Kicking 22.9 takes the air out of the game,” he said. “We were pretty happy with our ability to convert, but we acknowledge it’s not going to keep that way each week,
“We kicked some really good goals, it was a real highlight game.
“Michael Sodomaco kicked two from 50 metres, Kye Declase kicked one from the boundary and Harry Grintell kicked a good one.
“We’re stoked that they executed under pressure, but some of those shots were 50-50 and you can’t think you’re going to kick them every week.”
The win came after a number of changes midweek, which Werribee hasn’t had for a while.
Four players went out through injury, but it opened the door for several players to return.
Grintell played his best game for the club kicking four goals, while Bior Malual played further up the ground on the wing and had a good impact.
Barlow said they would have some difficult selection decisions to make the
coming weeks with players pushing to return.
Shaun Mannagh kicked seven goals in the win, while having 25 disposals.
Barlow said he had really taken on advice that they had given them.
“He has taken on some feedback the last couple of weeks about calming his game down a bit and he really built in the game.”
Sodomaco kicked four goals from half back, with Barlow saying he’s not sure he’s ever kicked four goals in a game, let alone a season.
Tom Gribble was the other standout, continuing his good season.
Third-placed Werribee this week faces Port Melbourne at Port Melbourne on Saturday afternoon at 3.05pm.
Having lost last time the two teams played, Barlow said it was a game they were heavily preparing for.
“They got a hold of us last time,” he said. “We’ve put a bit of work into what they did last year and how they are going in recent weeks.
“They were really competitive against Box Hill on the weekend. We will prepare well for a side that has a fair few different levers to pull.”
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